Author: Richard

    • Richard
    • Comments Off on macOS Tahoe 26.2 Beta 2 Now Available for Download
    macOS Tahoe 26.2 Beta 2 Now Available for Download

    **macOS Tahoe 26.2 Developer Beta 2: Fresh Features and Installation Instructions**

    Apple has unveiled the second developer beta of macOS Tahoe 26.2, just a week following the release of the initial beta version. This update showcases a new feature designed to improve the video calling experience.

    ### New Edge Light Effect Launched in Beta 2

    Contrary to the previous beta, which was launched later than other developer betas, macOS 26.2 beta 2 is released in tandem with its counterparts. The first beta lacked any user-facing features, leading to speculation that Apple was focusing on stability and bug resolutions. However, beta 2 introduces an intriguing new “Edge Light” effect. This feature provides a virtual illumination around the borders of the Mac display during video calls, enhancing the visual experience for users.

    In addition to the Edge Light effect, Apple is anticipated to further develop system-level MCP support and lay the groundwork for integrating third-party AI providers within the Image Playground, extending beyond just ChatGPT. The build number for this beta release is 25C5037j.

    ### Steps to Install the New Beta

    For developers keen on testing the new features of macOS Tahoe 26.2 beta 2, here’s a detailed guide on how to install it:

    1. **Backup your Mac**: Make sure all vital data is stored safely before proceeding.
    2. **Open System Settings**: Access the System Settings on your Mac.
    3. **Go to General ⇾ Software Update**: Find the Software Update section.
    4. **Click the ‘i’ icon next to Beta Updates**: This will reveal the beta update options.
    5. **Select the macOS Developer Tahoe Beta**: From the dropdown menu, select the macOS Developer Tahoe Beta.
    6. **Hit ‘Done’**: Confirm your choice to initiate the update process.

    ### Conclusion

    With the launch of the Edge Light effect and continuous enhancements to system functionality, macOS Tahoe 26.2 beta 2 represents a meaningful update for both developers and users. As always, feedback from users trialing the beta is crucial, and Apple invites sharing any insights or modifications observed during the beta testing period.

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    • Comments Off on Steam’s Latest VR Headset Seeks to Tackle Key VR Issues
    Steam’s Latest VR Headset Seeks to Tackle Key VR Issues

    Following speculation prior to the announcement, Valve has finally revealed the new hardware lineup for Steam: a revamped controller, a hybrid PC-console known as the Steam Machine, and a fresh VR headset — the Steam Frame. Characterized as a “streaming-first” wireless VR headset, the Steam Frame includes controllers that are compatible with your entire Steam library. They feature a divided gamepad design, providing a joystick for each hand, reminiscent of the Meta Quest 3 and 3s controllers, but clad in an all-black aesthetic adorned with Steam buttons and logos, as expected.

    What makes the Steam Frame particularly thrilling is its solution to a prevalent issue with VR systems concerning the visual experience. The Frame is equipped with a 6GHz wireless adapter for both VR and non-VR streaming. This 6GHz adapter enables wireless streaming functionality. Unlike the conventional methods of connecting to a PC via DisplayPort or HDMI, the Frame utilizes the wireless adapter. This establishes a dedicated endpoint for your VR headset, but additionally, the Frame can connect through a separate general internet connection to eliminate challenges you might encounter via your local Wi-Fi network.

    The general connection facilitates game downloads, updates, access to the store, and other essential online functions. The 6GHz adapter’s role is to synchronize the audio and visual streams, ideally minimizing lag or connectivity problems. When engaging in VR gaming, such connection issues can be quite disruptive.

    The appeal of the Steam Frame as a noteworthy advancement

    Naturally, the Steam Frame also allows for standalone usage, similar to rival VR headsets. It’s driven by a Snapdragon 8 Series processor and boasts 16GB of LPDDR5 RAM — sufficient power for playing VR games directly on the device instead of streaming, should you choose. It operates on SteamOS, akin to the Steam Deck or the new Steam Machine. Most importantly, it offers a legitimate means of playing PC VR games without the need for a tethered connection, granting you greater freedom to move. This could alleviate many constraints associated with current PC VR configurations, particularly concerning performance when utilizing a wireless connection. The Steam Frame could rival the Meta Quest 3, which is among the finest VR headsets available today.

