Month: September 2025

iPhone 17 Variants Include Dual Capture Video Recording in Apple Camera Application

### Dual Capture: An Innovative Feature in the iPhone 17 and iPhone Air Series

Apple has unveiled an intriguing new feature known as Dual Capture, now present in the iPhone 17, iPhone 17 Pro, and iPhone Air series. This groundbreaking capability permits users to simultaneously record video from both the front and rear cameras, elevating the way moments are documented.

#### Functionality

The Dual Capture mode is accessible via a specific button within the Apple Camera application. When users select Video mode on their iPhone 17, they can seamlessly enable this feature. The outcome is a unified video that displays the primary rear camera perspective alongside a picture-in-picture thumbnail from the front camera. This feature creates a more vibrant recording experience, allowing users to capture events like concerts while also recording their reactions in real-time.

#### An Anticipated Feature

The idea of multi-camera recording was initially presented by Apple during the iPhone 11 Pro launch in 2019. At that point, it necessitated third-party applications such as Filmic Pro to leverage this capability. While many Android manufacturers promptly incorporated dual-camera recording into their standard camera applications, Apple chose to maintain it as an API for developers within the App Store ecosystem.

Now, five years later, Apple has ultimately incorporated a foundational version of this feature directly into the default Camera app, enhancing accessibility for users.

#### Constraints

Although the hardware capacity for dual-camera recording has been available in all iPhones since 2019, Apple has not revealed intentions to extend the Dual Capture mode to earlier iPhone models operating on iOS 26. Currently, this feature remains exclusive to the iPhone 17 and iPhone Air line.

#### Summary

The launch of Dual Capture signifies a major improvement in video recording functionality for iPhone users, facilitating more creative and engaging content creation. As Apple persists in its innovation, this feature demonstrates the company’s dedication to enhancing user experience and broadening the capabilities of its devices.

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Countries Gaining Extended Battery Life on iPhone 17 Thanks to eSIM-Only Versions

incorporated a larger battery into iPhone 17 models in regions where the eSIM-exclusive variant will be offered. While the company has been providing eSIM iPhone versions in the U.S. since the iPhone 14, this marks the first instance where choosing this model will result in extended battery life.

At this point, we only have the battery specifications for iPhone models available in Europe, as it is compulsory for brands to disclose this data. Although we will need to wait for someone to dismantle the new iPhones to uncover the exact battery capacity of the U.S. models, here are the figures currently available:

  • iPhone 17: 3,692 mAh (4% rise compared to iPhone 16)
  • iPhone Air: 3,149 mAh
  • iPhone 17 Pro: 4,252 mAh (19% rise compared to iPhone 16 Pro)
  • iPhone 17 Pro Max: 5,088 mAh (9% rise compared to iPhone 16 Pro)

According to Apple, the eSIM-only models can provide up to 39 hours of video streaming on the iPhone 17 Pro Max, 33 hours on the 17 Pro, and 30 hours on the iPhone Air. In Europe, the performance decreases to 37 hours and 31 hours, respectively. The Air experiences no reduction since it’s eSIM-only worldwide.

These nations will feature eSIM-only iPhone 17 models

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Spotify Launches Complimentary Lossless Streaming for Premium Subscribers

After a lengthy eight-year wait, Spotify users will at last be able to access lossless streaming. More significantly, the company is not introducing a HiFi or Music Pro subscription. Similar to its rivals, the streaming platform is providing enhanced sound quality for Premium users at no additional charge.

Nevertheless, in contrast to Apple Music and Tidal, Spotify provides up to 24-bit / 44.1 kHz FLAC, while the other services offer support up to 24-bit / 192 kHz. Although enjoying this increased audio quality necessitates specific hardware, it’s evident that Spotify is becoming more competitive. However, the company still has potential to launch a pricier subscription featuring Hi-Res Lossless and additional speculated benefits.

Currently, Spotify states that lossless audio will be accessible to Premium subscribers in 50 regions within the forthcoming two months. The initial rollout will include Australia, Austria, Czechia, Denmark, Germany, Japan, New Zealand, Netherlands, Portugal, Sweden, the United States, and the United Kingdom.

Spotify’s lossless feature has arrived, but this isn’t the only reason to remain with the streaming platform

Grasping RCS: Revolutionizing Green Text Bubble Conversations

iPhone users have often been frustrated by the Android green bubble — Apple’s indication that a message was transmitted as an SMS or MMS rather than an iMessage. SMS messaging dates back to 1992, and these texts generally miss out on the contemporary features that iMessage offers, like emoji reactions, typing alerts, and delivery confirmations. Up until 2019, Android devices solely communicated with iPhones using SMS or MMS. In such cases, media is compressed, leading to poorer video and image quality, and texts appear in a green bubble rather than a blue one.

