Day: August 14, 2025

    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Top 5 Best Rated Tech Gadgets for Your Vehicle’s Dashboard
    Top 5 Best Rated Tech Gadgets for Your Vehicle’s Dashboard

    may or may not include CarPlay. This leads many drivers to search for third-party gadgets to enhance, arrange, and customize their experience. And indeed, as you might expect, there seems to be an endless supply of magnetic phone chargers available for purchase.

    Thankfully, a lot of these dashboard enhancements have existed for quite some time, allowing manufacturers to refine their offerings. Whether you need something straightforward like an additional organizer for your smartphone or spare change, or a sophisticated tool for monitoring tire pressure, we’ve compiled this list of five highly-rated dashboard tech accessories to assist you in making some thoughtful upgrades to your coupe, sedan, or hatchback.

    A universal mount

    The iOttie Easy One Touch Universal Car Mount stands out as a sturdy and dependable dash and windshield mount, compatible with a broad array of smartphones. Once attached, you can effortlessly rotate the mount up to 260 degrees, enabling you to find the perfect viewing angle for your iPhone or Samsung Galaxy. Docking your device is as easy as pressing the locking side arms and sliding your phone in; then just release it, and your device will be secured.

    The telescoping arm offers extension from 5 to 8 inches, and the magnetic tab located near the bottom foot assists in organizing those longer USB cables. If the mount ever loses its hold, simply rinse the suction cup under warm water and allow it to air dry for a quick fix. While some users have noted a malfunctioning suction cup after over a year of usage, parking

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Apple Card Secures Third Position in J.D. Power’s U.S. Credit Card Satisfaction Rankings
    Apple Card Secures Third Position in J.D. Power’s U.S. Credit Card Satisfaction Rankings

    ### J.D. Power’s 2025 U.S. Credit Card Satisfaction Study: Apple Card’s Fall

    J.D. Power’s 2025 U.S. Credit Card Satisfaction Study has uncovered a major change in customer satisfaction concerning credit cards, signaling the conclusion of Apple Card’s four-year dominance. This year, the Hilton Honors American Express card has risen to the forefront among co-branded credit cards that do not charge an annual fee, earning a score of 641 points out of a maximum of 1,000. The Costco Anywhere Visa by Citi secured the second position with a score of 629, while Apple’s credit card, provided by Goldman Sachs, finished third with 624 points.

    #### Apple’s Score Drop

    Apple’s score has decreased by 30 points from the previous year’s survey, reflecting a significant drop in customer satisfaction. The study, which engaged nearly 40,000 credit card users between June 2024 and July 2025, evaluated satisfaction across seven essential factors: account oversight, benefits, customer service, new account procedures, rewards accumulation, rewards redemption, and terms.

    Overall satisfaction for all credit cards within the study increased slightly by one point to 611. Noteworthy is the nine-point rise in satisfaction among financially healthy customers, whereas those deemed financially unhealthy saw a one-point decrease, mainly due to dissatisfaction with credit limits, account management, and balance transfers.

    #### Consequences for Apple Card

    The decrease in Apple Card’s satisfaction score reflects broader difficulties the company encounters with its credit card program. Recent reports indicate that Apple might be approaching a partnership with JPMorgan Chase to take over the Apple Card association, as Goldman Sachs aims to exit its agreement after significant financial setbacks and a reevaluation of its consumer finance approach.

    This change in partnerships could herald a new path for Apple Card, potentially bolstering customer satisfaction in the future. The company’s capacity to adjust and improve its credit card services will be vital in reclaiming its position within the competitive credit card landscape.

    #### Conclusion

    The findings of the 2025 J.D. Power U.S. Credit Card Satisfaction Study underscore the changing dynamics of credit card offerings and customer expectations. As Apple addresses its hurdles with the Apple Card, attention will be directed toward enhancing customer satisfaction and redefining its credit card strategy to compete effectively in the marketplace.

