Month: May 2025

    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Disney+ Unveils New ‘Perks’ Loyalty Initiative for Subscribers
    Disney+ Unveils New ‘Perks’ Loyalty Initiative for Subscribers

    ### Disney+ Perks: A Fresh Tactic to Mitigate Churn

    In the fiercely contested realm of streaming platforms, minimizing subscriber churn is essential for sustaining a dedicated clientele. Disney has made considerable efforts to tackle this issue, mainly through bundled packages. Recently, the company has unveiled a groundbreaking initiative: Disney+ Perks, a loyalty scheme aimed at boosting subscriber retention.

    #### What is Disney+ Perks?

    Disney+ Perks is a novel program designed to reward subscribers with unique advantages, thereby motivating them to stay subscribed over the long haul. The initiative is branded as a gesture of gratitude for Disney+ users, providing a variety of rewards and incentives.

    #### Benefits Included in Disney+ Perks at Launch

    Upon its launch, Disney+ Perks offers a wide range of 12 benefits for subscribers:

    1. **6-Month Complimentary DashPass Membership** from DoorDash.
    2. **20% Discount** on purchases at adidas.com and within the adidas app.
    3. **15% Discount** on purchases at Funko.com.
    4. **15% Discount** on purchases at Loungefly.com.
    5. **3-Month Free Trial** of CLEAR+.
    6. **2-Month Free Trial** of Super Duolingo.
    7. **Free In-Game Emoji** from Disney Emoji Blitz.
    8. **Opportunity to Win Tickets** to the *Freakier Friday* World Premiere, allowing early access to the sequel prior to its theatrical debut on August 8.
    9. **Opportunity to Win a 4-Night Cruise** on the Disney Destiny, the latest vessel in the Disney Cruise Line fleet, departing from Ft. Lauderdale in November 2025.
    10. **Early Access** to the closed release of Disney Pinnacle by Dapper Labs, featuring a monthly Mystery Capsule and a $10 Dapper Credit available until June 26.
    11. **Exclusive Summer Discounts** at Walt Disney World® Resort, with rates beginning at $99 per night at Disney’s All-Star Sports Resort for stays of 2 nights or longer at selected Disney Resorts Collection hotels.
    12. **Free MONOPOLY GO! and Star Wars™ TIE Fighter In-Game Token**.

    At present, Disney+ Perks is accessible only in the United States, but there are aspirations for future expansion into other territories.

    #### Comparison with Hulu’s Perks

    Hulu has similarly debuted a perks program, though it currently provides a more restricted array of benefits. These consist of chances to win tickets to events such as Lollapalooza and exclusive perks from partners like Microsoft and LG Electronics. For bundle subscribers who enjoy both Disney+ and Hulu, this amounts to a total of 15 benefits at launch, with the possibility of additional offerings in the future.

    #### Conclusion

    Disney+ Perks signifies a strategic effort by Disney to bolster subscriber loyalty through concrete rewards. While the initial offerings may appear diverse, the program’s effectiveness will likely hinge on its ability to evolve and respond to subscriber feedback. As the streaming industry continues to expand, it will be intriguing to observe whether competitors adopt similar strategies to maintain their audiences.

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on Garmin Smartwatch Offered at Unprecedented Low Price Following Memorial Day Sale
    Garmin Smartwatch Offered at Unprecedented Low Price Following Memorial Day Sale

    (Image credit: Michael Hicks / Android Central)

    If you’re searching for an excellent deal on a smartwatch, you might just hit the jackpot, as one of Garmin’s top models is currently discounted for a short time. At present, Amazon and various other stores have slashed the price of the Garmin Venu 3 by $100, which we consider the best Garmin smartwatch thanks to its stunning AMOLED screen, 14-day battery life, and its blend of GPS, heart rate, sleep tracking capabilities, and additional features. This offer is for the 45mm variant, which boasts a 1.4-inch display and weighs approximately 47g.

    For those eyeing another model, Amazon has also quietly introduced several other <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.androidcentral.com/wearables/garmin/amazon-quietly-drops-huge-sale-on-garmin-smartwatches-here-are-the-5-deals-that-matter" data-before-rewrite-localise="https://www.androidcentral

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Google’s Gemini Teaser Emphasizes Connection with Pixel Watch
    Google’s Gemini Teaser Emphasizes Connection with Pixel Watch

    We’ve received a tiny glimpse of information regarding Gemini and the Pixel Watch.

