Author: Richard

Samsung’s One UI 8.5 Beta Brings AI-Powered Notification Capabilities

Samsung Unveils New One UI 8.5 Beta Version Featuring AI-Driven Notification Summaries and Priority Alerts

Samsung is advancing its One UI 8.5, currently in internal testing with a launch expected alongside the Galaxy S26 series. This revised build brings multiple innovative features focused on improving user experience, especially in notification management.

AI-Driven Notification Summaries

A key highlight of One UI 8.5 is its AI-driven notification summaries. This capability aims to distill lengthy messages into concise previews, allowing users to grasp their notifications quickly without wading through extensive texts. Initially, it will support English and Korean and will apply to notifications related to conversations. Users can select which applications may use this feature via the app settings.

Priority Notifications

Another major enhancement is the priority notifications feature. This enables crucial alerts to be showcased prominently at the top of the notification panel, helping users not to overlook important updates. Like the AI summaries, users can define notification priorities within the app settings, customizing their experience according to their preferences.

Design and Usability Improvements

Along with these functional improvements, Samsung has implemented visual updates by diminishing the 3D effect on icons, striving for a sleeker and contemporary interface. The update, approximately 2GB in size, bears the build number “YJH” and incorporates the October 2025 patch.

Upcoming Release Plans

Though One UI 8.5 is presently in internal testing, a public beta release is expected shortly. This will enable a wider audience to experience and contribute feedback on the new features prior to the official rollout. Samsung’s dedication to enhancing user experience through AI and personalization is clearly reflected in this latest update.

Stay tuned for further updates as Samsung gears up to release One UI 8.5 to the public.

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WPC Does Not Address Qi2 Comments from Nothing, Emphasizing a Communication Divide

There are several prominent phone manufacturers that incorporate Qi2 technology, so there may be some confusion surrounding this matter.

Essential information:

– The WPC addressed remarks made by Nothing regarding the estimated $10 million cost to create the magnetic systems for wireless charging.
– It indicates that, had Nothing been a WPC member, it would have “access to the specifications and advantageous licensing terms under RAND” and that it might not “comprehend the situation.”
– Google’s Pixel 10 series integrates Qi2 completely within its devices, negating the requirement for a case, which is in contrast to Samsung’s Galaxy S25 series.

Nothing has found itself caught up with the WPC (World Power Consortium), the organization behind the Qi2 standard, and the requirements to integrate this functionality into devices.

As reported by Android Authority, Nothing recently commented on the expenses involved in developing a “compatible magnetic system” for wireless charging. In response to Nothing’s assertion of a $10 million investment to create such technology, the WPC communicated the following to YouTuber TechAltar: “If Nothing were a WPC member, they would have access to the specifications and favorable licensing terms under RAND.”

It further states, “Given that Google, HMD, Samsung (and others shortly) are already utilizing magnets in their phones or cases indicates that Nothing may not grasp the situation.”

Marton Barcza, the channel’s host, mentions that Nothing enjoys producing playful videos about “theoretical devices” and the alleged “cost” associated with making them a reality. It was during one of these videos that Nothing asserted it would require an astronomical sum of money to develop the magnetic wireless charging system. The company also noted that while “the magnets in your device are not exactly the same configuration as Apple’s MagSafe, there’s a significant possibility the coils might not align perfectly, which would result in suboptimal charging speed and increased heat generation.”

Nothing suggested that “numerous companies” have likely assessed this risk, along with the purported cost demands, leading them to opt for wired charging, which is quicker.

Qi2 remains a possibility

Barcza mentioned that they conducted research, engaging with industry experts and even the WPC regarding Qi2 and Nothing, but did not receive any feedback resembling the comments made. It is presumed that there is merely some miscommunication, but Barcza emphasized that magnetic alignment is “a component of the standard.” This essentially implies that companies wouldn’t need to “reinvent” anything if they intend to incorporate it into their devices for wireless charging.

We have been enthusiastic and curious about Nothing’s progress in developing true Qi2-compliant devices and their corresponding accessories, yet nothing has materialized (no pun intended). The Phone 3a and 3a Pro launched without Qi2 support, much like the Nothing Phone 3, which also lacks the updated alignment necessary for it.