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on US Government Engaged in Talks to Obtain Share in Intel, Resulting in Spike in Stock Values
    US Government Engaged in Talks to Obtain Share in Intel, Resulting in Spike in Stock Values

    **Intel’s Stock Climb Amid Government Stake Discussions**

    Intel’s shares saw a notable rise in late trading today, propelled by reports that the Trump administration is engaging in talks to secure a stake in the firm. This news follows President Trump’s recent demand for the resignation of Intel CEO Lip-Bu Tan, which was succeeded by a meeting between the two.

    **Government’s Interest in Intel**

    As stated in a Bloomberg report, the Trump administration’s interest in Intel is part of a larger initiative to strengthen the company’s proposed factory hub in Ohio. This site was originally expected to be the largest chip manufacturing facility in the world, but has encountered multiple delays, extending its completion date into the 2030s. The discussions regarding the potential stake are still in the early stages, with details about the size of the stake still undetermined.

    Intel’s shares, which had previously grown by 7.38% throughout the day, experienced an added boost of 3.2% in after-hours trading following the news.

    **Background of the Discussions**

    The discussions seem to be a direct result of a recent meeting between President Trump and CEO Lip-Bu Tan. This meeting occurred after Trump’s public disparagement of Tan, referring to him as “highly CONFLICTED.” This comment arose from Tan’s past leadership position at Cadence Design, a company that recently admitted guilt to charges tied to selling chip-design products to a Chinese military university.

    While Intel has opted not to comment on the potential arrangement, the company did convey its dedication to aiding the Trump administration’s initiatives to enhance U.S. technology and manufacturing prowess. The White House has yet to issue any remarks regarding the discussions.

    **Conclusion**

    As the situation progresses, the ramifications of a government stake in Intel could significantly influence the company’s trajectory and the semiconductor sector at large. Investors and market watchers will closely monitor for more updates on this unfolding narrative.

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on iPhone 17 Launch Date: Expected Schedule for Apple’s Next Smartphone
    iPhone 17 Launch Date: Expected Schedule for Apple’s Next Smartphone

    **iPhone 17 Launch Date: What to Anticipate**

    Nearly a year has passed since Apple unveiled its premier iPhone 16 collection, and excitement is growing for the iPhone 17 launch. Here’s what we can look forward to regarding the release of the iPhone 17, iPhone 17 Air, iPhone 17 Pro, and iPhone 17 Pro Max.

    ### September is the Launch Month for the iPhone 17 Series

    Apple has set a regular release schedule for its devices, especially for the iPhone, which generally debuts around the same period every year. Traditionally, new iPhones are revealed during a significant media event and become available for purchase approximately a week and a half later.

    Recent iPhone announcement dates are as follows:
    – **2024**: Monday, September 9
    – **2023**: Tuesday, September 12
    – **2022**: Wednesday, September 7
    – **2021**: Tuesday, September 14

    Following this trend, we anticipate Apple to announce the upcoming iPhone 17 series during the week of September 8, most likely on Monday the 8th or Tuesday the 9th.

    ### Anticipated Official Release Date for the iPhone 17

    Although the specific announcement day may vary slightly, the official launch day for new iPhones generally falls on a Friday, occurring the week after the announcement. Hence, the iPhone 17 release date is anticipated to be Friday, September 19.

    Recent timelines for iPhone launches support this pattern:
    – **2024: iPhone 16**
    – Announced: Monday, September 9
    – Pre-orders: Friday, September 13
    – Release date: Friday, September 20
    – **2023: iPhone 15**
    – Announced: Tuesday, September 12
    – Pre-orders: Friday, September 15
    – Release date: Friday, September 22
    – **2022: iPhone 14**
    – Announced: Wednesday, September 7
    – Pre-orders: Friday, September 9
    – Release date: Friday, September 16

    Regardless of the exact announcement date, pre-orders for the iPhone 17 are expected to begin that Friday, with the official launch the following Friday.

    ### iPhone 17 Release Date: Conclusion

    In conclusion, Apple adheres to a consistent strategy for its flagship iPhone releases. For the forthcoming iPhone 17 series, we can anticipate:
    – **2025: iPhone 17, iPhone 17 Air, iPhone 17 Pro, iPhone 17 Pro Max**
    – Announced: Week of September 8
    – Pre-orders: Friday, September 12
    – Release date: Friday, September 19

    Which new iPhone 17 variant do you intend to purchase? Share your thoughts in the comments.

