Month: May 2025

    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Qualcomm Research Shows Apple’s 5G Chip Operates at a Slower Speed Compared to Qualcomm’s
    Qualcomm Research Shows Apple’s 5G Chip Operates at a Slower Speed Compared to Qualcomm’s

    A few months following the launch of the iPhone 16e equipped with Apple’s inaugural 5G modem, the C1 chip, Qualcomm undertook an independent analysis that indicated, unsurprisingly, that its chips surpass Apple’s in nearly every situation.

    Although this isn’t the first instance of Qualcomm making such a statement, it serves to reassure investors that its business remains robust and that iPhone users may miss out on vital features with Apple’s approach.

    Some key points from the report are highlighted below:

    – **Consistent Performance Gap:** Qualcomm-powered Android devices exhibited download speeds that were 34.3% to 35.2% quicker and upload speeds that were 81.4% to 91.0% faster than the iPhone 16e.

    – **Real-world User Experience Impact:** Qualcomm chips prove to have more efficient spectrum use and superior performance.

    – **Thermal Management Issues:** The iPhone 16e encounters several thermal management challenges under heavy load, which can occasionally reduce the performance disparity under optimal near-cell conditions.

    – **Better Features:** Android devices utilizing Qualcomm chips were equipped with sub-6 GHz and other 5G capabilities that were not present in the initial generation of Apple’s 5G chip.

    Nonetheless, Apple recognizes that its chip cannot match the prowess of those found in an iPhone 16 Pro, for instance. This is why speculations suggest that the company is not employing a variant of the C1 chip for the iPhone 17 series (with the exception of the Air model), opting instead for MediaTek’s solutions.

    Despite this, Apple remains optimistic that a C2 chip could drive the upcoming iPhone 18 Pro. While Qualcomm’s chips may likely outperform those of Apple, the company is focusing on other enhancements, such as improved battery performance and management, along with upgraded connectivity features related to AirDrop and Bluetooth.

    With this perspective, Apple aspires for a scenario reminiscent of the M1, where its former partner can outpace its processor in certain cases, but the advantages for users are more substantial than simply having a marginally faster device or slightly improved download speeds.

    Should Apple manage to shift to its own connectivity chips, Qualcomm could face a considerable loss in revenue.

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on White House Affirms 25% Tariff on iPhones Will Persist Throughout Trump Administration
    White House Affirms 25% Tariff on iPhones Will Persist Throughout Trump Administration

    Over the last few weeks, Donald Trump has implemented a range of sudden tariff adjustments, seemingly increasing and decreasing tariffs at random. The resulting chaos has impacted the stock market significantly while raising numerous unresolved questions regarding the effects these tariffs will have on international trade. This situation escalated to an almost humorous level earlier this year when Trump imposed an immense 145% tariff on Chinese products before reducing it to 30% just weeks later. Meanwhile, Apple finds itself and the iPhone at the mercy of Trump’s erratic tariffs.

    For some time, Apple believed it could evade the tariffs in China by shifting a considerable part of its production to India. However, Trump recently stated that this is insufficient. Instead, Trump aims to pressure Apple into producing the iPhone in the United States and has plans to enact a 25% tariff.

    Taking to social media last week, Trump expressed the following:

    “I have long ago informed Tim Cook of Apple that I expect their iPhones that will be sold in the United States of America will be manufactured and built in the United States, not India, or anyplace else. If that is not the case, a Tariff of at least 25% must be paid by Apple to the US Thank you for your attention to this matter!”

    As expected, Apple shares plummeted amidst investor worries that the company would be compelled to increase iPhone prices, seriously affecting iPhone sales. However, it is important to mention that Apple might find it more practical to absorb the tariff costs, maintain iPhone prices, and utilize its substantial cash reserves to cover the tariff.

    White House states it doesn’t wish to harm Apple

    Amid all these discussions, the White House contends that people are overreacting. During a CNBC interview, National Economic Council Director Keven Hasset minimized what he referred to as a “tiny little tariff” on technology companies such as Apple.

    “The bottom line is, what we’re trying to do, is onshore as much as we can in the US and make it so the US is not hyper-dependent on imports from China,” Hassett stated. “And I think one of the things we’re seeing is that people are moving way faster than you might expect.”

    Hasset highlighted that the objective is to redirect manufacturing to the United States as much as possible “to ensure the US economy is secure and not susceptible to Chinese extortion.”

