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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on Concerns Emerge About Galaxy S26 Performance After Modem Change Speculations
    Concerns Emerge About Galaxy S26 Performance After Modem Change Speculations

    Rumors have persisted that the next flagship might feature the Exynos 2600, and this report brings more to consider.

    What you should know

    – Reports indicate that the Exynos 2600 lacks an integrated modem, potentially leading to “efficiency concerns” for the Galaxy S26.
    – Speculations suggest that a separate modem could produce additional heat and require more power from the S26 series, resulting in efficiency problems.
    – While nothing is officially confirmed, Samsung’s Exynos 2600 was unveiled earlier this month with an HPB design aimed at addressing heating issues, featuring a 39% improved CPU and double the GPU performance.

    The Galaxy S26 rumors are inescapable, and this recent report highlights a possible issue for the forthcoming series.

    This report was issued by The Elec (South Korean), which asserts that the new Galaxy S26 will not only incorporate the Exynos 2600 but will also implement a significant modem alteration (via Android Authority). According to its sources, the Exynos 2600 lacks an “integrated” modem. Because of this, the report suggests the devices could utilize an external modem, potentially compromising their efficiency.

    Nothing has been confirmed yet, as these remain speculative, but the publication described how consumers might end up with a Galaxy S26 that is less power-efficient.

    The publication notes that, with an integrated design, Samsung could conserve on wiring and space, resulting in a chip that requires less power and operates cooler. However, if the devices (and chip) separate the modem into its own compartment, then “reduced power efficiency and increased heat generation” could be a reality. The post emphasizes an industry insider who conjectures that the “number of functions within the AP increased” in the Exynos 2600, leading Samsung to “remove the modem to save space.”

    Nonetheless, this source also expressed caution regarding the potential “performance-to-power” balance of the new flagship series, should this less-efficient phone speculation turn out to be true.

    Concerns are present

    The Exynos 2600 was launched on December 19 after Samsung previewed its arrival earlier this month. This SoC represents the first product of its kind using a 2nm process, featuring low-power CPU cores and a new CPU configuration designed to deliver superior performance and improved efficiency. Specifically, the Exynos 2600 showcases a 39% CPU enhancement with double the GPU capacity.

    Additionally, Samsung has integrated an HPB design (Heat Path Block) into the Exynos 2600. This HPB is expected to address the heating issues that have previously affected numerous Samsung custom chips.

    All these factors combined are what we should be wary of with these “less-efficient” Galaxy S26 rumors. Android Authority noted something akin, suggesting that Samsung may have packed sufficient upgrades into the SoC to counterbalance any challenges posed by a separate modem. If that occurs, then consumers might not perceive any difference. Regardless, not every market is rumored to receive an Exynos-powered Galaxy S26.

    Other Samsung speculations involve the Galaxy Z Flip 8, with reports indicating that the company might continue to provide the foldable as an Exynos-exclusive model, similar to the Flip 7.

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Google Broadens Gemini for Home to Canada and Intends to Incorporate an Additional Language
    Google Broadens Gemini for Home to Canada and Intends to Incorporate an Additional Language

    The transition from Google Assistant to Gemini is progressing rapidly. After being initially limited to the U.S., the early access program for Gemini for Home is now expanding into Canada. Support for the English language is available immediately, while French language support is set to be introduced in early 2026. Canada becomes the first nation outside the U.S. to access Gemini for Home’s exclusive rollout.

    Google is moving from Google Assistant to Gemini within its smart home framework. An early access initiative launched for Google Home users in October 2025, starting off in the United States. The rollout necessitated a Google Home linked to a U.S. address, not merely a U.S. Google account.

    Currently, Gemini for Home is extending its reach beyond the United States. Anish Kattukaran, Google’s Chief Product Officer for Home and Nest, has verified the expansion for Canadian users. The early access program now offers support for English, with French support anticipated to follow in early 2026.

    Invitations for Canadian users who registered for the early access program began on Dec. 18, and the invitation process remains active. Customers who previously expressed interest in early access should expect to receive their invitation shortly.

    Individuals can register for the early access program for Gemini for Home via the Google Home app. Access is currently limited to users in the U.S. and Canada.

    All Google Home or Nest smart speakers and displays released since 2016 will be compatible with Gemini. Third-party Google Assistant speakers and displays are also capable of transitioning to Gemini. Once enrolled in the early access program, all Google Home and Nest devices within a residence will convert to Gemini, with no option to revert back to Assistant.

