Month: September 2025

Three Innovative AI-Powered Smart Glasses Unveiled at Meta Connect 2025

what their potential pricing could be. The company has also released significant updates for its wearables this year, including live conversation translations in its earlier Ray-Ban smart glasses.

Currently, the company has introduced three fresh models of smart glasses — one that enhances its past Ray-Ban collaboration, another in cooperation with Oakley, and a Ray-Ban variant that integrates with the latest Meta Neural Band. Each of these new sets of smart glasses appears to be designed for distinct scenarios, so you’ll need to determine for yourself which model suits you the best.

Ray-Ban Meta (Gen 2) enhances earlier models

Extensive Disruption Impacts Google, Gmail, and Meet, Leading to Login Problems

The tech powerhouse has acknowledged the service disruption.

(Image credit: Future)
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Key information

  • Google services faced login troubles impacting Meet, Gmail, and Drive, with more than 6,000 user reports on DownDetector.
  • Users saw ‘502’ error notifications as the disruption affected various platforms requiring Google accounts.
  • Google has verified the outage, and services are being slowly restored following engineering measures.

Google and several of its applications encountered difficulties this morning as numerous users indicated problems with Google Meet, Gmail, Workspace, Drive, and others, beginning around 11 am ET.

DownDetector reported a significant increase in user issues for Google, Gmail, and other Workspace applications around that time, <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://downdetector.com/status/google/" data-url="https://downdetector.com/status/google/" target="_blank" referrerpolicy="no-referrer-when-dow

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Meta Ray-Ban Display Eyewear: An Overview of the Innovative Lens Display and Neural Band Features

Meta Ray-Ban Display Glasses: The Next Generation of AR Wearables

Meta has introduced its inaugural consumer-ready AR eyewear, the Meta Ray-Ban Display Glasses, during the Meta Connect 2025 event. These glasses signify a major advancement in wearable tech, featuring an in-lens display and a neural gesture band, establishing a new benchmark for augmented reality interactions.

Pricing, Availability, and Specifications

Set to launch on September 30 for $799, the Meta Ray-Ban Display Glasses come with a charging case and a neural band. They will be available at select physical retailers such as Best Buy, LensCrafters, Sunglass Hut, and Ray-Ban locations, highlighting the importance of individual fittings. The glasses sport a 20-degree FOV monocular display with a resolution of 600 x 600 pixels, driven by a Qualcomm Snapdragon AR1 Gen 1 chip, and are equipped with a 12MP ultra-wide camera.

Aesthetic and Features

Taking inspiration from Ray-Ban Wayfarer aesthetics, these glasses incorporate a display within the right lens, presenting a stylish yet practical design. Even with the added technology, they are lightweight at 69g. The display ensures a personal viewing experience, allowing only the wearer to view the content. Featuring turn-by-turn navigation, real-time translations, and messaging capabilities, the glasses offer a thorough AR experience.

Neural Band and User Interface

The neural band that accompanies the glasses facilitates gesture-based control, interpreting electrical signals from wrist muscles for smooth operation. This allows for discreet actions such as replying to texts or navigating the user interface without obvious movements. The band offers an 18-hour battery life and is crafted from robust, comfortable materials.

Final Thoughts

The Meta Ray-Ban Display Glasses signify a notable progression in AR technology, merging style, practicality, and groundbreaking interaction techniques. With this release, Meta positions itself in front of rivals like Google and Amazon, delivering a distinctive combination of augmented reality and wearable technology.

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Guide to Acquiring Ray-Ban Meta (Gen 2) Smart Glasses and Locating Current Offers

Meta has introduced its newest advancement in wearable technology, the Ray-Ban Meta (Gen 2) smart eyewear, at the recent Meta Connect 2025 event. These AI-enhanced glasses are now for sale, featuring improved cameras, longer battery duration, and the most recent Meta AI software functionalities. With a starting price of $379 USD, the glasses can be purchased directly from Meta’s website or from Ray-Ban’s official site. They are offered in multiple styles and colors, and customers can try them on virtually using their webcams. For those seeking savings, the earlier version, Ray-Ban Meta (Gen 1), is available on Amazon at a discounted rate. As the smart glasses industry progresses, these new iterations are poised to transform user experiences with capabilities like 3K resolution video capture and real-time AI features.

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Gemini Boosts Chrome with AI-Driven Responses, Improved Security, and Extra Features

The URL bar is receiving a significant enhancement via Google’s AI Mode.

