Month: May 2025

    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Transform Your Apple Watch into a Game Boy: An In-Depth Review of the Application
    Transform Your Apple Watch into a Game Boy: An In-Depth Review of the Application

    ### Playing Game Boy Games on Your Apple Watch: A Guide to ArcEmu

    Have you ever glanced at your Apple Watch on your wrist and thought, “I wish I could enjoy my Game Boy games here”? While this may not have been on your mind previously, the fact is that as of 2025, you can indeed experience classic Game Boy games on your wrist, thanks to advancements in emulation technology. This article will walk you through the setup process and showcase the features of the ArcEmu app.

    #### Emulation on iOS

    In recent times, Apple has made considerable alterations to its App Store regulations, enabling emulation apps to be legally downloaded straight from the store. This change has paved the way for developers to create innovative applications that allow users to enjoy retro gaming on a variety of devices, including the Apple Watch. A notable app in this realm is **ArcEmu**, a Game Boy emulator crafted specifically for the Apple Watch.

    #### Getting Started with ArcEmu

    ArcEmu is a retro-inspired Game Boy emulator that operates on your iPhone and iPad, and is also fine-tuned for the Apple Watch. Here’s how to begin:

    1. **Download the App**: ArcEmu can be obtained for a one-time fee of $1.99.
    2. **Automatic Syncing**: Once installed on your iPhone, the app will automatically appear on your Apple Watch.
    3. **Upload ROMs**: You will need to transfer your Game Boy ROMs into the iOS app.
    4. **Play on Your Watch**: The ROMs will automatically appear in the Apple Watch app, enabling you to dive right into gameplay.

    #### Features of ArcEmu

    ArcEmu is filled with features that enhance the gaming experience:

    – **Syncing Save Data**: You can begin playing on your iPhone, save your game, and continue on your Apple Watch without a hitch.
    – **Custom Controls**: The digital crown can be customized to replace directional arrows or act as A/B buttons.
    – **Fast Forward and Slow Motion**: These features allow you to accelerate or decelerate gameplay as necessary.
    – **Wireless Multiplayer**: Connect with other devices for multiplayer experiences.
    – **Customizable Button Layout**: Adjust the controls to suit your preferences.
    – **Game Controller Support**: Available for iPad and iOS apps, further enhancing the gaming experience.

    #### Considerations for Use

    ArcEmu currently supports Game Boy, Game Boy Color, and Game Boy Advance ROMs, but does not support NES or DS games. To utilize ArcEmu, you require an Apple Watch Series 3 or later, an Apple Watch SE or later, or an Apple Watch Ultra. The app is not preloaded with games, so you need to provide your own ROMs.

    For just $1.99, ArcEmu offers a unique chance to revisit classic gaming experiences right from your wrist, making it a valuable investment for retro gaming fans.

    #### Conclusion

    Playing Game Boy games on your Apple Watch is not only feasible but also a delightful means to enjoy nostalgia on the go. Whether you’re aiming to pass the time or revisit your childhood gaming moments, ArcEmu presents a practical and enjoyable solution. Would you consider downloading this app? For many, it’s a charming way to connect with classic games in a contemporary format.

    Read More
    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Apple’s iOS 26 Rebranding Suggests a Calculated Shift Away from Dominating the AI Competition
    Apple’s iOS 26 Rebranding Suggests a Calculated Shift Away from Dominating the AI Competition

    Apple’s Possible Rebranding of iOS 19 to iOS 26: A Tactical Shift or a Lost Chance?

    In a recent turn of events, Apple is said to be contemplating renaming its upcoming iOS 19 to iOS 26. This development, pointed out in a Bloomberg article, has ignited conversations regarding Apple’s ongoing strategy within the technology sector, particularly in light of the swiftly changing AI environment. As the tech community eagerly awaits WWDC 2025, many speculate whether Apple is overlooking a vital chance to take the lead in the AI competition.

    While entities like Google and OpenAI are leading the way in embedding sophisticated AI functionalities, Apple appears to be concentrating on delivering a more unified design experience across its ecosystem. This focus on design uniformity, albeit important, raises doubts about Apple’s dedication to progressing AI innovations. The absence of notable advancements in “Apple Intelligence” could be perceived as a shortcoming, especially as worldwide attention on AI keeps escalating.

