Day: June 16, 2025

    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Google Home App Update Fixes Significant Camera Timeline Problem
    Google Home App Update Fixes Significant Camera Timeline Problem

    There exists an additional feature that allows users to grant “restricted access” to their smart home devices.

    (Image credit: Android Central)

    Essential information

    • Google announced the release of the Home app’s v3.33 update for Android, which finally resolves a significant user issue.
    • The camera timeline in the Home app is now much more fluid during scrubbing, and Google claims users should experience reduced freezing and loading durations.
    • The update also introduces several fixes for user-reported bugs.

    For smart home enthusiasts, Google is deploying an update today (June 16) to kickstart your week positively.

    The company began by explaining that this update was primarily driven by extensive user feedback regarding the Home app’s camera timeline. In a community update, Google mentions that v3.33 of the app is being released on Android and will tackle the previously lagging and occasionally low FPS performance of its camera timeline. In particular, Google states that v3.33 “significantly enhanced” the framerate and loading efficiency for users.

    Now, users browsing the camera timeline to review past events ought to have a more straightforward, seamless experience. The enhancements made to navigating through the video timeline should facilitate users in identifying crucial items, as the previous laggy performance could have made this challenging.

    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Meta and Google’s Commitments at AWE Emphasize Ambiguous Outlook for AR Eyewear
    Meta and Google’s Commitments at AWE Emphasize Ambiguous Outlook for AR Eyewear

    Representatives from major technology companies such as Google, Meta, XREAL, and Qualcomm recently partook in a spirited discussion at the Augmented World Expo 2025, examining the future of augmented reality (AR) and its potential for becoming a widespread phenomenon. The dialogue underscored the various viewpoints and tactics these firms are employing to advance AR technology.

    Smart glasses, serving as a precursor to AR glasses, are gaining momentum, with industry leaders showing optimism regarding their prospects. Nevertheless, the journey towards mainstream acceptance of AR glasses is intricate and diverse. During sessions such as “What does it take to achieve mass market adoption of AR products?” specialists from Google, Meta, and Qualcomm delved into whether AR glasses must have a visual display, with some indicating that audio or alternative sensory enhancements could be adequate.

    The present market for AR glasses is broadening, particularly in the realms of gaming and streaming, with companies like Viture and XREAL demonstrating considerable progress in field of view and color fidelity. Even with these enhancements, the challenge persists to make AR glasses both fashionable and affordable for daily use.

    Meta’s Kelly Ingham stressed the necessity for a wide array of AR glasses categories, ranging from basic notification screens to comprehensive entertainment systems. XREAL’s Ralph Jodice highlighted the continuous demand for broader fields of view and more compact glasses, emphasizing the technical hurdles involved.

    Google’s Bernard Kress contended that AR requires a “killer app” to thrive, indicating that the visual aspect of AR glasses becomes critical for attaining accurate world-locking capabilities. In contrast, Meta’s approach is centered on establishing a significant market for smart glasses initially, with the expectation that consumer interest in more sophisticated AR features will develop subsequently.

    The discussion also addressed the significance of software versus hardware in the future of AR. Google’s Android XR platform endeavors to offer a unified framework for AR development, while Meta emphasizes hardware expansion before making its software accessible to developers.

    Overall, the conversations at AWE 2025 highlighted the varied visions and strategies among industry leaders, reflecting the complex challenges and opportunities in bringing AR technology into the mainstream.

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on AirPods Pro 3 Rescheduled: Launch Anticipated Next Year
    AirPods Pro 3 Rescheduled: Launch Anticipated Next Year

    Up until now, speculation has suggested that Apple’s next AirPods Pro 3 model is slated for release later this year. However, GF Securities analyst Jeff Pu has presented an alternative timeline. In one of his recent updates, he indicated that the launch of Apple’s AirPods Pro 3 is anticipated to occur in 2026.

    Currently, it’s uncertain what factors may have led Apple to postpone its AirPods Pro 3 plans. Nonetheless, it might be related to some of the new features expected from these earbuds, such as the much-awaited heart rate monitor that was first seen in the Powerbeats Pro 2.

    Notably, Pu’s update emerged after MacRumors identified mentions of AirPods Pro 3 in the initial iOS 26 beta. If Apple has indeed modified its plans, it is conceivable that the company may eliminate those mentions in future beta releases.

    Here are some of the anticipated features of AirPods Pro 3

    Even if Apple postpones the launch of AirPods Pro 3, these earbuds are projected to incorporate a variety of new features, including:

    Significantly enhanced ANC: For the third generation of AirPods Pro, Apple is expected to considerably refine the ANC. It may build upon the technology found in AirPods 4, which provides ANC even without the use of ear tips. This advancement will be made possible due to the following anticipated feature.

