Author: Richard

Assessing Battery Conservation with iOS 26’s Adjustable Power Function

before iPhone users can access iOS 26. With the iOS 26 beta 8 and iOS 26 public beta 5 now accessible to testers, Apple appears to have only the Release Candidate (RC) version left to deliver prior to the final build’s debut in September.

That being said, it is quite improbable that Apple will release anything new between now and September 15, the anticipated date for the official launch of iOS 26. While we’ve evaluated various new features set to arrive in Apple’s upcoming software updates, one particular feature that emerged and warranted deeper analysis was Adaptive Power Mode, which speculations suggest might be an essential enhancement for the iPhone 17 Air.

Apple claims that with the activation of Adaptive Power Mode, the iPhone can prolong battery life by adjusting performance when battery consumption is elevated beyond the usual, such as dimming the screen brightness, reducing the speed of certain processes, or enabling Low Power Mode at 20%. However, after several weeks of evaluation, Adaptive Power Mode showed little to no impact on the battery life of an iPhone 16 Pro Max.

Will Adaptive Power Mode in iOS 26 really benefit your iPhone?

YouTube Music Implements Design Modification Influenced by Spotify

Galaxy S25 Ultra or the Pixel 10 Pro XL.

Currently, however, 9to5Google has reported that certain users have noticed they can utilize the app’s search feature through a new Search icon positioned centrally on the main toolbar at the bottom of the application. This location is essentially the same as the Search tab found in the Spotify app, which is not necessarily a disadvantage, as you should now find it easier to access while managing your phone with one hand.

YouTube Music’s latest search icon may not be here to stay

Utilizing Google Maps on a Garmin Watch: A Detailed Instruction Manual

We outline the process of downloading Google Maps, adjusting settings, and locating directions while exercising.

(Image credit: Michael Hicks / Android Central)

Garmin watches have finally gained access to Google Maps this summer, allowing you to mirror your phone’s directions to navigate to your location. However, be advised: the functionality is significantly more restricted compared to the Google Maps experience available on an Android watch, and it won’t be available for all Garmin users.

We want to clarify that iPhone users should temper their expectations; currently, only Garmin watches linked to Android phones have access to Google Maps. Additionally, not every Garmin watch is compatible with Maps.

If your phone and watch are compatible, setting up Google Maps on your Garmin watch should only take a few minutes. So let’s begin.

Assessing the Worth of the Pixel Tablet Following Major Labor Day Price Reduction on Amazon

A Pixel phone enhanced to the max.

(Image credit: Michael Hicks / Android Central)

Numerous tech gadgets are available. Some represent fantastic purchases with exceptional value, while others do not hold up. Most are in the middle ground.

Unless you have enough resources to acquire all options, you must determine if a product is the appropriate choice.

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Samsung Chromebook Offered at a Reduced Price During Best Buy’s Labor Day Sale

No attachments required

(Photo credit: Andrew Myrick / Android Central)

While many enjoy the final weekend of summer by unwinding, you may want to carve out some time for a visit to Best Buy. This is due to the fact that you can score a $150 discount on the superb Samsung Galaxy Chromebook Plus, making it the lowest price we’ve ever encountered.

Usually, there’s either a $50 markdown available, or a chance to save more through trading in your existing device. This time, however, you won’t discover any surprises in the fine print, allowing you to simply enter, purchase the Galaxy Chromebook Plus for $599.99, and exit.

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Reasons to Upgrade to the New AirPods 3

Apple’s “Awe dropping” event is officially scheduled for September 9, and it’s anticipated to spotlight the iPhone 17 and fresh models of the Apple Watch. However, according to recent reports, the much-awaited AirPods Pro 3 might also be unveiled at the event.

AirPods Pro 3 are projected to come with several significant enhancements, and they could very well take center stage. In a recent episode of the Upgrade podcast, hosts Myke and Jason addressed a listener’s challenge regarding forgetting their AirPods during travel. They concluded that buying a new pair at the airport would be the preferred choice, underscoring the vital role of AirPods Pro in everyday life.

