Author: sparta

Performance Evaluation of Top Asian Android OEMs in 2025: Achievements and Obstacles in the Face of Fierce Rivalry

Most Asian smartphone companies achieved remarkable success in 2025, yet one thing became apparent this year: OnePlus is fading away.

This year has seen an impressive lineup of smartphone launches, with Vivo, OPPO, and Huawei standing out with their offerings. The tri-folding Mate XT kicked off the year with a bang, and camera-centric models like the Vivo X200 Ultra and Find X8 Ultra demonstrated the potential of Chinese brands investing in this domain.

It’s not solely about camera capabilities; the latest flagship models reveal how advanced these smartphones have become. Battery technology has progressed significantly in the past year, with 7,000mAh batteries becoming quite common. I had the opportunity to test all the devices released by Chinese phone makers this year, and I will assess the performance of each brand based on their 2025 launches. Let’s dive in.

Vivo: A+

Without a doubt, Vivo is currently my preferred Android brand. It has produced top-notch cameras over the past two years, and in 2025, it revamped its software with the global launch of OriginOS. The Vivo X300 Pro is my top recommendation for the best cameras currently available, and it excels as an all-around device as well. Vivo is making all the right moves in the mid-range segment with models like the V50 and V60, while the foldable X Fold 5 remains competitive against the Galaxy Z Fold 7.

OPPO: A

OPPO also enjoyed a remarkable year, with the Find X9 Pro being an exceptional device — it serves as my daily phone, and I don’t foresee myself switching to another device for at least another month. The brand has re-entered Western markets, which is a positive development.

I appreciate OPPO’s approach to foldables as well; the Find N5 launched nearly a year ago, yet it still holds its ground remarkably well. The only area where the brand could improve is wearables; it produces decent smartwatches, but they remain limited to China — I would love to see these introduced in more global markets.

Huawei: A

Huawei is not letting the trade ban hinder its ability to produce remarkable phones. The Mate XT is the most innovative device I’ve encountered, and the tri-folding design is nothing short of amazing. The Pura 80 Ultra boasts one of the finest zoom lenses available, and the newly released Mate X7 elevates foldable camera tech. Although Huawei’s software is still catching up to industry norms, its hardware design is clearly ahead.

I also appreciate Huawei’s efforts in creating a more extensive ecosystem. The Watch Ultimate 2 is my favorite smartwatch, the 12-inch MatePad Pro is the finest Android tablet I’ve ever used, and this year the brand launched several impressive earbuds. Additionally, with recent models like the Mate X7 allowing MicroG installation during the initial setup, accessing Google services on Huawei devices has never been easier.

POCO: B

I genuinely can’t criticize POCO’s performance this year. The F7 Ultra highlighted the brand’s imaging capabilities, the X7 Pro emerged as a fantastic budget option, and the F7 managed to compete effectively against its rivals. With the F8 Ultra, the brand now possesses a strong contender in the $700 price range.

POCO must enhance its presence in India, its largest international market. By not launching the F8 Ultra in India, it is conceding ground to Realme. Besides that, the software requires a revamp, but that primarily rests with Xiaomi rather than POCO.

Realme: B

I began to take renewed interest in Realme in 2025, and I admire what the brand is achieving. As a Formula 1 fan, it’s thrilling to see Realme collaborate with the Aston Martin F1 team, and the GT 7 Pro and GT 8 Pro Dream Edition models are impressive. I’m also enthusiastic about the Ricoh partnership; as demonstrated by other Chinese brands over the years, collaborating with a leading camera company can yield significant advantages, and I’m curious to see how this evolves for Realme.

If anything, Realme seems to be the brand now receiving all the limited edition models within the BBK portfolio. This used to be OnePlus’ niche, but that has changed in 2025, as illustrated by the Realme 15 Pro Game of Thrones edition.

Honor: C

Honor continues to produce solid smartphones, but its software initiatives trail behind its competitors. I’m not referring to update policies — Honor aligns with Samsung and Google for flagship updates — but the actual user interface experience. Although Honor claims its software is developed entirely internally, it still retains elements of EMUI, lacking coherence.

