Author: Richard

iOS 26.2 Brings Improved Notification Capabilities for iPhone Users

### iOS 26.2: Fresh Features and Notification Upgrades

iOS 26.2 is scheduled for launch next month, introducing several changes and enhancements to Apple’s system applications, along with a prominent new notification feature designed to improve user experience.

#### iPhone Screen Flash for Notifications

The rollout of iOS 26.2 brings an intriguing new function that makes the iPhone screen flash brightly when a notification arrives. This feature complements the existing option that activates the camera flash for notifications, which has proven to be a helpful accessibility tool for those who are hard of hearing.

To utilize this new capability, users can head to the Settings app, then navigate to Accessibility > Audio & Visual > Flash for Alerts. This section will present options to enable both the LED Flash and the new ‘Screen’ flash feature. When the ‘Screen’ flash setting is turned on, the iPhone’s display will illuminate fully for a quick moment upon receiving a notification, providing a clear signal, particularly when the always-on display is inactive.

This feature could be a significant alternative for users who do not possess an Apple Watch and depend on visual notifications for alerts.

#### Additional Significant Features in iOS 26.2

Beyond the new notification functionality, iOS 26.2 brings several improvements across different applications:

– **Reminders**: The app now features ‘Urgent’ alarms, helping users prioritize important tasks more efficiently.
– **Podcasts**: AI-generated chapters have been incorporated, simplifying navigation through episodes for users.
– **Apple News**: The app has seen design updates for a more smooth user experience.
– **Apple Music**: Users can now access offline lyrics, enriching the music listening experience.

These enhancements showcase Apple’s dedication to boosting user accessibility and overall utility within its ecosystem.

As the launch date nears, users are encouraged to investigate these new features and ponder how they may improve their everyday engagement with their devices.

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Crucial Free iPad Applications to Download Right Away

iPadOS 26 introduces Apple’s innovative Liquid Glass interface, enhanced multitasking capabilities, and ChatGPT-powered Apple Intelligence, making your iPad more capable of substituting laptops than ever before. Whether you possess the latest iPad Pro M5 or a standard model, the appropriate applications can transform it into a productivity machine, creative hub, or even a compact computer.

The iPad is equipped with pre-loaded apps from the Apple ecosystem, such as Safari, FaceTime, and Maps. Although Apple’s native apps are excellent, they don’t represent the full range of functionalities your iPad can offer. For instance, Google Maps Street View is accessible worldwide, enabling you to virtually navigate nearly any street, whereas Apple Maps’ Look Around feature is still confined to a few cities. Consequently, the initial apps you download should address these shortcomings and reveal your iPad’s complete capabilities. You might consider installing productivity tools like Bitwarden for safe password management or creative solutions like Canva to enhance your work prior to sharing it online. After logging in with your Apple account on your iPad, take a look at these 10 free apps that you ought to think about as your first downloads from the App Store.

Bitwarden

Even Realities Launches Smart Glasses and Ring Aimed at Minimizing Daily Tech Distractions

Even Realities has ushered in a new chapter of wearable technology with the unveiling of their G2 smart glasses and R1 smart ring, both crafted to blend effortlessly into everyday life without causing disruption. These devices strive to transform the wearable experience by providing cutting-edge features while prioritizing comfort and subtlety.

The G2 smart glasses represent a noteworthy advancement from the older models, showcasing enhanced optics and quicker AI functionalities. Built with aerospace-grade titanium and magnesium alloy, the glasses are lightweight, weighing merely 36 grams, and feature IP67 dust and moisture resistance. The lack of cameras and speakers guarantees privacy, while the battery life lasts over two days with a charging case that offers seven full charges.

Powered by Even HAO 2.0, an optical engine that employs micro-LED projectors and layered waveguides, the glasses deliver clear visuals that harmonize naturally with the user’s surroundings. This innovative technology facilitates the display of information across multiple visual planes, keeping vital data at the forefront and less critical details in the background.

Software upgrades feature Conversate, a tool that assists in monitoring conversations, along with enhancements to existing functionalities like Teleprompt, Translate, and Navigate, which now incorporates a geomagnetic sensor for improved orientation.

Accompanying the G2 glasses is the Even R1 Smart Ring, a multifunctional device that acts as both a controller for the glasses and a wellness tracker. Constructed from zirconia ceramic and medical-grade stainless steel, the ring supports navigation gestures and offers real-time health insights. Its TriSync system guarantees seamless connectivity with the G2 and smartphones, enhancing the user experience.

The G2 smart glasses and R1 smart ring will be available for purchase on November 12, with price tags of $599 and $249, respectively. A promotional deal permits customers to obtain the R1 and accessories at a 50% discount when purchased alongside the G2. Furthermore, Even Realities intends to introduce Even Hub, a developer platform aimed at fostering community-driven innovation for the G1 and G2, broadening the range of experiences accessible to users.