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on Google Introduces Web Application Showcasing Gemini and Canvas for Public Testing
    Google Introduces Web Application Showcasing Gemini and Canvas for Public Testing

    Wondering what a real AI web application looks like? Google just revealed it to us with highlights from I/O.

    (Image credit: Brady Snyder / Android Central)

    Key points to consider

    • Google developed an interactive web application with Gemini to summarize some of its I/O announcements.
    • The web application was crafted using Canvas with AI assistance, and you can experiment with the app and access the code that created it.
    • The interactive experience conceals a secret Veo 3 announcement that wasn’t disclosed during the event.

    At Google I/O 2025 last week, Google showcased numerous real-world uses for AI, including its role as a coding assistant. The company highlighted various ways to swiftly create custom web applications using Gemini, specifically focusing on Canvas, its AI-enhanced workspace for coding and beyond. There’s doubt regarding AI’s ability to truly create applications, which might explain why Google produced its own web application with Gemini that you can try immediately.

    In a blog post, Google outlined its method for creating the web application, aimed at showcasing some announcements from I/O in an enjoyable and interactive way. The company invited <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.androidcentral.com/apps-software/google-gemini" data-before-rewrite-localise="https://www.androidcentral.com/apps-software

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Galaxy Watch 8 Series Attains Extra Certification, Based on Recent Leak
    Galaxy Watch 8 Series Attains Extra Certification, Based on Recent Leak

    Samsung’s Affordable Galaxy Buds Core Sighted Again

    Samsung’s forthcoming budget-friendly earbuds, the Galaxy Buds Core, have been seen again, this time gaining approval from the Bluetooth SIG authority. The certification displays the model number SM-R410 along with the product name “Galaxy Buds Core.” While the SIG certification offers limited information, recent leaks have provided an insight into the possible design and features of these earbuds. It is speculated that each earbud might incorporate a 100mAh battery, paired with a 500mAh charging case. These details indicate a significant enhancement in battery capacity compared to the former Buds FE model. As excitement grows, the Galaxy Buds Core is likely to deliver an economical choice for consumers in search of quality audio experiences.

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Eight Key Features of the One UI 8 Beta
    Eight Key Features of the One UI 8 Beta

    Samsung has already made an impressive beginning with the quickest update they have ever released.

    It seems unbelievable, given the lengthy wait for the One UI 7 update, but the initial One UI 8 beta is now available for the Galaxy S25 series. One UI 8 introduces Android 16 to the Galaxy S25 for the first time, allowing select users to experiment with new features ahead of their public rollout.

    Overall, One UI 8 is a progressive update featuring UI modifications and new functionalities for many of Samsung’s essential applications, including Samsung Health, Reminders, Routines, Internet, Calendar, Contacts, and beyond.

    The update also revitalizes key aspects of the user interface, including a redesigned Quick Share UI that simplifies the process of sending and receiving files, enhanced accessibility options for users with vision and hearing challenges, as well as solutions for hard-to-locate UI components like Auracast.

    Although the update encompasses numerous changes, I’ve highlighted my eight favorites, with some additional favorites discovered during my experience with the beta on the Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra.

    AI Select evolves into Speed Racer

    With One UI 7, Samsung modernized its outdated Smart Select feature into what is now termed AI Select, incorporating significant context-sensitive actions that enhance the tool’s usefulness. However, it felt like an eternity for it to initiate in One UI 7, which became rather frustrating for regular use.

    This has been entirely rectified in One UI 8. Previously, it took about 5 seconds from clicking the “AI Select” button to the moment you could start selecting content on your display. Now, tapping AI Select renders the feature almost instantly available, enabling me to outline an image on the Galaxy S25 Ultra’s screen in approximately 2 seconds.

    Multitasking improved to 90:10 standard

    When the OnePlus Open debuted in 2023, it astonished us for various reasons, but its multitasking capabilities were among the most impressive features for daily use. Integral to that was OnePlus Canvas, allowing you to dock an app to 10% of one side of the screen and switch seamlessly between any opened app by tapping the window.

    Android 16 and One UI 8 have embraced this 90:10 functionality, permitting you to resize a split window down to 10% of its standard size. This makes juggling between two apps with a single tap easy, without the cramped feeling typical of conventional split screens. It’s a significant enhancement over regular split-window multitasking, making me eager to utilize multiple apps concurrently.

