“YouTube TV Set to Launch Sports Package with Fresh Subscription Choices Early Next Year”
This initiative was developed to offer “greater selection” to the consumer.
Key Information
- YouTube TV Plans were unveiled today (Dec 10) featuring a collection of 10 theme-based packages for consumers to customize their entertainment experience, expected to launch “early 2026.”
- The service hinted at its Sports Plan, a bundle dedicated to sports, offering users access to NBC Sports, “all” ESPN networks, ESPN Unlimited, FS1, and beyond.
- Following the agreement between YouTube TV and Disney, the contract for ESPN is missing one key package: MLB.TV.
Notice
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Attackers Leverage ChatGPT to Fool Mac Users into Installing MacStealer Malware
**The Ascendancy of AI-Powered Malware Assaults on Mac Users**
Recent discoveries from cybersecurity experts reveal a disturbing trend in cybercrime: perpetrators are utilizing AI tools, notably ChatGPT, to trick Mac users into executing harmful commands. This technique has emerged as a fresh avenue for malware distribution, especially a variant referred to as MacStealer, which is aimed at collecting sensitive data like iCloud passwords, personal documents, and credit card information.
### The Assault Framework
The attackers mainly focus on individuals seeking advice on how to clear disk space on their Macs. By manipulating search engine outcomes, they guarantee that their malicious links rank at the top of Google search results pertaining to disk space optimization. This strategy entails crafting a dialogue with ChatGPT that incorporates a damaging Terminal command masked as a legitimate system cleanup guideline. The attackers subsequently advertise this conversation through paid promotions on Google, boosting its exposure.
### How the Fraud Operates
When a user searches for phrases like “Clear disk space on macOS” or “Free up storage on Mac,” they might come across two highly ranked links: one directing to a ChatGPT interaction and the other to a Grok chatbot conversation. Both seem to offer useful, step-by-step troubleshooting guidance. However, the commands found within these discussions are harmful.
Once the link is clicked, and the suggested command is executed, the unsuspecting user inadvertently downloads a version of the AMOS stealer. This malware runs covertly, gathering passwords and elevating privileges to install enduring malware without triggering any alerts.
### The Consequences of AI in Cybercrime
This attack strategy is particularly alarming, as it bypasses the built-in security protections of macOS. The employment of trusted platforms such as Google and ChatGPT lends an element of credibility to the malicious material, making it simpler for non-technical users to become victims of the scam. The perpetrators capitalize on the natural trust users have in reputable brands and AI innovations.
### Suggestions for Users
Experts recommend exercising extreme caution when carrying out commands in Terminal, particularly if the source cannot be completely trusted. Sponsored links on search engines should be met with skepticism. Users are urged to confirm the authenticity of any advice they encounter online, especially when it concerns executing commands that might impact their systems.
### Final Thoughts
As cybercriminals persist in evolving their strategies, the incorporation of AI into their methods presents new challenges for cybersecurity. Awareness and education are vital to assist users in identifying potential risks and safeguarding their sensitive information from being exploited. It is crucial to stay alert and cautious when exploring online resources, especially those that involve technical commands.
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Instagram Unveils User Authority Over Reels Algorithm with Future Expansion Plans
According to Adam Mosseri, the head of Instagram, the era of “transparency and control” over content visibility has arrived.
Instagram reveals a new feature for U.S. users that empowers them to take charge of the content they encounter.
Adam Mosseri, the head of Instagram, shared the details of the platform’s latest addition: “Your Algorithm.” As Mosseri explained, this feature will allow users to “view and influence” the content tailored for them in Reels. Reportedly, Instagram utilizes its AI technology to present users with what it thinks they are interested in. If you’re curious about why certain Reels appear in your feed, this will provide the clarity you seek.
In his video, Mosseri describes how users can access “Your Algorithm” and adjust their preferences accordingly.
This feature is being launched today (Dec 10) for users in the U.S., and an additional blog post provided further insights. While in Reels, users will soon see an icon in the top right corner (it resembles two hearts on individual tracks). From that point, you can access “Your Algorithm,” offering a quick glimpse of what Instagram’s AI believes aligns with your interests. Users will discover two key categories: “what you wish to see more of” and “what you wish to see less of.”