    Google has expedited its Gemini for Home rollout. As of earlier this month, any Google Home user in the U.S. is able to enroll in early access and gain entry within 24 hours.

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Google Photos Improves Search Capabilities for Simpler Retrieval of Pictures of Family and Friends
    Google Photos Improves Search Capabilities for Simpler Retrieval of Pictures of Family and Friends

    Google Photos is improving its user experience by launching face group shortcuts, a fresh feature aimed at making it faster and more efficient to find pictures of individuals and animals. This enhancement, accessible on both Android and iOS, simplifies the task of locating specific images by showcasing faces right in the Search tab. Previously, users needed to navigate through the Collections tab followed by People & pets to discover photos of a particular individual, which could be tedious with a vast photo library.

    With the updated feature, once Face Groups is activated, users will notice a row of faces prominently featured in the Search tab. By tapping on a face, they can quickly view all photos of that person or pet, removing the necessity for several steps. This functionality highlights the most commonly appearing faces in a user’s library by default. For those interested in viewing images of individuals who appear less frequently, a three-dot menu grants access to the full People & pets page.

    To take advantage of this feature, Face Groups must be turned on in Google Photos settings under Privacy. This function automatically consolidates images of the same person into a single collection, making the search experience more efficient. The update is being gradually rolled out, and users are advised to ensure their Google Photos app is up to date to the latest version via the Google Play Store to utilize this new capability.

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Leak Indicates Possible Extension of Magic Cue Feature to Additional Android Devices
    Leak Indicates Possible Extension of Magic Cue Feature to Additional Android Devices

    Google’s AI might delve into your activities, but only to assist you, if that’s your choice.

    Key points to consider:
    – A leak regarding Android indicates that Google is aiming to extend its Pixel 10-specific Magic Cue feature to additional Android devices through “Contextual Suggestions.”
    – This capability would utilize your application data and location to propose songs to play, messages to dispatch, and much more.
    – Earlier this year, the Pixel 10 received Magic Cue, accompanied by Google’s explanation that it would access apps like Gmail, Google Photos, Calendar, and more to offer “in-context suggestions” while using your device.

    Rumors suggest that one of Google’s latest AI functionalities from its Pixel 10 series is on the verge of rolling out to more Android smartphones.

    A breakdown of Google’s Play Services API by leakster AssembleDebug (Android Authority) implies that the Pixel 10’s Magic Cue is being developed for a broader range of devices. The leakster’s findings indicate that this feature may not be branded as Magic Cue but instead as “Contextual Suggestions.” An early code description from the company mentions that users can receive “helpful suggestions from your apps and services based on your routine activities and locations.”

    Google is set to utilize both together to enhance phone assistance, such as proposing the appropriate playlist when it detects you’re at a gym, for instance.

    This function is akin to how Magic Cue operates between applications on the Pixel 10 to provide its recommendations.

    As this is an AI-driven feature, another description emphasizes how the AI will “learn” from your personal data on your phone to generate “predictions.” These predictions are where the usefulness derives from, suggesting apps, songs, and more at specific times or while executing certain tasks. AssembleDebug highlights the extensive reach Google could achieve with this feature on Android devices.

    As noted by the leakster, it remains uncertain whether Contextual Suggestions will continue to be exclusive to devices with on-device AI and whether it will extend to Cloud services.

    A touch of Android magic

    When we initially discovered Magic Cue, Google described it as an “in-context” suggestion feature applicable across the Pixel 10. The company asserted that Magic Cue will draw relevant information from all your apps when you’re making calls or sending texts. Magic Cue can extract data from Gmail, Calendar, Screenshots, Messages, and more. For instance, if you’re messaging someone who requests a screenshot, Magic Cue would recognize this and suggest accessing Google Photos.

    If someone inquires about your flight schedule, Magic Cue would retrieve those specifics from Gmail and prepare them in your clipboard for pasting.

    Given Magic Cue’s deep involvement in your activities, Google assures users that they need not activate it if they prefer not to. However, if you opt to use it, you maintain full control over your data with the ability to delete any information. Google reassured users by stating that their data is managed “securely and privately” with Gemini.

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on New Functionality in iOS 26 Reminders Application Takes Cues from Calendar
    New Functionality in iOS 26 Reminders Application Takes Cues from Calendar

    Apple’s Reminders application has undergone noteworthy improvements, especially with the launch of time zone support in iOS 26. This feature is particularly advantageous for those traveling, as it facilitates better task management across varying time zones.

