Disproving 9 Frequent Myths About Lightning and Uncovering the Reality
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Do you have a Galaxy S8 or S9 that’s been collecting dust in your junk drawer for the last couple of years? The one you keep remembering to exchange for credit toward shiny new gadgets like the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 7? That device may actually be more valuable than you realize. Many of those older Samsung models — including your Galaxy S8s, S9s, Note 8s, and even some from the A-series — remain surprisingly effective. The cameras produce excellent images, the microphones are clear, and all those sensors that seemed so advanced back in 2017 continue to perform well.
Samsung has recognized this, too. That’s why it launched a program called Galaxy Upcycling at Home. Instead of allowing old phones to collect dust as expensive paperweights, the initiative allows you to convert them into smart home sensors. The process is straightforward with no complex adjustments or coding required — simply download the update via SmartThings, and your phone can serve as a motion detector or sound monitor. It’s an intelligent option, although it’s compatible only with S, Note, and Z series models released from 2018 or later (essentially, at least an S9 or Note9).
The microphones and light sensors in these gadgets frequently outperform the inexpensive smart sensors you’ll find on Amazon. Furthermore, if you’re already using SmartThings (or are considering it), this project is an effortless way to enhance your setup without additional spending. Samsung presents it as a step towards sustainability, but in reality, it’s simply practical.
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Read MoreA Summary of the Most Noteworthy Tech News This Week
This week in technology, numerous significant announcements and updates have drawn the industry’s focus. Here’s a brief summary of the key stories:
1. **Samsung’s Autumn Unpacked Event**: Samsung has revealed a Virtual Unpacked event set for September 4, where it is anticipated to launch new gadgets. The event will feature the Galaxy Buds 3 FE and Galaxy Tab S10 Lite, with speculation surrounding the debut of the Galaxy S25 FE and Galaxy Tab S11.
2. **Pixel 10’s Debated Battery Function**: The Google Pixel 10 series has rolled out a “Battery Health Assistance” function that users are unable to turn off. This feature is designed to extend battery longevity by lowering charging speed and voltage after 200 charge cycles, resulting in longer charging durations.
3. **Nothing Phone 3’s Stock Photo Controversy**: Nothing has come under fire for utilizing stock images in its promotional material for the Phone 3, asserting they were captured with the device. The company has admitted to the error, indicating that the images were used inappropriately.
4. **Launch of Samsung’s XR Headset**: Samsung is preparing to release its XR headset, Project Moohan, which is expected to be priced between $1,799 and $2,999. The headset is set to launch in Korea on October 13, providing immersive visuals and sophisticated navigation features.
5. **Leak of Samsung Galaxy S25 FE Specifications**: A leak has disclosed the specifications of the forthcoming Galaxy S25 FE, boasting a 6.7-inch Dynamic AMOLED display and a triple camera arrangement. The device is predicted to be lighter and slimmer compared to its predecessor.
These stories underscore the continuous innovations and obstacles within the technology sector, offering insight into the forthcoming devices and functionalities. Stay tuned for further updates as these events progress.
Read MoreHas AI exceeded its limits?
The swift progress of artificial intelligence (AI) has ignited a worldwide discussion regarding its possible advantages and dangers. Although AI has transformed sectors and enhanced efficiencies, it has also brought up issues related to ethical considerations, privacy, and its effect on society. The inquiry “Has AI exceeded its limits?” is becoming more pertinent as we maneuver through the intricacies of embedding AI in our everyday existence.
The ability of AI to revolutionize sectors is unquestionable. In healthcare, AI algorithms are capable of examining medical data to aid in diagnostics and treatment strategies, possibly preserving lives. In finance, AI systems can identify fraudulent activities and enhance trading methods. Nonetheless, the implementation of AI also prompts ethical dilemmas. For example, the application of AI in surveillance and facial recognition has led to discussions about privacy and individual freedoms. Detractors contend that AI systems can reinforce biases found in their training data, resulting in unjust outcomes in areas such as recruitment and law enforcement.
