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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on Top 5 MacBook Docking Stations on Amazon Evaluated by Customer Ratings
    Top 5 MacBook Docking Stations on Amazon Evaluated by Customer Ratings

    recent MacBook Pro versions, the brand is infamous for lacking sufficient ports in its Mac laptops. This leads users to face challenges while connecting multiple peripherals, displays, and storage devices to their MacBooks. Luckily, MacBook docking stations are available to enhance the port availability on your Mac laptop; be it a MacBook Air, Pro, or the basic MacBook from previous generations.

    Docking stations or USB-C hubs are handy devices featuring a diverse range of ports that connect to Thunderbolt (TB) or standard USB-C ports on your MacBook, enabling you to connect additional devices beyond the usual limits set by your Mac’s standard port offerings.

    Nonetheless, selecting an appropriate docking station can be daunting due to the myriad of options on the market. Thus, here are five of the top Mac-compatible docking stations and USB-C hubs available on Amazon that have garnered positive feedback from users.

    Satechi Slim Pro hub

    Satechi’s Slim Pro Hub is a compact USB-C dock that easily connects to contemporary MacBooks, expanding the port variety to seven distinct ports. It has been engineered to ensure it doesn’t obstruct the MagSafe port on your MacBook, a common issue found in earlier USB-C hubs with a similar layout that were launched when Apple had eliminated MagSafe from its Mac laptops.

    The standout feature of this hub is the built-in USB4 40Gbps port, which can deliver up to 100W of power and supports up to 6K 60Hz displays, making it perfect for linking fast external storage drives, displays, or charging your laptop. Among the other USB ports, there is a USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C port, alongside two USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-A ports. Unfortunately, these ports lack power delivery capabilities, rendering them suitable only for peripherals and storage drives. Satechi has also incorporated an HDMI port capable of handling up to 4K 60Hz displays and two slots for your microSD and SD cards.

    The USB-C hub boasts a premium and stylish appearance, thanks to its aluminum construction. However, this also translates to a premium price of $80, leading many Amazon customers to find it somewhat pricey for its offerings. An additional issue noted by some users is the snug fit of its USB-A ports, which can prove inconvenient. Still, it has achieved an impressive average rating of 4.4 from over 700 reviews.

    Anker 332 USB-C hub

    The <a href="https://r.bttn.io?btn_ref=org-225e4e0aac880b8f&btn_url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2FAnker-Display-MacBook-Thinkpad-Laptops%2Fdp%2FB0BQLLB61B

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Document Uncovers UK Pressured Apple for iCloud User Information
    Document Uncovers UK Pressured Apple for iCloud User Information

    consented to drop its insistence for Apple to provide a “back door” to its encrypted data. Nonetheless, a fresh document indicates that the UK government sought access to even fundamental iCloud data. The Financial Times stated that although the U.S. has asserted its success in persuading the British government otherwise, the initial demand for Apple users’ data was more critical than initially perceived.

    Based on a legal document reviewed by the outlet, the UK government aimed for access to users’ encrypted information as well as Apple’s conventional iCloud service. This court filing was issued by an unbiased judicial entity addressing complaints about UK security matters.

    While Apple has warned of discontinuing iCloud services in the area, which would lead to the loss of FaceTime and iMessage functions, the company had already removed the optional additional layer of encryption, known as the Advanced Data Protection feature, from UK users in February.

    The UK government has not provided feedback on the iCloud user data request, and Apple is unable to

    iCloud's Advanced Data Protection feature

    José Adorno/BGR

    As per the Financial Times, Apple got a communication from the UK Home Office several months back, which barred the company from publicly discussing the data request. However, the UK has neither confirmed nor denied the existence of this directive.

    The request made to Apple reveals that the government was not only addressing the Advanced Data Protection feature, but also the standard iCloud service. The phrasing included

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Car Keys in Wallet Scheduled for Release for Two Highly Awaited Vehicle Models
    Car Keys in Wallet Scheduled for Release for Two Highly Awaited Vehicle Models

    ### Rivian R1S and R1T to Launch Car Keys in Wallet Soon

    Apple has made considerable progress in merging vehicle technology with its Wallet app, revealing earlier this summer that 13 new car brands will soon offer car keys within the app. Among the first to implement this feature are Rivian’s next-gen R1S and R1T electric vehicles, which initially announced compatibility with Apple car keys last June.

