Month: June 2025

    • sparta
    • Comments Off on iOS 26: Expected New Features for iPhone Release Next Week
    iOS 26: Expected New Features for iPhone Release Next Week

    We’re only a few days away from the complete reveal of iOS 26, the newly branded iPhone update, during Apple’s WWDC keynote. Here’s a summary of all the anticipated new features of iOS 26 that we expect to see premiere.

    ## Major new OS redesign

    This is the standout feature. While iOS 26 will introduce many other new functionalities, the primary focus will clearly be Apple’s design revamp. iOS 26 is poised to showcase the most significant design transformations for the iPhone since iOS 7—12 years ago.

    Here’s Mark Gurman’s overview of what’s on the horizon:

    >The significant aspect of this redesign is consistent controls, icons, buttons, user interface dynamics, and mechanisms across both iOS and macOS. The interaction designs between the iPad, the Mac, and the iPhone have numerous similarities but also many differences. Elements such as hamburger menus, menu buttons, the menu bar, and application closing buttons, along with the appearance and behavior of the dock, reveal many variances throughout the operating system. Thus, the aim is to enhance consistency. It’s also about introducing glassy effects throughout the user interface. The intent is to reorganize some applications for a new generation of users, making it easier to grasp, and to create a more cohesive experience across individual and device interactions. Therefore, it will be a fairly remarkable array of changes. It may take some time to adapt, but ultimately, I believe people will appreciate it.

    Several designs have been developed, including a well-received concept video by Jon Prosser. Apple’s intended objectives for the redesign are to make iOS, and the iPhone:
    1. More user-friendly
    2. Quicker to browse
    3. Simplified to understand

    ## Apple Intelligence 2.0

    Last year marked the debut of Apple Intelligence, but the second year will be revealed as part of iOS 26. Here are some of the anticipated features we’re expecting:

    ## New and updated Apple apps

    Each year, new iOS editions bring various significant and minor adjustments to Apple’s system applications. Changes rumored so far have been minimal, but expect to see a greater number of app enhancements in iOS 26 than what has been disclosed to date. Here’s what the whispers have suggested:

    ## All the miscellaneous iOS 26 features

    Here’s a collection of other iOS 26 rumored functionalities that we hope to see next week when Apple unveils its latest software:

    ## iOS 26 features: wrap-up

    Numerous leaks have surfaced regarding new iOS 26 capabilities, but Apple likely has many more surprises in store for its latest iPhone update. Anticipate numerous revelations at WWDC next week, not only from iOS 26 but also from companion updates like macOS 26, iPadOS 26, watchOS 26, and beyond.

    Which rumored iOS 26 features are you eagerly anticipating? Share your thoughts in the comments.

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Apple Contending for Streaming Rights to MLB Sunday Night Baseball
    Apple Contending for Streaming Rights to MLB Sunday Night Baseball

    **Apple’s Acquisition of MLB Streaming Rights: A Transformative Move for Sports Broadcasting**

    Apple is believed to be in talks with Major League Baseball (MLB) to obtain streaming broadcast rights, specifically for the highly sought-after Sunday Night Baseball games. This change comes after ESPN opted not to extend its broadcasting agreement beyond the 2025 season, creating opportunities for new contenders in the sports streaming field.

    The assortment of games that were previously under ESPN’s control has garnered attention from multiple networks, including NBC and Apple. The MLB is expected to split the package into various segments to appeal to both contemporary streaming audiences and traditional TV viewers, thereby enhancing its reach and revenue opportunities.

    Currently, no official agreement has been finalized, and talks are still in progress. Nevertheless, Apple and MLB have an existing collaboration through the Friday Night Baseball program, which enables Apple TV+ to stream two baseball games every Friday without blackouts or regional limitations. This partnership, initiated in 2022, is thought to be a seven-year agreement valued at around $85 million each season.

    Considering the success of the Friday Night Baseball initiative, expanding their partnership to encompass Sunday Night Baseball appears likely. While the Friday Night games are a bonus for Apple TV+ subscribers, it is probable that Apple would introduce an extra charge for access to the former ESPN package, given the considerably higher financial obligation. For reference, ESPN was paying close to $550 million each season for its rights.

