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China Unveils State-of-the-Art Aircraft Carrier Featuring Electromagnetic Catapults

China achieved a significant milestone in pursuing its military objectives both regionally and globally with the launch of its third aircraft carrier since 2012. Commissioned in a November ceremony at the People’s Liberation Army Navy’s (PLAN) Yulin Naval Base on Hainan island, the Type 003 carrier, named Fujian, is recognized as the largest non-nuclear warship globally. It is also noted as the world’s most sophisticated non-American aircraft carrier, symbolizing a substantial advancement in Beijing’s naval prowess. The Fujian, featuring the nation’s inaugural Electromagnetic Aircraft Launch System (EMALS), significantly enhances the combat effectiveness of the PLAN by boosting the frequency of aircraft launches and enabling larger jets to be deployed. This homegrown launch system marks the first instance of a nation outside the U.S. developing such technology. Prior to the Fujian’s deployment to the South China Sea, the U.S. Navy’s USS Gerald R. Ford had been the sole vessel equipped with the new catapult system.

The significance of the Fujian’s launch grows when viewed against the backdrop of China’s increasingly aggressive naval strategy. Since the beginning of this century, the PLAN has progressively transformed its fleet from an assortment of outdated Soviet-era vessels into the largest naval force in existence. While technologically lagging behind its Western counterparts, China’s capabilities are advancing rapidly. The addition of the Fujian represents another key achievement for a naval initiative aimed not only at establishing regional supremacy but also at enhancing its global influence. Although advancements in China’s carrier capabilities could be countered by the upcoming U.S. Navy nuclear supercarrier, analysts warn that the Fujian’s addition will bring the world’s largest navy closer to challenging the global military presence of its Western adversaries.

PLAN makes a technological advancement

Chinese officials are optimistic that the Fujian will signal a new era for its naval, aerial, and ground forces. Displacing approximately 80,000 tons, the steam-powered Fujian stands as the third largest aircraft carrier class worldwide, trailing only the Gerald R. Ford and the soon-to-be-retired USS Nimitz, while surpassing the United Kingdom’s HMS Queen Elizabeth by 15,000 tons. The roughly 1,036-foot hull can accommodate up to 60 aircraft, a significant upgrade to China’s carrying capabilities. It also features a modernized arsenal, which satellite imagery indicates includes sophisticated missile defense and close-in weapon systems.

While these enhancements are remarkable, the distinguishing feature of the Fujian is its three EMALS. The two prior Chinese aircraft carriers employed short take-off but arrested recovery (STOBAR) launch systems. Based on Russian designs, these ski jump-style launchers are restricted in the variety of aircraft they can support. In contrast, electromagnetic catapults can launch both fixed-wing and rotary aircraft, such as China’s Z-20 helicopters, J-35 and J-15 fighter jets, as well as the KJ-600 airborne early warning aircraft. The latter is particularly significant as it converts the Fujian into a mobile intelligence center. Alongside increasing both the variety and quantity of aircraft, EMALS can also launch heavier payloads and fuel tanks, thereby extending the range and firepower of PLAN’s aerial defenses. Additionally, EMALS may allow Beijing to execute deck-loaded strikes, whereby carriers launch swarms of aircraft simultaneously for decisive operations. Collectively, these advancements will yield substantial benefits, with Lyle Goldstein, director of Asia engagement at the Washington think tank Defense Priorities, stating to the Washington Post that the introduction of an electromagnetic catapult is “doubling or tripling — maybe even quadrupling — the combat lethality” of China’s aircraft carriers.

A global perspective

In a discussion with The Washington Post, Tian Shichen, president of the Global Governance Institute and a former PLAN captain, compared Beijing’s new carriers to NASA’s Apollo program, suggesting that their enduring impact will likely stem from how their underlying technologies modernize China’s fleet. Malcom Davis of the Australian Strategic Policy Institute previously conveyed similar high-level insights to the South China Morning Post, foreseeing that the most significant progression may not be any single technology but rather the evolution of China’s capacity to operate “big deck” carriers. This is particularly relevant as Beijing initiates the development of its fourth carrier. Expected to be the country’s first nuclear-powered carrier, the Type 004’s vast range, combined with the bolstered inventory of logistical support ships, destroyers, and cruisers, will likely enhance Beijing’s expanded geopolitical objectives. The PLAN has also invested significantly in the firepower typical of these strike groups, incorporating YJ-21 hypersonic “carrier killer” anti-ship missiles on its cruisers, implementing electromagnetic catapults on its amphibious assault vessels, and deploying a variety of new fighter jets and early warning aircraft.

