Month: November 2025

Steps to Include Your Boarding Pass in Google Wallet on Android Devices

TSA red flag electronics can create a sense of urgency and tension. One factor that can increase that anxiety is having to juggle several documents and carry-on belongings as you navigate through security checkpoints. Some airlines, such as American Airlines, strive to simplify the experience by providing streamlined digital boarding passes.

This forms part of American Airlines’ latest effort to adopt technology, particularly artificial intelligence (AI), aiming to enhance the travel experience. Other components of this initiative encompass AI-driven suggestions based on customer feedback, 3D seat selection, and quicker check-in kiosks. The digital boarding pass can be directly downloaded into your Google Wallet app.

However, that is not the sole method to incorporate a boarding pass into Google Wallet. The Google Pixel smartphone presents another option that is not tied to any specific airline. You can capture a screenshot of the boarding pass, which is then stored for later use in the Google Wallet app. All of this aims to ensure that airlines can stay abreast of current technology, adapt to consumer behaviors, and alleviate some of the inconveniences associated with air travel.

Adding your boarding pass to Google Wallet

Google Maps Offers Lane Assistance for Compatible Vehicles

Google Maps can assist in locating nearby points of interest that fit particular criteria. On Tuesday, Google announced an additional beneficial feature for Google Maps that allows the app to visualize the road and lanes, offering real-time instructions to change lanes to ensure you don’t miss your exit.

Navigation applications like Google Maps already offer insights regarding turns and exits, but it is the responsibility of the driver to guarantee they are adhering to the route and are positioned in the correct lane for a specific exit. The feature introduced by Google on Tuesday is designed to simplify navigation for drivers, as Google Maps will now give visual signals for lane changes prior to reaching your exit. Although this feature proves advantageous, Google Maps users should be aware of a limitation. The feature is not accessible to the majority of users.

Only owners of the Polestar 4 in the U.S. and Sweden will have the opportunity to utilize the live lane guidance feature being launched today. Moreover, the feature will initially function solely on highways. Google plans to extend it to additional vehicle models in the future, but in its announcement, the company referred only to the Polestar collaboration. This feature will eventually work with various road types as Google enhances its capabilities.

What is the reason for the limitation to the Polestar 4?

Tim Cook Marks 65th Birthday, Igniting Conversations About Possible Successor as CEO

**Tim Cook’s Prospects at Apple: Speculations on Leadership Transition**

Apple’s CEO Tim Cook marked his 65th birthday on November 1, reigniting conversations about his possible retirement and the future helm of the tech giant. Although many might anticipate his departure at this age, Cook has not displayed any immediate intention of vacating his role.

### Tim Cook Is Staying Put For Now

Even though he has reached an age where retirement is a common consideration, Cook continues to be dedicated to his position at Apple. With significant wealth and a charitable plan to contribute a large portion of it, there are no financial incentives driving him to remain. In 2021, Cook indicated that he might not be at Apple for another decade, yet he also mentioned his aspiration to manage one more major product category before he retires. The upcoming Apple Glasses could represent that category, though the company must initiate succession planning ahead of time.

### Possible Successors for the Role of Apple CEO

Historically, Jeff Williams, the former COO of Apple, was perceived as the most viable candidate to succeed Cook. However, his recent announcement of retirement later this year has shifted the spotlight onto other individuals.

**John Ternus**, Apple’s Senior Vice President of Hardware Engineering, has now emerged as a frontrunner in succession deliberations. He enjoys respect within the organization and has the support of key figures such as Eddy Cue, who believes Ternus would excel as CEO. His composed nature and effective management abilities reflect those of Cook, positioning him as a strong candidate.

Other prospective successors include:

– **Phil Schiller**, who is the same age as Cook, thereby making him an improbable choice for enduring leadership.
– **Craig Federighi**, head of software engineering, is a recognizable figure in Apple events but is considered an unlikely option.
– **Greg Joswiak**, the marketing head, has not received much speculation, suggesting he may not be a strong competitor.
– **Sabih Khan**, who will succeed Williams, is relatively unknown yet has time to build his reputation. Cook has commended Khan’s strategic skills and contributions to Apple’s supply chain and sustainability initiatives.

### Conclusion

As speculation regarding Tim Cook’s potential retirement persists, the focus on possible successors underscores the significance of strategic planning for Apple’s future leadership. With Cook’s prosperous tenure, the company stands ready for a substantial transition when the moment arrives. The lingering question is: who will guide Apple into its subsequent chapter?

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Decision Moment for Liquid Glass: Take Part in Our Survey to Cast Your Vote

# The Liquid Glass User Interface in iOS 26: A Contentious Change

The Liquid Glass user interface has emerged as a hallmark of iOS 26, sparking intense discussions among users and technology aficionados. Apple has officially launched iOS 26.1, enabling users to select between preserving the Liquid Glass design or opting for a more muted version.

## The Liquid Glass Debate

Expectations for iOS 26 were elevated, with many anticipating it would offer the most substantial visual refresh since iOS 7’s debut. Reactions to Liquid Glass have been notably divided. While certain users enjoy the innovative appearance, others have pointed out issues with its functionality and overall visual appeal. Apple appeared ready for this criticism, providing a range of settings to modify the visual effects. However, these options were not readily available, necessitating users to delve deep into the settings menu to uncover them.

