Author: Richard

    • Richard
    • Comments Off on iOS 18.1 Improves Business Messaging with the Addition of RCS Support – 9to5Mac
    iOS 18.1 Improves Business Messaging with the Addition of RCS Support – 9to5Mac

    # iOS 18.1 Update: A New Chapter for Business Messaging with RCS Integration

    Apple is preparing to launch its much-anticipated iOS 18.1 update next week, introducing a variety of fresh features and improvements to its mobile operating system. One of the standout modifications is the addition of Rich Communication Services (RCS) integration for Business Messaging, a function that aims to upgrade the way users connect with businesses via the Messages app.

    ## The Development of Business Messaging

    Apple’s foray into business messaging commenced years back with the launch of Business Chat, now referred to as

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on “Must-Have Travel Gear: LISEN Phone Holder for Avid Travelers Showcased in MagSafe Monday – 9to5Mac”
    “Must-Have Travel Gear: LISEN Phone Holder for Avid Travelers Showcased in MagSafe Monday – 9to5Mac”

    # The LISEN Universal Flight Airplane Phone Holder Mount for MagSafe: An Essential Travel Accessory

    Traveling often brings a blend of thrills and challenges, especially when you’re flying. With restricted space and the necessity to stay connected, the right accessories can significantly enhance your journey. This year, after spending a good amount of time in airports, I came across the LISEN Universal Flight Airplane Phone Holder Mount for MagSafe—a revolutionary accessory for iPhone users that improves the travel experience.

    ## Design and Construction Quality

    The LISEN phone holder distinguishes itself with its clever design. It’s compact and travel-friendly, easily fitting into a carry-on, backpack, or even a spacious pocket without adding extra weight. Made from premium aluminum, the holder is both lightweight and sturdy, ensuring its durability under travel pressures while remaining easy to transport.

    ## Usage Scenarios: Ideal for Air Travel

    One of the key benefits of the LISEN phone holder is its practicality in flights. Air travel frequently poses challenges like limited tray table space and the discomfort of holding a phone for long periods. The LISEN holder tackles these problems with its adjustable angles and 360-degree rotation features.

    You can simply attach it to the tray table, modify the viewing angle, and enjoy hands-free usage of your phone—whether you’re watching a film or catching up on work. The robust magnetic connection guarantees that your phone stays firmly in place, even in turbulence, while the base adheres to surfaces without leaving marks, safeguarding airplane tray tables and other areas.

    ## Beyond Flights: Multifunctional Uses

    Though the primary application for the LISEN phone holder is during flights, its usefulness stretches far beyond air travel. Here are some other situations where this accessory excels:

    ### At Home

    For remote employees, the LISEN phone holder functions as an excellent desk accessory. Its adjustable angles make it perfect for video conferencing or virtual meetings, enabling users to glance at their phones without needing temporary stands. It also acts as a small stand for streaming videos or FaceTime sessions.

    ### Content Creation

    For those creating content, the LISEN phone holder provides a portable option for filming or photographing content on the move. Its stable base and adjustable angles are ideal for achieving steady shots while traveling or recording tutorials. The ability to attach it to various surfaces, from tables to luggage handles, allows for unique angles and perspectives that conventional tripods may not allow.

    ### Cooking Aid

    Another useful application is within the kitchen. The holder can be secured to a kitchen counter, positioning your iPhone at the perfect height to follow recipes or cooking videos. This hands-free setup makes multitasking easier while preparing meals.

    ## Conclusion: A Trusty Travel Accessory

    In summary, the LISEN Universal Flight Airplane Phone Holder Mount for MagSafe is a robust, highly efficient tool for anyone seeking a dependable and versatile phone holder. Its design caters to frequent travelers but is also useful for daily activities, whether at home or while out. Featuring a strong magnetic hold, reliable construction, and a compact folding design, this accessory significantly enhances the convenience of your tech collection.

