Gaming accessory company Abxylute has launched a Kickstarter campaign for its upcoming N6 and GameCube-style N9C Switch 2 dock-style controllers. If the ergonomics of Nintendo’s Joy-Cons don’t jibe with you, these aim to be solid alternatives, particularly for people with medium-to-large-size hands. Both of Abxylute’s new controllers have bigger, more comfortable grips than Joy-Cons offer, […]
Amazon Fire TV Stick Reaches Lowest Price of the Year in Ongoing Sale
while you might not require a Fire TV Stick any longer, many individuals still find them exceptionally beneficial for accessing an array of applications, services, and content on their television. You might lack a TV with these features integrated, or simply favor the Fire TV operating system’s interface. Regardless of the reason, Amazon is presently offering a deal that might appeal to those seeking an upgrade or a completely new device.
Currently, the Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Plus is discounted significantly from its usual price, and the user feedback, along with Amazon’s endorsement, makes it a competitive choice. This gadget provides access to some of the most popular streaming applications and enables cloud gaming without needing a console. This Fire TV Stick comes with everything necessary to commence your streaming journey, and the range of devices it supports is quite extensive.
A further advantage of the 4K Plus is that it’s included in the list of devices receiving the latest Fire TV UI update, which features a visual redesign along with various enhancements for user convenience. There’s even a hidden trick for Fire TV Sticks that Amazon might prefer you don’t discover, should you choose to grab this offer. However, prompt action on this one may be wise. Not to sound like a cliché, but even Amazon has indicated that this item is moving quickly.
Save 40% on the Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Plus
If you’re in the market for a streaming device, the Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Plus is now priced at $29.99, giving you a saving of over 40% compared to the average listed price. Compatible with any television that has a high-speed HDMI input, this device includes everything you need to start, including a power adapter and cable, HDMI extender, and two AAA batteries for the remote.
Designed for 4K streaming with support up to 2160p, the Fire TV Stick 4K Plus also enables users to stream Xbox games via cloud gaming, provided they hold an Xbox Game Pass subscription. With support for Dolby Vision, Dolby Atmos audio, and HDR10+, users can enjoy a range of streaming content, including applications such as Disney+, Netflix, Peacock, and more, while the Wi-Fi 6 ensures stable connections. You can also operate certain smart home devices using the Fire TV remote if they are compatible, and the integration of Amazon Alexa allows users to find and navigate content using voice commands.
In addition to receiving the Amazon’s Choice designation for being a highly-rated item at a reasonable price, the Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Plus boasts a 4.7-star rating from over 135,000 reviews. Users consistently commend the device for its straightforward setup, rapid speeds, and overall value. However, one reviewer points out that the device continues to use micro USB instead of USB-C. Nevertheless,
Tom Hardy’s Doubt Regarding His Highest-Rated Movie on Rotten Tomatoes
captivating work of art (even devoid of CGI) “Mad Max: Fury Road”. Observing the end result, refined flawlessly in terms of every minuscule detail, you might not immediately recognize the challenges and accuracy involved in crafting each set piece, nor the vision and skill necessary to render them as a cohesive epic on the large screen. Miller, a director with half a century of experience, understands how to bring that to fruition. Yet, throughout the actual filming process, this might not be apparent, even for the actors who are integral to it.
Tom Hardy (who appeared in a little-known sci-fi film with Kelly Reilly at the beginning of his career) was among those who struggled to envision or acknowledge the genius required for Miller to realize his vision during that time. He felt frustrated and uncertain while shooting, but during a press event in 2015 at Cannes (as reported by Variety), he openly apologized to Miller for “being shortsighted” after experiencing the film for the first time.
He elaborated, “The most exasperating thing for me or the toughest aspect [of filming] was attempting to comprehend what George wanted from me at any moment, minute by minute, so I could fully [realize] his vision. I became frustrated, and there was no way that George could have conveyed what he envisioned in the sand while we were out there. Because of the extensive effort necessary to make everything that was incredibly intricate appear so straightforward — which is how I perceived it — which was an unrelenting onslaught of complexities distilled into a relatively linear narrative… I recognized [Miller] was exceptional, but I didn’t grasp how exceptional until I witnessed it.”
