Day: September 23, 2025

    • sparta
    • Comments Off on M5 Mac Launch Timeline: Anticipated Release Dates for Upcoming Macs
    M5 Mac Launch Timeline: Anticipated Release Dates for Upcoming Macs

    Apple’s M5 Chip: Upcoming Release and Fresh Mac Variants

    With great anticipation, the tech world looks forward to the introduction of Apple’s M5 chip, with speculation indicating that the inaugural M5 Macs, including the MacBook Pro and MacBook Air, are imminent. Here’s a detailed summary of what to anticipate regarding the M5 chip and its related offerings.

    ### M5 Chip Launch Expected Shortly

    It is expected that Apple will reveal its next-generation M5 chip in October. This unveiling might take place during a special event or through a series of product announcements over several days. Notably, the M5 chip might not first appear in a Mac product; instead, it is rumored that the refreshed iPad Pro will be the initial device to showcase the M5 chip, continuing the pattern established by the M4 chip.

    Moreover, there are hints that the new Vision Pro headset could also feature the M5 chip, which would broaden its usage beyond conventional computing devices.

    ### Early 2026 Releases for M5 MacBook Pro and MacBook Air

    Traditionally, Apple unveils new MacBook Pro models in the fall, keeping expectations high for the announcement of the M5 MacBook Pro this year. However, Mark Gurman from Bloomberg has suggested that the M5 MacBook Pro might not be available until early 2026. When it eventually launches, it is predicted to uphold the existing industrial design in both 14-inch and 16-inch sizes, alongside three chip versions: M5, M5 Pro, and M5 Max.

    Simultaneously, the M5 MacBook Air is also anticipated to be revealed in early 2026, likely around February or March, paralleling the release schedule of the M4 model. The M5 MacBook Air is expected to retain the same design as its predecessor, providing 13-inch and 15-inch options.

    While the spotlight has largely been on the MacBook series, there is a possibility of other M5 Macs, such as the Mac mini and iMac, making their debut in late 2025 or early 2026.

    ### Conclusion

    As the release of the M5 chip nears, enthusiasm grows regarding the possible improvements and new functionalities that will accompany the next generation of Macs. The tech community is eager to observe how Apple will advance its innovation with the M5 chip and what novel features will be integrated into the upcoming MacBook Pro and MacBook Air variants.

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Convert Your Old Android Tablet into an Android Auto Vehicle Head Unit
    Convert Your Old Android Tablet into an Android Auto Vehicle Head Unit

    located on Android devices, Android Auto enables you to replicate or showcase your smartphone’s interface and content, mainly to utilize its applications and functionalities while driving. It includes an automatic split-screen feature and can also operate with basic equipment, such as a tablet, if you lack a built-in display.

    When you connect an Android Auto-compatible device to your car, typically through an available USB port, it will show the content on the vehicle’s dashboard screen. That USB port might have more capabilities than you realize, by the way. However, the processing for Android Auto is indeed carried out on the device itself — your smartphone. That’s one approach to utilizing Android Auto, absolutely, but what if you wish to make the tablet or an old phone the primary display? If you’re interested in transforming your old Android tablet into an Android Auto car head unit, you’ll be pleased to learn that where there’s a will, there’s a way.

    Beginning with Headunit Reloaded Emulator

    <source media="(min-width: 429px)" srcset="https://www.bgr.com/img/gallery/how-to-turn-your-old-android-tablet-into-an-android-auto-car-head-unit/getting-started

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Comparison of Ray-Ban Meta Smart Glasses: Is It Time to Transition from Gen 1 to Gen 2?
    Comparison of Ray-Ban Meta Smart Glasses: Is It Time to Transition from Gen 1 to Gen 2?

    **Meta Introduces Oakley Meta HSTN Innovations to Ray-Ban Styles: What’s Different in the Second Generation**

    Meta has launched the second iteration of its Ray-Ban Meta smart glasses, incorporating innovations from the Oakley Meta HSTN. These enhancements include upgraded video recording features and better battery performance, while still preserving the classic Ray-Ban aesthetics. Below is a thorough comparison of the new Ray-Ban Meta Gen 2 with the original model.

