Brian Boland spent more than a decade figuring out how to build a system that would make Meta money. On Thursday, he told a California jury it incentivized drawing more and more users, including teens, onto Facebook and Instagram – despite the risks. Boland’s testimony came a day after Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg took the […]
Samsung’s Latest Galaxy Camera Improves and Fixes Low-Quality Images
Galaxy S26 Unpacked event is set for February 25, yet the company is already advertising various features anticipated to be included in one or more of the three flagship models. After unveiling a new privacy display technology and hinting at improvements in low-light video recording, Samsung on Tuesday introduced an enhanced camera experience that will bring a handful of new Galaxy AI editing capabilities, such as the ability to recreate missing components.
Samsung showcased the new features in a press release along with video demonstrations, which are provided below. Although Samsung did not disclose any of its new devices, it reminded readers about the Galaxy S26 registration offer they can utilize prior to the commencement of preorders, suggesting that the new Galaxy AI capabilities will be available on the upcoming flagships.
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In contrast to the privacy screen technology and the new low-light video enhancements, the Galaxy AI editing tools introduced on Tuesday may be accessible on all three models, not merely the pricier Ultra. Samsung did not specify any restrictions in the announcement, though the company did differentiate in a footnote between basic Galaxy AI features, which will be offered for free, and “enhanced AI features” that could incur costs. At this time, Samsung is not charging for any Galaxy AI features available on current Galaxy devices.
New camera experience on the way for Galaxy phones
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Xiaomi Recapitulates Previous Mistakes with the Redmi Note 15 Pro+
In 2026, the mid-range smartphone landscape is exceptionally competitive, with users demanding premium features at reasonable prices. Nevertheless, Xiaomi’s Redmi Note 15 Pro+ appears to fall short, particularly due to its choice to launch with Android 15 rather than the new Android 16. This decision casts doubt on Xiaomi’s dedication to delivering timely software updates, an essential element for many users focused on security and innovative features.
The lack of a telephoto lens poses another major limitation for photography lovers who seek diverse camera arrangements in mid-range devices. Although the 200MP primary camera provides remarkable images, the absence of a telephoto option restricts the phone’s camera capabilities in comparison to rivals like the POCO F8 Pro, which offers a more extensive photographic experience.
In spite of these flaws, the Redmi Note 15 Pro+ does possess several advantages. The device features an elegant design with a vegan leather finish, a sizable 6.83-inch AMOLED display, and a powerful 6,500mAh battery that guarantees all-day performance. It also includes IP69 ingress protection, delivering durability similar to premium devices.
However, the selection of the Snapdragon 7s Gen 4 chipset and UFS 2.2 storage might not appeal to users seeking high-end performance, especially when options like the Nord 5 provide superior specifications at a comparable price.
Overall, while the Redmi Note 15 Pro+ boasts certain qualities, its absence of the latest Android version and a telephoto lens, along with its pricing, render it a less attractive choice in the competitive mid-range market. Xiaomi may need to reevaluate its approach for the Redmi Note series to keep its advantage.
Garmin Timepiece Boasting Outstanding Battery Longevity Enjoys 40% Presidents’ Day Savings
Virtually Limitless Battery Duration Meets Durable Design This Presidents’ Day
For those who prioritize battery longevity in their devices, there’s just one Garmin watch offer you must check out this Presidents’ Day. The Garmin Instinct 2X Solar, recognized as one of the most efficient smartwatches for battery performance ever created, is now available with a 40% reduction during Amazon’s major sale. This is the lowest price the watch has EVER reached!
Robust, expansive, and packed with features, the Garmin Instinct 2X Solar captures solar energy to provide virtually limitless battery life. Additionally, it boasts military-grade toughness, a convenient built-in flashlight, and all the health and fitness monitoring technology that has established Garmin as a leader in the wearable market.
View the complete array of offers during Amazon’s Presidents’ Day sale.
Garmin Instinct 2X Solar (Tactical Edition): $499.99 $299.99 at Amazon
Currently $200 less during Amazon’s Presidents’ Day sale, the Garmin Instinct 2X Solar features a sturdy design, ample display, and virtually unending battery life. This marks the most affordable price that the ‘battery life champion’ has ever been, significantly surpassing the previous low set during the Black Friday promotions last November.
✅Recommended if: battery longevity and resilience are your top priorities when selecting a smartwatch; you simply desire precise health and fitness tracking without the extra features of a contemporary Android smartwatch.
❌Skip this offer if: you can afford the newer Garmin Instinct 3; you require all the latest software functionalities; you would rather have a sleeker, more lightweight smartwatch.
While the Garmin Instinct 3 has now taken the title of battery life leader, back in 2023 the Garmin Instinct 2X Solar was the longest-lasting wearable we had ever assessed, averaging 40 days on a single charge in smartwatch mode (without solar).
Engaging solar charging could theoretically allow the battery to last indefinitely, although once the percentage decreases sufficiently, you won’t have access to many features beyond basic health monitoring.
