Author: Richard

    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Apple Unveils Fix for Ongoing ‘Not Delivered’ iMessage Problem
    Apple Unveils Fix for Ongoing ‘Not Delivered’ iMessage Problem

    Apple has recently revised a support document that deals with frequent problems users might face with iMessages, specifically the “Not Delivered” notification, messages showing as SMS/RCS in green bubbles, or messages sent from an email address instead of a phone number.

    As stated by Apple, these problems can occur if users fail to activate their eSIM during the initial setup of a new iPhone running iOS 26. When users choose to configure their eSIM later through the Settings app, iMessage does not activate automatically, which can lead to potential messaging difficulties.

    To fix this, Apple advises users to manually activate iMessage after setting up their eSIM. The following steps outline the process:

    1. Launch the Settings app and tap on Apps.
    2. Choose Messages.
    3. Switch iMessage off and then back on.

    This advice is especially pertinent for users who bypass the eSIM setup during the initial configuration of their new iPhone, as well as for those who change carriers and set up a new eSIM later on.

    This isn’t the first iMessage-related issue reported since the launch of iOS 26. Earlier this month, Apple addressed another situation affecting users who were unable to activate iMessage with their phone numbers, providing further troubleshooting steps.

    Users encountering difficulties with iMessage since updating to iOS 26 or acquiring a new iPhone are encouraged to follow the mentioned steps to ensure proper activation and functionality.

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on EU Regulations Do Not Prevent Apple from Bundling a Charger with the M5 MacBook Pro
    EU Regulations Do Not Prevent Apple from Bundling a Charger with the M5 MacBook Pro

    ### The Latest M5 14-Inch MacBook Pro: Unpacking the Charger Debate

    The recent launch of the new M5 14-inch MacBook Pro has ignited significant dialogue and misunderstanding, especially regarding its packaging in the UK and EU. Notably, the gadget does not come with a power adapter included, prompting many to assume this choice is driven by European Union regulations. Nevertheless, the situation is more intricate.

    #### What EU Regulations Indicate and Their Implications

    The European Union has taken a proactive stance on tackling the escalating problem of electronic waste (e-waste). Two central issues led to this emphasis, motivating the EU to introduce fresh regulations.

    1. **Variety of Charging Standards**: Traditionally, several manufacturers have employed different charging port standards for their devices, such as MicroUSB, MiniUSB, USB-C, and coaxial connectors. This lack of uniformity meant that consumers frequently ended up with obsolete chargers when upgrading their devices.

    2. **Excessive Charging Adapters**: Numerous consumers gather multiple chargers over time, contributing to waste. To address this, the EU’s **Common Charger Directive** requires that new devices standardize on USB-C charging ports. Furthermore, manufacturers must provide consumers the option to acquire devices with or without a charger, thus minimizing unnecessary waste.

    #### Implications for Apple

    It is essential to clarify what the EU regulations do not dictate:

    – **Support for Multiple Charging Standards**: The regulations do not prohibit companies from adopting more than one charging standard. It merely mandates that devices must be chargeable using USB-C. This latitude allows Apple to provide the MacBook Pro with both MagSafe and USB-C charging options.

    – **Provision of Chargers**: The regulations do not forbid companies from including chargers at no additional cost. Instead, they stress that consumers should have the choice. Apple’s decision to omit the charger from the MacBook Pro packaging is a tactical approach to sidestep the challenges of manufacturing two versions of the product in Europe.

    Apple could readily provide customers the option to add a charger to their purchase. The decision to charge for the charger is a business choice rather than a legal obligation.

    #### Summary

    The absence of a power adapter in the new M5 14-inch MacBook Pro is not a direct consequence of EU law disallowing such items, but rather a manifestation of Apple’s strategy to conform with the EU’s emphasis on minimizing e-waste. As consumers become increasingly environmentally aware, the option regarding the inclusion of a charger may be well-received, fostering a more sustainable approach to technology usage.

