Author: Richard

    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Evaluation of MagSafe Battery Pack: An Answer to Substitute Various Chargers [Video]
    Evaluation of MagSafe Battery Pack: An Answer to Substitute Various Chargers [Video]

    Kuxiu S3 10,000mAh Battery Pack: An In-Depth Review

    I have evaluated numerous MagSafe battery packs throughout the years, ranging from sleek designs to bulkier options, as well as low-capacity chargers and substantial power banks intended to replace everything at once. Most of the battery packs I assess perform adequately; they fulfill their purpose. However, the Kuxiu S3 10,000mAh battery pack achieves an excellent equilibrium of simplicity, multifunctionality, and, above all, dependability. Here’s what you need to know about their new solid-state battery pack.

    Solid-state Batteries

    Before diving into the review, it’s essential to address solid-state batteries. Gradually, we are observing brands and manufacturers transitioning to solid-state batteries for several reasons. They offer:

    • Enhanced efficiency
    • Greater safety
    • Reduced heat generation during charging
    • Significantly lighter than older battery technologies with equivalent capacity

    I liken this shift in batteries to that of storage solutions. We moved away from spinning disk hard drives, which had multiple failure points due to the disk, moving components, and unreliable performance, towards SSDs (Solid State Drives). SSD storage operates silently, has no moving parts, and has proven to be far more reliable over time. The same principle applies to solid-state batteries. They simply excel in nearly every aspect.

    Now that we understand the benefits of solid-state batteries, let’s discuss this new MagSafe battery pack.

    Versatile Features

    I am quite fond of tech accessories that offer a variety of functions, giving the impression of enhanced value from a single item. This battery can accomplish an array of tasks. First, let’s take a look at the specifications:

    • 10,000mAh capacity
    • Qi2.2 25W wireless charging (for iPhone 16 or newer)
    • Qi2 15W wireless charging (for iPhone 15 and older)
    • Up to 35W wired charging via built-in USB-C cable
    • Simultaneous wired + MagSafe charging
    • Real-time LED display showing percentage (0–100%)
    • Kickstand for viewing

    As demonstrated above, this adaptability is particularly advantageous for someone like me, who relies on their iPad Pro as their main computer.

    My Use Cases

    To start, this is a Qi2.2 25W charger. It will power up your iPhone 16 or newer (running iOS 16) at optimal speeds. This is fantastic for when you need a quick charge for your iPhone. Being a large battery, it also has the capability to charge your iPhone 17 Pro Max at least two times without any problems. I like to use this with my iPhone Air while I’m out and about or making a quick food stop. I can charge at maximum speed while also propping it up with the kickstand to watch some content as I eat.

    On the other hand, my second use case involves the integrated braided cable and wired charging. The cable is exceptionally well constructed and of high caliber. The most impressive feature is its support for 35W charging speeds, allowing me to nearly charge my iPad at full speed with the built-in wired cable. This is incredibly useful when I’m on the go. I can simultaneously charge my iPad without issues using the same battery for my iPhone. If desired, I could charge an iPhone through MagSafe and my iPad while plugged in. It may slightly reduce the charging speed, but it remains feasible! The icing on the cake is the built-in display that indicates the remaining battery percentage.

    Pricing & Availability

    The Kuxiu S3 is currently available on Kuxiu’s website for just under $70. They are also running holiday specials, so you might find it at a lower price!

    Final Thoughts

    This battery fulfills all the criteria I desire in a portable battery pack. I can utilize it in various ways with any of my devices. If I wanted to, I could even charge my MacBook Air with this battery! If you’re in search of a new MagSafe battery pack to bring along when you’re out, I consider the Kuxiu S3 to be a worthwhile option.

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on TikTok’s Acquisition by American Investors: Consequences for Android Users
    TikTok’s Acquisition by American Investors: Consequences for Android Users

    TikTok may finally escape U.S. bans with a new agreement.

    Key details:
    – TikTok has finalized a deal to transfer part of its U.S. operations to a joint venture mainly led by American investors.
    – The transaction is scheduled to close on Jan. 22, 2026, with the arrangement granting U.S. investors complete control over TikTok’s algorithm and app operational decisions.
    – It remains unclear if this arrangement satisfies the stipulations of a congressional bill that prohibits the app, or whether China will officially approve the deal.

