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    • Comments Off on iOS 26 Beta 3 Brings Debated Liquid Glass Modifications; Jeff Williams Reveals Retirement
    iOS 26 Beta 3 Brings Debated Liquid Glass Modifications; Jeff Williams Reveals Retirement

    ### Changes to Liquid Glass Design in iOS 26 Beta 3: A Conversation

    In the newest edition of the 9to5Mac Happy Hour podcast, hosts Benjamin Mayo and Chance Miller explore the design alterations brought about by iOS 26 beta 3, with a particular emphasis on the Liquid Glass visual style. The discussion centers on whether the recent design upgrades enhance the overall aesthetics and usability of the operating system while staying faithful to Apple’s vision unveiled during their June presentation.

    #### Key Takeaways from the Conversation

    1. **Liquid Glass Visual Style**: The hosts examine the updates made to the Liquid Glass design, balancing its visual attractiveness against the initial concept presented by Apple. They discuss the efficacy of these modifications and their effect on user experience.

    2. **Additional Noteworthy Changes**: Apart from the Liquid Glass adjustments, this beta version also features several fascinating updates throughout Apple’s ecosystem, including enhancements for the iPad, Apple Watch, and Mac. These improvements aim to boost functionality and user interaction.

    3. **Apple’s EU Appeal**: Alongside the design dialogue, the podcast addresses Apple’s formal appeal to the European Union concerning anti-steering regulations. This action underscores Apple’s ongoing confrontations with regulatory entities and its endeavors to retain dominance over its platform.

    4. **Leadership Transition**: The episode also points out a significant alteration in Apple’s leadership, with Jeff Williams announcing his retirement. This shift could have ramifications for the firm’s strategic trajectory in the future.

    5. **F1 Streaming Rights Acquisition Bid**: In a significant update, Benjamin discloses that Apple has placed an official bid for the streaming rights to Formula 1 within the United States. This step indicates Apple’s intention to broaden its content portfolio and step into the competitive arena of sports streaming.

    #### Subscribe to 9to5Mac Happy Hour Plus

    Listeners are invited to back the podcast by subscribing to 9to5Mac Happy Hour Plus, which provides an ad-free experience, exclusive pre- and post-show content, and bonus episodes. Subscriptions are priced at $5 per month or $50 annually.

    #### Feedback and Interaction

    Listeners can interact with the hosts by sending in questions or feedback via Twitter, Mastodon, or Threads, or by emailing [email protected].

    For those keen on keeping up with the latest Apple news and conversations, tuning into the 9to5Mac Happy Hour podcast is a great resource.

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on iOS 26 Launches Two Fresh Applications for Your iPhone Home Screen
    iOS 26 Launches Two Fresh Applications for Your iPhone Home Screen

    iOS 26 may be primarily recognized for its Liquid Glass makeover, but this update will also introduce two completely new applications to the Home Screen of your iPhone. Here’s what to expect.

    #1: Apple Games app

    Gaming on the iPhone is set to receive a new central location in iOS 26.

    ’Apple Games’ is a fresh app that becomes part of the collection of other media-oriented iPhone applications such as:

    – Apple TV
    – Apple Music
    – Apple Podcasts
    – Apple Books

    The new Games app features a Home section where you’ll spend a considerable amount of your time. Here’s Apple’s overview:

    >The Home tab keeps you linked to the games you enjoy, suggests new games, and simplifies returning to all your favorites. Discover essential events from your games, and receive tailored recommendations for what to play next.

    Accompanying Home are tabs for Arcade, Play Together, and Library.

    – **Arcade** primarily mirrors the kind of content you would find in the App Store’s Arcade section.
    – **Play Together** displays challenges, multiplayer capabilities, and Game Center data from your peers.
    – **Library** houses all the games installed on your iPhone, along with your achievements and more.

    Apple Games is not just launching on iPhone, but also on iPad and Mac this autumn.

    #2: Preview app

    Preview may ring a bell—it’s the title of Apple’s longstanding Mac utility for viewing and editing PDFs and images.

    In iOS 26, Preview is making its debut on the iPhone (and iPad).

    Preview provides a dedicated application for viewing PDFs and images stored in iCloud, on your device, or from various Files app sources.

    Features comprise:

    – Viewing PDFs and images in a specialized app
    – Editing PDFs and images with tools like resize, rotate, and additional functions
    – Document scanning
    – PDF AutoFill
    – Creating new images, whether from scratch or via the clipboard

    As the Mac’s Finder automatically opens PDFs and images in the Preview app, your iPhone and iPad’s Files app will also launch those document types within Preview as well.

