Month: July 2025

    • Richard
    • Comments Off on watchOS 26 Brings Notifications for Uncommon Apple Watch Battery Depletion
    watchOS 26 Brings Notifications for Uncommon Apple Watch Battery Depletion

    ### Upgrades in Battery Monitoring with watchOS 26

    With the imminent launch of watchOS 26, Apple is poised to roll out major enhancements to the battery monitoring features of the Apple Watch. This new functionality is intended to track your average usage habits and notify you if your watch’s battery is draining more quickly than normal.

    #### Proactive Battery Notifications

    The core purpose of this upgrade is to offer users prompt updates concerning their battery status. If the system identifies that your battery usage strays from your historical data, it will generate an alert. This forward-thinking method enables users to act before their battery reaches a critically low level, ensuring they remain prepared.

    For example, if you get a notification stating that your battery has declined to 50% by 7 PM, this might indicate an unusual drain, particularly if your usual usage doesn’t involve lengthy workouts or active heart rate tracking. Such notifications can be especially helpful for those who depend on their devices all day.

    #### Activation of Low Power Mode

    In light of these alerts, users will have quick access to enable the Apple Watch’s Low Power Mode. This mode aims to prolong battery life by restricting certain features, allowing users to save energy until they can recharge their device. This capability is particularly useful for those who may not have quick access to a charger.

    #### Grasping Battery Drain Reasons

    The system’s skill in assessing battery usage patterns means that users can gain insights into the factors contributing to any unusual battery depletion. For instance, if you’re utilizing a beta version of watchOS, you might notice decreased efficiency and performance, resulting in faster battery drain. Conversely, when using the public version of watchOS 26, the notification could suggest that you’re partaking in activities that draw more power, such as utilizing GPS or cellular capabilities in regions with weak signal.

    #### Advantages of Early Alerts

    The benefit of receiving these early notifications lies in their provision of an opportunity for users to recharge their devices at their leisure. Rather than waiting for the typical low battery alert, which usually takes place when the battery is nearly depleted, users can take proactive steps to keep their watch functioning throughout the day.

    #### Comparable Features in iOS 26

    This battery monitoring capability is not limited to the Apple Watch; it has also been incorporated into iOS 26 for iPhones. This uniformity across devices enriches the user experience, facilitating better battery management across the entire lineup of Apple products.

    #### Release Information

    Both iOS 26 and watchOS 26 are anticipated to be accessible as free software updates later this year. At present, these updates are undergoing a closed developer beta phase, with a public beta expected to be launched in July.

    In conclusion, the advancements in battery monitoring with watchOS 26 signify a major improvement in user experience, furnishing vital tools for effectively managing battery life.

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on Higgsfield Grants Free Access to Trending AI Image Creator
    Higgsfield Grants Free Access to Trending AI Image Creator

    Higgsfield Soul is an innovative AI image creation tool that has recently taken social media by storm. This tool empowers users to generate remarkably realistic images through text prompts, outpacing the functionality of other well-known AI image generators like ChatGPT and Google’s Veo 3. The visuals crafted by Higgsfield Soul are celebrated for their photographic quality, steering clear of the artificial appearance typically linked with AI-generated images.

    Higgsfield has made the Soul image generator accessible for free, enabling users to experiment without any financial burden. To utilize the free version, users can navigate to the Higgsfield website and click on the “Daily Free Soul Image Generations” link. While the complimentary version provides limited daily credits, users can opt for a premium membership beginning at $9/month for more extensive access.

    What distinguishes Higgsfield Soul is its capacity to present over 50 visual styles, allowing users to craft images that mimic those captured with actual cameras. Users can choose a visual style and offer detailed prompts to steer the AI in generating the intended image. Higgsfield’s website showcases examples of specific prompts and the corresponding images, highlighting the tool’s potential.

    In summary, Higgsfield Soul delivers a distinctive and sophisticated AI image generation experience, offering both free and premium choices for users to investigate and produce high-quality visuals.

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on TCL NXTPAPER 4.0 Tackles Significant Concealed Challenge in Technology
    TCL NXTPAPER 4.0 Tackles Significant Concealed Challenge in Technology

    NXTPAPER 4.0 arrives in the U.S. for the very first time with the TCL NXTPAPER 11 Plus tablet priced at $249, and it’s magnificent.