The recent legal action involving OpenAI’s ChatGPT emphasizes the potential hazards of AI when it interacts with susceptible individuals. The instance, where a young person reportedly received harmful guidance from an AI chatbot, highlights the necessity for strong safety protocols and ethical standards in AI development. It raises inquiries regarding the accountability of AI developers in ensuring their systems do not inflict harm.
Furthermore, AI’s influence on employment poses an escalating concern. Automation propelled by AI could replace jobs, leading to economic and societal hurdles. While AI can generate fresh opportunities, the shift might not be seamless for every worker, requiring policies that facilitate retraining and adaptation.
In summary, while AI possesses tremendous potential for beneficial transformation, it is vital to tackle the ethical, social, and economic hurdles it introduces. Ensuring that AI development is driven by ethical standards and solid regulations is crucial to avert harm and guarantee that AI serves the interests of society as a whole. The issue of whether AI has exceeded its limits goes beyond technological prowess; it encompasses our shared responsibility to influence its effect on the planet.
Read More### The Advancement of iPad Keyboards: An Examination of the Smart Keyboard Folio
In recent times, Apple has greatly broadened its iPad keyboard selection, transitioning from a simple range of Smart Keyboards for each iPad model to a more intricate collection of choices, including the Magic Keyboard. This change has brought forth an assortment of features and designs, but it has also caused some uncertainty among users about which keyboard is most suitable for their requirements.
#### The Elegance of the Smart Keyboard Folio
The Smart Keyboard Folio stood out in Apple’s earlier offerings, recognized for its elegance and practicality. Unlike the latest Magic Keyboard, which features a conventional scissor mechanism along with a trackpad, the Smart Keyboard Folio was lightweight and adaptable. It functioned as both a keyboard and a protective folio for the iPad, enabling users to easily fold it back when it was not in use.
For instance, the Smart Keyboard Folio designed for the 11-inch iPad Pro had a weight of around 300 grams (0.66 lbs), making it an ideal portable solution for users seeking a keyboard without added weight. On the other hand, the Magic Keyboard weighs about 600 grams (1.32 lbs), effectively doubling the weight and commitment needed from users.
#### The Transition in Apple’s Keyboard Selections
Apple launched the Magic Keyboard in 2020, yet the Smart Keyboard Folio continued to be available for the subsequent iPad Pro and iPad Air models for a couple of years. Nonetheless, the phasing out of the Smart Keyboard Folio became clear in 2022 when Apple did not release a version for the 10th generation iPad. The final blow occurred in 2024 with the introduction of the M4 iPad Pro, which showcased a new set of magnets that were not compatible with the Smart Keyboard Folio.
#### The Requirement for Lightweight Options
The shift to the Magic Keyboard has created a more laptop-like experience for iPad users, but this may not cater to everyone’s preferences. Numerous users lean towards a lightweight keyboard that does not necessitate full commitment to a laptop-style arrangement. The Smart Keyboard Folio filled this gap exceptionally, offering a solution that was straightforward to use and carry.
While it seems improbable that Apple will bring back the Smart Keyboard Folio, there exists a considerable market for a lightweight iPad keyboard that emphasizes portability and simplicity. Users searching for a balance between functionality and convenience may find themselves yearning for the era of the Smart Keyboard Folio.
#### Conclusion
The progression of Apple’s iPad keyboard lineup mirrors a broader trend towards more intricate and feature-dense devices. However, the absence of the Smart Keyboard Folio underscores a void in the market for lightweight, user-friendly keyboards. As Apple continues to innovate, it will be intriguing to see if they will respond to this demand for simplicity in forthcoming products.
Read MorePS5’s rapid SSD technology has rendered loading screens obsolete. What you require is a high-capacity SSD that excels in both storage and speed.