    For tech aficionados, the proposed rebranding may look like a cosmetic alteration if it isn’t paired with meaningful technological progress. The collaboration between Sam Altman and Jony Ive, for example, underscores the industry’s pivot towards groundbreaking AI solutions. Nevertheless, Apple’s rebranding approach might signify a distinct priority, possibly appealing to a wider audience that values design over avant-garde AI.

    Ultimately, even though the switch to iOS 26, alongside updates to iPadOS, macOS, watchOS, tvOS, and visionOS, may bring forth new functionalities, the tech sector is closely monitoring how Apple will respond to the increasing appetite for AI integration. The challenge lies in Apple’s ability to bolster its AI prowess, especially with Siri, in order to sustain its dominance in the technology arena.

    Read More
    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Federal Court Suspends Trump Tariffs, Possible iPhone Costs May Exceed $4,000
    Federal Court Suspends Trump Tariffs, Possible iPhone Costs May Exceed $4,000

    The unfolding drama surrounding possible tariffs on iPhones continues. Following Trump’s warning to Apple about a further 25% tariff on iPhones, the worst-case scenario might cause the price of the priciest model in the series to surpass $4,000.

    Nevertheless, a federal court has determined that the president lacks the legal power to levy tariffs at all, much less the extreme ones he has suggested, and has overturned the executive orders issued thus far.

    ## The Backstory

    Over a span of two months, the Trump administration proclaimed tariffs on goods produced in China that commenced at 10% and escalated to 145%. An exemption for consumer electronics was subsequently introduced, but the administration later indicated that this would be strictly temporary. Given that most Apple products are manufactured in China, this could lead to significant price hikes in the US.

    Earlier this month, Trump escalated matters once more by threatening an additional 25% tariff directed towards Apple, ostensibly as retaliation for CEO Tim Cook turning down an invitation to partake in his Middle East tour. Trump later walked back his focus on Apple, indicating it would also impact other companies.

    ## Federal Court Blocks Trump Tariffs

    CNET reports that the US Court of International Trade has now invalidated all of Trump’s executive directives, adjudging that the president overstepped his bounds – only Congress possesses the authority to impose or alter tariffs on international trade.

    The three-judge panel at the New York-based US Court of International Trade determined that Congress has exclusive jurisdiction to manage commerce with foreign nations and that the International Emergency Economic Powers Act of 1977 — the cornerstone of Trump’s rationale for imposing the tariffs — does not grant the president “unfettered” authority to impose these duties.

    “An unrestricted delegation of tariff power would represent an inappropriate abdication of legislative responsibility to another governmental branch,” the court stated in its judgment. “The contested Tariff Orders will be annulled and their enforcement permanently restrained.”

    Trump is unlikely to acquiesce to the ruling, indicating a tumultuous period ahead as American governmental bodies and companies must navigate conflicting assertions surrounding tariffs.

    ## Worst-Case Tariffs See iPhone Hit $4K

    In a separate article, CNET has been calculating various scenarios. In the direst case, the cost of the most expensive iPhone in the series would exceed $4k.

    There are numerous uncertainties involved. On what grounds would tariffs be applied? Would Apple opt to cover some of the costs, or shift them entirely to consumers? What percentage of iPhones could Apple source from India to circumvent the elements tied to China?

    All these factors render CNET’s calculations quite speculative, but here are several instances. Initially, applying the 10% tariff on imports from India, followed by the proposed 26% rate. For China, starting with the present 30% tariff, then with the suggested 145%, using the least and most expensive current models as examples:

    | | Current price | +10% (India) | +26% (India) | +30% (China) | +145% (China) |
    |———————–|—————|—————|—————|—————|—————-|
    | iPhone 16E (128GB) | $599 | $659 | $755 | $779 | $1,468 |
    | iPhone 16 Pro Max (1TB)| $1,599 | $1,759 | $2,015 | $2,079 | $3,918 |

    With the added 25% tariff that Trump has threatened on Apple (as well as other smartphone manufacturers):

    | | Current price | +10% (India) | +26% (India) | +30% (China) | +145% (China) |
    |———————–|—————|—————|—————|—————|—————-|
    | iPhone 16E (128GB) | $599 | $809 | $904 | $928 | $1,617 |
    | iPhone 16 Pro Max (1TB)| $1,599 | $2,159 | $2,414 | $2,478 | $4,317 |

    ## 9to5Mac’s Take

    Clearly, the upper limits indicated would be utterly unfeasible, as no one would agree to pay those amounts. A Trump advisor has mentioned that Apple would absorb 100% of the increases, but that too would evidently be impossible at the heightened rates.

