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How to Keep Your Car Keys on an Android Smartwatch

digital keys for cars available on phones and smartwatches. The configuration procedure is akin for both ecosystems. In each scenario, drivers must verify that they possess the correct vehicle and operate compatible OS versions that facilitate digital key functionality. Subsequently, they can connect the vehicle with the phone and the smartwatch. The car keys will be saved within the designated wallet application.

Depending on the car’s make and model, you may need to tap your Android device against the door handle to secure and gain access to your vehicle. Additionally, you might need to bring the device close to the car key reader to ignite the engine. The optimal choice is known as “passive entry,” which allows you to manage the car (lock/unlock and start) without needing to keep the device adjacent to the handle or key reader.

How to keep car keys on an Android smartwatch

Smartwatches typically function in conjunction with smartphones rather than operating independently, irrespective of the platform. This implies that the Android phone serves as the primary device to pair with your vehicle before transferring the digital car key to your smartwatch. We have previously outlined how to keep your car keys on your Android phone. You are required to utilize the official application from your car manufacturer, employ an email link from the manufacturer, or use the car’s head unit to connect the Android phone with the vehicle. This procedure transforms your mobile device into a digital car key that serves as a substitute for the traditional key fob.

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Five Abandoned Android Applications That Users Long for the Most

has eliminated numerous treasured applications, but due to a perpetually evolving technological environment filled with acquisitions and continually changing API modifications, there remains an abundance of obsolete third-party Android apps that users continue to long for.

So get ready for a nostalgic journey; it’s time to look back at some of the Android apps that are sorely missed. From beloved RSS readers to valued app launchers, many agree that Android suffers a decline, owing to the complete vanishing of numerous exemplary apps and their abrupt (and frequently unjustified) endings.

Google Reader

If you were to inquire with any random Android user about which app they yearn for the most, you’re likely to receive one of two responses. It will either be Google Reader or Inbox (more on Inbox below), and Google Reader has been absent since 2013, so it undoubtedly leads in the category of most missed simply by virtue of how long it has been gone.

For those who are not acquainted with Google Reader, it was a widely used RSS feed aggregator managed by Google. It debuted in 2005, and the Android app appeared in the Play Store in 2010 (then known as the Android Market). However, similar to many Google offerings that fail to achieve instant success, it faded away due to insufficient updates until it was shut down 5 years later, quite abruptly, which only served to further infuriate loyal users (a typical Google strategy, something the company is quite infamous for with its notorious Graveyard). Consequently, Google Reader secured its place in our nostalgic memories as an overlooked service that truly deserved more.

Although there are still numerous RSS feed aggregators available in the Android realm, like Feedly and <a href="https://play.google.com/store/apps/details

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Effect of HDMI Splitters on Television Image Quality

the distance of an HDMI cable, along with the varieties of displays to which your splitter is connected, can occasionally result in handshake problems or other audio-video issues.

In general terms, HDMI technology performs optimally when cable lengths remain at or below 25 feet. While there’s no strict guideline that prohibits longer cables from functioning, the AV signal transmitted by an HDMI cable is significantly more susceptible to degradation and interference over extended distances. Fortunately, active HDMI splitters are relatively easy to locate and offer signal amplification. This aids in preserving signal strength and quality while utilizing longer HDMI cables.

It’s also important to consider which HDMI port you’re using for the output cables from the splitter. If you are trying to split the AV signal from a gaming console such as the PlayStation 5, connecting an HDMI cable to one of the TV’s non-HDMI 2.1 ports may deactivate features such as Variable Refresh Rate and Automatic Low Latency Mode, potentially leading to sluggish gameplay.

Additional details regarding HDMI splitters

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Effect of HDMI Splitters on Television Image Quality
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Holiday Tech Assistance: Keep Support and Inquire 9to5Mac Services

### Tech Support Stories and iOS 26 Insights: A Retrospective on 2025

As the holiday period comes to a close, Benjamin Mayo and Chance Miller return with captivating tales from the tech support domain, recounting their experiences and hurdles encountered in the field. This edition of the 9to5Mac Happy Hour podcast delves into the realities of tech support, showcasing the frequently amusing and frustrating scenarios that occur when technology fails to perform as expected.

#### iOS 26 Hold Assist: A Mixed Experience

In this show, the hosts also explore the newly introduced iOS 26 Hold Assist feature. Although it was hoped to enhance user experiences, listener feedback indicates that it may not meet expectations in real-world use. This part of the discussion underscores the discrepancy between theoretical technological advancements and their actual use, igniting a dialogue about user experience and practicality.

