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Everything we’re expecting Apple to announce at its biggest hardware event of the year (AAPL)

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Tim Cook

Apple's biggest hardware event of the year is less than a day away.

If past years are any indication, the event will be used to unveil a slew of new products, including new iPhones, a new Apple Watch, and maybe even a refreshed pair of its wireless AirPods. 

Based on analysts, leaks, and reports, here's what we're expecting Apple to announce at its biggest hardware event of the year. 

SEE ALSO: The biggest details about Apple's iPhone event have leaked online — here's everything we know

Apple is expected to unveil new smartphones with super-high definition OLED screens, potentially named the iPhone Xs and iPhone Xs Max ...

According to KGI Securities analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, Apple is expected to release three new iPhones total, including two devices with OLED screens. 

The two OLED phones will come in different sizes — 6.5-inch and 5.8-inch — and will have the same nearly full-screen display and facial recognition camera as the iPhone X. 

Last month, Apple blog 9to5Mac published what it said was an actual marketing photo for two new iPhone devices. The images show two gold phones, which 9to5Mac says are called the iPhone XS and the iPhone XS Max.

Read more: The biggest details about Apple's iPhone event have leaked online — here's everything we know



... along with a low-cost iPhone with an LCD screen.

Along with two pricey, high-end iPhones, Apple is expected to release a lower-cost device with a 6.1-inch LCD display. The LCD iPhone could be equipped with a single-lens camera, compared with the double-lens cameras on the higher-end iPhones. 

Estimates suggest this device would be more affordable than its brethren, with a price closer to $550 or $650. 



We're also likely to see a revamped Apple Watch.

Apple is expected to release the Apple Watch Series 4 at its hardware event. Thanks to a leak from 9to5Mac last month, we may already know the design.

The leaked image shows a gold Apple Watch with what appears to be an edge-to-edge display and a new watch face with eight complications, or special functions.

The new watch is also expected to come in two new, larger sizes, and have longer battery life, new health-tracking functions, and a faster chip. 

Read more: Everything we think we know about the new Apple Watch models that could launch on September 12



See the rest of the story at Business Insider

The most important details about Apple's iPhone event have leaked online — here's everything we know (AAPL)

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iphone X

Apple is poised to launch new iPhones on Wednesday, as it introduces new gadgets at an event on its campus in Cupertino, California.

Based on analysts, leaks, and reports, we have an idea of what Apple could be launching this fall.

Apple could launch its biggest iPhone ever as well as a more affordable phone with an edge-to-edge screen. 

Here's everything you need to know about what Apple could launch later this week:

Apple sent invites to journalists and others for an event on its campus on September 12.



That means you will almost certainly be able to buy a new iPhone this September.

Since 2012, Apple has unveiled its latest iPhone in September. Typically, the new phone is available to preorder a few days after Apple's announcement.

Here's the recent history:

  • 2012: The iPhone 5 was announced on Wednesday, September 12, and started shipping on Friday, September 21.
  • 2013: The iPhone 5S was announced on Wednesday, September 10, and started shipping on Friday, September 20.
  • 2014: The iPhone 6 was announced on Tuesday, September 9, and started shipping on Friday, September 19.
  • 2015: The iPhone 6S was announced on Wednesday, September 9, and started shipping on Friday, September 25.
  • 2016: The iPhone 7 was announced on Wednesday, September 7, and started shipping on September 16.
  • 2017: The iPhone 8 and iPhone X were announced on Tuesday, September 12. The iPhone 8 started shipping on September 22. In a change from previous years, iPhone X started shipping on November 3, almost two months after the announcement.


Reliable analysts and journalists have predicted that Apple will release three new iPhones.

The short answer to what to expect from the new iPhones is more Face ID, Apple's facial-recognition software that replaced the fingerprint sensor on the iPhone X. Signs are pointing to it becoming a default feature on this year's models.

Apple watchers are expecting three new iPhones this year: one that looks like the iPhone X but with updated components, one that's a supersized version of the iPhone X, and one that's a less expensive iPhone with an edge-to-edge LCD screen and facial recognition that could cost $649 to $749.



See the rest of the story at Business Insider

45 hotels around the world with stunning views

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171106 5M1726Instead of seeing the sights and then heading back to a hotel, why not see the sights from the hotel? Beyond rooftop bars and terraces in common spaces, exquisite hotels around the world can offer something even better: views right from the hotel room.

With new accommodations popping up around the world, from Mexico to Zimbabwe, here's where you can find luxe experiences in exotic destinations while relaxing from the comfort of your own hotel room.

Zemi Beach House in Shoal Bay Village, Anguilla overlooks a famous Bay.

Ever dreamed of owning a beachfront home? This is about as close as it gets.

"Complete with a premier spa and a fine dining sea-to-table restaurant called Stone, the 65-room hotel sits on the world-famous Shoal Bay East,"according to Vogue.

Take in the intensely turquoise waves and white sand beaches which stretch out for miles right from your own plush bed. It's a truly luxe experience, including rooms outfitted with wireless Bluetooth sound systems and motion-sensing climate control, according to their site. But the star here is the sun, sand, and warm ocean breezes.



