Month: June 2025

    • sparta
    • Comments Off on Apple Purchases Office Campus It Had Been Leasing for US$350 Million
    Apple Purchases Office Campus It Had Been Leasing for US$350 Million

    **Apple’s Latest Property Purchases in South Bay: A $516 Million Commitment**

    Apple Inc. has garnered attention this week with major property purchases in California’s South Bay region, amounting to over $516 million. This strategic initiative highlights the company’s dedication to broadening its presence in an area that has been essential to its activities for many years.

    ### Latest Purchases

    Just days after completing a $166.9 million transaction for the Cupertino Gate office complex, Apple revealed the acquisition of Mathilda Commons, a dual-building office complex in Sunnyvale, for $350 million. This campus covers 382,500 square feet and is situated roughly seven miles north of Apple Park, the company’s main office. The facility is intended to host up to 1,900 employees, showcasing Apple’s continuous growth and the escalating demand for office space within the tech industry.

    ### Strategic Significance

    Apple’s willingness to pay nearly 20% above the assessed value of Mathilda Commons as of January signifies the site’s strategic relevance and the competitive nature of the local real estate market. Kristina Raspe, Apple’s Vice President of Global Real Estate and Facilities, highlighted the company’s deep-rooted connection to the Santa Clara Valley, stating, “The Santa Clara Valley has been home to Apple for more than 40 years, and we’re proud to continue investing in world-class facilities for our teams here.”

    ### Wider Trends in Real Estate

    This acquisition is in line with Apple’s recent pattern of transforming long-held leases into outright ownership of properties in the South Bay. Over the past few years, the company has executed several significant purchases, including a $450 million agreement in 2021 for a five-building office complex and a ten-building campus known as Apple Results Way in 2023, as well as a $70 million office building acquisition within the same year.

    ### Summary

    Apple’s proactive expansion in the South Bay property market not only underscores its growth path but also its dedication to establishing a strong presence in a region that has been crucial to its achievements. As the technology sector continues to progress, Apple’s real estate investments are likely to be vital in addressing its workforce and operational requirements.

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on A Manual for Utilizing Google’s Veo 3 AI Film Creator at No Cost
    A Manual for Utilizing Google’s Veo 3 AI Film Creator at No Cost

    Google’s I/O 2025 event introduced numerous revolutionary AI innovations, with Veo 3 emerging as a prominent feature. Veo 3, the newest version of Google’s AI video generation software, presents notable enhancements compared to the previous version. It can produce ambient sounds, audio, and dialogue for AI-generated films, all from a straightforward text input. This software aligns spoken language with video segments and ensures character consistency throughout various scenes, positioning it as a formidable asset for filmmakers.

    However, Veo 3 comes with a high price tag, necessitating a $249.99/month Google AI Ultra subscription. Alternatively, it can be utilized through third-party platforms like Adobe’s Firefly, Freepik, and LTX Studio, although these options also require subscriptions. A more budget-friendly choice will launch on June 27, when Veo 3 becomes available through Google’s Vertex AI in public preview, enabling users to experiment with its functionalities before deciding on a subscription.

    Google’s blog emphasizes Veo 3’s prowess in generating seamless, lifelike videos that match audio with visuals, deliver cinematic quality with intricate creative details, and replicate realistic movements governed by actual physics. These attributes are set to transform AI video generation, equipping users with the resources to craft high-definition, believable scenes. Google has also provided sample clips to the public, demonstrating Veo 3’s features.

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Apple TV+ Reveals Premiere Date for Acclaimed Animated Series ‘Stillwater’
    Apple TV+ Reveals Premiere Date for Acclaimed Animated Series ‘Stillwater’

    **Stillwater Comes Back for Season 4 on August 1**

    *Stillwater* ranks among the top-rated Apple TV+ series for children, having received numerous accolades since its debut in 2020. Following a two-year break, Apple has officially announced the return date for Season 4.

    For those who are not aware, *Stillwater* is an animated show centered on mindfulness, based on Jon J Muth’s acclaimed Zen book series. The narrative follows three siblings—Karl, Addy, and Michael—as they face childhood obstacles with the assistance of their serene and wise next-door neighbor, a panda named Stillwater.

