Month: July 2025

    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Uber Eats Introduces AI to Improve Restaurant Food Imagery
    Uber Eats Introduces AI to Improve Restaurant Food Imagery

    load Google Maps to look for nearby restaurants. I quickly browse through reviews, concentrating on the menu and food images shared by users. The latter is a feature of Google Maps that I have started to take for granted. It’s also a characteristic I wouldn’t want generative AI to interfere with.

    For example, I believe the food photos submitted by reviewers or restaurants should not be modified by AI, even if they aren’t particularly high-quality or were not taken with a professional camera. Uber has a different perspective. The company recently announced a range of “smarter tools for restaurants” in Uber Eats, which includes using AI to enhance restaurant food photos. It’s a fascinating feature, but one that could lead to misuse and unintended outcomes.

    Why Uber Eats requires AI tools

    <img class="gallery-image " src="https://www.bgr.com/img/gallery/uber-eats-will-use

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on Possible Worth of Your PS1 in 2025
    Possible Worth of Your PS1 in 2025

    PS5 Pro system. While some gamers are only just acquiring their initial PlayStation console, many have been dedicated fans since the original PlayStation, referred to as the PS1. Developed by Sony, it debuted in Japan in 1994 and then made its way to North America and Europe in 1995, achieving remarkable success. If you happen to own a PS1 console collecting dust at your place and no longer wish to use it, what could it potentially be worth?

    The value you can receive for your PlayStation 1 standard console is approximately $40, which is not significant. The PS1 amazed players with its fully developed 3D environments, enhanced graphics, and more extensive games overall thanks to the CD-ROM format. Several of its titles are still regarded as treasured classics today, including Tomb Raider, Final Fantasy 7, Resident Evil 2, Silent Hill, and Metal Gear Solid. Nonetheless, depending on the state and the particular PS1 console — along with the games — you possess, it could hold much greater value.

    What is the value of your PlayStation 1?

    <img class="gallery-image " src="https://www.bgr.com/img/gallery

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Leak indicates major battery enhancement for Samsung Galaxy S26 Edge
    Leak indicates major battery enhancement for Samsung Galaxy S26 Edge

    Samsung’s Galaxy S26 lineup may astonish us in several unexpected manners.

    (Image credit: Nicholas Sutrich / Android Central)

    Essential information you should be aware of

    • Speculation suggests the battery capacity for Samsung’s Galaxy S26 Edge could jump to 4,200mAh from the current 3,900mAh.
    • Reports further indicate that the anticipated Galaxy S26 Pro may come equipped with a 4,300mAh battery, slightly surpassing the standard S25.
    • Latest leaks mention new “battery materials” for the Galaxy S26 Edge, possibly SUS CAN, while others imply that the S26 series might replace the base model with a “Pro.”

    Speculative discussions regarding a shift in the Galaxy S26 series persist, as a fresh leak reveals potential battery details for two of the three models.

    In a report by GalaxyClub (Dutch), the outlet claims to have uncovered “battery plans” for the expected Galaxy S26 Edge and the rumored Galaxy S26 Pro. Their findings suggest the S26 Edge could receive a battery enhancement with a modest 300mAh rise over the 2025 version. For context, the S25 Edge is equipped with a 3,900 mAh battery featuring 25W charging.

    Should the leak hold true, the S26 Edge might come with a 4,200mAh battery. Details regarding its charging capability were not disclosed, and it remains significantly premature for precise assessments, particularly given the speculations about alterations in “battery materials.”

    • sparta
    • Comments Off on Meta Creates VR Headsets That Mimic Smart Glasses in Reaction to Consumer Interest
    Meta Creates VR Headsets That Mimic Smart Glasses in Reaction to Consumer Interest

    In 2025, Meta’s Reality Labs division is undergoing a substantial transformation in its hardware sales income, transitioning from virtual reality (VR) headsets to artificial intelligence (AI) glasses. This change is redefining the company’s strategy towards extended reality (XR) technologies.

    Although Meta saw unprecedented Christmas sales in 2024 for its VR and augmented reality (AR) offerings, the subsequent year has revealed a marked shift. The company’s CFO, Susan Li, announced that revenue growth was chiefly fueled by a rise in sales of Ray-Ban Meta glasses, while Quest headset sales experienced a downturn. This shift was underscored in both the Q1 and Q2 2025 earnings discussions, signaling a change in consumer preferences.

    Looking forward, Meta’s Reality Labs is gearing up for an important year with the expected launch of new smart glasses, including an additional pair of Oakley Meta glasses, a third iteration of Ray-Ban Meta Smart glasses, and the firm’s inaugural smart glasses featuring a display in the lenses.

    The Quest 4, which was originally set for launch, has been delayed in order to introduce a revamped design akin to goggles rather than a conventional VR headset. This modification mirrors Meta’s strategic emphasis on smart glasses to enhance XR hardware revenue, particularly with the forthcoming rollout of Android XR.