    (Image credit: Michael Hicks / Android Central)

    Essential information

    • Google is allegedly distributing I/O 2025 summary emails to users, which seemingly contain a noteworthy hint about Gemini and the Pixel Watch.
    • The email indicates that Gemini will be “a more capable and conversational assistant” (Apologies, old Assistant).
    • The preview also emphasizes several of Gemini’s functionalities, including playlist generation and more.
    • It remains uncertain when Gemini on the Pixel Watch (Wear OS) will be available; however, Google has asserted it will be “in the coming months.”

    After being relatively succinct, Google is reportedly hinting at its forthcoming Gemini update for its smartwatch.

    Google has been observed sending emails to its users, summarizing the events and highlights from I/O 2025 (via 9to5Google). While most of the content in this email encapsulates familiar information, there was one clever tease: Gemini for the Pixel Watch. The publication noted that while the information was still limited, its context elaborates on the AI’s capabilities.

    In a nod to the old Assistant, Google mentions that Gemini will be “a more capable and conversational assistant.”

    • Richard
    • Comments Off on OnePlus Introduces Two Fresh Smartphones featuring Stunning Designs
    OnePlus Introduces Two Fresh Smartphones featuring Stunning Designs

    The OnePlus Ace 5 Ultra and Ace 5 Racing Edition are loaded with robust gaming features.

    (Image credit: GSM Arena)

    Essential information

    • The OnePlus Ace 5 series has been expanded with the launch of two new smartphones: the OnePlus Ace 5 Ultra Edition and the Ace 5 Racing Edition.
    • These devices are crafted specifically for gamers, featuring high-performance specifications, and are available in three unique color options.
    • They feature an “Esports Triple-Chip,” which includes the MediaTek Dimensity 9400 Plus chipset, the Lingxi touch-control chip, and the gaming-centric Wi-Fi chip G1.
    • At present, these smartphones are only available in China, with no updates on international availability.

    Recently, OnePlus introduced two new smartphones as part of its Ace 5 series. The new models are named the OnePlus Ace 5 Ultra Edition and the Ace 5 Racing Edition.

    Tailored for gaming aficionados, these smartphones merge elegant aesthetics with high-end hardware and exceptional battery life for an “ultimate gaming experience.” The design ensures that they balance evenly in both hands, thus minimizing hand fatigue during prolonged gaming sessions.

    The OnePlus 13T debuts in China with a smaller screen and flagship-level capabilities

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Ben Stiller Hints at Two Possible Spinoff Series for “Severance”
    Ben Stiller Hints at Two Possible Spinoff Series for “Severance”

    **Severance Season 3 and Possible Spinoffs: What We’ve Learned So Far**

    Severance, the acclaimed series on Apple TV+, is presently developing its third season. Nevertheless, recent conversations have uncovered that the creative team is also considering the option of broadening the show’s universe via spinoffs. In a recent dialogue with Variety, director Ben Stiller shared compelling insights regarding these potential endeavors.

    ### Stiller Suggests Two Concepts for Spinoffs

    In the interview, Stiller acknowledged that there are two particular spinoff concepts under consideration, though he chose not to reveal any specifics. He characterized these ideas as “nascent,” signifying that they remain in the preliminary phases of development. This announcement is notably thrilling for fans, as it implies that the realm of Severance may expand beyond its existing storyline.

    Stiller’s candidness concerning the spinoff concepts was rather surprising, especially considering his hesitance to discuss other elements of Season 3. The talk with Variety also underscored Stiller’s original aim to perform in the series, emphasizing his significant engagement in the project from its inception.

    ### The Appeal of Severance

    Severance has cultivated a loyal fanbase and received critical praise, rendering it an excellent candidate for expansion. The show’s distinctive premise, which investigates the notion of work-life balance through a dystopian lens, has struck a chord with audiences, igniting interest in additional narratives within this universe.

    Apple TV+ has previously experimented with spinoffs for other successful programs. For example, Mythic Quest recently introduced an anthology series named Side Quest, and For All Mankind is anticipated to receive its own spinoff. This trend indicates that Apple is eager to leverage the achievements of its original content.

    ### What Might the Spinoffs Involve?

    While particular details regarding the spinoff concepts are still undisclosed, fans are left to theorize about possible directions. Considering the show’s themes of identity, memory, and corporate culture, spinoffs could delve into diverse characters, environments, or even alternate realities within the Severance universe. The opportunities are immense, and audience interaction could significantly influence the development of these new stories.