    Every episode merges relatable childhood issues with mindfulness teachings, breathing exercises, and serene storytelling moments. This distinctive format has brought the series both a Peabody Award and a Daytime Emmy.

    Apple describes the series as follows:

    > “Through breathing exercises, mindful moments, and simple everyday practices, this uplifting, Peabody and Daytime Emmy Award-winning series invites you and your family to discover your own Zen through each episode.”

    *Stillwater* is included in Apple’s “Changemakers” content initiative, with mindfulness advocate Mallika Chopra acting as a consulting producer. Season 4 is anticipated to carry on the heartwarming formula that has struck a chord with viewers. For anyone wanting to catch up, the initial three seasons are now available for streaming on Apple TV+.

    Apple TV+ is offered at $9.99 per month and showcases popular series and films, including *Ted Lasso*, *Severance*, *The Studio*, *The Morning Show*, *Shrinking*, and *Silo*.

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on YouTube Raises Minimum Age Requirement for Live Streaming to Improve Child Safety
    YouTube Raises Minimum Age Requirement for Live Streaming to Improve Child Safety

    A Shift in YouTube’s Safety Protocols for Young Streamers

    Essential Information

    – YouTube has announced a change in the minimum age requirement for live streaming, raising it from 13 to 16.
    – Users below the age of 16 (ages 13-15) must have an adult “physically present” at all times to avoid breaching YouTube’s revised guidelines.
    – Earlier this year, the platform trialed a livestream leaderboard for users who engage considerably, send Super Chats, and more.

    YouTube is implementing a child safety modification on its platform aimed at minors interested in streaming.

    The platform communicated an adjustment to the minimum age requirement in an updated post regarding live stream limitations. As per YouTube, on July 22, the minimum age for streaming will increase from 13 to 16. Young content creators aged 16 or older will be able to live stream with an active chat and without the fear of takedowns (aside from circumstances involving copyright infringements). However, content creators who are younger than 16 (ages 13-15) will be required to have an adult accompanying them during their streams.

    YouTube indicates that if an adult is not “physically present,” not only will the chat feature be disabled, but also “additional functionalities.”

    The post elaborates that there are plans to further address these infractions, with YouTube stating, “…in the future, we intend to remove these live streams and the account might temporarily lose the ability to stream live.”

    YouTube advises that young streamers accompanied by an adult can allow them access to the channel. This can be accomplished by assigning them editor, manager, or owner roles. Additionally, there is a list of “best streaming practices” for minors (and for parents to review) prior to going live.

    Recent Updates from YouTube

    YouTube has begun testing a new community-oriented feature for live streaming that introduced a leaderboard for fans. This trial included providing users with a means to accumulate points by engaging in chatting, sending Super Chats, and being active. Those who are (literally) the most engaged were showcased on a top 50 leaderboard. However, those who excelled further, ranking in the top three, would earn a distinctive badge to showcase their status.

    Beyond livestreams, the company has initiated a test set to occur from June 26 to July 30, which presents its own version of AI Overviews. Available on Android and iOS platforms, specific inquiries will produce an AI-generated “Highlight.” These will contain short video snippets, each accompanied by an AI-generated title and description related to your query to offer helpful insights.

    While it closely resembles Google Search’s AI Overviews, YouTube’s variation heavily emphasizes its video clips, allowing users the option to click on them to watch the complete video.

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on T-Mobile Presents Complimentary Pixel Phone and Earbuds with Latest Promotion, No Trade-In Required
    T-Mobile Presents Complimentary Pixel Phone and Earbuds with Latest Promotion, No Trade-In Required

    The provider will also waive the $35 activation fee for you.

    (Image credit: Michael Hicks / Android Central)

    Deals from T-Mobile on Android devices are quite common, but it’s rare to come across a promotion that offers you a complimentary device and a fantastic accessory, just for fun. When you add a line with a qualifying data plan, that’s precisely what will occur, as the provider will provide you with a free Google Pixel 9a AND a set of Pixel Buds A-Series, without requiring a trade-in. 

    The majority of T-Mobile plans will offer you the maximum credit upon adding a line, in addition to the provider currently eliminating the $35 activation fee for a limited period, so you won’t be spending anything for these devices. 

