Connections is a New York Times word game that’s all about finding the “common threads between words.” How to solve the puzzle.
Today’s NYT Sports Connections: April 18, 2026 – Hints and Answers
Connections: Sports Edition is a New York Times word game about finding common sports threads between words. How to solve the day’s puzzle.
Netgear Obtains FCC Exemption from Router Prohibition
Federal Communications Commission (FCC) prohibited routers manufactured in other nations due to claims that they “represent an unacceptable threat to the national security of the United States.” We may have jumped the gun, as the FCC is not entirely banning them, particularly if they are crucial for military functions.
Recently, the FCC released an updated public announcement concerning the foreign-made router prohibition. The notice indicates that Netgear (an American-based company that produces its products in locations such as Vietnam and Thailand) has received a “Conditional Approval” to keep selling in the United States. While the notice does not specify the exact rationale, it mentions that Conditional Approval may be granted to any firm that requests it as long as it manufactures uncrewed aircraft systems (UAS) and UAS “critical components.” Naturally, the company must also demonstrate that its routers do not pose substantial threats to national security. We can reasonably deduce that Netgear accomplished this not only due to a convincing argument but also because its routers are integral to UAS functionality.
Given that Netgear may have attained this advantage partly because its routers facilitate UAV control, one might speculate that a stipulation of the Conditional Approval is that Netgear is limited to selling routers exclusively to U.S. government agencies. However, this is not accurate. As per the public notice, Netgear is also permitted to market consumer-level mesh, mobile, and standalone routers in the Orbi and Nighthawk series (which are among the best budget routers available on Amazon), along with cable gateways and modems.
Netgear isn’t the sole exception
When the FCC endeavored to limit foreign-made routers, the organization assessed devices to determine whether they posed undue risks to the U.S. government and if they constituted “UAS critical components.” Netgear routers were not the initial devices to receive a pass, and they may not be the final ones.
As of this moment, Adtran Inc’s Service Delivery Gateway routers
Apple Wins in Masimo Controversy as ITC Wraps Up Investigation into Apple Watch Import Ban
Apple has recently secured a major win in its protracted legal battle with Masimo, a company specializing in health technology, over patents related to the blood oxygen monitoring feature of the Apple Watch. This article outlines the circumstances surrounding the dispute.
### Background of the Dispute
The clash between Apple and Masimo has persisted for several years, focusing on the blood oxygen sensor technology embedded in the Apple Watch. Following a series of legal rulings and appeals, Apple was forced to disable this feature on Apple Watches marketed in the United States to circumvent a ban. In response, Apple engineered a revamped version of the feature that transferred most processing to the iPhone, using data gathered from the Apple Watch.
The International Trade Commission (ITC) concluded that this redesign permitted Apple to recommence sales of the Apple Watch models featuring blood oxygen monitoring in the U.S., determining that it did not infringe Masimo’s patents. Nevertheless, Masimo disputed this finding, claiming that Apple’s redesign still contravened the existing exclusion order and contested U.S. Customs and Border Protection’s endorsement of the updated watches.
### Recent Developments
Two significant decisions emerged from this protracted legal confrontation:
1. An ITC Administrative Law Judge, Monica Bhattacharyya, ruled that Apple’s revamped blood oxygen feature does not violate Masimo’s patents.
2. The Federal Circuit upheld the ITC’s initial exclusion order, affirming that the original version of the blood oxygen feature remains prohibited in the United States.
The concluding step in this process was for the entire ITC Commission to decide whether to review the Administrative Law Judge’s no-infringement ruling.
### ITC’s Decision
On March 30, 2026, the ITC opted not to revisit the prior ruling, effectively concluding the case and dismissing Masimo’s plea to reinstate the Apple Watch import ban. The ruling validated that the redesigned products do not infringe the asserted patents, enabling Apple to persist in providing the blood oxygen feature to its consumers.
In a statement, Apple expressed appreciation for the ITC’s ruling, underscoring its dedication to safeguarding its innovations. The company highlighted its commitment to delivering premium products and services, including health features such as the ECG app and notifications for hypertension and irregular rhythms.