    It comes with storage options of 256GB and 1TB, and it has a microSD card slot for potential expansion. Additionally, it incorporates a rechargeable 21.6 watt-hour lithium-ion battery, a rear USB-C port for charging, a detachable integrated head strap, and inside-out camera tracking. For visuals, it offers a 2160 x 2160 LCD resolution for each eye, featuring a refresh rate of 72 to 144Hz, an IPD target range of 60mm to 70mm, and a maximum eyeglasses width of 140mm. It also boasts a significant field of view of 110 degrees. In terms of connectivity, the Steam Frame is compatible with Wi-Fi 6E via the included 6GHz adapter, Wi-Fi 7 2×2, and Bluetooth 5.3.

    Going forward, it appears that excitement is about to escalate for Steam users. While streaming Steam games on your phone is possible, why would you choose that over the Steam Frame in your living space? Alternatively, you could consider the recently announced Steam Machine to enjoy those games on your living room television instead.

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    • Comments Off on Challenges Accessing X: Typical Problems and Remedies
    Challenges Accessing X: Typical Problems and Remedies

    Users are finding themselves locked out due to 2FA verification cycles and login difficulties.

    (Image credit: Jay Bonggolto / Android Central)

    Key information to understand

    • X platform users are encountering login troubles attributed to a verification loop that impacts access on both app and website.
    • YubiKey re-enrollment, required by November 10, causes access challenges for certain users.
    • Even with some reports, the majority of users are not affected while X engineers address the issue.
    Notice

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    • Comments Off on “Uncover the Advantages of This Easy Apple Shortcut”
    “Uncover the Advantages of This Easy Apple Shortcut”

    ### Harnessing the Potential of Apple’s Shortcuts App: A Revolutionary Tool for Accessing App Settings

    The Shortcuts app by Apple has emerged as a crucial resource for iPhone users, particularly with the new enhancements introduced in iOS 26. While the app presents numerous intricate automations, many users discover that the most straightforward shortcuts can deliver the greatest advantages. One such shortcut, recently revealed by tech aficionado Quinn Nelson, simplifies the procedure for accessing an app’s settings, making it faster and more efficient.

    #### The Difficulty of Navigating Settings

    With last year’s overhaul of the iPhone’s Settings app, users have faced increased challenges in finding specific app settings. The conventional approach required digging through several menus: Settings > Apps >

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on George RR Martin Initiates Legal Action Against ChatGPT’s Game of Thrones Fan Fiction
    George RR Martin Initiates Legal Action Against ChatGPT’s Game of Thrones Fan Fiction

    George RR Martin stands in front of a poster for the new Game of Thrones television series, House of the Dragon.

    Jeff Kravitz/Getty Images

    George RR Martin is engaged in one of the most significant copyright disputes of recent years. In October 2025, a federal judge in New York rejected OpenAI’s plea to dismiss Martin’s allegations that ChatGPT infringed upon the copyrights of his literary works and television series by creating outlines for sequels to Game of Thrones without his approval. This legal action combines similar allegations from prominent authors, including activist Ta-Nehisi Coates, comedian Sarah Silverman, and notable fiction writers like Jonathan Franzen, David Baldacci, Jodi Picoult, and John Grisham. The decision follows the plaintiffs’ acquisition of internal Slack communications revealing OpenAI’s discussions about eliminating databases of pirated literature. This discovery may influence the evaluation of OpenAI’s infringement intentions, possibly escalating fines from $750 to $150,000 per piece. As a reference, OpenAI’s various legal disputes involve tens of millions of creative and journalistic works.

    This lawsuit is part of a series of copyright conflicts confronting AI companies this year. In lawsuits involving Meta, Anthropic, and OpenAI, plaintiffs have claimed that these AI powerhouses harvested data from pirated book collections, such as LibGen and Bibliotik, to train their algorithms. In September, Anthropic reached a $1.5 billion settlement with a group of writers regarding the exploitation of these unauthorized repositories to develop its chatbot, Claude. In March, a judge ruled that OpenAI and Microsoft could not prevent a lawsuit from a coalition of news organizations, accusing them of using The New York Times and other media outlets to train their data systems. Social media applications utilizing AI video, like Meta’s Vibes, OpenAI’s Sora, and Character.AI’s Feed, have also encountered criticism for using protected characters. Collectively, the outcomes of these legal matters will have significant repercussions for the rapidly expanding industry.

    Is it fair use?

