Day: July 10, 2025

    • sparta
    • Comments Off on Apple Unveils New Beta Firmware for AirPods Pro 2 and AirPods 4
    Apple Unveils New Beta Firmware for AirPods Pro 2 and AirPods 4

    Apple’s beta software cycle has experienced a hectic week, with updates like iOS 26 and iPadOS 26 launching first, followed by the arrival of tvOS 26 beta 3 just a day later. Recently, Apple has unveiled new beta firmware for AirPods Pro 2 and AirPods 4. Here’s what you need to be aware of.

    ### Latest AirPods Firmware Brings Support for New iOS 26 Features

    This summer, Apple has streamlined the installation of AirPods beta firmware, coinciding with a transition to more regular beta releases. Traditionally, AirPods betas have appeared far less frequently than those for iOS and macOS, often leading to multiple new iOS betas released in between AirPods firmware updates. Nonetheless, with the launch of iOS 26 beta 3, Apple has also introduced a third AirPods firmware beta, specifically for AirPods Pro 2 and AirPods 4.

    The new update is designated version number 8A5308b. The previously issued beta firmware was version 8A293c, which first appeared in late June. The new firmware’s exclusivity to AirPods Pro 2 and AirPods 4 is logical, as most of the new iOS 26 features are restricted to those models, necessitating an H2 chip.

    If you’re considering upgrading your AirPods, Amazon is currently offering several models at record low prices. AirPods Pro 2 are now available for just $149, reduced from $249, while AirPods 4 can be purchased for $89, down from $129.

    ### Best AirPods Pro Accessories

    For AirPods Pro owners, there is a wide array of accessories available to enhance the overall experience. From protective cases to wireless charging pads, these accessories are designed to help sustain the durability and performance of your AirPods.

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Apple Set to Launch New Mac External Monitor, MacBooks, iPads, and Additional Products in Early 2026
    Apple Set to Launch New Mac External Monitor, MacBooks, iPads, and Additional Products in Early 2026

    Apple is preparing for a major product launch schedule in early 2026, as detailed in a recent report by Bloomberg. The technology leader is poised to introduce updates across its iPhone, iPad, and Mac product ranges, alongside an intriguing new external display for Mac users.

    ### Upcoming Product Releases

    As per Bloomberg, the following products are anticipated to be released in the first half of 2026:

    – **New MacBook Pro**: This version will feature the M5 chip and is identified as the final model with the current design.
    – **New iPad Air**: The iPad Air will receive an upgrade with the M4 chip, although its design will largely remain the same.
    – **New Entry-Level iPad**: This will come equipped with a faster chip while keeping a design similar to that of its predecessor.
    – **New MacBook Air**: Information on this model is limited, but it is included in the expected range.
    – **iPhone 17e**: This latest iPhone will be powered by the A19 chip and will sport a design similar to the iPhone 16e.
    – **New Mac External Monitor**: This will mark Apple’s first new external display since the Studio Display’s launch in 2022.

    ### MacBook Pro and External Monitor Insights

    Mark Gurman from Bloomberg mentions that the launch of the M5 MacBook Pro was initially set for late 2025 but has now been rescheduled for early 2026. While the M5 model will closely mirror the current design, future iterations, such as the M6 series, are projected to showcase new casings and a shift to OLED technology.

    Details regarding the new external monitor are still sparse, but it is speculated that Apple is working on several external display products, including one with a 7K resolution, which would signify a major leap in display technology for the company.

    ### Delays and Future Products

    Moreover, there has been some ambiguity concerning Apple’s smart home display device, which was originally slated for a 2025 release. Gurman indicates that this product has been postponed indefinitely due to its reliance on unreleased Apple Intelligence features. Nevertheless, there is optimism that it may now debut in the first half of 2026.

    ### Other Anticipated Updates

    In addition to the products expected for early 2026, Apple has a substantial array of updates scheduled for later this year. This encompasses the iPhone 17 series, new versions of the Apple Watch and Apple Watch Ultra, an upgraded Vision Pro featuring the M4 chip, and a revamped iPad Pro lineup utilizing the M5 chip.