### Conclusion
While Apple revels in this legal triumph, Masimo still retains the ability to appeal the decision. This case illustrates the intricacies of patent legislation in the technology sector and the ongoing rivalry between companies in the health technology domain. As Apple progresses in innovating and broadening its health-related features, the ramifications of this legal dispute will have enduring impacts for both corporations and their clientele.
New Android Smartphone Offers Extended Multi-Day Battery Performance
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Last Chance to Participate in the Giveaway for a MacBook Pro and BenQ 4K Nano Gloss Monitor
### BenQ 27″ 4K Nano Gloss Monitor for MacBook: An Ideal Match for Apple Users
In a thrilling giveaway, BenQ is offering Apple’s newest MacBook Pro in conjunction with their innovative 27″ 4K Nano Gloss Monitor, crafted specifically for MacBook enthusiasts. This promotion honors the introduction of BenQ’s MA monitor series, which are skillfully designed to integrate with the Apple ecosystem effortlessly.
#### Attributes of the BenQ 27″ 4K Nano Gloss Monitor
The BenQ 27″ 4K Nano Gloss Monitor is customized to align with the design and efficiency of MacBook displays. One of its key characteristics is the **Mac Color-Tuning Technology**, which guarantees that the colors shown on the monitor closely match those on a MacBook display. This feature is especially useful for creative professionals demanding precise color representation in their projects.
Furthermore, BenQ offers macOS software that facilitates synchronized brightness changes across several displays. This means that if you alter the brightness on one screen, all linked monitors will automatically update to ensure a uniform viewing experience.
#### Connectivity and Usability
The MA series monitors act as a robust hub for MacBook users. With a single-cable connection, users can relish both a premium monitor feed and a 90W charging capacity for their MacBook. The monitor includes two HDMI ports and an extra USB-C port, making it easy to connect additional Apple devices and accessories.
#### How to Participate in the Giveaway
To take part in the giveaway for a chance to win the MacBook Pro and the BenQ 27″ 4K Nano Gloss Monitor, those interested can enter by providing their name and email address. Each entry requires subscribing to newsletters from BenQ and 9to5Mac, with a maximum of one submission per email address. Participants are encouraged to share the giveaway on social media platforms such as Facebook and X (previously Twitter) and follow BenQ on Instagram for the latest updates.
Entries are accepted until April 17, 2026, and the giveaway is restricted to residents of the United States and Canada. It is important to highlight that no purchase is necessary to enter, and participants must be at least 18 years of age.
#### Final Thoughts
The BenQ 27″ 4K Nano Gloss Monitor stands out as an outstanding option for MacBook users, delivering features that boost productivity and enhance the visual experience. With the added appeal of a chance to win a MacBook Pro, this promotion presents a fantastic opportunity for Apple fans to elevate their setup. For further information regarding the monitor and the giveaway, visit BenQ’s official website.
BNP Paribas Increases Apple Stock Price Target Amid Memory Shortage Opportunities
**Apple’s Stock Target Increased Amid Memory Shortage Opportunities**
Today, BNP Paribas elevated Apple Inc.’s stock price target to $300, up from the prior target of $260. This revision reflects the bank’s trust in Apple’s capability to maneuver through the current memory shortages affecting the smartphone sector.
### Apple Could Transform Memory Shortage into an Advantage
Recent findings from various research agencies have underscored the implications of memory shortages on the smartphone industry. While Apple continues to thrive with the successful iPhone 17 series, lower-tier smartphone producers are facing difficulties due to tighter profit margins, constraining their ability to absorb escalating component expenses.
In its latest note to investors, BNP Paribas highlighted that Apple’s strong supply chain and scalability position it favorably to endure these issues and potentially capture market share. As a result, the bank upgraded Apple’s stock rating from ‘neutral’ to ‘outperform’ and established a new price target of $300, indicating a 15.3% increase.
Analyst David O’Connor stated, “With a memory crunch impacting the smaller players in the low/mid tier more significantly, we believe Apple can utilize its scale and exceptional supply chain to enhance iPhone market share, alongside a continued shift towards premium devices.” He observed that while Apple is also impacted by memory issues, it possesses greater options to manage revenue and costs compared to its rivals.