    <picture id="p

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on OpenAI’s Sora Takes on Google’s Veo 3 in the Fierce AI Video Generation Industry with a Trendy TikTok-Inspired Method
    OpenAI’s Sora Takes on Google’s Veo 3 in the Fierce AI Video Generation Industry with a Trendy TikTok-Inspired Method

    Few limitations and an endless scrolling feed? Sora possesses all the elements of the next captivating social application.

    (Image credit: Brady Snyder / Android Central)

    Video creation technologies have existed for some time. AI has long had the capability to produce lifelike video material, and consumer-friendly tools are easily accessible. Both Google and OpenAI have introduced models for video generation from text and images, named Veo and Sora, respectively. So, what has caused this technology to gain popularity now with the introduction of OpenAI’s Sora application?

    For those who are not in the loop, Sora is OpenAI’s AI-driven video creation app that merges a generator with a social networking aspect. It became available for iOS and online in September and has just launched for Android. Even if you are not familiar with Sora, it’s likely you have encountered a video from it shared on other platforms, such as X or TikTok.

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    • Comments Off on watchOS 26 Brings Three Key Enhancements for Apple Watch Faces
    watchOS 26 Brings Three Key Enhancements for Apple Watch Faces

    The watch face ranks as one of the key features of Apple Watch, and watchOS 26 brings significant enhancements to watch faces in three primary areas. Here’s what’s fresh.

    ## #1: Brand new watch faces

    As is common with major updates to watchOS, Apple’s latest version introduces a collection of [brand new watch faces](https://9to5mac.com/2025/09/09/watchos-26-adds-four-brand-new-watch-faces-including-an-ultra-exclusive/).

    watchOS 26 presents four new faces in total. According to Apple’s release notes:

    – **Exactograph** is a contemporary reinterpretation of a classic regulator watch that differentiates hours, minutes, and seconds for improved time accuracy.
    – **Flow** features Liquid Glass numerals that bend a liquid orb of color in response to the movements of your wrist.
    – **Waypoint** serves as a real-time compass, showing your position relative to saved locations in Maps or points of interest (Available on Apple Watch Ultra).
    – **Hermès Faubourg Party** comprises animated shorts that emerge based on the time of day or motions featuring various characters (Available on Apple Watch Hermès).

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

    ## #2: Enhancements to existing faces

    Several watch faces you’re already familiar with received updates in watchOS 26 as well.

    The Photos face, regarded by Apple as its most popular choice, [received two enhancements this year](https://9to5mac.com/2025/10/29/watchos-26-upgrades-apple-watchs-most-popular-face-in-two-ways/):

    1. Liquid Glass time
    2. Featured photos option

    In keeping with the system-wide Liquid Glass aesthetic, there’s a new ‘Glass’ color option for the face’s clock that allows more of your photo to shine through. Selecting ‘Featured’ as your image source guarantees that many of the best photos in your library will be displayed.

    In addition to the Photos face upgrades, Apple has also incorporated ticking seconds functionality with the always-on display into [many more faces](https://9to5mac.com/2025/06/09/watchos-26-more-apple-watch-faces-using-series-10s-upgraded-display/).

    Always-on seconds functionality was introduced last year with Apple Watch Series 10, but only a limited number of watch faces supported it at the time. Now, it has expanded to a wider range of hardware and software.

    Apple Watch Ultra 3 and Apple Watch Series 11 both support ticking seconds in always-on mode, and the roster of compatible faces [has significantly increased](https://9to5mac.com/2025/06/09/watchos-26-more-apple-watch-faces-using-series-10s-upgraded-display/).

    ## #3: Watch face ‘hints’

    Upon installing watchOS 26 on your Apple Watch, you may start to notice a distinctive UI element on your watch face.

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

    Hints provide recommended apps and actions, linking them to the Smart Stack.

    Here’s how they function, [according to Apple](https://www.apple.com/newsroom/2025/06/watchos-26-delivers-more-personalized-ways-to-stay-active-and-connected/):

    > In watchOS 26, the Smart Stack refines its prediction algorithms by integrating additional contextual data, sensor data, and user routine data to generate Smart Stack hints, which serve as proactive prompts for useful actionable suggestions. Crafted from Liquid Glass, Smart Stack hints will appear on the display as soft visual signals. For instance, a hint for Backtrack might pop up when a user is in a secluded area without connectivity, or a hint for a Pilates session may surface when a user arrives at a studio at the usual hour.

    The Smart Stack has previously provided suggested data and actionable prompts, but you would need to scroll through your Apple Watch’s Digital Crown to access them manually.

