Author: Richard

    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Google’s Veo Boosts Imagination and Authenticity in Version 3.1 Update
    Google’s Veo Boosts Imagination and Authenticity in Version 3.1 Update

    Google has unveiled the launch of Veo 3.1, a significant upgrade to its video generation model, now accessible in the Gemini app and Flow. This release intends to boost users’ creativity by offering richer audio, enhanced narrative oversight, and improved realism in textures. Veo 3.1 also features stronger adherence to prompts and better audiovisual quality when transforming images into video.

    In Flow, Veo 3.1 improves existing functionalities with audio features, enabling users to create videos using reference images to control characters, objects, and styles. Tools like “Frames to Video” and “Extend” benefit from these upgrades, providing greater control over shot arrangement and video duration.

    The update also introduces new editing features, such as “Insert” for adding elements and the capacity to eliminate scene components, similar to Magic Eraser. Veo 3.1 is accessible in the Gemini app, Gemini API for developers, and Vertex AI for enterprise clients.

    Google launched Flow earlier this year as a resource for storytellers to bring concepts to life without significant expenses, powered by Veo 3, Imagen 4, and Gemini. With Veo 3.1, users can further elevate their video projects with enhanced audio and editing functionalities.

    Read More
    • Richard
    • Comments Off on How to Utilize Recovery Contacts to Restore Access to Your Google Account with Assistance from a Friend
    How to Utilize Recovery Contacts to Restore Access to Your Google Account with Assistance from a Friend

    lost access to your Gmail account – which effectively implies that you cannot sign in to your Google Account for other services you may utilize — you are aware of how troubling the situation can be. Whether you misplaced your password or no longer have physical access to the device, the recovery process can be quite frustrating, as you must complete verification tests that Google implements to hinder unauthorized access to your account. Beginning Wednesday, Google introduced a new recovery tool for personal Google Accounts, which is intended to simplify the recovery of access: You have the option to enlist a trusted family member or friend through the new Recovery Contacts feature.

    Google has established a new Recovery Contacts page in your Google Account where you can invite individuals to serve as your account recovery method. When you require their assistance, you’ll provide them with a code, and they will receive an email or notification allowing them to enter that code to confirm your identity. This process should aid you in regaining access to your Google Account and everything associated when you cannot utilize a password, SMS one-time code, or an alternative recovery option.

    The feature resembles Proton’s recent security addition for Proton Mail that enables friends and family to access your account during emergencies. Apple also offers a similar recovery contact option for Apple ID accounts. However, unlike Proton’s tool, Google’s Recovery Contacts feature does not grant third-party access to your Gmail address and your Google Account. The sole aim of the new feature is to assist you in reclaiming access to a lost account.

    How to configure Recovery Contacts for your Google Account

    <

    Read More
    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Pixel Watch 4’s Repairability Establishes a New Benchmark for Apple, Garmin, and Samsung
    Pixel Watch 4’s Repairability Establishes a New Benchmark for Apple, Garmin, and Samsung

    You likely cannot (or ought not) fix it on your own, but the Pixel Watch 4 demonstrates that alternative smartwatch manufacturers can excel.

    (Image credit: Michael Hicks / Android Central)
    Wear OS Weekly

    My weekly article delves into the condition of Wear OS, covering recent advancements and the newest applications and functionalities.

    iFixit indicates that the Google Pixel Watch 4 is the <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.androidcentral.com/wearables/google-pixel-watch/googles-pixel-watch-4-just-rewrote-the-rules-for-smartwatch-repair" data-before-rewrite-localise="https://www.android

    Read More
    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Comparison of Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra and Galaxy S24 Ultra: The Single Feature That Justifies the Upgrade
    Comparison of Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra and Galaxy S24 Ultra: The Single Feature That Justifies the Upgrade

    If you’re continuing with the Galaxy S24 Ultra, the Galaxy S26 Ultra should present numerous incentives for an upgrade.