In the most recent earnings call, Apple CEO Tim Cook and CFO Kevan Parekh shared that the company concluded the December quarter with low iPhone inventory due to unexpected high demand, resulting in a “supply chase” to restock. They noted that the constraints were mainly linked to chip production rather than memory, which had a minimal impact during that quarter but was expected to influence margins in the approaching March quarter.
Cook remarked that Apple has “a range of options” to tackle rising memory costs, although he did not disclose specific information.
As of today, Apple’s stock closed at $270.23, reflecting a 2.59% rise. The stock has increased nearly 5% since the last quarterly results, even amid recent market volatility induced by geopolitical tensions.
### Conclusion
With the memory shortage posing challenges for many in the smartphone sector, Apple seems ready to exploit this scenario, leveraging its scale and supply chain strengths. The upgraded stock target from BNP Paribas emphasizes the market’s positivity regarding Apple’s future prospects in light of these industry-wide challenges.
Apple’s Strategy for the Cosmic Orange iPhone Hue in 2023: Information on Discontinuation
### The Future of Cosmic Orange: iPhone 18 Pro Color Lineup
Earlier today, fresh insights surfaced about the color choices for the forthcoming iPhone 18 Pro, sparking speculation on the future of the well-loved cosmic orange shade that debuted with the iPhone 17 Pro.
#### Will iPhone 18 Pro Feature Cosmic Orange?
The iPhone 17 Pro is notable for various reasons, including its groundbreaking camera design and its unique two-tone rear finish. Nonetheless, the standout aspect remains the cosmic orange tint, which signifies a considerable shift from the typical color selections for “Pro” models, being the first to present such a lively, striking option.
Reports indicate that cosmic orange has garnered particular acclaim, especially in regions like China, where it is affectionately dubbed “Hermès orange.” This popularity prompts inquiries about whether Apple will maintain this eye-catching hue in the iPhone 18 Pro collection.
In February, industry analyst Mark Gurman from Bloomberg suggested that it would not be surprising if Apple decided to keep cosmic orange due to its popularity. Conversely, a recent report from Macworld hints that a new shade, “dark cherry,” will take the place of cosmic orange in the iPhone 18 Pro series.
> “While Dark Cherry color won’t be as bright and striking as Cosmic Orange in person, it will still be unique enough to distinguish it as the new iPhone 18 Pro. As always, Apple is expected to discontinue the current lineup of colors, including Cosmic Orange.”
According to Macworld, the iPhone 18 Pro will boast a color selection that includes light blue, dark cherry, silver, and dark gray.
#### 9to5Mac’s Perspective
From a market standpoint, it seems reasonable for Apple to phase out cosmic orange with the iPhone 18 Pro. The company frequently aligns its color selections with fashion trends, which are inherently cyclical. The distinctiveness of cosmic orange added to its charm; keeping it across several generations might lessen its appeal.
Historically, Apple has unveiled a fresh standout color with each iPhone launch. For example, the iPhone 12 Pro first appeared in pacific blue, followed by sierra blue and alpine green for the iPhone 13 Pro, and deep purple for the iPhone 14 Pro.
As anticipation grows for the iPhone 18 Pro, the lingering question is: will cosmic orange return, or will it give way to the new dark cherry? The choice will likely mirror Apple’s strategy to ensure novelty and excitement within its product lineup.
HomeKit Weekly: Ulticam IQ Launches PoE and Gemini AI Capabilities in Matter-Certified Smart Camera
**Xthings Ulticam IQ V2: The Pioneer Matter-Certified AI Surveillance Camera**
Xthings has introduced the Ulticam IQ V2, touted as the first Matter-certified AI surveillance camera. This device is equipped with state-of-the-art features including Power over Ethernet (PoE), 4K resolution, and collaboration with Google Gemini AI. This article explores the functionalities of the Ulticam IQ V2 and assesses its prospects for future software upgrades.
### Integrating Google Gemini into Your Surveillance Camera
A key feature of the Ulticam IQ V2 is its connection with Google Gemini. Conventional security cameras often inundate users with alerts. Xthings seeks to solve this challenge by merging local edge processing with cloud AI.
