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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Assessing the Effectiveness of Qi2 and Bluetooth Auracast in 2025: Did They Fulfill My Anticipations?
    Assessing the Effectiveness of Qi2 and Bluetooth Auracast in 2025: Did They Fulfill My Anticipations?

    I Reflect on My Forecasts for 2025 to Determine Which Ones Came to Pass

    As we near the conclusion of 2025, it’s time to look back at the forecasts I made for this year and evaluate which ones came true. Two noteworthy forecasts focused on the implementation of Qi2 and Bluetooth Auracast within the mobile accessories sector. Let’s explore the outcomes of these technologies.

    Grades: Qi2 (B), Bluetooth Auracast (C)

    Although Qi2 and Bluetooth Auracast were not novel by 2025, neither achieved the widespread adoption that was hoped for. I anticipated that leading smartphone companies would adopt Qi2 and that Auracast would thrive, but the reality diverged from my expectations.

    The Qi2 Launch Started Off Roughly but Ended Strongly

    HMD took everyone by surprise by being the first to roll out full magnetic Qi2 support in the HMD Skyline, which debuted in July 2024. I expected flagship models in 2025 to follow suit, but this did not materialize. Smartphone manufacturers faced challenges with Qi2 adoption. The OnePlus 13 and Galaxy S25 series necessitated magnetic cases for magnetic charging, with only the latter having technical support for Qi2. Samsung’s S Pen magnet issues likely played a role in the absence of Qi2 support in the S25 series.

    On the positive side, Google’s Pixel 10 series, which includes the Pixel 10 Pro Fold, embraced magnetic Qi2, referred to as Pixelsnap by Google. This led to a surge of Qi2 accessories, with numerous brands providing support. The Qi2 accessory market grew considerably, presenting a broad assortment of products.

    I Had Such Optimism for Bluetooth Auracast

    I was confident that Auracast would reach mainstream status in 2025, but it did not. While a variety of smartphones offer this feature, it is frequently buried in the settings and remains underutilized. Audio accessory manufacturers have not prioritized Auracast, with only a few, such as EarFun, integrating it into their 2025 product launches.

    Auracast’s intricacy obstructs its adoption. Users face the challenge of navigating extensive settings to activate Bluetooth LE and configure broadcasts, which is not very user-friendly. Until the process is streamlined, Auracast is unlikely to achieve widespread acceptance.

    In summary, although Qi2 showed significant advancement, Bluetooth Auracast did not meet expectations. As we move forward to 2026, there is optimism that these technologies will continue to advance and become more user-friendly.

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Zens USB-C Pro 3 Cable: Charge Your MacBook and Complete Apple Setup at the Same Time
    Zens USB-C Pro 3 Cable: Charge Your MacBook and Complete Apple Setup at the Same Time

    ### Streamlining Travel Charging for Apple Users

    When journeying with several Apple devices like a Mac, iPhone, AirPods, and Apple Watch, it can quickly become a hassle to manage chargers. Conventional multi-device chargers often miss the Mac, requiring additional gear such as a laptop brick, MagSafe stand, separate Apple Watch charger, and cables for AirPods. This can result in a disorganized packing scenario.

    #### Creative Solution: Zens USB-C Pro 3 Cable

    Zens has come up with a solution through their USB-C Pro 3 cable, crafted to simplify the charging experience for Apple users. This cable enables you to charge a MacBook while concurrently charging other devices wirelessly. By utilizing a single high-watt USB-C brick alongside this cable, you can keep all your Apple devices powered during your travels or even while at your desk.

    #### Operational Mechanism

    The Zens cable redefines the charging arrangement by treating the Mac as the central unit. By attaching the USB-C end to your Mac charger, the cable regulates the power distribution. It supplies up to 140 watts to a MacBook Pro/Air or iPad, while also incorporating two magnetic charging spots along the cable. One spot serves as a Qi2 pad that offers up to 15 watts for your iPhone or AirPods, and the other is an Apple Watch puck that provides 5 watts, enabling fast charging for newer models.

    With the Qi2 standard, the iPhone easily snaps into position, assuring a secure connection without the need for exact alignment. The cable remains flat, and the robust magnets ensure it remains connected even in a hectic environment, making it an optimal choice for travel or office settings.

    #### General Assessment

    The design of the Zens USB-C Pro 3 cable is stylish and functional. It skillfully daisy-chains the charging process, presenting itself as a versatile multi-device charger. Even if you don’t require charging for your Mac, it remains efficient for other devices. The cable is lightweight, folds neatly, and prevents snags in your bag, tackling common issues encountered with traditional multi-device charging stations.

    One slight downside is that you cannot simultaneously charge an iPhone and AirPods, but this is an acceptable compromise for many users who seldom need to charge both at once.

