Day: June 17, 2025

    • sparta
    • Comments Off on Leaked Images Offer Comprehensive Sneak Peek of the Galaxy Watch 8 Series
    Leaked Images Offer Comprehensive Sneak Peek of the Galaxy Watch 8 Series

    Evan Blass, a prominent leaker, has unveiled images of the speculated Galaxy Watch 8 series, highlighting the awaited Ultra variant. The visuals indicate that Samsung’s forthcoming smartwatch collection will comprise three versions: the Galaxy Watch 8, Galaxy Watch 8 Classic, and Galaxy Watch Ultra (2025). These timepieces are projected to be revealed at Samsung’s Summer Unpacked event, likely set for next month.

    The leaked visuals disclose the design and possible color schemes for the Galaxy Watch 8 series. The standard Galaxy Watch 8 seems to showcase a sleek, somewhat square silver casing with a circular face, framed by a moderate black bezel. It also features two physical buttons on one side.

    The Galaxy Watch 8 Classic is illustrated with a robust, thicker design in silver and black, incorporating a rotating bezel. It contains two buttons and an extra smaller orange “Quick” button, possibly intended for swift access to frequently utilized applications. Prior leaks indicate that the Classic will be available in a 47mm size with a 1.5-inch display and a 450mAh battery.

    The Galaxy Watch Ultra (2025) is presented in a rich blue hue with a smooth silver bezel. It appears to be without a rotating bezel, showcasing a more streamlined exterior. Like the other models, it includes two physical buttons and an additional smaller orange button.

    These leaks, though unverified, give a preview of what Samsung’s innovative smartwatch series may present. The Galaxy Watch 8 series is expected to debut during Samsung’s forthcoming Unpacked event this summer.

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on AI Algorithms May Be the Cause of Instagram Bans
    AI Algorithms May Be the Cause of Instagram Bans

    A massive surge of bans and suspensions on Instagram has led users to take to social media in protest. According to TechCrunch, the number of accounts banned on the photo and video sharing platform has notably risen in recent weeks, as indicated by remarks on X, discussions on the Instagram subreddit, and a Change.org petition that has garnered over 4,000 signatures.

    The reasons behind Instagram’s abrupt decision to ban thousands of users remain ambiguous, but many speculate that the use of AI for moderation by Meta is responsible.

    What is the reason for Instagram’s user bans?

    “The AI moderation system of Meta is deactivating thousands of accounts on Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp without justification,” the authors of the Change.org petition assert in their summary. “Users are being denied access to their personal memories, messages, and business profiles—often without any explanation and no viable means to appeal. We urge Meta to rectify its faulty systems and treat its users with fairness and respect.”

    As numerous banned Instagram users have pointed out, contacting Instagram’s support team is impossible without a Meta Verified subscription. Regardless of whether these bans are intentional or not, only those who are paying Meta $14.99 monthly (or more) have access to Meta Verified Support. Others are left to voice their frustrations on Reddit.

    “Out of the blue, I logged into Facebook and it logged me out,” shared one user, “then I opened Instagram and encountered a message stating that I had 180 days to challenge my account suspension due to community guideline violations that are clearly false.”

    “We need to take this matter to court… I’m so stressed,” another user replied.

    The positive news is that some individuals who faced bans are seeing their accounts reinstated. One user described that their account was banned last week. After reaching out to [email protected] and [email protected], they managed to recover their account over the weekend. It remains uncertain whether their outreach influenced the reinstatement.

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on “New Threads Functionality Launched to Assist Users in Evading TV Spoilers”
    “New Threads Functionality Launched to Assist Users in Evading TV Spoilers”

    Everyone dislikes spoilers. Whether discussing television series or sports, the undeniable truth is that individuals enjoy surprises. The issue, however, is that if you spend any time online, it’s easy to encounter a spoiler you were trying so hard to evade. This has happened to me far too often. Occasionally, I’ll check Twitter for news updates and inadvertently come across a post revealing how a White Lotus episode concludes. Other times, I’ve accidentally spotted social media posts regarding a shocking finish to a football match I was 10 minutes behind on watching.