    H3 chip: Apple excels in the development of its audio chips, which were first introduced with the inaugural AirPods model. The company is set to further enhance audio quality and connectivity between AirPods and iPhone, while also introducing new features such as improved ANC, better hearing aid functionalities, and more.

    Enhanced hearing aid functionalities: AirPods Pro 2 were the first earbuds to provide hearing aid capabilities. Apple will keep advancing this feature with the upcoming iterations of its professional-grade earbuds.

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on Uncovering a Possible ‘Third State’ Existing Between Life and Death
    Uncovering a Possible ‘Third State’ Existing Between Life and Death

    As humans, we generally perceive life and death as two aspects of the same phenomenon. Nonetheless, some scientists propose the existence of a “third state” that lies between these two conditions. Evidence for this intermediate state is illustrated by our ability to utilize organs, tissues, and cells beyond the moment the organism they belonged to ceases to live. Remarkably, these components continue to thrive.

    In a post on The Conversation, the researchers behind a recent publication elaborate on how they believe these biobots come into existence and describe their process of taking cells and transforming them into multicellular entities with novel functions after death. Contrary to how it may sound, these are not zombie cells. Rather, they seem to represent entirely new organisms with a distinct existence to lead.

    But how does this establish the existence of a third state existing between life and death? Typically, death is regarded as the definitive termination of an organism. At this juncture, the original organism ceases to function. However, this scenario differs. The researchers demonstrated that certain cells can endure and be transformed into something completely new.

    Thus, this third state challenges the prevailing scientific understanding of cell function. As researchers are capable of converting existing cells into new organisms with varied purposes, they have begun referring to them as living robots. These entities may have numerous applications in medical and scientific arenas, although researchers continue to investigate the precise mechanisms involved in this process.

    Numerous instances exist of organisms altering or evolving into different forms. However, it is quite uncommon for an organism to shift in ways not already predetermined. This distinction sets the third state apart from transformations observed in certain species, such as butterflies or tadpoles.

    Depending on the source of the living robot, the functions it acquires during its transformation may differ. For example, researchers discovered that isolated human lung cells can actually self-organize into new multicellular entities known as anthrobots. These living robots then exhibit novel behaviors, allowing them to navigate their surroundings and repair themselves as well as nearby damaged neuron cells.

    However, certain conditions must be met for these cells to persist post the demise of their host organism. The researchers indicate that a variety of factors, including the duration since the organism’s death and the level of metabolic activity at the time of death, can significantly influence the emergence of this third state of existence. Additionally, aspects such as health, sex, and age may also affect the postmortem environment.

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Apple TV+ Keeps Thriving in Comedy with Latest Series
    Apple TV+ Keeps Thriving in Comedy with Latest Series

    Apple TV+ is enjoying a remarkable year, with a new record for the most watched series and Jon Hamm achieving the largest drama launch—but comedies have also been thriving, featuring the latest new series.

    ## The Studio, Murderbot, and More Enhance the Apple TV+ Comedy Collection

    There’s no denying that two of the leading successes for Apple TV+ this year have been dramas: *Severance* and *Your Friends & Neighbors*.

    However, the platform has also experienced a successful run with comedy introductions.

    *The Studio* is regarded by many as the finest comedy of the year across any streaming platform. It is anticipated to be a major contender at the Emmy awards this year and generated considerable excitement during its inaugural season’s airing.

    *Mythic Quest* season 4 served as a fantastic farewell for the workplace comedy. Although it didn’t attract the audience needed to secure a fifth season, that was not due to a lack of artistic merit.

    *Murderbot* has been another success for Apple, merging sci-fi action with the amusing comedic soliloquy of its main character, portrayed by Alexander Skarsgård.

    And this month, *Stick* debuted as the newest Apple TV+ comedy. So far, it appears to be yet another success.

    ## Stick is a Bill Lawrence-Inspired Comedy in the Ted Lasso Style

    *Stick* is the first Apple TV+ series that boldly attempts to copy the successful *Ted Lasso* formula, achieving largely favorable results.

    Like *Lasso*, *Stick* leans more towards a dramedy than a laugh-focused show like *The Studio*.

    It fits well alongside Apple’s other “heartfelt” comedies such as *Ted Lasso* and *Shrinking*, both created by Bill Lawrence. *Trying* serves as another fitting reference.

    Although *Stick* has a completely different creative team, it captures much of the charming, light-hearted yet substantial tone that some of Apple’s most cherished comedies have achieved.

    Here’s Apple’s series overview, along with the trailer:

    > Owen Wilson stars as Pryce Cahill, a past-his-prime, former professional golfer whose career was prematurely derailed two decades ago. Following the breakdown of his marriage and while employed at an Indiana sporting goods store, Pryce bets everything, including his future, on a troubled 17-year-old golf prodigy named Santi (Peter Dager). “Stick” is a heartfelt, uplifting comedy about a found family and their connections set within the realm of golf like never before.

