Blog Posts

Blog Posts

Google Health Set to Take Over Fitbit as Industry Leader

Google is said to be contemplating a rebranding of its Fitbit app and related services to the new name Google Health. This possible modification was brought to light by the appearance of “Google Health Premium” in certain international Google Store listings, especially when acquiring a Pixel Watch or a Fitbit product. The rebranding initiative also introduces a new Google Health logo that incorporates a heart icon in Google’s characteristic colors.

At present, Fitbit Premium subscribers benefit from improved insights and access to the AI Personal Health Coach. However, this service may soon be referred to as Google Health Premium. Despite these alterations, the Fitbit brand is anticipated to persist for hardware items, while software and services migrate to the Google Health brand.

The rebranding intends to consolidate Google’s health-related services, but it has generated some confusion. Although the Google Health branding was briefly visible, it reverted to Fitbit Premium after reports emerged. This implies that the transition is still ongoing.

Google’s strategy appears to involve preserving the Fitbit name for hardware while merging services and subscriptions under Google Health. This tactic could result in mixed messages, as the ecosystem becomes increasingly intricate. Observers propose that a comprehensive rebranding might enhance the user experience and offer clarity. Nevertheless, Google’s plans suggest a notable shift in its health and fitness strategy, with possible ramifications for the future of Fitbit and its affiliated services.

Argon Industria HMI 5C: Industrial Aluminum Enclosure for 5-Inch Raspberry Pi Touch Display 2 – CNX Software

Argon Industria HMI 5C

The Argon Industria HMI 5C is an industrial-grade aluminum enclosure designed to house a Raspberry Pi 5 and the 5-inch variant of the Pi Touch Display 2, turning it into a compact Human Machine Interface (HMI) system for control panels, automation interfaces, and embedded display applications. The enclosure supports VESA and panel mounting with a soft foam gasket design, with access to USB, Ethernet, HDMI, and GPIO ports via an internal IO board that reroutes connections (including converting micro-HDMI to full-size HDMI), and includes cable punch-outs for clean installation. The design allows HAT expansion (when the cooling column is removed), PCIe-based M.2 NVMe storage expansion, and compatibility with various other modules. Argon Industria HMI 5C Specifications: Compatibility – Raspberry Pi 5 Supported Display – Official Raspberry Pi Touch Display 2 (5-inch, 720 x 1280 resolution) Port access Display – HDMI (re-routed, full-size via internal PCB) Networking – Gigabit Ethernet RJ45 jack USB – 4x […]

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Meta Quest Moves Closer to Serving as a Practical TV Substitute

DIRECTV has made a noteworthy advancement into the virtual reality realm by introducing its streaming app on Meta Quest headsets, representing the inaugural instance of live TV streaming accessible on VR platforms. This innovative app grants users entry to over 150 live channels, on-demand content, and complimentary streaming options via the MyFree service. For those seeking more niche content, there are premium packages available for sports, movies, and various other genres, which can be directly subscribed to within the VR setting.

The app is compatible with Meta Quest 2, 3, 3S, and Pro models and can be obtained from the Meta Horizon Store. This move positions DIRECTV as the pioneering virtual multichannel video programming distributor to provide its services on Meta Quest, establishing a standard for other streaming platforms to imitate.

Alongside free content, DIRECTV’s current channel bundles are also offered in VR, enabling users to select packages according to their preferences. While other applications such as Disney Plus and Prime Video are already present on Meta Quest, DIRECTV is the first to introduce live TV streaming to the platform, although Netflix is conspicuously missing.

This launch coincides with a pricing rise for the Quest 3 and Quest 3S in the U.S., due to increasing component expenses. Nevertheless, the debut of live TV streaming in VR is a promising progression for Meta Quest users, providing a distinctive method to enjoy live sports and additional content.

Saros: The Pinnacle of Action Thrills

The alien world of Saros feels like it has been touched by King Midas. The sky is golden after another impossibly frequent solar eclipse; rocks, specifically those of the precious resource Lucenite, radiate a shimmering amber. Even the body of our gruff hero Arjun Devraj (played by Rahul Kohli) is liable to turn deep, opulent […]

UAG Cases Address Significant Issue with Galaxy S26 Ultra

Samsung’s Galaxy S26 Ultra has come under scrutiny for its aesthetics, particularly because of the elevated camera housing that results in the device wobbling when set on a flat surface. This design issue has prompted numerous users to look for cases that not only safeguard the phone but also rectify this instability. Luckily, Urban Armor Gear (UAG) provides a variety of cases that alleviate these concerns while delivering strong protection and flair.

Among the notable choices is the UAG Plyo case, available for $59. It showcases a striking Blue Ombré hue and includes anti-yellowing technology to preserve its look over time. The Plyo case comes with a built-in MagSafe-compatible magnet and is engineered to handle drops of up to 16 feet, aided by its cushioned corners and raised edges.

For those in need of more rugged defense, the $69 Pathfinder Clear case presents an armor shell build capable of enduring falls from up to 18 feet. It features a glow-in-the-dark detail surrounding the magnetic module and includes a built-in lanyard for extra convenience.

The Monarch Pro case, retailing at $99, is made with Kevlar for maximum protection, capable of withstanding drops up to 25 feet. Despite its heft, the textured sides offer a secure grip, and it comes in an eye-catching orange hue.

UAG extends its offerings to Galaxy S26+ and S26 models with cases such as the $79 Plasma XTE Galaxy S26+ case, which boasts a robust shell, magnetic charging, and a 360-degree rotating kickstand. This case provides 20-feet drop protection and adaptability with its integrated kickstand.

In summary, UAG’s cases for the Galaxy S26 series not only boost the phone’s resilience but also tackle the design flaws, making them an essential accessory for users looking for both style and protection.

Ubuntu 26.04 LTS “Resolute Raccoon” Released with Linux 7.0

Ubuntu 26.04 LTS

Canonical has just announced the release of Ubuntu 26.04 LTS “Resolute Raccoon” Linux distribution about two years after Ubuntu 24.04 LTS “Noble Numbat” was introduced. The new version of the operating system comes with the just-released Linux 7.0 kernel, GNOME 50, and a range of updates and new features. As a long-term support release, Ubuntu 26.04 LTS will be supported for 5 years until April 2031, and an Ubuntu Pro subscription provides access to ESM (Expanded Security Maintenance) updates for ten years, or until April 2036. One of the benefits of using the latest Linux 7.0 kernel is support for Intel Core Ultra Series 3 “Panther Lake” processors, including Intel Xe3 integrated graphics and the integrated NPU (Neural Processing Unit) optimizations, which may also benefit Wildcat Lake processors (aka Panther Lake Lite). Canonical also highlights TPM-backed full-disk encryption, improved support for application permission prompting, Livepatch updates for Arm-based servers, and […]

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