    For those who travel often or just want a trustworthy phone holder for various tasks, the LISEN phone holder has become a crucial element of my travel tech kit. You can purchase the LISEN phone holder from [Amazon](https://amzn.to/3ZTGSt3) or directly from

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    • Comments Off on “Enterprise Confronts the Gorn in Latest ‘Strange New Worlds’ Clip”
    “Enterprise Confronts the Gorn in Latest ‘Strange New Worlds’ Clip”

    ### Star Trek Universe Expands: New Clips, Renewals, and Premiere Dates Revealed at NYCC 2024

    The Star Trek franchise continues on its thrilling journey to explore new frontiers, with captivating announcements and previews showcased at New York City Comic-Con (NYCC) 2024. Attendees were privileged to witness exclusive content, updates on forthcoming seasons, and information about both new and existing characters. Here’s a summary of the key moments from the event.

    —

    ### **Strange New Worlds: Season 3 Sneak Peek**

    Among the most awaited reveals was a three-minute sneak peek from the third season of *Star Trek: Strange New Worlds*. The series, which has received acclaim for its revival of episodic storytelling akin to *The Original Series*, is set to return in 2025 for its next installment. Although details about the upcoming season have been scarce, the NYCC footage provided an exhilarating preview of the action-packed escapades that lie ahead for the crew of the *USS Enterprise*.

    The clip resumes from where Season 2 concluded, presenting the *Enterprise* under siege by the Gorn, a formidable species that continues to pose a threat. Tensions rise as Captain Pike (Anson Mount) and his crew race against time to devise a strategy to outsmart the Gorn and protect their vessel. The crew hatches a plan aimed at disrupting the Gorn’s light-based communication system and embarks on a bold mission to rescue crew members stranded aboard a Gorn ship. The footage concludes with a cliffhanger, showing the *Enterprise* perilously close to colliding head-on with a Gorn destroyer.

    In addition to the thrilling space confrontation, fans were elated to discover that Cillian O’Sullivan will join the cast as Dr. Roger Korby, a legacy character from *The Original Series*. Korby, a respected archaeologist, was first introduced in the episode “What Are Little Girls Made Of?” as the long-lost fiancé of Nurse Chapel. This development is bound to create tension in Nurse Christine Chapel’s (Jess Bush) existing relationship with Spock (Ethan Peck).

    The third season of *Strange New Worlds* is scheduled to debut in 2025, and the series has already received a renewal for a fourth season, assuring fans of more journeys in the future.

    —

    ### **Lower Decks: Final Season Approaches**

    Another significant announcement was the unveiling of a new clip from the fifth and final season of *Star Trek: Lower Decks*. This animated series, cherished for its humor and intricate references to *Star Trek* lore, will finish its run with a season that promises to be as outrageous and thrilling as ever.

    In the new clip, the crew of the *USS Cerritos* confronts yet another quantum fissure, a recurring element that creates “space potholes” throughout the Alpha Quadrant. As the *Cerritos* becomes ensnared in the gravitational pull of the fissure, they find themselves face-to-face with an alternate-dimension version of their ship, helmed by Mariner’s doppelgänger, Captain Becky Freeman. The teaser hints at the kind of comical escapades that *Lower Decks* enthusiasts have come to cherish.

    The final season of *Lower Decks* is set to debut on Paramount+ on October 24, 2024, running until December 19, 2024. While fans are heartbroken to see the show come to a close, its creators have assured a fulfilling conclusion that will pay homage to the essence of the franchise.

    —

    ### **Section 31: Michelle Yeoh Returns in Star Trek Spinoff Film**

    Perhaps the most thrilling news for fans of *Star Trek: Discovery* was the announcement of the confirmed premiere date for *Section 31*, a spinoff film featuring Academy Award-winning actress Michelle Yeoh. The film is slated to launch on January 24, 2025, and will delve into the more sinister aspects of the *Star Trek* universe via the lens of Section 31, a clandestine black ops faction within Starfleet.

    Yeoh will reprise her role as Phillipa Georgiou, a character who has enchanted viewers since her debut in *Discovery*. The film will explore the background of Georgiou’s Mirror Universe counterpart, a merciless emperor known for her reign of terror and numerous atrocities. Miku Martineau will portray a younger version of Georgiou, offering fans a profound insight into her transformation into the formidable leader displayed in earlier seasons.

    The storyline will follow Georgiou as she confronts her past while serving Section 31, assigned with safeguarding the United Federation of Planets against both internal and external threats. The film is expected to tackle themes of redemption, loyalty, and the ethical dilemmas associated with operating in secrecy.