From a software perspective, the Garmin Instinct 2X Solar might seem somewhat minimalist compared to other recent fitness watches, yet it still offers vital features like ultra-accurate GPS, heart rate, and blood oxygen level tracking. The watch also includes sleep monitoring, stress monitoring, and respiratory data, along with classic Garmin functionalities like Body Battery and Training Readiness.
Nearly three years on, the Instinct 3 has emerged as the leading Garmin watch for battery longevity, but that newer version will also require significantly more expenditure. In terms of value for money, if you’re looking for a durable fitness watch with excellent battery power and all the fundamental health and fitness tracking features, the Garmin Instinct 2X Solar represents an incredible deal at this price.
Convertible Chromebook Priced Down by $220 for Presidents’ Day—Limited Time Promotion
The Acer Chromebook Plus 514 Spin is a multifunctional touchscreen laptop that has caught the eye for its remarkable features and versatility. This 2-in-1 Chromebook is praised for its touchscreen and adaptable hinged design, making it a preferred option for users desiring flexibility in their computer device. The gadget showcases a bright 14-inch display with a 120Hz refresh rate, guaranteeing fluid visuals and an immersive user experience.
Internally, the Acer Chromebook Plus 514 Spin is driven by the MediaTek Kompanio Ultra CPU and is outfitted with 12GB of RAM, offering sufficient power for a range of tasks. It also provides 256GB of storage, adequate for the majority of users’ requirements. Connectivity is well-equipped, featuring two USB-C ports, two USB-A ports, and a headphone/microphone jack, ensuring compatibility with numerous peripherals.
A highlight of this Chromebook is its enduring battery life, which Acer asserts can extend up to 17 hours on a single charge. This makes it an excellent selection for students and professionals who require a dependable device throughout the day. The Chromebook is also fitted with a backlit keyboard and operates on the user-friendly Chrome OS, providing access to Google’s latest Gemini AI tools.
The Acer Chromebook Plus 514 Spin is designed with longevity in mind, featuring military-grade construction with aluminum top and rear panels and robust hinges for various usage settings. Although it lacks an AMOLED display, its LCD screen still provides a pleasing viewing experience for most users.
Currently, the Acer Chromebook Plus 514 Spin is on sale at a reduced price, making it an appealing option for individuals in search of a powerful yet budget-friendly laptop. Whether you are a student, a professional, or someone who values adaptability in a laptop, the Acer Chromebook Plus 514 Spin is a persuasive choice that merges performance, versatility, and affordability.
Pixel Watch 4 Goes Back to Black Friday Pricing for Presidents’ Day Promotion
The Google Pixel Watch 4 presents significant enhancements compared to its predecessors. While smartwatch discounts are commonplace, it’s particularly invigorating to witness recent models receive attractive price cuts this Presidents’ Day. For instance, Amazon is offering a $50 reduction on the Google Pixel Watch 4, lowering the price to only $300.
The Pixel Watch 4 boasts the impressively smooth Wear OS 6, a 3,000 nit display with a distinctive design, and improvements in battery life and charging compared to earlier versions, making it a strong contender. In our hands-on review of the Pixel Watch 4, we highlight the watch’s enhanced performance speed and fluidity, thanks to a revamped Snapdragon chipset.
The overall design mirrors that of the Pixel Watch 3, but the inclusion of a domed screen under the glass lends it a unique touch that may not appeal to everyone. Nevertheless, we enjoyed it and appreciate Google’s efforts to keep its design innovative and well-aligned with the latest Wear OS features. In summary, this watch is an excellent choice if you’re seeking something in the $300 range.
Recommended if: you want one of the top Android smartwatches featuring Google’s latest OS and functions, and prefer a design that leans towards the smaller side; you require a watch equipped with satellite SOS and dual-frequency GPS; you seek a device with quick charging capabilities and sufficient battery life for extensive outdoor activities.
Avoid this deal if: you require something particularly durable or with a sapphire glass option; you prefer not to be tied into Fitbit Premium or similar subscription services; you are not fond of the distinctive design of the Pixel Watch 4’s dome display.
The Google Pixel Watch 4 stands out as one of the most competitive smartwatches available today, especially for those familiar with previous Wear OS devices. We thoroughly appreciate the Gemini Raise to Wake feature, enhancements to Wear OS 6, and the battery life, which can reach up to 72 hours in Battery Saver mode, or as much as 40 hours with the Always-On Display option. Charging takes approximately 15 minutes for a 50% charge, 25 minutes for 80%, and 45 minutes for a complete charge.
It also features Satellite SOS, dual-frequency GPS, a 3,000-nit AMOLED display, and a unique glass dome that we quickly grew accustomed to with use.
Regarding sensors, the device includes a compass, an altimeter, a barometer, a magnetometer, a 3-axis accelerometer, a gyroscope, a multi-path optical heart rate sensor, cEDA, SpO2, ECG, and a far-field skin temperature sensor.