    ### Reminders Introduces Time Zone Features in iOS 26

    With the holiday season on the horizon, the necessity for efficient task management rises. The newly added time zone support in the Reminders app meets this demand by providing two essential functionalities:

    1. **Specific Time Zone Assignment**: Users now have the option to specify a time zone for each reminder.
    2. **Default Time Zone Selection**: Users can select a default time zone applicable to all reminders.

    This enhancement is inspired by the Apple Calendar app, which has consistently offered extensive time zone features.

    #### How to Access Time Zone Settings

    In iOS 26, users can access the updated time zone settings through a few methods:

    – **Per-Reminder Time Zone**: During the creation of a new reminder, users will see a “Time Zone” option below the time setting. This enables changes on a reminder-specific basis.

    – **Overall Time Zone Preference**: For frequent travelers, a global time zone preference can be modified in the Settings app. Go to Settings > Apps > Reminders, and look for the Time Zone menu to change the default location-based setting.

    Once the ‘Set Manually’ option is enabled, a time zone icon will show at the top of the Reminders app interface, allowing for quick visibility and adjustments of the default time zone without returning to the Settings.

    ### Conclusion

    The time zone functionalities in iOS 26 considerably improve the Reminders app’s usability, making it an essential tool for anyone traveling, whether for leisure or business. Users can now handle their tasks with increased accuracy, ensuring they remain organized regardless of their whereabouts.

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on WhatsApp Creates Interaction Features Based on Quizzes for Channels
    WhatsApp Creates Interaction Features Based on Quizzes for Channels

    The most recent WhatsApp beta for iOS unveils an exciting new functionality named Channel Quiz, designed to boost engagement within channels. This feature permits channel administrators to create and distribute quizzes to their followers, promoting a more lively user experience.

    ### Crafted to Introduce a More Interactive Element to Channels

    As reported by WABetaInfo, the Channel Quiz feature allows admins to create questions and offer multiple answer choices, which can also include images for each option. This versatility supports a broad array of content types, from visual tests to educational queries. In contrast to standard polls, quizzes necessitate that admins identify one answer as the correct one prior to publication, ensuring that the interaction focuses on knowledge rather than personal belief. This straightforwardness aids participants in grasping the purpose of the quiz, as they can quickly determine if their response is accurate.

    When users choose the right answer, they are celebrated with a confetti animation, introducing a playful aspect to the experience. Admins gain insights into participant involvement, as they can analyze a summary of answers. Nonetheless, there are privacy measures in place: if participants are not among the admin’s contacts, their involvement is visible but with restricted information. Depending on privacy preferences, only a profile image may be shown, while personal information such as phone numbers and names remain confidential, ensuring user privacy while still offering useful participation metrics.

    The introduction of the quiz feature on the WhatsApp beta for iOS follows a comparable launch on the Android beta, indicating that a broader release could be on the horizon.

    This new functionality is anticipated to greatly enhance user interaction within WhatsApp channels, rendering engagements more informative and enjoyable for users.

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on Apple Alerts Staff Regarding Potential Risks of Departing the U.S. Amidst Return Delays
    Apple Alerts Staff Regarding Potential Risks of Departing the U.S. Amidst Return Delays

    ### Visa Travel Alerts for Apple Staff: Grasping the Present Situation

    According to *Business Insider*, a legal firm representing Apple has issued a precautionary message to certain employees with visas concerning international travel. This notice underscores the likelihood of prolonged and unpredictable delays upon re-entering the United States, leading several tech firms, including Microsoft and Google, to advise employees against traveling abroad.

    #### The Caution from Apple’s Legal Team

    A memorandum from Fragomen, the law firm advising Apple, cautioned employees lacking a current H-1B visa stamp to avoid trips outside the country. The memorandum highlighted the dangers linked to international travel, stating, “In light of the latest updates and the chance of unpredictable, prolonged delays upon returning to the U.S., we strongly advise that employees without a valid H-1B visa stamp refrain from international travel at this time.” Employees were also urged to seek guidance from Apple Immigration and Fragomen if travel cannot be sidestepped.

    #### Visa Processing Hold-Ups

    The urgency surrounding this advisory arises from substantial delays in visa processing, worsened by a recently implemented social media screening requirement. In the fiscal year 2024, Apple submitted 3,880 H-1B visa applications, illustrating the company’s dependence on global talent. However, these submissions are experiencing processing delays of up to 12 months, with countless appointments at U.S. embassies around the globe being deferred.

    The new requirement stipulates that H-1B visa candidates, along with their dependents and various visa categories, must reveal all social media usernames used in the last five years on the DS-160 visa application form. Furthermore, applicants are required to make their social media profiles public, enabling consular officers to examine their online activities.

