Author: Richard

YouTube Addresses Mobile App Crash Problem; Recommends iOS Users to Redownload the App

**YouTube Application Fails on Mobile Devices: Fixes and News**

Recently, numerous users have reported that the YouTube application is crashing and exhibiting playback problems on both Android and iOS gadgets. Complaints have emerged across diverse platforms, including Reddit, where individuals expressed their dissatisfaction with app failures, video playback problems, and general lack of responsiveness.

In reaction to these concerns, Google has recognized the issue and is diligently pursuing a resolution. The company suggests that users temporarily remove and reinstall the YouTube application from their respective app marketplaces while they implement a more lasting solution.

### Situation Update

As per a recent communication from Google’s support staff, the glitches affecting the YouTube mobile applications have been resolved. For Android users, the fix is simple: just update the application via the Google Play Store to restore standard functionality. However, iOS users encounter a different situation. If you are utilizing an iPhone or iPad and still face issues, Google recommends that you need to uninstall and then reinstall the application from the App Store to fix the problems.

### Reactions from Users and Effects

Even though the complaints are widespread, the issues do not seem to be serious enough to require an official statement from Team YouTube on social media. Furthermore, the app crashes were not connected to YouTube’s ongoing actions against ad blockers, despite some users speculating otherwise.

### Final Thoughts

If you continue to face crashes or lack of responsiveness with the YouTube application on your mobile device, it is recommended to adhere to Google’s advice by reinstalling the application, particularly for iOS users. For Android users, merely updating the application should be sufficient. As is always the case, user feedback is vital, so if issues remain, sharing your experiences in comments or forums can help bring attention to ongoing difficulties for the developers.

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macOS Tahoe Debuts Enhanced Spotlight Clipboard Manager, Creating Opportunities for Powerful Third-Party Applications

### The Newly Introduced Spotlight Clipboard Manager in macOS: A Transformative Tool for Everyday Users

The recent unveiling of the latest Spotlight feature at WWDC25 has sparked considerable enthusiasm among macOS users. This update brings a built-in clipboard history functionality, regarded as a significant enhancement for both casual and advanced users. Nevertheless, while this addition is welcomed, some users, including myself, are not quite ready to let go of current clipboard management options.

#### Progress in Clipboard Management

The launch of a clipboard history feature is something that many users have long been looking forward to. It recognizes the significance of clipboard history as a crucial resource for productivity. However, the initial release in the Developer beta permits users to view clipboard history only for a limited span of eight hours.

In comparison, my present clipboard manager, Keyboard Maestro, presents a robust option with a searchable repository that can keep hundreds of clips, enabling me to retrieve items copied days or even weeks in the past. This functionality has been indispensable, helping to save time and effort in recovering misplaced work, text, links, images, and files.

#### Comparing Features: Spotlight vs. Keyboard Maestro

Although Spotlight’s clipboard manager is a positive new feature, it falls short of the comprehensive functionalities that specialized clipboard management tools offer. Here are various features that Keyboard Maestro provides, which are not currently found in Spotlight:

– **Endless History**: Keyboard Maestro can store up to 200 clips by default and allows for an expanded limit.
– **Application Exclusions**: Users can designate specific applications to be excluded from clipboard tracking.
– **Automatic Protection**: It can automatically safeguard clipboard items that look like passwords.
– **Image Previews**: Users can view images along with details such as size and dimensions.
– **Combining Clips**: The feature to consolidate several clipboard items into one entry.
– **Text Conversion**: Users can change any clipboard entry to plain text prior to pasting.
– **Marked Favorites**: Certain clippings can be designated as favorites to avoid automatic deletion.
– **Custom Pasting Options**: The ability to paste a previously saved clipboard item instead of the latest one.

#### The User-Friendliness of Spotlight’s Clipboard Manager

Spotlight’s clipboard manager is crafted to be simple and intuitive, which is crucial for drawing new users into clipboard management. A complicated feature set could overwhelm casual users, preventing them from delving into more sophisticated workflows. By keeping it uncomplicated, Apple encourages users to progressively adopt clipboard management practices, possibly motivating them to investigate more advanced tools down the line.

For newcomers to clipboard management, Spotlight serves as an exceptional introduction. As users grow comfortable with the function, they might find themselves depending on it more than they anticipated. Furthermore, there is a variety of third-party clipboard management applications accessible for those looking to explore more advanced options prior to the public beta or final release of macOS Tahoe 26.

