Author: Richard

    • Richard
    • Comments Off on NotebookLM Transforms Source Material into Tables Ready for Google Sheets
    NotebookLM Transforms Source Material into Tables Ready for Google Sheets

    **Google AI Pro and Ultra Subscribers Access New Data Tables Feature in NotebookLM**

    Google has proclaimed the launch of a fresh feature termed Data Tables for its AI-driven tool, NotebookLM. This feature is now accessible for Google AI Pro and Ultra subscribers, with availability for free accounts anticipated to follow shortly.

    **Essential Information:**
    – **Data Tables Feature:** The new Data Tables feature in NotebookLM organizes crucial data points from multiple sources into formatted tables. These tables can be effortlessly exported to Google Sheets for enhanced data management.
    – **Intended Users:** The feature is tailored for students, knowledge professionals, scientific researchers, and everyday consumers, providing an efficient method to manage and visualize data.
    – **Application Scenarios:** Google proposes various uses for Data Tables, including converting meeting transcripts into action item tables, synthesizing clinical trial results, creating study tables for exams, and organizing vacation plans with comparison tables.

    **Functionality:**
    NotebookLM enables users to upload source materials such as videos, websites, or PDFs. The AI subsequently processes this information to produce neat, structured tables, alleviating the manual effort of data extraction for users.

    **Latest Enhancements:**
    Google has been upgrading NotebookLM with functionalities like Gemini integration and chat history. The introduction of Data Tables represents another advancement in enhancing the tool’s efficiency for data organization and project management.

    **Launch Timeline:**
    The Data Tables feature is being made available for Google AI Pro and Ultra users beginning today, with free users expected to receive the update in the near future.

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Details of TikTok Transaction Surface with Pact to Establish U.S. Joint Venture
    Details of TikTok Transaction Surface with Pact to Establish U.S. Joint Venture

    Axios, The Associated Press, and Reuters. TikTok’s CEO Shou Zi Chew mentioned in the memo that the transaction is expected to finalize on January 22. Reports indicate that Oracle, Silver Lake, and MGX are three significant investors in the TikTok U.S. venture (TikTok USDS Joint Venture LLC), collectively owning a 45% stake (15% each). ByteDance is set to retain a 19.9% interest in the newly formed entity, while nearly 30.1% will be allocated to current ByteDance investors. The identities of the remaining investors remain uncertain.

    TikTok U.S. will feature a board of directors consisting of seven members, six of whom will be American. ByteDance will occupy the remaining seat. The new entity will store U.S. user data on servers operated by Oracle. The algorithm driving the new application will be re-trained using U.S. user data to “guarantee that the content feed is free from external influence.” TikTok U.S. will also take charge of content moderation on the platform.

    While TikTok U.S. manages user data, the new algorithm, content moderation, and software security, revenue collection will still be under ByteDance’s purview. A segment of that revenue will be distributed to the U.S. venture, although specific numbers have not been disclosed. Additionally, the amount Oracle, Silver Lake, and MGX are investing for their shares of TikTok U.S. is still unknown. The new enterprise is projected to be valued at approximately $14 billion, based on figures cited by Vice President JD Vance in September.

    What the TikTok sale signifies for users

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on How to Resolve Apple CarPlay Problems Following iOS 26 Update
    How to Resolve Apple CarPlay Problems Following iOS 26 Update

    Refrain from turning your iPhone off and on again, as this likely won’t restore Apple CarPlay if it’s become disconnected, particularly if this problem arose after the main iOS 26 update, which many users experienced. TikTok user Charly gained popularity this week by sharing a public service announcement concerning unforeseen CarPlay connectivity issues and potential resolutions. Regrettably, users cannot rectify the bug that hinders a wireless connection, but they can utilize a USB-C cable equipped for data transfer to connect their iPhone to the vehicle and regain CarPlay functionality.

    “If your iPhone’s CarPlay has ceased functioning after the latest update, you require a data cable,” Charly stated in a now-viral video, as other iPhone users faced similar dilemmas. She informed Motor1 that she arrived at the solution through “a lot of trial and error.” After discovering online that others were encountering identical issues, she theorized that the problem stemmed from data transfers and attempted to link her iPhone to the car using a data cable.

