Month: September 2025

    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Apple Watch Ultra 3 Provides Off-Grid Connectivity, Whereas Series 11 Boasts Enhanced Battery Life
    Apple Watch Ultra 3 Provides Off-Grid Connectivity, Whereas Series 11 Boasts Enhanced Battery Life

    # Apple Watch Ultra 3: Advancing into Satellite Connectivity and Enhanced Functions

    When the Apple Watch was launched in 2015, it relied on the iPhone for data transfer. Fast forward to the present, the Apple Watch Ultra 3 has unveiled revolutionary features, including satellite connectivity, enabling it to communicate in remote locations without cellular service.

    ## Satellite Connectivity

    The Apple Watch Ultra 3 is the inaugural model to feature satellite connectivity, a capability that was first introduced with the iPhone 14. This function empowers users to reach emergency services without a cellular link. The satellite service is offered at no additional cost for two years post-purchase, although Apple has not released any information regarding future fees for this service.

    ### Testing Satellite Features

    Assessing satellite connectivity consists of four primary elements:
    1. Establishing a link to a satellite.
    2. Reaching emergency services through SOS.
    3. Sharing location with a contact.
    4. Sending messages to a contact.

    While a valid cellular plan is needed for messaging and location sharing, Emergency SOS via Satellite functions separately from cellular service. Users can conduct a connection demonstration to get acquainted with the satellite features without being in a crisis.

    The Apple Watch Ultra 3 can recommend initiating a satellite connection when outside cellular range, with the connection procedure necessitating a clear view of the sky. The watch will guide users to the closest satellite, although barriers like trees may impede connectivity.

    ## 5G Connectivity

    Alongside satellite functions, the Apple Watch Ultra 3 now accommodates 5G cellular connectivity, marking a notable enhancement as 5G networks grow. This newly designed modem prioritizes power efficiency while providing enhanced internet speeds. The dual antenna system adjusts to signal strength, optimizing connectivity according to the surroundings.

    ## Display Enhancements

    The Ultra 3 showcases a 24% decrease in bezel dimensions, reclaiming its status as having the largest display in an Apple Watch. This upgrade, in conjunction with innovative display technology that allows for second updates in always-on mode, significantly enhances the user experience.

    ## Battery Life Improvements

    The Apple Watch Ultra 3 features the longest battery lifespan of any Apple Watch thus far, lasting up to 42 hours under typical usage. This enhancement is due to a 6% boost in battery capacity, a more efficient display, and the newest 5G modem. The fast charging capability allows for swift top-ups, making it convenient for daily functionality.

    ## watchOS 26 Features

    The Ultra 3 operates on watchOS 26, introducing novel health features such as hypertension alerts and a sleep scoring system. These improvements grant users more profound insights into their health metrics, rendering the watch a more thorough health monitoring device.

    ## Conclusion

    The Apple Watch Ultra 3 signifies a major step forward in wearable technology, incorporating satellite connectivity, 5G compatibility, alongside improved display and battery functions. Priced at $799, it provides significant value for those in search of a high-performance smartwatch. Whether upgrading from an earlier version or acquiring a smartwatch for the first time, the Ultra 3 presents a comprehensive range of features that enhance connectivity and health tracking.

    The Apple Watch Series 11 and SE 3 also enter the lineup, delivering impressive enhancements and value for users at various price tiers, ensuring that Apple continues to address a broad spectrum of smartwatch enthusiasts.

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on How to Quickly Spot Counterfeit Solar Eclipse Glasses
    How to Quickly Spot Counterfeit Solar Eclipse Glasses

    do not attempt to capture an image of a solar eclipse using your mobile device or camera. This also serves to emphasize the necessity of shielding your eyes during astronomical events with protective gear like solar eclipse glasses. If a camera sensor can be harmed by the sun, your retinas are at risk as well. Nonetheless, not all solar glasses are made the same. In recent times, it has become crucial to recognize how to identify counterfeit solar eclipse glasses.

    For the total solar eclipse in North America in 2024, the American Astronomical Society issued a caution regarding imitation eclipse glasses. They noted that counterfeit glasses are “diluting the market,” making it tough to locate genuine safety equipment. Furthermore, since solar viewers come in a vast array of styles, ranging from conventional over-the-ear glasses to cardboard models, this variety complicates the task of finding the authentic ones. Fortunately, there are several straightforward methods to facilitate the identification of fake solar eclipse glasses. Testing them under safe conditions is the most effective approach, as fakes will reveal themselves through reflection and light source evaluations.