    The Quest 3 series has not achieved the sales figures of its predecessor, the Quest 2, which surpassed Xbox in units sold. Meta’s updated Horizon Store and commitment to transparency with developers have yet to yield the anticipated sales numbers. Nevertheless, collaborations with prominent brands such as Xbox have enhanced the visibility of the Quest brand.

    In contrast, AI glasses have experienced considerable progress. By February 2025, Meta had sold over 2 million Ray-Ban Meta Smart Glasses and intends to ramp up production to 10 million per year. These glasses are priced comparably to the Meta Quest 3S but are less costly to produce, making them a profitable item for Meta.

    The favorable reception of AI glasses came as a surprise, given that Meta AI was not prepared for the initial release in October 2023. However, by April 2024, the product had markedly improved, resulting in heightened sales throughout 2024.

    Meta’s future plans include evolving VR headsets to resemble glasses, with various prototypes currently in the works. The Meta Quest 4 is anticipated to take on the appearance of Meta Orion smart glasses, providing a more attractive option for consumers who are hesitant to utilize conventional VR headsets.

    To summarize, Meta’s transition from VR headsets to AI glasses is transforming its Reality Labs division, with smart glasses emerging as a vital revenue source. The company’s commitment to AR/VR technology positions it to introduce cutting-edge products ahead of its rivals, with significant potential for ongoing expansion in the smart glasses sector.

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on All We’ve Learned Up to This Point Regarding the Anticipated Season 3 of Shrinking
    All We’ve Learned Up to This Point Regarding the Anticipated Season 3 of Shrinking

    ### Shrinking Season 3: What to Anticipate from Apple TV+

    **Introduction**

    The eagerly awaited third season of *Shrinking* is slated to return to Apple TV+, introducing new guest stars, exciting romantic interests, and a spotlight on meaningful character growth. Here’s all we know up to this point regarding the forthcoming season.

    #### Season 3 Centers on ‘Progressing’

    Bill Lawrence, co-creator of *Shrinking*, has delineated a thematic trajectory for the series that spans three seasons:

    – **Season 1:** Grief
    – **Season 2:** Forgiveness
    – **Season 3:** Progressing

    This concluding theme seeks to embody the characters’ paths as they confront their individual obstacles and aim to evolve. Audiences can anticipate significant transformations in the lives of Jason Segel’s Jimmy, Harrison Ford’s Paul, Jessica Williams’ Gaby, and others as they endeavor to move past their previous issues.

    #### Major New Guest Stars Joining the Cast

    The cast of *Shrinking* will see several distinguished guest stars added in season 3:

    – **Michael J. Fox** will feature as a crucial figure in Paul’s narrative, especially concerning his struggle with Parkinson’s disease.
    – **Jeff Daniels** joins the ensemble as Jimmy’s father, enriching the familial dynamics.
    – **Cobie Smulders**, who had a short appearance in season 2, is set for a more prominent role this time around.
    – **Isabella Gomez** will play the romantic interest of Sean, portrayed by Luke Tennie.
    – **Brett Goldstein**, famous for his character Roy Kent in *Ted Lasso*, returns following his impactful arc in season 2.

    #### What Lies Ahead for Shrinking After Season 3?

    As season 3 wraps up, uncertainties about the future of *Shrinking* emerge. Lawrence has shown optimism that the series will persist beyond its initial three-season framework. He mentioned that while season 3 will deliver a gratifying resolution to the existing storyline, plans for new narratives may unfold in future installments. Lawrence alluded to the presence of “Easter eggs” throughout season 3 that will lay the groundwork for what is to come.

    #### Anticipated Release for Shrinking Season 3 on Apple TV+

    Though Apple has yet to confirm an official release date for season 3, historical trends indicate a probable premiere in early 2026. The first two seasons launched in January 2023 and October 2024, respectively. With production for season 3 recently wrapped up, viewers can expect a return as soon as January 2026.

    Apple TV+ subscriptions are priced at $9.99 per month, offering a variety of popular series, including *Ted Lasso*, *Severance*, *The Morning Show*, and *Silo*.

    **Conclusion**

    As *Shrinking* prepares for its third season, fans can anticipate a profound investigation of personal evolution and recovery, enhanced by a stellar cast of guest stars and developing character storylines. With the assurance of more narratives to unfold, the future of *Shrinking* appears promising.

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on iPhone 17 Pro: Camera Enhancements, Cost Details, and Extra Features Clarified
    iPhone 17 Pro: Camera Enhancements, Cost Details, and Extra Features Clarified

    ### Rumor Replay: Latest Apple Product Speculations

    This is **Rumor Replay**, a weekly feature at *9to5Mac* providing a brief summary of the latest speculations regarding Apple products, along with insights and commentary. Today: upgrades to the iPhone 17 Pro camera, pricing details, colors, and more. Below are this week’s Apple speculations.