Rocky Hills Retreat in Tasmania, Australia is surrounded by nature.

This deluxe boutique hideaway encourages guests to really relish their surroundings. It's easy to feel moved by nature here — the backdrop is the awe-inspiring Tasmanian bush.

The best part? Outside on the deck you'll find a custom-built Huon pine bath to soak in.

Rocky Hills Retreat is also a particularly great place for those who want to flex their artistic abilities.

"A fully equipped art studio is available just 300 metres away, just waiting for you to draw, paint, or sculpt your own masterpiece,"according to Discover Tasmania.



Capella Ubud in Ubud, Bali is a sanctuary.

Newly opened in July of 2018, Capella Ubud allows you to dive deep into the natural wonders of Bali. Nestled between Ubud's rainforest, rice paddy fields, and the sacred Wos River, simply being in your room inspires a sense of adventure.

During construction, no tree was cut down — which means the resort feels like a tucked away sanctuary.

"I love the idea that the camp, in essence, disappears into the rainforest," Bill Bensley, the architect behind Capella Ubud, told Robb Report.

Part glamping, part luxury hotel, all housing options offer both indoor and outdoor bathrooms as well as a spacious lounge area to relax and unwind.



See the rest of the story at Business Insider

Everything we think we know about the new Apple Watch models that could launch this week (AAPL)

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Apple Watch

For the past two years, Apple has released new Apple Watch models in September alongside new iPhones.

These new Apple Watch models, Series 2 and Series 3 with LTE, kept the same design but upgraded the wearable 's components with a faster chip, a water-resistant case, and cellular support.

If Apple keeps the same pattern, it's likely to introduce new Apple Watch models at its launch event on its campus scheduled for Wednesday.

This year it looks likely Apple introduces the first new Apple Watch industrial design since the product line was revealed in 2014, which would make it the biggest upgrade in over three years.

Here's everything we know about the rumored new Apple Watch:

SEE ALSO: Here's the latest hint that Apple will launch new Apple Watch models next month

It could be called the Apple Watch Series 4, if Apple sticks with its naming convention.

The latest model, Apple Watch Series 3 with LTE, can be identified by the red dot on the crown.



Apple blog 9to5Mac published a photo on Thursday of what it says is the Apple Watch Series 4, with a bigger screen, smaller bezels, redesigned crown, new gold color and new watch face.

More information on 9to5Mac



Reliable TF International Securities analyst Ming-Chi Kuo predicts the new Apple Watch will come in two sizes: one with a 1.57-inch screen, and one with a 1.78-inch screen.

Source: KGI Securities



See the rest of the story at Business Insider

The 10 least valuable college majors

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college graduation bored

  • The least valuable college majors may land you your dream job — but not your dream pay.
  • Bankrate recently took a look at the least valuable college majors — the top ten were in arts, creative, and psychology fields.
  • However, that doesn't mean that obtaining a degree in a creative space isn't a wise investment.

Sometimes, your dream job doesn't always align with dream prospects and dream pay. That is, depending on what degree you graduate with from college.

Bankrate recently took a look at the most and least valuable college majors based on data from the US Census Bureau American Community Survey. Using weighted data, they determined the employment and unemployment rates and incomes for graduates for their first year out of college across 162 majors that employed at least 15,000 people. They also considered the number of college graduates who held a higher secondary degree. 

With the most valuable college majors in the business, science, and math fields, it's not all too unpredictable that the least valuable college majors fall into the arts and creative fields. 

But that doesn't mean graduates with degrees in those fields are doomed.

"Obtaining a creative arts degree, or miscellaneous arts degree or being in any sort of creative space is a terrific investment, and I would strongly advocate for it," Philip Olson, who holds a theater and dance degree, told Bankrate. "I would caveat that to say that if you get a degree in that space, expect to use it in a nontraditional way if you want to be successful."

Below, see the top-10 least valuable college majors.

SEE ALSO: The 25 most valuable college majors

DON'T MISS: To compete for top students, colleges have borrowed a tactic retailers have been using for years

10. Library Science

Average income: $48,754

Unemployment rate: 3.3%



9. Interdisciplinary and Multi-Disciplinary Studies (General)

Average income: $48,992

Unemployment rate: 5.4%



8. Drama and Theater Arts

Average income: $48,287

Unemployment rate: 5.2%



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10 signs of prostate cancer that are easy to miss

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doctor

One in nine US men will be diagnosed withprostate cancer at some point in their lives, according to the Prostate Cancer Foundation. This disease affects the male prostate gland and is thesecond-leading cause of cancer death among men in America.

Though the thought of a cancer diagnosis is scary, it's important to watch for the signs of a problem in order to catch and treat prostate cancer quickly.

Here are a few signs of prostate cancer that are easy to miss.

1. Your urine stream might not be as strong.

Decreased flow or velocity of urine is a common urinary symptom of prostate cancer, according to Cancer Treatment Centers of America.

This can be caused by atumor pressing on the urethra.