    In my pursuit of a display that is visually appealing and gentle on the eyes, I have narrowed it down to a select few options. E Ink is frequently praised as the most eye-friendly display type available, and while it certainly presents a more natural feel compared to traditional displays, companies like TCL are striving to merge E Ink’s legibility with the smoothness of conventional displays.

    With the introduction of the NXTPAPER 11 Plus tablet at the end of June, TCL is initiating a new chapter in display technology with NXTPAPER 4.0, the newest iteration of TCL’s captivating ePaper technology. NXTPAPER 4.0 offers increased brightness, improved color accuracy, and a host of fresh eye-friendly features that establish a new benchmark for LCD technology.

    Like its predecessors, the NXTPAPER 11 Plus incorporates a protective layer over the display that is not only matte — akin to Samsung’s Galaxy S25 Ultra display — but also possesses a paper-like texture underneath for a more organic look. It offers three distinct color modes that can be utilized to closely replicate a paper-like experience: regular mode, color paper mode, and ink paper mode, all accessible with a tap of the new NXTPAPER key located at the top of the tablet.

    Even more impressively, the tablet is incredibly affordable, retailing at just $249 at Walmart. The U.S. version does not include a stylus, but it is available as a $39 optional add-on should you desire one. If only we could see more of the TCL 60 series in the U.S. featuring NXTPAPER 4.0 displays, it would be truly excellent.

    The hues, Duke

    While I genuinely value the paper-like look of the imagery displayed on the 11-inch tablet’s screen, it’s the improved color accuracy that significantly benefits sensitive eyes. This isn’t due to the fact that more precise colors inherently make a display more comfortable. Instead, a display capable of naturally exhibiting a broader spectrum of colors is preferable because it doesn’t rely on artificial methods to achieve it.

    A notable number of modern displays utilize a technique called color dithering to enhance perceived display quality. This clever engineering trick alters a pixel quickly between two colors, tricking the eyes into seeing a non-existent color. However, analogous to PWM dimming, any rapid flickering of this sort can cause users severe headaches (or worse).

    TCL NXTPAPER 3.0 and previous versions employed color dithering due to the technology’s inability to natively render 8-bit or 10-bit color, but NXTPAPER 4.0 addresses this issue. In regular color mode, you can deactivate all NXTVISION features in display settings, fully eliminating all color dithering in my assessments.

    I gauge this by connecting a OnePlus 13 to an affordable smartphone microscope that I acquired on Amazon for $20. I selected this phone specifically for its capability of 480FPS slow motion, whereas most flagship devices (iPhone, Galaxy, and Pixel) max out at 240FPS.

    I then display various images and bring the microscope up to the screen momentarily to capture any potential pixel activity. My evaluations include a rainbow gradient, a grayscale gradient, three different gray images set at 25%, 50%, and 75%, alongside an examination of the edges of text and icons on the home screen.

    The most prevalent location for dithering is along the edges of icons and text, as well as with grays at 50% and darker. In regular mode, the TCL NXTPAPER 11 Plus exhibited no traces of dithering, something that flicker-sensitive users have long desired in an age where display and phone manufacturers often overlook scientific findings in favor of more vibrant screens, neglecting the long-term well-being of their consumers.

    Regrettably, NXTPAPER’s two additional display modes, color paper and ink paper, both employ dithering to create their unique visual effects. Users who aren’t sensitive to dithering — which thankfully seems to be a majority — will appreciate these alternative modes for varied types of content.

    Matte for the win

    Incorporating a distinctive matte layer atop a display is one of the aspects that makes the finest E Ink tablets immensely enjoyable to read on, and it contributes to the appealing nature of NXTPAPER as well.

    Matte layers reduce reflections and enhance visibility in varying lighting conditions, in addition to aiding in diffusing light in a manner that’s generally regarded as easier on the eyes. In fact, these layers are often so effective at diffusion that individual pixels beneath the matte layer are nearly invisible, even under a microscope.

