Month: October 2025

    • sparta
    • Comments Off on How Homeowners Are Transforming Old iPads to Save on Smart Home Technology
    How Homeowners Are Transforming Old iPads to Save on Smart Home Technology

    upgrade to a more recent model, there’s no reason to throw that sluggish, outdated iPad into a drawer never to be seen again. There are numerous ways you can utilize one, particularly for the smart home.

    Before smart homes became widely available and tablets were popular, premium automation brands provided integrated systems that could be managed from a single panel on a wall or table. These panels closely resemble tablets and, in fact, function similarly to simpler versions of the iPad. It goes without saying that with the abundance of DIY smart home systems today, it is logical to create your own smart home hub and utilize an iPad as a shared interface for device management. You can also save your smartphone battery and not have to stress when you inevitably misplace the TV remote.

    Utilizing Apple HomeKit to begin

    To begin, transfer your data to a new iPad such as the iPad Pro and reset the old iPad to initiate with a fresh device. Configure it with your Apple ID, but refrain from copying all information over. Connect to Wi-Fi, then launch Apple HomeKit, which is already pre-installed on the iPad. HomeKit, which many anticipate will eventually transform into HomeOS, functions like Amazon Alexa and Google Home as a central hub for managing compatible HomeKit and Matter smart home devices. Add your compatible smart home devices one at a time if they aren’t already loaded in the app. These may include smart lights, smart security cameras, speakers, thermostats, video doorbells, and more.

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Explore 5 Unknown Smart Home Gadgets Offered at Costco
    Explore 5 Unknown Smart Home Gadgets Offered at Costco

    purchase new televisions from Costco alongside a variety of technology and electronics ranging from appliances to smart home gadgets. If you’re aiming to enhance your home’s technology arrangement, you can discover a multitude of helpful systems such as surveillance cameras and intelligent thermostats. In true Costco style, however, this barely scratches the surface of what is on offer. While exploring the entire online selection of smart technology products, you’ll find an array of intriguing items you might not even be aware existed, and here are five of the most captivating.

    Black+Decker Smart Portable Air Conditioner

    We are privileged to live in a time when air conditioning is broadly accessible, particularly on sweltering summer days. Nonetheless, not everyone has the opportunity for central air or even a smart window AC installation, and at times an oscillating fan simply won’t suffice when temperatures hit 93 degrees. If you’re seeking a cooling option that is portable around the house, you can acquire Black+Decker’s Smart Portable Air Conditioner at Costco.

    This compact, stool-sized cooler on wheels is simple to move around the home and is ready to deliver a refreshing, cool breeze. Its main role is to function as an air conditioner, though it can also serve as a standard fan if cooling isn’t required, in addition to acting as a dehumidifier. It includes a remote for basic functionalities, but if you’re after a more customized cooling experience, you can connect the unit to your smart home system through the Black+Decker app available on iOS or Android. With complete support for Amazon Alexa and Google Home, you can adjust temperature settings, establish cooling schedules, and set timers from your smartphone, along with issuing voice commands.

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Pocket-Sized E-Reader Gets Notable Color Enhancement
    Pocket-Sized E-Reader Gets Notable Color Enhancement

    Both the Boox Palma 2 Pro and the Note Air5 C are currently up for grabs.

    (Image credit: Onyx)

    Key details to note

    • Two fresh Onyx Boox e-readers are being released today featuring Kaleido 3 color E Ink tech.
    • The tablet-sized Note Air 5 C starts at $499.99/£499.99/€529.99 and comes with a stylus.
    • The phone-sized Palma 2 Pro is priced starting at $379.99/£379.99/€399.99.

    Notice

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on Instagram Unveils YouTube-Like Watch History Functionality for Reels
    Instagram Unveils YouTube-Like Watch History Functionality for Reels

    Instagram has launched a new Watch History functionality, enabling users to go back to Reels they have previously viewed. This feature provides the option to organize Reels by the date they were viewed or to filter them by certain accounts or date intervals. To find Watch History, users can go through Profile > Menu > Settings > Your activity > Watch history. Announced by Instagram’s head, Adam Mosseri, this YouTube-like capability seeks to facilitate the process of discovering previously seen Reels. The feature is currently being widely deployed and is included in the latest version of the Instagram app. While it is advantageous for retrieving earlier videos, users who consume a lot of Reels each day may still encounter difficulties in locating older content. Regardless, it is a positive enhancement for the platform.

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on The Increasing Significance of Apple in the Enterprise: CIOs Recognize Apple as Essential
    The Increasing Significance of Apple in the Enterprise: CIOs Recognize Apple as Essential

    ### Apple in the Enterprise: A Critical Mission Shift

    Apple’s role in the enterprise arena has transformed significantly since 2020. Once perceived as a specialized option for staff, Apple devices are now deemed mission-critical by numerous CIOs. A recent survey of CIOs reveals that Apple constitutes 63% of endpoints in enterprises today, with 95% of IT executives intending to boost their Mac acquisitions in the forthcoming years. This shift is predominantly due to the launch of Apple Silicon, which has greatly improved the performance and features of Apple devices in professional environments.