#### Ask9to5Mac Segment

To conclude the episode, Benjamin and Chance interact with their audience through the Ask9to5Mac segment. They respond to questions posed by listeners, offering insights and guidance on various tech-related subjects. This participatory segment of the podcast nurtures a sense of community and motivates listeners to engage actively.

#### 9to5Mac Happy Hour Plus

For those seeking additional exclusive content, the hosts promote the 9to5Mac Happy Hour Plus subscription. This premium option features ad-free episodes, extra pre- and post-show content, and special bonus episodes. Subscribers can directly support Benjamin and Chance while enjoying enriched content for just $5 a month or $50 a year.

#### Hosts

– **Chance Miller**
– **Benjamin Mayo**

#### Feedback and Interaction

Listeners are invited to send their inquiries and feedback through a variety of platforms, including Twitter, Mastodon, and Threads, or by emailing [email protected]. This interaction enables the hosts to adjust content to better align with their audience’s interests and concerns.

### Conclusion

The 9to5Mac Happy Hour podcast remains a significant resource for tech aficionados, mixing humor, insights, and community interaction. As Benjamin and Chance review the past year and anticipate what lies ahead, their discussions stay relevant and enjoyable for anyone intrigued by the constantly changing landscape of technology.

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Three Budget-Friendly Substitutes for USB Drives

the largest USB drive currently available for purchase is 4TB, yet its cost does not provide great value. Additionally, their transfer rates and durability fall significantly short compared to modern options. Moreover, the conventional USB-A connector is being substituted with the contemporary USB-C connector in many devices. Furthermore, individuals no longer require a physical product to exchange files. With fast internet and cloud storage services, the processes of accessing, syncing, and sharing files have become simpler than ever. This digital ease of use is challenging to surpass. Gradually, USB drives are being supplanted by more affordable alternatives.

Portable SSDs

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Upcoming HDMI 2.2 Launch: No Urgent Upgrade Required

HDMI Forum has formally introduced the latest iteration of the HDMI specification, Ultra96 or HDMI 2.2. This version features enhanced resolutions and refresh rates, supporting 12K at 120 FPS and 16K at 60 FPS. However, hold back your enthusiasm, as this technology isn’t set to be implemented in the televisions you currently own, so no upgrades are necessary at this moment. When a new standard is established, it often takes years for manufacturers to integrate it into new devices. For example, HDMI 2.1 was unveiled in November 2017, but it didn’t appear in a consumer product until September 2020, initially debuting in an NVIDIA graphics card rather than a display or television. HDMI 2.2 may experience a similar, if not longer, delay before it becomes available in retail products.

Additionally, there were dubious choices regarding the implementation of the HDMI 2.1 standard, especially concerning how some manufacturers have created “fake” versions. It’s quite possible that your HDMI 2.1 ports are not genuine, as certain features of the new standard are optional. Indeed, this situation is as perplexing as it sounds. Some HDMI 2.1 ports may lack the features and specifications they are supposed to have.

The new HDMI 2.2 version brings forth additional ports, along with a new Ultra96 cable that collectively enables a higher bandwidth of up to 96 Gbps, which is double that of the previous version. Nevertheless, akin to how HDMI 2.1 phased out earlier versions, HDMI 2.2 will follow suit. All ports will be designated as 2.2, and since the new functions are “optional,” it is likely we will encounter numerous “fake” HDMI 2.2 ports.

Why am I not required to upgrade anything?

There’s no specific timeline for the effective rollout of HDMI 2.2, which means the standard is indeed released, but it won’t

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Five Preferred Characteristics for Chinese Smartphones in 2026

In 2026, the smartphone sector is anticipated to experience notable progress, especially in camera innovation, battery advancements, and international market expansion. Chinese smartphone manufacturers, including Vivo, OPPO, and Xiaomi, are leading the charge with devices that not only perform exceptionally but also excel in capturing breathtaking photos and providing extended battery longevity.

**Improved Camera Technologies**

The advancement of smartphone camera systems remains a key priority for producers. Gadgets like the Vivo X200 Ultra and OPPO Find X9 Pro have raised the bar with their exceptional imaging abilities. Looking ahead, larger sensors and enhanced tuning algorithms that boost image quality are expected. The trend of incorporating high-resolution lenses, such as 200MP telephoto options, is anticipated to persist, delivering users unmatched photographic opportunities.