    As Apple continues to push boundaries and broaden its product range, the forthcoming months are set to be an exhilarating period for consumers and tech aficionados alike.

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on Judge Throws Out Collusion Lawsuit Targeting Apple, Mastercard, and Visa
    Judge Throws Out Collusion Lawsuit Targeting Apple, Mastercard, and Visa

    A federal judge has thrown out a lawsuit claiming that Apple, Visa, and Mastercard conspired to keep payment processing fees high for merchants. The lawsuit, brought forth in 2023 by Mirage Wine & Spirits and various other businesses, alleged that Apple profited from anticompetitive agreements that hindered its ability to create a competing payment network against Visa and Mastercard.

    The initial lawsuit specified that in return for not entering competition, Visa and Mastercard purportedly provided Apple with significant financial incentives, such as a payment of 15 basis points (0.15%) on all U.S. credit transactions and 0.5 cents ($0.005) on U.S. debit transactions conducted through Apple Pay. This deal was estimated to be worth hundreds of millions of dollars each year, even during the formative period of Apple Pay.

    However, U.S. District Judge David Dugan determined that the plaintiffs failed to present adequate evidence to validate their claims. He criticized the lawsuit for depending on circumstantial assertions that were considered too speculative to exhibit any real parallel conduct or to establish that Apple intended to compete directly with the existing card networks.

    Following the dismissal, Judge Dugan granted the plaintiffs 30 days to revise their complaint and file it again. He emphasized that failing to do so would lead to the case being dismissed under Federal Rule of Civil Procedure 41(b).

    Currently, Apple, Mastercard, and Visa have not made any public statements regarding the ruling, and all three companies have denied any misconduct concerning the allegations.

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on Scientists Uncover New Dinosaur Species the Size of a Dog in Colorado
    Scientists Uncover New Dinosaur Species the Size of a Dog in Colorado

    The skeletal remains of a diminutive mystery dinosaur excavated in Colorado have been relocated to London, England. The designation of these bones, which belong to a newly identified species termed *Enigmacursor mollyborthwickae*, is a component of a sustained initiative aimed at highlighting the importance of smaller groups of fossils.

    These specimens were initially found in the Morrison Formation, a region in the United States celebrated for yielding some of the most notable dinosaur fossils. While earlier finds, such as the stegosaurus and allosaurus, have been uncovered here, various smaller species discovered in the vicinity have frequently been ignored. One such neglected set of remains pertains to the newly recognized *Enigmacursor mollyborthwickae*.

    One motive for officially naming this dinosaur and showcasing it in London is to raise awareness of additional overlooked specimens from this segment of the US. Although the allosaurus and stegosaurus might garner more fascination, they are certainly not the sole dinosaur remains extracted from Colorado. Indeed, while the larger dinosaur fossils are more awe-inspiring, each fossil we unearth contributes to our understanding of how the world functioned in ancient times when dinosaurs dominated the landscape.

    A [new study](https://royalsocietypublishing.org/doi/10.1098/rsos.242195) outlining the remains of the mystery dinosaur has been released in the journal *Royal Society Open Science*. Furthermore, as mentioned earlier, the dinosaur is currently available for public viewing at the Earth Hall Mezzanine in London. According to an analysis of the new species, researchers suspect it existed during the concluding phases of the Late Jurassic Period, approximately 152 to 145 million years ago.

    The appearance of the mystery dinosaur indicates that it was likely designed for rapid, swift interactions, allowing it to evade danger with its speed and agility. It was noted by the researchers that it had elongated legs and was roughly the size of a dog. Unfortunately, the method by which the fossil was secured prior to its transfer to the Natural History Museum in London has complicated the determination of its age at the time of its demise.

    It is hoped that future discoveries of this species will provide greater insights into these enigmatic dinosaurs and their role while they traversed the Earth. Scientists have also recently

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on Pixel Watch 3 Cost Keeps Dropping Throughout Prime Day
    Pixel Watch 3 Cost Keeps Dropping Throughout Prime Day

    Purchase the Pixel Watch 3 with a discount of up to $115, perfectly timed for the arrival of the new Gemini AI update and Wear OS 6.