While Honor devices have competent cameras

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Upcoming Unavailability of ChatGPT’s Voice Function on macOS

**ChatGPT Voice Functionality on Mac App to Be Phased Out**

If you frequently utilize the ChatGPT Voice capability in the Mac app, you need to know that this feature will be retired starting January 15, 2026. OpenAI has communicated this alteration in the release notes of the latest update for the ChatGPT Mac application.

### Possibly Temporary Measure

The official announcement from OpenAI reveals that the discontinuation of the Voice feature on macOS is part of a tactical change to improve voice interactions across all their platforms. Though this information may be disheartening for users dependent on the Voice mode, it is expected to be a short-term hindrance.

Per the release notes, the Voice functionality will remain accessible on other platforms, such as chatgpt.com, iOS, Android, and Windows. Notably, no other features of ChatGPT on macOS will be affected by this modification.

### Prospects for Voice Interfaces

Voice interfaces are becoming increasingly essential in user engagement with AI solutions. It is improbable that OpenAI will entirely eliminate the Voice feature, particularly given its prospective role in upcoming hardware advancements. The company’s focus on developing “more cohesive and enhanced voice experiences” implies they might be working on a new framework for the Voice feature that is not compatible with the present version on macOS.

### Moving to Other Platforms

As the January 15 deadline draws near, users intending to keep using the Voice feature will have to migrate to the web version or the iOS/iPadOS versions of ChatGPT. This transition might necessitate some adaptation, but it is anticipated that OpenAI will ultimately reintroduce an upgraded Voice experience on macOS.

For those who depend significantly on voice interactions, it is recommended to investigate alternative platforms in the interim to guarantee a smooth experience with ChatGPT.

### Final Thoughts

To summarize, while the discontinuation of the Voice feature on the ChatGPT Mac app may result in a short-lived inconvenience, it is part of a larger plan to enhance voice functionalities across OpenAI’s applications. Users should gear up for this transition and think about utilizing other platforms to continue their voice interaction requirements with ChatGPT.

For additional updates, stay tuned to OpenAI’s official communications and the ChatGPT release notes.

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2025: iPhone Advancements, Samsung’s Sleek Design, and OnePlus’s Significant Achievement

This year has been a wild ride for the smartphone sector, with innovation and inertia competing fiercely. On one side, we’ve witnessed remarkable breakthroughs that have stretched the limits of smartphone capabilities. From sleeker designs and enhanced processors to improved accessibility features and AI functionalities, the industry has progressed significantly. Firms such as Google and Apple have rolled out solutions to combat display flickering, a positive for those sensitive to such problems.

Foldable devices have returned to the spotlight, with Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold 7 and Motorola’s Razr Ultra spearheading the movement. These gadgets have reignited excitement in the foldable category, providing more choices and refined designs. At the same time, OnePlus has surprised many with its OnePlus 13, garnering enthusiastic reviews and establishing a new benchmark for the brand.

Nonetheless, the sector also encounters obstacles. Tariffs and international tensions have affected distribution and pricing, while a movement toward uniformity in design has left some consumers desiring greater variety. The North American market, in particular, continues to be heavily shaped by carriers, restricting the availability of certain models.

AI has emerged as a key focus, with companies incorporating AI features into their products. This encompasses dedicated AI buttons and applications, enabling users to tailor their experiences. However, only a select few firms, such as Samsung and Google, provide offline AI capabilities, a crucial factor in an age of data privacy issues.

In summary, although the industry has witnessed remarkable innovations, it also struggles with challenges of stagnation and market restrictions. As we gaze into the future, the hope is for ongoing advancements that tackle these obstacles and present consumers with a wider array of diverse and inventive options.

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Activating Expanded Dark Mode on a Google Pixel Device

The newest Android 16 QPR2 update for Pixel devices brings a fresh feature that enables users to impose dark mode on apps that do not inherently provide it. This update is part of Google’s persistent initiatives to improve Pixel smartphones via consistent Pixel Drops and Quarterly Performance Release updates. The Enhanced dark mode, presented as an accessibility option, is advantageous for users who favor a dark interface or have visual impairments or photosensitivity.

This feature is accessible on Pixel phones that support the Android 16 QPR2 update, including the Pixel 6 and subsequent versions. Users can verify their build version by heading to Settings > About phone and checking for the build number BP4A.251205.006. To activate Enhanced dark mode, users need to launch the Settings app, navigate to Display and touch, select Dark theme, and opt for the Enhanced choice.

