author

Samsung Boosts SmartThings Security with Major Arlo Integration Improvement

Samsung is working to improve home security by merging SmartThings with Arlo’s advanced security platform. This partnership aims to position SmartThings as the primary hub for home security and automation, with Arlo delivering the strong security capabilities. The collaboration enables users to control security services right from the SmartThings app, removing the necessity for multiple apps to oversee security cameras or motion detectors. Initially set to launch in the U.S., this integration will utilize Arlo’s Smart Security SaaS platform to introduce new security services, making the process easier for Samsung users. This initiative builds upon earlier partnerships, like the implementation of Arlo’s AI-driven object detection in SmartThings, and is anticipated to streamline security management for Galaxy users while broadening Arlo’s outreach.

Spotify Unveils Direct Messaging for Jam Session Invitations and Listening Engagements

Spotify has revealed a major enhancement to its Messages feature, aimed at improving music-sharing functionalities. The update brings forth two new additions: “Request to Jam” and “Listening Activity.”

“Request to Jam” permits users to join a friend’s listening session directly via DMs, akin to the existing Jam sessions on the platform. This feature allows users to invite friends or family to a live listening experience, where both individuals can contribute tracks to the session. The session host can be the user who sends the Jam request, and the feature is available through a Jam icon in the DM thread.

The “Listening Activity” feature, once activated, enables users to share their current listening choices with others, who can then incorporate those tracks into their own playlists. This feature can be customized within the Privacy and Social settings, providing users the ability to manage who can view their listening activity.

These enhancements are being rolled out to Android and iOS devices in areas where Spotify Messages are accessible, with a wider rollout anticipated in February. Spotify Messages, launched in 2025, serves as a one-on-one chat service that allows users to share music, podcasts, and audiobooks. Users need to accept a Message request prior to engaging in conversation, adding a layer of privacy and security.

In summary, these updates are designed to reinforce user interactions and elevate the music-sharing experience on Spotify.

Apple TV Comedy Series Achieves Most Acting Award Nominations of Any Television Program

Apple TV’s recent impressive awards season proceeds today, as the acclaimed comedy *The Studio* has just been recognized as the single most-nominated television program at the 32nd Annual Actor Awards.

### The Studio secures five nominations at The Actor Awards, surpassing all other TV programs

This weekend features the Golden Globes, where Apple is forecasted to secure some significant victories. However, prior to that event, another forthcoming awards ceremony has revealed its nominations.

The Actor Awards is a newly branded iteration of the SAG-AFTRA awards. Essentially, it’s an event where actors celebrate their peers.

The awards ceremony will be broadcast live on Netflix in March, but the recently unveiled nominations already suggest a potentially festive evening for Apple TV.

Apple nominees encompass Rhea Seehorn for *Pluribus*, Gary Oldman for *Slow Horses*, among others. Yet, the standout accomplishment for Apple TV is that *The Studio* received more nominations than any other individual television show.

The popular comedy garnered two nominations each in the “Outstanding Performance” categories for male and female actors, in addition to another nomination for ensemble cast.

Its total of five nominations outmatches any other television show this year.

### The Studio’s nominations and competitors

Here are the nominees, along with the competition:

**Outstanding Performance by a Male Actor in a Comedy Series**
– IKE BARINHOLTZ / Sal Saperstein – “THE STUDIO”
– ADAM BRODY / Noah Roklov – “NOBODY WANTS THIS”
– TED DANSON / Charles Nieuwendyk – “A MAN ON THE INSIDE”
– SETH ROGEN / Matt Remick – “THE STUDIO”
– MARTIN SHORT / Oliver Putnam – “ONLY MURDERS IN THE BUILDING”

**Outstanding Performance by a Female Actor in a Comedy Series**
– KATHRYN HAHN / Maya Mason – “THE STUDIO”
– CATHERINE O’HARA / Patty Leigh – “THE STUDIO”
– JENNA ORTEGA / Wednesday Addams – “WEDNESDAY”
– JEAN SMART / Deborah Vance – “HACKS”
– KRISTEN WIIG / Maxine Simmons – “PALM ROYALE”

**Outstanding Performance by an Ensemble in a Comedy Series**
– ABBOTT ELEMENTARY
– THE BEAR
– HACKS
– ONLY MURDERS IN THE BUILDING
– THE STUDIO

What insights do you have regarding this year’s Actor Awards nominations? Share with us in the comments.