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Dylan O’Brien’s Beloved Sci-Fi Film Trilogy Tops Netflix’s Leading Rankings
    Dylan O’Brien’s Beloved Sci-Fi Film Trilogy Tops Netflix’s Leading Rankings

    licensed by platforms such as Netflix now represent approximately two-thirds of the revenue generated from films.

    Take for instance: The “Maze Runner” film trilogy, which, as of October 15, is occupying three positions on Netflix’s daily Top 10 movies list in the United States. Directed by Wes Ball, the trilogy consists of “The Maze Runner” (2014), “Maze Runner: The Scorch Trials” (2015), and “Maze Runner: The Death Cure” (2018), currently ranked at 5, 6, and 7 respectively on Netflix’s Top 10. Quite impressive for a franchise that’s over ten years old at this stage.

    Maze Runner films are popular on Netflix

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Google Improves Connections Between Leading Android Applications
    Google Improves Connections Between Leading Android Applications

    install on my new Android devices: Google Keep and Google Tasks. Keep is an extremely straightforward yet highly efficient note-taking application, whereas Tasks allows me to manage my to-do lists efficiently. Even though both apps bear the Google branding, their integration has not always been seamless. Fortunately, that is now changing.

    Google first unveiled these updates in April of 2024. However, it has taken a little while for them to officially begin their rollout. The positive news is that Google has announced it will be expediting the rollout as part of its Rapid Release strategy, with the extended rollout expected to take no longer than 15 days from October 13.

    Regarding what the updates entail, Google indicates that Google Keep and Google Tasks will now interact much more efficiently, enabling any reminders in Keep to show up in Google Tasks as well as within Google Calendar. This is a significant advantage for users of both applications, granting them the facility to effortlessly handle reminders and tasks in both without having to switch back and forth.

    Another victory for Google

    <source media="(max-width: 428px)" srcset="https://www.bgr.com/img/gallery/two-of-googles-best-android

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Steve Jobs to Receive Tribute on Special $1 Coin in 2026
    Steve Jobs to Receive Tribute on Special $1 Coin in 2026

    press release, the Mint collaborates with the governor’s office or other primary executive for each state, territory, or municipality to “identify design themes representative of innovation that hold significance and relevance to its jurisdiction and/or its position in the Nation.”

    The Mint characterizes Steve Jobs’ coin as follows: “This design depicts a young Steve Jobs seated against a distinctively northern California backdrop of oak-dotted undulating hills. His stance and facial expression, captured in a moment of contemplation, illustrate how this setting fueled his ambition to convert intricate technology into something as instinctive and natural as the environment itself. The inscriptions include “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” and “CALIFORNIA.” Additional inscriptions read “STEVE JOBS” and “MAKE SOMETHING WONDERFUL.”

    What you should know about Steve Jobs’ $1 coin

    Steve Jobs during a keynote

    Kim Kulish/Getty Images

    Earlier this year, California Governor Gavin Newsom put forth Steve Jobs as a candidate for the $1 American Innovation Coin for California. At that time, he remarked that Jobs was “capable of utilizing technology to link individuals to one another and to the wider world.” Notably, <a href="https://www

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Samsung Halts Release of Ultra-Sleek Galaxy S26 Edge
    Samsung Halts Release of Ultra-Sleek Galaxy S26 Edge

    Following lackluster sales of the Galaxy S25 Edge, Samsung is said to be shutting down the Edge series.

    What you should know:
    – Samsung has reportedly halted plans for the Galaxy S26 Edge due to weak sales of the Galaxy S25 Edge.
    – The Galaxy S25 Edge faced commercial difficulties, prompting Samsung to scale back production and provide significant discounts.
    – The Galaxy S26 lineup will now consist solely of the S26 Pro, S26 Plus, and S26 Ultra models.
    – A Samsung executive mentioned that the slim Edge line is unlikely to make a comeback once existing stock is depleted.

    In light of underwhelming sales of the Galaxy S25 Edge, Samsung has supposedly opted to cancel the anticipated Galaxy S26 Edge for next year. Earlier in the year, Samsung launched the Galaxy S25 Edge as part of its premium lineup, branding it as a lightweight smartphone that still delivers high-end performance. This move was perceived as a reaction to Apple’s recent iPhone Air, targeting enthusiasts of sleeker devices. However, the commercial success of the Galaxy S25 Edge was disappointing.

