Month: June 2025

    • sparta
    • Comments Off on Back Market Calls for the Conclusion of Rapid Technology through Projection at London’s Apple Store
    Back Market Calls for the Conclusion of Rapid Technology through Projection at London’s Apple Store

    **Advocating for Refurbished Technology: A Call to Action at Apple’s Covent Garden Store**

    In a daring effort to promote sustainable technology usage, Back Market displayed a compelling message on the exterior wall of Apple’s Covent Garden Store in London: “Let’s end fast tech.” This initiative underscores the significance of purchasing refurbished devices rather than new ones, with the aim of inspiring consumers to make more considerate buying choices.

    Apple’s Covent Garden store, the largest in London and formerly the biggest globally at its inauguration in 2010, stands as an iconic venue. Its architectural splendor merges the original elements of a 19th-century structure with contemporary design features, providing an apt setting for Back Market’s environmental call to action.

    Back Market, which began in France and has since broadened its reach throughout Europe, focuses on offering professionally refurbished tech. The brand highlights the ecological advantages of opting for refurbished devices, particularly in light of the escalating electronic waste dilemma. In the United States alone, the average household owns around 21 electronic devices, many of which contribute to the concerning surge of e-waste, projected to rise by 4% each year.

    The urgency to upgrade technology is widespread. Numerous consumers feel pressured to purchase the latest models, even if their current devices are performing adequately. A recent survey indicated that 45% of U.S. buyers experience this pressure, and notably, 44% of those intending to upgrade report still being content with their existing technology.

    To counter this consumption cycle, Back Market proposes several strategies: extending the life of current devices, reusing older gadgets by giving them to family and friends, and choosing refurbished items instead of new ones.

    While directing this campaign at Apple may appear unjust—considering that their products are recognized for durability—Back Market’s message resonates with the overarching issue of consumer behavior within the technology sector. Many individuals, including those who have acquired new devices, understand that refurbished alternatives could satisfy their needs just as effectively.

    In summary, the initiative at Apple’s Covent Garden Store serves as a reminder of the significance of sustainability in technology consumption. By opting for refurbished devices, consumers can aid in minimizing electronic waste and fostering a more eco-friendly approach to tech ownership.

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on Google Announces Heightened User Caution in Response to New Online Fraud Activities
    Google Announces Heightened User Caution in Response to New Online Fraud Activities

    These adjustments are beneficial; nevertheless, Google aspires for a greater number of individuals to embrace newer, more secure methods.

    (Image credit: Nicholas Sutrich / Android Central)

    Essential Information

    • In partnership with Morning Consult, Google’s research survey regarding scam awareness revealed that “more than 60%” of users in the U.S. have encountered scams.
    • In spite of the staggering figure, Google asserts that its survey findings show users have grown more “confident” in recognizing scams and steering clear of them.
    • The findings also highlight a significant divergence in online security behaviors, with over 60% of Gen X and Baby Boomers relying on passwords, while Gen Z and Millennials choose passkeys.
    • Recently, Google has increased its focus on enhancing scam/fraud detection software for Android phone calls and texts.

    The internet is here to stay, just like scams; however, Google indicates that individuals’ online habits are evolving (in a positive direction).

    Evan Kotsovinos, Google’s vice president of privacy, safety, and security, published a post regarding the collaboration with Morning Consult. The latter conducted a survey aimed at uncovering the modifications in users’ online behaviors with respect to scams and other malicious activities. The study indicated that “over 60% of US consumers have noticed a rise in scams over the past year, with one third having personally experienced a data breach.”

    While this statistic appears significant (which it undoubtedly is), Google maintains that the data suggests a positive outlook. It notes that as users witness a greater number of scams online, they’ve also felt increasingly “confident in their capability to recognize” and evade them. Conversely, 61% of respondents in the survey indicated that most of these scams originated via email.

    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Review: CMF Buds 2 and Buds 2 Plus from Nothing Keep Budget Supremacy
    Review: CMF Buds 2 and Buds 2 Plus from Nothing Keep Budget Supremacy

    Two excellent sets of earbuds, one unmatched price.

    (Image credit: Apoorva Bhardwaj / Android Central)
    Wired

    (Image credit: Nicholas Sutrich / Android Central)

    In Wired, AC Senior Editor Harish Jonnalagadda explores various hardware topics, encompassing devices, audio solutions, storage systems, and networking equipment.