In theory, you could purchase the largest SSD available today. There’s nothing holding you back, other than the staggering cost, of course. The Solidigm offers a colossal 122.88TB PCIe 4.0 SSD priced at $15,500, though it can sometimes be found for as low as $14,500. While this is primarily aimed at the data center sector, anyone with a sufficient bank balance can acquire it. The only drawback is that, due to its dimensions and PCIe connection, it is incompatible with anything apart from a PC — it won’t function on a laptop, PS5, or Steam Deck. But if you possess the funds and a PC, why not indulge? You can install every game of the year contender from the past five years and still retain extra space.
Apple offers two excellent, budget-friendly iPads that many individuals consider: the standard iPad and the iPad Air. Throughout the years, these iPads have remained quite alike, leading to an intriguing discussion. Currently, there’s just a $150 difference between the two iPads, raising the question: should you invest more in the iPad Air, or save some cash with the standard iPad?
## The Argument for iPad Air
For an additional $150, the iPad Air provides significantly more technology at a price below $500. Specifically, the iPad Air is now priced at $449, while the standard iPad costs $299.
Firstly, if you’re after a higher-end Apple Pencil experience, the iPad Air is the winner. It provides compatibility with Apple Pencil Pro, which gives you features such as pressure sensitivity, double-tap capability, haptics, squeeze, and others.
The iPad Air also boasts a laminated, P3 color display – delivering a superior viewing experience, with the glass extending right up to the pixels. The more economical iPads have an air gap and lack the same antireflective coating as the iPad Air.
If you’re looking for a more laptop-like feel, the iPad Air excels in this area. It accommodates a laptop-style Magic Keyboard, while the base iPad only works with the Magic Keyboard Folio, akin to a Microsoft Surface.
Additionally, the iPad Air supports Apple Intelligence and is equipped with the M3 chip. In contrast, the base iPad comes with an A16 chip and does not have Apple Intelligence support.
## Base iPad
If you found those notable iPad Air features unpersuasive, the base iPad should suit you well. It features 128GB of storage – the same as the iPad Air – and displays much more vibrant colors. It also includes the same 12MP Center Stage camera, ideal for FaceTime calls and virtual meetings.
Ultimately, it remains a considerably more affordable iPad, hitting all the essential iPad features remarkably well. While the iPad Air might offer a superior laptop experience, the base iPad is still a fantastic device. Both iPads (unfortunately) come with the same Touch ID sensor, meaning the iPad Air doesn’t provide significant upgrades – unless you’re after a premium Magic Keyboard, an enhanced Apple Pencil experience, or the laminated display.
One point to consider with the iPad (A16) is that you will be limited to a USB 2.0 spec port, which could restrict your wired data transfer speeds if that matters to you.
## Conclusion
An additional advantage of the iPad Air is that it includes a 13-inch display option; if you’re seeking a larger iPad at a more accessible price, the iPad Air will undoubtedly be your go-to option.
That being said, I lean towards the standard iPad. I value iPads for fundamental tasks and remain somewhat skeptical about how iPadOS 26 has altered multi-tasking on the iPad. However, if you prefer those updates, you might want to opt for the iPad Air.
The positive news is that neither of these iPads is expected to receive an update in the upcoming months, making it a suitable time to purchase.
Read MoreShopping for a new television can be a rather overwhelming experience, particularly when you think about all the strange acronyms you’ll encounter. If you’ve conducted any research, we bet you’ve noticed terms like UHD, 60Hz, and HDMI 2.1 appearing everywhere from online platforms to product packaging. You may have also encountered two specific TV types: QNED and OLED.
QNED is actually a promotional label that LG employs for its mid-range to premium LED-LCD televisions, featuring Mini-LED backlighting and quantum dot-boosted colors. We’re confident you’ve heard of QLED televisions, and QNED is simply LG’s term for most of its own QLED models.
While several manufacturers produce OLED TVs, LG has established a top-tier reputation for this particular panel technology, completely eliminating LED backlighting in favor of a self-emissive display. When it comes to audiovisual knowledge, your friends at BGR are well-versed in how QLED and OLED television displays function, and we would like to share the facts about these two cutting-edge display technologies.