## iOS 26.1 Introduces an Easy Switch

The rollout of iOS 26.1 represents a crucial development, introducing a simple switch for the Liquid Glass effect. This feature was initially discovered in the fourth developer beta and permits users to toggle between the standard clear appearance and a newly shaded option that increases opacity in apps and notifications on the Lock Screen. Users can locate this switch in Settings > Display and Brightness.

The implications of this modification are noteworthy, as it provides a near-total return to the pre-iOS 26 appearance for those who favor a less see-through interface. While Apple presents this adjustment as merely a transparency option, it effectively acts as a Liquid Glass on/off switch for users desiring a more classic design.

## What Will You Decide?

As users engage with this updated interface, the lingering question is: have you welcomed the Liquid Glass aesthetic, or have you selected the new tinted version? The decision reflects individual preferences and usability factors, encouraging dialogue among users about their experiences with the update.

In summary, the launch of the Liquid Glass user interface in iOS 26 has prompted considerable discussion, but the improvements in iOS 26.1 grant users the ability to customize their experience according to their preferences.

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Google’s Gemini Aims to Improve Siri Capabilities on iPhone in 2024

We might witness Gemini enhance Siri in March 2026.

What you need to know
– Apple is still on course to elevate Siri with tailored Google Gemini models beginning next year.
– The tailored Gemini models will operate on Apple’s Private Cloud Compute servers for security and will be labeled as Apple Intelligence features.
– Apple may release the refreshed Siri as soon as March 2026 alongside the iOS 26.4 update.

There has been discussion of Google and Apple collaborating to boost Siri performance on iOS, and a recent report from Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman verifies that the company is still intending to utilize Gemini foundational models starting next year. Gurman indicates the new Siri launch is roughly scheduled for March 2026 and might debut with iOS 26.4 next spring. However, the partnership between Google and Apple is said to be significantly different from its arrangement with OpenAI for ChatGPT integration.

Bloomberg emphasizes that customized Google Gemini models are set to operate on Apple’s own Private Cloud Compute servers. Unlike the ChatGPT integration, Apple will securely oversee user data and fulfill requests on its PCC hardware and software, which is publicly available for peer security evaluations. In contrast, when iPhone users engage with Apple Intelligence’s ChatGPT integration, they are consenting to OpenAI’s data sharing policies.

The tailored Gemini models are expected to function as a planner and summarizer, driving two out of three main components of the approaching Siri overhaul. The third, a knowledge search system, might also utilize Gemini models, but this remains unconfirmed.

Gurman remarked in a series of updates on X (formerly Twitter) that the report is “nothing new,” but at least it confirms that Apple’s release timeline is still on track for 2026. Apple affirmed this during its most recent earnings call. Nevertheless, Apple’s Siri redesign was first revealed over a year ago and has encountered many delays. It was originally advertised as a feature for the iPhone 16 series to debut with iOS.

Since then, iOS users have flocked to Google AI products, with Gemini ascending to the top free app for iPhone in September 2025.

The delays were substantial enough that the iPhone 16 has been succeeded by the iPhone 17, and yet the new Siri remains elusive. Apple was compelled to retract its iPhone 16 assertions about Siri in March 2025 by appending a disclaimer to iPhone and Apple Intelligence product pages (via MacRumors). Thus, the statements from Apple and Gurman’s latest report carry significance as proof that the Siri upgrade is still slated for early next year.

Why Apple wants Gemini

Apple’s in-house large language models (LLM) and foundational models are perceived as underperforming compared to competitors. This is partly why it established a partnership with OpenAI and is anticipated to enter into a similar agreement with Google. The company is reportedly not going to promote the Gemini deal, instead presenting the features as Apple Intelligence.

According to the report, Apple Intelligence foundational models will likely be reserved for on-device computation. Google does have its own Gemini Nano models for local processing, but Apple is expected to remain with its in-house models for the time being.

Apple has faltered on its Siri upgrades, which were advertised over a year ago and are still unreleased, leading to the need for assistance from Google.

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Samsung Broadens Galaxy AI Language Assistance to More Areas

The on-device AI application for Galaxy smartphones is growing.

(Image credit: Andrew Myrick / Android Central)

Essential information

  • Samsung revealed that Galaxy AI now accommodates 22 languages, including support for speakers of Gujarati and Filipino.
  • Functionality such as Live Translate, Interpreter, Chat Assist, and Note Assist will be more beneficial for users in these areas.
  • Samsung has reportedly stated over the summer that there’s no intention to start charging for its primary Galaxy AI features.

Notice

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Maximum Length of HDMI Cable Without Loss of Quality

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HDMI serves as a primary connection for audio and video (AV) devices in today’s technology. Suitable for a range of equipment including TVs, AV receivers, sound bars, and streaming gadgets, HDMI cables come in various lengths. However, while HDMI technology is typically dependable, a common worry is the maximum length of an HDMI cable before it compromises quality.