    —

    ### **Starfleet Academy: Renewed for a Second Season**

    In addition to the thrilling announcements regarding *Strange New Worlds* and *

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Android 15 Upgrade Causes Freezing Problems on Certain Pixel 6 Devices
    Android 15 Upgrade Causes Freezing Problems on Certain Pixel 6 Devices

    # A Grave Case of the Mondays for These Older Pixel Phones: Pixel 6 Series Struggles with Android 15 Issues

    Google’s Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro owners are encountering a challenging beginning to the week, as reports emerge regarding complications linked to the latest Android 15 update. What should have been an exhilarating enhancement has turned into a maddening ordeal for some, with devices becoming unresponsive or even rendered useless after activating a certain feature known as “Private Spaces.” This predicament follows a series of challenges that have affected the Pixel 6 series throughout 2024, raising concerns about the reliability of Google’s older devices.

    ## Key Information to Consider

    – **Users on Reddit** have shared experiences of difficulties with the Pixel 6/6 Pro following the Android 15 update.
    – The problem seems to be associated with the **Private Spaces** feature, which is causing some devices to become unresponsive or bricked.
    – The Pixel 6 series faced a similar ordeal in July 2024, where a factory reset bug rendered devices inoperable.

    ## The Android 15 Update: A Blessing or a Curse?

    Google’s Android 15 update, which began rolling out to Pixel devices last week, was anticipated to introduce numerous new security features and enhancements. However, for certain Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro users, the update has proven to be more of an obstacle than an asset.

    ### The Issue: Private Spaces Rendering Devices Inoperable

    The dilemma appears to be connected to the **Private Spaces** feature, a recent addition in Android 15 that permits users to conceal sensitive apps and information. While intended to boost privacy, it seems to be causing serious challenges for some users.

    A Reddit user known as **GegoByte** reported that activating Private Spaces on their Pixel 6 after upgrading to Android 15 caused their device to become entirely unresponsive. In their post, they cautioned fellow users:

    > “Avoid enabling the private space feature if you upgrade to Android 15. I unlocked the private space area, launched an app I had installed there, and it bricked my Pixel 6.”

    The user mentioned that they were unable to power their device back on or reboot it using the conventional methods provided by Google. Another user proposed trying to access the boot menu, but GegoByte indicated that even this was not an option.

    ### Additional Accounts Emerge

    Regrettably, GegoByte’s situation is not a singular occurrence. Another Reddit user disclosed that their **Pixel 6 Pro** ceased functioning after updating to Android 15, despite retaining a 45% battery charge. Connecting the device to a charger proved fruitless, and Google’s troubleshooting techniques also failed to bring the phone back to life. This issue notably arose after enabling Private Spaces.

    While these reports raise alarms, it’s essential to emphasize that they do not seem to be widespread. Some users have successfully updated to Android 15 and activated Private Spaces without encountering any problems. However, for those affected, the issue is grave, rendering their devices inoperable.

    ## A Challenging Year for the Pixel 6 Series

    The Pixel 6 series has experienced a tough 2024. Earlier this year, users faced a problem with factory resets that bricked devices. After attempting a factory reset, some users encountered a “Cannot load Android system” error, which left their phones unusable. This problem was eventually fixed with an **August 2024 security patch**, but it left numerous users feeling exasperated.

    Now, with the Android 15 update bringing further complications for some users, it appears that the Pixel 6 series is again under scrutiny for negative reasons.

    ## Recommended Actions

    If you are a Pixel 6 or Pixel 6 Pro user who has upgraded to Android 15, the most prudent course of action is to **refrain from enabling Private Spaces** for the time being. If your device has already been impacted, your best course of action is to reach out to **Google Support** for assistance.

    For those who haven’t faced any complications, it’s advisable to remain cautious. While the problem does not seem to be widespread, it’s always preferable to err on the side of caution.

    ## What’s Coming Up?

    Android Central has contacted Google for their response regarding the problems tied to Android 15 and Private Spaces. As of now, Google has not issued an official comment, but we will update this article when more information is available.

    Meanwhile, it’s worth mentioning that Android 15 does bring several significant security enhancements to Pixel devices. Under the framework of **Theft Protection**, users can now benefit from features like **Theft Detection Lock**, **Offline Lock**, and **Remote Lock**, which are intended to secure personal data in the event of theft. Additionally, the **October 2024 feature drop** introduced exciting new tools such as **Audio Magic Eraser** and a **Gemini Extension for Pixel Screenshots**, helping older Pixel devices feel contemporary.

