Author: sparta

ChatGPT Launches Group Chat Functionality Across Four Areas

**OpenAI Enhances Group Chat Capability in ChatGPT**

OpenAI has recently rolled out an important update to its ChatGPT platform, enabling users to participate in group chats for the first time. This feature is presently in testing across select regions, including Japan, New Zealand, South Korea, and Taiwan, with intentions for a worldwide launch after receiving favorable initial feedback.

### Main Aspects of Group Chats

The group chat capability operates on the recently launched GPT-5.1 model, which improves the interaction experience by allowing ChatGPT to follow conversational dynamics. Users can partake in discussions without requiring prompts after every message, as the system intelligently determines the appropriate time to respond based on the conversation’s context. This advancement seeks to foster a more organic and smooth interaction among group participants.

Besides text replies, ChatGPT can also react to messages using emojis and refer to profile pictures of group participants. This feature provides a more tailored and immersive chat experience, where users can request enjoyable images that integrate group members’ photos.

### Launch and Upcoming Plans

Currently, the group chat capability is being trialed in a few regions. Nonetheless, OpenAI has stated that it plans to widen access to all logged-in users on ChatGPT Free, Go, Plus, and Pro plans globally within days of the pilot’s encouraging reception. The company is dedicated to enhancing the group chat experience based on user insights as more users gain access.

### Summary

The launch of group chats in ChatGPT signifies a considerable advancement in how users interact with AI. By promoting collaborative dialogues and boosting user engagement through personalized options, OpenAI is establishing a new benchmark for chatbot capabilities. As the rollout progresses, users can anticipate a more engaging and lively experience with ChatGPT.

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YouTube Carries Out Unexpected Trial to Bring Back In-App Direct Messaging

The DM functionality is making a comeback.

(Image credit: Chris Wedel)

Essential information

  • YouTube is quietly trialing integrated DMs again, beginning with users aged 18 and above in Ireland and Poland.
  • You can initiate a chat by clicking the notification bell on a video and sending an invitation, or simply use the Share button to message someone directly.
  • Invitation links expire after a week, and YouTube may examine messages for guideline infractions, so this isn’t an entirely private messaging option.

Notice

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“Demeo x Dungeons & Dragons: Battlemarked – A Revolutionary Follow-Up Transforming Strategy Gaming”

**Demeo Matures and Broadens Its Scope in My Selection for Game of the Year on the Meta Quest Platform**

In a year filled with notable game launches, a singular title has risen to prominence on the Meta Quest platform: “Demeo x Dungeons & Dragons: Battlemarked.” This game, a partnership between the cherished Demeo series and the vast realm of Dungeons & Dragons, has entranced players with its refined gameplay and immersive environment. Offered on Meta Quest, Steam, and PlayStation, this title presents both VR and non-VR versions, guaranteeing accessibility for every player.

**A Fresh Chapter in the Demeo Journey**

“Demeo x D&D” enhances the successful groundwork of the initial Demeo, a turn-based strategy card battler. By weaving in the rich narratives of Dungeons & Dragons, the game provides a novel perspective on the genre. Players can embark on grand campaigns set in iconic locales like Neverwinter and Icewind Dale, with each battle taking place on elaborately crafted boards that mimic real-world environments.

The gameplay mechanics are recognizable yet inventive. Players can execute two actions each turn, utilizing a hand of cards for attacks or items, or maneuvering across the board. The addition of card-based abilities brings a distinctive twist to the conventional D&D mechanics, delivering a lively and engaging experience.

**Extensive Campaigns and Replay Value**

At its release, “Demeo x D&D” includes two principal campaigns, each presenting hours of gameplay across diverse locations. Players have the ability to save their progress at any moment, enabling flexible gaming sessions. The game also features three “one-shot” campaigns, boosting its replayability and diversity.

In contrast to its predecessor, “Demeo x D&D” embraces a more classic RPG framework. Players can navigate the game’s world map, selecting areas to explore and participating in both combat and non-combat events. This open-ended format promotes exploration and discovery, ensuring each playthrough is a distinctive journey.

