Author: Richard

AirPods Poised to Launch Camera Management, Sleep Tracking, Fresh Gestures, and More Functions

**Anticipated AirPods Features Likely at WWDC25**

Apple is preparing to introduce an array of intriguing features for its AirPods during the forthcoming WWDC25 keynote. Following a recent report from 9to5Mac, we have compiled five significant features that could soon improve the user experience for AirPods Pro 2 and AirPods 4 users.

### New Head Gestures

Apple plans to enhance the capabilities of head gestures, which were launched last year. Users will have the ability to nod their heads to answer or reject calls and manage notifications hands-free. The upcoming update will introduce a gesture for modifying the Conversation Awareness volume, enabling users to revert to their initial noise-control settings merely by moving their heads.

### Sleep Auto-Pause

Understanding that many users doze off with their AirPods in, Apple is reportedly creating a feature that recognizes when a user has fallen asleep and automatically halts playback. This feature is intended to remove the necessity for sleep timers, which are not consistently supported by all music and podcast applications. It remains uncertain whether this will operate independently or alongside the existing sleep detection features of the Apple Watch.

### Camera Control

In a much-anticipated development, Apple might roll out Camera Control for AirPods, allowing users to activate the iPhone or iPad camera with a tap on the AirPods stem. This feature recalls the capabilities of the previous EarBuds and could offer a more convenient method for taking pictures, even if it means that users may appear somewhat peculiar while doing so.

### Audio Mix

Apple is also developing a “studio quality” microphone mode for AirPods, akin to the Audio Mix feature introduced with the iPhone 16. This upgrade will utilize machine learning to differentiate between background noise and speech, giving users a selection of various voice options. This could position AirPods as a formidable contender in the creator lav mic arena.

### Wider Classroom Support

To enhance user experience in educational environments, Apple is concentrating on improving the pairing procedure for shared iPads. This feature endeavors to simplify how AirPods connect to iPadOS, minimizing friction and manual steps, which is especially advantageous in classrooms where multiple students share devices.

### Conclusion

Although Apple might opt to postpone or modify some of these features prior to their official unveiling, the possible introduction of these enhancements at WWDC25 is thrilling. The keynote, set for June 9, is expected to feature not only AirPods updates but also significant updates across all Apple platforms, including iOS 26 and macOS 26. As always, 9to5Mac will deliver thorough coverage of the event.

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Google Drive Introduces ‘Catch Me Up’ Functionality Driven by Gemini

The newest functionality assists users in keeping informed about Gemini in Google Drive.

Google Workspace has introduced an update that incorporates an intriguing new feature in Google Drive, referred to as “Catch me up.”

On Tuesday (June 3), Google Drive introduced the “Catch me up” feature, enabling users to remain informed about their files. It is powered by Gemini and can assist in pinpointing their files within Drive by highlighting “changes since it was last viewed and offering an overview of those alterations,” according to the information provided in the accompanying blog post.

These modifications may include file revisions on Docs or pertinent comments on Docs, Sheets, and Slides. The purpose is to underscore changes that might appear useful and significant.

“Catch me up” delivers a comprehensive summary of crucial changes in documents from your Drive, or a rundown of the main alterations and comments in a specific file since it was last accessed, ensuring users are constantly informed.

The feature is located in the Ask Gemini section on the Google Drive homepage, positioned right alongside the “Learn about Gemini in Drive” and “Summarize a folder in Drive” features. Accessing “Catch me up” will reveal the significant changes made to your files through the Gemini pane on the right.

To detail further, for a Google Doc, Gemini can assist with changes made to the file since the last instance a user opened the document. Moreover, it can also provide an overview of what has been modified.

Additionally, for any documents that are regularly edited, there will be a “catch me up” icon indicator right next to the file name, which can easily launch Gemini directly into reviewing the changes.

It is a useful little feature for Google Workspace users, and it started as a phased rollout on June 3 for Rapid Release and Scheduled Release domains. It is accessible to all qualified Google Workspace users and those with a Google One AI premium plan. The feature is also believed to be currently available in the English language.

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The 10 Series with the Highest Viewership on Netflix Globally

The most talked-about Netflix title taking center stage this week is *Sirens*, a five-part drama centering on Devon — a woman endeavoring to rescue her sister from the enigmatic hold of her affluent, high-society boss located on an isolated island estate. It’s a narrative that explores themes of power, privilege, and the significance of family, as Devon’s quest for the truth compels her to face the alluring and perilous dynamics influencing her sister’s new reality. It also boasts an admirable 77% critics’ score on Rotten Tomatoes.