The kind of action film that Fury Road evolved into is rare
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Unique Apple CarPlay Applications You Were Unaware You Required
Harry Howitt/Shutterstock
The deeper you dive into Apple CarPlay, the more marvels you can unearth. With iOS 26, Apple has introduced several fascinating CarPlay features to the interface, such as finally enabling AirPlay video when the car is stationary. However, for an even more distinctive experience, you should familiarize yourself with some unusual Apple CarPlay apps that might first appear unnecessary, but if you wish to accomplish smaller tasks like ordering your preferred quick meal, checking real-time weather, or joining a conference call anytime, CarPlay has you covered.
With the anticipated launch of Apple CarPlay for Tesla vehicles nearing, whether you’re contemplating enhancing your vehicle with this system or simply looking to explore more functionalities of Apple’s driving interface, we’ve curated a list of quirky apps available on CarPlay that you may have never considered using during your daily travels.
Chick-fil-A
Uncover the Sentimental Motorola Razr Function That Takes You Back in Time
Transform your Razr into a RAZR with this secret button!
Nothing Operates in Isolation When Tackling the Counterfeit Technology Problem Earnestly
Fake technology items have been around for a long time, yet they are becoming increasingly difficult to identify. Certain types of products, such as earbuds, lend themselves more readily to imitation than others. Scammers have mastered the art of mimicking the packaging, unboxing experience, and pairing procedures that authentic products offer—deceiving even experienced tech fans. The dangers associated with using counterfeit technology are significant, as these products do not adhere to the same quality and safety regulations as genuine items and lack any form of warranty.
Few brands openly confront the issue of counterfeit items, but that is precisely what Nothing has done. In a [YouTube video](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AXGtfGwmpZQ), Nothing and CMF co-founder Akis Evangelidis discussed serious counterfeiting concerns affecting the Indian market. The video disclosed that Nothing and CMF have collaborated with local authorities to combat the proliferation and sale of knockoff products, having recently confiscated over 1,100 fraudulent items.
The video description highlights the gravity of the situation and emphasizes how seriously [Nothing](https://www.androidcentral.com/phones/nothing-phones/which-nothing-phone-3-model-should-you-buy) and its sub-brand CMF are addressing the surge in counterfeit goods:
> Being the fastest-growing brand comes with unwanted attention. Recently, we’ve observed an uptick in fake products attempting to imitate Nothing and CMF. Our customers are the ones affected, and we are dedicated to putting an end to this. By working closely with local authorities, we’ve already confiscated thousands of counterfeit products — and this is just the beginning.
In the video, Evangelidis showcases counterfeit Nothing and CMF items, some of which are sophisticated and deceptive, closely imitating the packaging and design of genuine Nothing and [CMF phones](https://www.androidcentral.com/phones/nothing-phones/cmf-phone-2-pro-review), accessories, or headphones. However, others merely slap the Nothing or CMF label onto completely unrelated items that lack any official counterpart. Given the burgeoning brand recognition of Nothing products, consumers continue to purchase these counterfeit items under the misconception that they are authentic.
Evangelidis and Arpit, head of Nothing’s smart product division in India, highlighted some warning signs to watch for. Listings featuring arbitrary brand names along with official Nothing images can mislead buyers into believing they are purchasing from Nothing or CMF. Therefore, it is essential to verify the brand name to ensure it is an official product from Nothing, CMF, or an authorized retailer.
Moreover, be cautious of phrases such as “compatible with” Nothing or CMF products. This language is utilized to avoid overtly misusing the Nothing or CMF brand while still appearing in relevant search results. The duo also suggests examining the reviews and ratings for product listings, particularly the *quantity* of ratings. If a listing has only a few dozen or hundred ratings, it is likely a counterfeit.
Evangelidis notes that the price can also be a strong indicator — “sometimes, if it seems too good to be true, it’s because it isn’t.”
Nothing encourages customers to report any listings they suspect might be counterfeit, assuring that the brand will “act promptly.”