    Acquiring these rights would markedly boost Apple’s sports streaming offerings, which currently feature only Friday Night Baseball and the MLS Season Pass. The company has shown prior interest in securing agreements for NFL Sunday Ticket and the Pac-12 conference but eventually stepped away from those discussions.

    To sum up, if Apple manages to obtain the MLB streaming rights, it could represent a pivotal shift for the company’s sports broadcasting approach, establishing it as a significant contender in the competitive realm of sports streaming.

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Netflix Marks Second Anniversary of OceanGate Incident with Titan Submarine Documentary
    Netflix Marks Second Anniversary of OceanGate Incident with Titan Submarine Documentary

    Two years following the devastating deep-sea voyage that captivated the globe, Netflix is poised to unveil “Titan: The OceanGate Disaster,” a documentary that revisits the Titan submersible’s implosion while also providing insight into the individual behind its development. Scheduled to launch next week on the streaming platform, the film dives beneath the surface of the calamity to examine the intersection of ambition and arrogance at the ocean’s depths.

    In June 2023, five individuals boarded the Titan for what was meant to be an expedition to the submerged wreckage of the Titanic. However, the vessel ultimately disappeared — leading to a significant search operation that captured worldwide attention; tragically, debris discovered on the ocean floor confirmed that an implosion during the Titan’s descent likely resulted in the instantaneous death of everyone aboard. Yet even as the news coverage subsided, the more profound inquiry persisted: How did this occur, and why was there an inability to prevent what, with the benefit of hindsight, seems to have been a preventable disaster?

    Helmed by director Mark Monroe, the film assembles the chronological events that contributed to the disaster by reflecting on OceanGate CEO Stockton Rush — a dynamic visionary who imagined a future of deep-sea tourism and took significant risks to achieve it. Utilizing exclusive footage, whistleblower testimonies, and insider discussions, the documentary reveals the ignored warnings, defective materials, and external pressures that influenced the ill-fated endeavor.

    “When the Titan submersible was lost, I was both horrified and entranced by the nonstop news coverage and worldwide social reactions — just like the rest of humanity,” Monroe shared with Netflix’s Tudum. “There was no backdrop for what could have befallen those aboard, with the only connection being the Titanic, a narrative that has now turned into a dark fairy tale. The further I investigated this tragic event, the more fascinated I became with how this catastrophe could have occurred, and who precisely was the man who constructed and subsequently descended with this vessel.”

    The Titan was not designed like most submersibles. Rather than utilizing reliable materials like titanium, Rush chose a carbon fiber structure that raised concerns. Consequently, the Netflix documentary does not solely concentrate on the sub’s engineering — it also examines Rush’s overarching mentality, the notion that advancement entails surpassing regulations even when lives are jeopardized.

    With “Titan: The OceanGate Disaster,” Netflix continues its pattern of highlighting real-life occurrences that ignite global discussions. Similar to other recent documentaries from the platform that combine human narratives with investigative rigor, this one seeks to provide understanding into a tragedy that many feel could have been averted.

    “Titan: The OceanGate Disaster” debuts on June 11 on Netflix.

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on “Gemini Live Debuts on iPhones in the US with Camera and Display Sharing Capabilities”
    “Gemini Live Debuts on iPhones in the US with Camera and Display Sharing Capabilities”

    Google’s Gemini assistant is launching a new capability named Gemini Live, which incorporates live camera and screen sharing features for iPhones and iPads in the United States. This functionality is driven by Project Astra and can be accessed via the Gemini app. Users are able to make use of Gemini Live to exchange ideas, explore their environment, and get help with visual content on their screens. The feature is included in the most recent app version (1.2025.2062302) for both free and subscription Gemini users, including holders of Google AI Pro and AI Ultra plans.

    Previously, Gemini Live was available on Android devices, and now it is making its way to Apple devices. During the latest Google I/O event, the company revealed the introduction of Project Astra-powered live camera and screen sharing for iPhones and iPads. Users will encounter a pop-up in the Gemini app recommending they try “Share your camera or screen with Gemini Live,” enabling them to engage with the assistant via their camera or screen.

