Author: sparta

    • sparta
    • Comments Off on Apple Launches Mini Apps Partnership Initiative for Developers
    Apple Launches Mini Apps Partnership Initiative for Developers

    ### Apple Launches Mini Apps Partner Program: A Fresh Revenue Stream for Developers

    Earlier today, news broke of a major agreement between Apple and Tencent, the parent company of WeChat, which will allow Apple to receive a 15% commission on income generated from mini apps. This initiative is part of Apple’s recently unveiled Mini Apps Partner Program, designed to offer developers an opportunity for increased revenue through lower commission rates.

    #### Insight into the Mini Apps Partner Program

    Since 2017, Apple has championed mini apps and games on the App Store. The freshly launched Mini Apps Partner Program builds on this foundation, enabling developers to generate supplementary income from their mini app products. As stated on the Apple Developer website, the program aims to assist developers in expanding their businesses while improving the availability of mini apps on the App Store, all while ensuring an excellent customer experience.

    Participating developers can take advantage of a reduced commission rate of 15% on eligible in-app purchases. However, to be eligible for this lower rate, developers must ensure their apps support certain App Store technologies, such as the Declared Age Range API and the Advanced Commerce API. These technologies are fundamental to delivering a safe and smooth experience for users of all ages.

    #### Eligibility and Enrollment Process

    Developers are not automatically accepted into the Mini Apps Partner Program. Rather, they must submit an application by filling out a request form found on the Apple Developer website. This page details the complete terms and conditions for eligibility, along with a useful Q&A section that defines what qualifies as a mini app in-app purchase.

    Examples of qualifying purchases are:

    1. **Consumables**: Products like currency, lives, or other resources that are bought and utilized instantly within a single qualifying mini app. These purchases cannot be shared or used across multiple mini apps.

    2. **Auto-renewing subscriptions**: Subscriptions that are acquired and accessed within a single qualifying mini app.

    #### Final Thoughts

    The Mini Apps Partner Program signifies a calculated initiative by Apple to strengthen its ecosystem and present developers with new revenue avenues. By providing a lowered commission rate, Apple is motivating developers to create and host mini apps, which could enhance the overall user experience on the App Store. For developers keen on participating, additional information and the application process are available on the

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    • Comments Off on Satechi Launches Innovative Portable 7-In-1 USB-C Multiport Adapter to Elevate OntheGo Lineup
    Satechi Launches Innovative Portable 7-In-1 USB-C Multiport Adapter to Elevate OntheGo Lineup

    enhance its OntheGo lineup with a brand-new Multiport Adapter. The accessory brand is introducing a 7-in-1 ultra-portable device, which claims to serve as a comprehensive workstation that fits in your hand. “At Satechi, we create products that empower you to work and connect wherever life leads you,” remarked Brock Guclu, Satechi’s co-founder and president. “The OntheGo 7-in-1 multiport adapter merges strength and portability with a stylish design, allowing you to take your office anywhere without sacrificing quality.”

    In addition to being compact enough to slide into your pocket, Satechi has also ensured it is MagSafe-compatible, enabling you to use this accessory with your Mac or iPad, while easily attaching it to your iPhone to capture videos on SD and microSD cards. Conversely, if your Android device lacks magnetic connectivity, the company provides a 3M Adhesive Ring.

    Characteristics of Satechi’s OntheGo 7-in-1 Multiport Adapter

    What makes Satechi’s OntheGo 7-in-1 Multiport Adapter particularly captivating is the array of connections available to users within such a compact design. With its circular shape, Satechi’s newest accessory offers HDMI support up to 4K/60Hz, two USB-A ports capable of 5Gbps data transfer, SD and microSD card readers featuring speeds up to 104MB/s and supporting up to 2TB of storage, Gigabit Ethernet, and USB-C PD permitting up to 100W pass-through charging.

