Day: September 29, 2025

    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Samsung Moves Forward with Large-Scale Production of Displays for Future iPhone Fold
    Samsung Moves Forward with Large-Scale Production of Displays for Future iPhone Fold

    **2026 iPhone Fold: Expectations and Progress**

    Anticipations regarding the debut of an iPhone Fold in 2026 have escalated, especially after a recent announcement from Samsung. Although Apple’s display collaborator did not directly reference the tech leader, the implications are unmistakable.

    ### The Expected Release of the iPhone Fold

    Information suggests that a foldable iPhone is set for launch next year, in line with a wider industry agreement. This follows the unveiling of the iPhone Air, perceived as a vital step towards creating the slimmer displays required for foldable technology. Prototypes of the iPhone Fold have reportedly been under evaluation since summer, and iOS 27 is projected to feature functionalities tailored specifically for this innovative device.

    Samsung Display, recognized for supplying screens for Apple’s premium iPhone models, is expected to produce the display for the forthcoming iPhone Fold. The partnership between these two firms is anticipated to significantly enhance the device’s functionalities.

    ### Samsung’s Readiness for Large-Scale Production

    Recent comments from Lee Cheong, President of Samsung Display, indicate that the company is preparing for large-scale production of OLED displays intended for foldable smartphones. While he avoided naming Apple directly, his statements strongly suggest a collaboration. The new 8.6th-generation OLED production facility is expected to begin operations by mid to late next year, coinciding with the anticipated launch of flagship products from the unidentified North American client, widely thought to be Apple.

    ### Conclusion

    As the tech community eagerly anticipates the iPhone Fold, developments from Samsung and Apple signal a notable transformation in smartphone design. The fusion of cutting-edge display technology and innovative features in iOS 27 could redefine user experiences in the years ahead.

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Forthcoming Apple TV+ thriller from Slow Horses writer appears promising
    Forthcoming Apple TV+ thriller from Slow Horses writer appears promising

    Apple TV+ is presently showcasing season 5 of its cherished Slow Horses series, but shortly the streaming service will introduce another crime thriller from the same author: Down Cemetery Road. The freshly launched trailer for the detective series suggests it could be another success.

    ### Down Cemetery Road is a detective series featuring Emma Thompson and Ruth Wilson

    If you enjoy crime thrillers infused with a hefty dose of humor, Apple TV+ is ready to entertain you this fall.

    Slow Horses is currently in its fifth season, and just a few weeks from now, a brand-new series from the same author will make its debut—and its initial trailer appears outstanding.

    Down Cemetery Road premieres **Wednesday, October 29** on Apple TV+ with two episodes, followed by weekly releases until December 10.

    The detective series stars Emma Thompson and Ruth Wilson and is adapted from the book by author Mick Herron. Herron also penned the Slough House series that Slow Horses is based on.

    Further connecting the two series: Morwenna Banks, who authored several episodes of Slow Horses, wrote the entire Down Cemetery Road and acts as executive producer. As an amusing random trivia fact, Banks is also an actress and provides the voice for Mummy Pig in the well-known Peppa Pig series.

    Here’s Apple’s synopsis of Down Cemetery Road, followed by the trailer:

    > When a home detonates in a serene Oxford neighborhood and a girl goes missing in the wake, neighbor Sarah Trafford (Wilson) becomes fixated on locating her and recruits the assistance of private investigator Zoë Boehm (Thompson). Zoë and Sarah unexpectedly find themselves ensnared in a complicated conspiracy that unveils individuals long thought dead are still alive, while the living are quickly becoming part of the dead.

    Based on the trailer, Down Cemetery Road unmistakably appears to adhere to the successful formula of Slow Horses by combining comedy with crime drama. The creative crew alone renders this new show highly awaited.

    Apple TV+ is offered at $12.99 per month and includes hit TV series and films such as Ted Lasso, Severance, The Morning Show, Silo, and Shrinking.

