Author: sparta

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    • Comments Off on macOS 26: Anticipated Features, Release Schedule, Supported Devices, and Extra Information
    macOS 26: Anticipated Features, Release Schedule, Supported Devices, and Extra Information

    macOS 26 is set to be Apple’s forthcoming operating system for Mac devices. It is anticipated to be unveiled at the WWDC 2025 keynote prior to a public release in the fall. Apple is expected to enhance its Apple Intelligence capabilities, as it still lags behind competitors like Google, OpenAI, and others. Here’s all the essential information regarding the incoming macOS 26 operating system update.

    Wait, macOS 26?
    For the first occasion since OS X, Apple intends to modify the name of the Mac operating system. While it is still expected to retain the name macOS, Apple may adopt a strategy similar to Microsoft by designating it macOS 26 instead of the previously anticipated macOS 19.

    As reported by Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, macOS 26 will be the succeeding version of macOS as Apple starts to categorize software updates by the forthcoming year (much like the model year of a new vehicle). Other OS updates from Apple will reportedly adhere to this naming practice.

    Gurman clarifies that the goal is “to provide uniformity to its branding and move away from a method that can confuse customers and developers.” All software updates from Apple to this point have been titled sequentially based on their initial release date. Consequently, iOS 18 debuted simultaneously with watchOS 12, macOS 15, and visionOS 2. Moving forward, they will all be synchronized, much to the satisfaction of users and developers alike.

    Nevertheless, this macOS 26 rebranding implies that Apple is sidestepping the AI competition rather than spearheading it.

    Is Apple still assigning a name to macOS 26?
    There were earlier speculations that Apple was preparing macOS Mammoth, as the Cupertino firm sought a trademark extension for this name back in 2021.

    Mammoth was rumored for 2021 when Apple revealed Monterey, and once more in 2022. For 2025, it remains uncertain what moniker Apple will select for macOS 26. Internally, the software is referred to as Cheer.

    With this latest macOS 26 naming speculation, it seems Apple may be moving away from Californian names for its operating system.

    When will Apple reveal macOS 26?
    If Apple adheres to its usual pattern, it should unveil macOS 26 during the WWDC 2025 keynote. The Worldwide Developers Conference is scheduled to occur from June 9 to June 13. While it was previously hosted at the San Jose McEnery Convention Center in California, WWDC transitioned to a pre-recorded video format when the pandemic began. Currently, the company also invites media and developers to view it from the Apple Park campus in Cupertino.

    Release date
    macOS 26 is anticipated to launch in September 2025. Apple customarily states that the new system update will be accessible “in the fall.” However, in recent years, the company has released Mac software updates in late September.

    Some speculations suggest that Apple may not launch all major macOS 26 features simultaneously due to delays linked to Apple Intelligence. In fact, the most compelling features may not materialize until the early half of 2026.

    Rumored macOS 26 features
    Thus far, the primary rumored features are centered around the enhancement of Apple Intelligence and a significant redesign. Here’s what information we have:

    A significant redesign is on the way
    Bloomberg‘s Mark Gurman reports that macOS 26 “will fundamentally alter the appearance of the operating systems and align Apple’s diverse software platforms more closely.” According to the journalist, Apple will standardize the aesthetics of iOS, iPadOS, and macOS to offer a more intuitive experience across the platform. This is likely why the company might transition to macOS 26 instead of 16.

    Apple is set to modify the look of icons, menus, applications, windows, and system buttons. This is expected to be the most substantial redesign for the iPhone since iOS 7 and for the Mac since Big Sur. The primary aim behind these design transformations is to foster greater cohesion among Apple’s varied operating systems.

    Moreover, in January, Front Page Tech indicated that iOS 26 might undergo a redesign influenced by visionOS, particularly the Camera app. With multiple layers of interaction, some have posited that Apple may need to simplify the Camera app again, and redesigning it with aspects of visionOS UI may enhance its accessibility for the everyday user.

    Then, in April, John Prosser presented a glimpse of what he believes will be Apple’s iOS 26 redesign, following Bloomberg‘s Mark Gurman noting that the leaked images were “based on either very old builds or vague descriptions.”

    Front Page Tech host Jon Prosser asserts that Gurman’s post actually motivated him to revisit and scrutinize the leaked iOS 26 build. Upon doing so, he noticed that activating icons altered their shape. The icons began to appear more rounded, akin to the style of the apps on visionOS, although not quite a perfect circle. Other

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    • Comments Off on Galaxy Tab S11 Ultra Anticipated to Showcase Major Battery Enhancement
    Galaxy Tab S11 Ultra Anticipated to Showcase Major Battery Enhancement

    Samsung may at last provide users with the battery enhancement they have been hoping for.