    Over a year since Congress enacted a law mandating the divestment of TikTok’s U.S. operations, the company has executed an agreement to establish a joint venture overseen by American investors, according to Axios. The closing date for the TikTok sale is Jan. 22, 2026, and barring any obstacles, the widely-used social media service could transition to new ownership within about a month. If you’re a TikTok user based in the U.S. curious about the implications for the app, you’re in the right spot.

    The deal was revealed internally by TikTok CEO Shou Chew in a memo accessed by several news outlets. The TikTok head reportedly stated that there is “more work to be done” before the closing date, despite the preliminary agreement being finalized. The new joint venture would allocate partial ownership of TikTok’s U.S. assets to Oracle Corporation, Silver Lake, and MGX.

    In this new TikTok venture, Oracle, Silver Lake, and MGX will collectively own 15% of the new entity, while ByteDance retains 19.9% ownership. Another 30.1% is expected to be held by affiliates of existing ByteDance investors. The agreement aims to establish a seven-member board of directors for the new TikTok joint venture, predominantly featuring American members.

    Chew outlined the details of the agreement in the reported memo (via ABC News):

    “Following the Executive Order signed by U.S. President Donald J. Trump on September 25, 2025, the accords dictate that the U.S. joint venture will be primarily owned by American investors, overseen by a new seven-member board of directors with a majority of American members, and subjected to stipulations that safeguard Americans’ data and U.S. national security.”

    This new agreement represents the conclusion of a protracted process that involved a congressional bill detailing the requirements for the divestment of TikTok’s U.S. operations. Should a deal not materialize, the law mandated a nationwide prohibition. However, the bill also empowered U.S. President Donald Trump to navigate and approve the terms for a sale. TikTok faced a temporary ban in the U.S., but Trump also enacted several executive orders extending the timeline for a sale or ban.

    With a deal now secured, here’s what we know about its impact on users.

    Changes for TikTok users:
    One major concern from the U.S. government regarding TikTok is the potential influence of its algorithm on the public. Currently, TikTok is owned by the Chinese firm ByteDance. As part of the sale, the joint venture will reportedly take charge of the TikTok algorithm, addressing these concerns.

    The new company will retrain “the content recommendation algorithm on U.S. user data to ensure the content feed is free from outside manipulation,” as per Chew’s memo. Furthermore, the joint venture will possess “ultimate decision-making authority for reviewing and approving all content moderation and related policies within the United States.”

    In simpler terms, if you’re located in the U.S., your TikTok feed could start changing early next year — if the deal finalizes as anticipated.

    The agreement also requires that U.S. user data be stored in a “trusted and secure cloud environment in the United States operated by Oracle,” according to the memo.

    Next steps for the planned TikTok sale:
    The closing date for TikTok’s sale is approaching next month, but several questions must be resolved for that to occur.

    Most critically, analysts suggest that China may intervene to prevent the deal from closing. Previously, U.S. President Trump indicated that Chinese President Xi Jinping had approved the deal, although this has not been officially verified by the Chinese authorities. Additionally, it remains uncertain whether the signed agreement complies with the requirements of the congressional bill that bans TikTok.

    If all goes as expected, TikTok users in the U.S. could begin experiencing a different algorithm next month.

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Comet 3I/Atlas Identified Emitting Radio Waves: Latest Discoveries
    Comet 3I/Atlas Identified Emitting Radio Waves: Latest Discoveries

    illustration of comet flying thru space

    Nazarii_Neshcherenskyi/Shutterstock

    This year’s most remarkable tale for astronomers has been the identification of comet 3I/ATLAS, which was initially noticed on July 1, 2025, by NASA’s Asteroid Terrestrial-impact Last Alert System (ATLAS). While comets frequently fly by Earth, with Halley’s Comet being the most renowned, there is something exceptionally intriguing about this recent discovery. Comets like Halley’s and others well-recognized have their origins within our solar system, formed from the same disk that created the sun, Earth, and all other planets. The fascinating aspect of 3I/ATLAS is that it has its origins from beyond our solar system, having traveled through interstellar space to reach us. As if that discovery wasn’t thrilling enough, a radio telescope has detected that the comet is emitting something.