## What can we do to protect ourselves from tech product scams?
Nothing and CMF adopt a more transparent approach compared to larger tech companies like [Apple](https://www.androidcentral.com/tag/apple), Google, or Samsung. The company’s leaders frequently engage with consumers on social media platforms through posts and YouTube videos. This particular initiative by Nothing is commendable. It raises awareness about the escalating issue of counterfeit technology, which impacts all brands.
The greater the brand recognition, the more likely it is that attempts will be made to create knockoffs. Counterfeit AirPods, Samsung Galaxy phones, and [various other devices are prevalent online](https://www.androidcentral.com/apps-software/how-to-avoid-scams-amazon-prime-day). They exist in physical spaces as well — if you reside near a major U.S. city, there is a strong likelihood that someone nearby is vending counterfeit tech on Facebook Marketplace or at street corners. The days of street vendors in New York City peddling fake designer handbags have transformed into selling counterfeit tech products at reduced prices.
The most effective way to safeguard yourself and your friends or family from these scams is to discuss them. If you are reading Android Central, you likely have a solid grasp of what is genuine versus what is fake. You understand product pricing and how items should be marketed, making the warning signs immediately noticeable. However, the casual tech user in your life or an older relative may not possess the same level of knowledge, making them more susceptible to being convinced by a counterfeit product.
It’s important to reiterate that traditional methods of verifying product authenticity, such as checking serial numbers or purchasing shrinkwrapped
Amazon Launches ‘Read and Listen’ Feature in Audible App for Improved Immersion Reading Experience
**Immersion Reading: The Next Frontier of Reading and Listening with Amazon’s Audible and Kindle**
In the changing realm of digital literature, Amazon’s Audible has unveiled a groundbreaking feature referred to as immersion reading. This latest innovation resolves a frequent challenge encountered by readers: deciding between reading an ebook or listening to its audio version. With immersion reading, users can now effortlessly experience the advantages of both options.
**What is Immersion Reading?**
Immersion reading is a functionality that aligns Kindle ebooks with Audible audiobooks, enabling users to follow highlighted text while listening. This “read and listen” setting enriches the reading journey by offering a blend of visual and auditory input that accommodates various learning styles and preferences.
**How It Functions**
The immersion reading feature is automatically triggered within the Audible app when users possess both the audiobook and ebook versions of a title in their libraries. Once activated, the app displays the synchronized text, allowing readers to view the words as they are narrated. This not only supports understanding but also enhances information retention.
**Comparison with Whispersync for Voice**
Previously, Amazon provided a functionality called Whispersync for Voice, permitting users to alternate between reading and listening while tracking their progress. Nevertheless, immersion reading elevates this experience by enabling users to interact with the material in both formats at the same time, eliminating the need to choose one over the other.
**User-Friendly Experience**
Amazon has crafted immersion reading to be intuitive for users. The Audible app automatically detects which ebooks in a user’s Kindle library have matching audiobooks. A specialized library filter simplifies the process for users to locate all available titles that support this feature, reducing the need for exhaustive searches.
**Conclusion**
Immersion reading signifies a major leap forward in how we engage with literature, merging the physical experience of reading with the ease of listening. As digital reading continues to expand, features like immersion reading may transform our interaction with books. Readers are invited to express their opinions on whether similar functionalities should be embraced by other platforms, such as Apple Books.
Millions of Passwords and Social Security Numbers Exposed Due to Continuing Threats from Past Cybersecurity Incidents
An exposed database containing tens of millions of distinct Social Security numbers, along with email addresses and passwords, has been revealed by security experts. This database, discovered by the cybersecurity firm UpGuard, is thought to have been assembled from multiple data breaches over the last ten years. Although the information is dated, it presents a considerable risk due to the sensitive nature of the details.
The database is said to comprise around 3 billion email addresses and passwords, in addition to about 2.7 billion entries containing Social Security numbers. Nevertheless, the actual count of unique records is projected to be in the tens to hundreds of millions. UpGuard managed to validate a sample of the information, confirming that nearly a quarter of the Social Security numbers were legitimate.
The data seems to cover a span of ten years, with certain records possibly originating from a substantial data leak in 2024 that might have revealed sensitive personal details for people in the US, UK, and Canada. Other entries appear to be older, with researchers estimating their age by examining cultural references in passwords, such as mentions of well-known music groups from around 2015.