    Recognizing the distinction: Counterfeits vs. imitations

    <source media="(min-width: 429px)" srcset="https://www.bgr.com/img/gallery/how-to-easily-tell-if-solar-eclipse-glasses-are-fake/understanding-the-difference

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on iPhone 17 Models Include Built-in AI Battery Life Enhancement – Features Clarified
    iPhone 17 Models Include Built-in AI Battery Life Enhancement – Features Clarified

    iPhone 17, iPhone 17 Pro, and iPhone 17 Pro Max all provide enhanced battery longevity and quicker charging capabilities compared to their earlier versions. The ultra-slim iPhone Air is claimed to offer all-day battery performance, with Apple’s estimations suggesting it will last at least as long as last year’s iPhone 16 Pro. In addition, Apple has introduced Adaptive Power, a novel AI-driven battery feature in iOS 26, across all four iPhones, which is expected to further extend battery duration.

    “Adaptive Power utilizes on-device intelligence to estimate when you’ll require additional battery life based on your recent usage habits and then modifies settings accordingly to help your battery last longer throughout the day,” Apple states in a newly released support document online on Monday. The document notes that Adaptive Power is activated by default on all 2025 iPhones, including the iPhone 17, iPhone 17 Pro, iPhone 17 Pro Max, and iPhone Air.

    This feature is disabled by default on all other iPhones operating iOS 26 that support Apple Intelligence functionalities. This includes the iPhone 15 Pro, the 15 Pro Max, and all variants of iPhone 16 (including the iPhone 16e). Adaptive Power was also accessible to iPhone users who participated in the iOS 26 beta for three months. Apple released iOS 26 for download on Monday.

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on Google’s Revamped Play Points Initiative Provides Fresh Rewards for Android Users
    Google’s Revamped Play Points Initiative Provides Fresh Rewards for Android Users

    Google’s Play Points Rewards Program Grows in the U.K.

    Google has revealed an thrilling enhancement to its Play Points rewards program for Android users in the U.K., rolling out new rewards and experiences. In the next few weeks, users can look forward to partnerships with Android, YouTube, Chrome, and leading developers to provide clothing and accessories as part of the rewards.

    A major highlight is the debut of the Diamond Valley mini-game, set to arrive in November. This game enables users to hunt for diamonds, which can be redeemed for prizes like Pixel devices, exclusive items, and bonus points. Initially, Gold Plus Play Points members will unlock access on November 3, accompanied by a 500 diamond bonus. The game will be accessible to all users on November 10 through the Play Points section in their profile.

    These enhancements are intended to improve the Play Points experience, offering additional avenues for U.K. users to utilize their points. The program’s expansion follows earlier successful rollouts in the U.S., Korea, and Japan, where users exchanged digital gems for tangible rewards. With these updates, Google continues to enhance its Play Points rewards, making them more captivating and beneficial for Android users.

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on iPhone Users Select This AI App as the Leading Free iOS Application
    iPhone Users Select This AI App as the Leading Free iOS Application

    iPhone users appear to be addressing the AI deficiency on their devices with Gemini. Apple’s notably sluggish entry into the AI arena has been extensively recorded, and Apple Intelligence has not facilitated meaningful progress. Even collaborations with OpenAI and ChatGPT did little to enable the iPhone to rival mobile AI offerings such as Google AI or Galaxy AI.

    It seems Apple has gleaned insights from its past at the iPhone 16 event; rather than proclaiming ambitious feature objectives alongside the iPhone 17 that it couldn’t meet, it opted not to mention artificial intelligence whatsoever. The lack of discussion regarding Apple Intelligence at the company’s recent keynote was not particularly surprising, considering significant features revealed a year earlier are still not operational. This raises two key questions: does Apple truly need AI to market iPhones, and do iPhone users genuinely desire it?

    The response to the first question remains uncertain, but it’s clear that Apple’s users do value AI. Google’s Gemini app for iOS has recently surpassed ChatGPT to become the top free app on the App Store. This marks a significant victory for Google, indicating a shift in momentum from ChatGPT to Gemini. Furthermore, it suggests that while Apple’s internal AI initiatives may be stagnant, iPhone users are finding their mobile AI solutions elsewhere.