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on LG UltraFine 6K Set to Become Available for Pre-Order Shortly Along with Pricing Information Unveiled
    LG UltraFine 6K Set to Become Available for Pre-Order Shortly Along with Pricing Information Unveiled

    ### LG UltraFine 32U990A: A Fresh Rival in the 6K Display Arena

    At the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in January, LG stirred significant excitement among Mac users with the reveal of its forthcoming UltraFine 6K Display, featuring Thunderbolt 5 technology. Although specifics on pricing and availability have been limited, recent updates indicate that the display might soon be ready for pre-order.

    #### Pricing and Availability

    A product listing from B&H suggests that the LG UltraFine 32U990A will be up for pre-order at a price of $1,999.99. Nonetheless, LG’s official website notes that pre-orders are set to start on October 10. This variation raises the possibility that B&H could have a special sales window.

    #### Key Features of the LG UltraFine 32U990A

    The UltraFine 32U990A showcases remarkable specifications, appealing to both professionals and enthusiasts:

    – **Display Size**: 31.5 inches with a 16:9 aspect ratio
    – **Resolution**: UHD 6K (6144 x 3456) at 60 Hz
    – **Brightness**: 450 nits (600 nits in HDR)
    – **Contrast Ratio**: 2000:1
    – **Color Coverage**: 98% DCI-P3 and 99.5% Adobe RGB
    – **Connectivity**:
    – Integrated USB-C Hub and KVM
    – 1x DisplayPort
    – 1x HDMI
    – 2x USB-C (Thunderbolt 5) with USB Power Delivery (PD) at 140 W
    – 3x additional USB-C ports

    This resolution is on par with Apple’s Pro Display XDR, delivering a pixel density of 218 pixels per inch. In contrast, Apple’s Pro Display XDR, launched in 2019, costs $4,999 (or $5,999 with a stand) and provides higher brightness levels (1,000 nits in standard mode and 1,600 nits in HDR).

    #### Design and Build Quality

    The aesthetics of the LG UltraFine 32U990A closely mirror that of Apple’s Pro Display XDR. Nevertheless, the quality of construction is crucial, particularly considering previous concerns related to the LG UltraFine 5K model. The latest display includes a fully adjustable stand, which permits height, tilt, and rotation modifications, enhancing its ergonomic benefits.

    #### Competition and Future Developments

    Besides LG’s announcement, sources from Bloomberg reveal that Apple is close to beginning mass production of two new Mac monitors. While the specifications and features of these upcoming monitors remain under wraps, they are expected to compete directly with the UltraFine 32U990A and the current Pro Display XDR.

    #### Conclusion

    While the LG UltraFine 32U990A seems to present an attractive choice for anyone seeking a high-resolution display, prospective buyers should exercise caution until LG officially verifies the launch information. If the B&H listing proves accurate, the UltraFine 6K could emerge as a formidable player in the premium display segment.

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Experiment Shows iOS 26’s Liquid Glass Lowers iPhone 17 Pro Max’s Possible Battery Life
    Experiment Shows iOS 26’s Liquid Glass Lowers iPhone 17 Pro Max’s Possible Battery Life

    **iPhone 17 Pro Max’s Battery Performance Might Have Been Superior Without iOS 26’s Liquid Glass, Experiment Suggests**

    The iPhone 17 lineup features enhanced battery performance compared to its forerunners, with the iPhone 17 Pro Max at the forefront. This version is equipped with a larger battery, particularly in the eSIM-only model, taking advantage of the space made available by eliminating the physical SIM card. Nonetheless, initial evaluations reveal that the Liquid Glass design in iOS 26 considerably accelerates battery drain in comparison to iOS 18. For example, an iPhone 16 Pro Max depleted 13% of its battery during standard operations on iOS 26, while it only used 1% on iOS 18.

    A user on Reddit, MarionberryDear6170, ran a test that uncovered Liquid Glass as a “terrible battery issue” on the iPhone 17 Pro Max. The test, sparked by the user’s experience with the iOS 26 beta on the iPhone 15 Pro Max, pointed out significant heat generation and battery drain challenges. The user illustrated that various activities require excessive power, and that the Reduce Transparency setting does little to counteract this. However, there is potential for a notable boost in battery life, though the remedy may not be well-received by users.

