SED News is a monthly podcast from Software Engineering Daily where hosts Gregor Vand and Sean Falconer unpack the biggest stories shaping software engineering, Silicon Valley, and the broader tech industry. In this episode, they cover the viral rise of OpenClaw and its founderâs move to OpenAI, OpenAIâs exploration of ads inside ChatGPT, and Alibabaâs
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The Suspect Could Be the Feature We’ve Been Raving About
In the continuously changing realm of smartphone innovation, the Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra has become a focal point of discussion, not only due to its remarkable attributes but also because of a surprising find. A recent article from Tom’s Guide has pointed out a possible concern with the S26 Ultra’s display, which might not be as luminous as its forerunner, the S25 Ultra. This unforeseen revelation has prompted many to speculate whether the very feature we’ve been enthusiastic about, the Privacy Display, is behind this decrease in brightness.
What You Should Know
1. A report from Tom’s Guide indicates that, following a lab evaluation, the Galaxy S26 Ultra’s display is less bright than the S25 Ultra even when Privacy Display is turned off.
2. There is a possibility that the technology employed to develop the Privacy Display is responsible for the decline in peak brightness of the new Ultra.
3. The hardware-integrated Privacy Display prevents onlookers from viewing your notifications, your full display, and much more.
When juxtaposed with the Galaxy S25 Ultra, the Galaxy S26 Ultra’s display exhibits a reduction in peak brightness from 1,860 nits to 1,806 nits. While this disparity may appear minimal, it becomes increasingly evident at broader angles. The Privacy Display, a feature intended to shield your screen from prying eyes, is believed to be the reason for this decrease in brightness. Even when turned off, the S26 Ultra’s display continues to be dimmer than its predecessor.
Tom’s Guide emphasizes that applying a privacy screen protector can consistently darken a device’s display. Samsung has incorporated this idea at a hardware level for the S26 Ultra, possibly leading to the brightness reduction. Nonetheless, the Privacy Display remains a notable feature, enabling users to determine which sections of their screen are concealed from spectators.
The Event’s Highlight
Since the introduction of the Galaxy S26 series, the Ultra’s Privacy Display has garnered significant attention. This feature darkens specific aspects of the screen to stop others from accessing your content. Users have the capability to toggle it on and off, selecting which areas of their display to obscure. This groundbreaking feature is the first of its kind for smartphones, which typically require an external protector.
Android Central’s Derrek Lee had a direct encounter with the Galaxy S26 Ultra during its reveal. The Privacy Display was a key topic of discussion, with Samsung clarifying that it functions through the display’s pixel configuration, enabling enhanced viewing angles while ensuring privacy.
Android Central’s Opinion
John Velasco at Tom’s Guide conveyed a willingness to trade a bit of peak brightness for the Privacy Display on the Galaxy S26 Ultra. Even with the evident drop in brightness, the Privacy Display’s advantages may surpass this limitation. Experiencing the feature directly might alter viewpoints, and many could find the balance worthwhile.
In summary, while the Privacy Display could be responsible for a slight decline in brightness, its capability to safeguard user privacy might render it a valuable feature for many. As technology continues to progress, maintaining a balance between innovation and performance remains a critical challenge for manufacturers such as Samsung.