Worries about this buildup are highlighted by the PLAN’s recent training exercises, which saw Chinese carriers navigating contested waters in the South China Sea.

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Pebble’s Groundbreaking Phone Add-On Removes the Requirement for Recharging

We have moved beyond solely depending on smartphones for our mobile computing requirements. iPhones and Android devices are frequently complemented by unique wearable accessories: Wireless earphones allow us to enjoy music, converse with friends, and interact with AI. Smartwatches showcase notifications, operate applications, and track crucial health and fitness metrics. Smart rings can also assist with the latter, minimizing the necessity for a wrist wearable. In this competitive environment where concepts are frequently reused, the wearable brand Pebble has introduced an unexpected accessory; a ring devoid of health sensors. Instead, the Pebble Index 01 is a smart AI ring designed to help you effortlessly remember things by capturing your thoughts through voice and transmitting that information to your smartphone.

The ring is capable of storing five minutes of voice recordings and utilizes private AI models to transcribe those thoughts on iPhone or Android devices via the Pebble app. The surprises continue: The Pebble Index 01 boasts a battery life so extensive that you won’t ever need to recharge it. Simply return it to Pebble for recycling when needed, and you might consider ordering a new one. The price is reasonable as well, with the Pebble Index 01 starting at $75 during the preorder phase. Once shipping commences in March 2026, the price will rise to $99. The Pebble Index 01 comes in eight ring sizes (6 to 13) and three colors (silver, gold, and black).

Regarding the actual battery life, the Pebble Index 01 can last up to two years with typical use, assuming you utilize it around 10-20 times daily to record thoughts of 3-6 seconds. Overall, the ring can capture approximately 12-15 hours of audio throughout its lifespan.

How secure is the Pebble Index 01’s AI?

Pebble chose a “single-use” design rather than a rechargeable battery like health-monitoring smart rings for usability reasons. The company aimed to ensure the device is perpetually ready for use; users should not need to worry about charging it. Additionally, eliminating charging capabilities helped Pebble reduce costs. The Pebble Index 01 is equipped with a button, a microphone, a Bluetooth chip, and built-in memory that stores thoughts when a phone is not nearby. The wearable is constructed from stainless steel 316 and silicone rubber (for the button), and it is water-resistant up to one meter (3.2 feet).

To operate the Pebble Index 01, wear it on your index finger with the button easily accessible by your thumb. Press the button to record your thoughts wherever you are. The device doesn’t have always-on features, with Pebble stating it is “exceptionally private and secure.” An open-source speech-to-text system manages voice recordings. AI models function locally on the phone, with support for 99 languages, via the Pebble app. The link between the smart ring and your iPhone or Android device is encrypted, and the entire operation works offline with no cloud processing necessary. However, optional cloud storage may be utilized, and in the future, it might also be encrypted.

The primary function of the Pebble Index 01 is to capture voice notes and save them on your phone, where you can incorporate them into notes and reminders. The button supports both single and double clicks, allowing for some customization: One of the gestures could be linked to music playback, smartphone control, and even ChatGPT access in the future.

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The Quickest Electric Cars Featuring Impressive Maximum Velocities

electric supercar that ranks among the quickest, achieving 0-to-60 mph in merely 1.72 seconds. Nonetheless, the Owl is a restricted-production model, and it isn’t the type of car that many can park in their garage. However, electric vehicles with comparable acceleration performance are offered by Tesla, Porsche, and even Ford. There are also a few other options out there that you might be surprised to discover can match its speed.

Tesla Model S Plaid

Although the standard version of the Tesla Model S is noted for its dependability among electric vehicles, the Model S Plaid offers enhanced speed with a 0-to-60 time of only 1.99 seconds. It features a tri-motor system consisting of carbon-sleeved rotors and an advanced battery setup that enables it to achieve a maximum horsepower of 1,020. As many sedan manufacturers concentrate more on practicality rather than performance, figures like these are rare in a typical vehicle. The Model S Plaid reaches a peak speed of 200 mph and provides a range of up to 368 miles on a full charge.