    #### iPhone 17 Pro-Exclusive Camera Enhancements

    Referencing an unnamed source, *MacRumors* stated that three camera enhancements exclusive to the iPhone 17 Pro are on the way:

    1. 8x telephoto zoom
    2. Additional Camera Control button at the top of the device
    3. New ‘pro camera’ application

    Additionally, a prototype iPhone 17 Pro unit observed in the wild may support the Camera Control assertion.

    ##### My Thoughts

    Assessing this is challenging. On one side, it’s tempting to disregard an anonymous informant lacking a proven history of Apple leaks. Yet, their insistence that *MacRumors* omit their employer’s name adds credibility to the leak. While the prototype seen in the wild lacks definitive proof, it does provide a bit more credibility to the claim. I anticipate Apple will heavily focus on features for true “pros” this year, although I’m uncertain if the addition of an 8x telephoto lens or another Camera Control button genuinely qualifies. Overall, I remain quite doubtful of these assertions, but not entirely dismissive.

    #### Complete iPhone 17 Color Range in Prototype Models

    While discussions about the anticipated iPhone 17 color selection are nothing new, this week we got our first solid glimpses of prototype models showcasing the new hues. Majin Bu released a video displaying the iPhone 17 Pro colors, followed by Sonny Dickson posting an image of the complete iPhone 17 model range featuring nearly all its rumored colors.

    ##### My Thoughts

    Prototype models rarely capture the true appearance of Apple’s final product, but these are the clearest views we’ve had of what to expect. My primary observation is that iPhone 17 Pro models appear poised to feature more ‘fun’ colors compared to other models for the first time in years. The orange and dark blue shades seem particularly vibrant, whereas the base colors for the iPhone 17 and 17 Air appear more subdued.

    #### Anticipated Price Hikes for (Most) iPhone 17 Models

    This week, an analyst ignited speculation regarding iPhone 17 pricing ahead of Apple’s earnings. He forecasted that the iPhone 17 Pro, Pro Max, and Air will see $50 price hikes compared to last year’s equivalent models. This likely means a price of $949 for the Air. However, the base iPhone 17 is expected to remain at $799.

    ##### My Thoughts

    In recent years, Apple has been very careful with increasing flagship iPhone prices. However, given possible tariff implications and the introduction of an ultra-thin model, it seems probable that this is the year prices will finally rise. Frankly, $50 increases are not as severe as I was anticipating.

    #### Apple Card, Likely Backed by Chase

    In line with earlier expectations, *The Wall Street Journal* reported this week that Apple and Chase are nearing an agreement for Apple Card. Current Apple Card partner Goldman Sachs has openly shown a desire to exit the business, and Chase has consistently appeared to be the leading candidate for replacement.

    ##### My Thoughts

    This is not at all surprising, but it does suggest we’re getting closer to an agreement being reached. It’s unclear how the change in financial institutions might affect Apple Card users, but hopefully, Apple will maintain the same kind of features and assurances it currently offers.

    What are your reflections on this week’s Apple speculations? Share your thoughts in the comments.

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on Spotify’s Age Verification System Could Result in Account Loss
    Spotify’s Age Verification System Could Result in Account Loss

    new assistance article details the complete procedure, including the potential consequences of not utilizing the system.

    Additionally, we’ve noticed that Google is implementing AI-driven age verification on its platforms, which will restrict the types of content accessible to users overall. The troubling aspect of Spotify’s approach, however, is that if the age verification process concludes you do not fulfill the minimum age criteria for your market, your account may be suspended and ultimately erased. As is often the case with systems requiring users to verify their identities, many individuals have expressed their frustrations regarding Spotify’s decision on Reddit and various other platforms.

    Ways to prevent losing your Spotify account

    <source media="(max-width: 428px)" srcset="https://www

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on YouTube Introduces AI to Recognize Teen Users and Updates Initial Video Profanity Policies
    YouTube Introduces AI to Recognize Teen Users and Updates Initial Video Profanity Policies

    The platform is actively outlining modifications intended for younger audiences.

    YouTube is preparing to implement AI-driven safeguards for adolescents, with the goal of recognizing users below 18 years old. The AI will evaluate account duration, search patterns, and categories of viewed content. If identified as underage, users will encounter restrictions but can confirm their age using a credit card or identification. In June, YouTube elevated the minimum streaming age from 13 to 16. Initially, the AI safeguards will be accessible to a limited number of users in the U.S.

    YouTube is also updating its policies regarding profanity. Content creators who use mild or strong profanity within the initial seven seconds of a video can receive full advertising revenue, reversing earlier regulations. Nevertheless, repeated use of swear words remains against the rules, and profanity in titles or comments is limited.

