Author: sparta

Evaluation of Even Realities G2: Intelligent Eyewear with an Authentic Appearance and Sensation

### Even Realities G2 Smart Glasses: An In-Depth Look

Amid the hustle of CES 2025, the Even Realities G1 glasses piqued my interest, combining aesthetics with practicality that I found attractive. Fast forward to the present, Even Realities has launched their G2 glasses alongside the R1 smart ring, aiming to significantly improve the user experience. Here’s everything you should know about these groundbreaking products.

#### Updated Design and Battery Performance

The G2 glasses maintain the stylish look of their predecessor while being lighter, coming in at just 36 grams compared to the 50 grams of the Meta Ray-Bans. The upper part of the lens frame has been subtly flattened, and the user interaction has transitioned from a touch nub to an advanced touch pad control system situated on each temple tip. This upgraded system enables users to swipe, slide, scroll, tap, double-tap, and long-press for UI interaction, all while remaining unobtrusive.

The battery life is outstanding, providing up to two days from a single charge, with the case offering an extra 6-7 charges, allowing users up to two weeks without needing a recharge.

#### Display Technology Insights

The G2 glasses come equipped with a display on each lens that delivers notifications, teleprompter features, live translations, and stock updates. The display employs a green matrix font and has been enhanced with HAO 2.0 (Holistic Adaptive Optics) technology, which sharpens and brightens images, rendering them more lifelike even during motion. The new 3D spatial display organizes information into layers, ensuring a seamless user interface.

#### Smart Functionalities

The G2 glasses operate similarly to an Apple Watch for your eyes, providing discreet notifications without breaking your concentration. Notable features include:

– **Teleprompt**: Upload scripts or notes to view directly on the lenses.
– **Maps**: Navigate without needing to check your mobile device.
– **Conversate**: An AI-driven assistant for real-time conversations.
– **Translate**: Supports 29 languages for immediate communication.
– **QuickList and Dashboard**: Keep tasks and calendar entries in sight.

All processing is handled through the related app on your smartphone, keeping the glasses sleek and lightweight.

#### The R1 Smart Ring

To address the G1’s limitations in intuitive interaction, the R1 ring serves as a remote controller for the G2 glasses. Constructed from zirconia ceramic and stainless steel, it includes a touch-sensitive panel allowing users to swipe and tap. Additionally, the ring monitors wellness metrics and offers a Productivity Score to help maintain balance throughout the day.

#### Concluding Thoughts

The Even Realities G2 glasses mark a considerable improvement over the G1, taking into account user feedback while boosting functionality and retaining an elegant design. They provide a passive wearable experience, enabling users to gain from notifications and tools without active involvement.

#### Pricing & Availability

The Even G2 Smart Glasses and R1 Smart Ring are currently available on the Even Realities website. For a limited period, purchasers can enjoy a 50% discount on the R1 and additional accessories with their G2 purchase. The G2 starts at $599, while the R1 is available for $249, offered in grey, brown, and green.

What do you think about the current landscape of wearables? Have you experimented with smart glasses? Let’s have a conversation!

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Apple asserts that research indicates the EU has incorrectly assessed the impact of app price reductions.

**Apple’s Resistance to the EU’s Digital Markets Act: A Comprehensive Examination**

Apple’s objection to the European Union’s Digital Markets Act (DMA) has escalated, especially after its claim in September that the legislation ought to be rescinded. The corporation has expressed worries that the DMA might result in delays concerning new features and hardware for customers in the EU. Lately, Apple has asserted that a study it financed indicates the DMA has not delivered on its promise to cut app prices.

### A Brief Overview of Apple and the DMA

The DMA represents a key piece of antitrust legislation in Europe that designates certain technology firms as “gatekeepers.” These firms hold sufficient market power to potentially hinder competition. Apple was identified as a gatekeeper because of its significant user base and its control over iPhone app sales. Consequently, the company was required to permit the sale of iPhone apps outside its App Store. In response, Apple has enabled the establishment of alternative app stores and has proposed adjusted terms for developers which could potentially lower commissions.

### Apple Refutes Claims of Reduced App Prices

The EU suggested that the launch of competing app stores would result in lower commissions, thus leading to decreased app prices for users. However, a study carried out by The Analysis Group, funded by Apple, uncovered limited evidence supporting this assertion. The study examined the impact of three significant developments that lowered commissions for app developers:

1. The introduction of third-party app stores with diminished commissions.
2. Altered terms provided by Apple to EU developers, reducing commissions from 30% to 17% for larger developers and from 15% to 10% for smaller firms.
3. The prior adoption of the Small Business Program, which cut commissions in half for smaller developers.