    The MeerKAT radio telescope, located in South Africa, captured signals from 3I/ATLAS in late October as the comet approached its closest proximity to the sun. This observation was widely shared as radio emissions from 3I/ATLAS, leading conspiracy theorists to conjecture that the object might be a fragment of alien technology. However, this interpretation is not quite correct. In reality, all objects emit electromagnetic radiation, and what MeerKAT detected wasn’t an acoustic signal similar to what we hear on car radios. Instead, it identified gaps in the radio spectrum due to the absorption of radio waves by OH molecules, known as hydroxyl radicals. OH molecules — the byproducts of water broken down by solar radiation — are typically seen in comets that come within Earth’s vicinity, which essentially addresses any notions that 3I/ATLAS is anything but a comet. Nonetheless, it leaves open the inquiry into the origins of 3I/ATLAS.

    Astronomers still aren’t certain about the origins of 3I/ATLAS

    The identification of 3I/ATLAS represented just the third occasion where astronomers have spotted an interstellar entity traversing our solar system. The “3I” in its designation stands for “third interstellar” for this reason. The earlier two interstellar objects detected by researchers were 1I/’Oumuamua and 2I/Borisov, found in 2017 and 2019 respectively. The reality that all recognized interstellar visitors to our solar system have been discovered in the last ten years indicates substantial progress

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Motorola and OnePlus in 2025: Successes and Obstacles in Mobile Innovation
    Motorola and OnePlus in 2025: Successes and Obstacles in Mobile Innovation

    In 2025, Motorola and OnePlus encountered a year of varied outcomes, meeting certain anticipations while falling short in other areas.

    **Motorola: C+**

    Motorola exhibited considerable advancement, harnessing its status as an underdog to make progress in the premium sector. The debut of the Razr 2025 series, featuring the budget-friendly Razr 2025 and the upscale Razr Ultra 2025, was a significant moment. Motorola’s emphasis on aesthetics, particularly through its collaboration with Pantone, alongside its CMF (Colors, Materials, and Finish) strategy, enhanced the attraction of its offerings. Nonetheless, Motorola overlooked opportunities by not introducing a flagship option for foldable devices and by lacking a unified hardware and software environment. Its software updates fell behind those of competitors, diminishing the long-term worth of its products.

    **OnePlus: B+**

    OnePlus enjoyed a robust year, presenting remarkable devices like the OnePlus 13 and OnePlus 15, which boasted top-tier specifications and substantial batteries. The company broadened its ecosystem with the OnePlus Watch 3 and OnePlus Pad 3, both of which were well-received for their design and performance. Despite these achievements, OnePlus faced challenges with availability in the U.S. market, constraining its outreach. The lack of a foldable device was also highlighted, as the company opted not to enter this expanding segment. Overall, OnePlus showcased its ability to create an enticing array of devices but missed chances to leverage its strengths in 2025.

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Incogni Provides Solutions to Eliminate Your Social Security Number and Additional Sensitive Data from the Web
    Incogni Provides Solutions to Eliminate Your Social Security Number and Additional Sensitive Data from the Web

    ### The Concealed Dangers of Personal Data Exposure and How to Safeguard Yourself

    In the contemporary digital landscape, safeguarding personal data has emerged as a critical issue. Many people might be taken aback to find that their Social Security numbers, contact numbers, addresses, and birth dates are frequently available for acquisition. This troubling situation is primarily due to the presence of data brokers—entities that gather, purchase, and trade personal information from multiple sources, including websites and app creators.

    #### Comprehending Data Brokers

    Data brokers function within a clandestine marketplace, accumulating extensive volumes of personal information that can be sold to advertisers, marketers, and even malicious actors. When users sign up on websites or install apps, they often consent to privacy agreements that allow these firms to distribute their data. Regrettably, most users overlook these extensive documents, which typically feature ambiguous language regarding data sharing.

    While several companies utilize this information to customize advertisements, the direst scenario involves hackers acquiring this data, resulting in identity theft and fraudulent activities. A straightforward Google inquiry can reveal how much personal information is accessible online, encompassing sensitive details about relatives and employment backgrounds.

    #### The Difficulty of Data Elimination

    Individuals worried about their privacy might attempt to submit requests for data removal to data brokers. Nevertheless, this endeavor can be tedious and disheartening. Numerous brokers conceal the required links or impose intricate criteria for data elimination. Even if successful, individuals frequently discover their information resurfacing as fresh data is perpetually generated.

    #### An Easier Solution: Incogni

    To address these obstacles, services like Incogni provide a more streamlined solution. Incogni is dedicated to erasing personal data from the internet by actively challenging hundreds of data brokers on behalf of users. This service is not merely a one-off remedy; it persistently works to ensure that sensitive data is erased from various platforms, including genealogy websites and social media networks.