    Preview employs the new document browser UI first seen in iPadOS 18 and also found in applications like Pages, Keynote, and Numbers. While it won’t appear exactly like the Mac app does, the functionality remains quite similar.

    New apps in iOS 26: summary

    With Apple Games and Preview, Apple is once again increasing the number of built-in apps available on an iPhone.

    Games aims to leverage the iPhone’s status as a widely used gaming platform, whereas Preview appears to be a useful additional tool. Both apps replicate much of the functionality previously located elsewhere while introducing new features and seem to be suitable choices for new standalone applications.

    Are you excited about the new Games or Preview apps in iOS 26? Share your thoughts in the comments.

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on Belkin to Cease Support for Most Wemo Smart Home Devices
    Belkin to Cease Support for Most Wemo Smart Home Devices

    **Belkin Ceases Support for Wemo Smart Home Devices: Essential Information**

    Belkin has formally declared the end of support for the majority of its Wemo smart home devices, representing a notable transition in the company’s strategy regarding its smart home offerings. Starting January 31, 2026, users with older Wemo products will forfeit access to vital features, including the Wemo app, cloud connectivity, and customer service.

    ### Important Changes for Wemo Users

    In a message to customers and via its website, Belkin detailed the consequences of this decision:

    – **App Access**: The Wemo app, which enables users to manage their gadgets, will be unsupported post-January 31, 2026.
    – **Remote Features**: Services reliant on cloud connectivity, such as remote control and voice assistant compatibility, will stop operating.
    – **Customer Support**: Assistance with technical issues, firmware upgrades, and troubleshooting for impacted products will no longer be available.

    Nevertheless, Wemo devices set up for Apple HomeKit will continue to function via HomeKit independently of Wemo’s cloud services or the app. Moreover, Wemo’s Thread-based smart home gadgets will still work.

    ### Devices Affected

    Belkin has released an extensive inventory of Wemo devices that will lose support. Specifically, this includes:

    – Wemo Link
    – Wemo Humidifier
    – Wemo CrockPot
    – Wemo Smart Light Switch 3-Way
    – Wemo Mini Smart Plug
    – Wemo Outdoor Plug

    For a detailed list of the affected devices, please consult Belkin’s official announcements.

    ### Products Still Available

    At present, Belkin is offering just two Wemo products: the Smart Light Switch with Thread and the Scene Controller with Thread. This narrowed selection reflects the company’s shift in emphasis away from the Wemo brand.

    ### Company Announcement

    Belkin stated that the choice to end support was not made lightly, recognizing the brand’s history since its inception in 2011. The company reaffirmed its dedication to innovation and customer care while indicating a necessity to reallocate resources to different sectors of the business.

    ### Refund Possibility

    Customers with Wemo products still under warranty as of January 31, 2026, may qualify for a partial refund. However, refund requests will not be processed until that date.

    ### Final Thoughts

    The termination of support for Wemo products represents a significant development for users who have depended on the brand for their smart home solutions. As technology progresses, customers may need to explore different smart home alternatives. For further details, visit Belkin’s official website.

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on Netflix’s Latest Crime Series Draws Inspiration from Mexican Police Unit Pursuing American Criminals
    Netflix’s Latest Crime Series Draws Inspiration from Mexican Police Unit Pursuing American Criminals

    They don’t don uniforms, they navigate unmarked vehicles, and until recently, most individuals had never heard of them. However, for over two decades, a clandestine group of Mexican law enforcement officers has diligently operated along the northern border, pursuing Americans who venture into Mexico to escape criminal charges in their home country. Commonly referred to as The Gringo Hunters, their real-world pursuits have now inspired a gritty new Netflix series that subverts the typical border storyline — in this adaptation, fugitives head south rather than north, and it’s the Mexican officers who are serving justice.

    Now available for streaming, The Gringo Hunters is Netflix’s newest Spanish-language crime drama — and one of its most captivating, presenting a narrative akin to a Mexican version of ICE. Influenced by a little-known yet highly effective segment of Mexican law enforcement, the series dramatizes the genuine efforts of a specialized police group that has dedicated over 20 years to tracking down fugitives from other nations, particularly the U.S., who attempt to vanish south of the border.

    As per reports from Time magazine, the unit has expelled over 1,600 fugitives. The majority are American men sought for serious offenses, including sexual crimes, drug trafficking, and homicide. The unit makes close to 13 arrests monthly, and among the fugitives they apprehend are some of the FBI’s most wanted — ranging from murderers to billionaires involved in securities-related violations.