    I’ve consistently argued that there are three reasons these worst-case scenarios will not materialize, and the US Court of International Trade has now introduced a fourth: they would be unlawful.

    Read More
    • Richard
    • Comments Off on macOS 26 Anticipated to End Support for Specific Mac Models
    macOS 26 Anticipated to End Support for Specific Mac Models

    ### macOS 26: Anticipated Features and Supported Mac Models

    Yesterday, Bloomberg revealed that this year’s software upgrade for the Mac will be macOS 26 instead of macOS 16. This upgrade is expected to introduce a comprehensive redesign for the Mac, with early rumors emerging about which models will qualify for the update.

    According to a report from AppleInsider, referencing unnamed sources knowledgeable about the situation, existing pre-release versions of macOS 26 are compatible with the following Mac models:

    – **MacBook Pro**: 2019 or newer
    – **iMac**: 2020 or newer
    – **Mac Pro**: 2019 or newer
    – **Mac mini**: M1 or newer
    – **Mac Studio**
    – **MacBook Air**: M1 or newer

    This list of compatible devices suggests that macOS will extend support for Intel machines for an additional year, matching forecasts made by industry experts. However, it also implies that macOS 26 will end support for various Macs that are currently compatible with macOS Sequoia, including:

    – **2018 MacBook Pro**
    – **2017 iMac Pro**
    – **2018 Mac mini**
    – **2020 Intel MacBook Air**

    It is crucial to understand that the fact a Mac is supported by macOS 26 does not ensure access to all prominent features of the release. Apple may restrict certain features to Macs equipped with Apple Silicon, potentially influencing the experience for users with Intel-based machines.

    Apple is scheduled to unveil macOS 26 at the forthcoming Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC), which begins on June 9. As enthusiasm grows for the new features and improvements, users will be eager to discover how this update will influence the future of Mac computing.

    Read More
    • Richard
    • Comments Off on How to Fix Battery Drain Problems on Android by Updating Instagram
    How to Fix Battery Drain Problems on Android by Updating Instagram

    It is always wise to ensure software is current on your devices, as remaining on older software can lead to significant issues. If you are among the many Android device users facing mysterious battery drain recently, Google has just indicated that Instagram could be the cause.

    “Beginning today, Instagram is introducing an updated app designed to address a battery drain concern on Android devices,” a Google community manager mentioned in a support post on Android’s help forum on Wednesday. “Please confirm that you have the latest version of the Instagram app (build 382.0.0.49.84) to fix this problem.”

    If you use Instagram on any of your Android devices, visit Google Play to make sure you have the most recent version of the app. You can also verify your version number by pressing and holding the app icon and then selecting App info.

    Earlier this month, 9to5Google reported that Pixel device users had been voicing concerns about their batteries unexpectedly draining faster than normal since shortly after the May 2025 update. At that time, the cause of the battery drain was not entirely understood, but it has now been confirmed that the Instagram app was responsible for the Pixel battery issues.

    As for the specifics of what happened with that Instagram app that led to quicker battery drain on Android devices, we have no information, and frankly, we may never find out.

    Read More
    • sparta
    • Comments Off on Infinix Creates the GT 30 Pro: An Excellent Affordable Gaming Smartphone
    Infinix Creates the GT 30 Pro: An Excellent Affordable Gaming Smartphone
    (Image credit: Infinix)

    There is a revival in gaming phones thanks to the rise of mobile gaming, with brands paying more attention to the mid-range and budget markets, which is encouraging. Infinix, in particular, has had significant success with its GT series over the past couple of years; I found the GT 10 Pro enjoyable, and the GT 20 Pro built upon that success.

