Author: Richard

    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Smartwatch Featuring Extended Battery Life Offered at 69% Off in Amazon’s Post-Labor Day Sale
    Smartwatch Featuring Extended Battery Life Offered at 69% Off in Amazon’s Post-Labor Day Sale

    This Wear OS smartwatch endures for several days on a single charge, boasts the same capabilities as a Pixel Watch, and will cost you only $109.

    (Image credit: Andrew Myrick / Android Central)

    Labor Day smartwatch discounts have generally come to an end, but if you’re in search of an exceptionally budget-friendly Android watch, seriously consider the TicWatch Pro 5 priced at $109 ($240 discount) on Amazon. With most Wear OS watches costing $350 and above, this represents substantial savings for a dependable, long-lasting smartwatch.

    The TicWatch Pro 5 debuted in 2023 as a notable Wear OS device, primarily due to its impressive 80-hour battery life per charge and 65% battery recharge in just 30 minutes. You’ll have access to your preferred Wear OS applications, powered by the same Snapdragon W5 Gen 1 chip utilized in the <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.androidcentral.com/wearables/google-pixel-watch-3" data-before-rewrite-localise

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    • Comments Off on An In-Depth Manual for Streamlining Your Complete Workflow Effectively
    An In-Depth Manual for Streamlining Your Complete Workflow Effectively

    While users of Mac and iPhone possess robust devices, the main obstacle lies in seamlessly integrating everything. Transferring files, synchronizing calendars, posting across different platforms, and managing tasks are vital yet monotonous. In this article, we’ll demonstrate how you can unleash your true productivity potential with automation that removes busywork, allowing you to concentrate on what truly matters. Continue reading to discover how 9to5Mac readers can save both time and money…

    ### Let self-hosted n8n serve your needs

    Though Mac and iPhone users already benefit from Shortcuts for swift automations, the primary issue is that most publishing, business, and collaboration tools exist online. n8n delivers the same automation capabilities to your online toolkit.

    Envision publishing from one device and having n8n automatically generate a social media post with tailored draft text, schedule alerts to your Google Calendar, and send a direct notification to your iPhone. Or consider placing files in cloud storage, and n8n automatically producing transcripts, summaries, and CMS drafts. It feels as if you’re expanding the reach of automation to every application and service you depend on.

    n8n is an open-source automation tool that links apps, services, and data through intuitive drag-and-drop workflows. While akin to Zapier, Hostinger’s offering empowers you with scalability in focus. By hosting it yourself on a virtual private server, you bypass per-task costs and retain complete control over your data.

    Hostinger provides an Ubuntu 24.04 template with n8n pre-installed within Docker. An additional pre-installed template contains over 100 ready-made workflows right from the start. This allows for a quick setup, with the option to shift into queue mode when you require more capacity. The system features unlimited workflows and executions, community-created nodes, and the capability to connect your own AI models and external tools.

    ### Hostinger AI assistant turns everyone into a pro

    Hostinger also enables you to manage the VPS with the ease of AI. Kodee is an MCP-powered AI assistant fluent in over 50 languages.

    You can input natural requests like “secure my server with HTTPS,” “check performance,” or “add a new user,” and Kodee will execute them or guide you through the steps. Managing your infrastructure becomes as straightforward as conversing with a helpful expert, eliminating the need for technical terminology.

    ### Easy setup that adapts to your requirements

    Starting out is quick:

    1. Select a VPS plan and use code 9to5mac for a 10% discount at checkout.
    2. Choose the Ubuntu 24.04 with n8n template. Hostinger sets up n8n in Docker for you.
    3. Access the n8n UI, link your services, and import an initial workflow.
    4. Switch to queue mode later if you require increased capacity.

    Hostinger support, tutorials, and the Hostinger Academy on YouTube are available whenever necessary. Additionally, there is a 30-day money-back guarantee.

