Month: May 2025

Galaxy Tab S11 Ultra Anticipated to Showcase Major Battery Enhancement

Samsung may at last provide users with the battery enhancement they have been hoping for.

(Image credit: Andrew Myrick / Android Central)

Essential information

  • There are claims suggesting that the model numbers for the Galaxy Tab S11 and S11 Ultra batteries have come to light.
  • While the Tab S11 may retain the same battery as its predecessor, the Ultra is expected to experience a 500mAh increase in capacity.
  • Previous gossip indicates that Samsung won’t be releasing a Plus model this year, and may be considering utilizing MediaTek’s Dimensity 9400 top-tier chip.

Samsung is anticipated to unveil another high-end tablet lineup soon, with several specifications reportedly leaking.

The information originates from Galaxy Club (Dutch), claiming that the battery details for the Galaxy Tab S11 series have emerged (via 9to5Google). The source has allegedly identified the model numbers of the batteries intended for the Galaxy Tab S11 and Tab S11 Ultra. Notably, it is suggested that the Ultra variant might see a significant battery enhancement.

Tab S10 Ultra. The source proposes that Samsung could advertise its battery capacity to approximately 12,000mAh, although that might be an overestimate.</

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Google Unveils Solution for Wear OS Authentication Flaw Affecting Wallet

The application consistently prompted users for their smartwatch’s PIN or pattern.

An issue impacting Google Wallet led to ongoing authentication requests for Wear OS users. Over a week after initially recognizing the issue, Google confirmed the bug has been rectified. Wear OS users are now able to proceed with Wallet payments without needing to authenticate their purchase if their device is unlocked and worn on the wrist.

A modification in how Google Wallet processes contactless payments on Android devices may have resulted in an annoying bug for Wear OS users, but this has now been addressed. In a community announcement on Thursday, May 29, a Google representative stated that the problem causing Wear OS gadgets to incessantly request PIN/pattern verification has been resolved (via 9to5Google).

Users can now execute Wallet transactions without the need to validate their purchase every time. Once the smartwatch is unlocked and worn properly, Google Wallet contactless payments can be completed swiftly and effortlessly without entering a PIN or pattern.

The updated community announcement clarifies that a number of Wear OS users were “required to re-enter their PIN/password on their smartwatch during in-store transactions.” The company recognized the problem on May 20, and more than a week later, the resolution has been rolled out.

At first, it was uncertain whether this issue represented a behavioral change coinciding with modifications made to Google Wallet’s operation on Android. For smartphones, Google Wallet is now required to be unlocked with a passcode or biometric authentication for the application to be accessed. While the timing of the Wear OS bug’s emergence seemed to connect with this change, it turned out to be an error after all.

Not all Wear OS users experienced this issue, so if you have not encountered persistent authentication prompts, you may continue to use Google Wallet as usual. Nevertheless, the problem appeared to be quite common, as over 360 users reported encountering the same issue on the community post — and those figures only represent what we are aware of.

To obtain the fix, ensure your Google Wallet application is updated to version 25.17 on your Wear OS smartwatch. It remains uncertain whether the patch requires a server-side modification or if it necessitates an application update.

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Sony to Depend on Third-Party Collaborators for Xperia Series Manufacturing, Report Indicates

Sony has reportedly altered its manufacturing approach for its premier Xperia smartphone series, choosing to delegate production to external companies. This decision represents a notable shift, as Sony has historically managed the manufacture of its premium Xperia devices internally, although it has previously contracted out its mid-range products. Reports suggest that Sony’s facilities in Thailand and China have halted production of the Xperia line, with references to the smartphones being eliminated from Sony’s official website. The newly released Xperia 1 VII is believed to be a result of this latest outsourcing strategy. While the Xperia series still boasts cutting-edge technology, including a triple camera configuration and Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Elite chip, the transition to third-party manufacturing has evoked worries among consumers regarding the potential effects on quality. Sony remains dedicated to delivering software updates for its devices, vowing four years of significant OS upgrades and six years of security updates for the Xperia 1 VII. The future of Sony’s Xperia line will hinge on the effectiveness of this outsourcing model and its capacity to uphold the quality and innovation that consumers anticipate.

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Apple Notes Unveils Essential Shortcut Activating Two Secret Features

# Harnessing the Potential of Apple Notes: Instant Conversions and Calculations

Apple Notes stands out as one of the most adaptable applications bundled with the iPhone, and recent updates have unveiled a significant shortcut that introduces two potent functionalities: instant conversions and mathematical equations.