    #### The Emergence of Apple as a Fundamental Business Instrument

    The MacStadium survey indicates that more than 20% of CIOs now see Apple as vital to their business operations. This represents a notable shift from earlier times when Macs were mostly marketed as part of employee choice initiatives. The data illustrates that over 90% of organizations have experienced an uptick in Apple device usage over the past two years, indicating that Macs are becoming central to primary business operations.

    #### AI and Apple Silicon: Drivers of Adoption

    A remarkable 73% of organizations are utilizing AI processing on Apple devices. The synergy of Apple Silicon and on-device intelligence features has transformed how CIOs view Macs. About 60% of survey participants reported that Apple Silicon was a major factor in their decision to adopt Macs, while another 33% acknowledged it had some impact. This shift in hardware potential has fostered wider acceptance of Apple devices in enterprise settings.

    #### Streamlining Mac Management

    Overseeing Apple devices at scale has become increasingly simpler. As per the survey, 65% of IT leaders find macOS easier to manage than Windows or Linux, with only 4% stating it is more challenging. This enhancement is attributed to Apple’s proactive stance in addressing IT issues, introducing tools like Apple Business Manager and Declarative Device Management, which equip IT teams with the essential controls for effective device management.

    #### Conclusion: Apple’s Progress in the Enterprise

    Apple’s transition from an employee choice to a CIO focus signifies a substantial shift in the enterprise landscape. The company’s adept supply chain management during the COVID-19 pandemic, along with the benefits of Apple Silicon, has fueled its increasing momentum in the enterprise sector. With 95% of IT leaders expecting a rise in Mac investments over the next two years, it is evident that Apple hardware is now indispensable for many organizations. This trend is not merely a transient phase but a fundamental transformation in how businesses engage with technology in the workplace.

    For additional insights, the complete survey can be accessed

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on Nothing’s OS 4 Open Beta for Phone 3a Brings Fresh Lock Screen Visuals
    Nothing’s OS 4 Open Beta for Phone 3a Brings Fresh Lock Screen Visuals

    The company is now including its Phone 3a and 3a Pro users in the equation.

    (Image credit: Nicholas Sutrich / Android Central)

    Key information

    • Nothing has disclosed that the Open Beta for its OS 4 (Android 16) software is now accessible for the Phone 3a and 3a Pro.
    • Participants in the test will encounter new camera upgrades, Lock Glimpse, and a visual redesign.
    • The Phone 3 underwent a limited closed beta in July, preceding its September Open Beta, followed by Nothing’s comprehensive presentation of OS 4.

    Attention Nothing Phone 3a series users, this message is for you, as the company rolls out its latest significant OS into public testing.

    On its community forum, Nothing announced that the Open Beta for the OS 4 update is currently available for the Phone 3a and 3a Pro. This test pertains to the company’s significant Android 16 update intended for multiple devices. Today (Oct 24), Phone 3a and 3a Pro users will witness Nothing’s UI visual redesign. This update transforms the icons users will notice on their devices, aiming to provide a “lighter” and “more refined” feel, according to Nothing.

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Crucial Affordable Devices for Every Audiophile’s Residence
    Crucial Affordable Devices for Every Audiophile’s Residence

    AirPods Pro 3 and Sony’s WH-1000XM6 dominated the headlines this “Techtember” launch period, enticing audiophiles with premium specifications for an impulsive buy. Nevertheless, their exorbitant prices might deter many. You don’t need to splurge excessively, particularly on headphones alone, to achieve an excellent audio setup. Sony’s WH-1000XM6 retail at $399; within that price range, you can create your own home setup using some intriguing devices. Whether you are passionate about clear sound, robust bass, a rich soundstage, and aesthetics, there are undiscovered gems that satisfy all your requirements.

    From retro-style vinyl players and compact Bluetooth speakers to in-ear monitors (IEMs) that provide studio-quality detail, these five gadgets (all priced under $100) deliver exceptional performance, and in some instances outshine pricier rivals. Whether you’re a vinyl lover, a newcomer to IEMs, or an individual assembling their first serious audio environment, here are five devices for those who are particular about audio intricacies and quality.

    FiiO Snowsky Melody

    If in-ear monitors pique your interest, or if you seek greater performance from your wired headphones, the FiiO Snowsky Melody digital-to-analog converter (DAC) could be the ideal $40 device to enhance your audio experience. Many Bluetooth earphones frequently diminish the listening pleasure due to latency problems and intermittent connections, and the need for regular charging is an added inconvenience. As a result, numerous individuals are transitioning to wired IEMs for superior sound production, but connecting them directly to smartphones is difficult as flagship devices have mostly abandoned the beloved 3.5mm jack in favor of a USB-C port.