When we examine the WPC’s statements, both Google and Samsung feature Qi2, albeit in different manners—and with varying levels of support. Google’s latest Pixel 10 series boasts complete Qi2 support, meaning everything is seamlessly integrated into the devices. However, in the case of Samsung’s Galaxy S25 series, consumers will require a case to leverage the Qi2 functionality, as the phones do not support it natively.

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Explore 5 Unknown Smart Home Gadgets Offered at Costco

purchase new televisions from Costco alongside a variety of technology and electronics ranging from appliances to smart home gadgets. If you’re aiming to enhance your home’s technology arrangement, you can discover a multitude of helpful systems such as surveillance cameras and intelligent thermostats. In true Costco style, however, this barely scratches the surface of what is on offer. While exploring the entire online selection of smart technology products, you’ll find an array of intriguing items you might not even be aware existed, and here are five of the most captivating.

Black+Decker Smart Portable Air Conditioner

We are privileged to live in a time when air conditioning is broadly accessible, particularly on sweltering summer days. Nonetheless, not everyone has the opportunity for central air or even a smart window AC installation, and at times an oscillating fan simply won’t suffice when temperatures hit 93 degrees. If you’re seeking a cooling option that is portable around the house, you can acquire Black+Decker’s Smart Portable Air Conditioner at Costco.

This compact, stool-sized cooler on wheels is simple to move around the home and is ready to deliver a refreshing, cool breeze. Its main role is to function as an air conditioner, though it can also serve as a standard fan if cooling isn’t required, in addition to acting as a dehumidifier. It includes a remote for basic functionalities, but if you’re after a more customized cooling experience, you can connect the unit to your smart home system through the Black+Decker app available on iOS or Android. With complete support for Amazon Alexa and Google Home, you can adjust temperature settings, establish cooling schedules, and set timers from your smartphone, along with issuing voice commands.

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Pocket-Sized E-Reader Gets Notable Color Enhancement

Both the Boox Palma 2 Pro and the Note Air5 C are currently up for grabs.

(Image credit: Onyx)

Key details to note

  • Two fresh Onyx Boox e-readers are being released today featuring Kaleido 3 color E Ink tech.
  • The tablet-sized Note Air 5 C starts at $499.99/£499.99/€529.99 and comes with a stylus.
  • The phone-sized Palma 2 Pro is priced starting at $379.99/£379.99/€399.99.

Notice

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Crucial Affordable Devices for Every Audiophile’s Residence

AirPods Pro 3 and Sony’s WH-1000XM6 dominated the headlines this “Techtember” launch period, enticing audiophiles with premium specifications for an impulsive buy. Nevertheless, their exorbitant prices might deter many. You don’t need to splurge excessively, particularly on headphones alone, to achieve an excellent audio setup. Sony’s WH-1000XM6 retail at $399; within that price range, you can create your own home setup using some intriguing devices. Whether you are passionate about clear sound, robust bass, a rich soundstage, and aesthetics, there are undiscovered gems that satisfy all your requirements.

From retro-style vinyl players and compact Bluetooth speakers to in-ear monitors (IEMs) that provide studio-quality detail, these five gadgets (all priced under $100) deliver exceptional performance, and in some instances outshine pricier rivals. Whether you’re a vinyl lover, a newcomer to IEMs, or an individual assembling their first serious audio environment, here are five devices for those who are particular about audio intricacies and quality.

FiiO Snowsky Melody

If in-ear monitors pique your interest, or if you seek greater performance from your wired headphones, the FiiO Snowsky Melody digital-to-analog converter (DAC) could be the ideal $40 device to enhance your audio experience. Many Bluetooth earphones frequently diminish the listening pleasure due to latency problems and intermittent connections, and the need for regular charging is an added inconvenience. As a result, numerous individuals are transitioning to wired IEMs for superior sound production, but connecting them directly to smartphones is difficult as flagship devices have mostly abandoned the beloved 3.5mm jack in favor of a USB-C port.