## Instant Conversions Using Just an Equals Sign

For several years, iOS has facilitated various unit and currency conversions. Previously, users accessed this feature by selecting text and opening a context menu to view the conversion. However, Apple Notes has greatly simplified this operation.

Users can now just input a unit of measurement or currency followed by an equals sign. Instantly, Notes presents the conversion in yellow text. Hitting the space bar incorporates the conversion into the note, establishing a permanent record.

For instance:
– When evaluating Apple Watch sizes, typing “46mm=” indicates it is roughly 1.811 inches.
– While traveling in Europe, entering “86 euros=” reveals it amounts to about $97.

While Spotlight Search is handy for quick conversions, having a documented record in Notes can be advantageous for future reference, keeping both the original and converted amounts readily available.

## Math Equations Using the Identical Shortcut

The equals key does more than just enable conversion functions; it also empowers users to carry out basic mathematical equations. By typing a math equation and pressing the equals sign, the result appears in the same highlighted format.

This capability is especially beneficial for budgeting tasks. Users can allocate numeric values to different categories (e.g., Food, Rent) and leverage these variables to compute totals using the equals sign.

## Apple Notes ‘Equals’ Shortcut: Conclusion

Apple Notes is filled with features that many users might not fully exploit. While most functionalities can be uncovered through menus and icons, the equals sign shortcut for conversions and equations could easily be missed. Once recognized, this shortcut significantly boosts the app’s functionality, making it an even more essential tool for users.

Have you experimented with Apple Notes’ shortcut for conversions and equations? Feel free to share your thoughts in the comments!

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“Bono: Tales of Surrender” Now Open for Streaming on Apple TV+ Featuring an Immersive Vision Pro Version

# Apple’s “Bono: Tales of Surrender” Now Available on Apple TV+

Apple has debuted its newest original film, [Bono: Tales of Surrender](https://apple.co/3SsI8P6), now streaming on Apple TV+. For Vision Pro headset owners, an [immersive edition](https://apple.co/4dEbtQp) provides a distinctive experience that brings viewers right onto the stage with U2’s lead vocalist, Bono.

## Film Summary

Helmed by Andrew Dominik, recognized for his musical documentary works such as [One More Time with Feeling](https://apple.co/43BnwJt), the film interweaves aspects of Bono’s solo stage performance, narrative storytelling, and animations inspired by the artist’s own drawings. The documentary is based on Bono’s 2022 autobiography, “[Surrender: 40 Songs, One Story](https://www.amazon.com/Bono-Stories-Surrender/dp/B0DXBMGPX5/?tag=marcmendes-20),” exploring key events from Bono’s creative and personal life. It also includes heartfelt renditions of timeless U2 tracks and features clips from his latest tour.

## Viewing Options

The film is offered in two distinct formats. The [standard version](https://apple.co/3SsI8P6) is accessible via the Apple TV app on a variety of devices, such as iPhone, iPad, Mac, and Apple TV, and does not require a headset. Alternatively, the [Vision Pro version](https://apple.co/4dEbtQp) employs 8K video, Spatial Audio, and a 180-degree field of view to elevate the viewing experience.

With a duration of 1 hour and 26 minutes, this documentary stands as the lengthiest immersive video Apple has released for the Vision Pro. Notably, it is not a complete immersive film; it showcases a mixture of 3D and 2D sequences, creating a captivating experience for Bono and U2 aficionados.

## The Future of Immersive Experiences

In a recent discussion, Bono elaborated on the production of immersive video and Apple’s ambitions for the Vision Pro platform, recognizing its premium pricing. He mentioned, “I realize Apple is eager to make the Vision Pro more accessible and inclusive, yet they are dedicated to innovation, committed to experimentation.” Despite the hurdles, Apple is unwavering in its commitment to this technology.

The immersive version of the film is [available](https://apple.co/4dEbtQp) free of charge on the Apple TV app for Vision Pro users, in addition to other recent immersive projects such as [Submerged](https://apple.co/3Fzjvx8) and the [Metallica](https://apple.co/3Svi3iq) experience.