    However, these new features may not be sufficient to alleviate the frustration of

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Apple Unveils iOS 18.1 Release Candidate Featuring New Enhancements Before Official Debut Next Week
    Apple Unveils iOS 18.1 Release Candidate Featuring New Enhancements Before Official Debut Next Week

    # iOS 18.1 RC: An In-Depth Look at Apple’s Newest Features

    As Apple prepares for the official rollout of iOS 18.1, the company has released the Release Candidate (RC) version of the update, providing users with an advance look at the latest features and enhancements. iOS 18.1 RC is filled with advancements in Apple Intelligence and various modifications aimed at enhancing the overall user experience. This article will delve into the key attributes of iOS 18.1 RC, highlighting the Apple Intelligence tools and other significant updates.

    !

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on iPadOS 18.1 Release Candidate Brings 9 Innovative Apple Intelligence Capabilities
    iPadOS 18.1 Release Candidate Brings 9 Innovative Apple Intelligence Capabilities

    # Apple iPadOS 18.1 RC: Essential Information About the Latest Update

    Following several months of excitement and beta trials, Apple has formally launched the iPadOS 18.1 Release Candidate (RC) version. This update introduces a range of new features, including enhanced Apple Intelligence functions, better notification management, and refined user experience adjustments. With the official release expected next week, here’s a comprehensive overview of what iPadOS 18.1 has to offer.

    ## Main Features of iPadOS 18.1 RC

    ### 1. **Apple Intelligence Enhancements**
    Apple has substantially improved its AI capabilities in iPadOS 18.1, making the iPad more intelligent and user-friendly. Here are the key upgrades in Apple Intelligence:

    – **Text Tools**: Users can now edit, proofread, and condense text in various applications, such as Mail, Notes, Pages, and third-party tools. This feature is especially beneficial for those who often compose emails or documents on their iPads.

    – **Revamped Siri**: Siri has undergone a significant redesign, along with improved contextual awareness. Even if you change your phrasing mid-sentence or mispronounce words, Siri will now better grasp your intentions, enhancing its reliability as a digital assistant.

    – **Refined Notifications**: Notifications are now presented in a more organized manner, with priority alerts displayed at the top. This allows users to quickly spot significant notifications, like urgent messages or reminders.

    – **Elevated Emails in Mail**: Critical emails, such as time-sensitive invitations or flight check-in alerts, will now pop to the forefront of your inbox, ensuring that you never overlook vital information.

    – **Minimized Distractions with Focus Mode**: The updated Focus Mode intelligently curates notifications based on their context, displaying only those that need immediate attention. For instance, a message about picking up your child from daycare will take precedence over less pressing notifications.

    – **Email Summarization**: Lengthy emails can now be condensed with a simple tap in the Mail app, allowing users to quickly grasp the main points without sifting through extensive text.

    – **Smart Replies in Mail**: Apple Intelligence can now suggest email responses by recognizing questions within an email and proposing relevant replies. This feature saves time and ensures your responses are succinct and accurate.

    – **Background Clean Up in Photos**: The Photos app now offers a “Clean Up” functionality that automatically eliminates distracting elements from your photos’ backgrounds without impacting the main subject. This is an excellent tool for enhancing images without relying on third-party editing software.

    – **Wider Summarization Capabilities**: Apple Intelligence can now summarize information in additional applications, simplifying the consumption of content across various platforms.

    ### 2. **Control Center Improvements**
    iPadOS 18.1 also brings some modifications to the Control Center. Apple now provides all Connectivity toggles as individual options, allowing users greater customization of their Control Center layout. This change means you can eliminate the standard connectivity group and substitute it with distinct toggles for Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Airplane Mode, and more.

    ## Other Apple OS Updates
    In conjunction with iPadOS 18.1 RC, Apple has also released the Release Candidate versions of its other operating systems, which include:

    – **iOS 18.1** for iPhones
    – **watchOS 11.1** for Apple Watch
    – **macOS 15.1** for Macs
    – **tvOS 18.1** for Apple TV
    – **visionOS 2.1** for Apple Vision Pro

    These updates are slated to roll out simultaneously with iPadOS 18.1, providing a unified experience across Apple’s platform.