(Image credit: Sanuj Bhatia / Android Central)
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Essential Information

  • Google has launched “Gemini in Chrome,” marking a new age of browsing for Android and PC users, supported by its AI software for responses, summaries, and more.
  • Starting today (Sep 18), Gemini in Chrome is being rolled out for users, providing a new Gemini button that allows users to inquire about a page, alongside further integration with Google apps.
  • The address bar (omnibox) in Chrome is undergoing a major AI Mode enhancement, which offers users an easier method to engage with Google’s sophisticated Search.
  • Android and iOS users can expect to receive Gemini in Chrome “soon.”

Today (Sep 18), Google is ushering in a new browsing era for users on their computers and mobile devices, due to a substantial <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.androidcentral.com/tag/gemini" data-auto-tag-linker="true" data-before

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Austin Mann’s Evaluation of the Camera Capabilities of the iPhone 17 Pro

### iPhone 17 Pro Camera Review: Key Enhancements and Attributes

Travel photographer Austin Mann has once more provided his perspectives on the newest developments in iPhone camera technology, centering on the iPhone 17 Pro. His in-depth review underscores major enhancements and attributes that improve photography experiences, making it essential reading for photography fans and iPhone users alike.

#### Enhanced Telephoto Lens: 4x and 8x Zoom

One of Mann’s prominent highlights of the iPhone 17 Pro is the enhanced 48MP Telephoto lens, which presents both 4x (100mm) and 8x zoom functionalities. Mann stresses that this new lens offers a more natural focal length, making it perfect for capturing portraits and landscapes. He observes that the previous 5x lens often felt overly restrictive, whereas the new 4x lens introduces fresh viewpoints for photographers.

> “I can confidently state the major upgrade for photographers this year is the new 48MP 4x lens and the 8x telephoto. These focal lengths feel just right and open up avenues for capturing fresh viewpoints.”

#### Center Stage Front Camera

Mann also commends the new Center Stage front camera, which automatically modifies to ensure subjects remain in focus. This feature was particularly advantageous during his cycling excursions, enabling him to document memorable instances without adjusting settings.

> “These ‘surprise and delight’ features are my favorites… they enrich the experience without requiring anything from you.”

#### Additional Features and Observations

Although Mann’s review primarily centers on the iPhone 17 Pro, he briefly touches on the iPhone Air, describing it as a “gorgeous device” with a robust 1x sensor, though he considers it limited without the Ultra Wide and Telephoto cameras.

The review also examines various other enhancements, including:

– The new Bright photographic style
– Modifications in the iOS 26 Camera app
– The Crossbody Strap

Mann’s review is filled with breathtaking photographs captured during his cycling trek in northeastern Italy, showcasing the capabilities of the iPhone 17 Pro’s camera system.

For a detailed look at all the features and to view the stunning images taken, you can read Mann’s complete review

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Unveiled Secrets of iPhone Volume Controls

some of the most overlooked features are right in front of us. A perfect illustration is the cluster of volume buttons located on the left side of the iPhone. Since the original iPhone debuted in 2007, Apple has consistently utilized a two-button layout instead of a single rocker switch typically seen on numerous Android devices. At first glance, these buttons appear to fulfill a straightforward function: modifying your ringer or media sound levels.

Nevertheless, Apple has smartly incorporated extra functionalities, rendering them much more adaptable. For example, pressing a volume button while in the Camera application immediately captures a photo, facilitating the acquisition of steady images. These same buttons can also be employed for emergency SOS shortcuts, muting alarms, or even delaying your morning wake-up call. In brief, the iPhone’s volume controls represent a small yet robust aspect of what contributes to Apple’s design being so practical and user-centric.

Camera controls

Comprehending Lossless Audio: The Significance of Spotify’s Latest Functionality

Let’s discuss technology.

(Image credit: Derrek Lee / Android Central)
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Welcome to Tech Talk, a weekly article about the devices we utilize and their mechanics. We strive to simplify explanations so that everyone can grasp how and why the gadget in their hands operates as it does.

Tech Talk

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Apple Gear Discounts This Week: Savings on M4 MacBooks, Mac mini, iPad Air/Mini, Accessories, and Additional Items

**Pre-orders for iPhone 17 Ending Soon: Thrilling New Apple Products and Offers**

As the much-awaited delivery date for the iPhone 17 draws near, pre-orders will conclude tomorrow. This release coincides with the pre-sale options for a range of new Apple products, such as the AirPods Pro 3, Apple Watch Ultra 3, and Apple Watch Series 11. With an array of attractive deals currently offered throughout the Apple collection, this is a fantastic moment for consumers to consider their choices.

