Author: Richard

    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Last-Minute HomeKit Present Suggestions
    Last-Minute HomeKit Present Suggestions

    Building a smart home ecosystem can be challenging. With numerous product categories, figuring out which ones to focus on can be difficult. Here are some essential smart home suggestions for equipping your smart home — all of which would make excellent gifts this holiday season.

    ## Lutron Caséta

    For smart lighting systems, the [Lutron Caséta system](https://geni.us/w1jn2) is unparalleled. Lutron’s smart lighting switches can replace your existing wall switches, allowing them to operate through smart control solutions, enabling you to easily turn the lights on and off.

    ## Smart Bulbs

    If Lutron Caséta switches aren’t feasible for you, like in a rental situation, there are alternatives. Smart bulbs are a fundamental part of the HomeKit ecosystem, with more choices available now than ever. They are also extremely beneficial for use in lamps.

    ## Lutron Aurora

    The Lutron Aurora is an excellent addition that addresses one of the most irritating limitations with Philips Hue smart bulbs. These smart lights become unresponsive when a wall switch is turned off since Hue bulbs need the lights to remain in the “on” position to be managed via the Hue app or HomeKit. The Lutron Aurora is designed to fit over your physical wall switches. After setting up the hardware, you integrate the Aurora with the Philips Hue app. The Lutron Aurora is [available on Amazon for just under $40](https://geni.us/DJIZHGx). If you use Philips Hue, this is a simple way to enhance your smart home experience.

    ## Home Key Smart Locks

    A favorite feature of mine within HomeKit is Home Key. It allows you to lock and unlock your door by tapping your iPhone or Apple Watch. The pricing for Home Key-compatible smart locks can vary significantly. My preferred choice is the [Aqara Smart Lock U50](https://geni.us/JPN6), but other options are available as well.

    ## Smart Plugs

    Smart plugs that work with HomeKit make fantastic stocking stuffers. They can convert nearly anything into a smart-enabled device, including lamps, light strips, Christmas trees, and more. I’m particularly fond of the [Meross Smart Plug Mini](https://geni.us/Q5XeMHG), which can be purchased in a [set of four on Amazon](https://geni.us/Q5XeMHG).

    ## Door and Window Sensors

    Having recently moved from the suburbs to the city, ensuring my doors are securely latched and windows are closed has become increasingly important. Fortunately, there’s a HomeKit solution for that.

    ## Smart Thermostat

    Upgrading to a smart thermostat is one of the best quality-of-life enhancements you can invest in. My top choice in this category is the [Ecobee Smart Thermostat](https://geni.us/8mp2), which seamlessly integrates with HomeKit and Siri and features a stylish, easy-to-install design. It sets the standard for smart thermostats.

    ## Water Sensor

    For homeowners, water poses a significant threat to your property. A HomeKit water leak sensor will immediately alert you to any leaks. I suggest acquiring several of these to distribute around your home.

    ## Smart Light Strips

    Smart light strips are a timeless option for accent lighting. Whether you apply them under cabinets, behind a TV, or anywhere else, they significantly enhance your space. I have smart light strips positioned behind my desk and TV, and they are my preferred method for adding accent lighting to my setups.

    ## Eve Flare

    One of my favorite accessories for HomeKit is the

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Gemini Unveils Capability to Detect Videos Created by Google AI
    Gemini Unveils Capability to Detect Videos Created by Google AI

    Upload a video to Gemini and quickly discover if it was generated by AI with Google technology.

    Key points to note:
    – Google is integrating a SynthID watermark checker into the Gemini app specifically for videos.
    – This feature can indicate whether a video was created or altered using Google AI.
    – The update comes after the introduction of the SynthID watermark validation feature for images in the Gemini app last month.

    Over time, distinguishing AI-generated content from genuine photos and videos will become increasingly challenging, highlighting the significance of watermarking and digital metadata. Determining if a video is authentic or AI-produced can be difficult. While there are various online tools that attempt to identify AI-generated content, Google is developing an “imperceptible” watermark technology known as SynthID to aid users in discerning authenticity.

    Starting now, Gemini is capable of verifying video authenticity using SynthID within the Gemini app. This video verification tool can identify if submitted content was either created or altered with Google AI in any capacity. Google claims that more than 20 billion pieces of AI-generated content have been marked with SynthID, which digitally watermarks Google AI creations from Veo generations to AI edits in Google Photos.

    To utilize the feature, upload a video to the Gemini app and pose a question such as “was this created using Google AI?” Following this, Gemini will analyze the video and provide feedback, including details on which parts of the content (if any) were generated or modified by AI.