    (Image credit: Michael Hicks / Android Central)

    The Google Pixel Watch 3 was my top pick for Android smartwatches reviewed last year, and it was also the preferred option among many of my colleagues who are fans of Android. Most paid the full price of $350–400, and they might experience some regret upon seeing this 32%-discount Prime Day offer: The Pixel Watch 3 is available for only $237.49 ($112.50 off) on Amazon, while the bigger 45mm version is <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://target.georiot.com/Proxy.ashx?tsid=169923&GR_URL=https%3A%2F%2Famazon.com%2FGoogle-Pixel-Watch-Latest-Model%2Fdp%2FB0D91268TH%3Ftag%3Dhawk-future-20%26ascsubtag%3Dac-us-1171286581763572754-20"

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Legacy Galaxy Watch Resurrected with One UI 8 Watch Update
    Legacy Galaxy Watch Resurrected with One UI 8 Watch Update

    The Galaxy Watch 4 and Watch 4 Classic are receiving the One UI 8 Watch update based on Wear OS 6.

    (Image credit: Daniel Bader / Android Central)

    Essential information

    • The Galaxy Watch 4 series, which is almost four years old and largely overlooked, has unexpectedly received a boost from the One UI 8 Watch update.
    • After some uncertainty, Samsung has confirmed that the Watch 4 series is set to receive the One UI 8 Watch update based on Wear OS 6.
    • This marks the last significant update for the Watch 4 and Watch 4 Classic, which debuted with Wear OS 3 and One UI Watch 3.

    Despite its nearly four-year-old status and existing in the long shadow of more recent Galaxy Watch models, the Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 and Watch 4 Classic have unexpectedly stepped back into the limelight, thanks to a surprising renewal: the One UI 8 Watch update.

    Samsung has informed SamMobile that the Galaxy Watch 4 series is officially getting the One UI 8 Watch update powered by Wear OS 6. If you recall, this development isn’t entirely surprising: in 2022, Samsung <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://go.redirectingat.com/?id=92X1690538&xcust=ac_us_8906053233863077295&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fnews.samsung.com%2Fglobal%2Fsamsung-sets-the-new-standard-with-four-generations-of-os-upgrades-to-ensure-the-most-up-to-date-and-more-secure-galaxy-experience&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.androidcentral.com%2Fwear

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Vital Controller to Acquire Before Prime Day Concludes
    Vital Controller to Acquire Before Prime Day Concludes

    Experience Xbox Elite Controller quality at a significantly lower cost.

    (Image credit: Andrew Myrick / Android Central)

    Even though most of my gaming time is taken up by my phone or retro handheld devices, I still attempt to fit in some traditional PC gaming whenever possible. That said, I’m not particularly keen on utilizing a mouse and keyboard, as having a quality controller makes a significant difference. For the majority of the last year, there has been a certain controller on my desk, which is presently discounted by $20 <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://target.georiot.com/Proxy.ashx?tsid=169923&GR_URL=https%3A%2F%2Famazon.com%2FWireless-Controller-PC-Rubberized-Lighting-Charging%2Fdp%2FB0DPMGDZ

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on Gemini’s Latest Function Turns Images into Animated Clips
    Gemini’s Latest Function Turns Images into Animated Clips

    Transform a standard photo into something entirely unique.

    (Photo credit: Google)

    Essential information

    • Google has outlined the launch of photo-to-video generation features in Gemini, powered by Veo 3.
    • Users have the ability to upload an image and provide a comprehensive text description detailing how they wish Gemini to produce the video, complete with distinctive sounds if they choose.
    • This similar function was introduced by Google Cloud to Honor’s 400 series earlier in the year with Veo 2.

    Google is introducing a robust new AI-generation feature in its Gemini app today (July 10) to enhance your memories.

    In a post on Keyword, Google announced the debut of photo-to-video generation features within the Gemini app. The company informs that users with a Google AI Pro or Ultra subscription can select the “Video” option in the prompt box and upload a photo. On a corresponding support page, Google mentions that users can then enter a text description into the box to guide the AI on how they wish the video to be created.