    ### Pricing that remains stable and budget-friendly

    Self-hosting n8n means you only pay for the VPS plan. All plans include n8n:

    – KVM 1 starting at $4.99/month
    – KVM 2 starting at $6.99/month
    – KVM 4 starting at $9.99/month
    – KVM 8 starting at $19.99/month

    A strong entry point for many is KVM 2, featuring two vCPU cores, 8GB RAM, and 100GB NVMe SSD. Upgrading can be done in a few clicks to match your changing needs.

    While Zapier offers an extensive array of connectors, its per-task fees can accumulate quickly. n8n offers flexibility, customization, and scalability without concealed costs. When operated on your virtual private server, you have control over how many workflows run.

    n8n on Hostinger VPS is perfect for anyone seeking automation devoid of recurring software charges, including individuals and teams needing calendar management and publishing assistance, businesses linking payments and emails, and Apple users wanting to extend automation throughout their entire workflow.

    ### Enhance your productivity today and receive 10% off

    Unlock your productivity potential with self-hosted n8n on a Hostinger VPS.

    With limitless workflows, AI integration, and an easy setup, you can automate the tedious tasks that have hindered your workflows and consumed valuable time.

    Utilize the promo code 9to5mac to save 10%, and n8n on a Hostinger VPS to reclaim your time from repetitive busywork!

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Asteroid Holds Material from Before the Sun’s Existence
    Asteroid Holds Material from Before the Sun’s Existence

    sample collected from asteroid Bennu to Earth in 2023, researchers uncovered an ancient time capsule. Within were particles of dust and rock that predate our solar system. Some of Bennu’s material is so primordial that it existed before the sun itself, formed in dying stars long before our planetary system came into being. This aspect elevates Bennu beyond the status of a mere traveling asteroid. Each fragment from the samples provides insights into how the foundational elements from remote regions of our galaxy converged to create planets, moons, and even humanity. By analyzing these samples, scientists are able to peer more than 4.5 billion years into the cosmic history, a period when our solar system was essentially a swirling mass of gases and dust.

    However, this finding is not solely about its age. The scientists utilized these samples to establish a link among all the elements that eventually facilitated life on Earth. The same stellar blast that produced Bennu’s earliest dust particles infused the universe with stardust, which would ultimately serve as the essential components of life itself.

    Pre-Solar stardust and interstellar organics

    <img class="gallery-image " src="https://www.b

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on AR Glasses Dominate IFA 2025 Despite Significant Trade-offs
    AR Glasses Dominate IFA 2025 Despite Significant Trade-offs

    the latest washing machines could help the environment by filtering microplastics. The 2025 version of the event focuses on smart eyewear.

    As Meta’s collaboration with Ray-Ban and Oakley gains traction, it appears the industry is nearly prepared to keep pace, as brands unveil more choices with similar functionalities. At IFA 2025, I encountered operational eyewear from TCL, Rokid, and L’Atitude. Additionally, I noticed numerous prototypes set to launch soon from companies like Strong, Lomos, and AOC.

    Lomos showcased a prototype of their forthcoming AR glasses at IFA 2025José Adorno/BGR

    While the emergence of mainstream smart eyewear was thrilling, most manufacturers are focusing on the same features: capturing images, playing music, and providing live translations powered by ChatGPT, with approximately five hours of battery life. Although these specifications appear impressive on paper, my limited testing indicated lackluster performance in the “basic” AR glasses functionalities.

    Here are two smart glasses worth monitoring

    <source media="(min-width: 429px)" srcset="https://www.bgr.com/img/gallery/ar-glasses-take-center-stage-ifa-2025-but-not-without

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Enhancing Internet Speeds on Windows 11
    Enhancing Internet Speeds on Windows 11

    ending for Windows 10 shortly.

    If you’ve already transitioned to Windows 11 or intend to, it’s essential to leverage the upgrade for optimal internet performance. One method is to utilize Windows 11’s features to connect to the upgraded Wi-Fi 7. Another approach is to remove temporary storage files from both your Windows 11 device and Microsoft Edge to make sure nothing is hindering your internet speed.