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Current Savings: M4 iPad Pro Up to $299 Reduced, iPad A16 Starting from $284, Apple Pencil Pro, AirTag, and More Deals
    Current Savings: M4 iPad Pro Up to $299 Reduced, iPad A16 Starting from $284, Apple Pencil Pro, AirTag, and More Deals

    ### 4th of July Apple Gear Offers: Irresistible Savings on iPads and Accessories

    As the 4th of July nears, Apple fans can seize substantial savings on a wide array of Apple products, especially iPads and accessories. This piece showcases some of the top offers currently available, making it an ideal moment to enhance your technology.

    #### Latest Generation iPads: Starting Prices at $284

    One of the highlighted offers this holiday season is on the latest generation iPad A16, which can now be purchased for as little as **$284 shipped**. Normally priced around $299, this model is ideal for casual users who like browsing the web, engaging on social media, and video calls. The iPad A16 comes in several color choices, and open-box offers at Best Buy feature even lower prices, with some models listed at **$283.99 shipped**.

    For those seeking a more portable choice, the iPad mini 7 is also experiencing significant markdowns. This model is compatible with Apple Intelligence and is currently **$100 off**, with starting prices at **$399**. This makes it a compelling option for users who favor a smaller device without compromising on performance.

    #### Apple Pencil Pro: Now Priced at $99

    The Apple Pencil Pro has seen its price drop to **$99 shipped** on Amazon, matching its lowest rate since last year. Regularly $129, this stylus enhances the iPad experience with innovative features such as additional gestures and haptics. It works with several iPad models, including the iPad Pro and iPad Air series, making it an essential accessory for both creatives and professionals.

    #### M4 iPad Pro Savings: Up to $299 Off

    For those in search of high-performance gadgets, the M4 iPad Pro is presently **$200 off** across multiple models. Notably, the **2TB 11-inch M4 iPad Pro** is priced at **$1,699.97**, a **$299 discount** from its usual price of $1,999. This model is perfect for users needing significant storage and processing capability for intensive tasks.

    #### Accessories and Charging Promotions

    Along with the iPads and Apple Pencil, there are various accessories and charging promotions available. These feature discounts on AirTags and other vital accessories, providing a comprehensive sale for Apple users looking to upgrade their setup.

    #### Conclusion

    With these remarkable savings on iPads, Apple Pencils, and accessories, the 4th of July sales offer an excellent chance for Apple enthusiasts to enhance their devices or buy gifts. Whether you’re in the market for an affordable iPad or a premium Pro model, there’s something to suit everyone in this year’s promotions. Don’t let these limited-time deals pass you by!

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Apple Patent Indicates Major Progress in Camera Sensor Technology Nearing Human Eye Dynamic Range
    Apple Patent Indicates Major Progress in Camera Sensor Technology Nearing Human Eye Dynamic Range

    Apple is exploring innovative image sensor technology that claims to deliver up to 20 stops of dynamic range. This capability exceeds that of the ARRI ALEXA 35 and approaches the dynamic range of the typical human eye. Here’s what this entails.

    ### 1,048,576:1

    A recently released patent, titled “Image Sensor With Stacked Pixels Having High Dynamic Range And Low Noise,” initially noticed by *Y.M.Cinema Magazine*, discloses Apple’s ambitions for a next-level sensor that competes with the dynamic range found in modern professional cinema cameras.

    The patent describes a stacked sensor configuration that aspires to achieve 20 stops of dynamic range, representing the proportion between the highest and lowest light values that can be recorded at the same time without detail loss. It’s gauged in “stops,” with each stop signifying a doubling or halving of light.

    Thus, a 20-stop dynamic range would effectively translate to a 1,048,576:1 contrast ratio with no light or shadow loss in a single image.

    ### A complex measurement

    For context, although there is no formal dynamic range specification available for the iPhone 16 Pro Max sensor, here’s *CineD’s* detailed approximation of the iPhone 15 Pro Max 24mm camera, derived from three distinct methods: waveform test (“how many stops can be discerned above the noise floor”), IMATEST (“signal to noise ratio for every stop”), and latitude test (“the ability of a camera to maintain colors and details when over- or underexposed”).