    ## What Lies Ahead?
    With the iPadOS 18.1 RC now accessible, the public final release is anticipated next week. This update aims to boost productivity, enhance communication, and refine the overall user experience on the iPad. Whether you’re utilizing your iPad for work, creativity, or leisure, iPadOS 18.1 is gearing up to be a noteworthy upgrade that capitalizes on Apple’s advancements in AI and user interface design.

    Stay tuned for the official launch, and remember to update your device to take advantage of all the new features and enhancements.

    —

    ### Subscribe for More Updates
    Keep yourself updated with the latest tech news, including developments on iPadOS, iOS, and more. Subscribe to our newsletter to receive the most engaging tech and entertainment news directly in your inbox.

    By subscribing, you agree to our [Terms of Use](https://pmc.com/terms-of-use/) and have reviewed our

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on macOS 15.1 Release Candidate Brings Upgraded Apple Intelligence and Enhanced iPhone Mirroring Capabilities
    macOS 15.1 Release Candidate Brings Upgraded Apple Intelligence and Enhanced iPhone Mirroring Capabilities

    # Apple Unveils macOS Sequoia 15.1 RC: Discover What’s New in This Major Update

    Apple has officially rolled out the macOS 15.1 Release Candidate (RC), signaling the first substantial update to **macOS Sequoia**, which was originally released in September. This update introduces a variety of fresh features, enhancements, and bug resolutions, with an official public launch anticipated next week. Below is an overview of the new elements in macOS 15.1 RC and why it stands out for Mac users.

    ## Notable Features Launched with macOS Sequoia

    Before we explore the updates in macOS 15.1 RC, let’s briefly revisit some of the remarkable features that macOS Sequoia debuted with:

    – **iPhone Mirroring**: This functionality enables users to manage their iPhones remotely from their Mac, facilitating multitasking across devices.
    – **Apple Intelligence**: A collection of AI-based features designed to boost productivity and improve user experience in macOS applications.

    Nevertheless, one eagerly awaited feature—**drag-and-drop file sharing between iPhone and Mac**—was not available at launch. Thankfully, Apple has now added this capability to the macOS 15.1 RC.

    ## New Features in macOS 15.1 RC

    The macOS 15.1 RC update introduces various new features and enhancements, especially regarding **Apple Intelligence** and **Siri**. Here’s a closer look at what’s included:

    ### 1. **Drag-and-Drop File Sharing Between iPhone and Mac**
    The long-anticipated feature is finally available. With macOS 15.1, users can now easily drag and drop files between their iPhone and Mac. This functionality significantly enhances the iPhone Mirroring experience, allowing for file transfers without relying on third-party applications or cloud solutions.

    ### 2. **Advanced Writing Tools**
    Apple Intelligence rolls out new **writing tools** that enable users to rewrite, proofread, and summarize text in various applications, including Mail, Notes, Pages, and even third-party software. This feature aims to streamline writing tasks for quicker content creation.

    ### 3. **Upgraded Siri**
    Siri has experienced a significant transformation in macOS 15.1 RC. The virtual assistant now showcases a **new interface** and retains **context between requests**. This enhancement allows Siri to better process follow-up questions or requests, even if users vary their phrasing. Moreover, Siri is now more accommodating with speech errors, facilitating a more natural interaction with the assistant.

    ### 4. **Type to Siri Enhancements**
    The **Type to Siri** feature has been improved as well. Users typing their inquiries to Siri can expect the assistant to better anticipate and complete their requests, ensuring a more efficient interaction.

    ### 5. **Revamped Notifications**
    Notifications in macOS 15.1 RC have been overhauled. **Priority notifications** now appear prominently at the top of the notification list, allowing users to quickly recognize which alerts need immediate attention. Notifications are also summarized, aiding users in reviewing them without feeling inundated.

    ### 6. **Highlighted Priority Messages in Mail**
    In the Mail application, **priority messages** now receive emphasis at the top of your inbox. Time-sensitive emails like event invites or flight check-in reminders will be prioritized, ensuring critical deadlines are not overlooked.