Although this feature offers a provisional fix for apps without native dark mode capabilities, Google cautions that not all applications may operate correctly when forced into dark mode. The update is a positive enhancement for dark mode fans and acts as a temporary solution until app developers implement native dark themes.

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Top 5 Enhancements Sought for the Samsung Galaxy S26 Following the Evaluation of the Galaxy S25

The Galaxy S26 possesses the potential to be outstanding, but Samsung must tackle these facets.

Samsung opted for a conservative approach with the Galaxy S25, which, to be honest, turned out to be a rather appealing Android device. I would have preferred a bolder design overhaul, enhanced cameras, and advancements in battery and charging technology. Even lacking those enhancements, the Galaxy S25 proved itself as one of the finest phones available in 2025.

I anticipate significant developments from the Galaxy S26, though rumors and leaks indicate it could be disappointing. Samsung is following the introduction of the iPhone 17 and the Google Pixel 10, which featured trend-changing upgrades such as increased base storage and magnetic charging capabilities. To remain competitive, Samsung must match these features and more.

Here are the five enhancements I wish to see in Samsung’s Galaxy S26.

1. A sleeker and lighter design with Qi2
Reports suggest that Samsung will release the Galaxy S26 with a slightly larger display next year. I want Samsung to focus on preserving the in-hand feel while refreshing the design. Magnetic charging is now a crucial feature for any Android flagship aiming for serious consideration. Samsung should utilize its R&D prowess to integrate Qi2 while keeping changes to the Galaxy S25’s dimensions, thickness, and weight minimal.

2. Smart AI functionalities
Samsung’s AI capabilities are underrated, and I want to see an expansion of this for 2026. Features like Circle to Search and multimodal Gemini Live represent the kind of innovative software enhancements I wish to see launch alongside the Galaxy S26. Samsung should revisit its strategy and potentially collaborate with Google to envision new software upgrades for the Galaxy S26.

3. A fully upgraded camera system
Samsung must make substantial advancements to the entire camera system for the Galaxy S26. A camera system based on a 50MP main sensor, a 12MP ultrawide with a 120-degree field of view, and a 12MP 3x telephoto lens seems inadequate as we approach 2026. Samsung should invest more in computational photography and color science to enhance the Galaxy S26’s photo quality without requiring hardware alterations.

4. Increased base storage (without a price increase)
Samsung can proactively impress with the Galaxy S26 by including 256GB of base storage. Apple gained attention with the iPhone 17 by making 256GB standard without increasing the price. Samsung should mirror this strategy, giving it an advantage over the Pixel 10.

5. Enhanced efficiency and battery performance
The Galaxy S25 comes with only a 4,000 mAh battery. With a power-demanding processor and display, the Galaxy S26 must enhance battery life in some manner. This could be achieved through capacity boosts, efficiency improvements, or faster charging speeds to facilitate mid-day power-ups.

While these are my primary requests, share your thoughts in the comments about what you wish to see in the Galaxy S26, anticipated to launch in just a few months!

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The Most Catastrophic Nuclear Incident in U.S. History

When you envision nuclear disasters, you likely think of Chernobyl and Fukushima, yet the most catastrophic nuclear incident in American history actually took place in the hills near Los Angeles during the summer of 1959. An experimental operation led to a meltdown at the nuclear reactors of the Santa Susana Field Laboratory, releasing radiation levels estimated to be up to 300 times higher than those seen in the infamous Three Mile Island incident. Sixty years later, the environmental and political repercussions of the Santa Susana catastrophe still affect the region.

The Santa Susana Field Laboratory (SSFL), previously known as Rocketdyne, stands as a symbol of the innovation that characterized America’s post-war era. Even following the 1959 disaster, the facility remained operational until 2006. In spite of these continued operations, efforts to clean up have been drastically insufficient. Environmental advocates highlight the field’s pollution as a significant illustration of the government’s failure to safeguard communities. However, the field’s new corporate owners have largely dismissed these concerns as exaggerated, aiming to convert the former nuclear site into a nature reserve. Activists contend that this approach primarily alleviates the company’s cleanup responsibilities due to reduced decontamination requirements, thereby maintaining the site’s toxic contaminants instead of eliminating them.

