Month: September 2025

    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Apple Releases iOS 18.7 Update for iPhone: Updated Features and Improvements
    Apple Releases iOS 18.7 Update for iPhone: Updated Features and Improvements

    ### iOS 18.7: A Substitute Software Update to iOS 26

    Today, Apple has rolled out two major updates for iPhone users: the prominent iOS 26 update featuring a Liquid Glass redesign and the substitute iOS 18.7 update.

    #### Summary of the Updates

    – **iOS 18.7**: This is the most recent version of the current iPhone software that has been in circulation since last fall. It acts as a reliable choice for users who wish to keep their current interface and features intact.

    – **iOS 26**: This is the latest operating system iteration that presents a range of new features along with a refreshed design.

    iOS 18.7 stands in contrast to iOS 26 in many ways. While iOS 26 offers a wholly new look and a multitude of features, iOS 18.7 emphasizes dependability and security, with modifications primarily occurring behind the scenes.

    #### Main Features of iOS 18.7

    The primary emphasis of iOS 18.7 lies in:

    – **Bug Fixes**: It resolves various challenges that users might have faced in earlier iterations.

    – **Security Updates**: This update encompasses crucial security improvements that are vital for user protection.

    Apple’s official release notes underscore the significance of this update:

    > “This update delivers important bug fixes and security updates and is advised for all users.”

    By providing iOS 18.7, Apple offers an option for users who wish to keep their devices secure and stable without opting for the new features and design of iOS 26.

    #### Reliability and User Experience

    iOS 18.7 is anticipated to be more reliable and less susceptible to bugs compared to iOS 26, as it is built upon a year of ongoing enhancements since the debut of iOS 18. Users can locate iOS 18.7 recommended in the Settings under General > Software Update, whereas iOS 26 will appear lower on the screen.

    For those who are uncertain about the new Liquid Glass design or wary of potential bugs in the new operating system, iOS 18.7 acts as a safer choice. In contrast, users keen to delve into the latest features and design will find iOS 26 attractive.

    #### Conclusion

    In conclusion, iOS 18.7 offers a dependable and secure alternative for iPhone users who wish to continue with a familiar interface, while iOS 26 presents an exciting new experience for those ready to welcome change. Users should assess their preferences and requirements when choosing which update to install.

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on New AirPods Features Launched in iOS 26
    New AirPods Features Launched in iOS 26

    iOS 26 represents a significant upgrade for iPhone users, but it also brings a host of new functionalities for AirPods users—particularly for those with AirPods Pro 2, AirPods 4, or the latest AirPods Pro 3. Below are the enhancements set to arrive for AirPods users who update to iOS 26.

    ### iOS 26 Introduces Up to Seven New AirPods Features, Based on Your Model

    Each year, Apple rolls out new functionalities for AirPods users through firmware updates, and this year is no different. Accompanied by iOS 26, iPadOS 26, macOS Tahoe, and more, Apple is deploying new AirPods firmware that introduces a range of new capabilities. The updated build for at least certain models is **8A356**.

    When you combine the new operating system updates with the refreshed AirPods firmware, users can take advantage of up to seven novel features:

    1. Automatic pausing when you drift off
    2. Notifications for battery charging
    3. Seamless switching for CarPlay
    4. Live Translation
    5. High-fidelity audio recording
    6. Camera Remote functionality
    7. Improved voice clarity during calls

    Here’s a brief overview of what these features entail.

    If you frequently doze off with AirPods in, Apple can now identify that and **automatically pause** your audio. This is less crucial for music but could be a game-changer for podcasts and audiobooks.

    In addition to various battery-related functionalities, iOS 26 now includes **notifications for AirPods charging reminders**. You’ll receive alerts when your AirPods case is running low and when it has reached a full charge.

    One of my preferred AirPods features, automatic switching, was previously unavailable for CarPlay. However, with iOS 26, your AirPods Bluetooth connection can **automatically switch between your device and the car**.

    The first three features will be available across a majority of AirPods models.

    If you are using AirPods Pro 2, AirPods 4, or the new AirPods Pro 3, you’ll also enjoy four additional features.

    **Live Translation** debuts in beta as an Apple Intelligence function that allows you to engage in face-to-face conversations with individuals who speak a different language.

    Have you tried recording audio with your AirPods? Thanks to Apple’s ‘**high-fidelity audio recording**,’ those recordings should sound significantly improved.

    **Camera Remote** operates similarly to the Camera Remote app on the Apple Watch. You can take a photo or video by pressing your AirPods’ stem. This option can be set up in Settings.