    You might already possess a data cable compatible with CarPlay. Charly’s test was fruitful. She restored the CarPlay connection utilizing a data cable, which is simply a USB-C cable that also transfers data. The TikToker mentioned that she tried every USB-C cable in her possession, but none were effective until she connected a data cable. Other iPhone users experiencing the wireless connectivity issue might find themselves in a similar situation. Since not all charging cables can transfer data, CarPlay will not function if you use a charging cable to connect your iPhone to the car, as it won’t transmit the necessary data to your vehicle’s infotainment system.

    If you still have the original USB-C cable that came with your iPhone, you are fortunate to already have a data cable. If your iPhone is from the 11 to 14 series, the original Lightning to USB-C cable included also facilitates data transfer.

    You have likely acquired additional USB-C cables if your iPhone isn’t brand-new, thus arbitrarily selecting one does not guarantee CarPlay functionality. While you can test each cable individually, it’s more efficient to look for markings indicating data transfer support (such as transfer speeds). If those markings are absent, you might check if the iPhone initiates a data transfer with your computer when connecting the two devices. If none of these options work, consider purchasing a third-party data cable from an electronics retailer and keep it in your car for emergency CarPlay connectivity.

    There are other solutions that might restore your CarPlay connection. CarPlay is meant to “just work,” as Apple often claims when discussing new products and features. The iPhone should automatically and wirelessly connect to your car. It remains uncertain which of the recent iOS 26 updates triggered the CarPlay connectivity issues. Apple launched the new main build in mid-September and subsequently released two smaller updates, iOS 26.1 featuring new additions and iOS 26.2 with further enhancements and adjustments. The beta version of iOS 26.3 is already available for installation. Charly does not specify which software version she’s using. If iOS 26 is the latest update installed, upgrading to iOS 26.2 may resolve the problem. This is also something to consider before opting for the wired CarPlay alternative.

    If your vehicle only has USB-C ports and your iPhone has a Lightning port, you will require a USB-C to Lightning adapter, such as the one Apple offers for $29. This particular accessory facilitates both data and power transfer, making it suitable for CarPlay. Apple notes in a support document that “certain combinations of adapters, cables, and vehicle entertainment systems might interfere with the wired CarPlay connection.” Apple recommends USB-A to USB-C cables for such instances. If your vehicle only accepts USB-A cables, an adapter that supports data transfer will be necessary.

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on The Energy Usage of Every ChatGPT Prompt
    The Energy Usage of Every ChatGPT Prompt

    reintroducing nuclear energy to support their AI goals, while OpenAI is exploring the concept of establishing data centers in outer space. With such futuristic plans in the pipeline, it’s only natural for individuals to question why major technology firms require significant power and the actual energy consumption of our daily interactions with AI services.

    In light of our inquiries, companies like Google have disclosed details this year regarding energy usage and efficiency concerning their AI offerings, with OpenAI following suit shortly thereafter. In June, CEO Sam Altman shared a blog that mentioned the energy consumption of “the average” ChatGPT inquiry: 0.34 watt-hours. Altman compares this to “approximately what an oven would use in just over a second, or what a high-efficiency lightbulb would consume in a few minutes.”

    So, does that mean each ChatGPT prompt truly uses 0.34 watt-hours of energy? Regrettably, it’s likely not so straightforward. Although the figure might be precise, Altman provided no context or detail on how it was derived, which significantly hampers our grasp of the scenario. For example, we don’t know how OpenAI defines an “average” ChatGPT inquiry, considering the LLM can perform various tasks, such as responding to general inquiries, coding, and generating images — all of which demand different energy levels.

    Why is AI energy consumption so intricate?

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Samsung Has Officially Introduced Exynos 2600 for the Galaxy S26 Series
    Samsung Has Officially Introduced Exynos 2600 for the Galaxy S26 Series

    Samsung has formally launched the Exynos 2600, representing a major achievement as the first smartphone chipset globally to utilize a 2nm manufacturing process. This innovative advancement promises considerable enhancements in performance, efficiency, and thermal management, establishing a new benchmark in the market.