    (Image credit: Andrew Myrick / Android Central)

    Essential information

    • There are claims suggesting that the model numbers for the Galaxy Tab S11 and S11 Ultra batteries have come to light.
    • While the Tab S11 may retain the same battery as its predecessor, the Ultra is expected to experience a 500mAh increase in capacity.
    • Previous gossip indicates that Samsung won’t be releasing a Plus model this year, and may be considering utilizing MediaTek’s Dimensity 9400 top-tier chip.

    Samsung is anticipated to unveil another high-end tablet lineup soon, with several specifications reportedly leaking.

    The information originates from Galaxy Club (Dutch), claiming that the battery details for the Galaxy Tab S11 series have emerged (via 9to5Google). The source has allegedly identified the model numbers of the batteries intended for the Galaxy Tab S11 and Tab S11 Ultra. Notably, it is suggested that the Ultra variant might see a significant battery enhancement.

    Tab S10 Ultra. The source proposes that Samsung could advertise its battery capacity to approximately 12,000mAh, although that might be an overestimate.</

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    • Comments Off on Google Unveils Solution for Wear OS Authentication Flaw Affecting Wallet
    Google Unveils Solution for Wear OS Authentication Flaw Affecting Wallet

    The application consistently prompted users for their smartwatch’s PIN or pattern.

    An issue impacting Google Wallet led to ongoing authentication requests for Wear OS users. Over a week after initially recognizing the issue, Google confirmed the bug has been rectified. Wear OS users are now able to proceed with Wallet payments without needing to authenticate their purchase if their device is unlocked and worn on the wrist.

    A modification in how Google Wallet processes contactless payments on Android devices may have resulted in an annoying bug for Wear OS users, but this has now been addressed. In a community announcement on Thursday, May 29, a Google representative stated that the problem causing Wear OS gadgets to incessantly request PIN/pattern verification has been resolved (via 9to5Google).

    Users can now execute Wallet transactions without the need to validate their purchase every time. Once the smartwatch is unlocked and worn properly, Google Wallet contactless payments can be completed swiftly and effortlessly without entering a PIN or pattern.

    The updated community announcement clarifies that a number of Wear OS users were “required to re-enter their PIN/password on their smartwatch during in-store transactions.” The company recognized the problem on May 20, and more than a week later, the resolution has been rolled out.

    At first, it was uncertain whether this issue represented a behavioral change coinciding with modifications made to Google Wallet’s operation on Android. For smartphones, Google Wallet is now required to be unlocked with a passcode or biometric authentication for the application to be accessed. While the timing of the Wear OS bug’s emergence seemed to connect with this change, it turned out to be an error after all.

    Not all Wear OS users experienced this issue, so if you have not encountered persistent authentication prompts, you may continue to use Google Wallet as usual. Nevertheless, the problem appeared to be quite common, as over 360 users reported encountering the same issue on the community post — and those figures only represent what we are aware of.

    To obtain the fix, ensure your Google Wallet application is updated to version 25.17 on your Wear OS smartwatch. It remains uncertain whether the patch requires a server-side modification or if it necessitates an application update.

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    • Comments Off on Sony to Depend on Third-Party Collaborators for Xperia Series Manufacturing, Report Indicates
    Sony to Depend on Third-Party Collaborators for Xperia Series Manufacturing, Report Indicates

    Sony has reportedly altered its manufacturing approach for its premier Xperia smartphone series, choosing to delegate production to external companies. This decision represents a notable shift, as Sony has historically managed the manufacture of its premium Xperia devices internally, although it has previously contracted out its mid-range products. Reports suggest that Sony’s facilities in Thailand and China have halted production of the Xperia line, with references to the smartphones being eliminated from Sony’s official website. The newly released Xperia 1 VII is believed to be a result of this latest outsourcing strategy. While the Xperia series still boasts cutting-edge technology, including a triple camera configuration and Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Elite chip, the transition to third-party manufacturing has evoked worries among consumers regarding the potential effects on quality. Sony remains dedicated to delivering software updates for its devices, vowing four years of significant OS upgrades and six years of security updates for the Xperia 1 VII. The future of Sony’s Xperia line will hinge on the effectiveness of this outsourcing model and its capacity to uphold the quality and innovation that consumers anticipate.

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    • Comments Off on Apple Notes Unveils Essential Shortcut Activating Two Secret Features
    Apple Notes Unveils Essential Shortcut Activating Two Secret Features

    # Harnessing the Potential of Apple Notes: Instant Conversions and Calculations

    Apple Notes stands out as one of the most adaptable applications bundled with the iPhone, and recent updates have unveiled a significant shortcut that introduces two potent functionalities: instant conversions and mathematical equations.