    These adjustments are in line with YouTube’s June revision, which raised the minimum age for livestreaming to 16, mandating adult supervision for younger streamers to activate chat and other functionalities.

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on Moto Loop Buds: Fashionable, Embellished Open Earphones with Cutting-Edge Capabilities
    Moto Loop Buds: Fashionable, Embellished Open Earphones with Cutting-Edge Capabilities

    **Android Central Verdict: Motorola Moto Buds Loop**

    Motorola is steadily evolving into a trendsetting brand, and the Moto Buds Loop showcases this shift. These open earbuds are not only fashionable, embellished with stunning Swarovski crystals, but also offer sound quality backed by Bose. The partnership of three prestigious brands produces an outstanding product, although its elevated price might hinder prospective buyers.

    **Pros:**
    – Cozy and secure open fit, perfect for everyday use and exercise.
    – Impressive 8-hour battery duration for each earbud.
    – Sleek and compact charging case.
    – Features dual 12mm ironless drivers.

    **Cons:**
    – Price is somewhat high.
    – Earbuds offer limited single-button functionalities.
    – Can be awkward to wear.

    **Overview:**
    The Moto Buds Loop are open earbuds crafted by Motorola, showcasing Pantone hues and Swarovski crystals, with sound engineered by Bose. Retailing at $300, they signify a fresh lifestyle product range from Motorola, emphasizing chic design and brand partnerships.

    **Performance:**
    Despite early doubts regarding their design focus, the Moto Buds Loop impress with both sound quality and stylish look. They provide a snug and comfy fit, making them suitable for running and exercising. The open design accommodates ambient sounds, boosting situational awareness.

    **Sound Quality:**
    Outfitted with dual 12mm ironless drivers, the Moto Buds Loop offers commendable audio for open earbuds. Although they may not deliver the same bass or loudness as conventional earbuds due to their open nature, the audio is adequate for most users. The Moto Buds app permits EQ modifications and other personalizations.

    **Design:**
    The Moto Buds Loop’s design resembles earrings, particularly the version with Swarovski crystals, providing a distinctive mix of fashion and functionality. The charging case is compact, offering up to 37 hours of total battery life.

    **Limitations:**
    The companion app necessitates that the earbuds be in their case with the lid open for updates, a quirky requirement. Many features, such as spatial audio and Crystal Talk AI, are restricted to Motorola phones, limiting their attractiveness to users of other brands. The single-button functions can be frustrating, particularly for volume control.

    **Competition:**
    With a price comparable to the Bose Ultra Open earbuds, the Moto Buds Loop encounters intense competition. While Bose provides better value at discounted rates, Motorola’s product distinguishes itself through its aesthetic appeal. More affordable alternatives like the Nothing Ear Open or Shokz OpenFit 2 might be considered by those prioritizing cost over style.

    **Conclusion:**
    The Moto Buds Loop are an chic and capable set of open earbuds, ideally suited for Motorola phone users who appreciate design. While they may not be the most budget-friendly choice, their unique look and collaboration with Swarovski and Bose render them an attractive option for fashion-savvy tech enthusiasts.

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on 9to5Mac Daily: July 31, 2025 – Possible Price Hike for iPhone 17
    9to5Mac Daily: July 31, 2025 – Possible Price Hike for iPhone 17

    **9to5Mac Daily: Your Go-To Source for Daily Apple News**

    In the rapidly changing realm of technology, remaining updated on the latest happenings is vital. 9to5Mac Daily acts as a dependable source for Apple fans, offering daily summaries of the most important stories within the Apple ecosystem.

    **Podcast Access**

    Audiences can listen to 9to5Mac Daily on multiple platforms, guaranteeing that they can catch up at their convenience. The podcast is accessible on:

    – [iTunes and Apple’s Podcasts app](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/9to5mac-daily/id1331816080)
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    **Sponsorship and Highlights**

    The podcast is backed by sponsors such as Bitwarden, a password management service that provides features like Apple Watch compatibility, secure autofill options, and professional-grade security tools. This collaboration enriches the listening experience while advocating for vital online security resources.

    **Daily Shows and Subscription Perks**

    New segments of 9to5Mac Daily are recorded every weekday, ensuring that listeners remain current with the latest updates. Subscribing to the podcast ensures that new episodes arrive promptly. Moreover, fans can support the podcast through [9to5Mac Daily Plus](https://9to5mac.com/join/), which offers:

    – Ad-free editions of every episode
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    **Interaction and Input**

    Listeners are invited to express their opinions and feedback. They can connect via email at [[email protected]](mailto:[email protected]) or rate the podcast on platforms like [Apple Podcasts](https://geo.itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/id1331816080?at=10laZc&pt=11l8808) and

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