#### Final Thoughts

While the updated Spotlight clipboard manager is a major advancement for macOS, it may not serve as a substitute for specialized clipboard management tools for advanced users. Its simplicity and user-friendliness create an excellent foundation for casual users, but those in need of more comprehensive features will likely continue to depend on existing tools like Keyboard Maestro. As Apple rolls out this functionality, users will have the chance to decide whether a simpler tool can satisfy their requirements or if they will seek out more sophisticated alternatives.

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Streaming Platforms Overtake Cable and Broadcast Television in Popularity

In a groundbreaking development, Americans in the previous month dedicated more time to consuming content on streaming platforms such as Netflix than to viewing content on cable television and broadcast networks. Furthermore, the time spent on streaming services surpassed the combined viewing time of cable and broadcast channels. This information comes from Nielsen and was initially highlighted by The New York Times.

Although streaming has been favored over cable since late 2022, this represents the first instance where the hours on streaming platforms exceeded those of cable and broadcast TV combined. In the past month, streaming accounted for a 45% share of total viewing hours nationwide, while cable and broadcast TV together represented a 44% share.

Older viewers are turning to streaming platforms

One compelling statistic from the report indicates that this remarkable milestone is not solely due to younger viewers abandoning cable. Instead, it stems from older Americans finally embracing streaming. However, these older viewers are not necessarily engaging with HBO and Netflix in large quantities. Conversely, the report indicates that they are increasingly drawn to free streaming services like Tubi, which may be influenced by two key factors.

First, it’s reasonable to believe that many Americans aged 65 and older are more budget-conscious or economical regarding their entertainment choices. Secondly, platforms such as Tubi offer a wealth of classic television content that may be attracting these viewers. For example, Tubi features an entire category labeled Nostalgia TV filled with classic titles like Kojak, Murder, She Wrote, Gilligan’s Island, I Dream of Jeannie, and many others.

The NYT reports:

Older viewers have a significant presence in television viewership, contributing to one-third of all viewing. They have been migrating to streaming services rapidly over the past few years—especially those that are free and require no subscription. For instance, since 2023, viewers over 65 represent the fastest-growing demographic for watching YouTube on television.

Quality programming is more prevalent on streaming platforms

Simultaneously, it is well-known that cable and broadcast TV are struggling to compete with streaming services in producing captivating content. In essence, this is not only a financial issue but also a matter of quality. Not long ago, high-caliber content would frequently premiere on cable TV before transitioning to streaming platforms like Netflix. Mad Men and Breaking Bad serve as notable examples. Currently, however, premier quality TV series seem to launch almost exclusively on streaming platforms, including Succession, Hacks, Ted Lasso, and The Handmaid’s Tale.

The rationale behind this trend is likely twofold. Firstly, streaming services generally offer creators greater artistic liberty during production, along with more flexibility regarding violence and language. Secondly, companies like Netflix and Apple are not hesitant to allocate substantial funds that broadcast networks might be unwilling to match. Consequently, this creates a cyclical dilemma. In earlier times, networks like NBC had no qualms about spending $1 million per episode for each lead actor on Friends. While this was a substantial investment, the benefit was that the show gained immense popularity and attracted millions of viewers. Now, as audiences shift away from broadcast TV, justifying large expenditures on a show becomes increasingly challenging.

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Apple’s Compromised iPhone Camera Employed to Record Genuine Racing Footage for F1 The Movie

### Shot on iPhone: Tailored Camera Module for F1 Film

Apple has made a daring move in the realm of filmmaking by embedding its technology into the fast-paced domain of Formula 1 racing. For its forthcoming F1 film, Apple instructed its engineers to develop a tailored camera module utilizing iPhone parts to supplant the conventional onboard cameras employed in live race telecasts. This groundbreaking tactic aims to provide genuine, driver-view perspectives that enrich the cinematic experience.

#### But… Why?

According to Wired, director Joseph Kosinski and cinematographer Claudio Miranda aimed to capture authentic racing viewpoints. However, the issue emerged from the necessity to install a camera on an F1 vehicle without disrupting aerodynamics or safety. Conventional Hollywood cinema cameras are excessively cumbersome and heavy for such high-speed settings, while typical broadcast cameras fall short in the cinematic quality needed for the film. Apple recognized this chance to demonstrate its engineering expertise by crafting a compact, iPhone-powered camera system capable of enduring the challenges of F1 racing.

#### iPhone Sensor, A-Series Chip, and Tailored Firmware

To satisfy the particular needs of the F1 atmosphere, Apple engineered a camera rig that, while not resembling an iPhone on the outside, integrates an iPhone camera sensor and an A-series chip internally. It is believed that the rig employs the 48MP sensor and A17 Pro silicon found in the iPhone 15 Pro.