    ## Instant Conversions Using Just an Equals Sign

    For several years, iOS has facilitated various unit and currency conversions. Previously, users accessed this feature by selecting text and opening a context menu to view the conversion. However, Apple Notes has greatly simplified this operation.

    Users can now just input a unit of measurement or currency followed by an equals sign. Instantly, Notes presents the conversion in yellow text. Hitting the space bar incorporates the conversion into the note, establishing a permanent record.

    For instance:
    – When evaluating Apple Watch sizes, typing “46mm=” indicates it is roughly 1.811 inches.
    – While traveling in Europe, entering “86 euros=” reveals it amounts to about $97.

    While Spotlight Search is handy for quick conversions, having a documented record in Notes can be advantageous for future reference, keeping both the original and converted amounts readily available.

    ## Math Equations Using the Identical Shortcut

    The equals key does more than just enable conversion functions; it also empowers users to carry out basic mathematical equations. By typing a math equation and pressing the equals sign, the result appears in the same highlighted format.

    This capability is especially beneficial for budgeting tasks. Users can allocate numeric values to different categories (e.g., Food, Rent) and leverage these variables to compute totals using the equals sign.

    ## Apple Notes ‘Equals’ Shortcut: Conclusion

    Apple Notes is filled with features that many users might not fully exploit. While most functionalities can be uncovered through menus and icons, the equals sign shortcut for conversions and equations could easily be missed. Once recognized, this shortcut significantly boosts the app’s functionality, making it an even more essential tool for users.

    Have you experimented with Apple Notes’ shortcut for conversions and equations? Feel free to share your thoughts in the comments!

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    • Comments Off on “Bono: Tales of Surrender” Now Open for Streaming on Apple TV+ Featuring an Immersive Vision Pro Version
    “Bono: Tales of Surrender” Now Open for Streaming on Apple TV+ Featuring an Immersive Vision Pro Version

    # Apple’s “Bono: Tales of Surrender” Now Available on Apple TV+

    Apple has debuted its newest original film, [Bono: Tales of Surrender](https://apple.co/3SsI8P6), now streaming on Apple TV+. For Vision Pro headset owners, an [immersive edition](https://apple.co/4dEbtQp) provides a distinctive experience that brings viewers right onto the stage with U2’s lead vocalist, Bono.

    ## Film Summary

    Helmed by Andrew Dominik, recognized for his musical documentary works such as [One More Time with Feeling](https://apple.co/43BnwJt), the film interweaves aspects of Bono’s solo stage performance, narrative storytelling, and animations inspired by the artist’s own drawings. The documentary is based on Bono’s 2022 autobiography, “[Surrender: 40 Songs, One Story](https://www.amazon.com/Bono-Stories-Surrender/dp/B0DXBMGPX5/?tag=marcmendes-20),” exploring key events from Bono’s creative and personal life. It also includes heartfelt renditions of timeless U2 tracks and features clips from his latest tour.

    ## Viewing Options

    The film is offered in two distinct formats. The [standard version](https://apple.co/3SsI8P6) is accessible via the Apple TV app on a variety of devices, such as iPhone, iPad, Mac, and Apple TV, and does not require a headset. Alternatively, the [Vision Pro version](https://apple.co/4dEbtQp) employs 8K video, Spatial Audio, and a 180-degree field of view to elevate the viewing experience.

    With a duration of 1 hour and 26 minutes, this documentary stands as the lengthiest immersive video Apple has released for the Vision Pro. Notably, it is not a complete immersive film; it showcases a mixture of 3D and 2D sequences, creating a captivating experience for Bono and U2 aficionados.

    ## The Future of Immersive Experiences

    In a recent discussion, Bono elaborated on the production of immersive video and Apple’s ambitions for the Vision Pro platform, recognizing its premium pricing. He mentioned, “I realize Apple is eager to make the Vision Pro more accessible and inclusive, yet they are dedicated to innovation, committed to experimentation.” Despite the hurdles, Apple is unwavering in its commitment to this technology.

    The immersive version of the film is [available](https://apple.co/4dEbtQp) free of charge on the Apple TV app for Vision Pro users, in addition to other recent immersive projects such as [Submerged](https://apple.co/3Fzjvx8) and the [Metallica](https://apple.co/3Svi3iq) experience.