Nordic Semiconductors introduced the nRF93M1 LTE Cat 1bis IoT modules at Mobile World Congress 2026 with up to 10 Mbps downlink and 5 Mbps uplink, as well as built-in Wi-Fi location capabilities. Two variants will be offered: the nRF93M1-LABA supporting LTE bands for Europe, Asia, the Middle East, and Africa, and the nRF93M1-LACA supporting a wider range of LTE bands and certifications for worldwide deployments. Nordic Semi nRF93M1 specifications : LTE Cat-1bis modem with 3GPP Rel. 14 support 617-2690 MHz LTE FDD and TDD band support Power Class 3 (23 dBm) Support for (e)UICC/eSIM (SGP.32 IoT) and Software SIM (SoftSIM) framework Data rates – Up to 10 Mbps downlink and 5 Mbps uplink Peripherals – High-speed USB, UART, IOs, coexistence interface, etc… Secure firmware updates via nRF Cloud Location services using Wi-Fi scanning and cellular eCID location Power-saving features – eDRX, PSM, and Nordic proprietary optimizations Certified for global and regional operation (GCF, […]
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Quectel has just announced two new 5G RedCap modules, the RM255C-GLÂ (Global, M.2) and RG255C-NA (North America, LGA), both of which are 3GPP Release 17-compliant 5G RedCap (Reduced Capability) modules designed to bridge the gap between LTE Cat 4/6 and full-featured 5G. Both the modules support 5G Sub-6GHz SA with LTE Cat 4 fallback, peak data rates of up to 223 Mbps downlink and 123 Mbps uplink, and backward compatibility with Rel-15/16 networks. Additionally, the modules support optional multi-constellation GNSS via Qualcomm IZat Gen 9VT technology along with various interfaces such as USB 2.0 and PCIe 2.0 (plus UART, SPI, I2C, SGMII, PCM on the RG255C-NA). Both support dual SIM, DFOTA, and embedded protocol stacks, and are suitable for industrial IoT, smart grids, video surveillance, mobile hotspots, wearables, and other medium-speed applications. Quectel RM255C-GL and RG255C-NA specifications: Connectivity 5G NR â 3GPP Release 17 RedCap (Reduced Capability) Sub-6 GHz Standalone (SA) […]
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Qualcomm has unveiled its Wi-Fi 8 (802.11bn) portfolio, which includes the FastConnect 8800 “Mobile Connectivity System”, also integrating Bluetooth 7 wireless technology, Ultra Wideband (UWB), and Thread, and five Dragonwing Networking platforms for access points and routers. The Dragonwing NPro A8 Elite features a 5×5 Wi-Fi 8 radio system for high-performance enterprise access points and premium home routers, the Dragonwing FiberPro A8 Elite offers similar features but adds 10G fiber access (PON) for fiber-to-the-home gateways, the Dragonwing FWA Gen 5 Elite is designed for fixed wireless access using the Qualcomm X85 5G Modem-RF System, and the Qualcomm Dragonwing N8 and F8 platforms offer mainstream tier options for Ethernet and fiber broadband CPEs. Qualcomm FastConnect 8800 Wi-Fi 8 mobile client Qualcomm FastConnect 8800 (WCN885x) specifications: Wi-Fi 8 with advanced features like UWB, including and RADAR Support for Snapdragon Sound⢠Technology Suite, Bluetooth® High Data Throughput (HDT), and Qualcomm XPAN Proximity AI […]
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the most dependable electric cars, technology is introducing various new conveniences to the driving experience. Luxury sedans are not a recent concept, of course, but the conveniences and comforts found in luxury electric sedans enhance their attractiveness to a wide consumer audience. Generally speaking, these vehicles bear significant price tags, which is why we’ve identified some luxury electric sedans that justify that cost.
The upper tier of the automotive market has always been competitive, featuring brands such as Lexus, Mercedes-Benz, BMW, Audi, and even Porsche as prominent contenders. Numerous luxury car manufacturers have begun producing electric models, and with several new entrants dedicated entirely to creating electric vehicles, the luxury segment is bustling here as well. Consequently, we consulted expert reviews to pinpoint some of the finest luxury electric sedans available in 2026. Some stand out due to their range, others for performance, and some for the driving experience — but all prioritize luxury as their foremost aim.
BMW has been producing luxury sedans for such a long time that it hasn’t really needed to transform itself for the electric vehicle era. The BMW i5 ranks among the top 10 electric cars per Consumer Reports, and the 2024 version secured the Edmunds Top Rated Electric Car Award. Regarding luxury, the i5 emphasizes comfort and entertainment. Elegant and modern glass controls for the rocker switch and the vehicle’s iDrive controller are accessible. Additionally, a 12-speaker sound system crafted by Harman Kardon is included.
The BMW i5 underwent a hands-on evaluation at Car and Driver, and while it doesn’t provide the kind of range that luxury electric vehicles at comparable price levels do, the i5 still earns the title of Editor’s Choice and
**9to5Mac Daily: Your Hub for Daily Apple News and Insights**
In the rapidly evolving realm of technology, remaining informed about the latest happenings is vital, particularly for Apple fans. 9to5Mac Daily presents a simple way to get up to speed on key stories regarding Apple and its ecosystem. This podcast caters to those who wish to remain aware of recent advancements in the Apple domain, from product unveilings to software enhancements.
