Google Improves Gboard with New Functionality for Quicker Typing
Here’s yet another minor update for Gboard, which may not attract everyone’s interest.
Essential information
- Gboard has been seen rolling out its second update in just a week, introducing further adjustments to its typing features.
- The latest update implements “flick keys to enter symbols,” related to the “hinted symbols” found in the top row of the keyboard (the numerical keys).
- Last week’s Gboard update enabled users to conceal their punctuation marks, thus expanding the spacebar for a sleeker appearance.
Disclaimer
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Samsung’s Choice to Delay Trifold Phone Release in the US is a Tactical Approach
Shoppers are selective.
Samsung’s Galaxy Z Trifold is set for an imminent launch. However, if you’re in North America, you may not be in luck; it appears that this phone will be available only in select markets. Admittedly, nothing is confirmed until formally announced, but there are no signs indicating a global rollout. That seems wise.
Reportedly, the Trifold is primed for release in a few Asian territories, with no announcements regarding other regions, which is precisely the approach Samsung should take with this device. Just recall the initial launch of the Galaxy Z Fold to grasp the rationale behind this strategy. While the phone was largely appreciated, its reception varied greatly between countries, being more favorable in South Korea compared to the U.S. There are three key factors to consider.
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Anticipated Modifications to App Store Pricing in Poland, Switzerland, and Türkiye Taking Effect on November 17
**Apple Modifies App and In-App Purchase Prices in Poland, Switzerland, and Türkiye**
Apple has revealed that beginning November 17, developers will experience modifications to app and In-App Purchase prices in Poland, Switzerland, and Türkiye. This adjustment is part of Apple’s continuous efforts to synchronize pricing with local market circumstances, including variations in exchange rates and tax regulations.
### Updated Pricing Structure
The App Store employs an automated pricing tier system that enables developers to establish prices without the need for manual adjustments for each of the 175 storefronts worldwide. This system aims to streamline the pricing procedure for developers, ensuring that their apps stay competitively priced across various regions.
With the forthcoming changes, developers who have not chosen one of the affected nations as the base storefront for their app or In-App Purchase will observe new prices represented in their offerings. However, it is crucial to recognize that apps utilizing manual pricing or subscription-based pricing frameworks will not be impacted by these modifications.
### Developer Resources
To aid developers in managing these updates, Apple has updated the Pricing and Availability section in App Store Connect. Developers can find comprehensive information regarding the pricing changes and their potential effects on their apps on the official Apple Developer website.
### Conclusion
This pricing adjustment is a tactical strategy by Apple to guarantee that app prices remain pertinent and competitive amid evolving economic conditions in Poland, Switzerland, and Türkiye. Developers are advised to examine the new pricing tiers and make any necessary modifications to their app offerings prior to the November 17 implementation date.
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WhatsApp Starts Testing Companion Application for Apple Watch
**WhatsApp Updates: Passkey Feature and Apple Watch Application**
Today was a noteworthy day for WhatsApp users as the firm revealed two key enhancements: the launch of passkey support for chat backups and the debut of a new Apple Watch application through TestFlight.
### Passkey Feature for Backups
Meta has announced that WhatsApp will soon roll out passkey-encrypted backups for every user. This capability will enable users to protect their chat backups using biometric verification methods such as fingerprints, face recognition, or lock codes, removing the need to memorize complicated passwords or lengthy encryption keys. The implementation of this feature will take place gradually over the next several weeks and months.
As stated on the official WhatsApp blog, this update is designed to offer users the same degree of security for their backups as is presently available for personal chats and calls. Users can enable this functionality by going to Settings > Chats > Chat backup > End-to-end encrypted backup within the application.
### Launch of an Apple Watch Application
Alongside the passkey feature, WhatsApp has also launched a new application for Apple Watch users, according to WABetaInfo. This update resolves the previous limitations that Apple Watch users faced when handling WhatsApp notifications.
Although the new application is not standalone and still necessitates an iPhone for full operational capacity, it provides crucial messaging functionalities right on the wrist. Users can explore chats, send quick replies, and respond with emojis without the constant need to check their iPhones. The link between the iPhone and Apple Watch is automatic, negating the requirement for QR code scanning, assuming the devices are linked.
WABetaInfo pointed out that the application features an indicator to keep users informed about the syncing status and connection to the iPhone, ensuring an effortless messaging experience directly from the Apple Watch.