    **Low Power Mode greatly enhances the battery life of the iPhone 17 Pro Max**

    The Redditor’s test involved restricting charging to 80% and performing activities on the iPhone 17 Pro Max while observing power consumption. Here are some insights:

    – Accessing the Control Center: 8-9W
    – Taking photos: 8-9W
    – Capturing screenshots: 7-17W
    – Utilizing Apple Maps: 8-9W
    – Screen recording: 5-6W when idle, reaching 9-11W while scrolling

    The trial indicated that utilizing clear icons in iOS 26 elevates power consumption, and activating Reduce Transparency mode contributes an additional 1W for all tasks. Low Power Mode appeared as the sole efficient remedy, cutting energy usage to under 5W for equivalent activities. This mode extended screen-on duration from 6.5 hours to 10 hours. However, Low Power Mode modifies the iPhone experience by dimming the display, reducing the refresh rate to 60Hz, restricting 5G access, and limiting background processes. Even with this, the battery performance of the iPhone 17 Pro Max remains outstanding, suggesting that users may not often need to depend on Low Power Mode.

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Guide to Starting Your Android Device in Safe Mode and Its Advantages
    Guide to Starting Your Android Device in Safe Mode and Its Advantages

    subpar and harmful applications to bypass Google’s protections. Luckily, Android, similar to various other systems, features a built-in Safe Mode, which serves as an outstanding diagnostic tool to help identify whether a third-party application is the source of your phone’s problems or if the issues stem from defective hardware or the operating system itself.

    This is achievable as the safe mode temporarily suspends all third-party applications on your Android device and exclusively operates the essential system software and services, including any apps that might have been pre-installed. If your phone functions properly in safe mode and you no longer experience any of the problems you encountered previously, it indicates that one or more of the installed applications are at fault. You can then uninstall recently added or updated applications to check if the issue resolves.

    Steps to enter safe mode on Android

    <source media="(max-width: 428px)" srcset="https://www.bgr.com/img/gallery/how-to-boot-your-android-phone-into-safe-mode-and-why-you-should/how-to-boot-into-safe-mode

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on Improving Child Safety, Paid Storage Alternatives, and Ad-Free Memberships in Social Media Applications
    Improving Child Safety, Paid Storage Alternatives, and Ad-Free Memberships in Social Media Applications

    **Social Media Application Enhancements: Improvements in Child Safety, Subscription Options, and Storage Costs**

    Recent advancements within leading social media networks have unveiled crucial updates concerning child safety protocols, subscription alternatives, and storage expenses. These alterations signify ongoing commitments by corporations to improve user engagement while tackling safety issues.

    ### Improved Child Safety Protocols

    Both Meta and OpenAI have acknowledged the pressing requirement for reinforced protective measures for children engaging with AI chatbots. Recent events have emphasized the vulnerabilities faced by younger audiences, prompting these organizations to establish new protection strategies.

    #### OpenAI’s Actions

    In light of a devastating incident reported by *The New York Times*, where a ChatGPT interaction played a role in a teenager’s suicide, OpenAI has launched various protective initiatives. The organization is rolling out parental controls alongside a specialized resource page designed to assist families in overseeing their children’s engagement with ChatGPT.

    These parental controls enable guardians to connect their accounts with their teens, allowing them to tailor settings for a more secure experience. Improved content safeguards will restrict exposure to explicit material, harmful challenges, and inappropriate role-playing situations. Furthermore, OpenAI has established monitoring systems to identify indications of distress among teens, with protocols to alert parents if potential risks are detected.

    #### Meta’s Strategy

    Meta is also undertaking measures to guarantee the safety of younger users interacting with its AI chatbots. As reported by *Engadget*, the corporation has outlined explicit guidelines for acceptable and unacceptable content. The AI is programmed to steer clear of discussions that could result in child exploitation or unsuitable interactions, while still facilitating conversations on sensitive subjects in a secure manner.

    ### Ad-Free Subscription Options for Facebook and Instagram

    Responding to user requests for a less intrusive experience, Meta has broadened its ad-free subscription model. Initially available in EU countries, this choice is now being launched in the UK. Users can select a subscription priced at £2.99 per month to experience both Facebook and Instagram without ads.

