Month: September 2025

iPhone Air Evaluations Emphasize Enhanced Battery Performance, Surpassed by Alternative iPhone 17 Variants

official iPhone Air battery life evaluations were not as favorable as those for the other three models, yet they exceeded expectations. Nevertheless, Apple’s introduction of a MagSafe battery pack specifically for the iPhone Air did not instill confidence. We understood that we required real-world testing to determine the iPhone Air’s battery longevity when compared to the iPhone 17, iPhone 17 Pro, and iPhone 17 Pro Max.

The initial reviews for the iPhone 17 and iPhone Air are being released on Wednesday, and we now have clarity on the iPhone Air’s battery performance: The iPhone Air features good to above-anticipated battery life. Depending on usage, the device can last throughout the day, although heavy users may find themselves needing a recharge before evening. Some reviewers actually assessed battery life in practical scenarios, providing us with a more factual perspective than those who merely used the device throughout the day and noted the remaining energy percentage before charging it overnight.

iPhone Air vs. iPhone 17 real-world battery comparisons

Summary of Characteristics and Advancements in Nothing’s AI-Centric Operating System Debuting in 2026

After obtaining $200M in financing, the firm intends to transform its devices.

Nothing revealed this week that it has acquired $200M in Series C financing, elevating its valuation to $1.3B as a business. In a community update, CEO Carl Pei outlined intentions to develop its AI-native devices alongside the company’s proprietary operating system that will power its smartphones in the future.

Pei noted that the company’s OS will be “significantly different” from existing options. He stated that the new operating system will be more intuitive and “hyper-personalized” for the user, implying that the interface on future Nothing phones will adapt to individual needs.

“Suggestions will appear naturally, and when we confirm an intent, agents will act on our behalf,” the announcement explained. Essentially, it aims to automate monotonous tasks on the phone, giving users ample time to concentrate on what’s important to them on the device.

He further mentioned that, unlike most operating systems available today, Nothing’s new OS will be tailored to the user, meaning that “a billion different operating systems will be created for a billion different individuals,” Pei emphasized.

In his “vision” for the company, Pei believes that new hardware is vital for truly unleashing AI’s complete potential, particularly since smartphones have not kept up with AI’s rapid advancement. Nothing aims to lead this transformation with a new lineup of “AI-native” devices, designed to harness AI’s full capabilities.

The statement also suggested that this new “AI-OS,” as Pei refers to it, would initially appear on Nothing’s smartphones and then expand to other devices. Pei also candidly mentioned that Nothing may be venturing into developing AI-native smart glasses, humanoid robots, electric vehicles, and other breakthroughs.

“This is the forthcoming chapter for Nothing, merging an AI experience into our hardware devices to redefine how technology enhances us,” Pei remarked.

Concerning diversification into other products, Pei mentioned that there will be another significant item that will be produced at a billion-unit scale annually, aside from Nothing’s smartphones, which will hold equal importance.

Pei indicated that these new AI devices will capture information “across modalities,” including voice, vision, and movement, and not solely through a screen, with the intelligence that will translate “understanding into action.” Such an AI-native device is expected to debut as early as 2026.

Meanwhile, the Nothing Phone 3 currently runs on Nothing OS 3.5, built on Android 15, and Nothing has hinted that OS 4.0 is anticipated to be released sometime this fall.

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iOS 26 Brings Two Fresh Apps for Your iPhone’s Home Screen

iOS 26 may be best recalled for its Liquid Glass aesthetic, but alongside numerous other features and modifications, the upgrade also introduces two entirely new applications to your iPhone’s Home Screen. Here’s what’s new.

## #1: Apple Games app

The iPhone’s gaming experience receives a new centralized hub in iOS 26.

’Apple Games’ is a fresh app that joins the lineup of other media-focused iPhone applications, including:

– Apple TV
– Apple Music
– Apple Podcasts
– Apple Books

The new Games app features a Home view where you’ll spend the majority of your time. Here’s how Apple describes it:

> The Home tab keeps you engaged with the games you love, suggests new games, and simplifies returning to all your favorites. Explore can’t-miss events from your games and receive personalized recommendations on what to play next.

Alongside Home are tabs for Arcade, Friends, and Library.

– **Arcade** mainly imitates the type of content you’d find inside the App Store’s Arcade section.
– **Friends** displays challenges, multiplayer options, and Game Center data related to your friends.
– **Library** includes all the games installed on your iPhone, along with your achievements and additional information.