For those wanting the standard edition, a subscription to [Apple TV+](https://tv.apple.com/channel/tvs.sbd.4000?itscg=30200&itsct=tv%5C_box%5C_link&at=1000l3cvR) is necessary, priced at $9.99 per month. This subscription grants access to beloved series and films including [Severance](https://apple.co/4mI15ey), [The Studio](https://tv.apple.com/show/the-studio/umc.cmc.7518algxc4lsoobtsx30dqb52?itscg=30200&itsct=tv_box_link&mttnsubad=umc.cmc.7518algxc4lsoobtsx30dqb52&at=1000l3cvR), [The Morning Show](https://tv.apple.com/show/the-morning-show/umc.cmc.25tn3v8ku4b39tr6ccgb8nl6m?itscg=30200&itsct=tv_box_link&mttnsubad=umc.cmc.25tn3v8ku4b39tr6ccgb8nl6m&at=1000l3cvR), [Shrinking](https://tv.apple.com/show/shrinking/umc.cmc.apzybj6eqf6pzccd97kev7bs?itscg=30200&itsct=tv_box_link&mttnsubad=umc.cmc.apzybj6eqf6pzccd97kev7bs&at=1000l3cFK), and

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A Shared Basis in Apple’s Legal Conflicts: An Unifying Viewpoint

# Apple and Antitrust: The App Store Monopoly Discussion

Apple has found itself at the center of antitrust disputes internationally, primarily focused on its App Store and claims of monopoly dominance over iPhone app sales. This ongoing dialogue has sparked intense opinions on both sides, with little sign of a resolution on the horizon. Nonetheless, there exists a potential area for agreement: the necessity for Apple to enhance consumer experience without imposing extra costs.

## Brief Overview of the Monopoly Concern

Regulators contend that Apple holds a monopoly over iPhone apps, as developers once had no alternate methods to sell their apps apart from the App Store. Apple argues that attention should shift to the overall mobile app landscape rather than merely isolating iPhone applications. Still, antitrust laws address more than just monopolies; they also target any anticompetitive practices by leading market entities.

## Lack of Reasonableness on Both Ends

The situation is intricate, with legitimate arguments from both Apple and regulatory agencies. Apple claims that its considerable investment in the App Store validates its commission model. On the other hand, the U.S. Department of Justice and the European Union maintain that market supremacy carries regulatory duties that Apple needs to follow.

Both sides have shown unreasonable actions. Apple has been criticized for trying to bypass legal decisions, while the EU has been blamed for offering ambiguous advice on what actions are acceptable for Apple. This ambiguity has resulted in scenarios where Apple has incurred fines for failing to meet indeterminate regulations.

## A Shared Perspective: Consumer Experience

Despite contrasting opinions on the antitrust matter, a possible common ground exists: Apple should implement changes that improve consumer experience without financial implications for the company. For example, when entities like Amazon and Spotify find it challenging to pay Apple’s 30% cut on content and subscription sales, they are compelled to limit in-app purchases, resulting in a diminished user experience.

In the past, Kindle users were unable to buy eBooks directly through the app because of the commission system, leading them to navigate a complicated buying process. Likewise, Spotify users encountered obstacles in subscribing, as the app could not openly notify them of subscription opportunities due to Apple’s regulations.

Apple’s recent changes provide a more efficient experience for these app users; however, the process still requires users to leave the app to finalize purchases. While these adaptations are a move in the right direction, they remain provisional as Apple continues to challenge the regulations in court.

## What’s the Damage?

Prior to the adjustments, users faced significant annoyance, and Apple generated no income from these transactions. After the changes, users benefit from an improved experience, but Apple still does not gain revenue. Considering that Apple struggles to profit from these transactions because of low margins, one might ask: why not focus on consumer satisfaction by enabling commission-free in-app purchases?

In conclusion, can we concur that Apple should prioritize consumers, particularly when it bears no cost to the company? This strategy could result in a more advantageous scenario for all stakeholders involved.

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How to Get Involved in Apple’s Health Research Studies

### Apple Research App: A Portal to Health Studies

In 2019, Apple introduced the U.S.-exclusive [Research app](https://www.apple.com/ios/research-app/), aimed at enabling users to take part in health studies that further medical research and the creation of new health-related functionalities for Apple devices. Six years on, the app remains successful, offering U.S. residents a chance to engage in important health studies.

#### New Features and Actual Advancements

At its debut, the Research app supported participation in three main studies:

1. **[Apple Women’s Health Study](https://www.apple.com/newsroom/2023/03/findings-from-apple-womens-health-study-advance-science-around-menstrual-cycles/)**: This research was instrumental in the creation of the iPhone and Apple Watch Cycle Tracking feature. It allowed researchers from Harvard Chan School to enhance understanding of the link between menstrual health concerns and conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome and endometrial cancer.

