Author: Richard

    • Richard
    • Comments Off on TikTok Aims to Introduce a New US-Based App to Avoid Ban
    TikTok Aims to Introduce a New US-Based App to Avoid Ban

    The widely-used video-sharing platform TikTok remains accessible to users in the US due to an executive order issued by President Trump in early 2025, which postponed the impending ban on the Chinese application. Trump has renewed this delay on two additional occasions since then, with the latest extension occurring just a few weeks ago.

    TikTok continues to be at risk of a ban under the Protecting Americans from Foreign Adversary Controlled Applications Act, with a new deadline established for mid-September when the current extension will end unless it adheres to the law.

    A recent report reveals that ByteDance, the Chinese conglomerate that owns TikTok, is devising a strategy to avert the app’s prohibition in the US. This strategy includes launching a completely new TikTok application for American users, which will host data on US servers. The novel TikTok version will be owned by a US entity, with ByteDance retaining a minority share in the new firm.

    The new TikTok app

    As reported by The Information (via MacRumors), TikTok has been developing a fresh version of the app in anticipation of a probable sale in the US.

    Named M2, the new TikTok app will be specifically for the US market. It will differ from the existing international TikTok version, referred to internally as “M.”

    TikTok M will be taken down from US app stores on September 5, coinciding with the release of TikTok M2. American users will need to download the new app from digital marketplaces and will likely have to transfer their data to the updated version.

    This is not the first instance of news regarding TikTok’s intention to create a distinct version of the app for the US audience. Reuters reported in late May 2024 that TikTok was working on a US-exclusive version of the app in light of the imminent ban.

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Google Messages Set to Launch Improved Animations with Material 3 Expressive Upgrade
    Google Messages Set to Launch Improved Animations with Material 3 Expressive Upgrade

    Your Google Messages profile might obtain new Material 3 Expressive buttons.

    What you should know:
    – Google Messages is fully adopting Material 3 Expressive, and the transformation appears to be extending beyond just your conversations.
    – An in-depth look at the app’s beta version reveals pill-shaped buttons replacing the previous circular ones on the contact profile page.
    – The refreshed design focuses on the four primary buttons—Call, Video, Contact Info, and Search.

    Google Messages has recently undergone a style enhancement, embracing the vibrant and bold essence of Material 3 Expressive. However, it’s not limited to the messaging interface, as this new aesthetic could be starting to branch out into additional sections of the app.

    Android Authority discovered something intriguing in the Google Messages v20250701 beta, indicating that Material 3 Expressive buttons are coming to the profile page. You will notice the update when you click on a contact’s name at the top of a chat or tap their profile picture in the conversation list and select the “i” icon.

    The expected redesign focuses on the four main buttons beneath a contact’s number—Call, Video, Contact info, and Search. In place of the standard round icons, they are being transformed into pill-shaped buttons.

    Buttons with character:
    Moreover, they respond when tapped, gently widening, then snapping back when released. It’s a subtle addition, but it provides a charming touch of flair and sophistication.

    The new buttons are noticeably larger and align perfectly with the Material 3 Expressive design that has been emerging in other Google applications recently.

    It’s important to mention that this feature only appeared after some manual adjustments by the team at Android Authority. Thus, simply sideloading the Google Messages beta APK won’t activate it on its own.

    Last month, Google was noted to be modifying the tabs for emoji, Photomoji, GIFs, and sticker panel in Messages. Instead of being placed side-by-side as before, they’re organized in a sleek, pill-shaped arrangement that allows each option to shine more. Tap one, and it bursts with a more vibrant color that complements your Material 3 theme.

    Even the “plus” icon has received an upgrade, meaning the menu it opens now features slightly larger, rounder buttons with more space to breathe.

    There’s no update yet on when this revamped contact page will make its way to the stable version, as it currently remains in beta. But given Google’s commitment to Material 3 Expressive right now, it’s a reasonable assumption that this update will be rolled out to everyone soon.

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Distinct External SSDs Available for Purchase
    Distinct External SSDs Available for Purchase
    (Image credit: Apoorva Bhardwaj / Android Central)

    If you’re in the market for an external SSD, you’ll find plenty of choices, and a new contender named Aiffro is attempting to carve a niche in this market. The P10 Plus and P30 come with intriguing features, albeit they sit on the pricier side of the spectrum.