    #### Final Thoughts

    The Zens USB-C Pro 3 cable serves as a practical answer for individuals wanting to simplify their travel charging setup. It replaces the standard Mac charging cable while offering inline charging for an iPhone and an Apple Watch. This minimalist approach allows travelers to reduce their gear to just one charging brick and this cable, ensuring all devices stay powered without the inconvenience of multiple cables.

    For anyone who travels often, this cable is a valuable investment, delivering an effortless charging experience without the mess. The Zens USB-C to USB-C Charging Cable Pro 3 is available for purchase from [Apple](https://www.apple.com/shop/product/hsb82zm/a/zens-usb-c-to-usb-c-charging-cable-pro-3?fnode=7a6560db8171550fc732993a9a731b432fa14ad8be5e52f13ab435a1fccef9c4887736334bccce0ed51d870521cd0e2bad27cffdb537724cf8fd9e7b965c0b9b6d00df6e9e45afd03c364431f3bbcad442156a8b5346b75f513de116f87ab2c0) or directly from

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on Italian Antitrust Authority Levies Penalty on Apple for Breaching App Tracking Transparency Rules
    Italian Antitrust Authority Levies Penalty on Apple for Breaching App Tracking Transparency Rules

    Italy’s competition regulatory body, Autorità Garante della Concorrenza e del Mercato (AGCM), has imposed a fine of € 98.6 million ($ 116 million) on Apple due to its App Tracking Transparency (ATT) feature. This article delves into the context surrounding the issue, specifics of the penalty, and the consequences for Apple.

    ### A Brief Overview

    Since the launch of App Tracking Transparency in April 2021, Apple has encountered backlash from numerous companies and media organizations concerning the execution of this feature. Detractors claim that although ATT enforces stringent restrictions on third-party applications regarding data gathering and tracking, Apple’s own services are not subject to equivalent limitations.

    Apple justifies its stance by asserting that it has structured its offerings—such as Siri, Maps, FaceTime, and iMessage—in a manner that prevents the association of user data across these platforms. Nevertheless, the company has been under the spotlight from various antitrust probes, notably regarding whether ATT yields anticompetitive outcomes.

    Recently, Apple has made moves to counter antitrust apprehensions in several nations, including Germany, France, and Brazil, where it has encountered similar probes and penalties.

    ### The Italian Penalty

    The AGCM’s penalty against Apple arises from what it refers to as the “exploitation of a dominant market position.” The authority carried out a thorough investigation in cooperation with the European Commission and other national competition bodies, along with the Italian Data Protection Authority.

    The investigation found that the ATT policy is limiting from a competition-law viewpoint. In particular, third-party app developers are required to get explicit consent for data collection and linking for advertising purposes via Apple’s ATT prompt. However, this prompt does not meet the requirements of privacy legislation, compelling developers to apply a secondary consent request for the same objectives.

    The AGCM indicated that Apple’s ATT policies are imposed unilaterally and adversely affect the interests of its business partners. The authority described the feature as excessive compared to the data protection aims Apple professes to follow.

    While recognizing that Apple might have valid reasons for instituting privacy protections, the AGCM criticized the policies as overly burdensome for developers and disproportionate to the privacy protection intentions.

    Additionally, the present execution of ATT mandates that developers seek consent twice for identical purposes, as the ATT prompt fails to satisfy the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) consent stipulations, requiring developers to incorporate additional consent methods.

    Apple has expressed its plan to contest the fine. For more information, the complete decision is available on the AGCM’s official site.

    ### Conclusion

    The penalty levied by Italy’s AGCM underscores the persistent conflicts between privacy initiatives and competition in the technology sector. As Apple tackles these issues, the ramifications of the ATT feature and its implementation will remain under careful examination by regulators and developers alike.

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on “5 Best Android Applications to Substitute Cumbersome Devices”
    “5 Best Android Applications to Substitute Cumbersome Devices”

    run AI chatbots locally on your iPhone or Android device effortlessly. This is made possible by the ongoing progress in mobile chips that have been developed over many years of research. Aside from incorporating powerful chips capable of executing processor-heavy tasks, manufacturers also integrate numerous sensors on your Android phone that enable the device to perform more than just communication, web browsing, and social networking.

    Your Android phone includes multiple sensors, each contributing unique functionalities to the device. However, you may not encounter them in your everyday activities with the pre-installed applications. Fortunately, numerous Android apps capitalize on your phone’s sensors, enabling you to replace certain bulky gadgets. Instead of purchasing an additional device, downloading an app and utilizing it might be all that’s necessary.