    Connecting to Wi-Fi 7 on Windows 11

    <img class="gallery-image " src="https://

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Consequences of Google’s Major Court Triumph for Consumers
    Consequences of Google’s Major Court Triumph for Consumers

    On September 2, a federal judge determined that Google will not be required to divest Android or Chrome as part of the remedies phase of an antitrust lawsuit initiated by the U.S. Department of Justice. Although certain limitations have been imposed on Google’s operations as a monopoly, the notion of compelling the sale of Android or Chrome was perceived by most consumers as a crucial element of the lawsuit.

    The remedies implemented are not entirely advantageous for Google, yet this can be viewed as a victory for the tech giant, which narrowly avoided further disruption to its primary business centered around search and advertisements. Of course, the situation is far from resolved; another antitrust case concerning Google’s advertising operations is already in progress, with many more likely to follow. This specific case was advanced by individuals responsible for advocating our best interests, rather than those of Google’s rivals or emerging enterprises.

    It’s easy to assume that Google achieved another legal victory after having initially faced setbacks; Google was identified as a monopoly that employed unfair tactics to sustain its monopoly status. However, the imposed penalties seem relatively mild and are not expected to significantly affect Google’s operations or financial performance. The company’s stock rose nearly 8% in response to this “positive” news.

    While that may be true, other corporations desired or required a resolution like this, particularly the one you might not have considered: Apple. Google disbursed approximately 20 billion dollars to Apple in 2022 to retain its position as the default search engine on the iPhone. This arrangement can persist. Google’s not permitted to impose any additional conditions on the agreement, such as enforcing exclusivity, yet Apple can continue to accrue those substantial annual payments, which represent nearly one-fifth of its services revenue.

    Additionally, Apple is free to establish contracts with other firms to endorse their search engines and faces fewer restrictions on how it develops partnerships with AI collaborators. Google may not favor OpenAI becoming Apple’s default AI engine, but it is a possibility. This also allows competing AI firms, like OpenAI or Perplexity, to benefit from this arrangement.

    Smaller companies are likewise in a better position due to the ruling allowing Google to maintain its deals for default search services. Mozilla, in particular, would face significant challenges without Google’s support.

    As Google can continue its operations with Chrome as usual, nearly every web browser company stands to gain. Although they may express dissatisfaction on social networks, CEOs from companies like Brave recognize that no one else will sustain the code base that underpins their product as Google has.

    When there’s a “winner,” there must also be a “loser.” I identify two clear losers from this ruling: Microsoft and internet publishers.

    Microsoft does not rely on Google for the support and maintenance of Chromium, despite its Edge browser utilizing the engine. It is entirely capable of managing this independently and would have willingly done so if it could have expanded its web browser market share while Chrome diminished. With Google maintaining its operations as they have, Microsoft will need to invest more in order to compete.

    Finally, internet publishers will now experience Google, whose AI is already reshaping business models, disseminating some of the data it gathers with competitors. This means more AI companies will have the ability to bypass actual web articles in favor of an AI-generated response, diminishing web traffic and revenue for content creators. Many had hoped for some form of “opt-out” of AI web indexing without being penalized in standard search results, but such provisions were not included in the ruling.

    While it is intriguing to explore how this court decision will influence the financial standing of tech companies, what matters most to me (and many of you) is its implications for us, the over 3 billion Google users relying on the company’s products and services.

    The outcome is decidedly neutral. The lawsuit might have been initiated to safeguard users like you and me, but the result does not significantly address those concerns. Google will continue to operate as it has regarding consumers, even though some restrictions on its financial maneuvers exist.

    Your Android device and Chromebook will function just as they always have. The same applies to YouTube and Gmail. It’s possible we might observe slight variations in Search, but given the recent chaos surrounding it, would we even take note?

    The one way this ruling directly impacts users is that Google is required to share certain search index and user-interaction data with competitors. The specifics are not finalized, and the judge acknowledged the necessity for a cautious approach in this area, but the information you generate and provide to Google will ultimately be accessible to other companies.

    Google voices, “We have concerns about how these requirements will impact our users and their privacy, and we’re reviewing the decision closely,” but does not indicate intentions to appeal the ruling outright.

    The main distinction here is that prior to this, we understood the vast volumes of data Google amassed on all of us were kept internally. Now, some of that data will not be.

