Verizon Provides Complimentary Galaxy S25 Showcasing Cutting-Edge Galaxy AI and Gemini Technology
There’s a single stipulation — you must introduce a new Verizon line on a qualifying plan to be eligible.
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Apple Unveils Third-Party Applications Leveraging New Foundation Models in iOS 26
### iOS 26: Transforming App Development with Foundation Models
Apple’s newest operating system, iOS 26, has brought a significant leap in app development through the incorporation of an array of new Apple Intelligence features. A key change is the accessibility of Apple’s AI models to third-party developers, enabling them to directly utilize the on-device Foundation Models. This advancement is poised to revolutionize app functionality, improving user experiences and allowing developers to craft smarter applications.
#### Foundation Models Framework
In a recent press announcement, Apple highlighted the promise of the Foundation Models framework, illustrating how several popular third-party developers have commenced leveraging this technology to optimize their applications. The framework empowers developers to embed advanced AI abilities while guaranteeing user privacy, as all processing takes place on-device.
Susan Prescott, Apple’s Vice President of Worldwide Developer Relations, conveyed her excitement about the creative possibilities presented by the Foundation Models framework. She pointed out the variety of applications being crafted, ranging from generating journaling prompts in the Stoic app to offering conversational explanations of scientific terms in CellWalk.
#### Highlighted Applications
Numerous applications have been recognized for their groundbreaking use of the Foundation Models framework:
– **SmartGym**: This app leverages the framework to enhance exercise experiences.
– **Stoic**: Renowned for its emphasis on mental wellness, Stoic uses AI to produce innovative journaling prompts.
– **CellWalk**: This educational app employs AI to deliver dynamic, interactive scientific data tailored to specific learners.
– **Streaks**: A productivity app that assists users in habit formation.
– **Stuff**: A to-do list application that has implemented new workflows thanks to the Foundation Models framework.
– **Agenda**: A note-taking app that merges notes with calendar features.
– **OmniFocus**: A task management app that reaps the benefits of the new AI capabilities.
#### Developer Insights
Developers have shared their insights regarding the Foundation Models framework, noting its transformative effect on their applications. Austin Blake, the creator of Stuff, referred to the framework as a “game changer,” enabling the concurrent launch of new features that would have otherwise necessitated much longer development times. He commended the framework’s efficiency and ease of use, which allowed for the introduction of both Listen Mode and Scan Mode in a single update.
Tim Davison, the developer of CellWalk, underscored the framework’s capacity to render scientific data interactive and adaptable, thus enhancing the learning experience for users. He remarked that the structured data generated by the model integrated seamlessly with their app, boosting its functionality.
Matt Abras, the developer of SmartGym, shared similar thoughts, stating that the framework has facilitated the provision of on-device features that were previously considered unfeasible.
#### Conclusion
The launch of the Foundation Models framework in iOS 26 signifies a crucial moment in app development, equipping developers with the resources to craft more intelligent and engaging applications while prioritizing user privacy. As more developers embrace this technology, users can anticipate a surge of innovative features that enrich their daily app experiences. For further insights on the apps utilizing the new framework, Apple’s press announcement provides thorough information.
For those keen on delving into the latest innovations in iOS app development, the Foundation Models framework represents an exhilarating opportunity for both developers and users alike.
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8BitDo’s Ultimate Phone Controller Enjoys Major Price Reduction Ahead of October Prime Day
Every controller ought to be this affordable and comfortable.
Controllers are plentiful, so when a great deal pops up on an even superior controller, we like to highlight it. The newest offer is for the 8Bitdo Ultimate Mobile Gaming Controller, which is currently available for just $0.50 less than its lowest price ever. The best part is that you don’t have to wait for the next Prime Day to grab a controller and save some cash now.
It’s simpler than ever to discover a great controller that meets your gaming requirements, whether you’re gaming on a desktop rig or using your phone. 8Bitdo is one of the most recognized third-party brands around, and after years of specializing in Bluetooth controllers, it expanded into the mobile gaming arena.