    I discussed <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.androidcentral.com/accessories

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on OpenAI Film Unveiled: Perfect Performer for Sam Altman Character Disclosed
    OpenAI Film Unveiled: Perfect Performer for Sam Altman Character Disclosed

    It was merely a question of when. OpenAI, the enterprise that has instilled dread in Hollywood due to its alarmingly potent AI tools, is on the verge of becoming the focus of a cinematic drama.

    The tech firm that gained widespread recognition through ChatGPT, ignited worldwide discussions regarding the future of intelligence, and somehow managed to fire and rehire its CEO in less than a week in late 2023 is now at the center of a film deal forming at Amazon MGM (though as of this moment, nothing is confirmed). A buzzworthy director has already been attached — Luca Guadagnino, according to The Hollywood Reporter, whose filmography includes Challengers and Call Me By Your Name.

    Now, let’s get to the crucial aspect: The casting.

    When narrating the saga of OpenAI’s tumultuous 2023 power battle, the characters must be accurately represented. Sure, there are already a handful of A-list actors allegedly considering the project, but let’s face it. In my opinion, the ideal choices are evident, starting with who should portray OpenAI CEO Sam Altman.

    OpenAI Sam Altman (Nicholas Braun)

    In recounting OpenAI’s story, Altman is undeniably the pivotal character. He’s an ambitious, soft-spoken visionary who effortlessly balances an aura of control that may be slightly unsettling for some, while also being someone who seems wary of the colossal entity he helped build.

    I’ve always perceived OpenAI’s CEO as having a bit of Cousin Greg vibe, so for this reason, my first casting choice is a clear winner; it has to go to Succession’s Nicholas Braun. He’s tall, awkward, and can convey the type of behind-the-scenes anxiety that any individual entrusted with “aligning artificial general intelligence to human values” must feel. Furthermore, I think we can all concur that, to borrow a line from Tom Wambsgans, you’ve got to break a few Gregs to create an Altman.

    OpenAI chief scientist Ilya Sutskever (Will Arnett)

    Continuing on, there’s absolutely no justification for why Will Arnett should not embody OpenAI’s former chief scientist Ilya Sutskever. Alright, alright, if I’m being truthful … I’m envisioning Arnett’s trademark deadpan delivery that would perfectly capture a line about doomsday scenarios or recursive self-enhancement. You just know that, at some stage, he would utter something with a similar existential resonance as his legendary Arrested Development lament (“I’ve made a huge mistake”).

    OpenAI president Greg Brockman (Matt Damon)

    We have two more significant roles to fill. Regarding OpenAI’s president, I would select Matt Damon due to his capacity to oscillate between youthful exuberance and world-weary depth — the ideal mix for the individual who resigned from OpenAI in protest and played a pivotal role in facilitating Altman’s return. Damon can convincingly portray both the optimism of constructing the future and the disenchantment of witnessing it almost unravel.

    It’s Good Will Hunting meets The Martian meets Silicon Valley.

    OpenAI chief technology officer Mira Murati (Nasim Pedrad)

    As for Mira Murati — the interim CEO who stepped in during the whirlwind period of just a few days between Altman’s removal and reinstatement — you require someone exuding composure, intelligence, and a touch of enigma. SNL alum Nasim Pedrad fits the bill perfectly, not to mention she strikingly resembles Murati. I suspect Pedrad could effectively embody the ex-OpenAI CTO’s calm demeanor under pressure while subtly revealing the nuances beneath.

    The planned OpenAI film, currently titled Artificial, is rapidly progressing through development with a high-caliber creative team and intends to commence shooting as early as this summer. If that schedule holds, we might soon witness dramatizations of Slack messages, boardroom conflicts, and exceedingly awkward all-hands gatherings set against San Francisco’s tech landscape sooner than anticipated.

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Speculated Characteristics of Galaxy Z Fold 7 and Z Flip 7 in Light of Upcoming Tariffs
    Speculated Characteristics of Galaxy Z Fold 7 and Z Flip 7 in Light of Upcoming Tariffs
    (Image credit: OnLeaks via Android Headlines)

    Essential Information

    • Reported pricing indicates the Galaxy Z Flip 7 is expected to begin at $1,099 and the Z Fold 7 at $1,899, consistent with their previous models in “most regions.”
    • Notwithstanding these reports, U.S. consumers may be confronted with a notable risk of 30-40% price hikes for both folding devices, due to possible new 25% tariffs on imported smartphones.
    • Although a recent court decision in the U.S. contested some tariffs, Samsung could pass these additional costs on to American consumers.