    Quick Share becomes even faster

    Quick Share has been one of the most valuable additions to Android recently, but accepting files from non-contacts has posed some difficulties. A sleek new UI modification from Samsung significantly streamlines this process, commencing when you tap the Quick Share button in the quick toggles section.

    The well-known Send screen remains the default when accessing Quick Share, but a new Receive tab allows you to effortlessly obtain files from anyone as long as the window is active. No more choosing between “no one, contacts only, or everyone” options. Just open the Receive window, and you’re set, regardless of who the sender is.

    Enhanced reminders and routines

    One of the less intelligent decisions Google ever made was to eliminate the location-based reminder function in Google Assistant. This advantage makes tools like Samsung’s Reminder app far superior, allowing you to be reminded of tasks when you arrive at a specific location, at a particular time or date, and more. The revamped Reminders app now features quick category buttons at the top, enabling you to locate everything you need at a glance.

    Routines have also received an enhancement, now enabling you to pick from fresh preset routines like weather, which is quite handy if you need a nudge to grab your umbrella or raincoat before the rain starts, or sunscreen when the cloudy skies clear up.

    Samsung Health is enhanced

    In the past, I attempted to log my food intake to monitor calories, macros, and improve my health. The challenge was often forgetting to enter my meals, which would lead to vague recollections of what I had eaten. Now, Samsung Health can prompt you to log your meals throughout the day, resolving this common issue.

    As you focus on healthier eating, you can also leverage peer encouragement to motivate you to exercise more frequently. An upgraded Together feature within Samsung Health enables you to issue running distance challenges to your contacts, setting goals to be the first to run a designated distance each week. It’s a terrific enhancement compared to the usual step count challenge.

    The better to see (and hear) you with

    If you have ever needed the zoom tool found in accessibility settings, you’ll

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on Opera Unveils Neon: A Subscription-Driven AI Browser with Website Creation Features
    Opera Unveils Neon: A Subscription-Driven AI Browser with Website Creation Features

    **Opera’s AI Browser Operator: A Fresh Phase in Web Navigation**

    In early April, Opera unveiled its groundbreaking AI Browser Operator, offering an insight into its vision for agentic browsing in the age of AI. This announcement introduced a novel browser named Opera Neon, which incorporates the Operator as a fundamental element instead of just a feature.

    ### Opera’s Confidence in the “Agentic Web”

    Opera highlights that Neon is crafted not only for browsing purposes but also for proactively undertaking tasks on behalf of users. This encompasses a variety of capabilities, including researching, designing, and even developing websites, code snippets, reports, and games. The browser functions with AI agents that operate in the cloud, enabling them to keep processing tasks even if the user’s device is offline. Furthermore, Neon boasts the Browser Operator, an integrated AI agent with which users can interact to obtain contextual responses, automate online tasks like filling forms or booking accommodations, and directly engage with webpage content.

    Henrik Lexow, Opera’s Senior AI Product Director, remarked, “We’re at a juncture where AI can radically alter the way we navigate the internet and carry out numerous tasks within the browser. Opera Neon places this at our users’ fingertips. (…) We view it as a collaborative platform to co-create the next era of agentic browsing alongside our community.”

    ### The AI Browser Competition is Underway

    Opera’s latest browser makes its entrance into a swiftly growing market of AI-augmented browsers, contending with Microsoft Edge featuring Copilot, Chrome with Gemini, Perplexity’s Comet, Brave with Leo, and Firefox’s recent beta release of Link Previews. Even Apple has woven subtle AI features into Safari’s Reader Mode.

    Despite the buzz surrounding Neon, a number of questions linger unanswered. The performance of Neon in practical situations beyond basic showcases, pricing specifics, and the timeline for wider user accessibility are still uncertain, as users presently need to join a waitlist for access.

    If Opera can fulfill its ambitious commitments, Neon may represent a crucial marker of the future of web navigation, potentially altering how users interact with the internet.

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Apple’s Fresh OS Naming Approach Could Change Views on ‘iPhone 17’
    Apple’s Fresh OS Naming Approach Could Change Views on ‘iPhone 17’

    Just when it seemed the internet had finally stopped fixating on Apple’s iPhone naming schemes, here we go again.

