Day: October 17, 2025

    • Richard
    • Comments Off on iPhone Air Sees Instant Sell-Out in China
    iPhone Air Sees Instant Sell-Out in China

    **The Introduction and Response to the iPhone Air in China**

    When Apple launched the iPhone Air last month, it encountered a significant obstacle: its lack of presence in the Chinese market. The device, crafted to be exceptionally thin, operates exclusively on eSIM technology, which conflicted with China’s strict regulations regarding eSIM usage. However, the landscape has shifted, and the iPhone Air has officially become available for pre-order in China, representing a significant milestone for Apple.

    Reports suggest that the iPhone Air saw immense demand at its launch in China. The South China Morning Post stated that the device “sold out within minutes” of its pre-order release. This swift sell-out occurred in multiple locations, including major cities such as Beijing and Shanghai, as well as in Tianjin. Online shipping estimates for the iPhone Air have now extended to November for many configurations, reflecting the considerable consumer interest.

    Historically, Apple has experienced substantial sales increases in China when introducing groundbreaking designs, and the iPhone Air fits this pattern. Its elegant design and sophisticated features have enamored Chinese consumers, resulting in a favorable initial reception.

    Apple CEO Tim Cook has been proactively engaging with the Chinese market during his recent trip, interacting with shoppers, developers, and staff members. His visit included talks with government officials, where he reiterated Apple’s dedication to investing in China. This commitment occurs amidst Apple’s efforts to diversify its manufacturing away from China, partially in response to tariffs set by the previous U.S. administration.

    Alongside the launch of the iPhone Air, Apple has unveiled a new environmental initiative in partnership with Tsinghua University in China, further reinforcing its commitment to sustainability and presence in the region.

    Despite the early success of the iPhone Air, there are reports of adjustments in production. Mizuho Securities, a Japanese company, has reportedly decreased its production estimate for the iPhone Air by one million units for the year. However, this information remains unconfirmed by other sources. Conversely, Apple has increased production forecasts for its other models, including the iPhone 17 series.

    As Apple continues to maneuver through the intricacies of the Chinese market, the launch of the iPhone Air stands as a testament to the brand’s lasting appeal and the potential for growth in one of the globe’s largest smartphone markets.

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on Top 10 Techniques for Reutilizing Old Televisions
    Top 10 Techniques for Reutilizing Old Televisions

    Experts at 4thbin predict that more than 6.7 million metric tons of screens, which include TVs, monitors, and tablets, will be discarded in 2025. This represents a significant amount of unused technology adding to the escalating e-waste crisis worldwide.

    Rather than allowing your old television to gather dust or be disposed of in a landfill, you can transform it into something unexpectedly practical. With some ingenuity, that obsolete screen can serve as a digital photo frame, a retro gaming station, or even a home security camera. Repurposing helps save money, reduces waste, and allows old devices to take on new functions in your environment.

    Within this list, you’ll discover ten innovative methods to repurpose your outdated TVs. Each suggestion is feasible, practical, and aimed at rejuvenating a device that’s too valuable to toss aside.

    Convert it into a smart TV

    <img class="gallery-image " src="https://allyoucantech.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/top-10-techniques-for-reutilizing-old-televisions-1.jpg" data-slide-url="https://www.bgr.com/1996079/old-tv-uses-guide-2025/" data-post-id="1996079" data-slide-num="1" data-slide-title="10 Best Ways To Repurpose Your Old TVs: Convert it into a smart TV"

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on Comparison between Google Wallet and Samsung Wallet: Selecting the Appropriate Payment Application
    Comparison between Google Wallet and Samsung Wallet: Selecting the Appropriate Payment Application

    Google Wallet icon and Samsung Wallet icon with versus between.

    Briley Kenney/BGR

    Physical wallets are becoming obsolete. Sort of. It’s still advisable to have a traditional wallet on hand, just in case, but if you leave it behind, a virtual alternative is always available. Contemporary smartphones are equipped with numerous applications to act as substitutes for your wallet, notably Google Wallet for Android users, Apple Wallet for iPhone users, and Samsung Wallet for Samsung devices. Specifically for Android, users can download any payment application they prefer (excluding Apple Wallet, obviously), with the two leading choices being Google Wallet and Samsung Wallet. These applications allow you to keep your debit and credit cards, gift cards, membership rewards accounts, state IDs, passports, and various identification types. With a linked debit or credit card, you can utilize these virtual wallets to make payments, typically using NFC or near-field communication by simply tapping your device against the card reader at checkout.