    Recently, there has been a plethora of leaks concerning Samsung’s forthcoming foldables, with several speculations hinting at a potential launch in July for these devices. In the latest leaks, a source took to X to “confirm” that the Galaxy Z Flip 7 and Z Fold 7 will supposedly debut with the same pricing as their prior models (as noted by 9to5Google).

    Previously, Samsung maintained pricing with the Galaxy S25 series, absorbing any extra manufacturing costs associated with the new devices.

    • sparta
    • Comments Off on Top 3 Selections from 69 Fresh Films Currently Streaming on Hulu
    Top 3 Selections from 69 Fresh Films Currently Streaming on Hulu

    The typical American household has about four streaming subscriptions, but if you’re passionate about films, Hulu might be all you need. This June is particularly exciting, as Hulu has introduced a selection of legendary films to its streaming collection, including the Alien and Predator series, along with cult favorites such as Dude, Where’s My Car?

    The complete list of new films added to Hulu on June 1 can be found at the end of this article, but right here, we’ve highlighted a few of the many new movies we believe should be on your watch list:

    Alien

    Regarded as one of the most groundbreaking and acclaimed sci-fi films in history, Alien is currently available on Hulu. This is only Ridley Scott’s second feature film, and it tells the story of the Nostromo crew as they track down a strange transmission. I won’t give anything away, but they definitely encounter an alien. It’s also a perfect time for a rewatch of the original Alien, especially with Noah Hawley’s series Alien: Earth debuting on FX on August 12.

    Before Midnight

    If you’re looking for a breather between the two action-heavy thrillers we’ve mentioned, Before Midnight is a film you shouldn’t overlook. This deeply moving romantic drama serves as a sequel to 1995’s Before Sunrise and 2004’s Before Sunset, reuniting viewers with Jesse (Ethan Hawke) and Céline (Julie Delpy) years after their wedding.

    Predator

    While the Predator franchise never gained the same acclaim as the Alien series, the original film directed by John McTiernan (Die Hard, The Hunt for Red October) remains timeless. Featuring Arnold Schwarzenegger as the commander of a rescue team, Predator follows their battle against a highly advanced being from another world. After viewing this, you might want to jump straight to Dan Trachtenberg’s 2022 prequel Prey.

    Here’s the complete list of fresh additions that came to Hulu on June 1st, 2025:

    1. Adam (2019)
    2. Alien (1979)
    3. Alien 3 (1992)
    4. Alien Resurrection (1997)
    5. Alien vs. Predator (2004)
    6. Alien: Covenant (2017)
    7. Aliens (1986)
    8. Aliens vs. Predator: Requiem (2007)
    9. Beasts Of The Southern Wild (2012)
    10. Before Midnight (2013)
    11. Betsy’s Wedding (1990)
    12. Beverly Hills Ninja (1997)
    13. Big Eden (2000)
    14. Big Fish (2003)
    15. The Big Hit (1998)
    16. Big Mommas: Like Father, Like Son (2011)
    17. Blue Jasmine (2013)
    18. Boy Meets Girl (2014)
    19. Breakin’ All the Rules (2004)
    20. The Bronze (2016)
    21. Bubble Boy (2001)
    22. Bugsy (1991)
    23. Cedar Rapids (2011)
    24. The Chronicles Of Narnia: The Voyage Of The Dawn Treader (2010)
    25. Cold Pursuit (2019)
    26. Cyrus (2010)
    27. Daddy Day Care (2003)
    28. Death on the Nile (2022)
    29. Deja Vu (2006)
    30. Delivery Man (2013)
    31. Dude, Where’s My Car? (2000)
    32. Edge of Tomorrow (2014)
    33. Elena Undone (2010)
    34. Freddy Got Fingered (2001)
    35. The Girl Next Door (2004)
    36. Grown Ups (2010)
    37. Grown Ups 2 (2013)
    38. Happy Gilmore (1996)
    39. The Heat (2013)
    40. Hitchcock (2012)
    41. Hurricane Bianca (2016)
    42. Idiocracy (2006)
    43. Independence Day (1996)
    44. The Joy Luck Club (1993)
    45. Just Go With It (2011)
    46. Kung Fu Panda 3 (2016)
    47. Let’s Be Cops (2014)
    48. Loving Annabelle (2006)
    49. Mamma Mia: Here We Go Again! (2018)
    50. Mamma Mia! (2008)
    51. The Mask (1994)
    52. Me And Earl And The Dying Girl (2015)
    53. Mirrors (2008)
    54. The Namesake (2007)
    55. A Perfect Ending (2012)
    56. Pineapple Express (2008)
    57. Predator (1987)
    58. The Predator (2018)
    59. Predator 2 (1990)
    60. Predators (2010)
    61. Pride + Prejudice + Zombies (2016)
    62. Prometheus (2012)

