Author: sparta

Update to Google Meet Tackles Significant Audio Problems

Google Meet has launched a notable update that allows users to share the complete system audio during presentations, a functionality that has been highly anticipated by many. Previously, audio sharing was confined to a single tab, which created difficulties for presenters who needed to share audio from various applications or their entire system. This update now allows users to share audio from their whole device when presenting a window or in full-screen mode, improving the overall presentation experience.

The new functionality is accessible on macOS 14.02+ and Windows 11, requiring Chrome version 142 or later. However, it is turned off by default, meaning users must activate the “Also share system audio” option manually each time they present. This extra step is essential to guarantee that the audio is delivered during the meeting.

Despite this progress, users with adaptive audio configurations might still encounter restrictions, as they could only share sound from Chrome tabs. This suggests that the feature is still being polished and may see additional enhancements in the future.

The rollout of this feature is currently in progress for Rapid Release domains, with a wider availability anticipated in early 2026. For individuals who regularly conduct presentations that extend beyond mere slides, this update is a significant improvement to Google Meet’s functionality.

Read More
Apple Introduces Open-Source Framework for Transforming 2D Images into 3D Perspectives

### SHARP: Transforming 3D Scene Reconstruction from Individual Images

Apple has unveiled a groundbreaking model known as SHARP, which stands for Sharp Monocular View Synthesis. This model can reconstruct a lifelike 3D scene from a single 2D image in less than a second, representing a major breakthrough in computer vision and graphics.

#### Overview of SHARP

In the research paper titled [Sharp Monocular View Synthesis in Less Than a Second](https://arxiv.org/abs/2512.10685), Apple’s researchers detail how SHARP was trained to generate a 3D representation of a scene while preserving real-world distances and scales. The model employs a single feedforward pass through a neural network to regress the parameters of a 3D Gaussian representation of the scene, achieving this in under a second using standard GPU hardware.

The 3D Gaussian representation created by SHARP can be rendered in real-time, enabling the production of high-resolution lifelike images from nearby perspectives. This metric representation supports absolute scale and metric camera movements, which is essential for realistic scene reconstruction.

#### Technical Insights

SHARP functions by predicting a 3D representation of the scene, which can subsequently be rendered from various viewpoints. A 3D Gaussian is effectively a small, indistinct blob of color and light in space. When combined, these blobs can form a scene that appears real from a particular angle. Unlike conventional Gaussian splatting techniques that necessitate multiple images from varying perspectives, SHARP can generate a complete 3D Gaussian representation from just one snapshot.

To attain this functionality, SHARP was trained on vast datasets that included both synthetic and real-world images. This training equips the model to recognize common patterns of depth and geometry, allowing it to estimate depth and refine it based on accumulated knowledge when given a new image. As a result, SHARP can forecast the location and appearance of millions of 3D Gaussians in a single pass, enabling speedy scene reconstruction without the necessity for multiple images or lengthy optimization processes.

#### Limitations and Trade-offs

While SHARP excels at rendering nearby viewpoints with remarkable speed and precision, it is not without limitations. The model is primarily designed to generate realistic renderings from angles close to the perspective of the original image. This implies that users cannot examine entirely unseen sections of the scene, as the model does not generate these areas. This design choice contributes to the model’s speed, allowing it to yield results in under a second while ensuring stability and realism in the output.

#### Community Engagement and Future Directions

Apple has made SHARP accessible on

Read More
Morgan Stanley Increases Apple Stock Price Target While Maintaining Overweight Rating

### Morgan Stanley Adjusts Apple Stock Price Target Amid Improved Revenue Forecast

The financial environment for Apple Inc. has experienced a significant change as Morgan Stanley recently raised its price target for the tech behemoth’s stock by 3%, increasing it from $305 to $315. This revision occurs despite the context of climbing memory costs, reflecting a more positive revenue outlook for the firm.

#### Price Target and Rating

Morgan Stanley’s choice to raise the price target signifies a consistent use of a 32x multiple applied to its updated earnings per share (EPS) projection for fiscal year 2027, which has been revised to $9.83 from an earlier estimate of $9.55. The investment firm has retained an “Overweight” classification on Apple, implying their belief that the stock will exceed market performance.

