Author: sparta

iOS 26.2 Beta 2 Launched for Developers Featuring Fresh Updates and Bug Corrections

released by mid-December, Apple is still evaluating the forthcoming iOS 26.2 update with beta 2. We’re in the process of uncovering the new elements introduced in today’s build, but it seems the company will persist in refining the initial features rolled out in the previous beta while incorporating several additional features and fixes along the way.

For instance, Apple has already announced that Live Translation will be introduced in the European Union as part of iOS 26.2. Initially postponed due to concerns regarding the Digital Markets Act, Apple indicates that this Apple Intelligence feature will be accessible to users in the EU in December.

Live Translation enables AirPods Pro 2, AirPods Pro 3, and AirPods 4 users with an iPhone 15 Pro or later to hear a real-time translation of what someone is communicating to them, and respond vocally in their own language with a translation shown on the iPhone’s display. It’s among the more fascinating inclusions of iOS 26, and now it’s set to reach a broader user base. However, that’s merely one component of the iOS 26.2 beta narrative.

Features and modifications in the iOS 26.2 beta

iOS 26.2 Brings Liquid Glass Effect to Built-in Level Tool

Apple unveiled iOS 26.2 earlier today, advancing its comprehensive redesign of the Liquid Glass visual theme with an interface enhancement to the Level tool in the Measure app.

### Liquid Glass Continues to Spread Throughout the System

Following the first round of app revisions showcasing the Liquid Glass visual theme introduced at WWDC25, Apple is further embedding these fresh visual elements into its default applications. In the most recent iOS 26.2 developer beta 2, Apple revamped the Measure app to integrate Liquid Glass visual elements into the interfaces of both the Measure and Level tools.

The refreshed app now displays chromatic aberrations when the level indicator crosses the horizon, as well as a distortion effect on the background grid. When determining the level of an object located on either the floor or ceiling, the Level tool now presents two Liquid Glass circles rather than the former flat circles. The Liquid Glass effect within these circles also alters the background grid and level number on the display, providing a cohesive visual experience as the level indicator approaches 0º.

Although the Measure and Level tools are not among the most commonly utilized native iPhone features, the Liquid Glass effect in the Level tool is visually impressive. It remains uncertain whether Apple will implement further modifications before the official launch of iOS 26.2 or if more Liquid Glass elements will be incorporated into the Measure tool itself.

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Beta 2 Launch for tvOS 26.2, watchOS 26.2, and Other Updates Now Available

# Apple Launching tvOS 26.2 Beta 2 and More for Developers

Apple has commenced the deployment of beta updates for its diverse platforms, including the second developer beta for tvOS 26.2, watchOS 26.2, visionOS 26.2, and others. This follows the introduction of the 26.2 beta cycle, which brought major updates for iPhone, iPad, and Mac users.

## Main Features in Recent Updates

The latest updates for iOS, iPadOS, and macOS have introduced several enhancements, especially in the Podcasts app, a new Reminders feature, and a revamped Apple News app. These upgrades aim to improve user experience across Apple’s core devices.

### Highlights of tvOS 26.2 Beta 1

The initial beta of tvOS 26.2 rolled out two significant features for Apple TV 4K users:

1. **Profile Creation**: Users can now set up profiles without requiring an Apple Account.
2. **Content Limitations**: The TV app now respects content limits established for children’s profiles, providing a safer viewing environment for younger viewers.

### Updates in watchOS 26.2

The watchOS 26.2 beta featured modifications to the Sleep Score grading system, enhancing the way users monitor their sleep habits and overall health metrics.

### Emphasis on Bug Fixes and Performance Improvement

In addition to the new features, Apple’s updates have largely concentrated on resolving bugs and enhancing performance across all platforms. This is customary in beta releases, as developers strive to polish the user experience ahead of the public launch.

## What’s Ahead?

With the release of beta 2 for tvOS 26.2, visionOS 26.2, HomePod 26.2, and more, there is the possibility of further features being revealed as the beta cycle continues. Users and developers are encouraged to delve into these updates and report any new discoveries.

As the beta cycle progresses, Apple is anticipated to roll out a public beta 2 version soon, provided no major bugs are found.

## Community Involvement

Apple fans are welcome to share their experiences and insights regarding the fresh beta updates in the comments section. This community input is vital for both users and developers as they navigate the newest changes.

## Closing

Apple’s persistent dedication to enhancing its software through beta updates guarantees that users receive the optimal experience. With the latest features and enhancements, developers and users can anticipate a more fluid interaction with their devices.

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OpenAI Unveils Release of GPT-5.1, Improving Conversational Abilities

ChatGPT has undergone another significant enhancement, this time with the introduction of GPT-5.1. OpenAI asserts that the update will enable “easier customization” of the chatbot while offering a “smarter, more conversational” interaction overall.