**Innovations in Battery Technology**

Battery performance continues to be a vital element of smartphone functionality. The rollout of silicon-carbon batteries has transformed the landscape, enabling greater capacities without sacrificing design aesthetics. Phones that utilize these batteries can now sustain up to two days of use on a single charge. The augmented silicon content in anodes increases energy density, leading to batteries that surpass 8,000mAh in capacity. This innovation guarantees that devices remain lightweight while providing strong performance across diverse environmental conditions.

**Expansion in Global Markets**

Chinese brands are preparing to broaden their reach beyond Asia, focusing on Western markets through proactive marketing strategies. OPPO and Vivo have already begun to penetrate the European market, and this pattern is predicted to accelerate. By launching flagship models worldwide, these brands aspire to compete with established entities and secure a greater portion of the global market.

**Improvements in Display Technology**

Display technology is also undergoing significant enhancements. Partnerships with display manufacturers like BOE have produced panels that can dim to as low as 1 nit, improving usability in dim lighting. While current models boast 1.5K resolution displays, a transition to 2K panels with similar low-light performance is expected, granting users an elevated visual experience.

**Obstacles and Future Perspectives**

Despite these advancements, obstacles such as increasing DRAM costs could affect the availability of high-RAM variants. While 12GB of RAM is likely to become the norm, the need for additional memory may rise with the growing use of AI-driven applications. Nevertheless, the emphasis on innovation and user-focused features guarantees that Chinese manufacturers will remain integral in influencing the future trajectory of the smartphone sector.

In conclusion, 2026 is set to be a year filled with thrilling advancements in smartphone technology, characterized by enhanced camera systems, sophisticated battery solutions, and a bolstered global footprint. As brands strive to redefine the limits of what is achievable, consumers can anticipate devices that deliver outstanding performance and value.

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Five Preferred Characteristics for Chinese Smartphones in 2026
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Tesla May Possibly Combine Widely Used iPhone Functionality with Apple CarPlay

**Tesla Could Introduce Another iPhone Feature That Users Will Adore With Apple CarPlay**

Tesla is said to be developing more iPhone functionalities for its cars, which could improve the experience for iPhone users. A report from Not a Tesla App suggests that the most recent iteration of the Tesla app, v.4.52.0, points to a new feature named Harmony Wallet Key Cards. This capability is anticipated to permit users of Huawei’s HarmonyOS to use their smartphones as a Tesla car key through NFC, Bluetooth, or UWB technologies, even if the Tesla app is not active in the background. This indicates that Tesla may soon provide comparable support for iPhone and Android users.

The Harmony Wallet Key Card feature would allow users to unlock their Tesla vehicles with a quick tap, even when their smartphone’s battery is depleted. This integration at the system level could greatly improve user convenience and security.

**Tesla and Rivian Keep Advancing Apple Features**

In other news, Rivian is also focusing on incorporating iPhone Car Key functionality into its automobiles. While Rivian’s CEO has mentioned that the company will not back Apple CarPlay, a report from Bloomberg reveals that Tesla is investigating a distinct method to integrate CarPlay. Tesla’s proposed solution encompasses a screen-on-a-screen windowed approach, enabling users to experience a customizable version of CarPlay alongside Tesla’s own interface.

This integration could feature well-liked Apple services such as iMessage, FaceTime audio, Apple Music, Apple Podcasts, Apple Maps, Apple Books, and widget support. Although the timeline for these features remains unclear, it seems that drivers may soon enjoy improved Apple integration in their electric vehicles.

Despite some manufacturers opting for exclusive software, the popularity of CarPlay in the United States underscores the desire for seamless integration between vehicles and iPhones. BGR will keep providing updates as these features are validated and made available.

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watchOS 26 Brings Three Significant Enhancements for Apple Watch Faces

The watch face stands out as one of the most significant features of the Apple Watch, and watchOS 26 introduces substantial enhancements to watch faces in three key areas. Here’s what’s new.

## #1: Completely new watch faces

As is often the case with significant new versions of watchOS, Apple’s latest update brings a selection of entirely new watch faces.

watchOS 26 contributes a total of four new faces. According to Apple’s release notes:

– **Exactograph** reinterprets a classic regulator watch, distinguishing hours, minutes, and seconds for enhanced time accuracy.
– **Flow** features Liquid Glass numerals that refract a flowing orb of color responsive to wrist movement.
– **Waypoint** serves as a dynamic compass that indicates your position relative to saved locations in Maps or points of interest (Available on Apple Watch Ultra).
– **Hermès Faubourg Party** showcases animated shorts that emerge in accordance with the time of day or specific gestures featuring a range of characters (Available on Apple Watch Hermès).