2. You're going to the bathroom at night more than you used to.

Frequent urination, especially at night, can be a marker of a prostate problem, according to the Prostate Cancer Foundation.

Prostatitis or benign prostatic hypertrophy (also known as having an enlarged prostate) can also cause urinary symptoms like increased urination. Be sure to visit a doctor if you notice yourself rising more in evenings to visit the bathroom.



3. Your feet or legs are swollen or puffy.

Spending all day on the go can take a toll on your feet, but chronically swollen legs might be a sign of something more serious than a hectic job.

Cancer.Net reported that swelling or fluid buildup in the legs or feet could be a sign that prostate cancer has spread outside the prostate gland. It's important to talk to a professional if you notice this symptom, especially if you're certain you haven't gained weight elsewhere on your body.



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11 Netflix original romantic comedies, ranked

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To All The Boys i've loved before field

We don't pretend to know what goes on behind Netflix's doors. As far as we can tell, subscribers watch what they like, and the great algorithm in the sky proceeds to inform Netflix what content needs producing. No matter how it goes down at streaming town, we're thankful. We're thankful the almighty algorithm has deemed romantic comedies worthy recipients of Netflix's $8 billion content strategy.

Netflix is working hard to resurrect the once over-saturated genre. And, on more than one occasion, the streaming juggernaut has knocked it out of the park, contributing wholesome, easily-lovable films to yesteryear's long list of iconic romantic comedies. However, for every Netflix original rom-com which takes local Twitter by storm, there is a less-hyped, objectively cringe-worthy foil. It's likely you've never even heard of some of these films, as they lay buried at the bottom of Netflix's sea of available content.

11. "Naked"

Starring: Marlon Wayans and Regina Hall

Most Memorable Quote: "Excuse me, sir, you're naked."

We hardly want to include "Naked" on this list, as it is neither comedic nor romantic. That said, the streaming service does list this movie under "romantic comedies," and thus we've obliged. "Naked" stars Marlon Wayans as Rob Anderson, a man who finds himself trapped in an elevator, naked, on his wedding day. Oh, we forgot to mention it's a reoccurring nightmare, so you get to watch this scenario play out more than once. For joy.



10. "#REALITYHIGH"

Starring: Nesta Cooper and Keith Powers

Most Memorable Quote: "I lost someone I loved just to get likes from a bunch of people I don't even like."

The relationship between teens and social media is a topic worth exploring in film – if you're looking for a movie that does this sensitively, and with nuance, we'd recommend "Eighth Grade.""#REALITYHIGH," however, is neither of those things. The title of the film comes across like a cheap ploy to reel in viewers, and the movie doesn't fare much better. Painfully out of touch, this Netflix Original depicts social media-obsessed high schoolers so flatly, we felt personally offended on behalf of teens everywhere. The teen rom-com centers on Dani Barnes (Nesta Cooper), a sweet, dog obsessed nerd, and Alexa Medina (Alicia Sanz), the quintessential “mean girl” with 8.2 million Instagram followers. Man, when Netflix gets it wrong, it gets it oh-so-wrong.



9. "The Kissing Booth"

Starring: Joey King and Jacob Elordi

Memorable Quote: "You are the one girl who doesn't fall at my feet, and it's driving me crazy."

Despite being a massive success, The Kissing Booth is a cringe-worthy, predictable cheese-fest written for a very specific audience (*cough, cough* pre-teen girls). Now, this is not to demean the tastes of pre-teen girls, but let's just say the movie does not translate to a wider audience as well as other teen rom-coms on Netflix. The Kissing Boothcenters on 14-year-old Elle Evans (Joey King) who falls hard for her best friend's bad boy older brother. The entire movie basically plays out like 13-year-old wish fulfillment, which is cool, if you're a 13-year old. Less cool for everyone else.



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17 drinks fans loved that are discontinued in the US

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coca cola blakFrom discontinued Kool-Aid flavors to coffee-spiked colas, the road through your local supermarket's drinks aisle is paved with products that briefly sizzled — but ultimately didn't stick around, at least if you live in the US.

We rounded up some drinks that you may remember fondly — and would buy another bottle of today if you could.

Crystal Pepsi might've made its last comeback in 2017.

Crystal Pepsi was a massive flop in 1992 and disappeared completely in 1993— but people love it, which made Pepsi bring it back in 2015, 2016, and 2017. Pepsi claimed in 2017 that was the very last time they'd resurrect it, however.



Black Cherry Vanilla Coke has been replaced by many new Coke flavors.

Black Cherry Vanilla Coke only lasted from 2006 to 2007, and the official page now gives you a 404 error on Coca Cola's site — which seems indicative that it's not coming back any time soon. Still, that doesn't stop people from looking for it



Coca Cola Blak couldn't reign in enough coffee lovers.

Coca-Cola Blak blended the Coke taste you know and love with coffee — but failed to reach its audience and was discontinued in 2007. Genius Kitchen supplied a recipe for it, though if you are craving the sweet treat, and it's gotten four stars. 