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    • Comments Off on Safeguarding Local Admin Accounts on macOS using EasyLAPS: Perspectives from Apple @ Work
    Safeguarding Local Admin Accounts on macOS using EasyLAPS: Perspectives from Apple @ Work

    ### Grasping EasyLAPS: Fortifying Security for macOS Admin Accounts

    Apple IT teams encounter a notable challenge while overseeing local admin accounts on macOS devices. While these accounts are essential for updates, troubleshooting, and device recovery, they also bring security concerns due to static or shared passwords. EasyLAPS presents a solution to this problem, offering automatic password rotation and secure storage for local admin passwords, thus improving security while streamlining management.

    #### Functionality of EasyLAPS

    EasyLAPS functions by changing the local admin password on a set schedule and securely storing it within your device management system or password manager. This framework preserves the account’s SecureToken and Volume Owner status, enabling it to carry out crucial tasks like unlocking the Mac, applying updates, and modifying startup security settings. IT administrators can retrieve the most recent password when necessary, keeping it hidden from end users, thereby reducing security risks.

    #### Two Password Storage Modes

    EasyLAPS provides two separate options for password storage, offering flexibility according to organizational requirements:

    1. **Logic 1**: This mode encrypts the password and retains it in both the device management system and the EasyLAPS Keychain. Only those with the EasyLAPS Toolkit and the private key can decrypt it, making it ideal for settings where multiple technicians can access the device management system, but only a few should be able to see the password.

    2. **Logic 2**: In this more straightforward mode, the password is kept in clear text within the device management system, with no local copy unless a rotation fails. This method necessitates tighter access controls to the device management system.

    #### Compatible Device Management Solutions

    EasyLAPS works with a number of device management solutions, such as:

    – Mosyle
    – FileWave
    – Jamf Pro
    – Jamf School
    – JumpCloud
    – Meraki
    – Microsoft Intune
    – Miradore
    – SimpleMDM
    – Omnissa

    Moreover, it can connect with Passwordstate for those employing it as their password management solution.

    #### Significance for Apple IT

    Utilizing static admin passwords presents a considerable security threat, especially if not managed properly. A breached password can provide unauthorized access to multiple devices. EasyLAPS alleviates this risk by guaranteeing that each Mac has a distinctive, regularly updated password. This strategy not only secures the devices but also reduces the burden of manual password resets and the risks linked to shared credentials.

    #### Summary

    For IT teams, EasyLAPS strengthens the security of local admin accounts through automated password management. It removes the need to monitor device updates or manually reset passwords after deployment. For security teams, it addresses vulnerabilities that could be taken advantage of by former employees or attackers. EasyLAPS functions effortlessly in the background, enhancing the security of Mac fleets without increasing operational burdens.

    For further details about EasyLAPS, visit

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on The Scientific Reason Behind the Sky’s Blue Hue
    The Scientific Reason Behind the Sky’s Blue Hue

    **Why Is The Sky Blue?**

    Looking up at the vast blue sky can create a feeling of gazing into the endless. That expanse of blue hovering above seems limitless, yet it may surprise you to learn that it only appears blue to us because of a specific physical process. Although it sadly doesn’t involve any enigmatic green spirits in the sky, it does encompass a considerable amount of science.

    The blue hue of the sky is due to Rayleigh scattering: a physical occurrence where sunlight is scattered as it interacts with molecules and particles in the Earth’s atmosphere, resulting in blue being the main visible wavelength. In addition to determining the color of the sky, Rayleigh scattering is also a reason why some people’s eyes can appear green.

    This phenomenon also influences the appearance of sunrises and sunsets, as it contributes to the scattering of blue wavelengths, producing those recognizable red and orange tones. It also gives our occasionally picturesque sun its characteristic yellow color when viewed from Earth. When Rayleigh scattering collaborates with another scientific phenomenon, the outcomes can be truly breathtaking.