Apple TV is priced at $12.99 monthly and features popular TV shows and films such as *Ted Lasso*, *Severance*, *Pluribus*, and more. It is also available through the Apple One bundle.

Apple Finds New Collaborator to Supplant Goldman Sachs for Apple Card Services

Apple has reportedly secured a new collaborator to take over from Goldman Sachs for its Apple Card, as outlined in a recent report from the Wall Street Journal. This shift follows over two years of speculation about Goldman Sachs’ intention to exit the partnership, mainly due to substantial financial setbacks in the consumer credit card market.

Per sources referenced by the Wall Street Journal, JPMorgan Chase is poised to step in as the provider for Apple’s iPhone-integrated credit card. Goldman Sachs has been looking to withdraw from the Apple Card arrangement, which has led to multi-billion dollar deficits for the bank. The agreement will see JPMorgan Chase taking on existing credit balances at a major discount, with projections indicating that Goldman Sachs could transfer about $20 billion in outstanding card balances for over a $1 billion markdown. This is significant as most co-branded credit card balances usually sell at a premium, making such discounts uncommon and suggestive of a difficult scenario.

Alongside managing the Apple Card, JPMorgan Chase is anticipated to support Apple-branded savings accounts. Current customers holding savings accounts with Goldman Sachs will have the choice to either stay with Goldman or move to a new account with JPMorgan.

The expected announcement of this arrangement is anticipated soon, following prior reports of the separation between Apple and Goldman Sachs regarding the Apple Card, which debuted in 2019. The Apple Card, exclusively available in the United States, provides various perks, including 3% cash back on purchases from Apple and select merchants when using Apple Pay, 2% cash back on other purchases made with Apple Pay, and seamless integration with the Apple Wallet app on iPhone. This card succeeded a previous co-branded card with Barclays, which lacked the same level of integration or the unique titanium card design.

Gemini’s Latest Enhancements Turn Google TV into an Engaging Media Partner

With the collaboration of Nano Banana and Veo, Google TV is poised to transform user engagement by improving the viewing experience through cutting-edge AI functionalities. These elements, included in the Gemini update, empower users to engage with their TVs in more natural ways. Users can now look for specific images, modify them, and even convert them into animations or slideshows with the help of Nano Banana and Veo. Furthermore, the AI is capable of modifying settings based on straightforward voice commands, enhancing the personal touch of the TV experience. These enhancements are initially accessible on select TCL models and necessitate Android TV OS 14 along with a Google account for entry. Some advanced features might need a Google AI Pro subscription.

Integration of Apple Health Unveiled in New ‘ChatGPT Health’ Functionality

**ChatGPT Health: An Innovative Step in AI-Enhanced Health Support**

OpenAI has rolled out ‘ChatGPT Health,’ an innovative feature that connects with leading health platforms like Apple Health and MyFitnessPal. This initiative is designed to address the rising need for AI-informed health support, with over 230 million individuals worldwide seeking health and wellness advice from ChatGPT weekly.

### Objective and Utility

ChatGPT Health aims to assist users in navigating their health information more efficiently. OpenAI highlights that this feature is not meant to substitute professional medical services, but to complement them by offering users dependable information. The aim is to empower individuals to feel more knowledgeable and assured regarding their health choices.

This new feature securely integrates users’ health data with ChatGPT’s sophisticated intelligence, enabling tailored interactions. Users can select which health partners are authorized to share their data with ChatGPT, ensuring privacy and governance over personal information.

### Creation and Partnership

The creation of ChatGPT Health has been a careful journey, spanning over two years and involving collaboration with more than 260 healthcare professionals from 60 countries and various fields. This comprehensive feedback has influenced the feature’s responses, focusing on providing valuable information while prioritizing user safety. The physicians offered insights on how to communicate health data clearly and when to advise follow-up appointments with healthcare providers.

### Privacy and Safety Improvements

OpenAI has introduced distinctive privacy features for ChatGPT Health, which include:

1. **Specialized encryption and segregation**: This guarantees that health-related discussions remain private and distinct.
2. **No utilization of health discussions for training**: Engagements within the ChatGPT Health feature are not used for training OpenAI’s core models, thereby enhancing user privacy.