    The 512GB version of the P10 Plus magnetic SSD is priced starting at $99, and it’s currently available for $85 on Amazon. The P30, a versatile 3-in-1 SSD, allows seamless connections with other devices, and the 1TB variant can be found <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://target.georiot.com/Proxy.ashx?tsid=169923&GR_URL=https%3A%2F%2Famazon.com%2FAiffro-Portable-Supports-Microphone-Interface%2Fdp%2FB0F487HY7L%2F%3Ftag%3Dhawk-future-20%26ascsubtag%3Dac-us-1315633555811250057-20" data-url="https://www.amazon.com/Aiffro-Portable-Supports-Microphone-Interface/dp/B0F487HY7L/" target="_blank" referrerpolicy="no-referrer-when-downgrade" rel="sponsored noopener

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Top New MacBook Offers for July: Beginning Prices at $649
    Top New MacBook Offers for July: Beginning Prices at $649

    In the Apple Silicon age, MacBooks have become more budget-friendly than ever – with brand new variants beginning at just $649. With potential tariffs on China upcoming, these fantastic offers may soon be a thing of the past – so if you’re looking for a new MacBook for any reason, now might be one of the best times to buy.

    Apple’s forthcoming macOS 26 update is also rumored to discontinue support for additional Intel Macs, so if you want to keep up with the latest and greatest Apple software, now’s an ideal moment to upgrade.

    ## M1 MacBook Air

    Apple has released 4 MacBook Airs since the advent of the Apple Silicon era, featuring the M1, M2, M3, and M4 chips. The M1 MacBook Air still carries a more classic wedge design from the Intel generation, which many users might prefer.

    The M1 MacBook Air, despite being four years old, continues to be a fantastic laptop considering its price. It offers blazing fast performance courtesy of the M1 chip, an impressive retina display (although with thicker bezels compared to newer MacBook Airs), a superb keyboard, up to 18 hours of battery life, and it doesn’t sound like a jet engine when you open it in public.

    As the oldest of the bunch, the M1 MacBook Air is also the most affordable. One downside of the M1 MacBook Air is that locating new ones with more than 256GB of storage can be difficult, so if you need ample storage, you’ll need to opt for a newer Air. On the plus side, it remains the only Apple Silicon MacBook available in a true Gold color.

    You can snag the M1 MacBook Air for as low as $649 at Walmart in all three colors: Silver, Space Gray, and Gold.

    – 13-inch MacBook Air (M1) with 256GB of storage, 8GB of memory: [$649 at Walmart](https://howl.link/15sdnqsr918p4)

    ## M3 MacBook Air

    In 2022, Apple unveiled the redesigned MacBook Air featuring a sleeker design, a larger display with thinner bezels, and the return of MagSafe. It was also released in new Starlight and Midnight colors along with Silver and Space Gray, although Gold was discontinued. This revamped design debuted with the M2 chip and has persisted since then.

    Sadly, M2 chip models have been extensively sold out across all major retailers, so promotions will begin with M3 chip models. Apple announced an M4 chip model earlier this year, but if cutting-edge performance isn’t your priority, the M3 model will serve you just fine.

    At present, you can enjoy discounts of up to $300, with configurations available that feature 512GB of storage. There are also savings available on the 15-inch version of the M3 MacBook Air.

    **13-inch models with M3 chip:**

    – 13-inch MacBook Air with 512GB of storage, 16GB of memory: [$999 at Amazon](https://amzn.to/3R4BX32) ($300 off!)

    **15-inch models with M3 chip:**

    – 15-inch MacBook Air with 512GB of storage, 24GB of memory: [$1299 at Amazon](https://amzn.to/3R70HaO) ($400 off!)

    Some discounts may require clipping an on-page coupon. Nonetheless, some of the best bargains are on higher trims, permitting you to acquire elevated specs at a significantly more reasonable price.

    ## M4 MacBook Air

    In March, Apple unveiled an updated MacBook Air featuring the M4 chip. This device is largely similar to the previous version, but it now includes a new Center Stage webcam and a new Sky Blue color replacing Space Gray.

    Currently, you can receive a $150 discount across all the latest MacBook Air models.

    **13-inch models with M4 chip:**

    – 13-inch MacBook Air with 256GB of storage, 16GB of memory: [$849 at Amazon](https://amzn.to/421Yxj9)
    – 13-inch MacBook Air with 512GB of storage, 16GB of memory: [$1049 at Amazon](https://amzn.to/42w9DNg)
    – 13-inch MacBook Air with 512GB of storage, 24GB of memory:

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Early Prime Day Promotion Delivers Major Discounts on Highly-Rated E-Reader
    Early Prime Day Promotion Delivers Major Discounts on Highly-Rated E-Reader

    Now is the perfect moment to upgrade to Kobo’s Libra Colour.

    (Photo credit: Harish Jonnalagadda / Android Central)

    I used the Kindle Oasis for nearly five years, but I was disappointed with the absence of a new model featuring USB-C charging. That’s why I opted for Kobo’s Libra Colour at the beginning of 2025; this e-reader incorporates the newest E Ink Kaleido 3 technology, boasts a lightweight construction that makes it pleasant to hold, and allows for easy reading of comics due to its color E Ink display.

    Most importantly, it includes physical page-turn buttons — an essential feature for any decent e-reader — and it charges through USB-C. I’ve read numerous books on the Libra Colour over the past six months, and it stands out as the perfect upgrade from the Kindle Oasis. The e-reader typically retails for $249, but it is currently available for $209 on Amazon, making it a fantastic deal.