    For individuals utilizing in-app purchases on mobile devices, the subscription rate is slightly elevated at £3.99 per month, reflecting app store commission fees. Regardless of the subscription approach, users will be free from advertisements on either service.

    ### Storage Fees for Snapchat Memories

    Snapchat has rolled out a new directive concerning the storage of Memories. Users will now face a cap of 5GB of storage for their Memories. Those surpassing this restriction will need to obtain a paid subscription for extra storage options.

    The pricing framework includes a standalone subscription of $1.99 per month for 100GB, $3.99 per month for 250GB with Snapchat Plus, and $15.99 per month for 5TB with a Platinum subscription. Users currently above the 5GB threshold will have up to a year’s grace period before a subscription becomes necessary.

    ### Conclusion

    Updates from Meta, OpenAI, and Snap indicate an increasing recognition of the necessity for enhanced safety protocols, user desires for ad-free interactions, and efficient digital storage management. As social media platforms continue to progress, these changes aim to foster a more secure and user-friendly atmosphere for all users, particularly minors.

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on Ford CEO Talks About CarPlay Ultra and Offers Update on Support Rollout
    Ford CEO Talks About CarPlay Ultra and Offers Update on Support Rollout

    Ford’s CEO Jim Farley appeared on the latest episode of Decoder’s podcast, where he elaborated on the company’s intentions regarding support for CarPlay Ultra. Even though Ford has a history of collaborating with Apple to facilitate CarPlay, the timeline for the incorporation of CarPlay Ultra into Ford vehicles is still unclear.

    In the course of the interview, Farley admitted that while Ford is contemplating CarPlay Ultra, they are not entirely pleased with its preliminary execution. He underscored Ford’s dedication to preserving a seamless digital experience for drivers, expressing that they wish to avoid disrupting a person’s digital life upon entering a vehicle.

    Farley expressed worries about the possible ramifications of CarPlay Ultra, indicating that it could result in Apple acquiring control over essential vehicle functions. He pointed out the necessity for Apple to elucidate its objectives concerning the integration of its software with alternative infotainment systems and the level of control it desires over vehicle operations.

    In summary, while negotiations between Ford and Apple are still in progress, the prospective support for CarPlay Ultra in Ford vehicles seems to be paused, leaving numerous Ford owners without definitive expectations regarding when they might witness this feature come to fruition.

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on Possible Outcomes of a US Prohibition on VPNs
    Possible Outcomes of a US Prohibition on VPNs

    Virtual Private Networks, commonly referred to as VPNs, serve as an exceptional method to maintain your privacy and restore anonymity during online browsing. They function by obscuring your original IP address and providing you with a temporary IP on a remote physical server. However, this might become unfeasible if recent legislation is enacted. On September 11, Michigan legislators proposed the Anticorruption of Public Morals Act, which broadly prohibits online adult content, potentially encompassing ASMR, adult manga, AI-generated content, and entirely bans the use of VPNs, irrespective of their origin, whether domestic or international. Michigan’s proposal would also impose fines on internet service providers for failing to identify and obstruct VPN usage—additionally, it prohibits the sale of VPNs within the state. If VPNs were to be outlawed in the U.S., it could result in significant repercussions beyond just individuals using VPNs for personal networks.

    What remains ambiguous from the proposed language is the impact on corporate or security-focused VPNs, particularly for remote workforces. Numerous companies utilize VPNs to safeguard and encrypt internet traffic for secure networking purposes. While private VPNs, or those operated by home users, have been employed to bypass laws enacted in other states such as Texas or Louisiana, enterprise-level VPNs certainly do not serve that purpose and are vital for the functionality of these businesses. Nonetheless, VPNs are not solely utilized for illicit activities or evading restrictions. Individuals also leverage them to minimize data tracking, shield their IP addresses and identities, and circumvent dubious localized pricing—such as when travel companies inflate costs based on a customer’s location. VPNs have gained enough prominence that the latest iPhone features a built-in useful VPN option known as Private Relay.