The base Model S may not be as quick as the Plaid variant, but it still manages to zip from 0-to-60 in 3.1 seconds. If it weren’t for the Plaid model, the acceleration of the standard Model S would certainly attract attention on its own. It boasts a top speed of 130 mph, with the dual-motor setup capable of producing a peak performance of 670 horsepower. Not only does the Tesla Model S rank among the swiftest electric vehicles available, but we also consider it to be one of the

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Adobe Photoshop, Express, and Acrobat Now Available at No Cost on ChatGPT

Beginning today, functionalities from three of Adobe’s key products will be incorporated into ChatGPT, at no cost. Here’s how it works.

Adobe has announced that effective today, users of ChatGPT can send natural language commands to modify images, produce animations, and manage, combine, extract, or edit text and content from PDFs with Adobe Photoshop, Adobe Express, and Adobe Acrobat.

The company asserts that while these features effectively showcase the capabilities of its products to users who may not be familiar with their comprehensive tools, they also provide a quicker way to make rapid edits, even for experienced users.

Ely Greenfield, Chief Technology Officer and Digital Media business head at Adobe, remarked on today’s launch, stating that their advancements in conversational interfaces enable the integration of Adobe’s applications into external platforms like ChatGPT. This connectivity allows users to engage in creative tasks—editing images, designing invitations, modifying documents—while offering the accuracy and control characteristic of Adobe’s tools, all within the chat environment. Users can smoothly switch from ChatGPT to Adobe’s native apps for complete functionality.

### Adobe Photoshop on ChatGPT

With this integration, users can upload an image to ChatGPT and request edits, such as modifying brightness levels. If the outcome doesn’t meet expectations, users can manually tweak it using sliders for brightness, contrast, and exposure, similar to the actual Photoshop interface.

ChatGPT and Photoshop can also detect elements in the image, enabling more precise requests, like applying a charcoal drawing effect to an image while omitting certain components. Users can ask for effects like glitch, glow, or motion blur, and receive previews to refine further. If needed, users can hit an “Open in Photoshop” button to access the web-based version of Photoshop directly from ChatGPT.

### Adobe Express for ChatGPT

Users can submit prompts to create design concepts via Adobe Express, such as crafting a birthday card according to particular themes and preferences. Adobe Express will supply several design alternatives, which can be tailored based on user suggestions. Users can also ask for animated versions of their designs, and if desired, they can open the web-based version of Adobe Express for more extensive editing.

### Adobe Acrobat for ChatGPT

Users can upload PDFs to ChatGPT for manual edits or formatting. In addition, users can ask to merge multiple PDFs, and ChatGPT will offer a drag-and-drop interface for effortless organization and editing. Users can also extract text, compress files, or create new versions of PDFs, reflecting the functionalities of the full Adobe Acrobat application.

All features launching today are available for free to all 800+ million ChatGPT users globally. Adobe has confirmed that these integrations are accessible starting on December 10 on ChatGPT desktop, web, and iOS, with Adobe Express for ChatGPT also arriving on Android. Support for Photoshop and Acrobat on Android is forthcoming.

Adobe intends to keep introducing new features to its applications on ChatGPT in the upcoming weeks.

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Apple Reportedly Breached US Sanctions by Ignoring App Guidelines

Apple has been charged with breaching U.S. sanctions by permitting various applications from sanctioned firms to persist on its App Store. This discovery emerged from an inquiry by the Tech Transparency Project (TTP), which revealed that both Apple and Google featured apps associated with entities sanctioned by the U.S. government, with the issue being more evident in Apple’s case.

The TTP’s discoveries prompt serious doubts regarding Apple’s dedication to keeping the App Store as a “secure and reliable space” for its users, a statement the company has maintained since the App Store’s launch in 2008. Apple has promoted its platform as a safe environment, highlighting its initiatives to thwart fraudulent activities and safeguard users against harmful conduct. Nevertheless, the existence of apps from entities such as Russian banks backing the invasion of Ukraine and a Chinese paramilitary organization accused of human rights violations challenges this assertion.