Currently, Android employs a different messaging standard known as Rich Communication Services, or RCS. RCS enables Android users to exchange high-resolution images and videos and to enjoy modern features like read receipts and typing indicators. It has been the norm for Android devices since 2019. However, messaging between Android and iPhone users still wasn’t ideal until Apple introduced iOS 18 in 2024, which added RCS support to iPhones. Here’s how it has transformed messaging between iPhones and Androids.

What changed for green bubble messages on iPhone

iPhone 17 Variants with Improved Charging Features: Advice for Maximum Charging Efficiency

Apple has recently launched four new iPhone 17 variants, encompassing the standard iPhone 17, the ultra-slim iPhone Air, along with the premier iPhone 17 Pro and iPhone 17 Pro Max. These models boast enhanced battery performance compared to the earlier versions, although the iPhone Air, owing to its sleek design, falls short in this aspect. A notable upgrade in these devices is their quicker charging capability. To take advantage of this feature, users may require a new charger with a higher wattage output. Apple has rolled out a 40W Dynamic Power Adapter, capable of reaching 60W Max, retailing at $39, which is compatible with the iPhone 17 lineup and other gadgets that demand up to 60W, including a MacBook.

The iPhone 17 series facilitates remarkable charging speeds, allowing a 20-minute charge to achieve up to 50% power. As stated by Apple, a 10-minute charge can deliver up to eight hours of video playback. The technical specifications indicate that the iPhone 17, 17 Pro, and 17 Pro Max can handle fast charging up to 40W. However, the iPhone Air retains the charging rate from the previous iPhone 16 series, reaching 50% charge in 30 minutes with a 20W adapter.

For maximum charging efficiency, users are advised to utilize an adapter that produces at least 40W. Apple’s new 40W adapter is an ideal option and is also capable of charging larger devices like laptops. Alternatively, third-party brands such as Spigen, Anker, and Belkin provide GaN adapters offering various power outputs and multiple ports, enabling users to charge several devices concurrently.

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The iPhone Air: Expected to Exceed Anticipations in Appeal, Even for Apple

### The Completely New iPhone Air: A Fusion of Style and Functionality

The iPhone Air has garnered considerable attention since its unveiling, with numerous accolades for its elegant design and groundbreaking features. While Apple’s Pro variants have historically been the center of attention, this year, the iPhone Air is stealing the limelight, presenting a stunning aesthetic that has surpassed expectations.

#### Design and Aesthetic Appeal

The design of the iPhone Air exemplifies Apple’s dedication to crafting visually captivating technology. Initial responses highlight the device’s breathtaking look, with many users voicing their admiration for its sleek silhouette. The incorporation of the camera plateau—a feature that accommodates most of the phone’s components—permits an exceptionally slender design while ensuring functionality. This ingenious engineering not only amplifies the device’s visual appeal but also acts as a launchpad for future advancements, like the much-anticipated iPhone Fold.

The minimalist design approach is apparent in the seamless transitions from the body to the camera plateau, which many feel aligns perfectly with the overall aesthetic of the device. This meticulous attention to detail has earned accolades from both reviewers and users alike.

#### Battery Performance

A major concern regarding the iPhone Air was its battery performance. However, initial findings suggest that the device exceeds expectations. Apple has rolled out a specialized MagSafe battery pack, reflecting their recognition of possible battery challenges. Nevertheless, the iPhone Air reportedly rivals the battery life of last year’s iPhone 16 Pro, featuring 22 hours of streaming video playback. This performance eclipses that of the iPhone 16e and iPhone 16, with only the iPhone 16 Plus and 16 Pro Max providing superior battery longevity.

#### Consumer Reception

In spite of its price tag of $999 for the base 256GB variant—comparable to the Pro models—the iPhone Air has not dissuaded potential customers. Reports suggest that numerous consumers who were initially aloof are now looking at the iPhone Air as a feasible choice. Apple has designated around 10% of its manufacturing capacity to the iPhone Air, but given the enthusiastic feedback, it might need to boost this allocation to satisfy demand.

#### Final Thoughts

The iPhone Air distinguishes itself not only through its aesthetic charm but also through its remarkable performance attributes. As consumers continue to show interest in this latest model, it is evident that Apple has effectively developed a device that resonates with both design aficionados and tech-savvy individuals. With its blend of elegance and practicality, the iPhone Air is set to create a substantial impact in the smartphone arena.

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Google’s ‘AI Quests’ Initiative Boosts Literacy for Young Learners and Teachers

These tasks are crafted to guide students through the journey of an actual researcher and the challenges they encounter in order to achieve outcomes.

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Essential information

  • Google introduced AI Quests, which provide a “fun new method” for students to explore AI across various disciplines and learn how to apply it effectively to produce results.
  • The inaugural quest will guide students (ages 11 to 14) on an engaging journey into Flood Forecasting research.
  • AI Quests are currently accessible (Sep 9) for educators and organizations, with additional quests planned “in the coming months.”
  • Google also emphasized its collaboration with Stanford Accelerator Learning, which is incorporating AI Quests into CRAFT.

Google unveiled a new education-oriented feature, aimed at utilizing its AI to support educators and their pupils.