Apple Games launches not only on the iPhone, but also on iPad and Mac with iPadOS 26 and macOS Tahoe.

## #2: Preview app

Preview might ring a bell—it’s the name of Apple’s long-established Mac utility for viewing and editing PDFs and images.

In iOS 26, Preview is now accessible on the iPhone (and iPad) for the first time.

Preview presents a specialized app for viewing PDFs and images stored in iCloud, on your device, or other Files app locations.

Features include:

– Viewing PDFs and images in a dedicated application
– Editing PDFs and images with tools such as resize, rotate, and more
– Document scanning capabilities
– PDF AutoFill
– Creating new images, either from scratch or from the clipboard

Just as the Mac’s Finder automatically opens PDFs and images in the Preview app, your iPhone and iPad’s Files app will now do the same for those document types within Preview.

Preview utilizes the new document browser UI first seen in iPadOS 18 and observed in other applications like Pages, Keynote, and Numbers. While it won’t resemble the Mac app exactly, the functionality remains quite similar.

## New apps in iOS 26: wrap-up

With Apple Games and Preview, Apple is once more increasing the number of built-in applications on an iPhone.

Games aims to leverage the iPhone’s popularity as a gaming platform for many, whereas Preview serves as a valuable hub for PDFs and images. Both apps duplicate a significant amount of functionality previously available elsewhere, while also incorporating new features and feeling like logical candidates for standalone applications.

Have you experimented with the new Games or Preview apps in iOS 26? What’s your opinion? Share with us in the comments.

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1Password Unveils Fresh Browser Extension for Perplexity’s Comet AI Browser

Tools such as 1Password will become increasingly vital in the upcoming stage of internet browsing, where AI-driven browsers will incorporate integrated chatbots capable of assisting users during their online journeys and even executing tasks on their behalf, such as purchasing products, arranging trips, and making dining reservations.

Perplexity’s Comet represents one of the initial new web browsers debuting with built-in AI functionality. This browser was launched a few months back for premium Perplexity subscribers. 1Password is now prepared to secure Comet users through a new browser extension that will operate in Comet just as it does in other browsers. The 1Password extension will enable users to securely autofill information in the Comet browser while they browse with the assistance of the Perplexity AI companion.

How 1Password operates within the Comet browser

Upcoming ChatGPT Safety Enhancements: Launch of Parental Control Options and AI Age Estimation

a teenager reportedly took their own life with assistance from the chatbot. Following this heartbreaking occurrence, the family has taken legal action against the AI company, and the litigation is still in progress. In response to this situation, OpenAI is launching its new parental control features this month. The organization stated in a blog entry that it will place teen safety above user privacy and liberty.

Among the upcoming safety enhancements for ChatGPT, there is an AI function that may provoke some debate. OpenAI will allow ChatGPT to estimate the user’s age to ascertain how it ought to answer their inquiries. This AI age estimation feature is akin to what Google disclosed in late July. Google is similarly utilizing AI to ascertain the ages of YouTube users and Google account holders.

OpenAI’s CEO Sam Altman discussed the imminent parental controls and referenced the new AI age verification system in a separate blog entry. Altman remarked, “For instance, ChatGPT will be conditioned not to engage in

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Essential Gadgets for Your Car’s Dashboard You Might Overlooked

take advantage of some overlooked apps you might not be aware of.  

As a result, we have compiled a selection of essential dashboard items that can enhance your daily travels by making them more enjoyable and comfortable while incorporating safety features, like alerting you when you exceed speed limits. Assess which of these devices would suit your requirements best and acquire them immediately at reasonable prices, considering the benefits you will receive in return.

Ceeniu Solar Car Air Freshener F21

Vehicles left parked often become stuffy and odorous over time; hence, air fresheners are essential gadgets that you should always have on hand to maintain a pleasant environment. Priced at $44.99 on Amazon, the Ceeniu Car Air Freshener stands out because it operates on solar power. It’s important to note that the fragrance works best when placed directly in sunlight. It features a rotating mechanism that spreads the scent in all directions to perfume the entire car.

Longevity is not a concern as the product is made from high-strength aluminum alloy capable of withstanding temperatures ranging from -40 to 158 degrees Fahrenheit; thus, you can position it on the dashboard without fear of temperature harm. Furthermore, the design is compact and includes an adhesive base, allowing for easy attachment to the dashboard. Simply lift the top turntable, add your essential oils, and secure the lid to lock it back into place for an enhanced indoor experience.