    ## iOS 19 vs. 26

    To be honest, I don’t actually mind today’s news that Apple will modify its operating system names to reflect the release year. Or more accurately, the year after. Cars do it. Samsung does it… Well, that’s about it. But it’s not particularly unusual.

    Once we hurdle past the initial awkwardness of leaping directly to iOS 26, bypassing several version numbers in the process, I’m fairly confident it’ll start to feel normal sooner rather than later.

    However, if Apple is truly heading in that direction, it only heightens the urgency to address iPhone naming. The concept of iOS 26 operating on an iPhone 18 already seems out of sync, and a few years down the line, that disparity is probably going to feel even more pronounced.

    ## Perfect timing?

    I recently discussed how Apple’s speculated shift to replace the “Plus” variant with an “Air” model could provide a perfect chance to tidy up the rest of the lineup, too, retiring “Pro Max” and fully adopting “Ultra.”

    This would align iPhone naming with the rest of Apple’s new premium branding terms, such as Apple Watch Ultra, the M-series Ultra chips, and CarPlay Ultra.

    The reality is, back when we started edging toward awkward names like iPhone 12 and iPhone 13, I’m fairly certain I wasn’t the only one who thought Apple would eventually ditch the numbers entirely and embrace the MacBook Pro-style naming (which, to be fair, has had its own versioning challenges).

    But as time and iPhone launches progressed, I had come to terms with the existing numbering scheme. As silly as it initially sounded, we had all acclimated to it and had more significant matters to attend to in our lives.

    But now, in a scenario where the software may suggest 2026, while the hardware still states 17… yeah, that could start to feel a little peculiar all over again.

    Cue the podcast debates.

    ## So what could Apple actually do here?

    The first option is quite clear and the most probable: nothing. Apple retains the current iPhone naming system, while its operating systems transition to a unified, year-based system.

    The second option is to implement the name change for the iPhone as well. iPhone 26 releases in September alongside iOS 26, and there’s no uncertainty as to which are the current phone models or system versions. Except, perhaps, from September through December. But if people can figure this out about cars, they can solve this with iPhones.

    The third option is both my favorite and the least likely for all the obvious reasons: Apple completely abandons iPhone numbering. Marketing name? iPhone, iPhone Air, iPhone Pro, iPhone Ultra. Actual product name? iPhone (2026), and so forth.

    The issue is that, unlike Macs, Apple continues to sell previous versions when it launches new ones. So, while everyone knows they can walk into an Apple Store and buy the latest MacBook Pro, it wouldn’t be as straightforward for iPhones.

    And then there’s the elephant in the room: the iPhone 16e. Apple just introduced a model whose entire pitch is that it’s the entry-level iPhone, clearly identified by number. Could Apple launch an… iPhone E? I hope not. Sixteeny is jarring enough.

    Whether Apple chooses to alter the iPhone name this year, next year, or never, the speculated year-based OS name change will provide more than enough reason for people to agree, disagree, or scoff at the notion of reigniting these discussions anew. Where do you stand? Let us know in the comments.

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on Tropical Trees as Signifiers of Upcoming Volcanic Eruptions
    Tropical Trees as Signifiers of Upcoming Volcanic Eruptions

    New investigations indicate that trees situated near volcanoes may assist scientists in recognizing early indicators of eruptions. By observing subtle shifts in leaf coloration, researchers can now reportedly monitor volcanic activity from space, providing a novel tool for natural volcano alerts.

    As magma ascends underground, it emits carbon dioxide. This gas enhances plant growth, particularly in regions with abundant vegetation. Trees subjected to higher levels of carbon dioxide exhibit healthier and more vibrant growth. Satellites can detect these alterations utilizing a tool known as the Normalized Difference Vegetation Index, or NDVI, which assesses plant vitality from orbit.

    A study conducted at Mount Etna in Italy revealed that lusher vegetation often coincided with heightened underground activity. Throughout two years, researchers documented 16 instances where rises in carbon dioxide corresponded with distinct variations in NDVI measurements. These changes sometimes occurred far from apparent faults, implying that the signals propagate over a broader area than previously anticipated.

    This technique could prove especially advantageous for observing volcanoes in inaccessible regions. Conventional sensors can be costly and challenging to maintain in rugged terrains. Monitoring plant variations through satellite data provides a cost-effective and natural alternative to standard volcano warning systems.