    For those wanting the standard edition, a subscription to [Apple TV+](https://tv.apple.com/channel/tvs.sbd.4000?itscg=30200&itsct=tv%5C_box%5C_link&at=1000l3cvR) is necessary, priced at $9.99 per month. This subscription grants access to beloved series and films including [Severance](https://apple.co/4mI15ey), [The Studio](https://tv.apple.com/show/the-studio/umc.cmc.7518algxc4lsoobtsx30dqb52?itscg=30200&itsct=tv_box_link&mttnsubad=umc.cmc.7518algxc4lsoobtsx30dqb52&at=1000l3cvR), [The Morning Show](https://tv.apple.com/show/the-morning-show/umc.cmc.25tn3v8ku4b39tr6ccgb8nl6m?itscg=30200&itsct=tv_box_link&mttnsubad=umc.cmc.25tn3v8ku4b39tr6ccgb8nl6m&at=1000l3cvR), [Shrinking](https://tv.apple.com/show/shrinking/umc.cmc.apzybj6eqf6pzccd97kev7bs?itscg=30200&itsct=tv_box_link&mttnsubad=umc.cmc.apzybj6eqf6pzccd97kev7bs&at=1000l3cFK), and

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    • Comments Off on “Andor Shatters Television Record with Exceptional Star Wars Predecessor”
    “Andor Shatters Television Record with Exceptional Star Wars Predecessor”

    There’s elite television, and then there’s a unique series like *Andor*, the live-action Star Wars prequel on Disney+ that audiences continue to praise weeks after its second and concluding season wrapped up.

    Throughout a total of 24 episodes, *Andor* — consistently more of an intellectual political thriller than a space opera — achieved an impressive milestone: It’s the first program in TV history to accumulate five consecutive episodes with a 9.5 or higher rating on IMDb. In simpler terms (not that the followers of this espionage-laden drama will need reminding), this is as close to perfection as television can reach.

    The impressive streak begins with Season 2’s Episode 8, titled *Who Are You?*, and stretches through to the finale, titled *Jedha, Kyber, Erso*. Each episode in this five-part arc, which includes the harrowing Ghorman massacre, resonates with profound moral clarity, and the caliber of writing that transforms a television program into art comparable to literature.

    Season 2 has been carefully crafting this buildup from the outset. In the initial episodes, we see Cassian Andor infiltrating an Imperial facility like a thief, Bix striving to regain her identity, and Syril ascending the bureaucratic ladder with fervor. The rebellion remains fragmented, but the sparks of resistance are igniting.

    By the time the massacre occurs in Episode 8, *Andor* is operating at full capacity. A peaceful demonstration disrupted by Imperial firepower, a political system that chokes the truth, and a politician (Mon Mothma) willing to risk everything to label genocide appropriately — regardless of one’s opinion on the franchise, Star Wars may never feel this authentic again. And the series continued to escalate from that point. In *Make It Stop* (Ep. 10), Luthen’s history catches up with him, Kleya’s loyalty is put to the test in ways that result in casualties, and Cassian makes the pivotal decision to trade peace for purpose.

    Meanwhile, Bix offers a heartfelt farewell directly to the camera that left some viewers in tears (and by some viewers, I am clearly referring to myself).

    In its concluding three-episode segment, *Andor* resists falling into nostalgia or neat conclusions. Given that the series was designed to pave the way for the events of 2016’s *Rogue One*, this was always a certainty. Yet, what makes the series so memorable, and why it’s difficult for fans like me to move on, is partly linked to how its characters confront the void and pose deep questions that *Star Wars* has never explored before. Such as, what if the struggle for freedom is endless? And what if the rebels engaged in that struggle never get to witness the new world they are striving to create?

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    • Comments Off on Niantic Shifts Focus from Gaming to Geospatial AI Innovation
    Niantic Shifts Focus from Gaming to Geospatial AI Innovation

    **Integrating Digital Assistants into Our Real World**

    Niantic, the firm famous for Pokémon GO, is initiating a groundbreaking journey with its new project, Niantic Spatial. This initiative aspires to blend digital and physical dimensions via a comprehensive geospatial model, improving AI’s comprehension of our environment.

    **Key Points:**
    – Niantic Spatial represents a fresh path for the organization, concentrating on building a geospatial model to connect digital and physical realms.
    – The company has pivoted from gaming, selling its division to Scopely, and is now prioritizing advancements in AI.
    – The geospatial model aims to enhance AI’s spatial reasoning, utilizing over 30 billion images sourced from across the globe.

    Niantic Spatial’s objective is to connect the digital and physical worlds, allowing AI to gain a deeper understanding of our surroundings. This model will support large language models in spatial reasoning, enabling machines to grasp real-world contexts.

