Author: sparta

    • sparta
    • Comments Off on App Converts iPhone into Classic Game Boy Camera
    App Converts iPhone into Classic Game Boy Camera

    Riley Testut, the mastermind behind Delta, has unveiled a new venture: a Game Boy Camera replica tailored for iPhone users. Named Delta Camera, this independent application will encompass everything you would anticipate from a contemporary camera app, but with a twist: a nostalgic Game Boy-like feel.

    Testut is recognized for the Delta app, the most renowned Game Boy emulator on the App Store. With this upcoming launch, the developer resurrects the 1998 sensation of the Game Boy Camera, one of Nintendo’s most legendary peripherals.

    For those who weren’t around when the Game Boy Camera debuted, or missed the opportunity to experiment with it, the Game Boy Camera boasted an impressive resolution of 128×112 pixels, capturing images in black and white as well as four varying shades of gray.

    The camera enabled users to snap selfies or conventional pictures. It had the capacity to hold 30-40 photos internally and featured basic editing functions like stamps and effects. Typically, Nintendo includes a novelty, and with this camera, you could engage in mini-games within a quirky, bizarre interface and enjoy music. Users could even produce photo collages resembling pixel art and counterfeit IDs. Moreover, you could utilize the Game Boy Printer to print photos and keep those memories alive.

    Testut has not disclosed all the particulars about Delta Camera yet, but it will support any iPhone camera with manual exposure, zoom capabilities, and comprehensive Camera Control support. Currently, only patrons can download the beta version of the app, with a complete release anticipated later this year.

    The developer also noted that the app mimics the original Game Boy Camera, requiring users to supply their own ROM file.

    BGR will inform you as soon as Delta Camera is accessible to all users. At this time, it remains uncertain whether it will be a paid application or if it will solely be a sideloading option for users within the EU. Most likely, users around the globe will be able to access this experience through the App Store too.

    Read More
    • sparta
    • Comments Off on MacWhisper Incorporates Support for Nvidia’s Rapid Parakeet Transcription Model
    MacWhisper Incorporates Support for Nvidia’s Rapid Parakeet Transcription Model

    **MacWhisper: The Next Generation of Transcription with Nvidia’s Parakeet Model**

    MacWhisper has positioned itself as a premier transcription solution for Mac users, delivering a smooth and effective means to transcribe audio. With its most recent update, the software has incorporated Nvidia’s Parakeet model, which significantly boosts its speed and efficiency.

    ### The Progression of Transcription Technology

    OpenAI’s Whisper models transformed the transcription arena, offering unparalleled speed and precision relative to earlier tools. However, as OpenAI redirected its attention to more commercially applicable models, Whisper began revealing its constraints. New models, including Nvidia’s Parakeet, have surfaced, boasting even swifter transcription abilities.

    ### Nvidia’s Parakeet Model

    Recently launched, Nvidia’s Parakeet model claims the ability to transcribe an hour of audio in merely one second, contingent on having the appropriate hardware, such as A100, H100, T4, or V100 GPUs. Although Parakeet has been available through open-source channels, many users struggle with command-line interfaces and custom installations.

    ### MacWhisper’s Incorporation of Parakeet

    The addition of the Parakeet model into MacWhisper signifies a notable enhancement for the application. Developer Jordi Bruin underscored the partnership with Argmax, highlighting the rapidity of the new model. In real-world tests, users have reported remarkable outcomes, like transcribing a 30-minute podcast in less than eight seconds.

    For example, testing on an M2 Pro MacBook Pro using a three-hour episode of “9to5Mac Happy Hour” resulted in a transcription time of only 1 minute and 22 seconds, with complete speaker recognition.

    ### Availability and Prospective Advancements

    At present, the Parakeet model is accessible to MacWhisper Pro users and facilitates English transcription. A multilingual variant is expected, expanding the application’s reach to a broader user base.

    ### Conclusion

    With the incorporation of Nvidia’s Parakeet model, MacWhisper has reinforced its status as a premier transcription tool for Mac users. This update not only boosts speed but also upholds the precision and effectiveness that users have come to rely on. As transcription technology continues to progress, MacWhisper remains a leader, prepared to fulfill the needs of its users.