    Samsung consistently impresses with its Ultra series of Galaxy smartphones, and the Galaxy S26 Ultra is poised to be another powerhouse. With an enhanced privacy-driven display, state-of-the-art Qualcomm processor, upgraded cameras (?), and potentially even native Qi2 charging — there’s plenty to look forward to.

    Pros:
    – Privacy Display feature appears to be promising
    – New design is expected to enhance ergonomics
    – Long-term support anticipated
    – Possibility of native Qi2 charging with integrated magnets
    – Will feature Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 SoC

    Cons:
    – Price increases may occur
    – Weight could still pose a concern

    It’s astonishing to realize that by January 2026, it will have been nearly two years since Samsung launched the Galaxy S24 Ultra. At its release, it was arguably one of the leading Android smartphones with minimal competition. However, this will soon alter in a matter of months with the launch of the Galaxy S26 Ultra. If you haven’t upgraded to the Galaxy S25 Ultra yet, is it time to exchange your S24 Ultra for the S26 Ultra?

    In theory, the Galaxy S26 Ultra is set to provide a significantly more notable enhancement in design and features when compared to the S24 Ultra. Although everything is currently speculative, based on the available rumors and leaks, the Galaxy S26 Ultra appears to be an impressive flagship. Let’s explore all the details we have about the Galaxy S26 Ultra and how it surpasses the S24 Ultra.

    Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra vs. Galaxy S24 Ultra: Design and display

    Samsung seems to be gearing up for a substantial design revamp for the Galaxy S26 Ultra, assuming the leaked CAD renders of the new series are accurate. The Ultra is anticipated to align more closely with the standard S26 lineup, featuring even more pronounced rounded corners. This change should enhance ergonomics significantly compared to previous models. The device is also expected to be much thinner, with a thickness of just 7.8mm.

    This represents a significant improvement over the Galaxy S24 Ultra’s 8.6mm thickness. While there’s no word on weight, it’s expected to drop into the lower 200-gram range. Overall, you can anticipate a markedly better in-hand feel with the Galaxy S26 Ultra compared to the S24 Ultra.

    The Ultra series has consistently featured one of the best displays in any Android smartphone, and that’s set to improve further. Reports indicate that the Galaxy S26 Ultra will retain the slightly larger 6.9-inch display of its precursor, but it will incorporate a new Privacy Display feature. Clues regarding this feature were discovered in a One UI 8.5 teardown, indicating it will be exclusive to the S26 Ultra. This also suggests we’ll see new display technology in the Ultra, possibly the “Flex Magic Pixel” tech Samsung’s display team has developed.

    The Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra will emerge as more distinctive compared to the S26 Ultra, owing to its sharply angled edges. This boxy aesthetic has enabled the Ultra to distinguish itself from other Android flagships over the years. Naturally, this comes at the expense of ergonomics. It’s not the easiest phone to hold due to its substantial size and weight. However, build quality remains exceptional, ensuring that the device lasts long after software updates cease.

    The Galaxy S24 Ultra boasts one of the finest displays available in a flagship, a status it still holds today. Nonetheless, it isn’t flawless; certain units in the initial batches reported an issue known as mura, where not every pixel generated the same brightness level, resulting in a grainy appearance. It does feature an anti-glare coating, which significantly enhances visibility when viewing the display under bright sunlight or artificial light sources.

    Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra vs. Galaxy S24 Ultra: Performance and specs

    The Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra will likely utilize a customized version of Qualcomm’s new Snapdragon 8 Gen 5 SoC. This chip promises a 20% increase in both CPU and GPU performance while consuming 20% less power. Improvements have also been made to the neural processor for managing additional on-device AI operations. Other specifications are expected to include 12GB of RAM and up to 512GB of storage, with a 1TB variant and potentially 16GB RAM available in select regions, similar to the S25 Ultra. We may also see a fresh hero colorway for the Ultra, inspired by the iPhone 17 Pro.