    Lastly, with **improved voice clarity during calls**, iOS 26 enhances AirPods’ functionality for one of their most prevalent uses.

    ### Summary of AirPods Features in iOS 26

    Particularly with AirPods Pro 2, Apple has established a new benchmark by delivering substantial AirPods features through firmware updates. With iOS 26, this trend continues, extending the benefits to AirPods 4 and AirPods Pro 3.

    Even if your AirPods only support a handful of the latest features, iOS 26 is brimming with additional exciting enhancements on your iPhone that justify an upgrade.

    For a comprehensive look at how the AirPods firmware updates process works, full details can be found here.

    Which new AirPods features are you looking forward to the most? Share your thoughts in the comments.

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Apple Launches tvOS 26 Update for Apple TV: New Improvements and Features
    Apple Launches tvOS 26 Update for Apple TV: New Improvements and Features

    # Apple Unveils tvOS 26: An In-Depth Look

    Apple has formally introduced the latest iteration of its operating system for the Apple TV, known as tvOS 26. This update is accessible for users of both Apple TV 4K and Apple TV HD, though some functionalities may not be available on older hardware versions.

    ## Main Features of tvOS 26

    ### Liquid Glass Design

    A standout modification in tvOS 26 is the debut of the Liquid Glass design, which fits seamlessly within Apple’s overarching design vision across its platform offerings. This innovative material can be seen in the Control Center and serves as the background for buttons within the system video player interface. The Liquid Glass effect mirrors real glass by reflecting and bending light, enhancing the visual aesthetics, particularly on OLED displays. Users can experience these effects by opening the Control Center in any application, resulting in a more elegant and immersive interface.

    ### Redesign of the Apple TV App

    The Apple TV app has experienced a considerable overhaul, integrating the Liquid Glass theme. A significant alteration includes the shift from landscape to portrait artwork for film and TV show listings. The “Continue Watching” section now showcases unified cards that exhibit playback status and descriptions over visuals, although the capability to display a still image from the current episode has been removed.

    ### Karaoke Mode with Apple Music Sing Remote

    With tvOS 26, enhancements to Apple Music Sing features allow users to connect their iPhones to the Apple TV to act as a wireless karaoke microphone. This functionality permits users to sing along with tracks playing on the television, complete with vocal effects and the ability to queue songs and send emoji responses through linked devices. Furthermore, the lyrics experience in Apple Music has been refreshed to feature translations and pronunciation tips for supported tracks.

    ### New Interface for User Profile Switching

    To enhance the multi-user functionality, tvOS 26 presents a revamped user profile switching interface. This feature automatically reveals a user account switcher each time the Apple TV awakens from sleep, simplifying access to individual accounts for users. This option can be activated in the Settings under Users and Accounts.

    ### Additional Improvements

    The update also introduces new Aerial screensavers that highlight the scenery of India, along with improved controls to choose which videos appear in the screensaver cycle. For users with AirPlay speakers, tvOS 26 enables the selection of any AirPlay 2 device as a consistent audio output, enhancing the sound quality during video viewing. Minor updates to FaceTime include alerts for incoming calls on the TV and broader support for Live Captions.

    ## Summary

    While tvOS 26 brings a host of thrilling features and visual improvements, some users might still be let down by the absence of a revamped home screen experience and enhanced multi-user capabilities. Nevertheless, these updates enhance the enjoyment and cohesiveness of the experience for video, music, and photos, reinforcing the Apple TV’s status as a premium alternative to integrated smart TV interfaces. The Liquid Glass design coupled with the updated Apple TV app makes content navigation visually attractive, while the new karaoke functionalities and FaceTime upgrades further entwine the Apple ecosystem, enriching the overall user experience.

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Contrasting the iPhone 17 with the Google Pixel 10 for Entry-Level Flagship Dominance: Which One Prevails?
    Contrasting the iPhone 17 with the Google Pixel 10 for Entry-Level Flagship Dominance: Which One Prevails?

    Google focuses on AI as its primary differentiator, while Apple provides a more consistent and well-rounded flagship experience.

    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Dyson’s OnTrac Headphones: The Next Generation of Stylish Audio Innovation
    Dyson’s OnTrac Headphones: The Next Generation of Stylish Audio Innovation

    Far from just a novelty, the Dyson OnTrac offers an experience that deserves replication.

    When you think of Dyson, their vacuums and hair tools likely come to mind. If you do remember Dyson’s venture into headphones, it’s probably because of the Dyson Zone, an unusual device that merged over-ear headphones with an air-purifying mask during the global pandemic.