### This Week’s Apple Gear Offers

Apple fans can benefit from considerable savings on various items. The M4 MacBook Air and MacBook Pro models are undergoing price reductions, as is the M4 Mac mini. Moreover, the M3 iPad Air and iPad mini series are also seeing appealing deals, presenting a splendid chance for those aiming to upgrade their gadgets.

### AirPods Pro 3 and Apple Watch Series 11/Ultra 3 Now Available

Here are some current prices for the newest Apple products:

– **Apple Watch SE 3 (44mm)**: $279
– **AirPods Pro 3**: $249
– **Apple Watch Series 11 (42mm)**: $399
– **Apple Watch Series 11 (46mm)**: $429
– **Apple Watch Ultra 3**: $799
– **Apple Watch Ultra 3 with Milanese Loop**: $899
– **Apple Watch SE 3 (40mm)**: $249

### Top iPhone 17 Case Offers

For those who have made a pre-order for the iPhone 17, there are special discounts and launch packages available for cases. This is a wonderful way to ensure your new device remains safeguarded from the very start.

### Apple Watch Bands for Series 11 and Ultra 3

Alongside the new watches, there are deals on a selection of Apple Watch bands for the Series 11 and Ultra 3, beginning at just $22. This enables users to personalize their watches to match their style.

### Mac and iPad Offers

The M4 Mac mini is currently listed at $499, making it a compelling option for those seeking a new Mac. The M4 MacBook Air is also witnessing discounts, with prices from $799. The M4 MacBook Pro models have reverted to some of the most competitive prices of the year, featuring $300 off on select models.

For the iPad series, the M3 iPad Air is experiencing $150 reductions across various models. The iPad mini 7 is also on sale with $100 off, making it an appealing option for shoppers.

### Conclusion

With the iPhone 17 pre-orders nearing their end and a myriad of exciting new Apple products and offers available, now is the ideal time for consumers to explore their alternatives. Whether upgrading to the latest iPhone, enhancing their listening experience with the new AirPods Pro 3, or finding the ideal Apple Watch, there are numerous chances to save and embrace the latest technology from Apple.

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Fresh Updates in Apple Maps for iOS 16

# Apple Maps in iOS 26: Fresh Features and Liquid Glass Overhaul

iOS 26 has launched, bringing a stylish Liquid Glass overhaul and a variety of fresh features for Apple Maps. Following important updates the previous year, this current version improves user engagement through enhanced functionality and design.

## Liquid Glass Interface

The most prominent alteration in Apple Maps with iOS 26 is the adoption of the Liquid Glass interface. This new system-wide aesthetic rejuvenates buttons and UI components, offering a contemporary appearance that elevates the overall navigation experience. Users will enjoy the revamped visuals when exploring place listings and guides, making the app feel more intuitive and attractive.

## Fresh Features in Apple Maps

In addition to aesthetic upgrades, Apple Maps in iOS 26 presents two primary features designed to enhance everyday navigation:

### 1. Preferred Routes

Apple Maps now learns from users’ routines, identifying preferred paths for commutes and regular trips. By assessing this data, the app can proactively alert users about potential delays, helping them dodge unexpected interruptions on their way to work or important appointments.

Furthermore, users can view key route information via the ‘Suggestions’ widget, offering a quick summary right from the iPhone’s Home Screen or Today view.

### 2. Visited Locations

The Visited Locations feature automatically tracks places users have frequented, such as restaurants or stores, without necessitating any input from them. This record is kept within the app, enabling users to easily look back on their past visits. The comprehensive history can be accessed through the new ‘Visits’ menu in the Library section of the app.

## Privacy Aspects

While these functionalities enhance user convenience, they also bring up privacy issues. Apple reassures users that the preferred routes feature utilizes “on-device intelligence,” ensuring that commuting habits stay private on the user’s iPhone. Likewise, the Visited Locations data is safeguarded with end-to-end encryption, meaning it cannot be accessed by Apple and can be deleted with a simple swipe.

## Summary

The fresh features in Apple Maps for iOS 26, along with the Liquid Glass overhaul, signify a major advancement in user experience. With proactive route alerts and easily accessible history of visited locations, Apple Maps aspires to deliver a more intelligent and user-friendly navigation tool. Users are invited to delve into these new features and provide their feedback on the improvements.

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