    ### Conclusion

    As Severance Season 3 nears, the possibility of spinoffs introduces an exhilarating dimension to the show’s future. With Ben Stiller and the creative team actively pursuing fresh ideas, fans can anticipate additional content that explores the captivating world of Severance. As Apple TV+ continues to broaden its offerings, the prospect for new tales and characters within this franchise appears auspicious.

    For those eager to view Severance and other popular series, Apple TV+ is available for $9.99 per month, showcasing popular titles like Ted Lasso, The Morning Show, and Silo.

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on Artist Converts Avian Vocalizations into Breathtaking AI-Generated Tune
    Artist Converts Avian Vocalizations into Breathtaking AI-Generated Tune

    “We need to stop being so fearful and complaining so much about what lies ahead,” remarks Brazilian artist Daniel Lopes regarding AI’s application. While Europe attempts to strike a balance between the rights of creators and the implementation of artificial intelligence, numerous artists are achieving more with the technology than merely crafting fake Studio Ghibli visuals that bear no resemblance to the originals.

    On this occasion, Lopes demonstrated how AI can serve as an ideal artistic partner by fusing nature, creativity, and technology. In an Instagram Reels upload, the musician disclosed that he recorded the song of the Uirapurú, a Brazilian bird native to the Amazon Forest, and employed AI to compose music inspired by it.

    Initially, AI struggled to capture the precise notes of the bird’s song, prompting Lopes to interpret the melody through his own piano performance. Subsequently, with a prompt that included “orchestral, modern, intellectual, elegant, piano,” he utilized AI to generate music rooted in the Brazilian bird’s melody.

    “It’s a film score,” he states. “I believe we can explore numerous creative applications of AI. This is one such instance. In this scenario, the bird from the Amazon Forest is the composer of the song.”

    Discussions regarding the attribution of songwriting and music rights in relation to AI persist. This is why European creators are advocating for a framework to safeguard their music while permitting AI to enhance the industry without appropriating others’ creations.

    Interestingly, although Lopes produced something distinctive, he was not the first to draw inspiration from the Uirapurú’s song. In the previous century, Brazilian composer, conductor, cellist, and classical guitarist Heitor Villa-Lobos crafted a symphony derived from this bird’s melody.

    Regardless, Daniel Lopes’ video stands as a compelling illustration of how AI can be employed inventively. Another instance is Peter Jackson’s endeavor of isolating John Lennon’s vocals from a demo, resulting in The Beatles’ concluding song, “Now and Then.” While my colleague Andy Meek argues that The Beatles didn’t merit a Grammy for this AI-assisted music, I perceive these as excellent demonstrations of how AI can assist artists, rather than supplant them.

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on Worries Emerge Regarding Daring Aesthetic of Revealed Galaxy Watch 8 Classic
    Worries Emerge Regarding Daring Aesthetic of Revealed Galaxy Watch 8 Classic

    A traditional rotating bezel combined with an oversized case gives off a distinctive appearance, yet it might dissuade loyal Galaxy Watch Classic enthusiasts.

    Last week, SammyGurus and OnLeaks shared renders of the Galaxy Watch 8 Classic that stray from the definition of “classic.” If the leaked design holds true, it appears to merge the Galaxy Watch 6 Classic with the Galaxy Watch Ultra, featuring a rotating bezel positioned on the squircle case. Whether you embrace this transformation or resist it, there are valid concerns.

    The leak indicates that the Watch 8 Classic will boast a 1.5-inch display, a 435mAh battery, and dimensions of 46 x 46.5 x 14.2mm. While we lack weight specifications, it’s reasonable to suspect that it could rank among the heftiest Android watches available, regardless of whether it’s crafted from steel or titanium.

    Keep in mind, Samsung tends to misrepresent the thickness of its watches by neglecting to include the sensor bump in the measurement, as if it were somehow detachable or not a factor. The Galaxy Watch 7 claims to be “9.7mm” thick, but the actual figure is closer to 12.7mm. In a similar vein, the Galaxy Watch Ultra is nearer to 15.5mm than the reported 12.1mm.

    Now, check the video above and pause at either the one or seven-second mark. Is this watch genuinely 14.2mm thick? If you consider the “12mm” Ultra case and add a 2mm-thick rotating bezel, that could add up. Yet, the real thickness would approximate 17mm, overshadowing every smartwatch I’ve ever owned.

    All of this remains mere conjecture until we can experience the Watch 8 Classic directly or obtain official specifications to verify the weight. Nonetheless, I trust this leak, as Android watches seem to be evolving in this direction.