    The announcement advises users to be as detailed as possible, explaining the scene and “any audio guidelines” for Gemini. Upon completion, users should scroll down beneath the text box to More

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on The Galaxy Tab S11 Series Anticipated to Release Shortly Following Unpacked Event
    The Galaxy Tab S11 Series Anticipated to Release Shortly Following Unpacked Event

    The most recent remarks from a Samsung executive confirm earlier speculations concerning the forthcoming Galaxy Tab S11 series. As reported by Android Authority, a Samsung representative from South Africa suggested that the new tablets are set to debut “shortly” after the Unpacked event, indicating a possible release in August or September. This supports earlier assumptions that the Tab S11 series will not include a Plus model but will present a standard model along with an Ultra version.

    The Galaxy Tab S11 series is likely to adhere to Samsung’s customary launch schedule, although more recent models have been introduced earlier in the year. The previous iteration was launched in September, contrasting with the Galaxy Tab S9 and S8 series, which were released in August 2023 and February 2022, respectively. The report proposes a September launch for the Tab S11 unless Samsung opts for an August announcement.

    Speculations suggest that the Tab S11 Ultra will be equipped with a MediaTek Dimensity 9400 Plus SoC, providing improved performance. Nevertheless, reports indicate that the tablet achieved lower scores than smartphones in performance evaluations. It is anticipated that the Tab S11 series will reintroduce the basic model while discontinuing the Plus variant, with the Tab S11 reportedly housing an 8,160mAh battery and the Ultra model possibly featuring a larger ~11,374mAh battery.

    In summary, the remarks from the Samsung executive reinforce the expected modifications and schedule for the Galaxy Tab S11 series, aligning with previous leaks and speculations.

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on iOS 26 Beta 3 Brings Debated Liquid Glass Modifications; Jeff Williams Reveals Retirement
    iOS 26 Beta 3 Brings Debated Liquid Glass Modifications; Jeff Williams Reveals Retirement

    ### Changes to Liquid Glass Design in iOS 26 Beta 3: A Conversation

    In the newest edition of the 9to5Mac Happy Hour podcast, hosts Benjamin Mayo and Chance Miller explore the design alterations brought about by iOS 26 beta 3, with a particular emphasis on the Liquid Glass visual style. The discussion centers on whether the recent design upgrades enhance the overall aesthetics and usability of the operating system while staying faithful to Apple’s vision unveiled during their June presentation.

    #### Key Takeaways from the Conversation

    1. **Liquid Glass Visual Style**: The hosts examine the updates made to the Liquid Glass design, balancing its visual attractiveness against the initial concept presented by Apple. They discuss the efficacy of these modifications and their effect on user experience.

    2. **Additional Noteworthy Changes**: Apart from the Liquid Glass adjustments, this beta version also features several fascinating updates throughout Apple’s ecosystem, including enhancements for the iPad, Apple Watch, and Mac. These improvements aim to boost functionality and user interaction.

    3. **Apple’s EU Appeal**: Alongside the design dialogue, the podcast addresses Apple’s formal appeal to the European Union concerning anti-steering regulations. This action underscores Apple’s ongoing confrontations with regulatory entities and its endeavors to retain dominance over its platform.

    4. **Leadership Transition**: The episode also points out a significant alteration in Apple’s leadership, with Jeff Williams announcing his retirement. This shift could have ramifications for the firm’s strategic trajectory in the future.

    5. **F1 Streaming Rights Acquisition Bid**: In a significant update, Benjamin discloses that Apple has placed an official bid for the streaming rights to Formula 1 within the United States. This step indicates Apple’s intention to broaden its content portfolio and step into the competitive arena of sports streaming.

    #### Subscribe to 9to5Mac Happy Hour Plus

    Listeners are invited to back the podcast by subscribing to 9to5Mac Happy Hour Plus, which provides an ad-free experience, exclusive pre- and post-show content, and bonus episodes. Subscriptions are priced at $5 per month or $50 annually.

    #### Feedback and Interaction

    Listeners can interact with the hosts by sending in questions or feedback via Twitter, Mastodon, or Threads, or by emailing [email protected].

    For those keen on keeping up with the latest Apple news and conversations, tuning into the 9to5Mac Happy Hour podcast is a great resource.

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