Author: Richard

Steps to Include Your Boarding Pass in Google Wallet on Android Devices

TSA red flag electronics can create a sense of urgency and tension. One factor that can increase that anxiety is having to juggle several documents and carry-on belongings as you navigate through security checkpoints. Some airlines, such as American Airlines, strive to simplify the experience by providing streamlined digital boarding passes.

This forms part of American Airlines’ latest effort to adopt technology, particularly artificial intelligence (AI), aiming to enhance the travel experience. Other components of this initiative encompass AI-driven suggestions based on customer feedback, 3D seat selection, and quicker check-in kiosks. The digital boarding pass can be directly downloaded into your Google Wallet app.

However, that is not the sole method to incorporate a boarding pass into Google Wallet. The Google Pixel smartphone presents another option that is not tied to any specific airline. You can capture a screenshot of the boarding pass, which is then stored for later use in the Google Wallet app. All of this aims to ensure that airlines can stay abreast of current technology, adapt to consumer behaviors, and alleviate some of the inconveniences associated with air travel.

Adding your boarding pass to Google Wallet

Tim Cook Marks 65th Birthday, Igniting Conversations About Possible Successor as CEO

**Tim Cook’s Prospects at Apple: Speculations on Leadership Transition**

Apple’s CEO Tim Cook marked his 65th birthday on November 1, reigniting conversations about his possible retirement and the future helm of the tech giant. Although many might anticipate his departure at this age, Cook has not displayed any immediate intention of vacating his role.

### Tim Cook Is Staying Put For Now

Even though he has reached an age where retirement is a common consideration, Cook continues to be dedicated to his position at Apple. With significant wealth and a charitable plan to contribute a large portion of it, there are no financial incentives driving him to remain. In 2021, Cook indicated that he might not be at Apple for another decade, yet he also mentioned his aspiration to manage one more major product category before he retires. The upcoming Apple Glasses could represent that category, though the company must initiate succession planning ahead of time.

### Possible Successors for the Role of Apple CEO

Historically, Jeff Williams, the former COO of Apple, was perceived as the most viable candidate to succeed Cook. However, his recent announcement of retirement later this year has shifted the spotlight onto other individuals.

**John Ternus**, Apple’s Senior Vice President of Hardware Engineering, has now emerged as a frontrunner in succession deliberations. He enjoys respect within the organization and has the support of key figures such as Eddy Cue, who believes Ternus would excel as CEO. His composed nature and effective management abilities reflect those of Cook, positioning him as a strong candidate.

Other prospective successors include:

– **Phil Schiller**, who is the same age as Cook, thereby making him an improbable choice for enduring leadership.
– **Craig Federighi**, head of software engineering, is a recognizable figure in Apple events but is considered an unlikely option.
– **Greg Joswiak**, the marketing head, has not received much speculation, suggesting he may not be a strong competitor.
– **Sabih Khan**, who will succeed Williams, is relatively unknown yet has time to build his reputation. Cook has commended Khan’s strategic skills and contributions to Apple’s supply chain and sustainability initiatives.

### Conclusion

As speculation regarding Tim Cook’s potential retirement persists, the focus on possible successors underscores the significance of strategic planning for Apple’s future leadership. With Cook’s prosperous tenure, the company stands ready for a substantial transition when the moment arrives. The lingering question is: who will guide Apple into its subsequent chapter?

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Decision Moment for Liquid Glass: Take Part in Our Survey to Cast Your Vote

# The Liquid Glass User Interface in iOS 26: A Contentious Change

The Liquid Glass user interface has emerged as a hallmark of iOS 26, sparking intense discussions among users and technology aficionados. Apple has officially launched iOS 26.1, enabling users to select between preserving the Liquid Glass design or opting for a more muted version.

## The Liquid Glass Debate

Expectations for iOS 26 were elevated, with many anticipating it would offer the most substantial visual refresh since iOS 7’s debut. Reactions to Liquid Glass have been notably divided. While certain users enjoy the innovative appearance, others have pointed out issues with its functionality and overall visual appeal. Apple appeared ready for this criticism, providing a range of settings to modify the visual effects. However, these options were not readily available, necessitating users to delve deep into the settings menu to uncover them.

