AllYouCanTech

Qualcomm Snapdragon X2 Elite Extreme Laptop Chip Rivals Apple’s M4 Processor

### The Advancement of Apple Silicon and Its Rivals

The rollout of Apple Silicon signified a crucial milestone in the technology sector, especially regarding personal computing. The M1 chip, released by Apple, surpassed expectations by demonstrating exceptional power and efficiency, prompting competitors such as Intel and Qualcomm to scramble in an effort to keep pace.

#### Apple’s Revolutionary Move

Apple’s choice to create its own processors for Macs was audacious, and the results have been remarkable. By consolidating multiple elements into one system on a chip (SoC), Apple attained a performance level that surpassed Intel processors. The M1 chip not only provided enhanced performance but also improved energy efficiency, establishing a new benchmark for laptops and desktops.

Despite Intel’s assertions of narrowing the gap, the situation has been quite different. The company has found it challenging to reach the performance standards set by Apple Silicon, leading to rising concerns internally.

#### Qualcomm’s Reaction

After years of being behind, Qualcomm has made progress with its Snapdragon X2 Elite Extreme chip, targeting the laptop segment. Recent comparisons between Qualcomm’s newest product and Apple’s M4 chip highlight a competitive environment. Benchmark tests reveal that the M4 Max outperformed the Snapdragon chip in multi-core assessments by 8.5%, while the Snapdragon surpassed the M4 in single-core tests by 7%. Notably, in Cinebench 2024 evaluations, the performance of both chips was nearly on par.

However, considering the context of these comparisons is crucial. The Snapdragon X2 Elite Extreme is a newly developed chip that has not yet been implemented in any laptops, whereas the M4 is soon to be succeeded by the anticipated M5 chip. Apple is anticipated to first reveal the M5 in an iPad Pro, followed by its integration into the MacBook Pro in the upcoming months.

#### The Future Perspective

As competition intensifies, the timeline indicates that Apple will likely regain its advantage before Qualcomm can fully leverage its advancements. By the time consumers can acquire laptops with the Snapdragon X2 Elite Extreme, Apple is expected to introduce its next-generation chip, further reinforcing its market position.

In summary, while Qualcomm’s Snapdragon X2 Elite Extreme signifies a substantial leap forward, Apple Silicon still maintains the lead in performance and efficiency. The technology landscape is ever-evolving, and as both companies pursue innovation, the competitive dynamics will assuredly become more intense.

Unveiling Dot: The Initial Adorable DoorDash Delivery Robot [Video]

### DoorDash Launches Autonomous Delivery Robot: Dot

DoorDash has unveiled a new autonomous delivery robot called Dot, representing a major step forward in the field of local deliveries. Shaped like a bright red stroller, Dot is claimed to be the first commercial robot capable of traversing diverse terrains, such as roads, sidewalks, and bike lanes.

#### Purpose and Functionality

The main aim of Dot is to decrease the dependence on cars for local deliveries. Stanley Tang, Co-Founder and Head of DoorDash Labs, pointed out the robot’s practicality, saying, “You don’t always need a full-sized car to deliver a tube of toothpaste or pack of diapers. That’s the insight behind Dot.” The robot is crafted to be dependable and efficient, serving the requirements of local businesses and consumers. It is small enough to navigate through doorways and driveways, quick enough to preserve food quality, and smart enough to optimize delivery paths.

#### Specifications and Launch

Dot can adjust its speed according to various environments, reaching a top speed of 20 miles per hour. The initial launch will occur in two cities in Arizona: Tempe and Mesa, with intentions for a wider rollout in the future.

#### Impact on Delivery Workforce

DoorDash has clarified that Dot’s purpose is not to substitute human Dashers but to aid them in focusing on more valuable deliveries. The company states that Dashers will still manage the majority of daily deliveries, while autonomous technology will allow them to concentrate on tasks that necessitate human judgment and care.

#### Market Growth Potential

DoorDash is confident that Dot’s introduction will grow the local delivery market, generating additional opportunities for both businesses and consumers. The company envisions a future where autonomous delivery robots work alongside human workers, improving the overall effectiveness of the delivery system.

For a closer look at Dot in action, a demonstration video is available for viewing.