    **Design and Styles**

    The Ray-Ban Meta Gen 2 keeps the traditional look of the first generation, maintaining the same Wayfarer, Headliner, and Skyler designs. Although the design remains consistent, the Gen 2 is marginally lighter, weighing in at 48 grams versus the Gen 1’s 52 grams. This weight reduction may improve comfort, addressing earlier issues related to the glasses shifting down the nose.

    **Camera and Video Recording**

    Both versions are equipped with a 12MP ultra-wide camera, but the Gen 2 brings significant enhancements to video recording. It now supports 3K video at 30FPS, 1440p at 30FPS, and 1200p at 60FPS, exceeding the Gen 1’s maximum resolution of 1080p. These upgrades, drawn from the Oakley Meta HSTN, provide better stabilization, making them perfect for action photography. Upcoming software updates will enable hyperlapse and slow-motion recording features.

    **Battery Life and Charging**

    The Gen 2 sees a noteworthy improvement in battery life, offering up to eight hours per charge, which is double that of the Gen 1. This enhancement facilitates prolonged usage without the need for frequent recharging. Both variants come with a charging case featuring a USB-C port, allowing for a 50% charge in just 20 minutes.

    **Software and Features**

    Both generations include support for Meta AI, delivering voice assistance and camera functionalities. The Gen 2 introduces improved live translation capabilities, with offline translation anticipated in future updates.

    **Pricing and Availability**

    The Ray-Ban Meta Gen 2 is priced at $379, while the Gen 1 retails for $299. Although some styles may be temporarily out of stock, both models accommodate the same variety of prescription lenses.

    **Conclusion**

    For newcomers, the Ray-Ban Meta Gen 2 presents substantial advancements in video quality, battery longevity, and overall performance, making the higher price justifiable. Current Gen 1 users might contemplate an upgrade if they seek the new features, although the Gen 1 remains a solid choice for those satisfied with its performance.

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Apple Undergoes Legal Inquiry in the EU Concerning Fraudulent Apps
    Apple Undergoes Legal Inquiry in the EU Concerning Fraudulent Apps

    Apple has often referenced insecure and fraudulent apps as a rationale for its desire to sell all iPhone applications exclusively through the company’s own App Store. Nonetheless, various reports have indicated that there is a significant presence of scam apps that make it past Apple’s app review process, and the company is currently facing renewed legal scrutiny in the EU regarding this matter.

    ### The App Store Dispute

    Apple has faced legal challenges in multiple countries globally due to its monopolistic domination over the sale of iPhone applications. It has been compelled to allow third-party app stores within the EU and to ease some of its regulations in the US. The company has frequently contended that its stringent control over the App Store is the sole method to ensure that iPhones remain protected from fraudulent applications and similar threats. However, this argument loses strength when considering the considerable number of deceitful apps that have gained entry into the store.

    A 2021 investigation uncovered that scam applications constitute nearly 2% of the top-grossing apps in this store, and the company has recently permitted a dating application into the App Store that was discovered to have compromised the private conversations and personal information of tens of thousands of women.

    ### Apple Faces Legal Examination Over Fraudulent Apps

    The Financial Times indicates that the EU is now poised to investigate whether Apple and three other major tech companies are implementing adequate measures to safeguard consumers from fraudulent applications and various forms of financial scams. The EU is set to review if Apple, Google, and Microsoft are not effectively monitoring financial fraud online, as it intensifies efforts to regulate the operations of Big Tech on the internet.

    EU tech chief Henna Virkkunen remarked that the bloc will examine how Apple and Google are managing counterfeit applications in their app stores, including phony banking apps. The commission will also assess whether Google and Microsoft provide enough protection against scam listings in their search engines, while Booking.com faces criticism for permitting fraudulent accommodation advertisements. Numerous travelers have arrived at properties only to discover that they either do not exist or have legitimate owners who are unaware of their alleged reservations.