    Read More
    • sparta
    • Comments Off on Three Netflix Releases You Can’t Miss Next Week
    Three Netflix Releases You Can’t Miss Next Week

    As the calendar turns to July, Netflix is swiftly releasing some of its most talked-about offerings for the summer.

    Whether you’re seeking a dose of real-world corporate intrigue, thrilling supernatural exploits, or dark fantasy with an ethereal twist, next week’s lineup has something for everyone. In this article, we will provide a summary of three noteworthy titles debuting on the platform that certainly merit a place on your watchlist — and they encompass a new docuseries, a sequel to a beloved Netflix original film, and the concluding season of a cult classic Netflix original series.

    We will begin with an upcoming documentary film I previewed in a different post, as it happens to be one of five documentaries with the Trainwreck label coming to Netflix in July.

    Readers who have been around for a while will not need reminding, but it is hard to emphasize just how significant American Apparel was in the mid-2000s. Renowned for its sexually suggestive advertisements, the brand became a giant in fashion retail partly through its shocking marketing — while its internal operations were quite chaotic.

    Directed by Sally Rose Griffiths, Trainwreck: The Cult of American Apparel explores the tumultuous ascent and decline of the company from the perspective of those who truly experienced that downfall. Central to the narrative is founder Dov Charney, a contentious figure accused of fostering a toxic, cult-like environment. Anticipate behind-the-scenes insights, unsettling accusations, and an abundance of black-and-white images that might leave you questioning what we were all thinking at that time.

    The undying mercenaries are returning.

    After breaking into the Netflix Top 10 in 2020, The Old Guard emerged as an unexpected summer sensation. The sequel is finally here, bringing back Charlize Theron as Andy, the once-immortal fighter now confronting her own mortality. With old betrayals still lingering, including Quynh’s desire for revenge, the team encounters a mysterious new threat that could reveal their existence and dismantle centuries of secrecy.

    Directed by Victoria Mahoney, The Old Guard 2 raises the stakes with international backdrops, emotionally charged action sequences, and new cast members Uma Thurman and Henry Golding. As co-creator Greg Rucka mentioned in an interview with Netflix’s Tudum, “What I find most intriguing about these immortal characters is that fundamentally, they all face the same questions we do: ‘What am I doing here? What is the purpose of my life?’” Ultimately, this sequel promises more intense battles and fresh locations, with both a director and star focused on captivating and astonishing us.

    The Sandman: Season 2, Volume 1 (Streaming July 3)

    Neil Gaiman’s The Sandman makes a return with the first half of its second and final season, continuing the story of Morpheus, the Lord of Dreams. Volume 1 resumes just weeks after the Season 1 conclusion, with Dream (Tom Sturridge) in the process of reconstructing his realm while attempting to move on from the past. However, in the realm of The Sandman, the past rarely remains concealed.

    Read More
    • sparta
    • Comments Off on iOS 26 Launch Date: Anticipated Release Information for the Latest iPhone Update
    iOS 26 Launch Date: Anticipated Release Information for the Latest iPhone Update

    Apple’s forthcoming major iPhone update, iOS 26, is geared to unveil a Liquid Glass redesign alongside a multitude of novel features. While beta testers have the opportunity to try out iOS 26 now, the expected public release date is projected for mid-September.

    ### iOS 26 Set to Debut This Fall, Most Likely in Mid-September

    Apple has announced that iOS 26 will be launched for all users this fall. Reviewing the historical patterns of past iOS releases aids in pinpointing the anticipated launch timing. The last three major iOS updates were rolled out on these specific dates:

    – **iOS 18**: September 16, 2024
    – **iOS 17**: September 18, 2023
    – **iOS 16**: September 12, 2022

    Each of these releases aligned closely with Apple’s annual iPhone event, typically held in early September. In light of this pattern, iOS 26 is likely to be made public in mid-September, shortly following the reveal of the iPhone 17 series.

    During this mid-September period, users with compatible iPhones will have the opportunity to install iOS 26 and take advantage of the new Liquid Glass design, alongside major updates to the Messages app, Apple Music, Wallet, CarPlay, and more.

    ### Public Beta for iOS 26 Launches This July

    For those enthusiastic about experiencing iOS 26 ahead of its official launch, Apple will provide a public beta version. This public beta is set to be released in July and will be open to anyone interested through registration at beta.apple.com.