    The GT 30 Pro has recently been unveiled, and the phone is poised to launch in India. Prior to its global release, I corresponded via email with Infinix’s Product Director Weiqi Nie to gain insights into what the brand is doing differently this time and how it is positioning the GT series.

    Design has consistently been a major attraction of prior GT models, and Infinix has further emphasized this with the GT 30 Pro. The phone boasts a “cyber-mecha” aesthetic that appears quite impressive, and while the GT 10 Pro resembled a derivative of Nothing’s devices, that is certainly not true for the GT 30 Pro.

    Nie mentioned that Infinix drew inspiration from “futuristic machines and modular aesthetics” in crafting the device. “As time has passed, this concept has grown to be more expressive, functional, and in tune with the needs of contemporary gamers. In the GT 30 Series, this vision comes to life through the enhanced Mechanical Light Waves system. It features deep integration between software and hardware design, offering 14 lighting scenarios and over 20 customizable effects that respond dynamically to actions like charging, gaming, and notifications.”

    Infinix aimed to create a phone with a striking design, and with the unique back pattern and vibrant lighting, the GT 30 Pro stands out considerably. While design is important, the primary consideration when selecting a gaming phone is performance.

    Infinix opted for MediaTek instead of Qualcomm, and Nie indicated that the Dimensity 8350 provided the ideal combination of superior frame rate gaming and thermal management. “MediaTek’s platform provided the right blend of performance, efficiency, and scalability to realize the GT 30 Pro’s vision. The Dimensity 8350 Ultimate facilitates smooth high-frame-rate gaming, effective thermal management, and optimized power efficiency—essential for sustaining consistent performance in both gaming and everyday use.”

    “The Dimensity 8350 Ultra’s capabilities offered the performance headroom necessary to incorporate features like a 144Hz AMOLED display, advanced cooling solutions, and responsive gaming enhancements, all while keeping price accessibility in mind. This strategy allows the GT 30 Pro to offer a flagship-level experience tailored for a wider audience.”

    Overheating remains a challenge for gaming phones, particularly with this year’s Qualcomm chipsets exhibiting a high thermal threshold. Fortunately, this is not an issue with MediaTek designs, and Nie mentioned that sustained performance is a “core priority” for the GT 30 Pro, especially during extended gaming sessions. The GT 30 Pro is equipped with Infinix’s 3D Vapor Cloud Chamber (3D VCC) liquid cooling technology, and Nie noted that the brand performs “intelligent software optimization that dynamically manages power and thermal behavior based on real-time usage.”

    There are also two accessories — the MagCase and MagCharge Cooler — the latter serving as an active cooling solution directing cool air to the back of the device. “The GT 30 Pro adopts a system-level strategy—integrating a high-performance chipset, efficient cooling, and smart charging solutions such as Bypass Charging 2.0 and optimized wireless charging with active cooling. This guarantees stable, high frame rates over extended periods without overheating or throttling—even during charging.”

    I will be assessing the GT 30 Pro’s capabilities in this area, and having utilized other MediaTek mid-range models, I am eager to discover what this phone has to offer. Additionally, the GT 30 Pro retains ultrasonic triggers, enabling gamers to easily assign in-game actions — these features genuinely enhance the gaming experience.

    The phone sports a 144Hz display, and what excites me the most is that it unlocks 120fps in demanding titles such as PUBG Mobile.

    Read More
    • Richard
    • Comments Off on More than One-Fifth of the Ocean is Facing Lower Sunlight Penetration: Effects and Outcomes
    More than One-Fifth of the Ocean is Facing Lower Sunlight Penetration: Effects and Outcomes

    Over 20% of the world’s oceans are becoming darker, and scientists warn that this could have significant repercussions for marine habitats and human beings. A recent investigation by the University of Plymouth reveals that 21% of the planet’s oceans have witnessed a decrease in sunlight penetration from 2003 to 2022.

    This phenomenon, referred to as ocean darkening, occurs when the surface layers of the ocean limit how deep sunlight can reach. The research indicates that in certain areas, light penetration has diminished by more than 100 meters. Over 9% of the ocean experienced a decline of at least 50 meters, covering an area approximately the size of Africa.

    Various factors may be contributing to this trend. Alterations in algal bloom behavior, escalating sea surface temperatures, and heightened artificial lighting are among the potential culprits. These changes, many associated with climate change, affect the way light travels through the water.