    The EU has recently been concentrating on issues related to child safeguarding and electoral integrity, and addressing financial scams is now being prioritized. If any of the companies are found to be negligent in their legal responsibilities to prevent illegal content, they could incur penalties of up to 6% of their yearly global revenue.

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on A One-Step Apple Shortcut That Might Turn Into Your Next Preferred Tool
    A One-Step Apple Shortcut That Might Turn Into Your Next Preferred Tool

    # Harnessing the Potential of Apple’s Shortcuts App: A Revolutionary Tool for Accessing App Settings

    The Shortcuts app from Apple has emerged as a significant resource for iPhone users, particularly with the latest updates in iOS 26. While numerous users delve into intricate automations, some of the most impactful shortcuts are surprisingly straightforward. One such shortcut, recently unveiled by tech aficionado Quinn Nelson, simplifies the method of reaching an app’s settings, enhancing speed and efficiency.

    ## The Difficulty of Reaching App Settings

    Last year, Apple redesigned the iPhone’s Settings app, which, although visually appealing, complicated the navigation to specific app settings. Users frequently found themselves taking several steps: opening the Settings app, scrolling to the Apps section, and identifying the desired app. This procedure can be tedious and irritating, especially for those who often tweak app settings.

    ## Presenting the ‘App Settings’ Shortcut

    Quinn Nelson’s shortcut tackles this problem directly. By adhering to a few uncomplicated steps, users can establish a shortcut that enables them to access an app’s settings without the trouble of sifting through the entire Settings menu. Here’s how to set it up:

    1. **Download the ‘App Settings’ Shortcut**: Retrieve the single-step shortcut from

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on Overview of New Enhancements and Modifications in iOS 26.1 Beta 1 for iPhone
    Overview of New Enhancements and Modifications in iOS 26.1 Beta 1 for iPhone

    a handful of postponed features that we may begin to observe in this beta edition. For instance, the key enhancement rolled out in iOS 26.1 is the broadened capabilities of Apple Intelligence to additional languages, such as Danish, Dutch, Norwegian, Swedish, Turkish, Vietnamese, Chinese (Traditional), and Portuguese (Portugal).

    In addition, the anticipated expansion of Live Translation languages is already underway with iOS 26.1 beta 1, as the company has included Chinese (Simplified and Traditional), Italian, Japanese, and Korean as accessible languages. It remains uncertain whether the newly added languages for Apple Intelligence will have Live Translation support in iOS 26.1 or if Apple intends to reserve that for a later update.

    iOS 26.1 beta 1 enhances the Liquid Glass functionality

    <source media="(min-width: 429px)" srcset="https://www.bgr.com/img/gallery/5-new-features-and-changes-in-ios-26-1-beta-1-for-iphone/ios-26-1-beta-1-improves-the-liquid-glass-experience-1758623484.webp" type="

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on ChatGPT’s Cost-Effective Subscription Grows into New Markets
    ChatGPT’s Cost-Effective Subscription Grows into New Markets

    some enigmatic and costly new features of ChatGPT, yet the AI company is also aiming to broaden ChatGPT access for lower-income users. The firm introduced ChatGPT Go in mid-August, its most affordable subscription plan. Priced at less than INR 399 ($4.50) per month, ChatGPT Go was initially launched exclusively in India, although OpenAI indicated plans to roll it out to additional markets. A month later, OpenAI is prepared to broaden ChatGPT Go availability to more countries, commencing with Indonesia.

    OpenAI’s vice president and ChatGPT lead, Nick Turley, revealed ChatGPT Go in August. Turley also disclosed the expansion to Indonesia late on Monday. “We’ve just launched ChatGPT Go in Indonesia! For only Rp75.000 per month, subscribers benefit from 10× greater message limits, 10× additional image generations, 10× extra file uploads, and double the memory compared to our free offering,” Turley stated on X.

    The OpenAI executive mentioned that ChatGPT Go has proven to be very successful in India. The number of ChatGPT subscribers in the country doubled following the launch of the low-cost subscription. Turley also clarified the reasons behind OpenAI’s choice of Indonesia as the next country to receive ChatGPT Go access, noting that Indonesia ranks among ChatGPT’s top five markets by weekly active users.