The first category encompasses everything the AI already assumes you enjoy, and you can modify topics from there. The second category, what you wish to see less of, pertains to subjects you prefer to avoid while browsing Reels. The recommendations Instagram provides will “adjust” based on your settings in Your Algorithm. Finally, the post notes that users can “share” their preferences, a brief AI-generated summary encapsulating everything.
Mosseri mentioned that there’s enthusiasm for a “world with transparency and control” regarding user visibility on Instagram.
It’s your algorithm
This marks only the start for Instagram. Mosseri’s announcement indicated that while Reels is the initial focus, efforts are underway to extend “Your Algorithm” to the primary Instagram feed and the search tab. The inclusion of the search tab is particularly designed to display items you’ve selected.
U.S. users are the first to access this in Reels today; however, the company is already aspiring to expand it to more English-speaking users worldwide “soon.”
Recently, Instagram’s AI has been active, as the platform began relying on its software to identify teenage users. The objective is to activate its protections aimed at younger users on the platform. It was mentioned that the AI would flag underage users even if their birthdays suggest they are adults. If flagged, Instagram’s Teen Account settings will automatically take effect, limiting who can reach out to them and managing the content they view.
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Chrome for iPhone Launches Native Integration with Gemini
Google Chrome for iOS has started to roll out an integrated Gemini experience, improving browsing features for users. This capability was hinted at in September and is now becoming increasingly accessible with the latest updates.
### Fresh Features in Chrome with Gemini
Once the feature is enabled, users will observe a modification in the icon to the left of the address bar. It changes from the recognizable Google Lens camera icon to a new page icon, signified by the Gemini spark. This update brings forth a “Page tools” sheet that rises up, presenting two primary options: “Search screen” (which employs Google Lens) and “Ask Gemini.”
#### Engaging with Gemini
When users select “Ask Gemini,” a window appears with a vibrant glow, revealing the URL of the active page. Users can opt to stop sharing the page by tapping the ‘x’. The Gemini feature offers various shortcuts, such as:
– **Summarize page**: This option provides essential takeaways and insights, facilitating users in understanding the core points of any topic.
– **Create FAQ about this topic**: This feature formulates frequently asked questions based on the content from the current page and related sites.
Additional inquiries that users may pose include:
– Clarifying complex topics in layman’s terms.
– Assessing knowledge on new subjects.
– Adjusting recipes for dietary needs.
– Comparing information or providing recommendations based on personal tastes.
Responses generated by Gemini are displayed above the page, ensuring that the original content remains visible in the backdrop. Users can start a new chat from the top-right corner, and there is an overflow menu featuring a Liquid Glass aesthetic, akin to the Android variant of Gemini.
### Accessibility and Restrictions
At present, the Gemini feature in Chrome on iOS is primarily offered in the United States, but only when the browser’s language is set to English. Users must also be logged into Chrome to utilize this feature, which is not accessible in Incognito mode. It’s crucial to understand that the rollout is gradual, meaning not every user will gain immediate access to Gemini.
### Further Updates in Chrome 143
In conjunction with the Gemini feature, Chrome 143 for iOS brings multiple other upgrades:
– Users can now complete purchases using biometrics instead of inputting a CVC code when shopping online.
– The new tab page provides practical tips to enhance the usage of Chrome.
– A variety of stability and performance enhancements have been introduced.
As Google continues to refine its browser capabilities, the inclusion of Gemini marks a notable advancement toward delivering users with more interactive and enriching browsing experiences.
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How to Keep Watching Anime After Crunchyroll Concludes Its Free Plan
Cord Cutter News reports that as of January 1, 2026, Crunchyroll will discontinue its ad-supported service. Therefore, the only method to access shows from the platform will require an active paid subscription. Currently, Crunchyroll maintains the same three subscription tiers: the base plan at $7.99/month, Mega Fan at $11.99/month, and the premium Ultimate Fan at $15.99.
Although the service has not yet revealed any intentions to modify its pricing structure, it is now concentrating on growing its number of paying subscribers. This shift follows Crunchyroll’s merger with Funimation a few years ago, establishing the streaming service as the leading anime platform available. Nonetheless, if you’re seeking alternative avenues to stream anime without cost, here are three options that may appeal to you.