    Reports from earlier this month revealed that Samsung had already lowered production of the Galaxy S25 Edge due to lackluster sales. Additionally, the phone is currently listed at a 40% discount on Amazon, just five months post-launch, as Samsung continues to seek ways to enhance demand.

    According to a fresh report from South Korea’s Newspim (via Jukanlosreve on X), Samsung has made the decision to terminate the “Edge” lineup entirely. The report states that plans for the Galaxy S26 Edge has been abandoned, which means next year’s Galaxy S26 series will again feature three models: the Galaxy S26 Pro (base version), Galaxy S26 Plus, and Galaxy S26 Ultra.

    The brief existence of the Edge lineup may be coming to an end. The report further suggests that once the remaining Galaxy S25 Edge stock is sold, Samsung does not intend to produce any additional units. A senior Samsung executive reportedly conveyed to the publication, “I doubt that the slim line will ever come back, but at present, it appears improbable. It’s nearly finished.”

    Interestingly, Samsung had previously begun developing the Galaxy S26 Edge, raising the possibility it could still be released at a later time — although the report indicates this is now highly unlikely.

    Previous leaks hinted that Samsung aimed to replace the Plus model with the Edge version in the Galaxy S26 lineup. However, those plans seem to have changed last month, when reports emerged that Samsung resumed development of the Galaxy S26 Plus. With the S26 Edge now reported as canceled, it seems Samsung is reverting back to its usual three-device configuration.

    There are still several months left before Samsung officially unveils the Galaxy S26 series, but if these reports prove correct, it’s reasonable to bid farewell to the short-lived Edge lineup.

    The Galaxy S25 Edge boasts a robust processor in a sleek and lightweight design. It features a 6.7-inch display and provides a premium experience despite some compromises. The S25 Edge also retains many elements from Samsung’s flagship lineup, including the Snapdragon 8 Elite processor, a 200MP camera, and the latest iteration of One UI, positioning it as an attractive choice for those prioritizing both performance and stylish design.

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Tim Cook Pledges to Boost Investments in China During Trip
    Tim Cook Pledges to Boost Investments in China During Trip

    **Apple’s Dedication to China during Trade Strains: Observations from Tim Cook’s Latest Trip**

    After several months of alterations in supply chains and diversification tactics due to rising US–China trade strains, Apple CEO Tim Cook has reiterated the company’s dedication to investing in China. This pledge comes during a pivotal moment as numerous U.S. firms take a more cautious approach to their operations in the area.

    During his latest trip to China, Cook was notably gifted a personalized Labubu doll, a moment that rapidly became viral. His itinerary included a visit to an Apple Store where the company revealed that preorders for the new iPhone Air would begin soon. Moreover, Apple launched a new environmental project in partnership with Tsinghua University, emphasizing its persistent commitment to sustainability in the region.

    Cook’s discussions with Chinese government representatives, including industry minister Li Lecheng, were important. Reports indicate that he conveyed Apple’s resolve to keep investing in China, although details about the investment figures were not revealed. This announcement is particularly significant in light of the increased trade tensions and tariffs between the U.S. and China, which have prompted many American firms to rethink their approaches in the Chinese market.

    Understanding the context of Cook’s statements is essential. There has been a minor upturn in iPhone sales in China following an extended phase of reduced demand, which could have contributed to his positive perspective. However, Cook’s role as CEO is becoming increasingly complicated by the ongoing trade conflict, creating a challenging landscape for multinational companies like Apple.

    While the U.S. government has not yet reacted to Cook’s commitments, historical trends indicate that scrutiny or backlash could arise soon as the tensions between the two economic powers continue to shift. Cook’s effort to maintain robust connections with China while managing U.S. political pressures will likely shape his leadership in the years ahead.