    With Incogni’s Unlimited plan, users can also submit links they uncover themselves, enabling the service to manage the removal procedure. This proactive method significantly alleviates the load on individuals seeking to safeguard their privacy.

    #### Real-World Consequences

    The threats associated with personal data exposure are not just hypothetical. Numerous individuals have faced the repercussions directly. For example, one Reddit user shared that a scammer gained access to their phone number, home address, and the identities of their family members, resulting in unsolicited calls and harassment.

    #### Conclusion

    As personal data increasingly turns into a commodity, vigilance and proactive strategies are crucial for protecting privacy. Utilizing services like Incogni can empower individuals to regain control over their personal information and lessen the risks linked with data brokers. For those interested, a limited-time promotional offer currently provides a 55% discount for readers of 9to5Mac, creating an opportunity to enhance personal data security affordably.

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Top 5 Functional Applications for the Unused USB Ports on Your Computer
    Top 5 Functional Applications for the Unused USB Ports on Your Computer

    Universal Serial Bus (USB) connections available on your computer or laptop that are currently idle and neglected. Rather than allowing those robust ports to remain unutilized, why not connect some truly amazing technology designed to enhance your home and workspace experiences?

    We exist in an age where it appears that nearly everything is equipped with a USB interface, even those items that arguably ought not to be. This gives us the opportunity to make use of the vast array of USB devices available that can perform some remarkable tasks, many of which you might not have considered doing with that vacant USB port on your device.

    The subsequent list presents a variety of exciting and intriguing gadgets that can bolster security, augment the functions of your PC or laptop, let you indulge in nostalgia, and even items that will enhance the comfort of your desk setup, particularly as the chilly winter months approach.

    USB Security Key

    With security being more crucial now than ever, especially with approximately 16 billion credentials being compromised recently, it’s wise to utilize that extra USB port to increase your security. The <a href="https://r.bttn.io?btn_ref=org-225e4e0aac880b8f&btn_url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2FYubico-Two-factor-authentication-security-certified%2Fdp%2FB08DHL1YDL%2Fref%3Dsr_1_2_sspa%3Fcrid%3D1MFP4QA7XYGEI%26dib%3DeyJ2IjoiMSJ9.SRD7TDIIw6ldaB2ThaRei7KHU_hCpk2Ezr1vvI5nYEUx4FyIFLiV_HbbczfLmzDTKx8U6eqb-E

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on A Summary of Mobile Technology Developments in 2025
    A Summary of Mobile Technology Developments in 2025

    Reflecting on the forecasts from the previous year.

    Grade: C+

    It’s time to anticipate what the upcoming year will offer for the devices and gadgets we enjoy. It’s always a combination of excitement, hopes, and genuine expectations.

    I made four significant forecasts last December regarding the mobile tech industry’s trajectory for 2025. These were based on a bit of insider insight, some practical reasoning, and prevailing trends. Let’s examine how things have unfolded.

    Foldables dominated in 2025

    Last year, I predicted that one of the most prominent trends in 2025 might be the emergence of foldable smartphones.

    “Manufacturers are expanding the limits of smartphone design, providing devices that effortlessly switch between phone and tablet functions. These gadgets are becoming increasingly affordable and dependable, presenting an appealing option for users seeking a multifunctional mobile experience.“

    And that’s largely what occurred. We didn’t just witness “budget” foldables advance with releases from Motorola and Samsung, but also the introduction of devices that fold in half; tri-folding phones have arrived and are here to stay.

    One thing I anticipated but didn’t observe was a notable increase in popularity. The foldable market remains viable, with companies selling enough units to sustain their design, development, and manufacturing, but it didn’t experience a substantial surge. With a wider array of models available, more are ending up with consumers, but the usage isn’t as widespread as I expected.

    The era of AI

    Last year, I mentioned that “Artificial intelligence (AI) is swiftly being woven into many facets of mobile technology. Features powered by AI are enriching user experiences in various ways … Anticipate this to persist throughout 2025, as companies seek new avenues to implement AI. Some of these will be impressive and beneficial; others may not. <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.androidcentral.com/apps-software/why-im

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Over 500,000 Windows Users Switch to Linux: Explanations Provided
    Over 500,000 Windows Users Switch to Linux: Explanations Provided

    official support will conclude in October 2025, followed by a period of limited free Extended Security Updates (ESU) until October 13, 2026 (with paid ESU available until 2028). In essence, Microsoft is eager to responsibly conclude support for Windows 10 at the earliest opportunity, despite Windows 10 being touted as “the last version of Windows” ever created.

