Month: August 2025

Tim Cook Suggests Possible Purchase of AI Firm to Strengthen Apple’s AI Functionality

During this week’s earnings call for the third quarter, Tim Cook, the CEO of Apple, disclosed that the company might look to acquire an AI firm to enhance its Apple Intelligence platform. Earlier reports indicated that Perplexity could be viewed as an ideal collaborator.

In comparison to other significant entities, Perplexity AI would represent the most sensible choice for acquisition. Although it would probably be the largest purchase Apple has ever undertaken, given its current valuation of $18 billion, it may be a logical move, as the corporation has had difficulties staying competitive due to significant delays affecting Apple Intelligence and Siri.

Notably, Beats has been Apple’s most successful investment thus far, having paid $3 billion for the audio brand in 2014. Nevertheless, Tim Cook stated that the company remains committed to heavily investing in AI, viewing it as “one of the most profound technologies of our lifetime.” Tim Cook remarked to CNBC, “We are significantly growing our investments. We’re embedding it across our devices, across our platforms, and across the company.”

Apple’s Acquisitions in 2025

In contrast to some of its prominent rivals, Apple hasn’t made any pioneering acquisitions in the last year. Nonetheless, Tim Cook pointed out that Apple has acquired “around” seven companies in 2025, but none have been “huge in terms of dollar amount.” For example, at the end of May, Digital Trends reported that Apple had secured the video game studio RAC7.

The CEO of Apple also mentioned that the firm is “open to M&A (mergers and acquisitions) that accelerates our roadmap.” Given the sluggish output in recent years and the number of promising initiatives that have been abandoned, this isn’t particularly surprising. It’s also important to recognize that even when Apple acquires a company, immediate changes for end users may not follow.

For instance, Apple took a couple of years to incorporate Dark Sky into the Weather app. More recently, after acquiring Pixelmator, the company has kept the app unchanged, having just added Apple Intelligence support for the editor. Therefore, even if Apple were to acquire Perplexity AI today, we would likely still be at least a year away from observing significant changes on the Apple Intelligence platform.

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AYANEO Confronts Retroid and Anbernic with Soon-to-Launch KONKR Pocket Fit

I’m not entirely certain what to make of AYANEO’s alleged “budget” brand.

What you need to know

– Besides various handhelds and mini PCs, AYANEO has launched KONKR, a budget-friendly sub-brand.
– The KONKR Pocket FIT is scheduled to debut as the company’s “initial flagship product” later this year.
– Pricing information is still pending, but we do know it operates on the latest Snapdragon G3 Gen 3.

It’s been a significant week for AYANEO as the company kicked off Monday by unveiling its product roadmap for the upcoming months. As if the announcement of the AYANEO Pocket DS wasn’t sufficient, CEO Arthur Zhang also unveiled a new sub-brand, KONKR.

During the announcement, Zhang stated that KONKR is “redefining what ‘value’ signifies in handheld gaming.” We also found out about the first device in the line, as the KONKR Pocket FIT was revealed.

The concept of an affordable Android handheld from AYANEO is compelling, as this market is already being led by Retroid and Anbernic. Especially given that the KONKR Pocket FIT features Qualcomm’s latest flagship gaming chip, the Snapdragon G3 Gen 3.

Earlier this year, the Retroid Pocket Flip 2 and Pocket Classic were launched, with prices set at either $179/$229 or $119/$129, respectively. While the Pocket Classic is the first handheld to utilize the Snapdragon G1 Gen 2, the Pocket Flip 2 is available with either the Dimensity 1100 or Snapdragon 865, two SoCs that are at least four years old.

By 2025, Anbernic has been increasingly focusing on the Android segment with products such as the RG557, RG Slide, and now the RG477M. The RG557 and RG477M are both powered by the Dimensity 8300, priced at $250 and $240, respectively.

Considering this, it’s hard to believe that the Pocket FIT will fit into this price range. Unlike the dual-screened Pocket DS, the Pocket FIT is driven by Qualcomm’s latest gaming chip, the Snapdragon G3 Gen 3. This chip was unveiled at GDC earlier this year and is currently featured in the AYANEO Pocket S2 and Pocket S2 Pro.

The S2 is currently available on Indiegogo starting at $439 for the 8GB/128GB variant, whereas the S2 Pro begins at $559 for the 16GB/512GB option. Shipping has commenced for these devices, but once the campaign wraps up, prices will climb to $499 and $619, respectively.