    The findings:

    > “The waveform indicates approximately 11 stops above the noise floor. Speaking of which, the concept of a noise floor is nearly nonexistent – everything is exceptionally clean, suggesting substantial internal noise reduction (there’s no way to disable this ‘off’)”

    And

    > At ISO55: “We achieve 12 stops of dynamic range in the iPhone 15 Pro (Max) for a signal to noise ratio (SNR) of 1, and the same 12 stops for a signal to noise ratio of 2. Also for the ‘slope based DR’. This suggests ‘excessive’ noise processing for IMATEST to yield a substantial measurement. It also becomes evident in the lowest diagram where ‘Noise (% of max pixel)’ is illustrated. Noise metrics for the shadow stops are incredibly low.”

    At ISO1200: “IMATEST calculates (higher) 13.4 stops at SNR = 2 and 13.4 stops at SNR = 1.”

    > At ISO55 “We obtain 5 stops of exposure latitude (3 above to 2 under). This is, in fact, 2 if not 3 stops lower than the present array of consumer APS-C or full-frame cameras. When compared to the previously mentioned ARRI Alexa Mini LF, it reflects 5 stops less exposure latitude. Moreover, juxtaposed with the Alexa 35, the variance is an even seven stops.”

    Meanwhile, most calculations position the instantaneous dynamic range of the human eye between 10-14 stops, extending to 20-30 stops post pupil and retinal adjustments.

    ### A dual-layer strategy that could create new product categories

    While Apple has historically depended on Sony for its camera sensors, this patent indicates the company may be developing something even more ambitious internally, starting from the silicon level.

    According to the patent, Apple’s design merges two layers:

    – **A sensor die**, which captures light via photodiodes and specialized analog circuitry
    – **A logic die**, where the processing occurs, incorporating built-in noise reduction

    As noted by *Y.M.Cinema Magazine*, this stacked design isn’t entirely novel in the industry. Sony reportedly employs something comparable. However, Apple’s methodology introduces a few unique elements:

    – **First**, it features a mechanism called LOFIC (Lateral Overflow Integration Capacitor), enabling each pixel to hold light across three distinct charge levels depending on scene brightness.
    – **Second**, each pixel is equipped with its own current memory circuit, which measures and nullifies thermal noise in real-time, removing the need for post-processing cleanup techniques. Notably, Apple achieves this with a three-transistor (3T) pixel configuration, as opposed to the more intricate and less noise-prone 4T.

    As this *Reddit* discussion elucidates, by stacking the sensor atop a chip, Apple effectively integrates a discrete shutter for each pixel and processes the image for noise reduction prior to it exiting the die.

    ### What implications does this have for products?

    Should this sensor find its way into a commercial product, it may allow Apple to outpace not only its smartphone rivals but also professional camera manufacturers like Sony, Canon, or RED in particular key metrics.

    Incorporate the Neural Engine and other capabilities enabled by Apple’s cohesive hardware-software integration, and it wouldn’t be far-fetched to envision

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on Apple Watch Ultra 3 Release Date: Expected Launch Schedule for the Latest Model
    Apple Watch Ultra 3 Release Date: Expected Launch Schedule for the Latest Model

    **Apple Watch Ultra 3 Anticipated to Debut in September**

    Nearly two years have passed since the last introduction of a new Apple Watch Ultra model, but that wait is nearing an end. The arrival of the Apple Watch Ultra 3 is imminent; here’s what to anticipate for the new model.

    ### Apple Watch Ultra 3 Anticipated to Debut in September

    Last year, Apple did not unveil a new Ultra model. Instead, it released a fresh satin black titanium variant for the Ultra 2. However, reports from multiple sources suggest that this year is set for a brand new model. The Apple Watch Ultra 3 is projected to launch this September.

    Drawing from well-known trends, we can be more specific about the timing. Apple typically initiates the fall season with a significant event centered on the iPhone and Apple Watch. The most probable date for that event is likely around Monday, September 8. Pre-orders for the Apple Watch Ultra 3 are expected to commence that week, with the launch date following on Friday, September 19. While Apple’s plans can shift, it has consistently adhered to a reliable schedule with past Apple Watch releases. Hence, a mid-September release date for the Apple Watch Ultra 3 seems very plausible.

    ### New Features of the Apple Watch Ultra 3

    The Apple Watch Ultra 3 is said to offer a variety of new features. Apple is also likely to introduce additional surprises. Firstly, the Ultra 3 is rumored to receive display and chip enhancements that were absent last year. When the Apple Watch Series 10 launched last fall, it came with a new LTPO3 OLED display. This allowed for more frequent updates in always-on mode and enhanced viewing angles. The Apple Watch Ultra 3 is expected to incorporate this technology this year.

