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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Reasons the POCO F8 Ultra Will Not Debut in India
    Reasons the POCO F8 Ultra Will Not Debut in India

    POCO, a label recognized for its cost-effective smartphones, has established a reputation for products that deliver remarkable value for their price. Nevertheless, its newest flagship model, the F8 Ultra, will not be released in India, even though the nation serves as its largest market. This choice stems from POCO’s identity as a budget-friendly brand, complicating the sale of a device priced above $700 in India. Although the F8 Ultra receives accolades for its hardware and camera performance, POCO’s emphasis continues to be on affordable devices, which enjoy greater popularity in the Indian market. This approach diverges from other brands such as Xiaomi, OPPO, and Vivo, which have adeptly promoted high-end models in India to enhance their brand images. As global smartphone prices continue to escalate, this could have been a prime opportunity for POCO to launch its premium offerings in India, potentially enhancing its reputation and market footprint.

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Google’s 2025 Search Insights Showcase Worldwide Impact of Gemini and Rampant Disorder
    Google’s 2025 Search Insights Showcase Worldwide Impact of Gemini and Rampant Disorder

    From Gemini to worldwide unrest, these are the trends that shaped Google Search this year.

    What you should know

    – AI took center stage in Google’s Year in Search 2025, with Gemini leading global searches and quirky U.S. trends such as “AI Barbie” and “AI Ghostface” demonstrating the mainstream acceptance of generative tools.
    – Coverage of crises intensified, with Iran, LA wildfires, the U.S. shutdown, Hurricane Melissa, and the Kamchatka earthquake prompting a demand for continuous updates.
    – Sports enthusiasts altered the rankings, elevating the FIFA Club World Cup globally and lifting the Seattle Mariners and OKC Thunder in the U.S.

    Google’s Year in Search typically reflects what captivated our interest, but the 2025 list is particularly striking. It serves as a pressure gauge for everything from political tensions to emerging AI trends, alongside a relentless cycle of pop culture. Observing both the global and U.S. lists, certain trends emerge clearly: AI has integrated into daily life, politics dominated headlines, and entertainment continually surprised us in unforeseen ways.

    Gemini topped the global leaderboard, illustrating how ingrained AI has become in everyday dialogue. DeepSeek, another significant AI model, also found its way into the global top 10.

    In the U.S., curiosity manifested differently. Searches like “AI action figure,” “AI Barbie,” and “AI Ghostface” surged as users engaged with generative tools in more whimsical and unconventional manners.

    One headline overshadowed all others

    Yet, 2025 was not solely focused on new technology. There were also moments that astonished people globally. Searches for Charlie Kirk spiked worldwide, driven by more than just political motives. His assassination and death became the most-searched global news event and the primary news topic in the U.S., resulting in days of unwavering coverage and speculation.

    Events such as the situation in Iran, the LA wildfires, the U.S. government shutdown, and the election of Pope Leo XIV kept people searching for updates. Natural disasters like Hurricane Melissa and the Kamchatka earthquake also resulted in an uptick in crisis-related searches.

    Entertainment captured significant attention as well. Globally, Anora and Superman were the most-searched films, while in the U.S., KPop Demon Hunters led the charts.

    Pop culture preferences are polarized

    In television, Monster: The Ed Gein Story emerged as the most popular show worldwide, whereas The Hunting Wives took the lead in the U.S. If it appeared that Taylor Swift was putting out something new every month, you’d be correct. She dominated global lyric searches and comprised half of the U.S. top 10 songs list.

    Sports fans were also engaged. The FIFA Club World Cup stood as the most-searched sporting event worldwide. In the U.S., fans propelled the Seattle Mariners and Oklahoma City Thunder to the top rankings. Terence Crawford, Shedeur Sanders, and Rory McIlroy were among the most-searched athletes globally, reflecting a shift in sports interests this year.

    The internet’s affinity for rabbit holes manifested in some unconventional trends as well. There were surges in “Holy airball” memes and recipe searches for hot honey cottage cheese beef bowls and dumpling bakes. Travel searches mirrored broader changes: globally, Kyoto Station and Kew Gardens were popular on Google Maps, while Americans planned trips to Boston, Seattle, and Tokyo.

    If anything, 2025 revealed that our searches mirror what we care about, what troubles us, and what we wish to explore next.