    Car keys in Apple’s Wallet app offer users a seamless way to access their vehicles using just their iPhone or Apple Watch, removing the necessity for a physical key. This functionality has been eagerly awaited by users of compatible vehicles.

    When Rivian introduced its latest R1S and R1T models, the company confirmed the inclusion of Apple car key support. However, the feature was not set for immediate release at that point. Now, over a year later, it seems that the much-anticipated car key support for these Rivian models is finally approaching.

    Recent updates suggest that Apple has activated car key support for Rivian’s R1S and R1T. While the feature is not yet available for Rivian users, the company has assured that it is forthcoming. In a statement, Rivian mentioned that although the feature is live on Apple’s side, it has not yet launched on their end, but users should anticipate it soon.

    With Apple having activated the feature, the rollout is expected to happen within days. This development heightens expectations for a wider array of new car key support as the other car brands announced by Apple prepare to go live.

    As the integration of car keys into the Wallet app continues to progress, it remains to be seen how this feature will affect consumer preferences in the automotive sector. Will the convenience of Apple Wallet’s car key feature influence your next vehicle choice?

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on Apple Ceases Signing iOS 18.6.1, Blocking Downgrades from iOS 18.6.2
    Apple Ceases Signing iOS 18.6.1, Blocking Downgrades from iOS 18.6.2

    Apple has just unveiled iOS 18.6.2 for iPhones, representing a major update in its software offerings. This new release follows shortly after the last version, iOS 18.6.1, which Apple has ceased signing. As a result, users are no longer able to revert to the previous version, with iOS 18.6.2 being the exclusive choice for upgrades.

    The recent update, iOS 18.6.2, includes a vital security patch concerning the ImageIO system framework, which plays a crucial role in image display on iPhones. While this update primarily emphasizes security, it is vital for users to implement it to keep their devices protected against possible vulnerabilities.

    As Apple prepares for the forthcoming iOS 26, expected to feature a significant redesign and new functionalities, users are advised to move to the latest version. The iOS 26 update is anticipated to introduce considerable modifications, such as a new Liquid Glass design, which will enhance the overall user experience.

    For those on older iOS versions, the only pathway to an upgrade is now via iOS 18.6.2. Users encountering bugs or performance challenges with this recent update are invited to report their experiences, as feedback can be beneficial for subsequent updates.

    In conclusion, iOS 18.6.2 is currently the only version accessible for iPhone users, underscoring the necessity of keeping devices updated for security and performance improvements.

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on Reasons to Think About Upgrading from iPhone 16 Pro to iPhone 17 Pro
    Reasons to Think About Upgrading from iPhone 16 Pro to iPhone 17 Pro

    Apple is preparing to unveil four new iPhones, including the iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max. Based on speculation surrounding the upcoming features, here are three reasons to consider upgrading to an iPhone 17 Pro—even if you own an iPhone 16 Pro already.

    ## #1: Camera enhancements

    One aspect that remains consistent with iPhone updates is the enhancement of the camera system. This year, rumors suggest that at least three significant camera modifications are on the horizon:

    – 24MP TrueDepth camera
    – 48MP Telephoto lens
    – Camera app introduces multi-cam recording

    The iPhone’s front camera hasn’t seen much advancement in recent years, but all iPhone 17 variants are receiving a substantial upgrade. Apple’s ‘TrueDepth’ front camera will increase to 24MP, up from the 12MP found in the iPhone 16 Pro.

    For the rear camera system, the Telephoto lens on the iPhone 17 Pro will be upgraded to 48MP—meaning all rear cameras will now feature this resolution. On the iPhone 16 Pro, the current Telephoto lens is limited to 12MP.

    One rumor also suggests that the Camera app may introduce multi-cam recording functionality, which could be exclusive to the iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max. This feature is already available in third-party applications, so it’s unclear why Apple would restrict it to its latest Pro models.

    ## #2: Enhanced performance: A19 Pro, 12GB RAM, and more

    While last year’s iPhone 16 Pro offers solid performance, Apple has a range of specification enhancements planned for the iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max that will elevate their capabilities even further.

    The A19 Pro chip is poised to be a significant performance upgrade. Though we don’t yet have specifics on how much more capable this new chip will be compared to the previous year’s A18 Pro, the increasing significance of on-device AI suggests a marked improvement is forthcoming.