2. **[Apple Heart and Movement Study](https://appleheartandmovementstudy.bwh.harvard.edu/)**: Over five years, this research provided insights that were essential in developing the Walk Steadiness feature on the Apple Watch. It discovered positive associations between closing Activity rings and several health factors, including sleep quality and mental wellness.

3. **[Apple Hearing Study](https://www.apple.com/newsroom/2024/05/apple-hearing-study-shares-preliminary-insights-on-tinnitus/)**: This study contributed to the Hearing Test feature in AirPods Pro 2 and assisted researchers at the University of Michigan in investigating the frequency and effects of tinnitus.

The results of these studies are elaborated in Apple’s [Empowering people to live a healthier day](https://www.apple.com/newsroom/pdfs/Health-Report-September-2022.pdf) report, released in July 2022.

#### Currently Active Studies

At present, the **[Women’s Health Study](https://hsph.harvard.edu/research/apple-womens-health-study/)** and the **[Hearing Study](https://sph.umich.edu/applehearingstudy/)** are still in progress. Although the Heart and Movement Study has wrapped up, Apple recently revealed the **[Apple Health Study](https://www.apple.com/newsroom/2025/02/new-holistic-apple-health-study-launches-today-in-the-research-app/)** in partnership with Brigham and Women’s Hospital. This new research seeks to gain a thorough understanding of how data from technology can be employed to foresee, identify, monitor, and manage health variations across different areas, including cardiovascular health, mental health, and beyond.

#### Enrollment Process

The Research app is presently available only to U.S. residents who meet the minimum age criteria for their state and are comfortable communicating in English. To enroll, follow these instructions:

1. Launch the Apple Research app and tap on “Studies.”
2. Choose the study that interests you and examine the participation criteria.
3. If you qualify, tap “Get Started.”

Participants will then set up a research profile and review consent forms. It is recommended to understand the privacy policy concerning Sensor & Usage Data and Health Data & Records.

Apple also offers a

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“Andor Shatters Television Record with Exceptional Star Wars Predecessor”

There’s elite television, and then there’s a unique series like *Andor*, the live-action Star Wars prequel on Disney+ that audiences continue to praise weeks after its second and concluding season wrapped up.

Throughout a total of 24 episodes, *Andor* — consistently more of an intellectual political thriller than a space opera — achieved an impressive milestone: It’s the first program in TV history to accumulate five consecutive episodes with a 9.5 or higher rating on IMDb. In simpler terms (not that the followers of this espionage-laden drama will need reminding), this is as close to perfection as television can reach.

The impressive streak begins with Season 2’s Episode 8, titled *Who Are You?*, and stretches through to the finale, titled *Jedha, Kyber, Erso*. Each episode in this five-part arc, which includes the harrowing Ghorman massacre, resonates with profound moral clarity, and the caliber of writing that transforms a television program into art comparable to literature.

Season 2 has been carefully crafting this buildup from the outset. In the initial episodes, we see Cassian Andor infiltrating an Imperial facility like a thief, Bix striving to regain her identity, and Syril ascending the bureaucratic ladder with fervor. The rebellion remains fragmented, but the sparks of resistance are igniting.

By the time the massacre occurs in Episode 8, *Andor* is operating at full capacity. A peaceful demonstration disrupted by Imperial firepower, a political system that chokes the truth, and a politician (Mon Mothma) willing to risk everything to label genocide appropriately — regardless of one’s opinion on the franchise, Star Wars may never feel this authentic again. And the series continued to escalate from that point. In *Make It Stop* (Ep. 10), Luthen’s history catches up with him, Kleya’s loyalty is put to the test in ways that result in casualties, and Cassian makes the pivotal decision to trade peace for purpose.

Meanwhile, Bix offers a heartfelt farewell directly to the camera that left some viewers in tears (and by some viewers, I am clearly referring to myself).

In its concluding three-episode segment, *Andor* resists falling into nostalgia or neat conclusions. Given that the series was designed to pave the way for the events of 2016’s *Rogue One*, this was always a certainty. Yet, what makes the series so memorable, and why it’s difficult for fans like me to move on, is partly linked to how its characters confront the void and pose deep questions that *Star Wars* has never explored before. Such as, what if the struggle for freedom is endless? And what if the rebels engaged in that struggle never get to witness the new world they are striving to create?