    As with any beta software, the public beta of iOS 26 may feature bugs and performance challenges that can impact device functionality. Apple gathers insights from public beta users to identify and rectify issues prior to the full rollout in the fall. Users ready to embrace potential risks can gain early access to the innovative features of iOS 26.

    ### Conclusion

    With the upcoming release of iOS 26 in mid-September and the public beta set for July, Apple users can anticipate exciting new updates. The Liquid Glass redesign and improvements across various applications are poised to significantly enhance the overall user experience.

    Read More
    • sparta
    • Comments Off on New Functionality: Suppress Certain Words in Threads with a 30-Day Timer Feature
    New Functionality: Suppress Certain Words in Threads with a 30-Day Timer Feature

    Meta’s Threads App: Liberation from Instagram and Fresh Features

    Meta is advancing its Threads app, shifting it from a basic auxiliary to Instagram into an independent platform. Recent enhancements have rolled out a specialized direct messaging (DM) system, autonomous mute lists, and a novel feature that enables users to establish temporary filters that will automatically lapse.

    ### Freedom from Instagram Constraints

    In a recent update, Instagram chief Adam Mosseri disclosed a major improvement to Threads’ “Hidden Words” capability. In the past, silencing a word on Threads would also silence it on Instagram, leading to a cumbersome experience for users seeking to control their preferences separately. With the new update, Threads users can now exclude certain words, phrases, and emojis without impacting their Instagram configurations.

    Moreover, Threads has added the functionality to mute words on a temporary basis. Users can create filters that expire after 30 days, complete with a countdown feature showing the remaining time. This allows users to steer clear of spoilers or popular topics without permanently silencing them, offering a more adaptable method for content management.

    To oversee mute filters, users can go to **Settings > Content preferences > Hidden Words**.

    These updates signify a vital advancement in Threads’ evolution, highlighting its role as a distinct entity from Instagram and improving user governance over their experience.

    Read More
    • sparta
    • Comments Off on Apple Purchases Office Campus It Had Been Leasing for US$350 Million
    Apple Purchases Office Campus It Had Been Leasing for US$350 Million

    **Apple’s Latest Property Purchases in South Bay: A $516 Million Commitment**

    Apple Inc. has garnered attention this week with major property purchases in California’s South Bay region, amounting to over $516 million. This strategic initiative highlights the company’s dedication to broadening its presence in an area that has been essential to its activities for many years.

    ### Latest Purchases

    Just days after completing a $166.9 million transaction for the Cupertino Gate office complex, Apple revealed the acquisition of Mathilda Commons, a dual-building office complex in Sunnyvale, for $350 million. This campus covers 382,500 square feet and is situated roughly seven miles north of Apple Park, the company’s main office. The facility is intended to host up to 1,900 employees, showcasing Apple’s continuous growth and the escalating demand for office space within the tech industry.

    ### Strategic Significance

    Apple’s willingness to pay nearly 20% above the assessed value of Mathilda Commons as of January signifies the site’s strategic relevance and the competitive nature of the local real estate market. Kristina Raspe, Apple’s Vice President of Global Real Estate and Facilities, highlighted the company’s deep-rooted connection to the Santa Clara Valley, stating, “The Santa Clara Valley has been home to Apple for more than 40 years, and we’re proud to continue investing in world-class facilities for our teams here.”

    ### Wider Trends in Real Estate

    This acquisition is in line with Apple’s recent pattern of transforming long-held leases into outright ownership of properties in the South Bay. Over the past few years, the company has executed several significant purchases, including a $450 million agreement in 2021 for a five-building office complex and a ten-building campus known as Apple Results Way in 2023, as well as a $70 million office building acquisition within the same year.

    ### Summary

    Apple’s proactive expansion in the South Bay property market not only underscores its growth path but also its dedication to establishing a strong presence in a region that has been crucial to its achievements. As the technology sector continues to progress, Apple’s real estate investments are likely to be vital in addressing its workforce and operational requirements.

    Read More
    • sparta
    • Comments Off on YouTube Raises Minimum Age Requirement for Live Streaming to Improve Child Safety
    YouTube Raises Minimum Age Requirement for Live Streaming to Improve Child Safety

    A Shift in YouTube’s Safety Protocols for Young Streamers

    Essential Information

    – YouTube has announced a change in the minimum age requirement for live streaming, raising it from 13 to 16.
    – Users below the age of 16 (ages 13-15) must have an adult “physically present” at all times to avoid breaching YouTube’s revised guidelines.
    – Earlier this year, the platform trialed a livestream leaderboard for users who engage considerably, send Super Chats, and more.