The Snowsky Melody addresses both challenges: You can relish a detailed output while retrieving your 3.5mm jack, along with a 4.4mm jack for connecting additional devices. It also reduces background noise, which sensitive IEMs typically uncover in lower-quality converters, with its

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9to5Rewards Contest: Opportunity to Win an iPhone 17 Pro or iPhone 17 Air

### iMazing 3.4: Enhancing iPhone Management

In the rapidly evolving tech landscape, the unveiling of new devices frequently brings along a series of updates and improvements in software tailored to support them. Following the recent introduction of the iPhone 17 series, iMazing has rolled out version 3.4 of its iPhone management system, equipping users with sophisticated tools for effortless device management.

#### Key Features of iMazing 3.4

1. **Compatibility with the iPhone 17 Series**: iMazing 3.4 is completely compatible with the newest iPhone 17 models, guaranteeing that users can fully leverage the enhanced hardware features.

2. **Enhanced User Interface**: The update features an improved UI that boosts user experience, making the navigation and management of iPhone data more user-friendly. New filters and controls enable better organization and access to files.

3. **Enterprise Enhancements**: iMazing has implemented several upgrades targeted at enterprise users, including:
– New developer utilities that aid in app development and testing.
– An upgraded command-line interface for more tech-savvy users to interact with iOS devices and efficiently manage backups.
– A new Spyware Analyzer tool designed to assist users in recognizing and addressing potential security risks.

#### Special Offer

For a limited duration, users can benefit from a **20% discount** on all iMazing licenses by using the code **9to5mac-20off**. This offer enables both new and existing users to improve their iPhone management experience at a lowered price.

#### Giveaway Opportunity

In honor of the iMazing 3.4 launch, there is an exciting chance for readers to win a new iPhone 17 (Pro or Air). To enter the giveaway, participants must provide their name and email address to subscribe to the newsletters of both iMazing and 9to5Mac. Promoting the giveaway on social media channels such as Facebook and Twitter, along with following iMazing on Instagram, will enhance the likelihood of winning. The giveaway is open until **November 8, 2025**, and is exclusively available to residents of the US and Canada.

#### Conclusion

iMazing 3.4 shines as a robust solution for iPhone users, delivering functionalities that cater to both everyday users and enterprise-level requirements. With the additional allure of a giveaway and a limited-time discount, now presents an ideal opportunity for users to elevate their iPhone management experience.

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Swift SDK for Android Launched

**Swift SDK for Android: A New Chapter in Cross-Platform Development**

With the launch of the Android Workgroup earlier this year, the inaugural preview release of the Swift SDK for Android has been revealed, signifying a substantial advancement in cross-platform mobile development. This release is the result of months of concerted efforts by the Android Workgroup, building upon years of grassroots community movements.

### A Significant Achievement

In a blog entry by developer Joannis Orlandos, it was emphasized that the rollout of nightly preview versions of the Swift SDK for Android opens up fresh opportunities for developers. This SDK empowers developers to construct Android applications using Swift, a programming language recognized for its safety and efficiency. Developing in Swift not only improves the developer experience but also accelerates innovation within the mobile ecosystem.

The Swift SDK for Android is now obtainable as part of the Windows installer or can be downloaded independently for Linux and macOS users. This availability is vital for developers aiming to utilize Swift in their Android projects.

### Initiating Development with Swift on Android

To aid developers in getting initiated, the Android Workgroup has unveiled an extensive starter guide. This guide offers step-by-step guidance on the essential dependencies, packages, and bundles needed to commence development. Moreover, numerous sample projects are accessible on GitHub, providing tangible examples for developers to investigate.

The resources are not limited to just the SDK; developers can also discover support materials for integrating Swift code into pre-existing Android applications. The swift-java project promotes Java interoperability, facilitating a smoother transition for developers accustomed to Java who wish to integrate Swift into their projects.

### Community Involvement and Future Perspectives

The Android Workgroup is proactively inviting feedback from the developer community. They encourage developers to present their experiences, suggestions, tools, and applications on the Swift forums. This collaborative strategy aims to enhance the SDK and expand its functionalities based on actual usage.

Additionally, the group is crafting a document that will detail the forthcoming steps for the project, ensuring that the evolution of the Swift SDK for Android continues to align with the needs of the community and advancements in technology.