### Initial Launch and Future Growth

ChatGPT Health is presently being launched to a select group of users, with intentions for broader access down the line. Users keen on merging their health data with ChatGPT can discover additional details on OpenAI’s official website.

As AI technology advances, ChatGPT Health signifies a major leap towards offering accessible and tailored health guidance, epitomizing the growing convergence of technology and healthcare.

HBO Max Features Keanu Reeves’ Overlooked Comic Book Horror Movie

While “Constantine 2” has yet to receive the green light, despite the interest expressed by both Reeves and Lawrence, the initial film began streaming on HBO Max in early 2026, offering fans of the action-horror genre an opportunity to revisit it. Those who have skipped the film all these years, or were simply unaware, can now discover it from the comfort of home — possibly joining the ranks of fans advocating for a sequel to the tale.

“Constantine” serves as an instance where the Rotten Tomatoes rating from film critics (46%) does not accurately reflect the reaction of the general audience. The Rotten Tomatoes Popcorn Meter score is significantly higher, sitting at 72% from over 250,000 ratings, consistent with the film’s IMDb rating (7.0/10 based on over 402,000 reviews). While critics may have had legitimate criticisms of “Constantine” upon its release, it remains an enjoyable film to watch. Keanu Reeves plays an exorcist/investigator specializing in the supernatural. John Constantine possesses the ability to see, speak to, and confront demons and/or angels already embroiled in their conflict over humanity. He navigates this while bearing his own metaphorical burden as he heads toward his imminent day of reckoning.

It’s not solely centered on Keanu Reeves

<iframe class="gallery-image-video oembed" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/819JCbGfZpg?v=819JCbGfZpg" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen data-slide-url="https://www.bgr.com/2065291/keanu-reeves-constantine-comic-book-horror-streaming-hbo-max/" data-slide-num="1" data-post-id="206

Dell Recognizes the Disinterest in AI Among PC Consumers

### Dell’s Departure from AI Marketing: Takeaways from CES 2026

AI has been a key area of focus for technology firms, including Apple, for numerous years. However, Dell’s recent acknowledgment underscores a growing separation between AI marketing and consumer engagement. At CES 2026, Dell’s product leader, Kevin Terwilliger, disclosed that PC purchasers are not emphasizing AI features when making buying choices.

#### Dell’s View on AI

In a piece by Dave James at PC Gamer, Terwilliger expressed, “what we’ve discovered over the course of this year, particularly from a consumer standpoint, is they’re not purchasing based on AI. In fact, I think AI likely confuses them more than it clarifies a specific outcome.” This remark signifies a considerable change from Dell’s former AI-focused marketing tactics.

While Dell is not entirely abandoning its AI projects, the firm has acknowledged that highlighting AI in its marketing may not connect with the typical consumer. Instead, it might cause confusion rather than clarity regarding product advantages.

#### Consumer Attitudes Towards AI

The sentiment articulated by Dell mirrors a larger trend seen among non-tech-savvy consumers. Many people are doubtful or apprehensive about AI, which stands in stark contrast to the enthusiasm often displayed in tech environments. This doubt suggests that consumers may weigh other attributes, such as performance, design, and usability, more heavily than AI functionalities.

#### Consequences for Tech Marketing

Dell’s shift away from AI-focused communication prompts questions about the future of tech advertising. Firms like Dell, Apple, and others must navigate various audiences, including everyday consumers, tech aficionados, and investors. Traditionally, the latter two demographics have favored AI-centered narratives, but Dell’s recent statements might indicate a change in focus as companies reconsider how they convey the worth of their products.

As the technology landscape changes, it will be intriguing to observe if other companies follow Dell’s example in downplaying AI in their promotional strategies. The potential for a shifting narrative surrounding AI could redefine how tech products are marketed to consumers in the near future.

#### Conclusion

Dell’s insights into consumer perspectives on AI unveil a significant divide between technological advancement and market demand. As the company modifies its marketing strategy, it underscores the necessity of grasping consumer preferences and the importance of clear product messaging. The future of AI in consumer electronics is yet to be determined, but Dell’s experience might provide a crucial lesson for the sector.