    Satechi has also included a coiled, tangle-free braided USB-C cable that wraps around the hub for enhanced portability. The company states that this accessory is intended for remote workers, students, and creators, as users can effortlessly connect peripherals, transfer files, present, and more with a device small enough to fit in your pocket.

    Satechi’s OntheGo 7-in-1 Multiport Adapter retails for $59.99 in Space Black and complements other Satechi OntheGo offerings, including portable keyboards and mice, travel chargers, and various accessories. One of BGR’s top picks from the company is its Passport Cover featuring Find My compatibility.

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on Apple Wallet Gets Key Feature Enhancements in iOS 26
    Apple Wallet Gets Key Feature Enhancements in iOS 26

    Apple Wallet has rolled out a number of new capabilities in iOS 26, tackling past limitations and improving the user experience. Among the key enhancements are the integration of order tracking powered by Apple Intelligence and the launch of Digital ID.

    ### Order Tracking Powered by Apple Intelligence

    First introduced in iOS 16, the order tracking feature within Apple Wallet initially struggled to gain popularity due to its dependence on third-party services and merchants. This restriction limited its efficacy, as many businesses opted to keep direct control over customer interactions. However, in the updates of iOS 26, Apple has overhauled this feature.

    Now, Apple Wallet leverages Apple Intelligence to automatically pull order details from confirmation emails provided by merchants and delivery services. This development means users are no longer dependent on third-party integrations for order tracking. The feature permits users to view detailed order information and receive progress alerts all within the Wallet app.

    To utilize order tracking, users can click the three-dot icon located in the upper-right corner of the Wallet app and select ‘Orders.’ Furthermore, users can set up push notifications for order updates via the Wallet’s Notifications menu.

    ### Digital ID with No State Rollout Needed

    Apple’s initiative to embed digital driver’s licenses and state IDs into Wallet has encountered hurdles, with only 12 states and Puerto Rico currently endorsing this feature. To address the slow spread, Apple has launched Digital ID in iOS 26.1.

    Although Digital ID is not intended as a replacement for a driver’s license, it provides alternative methods for identity verification. Users can present their Digital ID at TSA checkpoints for identity verification prior to boarding domestic flights and at select businesses for age or identity verification.

    The acceptance of Digital ID is on the rise, with Apple indicating that it is already in use at over 250 airports across the US, and plans for additional integration are in progress. For example, users will soon be able to utilize their Digital ID for age verification on platforms like Uber Eats for alcohol purchases.

    Through the launch of Digital ID, Apple aims to establish Wallet as a trustworthy source for digital identification, potentially encouraging more states to implement digital driver’s licenses in the future.

    ### Conclusion

    The latest features in Apple Wallet with iOS 26, especially order tracking and Digital ID, showcase Apple’s dedication to improving user convenience and addressing earlier constraints. These updates not only enhance the user experience but also position Apple Wallet as a more all-encompassing tool for managing digital transactions and identity verification.

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    • Comments Off on Tesla Might Roll Out CarPlay Compatibility in the Coming Months, as per Report
    Tesla Might Roll Out CarPlay Compatibility in the Coming Months, as per Report

    **Tesla’s Exploration of CarPlay Integration: A Strategic Evolution in EV Technology**

    Tesla, the premier electric vehicle (EV) producer, is reportedly contemplating the inclusion of Apple CarPlay in its cars, potentially as soon as the end of this year. This move signifies a major shift from Tesla’s conventional strategy of creating its in-car software ecosystem independently, avoiding reliance on external applications.

    ### Tesla’s Progress on CarPlay

    As per a recent report from Bloomberg, Tesla is presently conducting internal tests for CarPlay support. While conversations about a launch are in progress, no final plan has been set, and the timeline for release could be adjusted. The variant of CarPlay under evaluation is the standard version, not the more sophisticated CarPlay Ultra. Importantly, Tesla’s implementation will enable CarPlay to operate within a separate window of its current software interface, rather than entirely commandeering the vehicle’s operating system. This dual-interface strategy ensures that while users can utilize CarPlay, they will still engage with Tesla’s native features and applications.