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on Apple’s A20 Chip to Showcase Cutting-Edge Packaging Technology Exceeding 2nm Process
    Apple’s A20 Chip to Showcase Cutting-Edge Packaging Technology Exceeding 2nm Process

    Apple is set to revamp its chip design for the 2026 iPhones, indicating a notable change in its strategy toward mobile device architecture. This transformation is slated to make its first appearance with the iPhone 18 Pro, 18 Pro Max, and the forthcoming iPhone 18 Fold, showcasing the innovative A20 chip developed using TSMC’s second-generation 2nm process (N2).

    A crucial element of this redesign involves the implementation of Wafer-Level Multi-Chip Module (WMCM) packaging for the iPhone processors. WMCM facilitates the integration of multiple components, including the System on Chip (SoC) and DRAM, directly at the wafer level prior to being separated into individual chips. This cutting-edge method connects the dies without requiring an interposer or substrate, thereby improving thermal and signal integrity.

    The consequences of this new chip design are considerable. The A20 chip is expected to be not only more compact and power-efficient owing to the N2 process, but its closer alignment with onboard memory is anticipated to enhance performance and lower power usage, especially for demanding applications like AI processing and high-end gaming.

    Meanwhile, TSMC is gearing up to launch a specialized WMCM production line, intending to significantly boost capacity by 2027. This development signals a broader trend where cutting-edge technologies, once restricted to data center GPUs and AI accelerators, are increasingly being incorporated into smartphones.

    For Apple, this marks a significant leap in chip design, similar to its previous embrace of 3nm technology. The iPhone 18 Fold might act as a proving ground for this next-generation silicon packaging, indicating that Apple is dedicated to advancing the limits of mobile technology.

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on iOS 26 Brings Fresh Features for Messages, CarPlay, and More Improvements
    iOS 26 Brings Fresh Features for Messages, CarPlay, and More Improvements

    Apple is poised to announce major updates to its operating systems next Monday at 1 PM ET, representing the most significant redesign since iOS 7 and introducing a new naming scheme across its platforms. While the aesthetic changes are anticipated to steal the spotlight, improvements to everyday applications like Messages, Music, Notes, and CarPlay are also anticipated.

    ### Key Features Anticipated in iOS 26

    1. **Messages Enhancements**
    – **Automatic Translation**: Apple is said to be developing a feature to facilitate automatic translation for both incoming and outgoing messages, promoting better communication across various languages.
    – **Polls**: Taking cues from competitors such as Telegram and WhatsApp, Apple is set to implement polls within Messages, likely with AI-assisted suggestions for poll formats based on the context of conversations.

    2. **Music Enhancements**
    – **Full-Screen Animated Lock Screen Artwork**: The Now Playing feature will showcase animated album art that occupies the entire Lock Screen, adding a vibrant visual aspect to the music experience.

    3. **Notes Improvements**
    – **Markdown Export**: Users will at last be able to export notes in Markdown format, a capability that has been highly sought after and is standard in various third-party note-taking apps.

    4. **CarPlay Overhaul**
    – **New UI to Align with iOS 26**: CarPlay will undergo a UI redesign to correspond with the new aesthetic of iOS 26, ensuring a unified appearance across all Apple devices.

    ### What to Anticipate at WWDC25

    The Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) will highlight significant updates across all Apple operating systems, including iOS 26, macOS 26, iPadOS 26, and watchOS 26. With less emphasis on AI this year, the focus will probably be on design updates and long-awaited features, such as enhanced window management on iPads.

    The keynote will kick off on June 9, with detailed coverage from 9to5Mac leading up to, during, and following the event.

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