    A digital wallet greatly simplifies the process of paying or accessing cards and IDs. However, with so many options available, you might wonder which one is right for you. In a head-to-head comparison, between Google Wallet and Samsung Wallet, which payment application is the best choice? The ultimate answer is whichever one you feel comfortable using. However, if you’ve never utilized either option, or are unsure about the distinctions, you might require additional details to make an informed choice.

    What can you accomplish with Google Wallet?

    <img class="gallery-image " src="https://www.bgr.com/img/gallery/google-wallet-vs-samsung-wallet-which-payment-app

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on iPhone 17 Continues to Be Out of Stock Online, iPhone Air Exceeds Stock in China
    iPhone 17 Continues to Be Out of Stock Online, iPhone Air Exceeds Stock in China

    **iPhone 17 and iPhone Air: Elevated Demand and Inventory Issues**

    The newest iPhone offerings from Apple, the iPhone 17 line and the iPhone Air, have experienced remarkable demand since their debut. The iPhone Air, especially favored in China, was fully sold out within hours of its launch after receiving regulatory approval. This swift sell-out was specific to China, as the device continued to be available in other global markets. On the other hand, the iPhone 17 Pro Max was the initial model to run out of stock worldwide, with the regular iPhone 17 and iPhone 17 Pro soon following.

    Reports suggest that the iPhone 17 lineup is exceeding the sales performance of its forerunner, the iPhone 16. Analysts from Mizuho Securities have pointed out that Apple intends to manufacture 94 million units this year, exceeding earlier forecasts by 6 million. Nevertheless, Apple is finding it challenging to satisfy the high demand, with numerous models still out of stock online.

    Stock availability differs by location, with certain European markets showing better shipping estimates. However, delivery timelines for the iPhone 17 Pro Max, iPhone 17 Pro, and standard iPhone 17 can stretch to 2-3 weeks in multiple markets. Conversely, the iPhone Air is more accessible outside of China.

    **Current Shipping Estimates for iPhone 17 Models:**

    – **iPhone 17 Pro Max**: 2-3 weeks in the U.S., Canada, and Germany; 1-2 weeks in China; available in the U.K., France, Switzerland, Ireland, and Japan.
    – **iPhone 17 Pro**: 2-3 weeks in the U.S., Canada, and Germany; 1-2 weeks in China; available in the U.K., France, Switzerland, Ireland, and Japan.
    – **iPhone 17**: 2-3 weeks in the U.S., U.K., France, Switzerland, China, and Japan; available in Canada, Germany, and Ireland.
    – **iPhone Air**: 1-2 weeks in China; available in the U.S., Canada, U.K., France, Switzerland, Germany, Ireland, and Japan.

    These estimates may change as Apple revises its regional inventory. Consumers are advised to consult with local Apple stores or authorized retailers for the most precise availability and delivery details.

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on Apple Asserts Epic Games is Pursuing Unjust Advantage as Court Decision Nears
    Apple Asserts Epic Games is Pursuing Unjust Advantage as Court Decision Nears

    **Apple vs. Epic Games: The Sideloading Debate**

    Apple has claimed that Epic Games is aiming for a “free ride,” as the gaming firm advocates for a legal decision that would permit its applications to be sideloaded on iPhones without incurring a fee to Apple. This allegation arises following an Australian court’s indication that it might rule in favor of sideloading, although the details of such a ruling are yet to be determined.

    ### A Brief Overview

    The dispute between Apple and Epic Games intensified when Epic launched its own in-app payment mechanism within its widely-played game, Fortnite, bypassing Apple’s 30% commission on in-app purchases. This led to Epic’s removal from the App Store, instigating a legal confrontation in the United States. Although Apple predominantly came out on top, a judge ordered that developers could execute in-app transactions through their own channels without Apple’s share. Nevertheless, Apple upheld its position on enforcing commissions for sales conducted outside the App Store, resulting in further legal conflicts.

    During later court sessions, Epic accused Apple of perjury and noncompliance with the judge’s orders, prompting a criminal investigation referral against a senior Apple executive. Following these events, Fortnite reappeared on the U.S. App Store and swiftly reclaimed its title as a leading free game, although the legal dispute persisted.

    ### Apple Claims Epic Games is Seeking a Free Ride

    In the current case in Australia, the court recognized the privacy and security advantages of the App Store but proposed that Apple should not obstruct sideloading if iPhone users desire it. Epic Games is now urging the judge to compel Apple to permit sideloading without any commission charges.

