It's been another busy year in tech, and while there were some interesting innovations, a few devices stand out for Wesley Hilliard. Here are his picks for his top tech in 2025.
There's a lot more going on in the tech world than what Apple releases in a given year. It saw a few important updates through 2025, but I'm focusing more on the ecosystem around Apple products rather than the products themselves.
Well, with one exception. I could put the iPhone 17 Pro Max here and talk more about the cameras and other upgrades, but what I'm more excited about is the Apple Vision Pro with M5.
Also, it seems 2026 will be a big year for hardware releases that are either new product lines or long-awaited upgrades to others. So this year, I'd like to discuss a game controller, a battery pack, and an e-bike that's been a big part of my year in tech.
Of course, I can't do this list without at least one bit of software, and that's Apple Invites. It is a simple app but a new one for 2025 that has found an interesting place in my life.
Let's dive in.
Apple Vision Pro with M5
Of all of the products launched in 2025, the one that mattered to its respective platform the most was Apple Vision Pro with M5. The AirPods Pro, iPad Pro, iPhone 17 Pro Max, and Apple Watch are all excellent, if iterative, upgrades that keep those platforms modern.
The Dual Knit band and M5 are considerable upgrades
However, the M5 update to Apple Vision Pro is more than a simple chipset swap — it's a renewal of Apple's commitment to its nascent spatial computing platform. Rumors indicated that an update was on the way, but the timing was all over the place until the end of 2025.
I'm excited to see what the M5 will do for visionOS and its future apps and updates. Improved refresh rates, more pixels rendered per eye, and better performance in most tasks make this a big step from the M2 model.
The M5 isn't the only big upgrade for Apple Vision Pro in 2025. Earlier in the year, visionOS gained Apple Intelligence, then with visionOS 26, spatial widgets were introduced.
Spatial content is also going to begin arriving more rapidly thanks to the ready availability of the cameras needed to capture it. Apple has also worked to help make producing such content easier with more editing and publishing tools arriving for creators.
Sure, I get more use out of my iPhone 17 Pro Max and its incredible cameras, and the Apple Watch Ultra's battery makes it need less attention. However, Apple's upgrades to Apple Vision Pro mean it'll have another two or three years of runway for more software support.
Let's just hope Apple can convince developers to start building for the platform.
Abxylute S9 controller
The Abxylute S9 is a wraparound controller that fits the iPhone and iPad mini. It can even work as a Bluetooth controller when connected to power.
The Abxylute S9 is an excellent controller that fits iPad mini
Because of this, it is one of the most versatile game controllers I've ever reviewed.
Unlike other controllers, it lacks any internal battery, making it lightweight. There are internal rumble motors for games that support them, plus two extra programmable buttons.
Previously, I'd need to pack at least a Bluetooth controller for my iPad and Apple Vision Pro, then include a wraparound controller for my iPhone or iPad mini. Now, this one controller takes up less space and performs the functions of two controllers.
Playing with the iPad mini is especially fun. I like how emulating Nintendo games looks on the display, especially when using special functions with Nintendo DS games.
Even though it's inexpensive, it isn't missing any features. There are several controller modes, the joysticks and the triggers are Hall effect, and you can swap sticks or the d-pad as desired.
I also like that the grips are adult-sized. Other controllers seem to aim for portability over ergonomics, while the Abxylute S9 has great grips without being too big.
Chargeasap Flash Pro Ultra
I feel like one of the most overlooked bits of tech is charging devices. The Chargeasap Flash Pro Ultra may be pricey, but it's essential as a travel companion.
Charge everything with a single battery
Apple's products are all pretty good performers as far as battery life, so you don't really need a hefty battery like this for every outing. It shines on overnights or longer trips when you'd prefer to charge all of your devices from a single outlet.
The one complaint I have that's solved by a three-in-one charger I plug into this battery on trips is the Apple Watch charger. For whatever reason, on third-party batteries like this one, Apple Watches only charge for a few minutes before stopping — it's likely a low wattage draw or similar issue.
What I like about the Flash Pro Ultra is its variety of ports and massive 275W of output. That's especially handy when using it as a passthrough charger, which provides power to all connected devices and recharges the internal battery.
It's become a lifeline in situations where I know I'll be away from dedicated power for hours at a time. The large capacity, multiple ports, fast charging speeds, and passthrough capabilities make it an excellent option and a favorite of 2025.
Velotric Nomad 2
Thanks to writing reviews for AppleInsider, I've fallen in love with e-bikes. It is hard to imagine not having one around for a ride through the local trail or into town for some work away from the home office.
The Velotric Nomad 2 makes every ride feel smooth and safe
The Velotric Nomad 2 might be my favorite e-bike I've reviewed so far. It's a fat tire e-bike that weighs 75 pounds, but it's perfect for comfortable riding on nearly any terrain.
I like the size and build of these large e-bikes — the wheel size and total weight make you feel extra stable. The added suspension helps with comfort during a ride.
As an Apple user, the Find My integration is excellent, though I still use the Apple Watch workout metrics over the integrated Apple Health Cycling Distance. It's an e-bike built to fit into your Apple ecosystem, and it has several fun technology choices.
My favorite feature is the ability to swap the way the pedal assist sensors work while riding. The torque sensor is great for better control over the bike, while cadence sensing is excellent for reaching top speeds on straightaways with little effort.
Turn signals, brake lights, and a headlight mean you're highly visible as you ride. There's also plenty of range, which I appreciate when I spend the day away from home.
The only thing that could improve the Velotric Nomad 2 is improved integrations with Apple Health. Otherwise, it's a great e-bike that's great for local commutes and the occasional trail.
Apple Invites
This might be an odd choice, but I've really enjoyed Apple Invites since its launch in February. It isn't perfect, and there are third-party applications that can likely do a better job, but I can appreciate the first-party app for what it is.
Apple Invites has been quite the fun and useful tool
I've used the Apple Invites app for major family events like birthday parties, holidays, and similar throughout the year. We even used it for the wedding in place of a website or social media page.
It took a little convincing for some, while those that aren't interested will never be interested, but for the most part, Invites was a hit. Private, easy to access, and simple to send updates.
My favorite part of Invites is its history section that lets me go back and see old invites, who RSVP'd, and which photo albums and such were attached. It's a little time capsule that's unique from something like Photos or Journal.
There's a lot of room to grow, and new integrations will always help it thrive, but for now, it's already quite handy as a tool. If only there was a trick for convincing people to download the app and send invites for their events.