    Gemini might reply with something similar to “SynthID detected within the audio between 10-20 seconds. No SynthID detected in the visuals,” as noted in Google’s blog post.

    The video verification feature does come with certain limitations. For identification via the Gemini app, a video must not exceed 100MB in size and should be 90 seconds or shorter in duration. Moreover, this functionality is limited to spotting videos generated with Google AI tools that utilize the SynthID watermark — it will not disclose information about content created with third-party software.

    The new feature in the Gemini app builds on the SynthID photo verification that was launched in November.

    “SynthID integrates an invisible digital watermark into an AI-generated image (or video segment),” Google states on the DeepMind website. “The watermark does not alter the quality of the image or video. It is incorporated at the moment of content creation and is designed to endure modifications such as cropping, adding filters, altering frame rates, or lossy compression.”

    Now, users of Gemini can effortlessly and quickly verify the authenticity of photos and videos within the Gemini app wherever it is accessible.

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on NotebookLM Transforms Source Material into Tables Ready for Google Sheets
    NotebookLM Transforms Source Material into Tables Ready for Google Sheets

    **Google AI Pro and Ultra Subscribers Access New Data Tables Feature in NotebookLM**

    Google has proclaimed the launch of a fresh feature termed Data Tables for its AI-driven tool, NotebookLM. This feature is now accessible for Google AI Pro and Ultra subscribers, with availability for free accounts anticipated to follow shortly.

    **Essential Information:**
    – **Data Tables Feature:** The new Data Tables feature in NotebookLM organizes crucial data points from multiple sources into formatted tables. These tables can be effortlessly exported to Google Sheets for enhanced data management.
    – **Intended Users:** The feature is tailored for students, knowledge professionals, scientific researchers, and everyday consumers, providing an efficient method to manage and visualize data.
    – **Application Scenarios:** Google proposes various uses for Data Tables, including converting meeting transcripts into action item tables, synthesizing clinical trial results, creating study tables for exams, and organizing vacation plans with comparison tables.

    **Functionality:**
    NotebookLM enables users to upload source materials such as videos, websites, or PDFs. The AI subsequently processes this information to produce neat, structured tables, alleviating the manual effort of data extraction for users.

    **Latest Enhancements:**
    Google has been upgrading NotebookLM with functionalities like Gemini integration and chat history. The introduction of Data Tables represents another advancement in enhancing the tool’s efficiency for data organization and project management.

    **Launch Timeline:**
    The Data Tables feature is being made available for Google AI Pro and Ultra users beginning today, with free users expected to receive the update in the near future.

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Details of TikTok Transaction Surface with Pact to Establish U.S. Joint Venture
    Details of TikTok Transaction Surface with Pact to Establish U.S. Joint Venture

    Axios, The Associated Press, and Reuters. TikTok’s CEO Shou Zi Chew mentioned in the memo that the transaction is expected to finalize on January 22. Reports indicate that Oracle, Silver Lake, and MGX are three significant investors in the TikTok U.S. venture (TikTok USDS Joint Venture LLC), collectively owning a 45% stake (15% each). ByteDance is set to retain a 19.9% interest in the newly formed entity, while nearly 30.1% will be allocated to current ByteDance investors. The identities of the remaining investors remain uncertain.

    TikTok U.S. will feature a board of directors consisting of seven members, six of whom will be American. ByteDance will occupy the remaining seat. The new entity will store U.S. user data on servers operated by Oracle. The algorithm driving the new application will be re-trained using U.S. user data to “guarantee that the content feed is free from external influence.” TikTok U.S. will also take charge of content moderation on the platform.

    While TikTok U.S. manages user data, the new algorithm, content moderation, and software security, revenue collection will still be under ByteDance’s purview. A segment of that revenue will be distributed to the U.S. venture, although specific numbers have not been disclosed. Additionally, the amount Oracle, Silver Lake, and MGX are investing for their shares of TikTok U.S. is still unknown. The new enterprise is projected to be valued at approximately $14 billion, based on figures cited by Vice President JD Vance in September.

    What the TikTok sale signifies for users

    <div class="slide-key image-holder gallery-image-holder credit-image-wrap " data-post-url="https://www.bgr.com/2056122/tiktok-sale-details-us-joint-venture-deal/" data-post

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on How to Resolve Apple CarPlay Problems Following iOS 26 Update
    How to Resolve Apple CarPlay Problems Following iOS 26 Update

    Refrain from turning your iPhone off and on again, as this likely won’t restore Apple CarPlay if it’s become disconnected, particularly if this problem arose after the main iOS 26 update, which many users experienced. TikTok user Charly gained popularity this week by sharing a public service announcement concerning unforeseen CarPlay connectivity issues and potential resolutions. Regrettably, users cannot rectify the bug that hinders a wireless connection, but they can utilize a USB-C cable equipped for data transfer to connect their iPhone to the vehicle and regain CarPlay functionality.