    Apple’s reply contends that this demand undermines the court’s conclusion that the company has the right to charge developers for the use of its intellectual property. Apple remarked, “Epic is now requesting to exploit Apple’s platform and dismantle every protection we’ve established to safeguard users and developers — a request that extends far beyond the Court’s decision.”

    Apple maintains that allowing sideloading could put users at risk of harmful applications, fraud, privacy violations, and malware, endangering the security of their devices.

    ### 9to5Mac’s Perspective

    Despite Apple’s worries about safety and security, the court has already made a broad ruling in favor of Epic. This indicates that Apple’s ongoing objections may be more about shaping public opinion than swaying the judge. While sideloading is likely to be approved, Apple may still have a solid case for demanding compensation for apps sold directly to users.

    The assertions that sideloaded applications could threaten iPhone security seem less compelling. In the EU, Apple vets apps prior to their availability on third-party app stores, and iOS is equipped with strong security protocols. Historically, Mac users have been able to sideload applications without considerable malware problems, suggesting that the perceived risks might be exaggerated.

    ### Conclusion

    The legal confrontation between Apple and Epic Games underscores critical tensions within the app ecosystem, especially about revenue sharing and user security. As the judiciary continues to address these intricate matters, the resolution could alter the landscape of app distribution on iOS devices.

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on Information Regarding Display Dimensions and Possible Release Postponement for the Coming iPhone Fold
    Information Regarding Display Dimensions and Possible Release Postponement for the Coming iPhone Fold

    The upcoming iPhone lineup for next year is expected to debut its first foldable variant, possibly named the iPhone Fold or iPhone Ultra. Recent insights from The Elec offer updates regarding anticipated screen dimensions and potential delays in the release.

    ### iPhone Fold’s Screen Dimensions May Be Smaller Than Initially Thought, and Supply Issues Are Possible

    Japanese company Mizuho Securities has issued a research note outlining expectations for the iPhone Fold, concentrating on screen dimensions and launch schedule. According to Mizuho, the projected screen sizes for the iPhone Fold are:

    – **Outer display:** 5.38 inches
    – **Inner display:** 7.58 inches

    These measurements are slightly less than previous predictions, which indicated displays of 5.5 inches and 7.8 inches. At present, the smallest display on an iPhone is the 6.1-inch iPhone 16e, whereas flagship models such as the iPhone 17 and 17 Pro come with 6.3-inch screens, and the iPhone 17 Pro Max features a 6.9-inch display. When folded, the iPhone Fold will have a resemblance to a new iPhone mini, with the now-discontinued iPhone mini having a display of 5.4 inches, which is closely aligned with the foldable’s 5.38 inches.

    The inner display of 7.58 inches, although decreased from the previously anticipated 7.8 inches, will still represent the largest iPhone display to date.

    Mizuho also raised red flags regarding Apple’s intended launch timeline for fall 2026. The prolonged finalization process for the design, especially the hinge mechanism, could result in supply scarcity. Although a 2026 release remains feasible, production complications could delay the launch into 2027.

    With a year until the anticipated debut of the iPhone Fold, there’s plenty of time for details to change. Based on past timelines, additional information regarding Apple’s foldable iPhone strategy is expected to surface before the end of 2025.

    What are your thoughts on the rumored screen sizes of the iPhone Fold? Share your opinions in the comments.

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on Claude Unveils Enhanced Skills Feature to Improve AI Collaboration
    Claude Unveils Enhanced Skills Feature to Improve AI Collaboration

    Claude Sonnet 4.5 and Claude Haiku 4.5 recently, Anthropic on Thursday unveiled a new feature termed Skills that will be offered in Claude “to enhance its execution of specific tasks.” In other words, Claude will have access to folders containing particular information regarding a specific activity, with Skills mainly focusing on work-related duties. Nevertheless, this feature won’t be accessible to free users of Claude, as it will necessitate a Claude Pro, Max, Team, or Enterprise subscription.

    The Skills folders may consist of documents, guidelines, and even code that Claude can utilize while undertaking a specific task. The AI will evaluate the available Skills it can implement and access one or more of them to fulfill a task. In the following example, Anthropic illustrates a Claude Skill for an imaginary company called Crabacadabra that features brand guidelines, documents, and a script. The user uploads the files to Claude to establish the new Skill.