See the rest of the story at Business Insider

5 types of food that could help improve your brain function

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blueberry oats

  • Healthy diets offer many benefits for your physical health, and studies show certain eating plans can also affect mental health.
  • Recent studies have highlighted the potential for healthy foods to play a role in decreasing the risk of depression and anxiety.
  • Here are some foods that could help boost your brain function.
The Conversation

We all know eating "healthy" food is good for our physical health and can decrease our risk of developing diabetes, cancer, obesity, and heart disease. What is not as well known is that eating healthy food is also good for our mental health and can decrease our risk of depression and anxiety.

Mental health disorders are increasing at an alarming rate and therapies and medications cost $2.5 trillion dollars a year globally.

There is now evidence dietary changes can decrease the development of mental health issues and alleviate this growing burden. Australia's clinical guidelines recommend addressing diet when treating depression.

Recently there have been major advances addressing the influence certain foods have on psychological well-being. Increasing these nutrients could not only increase personal well-being but could also decrease the cost of mental health issues all around the world.

SEE ALSO: Thousands of mental health professionals agree with Woodward and the New York Times op-ed author: Trump is dangerous

SEE ALSO: Black students who are interested in racial justice are more likely to be ignored by white admissions counselors, new research shows

SEE ALSO: The French Open banning Serena Williams' catsuit is like when women were vilified for wearing shorts

Complex carbohydrates

One way to increase psychological well-being is by fuelling brain cells correctly through the carbohydrates in our food. Complex carbohydrates are sugars made up of large molecules contained within fibre and starch. They are found in fruit, vegetables, and whole grains and are beneficial for brain health as they release glucose slowly into our system. This helps stabilize our mood.

Simple carbohydrates found in sugary snacks and drinks create sugar highs and lows that rapidly increase and decrease feelings of happiness and produce a negative effect on our psychological well-being.

We often use these types of sugary foods to comfort us when we're feeling down. But this can create an addiction-like response in the brain, similar to illicit drugs that increase mood for the short term but have negative long-term effects.

Increasing intake of complex carbohydrates and decreasing sugary drinks and snacks could be the first step in increased happiness and well-being.



Antioxidants

Oxidation is a normal process our cells carry out to function. Oxidation produces energy for our body and brain. Unfortunately, this process also creates oxidative stress and more of this happens in the brain than any other part of the body.

Chemicals that promote happiness in the brain such as dopamine and serotonin are reduced due to oxidation and this can contribute to a decrease in mental health. Antioxidants found in brightly colored foods such as fruit and vegetables act as a defense against oxidative stress and inflammation in the brain and body.

Antioxidants also repair oxidative damage and scavenge free radicals that cause cell damage in the brain. Eating more antioxidant-rich foods can increase the feel-good chemicals in our brain and heighten mood.



Omega 3

Omega 3 are polyunsaturated fatty acids that are involved in the process of converting food into energy. They are important for the health of the brain and the communication of its feel-good chemicals dopamine, serotonin, and norepinephrine.

Omega 3 fatty acids are commonly found in oily fish, nuts, seeds, leafy vegetables, eggs, and in grass fed meats. Omega 3 has been found to increase brain functioning, can slow down the progression of dementia, and may improve symptoms of depression.

Omega 3 are essential nutrients that are not readily produced by the body and can only be found in the foods we eat, so it’s imperative we include more foods high in omega 3 in our everyday diet.



See the rest of the story at Business Insider

10 effective skincare products that use exfoliating acids to reduce acne and make your skin clearer, softer, and more even

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The Insider Picks team writes about stuff we think you'll like. Business Insider has affiliate partnerships, so we get a share of the revenue from your purchase.

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  • AHA and BHA are acids that exfoliate the skin.
  • AHA is best for dry skin and surface-level skin concerns like acne scars. BHAs are best for oily and acne-prone skin types.
  • You can use both by buying products with both ingredients, or by alternating products.
  • Below are 10 AHA/BHA products worth checking out, and where you can find them.

Exfoliation is an essential part of a good skincare routine. It helps to slough off dead skin and facilitate new cell turnover, keep pores clean (and skin clear), and promote blood flow and collagen production. It also makes your skin look younger, healthier, and helps produce the much-desired glow.

One type of exfoliation that’s gaining traction is acids — specifically AHA and BHA — thanks in part to mainstream brands such as Drunk Elephant, Dr. Dennis Gross, and Peter Thomas Roth. Drunk Elephant has cult-favorites like the T.L.C. Sukari Babyfacial and T.L.C Framboos Glycolic Night Serum, Dr. Dennis Gross has Alpha Beta Daily Peels, and Peter Thomas Roth has AHA/BHA Clearing Gel.  These acids can combat acne, erase dark spots, and blur fine lines.

So what are AHAs and BHAs, what do they do, and who should be using them?

Alpha Hydroxy Acid (AHA) represents acids derived from a natural substance like sugar cane, milk, almonds, or grapes. They work by breaking down the glue holding your skin cells together, urging along the skin’s natural shedding process. BHAs penetrate deeper into the skin, but the effects of AHAs are primarily felt on the skin’s surface. If you have surface-level skin concerns like red marks from past acne, this constant sloughing off of dead, dull skin cells is helpful for hyperpigmentation. 