    The Exynos 2600 features a revamped CPU structure, removing low-power cores in favor of a more robust setup. This change leads to up to 39% gains in CPU performance, improved AI processing abilities, and twice the GPU performance in comparison to its forerunner, the Exynos 2500. The chipset’s 10-core CPU, based on Arm’s v9.3 design, includes a primary C1-Ultra core running at 3.8GHz, three high-performance C1-Pro cores operating at 3.25GHz, and three efficiency-oriented C1-Pro cores clocked at 2.75GHz.

    Samsung has also tackled previous overheating concerns with the launch of a novel Heat Path Block (HPB) design. This advancement enhances heat dissipation, enabling the chipset to sustain high performance during intensive tasks by effectively dispersing heat and stabilizing the SoC’s temperature.

    The Exynos 2600 is anticipated to drive the forthcoming Galaxy S26 series in specific markets, such as Asia and Europe, likely for the base Galaxy S26 and Galaxy S26 Plus variants. Although speculation hinted at a possible exclusive deployment of the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5, the introduction of the Exynos 2600 signifies Samsung’s ongoing approach of regional chipset diversity.

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Ongoing Screen Flickering Problems Noted by macOS Tahoe Users
    Ongoing Screen Flickering Problems Noted by macOS Tahoe Users

    ### macOS Tahoe Presents an Exasperating Display Issue for Certain Users

    If you’ve observed peculiar screen flickers following the installation of macOS Tahoe, you’re not the only one. An increasing number of users are reporting brief yet bothersome display flickering, especially when utilizing Apple’s Studio Display.

    In a recent Mastodon post, Dan Moren recounted his troubles with screen flickering on his Mac mini and MacBook Air while connected to the Studio Display. MacRumors has recently drawn attention to this issue, noting that flickering typically arises when switching between applications featuring bright white backgrounds or when scrolling through websites with light backgrounds. The flickering can occur sporadically and is usually brief, though it can sometimes last several seconds, particularly when moving from dark to light content.

    Moren tried to fix the problem by disabling features like True Tone, Night Shift, and automatic brightness. He mentioned that while turning off Night Shift appeared to offer some relief, the flickering continues to be an intermittent and exasperating issue.

    Regrettably, the most recent macOS updates (26.1 and 26.2) have not remedied the situation for the majority of users. In fact, some have claimed that macOS 26.2 may have intensified the flickering. Apple has yet to acknowledge the problem, leaving many users in search of solutions.

    It is still uncertain whether this issue is limited to the Studio Display or if it impacts additional displays as well. Anecdotal reports indicate that some users, including those with the Pro Display XDR, have not encountered any flickering problems with macOS Tahoe.

    If you are facing screen flickering concerns after updating to macOS Tahoe, please share your insights in the comments.

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Apple Might Mandate iPhone Users to Upgrade to iOS 26 for Security Enhancements
    Apple Might Mandate iPhone Users to Upgrade to iOS 26 for Security Enhancements

    Apple launched iOS 26.2 last week, bringing important security updates along with iOS 18.7.3 for those who have not yet made the jump to the latest version. However, reports suggest that some iPhone users are not receiving the iOS 18 update and are instead being guided toward iOS 26. This scenario raises issues regarding user options and safety.

    ### iOS 26.2 and iOS 18.7.3 Updates

    The iOS 26.2 update features noteworthy security improvements, tackling two WebKit vulnerabilities that might have been leveraged in targeted assaults against certain individuals utilizing earlier iOS versions. The iOS 18.7.3 update also addresses the same WebKit vulnerabilities as well as additional security weaknesses for those who continue to use iOS 18.

    The problem lies for users who have chosen to remain on iOS 18, as they are not given the choice to upgrade to iOS 18.7.3. Instead, the only option available is iOS 26.2, effectively forcing users to switch to the newest operating system to gain critical security protections.

    ### User Concerns

    Numerous users might opt to postpone upgrading to iOS 26 for various reasons, such as worries about new features, app compatibility, or an overall desire for stability. This predicament creates a conflict for users who want to keep their existing operating system while still obtaining essential security updates.