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on Samsung Unveils Galaxy Theme Showcasing KPop Demon Hunters Characters
    Samsung Unveils Galaxy Theme Showcasing KPop Demon Hunters Characters

    Samsung is offering Galaxy smartphone users a fresh way to enjoy Netflix’s record-breaking animated movie “KPop Demon Hunters”: On Wednesday, the company began releasing a complimentary, limited-time collection of smartphone themes inspired by the K-pop-themed film — exclusively available via the Galaxy Store.

    This collection features 11 designs that entirely alter the appearance of a user’s device, including the lock and home screens, icons, messages, and even the always-on display. Fans will discover a special package dedicated to the in-universe K-pop group HUNTR/X, alongside ten character wallpapers showcasing characters such as Rumi, Zoey, Jinu, Derpy, and Sussie.

    The promotion is valid until September 12 and is accessible in select markets including the U.S., U.K., South Korea, and Canada. This is just the latest instance of Samsung collaborating with significant entertainment brands to develop exclusive, content-driven experiences for Galaxy users, this time leveraging one of Netflix’s most significant global successes.

    A Galaxy transformation featuring one of Netflix’s largest films to date

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Samsung intends to release AI-Enhanced Smart Glasses by the end of 2026
    Samsung intends to release AI-Enhanced Smart Glasses by the end of 2026

    Samsung is allegedly getting ready to make its entrance into the AI-equipped smart glasses sector with an independent product set to debut in late 2026. This development comes in the wake of the company’s latest introduction of the Galaxy Z Fold 7 and Galaxy Z Flip 7 foldable devices, alongside its expected trifold Galaxy phone and two head-mounted gadgets. These innovations are part of Samsung’s larger blueprint to evolve into the post-smartphone age, where computing experiences are predicted to migrate towards smart glasses augmented by AI features.

    The forthcoming AI smart glasses from Samsung will be separate from the firm’s partnership with Google, which will introduce AI smart glasses endowed with augmented reality (AR) functionalities later this year. In contrast to the Google-Samsung glasses, Samsung’s standalone model will lack an integrated display. Rather, they will operate akin to the Ray-Ban Meta smart glasses, outfitted with cameras, microphones, and speakers to enable AI engagement.

    Samsung’s independent AI smart glasses aspire to tap into the rising fascination with AI technology, capitalizing on the company’s considerable investments in AI throughout the past few years. The glasses are anticipated to harness generative AI software, allowing them to handle multimodal inputs like images, videos, and voice commands. This feature will provide users with instantaneous AI support, likely via a link to a nearby smartphone.

    The strategy of the Korean tech giant underlines its conviction that smart glasses could emerge as the next significant technological breakthrough following smartphones. Samsung is not the only player in this field, as other key industry figures like Apple are also investigating smart glasses as possible successors to modern smartphone technology.

    While particular information about Samsung’s AI smart glasses is still limited, the company is set to step into a market expected to see significant growth in the approaching years. According to market analysis firm Fortune Business Insights, the smart glasses industry is projected to escalate from $253 million to $1.6 billion by 2032. By entering the market at an early stage, Samsung aims to capture a considerable portion of this flourishing sector.

    Alongside Samsung’s initiatives, other technology firms are also making progress in the AI and smart glasses domain. OpenAI is expected to launch its first hardware offering, delivering multimodal AI functionalities akin to the Ray-Ban Meta AI glasses. Simultaneously, Meta is pushing forward with its Meta AI projects, recently revealing a pair of AI glasses branded with Oakley.

    As the rivalry heats up, Samsung’s capability to distinguish its AI smart glasses from current and forthcoming offerings will be essential. The company’s experience in the smartphone landscape, where it has adeptly navigated collaborations and competitions with Google, may yield beneficial insights as it steps into the smart glasses market.