    This ‘Classic’ no longer caters to ‘typical’ smartwatch enthusiasts

    My mother remarks on my “spaceship watches” during my visits when I review a new model. To her, they resemble an object resting on my wrist, rather than a fashionable item. By this assessment, the Watch 8 Classic would genuinely be a Millennium Falcon.

    Let’s afford Samsung the benefit of the doubt for now, assuming the thickness isn’t as exaggerated as suggested in the leak. It’s still reasonable to expect that the Watch 8 Classic sports a 46mm titanium body with a stainless steel bezel atop it. That amounts to a significant weight on one’s wrist.

    After following weeks of leaks regarding Galaxy Watch 8, all signals indicate that Samsung will offer just one Classic model this year — the SM-L500 or SM-L505 with LTE, despite the Watch 4 and 6 Classic being available in two sizes.

    My Watch Ultra already tips the scales at 93g/3.3oz with the Marine Band; the addition of the Classic bezel raises concerns about its comfort for prolonged wear, particularly with a lack of a smaller 42mm variant — especially for someone accustomed to heftier timepieces.

    Since the introduction of the Apple Watch Ultra, designers from other brands have been liberated to emphasize performance over conventional aesthetics. The backlash claiming the Galaxy Watch Ultra is merely an Apple replica was exaggerated, as it indeed possesses a unique design, but it still remains quite large according to many people’s perceptions. The same applies to the bulky OnePlus Watch 3, which employs Samsung’s technique to report a thickness of 11.8mm, discounting the sensor.

    These devices cater to dedicated Android fans, but alienate the broader consumer base who prefer lighter, slimmer, and more affordable squircle watches.

    Should you doubt my words, I organized a smartwatch beauty contest last Christmas with my extended family. While my non-technical relatives appreciated the distinct style of the Galaxy Watch 5 Pro and Galaxy Watch 6 Classic, they disliked the Galaxy Watch Ultra and Apple Watch Ultra due to their excessive size.

    Reinforcing heavier watches for minimal gains

    During Samsung’s recent earnings call, a corporate vice president assured a “new Galaxy Watch with an innovative design,” and the Watch 8 Classic certainly fits the bill as a unique offering. But will consumers opt to purchase it?

    The aforementioned leak suggests that the Watch 8 Classic will feature a rated capacity of 435mAh, or a typical capacity of 450mAh. This represents a minor increase over the 425mAh Galaxy Watch 7 and Watch 6 Classic; however, it falls significantly short of the 590mAh found in the Galaxy Watch Ultra and Watch 5 Pro.

    Typically, heavier watches offer better-than-average battery life or additional benefits. Yet, if the Galaxy Watch 8 Classic delivers the same 40-hour estimate, maintains the 1.5-inch display, and (most likely) retains the same Exynos chip and 2GB of RAM as last year’s model, what’s the reasoning for investing in such a bulky watch?

    That said, my preferences may be skewed, and I do believe the Galaxy Watch 8 Classic (

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on Present Offers: M4 Mac mini for $489 (Historical Low), 15-Inch M4 MacBook Air Reduced by $175, M3 iPad Air, and More Promotions
    Present Offers: M4 Mac mini for $489 (Historical Low), 15-Inch M4 MacBook Air Reduced by $175, M3 iPad Air, and More Promotions

    ### M4 Mac Mini Discounts: Unmatched Savings and Promotions

    The M4 Mac mini has recently experienced a notable rise in demand due to substantial price reductions, especially on Amazon. At present, the lowest-priced model is offered at a historic low of **$489 shipped**, making it a compelling choice for those seeking to purchase a robust yet compact desktop.

    #### All-Time Low Pricing on the M4 Mac Mini

    The M4 Mac mini, which generally sells for **$599**, has been reduced to **$488.63**, signifying a **$110 price cut**. This reduction is part of a wider trend of discounts across several M4 Mac mini configurations. Considering that offers of this scale are uncommon, prospective buyers should respond promptly, as prices might return to regular rates after a short time.

    #### Discounts on the M4 MacBook Air

    Besides the Mac mini, the **15-inch 16GB M4 MacBook Air** is also experiencing considerable price cuts, now listed at **$1,023.86 shipped**, down from its usual price of **$1,199**. This amounts to a saving of **up to $175**, positioning it as one of the finest deals for a new MacBook Air. Multiple color choices are available, with the Starlight variant currently featuring the highest discount.