    Additionally, the iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max will be upgraded to 12GB of RAM, representing a 50% increase over the 8GB in the iPhone 16 Pro, presumably driven by AI requirements.

    Lastly, the new iPhone 17 models are set to receive cooling enhancements, helping to maintain consistent performance, even during demanding tasks.

    ## #3: Updated design

    Novel designs can often spur early upgrades of iPhones. When an iPhone’s appearance changes minimally, it’s easier to postpone upgrading for another year.

    The iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max are slated to feature a revamped design in several respects:

    – the new camera bar
    – aluminum replacing titanium
    – fresh color options

    Over the years, the rear camera bump of the iPhone has been steadily expanding. This year, it will transform from a bump into a full-width island. This ‘camera bar’ will provide a distinctly new aesthetic after years of slight modifications.

    In an unexpected design shift, Apple is changing the materials used for the iPhone. Although titanium was just introduced two years ago, rumors suggest it is being replaced with aluminum in the 17 Pro models.

    New color variations are typical with new iPhones, but this year’s offerings for the iPhone 17 Pro may be more significant than usual, possibly due to the shift away from titanium.

    Are you planning to upgrade to an iPhone 17 Pro or Pro Max? What motivates your decision the most? Share your thoughts in the comments.

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Anthropic Provides an Opt-Out Choice for Training Claude Using User Conversations
    Anthropic Provides an Opt-Out Choice for Training Claude Using User Conversations

    generative AI tools such as ChatGPT and Gemini. These chatbots undergo training on various data sources throughout their development, which includes insights from user conversations with the AI. It is indeed unexpected that Anthropic did not gather chat data in prior years, especially since OpenAI and Google have enabled this feature by default. To prevent your data from being utilized to enhance future iterations of ChatGPT and Gemini, one must opt out.

    This privacy option is now accessible to Claude users, both existing and new clients. You will have the choice to opt out of Anthropic’s data collection if you wish, and you can change your decision at any moment. You might choose to assist Anthropic in creating improved versions of Claude; there’s certainly nothing wrong with that. If you prefer your data to contribute to upcoming Claude training processes, it’s important to remain cautious about the information you share with the chatbot during your interactions and refrain from divulging overly personal details.

    The privacy modification by Anthropic is relevant to Claude Free, Pro, and Max subscriptions. These are the only Claude accounts that will be affected. Claude for Work, Claude Gov, Claude for Education, and API usage will not be influenced, meaning these Claude accounts will not provide data for future model training.

    How to prevent Claude from using your chats for training

    Anthropic will not automatically activate data collection for both new and existing users. The company detailed in a blog post that beginning Thursday, it will initiate notifications for current Claude users to assess the new privacy settings. They will have until September 28 to agree to the new service terms and decide if they want their data to aid in training future versions of Claude. Anthropic states that accepting the changes upon receiving the notification means the privacy update will take effect immediately for new and resumed chats or coding sessions. After the deadline, a decision will need to be made to continue utilizing Claude.

    Preventing Claude from using your chats for training is straightforward. Once the notification appears, disable

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Samsung’s Family Care Update Allows Caregivers to Keep a Close Eye on Their Loved Ones
    Samsung’s Family Care Update Allows Caregivers to Keep a Close Eye on Their Loved Ones

    Remaining connected, even when away from home, can help alleviate stress.

    (Image credit: Andrew Myrick / Android Central)

    Essential information

    • Samsung is launching a SmartThings update for Family Care that enables caregivers (son, daughter, etc.) to remain informed about their loved ones.
    • Users can now monitor a person’s “Activity,” gaining insights into their usage of the TV and other devices, and receive alerts if no activity has been detected for a specified duration.
    • Caregivers are also able to establish schedules for their parents and send reminders for meals and medication.

    Samsung’s SmartThings, usually responsible for connecting its smart devices, introduced a Family Care feature last year, and it’s now getting a significant update.

    Earlier today (Aug 28), Samsung announced an update regarding its SmartThings Family Care feature, as it is being enhanced with new capabilities to better assist families. One focus for Samsung is improving its link for “effortless” check-ins. Now, the designated caregiver (son, daughter, etc.) can send you a text with a link to Family Care.