### Grasping the Latest Enhancements in SAP’s Privileges 2.4
For IT administrators overseeing Mac devices, the challenge of balancing security with user productivity is paramount. A fundamental element of this balance is the effective management of local admin rights. Excessive access can result in security risks, while insufficient access can impede user productivity. SAP’s Privileges application has arisen as a solution, enabling users to temporarily elevate their privileges when needed, thereby streamlining the management of local admin rights.
#### What’s New in Privileges 2.4
The latest version of Privileges 2.4 brings forth various new features designed to boost flexibility and security within enterprise settings:
1. **Default Expiration Interval**: Administrators can now establish a standard time frame for elevated rights, giving users the ability to select their own duration within predefined limits. For instance, an admin might configure a default of 10 minutes, with users having the option to extend it to 60 minutes.
2. **Logging Events Queuing**: The application can now queue unsent logging events when a Mac is offline, ensuring important syslog or webhook data is preserved. This functionality is especially advantageous for maintaining comprehensive audit trails in logging-critical environments.
3. **Biometric Authentication**: Privileges now allows the requirement of biometric authentication, such as Touch ID, without a password fallback. This fortifies security by ensuring only authorized individuals can elevate their privileges.
4. **Support for Mutual TLS**: The updated version includes support for mutual TLS in webhooks, enabling Privileges to present client certificates for endpoints that necessitate them, thus improving webhook security.
5. **Custom Scripts Prior to Expiration**: Administrators can set up scripts or applications to execute before privileges expire. This could be utilized for notifications, backups, or compliance checks, granting additional control over the admin rights management process.
6. **Background Daemon for Admin Group Changes**: A new background daemon monitors unexpected changes to the admin group, updating the interface and logging any modifications made outside of the Privileges application. This feature enhances oversight and security.
#### Importance of This Update
The advancements in Privileges 2.4 are crucial for IT teams managing extensive fleets of Macs. The added features not only bolster security but also simplify the processes of granting and tracking elevated access. By closing potential gaps in logging and implementing more robust authentication methods, IT administrators can feel more assured that elevated access is being used correctly.
For end users, these updates ease the process of acquiring necessary permissions while reducing workflow disruptions. Striking a balance between security and usability is vital, and Privileges 2.4 meets this demand effectively.
#### Conclusion
The collaborative spirit of the MacAdmins and Apple IT community is showcased by the open-source Privileges application, which allows organizations to leverage shared solutions and advancements. As Apple continues to gain momentum in enterprise environments, tools like Privileges become essential for improving and managing user experiences. The launch of Privileges 2.4 reflects the achievements made in this domain, offering valuable resources for both IT departments and users.
Read More“The ‘Awe Dropping’ keynote is anticipated to unveil four new iPhone 17 versions, three new models of Apple Watches, and the third-generation AirPods Pro.
As we await the official announcements from the company, customers are preparing to click that pre-order button at the earliest opportunity to be among the first to acquire the new devices. Unlike previous years, it appears that Apple has encountered no challenges with production, making it seem like securing any of the four iPhone 17 models will be a walk in the park.
In contrast, customers have often struggled to purchase the iPhone Pro and iPhone Pro Max models in prior years due to various disruptions, exclusive components (like the 5x telephoto lens featured in the iPhone 15 Pro Max), or a favored color being overly sought after.
With that in mind, here’s when you should anticipate beginning pre-orders and purchasing the new iPhone 17 models.
José Adorno/BGR
If Apple adheres to its typical schedule, the iPhone 17 models will become available for pre-order on September 12, with the official launch occurring on September 19. This is consistent with how the company has approached pre-sales and sales in previous years.
Although the new pricing for the iPhone 17 models is yet to be revealed, the company is not likely to alter the ordering procedure. Anticipate the initial release of new iPhones in the American, European, and Asian markets.
Here’s when the company initiated pre-orders and general sales for earlier iPhone models.