AHA is also good for dry skin. It’s made up of molecules that love water, and it helps improve the skin’s moisture content.

Beta Hydroxy Acid (BHA) is best for acne-prone skin and those with deeper skin concerns since BHA penetrates further into the skin. While AHAs love water, BHAs love oil. They can bypass the oil that clogs pores and dissolve the mix of sebum and dead skin that leads to acne, as well as stabilize the lining of the pore (which contributes to acne). BHAs clear up blackheads, whiteheads, and have anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. This umbrella term includes the popular anti-acne ingredient of Salicylic Acid. BHAs also exfoliate the top layer but are best bought for their deep penetrative qualities.

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Can’t decide between addressing hyperpigmentation and dry skin or your acne? Use both AHAs and BHAs. It’s the acidic one-two punch of treating dark spots, sun damage, and fine lines as well as acne and deep, clogged pores. Shop products that contain both ingredients, or alternate between your AHA product and your BHA product nightly or weekly.

It’s important to use sunscreen after exfoliating since your skin will be photosensitive, and to pay attention to how your skin is reacting. It’s always a good idea to run products by your dermatologist, and that's especially true if you have sensitive skin and want to double check which strength of each acid is best for you.

Below are 11 products that use AHAs, BHAs, or a combination of the two and where you can find them:

AHA: AHA 7 Whitehead Power Liquid

COSRX AHA 7 Whitehead Power Liquid, available on Amazon and Ulta, $14 - $19

COSRX, the skincare brand best-known for the Pimple Master Patch (though we suggest trying Mighty Patch), also has an AHA liquid formulated to resurface the skin and renew the complexion while reducing those surface-level whiteheads we're all too familiar with. 

This serum contains 7% glycolic acid and fruit water to gently exfoliate the skin, prevent breakouts, and brighten skin tone. The company recommends using COSRX chemical exfoliators with cotton pads for the best results. 

 



AHA: Botanical Body Soap

Mario Badescu A.H.A. Botanical Body Soap, available on Amazon and Ulta, $14

Mario Badescu, arguably best known for its Drying Lotion (another go-to acne weapon for us), also makes an AHA-filled body soap. 

Papaya and grapefruit extracts break down dead skin cells to be replaced with newly smooth and soft skin. Ginseng extract rejuvenates, and oat protein soothes sensitive or irritated areas. 

If you're looking for a way to regularly combat body acne and thoroughly clean the buildup on your skin, this is a great option to add to your shower lineup. 



BHA: Medicated Acne Pads

Stri-Dex Medicated Pads, Maximum Strength, 90-Count Containers, available on Walmart and Amazon, $4

An old-school favorite and drugstore hero, Stri-Dex Medicated Pads are an inexpensive way to get your dose of BHA in the form of Salicylic Acid. 

These work best for targeting existing pimples and blackheads, and they're strong; Stri-Dex pads contain the highest level of Salicylic Acid you can get without a prescription (2%). Formulas are entirely alcohol-free, however, so the cleansing process forgoes the characteristic burn of alcohol.



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Prince Harry is dressing so much better thanks to Meghan Markle — and these photos prove it

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Prince Harry and Meghan Markle

Since  Meghan Markle and Prince Harry got married in May, the whole world has been captivated by Markle's fashion choices. But while we obsessed over her stunning engagement ring and minimalist wedding dress, we missed something equally exciting: Harry's subtle style evolution.

Since the couple officially started dating in November 2016, Harry's style has shifted from disjointed and preppy to polished and modern — and it could very well be because of Markle's influence.

Keep scrolling to see how Harry's style has changed since he started dating the former "Suits" star.

Before he started dating Markle, Harry often favored casual pieces. He wore this checkered shirt on a May 2014 visit to Rome, Italy.

Harry also sported oversized sunglasses and an eye-catching watch.



Harry also frequently wore button-down shirts with the sleeves rolled up and chino pants on royal engagements.

Harry donned this all-gray variation of the outfit while visiting South Africa in December 2015.



He also favored preppy, sporty looks.

In February 2015, he wore this casual, layered ensemble to a London Marathon training event in Twickenham, UK.



See the rest of the story at Business Insider

Here's how to use Zello, the walkie-talkie app people are downloading ahead of Hurricane Florence

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Hurricane Florence

Hurricane Florence is expected to make landfall later this week, and a free smartphone app is rising through the App Store charts as people prepare for the worst. 

Called Zello, the app lets you use your phone as a walkie-talkie or two-way radio as long as you have a network or WiFi connection. Users can join channels and instantly send messages or photos, and the app even works over older 2G networks.

Zello is currently ranked No. 4 among social networking apps in the US, as well as No. 38 among all iPhone apps overall. According to app analytics firm Sensor Tower, that's a major jump from just one day ago — on Monday, Zello was ranked No. 25 among social networking apps and No. 389 overall. 

This isn't the first time Zello has come in handy. Back in August, Zello saw a significant jump in new installs as Tropical Storm Lane approached Hawaii. And last year, Zello reached No. 1 on the App Store as Hurricane Irma ripped through the Caribbean. 