Current AirPods Pro 2 users are keenly awaiting the forthcoming AirPods Pro 3, which are rumored to come equipped with a new H3 audio chip. This chip is believed to deliver enhanced noise cancellation and Transparency mode, quicker connectivity, and possibly extended battery life. Improved connectivity should also translate to advancements in features like automatic device switching.

Even slight enhancements in connectivity and active noise cancellation (ANC) can greatly improve the user experience, particularly for those who regularly use AirPods throughout their day. Furthermore, AirPods Pro 3 may offer heart rate monitoring support, akin to the newly released Powerbeats Pro 2. While this feature may not be especially beneficial for Apple Watch users, it acts as a handy backup.

One of the compelling motivations for upgrading to AirPods Pro 3 is the anticipation of continuous software updates that will boost functionality over time. Since their introduction in 2022, AirPods Pro 2 have consistently received updates, and there’s no reason to think that AirPods Pro 3 will be any exception, especially with the more robust H3 chip.

Although new iPhones come out every year, new AirPods Pro are somewhat of a rare gem. Many users are excited to upgrade to AirPods Pro 3 if they are released later this month.

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Current Offers: $300 Discount on MacBooks, Genuine Apple Watch Charging Cable from $11, Price Cuts on Mac mini, iPad mini, and Additional Items

As we near the Labor Day extended weekend, a notable selection of reductions on the latest Apple products is available. This features significant price slashes on various devices, making it an ideal moment for consumers to acquire new technology.

One of the highlight offers is on the official USB-C Apple Watch charging cable, now priced at just over $11. Additionally, the least expensive iPhone 15 Pro is experiencing discounts exceeding $320. The M4 MacBook Air and MacBook Pro models are also substantially marked down, with savings reaching up to $300 off their original prices. The M3 iPad Air series has had cuts of $150, matching the lowest prices recorded for the entry-level models.

### M4 Mac Mini Deals
Labor Day weekend introduces infrequent discounts on M4 Mac mini models, with certain configurations seeing reductions of up to $200. For example, the 16GB/1TB variant is currently priced at $899, down from the standard $999. Although Amazon has increased prices on some configurations, B&H continues to provide competitive rates on models that are not widely available elsewhere.

### M4 MacBook Air and Pro Deals
The M4 MacBook Air series is witnessing notable price reductions, with $200 off across various configurations. Both the 13-inch and 15-inch models are included in this promotion, with authorized retailers like B&H offering some of the best prices on enhanced models.

Conversely, the M4 MacBook Pro is also available at discounts reaching up to $300. With the possibility of new M5 models releasing shortly, these price reductions on the M4 models are especially enticing for those aiming to save on a powerful machine that will stay relevant for years. Highlighted deals include:

– 14-inch M4 MacBook Pro 16GB/512GB for $1,299 (Reg. $1,599)
– 14-inch M4 MacBook Pro 16GB/1TB for $1,499 (Reg. $1,799)
– 14-inch M4 Pro MacBook Pro 24GB/1TB for $2,099 (Reg. $2,399)

### Accessories and Charging Deals
Beyond the major device discounts, there are also numerous offers on accessories and charging solutions, adding to the overall value of the Labor Day sales event.

This Labor Day weekend offers a fantastic chance for consumers to capitalize on considerable savings on Apple products, whether upgrading their current devices or acquiring new ones.

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Future iPhone 17 Accessories from Apple: Speculated Characteristics and Information

Apple is poised to introduce its iPhone 17 series, along with a variety of new accessories that are sparking interest among technology fans. Here’s a glimpse at the expected accessories based on current speculation.

### TechWoven Cases

Apple is anticipated to reveal a new collection of cases known as TechWoven, set to take the place of the previously abandoned FineWoven cases. The FineWoven range encountered issues with durability, resulting in user dissatisfaction and its discontinuation after merely one year. The TechWoven cases are said to be constructed from a material akin to rPET (recycled polyethylene terephthalate), sourced from reused plastic bottles. Possible color choices for these cases are black, blue, brown, green, and purple, and they will cater to the entire iPhone 17 series.