    If you lost interest after that, I wouldn’t hold it against you, but you’d be missing out on one of the most exciting concepts in consumer audio today: the Dyson OnTrac. Unlike the Zone, the OnTrac are no mere gimmick. These headphones combine eye-catching aesthetics with significant sound quality and ANC performance. In the crowded over-ear headphone market, Dyson distinguished the OnTrac from competitors by embracing customization as their hallmark.

    We first reviewed the Dyson OnTrac in 2024, and upon revisiting them a year later, it’s evident they still make a statement. With frequent sales — the Dyson OnTrac recently dropped to their lowest price ever at $260 on Amazon just last month — they remain a solid choice for those seeking excellent ANC headphones.

    More importantly, I hope to see more audio brands take inspiration from Dyson’s customization options, and here’s why.

    How to customize the Dyson OnTrac

    Many top headphones feature replaceable ear cushions, and for good reason. When a set of ear cushions becomes dirty or damaged, you can easily replace them at a reasonable cost rather than purchasing an entirely new headphone set. This is great for user-repairability, but the main focus isn’t necessarily customization. Often, a headphone brand will only offer a couple of color options for replacement ear cushions, commonly matching their primary color schemes.

    Dyson takes a different route, designing the OnTrac ear cushions not only to be user-replaceable but also user-customizable. There are nine unique colors of ear cushions you can acquire, significantly more than the four color options available for the Dyson OnTrac. The concept is that you can purchase a pair of OnTrac and then personalize it with custom cushions, making Dyson’s headset as much a fashion statement as it is an audio device.

    Dyson advances this concept by allowing users to replace and customize the outer caps of the headphones, which is virtually unheard of in the headphone industry. You can twist the outer cap on your OnTrac to unlock it and remove it from the headphones. This will show you a basic view of the OnTrac, its shell, and its audio drivers (once the ear cushions are removed). From there, you can add whichever outer cap material and color you prefer.

    There are a total of 10 options for outer cap colors and finishes, including CNC Aluminum, CNC Copper, Titanium, and Ceramic. This versatility allows you to choose a headphone colorway that aligns with your style. Perhaps you want titanium headphones to match your titanium Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra phone, or a pink ceramic pair to complement your peony Google Pixel 9.

    With the color of the headband (chosen only at purchase), the outer caps, and the ear cushions, there are over 2,000 distinct color combinations you can create with Dyson OnTrac. In a market where many of the best headphones are typically available only in black or white, this level of customization is unmatched.

    A fresh approach to headphone repairability and modularity

    Of course, swapping the outer cap or ear cushion on your headphones won’t enhance sound quality or provide any real benefits to the listening experience. Audiophiles, you may want to look away. However, headphones have evolved into as much of a fashion accessory as they are an audio device in recent years.

    If you’re skeptical, head to the gym and tally how many individuals are exercising with AirPods Max — they might be the least suitable tool for the task, yet they are everywhere. Their appeal lies in their aesthetics and the status they convey.

    It’s encouraging to see a company acknowledge that technology intersects with fashion and embrace that identity. Personalizing these headphones isn’t inexpensive, as each set of ear cushions or outer caps costs $50. Nonetheless, it’s wonderful to have the choice. Even if you wait until your ear cushions are worn or your outer caps are scratched to replace them, it will still be enjoyable to select a new colorway a year or two later.

    The ability to refresh a pair of headphones that are a few years old with something new may prevent the urge to purchase an entirely new pair, thus reducing overconsumption and saving you money. Not everyone will utilize the Dyson OnTrac’s customization features in this way, but it’s refreshing that they exist.

    Considering how mundane headphones like the Sonos Ace, Bose QuietComfort Ultra, and Sony WH-1000XM6 are starting to appear

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on Apple Unveils iOS 26, iPadOS 26, macOS Tahoe, watchOS 26, tvOS 26, and visionOS 26
    Apple Unveils iOS 26, iPadOS 26, macOS Tahoe, watchOS 26, tvOS 26, and visionOS 26

    After an extensive three-month beta testing period, Apple has released iOS 26, iPadOS 26, macOS Tahoe, watchOS 26, tvOS 26, and visionOS 26 for all users. If your devices are compatible, you can download the newest software from **Settings** > **General** > **Software Update**.

    These software updates all incorporate the new Liquid Glass design. While it will be more evident on iOS, iPadOS, and macOS, Apple has also made adjustments to the user interface of watchOS, tvOS, and visionOS. This redesign allows Apple users to enjoy new Clear icons, a refreshed Control Center, redesigned apps, and matching names for all the updates.