    While it’s certainly not catastrophic, it can be quite irritating. In that regard, Threads has commenced the rollout of a new feature today that allows users to conceal spoilers in their posts. Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg briefly touched on it on Threads earlier Monday, and since then, a few additional details have surfaced.

    How the feature operates

    In response to Zuckerberg’s announcement, Instagram head Adam Mosseri elaborated on how the feature functions.

    “We’re testing a method for you to obscure spoilers in Threads posts,” Mosseri stated. “While making a post, highlight the text or images and select ‘mark spoiler’ to obscure it. Users can uncover the hidden text or image by tapping it in their feed. Threads is the sole app of its kind to offer this type of content label, so I’m eager to see how people utilize it to express their views on what they’re enjoying.”

    The feature was activated for some users this afternoon, as indicated by this post from the Meta Newsroom Threads account. The implementation is quite simple and will likely assist in keeping users actively scrolling through Threads even when there might be spoilers just around the corner.

    Indeed, in a press release, Meta emphasized how Threads is progressively becoming a hub for discussing popular television shows:

    “Popular series like ‘The Last of Us’ and ‘The White Lotus’ frequently trended on Threads during their respective seasons, a clear indication of the app’s expanding community of entertainment and pop culture aficionados,” the press release states in part.

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Spigen Introduces New Apple Watch Charging Stand Showcasing Sought-after Design and Features
    Spigen Introduces New Apple Watch Charging Stand Showcasing Sought-after Design and Features

    **Spigen Introduces Apple Watch Classic C1 Charging Stand Inspired by iMac G3**

    Spigen has launched its newest accessory, the Apple Watch Classic C1 Charging Stand, which pays tribute to the legendary design of the original iMac G3, now in a compact version perfect for your nightstand. This fresh addition to Spigen’s Classic C1 range embodies the retro-futuristic style of the iMac G3, both in its form and color selections.

    The Apple Watch Classic C1 Charging Stand comes in four lively hues: Tangerine, Graphite, Ruby, and the timeless Bondi Blue. Each color exemplifies the fun and daring design spirit of the late 1990s, making it a chic enhancement to any environment.

    Although the stand does not come with integrated charging hardware, users can conveniently use their own charging puck by threading the cable through the back of the stand. This design feature facilitates a tidy and organized appearance while ensuring that the Apple Watch remains readily accessible.

    The slanted design of the stand offers a practical way to view the time at a glance, whether the watch is charging overnight or acting as a desk clock throughout the day. A non-slip silicone base guarantees stability, and the stand is compatible with all Apple Watch models from Series 4 onwards, including both versions of the Apple Watch Ultra.

    Retailing at $34.99, the Apple Watch Classic C1 Charging Stand presents a budget-friendly choice for anyone wishing to infuse some nostalgia into their tech arrangements. It also makes for a great gift for fans of vintage Apple products. However, prospective buyers should hurry, as the Ruby color option has already sold out.

    For further details or to buy the stand, visit Spigen’s official website.

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on 9to5Mac Daily: June 16, 2025 – Perspectives on iOS 26 Progressions
    9to5Mac Daily: June 16, 2025 – Perspectives on iOS 26 Progressions

    ### 9to5Mac Daily: Your Destination for Daily Apple News

    In the rapidly changing realm of technology, keeping up with the newest news and trends is essential, particularly for Apple fans. **9to5Mac Daily** acts as a vital resource for listeners eager to stay abreast of Apple-related updates. This podcast presents a summary of the day’s most important stories, ensuring you are well-versed in the latest occurrences within the Apple ecosystem.

    #### Accessibility and Availability

    Listeners can conveniently tune into **9to5Mac Daily** via various platforms, such as:
    – [iTunes and Apple’s Podcasts app](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/9to5mac-daily/id1331816080)
    – [Stitcher](https://www.stitcher.com/podcast/9to5mac-daily)
    – [TuneIn](https://tunein.com/radio/9to5Mac-Daily-p1089524/)
    – [Google Play](https://play.google.com/music/m/I5d4dzs7dauazmfxvvrynyiuram?t=9to5Mac_Daily)
    – [Dedicated RSS feed](https://feedpress.me/9to5macdaily) for Overcast and other podcast applications.

    New episodes are produced every weekday, allowing subscribers to receive timely notifications directly to their chosen podcast player.