At first glance, one might assume that the Pocket S2 and S2 Pro feature an OLED screen, and if KONKR chose an LCD panel, it could lower the price. However, that’s not accurate as both the Pocket S2 and Pocket FIT are fitted with LCD screens. Compounding the confusion is that the FIT’s display offers a faster 144Hz refresh rate, as opposed to the 60Hz panel of the S2.

So to be honest, I’m not quite clear on AYANEO’s strategy with the KONKR brand. Of everything the company announced this week, only the Pocket DS has piqued my interest more. But if we see a starting price in the range of $250 to $300 for a handheld featuring the Snapdragon G3 Gen 3, AYANEO KONKR could significantly change the landscape.

Where does this FIT?

On paper, the KONKR Pocket FIT looks poised for immediate success. However, we still don’t know its price, and there’s a lot at stake regarding whether AYANEO will execute this correctly.

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Motorola Phone Sees Major Price Cut in Best Buy’s Back To School Promotion

An excellently crafted smartphone with commendable battery longevity—priced below $500.

(Image credit: Nicholas Sutrich / Android Central)

With the school season approaching fast, numerous retailers are rolling out significant phone promotions as part of their back-to-school offers. For those who appreciate Moto devices and wish to upgrade, the Motorola Edge 2025 is currently discounted by $100 at Best Buy, and this discount can be enhanced to $200 if you allow them to set it up with a carrier.

The Motorola Edge stands out as our preferred model in the 2025 Moto lineup, and despite its already budget-friendly price, promotions like this render the phone an incredible bargain. The Edge features a sleek, lightweight design with an anti-slip vegan leather back that provides excellent grip and exudes elegance.

It is also praised for its camera capabilities, extended battery duration, and rapid charging. Additionally, it is important to highlight that this specific offer pertains to the 256GB storage variant in the Pantone Deep Forest hue.

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Tim Cook Announces iOS 26 as Apple’s Most Favored Beta Launch So Far

**Apple’s Three Main OS Updates Showing Remarkable Popularity in Beta**

Apple has recently announced strong quarterly earnings, with CEO Tim Cook emphasizing the appeal of the beta versions of iOS 26, iPadOS 26, and macOS Tahoe during the investor discussion. The latest updates have sparked considerable interest, fueled by their cutting-edge features and a novel design aesthetic referred to as the Liquid Glass design.

Tim Cook mentioned that these updates represent the most sought-after developer betas Apple has ever launched. This observation is remarkable as it includes not only iOS 26 but also macOS Tahoe and iPadOS 26, highlighting a robust enthusiasm among both developers and users.

The buzz around iPadOS 26 is credited to its various productivity improvements, which have evidently struck a chord with iPad users keen to utilize the new functionalities. Traditionally, developers have been hesitant to embrace macOS betas, but the appeal of the Liquid Glass design and the necessity for app compatibility with the forthcoming update have heightened interest in macOS Tahoe.

It’s also significant to point out that Apple has removed the earlier $99 yearly fee for accessing developer betas, which likely aids in boosting participation in beta testing. This change indicates that the trend of increased enthusiasm for developer betas may also carry over to public beta releases.

As the beta testing phase progresses, it is clear that a compelling design can greatly affect user engagement and upgrade choices. The excitement surrounding iOS 26 has ignited discussions among users, with many showing a keen interest in experiencing the new features.

In summary, Apple’s newest OS updates are not only improving user experience but also nurturing a dynamic community of developers and users eager to discover the new opportunities these updates offer.

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Amazon to Launch Advertising in Alexa Dialogues

**The Future of AI Assistants: Advertising vs. User Experience**

In the changing realm of artificial intelligence, the rivalry between voice assistants such as Amazon’s Alexa+ and Apple’s Siri is growing more intense. A crucial question surfaces: would users opt for an AI-driven Alexa+ that integrates advertising into its functionalities, or a conventional Siri that remains free of ads? As Amazon persistently innovates with Alexa+, the consequences of incorporating advertisements into user engagements are becoming progressively important.