### Conclusion
While there is currently no official timeline for the broader release of the Apple Watch application or standalone support, these updates represent WhatsApp’s dedication to improving user experience across devices. Users can anticipate these features as they are rolled out in future versions.
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Security Alert: Warning Recommended About Unreliable ChatGPT Imitations Reemerging in App Store Rankings
### The Surge of AI Chatbot Applications and Privacy Issues
In recent times, the surge of AI-driven applications, especially those leveraging the GPT-4 API from OpenAI, has reshaped the realm of mobile and desktop programs. With the increasing popularity of these applications, they have garnered millions of downloads, resulting in a rise of both creative and opportunistic products in the App Store. Nevertheless, this swift growth has also sparked considerable privacy issues, particularly concerning deceptive apps that mimic genuine services.
#### The Present Landscape of AI Chatbot Applications
Currently, the Mac App Store showcases a variety of AI chatbot applications, with one leading contender being the “AI Chat Bot.” This application has come under scrutiny for closely resembling OpenAI’s branding, from its logo to its interface design. Investigations indicate that it shares a developer with another analogous app, both of which feature the same characteristics and support pages. This situation raises doubts about the authenticity of app ratings and the efficacy of Apple’s review process.
Despite Apple’s attempts to eliminate numerous imitator applications, some have successfully evaded detection, achieving top rankings in the Business category. This scenario serves as a warning for users to be cautious when interacting with these applications, particularly concerning the disclosure of personal data.
#### Privacy Threats Linked to AI Chatbots
A recent study from Private Internet Access revealed troubling instances of poor transparency among personal productivity applications, including those that use AI technology. One specific AI assistant, which claimed to gather minimal user data, was discovered to collect extensive information, including names, email addresses, and usage statistics. Such data can be misused by data brokers or for malicious intentions, presenting significant threats to user privacy.
The serious risks associated with AI chatbot applications that harvest personal data are considerable. If a chatbot application associates user conversations with identifiable information, it establishes a vulnerable database that might be exploited. This situation raises concerns, particularly given the lack of accountability from developers who might misrepresent their data collection policies.
#### The Function of App Store Privacy Labels
Apple implemented privacy labels to educate users about the data collection practices of applications. However, these labels are based on self-disclosure by developers, which means there is no independent verification of the statements made. This dependence on developer integrity can result in contradictions between what users think they are agreeing to and the actual data collection practices being followed.
#### Conclusion
As the popularity of AI chatbot applications escalates, so do the related privacy risks. Users need to stay alert and knowledgeable about the potential threats associated with sharing personal data with these applications. The existence of deceptive applications in the App Store highlights the necessity of examining app permissions and comprehending the consequences of data collection. Remaining informed and cautious can help reduce the risks posed by these emerging technologies.
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iOS 26.1 and iPadOS 26.1 Release Notes: Detailed Compilation of Essential Security Updates
# iOS 26.1 and iPadOS 26.1 Security Updates: An In-Depth Review
Apple has announced the release of iOS 26.1 and iPadOS 26.1, representing a major update since the launch last September. This update tackles a variety of vulnerabilities and security concerns, offering users strong incentives to refresh their devices. Below, we explore the principal security improvements and resolutions included in this update.
## Main Security Resolutions
### Accessibility
– **Impact**: An application may recognize other installed applications.
– **Description**: A permissions-related issue was resolved with enhanced restrictions.
– **CVE**: CVE-2025-43442
### Apple Account
– **Impact**: A harmful application may capture screenshots of confidential details.
– **Description**: A privacy concern was mitigated with better checks in place.
– **CVE**: CVE-2025-43455
### Apple Neural Engine
– **Impact**: An application may lead to unexpected system shutdowns or damage kernel memory.
– **Description**: This concern was rectified with enhanced memory management.
– **CVE**: CVE-2025-43447, CVE-2025-43462
### Apple TV Remote
– **Impact**: A harmful app may monitor users across installations.
– **Description**: The problem was tackled with improved cache management.
– **CVE**: CVE-2025-43449
### AppleMobileFileIntegrity
– **Impact**: An application may gain access to restricted user data.
– **Description**: This issue was remedied with enhanced symlink validation.
– **CVE**: CVE-2025-43379
### Assets
– **Impact**: An app may escape its sandbox environment.
– **Description**: This issue was fixed with refined entitlements.
– **CVE**: CVE-2025-43407
### Audio
– **Impact**: An attacker with physical access could view sensitive user information.
– **Description**: A logging issue was resolved with enhanced data redaction.