**Cutting-Edge Multiplayer and Personalization**

A highlight of the game is its cross-platform multiplayer functionality. VR and non-VR players can effortlessly collaborate, ensuring that no one misses out on the excitement. Furthermore, the game introduces character customization, enabling players to modify their avatars and create unique skill trees.

For those desiring a more communal experience, “Demeo x D&D” presents a co-location feature for Meta Quest users. This allows players to congregate in the same physical area and experience the game board as though it were an actual tabletop game, heightening the feeling of togetherness and immersion.

**An Essential Title for VR Aficionados**

“Demeo x Dungeons & Dragons: Battlemarked” exemplifies the possibilities of VR gaming. Its blend of strategic gameplay, rich storytelling, and groundbreaking features renders it an essential title for genre enthusiasts. Whether you are a veteran D&D player or a newcomer to the realm of tabletop gaming, this game provides an unparalleled experience that is certain to enchant and amuse. As my choice for the game of the year on Meta Quest, “Demeo x D&D” establishes a new benchmark for the achievements of VR games.

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How Google Connected the File-Sharing Divide by Merging Quick Share with AirDrop

**It’s similar to the substantial RCS initiative between Android and iPhone, but for your documents.**

In a pivotal step to improve cross-platform functionality, Google has unveiled a new update for its Pixel 10 series that enables Android’s Quick Share to operate effortlessly with Apple’s AirDrop. This advancement is reminiscent of the recent RCS (Rich Communication Services) merger between Android and iPhone, intended to enhance messaging experiences. Consequently, file sharing between these two platforms is poised to become simpler.

**Key points to remember:**
– Google has allowed its Pixel 10 series to transmit files from Quick Share to iPhones through AirDrop.
– Users need to adjust their devices to “Everyone for 10 minutes” to enable file exchanges between Android and iPhone.
– Google intends to expand this functionality to more Android devices, widening the range of cross-platform file sharing.

This update, which starts to roll out today, underscores Google’s dedication to promoting better interoperability between Android and iOS devices. The firm assures users that this feature has been designed with security in mind, having undergone thorough evaluation by independent security specialists.

The initiative follows Apple’s recent incorporation of RCS on iPhones with iOS 18, which enhanced messaging between Android and iOS by introducing functionalities such as read receipts and higher-quality images. This was a notable advancement, aligning with Google’s #GetTheMessage campaign that champions improved messaging standards.

The partnership between Google and Apple in advancing file sharing and messaging mirrors a growing trend towards cross-platform integration, promising a more cohesive user experience across different devices. As this update is implemented, users can anticipate a more seamless interaction between their Android and iOS devices, creating a sense of greater connectivity than ever before.

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“Discovering the Ease of Qi2 Magnetic Charging with the Pixel 10 and Anker’s Slim MagSafe Power Bank for Alleviating Battery Worries”

When discussing portable chargers, I’ve grown used to the particular kind of power bank that I must hold in my hand, balancing it while attempting to use my phone, or having it awkwardly stick out from my pocket with a long cable extending to charge my phone. Neither option is especially appealing, but MagSafe and Qi2 come to the rescue.

I recently obtained the Anker MagGo Power Bank (5K), and it’s been a delight to use with my Pixel 10. It is relatively slim, features a quite substantial battery, and is extremely easy to carry when you require additional power. However, even though there are still reasons to appreciate non-MagSafe portable chargers, this Qi2 model has provided me with insight into the genuine advantage of MagSafe, and I’m eager to see its future developments.

What’s more, the Anker MagGo Power Bank (5K) is currently on sale for Black Friday, marking the second occasion I’ve seen it at a discount, making it even more attractive for anyone looking to purchase one.

Undoubtedly, the most compelling feature of the Anker MagGo Power Bank (5K) is its sleek design. The charger is .34 inches thick, which is about as slim as the Pixel 10. Yes, it basically doubles the phone’s width, but it’s far less jarring considering the thickness of the Pixel 10’s camera module.