### Amazon’s Vision for Alexa+

During a recent earnings discussion, Amazon CEO Andy Jassy underscored the potential of Alexa+ not merely as a voice assistant but also as a formidable advertising platform. Jassy pointed out that users are keen on the Alexa+ experience, especially its shopping features. He remarked, “People do a lot of shopping

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Images of iPhone 17 Air Battery featuring Steel Case Leaked by Source

In a little more than a month, Apple is set to reveal its extremely slim iPhone 17 Air model. Recently, tipster Majin Bu provided a glimpse of what is reported to be the battery component of this upcoming device.

### Initial Glimpse at Suspected iPhone 17 Air Battery

Today on his platform, tipster Majin Bu posted multiple images of what’s purportedly the genuine battery of the iPhone 17 Air. The battery is encased in a steel housing, akin to the design utilized in last year’s iPhone 16 Pro. Bu claims that the battery capacity is around 2900mAh, which is consistent with details from other leak sources.

The iPhone 17 Air is anticipated to feature a 6.6-inch screen, introducing a brand-new size to Apple’s offerings. Its main attraction will undoubtedly be the exceptionally sleek new design, with earlier reports suggesting that the device will measure about 5.55mm in thickness, making it the slimmest iPhone to date.

iOS 26 brings updated features aimed at improving battery management, such as an Adaptive Power mode. However, it appears probable that the iPhone 17 Air will have the most limited battery life among the iPhone 17 lineup. Depending on users’ requirements, it is hoped that the battery will still be adequate for typical daily usage.

Are you considering purchasing an iPhone 17 Air? Does battery life concern you? Share your thoughts in the comments.

### Top iPhone Accessories

*FTC: We use income generating auto affiliate links.*

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How to Find the Absent GIF Keyboard on Your iPhone

GIF Keyboard by Tenor or a similar application can also typically be located in the same area.

Nonetheless, while users anticipate switching to the GIF Keyboard by tapping the globe icon located in the lower left corner of Messages, directly beneath the primary keyboard, this feature has been absent for some — leaving only the smiley face icon and the regular emoji keyboard available. However, there’s no need to stress; reinstating it requires just a quick modification of your iPhone settings.

Has Apple removed the GIF Keyboard?

iOS 26 Development Progress Report: Continuous Advancements, Favorable Feedback for Fresh Design and Path Forward

# iOS 26: An In-Depth Look at the Updated User Interface

With the launch of iOS 26, users are encountering one of the most substantial transformations to the iPhone user interface in recent years. Having tested both the developer beta and the public beta, I’m excited to share my observations on the new functionalities and design features that characterize this update.

## The Liquid Glass Aesthetic

One of the most notable features of iOS 26 is its visual redesign, commonly dubbed the “Liquid Glass” aesthetic. This design decision has generated discussion among users, but I find it invigorating after years of similar looks across iPhone models. The interface showcases a range of glass effects, with some components featuring a frosted look for enhanced readability. While certain detractors claim this variation detracts from the overall experience, I value the variety in glass appearances.

Even though there’s a move away from the skeuomorphic designs that dominated previous iOS releases, the refreshed look includes subtle 3D elements that improve its visual charm. However, I feel Apple could take this idea further by intensifying the glass effect for a stronger impression.

## Camera Application Improvements

The Camera app has seen a significant redesign, substituting the conventional slider with two separate buttons for Video and Photo modes. This modification addresses the needs of most users who mainly use these options. Although the slider can still be accessed by sliding across the buttons, the revamped interface might not be instantly intuitive for every user. Still, once accustomed, it proves to be an effective layout that reduces clutter while ensuring quick access to necessary functions.

## Changes in the Photos App

The Photos app has been criticized for its increasing complexity as new features are incorporated. However, by splitting the Library and Collections into different tabs, users can customize their experience to better fit their preferences. I suggest taking the time to adjust the layout, as this can greatly enhance usability.

## Enhanced Features in the Phone App

iOS 26 introduces a Call Screening feature, enabling users to filter calls from unknown numbers. While this feature is available in the UK, it hasn’t functioned properly for me, frequently declining calls silently. Additionally, the Hold Assist feature attempts to alert users when a call on hold is answered, though its effectiveness is diminished by how many companies handle their hold queues.

## Updates to the Messages Application

The Messages app now offers an anti-spam feature that moves texts from unfamiliar numbers into a secondary view. This is a positive enhancement, though users may need to remember to check for authentic messages. The capability to create polls within messages is especially useful, although the option to alter backgrounds can create disruptions in group chats.