The investigation disclosed that 52 prohibited apps were located on the Apple App Store, while 18 were detected in Google’s counterpart. Significantly, the developers of these applications did not make an effort to hide their identities, indicating that both companies could have readily recognized and eliminated the offending apps. This circumstance is particularly concerning as it is illegal for U.S. companies to engage in commerce with sanctioned organizations.

Apple’s track record regarding sanctions adherence is also significant. In 2019, the company incurred penalties from the U.S. government for similar infractions and subsequently vowed to improve its sanctions vetting mechanisms. However, the TTP’s latest findings suggest that Apple has not adequately enhanced its compliance practices in the years following.

While Apple contests the assertion that hosting these applications amounts to a violation of U.S. sanctions, it did remove the apps in the wake of the TTP’s report. This scenario highlights the persistent difficulties tech companies confront in reconciling user security with regulatory adherence, especially in a swiftly changing digital environment.

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Apple’s Initial Foldable iPhone Poised to Influence Market Despite High Price Tag

the Galaxy Z Fold 8 expected next summer, aligning with Samsung’s typical schedule for foldable phone releases. Shortly afterward, Apple is likely to reveal its first-generation foldable iPhone, commonly dubbed the iPhone Fold, as it will directly challenge Samsung’s Fold-style devices. Even with a 7-year delay and a considerably higher sticker price, the iPhone Fold could outperform its competitors, including Samsung handsets.

Recent projections from IDC indicate that the iPhone Fold will capture over 22% of the foldable market in the upcoming year. The analysts further predict that Apple will secure 34% of the market value for foldables, attributed to an average price of $2,400. The current Galaxy Z Fold 7 retails for $2,000, excluding any promotions. Recently, Samsung announced the Galaxy Z TriFold, which is anticipated to be priced around $3,000 in the U.S., although this price has yet to be confirmed. IDC highlights that the Galaxy Z TriFold is expected to stimulate interest in the foldable category next year, while Huawei’s foldable shipments are projected to nearly double, but the iPhone Fold is poised to be the true “game-changer.”

The outlook predicts a 30% growth in the foldable segment next year, in contrast to a 6% increase in the previous forecast. In comparison, traditional phone shipments are expected to decline by 1.4%. Based on IDC’s data, the foldables market is set to continue its upward trajectory over non-foldables through 2029. Apple’s market share is anticipated

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Recent Insights Uncover Animated Aspects of Android’s NameDrop Substitute

The functionality is progressing, yet there remains a considerable journey ahead. Reports indicate that Google is still developing an equivalent to Apple’s NameDrop for Android users. Recent findings suggest that an animation might be triggered when sharing contact information prior to the intended sharing contents being displayed. This capability was initially detected in early code snippets last month, as Google referenced “Gesture Exchange,” NFC implementation, and additional features.

Exchanging contact information is straightforward, but there’s potential for it to be quicker and more fluid, which is why Google is allegedly pursuing a solution already realized by Apple. Minor updates from Google often provide informants, like AssembleDebug at Android Authority, insights into new advancements, leading to this NameDrop-like functionality. After examining a recent beta of Play Services, AssembleDebug managed to (in a certain sense) engage Google’s adaptation of Apple’s contact-sharing feature. The tipster’s video evidence illustrates how this might function between devices as one phone is positioned over another.

There seems to be some space between the devices; however, an animation in a nearly creamsicle hue emerges shortly thereafter. Lights appear along the upper section of both devices, flowing around the rounded edges and partially down the display. The animation will probably show up alongside the contact info you’ve shared and received. It retreats to the punch hole selfie camera once the procedure finishes.

NFC continues to seem pivotal in this contact exchange, but, according to the tipster, it’s uncertain how dependent the feature will ultimately be on it. As development continues, the informant speculates that NFC might merely initiate the feature before transferring to Bluetooth or even Wi-Fi connectivity for the remaining process.

This marks the second instance of Google’s version of Apple’s NameDrop surfacing in rumors. The initial occurrence was in November when early code strings from Google purportedly hinted at its presence. The code referred to the feature as “Gesture Exchange,” while other significant elements underscored its dependence on NFC. It has been theorized that, similar to Apple’s offering, Google’s iteration would enable users to share their phone number, image, name, and email.

