Author: Richard

OnePlus 15 Compatibility with Qi2 Magnetic Charging

As additional Android smartphones start to natively embrace Qi2, a pivotal question emerges: does the OnePlus 15 follow suit? Regrettably, the response is negative. The OnePlus 15 lacks support for Qi2 magnetic charging, as it does not have built-in magnets. Even with a case, Qi2 functionality isn’t enabled; the device only accommodates standard Qi wireless charging.

The OnePlus 15 emphasizes a larger battery instead of Qi2 charging. With an impressive 7,300mAh capacity, extending battery life was a significant design focus. According to Rudolf Xu, senior product marketing manager at OnePlus, incorporating magnets would have added to the phone’s weight and minimized the battery space. This choice differs from the Samsung Galaxy S25 series, which, despite not featuring built-in magnetic charging, is compatible with Qi2 and can reach 15W wireless magnetic charging with the appropriate case.

For many consumers, the absence of Qi2 might not be a deal-breaker. The OnePlus 15 provides 50W wireless charging, exceeding the Qi2 25W standard, though it necessitates a specialized OnePlus wireless charger. It also features an impressive 120W wired charging speed (80W in the U.S.), with the charging brick included in the package. While rapid magnetic charging could have improved compatibility with current MagSafe accessories, the OnePlus 15’s power and battery longevity are notable advantages.

In spite of its merits, the OnePlus 15 makes certain compromises to remain competitively priced. The display resolution is marginally lower, and the camera performance does not establish new benchmarks. However, for those who value gaming and durability over camera and display resolution, the OnePlus 15 remains a persuasive choice.

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Google Unveils Gemini 3 Boasting Enhanced Reasoning and Generative UI for Improved Responses

**Google Reveals Gemini 3: Advancing AI Functions**

Google has formally introduced Gemini 3, an innovative AI model crafted to help users “transform any concept into reality.” The initial version in this new lineup, Gemini 3 Pro, starts its rollout today, upgrading the Gemini app and AI Mode.

### Progression of Gemini

The Gemini series has experienced notable enhancements since its launch. Gemini 1.0 presented native multimodality and extended context windows. A year later, Gemini 2.0 introduced sophisticated reasoning and initial agentic functionalities, while Gemini 2.5 further refined reasoning and programming abilities. Now, Gemini 3, which omits the “.0” label, is heralded as Google’s “most clever model,” emphasizing context and intent comprehension with minimal cues.

### Main Attributes of Gemini 3 Pro

Gemini 3 Pro is designed to provide feedback that is “intelligent, succinct, and straightforward,” emphasizing authentic insights over platitudes. It serves as a thought collaborator, aiding users in grasping complex information and articulating ideas innovatively. Prominent features include translating elaborate scientific ideas into high-fidelity visuals and supporting creative brainstorming sessions.

### Performance Metrics

Gemini 3 Pro has achieved remarkable results across numerous benchmarks, exceeding its predecessor, Gemini 2.5 Pro, in all significant categories:

– **Humanity’s Last Exam:** 37.5% (without tools)
– **GPQA Diamond:** 91.9%
– **MathArena Apex:** 23.4% (new state-of-the-art)
– **MMMU-Pro:** 81%
– **Video-MMMU:** 87.6%
– **SimpleQA Verified:** 72.1%
– **WebDev Arena:** 1487 ELO
– **Terminal-Bench 2.0:** 54.2%
– **SWE-bench Verified:** 76.2%

These metrics demonstrate that Gemini 3 Pro excels in tackling complex challenges across various domains, including science and mathematics.

### Gemini 3 Deep Think Mode

In conjunction with Gemini 3 Pro, Google revealed the Gemini 3 Deep Think mode, which aims to provide even more enhanced reasoning and multimodal comprehension. This mode surpasses Gemini 3 Pro in essential evaluations, scoring 41.0% on Humanity’s Last Exam and 93.8% on GPQA Diamond. It will be accessible for AI Ultra subscribers in the upcoming weeks.

### Generative UI Features

Gemini 3 brings forth generative UI, enabling large language models (LLMs) to produce both content and entire user experiences. This breakthrough facilitates the automated creation of web pages, games, tools, and applications tailored to user prompts. The system functions with detailed guidelines and post-processing to improve output quality.

### Future Features and Integrations

Beginning this week, Gemini 3 will be incorporated into Google Search and AI Mode, allowing subscribers to opt for “Thinking: 3 Pro reasoning and generative layouts.” This integration enhances Google’s query fan-out technique, facilitating more nuanced searches for superior responses.

Moreover, Google intends to update its automatic model selection for subscribers, permitting them to direct challenging inquiries to Gemini 3 while employing quicker models for simpler tasks.