    To access this feature, iPhone users can press “Try Live” to enter the Gemini Live interface, which presents options for video, screen sharing, pausing, and concluding chats. When using the camera, Gemini Live can furnish details regarding what the camera is capturing. For screen sharing, users will get a “Screen Broadcast” notification from Apple, and they need to initiate the broadcast for Gemini to observe their screen, including notifications.

    Gemini Live is offered to users in the U.S. on both free and paid app versions, encompassing Google AI Pro and AI Ultra plans. iPhone users who are keen on these capabilities should verify that they have the latest version of the app installed.

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on HMD Global Creating Two ‘Rubber’ Wear OS Smartwatches
    HMD Global Creating Two ‘Rubber’ Wear OS Smartwatches

    **HMD Rubber 1: An Innovative Wear OS Watch Aimed at Younger Audiences**

    HMD Global, recognized for its Android smartphones and past affiliation with Nokia, is supposedly branching into the smartwatch arena with two new Wear OS models: the HMD Rubber 1 and HMD Rubber 1S. A recent information leak indicates that these timepieces may be tailored for younger audiences, showcasing a distinctive blend of technology and resilience.

    **Key Attributes of HMD Rubber 1**

    The HMD Rubber 1 is projected to be the flagship variant, featuring a 1.85-inch OLED screen, a 2MP integrated camera, and a 400mAh battery. It will support Bluetooth 5.3, WiFi, NFC for contactless payments, and health monitoring features, including heart rate (HR) and blood oxygen (SpO2) sensors. The presence of a camera is especially noteworthy, as it could facilitate functions such as selfies, facial recognition, or video conferencing, although the image quality may not align with that of smartphones.

    **HMD Rubber 1S: An Affordable Choice**

    The HMD Rubber 1S is expected to serve as a more economical alternative, featuring a smaller 1.07-inch OLED display and a 290mAh battery. This model will forgo the integrated camera and NFC but will still include fundamental functions like Bluetooth 5.0, WiFi, and health monitoring sensors. Both variants are anticipated to offer 5ATM water resistance and compatibility with Qi wireless charging.

    **Focusing on the Younger Audience**

    The design and functionalities of the HMD Rubber series indicate a target demographic of younger users. The moniker “Rubber” suggests sturdy materials ideal for active living, which corresponds with HMD’s recent partnership with Xplora, a firm that specializes in children’s smartwatches. This alliance aims to safely introduce technology to youths in a well-rounded manner.

    **A Fresh Approach for Wear OS**

    The prospective squircle display of the HMD Rubber 1 would mark a first for Wear OS, which has conventionally favored circular screens. This may require a UI overhaul by Google, potentially encouraging other brands to embrace similar shapes. The emphasis on younger audiences aligns with the rising trend of smartwatches specifically crafted for kids, which include features such as GPS tracking and parental oversight.

    **Conclusion**

    While specifics regarding pricing and launch dates are yet to be revealed, the HMD Rubber series signifies an exhilarating advancement in the smartwatch domain. By appealing to a younger demographic with cutting-edge features and robust designs, HMD Global could establish a foothold within the competitive Wear OS environment.

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on Is Your Smartphone or Smart Home Gadget Always Eavesdropping?
    Is Your Smartphone or Smart Home Gadget Always Eavesdropping?

    What is the true meaning of ‘Always Listening’? Let’s discuss technology.

    (Image credit: Android Central)

    Introducing Ask Jerry, a space where we delve into every question regarding the smart devices in your life. I’m Jerry, and I’ve devoted most of my life to the tech sector. My experience encompasses engineering and R&D, and I have been reporting on Android and Google for the last 15 years.

    Ask Jerry

    (Image credit: Future)

    Ask Jerry is a segment where we address your urgent Android/tech inquiries with assistance from seasoned Android Central editor Jerry Hildenbrand.

    I excel at gathering data on various topics—that’s a significant aspect of our role here at Android Central—and I genuinely enjoy assisting others (another crucial part of our job!). If you have tech-related questions, I would be thrilled to discuss them.

    Contact me at [email protected], and I’ll strive to resolve your concerns. You may choose to remain anonymous, and we assure you that we won’t disclose anything not addressed here.