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on New Solution for Apple Watch Blood Oxygen Capability Unveiled Promptly
    New Solution for Apple Watch Blood Oxygen Capability Unveiled Promptly

    **Apple Brings Back Blood Oxygen Monitoring for Certain Apple Watch Models with watchOS 11.6.1**

    With the latest launch of watchOS 11.6.1 and the accompanying iOS 18.6.1, Apple has reinstated blood oxygen measurements for U.S. users of the Apple Watch Series 9, Series 10, and Ultra 2. This update follows the complete removal of the feature in late 2023, addressing worries among users who were reluctant to transition to newer models due to the absence of this health monitoring function.

    However, the return of blood oxygen monitoring comes with a stipulation. The procedure now necessitates the iPhone to manage data processing and present results, making it a bit less user-friendly than it once was. In spite of this change, the reinstatement of the feature represents a major advancement for Apple, particularly as it gears up for the expected debut of the Apple Watch Series 11 and Ultra 3 this fall.

    For current owners of the Apple Watch Series 8, Ultra 1, and prior models, the new workaround mitigates some hesitation regarding an upgrade. Numerous users had reservations about potentially losing the blood oxygen functionality, which is vital to the Apple Watch’s standing as a health and fitness tracker. This workaround reflects Apple’s dedication to ensuring critical health features remain intact without sacrificing user experience, even amidst ongoing legal disputes with Masimo, a company that has raised issues regarding the blood oxygen monitoring technology.

    Apple’s wearables division has encountered obstacles recently, with industry statistics revealing a 19 percent decrease in Apple Watch shipments year over year in 2024, as per Counterpoint Research. This decline follows the release of the Apple Watch Ultra 2 in 2023, which received mixed feedback, and minimal significant updates in 2024, except for a new color alternative.

    The blood oxygen monitoring concern has primarily impacted U.S. consumers, yet the worry about losing a feature during an upgrade has been prevalent. The timing of the workaround is strategic, occurring just a month prior to the anticipated introduction of the Apple Watch Series 11 and Ultra 3, possibly motivating users to upgrade without the anxiety of forfeiting valuable health tracking features.

    In conclusion, Apple’s reestablishment of blood oxygen monitoring through watchOS 11.6.1 is a timely reaction to user concerns, emphasizing the significance of health monitoring in its wearable devices and positioning the company advantageously ahead of its forthcoming product releases.

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on Blood Oxygen Functionality Makes a Comeback on Apple Watch in iOS 26 Beta 5 Together with Apple Tabletop Robots
    Blood Oxygen Functionality Makes a Comeback on Apple Watch in iOS 26 Beta 5 Together with Apple Tabletop Robots

    ### Apple Watch Blood Oxygen Feature Makes a Comeback

    In an unexpected development, Apple has declared that the Blood Oxygen feature for the Apple Watch will be returning for users in the United States. This revival comes via a phone relay workaround, enabling users to again track their blood oxygen levels right from their wrist. This functionality, which was formerly offered, had been temporarily suspended, resulting in speculation and disappointment among users. The reinstatement of this feature underscores Apple’s dedication to health and wellness technology, further solidifying the Apple Watch’s status as a premier health monitoring gadget.

    ### iOS 26 Beta Launch

    In tandem with the announcement about the Blood Oxygen feature, Apple has also launched the most recent beta version of iOS 26. This update brings forth a variety of thrilling new animations and additional enhancements to the Liquid Glass interface, set to improve user experience and visual appeal. Participants in the beta program will have the chance to explore these new features prior to the official roll-out, contributing valuable insights to Apple as they finalize the software.

    ### Speculation on Affordable MacBook

    Along with the updates on the Apple Watch and iOS, there is increasing speculation about a possible affordable MacBook. Industry experts and enthusiasts are eagerly debating the implications of such a device, which could make Apple’s computing technology more attainable to a wider audience. This initiative could indicate Apple’s strategy to capture a larger market share, particularly among students and cost-conscious consumers.

    ### Future Aspirations in Home Robotics

    Apple’s ambitions transcend personal devices, with new information surfacing about the company’s forthcoming ventures into home robotics. While details remain limited, the potential for Apple to enter the home automation and robotics sector has generated significant interest. This aligns with the rising trend of smart home technology, and Apple’s prowess in software and hardware integration could position it favorably in this emerging arena.