### Google Antigravity

Alongside Gemini 3, Google unveiled Antigravity, a new agentic development platform that enables developers to function at a higher, task-centric level. This IDE allows agents to independently plan and perform intricate software tasks across various settings.

### Conclusion

With the debut of Gemini 3, Google is establishing a new benchmark in AI capabilities, concentrating on multimodal reasoning, user experience personalization, and advanced problem resolution. As this technology progresses, it promises to enhance user interaction with AI, making it a formidable resource for creativity and productivity.

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iPadOS 26.2 Spotlights Rising Trends in iPad Advancement

**iPadOS 26.2 Beta 3: Upgrades for Multitasking Enthusiasts**

iPadOS 26.2 beta 3 has rolled out a notable enhancement for multitasking on the iPad, specifically improving the Split View and Slide Over functionalities with drag and drop integration. This update underlines Apple’s dedication to enriching the iPad experience, particularly for power users who depend on sophisticated multitasking features.

### Apple’s Attentive Response to User Input

The iPad Pro, now in its tenth year, has undergone a remarkable evolution in its operating system. iPadOS 26 represented a crucial milestone, offering the most significant productivity-centered update thus far. It introduced a Mac-like windowing interface, improvements to the dock, an overhauled menu bar, and various other features designed to boost user productivity.

Apple has remained responsive to user needs, delivering a more comprehensive experience while preserving the iPad’s distinct qualities. The launch of a ‘Full Screen Apps’ mode caters to users who favor a streamlined interface, while ‘Windowed Apps’ mode provides a more intricate experience for those desiring advanced features.

Traditionally, Apple has rolled out major updates followed by periods of dormancy. Nonetheless, the current trend of swift updates suggests a strategic shift, with Apple actively enhancing iPadOS in response to user suggestions.

### The New Standard: Regular iPadOS Updates

The launch of iPadOS 26.1 just one month after 26.0 illustrated Apple’s quick responsiveness. This update revived the Slide Over feature and introduced the Local Capture capability with improved customization options. The rapid reinstatement of Slide Over, which had been taken away in the earlier version, highlights Apple’s ability to swiftly address user feedback.

The return of drag and drop functionality in iPadOS 26.2 further refines the multitasking experience, enabling users to handle their applications more effectively. This feature was a hallmark of earlier iterations, and its reinstatement is appreciated by many who considered it crucial for their productivity.

These updates greatly enhance the overall user interaction on the iPad. Apple’s readiness to implement changes promptly instead of waiting for a significant annual release is an encouraging indication for the future of iPadOS.

### Looking Forward: Upcoming Improvements

With the introduction of a dedicated ‘Full Screen Apps’ mode, Apple seems optimistic about crafting more advanced tools for users favoring the ‘Windowed Apps’ mode. There is hope that features such as stacking multiple applications in Slide Over will be brought back, addressing a frequent request from users.

The synergy of these software improvements and the new M5 iPad Pro has fostered an exhilarating environment for iPad users. As the iPad continues to progress, the potential for productivity and creativity is unprecedented.

### Conclusion

The latest updates to iPadOS mark the dawn of a new chapter for iPad users, especially those who rely on multitasking features. Apple’s attentiveness to user feedback and its dedication to rapid updates are promising signals for the iPad’s future. As users delve deeper into the capabilities of iPadOS, the anticipation for additional enhancements remains strong.

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Other important DSLR camera features

Grasping an HDMI Port ‘Dummy Plug’

High-Definition Multimedia Interface (HDMI) standard has been in existence since 2002 and is currently the most prevalent method for transmitting a video signal from a device to a display. But what if there is no need to send video to a screen, yet you still wish to utilize your device? This is where an HDMI dummy plug comes into action, facilitating what is referred to as headless operation. This may sound cumbersome, but in the context of HDMI, it simply implies that you can operate your system without a connected monitor.

These plugs deceive the host computer into believing that a display is connected when it is not. A prime example of the practicality of an HDMI dummy plug is when you need to keep a computer running for extended periods, perhaps for home automation, without the necessity of accessing the monitor. Maintaining a monitor and cables occupies a significant amount of space, particularly when utilizing a small form-factor PC for various automation tasks.

The energy consumption of a monitor may also be a factor for those who may have a PC running continuously throughout the day. Moreover, a primary consideration for many is utilizing an HDMI dummy plug for game streaming: if a monitor is not connected, your GPU may be restricted from outputting at maximum resolution, as it is searching for a display to establish the correct output size.

Optimal applications

Google Calendar’s Latest Task Functionality Boosts Efficiency

Google Calendar has finally started acknowledging your to-do list.

(Image credit: Namerah Saud Fatmi / Android Central)

Essential information

  • You are now able to reserve time for tasks in your Google Calendar, thus removing the requirement to create misleading “focus time” events.
  • You can directly place a task into an available calendar time slot, adjust its length, and maintain its connection to your Tasks list with existing reminders.
  • Updated controls allow you to hide the event, enable Do Not Disturb mode, and automatically decline meeting invitations during your task periods.