    What does the legislation actually specify?

    The bill aims to complement recently enacted laws mandating age verification for adult content online but extends further by thwarting unintended access via what it terms “circumvention tools.” If you reside in a prohibited state, you could ostensibly use a VPN to alter your virtual location and circumvent restrictions, including age verification processes. The bill defines “circumvention tools” as “any software, hardware, or service intended to bypass internet filtering mechanisms or content limitations.” It also categorizes potential tools as “virtual private networks, proxy servers, and encrypted tunneling techniques,” which are explicitly meant to “evade content restrictions.” Its scope is wide and does not exclude much from its reach, thereby allowing for significant linguistic manipulation.

    Ultimately, it remains uncertain how this will influence VPNs if similar legislation is approved at the federal level. Furthermore, VPNs are inherently more challenging to detect from a technical perspective than the terminology in this bill suggests. Techniques like deep packet inspection and blocking known IP addresses belonging to popular VPNs are feasible. However, this would not capture everything, and costly infrastructure development will be required to effectively prohibit VPNs as the bill demands, a point raised by privacy advocates. Additionally, concerning personal data, individuals do not need to erase their information from the internet or data brokers if they are not generating any while shielded by a VPN. In this context, VPNs offer protection for all.

    A VPN prohibition could harm online privacy

    Should the U.S. indeed implement a VPN ban at the federal level, across all 50 states, the ensuing situation would likely spell disaster for numerous stakeholders. Enterprise and corporate VPNs would be disallowed unless an exception clause was included. Private VPNs, including those operated from abroad, would be deemed illegal. Internet Service Providers would then assume the responsibility of identifying, blocking, and reporting individuals utilizing VPNs. However, given that VPN detection is often unreliable—some VPNs can completely mask their usage—before adequate technology is developed to discover and verify VPN utilization, individuals could be incorrectly flagged as using them even when they are not. Upstanding citizens might find themselves ensnared in the net of erroneous detection systems. Google currently employs AI to ascertain if users are teenagers; it is not far-fetched to envision its application for VPN verification as well.

    Once more, gauging the actual impact of these potential outcomes is challenging. However, if the Michigan bill is passed, or similar legislation emerges in any other state, you might soon witness how the situation unfolds. The Michigan proposal has yet to be approved and has not been voted on by the state Senate, but this is not the first instance of such legislation being suggested.

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on Surprising Answer to iPhone 17’s ScratchGate: Salt
    Surprising Answer to iPhone 17’s ScratchGate: Salt

    iPhone 17 and iPhone 17 Pro models continue to be out of stock online globally, as Apple struggles to meet the demand for three out of the four new iPhones that were launched in stores on September 19. Although the iPhone 17 series has proven to be a significant success, the release has revealed some concerns. ScratchGate has emerged as the most notable issue, a hashtag that has circulated on social media since September 19, when customers found that the iPhone 17 Pro models on display in Apple retail locations were susceptible to scratches. However, there seems to be a straightforward solution to ScratchGate. Wiping the back of the device with a saline solution may eliminate some scratches. Nevertheless, you may not want to overuse this remedy, as it is not officially recommended.

    Pictures shared on social media on September 19 indicated that the glass portion of the iPhone 17 Pro models seemed to mark easily. The aluminum frame also appeared to be vulnerable to scratching. In the days that followed, renowned teardown specialists like JerryRigEverything and iFixit discussed why the iPhone 17 Pros may have a higher likelihood of scratching and denting. The glass panel on the rear seems intact, as does most of the aluminum, but the rear camera module of the iPhone 17 Pro could become accidentally dented. Both experts highlighted that the sharp edges of the camera plateau are a risk factor for scratches. Additionally, drop tests demonstrated that the iPhone 17 Pro models are relatively robust, but the aluminum chassis can sustain dents and scratches.

    The salt “remedy” might only help with the scratches on the glass surface, not those on the aluminum frame. Furthermore, even if salt-based cleaning solutions are applicable, they should not be misused, as there are no instructions from Apple regarding this.

    <div class="news-article"

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