## iOS 26.1 Introduces an Easy Switch

The rollout of iOS 26.1 represents a crucial development, introducing a simple switch for the Liquid Glass effect. This feature was initially discovered in the fourth developer beta and permits users to toggle between the standard clear appearance and a newly shaded option that increases opacity in apps and notifications on the Lock Screen. Users can locate this switch in Settings > Display and Brightness.

The implications of this modification are noteworthy, as it provides a near-total return to the pre-iOS 26 appearance for those who favor a less see-through interface. While Apple presents this adjustment as merely a transparency option, it effectively acts as a Liquid Glass on/off switch for users desiring a more classic design.

## What Will You Decide?

As users engage with this updated interface, the lingering question is: have you welcomed the Liquid Glass aesthetic, or have you selected the new tinted version? The decision reflects individual preferences and usability factors, encouraging dialogue among users about their experiences with the update.

In summary, the launch of the Liquid Glass user interface in iOS 26 has prompted considerable discussion, but the improvements in iOS 26.1 grant users the ability to customize their experience according to their preferences.

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Samsung Broadens Galaxy AI Language Assistance to More Areas

The on-device AI application for Galaxy smartphones is growing.

(Image credit: Andrew Myrick / Android Central)

Essential information

  • Samsung revealed that Galaxy AI now accommodates 22 languages, including support for speakers of Gujarati and Filipino.
  • Functionality such as Live Translate, Interpreter, Chat Assist, and Note Assist will be more beneficial for users in these areas.
  • Samsung has reportedly stated over the summer that there’s no intention to start charging for its primary Galaxy AI features.

Notice

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Maximum Length of HDMI Cable Without Loss of Quality

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HDMI serves as a primary connection for audio and video (AV) devices in today’s technology. Suitable for a range of equipment including TVs, AV receivers, sound bars, and streaming gadgets, HDMI cables come in various lengths. However, while HDMI technology is typically dependable, a common worry is the maximum length of an HDMI cable before it compromises quality.

Regrettably, the solution isn’t as straightforward as a single figure, since HDMI performance — irrespective of cable length — is influenced by factors such as resolution, refresh rate, the materials used in the HDMI cable, and whether it is a passive or active wire. AV experts generally concur on a “safe bet” range of 25 to 50 feet.

This doesn’t imply that choosing a high-quality 60-foot cable puts you in jeopardy, but generally, HDMI cables exceeding 50 feet tend to have a higher risk of signal degradation in comparison to shorter cables. Beyond this length, you’re more likely to encounter visual glitches, audio dropouts, or total signal loss.

What causes signal degradation in an HDMI cable? 

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Leaked Benchmarks Indicate Exynos 2600 Processor in Galaxy S26 Competes with M5 MacBook Pro’s Performance

launch the Galaxy S26 lineup on February 25 — a few weeks later than expected. The launch postponement is linked to Samsung’s rumored alterations in strategy for the upcoming flagship smartphones. The South Korean device manufacturer opted to retain the same three-model Galaxy S format as last year, bringing back the Galaxy S26 Plus model that was initially set to be replaced by the Galaxy S26 Edge. Samsung is also planning to incorporate the Exynos 2600 chip into more Galaxy S26 variants, including the Galaxy S26 Ultra. Reports from last month indicated that the new Exynos 2600 is considerably faster than Apple’s A19 Pro and may even rival the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 that will be utilized in some Galaxy S26 models in selected regions.

Fast-forward to November, and a leaked benchmark for the Exynos 2600 appears to back up those assertions. If the metrics shown in the image are correct, the Exynos 2600 could deliver benchmark performance akin to the M5 chip that Apple introduced last month with the launch of the MacBook Pro, iPad Pro, and Vision Pro. These figures cannot be verified at this moment, as Samsung has not yet unveiled a device featuring the new Exynos 2600 processor. PhoneArena highlights that the purported Geekbench 6 test linked in the tweet above is no longer accessible. It has been removed or fabricated. Nonetheless, if the details are correct, the Galaxy S26 series could showcase an unexpectedly powerful processor, and not the one most

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New Lock Screen Configuration Stops Unintentional Flashlight Turnoff on iPhone

### The iPhone Lock Screen Flashlight: A Convenient Feature with a Frequent Frustration

The flashlight on the iPhone lock screen is a remarkably handy tool, particularly in dim lighting conditions. Nonetheless, numerous users have encountered the irritation of the flashlight deactivating unexpectedly while holding their device. This article delves into the reasons behind this problem and provides solutions with the newest iOS update.