    At the moment, only a few episodes are accessible. Critics who have viewed the entire season, however, confirm *Stick*’s capability to charm audiences. The show has also remained a top-viewed Apple TV+ series since its launch, indicating it is attracting viewers.

    Apple TV+ may be cultivating a strong reputation for sci-fi and drama, but comedies remain a significant strength for the platform.

    Apple TV+ is available for $9.99 per month and offers popular TV series and films such as *Ted Lasso*, *Severance*, *The Morning Show*, *Silo*, and *Shrinking*.

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on Apple Launches Promo Codes for In-App Purchases in iPhone Applications and Games
    Apple Launches Promo Codes for In-App Purchases in iPhone Applications and Games

    ### Apple Enhances Promo Code System for In-App Purchases

    Apple is poised to upgrade its App Store promo code system, equipping developers with an essential resource to more efficiently promote in-app purchases. This modification, anticipated to be implemented later this year, will empower developers to create and circulate promo codes for a wider assortment of in-app purchases, encompassing consumables, non-consumables, and non-renewing subscriptions.

    #### From Subscriptions to Consumables and Beyond

    Traditionally, Apple’s promo code system was largely confined to facilitating free downloads or providing discounts on auto-renewable subscriptions. Developers were restricted to distributing promo codes for trial phases or special promotions associated with subscriptions. However, the forthcoming updates will permit developers to issue promo codes for diverse in-app purchases, greatly broadening their promotional potential.

    As an example, mobile game developers might distribute codes for complimentary gems or additional lives during live events. In a similar vein, developers of productivity apps could send one-time codes to users for discounted unlocks, boosting user interaction and driving revenue.

    #### Implementation Insights

    Apple addressed these modifications during a session at WWDC25 entitled “What’s new in StoreKit and In-App Purchase.” The new redemption process will employ the current `offerCodeRedemption` API, ensuring seamless incorporation within apps. For applications designed with UIKit, developers can utilize the `presentOfferCodeRedeemSheet` to streamline the redemption experience.

    This functionality will be accessible for developers targeting iOS 16.3 and above, indicating that even devices not operating on the latest iOS version will still have the capability to redeem these new promo codes. The same compatibility will be applicable to additional platforms, including iPadOS and macOS.

    #### Expected Launch

    Although Apple has not disclosed the precise launch date for this feature, it is believed to be part of the forthcoming iOS 26 update. This enhancement has been greatly solicited by developers, representing a major advancement in the App Store’s promotional resources.

    To summarize, Apple’s expansion of the promo code system for in-app purchases signifies a considerable leap forward for developers, allowing them to more effectively engage users and advertise their products across a broader spectrum of applications.

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Pitaka Unveils Sleek Aramid Fiber MagSafe Power Bank Incorporating Qi2 Technology
    Pitaka Unveils Sleek Aramid Fiber MagSafe Power Bank Incorporating Qi2 Technology

    # The Pitaka Aramid Fiber Magnetic Power Bank: An Elegant Answer to Your Charging Needs

    As we reach 2025, the market is flooded with MagSafe battery packs, each showcasing distinct features like multifunctionality, software upgrades, and rapid charging capabilities. Yet, there are moments when what you need is a sleek and sophisticated MagSafe battery pack that delivers excellent performance without superfluous extras. The Pitaka Aramid Fiber Magnetic Power Bank flawlessly achieves this harmony.

    ## Initial Thoughts

    Pitaka has established itself as a creator of ultra-slim accessories that are simultaneously sturdy and protective, primarily utilizing an Aramid fiber weave. This design ethos carries over to their latest MagSafe battery pack, enveloped in the same signature aramid fiber that defines their phone cases. The surface is soft yet offers a good grip, enhanced by a rose gold aluminum trim that introduces an element of sophistication. The packaging remains minimalistic, featuring only the battery pack itself.

    ## The Specifications

    Here are the essential specifications of the Pitaka Aramid Fiber Magnetic Power Bank:

    – **Capacity**: 5,000mAh
    – **Qi2-certified**: Enables 15W wireless charging
    – **Input/Output**: 20W USB-C
    – **LED Indicators**: Situated on the interior
    – **Dimensions**: 0.88cm thick and weighs under 120g

    ## Practical Applications

    Boasting a 5,000mAh capacity, this power bank is capable of efficiently charging devices like the iPhone 16 Pro Max, which features a 4,685mAh battery. In trials, the power bank charged the iPhone from 20% to 90%, although actual results may differ depending on usage, software, and wireless charging performance. The robust magnets ensure a stable connection, reassuring users that the battery pack will remain securely attached during operation. Furthermore, it comes in the same hues and styles as Pitaka’s phone cases, enabling a unified aesthetic.