    Clearly, this has proven to be inaccurate. Microsoft has also complicated the process of upgrading older hardware to Windows 11, due to its strict requirement for a TPM 2.0 security chip, which numerous older desktops and laptops do not possess. As a result, quite a few Windows 10 users find themselves without a viable upgrade route to Microsoft’s current OS on their devices, allowing Linux to fill the gap, with distributions like Zorin demonstrating the evidence to support this trend.

    Microsoft’s setback is Linux’s opportunity

    Image of Microsoft's logo on a building

    Jewhyte/Getty Images

    Among the numerous Linux distributions, ranging from Fedora to Ubuntu, Zorin (founded on Ubuntu) has long aspired to serve as a substitute for Windows. With its taskbar resembling Windows 11 and a start menu that feels familiar, Zorin is designed to facilitate a smooth transition from Windows to Linux.

    In an environment where numerous Windows 10 users are seeking to switch to an operating system that values their privacy, as well as their hardware (regardless of its age), Zorin is likely one of the initial distros a Linux-interested Windows user will consider. With Zorin already surpassing a million downloads, with 78

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Apple @ Work: The Significance of ABM Warranty and New Business Manager APIs for IT Teams
    Apple @ Work: The Significance of ABM Warranty and New Business Manager APIs for IT Teams

    **Apple Business Manager API and ABM Warranty: A New Chapter for IT Administration of Apple Devices**

    The administration of Apple devices within enterprise settings has consistently presented distinct challenges, especially in tracking warranties and device statuses. Nevertheless, with the advent of the Apple Business Manager API, IT teams now have the ability to access device data in a secure and streamlined way, enhancing the management of extensive fleets of Apple devices.

    **Grasping the Apple Business Manager API**

    The Apple Business Manager API grants third-party tools secure access to device data directly from Apple. This functionality is vital for IT departments tasked with efficiently managing a multitude of devices. By unveiling more device details and management features through official APIs, Apple is empowering developers to craft applications that fulfill enduring requirements within the IT sector.

    **Presenting ABM Warranty**

    One pivotal application is ABM Warranty, designed to supply IT teams with a simplified method to access Apple device warranty details. This tool extracts warranty data embedded in Apple Business Manager and displays it in a user-friendly format. With capabilities such as color coding to signify warranty status—whether devices are under warranty, out of warranty, or nearing expiration—ABM Warranty streamlines the decision-making process regarding device repairs and replacements.

    **Essential Features of ABM Warranty**

    – **Thorough Warranty Overview**: ABM Warranty provides a transparent display of warranty statuses for all devices, enabling IT teams to promptly identify which devices need attention.
    – **Filtering and Exporting**: Users can filter devices by platform and export data to CSV files, facilitating integration with other IT management systems.
    – **In-depth Device Insights**: The application delivers historical coverage details for individual devices, including any AppleCare Plus incidents, ensuring that IT teams have all relevant information readily available.
    – **Upcoming Enhancements**: The future roadmap for ABM Warranty includes features like keychain-based certificate selection and integration with Apple School Manager, promising enhanced functionality.

    **The Influence of Apple’s API on IT Administration**

    The launch of the Apple Business Manager API signifies a noteworthy transformation in how IT teams interact with Apple devices. For years, there has been a need for increased visibility into warranty statuses and repair records, and the API addresses this by offering structured data access. This transformation not only boosts the capabilities of tools like ABM Warranty but also sets the stage for further advancements in IT management solutions.

    **Final Thoughts**

    For organizations overseeing Apple devices in large quantities, tools like ABM Warranty are becoming indispensable elements of their operational procedures. With the groundwork laid by Apple’s API access, IT teams can finally achieve the visibility they have long desired, leading to more educated decision-making concerning device management. By utilizing applications like ABM Warranty, organizations can optimize their processes and guarantee that their Apple devices remain well-supported and efficient.

    For those keen on exploring ABM Warranty, it is available for download on the Mac App Store, enabling organizations to commence managing their warranty data effectively with minimal setup.

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