    Tesla is also anticipated to offer wireless CarPlay, boosting user convenience. However, it’s crucial to understand that CarPlay will not connect with Tesla’s advanced functionalities, such as Full Self-Driving (FSD) mode, meaning drivers will continue to depend on Tesla’s navigation system for those features.

    ### The Industry Landscape

    Tesla’s potential move to adopt CarPlay is significant as the company has been among the largest abstainers from this widely-used feature. Rivian, another EV maker, has also decided against including CarPlay in its models, while General Motors has recently revealed plans to eliminate CarPlay support completely. Tesla’s transition towards CarPlay arrives as the firm encounters obstacles, such as dwindling vehicle sales and heightened competition in the EV sector. By incorporating CarPlay, which many consumers view as a vital feature, Tesla aims to bolster its attractiveness to prospective buyers and enhance its market standing.

    ### Market Implications

    The rollout of CarPlay could carry wider implications for the EV industry. It may encourage other manufacturers, like Rivian, to rethink their positions on integrating third-party software. The dual-window approach suggested by Tesla might set a precedent for finding a balance between proprietary systems and popular consumer applications, allowing manufacturers to retain authority over the in-car experience while providing users with the conveniences they seek.

    As Tesla navigates these adjustments, the choice to integrate CarPlay could be pivotal in its strategy to reclaim market share and cater to the shifting preferences of consumers within the competitive EV arena.

    In summary, Tesla’s exploration of CarPlay support signifies a noteworthy transformation in its operational mindset, illustrating the company’s adaptability to market needs and consumer desires. As the automotive sector continues to progress, the incorporation of widely-adopted technologies like CarPlay may emerge as a crucial element in driving sales and enhancing user satisfaction within electric vehicles.

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    • Comments Off on MagSafe Accessory Enhances iPhone Connectivity with 7 Extra Ports
    MagSafe Accessory Enhances iPhone Connectivity with 7 Extra Ports

    ### Satechi’s 7-in-1 MagSafe Multiport Adapter: An Essential for Travelers Who Use Technology

    Earlier this year, Satechi unveiled its OntheGo collection, a range of travel-oriented accessories intended to streamline tech utilization on the go. This collection features charging bricks, folding chargers, trackers, and more. Recently, Satechi enhanced this assortment with the 7-in-1 MagSafe Multiport Adapter, a multifunctional accessory crafted for those who depend on their iPhones for various tasks, including video production, gaming, and communication.

    #### Design and Capabilities

    The 7-in-1 MagSafe Multiport Adapter is compact, approximately the size of a hockey puck and lighter than a deck of playing cards, allowing it to be conveniently transported in a bag or pouch. It possesses a magnetic base that firmly attaches to the back of an iPhone, removing the inconvenience of loose cables. The adapter includes the following connections:

    – **HDMI port** supporting 4K at 60Hz
    – **Two USB-A ports** (5Gbps)
    – **SD and microSD card readers** (supporting up to 2TB)
    – **Gigabit Ethernet** for dependable wired internet
    – **USB-C PD** with up to 100W pass-through charging

    Moreover, the adapter is equipped with a magnetic adhesive ring, enabling it to attach to the back of a MacBook or iPad for enhanced convenience.

    #### User Feedback

    After testing the hub for ten days, users reported a favorable experience. The magnetic base rotates effortlessly, and the high-quality braided cable unwinds smoothly for iPhone connection. An LED indicator signals when the hub is powered and connected.

    Frequent use of the SD card slot and USB-A port for external SSDs has proven advantageous. Users can transfer images and videos from a camera’s SD card straight to an SSD without utilizing iPhone storage. This feature simplifies file management, facilitating the handling of large media files.

    For added convenience, combining the hub with Kuxiu’s B10 power bank, which includes MagSafe magnets on both sides, enables users to charge their iPhones while securely keeping the Satechi hub attached.