    • sparta
    • Comments Off on The New Regulations of the EU Mandate Android to Lengthen Update Obligations
    The New Regulations of the EU Mandate Android to Lengthen Update Obligations

    In the interest of consumers, the EU is aiming for Android manufacturers to provide longer support.

    Key points to consider:

    – The EU’s new “Ecodesign Regulation” is influencing smartphone manufacturers, requiring OEMs to extend support for devices and consumers.
    – According to the new stipulations, Android devices must receive no less than five years of operating system and security updates following “the end of sales.”
    – Samsung and Google currently offer seven years of updates for devices; however, this timeline commences as soon as the phone is released.

    The EU is allegedly implementing a fresh set of guidelines and regulations pertaining to smartphones that will affect Android devices in the area.

    A recently published report by the European Commission regarding smartphones reveals that companies will have several new regulations to comply with later this month. The document outlines the EU’s “Ecodesign Regulation,” which will soon compel smartphone OEMs to provide a minimum of five years of updates for their devices and customers.

    There is speculation that this regulation might influence how smartphone manufacturers deliver updates on a global scale.

    It’s important to highlight a key detail regarding this new information: the five-year guideline pertains to OS and security updates post-“the end of sales.” Reports indicate that this new regulation will also encompass tablets. As mentioned in the publication, this change is expected to foster greater “certainty” for consumers when utilizing their devices over an extended timeframe.

    This regulation is anticipated to take effect on June 20, 2025. Nonetheless, the EU’s guidelines will not affect devices manufactured/launched prior to this date. Any smartphones and tablets entering the market after June 20 will need to adhere to the EU’s revised policy.

    Android Updates for Users:

    Conversely, the EU’s new regulations applicable from June 20 also encompass Energy Labelling requirements. These environmentally friendly design regulations for devices in the EU mandate manufacturers to disclose the durability of their phones/tablets against drops/dust/water and ensure their batteries can “withstand 800 charge and discharge cycles while maintaining at least 80% of their original capacity.”

    OEMs are also required to disclose the repairability of a device. Furthermore, manufacturers should guarantee that parts for repairs are accessible for a minimum of “7 years after the end of sales of the product model in the EU market.”

    It’s important to note that Google, similar to Samsung, has transitioned to a seven-year update cycle for devices. While this is commendable, particularly with the announcement of this initiative for the Galaxy S24 series, one truth remains: hardware is finite. This means your device is still significantly limited by the technology contained within it. For instance, Samsung claims that many of its AI functionalities rely on its “Personal Data Engine,” software that fundamentally requires the Snapdragon 8 Elite.

    Older chipsets won’t suffice this time.

    This is likely a challenge consumers will need to navigate, especially if they wish to utilize these newer, more sophisticated AI capabilities. If not, at the very least, you can soon enjoy the reassurance of updates over an extended period.

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on Comprehending Project Astra Gemini Live, Android XR, and Essential Information You Should Be Aware Of
    Comprehending Project Astra Gemini Live, Android XR, and Essential Information You Should Be Aware Of

    Project Astra denotes several research prototypes with the goal of developing a single powerful AI assistant.

    (Image credit: Brady Snyder / Android Central)
    Jump to:

    • What is Project Astra?

    • How it works

    • Features and platforms

    • Availability


    Initially launched as a bold research initiative aimed at enhancing Google’s AI capabilities, Project Astra is now a functional product available to users as Gemini Live on millions of smartphones — encompassing both iOS and Android platforms. Nevertheless, Project Astra encompasses much more than just the recently introduced features of live video and screen sharing for Gemini users.

    Initially concentrating on providing adaptable, multimodal AI functions for Android, Project Astra has turned into a comprehensive research endeavor aimed at realizing Google’s ambition for a universal AI assistant. This entails that Project Astra is developing essential AI attributes such as agentic intelligence,

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on How to Broadcast Apple’s WWDC Keynote Showcasing iOS 26 and Other Updates
    How to Broadcast Apple’s WWDC Keynote Showcasing iOS 26 and Other Updates

    **WWDC 2025: Anticipations for Apple’s Keynote**

    WWDC (Worldwide Developers Conference) is fast approaching, scheduled for Monday, June 9, 2025, at 1:00 p.m. ET / 10:00 a.m. PT. This yearly gathering is one of Apple’s most crucial events, where the firm presents significant advancements to its operating systems, including iOS, macOS, iPadOS, and others. This year, a unified branding for its software updates is anticipated, signaling a transition to the ‘26’ branding for all main OS versions.