According to Apple, if the EU’s claims were valid, a noticeable decrease in app prices would be anticipated. Nevertheless, the study indicated that around 90% of developers did not reduce their app prices at all, and among those who did, the average reduction was only 2.5%.

Apple remarked, “The DMA has not met its promises, resulting in diminished security, reduced privacy, and a poorer experience for consumers throughout Europe. This study offers further proof that the DMA is not advantageous to consumers in terms of lower prices. Simultaneously, we recognize that the regulation is establishing new obstacles for innovators and startups while exposing consumers to additional risks.”

The company highlighted that the majority of developers do not incur commissions as they opt for ad-supported free apps and pointed out that over 90% of the $1.3 trillion generated by the App Store is directed to developers.

### 9to5Mac’s Perspective

A fundamental premise of antitrust legislation is that heightened competition benefits consumers, either through lower prices or improved product quality as companies retain more revenue. The study financed by Apple implies that the price reductions attributed to the DMA are minimal. While the credibility of The Analysis Group enhances the findings, it is also recognized that developers may opt to preserve savings to reinvest in app upgrades, indirectly benefiting consumers.

Apple has previously contended that the altered commission structure would allow small developers to invest more in their businesses, thus improving the overall quality of offerings within the App Store ecosystem.

### Conclusion

Apple’s resistance to the DMA underscores the intricacies of regulating digital markets and the difficulties in balancing competition with innovation. As the discussion progresses, the ramifications of the DMA on app pricing and developer relations remain a crucial issue for both Apple and the larger tech sector.

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Even G2 Takes on Meta AI Smart Glasses with Stylish, Camera-Free Design Priced at $599

Even Realities unveiled two new devices on Wednesday designed to function in tandem: the Even G2 Display Smart Glasses and the Even R1 Smart Ring. The G2 glasses stand in stark contrast to the AI smart glasses from brands like Meta, and this is intentional. The G2 glasses come equipped with built-in AI features and a display that projects information directly in the user’s line of sight, similar to some of Meta’s models, but notably, the G2 does not include a camera or a speaker, enhancing privacy. The clear drawback is that the G2’s Even AI is unable to perceive what the user sees, unlike other smart glasses that offer this capability. The R1 Smart Ring serves as a controller for the glasses while also incorporating several health sensors.

According to a press release from Even Realities, their Even HAO 2.0 (Holistic Adaptive Optics) technology is crucial for the G2’s optics. The company has implemented tiny micro-LED projectors, gradient waveguides, and digitally surfaced lenses to create “sharp, bright, and stable visuals,” even during user movement. The display that the user interacts with is described as a multi-layer 3D floating spatial display, which simulates the human eye’s information processing. Quick prompts and AI insights are visible on the front layer, whereas continuous data, such as navigation details that the user may need at all times, is positioned on the back layer. Even refers to this experience as “naturally enhanced reality.” The illustrations above and below depict what a user would observe on the display. Regarding the lenses, they measure just 2mm in thickness but incorporate over 100 microscopic coatings to enhance anti-reflection and clarity.

What features do the Even G2 and R1 smart devices provide?

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Leaked Performance Metrics Suggest Forthcoming Motorola ‘Ultra’ Flagship Featuring New Snapdragon Processor

The Snapdragon 8 Gen 5 may not be as robust as previously assumed. Latest benchmarking results for the forthcoming Motorola Edge 70 Ultra, which is anticipated to incorporate the Snapdragon 8 Gen 5, indicate that the chipset’s performance could fall short of expectations. The device, probably the Chinese model, was observed featuring an Adreno 829 GPU and 16GB of RAM, operating on Android 16. The Snapdragon 8 Gen 5 is placed beneath the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5, indicating it is meant for more cost-effective flagship models.

Benchmark results reflect a single-core performance of 2,636 and a multi-core score of 7,475, both of which are inferior to those of the Snapdragon 8 Elite. The chipset’s layout comprises 2 × 3.65GHz and 6 × 3.32GHz cores, leveraging Qualcomm’s Oryon technology. While these figures signify a performance level that is beneath the Elite version, the Snapdragon 8 Gen 5 should still adeptly manage most tasks and enable on-device AI functionalities. This might lead to a more wallet-friendly price for the Motorola Edge 70 Ultra compared to devices powered by the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5.

Motorola’s choice to implement the Snapdragon 8 Gen 5 in the Edge 70 Ultra underscores the firm’s strategy to deliver a flagship experience at a possibly reduced cost, even though the chipset’s performance does not reach the initially expected heights.

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Addressing Steve Jobs’ Critiques of the Macintosh Calculator Application: A Thoughtful Account

**The Innovative Management of Upward: Chris Espinosa’s Tactics for Handling Steve Jobs’ Critiques**

Steve Jobs, the co-founder of Apple, was renowned for his stringent standards and frequently blunt critiques of his team’s efforts. His evaluations, whether regarding hardware or software, were straightforward and uncompromising. This set up a distinctive challenge for Apple staff, especially for individuals like Chris Espinosa, who holds the title of the company’s longest-serving employee.