Anker’s marketing materials for this charger predominantly highlight the iPhone Air, which is quite a bit thinner. Nevertheless, when holding a phone that slender, battery longevity might already be a concern, and a charger that’s somewhat bulkier but equipped with a larger battery seems like a reasonable compromise.

Regarding the actual magnetic connection, it is exceptionally strong, and I’ve never experienced any issues with the charger detaching from the Pixel 10 unless I intended for it to.

Another significant advantage of the charger being slim is that it fits more comfortably in a pocket. Unlike other portable chargers, which are often quite bulky and cumbersome, the Anker MagGo Power Bank (5K) is compact, lightweight, and the best representation of “portable” I’ve encountered in a charger.

The Anker MagGo Power Bank (5K) charges wirelessly at 15W and includes a 5,000mAh battery capacity, aligning with the higher end of many top Android devices. That is sufficient to provide a decent charge when required, although you shouldn’t anticipate it to fully recharge your battery.

This is due to the inefficiency of wireless charging, meaning the power bank typically depletes before my Pixel 10 receives a complete charge. Nevertheless, it should suffice for most users, especially as a backup option. Additionally, the charger does get somewhat warm during use, but not alarmingly so.

Moreover, you can utilize the USB-C port for power output, with a maximum of 20W. While not the quickest, it should prove faster and more efficient compared to wireless charging, as indicated in the chart above.

It also allows for 20W input charging, which is fairly decent, though it entails waiting close to two hours for a full recharge. There is no screen to indicate your current charge status, but four small lights at the bottom fulfill that purpose, which can be activated by pressing the side button.

There are clear disadvantages to having a charger this slim, the primary one being the relatively small capacity. With other power banks, I’m accustomed to having a capacity of at least 10,000mAh, which delivers at least one complete charge and more. Given the increasing battery capacities of top Android phones, I cannot expect a full charge from the Anker MagGo Power Bank (5K), though I still find it helpful for additional power when necessary.

The charging speed also leaves something to be desired, yet it’s not terribly sluggish, particularly if you choose the USB-C method (which somewhat undermines the concept of having a magnetic portable charger).

To address this, Anker provides a 10,000mAh version of the MagGo Power Bank that not only doubles the capacity but also accommodates up to 30W charging through USB-C, in addition to 15W wireless charging. However, at .58 inches, this charger is considerably thicker and doesn’t feel like something I’d like to attach to the back of my phone.

Still, it’s an alternative for anyone looking to gain a bit more from their portable MagSafe charger, and there’s even another 10,000mAh model that features the same capacity and a small display on the side (though it’s even thicker at .78 inches).

On the flip side, if you’re prepared to sacrifice the convenience of a magnetic connection, the Anker Nano Power Bank has served me well and has become my new preferred portable charger. It boasts a retract…

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User Finds Way to Unlock iPhone-Only Functions of AirPods Pro on Android Devices

### LibrePods Introduces Apple Device-Exclusive AirPods Features for Android and Linux

AirPods are primarily crafted for Apple devices, yet they also serve as standard Bluetooth headphones that can pair with any device. An open-source project on GitHub named LibrePods presents a means to access certain audio features exclusive to iPhones on Android and Linux platforms.

If you possess AirPods and aim to broaden their capabilities with your Android or Linux device, LibrePods might be the answer. This open-source initiative by Kavish Devar offers comprehensive guidance on unlocking audio features typically reserved for Apple devices such as the iPhone.

#### Unlocked Features

Below is a compilation of the features available for unlocking, as stated on the GitHub page:

– **Noise Control Modes**: Seamlessly toggle between noise control modes without the need for a long press on your AirPods.
– **Ear Detection**: Automatically manages your music playback when you insert or remove your AirPods, switching to the phone speaker when they are taken out.
– **Battery Status**: Displays precise battery levels for your AirPods.
– **Head Gestures**: Enables you to accept calls simply by nodding your head.
– **Conversational Awareness**: Automatically reduces the volume when you begin to speak.
– **Hearing Aid** (requires VendorID modification).
– **Customize Transparency Mode** (requires VendorID modification).
– **Multi-device Connectivity** (up to 2 devices, requires VendorID modification).
– **Other Customizations**:
– Rename your AirPods.
– Modify long-press actions.
– Access all accessibility options.
– And more!