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on “The Old Guard 2 Fails to Meet Expectations as a Netflix Original Film”
    “The Old Guard 2 Fails to Meet Expectations as a Netflix Original Film”

    Netflix’s “The Old Guard 2,” the highly awaited follow-up to the 2020 action movie featuring Charlize Theron, has finally debuted on the streaming service. Despite the buzz surrounding its launch, initial feedback from critics and viewers has been rather unenthusiastic. The film presently has a disappointing 25% rating from critics and 40% from audiences on Rotten Tomatoes, marking a notable decline from the scores of its predecessor.

    A significant alteration in the sequel is the change in directorial oversight, with Victoria Mahoney taking over for Gina Prince-Bythewood. This transition may have influenced the film’s tepid reception. Although the movie swiftly ascended to the top of Netflix’s charts, this early triumph may not result in a sustained legacy.

    The scenario surrounding “The Old Guard 2” underscores a larger concern Netflix encounters with its original films. Even with substantial investments in prominent projects and partnerships with renowned directors, Netflix’s films frequently struggle to create a lasting cultural mark. While they might generate significant attention at launch, many of these titles rapidly vanish from the public’s memory.

    “The Old Guard 2” seems to be adhering to this trend, grabbing interest momentarily before possibly disappearing from view. This pattern prompts inquiries about Netflix’s approach within the film sector and its capacity to craft lasting cinematic achievements.

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Garmin Watch Gets $350 Price Cut Ahead of Prime Day: Should You Purchase It?
    Garmin Watch Gets $350 Price Cut Ahead of Prime Day: Should You Purchase It?

    The Garmin 7 Fenix Pro Sapphire Solar remains impressive, particularly with this price reduction.

    (Image credit: Garmin)

    As the summer warms up, so are various retailers’ offers on Garmin watches. For instance, Amazon has reduced the price of the Sapphire model of the Garmin Fenix 7 Pro Solar by $350, a model from last year that continues to perform well, particularly with a 39% markdown.

    The Garmin Fenix 7 Pro Solar might be from the previous generation, but it boasts everything you desire in a contemporary fitness smartwatch, such as solar charging, an integrated flashlight, and an extensive array of health, sleep, and fitness tracking features. Like many leading Garmin smartwatches available, it also has a vivid display that users can easily see, even when exposed to direct sunlight. Additionally, it is important to highlight that it features a more traditional MIP screen, in contrast to the AMOLED display found on the latest Fenix model and numerous other smartwatches.

    • <a href="https://www.androidcentral.com/wearables/
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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on One UI 8 Beta Streamlines the Elimination of Background Noise in Audio and Video
    One UI 8 Beta Streamlines the Elimination of Background Noise in Audio and Video

    Background sounds? The AI Audio Eraser in One UI 8 operates more swiftly and across additional applications now.

    (Image credit: Andrew Myrick / Android Central)

    Essential information

    • The One UI 8 beta appears to be trying out a new Audio Eraser that removes background noise in real-time as you view.
    • Rather than searching through options, just hit the Audio Eraser icon while viewing a video in the Gallery app.
    • It’s reportedly expanding beyond the Gallery app—One UI 8 is said to extend Audio Eraser to Notes and Voice Recorder as well.

    The newest One UI 8 beta version seems to have cleverly introduced an enhancement to Samsung’s current AI tool, efficiently deleting background noise from your audio and video compared to before.

    One notable improvement in the One UI 8 beta is a more intelligent Audio Eraser. Leaker Ice Universe (via SamMobile) claims it can now eliminate background noise from the videos you’re viewing without the need to access editing mode initially.

    The leaker had previously shared a video demonstrating the feature in use, which has since been removed.

    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Samsung Galaxy Unpacked Event: In-Depth Analysis of Z Fold 7, Z Flip 7, Watch 8, and Additional Products
    Samsung Galaxy Unpacked Event: In-Depth Analysis of Z Fold 7, Z Flip 7, Watch 8, and Additional Products

    Samsung’s eagerly awaited summer gathering, Samsung Unpacked, is scheduled for Wednesday, July 9 at 10 AM ET in Brooklyn, New York. This occasion is customarily when Samsung reveals its new collection of wearables and foldable smartphones. This year, attention is expected to center on the Galaxy Z Fold 7, Flip 7, and Galaxy Watch 8.

    For those who cannot be present physically, Samsung will be streaming the event live on its website and YouTube channel, enabling fans around the globe to experience the launch of these cutting-edge devices. Leading up to the event, there will be conversations regarding the developments of the past year and insights into significant leaks and speculations.

    For detailed information on the forthcoming devices, the Galaxy Z Fold 7 and Z Flip 7 Ultimate Guide is accessible, providing a thorough exploration of what to anticipate from Samsung’s latest innovations. To watch the live event, viewers can access the official livestream on YouTube.

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