    Why Apple hardly mentioned AI during its iPhone 17 event

    Apple’s fall keynote was sparse in AI features, with the main highlight being Live Translation on the AirPods Pro 3 and earlier versions. Apple concentrated on practical applications of AI, like Live Translation, which eliminates communication obstacles by translating discussions into your chosen language instantly. A similar approach is reflected in Workout Buddy, an AI feature for Apple Watch that aids you with fitness insights throughout your workout.

    The framing of new functionalities as practical remedies to real-world challenges stands in stark contrast to Apple’s past discourse on AI. At previous WWDC keynotes and launch events, the company boasted about Apple Intelligence features in conventional generative AI settings, such as text modification, image generation, and voice assistance.

    The issue with the latter method is that Apple’s foundational models do not measure up to those of Google or OpenAI, meaning Apple Intelligence can seldom compete with Gemini or ChatGPT in standard generative AI tasks. Instead, the company’s opportunity to make an impression in the AI domain lies in specific features that utilize Apple hardware for distinct purposes, akin to Live Translation or Workout Buddy.

    While the business is still endeavoring to enhance Apple Intelligence’s functions, it is opting to discuss those generative AI features in press releases rather than extended keynote presentations. After all, it’s evident that rivals offer superior experiences in text and image creation as well as voice assistance compared to Apple Intelligence and Siri. Now, this is reflected by iPhone users in the App Store’s leading charts.

    Why Gemini serves as a better alternative for iOS users than ChatGPT

    Gemini is currently the top free app on the App Store, an impressive accomplishment that demonstrates the progress Google AI has made. With 483,000 ratings, the Gemini app for iOS boasts 4.8 out of five stars, showcasing exceptional performance. It also ranks as the number one app in the productivity category, surpassing ChatGPT and Google’s Gmail app.

    Among the numerous reviews for the Gemini app on the App Store, one stands out in illustrating why Apple users are turning to Google for their AI requirements. “I wasn’t sure if this app would work as advertised but it absolutely does,” writes user Jrich828. “Siri does not work as well for me but Gemini has managed to answer all my quirky questions. Love it!”

    This encapsulates the reason why iPhone users are increasingly adopting Gemini. It’s not solely that Google’s AI is beneficial — that alone wouldn’t suffice for those within the Apple ecosystem to give Gemini a shot. More importantly, it’s that Apple Intelligence and Siri are not meeting a demand, prompting iOS users to seek out better options.

    Even though it’s just one app review, the above sentiment is quite widespread among Apple enthusiasts. Siri has lagged behind since the days of Google Assistant, and Gemini can easily outperform Apple’s AI offerings. Additionally, Gemini is particularly user-friendly on iPhone. You can place Gemini widgets on your home and lock screens for quick access, and even launch the app using a voice command if you’re adept with Shortcuts.

    Even as Apple collaborates with ChatGPT for Apple Intelligence, users are making an effort to explore Gemini. Beyond the aforementioned reasons, I speculate iOS users are keen to engage with Google AI due to their familiarity with other Google applications and services, such as Gmail, Search, or YouTube. The Google ecosystem may not be as recognizable as Apple’s, but it is not entirely alien either.

    Gemini’s rise to the top free app on the App Store signifies that iPhone users have made their preferences known.

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on Grasping the Denomination of iOS 26 and the Nonexistence of iOS 19 for iPhone
    Grasping the Denomination of iOS 26 and the Nonexistence of iOS 19 for iPhone

    ### Grasping Apple’s iOS 26: A Change in Versioning Approach

    Apple has recently launched iOS 26, the newest significant version of its iPhone operating system. Users with iPhone models newer than the XS can now upgrade to this latest version at no cost. This release has generated interest, especially concerning the surprising jump from iOS 18 to iOS 26, entirely skipping iOS 19.

    #### The Explanation for the Leap in Version Numbers

    The principal reason for this atypical versioning lies in the fact that Apple’s operating system version numbers are shaped more by marketing tactics than by a rigid numerical order. The company has decided to synchronize the version number of its iPhone operating system with the forthcoming calendar year. Although it may appear perplexing that the current year is 2025 while iOS 26 is designated for 2026, the logic is simple: the majority of iOS 26’s duration will exist in 2026.

    iOS 26 is projected to serve as the primary operating system until September 2026, when iOS 27 is expected to be unveiled. Thus, for nine of the twelve months during iOS 26’s existence, it will effectively stand in for the operating system of 2026.