#### Grasping the Problem

The main cause of the flashlight shutting off unexpectedly is the sensitivity of the iPhone’s touch display. While utilizing the flashlight, users often find themselves in shadowy surroundings, where they might unintentionally graze the screen. This minor contact can be registered as a swipe to the right, leading to the camera activation, which in turn turns off the flashlight feature. This clash in functionality can be exasperating, especially when users are unaware of the reason for the disruption.

#### The Solution: iOS 26.1 Update

With the arrival of iOS 26.1, Apple has rolled out a new setting that permits users to disable the swipe shortcut for the camera on the lock screen. This update offers a straightforward remedy for the problem of the flashlight shutting off unexpectedly.

To modify this setting, adhere to the following steps:

1. Launch the **Settings** app on your iPhone.
2. Scroll down and tap on **Camera**.
3. Locate the option titled **Lock Screen Swipe to Open Camera**.
4. Switch this setting from **On** to **Off**.

Disabling this feature will ensure that unintentional touches on the lock screen will no longer activate the camera swipe, allowing the flashlight to stay on continuously.

#### Alternative Methods to Access the Camera

One of the great advantages of turning off the swipe feature is that users are unlikely to miss it. There are alternative ways to swiftly access the Camera app:

– **Long-Press Shortcut**: Users can long-press the Camera icon on the lock screen to launch the app.
– **Physical Camera Control Button**: Pressing the dedicated Camera button on the side of the device also allows for quick access.

#### Conclusion

The flashlight feature on the iPhone lock screen is crucial for numerous users, and the annoyance of it turning off unexpectedly can now be easily fixed with the iOS 26.1 update. By turning off the camera swipe shortcut, users can experience a more dependable flashlight functionality without the hassle of accidental interruptions.

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AI Progressions May Result in Storage Issues for New Smartphones

**Storage Issues Could Arise For New Smartphones, All Due To AI**

Recent analyses suggest that the smartphone market may encounter increased prices stemming from a chip shortage, intensified by the surge in AI technology. For example, Apple is securing RAM modules from Samsung in advance to guarantee a reliable supply, as even the entry-level iPhone 18 is anticipated to come with 12 GB of RAM. Nevertheless, it’s not merely RAM that could elevate smartphone prices; storage chips are also becoming limited due to the heightened demand from the AI industry.

Gou Jiazhang of Silicon Motion, a pivotal entity in the storage sector, points out an extraordinary shortage impacting all varieties of memory. This deficit is inciting concern, with demand expected to surpass supply in the upcoming year. Suppliers such as Samsung, SK Hynix, and Micron are allocating their HBM3E memory primarily for AI datacenters, which may result in RAM supply complications for smartphones. Moreover, North American hyperscalers are pursuing rapid SSDs to address HDD shortages, as U.S. AI companies are requesting high-capacity SSDs.

**Costly Smartphones Could Be Impacted**

Although Apple and Samsung appear ready to manage storage shortages for their premium products, affordable devices might be adversely affected. In areas like Africa and Southeast Asia, smartphone storage is reportedly dropping from 128 GB to 64 GB. Chinese manufacturers like Xiaomi have also indicated potential price increases driven by rising memory expenses.

In spite of these hurdles, Apple has enhanced the storage in the standard iPhone 17 without raising prices, and the model has garnered consumer approval. It remains unclear whether Apple will elevate prices for the iPhone 18, projected for spring 2027. Samsung’s forthcoming Galaxy S26 series, set for a February release, may also encounter price fluctuations. The effects of the storage dilemma on mid-range phones are yet to be determined.

