Élyse Betters Picaro

New York

Operations Manager & Content Manager at Pocket Lint

Journalist | Previously: Operations Manager @ValnetInc, EIC @Pocketlint, Managing Editor @ZDNET, and Editor @9to5Mac & @9to5Google.

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Articles

The secret to scoring cheap summer flights? 6 tips from Google and Expedia

3 weeks ago | pocket-lint.com | Élyse Betters Picaro

Book flights within the 'magic window." That's 13 to 43 days before takeoff for domestic, or 18 to 29 days for international. You should also fly midweek. Tuesday departures are cheaper, while Thursday is best for overseas flights to avoid weekend prices. Layovers can save 25% on average, so consider flights with stops for cheaper options than nonstop ones.
I tried Amazon's new AI shopping tool, and it's way more useful than I expected

3 weeks ago | pocket-lint.com | Élyse Betters Picaro

Amazon's AI "Hear the highlights" tool summarizes product details and reviews for easier decision-making. The AI feature is more accessible for busy individuals, visually impaired users, but may not save time for others. Despite other AI features like Rufus and Review Highlights, the "Hear the highlights" tool may not be useful for fast readers.
6 AI Mode tricks that make Google Search feel like magic

1 month ago | pocket-lint.com | Élyse Betters Picaro

Google is directly integrating AI features, powered by Gemini 2.5, into Search to compete with ChatGPT. AI Mode offers Deep Search for complex queries, Live Search via camera, AI shopping, booking assistance, and personalized results. AI Mode is rolling out to US users, enabling features like Deep Search, Live Search, AI shopping, booking, customized visuals. Google just figured out how to take on ChatGPT -- for real this time.
6 streaming services that offer unlimited DVR (and why it's still useful in 2025)

Mar 2, 2025 | pocket-lint.com | Élyse Betters Picaro

Streamers like YouTube TV and Hulu offer unlimited DVR, letting you record and watch content whenever you want. YouTube TV's DVR, for instance, lets you record entire programs, including live events, and watch from the start -- even if you tuned in late. DVR isn't essential for everyone. It really depends on how much you value recording shows or sports to watch later. If you're someone thinking about recording shows, movies, or sports, you might be considering DVR.
How to get Siri's new look in iOS 18.3

Feb 27, 2025 | pocket-lint.com | Élyse Betters Picaro

Apple updated Siri's design in iOS 18.3, giving it glowing borders and a more futuristic look. To access the new Siri, update to iOS 18.3 and ensure you have a supported model with Apple Intelligence. Enable Apple Intelligence in settings, adjust language settings, and restart your device to unlock Siri's new glowing appearance. Siri looks completely different with the release of iOS 18.3. Apple has updated its voice assistant, giving it a vibrant, eye-catching glow.
Unlock your Apple TV with a VPN and thank me later

Feb 26, 2025 | pocket-lint.com | Élyse Betters Picaro

A VPN on Apple TV allows access to region-locked content like UK Netflix or Canadian Crave. Installing a VPN on Apple TV can also keep your activity private from ISPs tracking your viewing. Top VPN choices for Apple TV include NordVPN, ExpressVPN, and Surfshark for easy streaming. Want to unlock more content on your Apple TV, including movies and TV shows from other countries? It's easier than you might think.
Is RedNote really a TikTok alternative? I tried it to find out

Jan 15, 2025 | pocket-lint.com | Élyse Betters Picaro

RedNote, also called Xiaohongshu, is a Chinese social media app that is similar to TikTok but with Instagram and Pinterest-like features. When using RedNote, users can watch videos, like, comment, and shop on the app, and set their interests for a personalized experience. The app lacks English translations, has familiar TikTok features, and may serve as a potential alternative depending on user preferences.
4 reasons I gave up on Apple TV+ (and what I'd rather spend that $10 on instead)

Jan 12, 2025 | pocket-lint.com | Élyse Betters Picaro

Related
How to delete your Facebook account for good

Jan 10, 2025 | pocket-lint.com | Élyse Betters Picaro

Deleting Facebook permanently erases all data -- your profile, posts, photos, etc. Deletion is rreversible after 30 days. After deletion, logins for Spotify and others reset too. On a computer, you can delete Facebook via Settings. The process is very similar on the phone. Facebook has been a staple for many people for nearly -- checks notes -- two decades at this point. But there are several reasons why you might finally be considering deleting your account.
5 reasons YouTube TV didn't work for me (and what I learned after canceling it)

Jan 10, 2025 | pocket-lint.com | Élyse Betters Picaro

YouTube TV is great for live sports but not worth the cost year-round. The unlimited DVR feature might not be useful for everyone. Exploring cheaper streaming services can be more fun and fulfilling. Ah, YouTube TV. If you've been curious about cord-cutting or keeping up with live television without the hassle of cable, you've probably heard of it. For the last year, my family gave it a go.