Author: Richard

Kuxiu X97: Convert Your Vehicle into a Portable Cinema with This Charging iPad Holder – In-Depth Review

### Kuxiu X97 Pro Max: The Premier Magnetic Charging iPad Stand for Your Vehicle

At the start of last year, Kuxiu launched the X33 Pro Max iPad stand, a revolutionary device that incorporated pin connectors into a magnetic base for charging your iPad. This creative design not only offered a robust stand but also enabled quick charging, greatly improving the user experience. Building on this achievement, Kuxiu has now introduced the X97 Pro Max, a mountable, magnetically charging iPad stand created specifically for automotive use. Here’s all the essential information about this thrilling new product.

#### Specs and What’s Included

Kuxiu guarantees that the X97 Pro Max includes all essential parts for effortless installation in any vehicle. The box contains:

– [X97 Pro Max magnetic charging plate](https://kuxiu.co/products/kuxiu-x97-ipad-stand?ref=bjyfkxdn)
– Rear headrest mount
– Air vent mount clip
– Braided 1M USB-C cable

The stand boasts exceptional charging and sizing features:

– Delivers 18W charging to the iPad when secured
– Fully adjustable with a 65mm telescopic arm and a tilt/swivel ball joint
– Supports both portrait and landscape views
– Adjustable headrest rod distance between 55mm and 155mm
– Leather-textured finish on the metal plate to safeguard the iPad and vehicle seat

The materials used in crafting the stand convey a sense of quality, while the option to affix it to a headrest or air vent provides adaptability for various user preferences.

#### My Experience

When I received the X97 Pro Max, I was primarily concerned about two aspects: the ease of installation and the magnet strength. I wanted to be sure that the iPad would stay securely in place during bumpy rides.

##### Installation

Setting up the stand was remarkably simple. I chose the headrest mount, which uses a spring-loaded clamp, removing the requirement for tools. The entire assembly took less than a minute. I fastened the clamp, connected the metal plate with a ball joint, adjusted the angle, and secured it—straightforward and fast.

#### How We Used It

The main application for the X97 Pro Max occurred during our family road trips from New Jersey to Florida. With a three-year-old in the back seat, screen time is often crucial for keeping her entertained. The mount enabled her to watch her favorite programs without needing to hold the iPad, minimizing the chance of neck strain and keeping the device stable.

I was pleasantly surprised by the magnets’ strength; they securely held my M4 iPad Pro in place, even on rough roads. Moreover, the stand could serve as an excellent solution for older vehicles wishing to upgrade their infotainment systems, facilitating navigation and media streaming directly from the iPad.

#### Pricing, Compatibility, and Availability

The

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Reestablishing the Launchpad on macOS Tahoe: A Comprehensive Tutorial

Apple’s forthcoming macOS Tahoe brings a fresh design, enhanced Apple Intelligence capabilities, and a revamped Preview app, alongside an entirely new Spotlight. This updated Spotlight allows for new actions, such as executing shortcuts to summarize a document, send a photo, and more. However, this AI-driven Spotlight also eliminates the cherished Launchpad.

If you happen to be someone who opened up Launchpad to click on an app whose name you didn’t even recall but was vital to your workflow, you may find this shift challenging once macOS Tahoe debuts later this year.

That’s why we thought it would be beneficial to show you how to reinstate the Launchpad on your Mac in macOS Tahoe. After all, if it’s not broken, it might not require fixing. With that said, to accomplish this, you’ll need to utilize the Terminal app. Here’s what to do:

– Launch The Terminal app with your admin account; the app can be found in Applications and Utilities.
– Type the following command and press Return: sudo mkdir -p /Library/Preferences/FeatureFlags/Domain
– Input your Mac’s password and press Return once more
– Now, enter the new command line and hit Return: sudo defaults write /Library/Preferences/FeatureFlags/Domain/SpotlightUI.plist SpotlightPlus -dict Enabled -bool false
– Restart your Mac to recover your Launchpad and the previous Spotlight.