    This methodology builds upon earlier discoveries from Costa Rica, where trees similarly responded to volcanic carbon dioxide emissions. Currently, researchers backed by NASA and the Smithsonian are trialing comparable approaches in Panama and other regions of Central America. The goal is to establish a wider system for detecting natural volcano warnings without solely depending on ground instruments.

    The research may also aid scientists in comprehending how forests react to long-term rises in atmospheric carbon dioxide. This information could prove valuable in examining climate change and its impacts on global vegetation. In the meantime, examining historical volcanic eruptions, such as the Tongo volcano eruption of 2022, can enhance our understanding of these significant occurrences.

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Upcoming Apple TV 4K: Four Exciting Features Expected to Debut This Year
    Upcoming Apple TV 4K: Four Exciting Features Expected to Debut This Year

    Apple TV+ is experiencing a significant year, but the Apple TV 4K streaming box is still looking forward to its first update since 2022—and that enhancement is on the way. Here are four attributes to anticipate when the new Apple TV 4K makes its debut later this year.

    ## #1: A17 Pro or A18 chip upgrade

    The existing Apple TV 4K version was introduced in late 2022 and featured what was at the time a quite advanced chip: the A15 Bionic. However, Apple’s silicon endeavors continue reaching new peaks, and resource-intensive software like Apple Intelligence and the latest games necessitate a superior chip. The A17 Pro or A18 chips stand as the most probable contenders for the new Apple TV 4K. Either selection is capable of supporting AI functionalities, along with giving Apple’s streaming device a substantial gaming enhancement.

    ## #2: Apple Intelligence support

    This should come as no revelation, considering Apple has been incrementally incorporating AI into its entire range of products. Although Apple Intelligence initially only encompassed iPhones, iPads, and Macs, Vision Pro acquired it this spring, and watchOS 26 will extend it to the Apple Watch. Anticipate the integration of AI features in the new Apple TV 4K as well.

    What can AI bring to the TV viewing experience? Amazon recently showcased its AI-driven Alexa+ assistant on Fire TV, featuring examples including:
    – Receiving customized TV suggestions based on your current mood
    – Navigating to various scenes with just a brief description
    – Obtaining information on music retrospectively from any moment in a show or movie

    Siri’s significant AI enhancements are reportedly set to debut this fall in iOS 26, providing ample time for the newly improved assistant to deliver greater benefits on the Apple TV 4K too.

    ## #3: Apple’s inaugural Wi-Fi and Bluetooth chip

    Apple generated considerable excitement with its new C1 modem in the iPhone 16e. The C1 took years to develop and offers multiple advantages over Qualcomm’s modems. However, Apple has another lengthy connectivity initiative almost ready for launch: its proprietary Wi-Fi and Bluetooth chip. This new chip will be part of the updated Apple TV 4K. Mark Gurman states it will ultimately result in several enhancements:
    – “Apple’s objective is to cultivate an end-to-end wireless solution that is closely interwoven with its other components and more energy-efficient.”
    – “With a custom wireless chip in Apple’s smart home offerings, the products will collaborate more effectively and potentially synchronize data with greater speed.”

    Similar to the C1, Apple likely has numerous benefits planned for its proprietary chips that will take a full reveal to fully understand.

    ## #4: Wildcard: Built-in camera

    This modification appears somewhat less assured, yet last spring when discussing Apple’s smart home ambitions, Mark Gurman noted that the company was contemplating the addition of a camera to its upcoming Apple TV 4K. He writes:

    > “It has discussed…offering a revamped Apple TV set-top box with a built-in camera for FaceTime video conferencing and gesture-based controls. And the technology will all function seamlessly with both the iPhone and Vision Pro.”

    In this AI-centric era, speculations have suggested that various new Apple products will soon feature cameras—including AirPods and smart glasses. Incorporating a camera into the Apple TV 4K not only makes sense for potential AI advantages but also for video calls and gesture-based controls. FaceTime is already available as a feature of tvOS, and a built-in camera for the Apple TV 4K would present a far more seamless solution.

    ## New Apple TV 4K features: wrap-up

    The anticipated features listed above represent just a portion of what Apple may offer with its new Apple TV 4K. Given that the device typically sees several years between updates, Apple usually incorporates a wealth of new features into each hardware enhancement.

    What functionalities do you wish to see included in a new Apple TV 4K? Share your thoughts in the comments.

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