    #### Extra Features

    While the HDMI and Ethernet ports may not be used regularly, they operate effectively when needed. The adapter is not only compatible with iPhone users but also functions seamlessly with other USB-C-enabled devices such as the iPad Pro and MacBook.

    #### Cost and Availability

    The OntheGo 7-in-1 Multiport Adapter is available in space grey on Satechi’s website and Amazon for **$59.99**. This USB-C hub is specifically designed for iPhone users yet versatile enough to work with other devices, making it a valuable addition to any technology travel kit.

    For anyone seeking a dependable, well-constructed USB-C hub that caters to contemporary tech usage needs, the Satechi 7-in-1 MagSafe Multiport Adapter is a notable option.

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    • Comments Off on Possible Collaborative Release of Gemini 3 Pro and Nano Banana 2
    Possible Collaborative Release of Gemini 3 Pro and Nano Banana 2

    the release of ChatGPT 5.1. This update was anticipated, as it surfaced in some leaks prior to its official launch, yet it still appeared to be a quick move by OpenAI. Enthusiasts of generative AI applications are likely aware of whispers suggesting that Google may soon introduce the Gemini 3.0 (also known as Gemini 3) upgrade and the new Nano Banana 2 model for image generation. Both have been observed in testing over the last few weeks, with Nano Banana 2 gaining viral attention over the weekend. Speculations suggest that Google might reveal the Nano Banana 2 as early as this week, which could clarify OpenAI’s urgency to release ChatGPT 5.1 to users.

    Though this remains speculative, it appears that Google may have been preparing for a significant launch of new AI models. Code found within the Gemini iPhone app contains the following text string, as noticed by X users who track the emergence of new software features, including AI tools: “Try 3 Pro to create images

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on More than 2 Billion Email Accounts and 1.3 Billion Passwords Compromised in Multiple Data Leaks
    More than 2 Billion Email Accounts and 1.3 Billion Passwords Compromised in Multiple Data Leaks

    **The Disturbing Scope of Recent Data Breaches: 2 Billion Email Addresses and 1.3 Billion Passwords Exposed**

    In a startling disclosure by cybersecurity analysts, an astonishing 2 billion email addresses and 1.3 billion passwords have been exposed in various data breaches. This concerning information was brought to light by Synthient, a security firm that aggregated stolen logins from the dark web into a detailed database, marking a crucial moment in the field of cybersecurity.

    ### The Magnitude of the Breach

    Troy Hunt, a Microsoft regional director and the creator of the “Have I Been Pwned” website, verified that the magnitude of this breach is unparalleled. The data amassed is broader than anything previously managed by the site. Hunt pointed out that the figure of 2 billion email addresses is accurate; it comes from a meticulous tally of 1,957,476,021 unique email addresses, accompanied by 1.3 billion unique passwords, of which 625 million were previously unseen.

    ### Grasping Credential Stuffing

    The exposed data largely comprises what are identified as credentials-stuffing lists. Cybercriminals frequently exploit these lists by utilizing the email addresses and passwords harvested from one breach to attempt logins to numerous other websites. This tactic is particularly potent as many users often reuse passwords across various platforms. Thus, the risk associated with a single compromised password can result in multiple accounts being hacked.

    ### Safeguarding Yourself: Recommended Actions

    To find out if your login credentials have been compromised, you can leverage the “Pwned Passwords” search feature on the “Have I Been Pwned” website. This tool enables users to check their passwords locally in their browsers, guaranteeing that their passwords stay private and aren’t exposed to the site.

    For those with technical expertise, an API is available for developers to conduct their own checks against the database. Moreover, users can register for alerts if their email addresses are identified in any upcoming breaches, offering an additional layer of protection.