Crucial Initial Actions After Acquiring a New iPad [Video]

# Configuring Your New iPad with iPadOS 26

Acquiring a new iPad is a thrilling occasion, particularly with the recent upgrades in iPadOS 26. This manual will assist you in setting up your iPad efficiently, ensuring it appears quicker, more organized, and tailored to your preferences from the outset.

## 1. Configure the Updated Windowing & Multitasking

iPadOS 26 brings a revamped windowing and multitasking framework that mimics a desktop-like experience. You can opt for the new windowed applications or retain the classic full-screen applications. To configure this:

– Access **Settings**
– Navigate to **Multitasking & Gestures**
– Activate either **Windowed Apps** or **Full Screen Apps**

Selecting the appropriate choice will greatly influence your daily interactions with the iPad.

## 2. Arrange Your Files App

The Files app has undergone notable improvements in iPadOS 26, enhancing its utility and adaptability. You can:

– Adjust column sizes
– Incorporate extra column categories
– Personalize folder colors and add emojis
– Position folders in your dock for quick access
– Experience more seamless background data transfers
– Easily modify layouts

These enhancements make the Files app resemble Finder more closely, improving both professional and recreational workflows.

## 3. Personalize Your Control Center

Control Center has received a makeover, allowing for enhanced personalization. To customize it:

– Swipe down from the top-right to access Control Center
– Long-press to edit
– Include controls such as Screen Recording, Notes, Low Power Mode, and Focus
– Rearrange them for convenient access

You can incorporate various tools, making Control Center a robust resource for quick access to settings and functionalities.

## 4. Home Screen and Lock Screen Personalizations

Adjusting your Home Screen and Lock Screen can render your iPad more personal and practical. To achieve this:

– Long-press on the Home Screen until apps start to jiggle
– Tap **Edit** in the upper left corner
– Add Widgets, modify app icon colors and sizes, and change the wallpaper
– Personalize the Lock Screen in a similar manner

These modifications will streamline your experience and provide swift access to vital information.

## 5. Notification Organization

Proper management of notifications is essential for enhancing focus. To optimize your notifications:

– Open **Settings**
– Navigate to **Notifications**
– Enable **Scheduled Summary** and designate delivery times for non-urgent notifications
– Review individual applications and disable notifications for those that are not critical

This configuration enables you to prioritize significant notifications while reducing distractions.

## Concluding Remarks

With just a few straightforward adjustments, iPadOS 26 converts your iPad into a more rapid, intuitive device. Whether you favor the new multitasking capabilities or the traditional arrangement, customization possibilities permit you to adapt your iPad to your requirements. By organizing your Home Screen, Lock Screen, Files app, and notifications, you can greatly enhance your iPad experience.

Apple Research App Gets Update With Liquid Glass Revamp

### Apple Research App Gets Liquid Glass Makeover

Apple is enhancing its range of applications with a contemporary look, and the newest update to the Apple Research app exemplifies this shift. Although not all Apple applications have embraced the new Liquid Glass design, the Apple Research app now reflects the visual aesthetics of iOS 26.

#### What is Apple Research?

Apple Research serves as a platform that enables iPhone users to engage in important health studies. These studies frequently aid in the innovation of new features in upcoming Apple products, such as improvements in sleep tracking and heart health monitoring. By participating in these studies, users can influence the future of health technology.

#### New Design Features

The latest update brings a Liquid Glass redesign that boosts the app’s visual attractiveness and functionality. Users can experience the updated interface by downloading the newest version of Apple Research from the App Store. The redesign seeks to create a more unified appearance that aligns with the overall look of iOS 26, ensuring a smooth user experience throughout Apple’s ecosystem.

#### Future Updates

Even though the Apple Research app has undergone its Liquid Glass transformation, many other applications in the Apple suite are still pending similar updates. Specifically, the iWork suite, which consists of Pages, Keynote, and Numbers, has yet to embrace the new design aesthetic. Users are looking forward to these updates, as they would improve both the functionality and visual coherence of Apple’s productivity tools.

#### Conclusion

The update to the Apple Research app represents a notable advancement in Apple’s efforts to refresh its applications. As users continue to take part in health studies via the app, they can also benefit from a more visually appealing and user-friendly interface. With further updates expected for additional Apple applications, the shift to Liquid Glass design is likely to persist, improving the overall user experience across the Apple ecosystem.