Apple and Jon Prosser Work Together on Testimony for iOS 26 Leak Lawsuit
**Apple’s Legal Struggle Concerning iOS 26 Leak: An In-Depth Analysis**
In a recent joint status update, Apple has shared fresh details regarding its ongoing legal action against Jon Prosser and Michael Ramacciotti in relation to the iOS 26 leak. This article explores the case’s background, the present status of Prosser’s deposition, and the consequences for both parties involved.
### Some Background Information
The legal drama commenced in July when Apple initiated a lawsuit against Jon Prosser and Michael Ramacciotti, accusing them of the unauthorized use of trade secrets and breaching the Computer Fraud and Abuse Act. Apple alleges that Ramacciotti unlawfully accessed a developmental iPhone owned by Ethan Lipnik, a former employee of Apple. During this incident, Ramacciotti is said to have made a FaceTime call to Prosser, disclosing insights about the Liquid Glass redesign of iOS 26.
As the proceedings advanced, court filings suggested that while Ramacciotti complied with the requests from both Apple and the court, Prosser did not respond to Apple’s allegations within the required timeframe. As a result, the court issued a default judgment against Prosser, essentially meaning he relinquished his right to counter the claims.
In spite of the default ruling, Prosser insisted that he was in continuous dialogue with Apple and contested the assertions that he was neglecting the case.
### Apple and Prosser Arrange Deposition
In the most recent joint status report submitted by Apple and Ramacciotti’s legal counsel, both sides confirmed ongoing limited exchanges of discovery. Apple is presently endeavoring to determine the degree of Ramacciotti’s access to sensitive information on Lipnik’s iPhone.
The report has also indicated that Apple has issued subpoenas for documents and a deposition to Prosser. Prosser has recognized the receipt of these subpoenas, and conversations are in progress to set a date for his deposition. This collaboration implies that despite the court’s decision favoring Apple regarding liability, a line of communication persists between the involved parties.
The deposition is pivotal as it could elucidate the scope of the confidential information accessed and may affect the damages and remedies the court might grant to Apple.
### Apple’s Requests in the Lawsuit
In its filing, Apple has sought a jury trial and detailed various demands, including:
– A judgment in favor of Apple against the defendants on all counts.
– Injunctive relief as deemed necessary by the court.
– Determination of damages during the trial.
– Punitive damages for the purported willful and malicious theft of trade secrets.
– An injunction barring the defendants from utilizing or revealing Apple’s confidential information without prior written consent.
– Assistance in locating and disposing of any confidential materials in their possession.
– Pre-judgment and post-judgment interest at the highest permissible legal rate.
– Recovery of reasonable attorney’s fees and expended costs.
– Any additional relief that the court finds just and appropriate.
### Final Thoughts
The ongoing legal conflict between Apple and Jon Prosser, alongside Michael Ramacciotti, underscores the intricacies of intellectual property and trade secret regulations within the technology sector. As the case progresses, the outcomes of the depositions and succeeding court decisions will be crucial in shaping the future for both parties involved. The ramifications of this case reach beyond the individuals, potentially influencing how technology companies safeguard their proprietary information in an increasingly competitive environment.
$10K+ Reward Available for Disconnecting Ring Doorbells from Amazon’s Cloud
With Ring facing fierce backlash over its Search Party feature, a new program is challenging developers to move Ring doorbell footage off of Amazon’s cloud – and into users’ own devices. The Fulu Foundation, the consumer advocacy group cofounded by YouTuber Louis Rossmann, is offering an initial bounty of $10,000 to anyone who can integrate […]
Underwater Drones Utilizing This Battery Type Face Fire Hazards
Sussa Mgt/Shutterstock
Lithium-ion batteries have volatile electrolytes that render them prone to catching fire, even when used in an underwater drone. On February 4, 2026, a 12-foot-long underwater drone ignited while being moved on a trailer along Route 24 in Tiverton, Rhode Island. The drone was reported to possess a “significant amount” of lithium-ion batteries, leading to the need for a hazmat team from the Department of Environmental Management to safely manage the flames from the batteries.
Even though this event took place on land, it illustrates how lithium-ion batteries can ignite in various environments, including underwater. In fact, when a lithium-ion battery is submerged, it can be more prone to igniting. Lithium, being a highly reactive chemical element, interacts with water molecules, which can lead to a reaction that produces heat; sometimes sufficient to initiate a short circuit, fire, or even an explosion.
The occurrence in Tiverton exemplifies how even a slight external disturbance can trigger a chemical fire within a lithium-ion battery. Aside from generating heat through chemical reactions, the battery can emit flammable gases that can further fuel the fire. Subsequently, the battery may undergo thermal runaway, a phenomenon where the fire continues to sustain itself indefinitely. In Tiverton, the Route 24 on-ramp was closed for three hours as the hazmat team methodically cooled the batteries to prevent the consequences of thermal runaway.
How to safely handle lithium-ion batteries
Google’s Pixel ‘Now Playing’ Feature Said to Get App with Improved Functions
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