If predictions hold, Hurricane Florence may be the strongest storm ever to make landfall north of FloridaIt's important to note that if cell towers are wiped out in the storm and WiFi goes down, Zello will not work. But if you have cell service — even a 2G or 3G connection — the app could help in the event of an emergency.

Here's how it works.

SEE ALSO: South Carolina, North Carolina, and Virginia are under mandatory evacuations as Hurricane Florence approaches. Here are the areas affected and what to do if you're in them

Zello is free to use and doesn't have ads. To start using the app, though, you'll need to make an account. You can provide as much or as little information as you'd like, including a photo, description, and voice greeting.



Zello takes a no-frills approach to its interface. By clicking the menu button, you can check your volume level, change your status, view your contacts, and see available channels.



Zello lets you join existing channels or create your own. To check out some of the available channels, click "Channels" in the menu, then navigate to "Trending Channels."



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Residents in the Carolinas and Virginia are rushing to prepare for Hurricane Florence — here's what it looks like on the ground

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hurricane florence

Evacuations have been ordered across Virginia, North Carolina, and South Carolina on Monday and Tuesday, as Hurricane Florence approaches the US for a potentially record-breaking landfall.

Governors from the three states in the storm's path issued harsh warnings for citizens to evacuate immediately, causing a harried scene among stores and communities to prepare for the possibly devastating storm.

Here's what it looks like on the ground:

SEE ALSO: Hurricane Florence could be the most powerful storm to ever make landfall north of Florida

DON'T MISS: South Carolina, North Carolina, and Virginia are under mandatory evacuations as Hurricane Florence approaches. Here are the areas affected and what to do if you're in them.

Hurricane Florence has been showering the Carolinas and Virginia with rain before it's set to make record-breaking landfall in North Carolina later this week.

Source: Business Insider



Some citizens weathered the very early signs of the storm with ease, but reports and warnings from public officials are painting an increasingly dangerous picture.



Coastal counties in Virginia, South and North Carolina were all under mandatory evacuation as of Tuesday afternoon.

Source: Business Insider



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Photos show how dramatically the World Trade Center site and Manhattan's skyline have transformed since the 9/11 attacks

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ground zero world trade center transformation 9/11

The terrorist attacks on September 11, 2001, took the lives of more than 3,000 Americans and transformed the US in countless ways.

It sparked the global war on terror (which the US is now fighting in 76 countries) and the invasions of Afghanistan and Iraq.

It led to the creation of the Department of Homeland Security, US Immigration and Customs Enforcement, and the Patriot Act.

And it also fundamentally changed New York City.

In honor of the 17th anniversary of the horrific attacks, we compiled 17 photos showing how Manhattan's Financial District and skyline have changed since 9/11 as the city rebuilt ground zero.

SEE ALSO: Inside St. Paul's chapel, where George Washington prayed after taking the oath of office — that remained standing when the Twin Towers fell across the street

DON'T MISS: Aerial images of the World Trade Center show the site's evolution from 1966 to now

Here's an aerial view of the Twin Towers on a peaceful June day in 1999.



But that skyline was horrifically altered a little more than two years later.



You can see the stark difference between the top photo, taken on August 30, 2001, and the bottom photo, taken from the spot 16 days after the attacks. It would take several months for rescuers to go through the rubble.



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Vladimir Putin and Xi Jinping made Russian pancakes with caviar, and the photos are incredible

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Russian President Vladimir Putin and Chinese President Xi Jinping took a break from meetings on Tuesday to show off their cooking skills.

While attending an economic forum in the far eastern port of Vladivostok, Russia, Putin and Xi donned blue aprons to cook up some traditional Russian pancakes, called blini.

After making a short stack, the pair ate their blini topped with caviar and washed it down with shots of vodka. See the photos for yourself:

SEE ALSO: 800 Russians were arrested over protests against Putin raising the country's retirement age

DON'T MISS: China is reportedly burning bibles and making Christians renounce their faith to ensure total loyalty to the Communist Party

The two world leaders whipped up pancakes at the Eastern Economic Forum on Tuesday. Both countries are notorious for spreading positive propaganda about their leaders.

Source: New York Post



It was the second time the pair have cooked together. When Putin visited China in June, he learned how to make dumplings, which Xi then tasted.

Source: RT



The bake-off took place on "Far East Street," reportedly a showcase of the region's cultural and economic achievements on the sidelines of the forum.

Source: AFP



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This luxury resort on Maine's largest island costs up to $2,000 per night and is a gateway to one of the country's most stunning national parks

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luxury hotel maine

  • A waterfront luxury hotel in Maine almost looks like it belongs on a Caribbean island, but it offers a quintessential New England experience.
  • At the West Street Hotel in Bar Harbor, guests can eat authentic Maine dishes such as lobster and clam chowder and take in panoramic views of the harbor from the adults-only rooftop pool.
  • The hotel serves as a base from which to explore nearby Acadia National Park
  • It will cost you between $249 and $2,000 per night to stay at the resort.