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Proton Data Breach Observatory Notifies Users When Their Personal Information Surfaces on the Dark Web

### Grasping Data Breach Alerts: Have I Been Pwned vs. Proton’s Data Breach Observatory

In a time when personal information is more at risk from cyber threats than ever, remaining updated on possible breaches is vital. Security-aware individuals frequently rely on data breach alert services such as Have I Been Pwned. Recently, Proton, the organization behind ProtonMail, has launched a new tool named the Data Breach Observatory, aiming to provide alerts even sooner in the breach detection timeline.

#### Have I Been Pwned

Have I Been Pwned is a prominent service that enables users to verify if their personal data has been affected in a data breach. The platform is based on the idea that depending solely on companies to report breaches is unreliable, as many do not disclose incidents until weeks or months later. This postponement can leave users unaware of potential dangers to their personal data.

The service takes a cautious approach to verify breach claims. Before announcing a breach, it looks for supporting evidence through various means, such as:

1. Confirmation from the affected service about the breach.
2. Assurance that the data is found in a Google search and isn’t simply replicated from another source.
3. Examination of whether the data format matches expected breach trends.
4. Scrutiny of evidence provided by attackers concerning the breach.
5. Assessment of the attackers’ history regarding the validity of their claims.

#### Proton’s Data Breach Observatory

Proton’s Data Breach Observatory adopts a more aggressive approach by surveilling the dark web for instances where personal information is being sold. This method enables Proton to notify individuals as soon as their data is identified in these illegal markets, potentially even before the victims recognize the breach.

The Observatory seeks to unify breach reports into one platform, boosting public awareness of the scale of cybercrime and making it harder for companies to hide breaches. Proton partners with Constella Intelligence, a risk detection company, to deliver updates in near real-time.

At present, the Data Breach Observatory is accessible only in German, but an English version is expected soon.

#### 9to5Mac’s Viewpoint

The launch of Proton’s Data Breach Observatory provides another option for users worried about data security. While the service may produce some false positives, it is likely to offer earlier notifications for legitimate breaches. Although hackers may sometimes make false claims, the probability of actual data being sold is high, making timely detection crucial.

In summary, both Have I Been Pwned and Proton’s Data Breach Observatory fulfill important functions in the realm of data security. They enable individuals to take proactive steps to safeguard their personal information in an increasingly perilous digital landscape.

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US Reduces Tariffs on Chinese Imports Affecting Apple, Pauses Scheduled Price Hikes

**Title: Effects of Tariff Adjustments on Apple and U.S.-China Trade Dynamics**

In recent times, the economic relationship between the United States and China has become a central topic of discourse, especially due to the tariffs enacted by the Trump administration. These tariffs have had a profound impact on corporations like Apple, which encountered billions in extra expenses due to rising tariffs on imports from China.

### Overview of Tariffs

Historically, the U.S. government has levied specific tariffs on products brought in from China, influencing both American and Chinese enterprises. In February 2025, the Trump administration declared an additional tariff on all imports from China, triggering a series of swift and erratic increases. Originally fixed at 10%, the tariff surged to 20%, then to 34%, eventually soaring to as high as 145% before settling at 20% post-negotiations.

Apple, a key figure in the technology sector, was notably affected by these tariffs. The company approximated that the supplementary tariffs would cost it around $900 million in just the first quarter, with estimates suggesting that subsequent costs might escalate even further. In response, Apple began to emphasize the manufacturing of iPhones in India to alleviate the financial impact.

### Recent Developments

In a notable shift, President Trump communicated a decrease of the additional tariff from 20% to 10% following discussions with Chinese President Xi Jinping. This move was part of a wider agreement to halt upcoming tariff increases that were slated to be implemented soon. The New York Times reported Trump confirming this situation while heading back to Washington, highlighting the significance of the agreement for both countries.

The ceasefire between the U.S. and China seeks to reduce the strain that has resulted in rising tariffs on imports. The agreement, initially scheduled to lapse on November 10, incorporates a halt on extra tariffs and a promise from China to suspend actions impacting the supply of rare earth metals to U.S. manufacturers.

### Conclusion

The reduction of tariffs signifies an important advancement in stabilizing the trade relationship between the U.S. and China. For businesses like Apple, this modification could lessen some of the financial challenges they have encountered due to previous tariff hikes. As both countries persist in navigating their economic ties, the repercussions of these discussions will be closely observed by both industry and consumers.

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