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iPhone 18 Pro Max Anticipated to Showcase Greater Thickness and Heft, Based on Leaker Insights

# iPhone 18 Pro Max: The Heaviest iPhone Yet?

Apple has implemented a notable transformation in its design approach with the launch of the iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max, choosing a more robust and weighty structure in comparison to earlier models. This pattern is anticipated to persist with the forthcoming iPhone 18 Pro Max, which a recent leak indicates will become the heaviest iPhone ever manufactured.

## The Shift to Heavier Models

The iPhone 17 series has revealed a significant difference between slim and thick designs. While the slender iPhone Air has experienced lackluster sales, the bulkier iPhone 17 Pro variants have reportedly performed very well in sales. This consumer inclination signifies a distinct demand for devices that provide more significant features, likely incorporating improved battery longevity and performance.

## Leak Details on iPhone 18 Pro Max

Leaker Instant Digital has provided information on Weibo regarding the iPhone 18 Pro Max, asserting that it will exceed the weight of its predecessor, the iPhone 17 Pro Max, which comes in at 233 grams. The iPhone 18 Pro Max is predicted to weigh over 240 grams, establishing it as the heaviest iPhone to date. For comparison, the iPhone 16 Pro Max weighed 227 grams, while the iPhone 14 Pro Max was previously the heaviest at 240 grams.

The expected weight increase may be linked to a marginally thicker design and possibly a larger battery, following the trend established by current models.

## Consumer Reactions

The reaction to the idea of a heftier iPhone 18 Pro Max is varied. Some users welcome the extra weight for the advantages of improved battery life and sturdiness, while others, including some iPhone Air users, find the growing heft undesirable. However, the sales figures indicate that a noteworthy segment of consumers prefers the chunkier, more durable models.

## Conclusion

As Apple gears up for the launch of the iPhone 18 Pro Max, the choice to increase its weight over its predecessors reflects a strategic alignment with consumer desires for long-lasting devices. Although the increased weight may not be appealing to all, it is evident that many users are ready to accept a thicker phone for better performance and battery life. The iPhone 18 Pro Max is poised to create a stir in the smartphone arena, continuing Apple’s trend of prioritizing customer needs.

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Google Maps Unveils Battery-Saving Option Solely for a Single Pixel Phone Model

Power Saving Mode is available exclusively on the Pixel 10 series.

(Image credit: Jay Bonggolto / Android Central)

Key information to consider

  • Google Maps introduces a novel Power Saving Mode that dims the display to conserve battery during navigation.
  • This functionality is limited to the Pixel 10 series and is not accessible on earlier Pixel versions like the 9 or 8.
  • Power Saving Mode is functional solely in driving navigation and does not apply to walking or biking routes.

Notice

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Five Possible Dangers of Buying a Second-Hand Smartphone

based on findings from research organization IDC, the secondhand smartphone market is expanding at a quicker pace than the new smartphone sector, with predictions indicating that this pattern will persist in the forthcoming future.

Therefore, if you’re contemplating the purchase of a pre-owned device, you are not alone, as it not only allows you to economize but also provides access to a wider range of high-end and pricier smartphones that might be beyond your financial reach if you opt for brand-new devices. Nevertheless, locating a quality used smartphone and steering clear of fraud can be challenging, particularly beyond trusted resale platforms like Apple’s Certified Refurbished initiative. Thus, here are several risks you should keep in mind when investing in a second-hand smartphone.

Stolen, counterfeit, or compromised phones

Android 16 QPR2 Beta 3.3 Fixes Pixel Lock-Screen Freezing Problems

The Android 16 Beta 3.3 release is now available for the Pixel 6 and newer models.

(Image credit: Apoorva Bhardwaj / Android Central)

Key information

  • Android 16 QPR2 Beta 3.3 is being deployed to Pixel 6 and later devices, which includes the newest Pixel 10 series and foldable models.
  • Google is not introducing new features in this update, but is concentrating on fixing a significant lock-screen freezing issue that has been bothersome for Pixel users.
  • This update has the build number BP41.250916.015 for the Pixel 6 series and BP41.250916.015.A1 for the newer models, all continuing with the October 2025 security patch.
Disclaimer

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Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra to Omit Exynos 2600 Variant

The Galaxy S26 series has undergone a significant internal transformation in recent months, as reported by multiple sources detailing two major Samsung actions. Firstly, the Android manufacturer opted to eliminate the Edge model from the initial Galaxy S26 lineup and reintroduce the Plus variant. Subsequently, rumors from Korea suggested that the Exynos 2600 was such a groundbreaking chip for Samsung that the firm would utilize it to power all three Galaxy S26 models, including the Galaxy S26 Ultra. This would mark a notable advancement for Samsung, since the company had not employed its proprietary mobile chips to power an Ultra model in four years. However, it appears that the mid-October reports may have overstated the scope of the Exynos 2600. ETNews has indicated that Samsung intends to utilize the Exynos 2600 in only two models, the standard Galaxy S26 and the Plus.