– **CVE**: CVE-2025-43423
### Camera
– **Impact**: An application may acquire data regarding the current camera view.
– **Description**: A logic-related concern was addressed with more stringent checks.
– **CVE**: CVE-2025-43450
### CloudKit
– **Impact**: An app may escape its sandbox environment.
– **Description**: This problem was resolved with better symlink validation.
– **CVE**: CVE-2025-43448
### Contacts
– **Impact**: An app may access sensitive user information.
– **Description**: A logging issue was dealt with through improved data redaction.
– **CVE**: CVE-2025-43426
### Control Center
– **Impact**: An attacker may access restricted materials from the lock screen.
– **Description**: A permissions-related issue was remedied with added restrictions.
– **CVE**: CVE-2025-43350
### CoreServices
– **Impact**: An application may enumerate a user’s installed applications.
– **Description**: A permissions issue was tackled with additional restrictions.
– **CVE**: CVE-2025-43436
### CoreText
– **Impact**: Working with harmful media files might result in unexpected termination of the app.
– **Description**: An out-of-bounds read was mitigated with enhanced input checks.
– **CVE**: CVE-2025-43445
### FileProvider
– **Impact**: An application may gain access to sensitive user information.
– **Description**: An authorization concern was rectified with improved state oversight.
– **CVE**: CVE-2025-43498
### Find My
– **Impact**: An app may track the user’s fingerprint.
– **Description**: A privacy issue was resolved by relocating sensitive information.
– **CVE**: CVE-2025-43507
### Installer
– **Impact**: An application may track the user’s fingerprint.
– **Description**: A permissions issue was addressed with additional limitations.
– **CVE**: CVE-2025-43444
### Kernel
– **Impact**: An app may instigate unexpected system shutdowns.
– **Description**: This issue was mitigated with enhanced memory management.
– **CVE**: CVE-2025-43398
### libxpc
– **Impact**: A sandboxed app might detect system-wide network activities.
– **Description**: An access concern was addressed with further sandbox restrictions.
– **CVE**: CVE-2025-43413
### Mail Drafts
– **Impact**: Remote content might load even when disabled.
– **Description**: The issue was resolved by
Crucial Measures to Execute Prior to Installing iOS 26.1
iOS 26.1 has just been launched, marking the initial significant software update following the introduction of the iPhone 17. This release is set to provide performance enhancements, new functionalities, and corrections based on preliminary user input. Similar to most mid-cycle iOS updates, 26.1 does not constitute a complete redesign but serves as a refinement that addresses the inconsistencies of iOS 26 while boosting stability across compatible iPhones.
Prior to downloading and installing iOS 26.1, it is advisable to spend a few moments getting your device ready. Remember to back up your data, clear up storage space if necessary, and ensure your iPhone is fully charged. These simple precautions can help you avoid potential installation complications. These minor measures significantly aid in preventing typical problems such as failed downloads or battery depletion during the installation process.
Whether you are most thrilled about the internal improvements or the small selection of new functionalities Apple has planned, being prepared in advance guarantees a seamless transition to the latest version of iOS. Updating promptly not only provides you with the most recent security updates but also optimizes the performance of your iPhone.
Back up your data
Android Smartphones Are Currently Preventing More Scams Compared to iPhones, According to Google
Android’s Fight Against Fraudulent Messages
In a notable advancement aimed at improving user safety, Android is said to be blocking more than 10 billion fraudulent messages every month. This initiative forms part of Google’s larger mission to safeguard users from deceitful operations through sophisticated AI technologies.
Pixel Devices Pioneering the Effort
Google’s Pixel devices are leading this campaign, providing top-tier protection against fraud. Independent research has shown that Pixel smartphones offer the most effective scam and fraud defense features found in the industry.
Side-by-Side Comparison: Android vs. iPhone
A new Google study, executed in partnership with YouGov, gathered insights from 5,000 smartphone users in the US, India, and Brazil. The results indicated that Android users are less prone to receive scam messages when compared to iPhone users. Specifically, Android users were 58% more likely to state they did not get any scam texts in the week preceding the survey.
AI-Driven Protection
The AI tools from Android are essential in identifying and intercepting fraudulent messages more efficiently than iOS. The AI safeguards encompass ten critical security domains, while iPhone only covers two. This all-encompassing strategy guarantees that Android users benefit from enhanced security.
RCS and Fraud Mitigation
Google’s rollout of Rich Communication Services (RCS) has significantly strengthened its fraud prevention strategies. RCS has played a vital role in blocking over 100 million dubious numbers, stopping possible scams from being delivered to users.