    #### Content Overview

    Every episode of **9to5Mac Daily** addresses a variety of stories pertinent to Apple users, including product launches, software advancements, and industry perspectives. The podcast not only brings listeners the latest updates but also offers analysis and commentary, making it an invaluable resource for anyone interested in Apple offerings.

    #### Subscription Benefits

    For those wishing to elevate their listening experience, subscribing to **9to5Mac Daily Plus** provides numerous perks:
    – **Ad-free versions** of every episode for seamless listening.
    – **Bonus content** that offers deeper insights and further discussions on various subjects.

    Listeners can subscribe and support the podcast directly via the [9to5Mac Daily Plus](https://9to5mac.com/join/) link.

    #### Engage with the Community

    Listeners are invited to share their opinions and feedback. You can connect through email at [[email protected]](mailto:[email protected]). Moreover, rating the podcast on platforms like [Apple Podcasts](https://geo.itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/id1331816080?at=10laZc&pt=11l8808) or recommending it on

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on Most Suggested Discover My Accessories
    Most Suggested Discover My Accessories

    # The Growing Ecosystem of Find My Accessories

    There’s a vibrant ecosystem of Find My accessories available in the market today. Each of these accessories can enhance your daily life. After all, what could be a smarter investment than a way to monitor your most valued belongings?

    To recap, Find My accessories emit a low-energy Bluetooth signal that can be detected by nearby Apple devices. They do not depend on GPS technology. Instead, the location information is securely and privately sent to the Find My network. This implies that your Find My-enabled item can be tracked even if you are far away, as long as there is someone with an Apple device in the vicinity.

    The release of iOS 18.2 in December brought further enhancements to the Find My network with a new system for sharing item locations.

    ## AirTag

    You can’t compile a list of the top Find My accessories without mentioning Apple’s AirTags. Equipped with a U1 chip for Precision Finding capabilities, a built-in speaker, and much more, AirTags are essential for attaching to your luggage, backpack, keys, and various other accessories.

    AirTags have advanced significantly since their debut in April 2021. Apple has introduced new anti-stalking measures, improved notification alerts, and several other enhancements.

    However, AirTags are not without drawbacks as they are only available in one form factor, do not include a built-in attachment method, and have been on the market for nearly four years. Nevertheless, they are the best option to begin with the Find My ecosystem.

    **Purchase AirTags:**

    **Top AirTags accessories:**

    ## Chipolo’s Find My Ecosystem

    While Apple’s AirTag comes in just one form, Chipolo offers two distinct trackers that are completely compatible with Apple’s Find My ecosystem. This allows you to integrate them into the Find My app and track them alongside your Apple devices. They can also utilize the Find My network of Apple products and AirTags to share the latest location details.

    – **Chipolo Card Spot:** A credit card-sized tracker with Find My support. Ideal for slipping into your wallet so you won’t misplace it.

    – **Chipolo One Spot:** An AirTag-shaped tracker featuring Find My integration and a built-in keyring hole, eliminating the need for an additional case or attachment mechanism.

    ## SwitchBot Wallet Finder

    My colleague Benjamin Mayo recently reviewed the SwitchBot Wallet Finder, calling it an “incredibly handy accessory for tracking your wallet” through your iPhone and the Find My ecosystem. Shaped like a credit card to fit seamlessly in your wallet, it also includes a built-in keyring holder for conveniently attaching to items like a lanyard or backpack.

    **Purchase the SwitchBot Wallet Finder:**

    [Read more in Benjamin’s complete review.](https://9to5mac.com/2024/11/28/review-switchbot-wallet-finder-is-an-incredibly-useful-accessory-to-track-your-wallet-with-iphone-find-my/)

    ## Pebblebee’s Find My Ecosystem

    Another card-style choice for the Find My network is the [Pebblebee Tracker Card](https://geni.us/c7NX). The key feature of this tracker is its rechargeable battery. The previously mentioned options from Chipolo and SwitchBot do not offer rechargeable or replaceable batteries. The Pebblebee Tracker Card can provide battery life of up to 18 months before needing to be recharged via a USB-C cable.