    #### A Cohesive Versioning System Across Apple Platforms

    Beyond iOS, Apple is applying this versioning method across its other platforms, establishing a uniform numbering framework. The following updates illustrate this consistency:

    – iOS 19 -> iOS 26
    – iPadOS 19 -> iPadOS 26
    – watchOS 11 -> watchOS 26
    – macOS 15 -> macOS 26
    – visionOS 3 -> visionOS 26
    – tvOS 19 -> tvOS 26

    This cohesive strategy simplifies versioning for consumers, enhancing the ease of remembering and comprehending updates across different devices.

    #### Update Format and Future Announcements

    All updates to the current operating system versions will adhere to the 26.x format until the subsequent major release, which is anticipated to be revealed in June as iOS 27. This organized approach enables users to expect updates and improvements in a systematic manner.

    #### Hardware Versus Software Versioning

    Curiously, Apple has opted not to implement the same year-based numbering for its hardware. The iPhone remains at iPhone 17, instead of transitioning to iPhone 26. This choice likely arises from the fact that while software updates are issued annually and free of charge, hardware models are marketed over multiple years. Therefore, a year-based numbering system for hardware may not be as efficient from a marketing standpoint.

    ### Final Thoughts

    The introduction of iOS 26 signifies a notable transformation in Apple’s approach to versioning its software platforms. By aligning the version numbers with the upcoming calendar year, Apple seeks to foster a more transparent and cohesive experience for its users. As the technology landscape continues to progress, this strategy may assist in streamlining how consumers engage with Apple’s ecosystem.

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on AirPods Pro 3 Delivers Outstanding Heart Rate Tracking in Comparison to PowerBeats 2 Pro
    AirPods Pro 3 Delivers Outstanding Heart Rate Tracking in Comparison to PowerBeats 2 Pro

    ### AirPods Pro 3: Revolutionizing Audio and Health Tracking

    The launch of the AirPods Pro 3 has generated buzz within the tech sector, signifying a notable advancement in Apple’s audio offerings. A detailed assessment by Chance Miller, editor-in-chief at 9to5Mac, underscores the groundbreaking qualities of this new version, proposing it could reshape consumer standards for wireless earbuds.

    #### Cutting-Edge Heart Rate Monitoring Features

    A key highlight of the AirPods Pro 3 is its sophisticated heart rate tracking functionality. While Apple had previously rolled out heart rate tracking in the Powerbeats Pro 2, the technology in the AirPods Pro 3 is unique. The updated model employs a specialized photoplethysmography (PPG) sensor that transmits invisible infrared light at an impressive frequency of 256 pulses each second. This advancement is celebrated as Apple’s most compact heart rate sensor to date, specifically engineered for the AirPods Pro 3.

    In contrast, the Powerbeats Pro 2 utilized optical heart rate sensors that were based on a green LED light, which fell short in certain scenarios, particularly during the shift from indoor cycling to outdoor running. Conversely, the AirPods Pro 3 have demonstrated exceptional reliability in heart rate data, notably when juxtaposed with established gadgets like the Apple Watch.

    #### Performance Evaluation by DC Rainmaker

    Triathlete and tech reviewer DC Rainmaker conducted extensive comparative analyses on the heart rate monitoring abilities of the AirPods Pro 3. His results were largely affirmative, characterizing the performance as “mind-bogglingly good.” Rainmaker’s examination involved evaluating data from seven distinct devices, demonstrating that the AirPods Pro 3 performed exceptionally well even in demanding workout situations, such as interval training.

    Despite initial doubts arising from the performance of the Powerbeats, Rainmaker was taken aback by the accuracy of the AirPods Pro 3. He highlighted that Apple had accomplished what many others had struggled with, creating a dependable heart rate sensing gadget embedded in earbuds.

    #### A Holistic Solution for Fitness Aficionados

    Rainmaker asserted that for individuals in search of a multifaceted product merging exceptional audio quality with precise heart rate tracking, the AirPods Pro 3 emerges as the prime option. He stated, “If you want excellent sound for workouts with top-notch heart rate tracking, this appears to not just be the easy choice, but quite frankly, the only choice.” This perspective emphasizes the AirPods Pro 3’s distinctive role in the market, where few rivals have succeeded in offering comparable precision and functionality.

    #### Conclusion

    The AirPods Pro 3 signifies a notable progression in both audio fidelity and health tracking technology. With its innovative heart rate sensor and remarkable performance indicators, it serves the needs of fitness enthusiasts as well as casual users. As Apple continues to expand the limits of what wireless earbuds can accomplish, the AirPods Pro 3 could very well establish a new benchmark in the industry.