    #### Unprecedented Price on the 13-inch M3 iPad Air

    The **13-inch M3 iPad Air** has hit an unprecedented low, now priced at **$679.75 shipped**, down from **$799**. This **$120 reduction** is significant, especially since earlier price cuts had not surpassed **$100**. At the moment, this offer is mostly available for the Starlight model, while other colors are still priced slightly higher.

    #### Further Promotions on Apple Products

    The current sales also encompass a variety of other Apple products, including:

    – **13-inch M4 MacBook Air 16GB/256GB** starting from **$865** (Reg. $999)
    – **15-inch M4 MacBook Air 16GB/512GB** beginning at **$1,237** (Reg. $1,399)
    – **11-inch M3 iPad Air 256GB** returning to **$600** in select colors.

    #### Final Thoughts

    With these remarkable discounts on the M4 Mac mini, MacBook Air, and iPad Air, now is the perfect opportunity for consumers to contemplate upgrading their Apple devices. The temporary nature of these promotions means that interested buyers should move quickly to take advantage of these savings.

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on CarPlay Ultra: Manufacturers Disapprove of Apple’s Latest Capabilities
    CarPlay Ultra: Manufacturers Disapprove of Apple’s Latest Capabilities

    After years of buildup, CarPlay Ultra made its official debut earlier this month. Numerous automakers have committed to collaborating with Apple to integrate CarPlay Ultra into their vehicles. Nonetheless, a number of prominent brands have opted not to embrace this latest technology.

    ### No Future CarPlay Ultra Support from These Brands

    Aston Martin stands out as the first automaker to incorporate CarPlay Ultra in its lineup, yet Apple has gathered a robust list of partners who are set to embrace the new technology gradually. Regrettably, the roster of brands declining to support CarPlay Ultra is more extensive.

    Here are the automakers with no declared support:

    – BMW
    – Buick
    – BYD
    – Cadillac
    – Chevrolet
    – Chrysler
    – Dodge
    – Fiat
    – GMC
    – Jeep
    – Lexus
    – Mazda
    – Mercedes-Benz (previously committed but withdrew)
    – RAM
    – Rivian
    – Subaru
    – Suzuki
    – Tesla
    – Toyota
    – Volkswagen

    If your preferred automaker appears on the list above, they may never endorse CarPlay Ultra. While those that have committed might take time to implement support, at least one day CarPlay Ultra is anticipated to be available for them.

    Many brands listed above do support standard CarPlay, with few exceptions such as Tesla and Rivian. It seems that Apple’s goal of gaining more control over vehicle instruments through CarPlay Ultra is not attractive to many of these automakers.

    As more automakers start to introduce CarPlay Ultra support in the future and the platform matures, it will be fascinating to observe if any of these brands rethink their position.

    Will CarPlay Ultra affect your future buying choices? Share your thoughts in the comments.

    ### Top CarPlay Accessories

    *FTC: We employ income-generating auto affiliate links.*

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on “Galaxy Tab S6 Lite Priced Below $200 on Amazon After Memorial Day”
    “Galaxy Tab S6 Lite Priced Below $200 on Amazon After Memorial Day”

    For individuals looking for a Samsung S Pen paired with an economical tablet, the Samsung Galaxy Tab S6 Lite stands out as a superb option. Now offered at a reduced price of less than $200 on Amazon, this tablet is being sold with a 25% discount, rendering it a cost-effective choice for anyone in need of a device equipped with a stylus. The Galaxy Tab S6 Lite boasts a 10.4-inch screen, 64GB of internal storage, and up to 14 hours of battery longevity. It features a 3.5mm headphone jack, a USB-C charging port, and stereo speakers with Dolby Atmos capabilities. It remains the sole budget-friendly Samsung tablet that includes the S Pen, presenting an excellent chance for users desiring a stylus without overspending.

    The S6 Lite is a more budget-conscious alternative to the premium S6, with minor distinctions like a somewhat smaller battery and display size. It does not have a fingerprint sensor and isn’t built for top-tier performance, but it shines as an affordable choice with vital features. Offered in colors like Oxford Gray, Mint, and Chiffon Pink, it provides a fashionable and practical option for daily use.

    Suggested for those in search of an economical Samsung tablet with the S Pen, the Galaxy Tab S6 Lite is perfect for users who favor a compact display and require a headphone jack. Nevertheless, it might not meet the needs of those looking for an iPad substitute, a fingerprint sensor, or high-performance features. In summary, the Samsung Galaxy Tab S6 Lite presents an appealing option for price-sensitive shoppers seeking a dependable tablet with stylus compatibility.

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