    As for the launch date of the Galaxy S26 Ultra? Given Samsung’s trend of unveiling new S series models at the beginning of the year in January, we can anticipate the same timeline for the S26 Ultra as well. The phone should be released…

    Read More
    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Apple Intelligence Unveils More Than 20 Newly Added Features in iOS 26: Full List Accessible
    Apple Intelligence Unveils More Than 20 Newly Added Features in iOS 26: Full List Accessible

    # New Apple Intelligence Capabilities Now in iOS 26

    While Apple Intelligence may not yet present the significant Siri enhancements that were anticipated, a plethora of additional features has just been introduced in iOS 26. Here’s everything you need to know.

    In iOS 18, Apple Intelligence featured slightly over 20 functionalities. However, iOS 26 brings forth an additional 20+ features and enhancements—all within a single software update.

    Here’s the comprehensive list of new AI functionalities divided into four categories:

    ## Communication

    Communication takes center stage with Apple Intelligence in iOS 26, offering enhancements to the Messages, FaceTime, and Phone applications.

    ## Expanding into More Applications and Languages

    Apple has broadened the scope of Apple Intelligence to include new system and third-party applications in iOS 26, along with additional supported languages.

    – **Apple Maps Enhanced Search**: Improved, more efficient search capabilities in Maps thanks to AI.
    – **Shortcuts AI Actions**: Utilize actions that leverage Apple’s AI models, Writing Tools, or image generation features.
    – **Auto-Categorizing Reminders**: Effortlessly convert a messy list into a well-organized and categorized one.
    – **Reminders Suggestions**: Generate new reminders based on information from emails, websites, or notes.
    – **Apple Wallet Order Tracking**: AI will extract order tracking details directly from your email inbox, including Amazon orders.
    – **AI Models for Third-Party Applications**: Applications can utilize Apple’s Foundation Models to implement new AI functionalities.
    – **New Supported Languages**: Danish, Dutch, Norwegian, Portuguese (Portugal), Swedish, Turkish, Chinese (traditional), and Vietnamese.

    ## Image Creation Enhancements

    Apple’s Genmoji and Image Playground features have received several improvements in iOS 26.

    ## Miscellaneous

    Completing Apple Intelligence’s iOS 26 update, there’s a new battery mode, significant visual intelligence updates, and expanded notification summaries.

    Additionally, Apple has numerous watchOS 26 Apple Intelligence features that necessitate iOS 26 to operate the AI models, potentially qualifying them as iOS features as well.

    ## iPhone Compatibility for Apple Intelligence in iOS 26

    When Apple Intelligence was launched last year, it supported a limited number of very recent iPhone models.

    There’s some good news and bad news regarding iOS 26:

    – The good news is, if your iPhone supported last year’s AI capabilities, all of Apple Intelligence’s new features will function as well.
    – The bad news is, Apple has not extended AI support to any earlier devices.

    This means you will require an iPhone 15 Pro or Pro Max, or any iPhone 16, iPhone 17, or iPhone Air model to access the new features.

    Which new Apple Intelligence capabilities in iOS 26 do you enjoy the most? Share your thoughts in the comments.

    Read More
    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Apple Unveils Fix for Ongoing ‘Not Delivered’ iMessage Problem
    Apple Unveils Fix for Ongoing ‘Not Delivered’ iMessage Problem

    Apple has recently revised a support document that deals with frequent problems users might face with iMessages, specifically the “Not Delivered” notification, messages showing as SMS/RCS in green bubbles, or messages sent from an email address instead of a phone number.

    As stated by Apple, these problems can occur if users fail to activate their eSIM during the initial setup of a new iPhone running iOS 26. When users choose to configure their eSIM later through the Settings app, iMessage does not activate automatically, which can lead to potential messaging difficulties.

    To fix this, Apple advises users to manually activate iMessage after setting up their eSIM. The following steps outline the process:

    1. Launch the Settings app and tap on Apps.
    2. Choose Messages.
    3. Switch iMessage off and then back on.

    This advice is especially pertinent for users who bypass the eSIM setup during the initial configuration of their new iPhone, as well as for those who change carriers and set up a new eSIM later on.