    ### The Necessity of Unique Logins

    Given this extensive data breach, it is essential for people to implement unique login credentials for every site they utilize. This approach significantly minimizes the chance of multiple accounts being compromised. It is recommended to begin with high-value accounts, such as those linked to banks, financial services, and major technology companies like Apple and Google, before addressing accounts of lesser significance.

    ### Final Thoughts

    The disclosure of 2 billion compromised email addresses and 1.3 billion passwords acts as a stark reminder of the significance of cybersecurity. As data breaches grow more frequent, individuals must take proactive measures to safeguard their online identities. By using tools like “Have I Been Pwned” and ensuring unique logins across all platforms, users can enhance their defenses against the risks posed by cybercriminals.

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on The OnePlus 15 Screen: Pioneering Smart Eye Care Capabilities and Ultra-Smooth Refresh Rate Establish New Quality Benchmarks, Competing with Samsung and Apple
    The OnePlus 15 Screen: Pioneering Smart Eye Care Capabilities and Ultra-Smooth Refresh Rate Establish New Quality Benchmarks, Competing with Samsung and Apple

    With a 165Hz refresh rate, numerous eye care features, and an innovative touch response chip, this smartphone display is the most remarkable to date.

    It’s difficult to accept that a smartphone display could surpass the current offerings, yet the OnePlus 15 is set to amaze once more with its 165Hz refresh rate, new eye-friendly enhancements, and an OLED panel engineered for maximum impact.

    OnePlus is intensely dedicated to speed and gaming performance, providing a display that aligns more with “gaming phone quality” than with a standard smartphone. This includes not only the elevated refresh rate but also a specific touch response chip and a new fluid frame generation capability for compatible games, like Call of Duty Mobile.

    OnePlus isn’t marketing this display as ultrabright, despite noticeable brightness improvements, and it is not following Samsung’s lead in using an anti-glare layer on the screen. How do the features compare? Let’s examine, and remember to check our complete OnePlus 15 review to see how the rest of the device excels.

    Eye comfort and brightness

    The OnePlus 15 features the latest TÜV Rheinland Intelligent Eye Care certification, incorporating a flicker-free and low blue light-emitting display. Brightness and dimming strategies are crucial for eye comfort, particularly in low-light conditions. Many devices, including the Pixel 10 Pro, employ low-frequency PWM dimming, which can be uncomfortable for some users.

    The OnePlus 15 is exceptionally comfortable due to OnePlus’s adoption of DC dimming at medium to high brightness levels and 2160Hz PWM dimming at low brightness levels. Furthermore, the display’s modulation rate is impressively low, approximately one-third of that found in the OnePlus 13.

    However, OnePlus does not provide dimming options for this display, so what you see is what you get.

    OLEDs produce their own light, resulting in a decrease in brightness each time the image refreshes, known as modulation. Devices like the Galaxy S25 Ultra and Pixel 10 do not manage this brightness reduction at all, leading to a harsh strobing effect at a 100% brightness drop every cycle.

    The OnePlus 15 effectively regulates this brightness reduction to a maximum of 35%, making the drop much less severe and comfortable for most individuals.

    OnePlus introduced its first “reduce white point” accessibility feature with the Android 16-based Oxygen OS 16 update, which diminishes the peak brightness of the display for sensitive users. I’ve found maintaining an 80% reduction in the white point renders this the most comfortable flagship display I’ve encountered to date.

    Additionally, OnePlus launched its first-ever Motion Cues feature in Oxygen OS 16, adding moving dots to the sides of the display for individuals who suffer from motion sickness. This is a tactic seen in Honor’s recent devices, and it’s an excellent option for those prone to motion sickness.

    Users seeking the highest peak brightness will appreciate this display. It slightly outshines the Galaxy S25 Ultra’s display without resorting to unpleasant flickering PWM dimming like Samsung’s implementation but falls short of matching the brightness of the Pixel 10 Pro or Pixel 10 Pro XL’s displays.