If by any chance you choose to switch back to Apple’s all-new Spotlight and wish to discard the Launchpad on macOS Tahoe, repeat the same steps, but substitute this command instead:

– sudo defaults write /Library/Preferences/FeatureFlags/Domain/SpotlightUI.plist SpotlightPlus -dict Enabled -bool true

After rebooting your Mac, you’ll once again experience the all-new macOS Tahoe Spotlight without the Launchpad. Now that you know how to restore the Launchpad in macOS Tahoe, you’re free to decide whether you still require it or not.

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Device Management Migration Launched with iOS 26 and macOS 26 in Apple @ Work

**Apple’s 2025 Fall Releases: A Revolutionary Shift in Device Management Transition**

Among the most impactful enhancements in Apple’s 2025 fall releases for IT administrators is the launch of automated transitions between device management services. This capability tackles the issues formerly related to changing platforms, which often demanded significant manual effort, scripting, and interruptions for users. With the debut of iOS 26 and macOS 26, Apple facilitates direct migrations without necessitating device wipes or app data loss, representing a major leap forward for IT teams overseeing Apple devices.

### Reasons to Transition Device Management Services

Companies might explore moving to a different device management platform for several factors, including cost efficiency, improved functionalities, or the integration of devices from an acquired organization. Apple’s latest migration tools make the procedure easier, supporting a clean and uncomplicated shift. The migration accommodates a variety of devices, such as iPhones, iPads, Macs, and Vision Pro, as long as they are enrolled using Automated Device Enrollment.

### The New Migration Procedure Explained

For users of Apple School Manager or Apple Business Manager, the migration pathway incorporates new features to establish deadlines, inform users, and designate a new device management server. The transition process consists of decommissioning the old system and seamlessly activating the new one.

#### User Experience During iOS Transition

Users receive notifications ahead of the migration, with reminders intensifying as the deadline nears. If users fail to act by the specified date, the device will automatically reboot and re-enroll in the new system. Apple has crafted this method to reduce disruptions, permitting users to reconnect to Wi-Fi if necessary without an intrusive full-screen prompt.

#### User Experience During macOS Transition

The macOS migration procedure is more prominent, showcasing a full-screen prompt that helps users navigate the transition. This guarantees that users are informed about the process and can authorize the migration if needed, all while ensuring security and transparency.

### What Is Retained During Migration?

A significant advantage of the new migration approach is that if the new device management system installs the same apps before setup completion, all app data remains intact. Users are not required to download apps again, making the transition feel fluid from their viewpoint.

### Are There Any Drawbacks?

Although the migration process is made simpler, there are critical factors to consider. Devices must be operating on iOS or macOS 26 or higher, and manual enrollments via Apple Configurator need to go through a 30-day provisional phase. Furthermore, migrations do not presently accommodate Apple Business Essentials, requiring manual oversight until this capability is introduced.

App licenses, especially for volume-purchased applications, demand attentive management. Old tokens must be deleted and swiftly uploaded to the new system to prevent access complications. Additionally, if devices are connected to a Wi-Fi network through a configuration profile, that profile will be eliminated during migration, necessitating user intervention to reconnect.

### Conclusion

This update significantly diminishes the obstacles for businesses contemplating a change in device management providers, enabling them to select superior solutions without the encumbrance of a complicated migration initiative. Although the process is not entirely plug-and-play and necessitates careful strategy and communication, it signifies a substantial enhancement for IT teams managing large collections of Apple devices. As organizations gear up for the transition, the advantages of Apple’s 2025 fall releases are set to improve the efficacy and effectiveness of device management.

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Google Expands Computing Capacity for OpenAI to Address Rising AI Needs

OpenAI’s demand for AI is skyrocketing, prompting Google to step up with greater resources.

What you need to be aware of:
– OpenAI is now relying on Google Cloud to support the backend infrastructure for ChatGPT and various AI tools.
– Google Cloud will now be the backbone for ChatGPT’s Enterprise, Edu, Team plans, and the API.
– Sam Altman cited the persistent GPU shortage as a key factor in the decision to engage multiple cloud providers.

OpenAI is enlisting Google Cloud to aid in managing the backend for ChatGPT along with its other AI offerings. Essentially, Google is coming in to assist with some of the significant work behind the scenes.

Historically, the AI powerhouse has exclusively depended on Microsoft Azure for its operational needs. However, as demand surges, it’s adjusting its strategy to broaden its backend framework and minimize reliance on Microsoft.