    Upon receiving it, the parent/grandparent can accept and consent to Samsung’s standard options for health data collection and more. Once this process is completed, everything is prepared. Samsung claims that this simplified method should facilitate use for those unfamiliar with app usage since the required steps are very minimal and clear.

    The latest update also enables “families to clarify caregiver and care recipient roles more distinctly.” This allows for clearer preferences regarding what information you wish to stay updated about.

    Family Care is an integral part of SmartThings, meaning it connects to other smart home devices that the care recipient has nearby. Samsung indicates that users can choose which devices the caregiver wants to stay updated on. For example, if your mother has a TV at home and usually watches it in the afternoon.

    If a device has gone unused for a period, Family Care can notify the caregiver. This notification will enable the caregiver to “respond promptly,” either by calling or texting. The update to Family Care allows users to customize how long inactivity periods should be and which devices they wish to be informed about.

    This information is all captured under the recipient’s “Activity” logs.

    Monitoring & Staying Updated

    Maintaining a connection with our loved ones is vital, especially when we are responsible for their care. Family Care is introducing a well-known feature that alerts you when your loved one departs from or arrives at a designated location. Additionally, a map is available to see their movements and the route taken.

    Finally, scheduling daily meals and medication at specific times is essential. The Family Care update enables users to create schedules and reminders for meal times and medication, helping to prevent any unexpected concerns. These updates are expected to roll out soon for Galaxy devices, so stay vigilant.

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on How to Utilize AirPods for Capturing Images with iOS 26
    How to Utilize AirPods for Capturing Images with iOS 26

    the Liquid Glass design and the fresh software capabilities Apple integrated into iOS 26 well in advance of the broader iOS 26 launch next month, yet there’s a concealed feature in iOS 26 that many may overlook: You are able to utilize your AirPods as camera remotes.

    This feature may ring a bell, as you can already employ the Apple Watch as a camera remote for those moments when pressing the standard iPhone camera buttons isn’t practical. Capturing group shots with the iPhone mounted on a tripod serves as one instance. To ensure everyone is included in the photo, including the iPhone user, a timer for the shutter or a remote is necessary. The Apple Watch excels in this role. Bluetooth devices like selfie sticks might provide similar capabilities, equipped with integrated camera shutters. Creators producing videos for social media may also seek hands-free camera control support.

    The iOS 26 upgrade will enable compatible AirPods to function as camera remotes, and this feature might prove even more useful than utilizing an Apple Watch or a selfie stick for photo taking. After all, AirPods are among Apple’s top-selling items, with many iPhone users owning a pair.

    How to convert your AirPods into iPhone camera remotes

    <source media="(min-width: 429px)" srcset="https://www.bgr.com/img

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Steps to Reboot Your iPhone Without the Power Button
    Steps to Reboot Your iPhone Without the Power Button

    device is network locked, to more intricate or even significantly advantageous aspects such as enhancing your battery longevity, or this iOS 26 capability that aims to assist in reducing your utility expenses, understanding how to maneuver through the configurations on your iPhone can yield some positive outcomes.

    Restart your iPhone without using the power button

    <source media="(max-width: 428px)" srcset="https://www.bgr.com/img/gallery/how-to-restart-your-iphone-without-using-the-power-button

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Slim Concept Android Smartphone Provides Almost a Week of Battery Performance
    Slim Concept Android Smartphone Provides Almost a Week of Battery Performance

    How did Realme manage to fit a 15,000mAh powerhouse into such a slim phone?

    (Image credit: Realme / X)

    Key Information

    • Realme has unveiled an incredible concept smartphone housing a 15,000mAh battery, surpassing the combined capacity of the batteries in the iPhone 12 to 16.
    • The company asserts that it can provide up to five days of use on a single charge, enable gaming for 30 continuous hours, or even serve as a power bank for charging other devices.
    • This massive battery is currently a proof of concept and not yet available for mass production.

    Chinese manufacturers such as Realme, Honor, and Oppo are leveraging silicon-carbon anodes to extend battery capabilities. The most ambitious example to date is Realme’s latest concept phone, which is unexpectedly sleek yet accommodates an enormous battery.

    At its recent 828 Fan Festival in China, Realme showcased two innovative concept smartphones. One of these models boasts a large 15,000mAh battery, reportedly allowing users to enjoy 25 movies or engage in gaming for 30 hours with just one charge.