    All these displays provide ample brightness for outdoor use, though OnePlus hasn’t incorporated an anti-glare filter like Samsung’s S24 Ultra and S25 Ultra. Nevertheless, with the OnePlus 15’s fully flat display design, it should be relatively easy to find a quality tempered glass screen protector featuring an anti-glare layer.

    Thanks to the high-frequency PWM dimming rate, viewing this display in complete darkness won’t strain your eyes. It also scales down to 1 nit by default or as low as 0.5 nits when the “reduce white point” feature is activated. That’s the dimmest I have ever observed a smartphone display to achieve.

    Finally, the OnePlus 15’s OLED display exhibits no mura, unlike the Galaxy S25 Ultra’s display. Mura reflects how uniformly pixels are lit, a particularly vital aspect for an OLED screen.

    As shown in the picture above, a consistent 50% grey image yields perfectly uniform pixel illumination when inspected through a macro lens. Displays with inferior mura may appear grainy, especially at low brightness levels, which has been a recurring criticism from Galaxy S24 and S25 users throughout the years.

    Gaming, refresh rate, and resolution

    Some worries were expressed regarding OnePlus’s choice of a higher refresh rate display, as it meant sacrificing some screen resolution. However, even at a reduced resolution of 2772 x 1272 pixels — compared to 3168 x 1440 on the One

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    • Comments Off on Apple TV Proclaims Reintroduction of Beloved Sci-Fi Show Shortly
    Apple TV Proclaims Reintroduction of Beloved Sci-Fi Show Shortly

    **Monarch: Legacy of Monsters Season 2 Set to Launch in February**

    Apple TV’s eagerly awaited sci-fi series, *Monarch: Legacy of Monsters*, will make its return for a second season on **February 27, 2025**. The show, featuring Kurt Russell and the legendary Godzilla, has built a dedicated fan base since its initial release in 2023. The inaugural season received accolades for effectively blending a gripping human story with exhilarating monster encounters.

    The new season will commence with a single episode, followed by weekly installments until May 1, 2025. This planned release strategy is designed to generate excitement and keep audiences engaged over a longer timeframe.

    The series narrates the tale of two siblings on a mission to discover their family’s connections to the covert organization known as Monarch. Their adventure immerses them in a realm teeming with monsters and the mysterious Army officer Lee Shaw, played by both Kurt Russell and his son, Wyatt Russell. The storyline traverses the 1950s and modern times, examining the ramifications of Shaw’s insights on Monarch’s destiny.

    In Season 2, the tension escalates as Monarch’s and the world’s existence hangs by a thread. The narrative is poised to unveil concealed truths that unite heroes and antagonists on Kong’s Skull Island, alongside a hidden village where a legendary Titan appears. The plot will explore the intricacies of familial and friendly relationships, all while a Titan event approaches ominously.

    Fans can catch up on the initial season of *Monarch: Legacy of Monsters* on Apple TV, accessible for a subscription cost of **$12.99 per month**. The platform is also home to other acclaimed series such as *Ted Lasso*, *Severance*, and *The Morning Show*, enhancing its growing reputation as a hub for quality television.

    For those excited to see what Season 2 holds, the teaser trailer is now available, suggesting an exhilarating continuation of this grand saga.

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on New Leak Validates Extra Specifications for Samsung’s Galaxy Z TriFold
    New Leak Validates Extra Specifications for Samsung’s Galaxy Z TriFold

    Directly sourced from Evan Blass.

    (Image credit: Apoorva Bhardwaj / Android Central)

    Essential information

    • Samsung is gearing up to unveil the Galaxy Z TriFold next month, with multiple specifications now verified through recent leaks.
    • The TriFold is set to boast a 6.5-inch cover display and a 10-inch screen when unfolded, capable of reaching up to 2600 nits in brightness.
    • According to Blass, it will come with a 5437 mAh battery, a 200 MP primary camera, and a Snapdragon processor, although the specific chip is not yet identified.

    Notice

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