Furthermore, the rig features an iPhone battery and a neutral density (ND) filter to grant filmmakers enhanced control over exposure in bright settings. The footage is recorded in ProRes Log format, permitting extensive color grading and seamless incorporation with the remainder of the film.

One significant technical limitation is that F1 rules ban active radios in the vehicles, hindering wireless camera control. To overcome this restriction, Apple devised a custom iPad app that links to the camera rig via USB-C, allowing filmmakers to modify settings such as shutter angle, ISO, white balance, and frame rate.

The footage filmed with this revolutionary system will be integrated throughout the F1 movie, which is scheduled to debut worldwide on June 25 and in U.S. theaters and IMAX on June 27.

Apple TV+ provides a subscription service for $9.99 per month, featuring popular series and films, including “Ted Lasso,” “Severance,” “The Studio,” “The Morning Show,” “Shrinking,” and “Silo.”

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Nintendo Shuts Down Multiple Switch 2 Consoles, Limiting Them to Offline Operation

**Nintendo Switch 2: Overcoming the Hurdles of the Quickest-Selling Console**

The Nintendo Switch 2 has captured the attention of gamers everywhere, swiftly establishing itself as the quickest-selling console ever. Its soaring popularity makes it tough to find a unit without preorders or buying it on launch day. Nevertheless, the thrill of owning a Switch 2 carries possible drawbacks, especially if you face problems that disrupt your console’s functionality.

A major anxiety for Switch 2 users is the possibility of their console being blocked from online services. This predicament surfaces when individuals utilize the MiG Switch/Flash tool, a microSD utility that has resulted in connectivity bans. Numerous users have reported seeing error code 2124-4508, which signifies that Nintendo has limited online services for their console. This limitation continues even following a factory reset, rendering affected consoles incapable of accessing online features.

While offline gaming is still feasible on a banned Switch 2, the inability to participate in online multiplayer, acquire content from the Nintendo store, or transfer game save data reduces the overall enjoyment of the console. Beloved games like Mario Kart cannot achieve their full potential without online interaction.

The scenario is further muddled by the ambiguity from Nintendo about the length of these bans. The error message hints at a temporary restriction, but no exact duration is specified, keeping users uncertain.

For individuals who have restored their consoles to factory settings, such as YouTuber Scattered Brain, the outcomes are severe. A full reset leads to the loss of access to offline games, effectively turning the console into an costly, non-operational unit.

As the Nintendo Switch 2 continues to lead the market, potential buyers and existing owners must stay alert regarding the tools and modifications they employ. Until Nintendo offers further clarification or a solution, the threat of a console ban remains a significant worry for the gaming community.

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Initial Glance: Utilizing Apple Vision Pro alongside PlayStation VR Controllers

**Apple Vision Pro and PSVR2 Controller Integration: A Transformative Leap in Spatial Computing**

During its latest software event, Apple announced thrilling updates for the Apple Vision Pro headset users: the upcoming compatibility with Sony PlayStationVR2 (PSVR2) controllers. This feature, combined with other six-degrees-of-freedom spatial controller accessories, enriches the Vision Pro’s key input options, which feature sophisticated eye and hand tracking.

### Improved Engagement with visionOS

The inclusion of PSVR2 controllers into the visionOS platform is set to significantly enhance the user experience. As showcased by Nathie on YouTube, users can maneuver through the visionOS interface by utilizing a mix of eye tracking and the physical controls of the PSVR2. By merely gazing at an app icon and activating the controller’s trigger, users can effortlessly select applications. The thumbstick on the controller facilitates effortless navigation across pages and selection of various items, ensuring the interaction remains intuitive and smooth.

### Engaging Virtual Environments

A key highlight of the Vision Pro is its capacity to generate engaging virtual environments. Upon entering these digital spaces, the headset instinctively modifies the view to suit the user’s hands and controllers, resulting in more organic interactions with the virtual realm. This characteristic is especially useful in applications like Freeform, where the accuracy of the PSVR2 controller provides superior drawing inputs compared to the built-in hand tracking options.

### Gaming Opportunities

Although the emphasis on PSVR2 controller integration may at first focus on gaming, the potential uses go far beyond that. Presently, there are no publicly accessible games that leverage the new lower-latency and precise controller inputs, but developers are anticipated to launch compatible games when visionOS 26 releases this fall. This could herald a considerable transformation in how users engage with gaming on the Vision Pro.