    Acquire the finest budget Android phone for FREE at T-Mobile

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Google’s Doppl App Utilizes AI to Enable Virtual Try-Ons for Clothing Prior to Purchase
    Google’s Doppl App Utilizes AI to Enable Virtual Try-Ons for Clothing Prior to Purchase

    Shopping stands as one of the primary motivations behind our use of tools like Google Search. This is likely why Google has incorporated numerous shopping-centric features into its offerings throughout the years. More recently, it has also introduced AI tools to enhance the online shopping experience.

    An example of this is Google’s AI Mode tool for Google Search. AI Mode received a significant enhancement at I/O 2025, which introduced a variety of new and exciting shopping functionalities.

    For example, AI Mode can automatically purchase items for you when their price decreases. It keeps an eye on the internet for deals and alerts you when a product reaches your desired price. Once you agree to the purchase, AI Mode can finalize it on your behalf.

    The most remarkable AI Mode feature unveiled at I/O 2025 is called “Try it on.” This builds upon existing Google technology that enables users to virtually try on clothes using AI. To utilize it in AI Mode, simply upload a photo of yourself.

    However, wouldn’t it be even better to have a standalone Google app specifically for virtually trying on clothes? That’s precisely what Doppl is. It’s a new experimental application from Google, now accessible for iPhone and Android users in the United States.

    At I/O 2025, Google detailed the AI behind AI Mode’s capability to demonstrate how clothing might appear on you:

    “This cutting-edge technology is the first of its kind functioning at this scale, enabling shoppers to virtually try on billions of clothing items from our Shopping Graph. It is driven by a new custom image generation model tailored for fashion, which comprehends the human body and the intricacies of clothing — such as how various materials fold, stretch, and drape on diverse body types. It retains these nuances when applied to poses in your photos. The outcome is a try-on experience that integrates seamlessly with your photos.”

    The AI Mode feature is currently offered exclusively as a Search Labs experiment in the United States.

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Upcoming Launches on Prime Video: July 2025
    Upcoming Launches on Prime Video: July 2025

    If you hold an Amazon Prime membership, you also gain entry to the Prime Video streaming platform. With Prime Video, there’s a plethora of fantastic new original films and series that you should explore. Here’s what you can find new on Prime Video in July 2025.

    Following the debut of its high-budget, star-filled action comedy Deep Cover in June, Prime Video returns with yet another lavish, celebrity-laden action comedy in July. Heads of State features Idris Elba as the UK Prime Minister and John Cena as the US President, joining forces with MI6 agent Noel (Priyanka Chopra Jonas) to thwart a worldwide conspiracy.

    Additional new originals in July comprise the Bosch spinoff series Ballard, Judge Judy’s comeback in Justice on Trial, and the docuseries One Night in Idaho: The College Murders.