The disaster serves as a pivotal example of the challenges facing the burgeoning nuclear energy sector in the U.S. With secretive military research, overt cover-ups, and a cleanup process mired in bureaucratic stagnation, this narrative resembles that of a film script. In fact, the incident inspired an award-winning documentary, “In the Dark of the Valley.” Sixty years post-meltdown, Santa Susana raises essential questions about government transparency, corporate accountability, and environmental protection regulations, especially as the United States continues to investigate the viability of next-generation nuclear energy.

The Santa Susana meltdown was a monumental calamity

On Monday, July 13, 1959, workers in the notorious Area IV section of the SSFL observed that the reactor was experiencing dangerously high temperatures. Alarmed by the possibility of an uncontrolled reaction, the scientists implemented drastic cooling measures, driving the reactor’s control rods into the core and releasing radioactive gas to reduce the risk of an explosion. After the temperatures decreased, the team revived the reactor, unaware that it was still in the midst of a mini-meltdown. Lacking modern containment systems, plant scientists mixed the fission products with outside air before filtering them through a ventilation system, ultimately emitting an estimated 130–13,000 curies of iodine-131 and 260–2,600 curies of cesium-137 into the atmosphere. For comparison, Three Mile Island only discharged 17 curies of iodine-131, rendering Santa Susana potentially one of the most contaminated nuclear sites in the country. Importantly, the wide range of these estimates highlights the uncertainty experts still face regarding the accident’s magnitude and consequences.

Surprisingly, news of the catastrophe did not reach the public until two decades later, when UCLA student Michael Rose uncovered the Atomic Energy Commission’s records and subsequent cover-up of the incident. Over the next fifty years, at least three more incidents occurred across its ten nuclear reactors. The lab also released contaminants through its hot lab, a disposal site where the nation’s nuclear fuel and reactor components were dismantled. Similarly, advocates later found that the lab’s plutonium fuel fabrication facility unlawfully burned contaminated reactor parts in open pits, releasing pollutants into the encroaching local community. The tens of thousands of rocket tests conducted at the lab led to millions of gallons of toxic chemicals infiltrating the site’s soil and water, which were then carried into nearby communities by stormwater runoff, wind, and various other environmental factors.

Tackling contamination at Santa Susana

Scientists are divided on the extent to which the site’s toxins have adversely affected local populations. For example, a 1997 UCLA study indicated that SSFL workers showed significantly higher rates of radiation-related cancers and mortality but was quickly challenged eight years later by a Boeing-funded research project which found no meaningful correlation. However, two years later, researchers at the University of Michigan identified a 60% rise in specific cancers within two miles of the lab, while investigators at USC’s Keck School of Medicine found no quantifiable evidence supporting this claim in 2014.

To address possible contamination, California’s EPA reached agreements with NASA and the Department of Energy to clean up the facility by 2017. Boeing, which currently owns the site, opted not to sign a similar pact, and the state’s deadline lapsed without any decontamination initiatives commencing. A year later, a nearly 100,000-acre wildfire ignited at the lab site, unearthing toxic waste in the field’s soil and enveloping surrounding communities in radioactive smoke, spreading contamination up to nine miles away. Meanwhile, advocates have criticized the public authority responsible for ensuring the site’s owners are accountable for cleanup, California’s Department of Toxic Substance Control, for allowing much of the site’s hazardous chemicals to remain.

In 2022, CalEPA enacted stricter cleanup protocols

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Save 18% on This Legendary Kindle E-Reader and Get It by Christmas with Today’s Purchase

The standard Amazon Kindle serves as a reliable e-reader—particularly for below $90.

If you’re in the market for an affordable e-reader this winter, you’re fortunate with Amazon’s current Kindle promotion. At this moment, consumers can enjoy 18% off the Amazon Kindle, reducing the retail price of the entry-level e-reader to just $90.

The 2024 version of the device stands out as the top entry-level Kindle available, providing an economical price alongside a user-friendly display, ample storage for most casual readers, and a compact design that enhances comfort compared to earlier models. It also boasts impressive battery life and is constructed from 75% recycled plastics and 90% recycled magnesium.