    #### Worldwide Effect of Delays

    The delays are not confined to one area; American consulates and embassies worldwide are facing significant backlogs in standard visa appointments. Nations such as Ireland and Vietnam have indicated considerable delays, impacting many visa holders and their travel capabilities.

    #### Final Thoughts

    The recommendations from Apple and other tech companies highlight the intricacies and difficulties confronted by visa holders in the current immigration environment. As employees deal with these unpredictable circumstances, it remains essential for them to stay informed and engaged with their company’s immigration support to minimize risks linked to international travel.

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on Top 5 Apple Devices of 2025: An In-Depth Analysis
    Top 5 Apple Devices of 2025: An In-Depth Analysis

    With the end of 2025 approaching, it’s time to reflect on all that Apple introduced in the previous twelve months. Unlike some previous years, the company didn’t inundate us with new hardware, yet 2025 still delivered numerous thrilling surprises for enthusiasts.

    In June, Apple showcased iOS 26 along with other significant updates for its software ecosystem. Transitioning from iOS 19 to iOS 26 brought uniformity to the expanding array of products and their standalone software, coupled with a fresh method to enhance the interconnectedness of Apple devices, particularly the iPhone, iPad, and Mac, featuring the introduction of the Liquid Glass user interface.

    With the anticipated debut of the first iPhone Fold next year alongside a completely refreshed MacBook Pro equipped with Face ID, touch screen, and even 5G functionality, it makes sense for Apple to blend the capabilities of the iPhone, iPad, and Mac. Meanwhile, as we await Apple’s upcoming year of launches, we reflected on the products the company introduced in 2025 and which ones stand out as the finest.

    iPhone 17

    As chatter about the iPhone 17 began to circulate, I must admit I wasn’t overly enthusiastic about this specific model. After all, while Apple would unveil brand-new designs for the Pro and Air series, the standard version appeared to resemble the iPhone 16 almost entirely. While the base model was indeed the top iPhone Apple presented in 2024, what would motivate an upgrade?

    However, upon the iPhone 17’s arrival, it turned out to be a sensation. First and foremost, Apple retained the same pricing while boosting the base storage to 256GB—twice the capacity of the previous version. Enhanced battery life, a more effective processor, and exciting new colors contributed to making this iPhone a highly desirable option for those looking to upgrade.

    Moreover, Apple made substantial enhancements to the cameras on the iPhone 17, with the front-facing lens receiving the upgrade it warranted, alongside the addition of two 48MP sensors to the main cameras. Mixing all of that with a more durable iPhone featuring Ceramic Shield 2 and Apple’s own Wi-Fi and Bluetooth chip, the iPhone 17 could be considered the best non-Pro iPhone the company has ever released. Furthermore, rumors indicate this iPhone will remain available until early 2027, implying that purchasers now shouldn’t feel tempted by a new base model anytime soon.

    iPhone 17 Pro Max

    To be honest, it’s not every year that the Pro model turns out to be the best iPhone that Apple produces. For the past three years, the standard model has outshone the Pro in terms of value, but this year’s scenario is different. Apple significantly elevated its standards with the iPhone 17 Pro Max. While the design and color options might provoke mixed opinions, the company finally bestowed the high-end models with the premium experience they deserved.

    The new A19 Pro chip is quicker and more efficient than ever, and when users push its limits, a newly incorporated vapor chamber efficiently cools the device. In practical use, this translates to a display that rarely dims, unlike in previous generations, with extended battery life.

    The selfie camera enhancement on the iPhone 17 Pro Max is also notable, and having three 48MP lenses on the rear with improved optical zoom makes capturing videos and photos an even more enjoyable experience. Other advancements encompass Ceramic Shield 2, a proprietary Wi-Fi and Bluetooth chip, and storage options of up to 2TB, making this iPhone even more advantageous for content creators. Overall, the iPhone 17 Pro Max stands as a robust choice to retain for years ahead, at least until the company reveals its anticipated iPhone 20.

    Apple Watch SE 3

    Three years later, Apple has thoroughly redefined the Apple Watch SE. In its third generation, this smartwatch remarkably stands out as the best choice for Apple users in 2025. While the Apple Watch Series 11 or Apple Watch Ultra 3 can serve as enticing upgrades for those with older Apple Watches or first-time buyers, the reality is that the third-generation SE model provides everything most users require—at a more appealing price than the other options.