### Crossbody Strap

Another accessory expected to make its debut with the iPhone 17 is a Crossbody Strap. This new addition is intended to complement the TechWoven cases, offering a practical method to carry the iPhone around the body. All new iPhone 17 cases are projected to include lanyard holes, while the Crossbody Strap will employ magnets for a reliable yet simple attachment.

### Smart Battery Case

Following the discontinuation of the Smart Battery Case previously, Apple might be reinvigorating this well-loved accessory with a new iteration specifically for the ultra-slim iPhone 17 Air. Reports indicate that iPhone 17 Air users may find it challenging to last through an entire day without a recharge, with only 60% to 70% able to achieve this. To counter this concern, Apple is working on a case that incorporates a battery pack, although it remains unclear if new Smart Battery Cases will be offered for the complete iPhone 17 series.

### Wildcard: Bumper Case

There are also whispers of a possible bumper case for the iPhone 17 Air, which would enable users to preserve the device’s ultra-slim profile while providing some degree of protection. This accessory is less confirmed than the rest but has been noted by industry insiders.

As the launch date nears, enthusiasm grows about which of these accessories will officially launch. Which rumored accessory excites you the most?

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Document Uncovers UK Pressured Apple for iCloud User Information

consented to drop its insistence for Apple to provide a “back door” to its encrypted data. Nonetheless, a fresh document indicates that the UK government sought access to even fundamental iCloud data. The Financial Times stated that although the U.S. has asserted its success in persuading the British government otherwise, the initial demand for Apple users’ data was more critical than initially perceived.

Based on a legal document reviewed by the outlet, the UK government aimed for access to users’ encrypted information as well as Apple’s conventional iCloud service. This court filing was issued by an unbiased judicial entity addressing complaints about UK security matters.

While Apple has warned of discontinuing iCloud services in the area, which would lead to the loss of FaceTime and iMessage functions, the company had already removed the optional additional layer of encryption, known as the Advanced Data Protection feature, from UK users in February.

The UK government has not provided feedback on the iCloud user data request, and Apple is unable to

As per the Financial Times, Apple got a communication from the UK Home Office several months back, which barred the company from publicly discussing the data request. However, the UK has neither confirmed nor denied the existence of this directive.

The request made to Apple reveals that the government was not only addressing the Advanced Data Protection feature, but also the standard iCloud service. The phrasing included

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Car Keys in Wallet Scheduled for Release for Two Highly Awaited Vehicle Models

### Rivian R1S and R1T to Launch Car Keys in Wallet Soon

Apple has made considerable progress in merging vehicle technology with its Wallet app, revealing earlier this summer that 13 new car brands will soon offer car keys within the app. Among the first to implement this feature are Rivian’s next-gen R1S and R1T electric vehicles, which initially announced compatibility with Apple car keys last June.

Car keys in Apple’s Wallet app offer users a seamless way to access their vehicles using just their iPhone or Apple Watch, removing the necessity for a physical key. This functionality has been eagerly awaited by users of compatible vehicles.

When Rivian introduced its latest R1S and R1T models, the company confirmed the inclusion of Apple car key support. However, the feature was not set for immediate release at that point. Now, over a year later, it seems that the much-anticipated car key support for these Rivian models is finally approaching.

Recent updates suggest that Apple has activated car key support for Rivian’s R1S and R1T. While the feature is not yet available for Rivian users, the company has assured that it is forthcoming. In a statement, Rivian mentioned that although the feature is live on Apple’s side, it has not yet launched on their end, but users should anticipate it soon.

With Apple having activated the feature, the rollout is expected to happen within days. This development heightens expectations for a wider array of new car key support as the other car brands announced by Apple prepare to go live.

As the integration of car keys into the Wallet app continues to progress, it remains to be seen how this feature will affect consumer preferences in the automotive sector. Will the convenience of Apple Wallet’s car key feature influence your next vehicle choice?

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