    “If your iPhone’s CarPlay has ceased functioning after the latest update, you require a data cable,” Charly stated in a now-viral video, as other iPhone users faced similar dilemmas. She informed Motor1 that she arrived at the solution through “a lot of trial and error.” After discovering online that others were encountering identical issues, she theorized that the problem stemmed from data transfers and attempted to link her iPhone to the car using a data cable.

    You might already possess a data cable compatible with CarPlay. Charly’s test was fruitful. She restored the CarPlay connection utilizing a data cable, which is simply a USB-C cable that also transfers data. The TikToker mentioned that she tried every USB-C cable in her possession, but none were effective until she connected a data cable. Other iPhone users experiencing the wireless connectivity issue might find themselves in a similar situation. Since not all charging cables can transfer data, CarPlay will not function if you use a charging cable to connect your iPhone to the car, as it won’t transmit the necessary data to your vehicle’s infotainment system.

    If you still have the original USB-C cable that came with your iPhone, you are fortunate to already have a data cable. If your iPhone is from the 11 to 14 series, the original Lightning to USB-C cable included also facilitates data transfer.

    You have likely acquired additional USB-C cables if your iPhone isn’t brand-new, thus arbitrarily selecting one does not guarantee CarPlay functionality. While you can test each cable individually, it’s more efficient to look for markings indicating data transfer support (such as transfer speeds). If those markings are absent, you might check if the iPhone initiates a data transfer with your computer when connecting the two devices. If none of these options work, consider purchasing a third-party data cable from an electronics retailer and keep it in your car for emergency CarPlay connectivity.

    There are other solutions that might restore your CarPlay connection. CarPlay is meant to “just work,” as Apple often claims when discussing new products and features. The iPhone should automatically and wirelessly connect to your car. It remains uncertain which of the recent iOS 26 updates triggered the CarPlay connectivity issues. Apple launched the new main build in mid-September and subsequently released two smaller updates, iOS 26.1 featuring new additions and iOS 26.2 with further enhancements and adjustments. The beta version of iOS 26.3 is already available for installation. Charly does not specify which software version she’s using. If iOS 26 is the latest update installed, upgrading to iOS 26.2 may resolve the problem. This is also something to consider before opting for the wired CarPlay alternative.

    If your vehicle only has USB-C ports and your iPhone has a Lightning port, you will require a USB-C to Lightning adapter, such as the one Apple offers for $29. This particular accessory facilitates both data and power transfer, making it suitable for CarPlay. Apple notes in a support document that “certain combinations of adapters, cables, and vehicle entertainment systems might interfere with the wired CarPlay connection.” Apple recommends USB-A to USB-C cables for such instances. If your vehicle only accepts USB-A cables, an adapter that supports data transfer will be necessary.

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on The Energy Usage of Every ChatGPT Prompt
    The Energy Usage of Every ChatGPT Prompt

    reintroducing nuclear energy to support their AI goals, while OpenAI is exploring the concept of establishing data centers in outer space. With such futuristic plans in the pipeline, it’s only natural for individuals to question why major technology firms require significant power and the actual energy consumption of our daily interactions with AI services.

    In light of our inquiries, companies like Google have disclosed details this year regarding energy usage and efficiency concerning their AI offerings, with OpenAI following suit shortly thereafter. In June, CEO Sam Altman shared a blog that mentioned the energy consumption of “the average” ChatGPT inquiry: 0.34 watt-hours. Altman compares this to “approximately what an oven would use in just over a second, or what a high-efficiency lightbulb would consume in a few minutes.”

    So, does that mean each ChatGPT prompt truly uses 0.34 watt-hours of energy? Regrettably, it’s likely not so straightforward. Although the figure might be precise, Altman provided no context or detail on how it was derived, which significantly hampers our grasp of the scenario. For example, we don’t know how OpenAI defines an “average” ChatGPT inquiry, considering the LLM can perform various tasks, such as responding to general inquiries, coding, and generating images — all of which demand different energy levels.

    Why is AI energy consumption so intricate?

    <source media="(min-width: 429

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Samsung Has Officially Introduced Exynos 2600 for the Galaxy S26 Series
    Samsung Has Officially Introduced Exynos 2600 for the Galaxy S26 Series

    Samsung has formally launched the Exynos 2600, representing a major achievement as the first smartphone chipset globally to utilize a 2nm manufacturing process. This innovative advancement promises considerable enhancements in performance, efficiency, and thermal management, establishing a new benchmark in the market.