This specific offer applies to both the Black and Matcha color options that the device is available in. It’s important to mention that this price pertains to the ad-supported version with a lockscreen, although you can pay slightly more to opt out of those ads. Buyers can also choose to bundle the device with 3 months of Kindle Unlimited, which grants access to over 4 million titles.

✅Recommended if: you prefer a tablet with an attractive, easy-on-the-eyes display and a device that is approximately 6 inches; battery longevity is a key factor for your e-reading needs; you desire a device equipped with Bluetooth and compatibility with platforms like Audible.

❌Skip this deal if: you require an e-reader that incorporates water resistance; you would rather upgrade to the Paperwhite model and have the funds to do so; you want a Kindle compatible with a stylus for note-taking, annotations, and more.

The base model of the Amazon Kindle is an excellent choice for nearly anyone interested in entering the world of e-readers, particularly due to its compact size, up to 6 weeks of battery life, and its enhanced 6-inch display.

When compared to the 2022 Amazon Kindle, the retailer claims the 2024 model is 25% brighter at its maximum setting, featuring a screen brightness comparable to the upgraded Paperwhite. Additionally, it provides improved performance for a smoother and faster page-turn experience, along with other upgraded display features such as adjustable front warm light. The 6-inch screen offers a 300ppi resolution and 16-level gray scale for a clear, high-contrast interface.

It also comes with a USB-C port for charging, Bluetooth compatibility, integration with reading applications like Audible, and an overall excellent design that remains comfortable to hold, even during extended reading sessions.

One of the most notable drawbacks of the base-level Kindle is its absence of a water resistance rating, although it’s still a strong choice at this price point if that feature isn’t a dealbreaker for you.

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Current Offers: iPad at $274, $250 Discount on 24GB M5 MacBook, Apple Pencil Pro, Magic Mouse, and Additional Items

### Current Apple Product Offers: AirPods Pro 3, iPad 11, MacBook Pro, and More

As the festive season nears, leading retailers are unleashing considerable markdowns on sought-after Apple products. Here’s a summary of the freshest deals that both tech aficionados and casual users should take into account.

#### AirPods Pro 3 at Historic Low Price

Amazon has once again reduced the price of the **AirPods Pro 3** to **$199**, reflecting a $50 reduction from its standard price of $249. This offer is particularly enticing as it matches the historic low price previously encountered during Black Friday. Shoppers can anticipate delivery before Christmas in most regions, making it a timely gifting option.

#### Best Buy’s iPad 11 Deal

Best Buy is presently providing the **current-generation iPad 11** for **$274**, reverting to its Black Friday pricing. This base model includes 128GB of storage and comes in silver, blue, and pink. The iPad typically sells for $349, resulting in a significant discount. While it may not suit power users, it performs well for casual browsing, streaming, and day-to-day activities.

#### Apple Watch Ultra 2 Price Cuts

The **Apple Watch Ultra 2** is experiencing a price reduction of **$250** across different configurations, with the black model featuring a Black Titanium Milanese Loop now accessible for **$649**. This model generally sells for $899, making it an appealing choice for those seeking a premium smartwatch at a lower cost.

#### MacBook Pro Discounts

For those looking to acquire a new laptop, B&H is providing a **24GB M5 MacBook Pro** at a **$250 discount**, lowering the price to **$1,549**. This configuration includes a 512GB SSD and is a fantastic deal compared to Amazon’s prices for equivalent models. The entry-level 16GB/1TB version is also up for grabs on Amazon for **$1,349**, but this B&H offer features a more robust setup at a competitive price.

#### M4 MacBook Air Models Discounted

Amazon has reinstated a **$250 discount** on all **M4 MacBook Air** models, encompassing both 13-inch and 15-inch versions. This promotion mirrors the Black Friday pricing and is available in multiple colors. As inventory levels vary, this is a timely chance for anyone looking to buy a new MacBook Air.

### Conclusion

With these ongoing promotions, now is an ideal moment to contemplate upgrading your Apple devices or acquiring gifts for friends and family. From the AirPods Pro 3 to the latest iPad and MacBook models, these reductions offer significant savings on top-tier technology. Be sure to respond swiftly, as these deals might not be available for long.