Espinosa, who created the inaugural Macintosh calculator app, faced the intimidating challenge of fulfilling Jobs’ lofty demands. At first, Espinosa thought his calculator design was adequate, but Jobs had different opinions. As Andy Hertzfeld, a pivotal member of the original Macintosh team, noted, Jobs’ remarks were straightforward: “Well, it’s a start, but basically, it stinks.” He pointed out several shortcomings in the design, such as the background color, line thickness, and button dimensions.

The iterative process that ensued was strenuous for Espinosa. Each day, he adjusted elements based on Jobs’ feedback, only to encounter new criticisms. To escape this loop of continual modifications, Espinosa came up with a smart solution. He developed a program that enabled Jobs to adjust every visual element of the calculator through drop-down menus. This included choices for line thickness, button dimensions, and background styles.

When Jobs engaged with this program, he spent roughly ten minutes testing the settings until he landed on a combination that pleased him. This inventive tactic not only spared Espinosa from additional rounds of revisions but also led to a design that remained mostly unaffected for 17 years.

Espinosa’s experience serves as a prime illustration of proficient upward management. By equipping Jobs with the means to convey his preferences explicitly, Espinosa turned a potentially aggravating scenario into a joint achievement.

For those who yearn for the original Macintosh experience, a contemporary app exists that pays tribute to Espinosa’s calculator design.

In summary, Chris Espinosa’s inventive approach to managing Steve Jobs’ critiques highlights the significance of flexibility and creativity in the professional environment, particularly when engaging with demanding leadership.

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Leaked Information about the Upcoming Group Chat Feature of ChatGPT and Its Possible Capabilities

**ChatGPT Group Chat Functionality Leaked – Here’s What It May Entail**

The ChatGPT interface has consistently mirrored a conventional chat application, but instead of two individuals communicating through text messages, it features an AI addressing a user’s requests and executing tasks based on guidelines from earlier prompts. Since ChatGPT gained immense popularity in late 2022, OpenAI has refined the core models and introduced numerous enhancements to the ChatGPT environment, such as voice interaction capabilities. Nonetheless, at its core, ChatGPT continues to present and function like a standard chat application. It isn’t exactly the same as iMessage or WhatsApp, as ChatGPT lacks many functionalities typical of traditional chat apps. For instance, ChatGPT does not facilitate group chats, a capability that is common among non-AI chat applications. However, this situation may soon change, as the prospect of group chat functionality for ChatGPT has already been hinted at, giving us insight into its potential operation.

Renowned AI advocate Tibor Blaho regularly uncovers unreleased AI functionalities in ChatGPT and similar products. He posted on X the visuals above, which are snapshots of the ChatGPT interface showcasing the group chat feature activated. It remains uncertain when this group chat feature will be accessible to users, but OpenAI may roll it out sooner rather than later.

**How the ChatGPT Group Chat Functionality Operates**

Blaho’s snapshots provide an initial glimpse into how it could function. A new “Start a group chat” button will be positioned in the upper right corner of the web application. When clicked, it will create a link for sharing with others. Each group chat will have its own title and will be listed in the left sidebar under a fresh “Group chats” section. The link enables anyone to join the group, and newcomers will be able to view earlier messages within the chat.

The individual creating the group chat can also establish Custom Instructions for the group. These will differ from the Custom Instructions that may have been defined for the standard ChatGPT experience. Additionally, individual ChatGPT memories will not be applicable to group chats. The creator will have the ability to adjust the chatbot’s responses. ChatGPT can either react automatically or only when mentioned by a participant in the group. The latter option allows for the AI’s presence in a group chat without excessive interruptions, ensuring the AI does not clutter discussions by responding to every message.

Lastly, Blaho notes that ChatGPT group chats will enable reactions, replies to specific messages, a typing indicator, file sharing, image generation, and web searching. Users will also be able to report messages for safety reasons. It is unclear whether the group chat feature will be accessible to all ChatGPT users or just those on a premium ChatGPT subscription.

**Sam Altman Critiques Slack**

OpenAI CEO Sam Altman recently expressed his discontent with Slack, stating his suspicion that it may not be effective. “I think it does create a lot of fake work,” remarked the CEO, implying that OpenAI could offer a remedy to this issue. Slack is certainly one of the leading group chat applications for teams and organizations. Yet, Altman proposed the idea of having an AI incorporated into an application like Slack where “you are trusting your AI agent and my AI agent to resolve most matters and escalate to us when necessary” might be a more favorable alternative.