TriPole Portable Car Fan

Brutal summer afternoon drives can become sweaty and uncomfortable, particularly when the sun is scorching outside. The TriPole Car Fan is a portable device designed specifically for dashboard use. One important point to keep in mind is that your car’s USB output should provide at least 2 amps of current; otherwise, both fans will not function at the same time.

Additionally, the design is quite considerate as it grants each passenger complete control over their side of the fan. Both heads

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Coming Soon: Car Key Wallet Integration for Three Automobile Brands

At the beginning of summer during WWDC, Apple revealed that car keys within the Wallet app would soon be provided by 13 additional vehicle manufacturers. Now, it appears that the initial three new brands may be on the verge of arrival.

### Three New Car Key Brands Preparing for Wallet Integration in Apple’s Backend, Awaiting Launch

In a recent update on X, Aaron Perris noted that Apple’s backend has been recently adjusted in preparation for the introduction of two new car key brands: Smart and Voyah. Furthermore, in the past weeks, a similar update was found for Rivian. The company’s second-generation R1S and R1T are slated for car key compatibility, and after this discovery, Rivian confirmed that Apple car keys are on the way.

When new brands and vehicles incorporate car key capabilities, it involves a two-step process. Both Apple and the car manufacturer must “flip all the switches” to enable car keys within Wallet. Currently, at least from Apple’s standpoint, the Wallet app is set for car keys to be available for vehicles from:

– Rivian
– Smart
– Voyah

These three were all part of Apple’s comprehensive list of 13 new vehicle brands preparing to support car keys. The backend activation by Apple indicates that these brands will officially launch support very shortly.

We will keep you informed when official announcements are released. However, it is reasonable to expect that Apple will prioritize the brands that are nearly ready for launch over those that are not quite there.

Ultimately, I am optimistic that these new brands will begin launching support any day now and that the remaining 13 brands will follow suit soon. Apple mentioned “soon” back in June. While I did not specifically anticipate any car key launches during the summer, with iOS 26 now officially released featuring significant Wallet app updates and new CarPlay enhancements, it’s an excellent time to begin implementing additional car key support.

For a complete list of currently supported car key brands, check out our guide here.

How significant is car key support in Apple Wallet to you? Does it affect your vehicle selection? Share your thoughts in the comments.

### Best iPhone Accessories

FTC: We utilize income-generating auto affiliate links. More.

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Six iPhone Applications Compatible with T-Satellite Plan on iOS 26

### T-Satellite from T-Mobile: Broadening Connectivity Beyond Conventional Networks

The launch of T-Mobile’s T-Satellite service in July signified a notable progression in mobile connectivity, especially for iPhone users who previously could only send text messages via satellite. The anticipated extension of app support has come to fruition with the introduction of iOS 26, which now features six compatible applications.

#### Overview of T-Satellite

T-Mobile’s alliance with SpaceX to deliver Starlink internet service to smartphones was initially revealed in 2022. This partnership permits users with compatible unlocked phones equipped with eSIM technology to access T-Satellite, irrespective of their primary carrier. The service was first offered during the LA wildfires in January, providing basic texting and emergency alerts to iPhones prior to the iPhone 14.

Following a successful beta testing phase, T-Satellite officially debuted in July, with a subscription fee of $10 per month. T-Mobile has stated that it is actively pursuing the expansion of applications that can leverage this satellite connectivity.

#### Current App Support

Currently, T-Satellite supports six iOS applications:

– **Apple Compass**
– **Apple Fitness**
– **Apple Maps**
– **Apple Messages**
– **Apple Music**
– **Apple Weather**

Though the current selection remains limited, T-Mobile intends to extend the list, particularly for Android users, who already have access to a broader range of compatible apps.

#### Future Developments

Beginning October 1, T-Mobile will upgrade the T-Satellite service by enabling data connectivity, which will facilitate more comprehensive app functionality beyond text messaging. The company is working alongside Apple and other developers to create satellite-optimized applications, setting the stage for a more integrated satellite experience.

In summary, T-Satellite signifies a major advancement in mobile connectivity, delivering essential services in regions where traditional networks might not be present. As T-Mobile continues to enhance its offerings, users can look forward to an expanding suite of applications that harness this cutting-edge technology.