    In conclusion, Tim Cook’s recent visit to China underscores Apple’s unwavering commitment to the area amidst intricate geopolitical landscapes. As the company persists in innovating and growing its footprint, the ramifications of U.S.–China relations will stay a vital consideration in its strategic choices.

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Spotify DJ Unveils Text-Based Requests and Expands Language Options to Spanish
    Spotify DJ Unveils Text-Based Requests and Expands Language Options to Spanish

    **Spotify Enhances AI DJ Features with Text Requests and Spanish Language Support**

    In May, Spotify launched an interactive iteration of its AI-driven DJ, enabling users to request music in real-time. Initially limited to voice commands, the feature has now been upgraded to incorporate typed requests, along with other enhancements.

    ### New Features of the AI DJ

    Spotify’s AI DJ interactivity was introduced as a beta feature, and the company has been collecting user feedback to improve the user experience. The latest updates feature:

    – **Text Requests**: This was the top request from users on social platforms. Now, users can not only use voice commands but also type their music requests, providing greater convenience in busy, noisy, or quiet settings.

    – **Spanish Language Support**: First rolled out in 2024 for Spanish-speaking audiences, DJ Livi can now handle both typed and spoken requests, ensuring it matches the functionality of the English-speaking DJ.

    Furthermore, the AI DJ will suggest three personalized prompts, aiding users in finding songs and playlists tailored to their listening preferences while demonstrating the DJ’s capabilities.

    For more information regarding these updates, check out Spotify’s official announcement.

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Comparative Examination of Apple’s M5 and M4 Silicon: Main Advancements and Enhancements
    Comparative Examination of Apple’s M5 and M4 Silicon: Main Advancements and Enhancements

    Today, Apple unveiled the newest addition to their M-series lineup of Apple silicon, the M5 chip. Here’s how it stacks up against the M4 chip.

    ## Neural and AI Performance

    The standout feature of M5 is a significant enhancement in performance for AI and ML applications. Similar to the A19 and A19 Pro found in the latest iPhone models, the M5 incorporates new Neural Accelerators that greatly increase the speed for tasks involving machine learning or artificial intelligence. Apple provides several examples:

    – Time to first token (LLM): 3.6x quicker than M4
    – Time to enhance video in Topaz Video: 1.8x quicker than M3
    – Time to render in Blender with ray tracing: 1.7x quicker than M3
    – Time to enhance voice with AI in Premiere Pro: 2.9x quicker than M3

    In addition to the new Neural Accelerators, Apple claims that M5 features an “enhanced 16-core Neural Engine,” which is expected to assist with ML and AI activities.

    ## Memory Bandwidth

    Just like the A19 and A19 Pro from the newest iPhone models, the M5 chip provides a boost in memory bandwidth. It delivers 153GB/s, a 27.5% increase over the M4’s 120GB/s. While this can enhance speed for any demanding workflow, it particularly aids generative AI tasks.

    ## Graphics

    M5 also brings enhancements to graphics performance. Thanks to the new Neural Accelerators, Apple asserts that M5 achieves over 4x the peak GPU compute performance in comparison to the M4 chip. M5 is equipped with a 3rd-generation ray tracing engine and “enhanced graphics capabilities,” though Apple does not specify the exact nature of these enhancements. They do mention that, due to both features, M5 can achieve “up to 45 percent higher” graphics performance than M4.

    ## Processor

    Like prior baseline Apple silicon chips, M5 features a 10-core CPU, with six of those cores designated as efficiency cores and four as performance cores. Consistent with previous models, Apple states that the new performance core is the “world’s fastest performance core.” Apple also notes that the new CPU achieves up to 15% faster multithreaded performance compared to M4, aligning with leaked benchmark data.

    ## Other Tidbits

    The new 14-inch MacBook Pro with M5 now includes a 4TB storage option. Previously, the largest option available was 2TB. Lastly, M5 transitions from TSMC’s 2nd-generation 3nm process to their 3rd-generation 3nm process.

    The M5 chip is currently available in the 14-inch MacBook Pro, iPad Pro, and Apple Vision Pro.

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