    By placing these suggestions directly on the watch face, Apple aims to make them more visible and, hopefully, more useful.

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

    ### Best Apple Watch accessories

    *FTC: We utilize income-generating auto affiliate links.

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Apple TV is anticipated to launch a new series featuring Jason Momoa, as per reports.
    Apple TV is anticipated to launch a new series featuring Jason Momoa, as per reports.

    **‘Nomad’ Poised to Become Jason Momoa’s Next Significant Apple TV Series**

    Jason Momoa is reinforcing his position as a key player on Apple TV, with the revelation of a new series named *Nomad*. This signifies Momoa’s third major endeavor with the streaming platform, succeeding his performances in *See* and *Chief of War*.

    When Apple TV debuted in 2019, one of its cornerstone series was *See*, which featured Momoa in a dystopian environment. Despite not reaching the projected success, the show cultivated a loyal following and improved with each successive season. The series wrapped up with its third season in 2022.

    Following a short break, Momoa made his comeback to Apple TV with *Chief of War*, which launched earlier this year. The series received praise from critics, achieving a 92% score on Rotten Tomatoes and consistently ranking high among content on Apple TV.

    At this moment, Apple is crafting *Nomad*, a drama co-developed by Kurt Sutter, famed for *Sons of Anarchy*, alongside Chris Collins. The series will delve into the brutal underbelly of New Zealand’s outlaw biker scene, concentrating on a warrior torn between two fates and lives. Collins, who boasts an impressive background including *John Wick Chapter 3* and *The Wire*, will take on the role of showrunner.

    Although no formal announcement has been made about the series, it remains in its developmental infancy. Nevertheless, with a robust creative team and Momoa’s involvement, *Nomad* is anticipated to be a prominent addition to Apple TV’s roster.

    Apple TV is offered for $12.99 per month and features popular shows like *Ted Lasso*, *Severance*, *The Morning Show*, *Silo*, and *Shrinking*.

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Creative Methods to Give New Life to Your Old Cameras
    Creative Methods to Give New Life to Your Old Cameras

    utilized DSLR cameras, compact point-and-shoot cameras from the early 2000s, vintage camcorders, or even analog cameras, there are numerous fantastic ways to repurpose them today. And these vintage cameras don’t even have to be operational to infuse them with new energy. Whether you possess a collection of old equipment in the attic or you’ve just discovered a valuable item at the antique shop, let’s delve into some imaginative methods to ensure that the potential of that photographic gear isn’t wasted.

    Innovative photography

    A woman photographing with a classic camera

    zhukovvvlad/Shutterstock

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on 2023 Legendary Motorola Smartphone Now Half Price Before Black Friday
    2023 Legendary Motorola Smartphone Now Half Price Before Black Friday

    Motorola’s 2023 Edge Plus: A Lasting Influence

    Motorola created a noteworthy influence with the launch of its 2023 Edge Plus, a flagship device that persists in maintaining its position within today’s competitive landscape. Debuted with an emphasis on aesthetics and utility, the Edge Plus has been acclaimed as one of Motorola’s finest releases in recent years. In spite of the introduction of newer iterations, the 2023 variant remains an enticing selection, especially with ongoing promotions providing considerable discounts.

    The Edge Plus (2023) showcases an elegant design, an enduring battery life, and a 6.7-inch pOLED display featuring a 165Hz refresh rate, establishing it as a premium option for media viewing and gaming. Its performance is enhanced by a robust processor, ensuring seamless functionality even during intensive activities. The device’s camera features, including elements like Horizon Lock, further enhance its attractiveness.

    A prominent selling point of the Edge Plus is its cost-effectiveness, particularly with promotions available via retailers such as Best Buy. Shoppers can take advantage of up to $500 off the 512GB model when activating through the retailer, or $400 off without activation. These offers render the Edge Plus a desirable choice for individuals aiming for a top-tier phone without overspending.

    The 2023 Edge Plus also provides future-proofing with four years of software updates, guaranteeing its relevance for an extended period. While newer models have expanded upon its achievements, the Edge Plus’s mix of features and pricing makes it a savvy option for budget-friendly consumers.

    In summary, the Motorola Edge Plus (2023) remains a competitive player in the smartphone arena. Its combination of aesthetics, performance, and affordability keeps it at the forefront, demonstrating that often the best option isn’t the latest release, but the one that delivers the greatest value for your investment.

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