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Gavin Newsom Shares Discontent Regarding Tim Cook’s Business Engagements with Trump
    Gavin Newsom Shares Discontent Regarding Tim Cook’s Business Engagements with Trump

    **The Tech Sector’s Connection with the Trump Administration: Perspectives from Governor Gavin Newsom**

    At the recent DealBook Summit organized by The New York Times, California Governor Gavin Newsom discussed the intricate relationships between the tech sector and the Trump administration, particularly highlighting the actions of key figures like Tim Cook, CEO of Apple. Newsom’s observations illuminate the challenges tech leaders encounter and the wider repercussions for small enterprises and the economy.

    ### Evaluation of Tech’s Compliance

    In his speech, Newsom condemned the tech industry’s readiness to align with the Trump administration, humorously indicating that industry executives might need to acquire knee pads due to their submissiveness. This remark reflects a rising dissatisfaction among certain political figures concerning the tech sector’s perceived dependence and its willingness to collaborate with a contentious administration.

    ### Tim Cook’s Challenge

    The conversation shifted to Tim Cook, specifically mentioning a notable event when Cook presented Trump with a trophy during a meeting in the Oval Office. Newsom conveyed empathy for the pressures Cook experiences, particularly given Apple’s extensive dependence on China for manufacturing. He pointed out the contrast between large corporations and small businesses, noting that while Cook enjoys the ability to make persuasive requests for tariff exemptions, many small businesses in California do not share such advantages.

    Newsom expressed his worries about what he called “crony capitalism,” where access and influence are disproportionately reserved for those in power. He lamented the difficulties faced by farmers and small businesses in California that lack the negotiating power of tech giants.

    ### The Larger Consequences

    Newsom’s statements were not only directed at Tim Cook but aimed at addressing the general climate in which the tech industry functions. He criticized the tone and expectations established by the Trump administration, suggesting that its approach cultivates a culture where financial donations are essential for obtaining contracts and support.

    ### Conclusion

    Governor Newsom’s remarks at the DealBook Summit emphasize the complex connection between the tech industry and political power. While recognizing the challenging position of leaders like Tim Cook, he advocated for a more just system that supports all enterprises, not just those equipped to exert influence. This conversation prompts significant inquiries about the future of corporate accountability and the role of tech companies in shaping economic policy.

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on Google Subtly Removes Overlooked Google Home Function
    Google Subtly Removes Overlooked Google Home Function

    Reddit observed a few months back that the feature appeared to have disappeared from the app after recent updates. Recently, even more reports have been surfacing, with 9to5Google further confirming the removal of the feature by investigating the app.

    Although the feature wasn’t particularly well recognized, it proved to be helpful. Some parents have mentioned that it was their main method of getting in touch with their kids at home, as it didn’t necessitate the presence of another device apart from their Google Home units. Some even utilized it to send out messages to their family across the house, simplifying the process of staying connected with everyone.

    A persistent problem for Google users

    <img class="gallery-image" src="https://www.bgr.com/img/gallery/google-quietly-removed-one-of-the-most-underrated-google-home

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on Samsung Poised to Address Ongoing Notification Problem on Galaxy Devices
    Samsung Poised to Address Ongoing Notification Problem on Galaxy Devices

    One UI 8.5 feature leaks are emerging, and we’re gradually unveiling the details. A recent rumor suggests that Samsung is finally taking action regarding the frequent “advertisement” notification spam encountered from certain ads.

    This issue has been a personal frustration for me since I transitioned to my Galaxy S25 Ultra earlier this year, and it’s something I certainly miss from my iPhone. Nevertheless, this recent leak from a source named Tarun Vats on X indicates that Samsung might enable Galaxy users to block applications that persistently bombard them with “excessive ads” through their notifications.

    The forthcoming feature seems to be embedded within the Device care settings in One UI 8.5, and it’s aptly labeled “Block apps with excessive ads.” This feature clearly outlines its purpose, stating: “Apps that frequently send advertisement notifications will be placed in deep sleep mode to avoid disturbing you.”

    These apps won’t update unless you open them

    <source media="(min-width: 429px)" srcset="https://www.bgr.com/img/gallery/samsung-might-finally-fix-one-of-the-most-annoying-notification-issues-on

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on iPhone 17 Redefines the Efficiency of Conventional Screen Protectors
    iPhone 17 Redefines the Efficiency of Conventional Screen Protectors

    ### iPhone 17 Display’s Anti-Glare Functionality is Nullified by Most Screen Protectors

    The iPhone 17 series showcases a remarkable leap in display technology with Ceramic Shield 2, which features superior scratch resistance and better anti-glare capabilities. This enhancement is present across the iPhone 17, iPhone 17 Pro, Pro Max, and iPhone Air versions.