## Safari’s Streamlined Tabs

The newest version of Safari introduces a “Compact” setting, which condenses the visible interface to optimize screen real estate. This design shift has been positively received, leading to a more efficient browsing experience.

## Apple Intelligence Innovations

While I am eager for improvements in Siri’s functionalities, iOS 26 brings some exciting features. The ability to recognize dates in screenshots and the live translation feature show promise, with the latter demonstrating impressive accuracy in early assessments.

## Conclusion

In summary, iOS 26 offers a visually striking and functional upgrade to the iPhone interface. Although there are areas in need of enhancement, particularly concerning feature dependability and Siri’s functions, the trajectory Apple is on is promising. As users continue to navigate the new features, I look forward to witnessing how these modifications will develop and enrich the iPhone experience.

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Forthcoming Launches on Apple TV+ for August

Apple TV+ is having an extraordinary year, with a thrilling lineup planned for August. The service is set to debut new seasons of beloved shows and originate fresh series, appealing to a wide range of viewers. Here’s an in-depth preview of what audiences can look forward to from Apple TV+ in August.

### Chief of War
– **Release Date:** August 1
– **Genre:** Drama
– **Synopsis:** Inspired by real-life events, “Chief of War” chronicles the determined warrior Kaʻiana, played by Jason Momoa, as he undertakes a quest to unify Hawaii’s four kingdoms in the face of an imminent existential danger.

### Stillwater (Season 4)
– **Release Date:** August 1
– **Genre:** Kids & Family
– **Synopsis:** In “Stillwater,” siblings Karl, Addy, and Michael glean essential life lessons from their insightful panda neighbor, Stillwater, who narrates tales that offer fresh insights into their experiences.

### Platonic (Season 2)
– **Release Date:** August 6
– **Genre:** Comedy
– **Synopsis:** The second season of “Platonic” continues to follow best friends Seth Rogen and Rose Byrne as they traverse midlife hurdles, including their careers and personal connections, with a blend of humor and compassion.

### Snoopy Presents: A Summer Musical
– **Release Date:** August 15
– **Genre:** Kids & Family
– **Synopsis:** This musical special encapsulates the spirit of summer camp through Charlie Brown’s escapades, underscoring the values of friendship and adventure as Snoopy and Woodstock set off on a treasure hunt.

### Invasion (Season 3)
– **Release Date:** August 22
– **Genre:** Sci-Fi
– **Synopsis:** “Invasion” makes its return with a third season, where a variety of characters join forces to tackle an extraterrestrial menace. As they collaborate, they confront personal struggles and build new bonds in a time-sensitive situation.

### KPOPPED
– **Release Date:** August 29
– **Genre:** Reality Competition
– **Synopsis:** Each episode of “KPOPPED” showcases Western musicians working with K-pop idols to craft new performances, with a live audience deciding which new K-popped song reigns supreme.

### Shape Island (Season 2)
– **Release Date:** August 29
– **Genre:** Kids & Family
– **Synopsis:** “Shape Island” depicts three friends as they investigate their differences and seek adventures, inspired by the cherished works of Mac Barnett and Jon Klassen.

### New Episodes of Existing Series
Alongside the new titles, Apple TV+ will also unveil new episodes of ongoing series such as:
– **Foundation:** New episodes airing through September 12.
– **Acapulco:** Continues until September 17.
– **Smoke:** Wraps up on August 15.

Apple TV+ is priced at $9.99 per month, featuring highly-rated shows like “Ted Lasso,” “Severance,” and “The Morning Show.” There are also opportunities to watch for free through various promotional offers.

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The Significance of the PC Brand Name Asus

gaming phones for many years, but have you ever considered what it stands for? Unlike several tech brand names that seem fabricated or corporate, “Asus” has an unexpected origin grounded in mythology. It’s not an acronym as one might presume. As indicated by Asus, it’s a truncated version of Pegasus, the winged horse from Greek mythology.

The creators of the Taiwanese company Asus, a collective of engineers who departed Acer in the late 1980s, selected Pegasus as an emblem, but in a clever maneuver, they removed the first three letters to create “Asus.” This choice was intentional. When the company was established in 1989, alphabetical order was significant. Remember, this was before the internet era. Beginning the name with an “A” allowed Asus to show up sooner in directories, catalogs, and vendor listings, providing the brand with a visibility edge in a fiercely competitive tech landscape.

From components to worldwide acclaim