    YouTube is implementing a child safety modification on its platform aimed at minors interested in streaming.

    The platform communicated an adjustment to the minimum age requirement in an updated post regarding live stream limitations. As per YouTube, on July 22, the minimum age for streaming will increase from 13 to 16. Young content creators aged 16 or older will be able to live stream with an active chat and without the fear of takedowns (aside from circumstances involving copyright infringements). However, content creators who are younger than 16 (ages 13-15) will be required to have an adult accompanying them during their streams.

    YouTube indicates that if an adult is not “physically present,” not only will the chat feature be disabled, but also “additional functionalities.”

    The post elaborates that there are plans to further address these infractions, with YouTube stating, “…in the future, we intend to remove these live streams and the account might temporarily lose the ability to stream live.”

    YouTube advises that young streamers accompanied by an adult can allow them access to the channel. This can be accomplished by assigning them editor, manager, or owner roles. Additionally, there is a list of “best streaming practices” for minors (and for parents to review) prior to going live.

    Recent Updates from YouTube

    YouTube has begun testing a new community-oriented feature for live streaming that introduced a leaderboard for fans. This trial included providing users with a means to accumulate points by engaging in chatting, sending Super Chats, and being active. Those who are (literally) the most engaged were showcased on a top 50 leaderboard. However, those who excelled further, ranking in the top three, would earn a distinctive badge to showcase their status.

    Beyond livestreams, the company has initiated a test set to occur from June 26 to July 30, which presents its own version of AI Overviews. Available on Android and iOS platforms, specific inquiries will produce an AI-generated “Highlight.” These will contain short video snippets, each accompanied by an AI-generated title and description related to your query to offer helpful insights.

    While it closely resembles Google Search’s AI Overviews, YouTube’s variation heavily emphasizes its video clips, allowing users the option to click on them to watch the complete video.

    Read More
    • sparta
    • Comments Off on 9to5Mac Daily: June 27, 2025 – Overview of VisionOS 26 Capabilities
    9to5Mac Daily: June 27, 2025 – Overview of VisionOS 26 Capabilities

    **9to5Mac Daily: Your Go-To Source for Daily Apple Updates and Insights**

    In the rapidly changing realm of technology, keeping up with the most recent news is essential, particularly for Apple fans. 9to5Mac Daily is a podcast that offers an easy way to stay informed about the key stories of the day surrounding Apple and its ecosystem. Accessible on multiple platforms, including iTunes, Stitcher, TuneIn, Google Play, and through a dedicated RSS feed, this podcast guarantees that listeners can obtain the latest episodes with ease.

    **What to Anticipate from 9to5Mac Daily**

    Every weekday, fresh episodes of 9to5Mac Daily are recorded, providing listeners with a summary of major events in the Apple sphere. The podcast addresses a broad array of subjects, from product releases and software enhancements to industry developments and insights. By subscribing to the podcast, listeners can ensure they receive new episodes as they drop, keeping them up to date on recent occurrences.

    **Sponsorship and Features**

    The podcast is backed by Bitwarden, a password management solution that improves security for its users. With capabilities like Apple Watch authenticator integration and secure autofill on Safari and iOS applications, Bitwarden offers enterprise-level security tools for credential management with confidence. This collaboration highlights the significance of security in today’s digital landscape, especially for those who utilize Apple devices.

    **Exclusive Content and Support Opportunities**

    Listeners have the chance to support the podcast via 9to5Mac Daily Plus, which provides an ad-free listening experience and additional content. This subscription model not only enriches the listening journey but also aids in maintaining the production of high-quality material.

    **Engagement and Community Input**

    9to5Mac Daily promotes audience interaction. Fans can express their opinions through email or give feedback on platforms like Apple Podcasts and Overcast. This feedback mechanism is vital for the podcast’s advancement and attracts new audiences.