    In iPadOS 26, Apple is emphasizing [multitasking and productivity features](https://www.bgr.com/tech/how-to-master-all-of-ipados-26s-upgraded-multitasking-features/) more seriously, introducing a new window tiling system, a Preview app for document signing and sketching, along with enhanced Apple Intelligence features powered by ChatGPT. macOS Tahoe introduces enhanced Continuity features, an updated Spotlight search, and serves as the final major OS update for Intel Macs. Apple states that [macOS 27 will be exclusively for Apple Silicon computers](https://www.bgr.com/1939592/macos-27-m1-macs-beginning-end-support-new-features/).

    ### watchOS 26, tvOS 26, and visionOS 26 have launched

    With watchOS 26, Apple Watch users can utilize the [new Workout Buddy](https://www.bgr.com/1947792/watchos-26-workout-buddy-conversational-siri-preview/). This Apple Intelligence feature requires an iPhone 15 Pro or later within proximity, providing the optimal way to receive additional motivation from an AI coach utilizing your Health app data.

    Conversely, tvOS 26 focuses on simplifying the discovery of new content. It features a redesigned Apple TV app, makes profile switching easier than ever, and expedites the sign-in process for new streaming services.

    Lastly,

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on Reasons Your Vintage MacBook May Incite Hold-Ups at TSA Security Lines
    Reasons Your Vintage MacBook May Incite Hold-Ups at TSA Security Lines

    laptop and smartphone inspections. While it might simplify your journey to leave electronics behind, you could need to take your MacBook for professional or leisure purposes. Nevertheless, your MacBook, particularly if it’s an earlier version, might elicit some apprehensions from TSA personnel due to its lithium-ion battery.

    Apple’s MacBook utilizes lithium-ion batteries, promoting their rapid charging and prolonged retention of power. The lightweight nature of these batteries is advantageous for the portability of a MacBook. Their capacity to prolong their lifespan when the charge begins to deplete makes them ideal for laptops.

    However, the TSA remains vigilant regarding lithium-ion batteries as they have the potential to ignite. This could lead to additional inquiries or more thorough inspections of your MacBook by the TSA. There are also specific regulations that you must adhere to concerning your MacBook and its battery to ensure a smooth boarding process.

    Why the TSA is apprehensive about MacBook batteries

    <

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Galaxy S26 Speculations Suggest No Enhancement in Charging Speed for Samsung’s Future Flagship Models
    Galaxy S26 Speculations Suggest No Enhancement in Charging Speed for Samsung’s Future Flagship Models

    Don’t Expect Faster Charging on the Galaxy S26 Models

    What You Should Know:
    – The Galaxy S26 Pro and S26 Edge are expected to maintain the same 25W wired charging, despite their larger batteries.
    – The Galaxy S26 Ultra is not exempt either — a fresh leak indicates it remains limited to 45W rather than the anticipated 60W.
    – Competing Android devices can now achieve a full charge in less than 30 minutes, leaving Samsung at a competitive disadvantage.

    It appears increasingly probable that Samsung will overhaul and rename its Galaxy S series with the upcoming launch. While much of the Galaxy S26’s specifications have already surfaced, owing to recent leaks and rumors, the latest discussions regarding its charging performance could disappoint fans.

    Leaker @UniverseIce on X asserts that the Galaxy S26 Pro and S26 Edge will retain the same 25W wired charging as their predecessors. This decision is noteworthy, keeping Samsung’s charging rates consistent for several generations, even as their batteries expand in size.

    Previous leaks indicate that the Galaxy S26 Pro will feature a 4,300 mAh battery, an upgrade from the Galaxy S25’s 4,000 mAh. The S26 Edge is rumored to increase to 4,200 mAh from 3,900 mAh on the Galaxy S25 Edge. Larger batteries should equate to extended periods between charges, but with the unchanged slow 25W speeds, recharging will take longer.

    Presently, 25W wired charging seems unsatisfactory for a flagship, and with Samsung emphasizing the Pro branding, the hardware should reflect this title.

    Galaxy S26 Ultra Expected to Remain Limited to 45W

    The prospects for a quicker-charging Galaxy S26 Ultra also do not appear promising. SammyGuru has identified speed ratings in Chinese regulatory documents that cast doubt on earlier upgrade speculation. The Chinese variation continues to be capped at 45W, squashing hopes for a 60W enhancement, and if this is the model Samsung distributes worldwide, no improvements will be seen.

    If this information is correct, Samsung will enter its third flagship generation with unchanged wired charging speeds. Meanwhile, competitors like OnePlus, Xiaomi, and OPPO have advanced their own faster charging technologies significantly.