    ### 7. **Enhanced Focus Mode to Minimize Interruptions**
    macOS 15.1 introduces a brand-new **Focus Mode** that smartly filters notifications based on their content. This feature minimizes interruptions by showcasing only notifications that require urgent attention, such as messages regarding picking up your child from daycare.

    ### 8. **Concise Email Summarization**
    The Mail app now offers **email summarization**, enabling users to click and view a brief summary of lengthy emails. This feature reduces the time spent on reading extensive messages, allowing users to get to the essentials swiftly.

    ### 9. **Improved Smart Reply in Mail**
    Apple Intelligence has also upgraded the **Smart Reply** function in Mail. The system now identifies questions within received emails and provides timely suggestions for replies, making response drafting faster and more precise.

    ### 10. **Cleanup Feature in Photos**
    The **Photos app** introduces a new **Clean Up** function that can detect and eliminate distracting background objects in photos without impacting the main subject. This tool is beneficial for users wishing to enhance their images without needing expert photo-editing abilities.

    ### 11. **Extended Summarization Across More Applications**
    Apple Intelligence’s **summarization** feature has been expanded beyond just Messages and Mail notifications. Users can now benefit from summarization in additional applications, enhancing the ability to quickly process large volumes of information.

    ## What Lies Ahead?

    As macOS Sequoia progresses, Apple is clearly dedicated to enhancing

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on macOS Sequoia 15.1 Release Candidate Now Released, Official Debut Planned for Next Week – 9to5Mac
    macOS Sequoia 15.1 Release Candidate Now Released, Official Debut Planned for Next Week – 9to5Mac

    # Apple Introduces macOS Sequoia 15.1 RC: What to Anticipate

    Apple has formally rolled out the macOS Sequoia 15.1 Release Candidate (RC) to developers, indicating the completion of the beta phase ahead of the expected public rollout next week. This update is important as it brings a variety of new features and improvements for Mac users, representing the first substantial update since the debut of macOS Sequoia last month.

    ## Fresh Features Arriving in macOS 15.1

    The standout element of macOS Sequoia 15.1 is the launch of the initial set of **Apple Intelligence features**. These enhancements are crafted to enhance user experience and optimize workflows. Here’s a detailed overview of what’s included:

    ### Apple Intelligence Features

    The newly introduced **Apple Intelligence features** are intended to utilize machine learning and AI to boost productivity and usability. Although specific information about all the features remains to be fully unveiled, users may anticipate enhancements in areas such as:

    – **Smart Suggestions**: Improved contextual recommendations based on user habits and preferences.
    – **Automated Tasks**: Capabilities that enable the automation of regular tasks, assisting users in managing their time and resources more effectively.

    ### Upgraded iPhone Mirroring

    Another notable enhancement in macOS Sequoia 15.1 is the improvement to the **iPhone Mirroring feature** that was introduced last month. This functionality now allows for **dragging and dropping photos and files** between devices, offering a seamless solution for file transfers. Users can conveniently drag a document from their Mac and drop it onto their mirrored iPhone, enabling a swift and efficient means to transfer files without the necessity for extra software or complicated procedures.

    ## Key Points About RC Betas

    The designation **Release Candidate (RC)** signifies that this version of macOS Sequoia 15.1 is the conclusive iteration that Apple aims to launch to the public. Generally, the RC version is the most refined and devoid of bugs, as it is the version Apple intends to deploy without significant issues.

    While users shouldn’t anticipate any new features or major changes in this RC edition compared to previous betas, it is intended to guarantee a smooth and stable experience for users upon its public launch. Sometimes, if critical issues are identified post-release, Apple may issue an updated RC version, though this is not typical.

    ## Final Thoughts

    As the public release of macOS Sequoia 15.1 approaches, users can expect a range of new features designed to enhance their Mac experience. The rollout of Apple Intelligence features and advancements in iPhone Mirroring are just a couple of highlights that are set to make everyday tasks more efficient and enjoyable.

    If you’ve already installed the macOS 15.1 RC, we encourage you to share your thoughts and any noticeable differences in the comments below. Keep an eye out for the official public release next week!