    ### Happy Hour Plus

    For those seeking more comprehensive discussions, Benjamin and Chance host the 9to5Mac Happy Hour Plus, where they explore recent TV shows and movies they appreciated over the summer. Subscribers can benefit from ad-free episodes, pre- and post-show content, and exclusive bonus episodes by joining for $5 per month or $50 per year at

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on Recent Speculations: Forthcoming Apple TV 4K, Cellular MacBook Pro, Home Camera, and Beyond
    Recent Speculations: Forthcoming Apple TV 4K, Cellular MacBook Pro, Home Camera, and Beyond

    # Rumor Replay: Latest Apple Product Speculations

    This week’s installment of Rumor Replay at 9to5Mac highlights thrilling news in Apple’s product range, including updates on the upcoming Apple TV 4K chip, the expected Studio Display 2, the M5 MacBook Pro with cellular features, and more.

    ## Apple TV 4K to Feature A17 Pro, Along with Additional Chip Leaks

    Recent revelations from Apple code, brought to light by Aaron Perris and reported by MacRumors, indicate major updates concerning chips for forthcoming Apple products. Particularly, the new Apple TV 4K is anticipated to include either an A17 Pro or A18 chip, boosting its capabilities for Apple Intelligence support. Furthermore, the Studio Display 2 is rumored to come with an A19 Pro chip, which corresponds with earlier claims of a new Mac monitor that acts as a smart home display.

    ## M5 MacBook Pro Might Introduce 5G Cellular in Early 2026

    The M5 MacBook Pro is stirring excitement with claims that it may feature 5G cellular functionality, possibly launching in early 2026. This marks a departure from earlier expectations that cellular features would appear with the M6 MacBook Pro later in the year. The potential testing of a C1 modem in the M5 model suggests Apple is advancing towards incorporating cellular technology into its Mac products.

    ## Apple Home Surveillance Cameras

    Apple is reportedly stepping into the home security domain, intending to unveil a variety of cameras and security solutions. A battery-operated security camera is anticipated to debut in 2026, equipped with facial recognition and infrared sensors. This initiative could improve home automation, enabling features such as automatic lighting and music playback based on room occupants.

    ## Fresh Siri Design Incoming

    Mark Gurman has suggested that Siri will experience a notable visual overhaul as soon as next year. The revamped look may take cues from the Mac’s Finder icon, coinciding with robust enhancements in iOS 26.4. While this update is expected to improve Siri’s conversational skills, the precise timeline for the redesign remains unclear.

    ## Conclusion

    This week’s speculations underscore Apple’s continuous innovation across its product lineup, ranging from upgraded chips in the Apple TV and MacBook Pro to new pursuits in home security and a revitalized Siri interface. As these advancements progress, they promise to transform the user experience within the Apple ecosystem.

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on Google Wallet Unveils Fast Access Function with Innovative ‘Double-Tap’ Shortcut on Pixel Devices
    Google Wallet Unveils Fast Access Function with Innovative ‘Double-Tap’ Shortcut on Pixel Devices

    The updated overlay UI for Google Wallet simplifies the payment process during checkout.

    (Image credit: Roydon Cerejo / Android Central)

    Essential information

    • A Reddit user mentions that their Pixel 9 Pro Fold with Android 16 has access to the new Google Wallet shortcut overlay.
    • Activating this overlay is done by double-tapping the power button if Wallet is set as the preferred app for the gesture.
    • From this overlay, users can launch the full app and scroll through cards prior to using their NFC scanner for payment.

    Reports suggest that Google Wallet is beginning to deploy its new overlay in alignment with the double-tap gesture customization introduced in Android 16.

    A discussion on the Google Wallet subreddit showcases the launch of a new app overlay triggered by double-tapping the power button (via <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://9to5google.com/2025/08/13/google-wallet-overlay-pixel/" data-url="https://9to5google.com/2025/08/13/google-wallet-overlay-pixel/" target="_blank" referrerpolicy="no-referrer-when-downgrade" data-hl

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