The Galaxy S26 Ultra will be equipped with the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 chip globally. The Snapdragon processor is set to comprise 70% of all Galaxy S26 units, while the Exynos 2600 chip will account for the remaining 30%. Furthermore, the flagship Qualcomm chip will power all three Galaxy S26 models sold in North America. The Exynos 2600 will drive the Galaxy S26 and Galaxy S26 Plus versions available in Europe, Korea, and additional markets.

Samsung is said to have selected the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 for the Galaxy S26 Ultra despite fierce competition between Qualcomm and Samsung’s semiconductor unit. The Ultra model represents 50% of the total sales, necessitating Samsung to secure a consistent supply of premium chips. According to a report from last week, Samsung aims to sell 35 million Galaxy S26 devices next year, potentially elevating revenue to levels not seen in over a decade.

Exynos 2600 production might pose challenges

<div class="slide-key image-holder gallery-image-holder credit-image

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Analyst Unveils Details for iPhone 18 Pro, iPhone Fold, and iPhone Air 2

The upcoming series of Apple’s iPhones is anticipated to launch in September 2026. In a departure from past releases, it is speculated that Apple will unveil the iPhone 18 Pro, iPhone 18 Pro Max, iPhone Fold, and iPhone Air 2 during the latter half of 2026.

Several reports indicate that Apple may face challenges in launching the next iteration of the iPhone Air and the new iPhone Fold in September 2026. To address this, Apple is allegedly preparing to adjust its timeline, with the standard iPhone 18 being delayed to early 2027 alongside the iPhone 18e.

With a plethora of new models on the horizon for the next generation of the iPhone, BGR has noted a statement from GFHK Securities analyst Jeff Pu concerning the anticipated specifications for the iPhone 18 series, which encompasses previously reported rumors, including a more compact Dynamic Island for the new models, an upgraded 5G modem, and additional features. Here’s what you should know about them.

The A20 processor and C2 chip stand out as the key features of this generation.

Pu mentions that the upcoming iPhone Air will maintain the same 6.55-inch display but will incorporate a smaller Dynamic Island. However, it remains uncertain whether Apple will implement Face ID or a camera beneath the display. Furthermore, the Air will feature the A20 chip instead of the Pro variant, an 18MP front camera, and a primary 48MP lens. The device is also projected to include 12GB of RAM, a titanium frame, and Apple’s forthcoming C2 chip.

Regarding the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max, Apple is striving to integrate a variable aperture for the main 48MP lens, a quicker SSD, the A20 Pro chip, and the new C2 5G modem. The new A20 processor will utilize TSMC’s next-gen manufacturing technology. This innovative approach enables Apple to link various components of the chip, such as processing and memory, more closely, enhancing speed, efficiency, and heat management.

Lastly, the iPhone Fold is anticipated to feature an exterior 5.3-inch display and an interior 7.8-inch screen. It is also expected to contain 12GB of RAM and the A20 Pro chip. However, contrary to other speculations, Pu believes Apple will include two 18MP selfie cameras instead of an under-display 24MP option, along with two main 48MP lenses. It will utilize Touch ID rather than Face ID, incorporate a blend of titanium and aluminum for its frame, and feature the company’s new C2 5G modem.

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Garmin’s Creation of a Crown Function Might Annoy Devoted Users, Yet Here’s an Alternative Solution

Garmin has been a longstanding preference for fitness lovers due to its dependable and durable smartwatches, noted for using Up/Down buttons rather than the more common rotating crowns. This choice in design has been a source of pride for numerous Garmin supporters, who value the reliability and ease of use of buttons over the possible complications of crowns. Nonetheless, recent indications imply that Garmin might be working on a rotating crown featuring a magnetic sensor, akin to those found in rivals like the Samsung Galaxy Watch 8 Classic.

The possible transition to a crown design could represent a major shift for Garmin, reminiscent of its earlier switch to AMOLED displays. While a segment of Garmin users might resist this change in favor of the classic button arrangement, the introduction of a crown could attract a wider demographic, particularly those familiar with the styles of other well-liked smartwatches.

The speculated design would include two buttons on the left side and a lone crown on the right, mirroring the configuration of watches such as the Pixel Watch 4. This modification could initially be seen in Garmin’s mainstream offerings, like the Venu or Vivoactive series, rather than in its more specialized options like the Fenix or Forerunner.

The inclusion of a crown could bring certain benefits, especially in terms of navigation, where zooming in and out on maps might feel more natural. However, it could also necessitate Garmin enhancing the functionality of its watches to guarantee seamless operation, particularly if the crown is utilized for scrolling through maps or other features.

In the end, Garmin’s choice to incorporate a crown design may stem from the desire to draw in new clientele and compete with other smartwatch manufacturers. Although the classic button design has worked well for Garmin, adopting a crown could assist the company in broadening its market presence and appealing to users who favor a more traditional smartwatch aesthetic. As is the case with any transformation, the success of this potential change will hinge on how effectively Garmin can balance progress with the preferences and requirements of its devoted customer base.

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