 

The West Street Hotel, which sits on Maine's largest island and has stunning views of the harbor, offers a distinctly New England experience.

The rooms are decorated in a charmingly nautical style and the restaurant serves Maine lobster, seafood chowder, mussels, and fish and chips.

The upscale resort, which can cost up to $2,000 per night, is also an ideal base from which to explore Acadia National Park.

Here's a look at the hotel and the variety of activities guests can enjoy while staying there.

SEE ALSO: 13 things you must do in Maine

DON'T MISS: 18 incredible national parks around the world that you need to visit in your lifetime

The resort is in Bar Harbor on the coast of Maine, a little over 100 miles from Canada.

Source: Google Maps



It's in the town of Bar Harbor on Mount Desert Island and serves as "a gateway to Acadia National Park."

Source: Bar Harbor Chamber of Commerce



The island, which is the largest off the coast of Maine, is a popular summer vacation destination.

Source: Visit Maine



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50 adorable baby Halloween costumes that are almost too cute to resist

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The Insider Picks team writes about stuff we think you'll like. Business Insider has affiliate partnerships so we get a share of the revenue from your purchase.

pbkids

Halloween is creeping up on us and, before you know it, everything will be costumes, pumpkins, and candy corn. While your baby likely doesn't yet know about the fun of the holiday, that doesn't mean you should pass up the chance to dress them in a cute, festive ensemble! We searched the web for some of this years best baby costumes and these are some the cutest ones we loved.

From adorable animals to funny foods, here are 50 of the cutest Halloween costumes for babies that will make you melt:

An adorable avocado

Carter's Little Avocado, starting at $29.99, available at Amazon



A suit fit for an aspiring astronaut

Aeromax Jr. Astronaut Suit, $23.49, available at Amazon



A ghost that is anything but spooky

Baby Boo Costume, $11.90, available at Walmart



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5 unique products featured on Launchpad this week — Amazon's hub for innovative startups

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The Insider Picks team writes about stuff we think you'll like. Business Insider has affiliate partnerships, so we get a share of the revenue from your purchase.

amazon launchpad main

Amazon is where you can usually find the best prices on the brands you already know and love, from electronics giants like HP and Panasonic to kitchen legacies like KitchenAid and Le Creuset. But it's not only a place for the big companies to dominate. 

Amazon Launchpad is a part of the site where some of the world's most interesting and innovative small startups can shine alongside industry veterans. 

Here, you can shop the smart gadgets, home goods, gourmet snacks, kitchen tools, and other innovative products that have the potential to become household names — all in one place. 

Every week, Amazon adds five new products worth noting to its Launchpad collection and we'll be giving you the breakdown on why each one earns its place. 

The themes of this week's Launchpad additions: health, wellness, and security. 

Shop the 5 unique products from Amazon Launchpad below. 

SmartyPants vitamins

Shop SmartyPants adult and children's vitamins at Amazon here

SmartyPants' delicious gummy vitamins are made with organic, non-GMO, and eco-friendly ingredients. They're also free from gluten, allergens, synthetic colors, and artificial flavors and preservatives, so they're truly good for your body. You'll find vitamins for the whole family here, including men's, women's, and children's multivitamins, prenatal vitamins, and probiotics. Your purchase doesn't only benefit your own body — through its partnership with Vitamin Angels, the company has made more than 4.7 million nutrition grants to moms and children in need. 



AYO light therapy glasses

AYO Premium Light Therapy Glasses, $249, available at Amazon

These glasses provide safe blue light therapy exposure to re-energize and refresh your body in under half an hour. You put them on like any pair of glasses and control the smart programs (Sleep, Travel, Energy) through the corresponding app. Frequent travelers will appreciate its jet lag solution, which can speed up the process of adapting to a new time zone and make travel less tiring. Meanwhile, AYO claims its sleeping aid light noticeably improves sleep quality in less than five days. 



EZVIZ Wi-Fi security camera

EZVIZ ez360 Pano TripleHD 360 Degree Panoramic Wireless Wi-Fi Security Camera, $149.99, available at Amazon

Keep tabs on your home at all times with this smart security camera, which is Wi-Fi- and Alexa-compatible. Its dynamic fisheye lens gives you a high-definition 360° view of the room, and through the app, you can divide your video feed into two 180° sections or four 90° sections, then pan, tilt, and zoom independently on each section. The camera is easy to set up, and works most effectively when mounted to the ceiling. 



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9 iPhone accessories I swear by — from a $10 aluminum stand to $159 pair of Airpods

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The Insider Picks team writes about stuff we think you'll like. Business Insider has affiliate partnerships, so we get a share of the revenue from your purchase.

iPhone X iPhone 8

I surround myself with a bunch of great gadgets and accessories, but the center of my tech life is unquestionably my iPhone. It's the first gadget I look at in the morning, the last one I use at night, and the piece of technology that's changed my life the most over the past 11 years.