    Apple enhanced the Apple Watch SE 3 with an always-on display, upgraded sensors for sleep apnea alerts and temperature monitoring, a faster S10 chip featuring new gestures and a quicker on-device Siri, along with 5G capabilities. With the new processor, Apple introduced an enhanced Low Power Mode that allows up to 32 hours of battery life, in addition to fast-charging features that can recharge the battery from 0 to 80% in just 45 minutes.

    The company also doubled the storage capacity to

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on How to Utilize Android Applications on Mac or PC: 4 Approaches Clarified
    How to Utilize Android Applications on Mac or PC: 4 Approaches Clarified

    **4 Methods To Access Android Apps On Your Mac Or PC**

    In the interest of convenience, a multitude of applications today are crafted to be cross-platform. They function on both mobile and desktop platforms, enabling you to effortlessly transition between devices without starting over. It’s also more convenient to access your work from any location, whether you’re on the move, at home, or in the office.

    However, while several applications are compatible with both your smartphone and computer, some are restricted to mobile devices only. They lack desktop versions, effectively binding you to your phone whenever you wish to use them. The positive news, however, is that there are alternatives if you want to run Android-only apps on your desktop. From Android emulators to screen mirroring applications, here are some straightforward methods to run your favorite Android apps for fitness tracking, reading, and more, directly on your PC or Mac. The best part: They are completely free.

    ### Connect your Android phone to your Windows computer with Phone Link

    Windows 11 provides a built-in method to manage your Android phone via your PC — utilizing Phone Link. This desktop application wirelessly links your smartphone to your computer, enabling you to check your texts, make calls, browse your images, and even open Android apps straight from your PC. You can also receive phone notifications on your desktop. For checking texts, calls, and images, you’ll utilize Phone Link’s own interface. However, regarding Android apps, Phone Link effectively mirrors your smartphone’s display to access them. Here’s how to set up Phone Link:

    1. Link your Android phone and PC to the same Wi-Fi network.
    2. Install Link to Windows on your Android device. Some Samsung and HONOR devices may already have this pre-installed.
    3. Open Phone Link on your PC.
    4. On the Phone Link welcome screen, select Android.
    5. When asked, enter your computer PIN or password.
    6. From your Android device, scan the QR code displayed on your PC.
    7. Tap Continue on your Android device.
    8. Enter the code shown on your PC.
    9. Log in to your Microsoft account.
    10. Click Continue on both Phone Link and Link to Windows.
    11. In Phone Link on your computer, navigate to the Apps tab at the top.
    12. Select the app you wish to use.
    13. Back on your Android device, select Allow to enable screen mirroring from your phone to the PC.
    14. Use the Android app as you usually would.

    Keep in mind that with this method, you may encounter some lag while navigating the apps. It also won’t function if your Android device is offline, locked, or connected to a different network than your PC.

    ### Play Android games on Windows using Google Play Games

    If the sole Android applications you wish to run on your computer are games, Google Play Games is your answer. Google Play Games is a desktop application made for Windows, which syncs games from your Android device to your PC, allowing for quick switching between the two. It transfers your Google Play Games profile, including your game library, progress, and even Google Play Points.

    At the very least, your PC should operate on Windows 10 (v2004) and have 10GB of free SSD storage, 8GB of RAM, an Intel UHD Graphics 630 GPU (or equivalent), and four CPU cores. To utilize Google Play Games to play Android games on your computer, do the following:

    1. Go to the Google Play Games download site on your PC’s browser.
    2. Click Download on PC.
    3. Install the downloaded EXE file.
    4. Select Sign in with Google.
    5. In the browser tab that opens, choose the Google account you also utilize for the Play Store on your Android devices.
    6. Back in the Google Play Games application, confirm your Play Games profile.
    7. Read and accept the terms and conditions.
    8. Click Finish.

    Now, you can view all the various Android games. Choose one you’d like to install on your Windows computer and begin playing. Keep in mind that not all Google Play games are playable on your PC. Look for either a green checkmark or green laptop icon on the game’s download page. A green checkmark indicates the developers optimized the game specifically for Windows, while a green laptop means it has been tested for playability. You may also notice a yellow laptop icon (game is untested so it may or may not run well), or a red cross icon (game is unavailable for installation), beside an individual listing.

    ### Use the MuMuPlayer Android emulator

    Another straightforward way to access Android apps on your computer is through Android emulators. Android emulators essentially simulate the Android OS environment on your PC or Mac, making it feel like you’re using a genuine mobile device. Among the numerous emulators available, many users highly recommend MuMu

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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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