This represents the initial significant step in that direction. As reported by CNBC, OpenAI is set to commence running segments of ChatGPT on Google’s cloud. OpenAI’s revised sub-processor list indicates that Google Cloud will now be instrumental in facilitating ChatGPT’s Enterprise, Edu, and Team plans, in addition to the API components.

OpenAI’s CEO Sam Altman has been clear, recently highlighting the GPU shortage as a significant motivator behind the need to expand and diversify its cloud partnerships.

Speculation regarding the OpenAI-Google Cloud arrangement first emerged in June, albeit with ambiguous details at that time.

Google’s understated success:
OpenAI aligning with Google Cloud is a definitive advantage for Google. While it lags behind AWS and Azure, Google’s cloud infrastructure will now support OpenAI’s operations in the U.S., UK, Japan, the Netherlands, and Norway.

This update likely goes unnoticed by many users, yet it marks a significant strategic transformation. OpenAI, which is supported by Microsoft and frequently competes with Google in the AI sector, is now procuring computing resources directly from Google. Both companies have invested billions to advance AI, competing across various domains including chatbots and search, yet they are sharing some of the same server infrastructure.

By diversifying its cloud partnerships, OpenAI reduces the risk of over-reliance on a single provider. A greater variety of options leads to more favorable agreements and priority access to the latest processors.

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“Significant Fantastic Four Spoilers Uncovered Before Premiere”

It’s finally happening. *The Fantastic Four: First Steps* is set to debut next week after years of anticipation for Marvel to finally introduce the First Family to the MCU. The red carpet premiere is scheduled for Monday, July 21, and will be livestreamed on Disney Plus. The film will be released in theaters next Friday, with previews available in some locations on Wednesday and Thursday.

However, we don’t need to wait until next week to uncover at least one major *Fantastic Four* spoiler, and possibly two. This is because Marvel seemed pleased with director Matt Shakman revealing a few thrilling details about the film during a comprehensive interview regarding what leading *Fantastic Four* meant for him. Shakman previously worked on *WandaVision* before landing the *Fantastic Four* role, making him well-acquainted with the confidentiality surrounding MCU projects.

**That said, I must caution you that significant spoilers may follow below, so you might prefer to steer clear of them until you watch the movie.**

### John Malkovich’s villain excised

Marvel enthusiasts eager to see John Malkovich in an MCU film might be disappointed by this piece of news. The cherished actor was slated to portray one of the antagonists in *The Fantastic Four: First Steps*. Reports of his casting circulated, and Marvel even validated his involvement when the *Fantastic Four* synopsis was unveiled.

Speculation surrounded the villain the actor might embody, with some guessing he would take on the role of *Fantastic Four* nemesis Red Ghost, who had yet to appear in any prior films. He wasn’t the primary antagonist of the movie, something we were already aware of. Galactus (Ralph Ineson) stands as the main threat the Fantastic Four will confront.

Shakman confirmed to *Variety* that the rumors were accurate. Shakman cast Malkovich as Red Ghost in a scene at the film’s beginning. However, the actor was ultimately removed from the final edit. The director explained that this decision was a matter of equilibrium:

> There was a lot to juggle in this film, and some elements had to be eliminated. John is one of my favorite people and one of my greatest inspirations. It was heartbreaking not to include him.

The actor also acknowledged his removal from *The Fantastic Four* in an interview with *GQ*.

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Analyst Anticipates Wrinkle-Free Designs for Galaxy Z Fold 8 and iPhone Fold Variants

The forthcoming iPhone Fold could potentially feature a design devoid of creases, with the next Galaxy Z Fold model possibly taking the same route. Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo reports that Fine M-Tec is pouring millions into “bolstering the expanding foldable device market and rising demand for ultra-precision laser processing capabilities.”

Kuo indicates that this financial commitment validates his previous forecast that Apple’s “stricter requirements for a crease-free iPhone Fold will speed up the adoption of laser drilling for the production of display metal plates.” In an earlier report, Kuo noted that the metal plate of the display is crucial, as it plays a key role in preventing creases in a foldable display. “Since the plate must be precisely aligned with the display design, the specifications of SDC’s crease-free solution for Apple also encompass the metal plate crafted by Fine M-Tec,” a translation of Kuo’s commentary clarifies.