    As stated by Apple, Ceramic Shield 2 delivers “3x improved scratch resistance and better anti-reflection to minimize glare.” This advancement theoretically allows users to feel more confident without a screen protector. Nonetheless, a considerable number of users still opt for the additional defense of a screen protector for their high-priced devices.

    Recent findings released by Astropad highlight a significant concern regarding common screen protectors: they undermine the advantages of the iPhone 17’s anti-reflective technology. Tests revealed that the enhancements in anti-reflectivity of the new iPhone 17 are notably reduced when a standard screen protector is used.

    The results indicate that the iPhone 16 Pro had a reflectivity level of 3.8%, while the iPhone 17 Pro exhibited an improved 2.0% reflectivity. However, once a standard screen protector is used on the iPhone 17, the reflectivity rises to 4.6%. This suggests that although the iPhone 17 provides almost twice the anti-reflection capability compared to its forerunner, its effectiveness is hindered when paired with a typical screen protector.

    Giovanni Donelli from Astropad clarifies that the anti-reflective layer of the iPhone 17 is applied directly to the glass surface. When a screen protector is placed on top, it attaches with a thin adhesive layer that interferes with the coating’s proper function. The coating is meant to interact directly with the air, and covering it with adhesive effectively nullifies its advantages. Consequently, there is a considerable rise in reflectivity.

    To remedy this situation, Astropad advises opting for screen protectors that feature their own anti-reflective attributes, such as their Fresh Coat product. For individuals contemplating a screen protector for the iPhone 17, it is recommended to examine the complete study by Astropad to guarantee optimal display performance.

    In summary, while the iPhone 17’s Ceramic Shield 2 provides remarkable durability and anti-reflective features, users should exercise caution when choosing screen protectors to preserve the display’s enhanced capabilities.

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on iOS 26.2 Launch Date: New Features on the Horizon for iPhone Users
    iOS 26.2 Launch Date: New Features on the Horizon for iPhone Users

    Apple is preparing to launch iOS 26.2, the upcoming significant software update for iPhone users, with a projected release date in the next week. The release candidate (RC) version of iOS 26.2 has already been distributed, signaling that the public release is near. Apple had earlier stated that the official rollout would happen in December, and with the RC now in circulation, the launch is expected to occur between December 8 and December 10.

    Traditionally, Apple tends to unveil its x.2 updates in mid-December, consistent with past releases like iOS 18.2, 17.2, 16.2, and 15.2, all of which debuted around the same timeframe. While the week after the RC is a dependable period for the update, there is always a chance of a minor delay if additional modifications are needed.

    iOS 26.2 is predicted to bring a range of new features, significantly enhancing the user experience in comparison to its predecessor, iOS 26.1. Although specific information on the incoming features has not been fully revealed, the update is expected to encompass several user-facing improvements that will aid iPhone users.

    As excitement builds for the launch, users are invited to express which new features they are most eager to see in the comments section. The forthcoming update promises to offer a robust array of enhancements, marking it as an important occasion for the Apple community.

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on Modification of Concealed Vehicle Movement Signals in iOS 26 Reduces Motion Sickness Symptoms
    Modification of Concealed Vehicle Movement Signals in iOS 26 Reduces Motion Sickness Symptoms

    ### iOS 26 Features Customizable Vehicle Motion Indicators

    When Apple launched Vehicle Motion Indicators, it significantly improved my motion sickness, though it didn’t completely eliminate it. With iOS 26, a new adjustment finally resolved the issue.

    As a child, I never faced motion sickness, but that changed as I aged. In recent years, I’ve gone from comfortably reading a full book to feeling nauseous just by glancing at a few messages while sitting in the back of an Uber.

    Luckily, I didn’t have to endure this for too long, as Apple introduced Vehicle Motion Indicators last year for the iPhone and iPad, and later expanded it to the Mac with macOS Tahoe 26.

    However, although it significantly alleviated the sudden onset of motion sickness I started experiencing these past few years as soon as I attempted to read anything in a moving vehicle, the feature didn’t completely eradicate the issue. (Could I refrain from reading? Certainly. But sometimes it’s necessary, so here we are.)

    With iOS 26, Apple rolled out new personalization options for Vehicle Motion Indicators, including adjustments for color and visibility.

    Users can now select from six color choices along with the standard grayscale option, and they can also enhance dot visibility and the number shown on the screen.