That prior discovery even suggested a small menu that could welcome users before they share their details. Users might encounter a list of specifics they wish to share prior to “tapping” their device on someone else’s to commence the transfer. Another menu was observed, one that would clarify the details received from the opposite device. It appears that Google’s Calling Cards are not sufficient, as it aims to genuinely simplify and facilitate staying in touch with others.

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Apple’s Design Decisions Might Hinder Government Attempts to Prohibit iMessage

**Title: The Consequences of Russia’s FaceTime Prohibition and the Unforeseen Shielding of iMessage**

Authoritarian regimes frequently endeavor to regulate the dissemination of information and communication among their populace, particularly via end-to-end encrypted messaging applications. Recently, Russia has made a notable move in this regard by prohibiting FaceTime, citing worries about its role in coordinating terrorist activities. Interestingly, though, the widely used messaging platform iMessage has not encountered a similar ban, provoking speculation about the reasons for this difference.

### Russia’s FaceTime Prohibition

The Russian communications authority, Roskomnadzor, defended the FaceTime prohibition by asserting that law enforcement has recognized its role in enabling terrorist acts, recruitment, and various offenses against citizens. However, the authority failed to present tangible proof to substantiate these claims. FaceTime utilizes end-to-end encryption (E2EE), ensuring that audio and video calls are kept confidential and cannot be intercepted by governmental entities. This security level likely serves as a primary reason for the regime’s choice to limit its use.

### The Enigma of iMessage’s Exemption

Considering that iMessage also employs end-to-end encryption, numerous observers were baffled as to why it wasn’t banned along with FaceTime. One theory suggests that iMessage usage in Russia is relatively minimal, with users preferring alternative messaging platforms. However, a more captivating explanation has surfaced concerning the technical framework of Apple’s services.

### The Technical Rationale

A conversation sparked by Apple commentator John Gruber on social media led to user insights about the potential technical ramifications of blocking iMessage. It was proposed that iMessage traffic is linked with Apple’s Push Notification service (APNs). Therefore, if the government were to prohibit iMessage, it would unwittingly disrupt all push notifications to iOS devices, impacting not just messaging but other essential app functionalities.

This integration might have been a tactical choice by Apple to ensure that telecom carriers could not easily obstruct iMessage, thereby maintaining its functionality and motivating users to choose iPhones. By associating iMessage with push notifications, Apple established a scenario whereby obstructing one would require obstructing the other, making it less likely for carriers or governments to implement such extreme actions.

### Ramifications for Government Control

While the precise motivations behind Apple’s design decisions remain speculative, the possibility of iMessage continuing to function in an oppressive regime underscores a vital aspect of digital communication. The capacity to keep conversations private from government intrusion is essential for safeguarding civil liberties. If the theory regarding the connection between iMessage and push notifications holds true, it could illustrate an unintentional barrier against authoritarian censorship.

### Conclusion

The recent prohibition of FaceTime in Russia highlights the extent to which authoritarian governments will resort to regulate communication. The exemption of iMessage from corresponding restrictions raises inquiries about the interaction between technology, privacy, and governmental control. As digital communication evolves, the repercussions of these developments will be crucial in influencing the future of privacy and freedom of expression within authoritarian settings.

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Arranging phone charger cables during usage

Rivian Vehicles Will Lack CarPlay Support but Will Soon Get Another Significant Apple Feature

A Bloomberg report caught Tesla drivers off guard by disclosing that the automaker is developing a project to integrate CarPlay compatibility into its cars. Though this feature has been highly anticipated by numerous users, the manufacturer has consistently opposed it due to the focus on its proprietary software, which provides Tesla with enhanced control over its ecosystem.

Despite most manufacturers being open to adding CarPlay and Android Auto because of their widespread appeal, one trendy newcomer has mirrored Tesla’s stance. Rivian, which has numerous drivers requesting CarPlay, also stands against including Apple’s infotainment system in its cars. Nonetheless, the company is evidently not dismissing the prospect of collaboration with Apple entirely.

Currently, Rivian provides Apple Music through a Connect+ subscription, and its software lead Wassym Bensaid revealed that the next generation of Rivian vehicles will feature native support for digital car keys on Apple, Google, and Samsung Wallets with the upcoming .46 OTA update later this month. For iPhone users, this implies that if they possess a Gen 2 Rivian, they will have the ability to unlock their vehicle simply by getting close to it.

CarPlay remains unlikely for Rivian