    Subsequently, the user requests Claude to generate a pitch deck for the fictional company’s forthcoming game, and the chatbot reviews the previously established Skill to confirm it remains aligned with the brand. The AI also utilizes a PowerPoint Skill to construct a presentation. Assigned with the creation of posters, the AI employs a poster design Skill to provide the necessary assets. The PowerPoint and poster design Skills had already been available in Claude.

    How to create your own Claude Skills

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Apple to Broadcast F1 Races Solely on Apple TV in the US
    Apple to Broadcast F1 Races Solely on Apple TV in the US

    Apple is set to become the sole Formula 1 broadcasting partner in the US, with the exciting sport debuting on Apple TV next year. Here are the highlights from today’s announcement.

    ### Apple and Formula 1 unveil five-year partnership commencing next year

    After several months of speculation and rumors, Apple has made it official today. With a new five-year agreement, Apple is stepping in as the exclusive US broadcast partner for all Formula 1 rights. Subscribers to Apple TV, the recently revamped streaming service, will have extensive access to Formula 1 races. This signifies that, in contrast to Apple’s MLS offering, which requires a separate paid subscription, Formula 1 races will be available completely free to Apple TV subscribers.

    Alongside access to popular series such as *Severance*, *Ted Lasso*, and *The Morning Show*, Apple TV subscribers will gain full access to Formula 1 content—including “all practice, qualifying, Sprint sessions, and Grands Prix.” Apple guarantees a “more dynamic and elevated viewing experience” than has been previously provided.

    Here’s Apple’s SVP of Services, Eddy Cue:
    > “We’re excited to deepen our partnership with Formula 1 and provide Apple TV subscribers in the U.S. with front-row access to one of the most thrilling and rapidly-growing sports globally. 2026 heralds a groundbreaking new era for Formula 1, with new teams, regulations, and top drivers, and we are eager to deliver premium, innovative fan-first coverage in a manner that only Apple can achieve.”

    ### Apple TV to provide some F1 coverage at no cost

    Apple intends to offer a portion of Formula 1 coverage for free, requiring no subscription at all. This complimentary access will be restricted to “select races and all practice sessions.” Concerning F1 TV, the current streaming service, Apple mentions it “will remain available in the U.S. exclusively through an Apple TV subscription and will be free for those subscribed

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on The Lack of Galaxy S26 Edge Indicates Possible Cancellation of S26 Pro
    The Lack of Galaxy S26 Edge Indicates Possible Cancellation of S26 Pro

    The lineup might stay unchanged.

    (Image credit: Android Headlines)

    Essential information

    • Samsung could continue with Galaxy S26 Base, Plus, and Ultra models, discontinuing the Edge variant.
    • Sources indicate no ‘Pro’ designation for the base Galaxy S26, keeping the standard lineup.
    • Anticipated enhancements include the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 chip, Android 16, but camera specifications are predicted to remain the same.

    Recently, there’s been talk of Samsung allegedly eliminating the slim Galaxy S26 Edge variant due to the unsatisfactory sales of the Galaxy S25 Edge this year. Now, the rumor is that there will not be a reshuffle of the lineup, and Samsung may stick to its traditional Base, Plus, and Ultra trio.

    Wondering about the Pro? A report from Sam Mobile has suggested that insiders claimed the “Pro” designation, which was meant to replace the base model, is not coming to Samsung’s smartphones. “Samsung will reveal the smallest model without any additional label,” the website indicated.

    Numerous leaks over the last few months hinted at potential changes to the Galaxy S26 lineup, but now, with rumors of the Galaxy S26 Edge’s production being halted, it appears we’re returning to the essentials. So, it seems likely we will see the same Galaxy S26 (without a Pro label), a Galaxy S26 Plus, and a Galaxy S26 Ultra.

    This makes some sense, as if the base model received the Pro label, Samsung would need to genuinely incorporate Pro-level attributes into the phone. This would mean enhancing the base model with larger, superior displays, more sophisticated cameras (e.g., additional lenses or enhanced zoom), increased storage/memory, and occasionally supplementary productivity tools or accessories, which seems unlikely to occur.

    The base model is likely to receive several noteworthy upgrades in terms of software and chipset, as it is rumored to have either the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 chip or the Exynos 2600 processor, depending on the region of its release. It will come equipped with Android 16 and Samsung’s One UI 8.5, right out of the box. In terms of battery, there may be a minor enhancement with a 4,300mAh capacity, but the Galaxy S26 is expected to retain the camera setup of its predecessor. Notably, renowned tipster IceUniverse has pointed out that Samsung has maintained the same rear camera lenses since the Galaxy S22.

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