    While there are a multitude of apps available on the Google Play Store, we concentrated exclusively on those that render specific gadgets outdated and that we continue to utilize today. You can review our complete methodology at the conclusion of the article.

    Light Meter – Lux Meter

    If you’re a studio photographer or someone who is light-sensitive, you may wish to adjust your environment to ensure there is neither too much nor too little light. Your initial impulse might be to purchase a light meter, and there are numerous options accessible from online retailers and large stores. While you can discover models priced under $30, you don’t actually need to buy a tangible light meter when an app can fulfill that role.

    Light Meter – Lux Meter is a free app that enables your phone to measure light and provides outcomes in units commonly used for measuring illuminance, such as lux and footcandles. The app uses your phone’s ambient sensor, typically located on the front near the selfie camera, to measure light.

    Using Lux Meter is straightforward. Simply launch the app, direct your phone’s screen towards the light source, and view the measurement result. The app is versatile, allowing you to switch between measurement units and display formats for digital or analog, as well as to calibrate the sensor for accuracy. Nevertheless, the calibration technique provided by the app could be improved. <a href="https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.lux.light.m

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on Android Central’s Special Review for the End of 2025
    Android Central’s Special Review for the End of 2025

    Here’s all that Android Central was thrilled about in 2025 and our aspirations for 2026.

    The past year has been a whirlwind! Every single company unveiled a plethora of news and products, and Android Central had a remarkable year covering the technology you engage with on a daily basis.

    We witnessed significant advancements in the evolution of AI by various companies, and many launched innovative products that could define the future. We took time to reflect on the year and consider our vision for 2026.

    This year-end feature is broken down into three sections. For the first time, Android Central’s team opted to issue report cards. We reviewed what we penned at the conclusion of 2024 and pondered: Did companies live up to our expectations for 2025? Were they able to realize some of our forecasts?

    We also dedicated time to envision 2026. What are our hopes, what types of launches do we desire, and what do we anticipate from the companies we follow daily? Interestingly, this has evolved into an enjoyable experiment. By the end of 2026, will these companies fulfill our expectations?

    Additionally, we wish to express our gratitude to those companies that introduced outstanding products. Our team put considerable effort into voting and narrowing down our selections of winners from the past year into several categories, and we hope you appreciate it.

    Congratulations to all the winners! We eagerly anticipate your endeavors next year.

    Lastly, thank you to our devoted readers for being the core of Android Central. Your trust, passion, and involvement drive everything we do. We are profoundly thankful for your ongoing support and for incorporating our content in your daily life.

    Cheers to another thrilling year of exploration, learning, and growing together in the realm of Android and beyond!

    Enjoy your reading, happy holidays, and a joyful New Year! Stay safe and find happiness!

    – Shruti Shekar, Editor-in-Chief

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on Google Pixel Cameras Encounter Problems After Android 16 QPR3 Beta Update
    Google Pixel Cameras Encounter Problems After Android 16 QPR3 Beta Update

    **Another Camera Jitter Problem Has Surfaced for One of Google’s Previous Generation Phones**

    In the most recent update from Google’s Android 16 beta testing, Pixel 8 Pro users are facing a new camera dilemma. Users have reported a trembling, unsteady camera issue occurring at 1x and 2x zoom levels, predominantly impacting the 50MP lens. This issue has been widely noted on platforms such as Reddit, following the release of Google’s Android 16 QPR3 Beta 1, which introduced features like an “At a Glance” toggle in Quick Settings.

    The problem presents itself as a focusing difficulty, where the camera initially operates normally but turns blurry and unfocused when switched to 50MP mode. Users have provided video proof of this issue, mentioning that it was not present prior to the update. The issue is limited to the 50MP lens, with some users experiencing temporary relief by switching to the 12MP lens or manually focusing, although these are not optimal fixes.

    Google is aware of the situation, as indicated in their IssueTracker, but a swift solution may be delayed due to the holiday season. This is not the first occasion Pixel phones have encountered camera troubles; Pixel 10 Pro users previously noted a jittery camera during video recording because of EIS (electronic image stabilization) issues.

    While Google’s Android 16 QPR3 Beta 1 introduced some improvements, such as a new Quick Settings slider, the camera problems remain a major concern for affected users. As the community waits for a fix, attention stays on Google’s response to these ongoing camera issues.

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on Tim Cook’s Major Product Initiative Anticipated to Unfold Next Year
    Tim Cook’s Major Product Initiative Anticipated to Unfold Next Year

    ### Apple Glasses: A Crucial Milestone for Tim Cook’s Vision of AR Wearables

    In the coming year, Apple plans to introduce a remarkable array of more than 20 new products, with the much-awaited Apple Glasses, potentially branded as ‘Apple Vision,’ taking the spotlight. Anticipated for reveal in late 2026, these glasses are seen as a pivotal step towards Tim Cook’s enduring aspiration of crafting genuine augmented reality (AR) wearables.