Netflix releases its list of the most popular TV shows each week, and we’ll delve into *Sirens* (featuring Julianne Moore, Meghann Fahy, and Milly Alcock) below, along with the other trending content on the platform at this time.

## Netflix Top 10 shows

Here’s the comprehensive list of this week’s Top 10 English-language shows on Netflix, derived from the latest updated data provided by the company:

1. **Sirens** — 16.7 million views
2. **Cold Case: The Tylenol Murders** — 11.9 million views
3. **Dept. Q** — 6 million views
4. **American Manhunt: Osama bin Laden** — 5.4 million views
5. **Bet** — 2.9 million views
6. **Raw: 2025** (May 26, 2025) — 2.6 million views
7. **The Four Seasons** — 2.4 million views
8. **Fred and Rose West: A British Horror Story** — 2.3 million views
9. **She the People** — 2.3 million views
10. **Forever** — 2.3 million views

To discover more about some of this week’s other most-viewed series, you can explore our prior articles on some of the Netflix originals mentioned above, including *Dept. Q*, a drama likely to resonate with *Slow Horses* enthusiasts, alongside the documentary series *Cold Case: The Tylenol Murders*. For now, let’s concentrate on the biggest Netflix TV premiere globally at this moment.

## Sirens — #1 on Netflix

The current leading Netflix title worldwide by viewership, *Sirens* ranks as the #1 show in 71 countries this week.

“Set against a backdrop of opulent mansions and coastal views,” Netflix describes, the show from creator Molly Smith Metzler (*Maid*) has “proven to be the ideal concoction to celebrate the informal beginning of summer.” Taking place over a single Labor Day weekend, *Sirens* follows Fahy’s character Devon, a sharp, self-aware woman from Buffalo who arrives at an extravagant private island, convinced her younger sister Simone (played by *House of the Dragon’s* Alcock) is entangled in something cult-like.

The focus of Simone’s fixation is Michaela Kell, a cryptic and hauntingly dignified socialite portrayed by Moore, who glides through her Cliff House estate with the detached grace of someone who has forgotten how it feels to be questioned. Devon comes to orchestrate an emotional intervention, but she soon discovers herself outmaneuvered in an environment where superficial civility conceals something far more predatory. Imagine *Succession* meets *Big Little Lies*, set on a beach where the water glimmers and every compliment feels like a hidden threat.

“This narrative has a lot of bite,” Smith Metzler stated in a Netflix promotional interview. “There are genuine moments of drama, and it will make people uneasy. *Operatic* is a term I enjoy using to describe it. It’s a real dark comedy — and it carries a Greek mythology essence.”

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Comprehending Terms Lacking Vowels: The Way Our Minds Complete the Blanks

If you spend a significant amount of time online, you’re likely to encounter a phrase such as this: “Yr brn cn rd wrds wtht vwls.” At first glance, it appears to be gibberish, but after a moment, you likely interpret it as “Your brain can read words without vowels.” So, how did you achieve that?

Researchers informed LiveScience that the brain’s capability to interpret such sentences is due to its method of processing words. Instead of examining each letter separately, your brain is continuously searching for patterns, leveraging past experiences and contextual clues to make rapid assumptions.

It turns out, your brain functions more like a predictive tool than a mere receiver of information. When you read, it doesn’t simply wait for the next word. Rather, it proactively forecasts what is coming up next. This explains why you frequently overlook typos, autocorrect mistakes, or sentences that lack crucial letters and words. It’s also the reason you may not catch minor errors when reviewing your writing.

A significant portion of how the brain interprets words is attributed to an area known as the visual word form area, or VWFA. Located on the left side of your brain, it is specialized in recognizing written text. Over years of reading, this area becomes finely attuned to the patterns and letter combinations that are most prevalent in your language.

Consider how your brain reacts to a term like “str_ng.” It doesn’t require the vowel to deduce that the missing letter is likely an “i” or “o.” This is because your brain has been trained to identify common letter combinations such as “tr,” “ng,” or “st.” These serve as shortcuts that assist you in quickly reconstructing the word.

This is also the reason abbreviations make sense to us. Terms like “bldg” or “dept” primarily consist of consonants, yet you instantly grasp their meanings. With sufficient exposure, the brain is capable of automatically filling in the gaps.

And it accomplishes all of this in mere milliseconds. By merging hints from the sentence, your recall of similar words, and your familiarity with typical structures, your brain executes a sort of mental autocomplete based on the learning processes of the human mind.