It’s always exciting to have additional watch face choices, and I am particularly fond of the new Flow and Waypoint faces this year.

## #2: Enhancements to existing faces

Several watch faces that you are already familiar with received updates in watchOS 26 as well.

The Photos face, which Apple identifies as its most favored option, saw two enhancements this year:

1. Liquid Glass time
2. Featured photos option

In line with the systemwide Liquid Glass aesthetic, there’s now a ‘Glass’ color option for the clock on the face that allows more of your photo to be visible. Choosing ‘Featured’ for your image source guarantees you’ll view many of the top photos in your library.

In addition to the improvements for the Photos face, Apple has expanded support for ticking seconds with the always-on display to a broader range of faces.

Always-on seconds support was introduced last year with Apple Watch Series 10, but initially, only a handful of watch faces featured the capability. It has now extended to more devices and software.

Apple Watch Ultra 3 and Apple Watch Series 11 now provide ticking seconds in always-on mode, and the roster of supported faces has significantly increased.

## #3: Watch face ‘hints’

Upon installing watchOS 26 on your Apple Watch, you might spot a distinctive UI element on your watch face.

A new feature called ‘hints’ will materialize at the bottom of your display, resembling a Liquid Glass complication.

Hints suggest apps and actions linked to the Smart Stack.

Here’s how it operates, according to Apple:

> In watchOS 26, the Smart Stack enhances its prediction algorithms by utilizing more contextual data, sensor data, and insights from a user’s routine to deliver Smart Stack hints, a proactive prompt for actionable suggestions that are instantly useful. Crafted from Liquid Glass, Smart Stack hints will show on the display as a subtle visual cue. For instance, a hint for Backtrack may pop up when a user finds themselves in a remote area lacking connectivity, or a hint for a Pilates workout might appear when a user arrives at a studio around their typical time.

The Smart Stack has traditionally offered suggested data and actionable prompts, but users previously had to scroll the Digital Crown of their Apple Watch to manually access Smart Stack and locate them.

By bringing these suggestions directly onto the watch face, Apple aims to enhance their visibility and usefulness.

Which features of the new watch face options in watchOS 26 have you been enjoying on your Apple Watch? Share your thoughts in the comments.

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Ford Affirms Ongoing Backing for Apple CarPlay Integration

Ford Reinforces That Apple CarPlay Support Will Remain

In an environment where automotive manufacturers are increasingly reassessing their backing for external infotainment platforms, Ford has reiterated its dedication to Apple CarPlay. This announcement brings comfort to numerous Ford users, particularly considering General Motors’ choice to eliminate support for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Ford CFO Sherry House highlighted the significance of offering customers options and access to technology during the 2025 Barclays Global Auto and Mobility Tech Conference. House remarked, “We believe that [Apple CarPlay] is a feature our customers truly appreciate, so we’re going to keep providing them access to it.”

This declaration is notably important as it positions Ford advantageously against rivals such as GM, who are drifting away from backing CarPlay and Android Auto. Ford’s position guarantees that its customers can keep enjoying third-party infotainment systems instead of being restricted to the standard software provided by the automaker.

What is the status of Apple CarPlay Ultra?

While Ford’s allegiance to Apple CarPlay is evident, the automaker has not adopted Apple’s forthcoming version, CarPlay Ultra. This iteration proposes deeper integration of the iPhone with the vehicle, but Ford CEO Jim Farley has conveyed hesitancy. In a discussion with The Verge, Farley questioned how much control Apple might desire over the car, asking, “Do you want the Apple brand to initiate the vehicle? Do you want the Apple brand to set speed limits?”

Despite these apprehensions, Ford’s foundational Apple CarPlay experience remains intact. House’s remarks during the Barclays conference emphasize that while Ford might not endorse CarPlay Ultra, the current CarPlay functionality will persist in Ford vehicles.

Looking toward the future, Ford intends to roll out Gemini support in 2026, enhancing its technological capabilities. Furthermore, Ford is concentrating on crafting its own native applications to bolster its relationship with customers. House acknowledged that engagement rates for some of Ford’s newest applications and features have significantly risen, showcasing the company’s dedication to innovation and customer satisfaction.

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