    Likewise, the Series 10 introduced a new S10 chip, while the Ultra 2 still features the S9. Anticipate the Ultra 3 to utilize either Apple’s S10 or a brand new S11—potentially with AI enhancements for watchOS 26.

    In addition to catching up with the Series 10, there are three other new features rumored for the Ultra 3:
    – High blood pressure monitoring
    – Satellite messaging capabilities
    – 5G cellular support

    New health sensors and connectivity options should position the Apple Watch Ultra 3 as an even better choice for adventurers and explorers.

    Are you considering purchasing an Apple Watch Ultra 3 this year? Why or why not? Share your thoughts in the comments.

    ### Best Apple Watch Promotions and Accessories

    *FTC: We utilize revenue-generating auto affiliate links.*

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on “Apple TV+ Reveals Premiere Date and Unveils First Teaser for Invasion Season 3”
    “Apple TV+ Reveals Premiere Date and Unveils First Teaser for Invasion Season 3”

    The anticipation is nearly at an end for sci-fi enthusiasts looking forward to the next installment of *Invasion*, one of Apple’s ventures in the genre. Along with the premiere date announcement, Apple TV+ has just unveiled the teaser for what lies ahead. Here are the specifics.

    ## Invasion Season 3 Debuts August 22

    Here’s the initial official teaser for *Invasion* season 3, which has recently been released on the Apple TV+ YouTube channel:

    *Invasion* narrates an alien invasion from various viewpoints across the globe. In its third season, these viewpoints intersect for the first time, as the primary characters of the series unite to collaborate on a crucial mission to breach the alien mothership. The ultimate apex aliens have at last surfaced, swiftly extending their lethal tendrils across our world. It will require the combined efforts of all our heroes, utilizing their collective experience and skills, to protect humanity. New bonds are forged, old bonds are tested and even broken, as our diverse cast of characters must unite before time runs out.

    The third installment of *Invasion* features returning cast members Golshifteh Farahani, Shioli Kutsuna, Shamier Anderson, India Brown, Shane Zaza, Enver Gjokaj, and introduces new series regular Erika Alexander.

    Season 3 of *Invasion* launches on Apple TV+ on August 22 and will consist of 10 episodes, released weekly. Seasons 1 and 2 are available for viewing now.

    Apple TV+ is priced at $9.99 per month and includes popular TV shows and films like *Ted Lasso*, *Severance*, *The Studio*, *The Morning Show*, *Shrinking*, and *Silo*.

    ### Accessory Deals on Amazon

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    – [Anker Foldable 3-in-1 wireless charger, 15W, Qi2](https://www.amazon.com/Anker-Compatible-Wireless-Certified-Foldable/dp/B0D8PTGKSM?tag=marcmendes-20): 20% off, at $71.99
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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on Apple Postpones Foldable iPad to Focus on Advancing Foldable iPhone
    Apple Postpones Foldable iPad to Focus on Advancing Foldable iPhone

    Samsung is poised to reveal the seventh iteration of its foldable Galaxy devices, the Galaxy Z Fold 7 and Flip 7, during an Unpacked event next Wednesday. This announcement arrives at a time when most leading smartphone brands have already rolled out at least one foldable model since Samsung introduced its inaugural Fold device. Apple stands out as a significant exception, recognized for its tentative stance on embracing new technologies. Nonetheless, Apple is expected to make its entry into the foldable market with a foldable iPhone, likely included in the iPhone 18 series next year. A foldable iPad is also in development, likely launching the following year, although recent reports indicate that Apple might postpone its release to concentrate on the foldable iPhone.

    As reported by Digitimes, the foldable iPhone reached the Prototype 1 stage in June, with the prototyping phase anticipated to wrap up by late 2025, moving on to the Engineering Verification Test phase. The foldable iPhone is aimed for launch in the second half of 2026. Initially, Apple had plans for a foldable iPad, but it is now confirmed that the iPhone will be introduced first, with the iPad’s development currently on hold. Issues such as the intricacy of manufacturing foldable panels and the potential high expenses affecting sales are mentioned as factors for the postponement of the foldable iPad’s debut.

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