    Diminished lighting in the oceans could also disrupt life beneath the surface. Numerous marine organisms rely on light cues for hunting, migration, and reproduction. As illumination decreases, these natural cycles are disrupted. Dr. Thomas Davies, a researcher involved in the study, indicated that darkening could reduce the regions where light-dependent species can live and flourish.

    In addition to marine organisms, this trend may also impact humans. Ocean darkening could affect oxygen generation, carbon absorption, and global climate dynamics. It may additionally force light-sensitive species towards the surface, where they encounter heightened competition for sustenance and other necessities.

    The researchers emphasize that such alterations could lead to fundamental changes in the functionality of marine ecosystems. With many of the ocean’s services, such as fisheries and climate management, endangered, the results highlight the necessity for increased scrutiny of the developments occurring beneath the surface. Nevertheless, some question whether there is anything we can do to combat climate change, especially as we seem to be losing the battle.

    Read More
    • Richard
    • Comments Off on “Pocket Supercession: 5 Options for Storing Articles to Consume Later”
    “Pocket Supercession: 5 Options for Storing Articles to Consume Later”

    Mozilla has declared that it will close Pocket, its widely-used read-it-later application, on July 8, 2025. This indicates that unless the Digg acquisition offer materializes, its users will need to seek an alternative read-it-later app by that date.

    If this pertains to you, here are five possible substitutes, though I’m aware none will truly fill the Pocket-shaped void in your heart.

    ### 1. Instapaper

    [Instapaper](https://www.instapaper.com/) has been in existence nearly as long as Pocket, with origins tracing back to 2008. Initially created by Marco Arment, it changed ownership a few times before becoming independently operated once again under Instant Paper, Inc.

    The application features a clean, distraction-free interface with capabilities for offline reading, text highlighting, and customizable text settings. As a former Pocket user, you might appreciate the app’s speed-reading mode, note-taking features, and seamless synchronization across devices.

    **Availability:** iOS, iPadOS, Android, web, Kindle.
    **Price:** Free tier available. Premium plan for $5.99/month or $59.99/year.

    ### 2. Raindrop.io

    Established in 2013, [Raindrop.io](https://raindrop.io/) started as a modern bookmarking solution and has consistently transformed into a comprehensive cross-platform content manager. It’s particularly favored by power users seeking more than what standard read-it-later apps typically claim to provide.

    Raindrop.io manages not only articles but also images, videos, and PDFs. It supports collaboration and public page creation and includes a browser web clipper. Additionally, it can integrate and sync bookmarks from RSS, Alfred, Dropbox, Evernote, and more in both directions.

    **Availability:** iOS, iPadOS, Android, macOS, Windows, Linux, web.
    **Price:** Free tier available. Premium plan for $3/month or $28/year.

    ### 3. Readwise Reader

    [Reader](https://readwise.io/read) is a newer offering from the team behind Readwise, a service designed to assist users in rediscovering and retaining highlights from books, articles, and notes. Unlike most read-it-later apps, Reader focuses on extended reads and overall knowledge management.

    It imports highlights from Pocket, Instapaper, Kindle, and can also manage PDFs, RSS feeds, newsletters, and even YouTube transcripts. Notes and highlights sync back to Readwise, making it ideal for researchers or anyone wishing to recall their readings.

    **Availability:** iOS, iPadOS, macOS (via web app), Android, web.
    **Price:** Included with Readwise subscription. $12.99/month or $119.88/year after free trial.

    ### 4. Matter

    [Matter](https://getmatter.com) was introduced in 2021 and aims to be a premium reading hub by bringing together newsletters, articles, and other long-form content into a single application. It’s visually polished and designed with mobile-first readers in mind.

    Matter allows for text highlighting, audio narration of saved content, and integrations with tools such as Notion and Readwise. It also enables you to follow specific authors, transforming your inbox into a curated reading feed. Pocket users who depended on newsletter subscriptions will find Matter particularly attractive.

    **Availability:** iOS, iPadOS, web
    **Price:** Free tier available. Premium plan for $14.99/month or $77.99/year.

    ### 5. GoodLinks

    Read More