    **A Future in Spatial Awareness:**
    Niantic envisions deploying AI models within devices such as AR glasses and autonomous technology. The Niantic Spatial Platform features a Visual Positioning System, Gaussian Splatting for 3D representation, and developer SDKs. The company is developing proof-of-concepts in diverse real-world sectors.

    Niantic’s focus on AI is not a novel endeavor. CEO John Hanke previously endorsed smart glasses from Brilliant Labs, which showcased multimodal AI software. Their AI, Noa, possesses the ability to perceive the environment and deliver actionable insights.

    Niantic Spatial’s pioneering strategy has the potential to transform how digital assistants engage with our physical surroundings, enhancing experiences in both personal and professional realms.

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    • Comments Off on April Witnesses Slight Rise in iPhone Sales in China
    April Witnesses Slight Rise in iPhone Sales in China

    ### Minor Gains Signal Major News for International Smartphone Manufacturers in China

    Recent statistics from the China Academy of Information and Communications Technology (CAICT) reveal a slight recovery for non-Chinese smartphone brands in April, following a notable 50% sales drop in March. This increase, albeit small, represents a hopeful sign for foreign companies navigating a tough market.

    Per a report accessed by Reuters, shipments of foreign-branded smartphones in China totaled 3.52 million units in April, a minor rise from 3.50 million units in the comparable month last year. This upturn is especially significant considering the poor results reported in March, indicating a possible stabilization in the marketplace.

    This April growth follows a challenging fiscal Q2 for Apple, which experienced a 2% decline in revenue from the previous year in China. This slump was further exacerbated by a 7.7% decrease in iPhone sales during the first quarter, as noted by Counterpoint Research. The drop in sales has been linked to increased competition from domestic brands, which have thrived due to aggressive government-supported subsidies.

    To tackle these hurdles, Apple has implemented a more aggressive pricing approach. Reports suggest that leading Chinese e-commerce sites have been providing substantial discounts on the new iPhone 16 models, with reductions reaching up to ¥2,530 (around $350). These price reductions seem to be yielding results, as the sales data from April indicates that Apple may be stabilizing after a sequence of declines in one of its critical markets.

    While the figures from April do not indicate a major turnaround, they do suggest a potential rebound for foreign smartphone brands in China, underscoring the significance of strategic pricing and flexibility in a swiftly changing market environment.

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    • Comments Off on Best Buy Provides $225 Off on Galaxy S25 for a Short Period: Information Within
    Best Buy Provides $225 Off on Galaxy S25 for a Short Period: Information Within

    The S25 is the final authentic compact flagship smartphone available.

    As summer approaches rapidly, Galaxy S25 promotions are among the initial offers gaining momentum. Currently, shoppers can receive up to $225 off the standard Samsung Galaxy S25 at Best Buy with carrier activation, or $125 off when purchasing the unlocked version.

    The robust Samsung Galaxy S25 represents the nearest option to a compact phone in the current marketplace. Featuring a 6.2-inch AMOLED display, seven years of software support, and the powerful Snapdragon 8 Elite processor, this phone is packed with features, especially for those nostalgic for the days of smaller smartphones.

    This particular promotion pertains to the 128GB storage variant, although Best Buy is also providing a $125 discount on the 256GB model should you require additional storage.

    Best Buy offers a $225 discount on the 128GB version of the Samsung Galaxy S25 when customers activate through their carrier. If you prefer to bypass activation and purchase the phone unlocked, you will still benefit from a substantial $125 discount. Additionally, there is some trade-in credit available, courtesy of Best Buy.

    ✅Recommended if: you seek an attractive deal on a smaller phone; you desire a device with some of the latest Galaxy AI capabilities; you’ve enjoyed other Galaxy ecosystem gadgets you’ve had.

    ❌Skip this deal if: you favor Samsung’s premium devices that feature more extensive hardware enhancements; you require a device with ultra-fast charging capabilities; you need a smartphone that incorporates UWB support.

    Samsung’s semi-compact Galaxy S25 stands out as the top flagship Samsung smartphone, boasting a 6.2-inch, 120Hz refresh rate AMOLED display, alongside a variety of Galaxy AI features and a slim, lightweight, yet robust design. It may even be considered the best flagship phone across brands, though that discussion remains open.

    The S25’s performance is powered by the formidable Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite for Galaxy, paired with 12GB of RAM for an exceptionally smooth user experience. Despite its compact size, it is equipped with a respectable 4,000mAh battery, a 50MP main camera, and an ultra-wide lens, among others. It also includes seven years of OS upgrades and several software and camera enhancements that were not available with the S24.

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