### Closing Thoughts

The introduction of the Swift SDK for Android marks a crucial juncture for developers aspiring to build cross-platform applications. With the backing of the Android Workgroup and the resources at hand, developers are now equipped with the tools necessary to innovate and broaden their applications across both Android and iOS platforms. This initiative not only fortifies the Swift community but also nurtures a more interconnected mobile development environment.

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YouTube TV May Risk Losing ESPN Because of Contract Conflict with Disney

YouTube TV nearly lost 14 channels due to a contract disagreement with NBCUniversal. This situation reoccurred earlier this month when YouTube TV and NBCUniversal reached an agreement at the last minute. More recently, YouTube TV is embroiled in yet another contract conflict, this time with Disney. Consequently, YouTube TV subscribers may potentially lose access to ESPN and ABC.

“This is yet another instance of Google taking advantage of its position to the detriment of its customers,” stated a Disney representative in a comment to Variety. “We make substantial investments in our content and anticipate our partners to offer reasonable rates that reflect that value. If we don’t come to an equitable agreement soon, YouTube TV subscribers will no longer have access to ESPN and ABC, along with our premier programming — including the NFL, college football, NBA and NHL seasons — and much more.”

YouTube TV, on the other hand, maintains that it has been negotiating in good faith. It claims that Disney is pursuing advantageous terms that are economically unviable and would eventually lead to an increased cost for a service that already charges $82.99 per month. Interestingly, YouTube TV hints that Disney is at ease with taking a hardline negotiating stance due to its “own live TV offerings – such as Hulu + Live TV and, soon, Fubo.” The existing deal between YouTube TV and Disney is scheduled to end on October 30, which means we will soon find out if ESPN will continue on the platform.

Disney and YouTube TV are clashing again

Contrasting HDMI with DisplayPort: Selecting the Ideal Connection for Your Requirements

support for features such as ARC, eARC, and Dolby Audio formats.

In the end, there isn’t one definitive choice — it primarily depends on the device you’re connecting and the level of performance you require. If you’re curious about which option suits you best, you’re in the ideal spot. I’ll clarify where each interface excels, detail their bandwidth and refresh rate distinctions, and assist you in determining which port is the most suitable for your configuration.

What is HDMI, and what is its primary purpose?

Apple TV’s Upcoming Fall Launches: Two Much-Awaited Series

Apple TV is presently highlighting new seasons of two of its most beloved series, “Slow Horses” and “The Morning Show.” Additionally, two eagerly awaited new series are preparing to debut in the near future.

### Down Cemetery Road, from Slow Horses Author

“Down Cemetery Road” is a suspenseful crime thriller adapted from the book by Mick Herron, the renowned writer of the “Slow Horses” series. Emma Thompson portrays a detective who collaborates with Ruth Wilson’s character, Sarah Trafford, to delve into a perplexing crime that ensues after an explosion in a serene Oxford neighborhood. The series is set to intertwine dark humor with crime mystery, reminiscent of “Slow Horses.”

The launch is slated for **Wednesday, October 29**, featuring the release of the first two episodes coinciding with the season finale of “Slow Horses.” Following episodes will be made available weekly until December 10. The official synopsis outlines a compelling tale where Sarah becomes fixated on a missing girl and unravels an intricate conspiracy involving both the living and the deceased.

### Pluribus, from Breaking Bad Creator

“Pluribus” is an upcoming sci-fi drama from Vince Gilligan, the mastermind behind “Breaking Bad” and “Better Call Saul.” The series features Rhea Seehorn, reuniting her with Gilligan after her remarkable performance in “Better Call Saul.” Touted as “genre-bending,” the show is creating buzz, with its promotion making parallels to “Severance.”

The series will launch on **Friday, November 7**, with its first two episodes, followed by weekly releases extending through December 26. Although plot details are limited, a second season has already been announced, amplifying excitement for the show’s distinctive concept, which revolves around a character called “the most miserable person on Earth” who is assigned the task of preventing the world from happiness.

### Conclusion

With the forthcoming premieres of “Down Cemetery Road” and “Pluribus,” Apple TV is broadening its collection of captivating content. Both series are anticipated to draw in audiences with their fascinating narratives and skilled ensembles. Apple TV is offered at $12.99 per month, featuring an array of popular shows and films, including “Ted Lasso,” “Severance,” and “Silo.”

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