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New Information Shows the iPad’s Popularity Surpassing Expectations

**The Increasing Appeal of the iPad: Insights from Recent Survey Data**

The iPhone has long been acknowledged as Apple’s flagship device, commanding the market with its extensive adoption. However, a newly released study by CIRP indicates that the iPad is not only standing strong against the iPhone but is also considerably more favored than the Mac. This article investigates the survey’s results and examines the ramifications of the iPad’s expanding user demographic.

### iPad Users: A Serious Contender to iPhone Owners

CIRP executed a detailed survey of Apple patrons to evaluate the performance of its three primary products: the iPhone, iPad, and Mac. The findings reveal that the iPhone continues to be the most widespread device, with a remarkable 94% of recent Apple customers possessing one. In contrast, the iPad closely trails, with 78% of customers indicating ownership. The Mac, however, falls significantly behind, with merely 36% of users owning one.

The survey emphasizes an essential feature of Apple’s ecosystem: the interrelatedness of its products. An impressive 74% of iPad owners also have an iPhone, while only 30% of customers own all three devices. This information implies that while the iPhone is the foundation of Apple’s product array, the iPad is swiftly gaining popularity among consumers.

### Factors Driving iPad’s Popularity

The iPad’s achievements can be linked to multiple factors, with cost-effectiveness being a major consideration. In comparison to the iPhone and Mac, the iPad is typically more budget-friendly, making it a desirable choice for a wider array of consumers. The survey findings highlight this pattern, presenting the iPad as a distinct success for Apple.

With 78% of Apple customers possessing an iPad, the device’s popularity is unmistakable. This percentage is more than double that of Mac users, underscoring the iPad’s role as a prominent entity in Apple’s product ecosystem. The multifunctionality of the iPad further boosts its attractiveness, as it can be used for a myriad of activities, from casual browsing to professional endeavors.

### Future Insights and Usage Trends

While the survey delivers crucial insights into ownership metrics, it prompts inquiries regarding the actual use of iPads among consumers. It would be fascinating to ascertain how many of these devices are in regular use compared to those that might be forgotten over time. Given the iPad’s status as Apple’s most adaptable device, it is probable that many users discover inventive ways to integrate it into their everyday routines.

Future surveys by CIRP could probe deeper into iPad usage trends, painting a clearer picture of how consumers interact with their devices.

### Conclusion

The insights from CIRP’s survey narrate a compelling story about the iPad’s popularity and its role within Apple’s ecosystem. As the device continues to gain momentum among consumers, it challenges the perception that the iPhone is the exclusive leader in Apple’s lineup. The iPad’s affordability and versatility are pivotal factors propelling its success, making it a significant participant in the technology landscape. As consumer behaviors evolve, understanding the dynamics of iPad usage will be crucial for both Apple and its users.

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Amazon Provides 32% Off on Samsung Galaxy Book 4 Pro for a Short Period

A 14-inch laptop featuring a touchscreen that delivers impressive performance.

(Image credit: Samsung)

Samsung laptops can be quite expensive, but this Galaxy Book 4 Pro promotion makes the idea of purchasing one significantly more enticing. For a short period, Amazon is offering a 32% discount on the Samsung Galaxy Book 4, reducing its price to below $1,000. This is the lowest price this model of the high-end laptop has ever reached.

Even though the Galaxy Book 4 is technically a generation behind with the launch of the Galaxy Book 5, it still offers great performance with 16GB of RAM, a 3.6GHz Intel Core Ultra 5 CPU, and an attractive 14-inch AMOLED touchscreen display. It also comes with 512GB of storage, and you have the option to upgrade this laptop to a 16-inch display or enhance the CPU with additional RAM. Nevertheless, for the majority of students, professionals, and gamers, this Galaxy Book 4 will meet their needs, while also featuring excellent battery life, a top-notch camera for video conferencing, and more.

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Samsung and Glance AI Partner to Improve Shopping Experience for Galaxy Users

Shop via the app or your lock screen; in either case, you’ll always be at the forefront of fashion.

Samsung and Glance have unveiled a collaboration to introduce Glance’s generative AI shopping application and lock screen experience to Galaxy users. This partnership will enable users to see themselves in various styles and scenarios utilizing Glance’s Gemini and Imagen-supported technology. The launch commences today (June 4) for the Galaxy S25, S23, S22, and S24 series.

The revamped shopping experience aims to tailor content and shopping directly on the lock screen, delivering a vibrant and intelligent experience. Glance’s AI technology will generate ultra-realistic images of users in numerous outfits, drawn from over 400 affiliated brands and retailers. Users can effortlessly purchase these outfits with a single tap, and the app will also keep them updated on sales and trends.