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Five Budget-Friendly Raspberry Pi Projects

The increasing expense of smart devices, subscription services, and smart home technology has prompted individuals to seek budget-friendly, adaptable options. This is precisely where Raspberry Pi excels. This compact, low-cost computer can perform functions usually carried out by expensive commercial equipment or recurring third-party services. With the appropriate software, you can transform a Raspberry Pi into a smart home hub, personal cloud storage, or a cost-free home security system. There are numerous ways to enhance your bedroom with Raspberry Pi projects and then extend those improvements throughout your home.

The attraction is clear: you have ownership of the data, hardware, and total control over it. And you obtain all of that without expensive ongoing fees. A Raspberry Pi can store all your data at no expense whatsoever. Additionally, many commercial monitoring systems and smart devices restrict crucial features behind subscriptions. With a Raspberry Pi, you can centralize control independently and evade long-term expenses associated with closed platforms. So let’s explore some Raspberry Pi project concepts that can help you save money!

**Smart Home Hub**

Transforming your Raspberry Pi into a smart home hub is not just a functional endeavor, but it can also lead to significant savings. You won’t have to spend on pricey proprietary hubs or continuous subscription charges. A Raspberry Pi can enhance your smart home by utilizing open-source software like Home Assistant. It will connect and manage lights, sensors, plugs, thermostats, and more. Commercial smart home hubs and ecosystems typically require hundreds of dollars upfront and often come with a monthly subscription fee. By choosing this DIY Raspberry Pi project, your principal expense is just the hardware, as the main software is free.

To configure your Raspberry Pi smart home hub, begin by installing Home Assistant’s image on a microSD card or an SSD. Then, follow the setup instructions to integrate smart devices into your network. Home Assistant can automatically detect many smart devices if they are Wi-Fi compatible. If not, you can enhance compatibility using Zigbee or Z-Wave USB adapters. But the savings don’t stop there. Did you know that establishing a smart hub can also minimize energy waste? This configuration allows your systems to operate only when necessary, leading to reduced energy expenses.

**Free Pi-hole Network Ad Blocker**

If you’re looking to enhance your internet experience with a cost-free ad blocker, consider converting your Raspberry Pi into a Pi-hole network ad blocker. Pi-hole is complimentary, open-source software that serves as a network-wide DNS sinkhole. It will block ads and trackers for every device linked to your home network. The best part? You won’t have to subscribe to any cloud service or individual ad-block application. Once you set up Pi-hole on your Pi and router, there are no recurring fees. This is far superior to a subscription-based DNS service, which frequently incurs extra charges for advanced features. Moreover, you don’t even need the latest hardware; you can reutilize an older Raspberry Pi for this project and save some funds.

Begin by installing the Pi-hole software on your Raspberry Pi and configuring the router to direct all DNS requests from connected devices (phones, computers, smart TVs, and gaming consoles) to the Pi. Once operational, Pi-hole will intercept DNS requests and block those that align with known ad-serving and tracking domains. This means ads won’t be downloaded in the first place. Consequently, the webpages you wish to access will load faster, and your network will consume less bandwidth. This way, you can also minimize data usage on capped connections and save money.

**Rain and Flood Detection**

Preventing water damage before it escalates is crucial. The potential costs of replacing furniture and appliances or repairing house construction following a flood are daunting. Average water damage claims can exceed $10,000 or more. Installing sensors to detect moisture or rising water levels early is among the wisest decisions a homeowner can make. You can also install motion sensors throughout your home while undertaking this project. Transforming your Raspberry Pi into a rain and flood detection system is not only economical but also simple.

Connect a basic water or rain sensor to the Raspberry Pi’s GPIO pins and write a brief Python script to monitor them. You don’t need to be a programmer to achieve this. Numerous scripts are readily available online (e.g., GitHub), even at no cost. When a sensor identifies hazardous water levels, whether it’s a leak or rainwater accumulating where it shouldn’t, the Raspberry Pi will alert you via email, text, or smart home dashboard. You can even blend this into your smart home system so that the water valve or sump pump activates automatically.

**Cloud Storage**

If you want to have complete control over your data without subscribing to services such as Google Drive, iCloud, or Dropbox, you could convert your Raspberry Pi into cloud-like storage. Yes, services typically

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