    This situation places Samsung at a distinct disadvantage, with many of the most popular Android phones today now providing capabilities that can fully charge a device in less than half an hour. Some users may value the emphasis on battery life, but others could regard it as a lost opportunity.

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on T-Mobile Provides the Latest Pixel Phone at No Cost With No Trade-In Required
    T-Mobile Provides the Latest Pixel Phone at No Cost With No Trade-In Required

    The Google Pixel 10 offers just keep improving

    Google’s latest flagship range is here, and the Pixel 10 offers just keep improving. Of all the promotions I’ve come across, T-Mobile seems to be in the lead with a deal that grants you a complimentary Google Pixel 10 when you add a line with “most” plans available on its site. This includes the carrier’s budget-friendly Essential plans, and there’s no trade-in needed! T-Mobile is also eliminating the $25 activation fee for a limited time. Given that the Pixel 10 series has only launched on August 28th, that’s quite remarkable.

    The top Google Pixel 10 deals on the internet today

    Google Pixel 10 128GB: $799 FREE with most plans at T-Mobile

    The Pixel 10 has officially launched, and you can already secure the new flagship for free by adding a line with most of T-Mobile’s data plans. No trade-in is necessary, and as of September 15th, T-Mobile is even waiving the $25 activation fee for online shoppers.

    While it may not be the significant upgrade we anticipated, the Google Pixel 10 remains an impressive flagship device with upgraded hardware and several unexpected specs beneath the surface. All three models in the flagship series — which consists of the standard Pixel 10, the Pixel 10 Pro, and the Pixel 10 Pro XL — are driven by the new Google Tensor G5 chipset, and you receive a revamped triple camera system, numerous new AI-driven software features, and a guarantee of seven years of OS and security updates. The Pixel 10 is also the first significant Android device to offer Qi2 MagSafe compatibility.

    There are a few decisions that some Android enthusiasts might find disappointing, such as the absence of the physical SIM card tray, but these concerns are relatively minor when you consider the overall offering here. The pressing question is whether you should upgrade if you’re currently a satisfied Pixel 9 owner. Luckily, we created a Pixel 10 vs Pixel 9 comparison guide to tackle this specific question. It goes without saying, if you opt to upgrade, this T-Mobile deal might be the best option.

    Google Pixel 10 launch — quick links

    T-Mobile: FREE Pixel 10 with qualifying line
    AT&T: up to $1,100 off with trade-in, new line
    Verizon: free Pixel 10 with qualifying line
    Xfinity Mobile: up to $1,000 off with qualifying trade-in, line
    Amazon: Free gift cards with purchase
    Best Buy: Free gift cards, trade-in credit
    The best Google Pixel 10 Pro Fold preorder deals
    The best Google Pixel Watch 4 preorder deals

    Today’s top Google Pixel 10 offers

    Now that you’ve secured your Pixel 10, use some of those savings to pick up one of the best Google Pixel 10 cases!

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Key iOS 26 Functions to Activate or Discover After Upgrading Your iPhone
    Key iOS 26 Functions to Activate or Discover After Upgrading Your iPhone

    iPhone 17 and iPhone Air purchasers will have the opportunity to utilize the new operating system immediately upon unboxing. Some will be already acquainted with the iOS 26 experience, particularly the new Liquid Glass design that Apple presented in June at WWDC 2025, having tested iOS 26 beta versions on their earlier iPhones. Others will encounter iOS 26 for the first time with the iPhone 17 and iPhone Air models.

    Additionally, current iPhone users who do not intend to upgrade their devices and who haven’t installed the beta will experience iOS 26 for the first time this week, as Apple will release the final iOS 26 version for download on Monday.

    Those iPhone users who have engaged with iOS 26 beta versions throughout the summer have likely acclimated to the new features that the operating system presents and may recognize what is detailed below. However, those experiencing iOS 26 for the first time this week may wish to enhance their experience by adjusting certain settings and familiarizing themselves with a few new features in iOS 26.

    Liquid Glass transparency, Messages backgrounds, and full-screen screenshots

    The Liquid Glass design stands out as one of the most divisive aspects of iOS 26. Apple has been experimenting with different levels of transparency in Liquid Glass over the summer. If you find the default view to be overly transparent, there’s an option to adjust it. Navigate to Settings > Accessibility > Display & Text Size > Reduce Transparency and activate the toggle. The Differentiate Without Color option may also assist in enhancing readability. iPhone users who prefer a more see-through appearance can set up clear (fully transparent) icons for all applications by long-pressing the wallpaper, followed by tapping Edit > Customize > Clear.

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