*Photo: DoorDash*

iOS 26 Launches Improved Snooze Options for iPhone Alarms

### Alarms Introduce Option for Personalized Snooze Durations in iOS 26

Every day, millions awaken to their iPhone’s alarm and have adapted to the standard 9-minute snooze interval. However, with iOS 26, you can now select the exact duration for which you want to snooze alarms.

The built-in Clock app serves as the primary tool for most iPhone users in setting their daily alarms, making it the default choice. Yet, one prominent feature has been absent for years: the option to customize snooze durations. Traditionally, alarms could only be snoozed in 9-minute segments. Many users have simply adapted to this restriction and sometimes set multiple alarms considering this snooze time.

With iOS 26, Apple has granted users a level of snooze control that was previously unavailable. Now, each alarm you configure can possess its unique custom snooze duration. You can select any snooze interval ranging from 1 minute to 15 minutes. The default remains at 9 minutes, but adjusting it is straightforward. Additionally, if desired, this snooze setting can vary for each alarm you create. Based on the significance of an alarm on a particular day, you can opt for a shorter or longer snooze duration than usual.

In summary, while this may seem like a minor change for most, it could greatly enhance the experience for those who have long desired greater flexibility in snoozing. Have you started to implement the new snooze durations for your alarms in iOS 26? Share your thoughts in the comments.

Key Highlights of watchOS 26 That I Appreciate the Most

# watchOS 26: New Features and Refinements for Apple Watch Users

watchOS 26 represents the latest significant software update for the Apple Watch, introducing a variety of new features and enhancements that improve user experience. After extensive beta testing over several months, here are the key features that users are enjoying.

## Sleep Score

A standout feature in watchOS 26 is the Sleep Score functionality. This feature gives users an easy and straightforward way to comprehend their sleep patterns. Although it was absent during the initial beta phase, it made its debut with new Apple Watch hardware. The Sleep Score clarifies the previously unclear sleep data, allowing users to better monitor their sleep quality over time.

## Always-On Seconds for Multiple Watch Faces

With the introduction of the Apple Watch Series 10, watchOS 26 broadens the array of watch faces that support always-on seconds. Previously, this feature was limited to a select few watch faces, but the update has addressed this limitation. Now, numerous watch faces can show seconds in always-on mode, boosting both the functionality and appeal of the watch.

## Wrist Flick Gesture

The newly introduced wrist flick gesture is a useful feature for users who often have one hand occupied. This gesture lets users dismiss notifications and calls by simply flicking their wrist, providing haptic feedback as a confirmation. This capability is especially beneficial in scenarios where users can’t use both hands to interact with their watch.

## Liquid Glass Design

Although the Liquid Glass design may not have a profound effect on the Apple Watch as it does on other Apple devices, it still brings a refreshed appearance to the interface. The keypad for unlocking the watch, along with various widgets in the Smart Stack, Control Center, and Now Playing screen, have been enhanced with a stylish Liquid Glass look, imparting a contemporary vibe to the watch.

## Enhanced Smart Replies

The Smart Replies feature within the Messages app has undergone a major enhancement in watchOS 26. Previously criticized for their lack of relevance, the new Smart Replies are now more contextually aware and resemble natural responses that users might compose themselves. This upgrade significantly enriches the messaging experience on the Apple Watch.

## New Notes App

The launch of a new Notes app in watchOS 26 enables users to access and refer to their notes right from their Apple Watch. While some may not deem it essential to dictate notes on their watch, those who frequently use Apple Notes on other devices will value the convenience of having their notes conveniently accessible on their wrist.

## Third-Party Control Center Controls

Following the major redesign of the Control Center on the iPhone, watchOS 26 incorporates a new ‘From Your iPhone’ section in the Apple Watch Control Center. This feature allows users to access controls from their preferred third-party apps directly from their watch, simplifying the management of settings and functions without needing to grab their iPhone.

## Conclusion

With the launch of watchOS 26, Apple continues to enhance both the functionality and user experience of the Apple Watch. From the introduction of the Sleep Score to practical features such as the wrist flick gesture and enhanced Smart Replies, this update provides valuable offerings for every user. As Apple remains committed to innovation, watchOS 26 establishes a new benchmark for smartwatch capabilities.

Apple Unveils Powerbeats Fit Boasting Improved Flexibility and Fresh Color Selections

**Apple’s Latest Powerbeats Fit: An In-Depth Analysis**

Apple’s Beats division has introduced the Powerbeats Fit, succeeding the Beats Fit Pro, now rebranded under the well-known Powerbeats label. This new offering is designed to improve the user experience with better fit and comfort, making it a significant entry in the Powerbeats lineup.