    Based in Tijuana, the actual officers — officially part of the Baja California State Police — excel at pinpointing and deporting foreigners who enter Mexico to elude criminal prosecution back in the U.S. They are recognized for working incognito, blending with the local populace, and relying on intelligence from American law enforcement bodies like the FBI and U.S. Marshals. Unlike extraditions that can stretch over months or even years, the Mexican authorities frequently act swiftly, leveraging immigration infractions to expedite the return of fugitives across the border, sometimes within hours.

    The Netflix dramatization provides viewers with an intriguing insight into the operation of this elite unit, through the synchronization of cross-border captures and the necessity to stay ahead of suspects attempting to disappear in unfamiliar landscapes. By reversing the conventional border narrative, The Gringo Hunters introduces something innovative and unique to the extensive collection of true crime-inspired material on Netflix.

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on Final Opportunity to Enhance Meta Quest 3 Controllers for Less Than $20 Before Prime Day Concludes
    Final Opportunity to Enhance Meta Quest 3 Controllers for Less Than $20 Before Prime Day Concludes

    Prime Day concludes Friday, July 11, so make sure to snag these budget-friendly upgrades before it’s too late!

    The Meta Quest 3 and Meta Quest 3S come equipped with the same outstanding 3rd-generation Touch controllers, boasting advanced haptics and a novel ring-less tracking system, yet they face a common issue: they can be accidentally dropped too easily. That’s where these $16 controller grips come in, available at a discount until Prime Day wraps up on July 11, 2025.

    The included wrist straps will prevent the controllers from soaring across the room, but these grip straps ensure they stay secure in your hand from the start. Moreover, the adjustable wrist strap accommodates all hand sizes — from children to adults — and enhances the balance of the controllers in your grasp.

    This makes them significantly more comfortable for extended gaming sessions, and they even aid in accurately throwing objects in VR. When you can relinquish the controllers without worrying about them crashing into the drywall, you gain invaluable confidence and skill that can elevate you on those leaderboards.

    – Prime Day offers and FAQs
    – Non-Prime deals from Best Buy

    AMVR controller grips: $23.99 $15.99 at Amazon

    These sleek grips are designed for Meta Quest 3 and Meta Quest 3S controllers, substituting the battery door with a textured grip and an adjustable hand strap that keeps your controllers secure, even when you fully release your grip. They are priced $1 lower than the previous best price, making this an ideal time to buy!

    Not only are these grips my top choice for overall comfort, but their streamlined design ensures your controllers maintain their original feel without added bulk. Additionally, since the straps simply replace the battery door, swapping out batteries when they run low is incredibly straightforward. Just remove the door as usual and snap it back on once you’re done!

    However, not everyone enjoys the smooth plastic feel of the Meta Quest Touch controllers. This is where Kiwi Design’s grips shine. They are slightly pricier than the minimalist AMVR strap, but the soft-touch silicone material encompasses your entire Quest controller (with cutouts for the tracking LEDs), reducing hand sweat and providing extra grip as well.

    Kiwi Design upgraded controller grips: $34.99 $27.99 at Amazon

    Kiwi Design’s upgraded grips wrap your controllers in a cozy silicone bumper, stopping slippage and sweat. The new cloth hand strap is considerably more comfortable than the old pleather strap, and the convenient battery door simplifies battery swaps without needing to detach the entire grip. Plus, thanks to this $7 discount, it’s a more affordable investment during the Prime Day event.

    Kiwi Design enhanced this design compared to the original by replacing the stiff pleather straps with soft, cloth ones that adapt to your hands. They are significantly more comfortable, leaving you to wonder why this material wasn’t utilized sooner!

    The user-friendly battery door opens easily when needed, facilitating battery replacement without removing the entire grip. Kiwi Design also ensured that no tracking LEDs are obscured, including the hidden one at the controller’s bottom, maintaining optimal tracking performance.

    For those with larger hands, Kiwi Design’s alternative controller grips will offer maximum comfort.

    Kiwi Design G4 Max controller grips: $34.99 $27.99 at Amazon

    Adore the Meta Quest controller style, but find the handles too short? Kiwi Design G4 Max grips are the solution. They provide a soft silicone texture for the entire controller, cushioned hand straps, improved wrist straps, and extended handles for the ultimate comfortable controller grip, now available at a fantastic $7 discount for Prime Day.

    Kiwi Design G4 Max grips are compatible with the Meta Quest 3 and Quest 3S and add length to the controllers’ ends, making them fit better in larger hands. Additionally, the upgraded wrist strap material is super soft and plush, allowing for comfortable play over extended periods.