Despite its annoyingly long name, 8Bitdo applied everything it has learned over the years to create a controller for your phones. This incorporates features like Hall Effect joysticks and triggers along with remappable buttons through the accompanying 8Bitdo app.
While it may not have all the fancy features compared to competitors, this controller from 8Bitdo excels at the fundamentals. You will appreciate excellent ergonomics and a familiar feel if you’ve used other 8Bitdo controllers before.
✅Recommended if: You’re in the market for an economical phone controller from a brand known for making some of the best controllers available.
❌Skip this deal if: You want a controller that supports passthrough charging or can fit smaller tablets such as the Legion Tab Gen 3.
Telescopic controllers come either with a USB-C port for connecting to your phone or depend on Bluetooth. The 8Bitdo Ultimate Mobile Gaming Controller falls into the latter category, so keep that in mind if you’re sensitive to latency.
Regarding compatibility, this controller will work with virtually any device that has Bluetooth connectivity. However, when it comes to determining if it will fit your phone, 8Bitdo considered that as well. The product page indicates that the Ultimate Mobile Gaming Controller “fits mobile devices ranging from 100mm to 170mm in length.”
This means it will even accommodate many of the top Android phones and foldable devices, without much thought required. Unfortunately, the same cannot be said for tablets, as even smaller gaming tablets like the Lenovo Legion Tab Gen 3 are still too large for 8Bitdo’s mobile controller.
8Bitdo has long been a leader in the gaming controller industry, so we were naturally thrilled when a controller designed for phones was launched. Furthermore, even if it weren’t discounted below $40, it’s priced at about half of what many competitors charge. Thankfully, that’s a non-issue, as you can save $10 and secure one of the best controllers for your Android phones.
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Samsung Moves Forward with Large-Scale Production of Displays for Future iPhone Fold
**2026 iPhone Fold: Expectations and Progress**
Anticipations regarding the debut of an iPhone Fold in 2026 have escalated, especially after a recent announcement from Samsung. Although Apple’s display collaborator did not directly reference the tech leader, the implications are unmistakable.
### The Expected Release of the iPhone Fold
Information suggests that a foldable iPhone is set for launch next year, in line with a wider industry agreement. This follows the unveiling of the iPhone Air, perceived as a vital step towards creating the slimmer displays required for foldable technology. Prototypes of the iPhone Fold have reportedly been under evaluation since summer, and iOS 27 is projected to feature functionalities tailored specifically for this innovative device.
Samsung Display, recognized for supplying screens for Apple’s premium iPhone models, is expected to produce the display for the forthcoming iPhone Fold. The partnership between these two firms is anticipated to significantly enhance the device’s functionalities.
### Samsung’s Readiness for Large-Scale Production
Recent comments from Lee Cheong, President of Samsung Display, indicate that the company is preparing for large-scale production of OLED displays intended for foldable smartphones. While he avoided naming Apple directly, his statements strongly suggest a collaboration. The new 8.6th-generation OLED production facility is expected to begin operations by mid to late next year, coinciding with the anticipated launch of flagship products from the unidentified North American client, widely thought to be Apple.
### Conclusion
As the tech community eagerly anticipates the iPhone Fold, developments from Samsung and Apple signal a notable transformation in smartphone design. The fusion of cutting-edge display technology and innovative features in iOS 27 could redefine user experiences in the years ahead.
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Forthcoming Apple TV+ thriller from Slow Horses writer appears promising
Apple TV+ is presently showcasing season 5 of its cherished Slow Horses series, but shortly the streaming service will introduce another crime thriller from the same author: Down Cemetery Road. The freshly launched trailer for the detective series suggests it could be another success.
### Down Cemetery Road is a detective series featuring Emma Thompson and Ruth Wilson
If you enjoy crime thrillers infused with a hefty dose of humor, Apple TV+ is ready to entertain you this fall.
Slow Horses is currently in its fifth season, and just a few weeks from now, a brand-new series from the same author will make its debut—and its initial trailer appears outstanding.