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Apple Sports App Unveils Home Screen Widgets for Real-Time Scores and Timetables
    Apple Sports App Unveils Home Screen Widgets for Real-Time Scores and Timetables

    ### Apple Sports App: Recent Improvements and Features

    The Apple Sports app has seen considerable upgrades in the previous year, with the latest update adding support for widgets on the Home Screen. This functionality allows users to personalize their experience by showcasing live scores and schedules for their preferred teams and leagues, including Live Activities on the Lock Screen.

    #### Key Features in Version 3.3

    1. **Home Screen Widgets**: The addition of widgets offers quick access to live scores and schedules, enabling users to remain informed about their favored teams and leagues at a glance.

    2. **Expanded Availability**: The app is now accessible in eight new nations: Austria, France, Germany, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Portugal, and Spain. This growth permits fans in these areas to keep track of their chosen leagues and teams.

    3. **Soccer Lineup Expansion**: The app has integrated numerous soccer leagues into its offerings, such as Bundesliga 2, Ligue 2, Primeira Liga, Segunda División, and Serie B, appealing to a broader audience of soccer fans.

    4. **Event Tracking**: Users can now monitor upcoming events, ensuring they never overlook a moment of the action. When an event commences, Live Activities will appear on the Lock Screen for real-time updates.

    5. **Improved NFL and College Football Coverage**: The app delivers more comprehensive updates for NFL and college football games, including details on timeouts and other game-related occurrences.

    #### User Experience and Ratings

    The Apple Sports app is free of charge and has garnered favorable feedback, with over 134,000 ratings and an impressive score of 4.7 out of 5. This underscores the app’s popularity and the contentment of its user community.

    #### Previous Updates

    Earlier enhancements throughout the year have also played a role in augmenting the app’s functionality and user engagement, improving the overall experience for sports enthusiasts.

    For those looking to download the Apple Sports app, it can be found on the App Store

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on iPhone 17 Sees Most Extended Shipment Delay Since iPhone 11 – Discover the Wait Duration
    iPhone 17 Sees Most Extended Shipment Delay Since iPhone 11 – Discover the Wait Duration

    The iPhone 17 series commenced online sales on Friday, with the iPhone 17 Pro Max completely selling out in just a few minutes, which came as no surprise to seasoned iPhone users or industry observers. Typically, Apple’s priciest iPhones are the first to fly off the shelves during preorders. By Monday, various other models were unavailable online, including the standard iPhone 17, select iPhone 17 Pros, and some versions of the iPhone Air. Numerous reports highlighted the impressive sales of the iPhone 17 series, including a research note from Bank of America (BofA) indicating that the standard iPhone 17 is experiencing the longest shipment delays since the iPhone 11’s launch in 2019. BofA reported that iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max models had longer shipping times on September 15 than at this point in last year’s preorder timeline.

    On a global scale, the average shipping time for the iPhone 17 Pro is 18 days, whereas it was 14 days for the iPhone 16 Pro. The wait for the iPhone 17 Pro Max stands at 25 days, compared to 23 days for its predecessor. Lastly, BofA observed that the average wait time for the standard iPhone 17 is now 19 days, an increase from last year’s 10-day wait for the base iPhone. This reflects “strong demand,” according to analysts. Buyers in China may face even longer wait times, with BofA noting that iPhone 17 Pro deliveries have a 25-day wait, which is a week longer than in other regions.

    Robust demand for the iPhone 17

    <div class="slide-key image-holder gallery-image-holder credit-image-wrap " data-post-url="https://www.bgr.com/1969451/iphone-17-shipping-delays-how-long-wait/" data

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on Samsung’s One UI 8 Gallery Assistant Delivers Key Features in a Sleek Design
    Samsung’s One UI 8 Gallery Assistant Delivers Key Features in a Sleek Design

    The latest batch editor from Samsung has arrived.

    (Image credit: Nicholas Sutrich / Android Central)
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    Key information

    • Samsung has introduced Gallery Assistant in the Members app, with the goal of unifying all photo and video editing tools.
    • The app is presently in beta for One UI 8 devices, such as Galaxy S25, Z Fold 7, and Z Flip 7, with broader release still unclear.
    • Batch editing stands out as a significant feature, allowing users to apply identical adjustments to several photos and videos simultaneously.
    • Sign-ups are currently available in South Korea, suggesting a stable launch is imminent.

    Samsung has begun to rollout Gallery Assistant within the Members app, intending to consolidate all your photo and video editing tools in one location.

    Gallery Assistant is now in beta for One

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