*Note: Features indicated with an asterisk necessitate altering the VendorID to match that of Apple.*

As with any open-source program, it is wise to exercise caution. The project has been validated on AirPods Pro 2 but is said to be compatible with other models such as AirPods Pro 3, AirPods Max, and beyond.

If you have installed LibrePods, please share your feedback in the comments.

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Bluetti Unveils Premium Line of Portable Power Stations Featuring Discounts Reaching 65%

**Bluetti Broadens Portable Power Station Lineup with Elite Series**

The renewable energy firm Bluetti has launched its latest Elite series of portable power stations, crafted for both residential energy independence and outdoor escapades. For a limited period, readers of 9to5Mac can take advantage of discounts reaching up to 65% on these cutting-edge products.

### Elite 10 Portable Power Station

The highlight of this new collection is the Elite 10 Portable Power Station, which stands as Bluetti’s most compact creation, weighing under four pounds and fitting snugly in your hand. This model is designed for travelers and campers, combining the ease of a power bank with the features of a complete portable power station. It has a capacity of 128Wh and delivers a total output of 200 watts for both AC and DC power. The Elite 10 is equipped with a quick 10-millisecond switching feature, making it ideal for use as an uninterruptible power supply (UPS). Users can charge the unit while simultaneously powering their devices.

– **Price**: Regular price $239, promotional price $139 (42% off)
– [Elite 10 Portable Power Station](https://bit.ly/3JD6SmJ)

### Elite 30 V2 and Elite 200 V2

For users needing greater power, Bluetti is providing substantial savings on the Elite 30 V2 and Elite 200 V2 models. These choices offer increased capacity and performance for a range of uses.

– **Note**: This is the best price ever available for the Elite 200 V2.
– **Coupon**: Enter code 9TO5MAC5OFF for an extra 5% discount.

### Elite 400 Portable Power Station

The latest Elite 400 Portable Power Station carries on the tradition of the Elite 200 V2, featuring a remarkable 3,840Wh capacity and a strong output of 2,600W (3,900W surge). It is engineered to power high-demand devices such as refrigerators and tools while ensuring great portability with its retractable handle and wheels.

– **Price**: Regular price $2,999, discounted price $1,499 (50% off)
– [Elite 400 Portable Power Station](https://bit.ly/43aqQMo)
– **Coupon**: Apply code 9TO5MAC6OFF for an additional 6% discount.

### B500K Expansion Battery

For current Bluetti owners looking to enhance their home backup systems, the new B500K Expansion Battery delivers an enormous 5,120Wh capacity. This battery works with various Bluetti products and can be expanded up to 100kWh by linking multiple units. It is built for straightforward installation and portability, making it a superb option for home or RV applications.

– **Price**: Regular price $2,999, promotional price $1,699 (43% off)
– [B500K Expansion Battery](https://bit.ly/490gIcL)
– **Coupon**: Use code 9TO5MAC56OFF for an extra 6% discount.

### Apex 300 + Expansion Battery Bundles

For those lacking a home backup system, this is an opportune time to invest in the Apex 300 Portable Power Station. Pairing it with either the B300K or B500K expansion batteries not only offers substantial savings but also qualifies for the 30% U.S. Residential Clean Energy Credit, valid until December 31.

– **Coupon**: Enter code 9TO5MAC6OFF for an additional 6% discount.

### More Bluetti Black Friday Offers

These featured products are part of a wider range of Bluetti Black Friday deals. To examine the full selection, follow the provided link. Furthermore, 9to5Mac readers can benefit from an additional 5% discount on most portable power stations and home battery backups using the coupon code 9TO5MAC5OFF at checkout.

For further details on the complete array of Bluetti products, visit

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Guide for Selecting the Finest Smart Display Glasses During Black Friday Discounts

This holiday season, Xreal, Viture, and RayNeo are all vying for your choice, but similar to selecting a starting Pokémon, there’s only one optimal pick.