    As per insights from Bloomberg, although the Apple Glasses might not launch until 2027, Apple frequently previews products in new categories several months prior to their official launch. This strategy was previously observed with the Apple Watch and Apple Vision Pro, offering consumers a sneak peek into what the future technology holds.

    When the Apple Glasses are finally revealed, they will shed light on a device deemed critically important to CEO Tim Cook. Mark Gurman from Bloomberg has noted Cook’s steadfast dedication to creating lightweight AR glasses designed for all-day wear, projecting data and visuals onto the physical environment. This goal has emerged as a major focus for Cook, who aims to spearhead the AR technology sector ahead of competitors like Meta.

    It’s crucial to understand that the first iteration of the Apple Glasses will not provide full AR functionalities. Instead, it will emphasize integration with Siri, AI features, and function as a companion to the iPhone, akin to how the Apple Watch is utilized today. Nevertheless, this initial offering will establish the groundwork for future models set to integrate authentic augmented reality capabilities.

    The Apple Vision Pro has already paved the way for Apple’s vision of AR software, referred to as “spatial computing.” Despite not achieving noteworthy sales success, visionOS has showcased impressive functionalities and advantages. The introduction of the Apple Glasses will clarify both the software and hardware designs for forthcoming AR eyewear.

    As Apple refines the initial Glasses design, it will create a basis for the ultimate AR version. While the timeline for the technology associated with true AR glasses remains unclear, the anticipated advancements by the end of next year will provide significant insights into Tim Cook’s most prioritized product.

    In summation, the excitement around the Apple Glasses underscores the company’s dedication to pioneering innovation in augmented reality. As consumers eagerly await the formal announcement, enthusiasm grows for what might become a groundbreaking product in the field of wearable technology.

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on Utilizing Apple CarPlay for Monitoring Your Vehicle: Essential Information You Should Have
    Utilizing Apple CarPlay for Monitoring Your Vehicle: Essential Information You Should Have

    not certain about what CarPlay accomplishes, it essentially provides an iOS experience while driving without needing to physically engage with your iPhone. Among various features, Apple CarPlay offers multiple free applications users swear by during their journeys, but vehicle tracking is not included.

    There isn’t a definite method to track your vehicle via CarPlay, as this feature is not available. While CarPlay connects to your infotainment system, it merely mirrors your iPhone, which means it detaches from the vehicle when you do. Although Apple CarPlay cannot monitor your car once you’ve left it, there are some alternative solutions, one of which necessitates an additional Apple device and another that only assists in particular circumstances.

    A straightforward starting point is to verify if your vehicle comes equipped with integrated GPS. This has become increasingly typical in newer cars and is often paired with location tracking functionality. Unfortunately, a subscription may be required to utilize these features, but this largely hinges on the manufacturer.

    Apple AirTags provide a vehicle tracking alternative

    <img class="gallery-image " src="https://allyoucantech.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/utilizing-apple-carplay-for-monitoring-your-vehicle-essential-information-you-should-have-1.jpg"

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on Google Delays Substitution of Google Assistant with Gemini on Devices
    Google Delays Substitution of Google Assistant with Gemini on Devices

    transition from Google Assistant to Gemini. The change is no longer on the immediate horizon, based on a recent Google update regarding the plans. Instead, Google has extended the timeline to next year. “Earlier this year, we communicated our intention to enhance the Assistant experience to Gemini on most mobile devices by the conclusion of 2025,” Google stated in a support document. “We are revising our previously declared timeline to ensure a smooth transition, and will persist in our efforts to upgrade Assistant users to Gemini on mobile devices into 2026.” Google indicated that further details regarding its plans will be disclosed in the forthcoming year.

    Google’s aim to substitute Google Assistant with Gemini is not surprising. Google has been working to evolve Gemini into the logical successor for Google Assistant for several years. The voice assistant debuted nearly ten years ago, during the pre-generative-AI technology era. Gemini has swiftly surpassed it, as the AI chatbot demonstrates superior understanding of natural language compared to Google Assistant, and its generative abilities far outshine those of Google Assistant.

    Nonetheless, the transition process has been anything but effortless, as users have pointed out Gemini’s limitations in managing routine tasks that Google Assistant executed reliably, such as setting alarms or handling home routines. Additionally, Google’s Gemini-associated data collection practices were perceived as problematic, although Google updated the Gemini privacy policy to enable users to make phone calls and send messages via Gemini while opting out of using these interactions for training future versions of Gemini.

    You can still revert to Google Assistant

    <div class="slide-key image-holder gallery-image-holder credit

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