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on “Launch of Squadron 42 Pushed Back to 2026, Falling Short of Initial Goal by 11 Years”
    “Launch of Squadron 42 Pushed Back to 2026, Falling Short of Initial Goal by 11 Years”

    # **The Extended Path to Fulfillment: Star Citizen’s Solo Campaign “Squadron 42″**

    For more than ten years, **Roberts Space Industries (RSI)** has been engaged in one of the most ambitious video game ventures ever imagined—**Star Citizen**. Originally kicked off as a crowdfunding initiative in 2012, the game has evolved into a representation of both the opportunities and challenges associated with crowdfunded projects. Central to this vast space simulation is **Squadron 42**, the single-player campaign that aims to deliver a cinematic, story-driven experience. Nevertheless, after years of development and multiple postponements, the game remains far from its final launch.

    In 2022, RSI declared that **Squadron 42** was “feature complete” and had moved into its “polish phase.” However, as of 2023, the game still hasn’t reached readiness for release, with the newest projections indicating a launch sometime in **2026**. This article explores the background, hurdles, and present status of **Squadron 42** and its overarching project, **Star Citizen**.

    —

    ## **A Decade of Progress: The Path to Now**

    ### **The Birth of Star Citizen and Squadron 42**

    **Star Citizen** was first unveiled to the public in 2012 by **Chris Roberts**, known for the classic **Wing Commander** franchise. Roberts envisioned creating the ultimate space simulation title, integrating aspects of exploration, combat, and trading within a persistent online world. Alongside this grand multiplayer vision, **Squadron 42** was imagined as a focused, narrative-centric single-player experience.

    The project swiftly gained momentum, generating over **$6.3 million** in its initial crowdfunding round, shattering records at that time. Over the subsequent years, that figure has surged to an astounding **$731 million** as of 2023, making **Star Citizen** the most financed crowdfunding project in history.

    ### **Postponed Timelines and Holdups**

    Despite the substantial financial support, **Star Citizen** and **Squadron 42** have faced constant delays. The original target for **Squadron 42** was set for **2015**, but as development continued, it became evident that the project’s scale was significantly larger than initially expected.

    In **2016**, RSI released an updated production timeline that extended the anticipated release date, forecasting a complete launch of **Star Citizen** by the end of **2016**. However, that date passed without the game’s release, keeping it in alpha status. By **2022**, RSI announced that **Squadron 42** was “feature complete” and had entered the “polish phase.” Nonetheless, as of **2023**, the game is still unprepared for launch, with the latest forecast hinting at a **2026** debut.

    —

    ## **CitizenCon 2023: A Sneak Peek of Advancements**

    At **CitizenCon 2023**, RSI founder and CEO **Chris Roberts** took the stage to present a roughly hour-long prologue of **Squadron 42**. The demonstration provided a sneak peek into the game’s 30- to 40-hour storyline, but it was not without its flaws. Reports from **IGN** indicated that the live demo faced “multiple crashes, glitches, and visual issues,” highlighting the necessity for additional refinement.

    “We did say we were doing it live, courting the demo gods, and they unleashed their wrath upon us,” Roberts remarked onstage. Despite the technical difficulties, Roberts conveyed optimism that the game would be prepared for release in **2026**. “Both the team and I are confident of delivering this game to you in 2026. Clearly, you can see it’s not going to be tomorrow given the few crashes we experienced,” he added.

    The demo’s technical setbacks echoed earlier live presentations, such as the **2014 PAX East** demo of **Star Citizen’s Arena Commander** module. At that event, developers were observed recompiling the game in real-time to resolve crashes in front of an audience. The **Arena Commander** module, initially expected for release in **May 2014**, was ultimately delayed until **December 2014**.

    —

    ## **The Fundraising Phenomenon: $731 Million and Growing**

    One of the most extraordinary elements of **Star Citizen’s** development is the immense amount of funds raised through crowdfunding. As of **2023**, the project has accumulated over **$731 million** from supporters, many of whom have invested substantial amounts in virtual ships and various in-game assets.

    This crowdfunding strategy has enabled RSI to maintain development without the constraints of adhering to conventional publishing deadlines. In a **2012 pledge**, RSI assured supporters that crowdfunding would allow the team to “prioritize quality without the

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    • Comments Off on Space-Based Solar Energy Might Turn Into Reality in the Coming Years
    Space-Based Solar Energy Might Turn Into Reality in the Coming Years

    # From Robinhood to Slinging Photons: Aetherflux and the Future of Space-Based Solar Power

    The dream of space-based solar power has lingered in the realm of futuristic aspirations, often likened to nuclear fusion with its potential for limitless clean energy, yet continually seeming just beyond reach. The premise is straightforward: install extensive solar arrays in space, where sunlight is perpetually available without the hindrance of clouds, nightfall, or the Earth’s atmosphere, and transfer that energy back to Earth using microwaves or lasers. However, realizing this vision has proven notoriously challenging, necessitating colossal infrastructure and astronomical expenses.