Today, the company announced the rollout of GPT-5.1 in a [blog post](https://openai.com/index/gpt-5-1/), highlighting the inclusion of two new models named GPT-5.1 Instant and GPT-5.1 Thinking. Instant aims to deliver a “warmer, more intelligent” model that excels in adhering to user instructions, whereas Thinking will concentrate on providing sophisticated reasoning. OpenAI indicates that ChatGPT will not only manage simple tasks more effectively but will also possess an improved understanding of intricate tasks.

The company shared examples illustrating how the outputs from GPT-5 and GPT-5.1 Instant will vary, showing that the company’s idea of “playfulness” is indeed more apparent in the communications. Moreover, the firm mentions that GPT-5.1 Instant will employ adaptive reasoning to assess whether it should contemplate before answering more challenging inquiries, enhancing accuracy without significantly slowing down the system.

New avenues for customizing ChatGPT

Instant isn’t the sole model designed to deliver a warmer interaction, as OpenAI states that Thinking will also provide a more comforting and empathetic response mechanism, even highlighting the distinction between it and GPT-5. However, the notable point is that this “release is a significant advancement” for the models, not just in functionality but also in user-friendliness. A considerable aspect of this is attributed to the newly introduced personalization features.

In addition to adding support for GPT-5.1, users can now further tailor ChatGPT’s responses based on personality traits. The examples shared in OpenAI’s blog post present options like Candid, Quirky, Efficient, Professional, Friendly, and others. Once chosen, the personality will apply across all AI models. The prior Nerdy and Cynical options will still be available.

The company is also experimenting with more detailed customization methods, which may allow for even finer adjustment options in upcoming releases similar to the [custom instructions](https://www.bgr.com/tech/chatgpt-custom-instructions-were-only-for-paid-subscribers-but-now-you-can-use-them-for-free/) currently available for the AI. There was no mention of the recently [leaked ChatGPT group chat feature](https://www.bgr.com/2024447/chatgpt-group-chat-feature-leaked/), so we will have to wait for further details on that front. Auto will continue to enable you to depend on the AI to identify which model is most appropriate for a given task. Additionally, if the more inviting response from GPT-5.1 is excessive, you can always revert to GPT-5 through the legacy models option in ChatGPT, just as you

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Android Notebooks Launch with Characteristics Influenced by Microsoft Surface Pro 11

**It’s Wonderful to Witness, but There’s Still a Long Path Ahead**

The tech community is buzzing with the latest news from Qualcomm, especially the thrilling updates regarding the Snapdragon X series processors. A fresh rumor has emerged indicating that Qualcomm is integrating Android 16 support into its Snapdragon X series processors. This development represents a notable advancement in the tech giant’s ambitions to introduce Android laptops to the marketplace. Nonetheless, the journey is far from complete, and several challenges remain before these devices become a reality.

**What You Should Be Aware Of**

– Qualcomm is allegedly developing Android 16 support for its Snapdragon X Elite and X series processors.
– It remains unclear if the Snapdragon X2 chips will obtain similar backing.
– In spite of this advancement, the first Android laptops are still months away from coming to market.

At the Qualcomm Snapdragon Summit earlier this year, the company confirmed that Android laptops were forthcoming. This revelation was received with excitement, as it represented an important milestone in the evolution of ARM-based laptops. The recent indication that Qualcomm is pursuing Android support for its premier ARM SoCs is an encouraging sign, showing that the initiative is progressing.

However, the path to Android laptops is laden with obstacles. While the introduction of Android 16 support is a favorable advancement, significant technical and logistical challenges persist. The development timeline is anticipated to accelerate quickly, but it will likely take some time before we witness the first Android-powered laptops on store shelves.

Qualcomm’s Snapdragon X series of processors, launched in June 2024, represented the company’s latest effort to bring Windows to ARM technology. The debut was accompanied by new hardware from brands like Samsung and Microsoft, highlighting the capabilities of ARM-based laptops. The Snapdragon X Elite, in particular, has received accolades for its remarkable performance, almost matching Apple’s M3 Pro and M3 Max in single-core CPU capabilities.

The Snapdragon X2 series of processors, revealed at the latest Snapdragon Summit, seeks to build upon this success. The Snapdragon X2 Elite is expected to deliver significant enhancements in both CPU and GPU performance, providing a 31% boost in CPU capabilities and a 2.3X increase in GPU performance per watt. These enhancements are essential for the creation of Android laptops, as they offer the requisite power and efficiency to rival existing devices.

Despite these encouraging strides, the first wave of Android laptops might not feature the Snapdragon X2. Qualcomm’s emphasis on the Snapdragon X Elite implies that the initial set of devices will depend on this processor. Nevertheless, the advancements achieved thus far are uplifting, and it is merely a matter of time before Android laptops become a reality.

Meanwhile, consumers seeking an ARM-powered laptop can consider options like the Lenovo Chromebook Plus 14, which showcases noteworthy performance with its MediaTek Kompanio Ultra processor. While it may not run Android, it offers a preview of the potential of ARM-based laptops.