(Image credit: Nicholas Sutrich / Android Central)

Are you looking to snag affordable smart display glasses this Black Friday? The great news is that you don’t need to wait! All three of our top-rated smart glasses are currently on sale a full week in advance of Black Friday starting, but how do you decide among them?

Each pair of glasses offers a substantial wearable OLED display in a sleek design, letting you connect them to your smartphone, Steam Deck, laptop, or a variety of other gadgets. This gives you a personal, private screen without straining your neck. Whether you seek the finest image quality, the lowest cost, or the most extensive compatibility, I’m here to assist you in making the best choice right now.

Top overall smart display glasses

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Savings of as much as $150 Offered on Garmin’s Leading Two Prior-Generation Timepieces

The Garmin holiday promotion provides considerable discounts on popular smartwatch models, making it an ideal moment for athletes and fitness enthusiasts to enhance their gear without overspending. While the newest models like the Fenix 8 and Forerunner 965 are on offer, the Venu 3 and Forerunner 265 emerge as budget-friendly options that still deliver a complete range of training tools.

The Garmin Forerunner 265, available for $299 at Best Buy, is a flexible choice for outdoor athletes. It comprises features such as training load focus, daily running recommendations, and Garmin’s dual-band GPS for accurate tracking. With a battery life of 13 days, it’s aimed at those dedicated to boosting their performance without requiring the extra features of the Forerunner 965, like offline maps.

For indoor athletes, the Garmin Venu 3, priced at $349, combines style with functionality. It boasts Garmin’s fifth-generation Elevate sensors, which provide ECGs, skin temperature insights, and precise heart rate readings. The Venu 3 also facilitates Bluetooth calling and phone assistant commands, rendering it a versatile option for individuals who appreciate both fitness tracking and smart capabilities.

Both the Forerunner 265 and Venu 3 have received high recommendations in their respective categories, presenting a mix of affordability and functionality. They might miss some of the advanced features available in newer models, yet they offer all the essentials required for most athletes to monitor their development and realize their fitness ambitions.

With the present discounts, these models provide a fantastic opportunity for those eager to step into the Garmin ecosystem or elevate their current devices without selecting the newest and priciest alternatives. Whether you’re a runner, hiker, or someone who enjoys indoor training, the Venu 3 and Forerunner 265 deliver strong features that accommodate a broad array of fitness requirements.

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EU Suggests Major Changes to Cookie Alert Regulations and AI Management

In a freshly released document, the European Commission discloses its intention to reduce the frequency of cookie pop-ups while also clarifying and simplifying AI regulations. As stated in a press release, the EU aims to update the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) by lessening the prevalence of bothersome cookie banner pop-ups along with refining AI guidelines.

With these forthcoming modifications, users will have the ability to express their consent with a single click and store their cookie preferences through their browser settings or operating system. This way, users won’t need to provide or refuse cookie tracking permission each time they visit a new page.

However, that’s not the only alteration proposed by the European Commission, which is also advocating for a “digital omnibus package.” This would ease existing regulations concerning AI, cybersecurity, and data within the European Union. Here’s what you need to know about these amendments and their potential implementation timeline.

EU aims to accelerate AI integration

According to the press release, the European Commission seeks to help businesses save up to 5 billion euros in administrative expenditures by the year 2029. This goal could be achieved by standardizing how cybersecurity matters are reported, as businesses currently must prepare various reports following different regulations. An additional enhancement is that for “high-risk” AI systems, companies would only be required to fulfill all obligations once the necessary support tools and standards are established, allowing them a grace period of up to 16 months for compliance.

The new legislation would also clarify rules under the Data Act, and a new “European Business Wallet” for enterprises would provide digital signing, timestamping, document sharing, and secure cross-border business identification, which could potentially lead to annual savings of up to 150 billion euros. Nonetheless, the EU aims to cut administrative burdens by at least 25% by the conclusion of 2029.

Conversely, opponents of these changes, including European Digital Rights, argue that the EC’s proposals could undermine the core principles of human rights and technology policy within the EU. With the proposal now made public, it must be presented to the European Parliament and the Council of the European Union for approval.

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