Down Cemetery Road premieres **Wednesday, October 29** on Apple TV+ with two episodes, followed by weekly releases until December 10.
The detective series stars Emma Thompson and Ruth Wilson and is adapted from the book by author Mick Herron. Herron also penned the Slough House series that Slow Horses is based on.
Further connecting the two series: Morwenna Banks, who authored several episodes of Slow Horses, wrote the entire Down Cemetery Road and acts as executive producer. As an amusing random trivia fact, Banks is also an actress and provides the voice for Mummy Pig in the well-known Peppa Pig series.
Here’s Apple’s synopsis of Down Cemetery Road, followed by the trailer:
> When a home detonates in a serene Oxford neighborhood and a girl goes missing in the wake, neighbor Sarah Trafford (Wilson) becomes fixated on locating her and recruits the assistance of private investigator Zoë Boehm (Thompson). Zoë and Sarah unexpectedly find themselves ensnared in a complicated conspiracy that unveils individuals long thought dead are still alive, while the living are quickly becoming part of the dead.
Based on the trailer, Down Cemetery Road unmistakably appears to adhere to the successful formula of Slow Horses by combining comedy with crime drama. The creative crew alone renders this new show highly awaited.
Apple TV+ is offered at $12.99 per month and includes hit TV series and films such as Ted Lasso, Severance, The Morning Show, Silo, and Shrinking.
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LG UltraFine 6K Set to Become Available for Pre-Order Shortly Along with Pricing Information Unveiled
### LG UltraFine 32U990A: A Fresh Rival in the 6K Display Arena
At the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in January, LG stirred significant excitement among Mac users with the reveal of its forthcoming UltraFine 6K Display, featuring Thunderbolt 5 technology. Although specifics on pricing and availability have been limited, recent updates indicate that the display might soon be ready for pre-order.
#### Pricing and Availability
A product listing from B&H suggests that the LG UltraFine 32U990A will be up for pre-order at a price of $1,999.99. Nonetheless, LG’s official website notes that pre-orders are set to start on October 10. This variation raises the possibility that B&H could have a special sales window.
#### Key Features of the LG UltraFine 32U990A
The UltraFine 32U990A showcases remarkable specifications, appealing to both professionals and enthusiasts:
– **Display Size**: 31.5 inches with a 16:9 aspect ratio
– **Resolution**: UHD 6K (6144 x 3456) at 60 Hz
– **Brightness**: 450 nits (600 nits in HDR)
– **Contrast Ratio**: 2000:1
– **Color Coverage**: 98% DCI-P3 and 99.5% Adobe RGB
– **Connectivity**:
– Integrated USB-C Hub and KVM
– 1x DisplayPort
– 1x HDMI
– 2x USB-C (Thunderbolt 5) with USB Power Delivery (PD) at 140 W
– 3x additional USB-C ports
This resolution is on par with Apple’s Pro Display XDR, delivering a pixel density of 218 pixels per inch. In contrast, Apple’s Pro Display XDR, launched in 2019, costs $4,999 (or $5,999 with a stand) and provides higher brightness levels (1,000 nits in standard mode and 1,600 nits in HDR).
#### Design and Build Quality
The aesthetics of the LG UltraFine 32U990A closely mirror that of Apple’s Pro Display XDR. Nevertheless, the quality of construction is crucial, particularly considering previous concerns related to the LG UltraFine 5K model. The latest display includes a fully adjustable stand, which permits height, tilt, and rotation modifications, enhancing its ergonomic benefits.
#### Competition and Future Developments
Besides LG’s announcement, sources from Bloomberg reveal that Apple is close to beginning mass production of two new Mac monitors. While the specifications and features of these upcoming monitors remain under wraps, they are expected to compete directly with the UltraFine 32U990A and the current Pro Display XDR.