It’s still feasible to stream legal anime for free
One of the most enduring anime series is Pokémon. Despite The Pokémon Company having closed the Pokémon TV app last year, it was revitalized as the Pokémon TV YouTube channel. The great news is that the channel consistently receives updates with fresh episodes and seasons featuring Ash and Pikachu in multiple languages. Conversely, those eager to watch the latest series must subscribe to Netflix.
Another excellent alternative is RetroCrush. This free, ad-supported service specializes in classic and vintage anime from the 70s, 80s, and 90s. It’s a great choice for fans of older series that are often challenging to locate elsewhere.
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Apple’s App Store Changes Establish EU Benchmark as Google Faces Possible Penalties
Following years of regulatory disputes, the European Commission is allegedly referencing Apple’s App Store modifications in its investigation of the Google Play Store. Here are the specifics.
### Why can’t you be more like your sibling?
In a unique report, Reuters mentioned today that Google may face a substantial EU penalty early next year if it fails to enhance compliance with EU regulations intended to guarantee fair access and competition, according to their sources.
This likely seems familiar to 9to5Mac readers, as the EC fined Apple € 500 million earlier this year under the Digital Markets Act, a decision the company is presently appealing.
This was merely one segment of the intricate exchanges that ultimately prompted Apple to reveal significant adjustments to the App Store, a shift that the EU is widely anticipated to consider within the framework of the DMA.
While the EU has yet to publicly indicate a stance regarding Apple, it is reportedly employing Apple’s modifications as a standard in private discussions.
Here’s Reuters:
> Adjustments to Google Play revealed in August to facilitate app developers in directing customers to alternative channels and selecting a fee model are reportedly insufficient, with the EU antitrust regulator regarding Apple’s recent revisions to its App Store as a standard.
These adjustments encompass reducing its “initial acquisition fee” from 10% to 3%, implementing a two-tier system for transactions and in-app purchases, a fee for installations made outside its Play Store, and additional measures.
While a direct comparison to the proposed App Store modifications is challenging, as both companies have introduced fairly complex frameworks, Apple’s strategy now seems to be the model for the regulator, something that would have appeared unimaginable just a few months ago.
Regarding Google, Reuters states that the company still has the opportunity to propose further changes before regulators enforce a fine, likely in the first quarter of the coming year.
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Inactive Volcano Erupts Following More Than 10,000 Years
On Sunday, November 23, 2025, Hayli Gubbi, a volcano located in Ethiopia’s Afar Region, erupted for the first time in documented history. Researchers estimate that the last significant activity took place between 10,000 and 12,000 years ago, yet records from this isolated region are virtually lacking. The fact that a volcano is inactive does not imply it won’t erupt unexpectedly.
Hayli Gubbi is positioned at the southern extremity of the Erta Ale Range, part of the East African Rift System, the zone where the African continent is literally splitting apart. The eruption expelled an ash plume soaring to nearly 45,000 feet (13,700 meters) high, well within the typical cruising altitude for commercial aircraft, which is normally between 33,000 and 40,000 feet.
The eruption commenced around 11:30 a.m. local time and was mostly complete by 11 p.m. on the same day. The eruption’s power tore apart Hayli Gubbi’s summit, forming an additional crater approximately 650 feet (200 meters) wide, along with a smaller third crater. In Semera, a city located about 120 miles (190 kilometers) to the south, residents heard the explosion and felt the shock wave. Analysis of satellite data indicated that the plume contained around 220,000 tons of sulfur dioxide mixed with ash and crushed rock.
### Ash from Hayli Gubbi reached India in 35 hours
The ash plume was transported across the Red Sea and the Arabian Peninsula, blanketing Yemen and Oman before descending into southern Pakistan and northern India. Reports indicated that by 11 p.m. on November 24, the plume reached Delhi, covering approximately 2,566 miles (4,130 kilometers) from its origin. This distance is comparable to that from New York to Los Angeles, accomplished in only 35 hours.
Volcanic ash poses a risk to aircraft, as the ash particles can obstruct the intake systems of jet engines. At high altitudes, silica deposits can melt and create a glass-like residue that can cause engine malfunctions. Air India canceled 11 flights, and Akasa Air suspended its services to the Middle East. India’s Directorate General of Civil Aviation issued advisories for pilots to report any encounters with ash.