Envisioning ChatGPT as that AI agent is likely what Altman was hinting at with his example. The leaked group chat functionality could represent a move towards that aspiration. However, the group chat experience that Blaho discovered does not align with the vision Sam Altman suggested during the “Conversations with Tyler” podcast episode last week. Nonetheless, the CEO admitted that OpenAI is “very far” from delivering the agent-like Slack experience he detailed, as the AI technology is not yet there.

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Google to Improve User Authority Over Pixel Home Screen

Google is evaluating a new feature that allows the removal of the At a Glance widget from Pixel home screens. This capability, located in the latest Android Canary build, presents a “Show on home screen” toggle option. While turning off the toggle currently has no impact, it implies that Google is internally working on the feature. The At a Glance widget delivers valuable information such as weather forecasts and calendar appointments but takes up considerable space on the home screen. Users have frequently asked for the option to delete it, and this progress could enhance customization possibilities. There is no set timeline for when the feature will be launched, but its inclusion in the Canary version suggests it may be available in the future.

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Google Drive Launches AI-Powered Audio Summaries for Seamless PDF Navigation

Gemini is now transforming extensive documents into audio summaries that last just 10 minutes.

(Image credit: Harish Jonnalagadda / Android Central)

Essential information

  • A new option in the Google Drive toolbar allows you to create a summary and play it back immediately via the Gemini side panel or retrieve it later from a newly introduced “Audio overviews” folder.
  • This feature generates concise summaries of two to ten minutes highlighting the key aspects of your document, allowing you to skip reading lengthy texts.
  • Currently available only in English, it is being rolled out to select paid Workspace subscriptions.

Notice

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Google Introduces Its Own Private Cloud Computing Service Comparable to Apple’s

the Private Cloud Compute framework is both secure and confidential. It remains invisible to everyone, including Apple. When Apple launched its secure AI cloud platform, none of its competitors possessed anything comparable, even though they had a head start in generative AI functionalities. As of late November 2025, Apple still trails its competitors in the AI landscape, but now one of them is finally poised to rival Private Cloud Compute. Google, on Tuesday, revealed Private AI Compute, its answer to Apple’s cloud AI platform.

Private AI Compute fuses Google’s robust Gemini models with tailored cloud hardware to safeguard user data exchanged with servers, rendering it inaccessible to third parties, “not even Google.” The aim of Private AI Compute is to enable users to access more advanced AI functionalities that require processing power beyond what’s feasible on Pixel phones and similar devices. “AI is developing to be increasingly helpful, personalized, and proactive. It’s evolving from executing basic requests to AI that can foresee your needs with customized recommendations or manage tasks for you at opportune moments,” Google remarked in a blog entry. “This enhancement in capability demands sophisticated reasoning and computational strength that occasionally exceeds what’s achievable through on-device processing.”

Private AI Compute will enhance Pixel functionalities

Google detailed that Private AI Compute operates on its proprietary Tensor Processing Units (TPUs) protected by “world-class privacy and security” achieved through Titanium Intelligence Enclaves (TIE). This architecture enables Google to deploy the latest Gemini models in the cloud “with our high standards for privacy and the same in-house computing infrastructure you already depend on for Gmail and Search.” You can visualize Private AI Compute as your personal and highly secure cloud environment on Google’s servers designed to execute more intricate tasks that Gemini is unable to carry out on-device using your phone’s hardware.

That being said, it’s uncertain <a href="https://www.b

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Apple Intelligence Necessitates M2 Mac or Newer, as per Apple’s Site

Apple has recently revised its website to indicate that Apple Intelligence on a Mac necessitates a model with an M2 chip or newer, a departure from the earlier compatibility stipulation of an M1 chip or later. This alteration has sparked concerns among users of M1 Macs, although it is generally thought to be a mistake rather than an intentional revision to the criteria.

A reader from MacRumors was the first to spot this inconsistency, which seems to be confined to the US version of the Apple website. Previously, all listings for Macs affirmed compatibility with “M1 and later,” but they have now been changed to “M2 and later.” This discrepancy is believed to have stemmed from an update concerning the Vision Pro, which originally required only an M2 chip. After the introduction of the M5 model, the requirement was modified to “M2 or later,” but it appears that the responsibility for updating the Mac listings was inadvertently given to someone who applied the same modification across all Mac models.

Currently, the UK website has not shown this alteration, as the Vision Pro is still presented with the initial M2 requirement. This implies that the update may not have been implemented globally yet. Observers expect that this is merely an oversight, and more updates from Apple are anticipated to clarify the matter.

In summary, while the recent modification on Apple’s website has caused some concern among M1 Mac users, it is probably just a minor mistake rather than a major overhaul in compatibility requirements.

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