Samsung Display will persist in its longstanding collaboration with Apple to manufacture these displays. A report from last week disclosed that Samsung has already initiated display production for the iPhone Fold, having established a dedicated line for Apple’s foldable smartphone. The facility is capable of producing 35,000 displays monthly and employs the 6th-generation OLED panel. With a capacity of 1.25 million panels monthly, or 15 million annually, this should sufficiently meet Apple’s target of selling 6 to 8 million iPhone Fold units within the first year.

In recent months, speculation regarding the iPhone Fold has intensified. Current reports indicate that Apple intends to reintroduce the Touch ID sensor and utilize the highest quality materials available to guarantee the foldable device’s early success, even if it may not match the camera capabilities of the soon-to-be-released iPhone 18 Pro models.

Equally compelling in Kuo’s recent report is the indication that Samsung is also looking to implement the same technology in the Galaxy Z Fold 8. The South Korean company will likewise utilize metal plate manufacturing for its upcoming foldable device.

That said, while the Galaxy Z Fold 7 stands as Samsung’s finest foldable to date, featuring stunning inner and outer displays along with an ultra-slim design, the company has at least one more surprise awaiting customers soon in the form of a trifold smartphone.

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Apple is set to unveil three eagerly awaited products this autumn

Apple’s Imminent Fall Launch: Expected Products

Apple is preparing for a major fall launch period, with over 15 new products anticipated to be unveiled. Among these, three key products have sparked considerable enthusiasm due to their much-anticipated updates and innovations.

### 1. AirTag 2

The initial AirTag debuted more than four years ago, and it has not undergone any hardware updates since its introduction. However, speculation indicates that an upgraded version, AirTag 2, is finally in the works. Anticipated features for the new AirTag include improved tracking functionality and possibly fresh design elements. For those who have been delaying their purchase of AirTags, the wait for AirTag 2 may be nearing its end.

### 2. New Apple TV 4K

The Apple TV 4K has experienced an erratic release history, with updates happening at uneven intervals. The last two models launched in 2021 and 2022, but enthusiasts have been looking forward to a new version since then. Thankfully, a new Apple TV 4K is scheduled to debut this fall. While particular features remain mostly undisclosed, expectations include an upgraded A18 chip, support for Apple Intelligence, a potential integrated camera, and a custom Wi-Fi and Bluetooth chip.

### 3. Ultra-slim iPhone 17 Air

The iPhone 17 Air is set to be transformative, substituting the Plus variant in Apple’s range with an ultra-slim profile. This model signifies a major design shift, representing the first substantial alteration in the iPhone’s form since the iPhone X in 2017. While it promises a cutting-edge look, there may be compromises in battery longevity and camera capabilities. Apple aims to align the iPhone more closely with Jony Ive’s vision of a unified “single slab of glass” design.

As the launch date nears, excitement mounts around these groundbreaking products. Which of these forthcoming releases are you most eager about?

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All We Understand Regarding Silo Season 3 Launch and Information

Apple’s most successful endeavor yet, Severance, is not the only sci-fi triumph within the Apple TV+ library. The dystopian drama Silo concluded its second season last autumn, and season 3 is progressing well. Here’s all we know about Silo season 3 so far.

## Season 3 Broadens the Narrative Beyond the Silos

Silo season 2 wrapped up with a notable cliffhanger. While the series has primarily unfolded inside the underground silos, the season 2 finale introduced some changes. Creator and showrunner Graham Yost confirmed that this hints at what’s ahead:

“Yes, we’ll be outside, and we will be in the world, and there will be sunshine,” Yost stated, referring to the brighter elements of Season 3.

As anyone familiar with the complete series of books that Silo draws from understands, it’s safe to assume that many non-silo scenes are on the horizon for season 3.

## New Leading Actors Join the Ensemble

In relation to that finale cliffhanger, Silo season 3 is set to bring two new lead actors to the ensemble. As first depicted in the closing scene of season 2, Ashley Zukerman and Jessica Henwick will significantly join the cast next season. Juliette and the familiar faces from Silo will remain, but some new characters will also be introduced.