Regrettably, the solution isn’t as straightforward as a single figure, since HDMI performance — irrespective of cable length — is influenced by factors such as resolution, refresh rate, the materials used in the HDMI cable, and whether it is a passive or active wire. AV experts generally concur on a “safe bet” range of 25 to 50 feet.

This doesn’t imply that choosing a high-quality 60-foot cable puts you in jeopardy, but generally, HDMI cables exceeding 50 feet tend to have a higher risk of signal degradation in comparison to shorter cables. Beyond this length, you’re more likely to encounter visual glitches, audio dropouts, or total signal loss.

What causes signal degradation in an HDMI cable? 

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Leaked Benchmarks Indicate Exynos 2600 Processor in Galaxy S26 Competes with M5 MacBook Pro’s Performance

launch the Galaxy S26 lineup on February 25 — a few weeks later than expected. The launch postponement is linked to Samsung’s rumored alterations in strategy for the upcoming flagship smartphones. The South Korean device manufacturer opted to retain the same three-model Galaxy S format as last year, bringing back the Galaxy S26 Plus model that was initially set to be replaced by the Galaxy S26 Edge. Samsung is also planning to incorporate the Exynos 2600 chip into more Galaxy S26 variants, including the Galaxy S26 Ultra. Reports from last month indicated that the new Exynos 2600 is considerably faster than Apple’s A19 Pro and may even rival the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 that will be utilized in some Galaxy S26 models in selected regions.

Fast-forward to November, and a leaked benchmark for the Exynos 2600 appears to back up those assertions. If the metrics shown in the image are correct, the Exynos 2600 could deliver benchmark performance akin to the M5 chip that Apple introduced last month with the launch of the MacBook Pro, iPad Pro, and Vision Pro. These figures cannot be verified at this moment, as Samsung has not yet unveiled a device featuring the new Exynos 2600 processor. PhoneArena highlights that the purported Geekbench 6 test linked in the tweet above is no longer accessible. It has been removed or fabricated. Nonetheless, if the details are correct, the Galaxy S26 series could showcase an unexpectedly powerful processor, and not the one most

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10 iPhone 17 Configurations That Could Be Influencing Your User Experience

reviews of the iPhone 17 and the iPhone 17 Pro.

Regardless of the model you select or the version you are transitioning from, there’s an abundance to benefit from with these gadgets. The new A19 chipset is robust enough for any endeavor, the enhanced cameras make capturing selfies enjoyable in both landscape and portrait modes, and the Dual Camera feature is a valuable addition to these devices.

Moreover, Apple has enhanced the battery longevity, providing a significant upgrade over prior generations when looking at the iPhone 17, iPhone 17 Pro, and iPhone 17 Pro Max. Whether you’ve just transitioned to one of these models or are considering doing so, there are numerous settings that may be detracting from your iPhone 17 experience, whether due to restoring a backup from an earlier device or a lack of knowledge on what to adjust. Therefore, here are 10 configurations you should modify immediately.

Visual adjustments that will enhance your experience with the iPhone 17

New Lock Screen Configuration Stops Unintentional Flashlight Turnoff on iPhone

### The iPhone Lock Screen Flashlight: A Convenient Feature with a Frequent Frustration

The flashlight on the iPhone lock screen is a remarkably handy tool, particularly in dim lighting conditions. Nonetheless, numerous users have encountered the irritation of the flashlight deactivating unexpectedly while holding their device. This article delves into the reasons behind this problem and provides solutions with the newest iOS update.

#### Grasping the Problem

The main cause of the flashlight shutting off unexpectedly is the sensitivity of the iPhone’s touch display. While utilizing the flashlight, users often find themselves in shadowy surroundings, where they might unintentionally graze the screen. This minor contact can be registered as a swipe to the right, leading to the camera activation, which in turn turns off the flashlight feature. This clash in functionality can be exasperating, especially when users are unaware of the reason for the disruption.

#### The Solution: iOS 26.1 Update

With the arrival of iOS 26.1, Apple has rolled out a new setting that permits users to disable the swipe shortcut for the camera on the lock screen. This update offers a straightforward remedy for the problem of the flashlight shutting off unexpectedly.

To modify this setting, adhere to the following steps:

1. Launch the **Settings** app on your iPhone.
2. Scroll down and tap on **Camera**.
3. Locate the option titled **Lock Screen Swipe to Open Camera**.
4. Switch this setting from **On** to **Off**.

Disabling this feature will ensure that unintentional touches on the lock screen will no longer activate the camera swipe, allowing the flashlight to stay on continuously.

#### Alternative Methods to Access the Camera

One of the great advantages of turning off the swipe feature is that users are unlikely to miss it. There are alternative ways to swiftly access the Camera app:

– **Long-Press Shortcut**: Users can long-press the Camera icon on the lock screen to launch the app.
– **Physical Camera Control Button**: Pressing the dedicated Camera button on the side of the device also allows for quick access.

#### Conclusion

The flashlight feature on the iPhone lock screen is crucial for numerous users, and the annoyance of it turning off unexpectedly can now be easily fixed with the iOS 26.1 update. By turning off the camera swipe shortcut, users can experience a more dependable flashlight functionality without the hassle of accidental interruptions.

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