Despite the age of the data, it continues to pose a threat for two primary reasons. First, certain types of information, such as Social Security numbers, remain constant over time. Second, the validation process suggested that a significant portion of the data has not yet been leveraged, indicating that many potential victims may be oblivious to the compromise of their information. Frequently, individuals only discover the breach when an attacker tries to use their data.
The results highlight the necessity of maintaining robust, unique passwords across different online platforms. Using a password manager can assist individuals in protecting their accounts against possible breaches, even when the information involved is years old.
Apple’s March Event Could Showcase an Engaging Formula 1 Experience on Vision Pro
**Immersive Viewing on Vision Pro: The Next Era of Sports Entertainment**
Apple has consistently led the way in technological advancement, and its latest initiative in immersive video experiences is no different. With the highly anticipated introduction of immersive viewing features for Formula One (F1) on the Vision Pro, Apple aims to revolutionize how fans interact with live sports.
### The Advancement of Immersive Video
Apple’s foray into immersive video commenced in 2024 with the launch of a scripted short film. The company revealed its intention to broaden its offerings to encompass a range of immersive content, such as music videos, concerts, and major sporting events. Significantly, Apple has already made progress in this domain by supplying immersive streams for select Los Angeles Lakers games, elevating the experience for basketball enthusiasts.
### Anticipation Surrounding F1 Immersive Viewing
As the 2026 Formula 1 season draws near, speculation is growing regarding Apple’s possible announcement of immersive viewing for F1 at the forthcoming event on March 4. John Gruber, a notable commentator, emphasized the timing of this event, noting that the F1 season will kick off in Australia on March 8. Considering Apple TV has become the exclusive broadcasting partner for F1 in the U.S., the incorporation of immersive technology into their broadcasts appears likely.
Gruber noted that if Apple intends to present a live immersive experience for F1 races, the March 4 event would be an optimum stage for such a demonstration. While this remains conjectural, the synchronization of Apple’s recent movements into immersive sports broadcasting and the approaching F1 season indicates that such a feature may soon be realized.
### The Future of Immersive Sports Broadcasting
The opportunity for immersive viewing on the Vision Pro signifies a remarkable advancement in sports entertainment. Fans could experience races from distinctive viewpoints, deepening their connection to the sport. The technology holds the promise of bringing viewers nearer to the action, making them feel as though they are part of the race.
As Apple persists in its innovation, the critical inquiry is not if immersive video will arrive at F1, but rather when it will be completely unveiled. With the company’s history and dedication to enhancing user experiences, the future of immersive sports viewing appears bright.
In conclusion, as we await further announcements from Apple, the enthusiasm surrounding immersive viewing on the Vision Pro continues to escalate. Whether it be for F1 or other sports, the adoption of immersive technology is destined to transform how fans connect with their beloved events.
de next-RAP8-EZBOX – Ultra-Compact Intel Core i7-1365UE Raptor Lake Embedded System – CNX Software
AAEON’s de next-RAP8-EZBOX is an ultra-compact embedded system powered by an Intel Core i7-1365UE 10-core Raptor Lake SoC paired with 16GB of LPDDR5x system and one M.2 2280 M-Key slot for storage. It’s offered as either a 42.5mm thick fanless or a 45.4mm thick actively cooled mini PC. Key interfaces include HDMI 1.4b video output, two Ethernet (2.5GbE + GbE) ports, and two USB 3.0 ports. Its compact size, powerful processor, and range of interfaces make it suitable for space-constrained autonomous systems or industrial robots. de next-RAP8-EZBOX specifications: SoC-Â Intel Core i7-1365UE 10-core/12-thread Raptor Lake processor up to 1.70 GHz / 4.90 GHz (Turbo) with 96 EU Intel Iris Xe Graphics @ 1.30 GHz; TDP/PBP: 15 Watts System Memory â Up to 16GB LPDDR5x Storage – NVMe SSD via M.2 2280 M-Key (PCIe x2) socket Video Output – HDMI 1.4b up to 1920 x 1080 @ 60Hz Networking Gigabit Ethernet RJ45 […]
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