    Now, however, a new contender has emerged, seeking to transform space-based solar power into reality—kicking off with a relatively modest investment. That contender is Baiju Bhatt, co-founder of the well-known trading platform Robinhood, who has redirected his focus towards space and renewable energy. His latest project, Aetherflux, intends to adopt a novel approach to space-based solar power, initiating with small, gradual steps instead of the enormous, city-sized satellites typically associated with this technology.

    ## The Grand Vision of Space-Based Solar Power

    The notion of capturing solar energy from space has existed for decades. For instance, the European Space Agency (ESA) has been examining the idea in recent times as part of its long-term energy framework. Some studies suggest that fulfilling just one-third of Europe’s energy demands through space-based solar power would necessitate a staggering investment—amounting to hundreds of billions of dollars—and a vast network of satellites stationed in geostationary orbit, situated 36,000 kilometers above Earth. Even with such a monumental effort, the system might not become operational until the mid-point of this century.

    The appeal of space-based solar power is evident: a constant, clean energy resource that could play a significant role in tackling the global climate crisis. Nevertheless, the initial costs and technical hurdles have kept the concept firmly in the domain of science fiction for the majority of its existence.

    ## Aetherflux: A New Approach

    Enter Baiju Bhatt, who is a trained physicist and seasoned financial entrepreneur. Bhatt co-founded Robinhood back in 2013, a platform that revolutionized stock trading by providing commission-free trades. After resigning from his position as co-CEO in 2020 and departing the company entirely in 2023, Bhatt has shifted his attention to his genuine passion: space.

    Aetherflux, Bhatt’s latest venture, is starting on a modest scale, with a team of around 10 employees and plans to launch its inaugural satellite within the next 12 to 15 months. Contrary to traditional designs of space-based solar power, which envision gigantic satellites in geostationary orbit, Aetherflux is commencing its efforts in low-Earth orbit, approximately 500 kilometers above the surface.

    The firm’s first satellite will utilize a commercially available bus from Apex and will produce roughly 1 kilowatt of power—sufficient to operate a dishwasher. This satellite will also be fitted with a high-powered infrared laser to transmit the captured solar energy back to Earth, where it will be captured by a mobile ground station about 10 meters in diameter.

    While this initial satellite will only supply power for brief intervals as it travels over specific locations, it marks a significant initial step in validating the feasibility of space-based solar power. “We’ve spent considerable time over the past year collaborating with individuals at the Department of Defense and DARPA,” Bhatt stated. “The objective is to conduct a demonstration mission that confirms the core functionalities.”

    ## The Road Ahead

    The primary aim of Aetherflux’s first mission is to examine the safety and efficiency of gathering solar energy in space, transmitting it through the Earth’s atmosphere, and converting it into usable power on the ground. If successful, this demonstration could lead to the development of a constellation of satellites in low-Earth orbit, delivering continuous power to isolated areas like disaster relief locations, off-the-grid mining sites, or military installations.

    Bhatt envisions a scenario where space-based solar power might even be utilized for large-scale operations like freight shipping, which currently heavily depends on fossil fuels. “If we can make that business model viable, that’s kind of the starting point to being able to propose, hey, could we implement this in areas like freight shipping?” Bhatt elaborated. “Could we effectively tackle the challenge of conducting freight shipping across vast bodies of water with renewable energy?”

    In the long run, Aetherflux aims to enhance the global energy grid by providing a reliable base load of power to support the intermittent nature of terrestrial wind and solar energy. This could play a vital role in the global effort to decarbonize electricity production and combat climate change.

    ## Challenges and Skepticism

    Despite the enthusiasm surrounding Aetherflux’s initiatives, considerable challenges still lie ahead. Space-based solar power has traditionally been a theoretical notion, and although it is expected to work in theory, it has yet to be validated on a large scale.

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