    What can you do with ChatGPT Go?

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on iOS 26.1 Beta Functionality Might Allow ChatGPT to Engage with iPhone Applications
    iOS 26.1 Beta Functionality Might Allow ChatGPT to Engage with iPhone Applications

    iPhone 17 series is rapidly selling out – in spite of Apple Intelligence being limited in its current iteration. Nonetheless, the iPhone 17 is equipped with all the necessary hardware to operate sophisticated AI models. The potent A19 and A19 Pro chips come with GPUs featuring neural accelerators for quicker on-device AI performance. The boost to 12 GB of memory for the iPhone 17 Pro models and the iPhone Air should further enhance AI capabilities. Additional indications suggest that Apple is diligently working to implement AI functionalities across its devices, as evidenced by the release of iOS 26.1 Beta 1.

    As reported by 9to5Mac, iOS 26.1 Beta 1 features support for the Model Context Protocol (MCP). Launched by Anthropic in late 2024, MCP has swiftly gained traction in the AI software sector and is often referred to as the USB-C of AI applications. The inclusion of MCP support on the iPhone, iPad, and Mac will enable AI tools to securely engage with applications and data on these devices. Theoretically, MCP support in iOS 26 could permit chatbots like ChatGPT or Gemini to access data from various applications and carry out actions for users.

    What functionalities can MCP provide in iOS 26.1 beta 1?

    <div class="slide-key image-holder gallery-image-holder credit-image-wrap " data-post-url="https://www.bgr.com/1976159/ios-26-beta-mcp-ai-feature/" data-post-title="This Hidden iOS 26.1 Beta Feature Might Let ChatGPT Interact With iPhone Apps In The Future" data-slide-num="1" data-post-id="1976159

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on “Revamped Paint Functionality Boosts Windows Application as a Credible Photoshop Substitute”
    “Revamped Paint Functionality Boosts Windows Application as a Credible Photoshop Substitute”

    One of the most recent updates for Windows Insiders has provided us with a fresh perspective on forthcoming features for Paint that may enhance Microsoft’s default Windows application as a stronger rival to Photoshop. As per a release announcement outlining the updates set to arrive for Windows Insiders in the Canary and Dev channels for Windows 11, Microsoft is introducing a feature to save Paint projects as a unique new .paint file. This project file will function similarly to Photoshop’s own project files, which enable users to swiftly return to an ongoing project without needing to begin anew.

    In addition to these new project files, Microsoft is also adding more capabilities to Paint in the form of opacity sliders, allowing you to modify the transparency of the brush and pencil tools available in Paint. These new sliders will be displayed on the left side of the application when choosing a new brush or pencil.

    It seems evident that Microsoft is positioning Paint to be a more creative application similar to Photoshop than it has ever been before. The company has previously integrated features such as background removal into Paint, alongside other Copilot-related enhancements. Now, with the launch of .paint files, there might be more incentive than ever to explore Paint.

    Paint isn’t the sole application receiving additional features

    Like anything, not everyone is pleased with these changes, and there has been an ongoing discussion regarding Microsoft’s intent to incorporate AI features into Paint after Copilot has become such a significant aspect of its future business strategy. While there is certainly some utility to be discovered in this new feature — along with other updated functionalities Microsoft is adding to Paint in this release — some individuals are not particularly thrilled that Microsoft continues to interfere with its older, reliable applications. A user even remarked that the company ought to leave applications like Paint and Notepad alone rather than overloading them with new features, especially those related to Copilot.

    Beyond simply adding new features to Paint, Microsoft has also pointed out several other modifications that have come with this latest Insiders build. The Snipping Tool has undergone another enhancement, with the application now featuring Quick markup, a “quicker method to annotate your screenshots and optimize your workflow.” Alternatives like ShareX have traditionally offered more capabilities, but the addition of Quick markup in the Snipping Tool may finally establish it as a significant competitor for those who prefer not to use third-party applications for taking screenshots on Windows.

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