#### iPhone Shipments and Replacement Cycle

In its revised forecast, Morgan Stanley predicts a modest rise in iPhone shipments. Nevertheless, they also foresee an extension in the replacement cycle for iPhones, suggesting users will keep their devices for about one month longer than previously expected. This trend may affect overall sales figures in the near term but signifies a larger shift in consumer behavior.

#### Gross Margin and Revenue Forecast

The report indicates a projected reduction of 130 basis points in Apple’s gross margin, mainly due to higher memory input costs. However, this decline is anticipated to be counteracted by a 5% increase in revenue, which takes into account price increases resulting from commodity cost inflation. This combination of escalating costs and rising revenue highlights the intricacies of Apple’s present market standing.

#### Investment in AI and Operating Expenses

Morgan Stanley emphasized that Apple’s continuous investments in artificial intelligence (AI) are likely to result in elevated operating expenses relative to past trends. This strategic emphasis on AI is regarded as crucial for maintaining competitiveness in the swiftly changing tech landscape.

#### Market Implications

If Morgan Stanley’s updated price target comes to fruition, it would represent a 15.8% upside from Apple’s recent closing price of $271.84, which followed a 1.01% decrease in the stock. Earlier this month, Apple shares attained a new 52-week peak of $288.61, driven by optimism regarding the iPhone 17 upgrade cycle and other favorable market signals.

### Conclusion

Morgan Stanley’s adjusted price target for Apple reflects a sophisticated comprehension of the company’s existing hurdles and opportunities. While increasing memory costs present a margin risk, the overall revenue forecast remains encouraging, supported by strategic investments and anticipated growth in iPhone shipments. As Apple navigates these shifts, investor sentiment will likely stay closely linked to the company’s performance in the upcoming quarters.

Read More
NASA’s MAVEN Mission Encounters Communication Disruption: Latest Information

NASA’s initial release indicated that the craft was functioning properly before its orbit around the red planet, but on December 6, upon re-emergence, communication between the spacecraft and NASA’s Deep Space Network was lost. Relevant teams are currently investigating the situation, but as of now, they have not been able to re-establish a successful connection.

Recent evaluations reveal that after re-emerging, MAVEN exhibited abnormal rotation, described as “rotating in an unanticipated fashion.” Through the tracking signal’s frequency, NASA’s teams inferred that the craft’s “orbital trajectory might have shifted.” There has been no indication from NASA regarding the reasons for the changes in orbit and trajectory. It could potentially have been hit by an unusual object or have altered its course due to a malfunction or failure.

MAVEN is an acronym for “Mars Atmosphere and Volatile EvolutioN,” and its primary mission is focused on studying the red planet’s upper atmosphere, ionosphere, and its interaction with the sun and solar wind; specifically to comprehend why the planet suffered atmospheric loss. The data gathered eventually led NASA to affirm that the sun is responsible for making the planet cold and desolate. The Curiosity rover on the surface also contributed to confirming that a significant amount of evaporation rendered the planet without water, which is a key reason for Mars’s lifeless state.

What additional information do we have about MAVEN?

What makes a speed robber from the Carolinas so intriguing?

<iframe class="gallery-image-video oembed" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/GXecSGmQDEI" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen data-slide-url="https://www.bgr.com/2053396/channing-tatum-2025-crime-movie-roofman-paramount-plus-charts/" data-slide-num="1" data-post-id="2053396" data-slide-title="Channing Tatum's 2025 Crime Movie Is Taking Over Paramount+ After Audiences Ignored

Read More
Elements to Weigh When Choosing to Buy a Cellular Apple Watch

# The Apple Watch: Should You Get Cellular or Not?

The Apple Watch range provides numerous options and configurations, encompassing various case materials, colors, sizes, and connectivity alternatives. A major factor when buying an Apple Watch is the decision to choose a model with cellular connectivity.