### PSVR2 Controller Access

A significant hurdle remains: at this moment, Sony does not sell PSVR2 controllers independently; they are exclusively available as part of the PlayStation VR headset package. Nevertheless, rumors suggest that Apple might sell standalone PSVR2 controllers in its retail locations, akin to how it offers DualShock controllers for use with iPhones, iPads, and Macs. This would facilitate easier access for users seeking the enhanced gaming experience without the necessity of buying an entire headset.

### Summary

The announcement regarding PSVR2 controller integration for the Apple Vision Pro headset represents an encouraging advancement in spatial computing and immersive experiences. By amalgamating eye tracking, hand tracking, and now advanced controller inputs, Apple is paving the path for a new horizon of interaction in both gaming and productivity landscapes. As fall nears and additional titles are released, the complete potential of this integration will start to materialize, providing users with a more enriching and captivating experience.

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PlayStation and Xbox Start Hinting at Their Forthcoming Next-Generation Consoles

The Nintendo Switch 2 has made a notable mark in the gaming sector by achieving the status of the fastest-selling game console ever, moving over 3.5 million units within a mere four days post-launch. This astonishing milestone has attracted the interest of key rivals, PlayStation and Xbox, leading them to more candidly discuss their forthcoming strategies.

The PlayStation 6 from Sony is reportedly a critical focus for the firm, as stated by Sony Interactive Entertainment CEO Hideaki Nishino. While specific information remains confidential, Nishino highlighted that the advancement of the platform is a top priority and that Sony is dedicated to investigating new and improved methods for gamers to interact with their content and services. In spite of the excitement, documents from 2022 indicate that the coming generation of consoles, including the PS6, may not debut until the fall of 2028. Nevertheless, with Nintendo’s prevailing success, there is potential for Sony’s schedule to be revised.

At the same time, Xbox has unveiled a strategic alliance with AMD to collaboratively design chips for its upcoming consoles. This partnership strives to enhance the player’s experience by providing cutting-edge graphics, more engrossing gameplay through AI, and ensuring compatibility with current Xbox titles. Xbox has been more forthcoming regarding its future intentions compared to PlayStation, with speculation indicating a possible release timeframe for the next Xbox in the fall of 2026. Should Xbox adhere to a similar timeline to the Xbox Series X, which was revealed in June 2019 and released in fall 2020, a new console could be introduced as soon as next fall.

As the gaming landscape continues to transform, the rivalry among these leading entities is expected to escalate, with each organization aiming to deliver distinctive and pioneering experiences to captivate gamers around the globe.

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Trump Once More Prolongs Deadline for TikTok’s Sale or Prohibition

**TikTok’s 90-Day Lifeline: A Summary of the Executive Order**

The White House has announced that President Donald Trump is set to sign a new executive order that will provide TikTok with a 90-day reprieve to evade a ban in the United States. This action marks the third occasion on which the enforcement of a law, which officially commenced in January, has been postponed.

As stated by White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt, the government intends to keep TikTok operational for its 170 million American users while negotiating a deal that safeguards user data. Leavitt remarked, “President Trump does not want TikTok to be unavailable. (…) This extension will endure for 90 days, during which the Administration will work to finalize this agreement, enabling the American populace to use TikTok with the confidence that their data is secure and protected.”

In spite of bipartisan legislation that compels ByteDance, TikTok’s parent company, to divest the app or face a ban, the platform remains accessible. The initial deadline for either a sale or a ban lapsed in mid-January, triggering a short 14-hour interruption before Trump stepped in with a 75-day extension. After that extension expired, another 75-day pause was introduced, and now TikTok has been granted yet another 90-day stay.

This recent extension aligns with continuous discussions between the U.S. and China aimed at mitigating trade and technology disputes. President Trump has voiced hopefulness about securing an agreement, indicating that any potential sale of TikTok would likely necessitate consent from the Chinese government. He mentioned, “I think we’ll get it. I think President Xi will ultimately approve it, yes.”

The prospective deal that was nearing completion earlier this year involved a coalition of American venture capitalists, private equity firms, and technology companies that would establish a U.S.-controlled TikTok spinoff, with ByteDance retaining a minority interest capped at 20%. Multiple bidders have surfaced, including Amazon, the AI company Perplexity, and a collective of celebrity investors led by YouTube’s MrBeast.

For now, ByteDance-owned TikTok has been granted another 90 days in the U.S. App Store, permitting its users to keep interacting with the platform while negotiations progress.

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