    This isn’t the first iMessage-related issue reported since the launch of iOS 26. Earlier this month, Apple addressed another situation affecting users who were unable to activate iMessage with their phone numbers, providing further troubleshooting steps.

    Users encountering difficulties with iMessage since updating to iOS 26 or acquiring a new iPhone are encouraged to follow the mentioned steps to ensure proper activation and functionality.

    Read More
    • Richard
    • Comments Off on EU Regulations Do Not Prevent Apple from Bundling a Charger with the M5 MacBook Pro
    EU Regulations Do Not Prevent Apple from Bundling a Charger with the M5 MacBook Pro

    ### The Latest M5 14-Inch MacBook Pro: Unpacking the Charger Debate

    The recent launch of the new M5 14-inch MacBook Pro has ignited significant dialogue and misunderstanding, especially regarding its packaging in the UK and EU. Notably, the gadget does not come with a power adapter included, prompting many to assume this choice is driven by European Union regulations. Nevertheless, the situation is more intricate.

    #### What EU Regulations Indicate and Their Implications

    The European Union has taken a proactive stance on tackling the escalating problem of electronic waste (e-waste). Two central issues led to this emphasis, motivating the EU to introduce fresh regulations.

    1. **Variety of Charging Standards**: Traditionally, several manufacturers have employed different charging port standards for their devices, such as MicroUSB, MiniUSB, USB-C, and coaxial connectors. This lack of uniformity meant that consumers frequently ended up with obsolete chargers when upgrading their devices.

    2. **Excessive Charging Adapters**: Numerous consumers gather multiple chargers over time, contributing to waste. To address this, the EU’s **Common Charger Directive** requires that new devices standardize on USB-C charging ports. Furthermore, manufacturers must provide consumers the option to acquire devices with or without a charger, thus minimizing unnecessary waste.

    #### Implications for Apple

    It is essential to clarify what the EU regulations do not dictate:

    – **Support for Multiple Charging Standards**: The regulations do not prohibit companies from adopting more than one charging standard. It merely mandates that devices must be chargeable using USB-C. This latitude allows Apple to provide the MacBook Pro with both MagSafe and USB-C charging options.

    – **Provision of Chargers**: The regulations do not forbid companies from including chargers at no additional cost. Instead, they stress that consumers should have the choice. Apple’s decision to omit the charger from the MacBook Pro packaging is a tactical approach to sidestep the challenges of manufacturing two versions of the product in Europe.

    Apple could readily provide customers the option to add a charger to their purchase. The decision to charge for the charger is a business choice rather than a legal obligation.

    #### Summary

    The absence of a power adapter in the new M5 14-inch MacBook Pro is not a direct consequence of EU law disallowing such items, but rather a manifestation of Apple’s strategy to conform with the EU’s emphasis on minimizing e-waste. As consumers become increasingly environmentally aware, the option regarding the inclusion of a charger may be well-received, fostering a more sustainable approach to technology usage.

    Read More
    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Dylan O’Brien’s Beloved Sci-Fi Film Trilogy Tops Netflix’s Leading Rankings
    Dylan O’Brien’s Beloved Sci-Fi Film Trilogy Tops Netflix’s Leading Rankings

    licensed by platforms such as Netflix now represent approximately two-thirds of the revenue generated from films.

    Take for instance: The “Maze Runner” film trilogy, which, as of October 15, is occupying three positions on Netflix’s daily Top 10 movies list in the United States. Directed by Wes Ball, the trilogy consists of “The Maze Runner” (2014), “Maze Runner: The Scorch Trials” (2015), and “Maze Runner: The Death Cure” (2018), currently ranked at 5, 6, and 7 respectively on Netflix’s Top 10. Quite impressive for a franchise that’s over ten years old at this stage.

    Maze Runner films are popular on Netflix

    Read More