## What Benefits Does Cellular Connectivity Provide?

An Apple Watch equipped with cellular functionality enables users to remain linked while leaving their iPhone behind. This capability allows for making calls, sending messages, streaming music, and using apps without needing the iPhone close by. However, this convenience entails extra costs.

## Which Apple Watch Variants Come with Cellular Options?

At present, Apple presents several models featuring cellular capabilities, such as the Apple Watch SE, Apple Watch Series 11, and Apple Watch Ultra. The Apple Watch SE commences at $249 for GPS and $299 for GPS + Cellular. The Apple Watch Series 11 starts at $399 for GPS and $499 for GPS + Cellular. Notably, the Apple Watch Series 11 in titanium, the Hermès variant, and the Apple Watch Ultra are available solely with GPS + Cellular.

## Costs Related to Cellular

Monthly fees for cellular connectivity generally fall between $10 and $15, often more economical than many iPhone plans. Acquiring the watch directly from a carrier may provide additional savings. It’s crucial to understand that if you purchase a standard Apple Watch with GPS, you cannot upgrade to a cellular plan later; you must buy a GPS + Cellular model from the beginning.

## The Liberty of Leaving Your iPhone at Home

For those who like to leave their iPhone at home, particularly during activities like jogging or strolling, a cellular Apple Watch is an efficient choice. It enables effortless access to calls, texts, and music without the heft of a phone. When used with AirPods, users can relish hands-free communication and entertainment.

On the other hand, if you often carry your iPhone, the extra cost of cellular connectivity might not be warranted. Assessing your iPhone usage can assist in deciding whether a cellular Apple Watch is essential.

## Emergency SOS on Apple Watch

Even in the absence of a cellular plan, users can reach emergency services from their Apple Watch if it’s connected to a recognized Wi-Fi network. However, if the iPhone is not close, the watch must be configured for Wi-Fi calling. This feature is vital for those who may find themselves without their iPhone, providing reassurance during emergencies.

## Family Setup

The Family Setup feature is especially advantageous for parents wishing to keep in contact with their children without necessitating their own iPhone. This allows parents to configure a cellular Apple Watch for their child, permitting them to call, text, and access other features independently. This option is often more economical than acquiring a smartphone and includes parental controls for managing usage.

## Final Thoughts

For numerous users, selecting an Apple Watch with cellular connectivity is a valuable investment. Although it involves a higher initial expense, it unlocks vital features that enhance the watch’s autonomy from the iPhone. Furthermore, users can buy a cellular model without activating it right away, allowing for future adaptability.

In summary, while the discussion over cellular connectivity persists, the benefits it provides—particularly for active users—render it an attractive option for many. Whether you deem it essential or not, the choice ultimately hinges on your lifestyle and how you plan to utilize your Apple Watch.

Read More
Assessing the Effectiveness of TSA’s Digital ID System in Accelerating Airport Travel

A digital ID can be incorporated into your iPhone Wallet, Google or Samsung Wallet, or an application issued by the state. By adhering to the instructions within the app, you can securely insert a digital copy of your driver’s license or other forms of identification. At the airport, you then have the opportunity to scan your ID at the specified checkpoint. The TSA confirms that this feature is entirely voluntary and fully secure. 

Furthermore, the TSA highlights the increased security these digital IDs offer compared to potentially forged physical documents. The key inquiry is whether this technological advancement leads to a quicker travel experience at the airport. The rationale appears logical: simply take out your phone and scan the TSA digital ID. Nonetheless, the process is not always as straightforward or as swift.

How TSA’s digital ID saves time

Amazon Unveils Significant Discount on Android Tablets: Key 5 Must-See Offers

Tablets are the must-have gift this holiday season, and their prices keep dropping. Christmas is just around the corner, offering a plethora of outstanding Android tablet deals to enhance your festivities. The most surprising aspect is that it’s not only budget tablets or basic home companions getting slashed prices this time: instead, some of the most versatile and powerful tablets ever created are experiencing significant price reductions at Amazon, and I’ve highlighted five of my top picks below.