    The Snowsky Melody addresses both challenges: You can relish a detailed output while retrieving your 3.5mm jack, along with a 4.4mm jack for connecting additional devices. It also reduces background noise, which sensitive IEMs typically uncover in lower-quality converters, with its

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on 9to5Rewards Contest: Opportunity to Win an iPhone 17 Pro or iPhone 17 Air
    9to5Rewards Contest: Opportunity to Win an iPhone 17 Pro or iPhone 17 Air

    ### iMazing 3.4: Enhancing iPhone Management

    In the rapidly evolving tech landscape, the unveiling of new devices frequently brings along a series of updates and improvements in software tailored to support them. Following the recent introduction of the iPhone 17 series, iMazing has rolled out version 3.4 of its iPhone management system, equipping users with sophisticated tools for effortless device management.

    #### Key Features of iMazing 3.4

    1. **Compatibility with the iPhone 17 Series**: iMazing 3.4 is completely compatible with the newest iPhone 17 models, guaranteeing that users can fully leverage the enhanced hardware features.

    2. **Enhanced User Interface**: The update features an improved UI that boosts user experience, making the navigation and management of iPhone data more user-friendly. New filters and controls enable better organization and access to files.

    3. **Enterprise Enhancements**: iMazing has implemented several upgrades targeted at enterprise users, including:
    – New developer utilities that aid in app development and testing.
    – An upgraded command-line interface for more tech-savvy users to interact with iOS devices and efficiently manage backups.
    – A new Spyware Analyzer tool designed to assist users in recognizing and addressing potential security risks.

    #### Special Offer

    For a limited duration, users can benefit from a **20% discount** on all iMazing licenses by using the code **9to5mac-20off**. This offer enables both new and existing users to improve their iPhone management experience at a lowered price.

    #### Giveaway Opportunity

    In honor of the iMazing 3.4 launch, there is an exciting chance for readers to win a new iPhone 17 (Pro or Air). To enter the giveaway, participants must provide their name and email address to subscribe to the newsletters of both iMazing and 9to5Mac. Promoting the giveaway on social media channels such as Facebook and Twitter, along with following iMazing on Instagram, will enhance the likelihood of winning. The giveaway is open until **November 8, 2025**, and is exclusively available to residents of the US and Canada.

    #### Conclusion

    iMazing 3.4 shines as a robust solution for iPhone users, delivering functionalities that cater to both everyday users and enterprise-level requirements. With the additional allure of a giveaway and a limited-time discount, now presents an ideal opportunity for users to elevate their iPhone management experience.

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Swift SDK for Android Launched
    Swift SDK for Android Launched

    **Swift SDK for Android: A New Chapter in Cross-Platform Development**

    With the launch of the Android Workgroup earlier this year, the inaugural preview release of the Swift SDK for Android has been revealed, signifying a substantial advancement in cross-platform mobile development. This release is the result of months of concerted efforts by the Android Workgroup, building upon years of grassroots community movements.

    ### A Significant Achievement

    In a blog entry by developer Joannis Orlandos, it was emphasized that the rollout of nightly preview versions of the Swift SDK for Android opens up fresh opportunities for developers. This SDK empowers developers to construct Android applications using Swift, a programming language recognized for its safety and efficiency. Developing in Swift not only improves the developer experience but also accelerates innovation within the mobile ecosystem.

    The Swift SDK for Android is now obtainable as part of the Windows installer or can be downloaded independently for Linux and macOS users. This availability is vital for developers aiming to utilize Swift in their Android projects.

    ### Initiating Development with Swift on Android

    To aid developers in getting initiated, the Android Workgroup has unveiled an extensive starter guide. This guide offers step-by-step guidance on the essential dependencies, packages, and bundles needed to commence development. Moreover, numerous sample projects are accessible on GitHub, providing tangible examples for developers to investigate.

    The resources are not limited to just the SDK; developers can also discover support materials for integrating Swift code into pre-existing Android applications. The swift-java project promotes Java interoperability, facilitating a smoother transition for developers accustomed to Java who wish to integrate Swift into their projects.

    ### Community Involvement and Future Perspectives

    The Android Workgroup is proactively inviting feedback from the developer community. They encourage developers to present their experiences, suggestions, tools, and applications on the Swift forums. This collaborative strategy aims to enhance the SDK and expand its functionalities based on actual usage.

    Additionally, the group is crafting a document that will detail the forthcoming steps for the project, ensuring that the evolution of the Swift SDK for Android continues to align with the needs of the community and advancements in technology.

    ### Closing Thoughts

    The introduction of the Swift SDK for Android marks a crucial juncture for developers aspiring to build cross-platform applications. With the backing of the Android Workgroup and the resources at hand, developers are now equipped with the tools necessary to innovate and broaden their applications across both Android and iOS platforms. This initiative not only fortifies the Swift community but also nurtures a more interconnected mobile development environment.

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