    ## Pricing, Availability & Conclusion

    The Pitaka Aramid Fiber Magnetic Power Bank is offered on [Pitaka’s website](https://www.ipitaka.com/products/aramid-fiber-magnetic-power-bank?ref=821CRwDs) for $59, with six color selections available. On

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on Huge Exposé Uncovers Future OnePlus Product Range Before Release
    Huge Exposé Uncovers Future OnePlus Product Range Before Release

    The tech sector is rife with excitement over the recent leaks related to OnePlus’s forthcoming product unveilings. Scheduled for announcement on July 8, the OnePlus Nord 5, Nord CE 5, and a compact 43mm edition of the OnePlus Watch 3 have been highlighted in these leaks, showcasing extensive specifications and visuals.

    The OnePlus Nord 5 is anticipated to be a major launch, equipped with a Snapdragon 8s Gen 3 processor, a dual 50MP rear camera system, and a 50MP front camera. It will feature a 5200mAh battery, offering up to 12GB of RAM and 512GB of internal storage. Additionally, the phone is expected to include IP65 protection against dust and water and weigh approximately 211 grams.

    On the other hand, the Nord CE 5 will utilize a MediaTek Dimensity 8350 SoC, and will come with a 120Hz display sized at 6.77 inches. It will provide up to 8GB of RAM and 256GB of storage. The device will sport a 16MP front camera, a 5200mAh battery with 80W SuperVooc charging, and will weigh 199 grams while having an IP54 rating.

    The OnePlus Watch 3 (43mm) will feature a 1.32-inch display, dual operating systems (WearOS and RTOS), and a battery life of 72 hours. It will be driven by a Qualcomm Snapdragon W5 Gen 1 SoC, paired with 2GB of RAM and 32GB of storage. The watch will offer 5ATM water resistance, an IP68 rating, alongside Wi-Fi and Bluetooth 5.2 capabilities. This product will be exclusive to the U.S. market.

    These leaks, provided by tipster OnLeaks in partnership with Android Headlines, deliver a thorough preview of what to anticipate from OnePlus’s imminent launches. The Nord 5 and Nord CE 5 will come in multiple colors such as Dry Ice, Marble Sands, Phantom Gray, Black Infinity, and Marble Mist. It is likely that the Nord devices will be released in the Indian market, while the Watch 3 (43mm) will be launched in the United States.

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Garmin Watch Offered at 47% Off on Amazon Today: Advantages and Disadvantages of Buying
    Garmin Watch Offered at 47% Off on Amazon Today: Advantages and Disadvantages of Buying

    Choices, choices.

    (Image credit: Garmin)

    Amazon Prime Day may still be weeks away, but there’s no need to wait for that major sale when you can grab excellent deals on Garmin watches right now. For example, if you choose the Garmin Epix Gen 2, you’ll get an impressive 47% off, bringing the price of the White Titanium smartwatch down to about $479.

    For those seeking a durable and feature-rich smartwatch, Garmin’s selection stands out as some of the top choices available. However, they can be fairly pricey, prompting many to hold out for a solid discount before making a final choice. Thankfully, <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://target.georiot.com/Proxy.ashx?tsid=169923&GR_URL=https%3A%2F%2Famazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3Dgarmin%2Bwatch%26tag%3Dhawk-future-20%26ascsubtag%3Dac-us-3278549627040617198-20" data-url="https://www.amazon.com/s?k=garmin+watch" target="_blank" referrerpolicy="no-referrer

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Google Play Store Unveils Swipe Gesture to Avoid Unintentional Purchases
    Google Play Store Unveils Swipe Gesture to Avoid Unintentional Purchases

    No more one-tap purchases on Google Play.

    (Image credit: Andrew Myrick / Android Central)

    Essential information

    • Google has officially replaced one-tap purchases on the Play Store with a swipe-to-buy method, ensuring users truly intend to spend their money.
    • The “Slide to buy” functionality debuted with Play Store version 46.5.19-31 and is now available across the board—apps, books, movies, and even Google TV.
    • Now, rather than a simple tap, you’ll drag a pill-shaped button with intuitive arrows and bounce effects helping you to finalize your choice.

    Google has revamped the one-tap buy on the Play Store to a slide-to-buy action to directly address unintentional buying, ensuring that you genuinely wish to click buy.

    In line with what was hinted in March’s Play Services update, Google Play Store has formally substituted its previous one-tap buy option with a swipe-to-confirm action. First spotted by 9to5Google, this “Slide to buy” feature is fully operational across the entire digital array, including apps, books, movies, and much more.

    This modification seems to be rolling out broadly with Play Store version 46.5.19-31. You will notice it appearing in all places where you make a purchase on Google Play—be it from third-party apps or directly from the Google TV app.