    In addition to the Tracker Card, Pebblebee offers two other Find My-compatible accessories. The [Pebblebee Clip](https://geni.us/yzCWD) is a compact tracker similar in size to the AirTag but includes a built-in keyring holder. It offers up to 12 months of battery life and can also be recharged with a USB-C cable.

    Lastly, there’s the [Pebblebee Tracker Universal Tag](https://geni.us/y5wdCP3) with Find My integration. This provides an ultra-compact design with a battery life of up to 8 months and a USB-C port for charging.

    ## Backpacks with Find My

    While I typically suggest purchasing a standalone Find My tracker, some backpacks on the market integrate Find My functionality directly. Both Swissdigital and Hyper provide backpacks featuring Find My integration.

    ## Twelve South PlugBug

    For travelers, Twelve South presents one of the most intriguing uses of Find My that I’ve encountered. The

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on South Korea Set to Launch Apple Pay for Public Transport Fare Transactions
    South Korea Set to Launch Apple Pay for Public Transport Fare Transactions

    **Apple Pay Broadens Its Reach to Public Transit in South Korea: A Landmark with Possible Hurdles**

    Over two years since its introduction in South Korea, Apple Pay is poised to fill a crucial void in its service: enabling payments for public transport. Nevertheless, this advancement may be temporary due to rising challenges.

    ### Updates to Terminals and Transaction Fees Warrant the Delay

    Transit card provider Tmoney has revealed that its system will soon be adaptable with both iPhones and Apple Watches, enabling users to use their devices to pay for subway and bus fares throughout the nation. Although an official launch date is yet to be announced, this revelation signifies an important progress in Apple Pay’s uptake in South Korea.

    Apple Pay was launched in South Korea two years back, considerably later than Samsung Pay, which incorporated public transport support in 2015. This lag left iPhone users at a disadvantage in a nation where mobile tap-to-pay transit is generally expected. The delay was linked to infrastructure and cost concerns, as Tmoney and other transit operators had to upgrade to EMV contactless terminals mandated by Apple Pay and were apprehensive about the resulting transaction fees.

    ### Next Destination: No Tapping (and No Apple Pay) at All

    In spite of the encouraging news for Apple users, Tmoney also introduced a pilot initiative slated to begin in October on Seoul city buses, which may complicate matters. This initiative will evaluate a tagless payment system on around 580 buses across 36 routes. Rather than tapping a card or device, passengers who have the Tmoney app installed and Bluetooth activated on their phones will have their fares automatically processed upon entry and exit of the bus.

    Though the addition of transit payments through Apple Pay is a significant achievement, the forthcoming tagless payment system may reduce the need for tapping entirely, presenting a potential obstacle to Apple Pay’s long-term assimilation into South Korea’s public transport framework. For the time being, Apple users can anticipate the soon-to-come transit payments, but the outlook remains unclear.

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on New HBO Series Brings Unmatched Degrees of Tension and Disquiet
    New HBO Series Brings Unmatched Degrees of Tension and Disquiet

    **The Mortician: A Haunting HBO Documentary on David Sconce’s Cremation Controversy**

    David Sconce, formerly leading a notorious cremation enterprise in Los Angeles, is the center of HBO’s compelling true-crime documentary, “The Mortician.” This three-part series investigates one of the funeral sector’s most disconcerting scandals, exposing the sinister practices that resulted in Sconce’s incarceration.

    Sconce’s brazen attitude and unsettling perspectives on the finances of mass cremations establish the atmosphere for the documentary. His notorious remark, “I could cremate one guy in, like, two hours. Or you could put ten of ’em in there and take two-and-a-half hours,” highlights the profit-centric motivations that eclipsed fundamental decency in his operations.

    The series narrates the decline of Pasadena’s Lamb Funeral Home, a well-respected family-run establishment until Sconce’s acquisition in the 1980s. Episode 1 examines the initial transformation under David’s control, characterized by dubious cremation figures and the enigmatic death of a young rival. Episode 2 investigates a suspicious blaze, increasing abuse allegations, and a police probe that set off the unraveling of the scandal. By Episode 3, the Lamb family confronts legal conflicts, David faces murder charges, and over 20,000 families come to terms with the harsh truth of what befell their loved ones.