    ### Workaround for Users

    For those reluctant to transition to iOS 26, a possible workaround is to enroll in Apple’s public beta program and select the iOS 18 public beta track, which grants access to the 18.7.3 update. Nevertheless, this workaround may appear inconvenient for users merely looking for security remedies.

    ### Conclusion

    It is still unclear whether the unavailability of iOS 18.7.3 is an error or an intentional policy shift by Apple. Historically, Apple has supplied security updates for older iOS versions to maintain user safety. The current scenario might indicate a glitch, as users should ideally have access to all available updates, including the security-centric iOS 18.7.3.

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on “Two Exciting New Meta Quest Titles Thrill Enthusiasts of Stealth Classics such as Metal Gear Solid and Splinter Cell”
    “Two Exciting New Meta Quest Titles Thrill Enthusiasts of Stealth Classics such as Metal Gear Solid and Splinter Cell”

    Thief VR and Espire MR Missions are two remarkable games that embrace classic gameplay ideas while highlighting the distinctive essence of VR gaming. Thief VR, a recent addition to the cherished Thief franchise, provides players with an engaging experience from a new viewpoint. Crafted by Maze Theory and Vertigo Games, it revitalizes the stealth genre with a new hero accompanied by the recognizable voice of Garrett. The game focuses on physical interaction, enabling players to interact with the surroundings in ways conventional games do not, such as utilizing doors as movable barriers or adjusting the mic to “immersive mode” so that guards can detect your presence.

    Espire MR Missions, conversely, draws inspiration from Metal Gear Solid and turns your residence into a stealth operation using mixed reality. This game utilizes the room scanning features of the Meta Quest headset to blend real-world aspects into the gameplay, crafting a distinct experience where your living area is part of the mission. With 21 missions that can be adapted to any environment and another eight needing specific dimensions, Espire MR Missions delivers a vibrant and constantly evolving experience.

    Both titles underscore the capacity of VR and MR to rejuvenate traditional gaming categories, giving players inventive methods to engage with their preferred stealth mechanics. Whether you are slipping through the darkness in Thief VR or converting your home into a warzone in Espire MR Missions, these games showcase the thrilling potential of immersive gaming’s future.

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Apple Faces Reinstituted Antitrust Class Action Concerning App Store at U.S. Appeals Court
    Apple Faces Reinstituted Antitrust Class Action Concerning App Store at U.S. Appeals Court

    Following the reversal of her own class action certification by U.S. District Judge Yvonne Gonzalez Rogers in a case alleging that Apple holds a monopoly over the iPhone app market, the situation has been revived today. Here are the specifics.

    ### A Brief Overview

    In 2022, after a complex series of motions, appeals, and the merging of overlapping antitrust claims, the case In re Apple iPhone Antitrust Litigation was assigned to U.S. District Judge Yvonne Gonzalez Rogers.

    At first, she chose not to certify it as a class action. Two years later, she changed her mind, approving it under a more limited scope, covering “only Apple account holders who spent $10 or more on app or in-app content,” as noted by Reuters.

    Last October, after Apple contested the plaintiffs’ damages model, Judge Rogers once again reversed her ruling and decertified the class action, determining that the plaintiffs did not provide a model “capable of reliably showing classwide injury and damages in one stroke.”

    At that point, the plaintiffs’ legal team indicated they would evaluate their next actions. Shortly thereafter, they submitted a petition requesting permission to appeal, which leads us to the current situation.

    ### Antitrust Case Revived

    As reported by Reuters, the 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals approved the plaintiffs’ petition for permission to appeal.

    In practical terms, this indicates that the appeals court will now assess Judge Rogers’ decision to decertify the class action, which could either restore the lawsuit as a class action, return it to her for additional scrutiny, or affirm her ruling.

    According to today’s ruling, the appeal will advance under Rule 23(f), meaning the Ninth Circuit will only consider the class certification ruling (not the underlying antitrust claims against Apple). The plaintiffs now have 14 days to formally advance the appeal.

    In a statement to Reuters, Mark Rifkin, an attorney representing the plaintiffs, expressed that they “look forward to briefing and arguing the merits of the appeal in the Ninth Circuit.” Conversely, Apple did not respond to Reuters’ request for a statement.

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