Apple is about to announce a bunch of new iPhones, and I've taken the opportunity to collect the accessories I swear by, from a $10 stand to a $160 pair of Airpods, which help me get the most out of my iPhone. Whether you're planning on upgrading to a new phone this year, or sticking with the one you picked up last year, the accessories on this list can help you out. 

Below you'll find the wireless charging tech that keeps my phone powered up when I'm at home or on the go; the case that has kept my iPhone X scratch-free for almost a year; the speaker I use to play music when I'm around the house; the headphones I wear during my commute and walks around the city; and more.

SEE ALSO: 25 must-have iPhone accessories under $25

DON'T MISS: The best iPhone accessories from cases to lightning cables

Speck's Presidio Case

iPhone 8: Speck Presidio Case, $29.45, available at Amazon

iPhone 8 Plus: Speck Presidio Case, $32.36, available at Amazon

iPhone X: Speck Presidio Case, $37, available at Amazon

Speck's Presidio Case is the only case I've used to protect my iPhone X since getting it last November, and it's held up very well. The Presidio has survived months of drops, scrapes, and exposure to water (fresh and salt), all without getting more than a few scratches. I know it's doing its job correctly because when I take my phone out of the case it's scratch free.



Mophie's Wireless Charging Base

Mophie Charging Base, $39.95, available from Apple.com and Amazon

All three of Apple's latest iPhones support wireless charging, but not all wireless charging pads are the same. I use mophie's wireless charging base because it can charge the latest iPhones at a faster (7.5-watt) rate.

That's still not as fast as plugging my phone in, but once I got used to the convenience of placing my phone on a pad to charge and picking it up when I wanted to go, there was no turning back.



Anker's 30W USB-C charger and Apple's Lightning to USB-C cable

Anker USB Type-C with Power Delivery 30W USB Wall Charger, $25.99, available at Amazon

Apple USB Type C-to-Lightning Charging Cable (3.3ft), $25.99, available at Best Buy

All of Apple's 2017 iPhones gained the ability to charge at a significantly faster rate than older models, although you'll need two accessories to take advantage of this improvement.

First, you'll need a charger that can deliver power faster than the one Apple includes in the box. I use Anker's USB-C adapter, which is powerful enough to fast-charge an iPhone and iPad, or even (more slowly) charge one of Apple's new MacBooks or MacBook Pros. 

Second, you'll need a Lightning to USB-C cable, which lets you connect your iPhone to Anker's adapter. With these two accessories, I can charge my iPhone X's battery up to 50% in an hour, which is incredibly useful if I'm tight for time.



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A Silicon Valley engineer who moved to the US from India 7 years ago reveals the most surprising things about class in America

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aniruddh Chaturvedi

  • Social class in America is perceived differently than it is in other countries.
  • A LinkedIn software designer named Aniruddh Chaturvedi moved to the US from India in 2011, and listed what he found to be the most surprising things about class in the US.
  • He was surprised by how rich people don't flaunt their wealth, how serious the homeless problem is, and how brick houses are something of a status symbol in the US.


Social class is a controversial topic in the United States, and is often at the center of American political and cultural debates.

But to someone from another country, the issues surrounding class in America aren't so obvious.

Aniruddh Chaturvedi, a senior software designer at LinkedIn, came to the US from India in 2011 and immediately noticed interesting things about class in America. For example, from his perspective, Americans are much more private about their wealth than people from other countries, and it's often hard to even tell who's wealthy and who's poor in the first place, he said.

Chaturvedi listed his most surprising observations in a Quora postdrawn from his experience as a student at Pittsburgh's Carnegie Mellon University and his time working in the San Francisco area, where he now lives. He emailed additional thoughts to Business Insider.

Here are the most interesting things Chaturvedi noticed about class in America, from how rich people have an easier time eating healthy to how much construction workers get paid.

SEE ALSO: The most surprising things about America, according to a Silicon Valley engineer who moved from India 7 years ago

DON'T MISS: This map shows the US really has 11 separate 'nations' with entirely different cultures

Americans seem to live in an 'almost classless society'

"I've noticed that most Americans roughly have the same standard of living. Everybody has access to ample food, everybody shops at the same supermarkets, malls, stores, etc."

"I've seen plumbers, construction workers and janitors driving their own sedans, which was quite difficult for me to digest at first since I came from a country where construction workers and plumbers lived hand to mouth."



'Anybody can buy anything,' thanks to credit

"Obtaining credit in this country is extremely easy. Anybody can buy anything, for the most part, except for something like a Maserati, obviously."

"As a result, most monetary possessions aren't really status symbols. I believe that the only status symbol in America is your job, and possibly your educational qualifications."



In America, 'it's very difficult to tell who's wealthy and who's not'

"The wealthy people usually don't have many material possessions. Every millionaire I know drives old cars, wears Levi's jeans, etc. They tend to spend more on experiences."

"A lot of people I know who have fancy stuff usually go into credit card debt in order to fund their lavish lifestyle. It's strange! Perhaps expensive material possessions are simply a form of validation that rich people usually derive from their work, their family, friends, etc, which may not necessarily be the case for the average consumer."

"I'm almost certain that the 1% isn't the main clientele for any luxury brand in the US."



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