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Investigating the KPop Demon Hunters Debate: The Influence of ChatGPT in Composing “Soda Pop”

The animated film KPop Demon Hunters is a significant success for Netflix. It’s contagious, to rephrase one of the movie’s key characters. The film has turned into a cultural sensation in just a few months, and it’s not solely the plot or the animation that keeps viewers hooked. The soundtrack of KPop Demon Hunters is the key element that’s prompting fans globally to rewatch it, sing along, or enjoy the catchy tunes repeatedly. Soda Pop is among those infectious tracks, surely a summer hit, which you may have noticed playing everywhere recently.

As it stands, KPop Demon Hunters is experiencing a contentious moment at the time of writing regarding Soda Pop and ChatGPT. You may have come across online articles about Vince, one of the co-writers of Soda Pop, claiming he utilized ChatGPT to assist in generating ideas for the song. According to Gizmodo, it seems the true intent was misinterpreted during translation, as the songwriter’s comments were taken out of context.

What’s the link between ChatGPT and Soda Pop?

All this transpired during OpenAI’s inauguration of their Korean office, an event that included various attendees, such as Vince, one of the five writers accredited by Netflix for Soda Pop. An OpenAI official shared a message in a now-removed tweet that Reddit preserved: “Fav moment from the launch celebration was hearing singer/songwriter Vince share that ChatGPT helped him write Soda Pop from KPop Demon Hunters! It allegedly provided him with ideas to make it sound ‘more bubbly.'”

As reported by Gizmodo, an English version of a report in Joongang Daily published on Monday suggested that Vince used ChatGPT for conceptualizing Soda Pop. However, the Korean version of the piece indicates that Vince made a broader comment regarding the use of ChatGPT in K-Pop music production. “I sometimes use ChatGPT to get some inspiration while producing K-Pop,” Vince noted, according to a Gizmodo translation. The machine translation of the Korean version of the Joongang Daily article also conveys a similar outcome.

Joongang Daily rectified the English version of the article on Wednesday, eliminating the reference to Vince using AI to create Soda Pop. Since the tweet that ignited this KPop Demon Hunters AI controversy was also taken down, it appears that everything was a significant misunderstanding resulting from language discrepancies. Ironically, it may have been AI that failed to correctly translate the original article into English, as disclosed in a note at the conclusion of the amended story. The note states that the original Korean article was translated by a bilingual reporter with the assistance of generative AI tools prior to being evaluated by an English-speaking editor.

KPop Demon Hunters soundtrack is an enormous triumph

Notwithstanding the corrections, some harm may have been inflicted, as the news of Vince employing ChatGPT to write Soda Pop for KPop Demon Hunters may have circulated prior to the corrections. Some fans could have misinterpreted how certain music for the animated film was created. Netflix and Vince have not yet provided a statement on the issue.

Regardless of whether Vince utilized AI, the KPop Demon Hunters soundtrack is a tremendous success. Soda Pop stands out as one of the breakout hits of KPop Demon Hunters. Performed by the fictional Saja Boys band, the song climbed onto the Billboard Hot 100 chart in the US, reaching No. 5, and hit No. 3 on the Global 200 chart. KPop Demon Hunters is officially the most popular film on Netflix as of late August. The film surpassed 266 million views by early September, establishing itself as the streaming platform’s most-watched title to date. Previously, the first season of Squid Game held that position.

Regarding Netflix’s use of AI in its original content, the streamer has already acknowledged utilizing an undisclosed generative AI tool to create special effects for one of its TV shows. This disclosure came well after the show’s rise to fame. Since then, the streamer has published a detailed guide for studios exploring the use of AI in producing Netflix originals.

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NASA’s Method for Enhancing Functions on Mars Rovers

digitally charting Mars using images exclusively. These robots assist in addressing crucial inquiries such as: Is there a possibility of water existing on Mars? Are there locations suitable for human habitation in the future?

Rovers are designed to remain functional for many years to maximize their capabilities. However, akin to your smartphones and laptops, these robots also require periodic updates that introduce new functionalities and resolve issues. But how does NASA manage to execute these updates from vast distances on a remote planet? Software upgrades to rover systems can be conducted from afar despite the separation. NASA teams engage in thorough testing on Earth prior to deployment, sometimes for several years before rolling out a new update. Occasionally, these robots may encounter mechanical problems, prompting the on-ground teams to devise more innovative solutions.

How NASA incorporates software features into rovers