Hayli Gubbi is categorized as a shield volcano, which typically has mild eruptions, making this explosive event unusual. The eruption is classified as sub-Plinian, defined by powerful vertical columns and extensive ash dispersion. This incident underscores the unpredictable nature of volcanoes within the East African Rift System.
### Villages buried under ashfall
Although the eruption was abrupt, it was not entirely unforeseen, due to early-warning indicators of volcanic activity. Nearby, the Erta Ale volcano exhibited explosive behavior on July 15, alongside a magma intrusion that moved southeast along a dike towards Hayli Gubbi. Fissure vents emerged along the rift, with the nearest group situated just 1.2 miles (2 kilometers) from the volcano’s crater. Earlier this year, satellite observations also detected ground uplift. From July 25 to November 18, a peculiar white cloud appeared within the crater. These anomalies suggest magma movement inside the crater, paving the way for this eruption.
The worst-hit areas were the towns affected by ashfall. Afdera, a village located 17 miles (28 kilometers) west of the volcano, found itself buried in volcanic ash. Residents reported issues such as breathing difficulties and severe coughing, leading to the deployment of emergency medical teams to the area.
Aside from ash, the eruption released around 220,000 tons of sulfur dioxide into the atmosphere, potentially affecting local air quality. This eruption exemplifies the unpredictability of dormant volcanoes, even after a silence lasting 10,000 years.
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Apple Pay Promotion Provides a 30% Reduction on Mattel Toys
**Apple Pay Unveils 30% Discount Deal on Mattel Toys**
With the holiday shopping season on the horizon, Apple Pay has rolled out an exciting promotion that offers customers a 30% price reduction on a variety of more than 600 toys from Mattel. This deal is an ideal chance for those aiming to buy gifts for kids or toy fans.
### Promotion Details
The Apple Pay discount at Mattel is valid from **December 8, 2025, at 6 a.m. PT until December 14, 2025, at 11:59 p.m. PT**. To benefit from this offer, shoppers must check out using Apple Pay and enter the promo code **APPLEPAY** during checkout.
### Eligible Products
The promotion includes a vast selection of popular toy brands, featuring:
– Barbie
– Hot Wheels
– Little People
– Monster High
Consumers can browse the comprehensive array of eligible toys and collectibles on Mattel’s online store.
### Exclusions and Conditions
While this promotion offers a substantial discount, certain exclusions apply:
– The discount is not valid on Mattel Creations Memberships, shipping and handling charges, gift cards, or relevant taxes.
– This promotion cannot be combined with other offers or promotions, apart from shipping deals.
### Conclusion
Apple Pay regularly partners with chosen vendors to deliver exclusive discounts, and this deal with Mattel arrives at a particularly opportune time for the holiday season. Whether you are a frequent toy buyer or in search of last-minute gifts, this promotion is definitely worth a look.
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How Does Apple CarPlay Link: Bluetooth or Wi-Fi?
Apple CarPlay advice and techniques to maximize its use. However, have you ever thought about whether CarPlay connects to your iPhone via Bluetooth or Wi-Fi? The brief answer is both, particularly in newer vehicles that allow for wireless CarPlay connectivity — in contrast to a wired USB link between your iPhone and the automobile. When initiating a wireless CarPlay session, your iPhone initially employs Bluetooth to create a secure connection and to seek authorization to pair.
After your vehicle grants iOS the go-ahead, Wi-Fi takes charge, forming a closed network to facilitate data synchronization and to ensure your CarPlay-compatible applications operate seamlessly while you drive. You’ll also want to confirm that cellular data is activated, as navigation, music streaming, and other connected functionalities depend on it. Certain CarPlay-equipped vehicles are capable of both wired and wireless connections, while some are exclusively wired. But what if you’re operating one of the early CarPlay models that didn’t incorporate Bluetooth at all? Let’s discover.