    **Conclusion**

    For anyone keen on the most recent Apple news, 9to5Mac Daily is an indispensable tool. With its succinct format, expert analysis, and community-focused approach, it emerges as a must-listen for Apple enthusiasts. Whether you’re commuting, exercising, or just unwinding at home, tuning into 9to5Mac Daily guarantees you stay updated about the continually changing world of Apple.

    Read More
    • sparta
    • Comments Off on Apple’s M5 Chip Expected to Debut This Fall with First Product Introductions
    Apple’s M5 Chip Expected to Debut This Fall with First Product Introductions

    ### The New M5 Chip: What to Anticipate from Apple This Autumn

    Earlier this year, Apple effectively shifted its popular M-series devices to the M4 chip, marking an important achievement in its hardware development. As excitement mounts, the tech powerhouse is poised to unveil the M5 chip this autumn, with the MacBook Pro and iPad Pro on the forefront as the initial products to utilize this innovative technology.

    #### M5 Chip Introduction: MacBook Pro and iPad Pro

    The M4 chip was first introduced in the iPad Pro before being released for the Mac, a timeline that Apple intends to optimize with the M5. The iPad Pro, which debuted with the M4 in May 2024, will again be among the first to implement the M5, but this time it will be accompanied by the MacBook Pro, ensuring both flagship devices are launched simultaneously.

    Apple generally plans its new MacBook Pro unveilings for October or November, and this year is expected to adhere to that schedule. The anticipated configurations for the MacBook Pro consist of:

    – MacBook Pro with M5
    – MacBook Pro with M5 Pro
    – MacBook Pro with M5 Max

    While specifics about the M5 MacBook Pro are still limited, the autumn release is confirmed. Additionally, there are speculations regarding a new Apple Studio Display launching around the same period, indicating that Apple might place a greater focus on enhanced external display features alongside the M5 MacBook Pro.

    #### Projections for the M5 Chip

    The M5 chip is anticipated to provide a standard specification increase rather than a total redesign, particularly as Apple prepares for a more significant overhaul with the M6 MacBook Pro next year. This forthcoming model is rumored to include an OLED display and other hardware upgrades.

    Likewise, the M5 iPad Pro is expected to be an incremental update following last year’s significant redesign with the M4. While Apple occasionally launches new iPads in September together with the iPhone, a release in October or November is also quite feasible. The marketing for the new iPad Pro will likely emphasize the advancements in iPadOS 26, highlighting the device’s features.

    #### Outlook for the M5 Chip

    Current projections suggest that the MacBook Pro and iPad Pro will be the sole devices to launch with the M5 chip this year. Other Macs are expected to receive the M5 in early 2026 and beyond, maintaining Apple’s pattern of gradual upgrades throughout its product range.

    As the launch date draws nearer, many users are left contemplating whether to switch to the new M5 MacBook Pro or iPad Pro. The choice will likely be influenced by individual preferences and the perceived benefits of the enhancements offered by the new chip.

    In summary, the M5 chip signifies another advancement in Apple’s M-series progression, promising enhanced performance and features for its flagship devices. With the MacBook Pro and iPad Pro leading the charge, Apple fans and professionals alike are eagerly anticipating the official announcement and subsequent release.

    Read More
    • sparta
    • Comments Off on Chrome updates will stop for specific older Android devices
    Chrome updates will stop for specific older Android devices

    Chrome will now mandate Android 10 or later.

    (Image credit: Joe Maring / Android Central)

    Essential Information

    • Google has declared it will cease updates for Chrome on Android 8.0 and Android 9.0.
    • While Chrome will still function on these devices, users will not receive updates beyond Chrome version 138.
    • From approximately August 5th onward, Chrome version 139 will require Android 10 or above for continued updates.

    Google has shared that it will discontinue updates for Chrome versions operating on Android 8.0 (Oreo) and Android 9.0 (Pie) in the upcoming weeks.

    On its support site, Google indicated that Chrome version 138 will mark the final update for these Android users, after which they may need to upgrade to Android 10.0 to access Chrome version 139, expected to launch on August 5.

    Android distribution data shows around 9.8% of devices are still utilizing Android versions Oreo and Pie. This category includes early Google Pixel models, up to the Pixel 3XL, as well as Samsung Galaxy S8 and S8 Plus, OnePlus 5/5T, among others.

    <aside data-component-name="Recirculation:ArticleRiver" data-nosnippet class="pt

    Read More