    The Exynos 2600 features a revamped CPU structure, removing low-power cores in favor of a more robust setup. This change leads to up to 39% gains in CPU performance, improved AI processing abilities, and twice the GPU performance in comparison to its forerunner, the Exynos 2500. The chipset’s 10-core CPU, based on Arm’s v9.3 design, includes a primary C1-Ultra core running at 3.8GHz, three high-performance C1-Pro cores operating at 3.25GHz, and three efficiency-oriented C1-Pro cores clocked at 2.75GHz.

    Samsung has also tackled previous overheating concerns with the launch of a novel Heat Path Block (HPB) design. This advancement enhances heat dissipation, enabling the chipset to sustain high performance during intensive tasks by effectively dispersing heat and stabilizing the SoC’s temperature.

    The Exynos 2600 is anticipated to drive the forthcoming Galaxy S26 series in specific markets, such as Asia and Europe, likely for the base Galaxy S26 and Galaxy S26 Plus variants. Although speculation hinted at a possible exclusive deployment of the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5, the introduction of the Exynos 2600 signifies Samsung’s ongoing approach of regional chipset diversity.

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Ongoing Screen Flickering Problems Noted by macOS Tahoe Users
    Ongoing Screen Flickering Problems Noted by macOS Tahoe Users

    ### macOS Tahoe Presents an Exasperating Display Issue for Certain Users

    If you’ve observed peculiar screen flickers following the installation of macOS Tahoe, you’re not the only one. An increasing number of users are reporting brief yet bothersome display flickering, especially when utilizing Apple’s Studio Display.

    In a recent Mastodon post, Dan Moren recounted his troubles with screen flickering on his Mac mini and MacBook Air while connected to the Studio Display. MacRumors has recently drawn attention to this issue, noting that flickering typically arises when switching between applications featuring bright white backgrounds or when scrolling through websites with light backgrounds. The flickering can occur sporadically and is usually brief, though it can sometimes last several seconds, particularly when moving from dark to light content.

    Moren tried to fix the problem by disabling features like True Tone, Night Shift, and automatic brightness. He mentioned that while turning off Night Shift appeared to offer some relief, the flickering continues to be an intermittent and exasperating issue.

    Regrettably, the most recent macOS updates (26.1 and 26.2) have not remedied the situation for the majority of users. In fact, some have claimed that macOS 26.2 may have intensified the flickering. Apple has yet to acknowledge the problem, leaving many users in search of solutions.

    It is still uncertain whether this issue is limited to the Studio Display or if it impacts additional displays as well. Anecdotal reports indicate that some users, including those with the Pro Display XDR, have not encountered any flickering problems with macOS Tahoe.

    If you are facing screen flickering concerns after updating to macOS Tahoe, please share your insights in the comments.

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Apple Might Mandate iPhone Users to Upgrade to iOS 26 for Security Enhancements
    Apple Might Mandate iPhone Users to Upgrade to iOS 26 for Security Enhancements

    Apple launched iOS 26.2 last week, bringing important security updates along with iOS 18.7.3 for those who have not yet made the jump to the latest version. However, reports suggest that some iPhone users are not receiving the iOS 18 update and are instead being guided toward iOS 26. This scenario raises issues regarding user options and safety.

    ### iOS 26.2 and iOS 18.7.3 Updates

    The iOS 26.2 update features noteworthy security improvements, tackling two WebKit vulnerabilities that might have been leveraged in targeted assaults against certain individuals utilizing earlier iOS versions. The iOS 18.7.3 update also addresses the same WebKit vulnerabilities as well as additional security weaknesses for those who continue to use iOS 18.

    The problem lies for users who have chosen to remain on iOS 18, as they are not given the choice to upgrade to iOS 18.7.3. Instead, the only option available is iOS 26.2, effectively forcing users to switch to the newest operating system to gain critical security protections.

    ### User Concerns

    Numerous users might opt to postpone upgrading to iOS 26 for various reasons, such as worries about new features, app compatibility, or an overall desire for stability. This predicament creates a conflict for users who want to keep their existing operating system while still obtaining essential security updates.

    ### Workaround for Users

    For those reluctant to transition to iOS 26, a possible workaround is to enroll in Apple’s public beta program and select the iOS 18 public beta track, which grants access to the 18.7.3 update. Nevertheless, this workaround may appear inconvenient for users merely looking for security remedies.

    ### Conclusion

    It is still unclear whether the unavailability of iOS 18.7.3 is an error or an intentional policy shift by Apple. Historically, Apple has supplied security updates for older iOS versions to maintain user safety. The current scenario might indicate a glitch, as users should ideally have access to all available updates, including the security-centric iOS 18.7.3.

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