    “The Mortician” includes candid testimonies from Sconce’s former spouse, bereaved families, investigators, and morticians who observed the scandal’s repercussions. These narratives vividly illustrate a scandal that rattled the industry and spurred essential reforms. Viewer responses underscore the emotional gravity of the series, emphasizing its significant effect on audiences.

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on Apple Verifies Future Launch of homeOS 26 Software Following WWDC Omission
    Apple Verifies Future Launch of homeOS 26 Software Following WWDC Omission

    Amidst the numerous speculations about potential announcements at WWDC 2025, there has been a persistent rumor about Apple launching homeOS 26. Yet, as another WWDC concluded, Apple remained silent on the new operating system, which is expected to drive all home-related initiatives from the company.

    On one side, this seems reasonable. The company hasn’t revealed any new hardware associated with home settings. However, Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman indicates that the smart home OS is still under development — we’ll just have to be patient a little longer to witness it.

    In his Power On newsletter, the journalist states, “Apple never planned to present homeOS at WWDC.” Gurman mentions, “the initial intention was to unveil this operating system in March alongside new hardware.” With Apple not holding a March event due to the postponed Siri features, the company opted to delay the software too.

    Though Gurman believes that Apple could still present the expected smart home hub and homeOS 26 software without the new Siri AI functionalities, he notes it “would diminish the user experience. In any case, it likely makes more sense to reveal homeOS at a consumer-focused event, rather than one aimed at developers.”

    What’s the purpose of homeOS 26?

    homeOS has been circulating in rumors for some time now. This is Apple’s latest software for all home-related functionalities. The company is anticipated to develop a sub-branch of tvOS to manage more specialized home products, such as tabletop devices, HomePods, and various other smart home gadgets.

    Up to now, some of the devices that might operate on this new OS include:

    – **HomePod with a display:** Multiple reports suggest a potential HomePod with a display, which would enhance the existing generation. It could ultimately show weather updates, music, videos, and more.

    – **Squared display with HomePod combination:** Earlier reports indicate that Apple may soon introduce a product featuring a squared display, tabletop arms, built-in camera, and Apple Intelligence.

    – **High-end tabletop:** Gurman asserts that Apple is working on a $1,000 tabletop device as a luxurious alternative to the Amazon Echo Show. This product is still a few years away.

    – **Additional smart home devices:** Apple is also evaluating security cameras, a door lock equipped with Face ID, and various home devices to extend their reach into our domestic spaces.

    Ultimately, Apple might also modify tvOS 26 to serve as homeOS 26, as it could power forthcoming Apple TV and HomePod iterations. After all, the company aims to expand its Apple Intelligence platform across all its products.

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Threads Unveils Anti-Spoiler Functionality for Television and Film Conversations
    Threads Unveils Anti-Spoiler Functionality for Television and Film Conversations

    **Threads Unveils Spoiler Concealment Feature: An Essential Resolution for Spoiler-Laden Feeds**

    If you’ve ever been reluctant to check Threads following the airing of a significant TV episode, you’re not alone. Meta’s platform is currently experimenting with a feature that permits users to obscure spoilers in both text and images, tackling a frequent annoyance among enthusiasts of popular shows.

    ### An Essential Resolution for Spoiler-Laden Feeds

    While other social media platforms like Mastodon, Telegram, and Reddit have long offered methods to hide posts or specific content to prevent revealing plot twists or major moments, Threads has frequently posed challenges for its users. Followers of series such as *Severance* and *The Last of Us* can confirm the obstacles of navigating feeds filled with spoilers.

    Beginning this week, select users will have the capability to label content as a spoiler when composing a post. According to updates from *The Hollywood Reporter*, users can obscure content by tapping on an image or highlighting text and choosing the “mark spoiler” option.

    On desktop, spoilers will be concealed by a gray block, whereas on mobile, they will be hidden behind a series of floating dots. This feature is designed to improve the user experience on Threads, positioning it as a more inviting environment for real-time discussions about pop culture, while avoiding contentious topics.

    Meta has stated that this is a global test, but specifics surrounding a wider rollout remain uncertain. The launch of this feature marks a notable advancement in transforming Threads into a more user-friendly platform for fans eager to participate in conversations without the anxiety of encountering spoilers.

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