Reasons why wired CarPlay continues to be beneficial
Viture Luma Ultra Glasses: Existing Constraints and Prospective Opportunities with Cyberpunk Partnership and Growing Spatial Offerings
Viture Luma Ultra is finally ready for purchase after a lengthy wait, and I’ve been experimenting with them for several weeks to evaluate how they stack up against the leading smart glasses. While these are undoubtedly the finest offering Viture has produced to date, several absent features prevent them from reaching true excellence.
Before diving into that, let’s discuss what Viture Luma Ultra actually is and how it stands out from Viture’s extensive smart glasses range. In brief, Luma Ultra enhances the Luma Pro experience by introducing a brighter display, two extra cameras, and 6DoF tracking. Viture debuted its Luma series initially with Viture Luma Pro back in July, which represented the first smart glasses from the company equipped with an integrated camera.
Viture Luma Ultra elevates the experience with a total of three cameras: one on the nose bridge and two on the outer edges of each lens. This design allows Viture Luma Ultra to deliver comprehensive 6DoF spatial tracking, so virtual screens remain in position regardless of how much you move or walk. The catch is that you must utilize Viture’s Spacewalker software to enable 6DoF functionality.
In this respect, it appears that Viture has not fully progressed, as Xreal One can achieve 6DoF with any device that outputs video, requiring no additional software. Although you need the supplementary Xreal Eye camera on those glasses, the overall expense is still lower than that of Viture Luma Pro, making it challenging to recommend Luma Pro if your aim is to have a straightforward plug-and-play smart display glasses.
This plug-and-play functionality makes Xreal One a superior suggestion for most users, although some may still favor Viture for various reasons. Viture Luma Pro features the most luminous Sony micro-OLED displays available, reaching up to 1500 nits of DC-dimmed brightness (no PWM). This is beneficial in specific situations where automatic lens tinting doesn’t sufficiently counteract bright environmental light, but I haven’t encountered a situation in my day-to-day life where this is essential.
Viture’s Spacewalker software is also considerably more comprehensive than anything offered by Xreal, so while Xreal One is a more effective plug-and-play choice, Viture Luma Pro provides additional options for power users through smartphone or PC/Mac applications, such as quick shortcuts and multiple tracked windows. This feature enhances the feeling of it being more like a VR headset due to its capabilities.
Viture also presents the possibility for hand tracking, which can be experimented with but is primarily limited to the company’s own tech demos and brief games for the time being. I wouldn’t purchase the glasses for this feature, even if it proves to be enjoyable.
The primary reasons for choosing Viture over the competition are twofold: automatic 3D video playback and extensive ecosystem compatibility. Viture’s Pro Mobile Dock allows these glasses to be used with a Switch 2, something no other smart glasses brand can stake a claim on, due to Nintendo’s notorious hardware restrictions. Xreal is expected to soon offer a solution with the Xreal Neo adapter, but that is not yet available and lacks an official release date.
The other compelling reason to acquire them is Viture’s Immersive 3D video, which I tested a few months back and found to be simply astonishing. Viture’s Spacewalker app automatically converts any video to 3D utilizing onboard AI processing, and it functions nearly flawlessly. The user interface can be a bit unwieldy at times, but no other product on the market provides this capability, making it exceptional for anyone seeking 3D content without an official source.
For those looking for seamless plug-and-play spatial tracking compatible with any device, Xreal One or Xreal One Pro are the top recommendations. If you desire greater ecosystem compatibility and additional power-user configurations for features like 3D video or multi-monitor support, Viture Pro or Ultra are excellent selections. I only wish Viture could facilitate spatial tracking without necessitating extra software.
Cyberpunk enthusiasts might be excited to learn that Viture and CD Projekt Red have collaborated to produce a limited edition Cyberpunk 2077-themed pair of Luma glasses. These feature the same camera setup as Luma Pro but possess a completely unique aesthetic, including a custom LED strip on the back that adheres to the Cyberpunk theme, as well as an upgraded Sony micro-OLED panel capable of 1500 nits of brightness.
Only 10,000 units of these are being manufactured, with each one serialized (CP0000 – CP9999), making it a true collector’s item. If you have a high-end gaming PC, you can even experience Cyberpunk 2077 in breathtaking 3D via Viture’s Immersive 3D technology.
Viture x Cyberpunk 2077 is now available, as of December 10, 2025, at viture.com and select retail locations for $549.
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