Final Thoughts
Although iPhones have historically been viewed as more secure, Android’s preemptive strategies and AI-enhanced tools have established it as a frontrunner in mobile security. With continuous improvements, Android is consistently setting new benchmarks in safeguarding users against scams and fraud.
“Thief VR: Classic Series Returns with Budget-Friendly Release on PSVR and Meta Quest”
**Thief VR’s Inaugural Meta Quest Gameplay Trailer: All We Hoped to Discover**
The much-anticipated Thief VR is slated to launch on December 4, 2025, on PlayStation VR2, Meta Quest, and Steam VR platforms. This marks the initial VR installment in the iconic Thief franchise and the first new game in the series in over ten years. Gamers will embody a new character, Magpie, engaging in stealth-focused gameplay with the recognizable voice of Stephen Russell, who previously voiced Garrett in the original games.
The recently unveiled gameplay trailer presents the first-ever recorded Meta Quest 3 gameplay, showcasing stunning graphics and captivating environments. The trailer implies that Thief VR: Legacy of Shadow will provide a visually breathtaking experience comparable to significant titles like Batman Arkham Shadow.
Created by Vertigo Games, renowned for Arizona Sunshine, in collaboration with Maze Theory, the minds behind Peaky Blinders VR, Thief VR aims to offer a VR-centric experience designed by seasoned developers. In spite of its high-profile status, the game is set to release at an approachable price of $29.99, with a preorder discount of $26.99 available.
For those keen on experiencing Thief VR on Meta Quest 3 or Quest 3S, it’s suggested to keep an eye out for potential sales during Black Friday, as discounts on these headsets have been observed lately. With its reasonable pricing and the skill of experienced VR developers, Thief VR: Legacy of Shadow is set to become an essential title for VR aficionados.
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Channels Unveils Multiview Functionality and Improved Features for Viewing and Recording TV Anywhere
# Channels 7.0 Update: An In-Depth Look
Channels is a well-known cord-cutting application that enables users to seamlessly watch, record, and organize their beloved TV shows and films. With the recent release of Channels 7.0 for iPhone, iPad, and Apple TV, the app marks its 10th anniversary with a variety of new features and upgrades aimed at enhancing the user experience.
## What is Channels?
For those who are not aware, Channels allows users to view and record live television from multiple sources, such as antennas, cable TV via a TV tuner, or established streaming services. For instance, if you hold a subscription to Fubo TV, you can effortlessly log into your Fubo account within Channels to access and manage your media all in one user-friendly application.
## Key Features of Channels 7.0
### Enhanced Browsing Experience
The Channels team has redesigned the app, featuring vibrant new artwork and updated layouts. This enhancement improves the browsing experience, making it simpler for users to find and enjoy their content.
– **Improved Movie Layout**: Users can now more readily see crucial details like cast, directors, and writers.
– **Exploration Options**:
– Discover films featuring the same cast, directors, or writers.
– Browse any added extras for the movie.
– Jump to other films within the same franchise.
– Explore collections related to the movie.
– Find similar films within your library.
### TV Show Enhancements
Comparable enhancements have been made for TV shows, with easier access to the next unwatched episode in a series, ensuring users can effortlessly track their viewing progress.
### Customizable Design
All the new backgrounds and logos brought into the Channels design can be fully customized, permitting users to tailor their viewing experience.
### Multiview Support
One of the most notable updates in Channels 7.0 is the addition of Multiview support for Apple TV 4K and iPad. This functionality enables users to watch up to four live TV channels simultaneously, ideal for sports enthusiasts or anyone wanting to monitor multiple events concurrently.
– **Multiview Features**:
– Access Multiview through the context menu in the Guide or On Now.
– Include more channels via the built-in Quick Guide.
– Select from various layouts suited to the number of channels being viewed.
– Easily manage channels using the remote.
### Intro and Credits Detection
Channels now offers an intro and credits detection feature, allowing users to skip the opening and closing scenes of their shows and films. While still in development and requiring manual opt-in, it promises to further improve the viewing experience.
## Conclusion
Channels 7.0 signifies a major advancement for the app, concentrating on user experience and content discovery. With its new features, including enhanced browsing, customizable designs, Multiview support, and intro/credits detection, Channels remains a top choice for cord-cutters. For additional information, users can visit the [Channels website](https://getchannels.com) or explore the app on the
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