Glance intends to broaden its AI styling support to include beauty, accessories, and travel later this year. The app is accessible in the Galaxy Store for qualifying devices.

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Nuclear Siri Functionality Could Be Added in iOS 26 Regardless of Apple’s Resistance

**Siri Replacement Could Soon Be Available for Some iOS 26 Users**

Among the various features anticipated in iOS 26 next week, there is one rumored modification that Apple is unlikely to announce: the option to replace Siri. This ‘nuclear option’ is being implemented against Apple’s preference and will currently have a limited scope—at least for the time being.

Recently, a comprehensive article discussing the status of AI at Apple reported that to comply with projected European Union regulations, the company is now working on altering its operating systems so that, for the first time, users can switch from Siri as their primary voice assistant to third-party alternatives. This modification is notable as it signifies a shift in Apple’s stance on voice assistants, primarily driven by regulatory demands.

This won’t mark the first instance where EU users gain access to a new iOS feature that is unavailable to the rest of the world. For example, in iOS 18.4, Apple permitted the selection of a default navigation application for iPhones, enabling Google Maps to serve as the default instead of Apple Maps, but this option was limited to the EU.

Likewise, although iOS 26 is set to introduce various new third-party Siri integrations, these will augment Siri rather than replace it. All signals indicate that the capacity to fully replace Siri in iOS 26 will be restricted to the EU.

**Reasons Apple Might Broaden Assistant Options Globally**

While there is doubt about Apple providing a ‘default assistant’ feature for users outside the EU, several persuasive factors could encourage such a decision:

1. **Regulatory Challenges**: The EU stands as Apple’s largest “trouble area” concerning regulatory issues, but similar concerns exist worldwide, including in the US. By enabling users to select their own assistant, Apple could anticipate legal challenges that might necessitate more substantial adjustments.

2. **Revenue Potential**: Apple maintains a lucrative search agreement with Google, and by allowing iOS 26 to accommodate alternative assistants, it could forge new agreements that yield continuous revenue when users opt for assistants like ChatGPT or Gemini over Siri.

3. **Scarcity of Default Modifications**: Among billions of iPhone users, only a minor fraction is likely to prioritize switching from Siri. Apple has already made advancements to facilitate Siri replacement in the EU, and these factors might motivate a global rollout of this functionality.

In summary, while the ability to replace Siri may initially be restricted to EU users due to regulatory mandates, the possibility for worldwide expansion exists based on regulatory pressures, revenue opportunities, and user tendencies. Whether Apple will permit users to replace Siri without governmental involvement remains uncertain.

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Egypt aims to establish its inaugural Apple Store while engaging in broader investment talks.

**Apple’s Possible Growth in Egypt: A Strategic Advantage for Both Sides**

In a recent conference involving Egypt’s Minister of Investment and Foreign Trade, Hassan El-Khatib, and Apple’s Director of Government Affairs for the Middle East and Pakistan, Omar El-Rifai, the talks focused on the prospect of Apple broadening its operations within Egypt. This session underscores Egypt’s desire to improve its technological environment and draw substantial foreign investments.

### Apple’s Strategic Focus on Egypt

During the conversation, El-Khatib invited Apple to set up its inaugural official store in Egypt. Although El-Rifai did not give a clear response concerning retail intentions, he recognized Egypt’s significance as a “crucial gateway” for Apple’s expansion in Africa and the Middle East. He highlighted Apple’s commitment to the Egyptian market, underlining the company’s plans to bolster the local economy through initiatives like the establishment of call centers and training centers, anticipated to create valuable job prospects.

### Egypt’s Ambition for Foreign Investment

The dialogue with Apple forms part of a larger initiative by the Egyptian government aimed at luring premier foreign investments, especially within the technology field. Officials are confident that the presence of a major entity like Apple could greatly aid Egypt’s aspiration of becoming a central hub for innovation and technology in the region. Additionally, Apple’s presence may foster local entrepreneurship and technological progress.

### The International Landscape

As of 2025, Apple has over 500 stores internationally, placing significant emphasis on expanding in fast-developing markets such as India and China. The potential for including Egypt in this growth strategy remains unclear, yet the dialogue reflects a constructive step towards nurturing a relationship that could advantage both Apple and the Egyptian economy.

### Closing Thoughts

The conference between Egyptian authorities and Apple delegates signifies a noteworthy moment in Egypt’s quest to establish itself as a frontrunner in the tech sector. While the results of these discussions are still to be seen, the possibility for partnership could open doors to new opportunities and progress in the region.

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