Notice

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Apple Adopts 3D Printing Technology for Manufacturing Apple Watch Series 11 and Ultra 3: A Summary

### Apple Watch Series 11 and Apple Watch Ultra 3: A Breakthrough in 3D Printing Innovation

In a recent press announcement, Apple disclosed its integration of 3D printing into the production of the Apple Watch Series 11 and Apple Watch Ultra 3, a notable step forward in eco-friendly manufacturing practices. For the first time ever, both variants are produced from 100 percent recycled aerospace-grade titanium powder, a scenario that Apple asserts was previously regarded as unfeasible on a large scale.

#### The Influence of 3D Printing on Production

Apple’s pioneering strategy in 3D printing has resulted in significant improvements in the ecological impact of its watch manufacturing. The company underscores the importance of harmonizing the robustness and visual aesthetics of the Apple Watch with the adoption of this contemporary production technique.

As stated by Apple, “This year, all Apple Watch Ultra 3 and titanium Apple Watch Series 11 cases are 3D-printed with 100 percent recycled aerospace-grade titanium powder.” This technique enables a glossy mirror finish on the Series 11 and ensures that the Ultra 3 preserves its lightweight and sturdy qualities, addressing the requirements of active users.

The additive process of 3D printing starkly contrasts traditional subtractive manufacturing techniques, which frequently result in substantial material waste. By layering titanium powder to form the final design, Apple has diminished the volume of raw material required by 50% relative to earlier models. This transition has led to an astounding saving of over 400 metric tons of raw titanium in 2025 alone.

#### Environmental Targets and Accomplishments

Sarah Chandler, Apple’s vice president of Environment and Supply Chain Innovation, pointed out the importance of this reduction, remarking, “A 50 percent decrease is a monumental success — you’re obtaining two watches from the same volume of material utilized for one.” This development is in line with Apple’s greater commitment to achieving carbon neutrality throughout its entire supply chain by 2030. At present, all electricity utilized in the production of the Apple Watch is derived from renewable sources.

The 3D printing innovation has also improved the waterproof features of the antenna housing in wireless models of the Apple Watch Series 11 and Ultra 3. This enhancement illustrates the adaptability and possibilities of 3D printing beyond merely watch cases.

#### Wider Uses of 3D Printing

Apple’s investigation into 3D printing goes beyond the Apple Watch. The company has successfully developed a USB-C port for the new iPhone Air, employing the same recycled titanium powder. This advancement has allowed the creation of an extremely slim yet robust port, showcasing the versatility and benefits of 3D printing in contemporary electronics.

#### Conclusion

Apple’s adoption of 3D printing in the production of the Apple Watch Series 11 and Ultra 3 signifies a notable advancement in sustainable technology. The utilization of 100 percent recycled materials not only diminishes waste but also boosts product performance. As Apple persists in its innovative endeavors, it sets a benchmark for the technology sector, demonstrating how cutting-edge manufacturing methods can yield both environmental and functional gains. For further information, the complete press release can be found on Apple’s website.

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Gemini Can Substitute Siri on iPhone with Specific Restrictions

the iOS 26.4 update coming next spring is expected to finally introduce the AI voice assistant concept that Apple showcased at WWDC 2024 last year. This information is based on current reports, although nothing is assured. Apple has the option to postpone the new Siri AI features, similar to its actions earlier this year. Nonetheless, MacRumors indicates that select iPhone users will have the opportunity to switch Siri for another voice assistant, including Gemini, a more advanced AI tool than Siri, once iOS 26.2 is released. While this may seem like positive news for iPhone users, the feature will not be globally accessible, due to two significant conditions.

Firstly, you can change Siri for another assistant only in Japan, where Apple must comply with new legislation mandating smartphone manufacturers to allow competing services on their devices. Secondly, iPhone users in Japan looking to replace Siri with Gemini or another voice assistant cannot simply choose a different option in Settings. App developers must activate this functionality. For Gemini, Google would need to integrate the new feature into one of its existing applications. That is the sole method to set a voice assistant like Gemini as the default on the iPhone.

How the iPhone’s new assistants will operate

Google Improves Search, Gemini, and Pixel Weather with WeatherNext 2 Forecasting Model Enhancements

It’s the organization’s “most sophisticated and effective forecasting model.”

(Image credit: Nicholas Sutrich / Android Central)

Essential information

  • Google has introduced a new WeatherNext 2 forecasting model that employs AI to anticipate weather occurrences.
  • WeatherNext 2 is now accessible for developers and researchers, and it exceeds WeatherNext in 99.9% of metrics.
  • This new weather model additionally facilitates user-oriented services such as Google Search, Gemini, and the Pixel Weather app.

Notice

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