    **What is the real color of the sky?**

    Before diving into the reasons behind the blue sky, here’s a brief introduction. The sunlight that penetrates the Earth’s atmosphere radiates nearly every wavelength in the electromagnetic spectrum, albeit not in equal amounts. This spectrum embodies all varieties of electromagnetic radiation, including microwaves, X-rays, infrared light, ultraviolet light, and visible light. Visible light represents the colors our eyes interpret, all linked to specific wavelengths on the spectrum. Blues and purples have shorter wavelengths, while reds and oranges possess longer wavelengths.

    As sunlight passes into the Earth’s atmosphere, it interacts with the molecules within it, such as oxygen, nitrogen, and other tiny gases and particles. Since these molecules are smaller than light waves, they scatter the wavelengths, with shorter waves like blue scattering more than longer waves like red. This process is what we previously referred to as Rayleigh scattering.

    In essence, sunlight interacts with atmospheric molecules, redistributing wavelengths towards the blue end of the visible spectrum. This results in a predominance of blue light wavelengths, giving the sky its well-known look. As renowned scientist Bill Nye states, “The sky is blue because the molecules in the Earth’s air are just the right size and just the right distance apart to cause the blue light to scatter more than the red light” (via Sophia Learning). Because of the cones that detect light in our eyes, we find it challenging to perceive the purples that should also exist in the sky.

    **What causes a sunset to be red?**

    As the sun lowers in the sky, its light must travel through a denser layer of the Earth’s atmosphere. The density of the atmosphere combined with a longer travel distance scatters blue light even more, leaving only red and orange light in the spectrum. “At sunset, so much blue light is scattered so strongly, because the atmosphere is a little thicker with respect to the path of the sun, that all that’s left is red light,” explains Nye. “It’s not magic. It’s science.”

    In addition to atmospheric molecules affecting the sky’s color, cloud droplets can also impact the sky’s appearance. If the droplets are similar in size to or larger than the wavelengths, the visible wavelengths will scatter evenly across the sky. This phenomenon is known as Mie scattering, which is why a cloud might seem white. Denser clouds might look gray due to the obstruction of more light, or the cloud may even take on a slightly blue tint if it isn’t receiving direct sunlight, reflecting the sky’s color.

    If you’ve witnessed a beautiful sunrise where the sun triumphs over the clouds, it’s a result of Rayleigh scattering and Mie scattering working together. Rayleigh scattering assists in removing all the blues, while Mie scattering highlights the reds in the clouds, crafting a visual spectacle that can be utterly magnificent to behold.

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Get ready for Tuesday’s Apple Event with Bingo Cards and Backgrounds
    Get ready for Tuesday’s Apple Event with Bingo Cards and Backgrounds

    ### Apple’s “Awe Dropping” Event: What to Anticipate

    In merely three days, Apple is poised to present its much-awaited “Awe Dropping” event, during which the tech titan is anticipated to reveal the iPhone 17 series, the Apple Watch Ultra 3, and possibly other thrilling products. The occasion is sure to be a noteworthy event for Apple fans and technology enthusiasts alike.

    #### Event Information

    The Apple Event keynote will be live-streamed commencing at 10:00 AM PT / 1:00 PM ET. Audiences can join via Apple’s official site, YouTube, or the Apple TV app. This gathering is especially thrilling as it signifies the launch of new offerings that could transform user interactions and shape trends within the tech sector.

    #### Wallpapers for Celebration

    To boost the enthusiasm prior to the event, a number of creators have provided distinctive wallpapers.

    – **Basic Apple Guy** presents a selection of wallpapers, including a stunning gradient choice. You can view his collection [here](https://basicappleguy.com/haberdashery/awe-dropping).

    – **Lore** has also contributed several imaginative wallpapers, available on their profile [here](https://x.com/lrxfo).

    – Moreover, custom wallpapers tailored for iPad and Mac can be found on my site [here](https://www.dylanmcd.com/blog/awe-dropping-wallpapers/).

    #### Bingo Sheets for Event Enjoyment

    For those wishing to introduce an element of fun to the event, bingo sheets are up for grabs to keep viewers entertained.

    – **Basic Apple Guy** has devised a bingo sheet inspired by rumors and expectations regarding what Apple might launch. You can take a look at it

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