1. **OnePlus Pad 3 256GB:** $699.99 $579.99 at Amazon
– Our top choice in the tablet market right now, the OnePlus Pad 3 features an incredibly slim and lightweight design combined with exceptional performance and an array of useful AI capabilities. Snag this highly-rated device during Amazon’s holiday event and enjoy a solid $120 off your order.

2. **Samsung Galaxy Tab S11 128GB:** $799.99 $639.99 at Amazon
– For Samsung enthusiasts, the Galaxy Tab S11 is hard to surpass. It delivers a sophisticated mix of premium specifications with stylish design elements right out of the box, featuring an 11-inch 120Hz display, 12GB of RAM, and a super-fast MediaTek processor. It even includes an S Pen stylus.

3. **Samsung Galaxy Tab S10 Lite 128GB:** $349.99 $299.99 at Amazon
– If you’re after the Galaxy Tab experience without the hefty price tag, the S10 Lite is an excellent option. Currently on sale for $50 less at Amazon, this mid-range tablet showcases a stunning 10.9-inch 90Hz display powered by a nimble Exynos chipset, along with an included S Pen stylus. The device also supports up to 2TB of expandable storage via a microSD card (not included).

4. **Amazon Fire HD 8 32GB:** $99.99 $69.99 at Amazon
– While the Amazon Fire HD 8 may not be as hardware-centric as the other models listed, there’s a reason we crowned it the top choice in our guide to the best Fire tablets of 2025. The Fire HD 8 is essentially the ideal couch companion, featuring a lightweight, sturdy design, up to 13 hours of battery life, and up to 1TB of expandability. Get this compact tablet today and enjoy a 30% discount!

5. **Samsung Galaxy Tab Active 5 Pro 128GB:** $659 $574.60 at Amazon
– Rugged tablets often fly under the radar, which is unfortunate, as these sturdy devices are ideal for anyone needing a tablet on the go. Whether you’re on construction sites or at photo shoots, the Galaxy Tab Active 5 Pro provides a vivid 10-inch touchscreen display with military-grade durability and IP68 water resistance, plus it features up to 26 hours of battery life and a Dual Hotswap capability for manual battery changes.

Whether you’re looking for the ultra-capable OnePlus Pad 3 (our top Android tablet of 2025) or the tough, all-purpose Samsung Galaxy Tab Active 5 Pro, Amazon’s holiday sale has the right option for you. The challenge lies in selecting the perfect discounted device before the Christmas deadline. If you’re aiming to give a gift by December 25th, you’d better hurry.

Read More
iOS 26.3 Public Beta Now Available: Overview of New Features and Enhancements

### iOS 26.3 Public Beta: Essential Features and Modifications

The public beta for iOS 26.3 has recently launched, following the release of the initial developer beta. This update comes right before Apple’s seasonal break, usually indicating a more restrained release in terms of new functionalities and modifications to reduce the risk of bugs during the holiday period.

#### New Additions in iOS 26.3

The iOS 26.3 public beta brings forth several notable enhancements:

1. **Weather Wallpapers**: A new category for Weather wallpapers has been incorporated, enabling users to customize their devices with animated backgrounds that mirror the current weather conditions.

2. **Notification Forwarding Preferences**: An updated preference for notification forwarding has been introduced, specifically targeting users in the European Union. This addition improves user supervision over the way notifications are handled across devices.

3. **Transitioning to Android**: A new option has been provided to ease the switch from iPhone to Android devices, simplifying the process for users opting to change platforms.

These features highlight the main updates identified in the beta version thus far. However, as with any beta iteration, there may be other features that early testers have not yet discovered.

#### Upcoming Updates

The subsequent beta for iOS 26.3 is projected to be released in early 2026. It’s anticipated that this future version may encompass several new functionalities that have yet to be revealed.

#### User Input

As users start to navigate the iOS 26.3 beta, feedback regarding any further adjustments or features is welcomed. Users are encouraged to share their findings in the comments section, contributing to a more comprehensive understanding of the beta’s functionalities.

In conclusion, while the iOS 26.3 public beta might not unveil an abundance of new features, the introduction of Weather wallpapers, notification forwarding preferences, and enhanced transfer capabilities to Android represent important advancements in improving user experience.

Read More