The camera is capable of executing fundamental recognition tasks locally, detecting individuals, packages, or vehicles. It then leverages Google Gemini in the cloud to contextualize these occurrences. Rather than sorting through numerous fragmented clips, the AI crafts succinct daily summaries, connecting related footage to narrate a clear sequence of events, such as a delivery driver arriving and departing with a package.
An especially captivating feature is the natural language search functionality. Users can effortlessly input queries like, “Show me when the UPS driver came yesterday,” and Gemini will pull the pertinent footage. If this feature operates as intended, it would greatly improve user engagement with camera archives, establishing a new benchmark for enterprise surveillance systems.
However, depending on cloud AI for video streams requires trust in the provider. Xthings assures customers that it uses AES-256 encryption and offers a complimentary rolling 7-day cloud storage plan without a subscription, making it an appealing choice.
### Matter 1.5 and Anticipation for Apple Home
The Ulticam IQ V2 is Matter-certified, compatible with Matter 1.5, which has brought camera support to the ecosystem. Nevertheless, a significant drawback exists: Apple has not yet updated the Home app to include Matter cameras. While it’s generally cautioned against acquiring hardware based on prospective software upgrades, Apple has historically been a major supporter of the Matter standard. It’s likely that camera support will be enabled in a forthcoming iOS update, particularly with WWDC 2026 on the horizon, where announcements regarding expanded Matter support are anticipated.
### Technical Specifications
– **Resolution:** 4K UHD video with HDR and a broad 160-degree field of view, able to capture an entire driveway or yard.
– **Connectivity:** Incorporates an Ethernet port for Power over Ethernet, in addition to standard 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi as a backup.
– **Continuous Video Capture:** Employs an ultra-low-power state to constantly capture key frames, eliminating the lags of traditional passive infrared sensors.
– **AI Processing:** Performs basic identification of individuals, vehicles, pets, and packages locally, while delegating complex tasks like daily summaries and natural language inquiries to Google Gemini in the cloud.
– **Storage Alternatives:** Accommodates local microSD cards up to 512 GB for redundancy and provides a lifetime rolling 7-day cloud storage plan at no monthly charge.
– **Smart Home Integration:** Certified with Matter 1.5, compatible with ONVIF, and integrates seamlessly with Amazon Alexa and Google Home.
### Conclusion
Until Apple officially rolls out Matter 1.5 support, the Ulticam IQ V2 still presents numerous fallback options. Its compatibility with standard protocols like ONVIF enables users to incorporate the video stream into local systems such as Home Assistant or a Network Video Recorder (NVR).
The Ulticam IQ V2 is available for purchase on [Amazon](https://amzn.to/47oUijL) or directly from [Ulticam](https://ulticam.com/products/iq-matter?srsltid=AfmBOopElGMF5xevSQc2YOlNLff5Tj4EweogiHnfAPyTp3yc-Hg0JSqa).
India Discontinues Plan to Require Preinstallation of Government-Owned App on iPhones
**India Retreats from Controversial Plan to Enforce State Security App on Mobile Devices**
Late last year, the Indian government mandated that smartphone producers, such as Apple and Samsung, pre-install an undeletable state-owned security application known as Sanchar Saathi on their devices. This app sparked considerable privacy worries among users and industry experts.
The administration presented the app as a means to help users retrieve lost or stolen smartphones. Nevertheless, detractors highlighted that it would also permit the government to monitor all smartphones, raising serious concerns regarding user privacy. Following this mandate, Apple publicly declared its unwillingness to comply, a position it has maintained in light of similar demands in the past.
Recently, Reuters disclosed that the Indian government has chosen to retract this initiative. This choice followed discussions with stakeholders from the electronics sector, during which the Ministry of Information Technology conveyed its opposition to requiring the pre-installation of the Aadhaar app on mobile devices.
This action is part of a wider pattern, as the Indian government has tried to compel smartphone manufacturers to pre-install state applications multiple times over the last two years. All such endeavors have met resistance from the industry. The request related to Aadhaar was noted as the sixth such attempt, according to communications examined by Reuters.
Regardless of the government’s decision, the Sanchar Saathi app continues to be accessible for download on the App Store for those users who choose to install it voluntarily. However, the mandate for it to be pre-installed on new devices or to be distributed to existing iPhones via an iOS update has been revoked.