**Podcast Accessibility**
9to5Mac Daily is available on multiple platforms, ensuring that listeners can access it wherever they prefer. You can find it on [iTunes and Apple’s Podcasts app](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/9to5mac-daily/id1331816080), [Stitcher](https://www.stitcher.com/podcast/9to5mac-daily), [TuneIn](https://tunein.com/radio/9to5Mac-Daily-p1089524/), [Google Play](https://play.google.com/music/m/I5d4dzs7dauazmfxvvrynyiuram?t=9to5Mac_Daily), or via a [dedicated RSS feed](https://feedpress.me/9to5macdaily) for Overcast and other podcast applications.
**Daily Episodes**
New installments of 9to5Mac Daily are produced every weekday, offering listeners a steady flow of information. By subscribing to the podcast, you can ensure that new episodes are sent directly to your device the moment they are released.
**Content Highlights**
Every episode delves into a range of subjects that are pertinent to Apple users, including:
– Product launches and reviews
– Software upgrades and features
– Insights into Apple’s corporate tactics
– Tips and techniques for optimizing the use of Apple devices
Listeners can anticipate a combination of news, analysis, and commentary, making it a valuable source for anyone intrigued by Apple technology.
**Support and Subscription Options**
For those looking to elevate their listening experience, 9to5Mac Daily offers a subscription service known as 9to5Mac Daily Plus. By subscribing, you unlock ad-free versions of all episodes and gain access to bonus content, enhancing your overall experience.
**Engagement and Feedback**
The team behind 9to5Mac Daily invites listener interaction and feedback. You can express your opinions by emailing them at [[email protected]](mailto:[email protected]). Furthermore, listeners are encouraged to rate the podcast on [Apple Podcasts](https://geo.itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/id1331816080?at=10laZc&pt=11l8808) or recommend it on [Overcast](https://geo.itunes.apple.com/us/app/overcast/id888422857?mt=8&at=10laZc&pt=11l8808) to assist others in discovering the show.
**Conclusion**
9to5Mac Daily acts as a crucial resource for Apple aficionados aiming to stay updated on the latest news and advancements. With its daily episodes, varied content, and listener interaction, it has cemented itself as an indispensable podcast for anyone interested in the Apple ecosystem. Whether you’re a casual user or a fervent supporter, tuning into 9to5Mac Daily will keep you informed about everything Apple.
**Apple’s Newest Releases: iPhone 17e and M4 iPad Air**
As Apple prepares for a week brimming with product announcements, excitement is palpable within the tech community regarding the freshly revealed iPhone 17e and M4 iPad Air. In a recent conversation, tech analysts Benjamin Mayo and Chance Miller provided their perspectives on these upcoming devices and what is anticipated in the near future.
### iPhone 17e: What to Anticipate
The iPhone 17e is expected to serve as a less expensive alternative to the high-end models, designed for those who desire sophisticated features without the elevated price. Predictions indicate that the device may integrate some cutting-edge technology found in its pricier siblings, possibly including enhanced camera functions, better battery longevity, and the latest A-series chip for superior performance.
### M4 iPad Air: A Fresh Contender
In addition to the iPhone 17e, Apple has presented the M4 iPad Air. This new tablet is predicted to harness the capabilities of Apple’s M-series chips, which have already revolutionized performance metrics for laptops. The M4 iPad Air could provide considerable advancements in processing speed, graphic output, and overall efficiency, appealing to both casual users and professionals.
### Cloud Infrastructure Challenges
Alongside discussions of the new devices, Mayo and Miller tackled a recent report revealing concerns within Apple’s cloud infrastructure sector. The report indicates that there are notable obstacles impacting the reliability and functionality of Apple’s cloud services. This finding raises concerns about the potential effects on users and the broader Apple product ecosystem.
### F1 on Apple TV
As the tech community anticipates new devices, sports enthusiasts are equally thrilled about the approaching Formula 1 season, which will stream on Apple TV. This initiative underscores Apple’s ongoing commitment to sports content, aiming to draw a wider audience to its streaming services.
### Join the Dialogue
For those keen on more in-depth insights and dialogues, listeners are encouraged to subscribe to the 9to5Mac Happy Hour Plus. This subscription service delivers an ad-free listening experience, bonus episodes, and exclusive pre- and post-show material.
### Feedback and Interaction
Listeners are welcomed to interact with the hosts by sending questions or feedback through social media channels such as Twitter, Mastodon, or Threads, or by emailing [email protected].