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Niantic Shifts Focus from Gaming to Geospatial AI Innovation

**Integrating Digital Assistants into Our Real World**

Niantic, the firm famous for Pokémon GO, is initiating a groundbreaking journey with its new project, Niantic Spatial. This initiative aspires to blend digital and physical dimensions via a comprehensive geospatial model, improving AI’s comprehension of our environment.

**Key Points:**
– Niantic Spatial represents a fresh path for the organization, concentrating on building a geospatial model to connect digital and physical realms.
– The company has pivoted from gaming, selling its division to Scopely, and is now prioritizing advancements in AI.
– The geospatial model aims to enhance AI’s spatial reasoning, utilizing over 30 billion images sourced from across the globe.

Niantic Spatial’s objective is to connect the digital and physical worlds, allowing AI to gain a deeper understanding of our surroundings. This model will support large language models in spatial reasoning, enabling machines to grasp real-world contexts.

**A Future in Spatial Awareness:**
Niantic envisions deploying AI models within devices such as AR glasses and autonomous technology. The Niantic Spatial Platform features a Visual Positioning System, Gaussian Splatting for 3D representation, and developer SDKs. The company is developing proof-of-concepts in diverse real-world sectors.

Niantic’s focus on AI is not a novel endeavor. CEO John Hanke previously endorsed smart glasses from Brilliant Labs, which showcased multimodal AI software. Their AI, Noa, possesses the ability to perceive the environment and deliver actionable insights.

Niantic Spatial’s pioneering strategy has the potential to transform how digital assistants engage with our physical surroundings, enhancing experiences in both personal and professional realms.

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Apple Remains the Sole Significant Tech Stock Facing Declines Amid Trump Tariff Disruption

**Apple’s Stock Faces Challenges Amid Tariff Issues and AI Rivalry**

Nearly two months after Donald Trump initially unveiled his tariffs strategy, the stock market has mostly progressed. Leading tech stocks have surged, driven by enthusiasm for artificial intelligence (AI), impressive earnings reports, and a widespread assumption that a significant portion of the tariff strategy may not come to fruition. Nevertheless, Apple’s stock continues to fall short, remaining down over 10% since the announcement.

Following Trump’s proclamation on April 2nd, shares of Amazon (+7%), Google (+8.8%), Meta (+10%), Microsoft (+20.2%), and Nvidia (+26.3%) have all recouped their post-announcement losses and beyond. Conversely, Apple has struggled to regain its balance, underscoring Wall Street’s apprehensions regarding the company’s specific vulnerabilities in the current economic environment.

### The China Connection

Initially, the entire tech industry witnessed a downturn after Trump’s tariff declaration, given that many firms have substantial connections with China. However, while other tech leaders discovered reasons to recover—thanks to progress in generative AI, strong cloud services, and fresh product launches—Apple has encountered persistent obstacles. The company continues to deal with the effects of the trade conflict with China and faces pressure to prove that its diversification strategies in India, Vietnam, and Brazil will yield favorable outcomes.

Compounding Apple’s difficulties is the recent political fallout surrounding Tim Cook. Trump’s administration has wielded the idea of a U.S.-manufactured iPhone as a political weapon, generating further uncertainty for investors. This unease extends beyond Apple alone, as critical suppliers such as Luxshare and Goertek have also experienced share declines of nearly 10% in recent weeks.

A recent decision by a U.S. trade court, which invalidated much of Trump’s tariff package on the basis that it went beyond presidential authority, adds another layer of complication. As the White House challenges this ruling and the case progresses, the ensuing uncertainty continues to heavily impact Apple’s stock performance as compared to its competitors.

### And Then, There’s AI

Another element contributing to the difference in stock performance is the ongoing AI narrative. Companies like Amazon, Google, Meta, Microsoft, and Nvidia are capitalizing on the AI surge, with investors gaining insight into how these organizations will utilize AI for expansion—whether through cloud services, chips, developer platforms, or novel subscription models.

In contrast, Apple has not yet effectively communicated its strategy for incorporating AI into its business model. Until the company can showcase a distinct vision for how AI will boost revenue and enhance its product offerings, Wall Street may persist in viewing Apple as an outsider in the AI discourse. This absence of momentum leaves Apple grappling with broader economic updates and geopolitical uncertainties.

Looking forward, the forthcoming Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) could be a crucial juncture for Apple. If the courts ultimately strike down Trump’s tariff plan, it may afford a much-needed uplift to Apple’s stock. However, as it currently stands, Apple is in a precarious situation: lacking a persuasive AI narrative, confronting issues in reducing its dependence on China, and experiencing weakened backing from the present administration.

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