    This is the comfiest controller grip listed here, and it’s a substantial win at under $28 for Prime Day. It’s also the one I’m holding in the image above if you want to see what it appears like in someone’s hands.

    Today’s top Meta Quest 3S offers

    We scour over 250 million products daily for the best pricing

    For further details on Prime Day 2025, explore our comprehensive shopping guide

    TOPICS
    Amazon Prime Day

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on Grab This Anker Offer Before It Runs Out
    Grab This Anker Offer Before It Runs Out

    In the current fast-paced environment, possessing a dependable wall adapter is crucial, and Anker’s portable, multi-port USB chargers rank among the finest. At present, there’s an incredible offer on the Anker Laptop Charger, which is being sold for 30% off during Prime Day. Initially listed at $99.99, this high-quality charger is now available for only $69.99. It comes with a USB-C cable and features a compact design with numerous high-power charging ports, making it perfect for both smartphones and laptops.

    The Anker Laptop Charger showcases four ports with a total output of up to 140W, enabling you to charge several devices at once. One USB-C port is ideal for laptops, while two USB-C ports can deliver up to 70W each. Even when three devices are connected, the charger manages power distribution effectively (65W + 45W + 30W). This makes it suitable for fast-charging gadgets like the OnePlus 13, Razr Ultra 2025, and Samsung Galaxy smartphones.

    In addition to its charging capabilities, the charger features a display that shows real-time charging speeds, temperature monitoring, and a cooling mode to avert overheating. Its portable design and extensive features render it an outstanding option, especially at the reduced price.

    For those eager to seize this opportunity, it is available on Amazon as part of the Prime Day event. This is a chance not to be overlooked for anyone seeking a versatile and effective charging solution.

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Apple TV+ Extends Murderbot for a Second Season Prior to Season Conclusion
    Apple TV+ Extends Murderbot for a Second Season Prior to Season Conclusion

    **Murderbot Season 2: A Preview of Apple TV+’s Celebrated Series**

    Apple TV+ is ready to advance its exploration of “Murderbot,” as the streaming service has formally declared the series’ renewal for a second season. This announcement follows the season 1 finale, which has enthralled viewers with its distinctive mix of genres.

    ### A Distinctive Mix of Genres

    “Murderbot” is a sci-fi action comedy that has effectively challenged conventional genre limitations. Throughout its inaugural season, the show fluctuates between being a bloody sci-fi action thriller, a comedic adventure, and a character-focused drama. This varied mixture has received positive acclaim, offering audiences a delightful and captivating escape in episodes that generally last around 20 minutes.

    The character of Murderbot, an android with a knack for self-awareness and a wish to evade human interaction, has emerged as the series’ most notable aspect. Its relatable challenges and witty perspective on existence have struck a chord with viewers, making the news of a second season an exciting one.

    ### What to Anticipate in Season 2

    The creators of “Murderbot,” Chris and Paul Weitz, conveyed their enthusiasm about returning to the universe established by author Martha Wells. The series draws from Wells’ award-winning book series, and while season 1 adapted the initial book, “All Systems Red,” there are numerous other books in the series that can act as source material for upcoming seasons.

    In a statement regarding the renewal, Matt Cherniss, head of programming at Apple TV+, commended the creative team for producing a “brilliantly original, addictive, witty and vibrant adaptation.” He hinted at the excitement surrounding the next installment of Murderbot’s escapades, specifically the plot involving “Sanctuary Moon.”

    ### Expected Release Timeline

    While the prompt renewal of “Murderbot” indicates that Apple TV+ is keen to maintain the momentum, it is improbable that viewers will witness the season 2 premiere before spring 2026. This timeline provides the creators with sufficient time to further develop the narrative while preserving the quality that fans have come to anticipate.

    ### Conclusion

    As “Murderbot” prepares for its second season, enthusiasts can anticipate more exhilarating adventures and character progression in this distinctive sci-fi series. With its sharp writing and compelling characters, “Murderbot” remains a prominent feature on Apple TV+, further enhancing the platform’s standing for high-quality original content.

    For those who haven’t subscribed yet, Apple TV+ is offered at $9.99 per month and includes a range of popular shows and films, such as “Ted Lasso,” “Severance,” and “The Morning Show.” As the anticipation for the forthcoming season of “Murderbot” grows, viewers can catch up on the first season and get ready for more escapades in the realm of this cherished android.

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on Apple’s Innovative Approach for Updating iPhones in Their Packaging Set to Be Utilized for Macs
    Apple’s Innovative Approach for Updating iPhones in Their Packaging Set to Be Utilized for Macs

    A few years back, a report indicated that Apple was working on a groundbreaking technology that would allow it to update iPhones in sealed boxes prior to their sale. Then, last year, the company introduced that feature at US Apple Store locations.