### Conclusion
With the debut of the iPhone 17e and M4 iPad Air, alongside ongoing conversations about Apple’s cloud infrastructure and sports streaming, this week is set to be significant for Apple supporters. As always, remaining informed and engaged with the latest news will enrich the experience for both users and enthusiasts.
**Apple Terminates Acclaimed Comedy Series “Palm Royale” After Two Seasons**
Apple has formally revealed that it will not be renewing the praised comedy series “Palm Royale” for a third season. The announcement, reported by Deadline, serves as a letdown for fans who have supported the series since its debut.
### Overview of “Palm Royale”
“Palm Royale,” which made its debut on March 20, 2024, on Apple TV, is adapted from Julie McDaniel’s 2018 novel “Mr. and Mrs. American Pie.” The series chronicles the efforts of Maxine Simmons, played by Kristen Wiig, as she strives to infiltrate the elite spheres of Palm Beach high society. Throughout its two seasons, the show featured a total of 20 episodes.
Despite its captivating concept and a celebrity-filled cast, which includes prominent figures like Ricky Martin, Laura Dern, Allison Janney, and Carol Burnett, “Palm Royale” never reached the same degree of mainstream popularity as other Apple TV comedies like “Ted Lasso” or “The Studio.” The series boasts an average rating of 60% on Rotten Tomatoes and a 6.8/10 on IMDb.
### Awards and Recognition
The series garnered notable accolades during its inaugural season, receiving 11 Emmy nominations, including Outstanding Comedy Series. It secured the Emmy for Outstanding Original Main Title Theme Music, underscoring its creative contributions despite its cancellation.
### Cancellation Details
The choice to cancel “Palm Royale” was made following the end of its second season in January 2025, which left several plotlines unresolved. As per Deadline’s report, Apple chose not to comment on the cancellation, providing little closure for fans concerning the destinies of the characters and their stories.
### Conclusion
As “Palm Royale” concludes its run, it joins the list of other shows that have faced cancellation despite receiving critical acclaim. Fans of the series can still view the episodes on Apple TV, which continues to provide a selection of popular shows and films for a monthly subscription rate of $12.99.
For those looking to delve into the series, “Palm Royale” is available for streaming on Apple TV.
Smith Collection/gado/Getty Images
When it comes to securing data, it may seem improbable that a collection of lights could contribute — particularly retro-style lava lamps from the ’70s. However, the reality is quite the contrary. Cloudflare, the prominent infrastructure firm that supports vast sections of the internet, utilizes 100 lava lamps to facilitate SSL encryption. The fundamental element crucial for secure encryption is randomness. The encryption “key” serves to unlock the data for protected systems, enabling it to be accessed. By maintaining randomness in keys, hackers remain in the dark, thwarting unauthorized access to the systems or data that encryption safeguards. This parallels the workings of encrypted messaging platforms, excluding the trippy ambiance.
These lava lamps aid in the generation of those keys. According to Cloudflare, “To generate the unpredictable, chaotic data vital for robust encryption, a computer demands a random data source.” Lava lamps are considered “consistently random” because their internal patterns are never replicated. The gooey lava perpetually twists, adapts, and floats, so an arrangement of 100 of them offers the most supreme “chaotic” data.
For this to function, 100 lava lamps are arranged sequentially on a solitary wall at Cloudflare’s headquarters. A camera routinely captures images of these lamps, documenting the random shapes forming within, and subsequently transmits the pictures to Cloudflare servers. As images are merely data, recorded by computers as a series of numbers — where each pixel corresponds to a unique numerical value — this also enables the team to utilize the “strings” to formulate an encryption key. Quite clever, isn’t it? Given that Cloudflare secures around 20% of the entire internet, including significant sites such as Apple, X (Twitter), Discord, Zoom, and many more, this effectively positions lava lamps as a vital component of the internet’s functionality.
The overall concept of the lava lamp wall is to generate “entropy,” which can be interpreted as chaos or disarray. However, in the realm of cryptography, entropy plays a crucial role in fostering unpredictability, which is essential for secure encryption keys and encryption at large. Thus, increased randomness is advantageous. Additionally, as the visual representation is converted into a string, everything captured by the image contributes to that randomness, encompassing any individuals moving across the wall or disrupting the photos.
As Cloudflare illustrates, “obstructions become part