    ### How to View the WWDC 2025 Keynote

    Apple will broadcast the keynote event live worldwide, and there are four main ways to tune in:

    1. **YouTube Livestream**: The keynote will be streamed on Apple’s official YouTube channel.
    2. **Apple TV App**: The live stream will be accessible through the Home tab of the Apple TV app.
    3. **Apple Developer App**: The keynote will also be available via the Apple Developer app.
    4. **Apple Events Website**: The live stream will be showcased on Apple’s official events site.

    Historically, the YouTube livestream is frequently the most dependable choice for viewers.

    ### What’s Set to be Announced at WWDC 2025?

    This year’s WWDC stands out because of the anticipated launch of iOS 26, macOS 26, iPadOS 26, visionOS 26, watchOS 26, and tvOS 26. This unified branding corresponds with a strategy to streamline the naming convention of Apple’s operating systems, akin to how automobile models are named ahead of their release year.

    In addition to the new naming system, there are rumors of a brand new homeOS being introduced, though this is less assured as it might align with new hardware announcements later in the year.

    Key features expected to be showcased during the keynote include:

    – Major enhancements to Siri, improving its functionality and integration.
    – New third-party AI collaborations that could broaden the capabilities of Apple devices.
    – An upgrade to AirPods software aimed at enhancing user experience.
    – A pre-installed Games app intended to improve gaming on iOS devices.

    As the date draws nearer, excitement is growing concerning the innovations Apple will introduce to its ecosystem. Both fans and developers are keen to see how these advancements will influence the future of Apple’s products and services.

    ### Conclusion

    With just a week remaining until WWDC 2025, there is great anticipation regarding what Apple will unveil. The keynote is poised to be a crucial moment for the company, highlighting its latest breakthroughs in technology and software. Whether you’re a developer, an Apple aficionado, or simply interested in the latest tech trends, tuning into the keynote will be imperative.

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Apple Drops to a Reduced Rank on the 2025 Fortune 500 List
    Apple Drops to a Reduced Rank on the 2025 Fortune 500 List

    The 2025 version of the Fortune 500 has been unveiled, highlighting the leading enterprises in the United States according to their revenue. Walmart remains at the forefront, clinching the top spot for the 13th year in a row. Amazon is in close pursuit at second place, a position it has maintained since 2020. Apple, sustaining its solid standing, comes in fourth, while UnitedHealth Group has advanced to seize the third position.

    The leading ten companies in the 2025 Fortune 500 ranking are:

    1. Walmart
    2. Amazon
    3. UnitedHealth Group
    4. Apple
    5. CVS Health
    6. Berkshire Hathaway
    7. Alphabet
    8. Exxon Mobil
    9. McKesson
    10. Cencora

    The total revenue for the Fortune 500 corporations reached an unprecedented $19.9 trillion, with earnings amounting to $1.87 trillion for the fiscal year 2024. The revenue requirement to be included on the list rose to $7.4 billion, indicating a 4% increase from the last year.

    A significant pattern observed in this year’s list is the prominent presence of healthcare firms, which collectively amassed $3 trillion in revenue and represented eight out of the top 25 companies. This is in stark contrast to 1995 when there were no healthcare firms in the top 25.

    Furthermore, the 2025 list showcases a historic number of female CEOs, with 55 women at the helm of companies, constituting 11% of the overall figure. Prominent female executives include Mary Barra of General Motors, Jane Fraser of Citigroup, and Corie Barry of Best Buy.

    In terms of geography, California remains the hub for Fortune 500 headquarters, with 58 companies situated in the state. Texas comes next with 54 companies, while New York has 53. New York City is the leading city for Fortune 500 companies, hosting 43, nearly twice as many as Houston, which holds the second position.

    For a full overview of the 2025 Fortune 500 list, check out Fortune’s official website.

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