    Additionally, there’s a new “Dynamic” motion pattern setting that presents the dots in a more erratic way, while still mirroring the overall movement detected by the device’s sensors.

    To customize Vehicle Motion Indicators, navigate to `Settings > Accessibility > Motion > Vehicle Motion Indicators > Customize Appearance`.

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Meta Employs Apple’s Leading Design Executive in an Unexpected Shift
    Meta Employs Apple’s Leading Design Executive in an Unexpected Shift

    Meta Has Expansively Recruited Apple’s Leading Design Executive in an Unexpected Shift

    Bloomberg reports that Meta has successfully attracted Alan Dye, the leading design executive from Apple. Initially a designer of iPhone packaging, Dye ascended through the company to become the VP of Human Interface Design. Since 2015, Dye has contributed to the design of every software feature across the entire array of Apple’s products. Starting in 2026, he will step into the role of Chief Design Officer at Meta, where he will influence the user interface of Meta’s continuously expanding range of hardware and software offerings. Additionally, Billy Sorrentino, who previously held the position of Senior Director within Apple’s design team, will also be joining Meta.

    It is widely recognized that Meta has been actively recruiting Apple engineers and researchers in recent months, mainly to bolster its AI division. However, the recruitment of Dye, a senior executive renowned for his crucial and prominent influence on Apple customers’ software interactions, marks a significantly daring move. Although it is not uncommon for top Apple executives to depart, this particular case of a leading Apple executive transitioning to a competing tech firm is quite unusual.

    With Dye’s departure, Apple CEO Tim Cook announced that Steve Lemay will assume Dye’s former role: “Steve Lemay has been instrumental in designing every significant Apple interface since 1999. He consistently sets an incredibly high standard for excellence and exemplifies Apple’s ethos of collaboration and creativity.”

    Apple’s leadership landscape is shifting

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on Grasping the Occurrence of a Supermoon
    Grasping the Occurrence of a Supermoon

    A supermoon is a breathtaking lunar spectacle that graces the sky every few months, and it’s among my top natural wonders. In basic terms, a supermoon occurs when the full moon aligns with its nearest position to Earth in its orbit — a phase known to astronomers as perigee. During this event, the moon can present itself up to 14% bigger and 30% brighter than when it’s at its farthest distance (apogee). To the unaided eye, that variation may not seem significant, but it’s sufficient to make the moon look incredibly vivid against the night sky. Supermoons are not particularly uncommon, yet they are still events to look out for. They usually attract photographers, stargazers, and anyone who enjoys witnessing the universe at its most vibrant.

    Depending on your location, they can even transform your nighttime scenery to resemble daylight. Supermoons emit a natural luminosity that’s perfect for a quick photo opportunity or an evening stroll. Astronomers generally categorize several full moons each year as “super,” but just one or two are particularly close to Earth. While they do not induce remarkable physical effects, they act as a reminder of how dynamic and vibrant our solar system truly is. Therefore, the next time you hear about a supermoon brightening the sky, it’s not merely sensationalism; it’s the cosmos offering you a front-row view to one of the most brilliant lunar displays.

    The optimal way to experience a supermoon does not necessitate a special telescope (the James Webb Space Telescope would be excessive) or any specific equipment. You simply need to be in a place with clear skies at the right moment. Since a supermoon is fundamentally a full moon at its closest point to Earth, it rises around sunset and sets around sunrise, providing ample time to appreciate the lunar spectacle. The prime moment to observe a supermoon is just after moonrise, when it is still low on the horizon. That’s when the “moon illusion” comes into play, making it appear even larger and more striking as it floats just above the landscape. If you’re aiming to capture a photo, seek out a location without light pollution hindering the skies, like a park, a beach, or a hill on the outskirts of the city. I reside in the Los Angeles area and enjoy venturing to the desert to photograph the supermoon. The darker your environment, the more radiant and sharp the moon will seem.

    You can utilize a smartphone camera, but switch to night mode or employ a tripod to prevent motion blur for optimal results. If you have binoculars or a zoom lens, you’ll be able to see surface features like craters and the lunar maria (the darker plains) up close. The weather significantly influences the ability to view a supermoon. Check your local forecast or an astronomy application for viewing conditions, as even a thin veil of clouds can diminish the effect. If you want to delve deeper, set up an Astroberry server with an extra Raspberry Pi. Ultimately, witnessing a supermoon is all about timing and patience. When everything comes together, it ranks as one of my favorite awe-inspiring celestial events you can easily observe from your backyard. The next supermoon will rise on December 4th, so prepare yourself!

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