#### Conclusion
While the LG UltraFine 32U990A seems to present an attractive choice for anyone seeking a high-resolution display, prospective buyers should exercise caution until LG officially verifies the launch information. If the B&H listing proves accurate, the UltraFine 6K could emerge as a formidable player in the premium display segment.
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Experiment Shows iOS 26’s Liquid Glass Lowers iPhone 17 Pro Max’s Possible Battery Life
**iPhone 17 Pro Max’s Battery Performance Might Have Been Superior Without iOS 26’s Liquid Glass, Experiment Suggests**
The iPhone 17 lineup features enhanced battery performance compared to its forerunners, with the iPhone 17 Pro Max at the forefront. This version is equipped with a larger battery, particularly in the eSIM-only model, taking advantage of the space made available by eliminating the physical SIM card. Nonetheless, initial evaluations reveal that the Liquid Glass design in iOS 26 considerably accelerates battery drain in comparison to iOS 18. For example, an iPhone 16 Pro Max depleted 13% of its battery during standard operations on iOS 26, while it only used 1% on iOS 18.
A user on Reddit, MarionberryDear6170, ran a test that uncovered Liquid Glass as a “terrible battery issue” on the iPhone 17 Pro Max. The test, sparked by the user’s experience with the iOS 26 beta on the iPhone 15 Pro Max, pointed out significant heat generation and battery drain challenges. The user illustrated that various activities require excessive power, and that the Reduce Transparency setting does little to counteract this. However, there is potential for a notable boost in battery life, though the remedy may not be well-received by users.
**Low Power Mode greatly enhances the battery life of the iPhone 17 Pro Max**
The Redditor’s test involved restricting charging to 80% and performing activities on the iPhone 17 Pro Max while observing power consumption. Here are some insights:
– Accessing the Control Center: 8-9W
– Taking photos: 8-9W
– Capturing screenshots: 7-17W
– Utilizing Apple Maps: 8-9W
– Screen recording: 5-6W when idle, reaching 9-11W while scrolling
The trial indicated that utilizing clear icons in iOS 26 elevates power consumption, and activating Reduce Transparency mode contributes an additional 1W for all tasks. Low Power Mode appeared as the sole efficient remedy, cutting energy usage to under 5W for equivalent activities. This mode extended screen-on duration from 6.5 hours to 10 hours. However, Low Power Mode modifies the iPhone experience by dimming the display, reducing the refresh rate to 60Hz, restricting 5G access, and limiting background processes. Even with this, the battery performance of the iPhone 17 Pro Max remains outstanding, suggesting that users may not often need to depend on Low Power Mode.
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User Ratings Order Each Significant Wi-Fi Mesh System From Least to Most Favorable
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Guide to Starting Your Android Device in Safe Mode and Its Advantages
subpar and harmful applications to bypass Google’s protections. Luckily, Android, similar to various other systems, features a built-in Safe Mode, which serves as an outstanding diagnostic tool to help identify whether a third-party application is the source of your phone’s problems or if the issues stem from defective hardware or the operating system itself.
This is achievable as the safe mode temporarily suspends all third-party applications on your Android device and exclusively operates the essential system software and services, including any apps that might have been pre-installed. If your phone functions properly in safe mode and you no longer experience any of the problems you encountered previously, it indicates that one or more of the installed applications are at fault. You can then uninstall recently added or updated applications to check if the issue resolves.
Steps to enter safe mode on Android
How to Resolve USB Tethering Problems on Android Devices
one of the major internet disruptions occurs, which could feasibly take place at any moment. USB tethering operates fairly well, and setting it up is quite straightforward, but there are numerous factors that may go awry, making the troubleshooting process a bit challenging.
If your Android device is connected and the USB tethering is not functioning, it might be due to issues with the USB cable in use, network connectivity problems associated with the networks your device is accessing, outdated drivers on your PC, or some other minor issues. Naturally, it is beneficial to know which settings to adjust specifically when the USB tethering feature on your Android phone is malfunctioning. This knowledge can also be useful when looking to repurpose older Android tablets or smartphones, rather than letting them sit idle and occupy space.