    All new content on Prime Video in July 2025

    Available July 1
    – Sherlock S1 (2010)
    – Shooter S1-3 (2016)
    – WNBA on Prime (2025)
    – 2 Fast 2 Furious (2003)
    – A Bridge Too Far (1977)
    – A Fish Called Wanda (1988)
    – Baby Boom (1987)
    – Back to School (1986)
    – Bandits (2001)
    – Blown Away (1994)
    – Blue Crush (2002)
    – Blue Velvet (1986)
    – Colors (1988)
    – Creed II (2018)
    – Death Warrant (1990)
    – Double Impact (1991)
    – Dressed to Kill (1980)
    – Duck Soup (1933)
    – Every Day (2018)
    – Fast & Furious 6 (2013)
    – Fast Five (2011)
    – Fiddler On the Roof (1971)
    – Gladiator (2000)
    – Hart’s War (2002)
    – Hidden Figures (2017)
    – Hoodlum (1997)
    – How to Train Your Dragon 2 (2014)
    – I Now Pronounce You Chuck & Larry (2007)
    – Into The Blue (2005)
    – Into The Blue 2: The Reef (2009)
    – It Came from Outer Space (1953)
    – K-PAX (2001)
    – Leaving Las Vegas (1996)
    – Licorice Pizza (2021)
    – Little Fockers (2010)
    – Little Man (2006)
    – Mad Max (1980)
    – Meet the Fockers (2004)
    – Meet the Parents (2000)
    – Mystic Pizza (1988)
    – No Country for Old Men (2007)
    – No Way Out (1987)
    – Only Lovers Left Alive (2013)
    – Paths Of Glory (1957)
    – Rings (2017)
    – Robocop (1987)
    – Robocop (2014)
    – Robocop 2 (1990)
    – Robocop 3 (1993)
    – Rocky (1976)
    – Rocky Balboa (2006)
    – Rocky II (1979)
    – Rocky III (1982)
    – Rocky IV (1985)
    – Rocky V (1990)
    – Salt (2010)
    – Saving Private Ryan (1998)
    – Teen Wolf (1985)
    – The 40 Year-Old Virgin (2005)
    – The Addams Family (2019)
    – The Addams Family 2 (2021)
    – The Apartment (1960)
    – The Bone Collector (1999)
    – The Bounty Hunter (2010)
    – The Fast and the Furious (2001)
    – The Fast and the Furious: Tokyo Drift (2006)
    – The Funhouse (1981)
    – The Great Train Robbery (1979)
    – The Horse Soldiers (1959)
    – The House Bunny (2008)
    – The Hustle (2019)
    – The Informant! (2009)
    – The Perfect Storm (2000)
    – The Usual Suspects (1995)
    – Thunderbolt And Lightfoot (1974)
    – What’s The Worst That Could Happen? (2001)
    – Windtalkers (2002)
    – Witness For The Prosecution (1958)
    – XXX: The Return Of Xander Cage (2017)

    Available July 2
    – Heads of State (2025)

    Available July 4
    – Game Night (2018)

    Available July 9
    – Ballard (2025)

    Available July 11
    – One Night in Idaho: The College Murders (2025)
    – Better Man (2025)

    Available July 15
    – Uncharted (2022)

    Available July 17
    – Surf Girls: International (2025)

    Available July 19
    – PBC on Prime (2025)
    – Sabotage (2014)

    Available July 21
    – Justice on Trial (2025)

    Available July 23
    – Shiny Happy People: A Teenage Holy

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on 9to5Mac Daily: June 27, 2025 – Overview of VisionOS 26 Capabilities
    9to5Mac Daily: June 27, 2025 – Overview of VisionOS 26 Capabilities

    **9to5Mac Daily: Your Go-To Source for Daily Apple Updates and Insights**

    In the rapidly changing realm of technology, keeping up with the most recent news is essential, particularly for Apple fans. 9to5Mac Daily is a podcast that offers an easy way to stay informed about the key stories of the day surrounding Apple and its ecosystem. Accessible on multiple platforms, including iTunes, Stitcher, TuneIn, Google Play, and through a dedicated RSS feed, this podcast guarantees that listeners can obtain the latest episodes with ease.

    **What to Anticipate from 9to5Mac Daily**

    Every weekday, fresh episodes of 9to5Mac Daily are recorded, providing listeners with a summary of major events in the Apple sphere. The podcast addresses a broad array of subjects, from product releases and software enhancements to industry developments and insights. By subscribing to the podcast, listeners can ensure they receive new episodes as they drop, keeping them up to date on recent occurrences.

    **Sponsorship and Features**

    The podcast is backed by Bitwarden, a password management solution that improves security for its users. With capabilities like Apple Watch authenticator integration and secure autofill on Safari and iOS applications, Bitwarden offers enterprise-level security tools for credential management with confidence. This collaboration highlights the significance of security in today’s digital landscape, especially for those who utilize Apple devices.

    **Exclusive Content and Support Opportunities**

    Listeners have the chance to support the podcast via 9to5Mac Daily Plus, which provides an ad-free listening experience and additional content. This subscription model not only enriches the listening journey but also aids in maintaining the production of high-quality material.

    **Engagement and Community Input**

    9to5Mac Daily promotes audience interaction. Fans can express their opinions through email or give feedback on platforms like Apple Podcasts and Overcast. This feedback mechanism is vital for the podcast’s advancement and attracts new audiences.