    As reported by Bloomberg, here’s how it functions: “The system resembles a metal cubby for shoes. It utilizes MagSafe and other wireless technologies to activate the iPhone without ever opening the packaging. It downloads and installs the latest software, and then switches the phone back off.”

    Currently, 9to5Mac claims that Apple aims to implement this technology for Macs as well. The publication states that macOS Tahoe beta 3 sets the stage for this sealed-device update system on the macOS platform.

    However, it should be noted that Apple presently employs NFC technology to update iPhones in their packaging. Macs do not possess NFC, but Apple might potentially introduce the technology in future Mac models or utilize a different method altogether for updating sealed Mac computers.

    Here’s why being able to update Macs inside their packaging is such a significant advantage

    With the launch of the iPhone 15, Apple faced a challenge with iOS 17.0 that necessitated iPhone users to upgrade to version 17.0.1 due to activation problems and data transfer errors during setup. Since Apple strives for a seamless and quick experience, forcing users to update their devices immediately, especially due to a bug, poses a considerable issue.

    That being said, it remains uncertain when the capability to update Macs within their boxes will become available. Most likely, we could expect official announcements regarding this around the launch of the M6 MacBook models next year. Introducing this feature for the Mac would be a substantial advantage, but since Apple sells significantly more iPhones than Macs, the urgency for the Mac version won’t be as pressing.

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on Samsung Executive Indicates Upcoming Release of Tri-Fold Device
    Samsung Executive Indicates Upcoming Release of Tri-Fold Device

    It didn’t occur at Unpacked yesterday, so perhaps the concluding months of 2025 will prove to be more promising.

    (Image credit: Andrew Myrick / Android Central)

    Essential information

    • Samsung’s interim leader of the device experience division, TM Roh, mentioned in a press interview that the tri-fold device is set to arrive “within this year.”
    • Roh stated that the organization is still in the process of finalizing the product’s name and aims to bring it to market “by the end” of 2025 at the latest.
    • The speculated Samsung tri-fold is believed to showcase a substantial 10-inch display accompanied by some new hardware.
    • At Samsung’s summer Unpacked event, the Galaxy Z Flip 7, Flip 7 FE, Fold 7, and the latest Galaxy Watch 8 series were introduced.

    Samsung’s summer Unpacked event took place yesterday, but our expectations were unmet, as nothing related to a tri-fold was revealed.

    Despite the significant anticipation for a possible sneak preview (or unexpected reveal), Samsung’s interim head of the device experience division, TM Roh, indicated that a bit more patience is needed. In a press interview with Roh, The Korea Times highlighted discussions regarding the often-rumored “Galaxy G Fold.” Roh noted that the company “(is expected to) launch the tri-fold phone within this year.”

    Roh elaborated on the Galaxy G Fold speculations, stressing that Samsung

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on Affordable Ray-Ban Accessories Priced Below $25 Available Until Friday, Even Without a Prime Day Sale on Metas
    Affordable Ray-Ban Accessories Priced Below $25 Available Until Friday, Even Without a Prime Day Sale on Metas

    Enhance Your Ray-Ban Meta Smart Glasses with Added Comfort and Convenience at a Low Cost

    Ray-Ban Meta Smart Glasses are increasingly favored by technology lovers, offering a combination of style and practicality. Nevertheless, improving your experience with these smart glasses doesn’t need to be costly. With a selection of budget-friendly accessories, you can infuse comfort and convenience into your Ray-Ban Meta Smart Glasses.

    A frequent concern with Ray-Ban Meta Smart Glasses is their battery performance. Although the glasses are accompanied by a fast-charging case, making sure that both the glasses and the case are charged can be troublesome. A convenient solution is the HiBloks Magnetic Charging Station, retailing for $22.31 on Amazon. This multifunctional dock charges both the glasses and the case at the same time, making sure you’re always prepared. The charging station is equipped with a push button for a secure connection and an additional USB-C port for the case.

    Another issue users encounter is the tendency of the glasses to slide down the nose. To resolve this, think about the RCStyle Ray-Ban Meta accessory kit, available for $19.88 on Amazon. This kit contains rubber nose pads, temple pads, a lanyard, and cleaning pads. These accessories assist in keeping the glasses securely in place, offering a more comfortable fit. Users commend the kit for its ability to prevent slipping and ensure a snug fit, even during activities like cycling.

    By acquiring these economical accessories, you can greatly improve your experience with Ray-Ban Meta Smart Glasses, adding both comfort and convenience without spending a lot.

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