## Total of Four Seasons on the Way, with Full Apple TV Approval

Silo is inspired by a trilogy of novels by Hugh Howey, providing the show’s creators with a ready-made blueprint. The narrative of Book 1 was divided across both seasons 1 and 2 of the series. It is anticipated that books 2 and 3 may not be strictly adhered to chronologically in the adaptation. Instead, events from both books will be interwoven in the forthcoming seasons 3 and 4.

Apple TV+ has granted the green light for all four seasons of Silo. Once season 4 is released, the series will reach its conclusion.

“It has been a profoundly rewarding journey to adapt Hugh’s monumental novels alongside our partners at Apple, and we are excited to bring this complete story to the screen over four seasons,” remarked showrunner and executive producer Graham Yost. “With the concluding two chapters of ‘Silo,’ we can barely wait to offer fans an incredibly fulfilling resolution to the numerous mysteries and unanswered questions that lie within the confines of these silos.”

## When to Anticipate Silo Season 3 on Apple TV+

Silo enthusiasts will be pleased to learn that season 3 is progressing well. Apple TV+ has just announced today that season 3 has officially finished filming. There’s still a significant amount of post-production work left before the new episodes can be launched. However, it’s a positive indication that production is moving forward without delays.

While things can change, it appears that Silo season 3 will likely premiere by late 2025 at the earliest, and more probably in early 2026—roughly 12-18 months after the last season’s release.

Apple TV+ costs $9.99 per month and features popular TV series and films like Ted Lasso, Severance, The Morning Show, Silo, and Shrinking. There are also several options to watch for free.

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Samsung Clarifies the Design Journey for Its Most Sleek Galaxy Z Fold 7 and Z Flip 7 Models

Samsung has revealed the detailed process behind the development of its slimmest foldable smartphones, the Galaxy Z Fold 7 and Flip 7, showcasing the technological progress that has facilitated these devices. The company concentrated on enhancing the internal elements, especially the hinges and display technologies, to reach unparalleled thinness and improved user experience.

The Galaxy Z Fold 7 incorporates a third-generation Armor FlexHinge, which decreases the device size by 27% and reduces its weight by 43% compared to earlier models. This hinge is not only more compact but also retains the durability of its predecessor. Moreover, the hinge’s wingplate enables the display to rest flatter when entirely opened, boosting the overall look and functionality.

Samsung has further advanced the display technology, cutting its thickness by 39% while utilizing ultra-thin glass (UTG) that is 50% denser, lessening the visibility of the crease. The Fold 7’s display is brighter and sports a 21:9 aspect ratio, delivering a broader viewing experience. The device’s camera system features a 200MP lens, accomplished by reengineering the camera structure to accommodate the lens without sacrificing the device’s sleek design.

The Galaxy Z Flip 7 has also experienced considerable modifications, with its profile shrinking to 13.7mm when folded and 6.5mm when opened. The Flip 7 showcases an edge-to-edge cover display that encircles the dual camera lenses, providing a 4-inch screen that supports various functionalities. Samsung has cut the bezels by 68%, claiming it to have the world’s slimmest display bezel on a foldable.

A notable alteration in the Fold 7 is the exclusion of the S Pen, which was eliminated along with its digitizer to attain the device’s slender 8.9mm thickness. Samsung has suggested the possibility of reinstating the S Pen in upcoming models, potentially investing in R&D for a more compact version.

In summary, Samsung’s innovations in hinge and display technologies have enabled the company to create its slimmest foldable devices to date, offering users a refined and immersive experience.

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Think About Holding Out for the Google Pixel 10 Pro Fold: Here’s the Reason

Samsung has completely transformed the foldable market, yet Google isn’t backing down.

(Image credit: Andrew Myrick / Android Central)

Following Google’s unexpected reveal of the Pixel 9 Pro Fold, the brand demonstrated its ability to launch a foldable that can stand with the best. With the next Made by Google event occurring on August 20 and Galaxy Unpacked now behind us, our focus shifts to what the Pixel 10 Pro Fold has in store.

Naturally, this won’t be the sole device introduced at the event, as Google’s complete flagship phone range is expected to be updated. Additionally, we might also see a new Pixel Watch alongside fresh smart home technology. With the Galaxy Z Fold 7 now available, the question arises: should you hold out for the Pixel 10 Pro Fold?