    **Conclusion**

    For anyone keen on the most recent Apple news, 9to5Mac Daily is an indispensable tool. With its succinct format, expert analysis, and community-focused approach, it emerges as a must-listen for Apple enthusiasts. Whether you’re commuting, exercising, or just unwinding at home, tuning into 9to5Mac Daily guarantees you stay updated about the continually changing world of Apple.

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on Apple’s M5 Chip Expected to Debut This Fall with First Product Introductions
    Apple’s M5 Chip Expected to Debut This Fall with First Product Introductions

    ### The New M5 Chip: What to Anticipate from Apple This Autumn

    Earlier this year, Apple effectively shifted its popular M-series devices to the M4 chip, marking an important achievement in its hardware development. As excitement mounts, the tech powerhouse is poised to unveil the M5 chip this autumn, with the MacBook Pro and iPad Pro on the forefront as the initial products to utilize this innovative technology.

    #### M5 Chip Introduction: MacBook Pro and iPad Pro

    The M4 chip was first introduced in the iPad Pro before being released for the Mac, a timeline that Apple intends to optimize with the M5. The iPad Pro, which debuted with the M4 in May 2024, will again be among the first to implement the M5, but this time it will be accompanied by the MacBook Pro, ensuring both flagship devices are launched simultaneously.

    Apple generally plans its new MacBook Pro unveilings for October or November, and this year is expected to adhere to that schedule. The anticipated configurations for the MacBook Pro consist of:

    – MacBook Pro with M5
    – MacBook Pro with M5 Pro
    – MacBook Pro with M5 Max

    While specifics about the M5 MacBook Pro are still limited, the autumn release is confirmed. Additionally, there are speculations regarding a new Apple Studio Display launching around the same period, indicating that Apple might place a greater focus on enhanced external display features alongside the M5 MacBook Pro.

    #### Projections for the M5 Chip

    The M5 chip is anticipated to provide a standard specification increase rather than a total redesign, particularly as Apple prepares for a more significant overhaul with the M6 MacBook Pro next year. This forthcoming model is rumored to include an OLED display and other hardware upgrades.

    Likewise, the M5 iPad Pro is expected to be an incremental update following last year’s significant redesign with the M4. While Apple occasionally launches new iPads in September together with the iPhone, a release in October or November is also quite feasible. The marketing for the new iPad Pro will likely emphasize the advancements in iPadOS 26, highlighting the device’s features.

    #### Outlook for the M5 Chip

    Current projections suggest that the MacBook Pro and iPad Pro will be the sole devices to launch with the M5 chip this year. Other Macs are expected to receive the M5 in early 2026 and beyond, maintaining Apple’s pattern of gradual upgrades throughout its product range.

    As the launch date draws nearer, many users are left contemplating whether to switch to the new M5 MacBook Pro or iPad Pro. The choice will likely be influenced by individual preferences and the perceived benefits of the enhancements offered by the new chip.

    In summary, the M5 chip signifies another advancement in Apple’s M-series progression, promising enhanced performance and features for its flagship devices. With the MacBook Pro and iPad Pro leading the charge, Apple fans and professionals alike are eagerly anticipating the official announcement and subsequent release.

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on Chrome updates will stop for specific older Android devices
    Chrome updates will stop for specific older Android devices

    Chrome will now mandate Android 10 or later.

    (Image credit: Joe Maring / Android Central)

    Essential Information

    • Google has declared it will cease updates for Chrome on Android 8.0 and Android 9.0.
    • While Chrome will still function on these devices, users will not receive updates beyond Chrome version 138.
    • From approximately August 5th onward, Chrome version 139 will require Android 10 or above for continued updates.

    Google has shared that it will discontinue updates for Chrome versions operating on Android 8.0 (Oreo) and Android 9.0 (Pie) in the upcoming weeks.

    On its support site, Google indicated that Chrome version 138 will mark the final update for these Android users, after which they may need to upgrade to Android 10.0 to access Chrome version 139, expected to launch on August 5.

    Android distribution data shows around 9.8% of devices are still utilizing Android versions Oreo and Pie. This category includes early Google Pixel models, up to the Pixel 3XL, as well as Samsung Galaxy S8 and S8 Plus, OnePlus 5/5T, among others.

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