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Samsung Anticipated to Unveil Two Galaxy Z Fold Variants in 2026, Featuring a ‘Wide’ Edition

This speculation suggests that Samsung’s Wide-Fold might effectively blur the lines of the tablet experience.

(Image credit: Andrew Myrick / Android Central)
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What you should be aware of

  • A report from a South Korean source states that Samsung plans to introduce a second Galaxy Z Fold next year, featuring an expanded display experience.
  • It is said that the device may showcase an 18:18 screen ratio on its internal display, emphasizing a more horizontal orientation rather than vertical.
  • Samsung released a “second” Fold in 2024, known as the Fold Special Edition, although that device was limited to the South Korean market.

There are indications that Samsung is considering a second Galaxy Z Fold model within its 2026 timeline.

According to a report by The Elec (South Korean), Samsung

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Leak Indicates Galaxy S26 Ultra Could Include Reduced Zoom Camera

New Leak Indicates Samsung Might Reduce Its New 12MP Telephoto Sensor to 10MP

What You Should Know:
– Galaxy S26 Ultra could lower its 3x telephoto zoom camera compared to S25 Ultra.
– Leak indicates the new 12MP sensor will be trimmed down to 10MP for telephoto images.
– The S26 Ultra sensor might feature smaller 1.0μm pixels, allowing less light overall.
– This could result in poorer 3x photo quality in dim environments compared to the S25 Ultra.

It has only been a day since the iPhone 17 lineup was officially announced, and news about Samsung’s next flagship, the Galaxy S26 Ultra, has already emerged. Unfortunately, this isn’t the kind of announcement one would hope for, as a recent leak points to the Galaxy S26 Ultra possibly regressing with its 3x telephoto zoom camera.

Previous reports suggested that Samsung might transition to a new 12MP sensor for the 3x telephoto zoom on the Galaxy S26 Ultra. Many believed this would result in sharper zoom and close-up images. However, according to reputable source Ice Universe, Samsung will reduce the 12MP to just 10MP on the new sensor.

The leaker states that the Galaxy S26 Ultra will utilize only 10MP (out of the 12MP available) with an f/2.4 aperture, a 1/3.94″ sensor size, and 1.0μm pixels. While this may appear similar to the Galaxy S25 Ultra, which also had a 10MP 3x telephoto sensor, it could lead to an overall diminished experience.

Smaller Pixels Could Impact Low-Light Performance

To clarify, the Galaxy S25 Ultra featured a 1/3.53″ 10MP sensor with 1.12μm pixel size. The Galaxy S26 Ultra may employ a larger sensor, but with smaller 1.0μm pixels. For context, the pixel size affects how much light is captured — larger numbers capture more light and generally produce better photos.

With the Galaxy S26 Ultra moving to smaller pixels, the new sensor may allow less light than its predecessor, resulting in weaker 3x images in lower light scenarios.

Certainly, Samsung could counteract this with software improvements and a better ISP, but based solely on hardware, it appears we might be facing a minor downgrade with the upcoming Ultra flagship.

Previous speculation regarding the Galaxy S26 Ultra implies that the device will retain the S Pen, feature a sleeker design, and support quicker 60W charging.

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TCL Unveils NXTPAPER Display Technology in a Sleek Tablet Device

TCL’s NXTPAPER technology, recognized for its paper-like display, is transitioning to a more compact iteration with the launch of the TCL Tab 8 NXTPAPER 5G. Previously found in smartphones and larger tablets, this cutting-edge display is now being repurposed for an 8-inch tablet, signifying its arrival in a smaller format. A recent leak indicates that this new tablet will be offered by Verizon, showcasing a simple design with functional features like USB-C connectivity and stereo speakers. An interesting aspect of the device is a specific NXTPAPER button, enabling users to effortlessly toggle between color and monochrome E Ink-style display settings.

The NXTPAPER screen is engineered to be gentle on the eyes, providing low blue light emission and no flicker, which makes it suitable for prolonged usage. For models that come with a stylus, the display replicates the sensation of writing on actual paper, enhancing the experience for note-taking and artistic endeavors.

This new tablet seeks to bridge the divide between smartphones and larger tablets, providing a mid-sized alternative that has been deficient in the market. The Tab 8 NXTPAPER 5G is anticipated to merge its distinctive display technology with a budget-friendly price, potentially attracting a wider audience beyond its existing niche.

The leaked visuals showcase a design featuring narrow side bezels and slightly bulkier top and bottom bezels. The tablet will come with stereo speakers, a dedicated audio jack, and a combined SIM and microSD tray, which is customary for 5G devices. The right side of the unit will accommodate the NXTPAPER shortcut key along with additional buttons.

Nevertheless, performance remains a concern, as TCL’s inclination to utilize modest hardware constrains the device’s capabilities. With the revival of compact Android tablets, there lies a chance for TCL to boost the hardware to render the NXTPAPER 5G a more versatile and competitive choice in the marketplace.

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