**Design and Comfort Improvements**

The Powerbeats Fit emphasizes a superior fit over its predecessor. Unlike the Powerbeats Pro, which has an ear hook style, the Powerbeats Fit employs a wingtip-style design that features a hook within the ear. This design is intended to ensure a secure fit during exercise and everyday activities.

Beats has modified the wingtip to be 20% more flexible, enhancing comfort for users who may have found the previous design less so. Moreover, the charging case has been made 17% smaller, increasing its portability. The Powerbeats Fit ships with four ear tip sizes in the box, an upgrade from the three sizes that came with the Beats Fit Pro.

**Sound Quality**

The Powerbeats Fit keeps the same audio chip as the Beats Fit Pro, incorporating Apple’s H1 audio chip. This enables users to access features like Active Noise Cancellation (ANC), Transparency mode, Adaptive EQ, and Personalized Spatial Audio. The sound quality is crafted to offer a strong and balanced audio experience across different media.

**Battery Duration and Charging**

Battery life remains unchanged from the Beats Fit Pro, delivering six hours of playback with ANC activated and seven hours without. When paired with the charging case, users can anticipate a total battery life of 30 hours. The Fast Fuel feature allows for a swift 5-minute charge, providing up to an hour of playback.

**Cost and Availability**

The Powerbeats Fit is available for purchase at a retail price of $199.99, offered in four color variants: Jet Black, Gravel Gray, Spark Orange, and Power Pink. The product can be ordered from apple.com, with in-store availability commencing shortly after.

**Final Thoughts**

The Powerbeats Fit signifies a notable advancement of the Beats Fit Pro, prioritizing comfort, durability, and portability. With its enhanced design and strong audio features, it seeks to appeal to both fitness enthusiasts and casual users, solidifying its role within the Powerbeats range.

iPhone Air Triumphantly Overcomes Its Toughest Challenge So Far

### Testing the iPhone Air at Disney World

After several years of utilizing ‘Pro’ iPhones, I opted to transition to the iPhone Air this year. My early impressions were encouraging, though I expected to miss the Pro’s superior battery lifespan and camera features. However, a recent visit to Disney World offered unexpected insights regarding the iPhone Air’s capabilities.

The iPhone Air is visually appealing and lightweight, yet it does have some drawbacks when compared to the iPhone 17 Pro:

– It has just one rear camera, missing Telephoto and Ultra Wide functionalities.
– The battery life does not compare to the thicker Pro variants.
– It comes with a single speaker.

Though I seldom use my iPhone’s speaker, I was apprehensive about the camera and battery life on my journey. Regardless of these worries, my first week with the iPhone Air demonstrated that it sufficiently met my daily requirements.

### Cameras and Battery Officially Concurred with Expectations

I anticipated that being at Disney World would make me yearn for the Telephoto camera. I even brought along my older iPhone 16 Pro as a backup. To my surprise, the iPhone Air’s sole camera was adequate for my photography needs. I regularly employed the Air’s 2x zoom and discovered that moving closer to subjects often served as a practical substitute for zooming.

As for the battery life, I carried the Air’s MagSafe battery, expecting daily use. Then came the surprise: I never needed it. I did charge the phone a little during the day at the hotel, but that was more a matter of routine than necessity. In the past, I would charge my Pro models during vacations due to heavy usage for photos, videos, and increased display brightness.

The iPhone Air’s battery performed excellently throughout the trip, even on days of travel, which typically deplete my battery rapidly. On my way back, I was able to go from 7:30 AM in Orlando to 10:00 PM in New York without recharging, and I still had 25% battery left.

### iPhone Air’s Ultimate Test: Conclusion

I am not attempting to convince anyone to acquire an iPhone Air; personal needs and usage behaviors differ greatly. However, my experience with the iPhone Air has surpassed my expectations. I no longer feel compelled to upgrade to an iPhone 17 Pro.

I initially believed I would have to sacrifice functionality for the sake of a sleek appearance. Instead, I found that the iPhone Air is a truly commendable device, and its limitations have had little effect on my experience—even in the demanding setting of Disney World.

What has your experience with the iPhone Air been like? Better than anticipated or not? Share your insights in the comments.