As Qualcomm relentlessly explores the possibilities of ARM processors, the future of Android laptops appears bright. However, there remains considerable work required before these devices achieve mainstream acceptance. The road ahead may be lengthy, but the progress made thus far demonstrates the promise of this technology.

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OpenAI Unveils GPT-5.1 for ChatGPT Featuring Improved Warmth and Smarter Capabilities

**OpenAI Unveils GPT-5.1: Advancements in Communication and Intelligence**

In August, OpenAI launched GPT-5, signaling a major upgrade to its ChatGPT model. Now, only three months later, the organization has released GPT-5.1, which claims to be “more personable, smarter, and superior in following your directives.”

### Instant and Thoughtful Enhancements

OpenAI highlights that GPT-5.1 improves both the communication approach and the intelligence of the model. The enhancements are divided into two primary models:

– **GPT-5.1 Instant**: This is the most frequently used model, crafted to be more conversational and responsive to user guidelines. The outputs produced by this model are meant to sound less like scripted information and more like authentic writing, with a warmer tone now set as the standard.

– **GPT-5.1 Thinking**: This sophisticated reasoning model has been optimized for speed, enabling quicker responses to straightforward tasks while being more comprehensive on complex issues. It also adopts the warmer tone by default.

OpenAI has implemented new features that permit users to choose the tone of responses, providing options like friendly, efficient, professional, candid, and quirky. This functionality seeks to improve user engagement by personalizing outputs to individual tastes.

A significant enhancement in the Instant model is its improved adherence to user instructions. For example, the model can now respond to prompts with a defined word count, addressing a typical annoyance users faced with earlier versions.

### Accessibility

GPT-5.1 is being made available to paying customers on Pro, Plus, Go, and Business plans, with the rollout expected to extend over the coming days. Users without a subscription and those not logged in will receive access to the new model following the initial rollout phase. OpenAI has assured that GPT-5 will continue to be accessible for at least three months for paying users, responding to feedback regarding the sudden discontinuation of previous models after GPT-5 was introduced.

Furthermore, Apple has announced that ChatGPT will incorporate GPT-5 via Siri with Apple Intelligence beginning with iOS 26, with a transition to GPT-5.1 expected in an upcoming software update.

For additional information, you can view the complete GPT-5.1 announcement from OpenAI

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Crucial Internal Wallpapers for iPhone 17 Pro and iPhone 17 Pro Max

**iPhone 17 Pro and iPhone 17 Pro Max Internal Wallpapers Unveiled by Basic Apple Guy**

After two months of dedicated effort, Basic Apple Guy has unveiled the eagerly awaited iPhone 17 Pro and iPhone 17 Pro Max Internal Wallpapers. Here’s how you can obtain them.

### Almost 3,000 Layers for Flawless Replicas

It has become customary that whenever Apple introduces a new product, Basic Apple Guy crafts breathtaking, flawless wallpapers showcasing the internals of the new device. In recent weeks, Basic Apple Guy has shared updates on social media, hinting at the new iPhone Internal Wallpaper collection.

Now, the iPhone 17 Pro and iPhone 17 Pro Max Internal Wallpapers can be found in nine distinct shades, and you can download them [here](https://basicappleguy.com/basicappleblog/iphone-17-pro-internals-wallpapers), where you can also assist with a $4.99 gift to support their efforts.

The wallpapers are exceptionally intricate, as Basic Apple Guy constructs the artwork based on Apple’s own repair guides.

Here’s Basic Apple Guy:

> “The entire process consumes a significant amount of time; each wallpaper demands dozens of hours to finalize. I begin with an 800×1500 image from Apple’s repair manual and scrutinize every detail to comprehend how the components are organized, layered, and interconnected before reproducing them in Sketch as accurately as possible. Each element is arranged, drawn, curved, layered, and textured by hand. Some features take mere seconds; others, such as the perimeter railing, can nearly take an hour. It is an ongoing process of adjusting, layering, and fine-tuning almost 3,000 layers to ensure precision and that they fit harmoniously into the overall design. And once I complete those 3,000 layers for one phone, I open a fresh document and begin anew on the second Pro device.”

You can discover more about the creation process in their [blog post](https://basicappleguy.com/basicappleblog/iphone-17-pro-internals-wallpapers). Moreover, Basic Apple Guy intends to develop an internals wallpaper pack for the iPhone Air next.

### Accessory Offers on Amazon

*FTC: We utilize revenue-generating auto affiliate links.

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Highest-Paying Tech Positions in 2025

U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that the median yearly income in the technology sector is $105,990, which is more than double the median for other professions. Indeed, despite the doubts surrounding artificial intelligence potentially displacing jobs, particularly within the tech sector, you still have a chance to earn more than individuals in different fields, as highlighted by BLS data. If you’re looking for a lucrative profession, exploring opportunities in tech may be beneficial.

Of course, if you wish to embark on a career in this sector, there are numerous specializations available to you. You might consider roles such as a software engineer, network engineer, cybersecurity analyst, machine learning engineer, web developer, technical program manager, and beyond. Nevertheless, not all specializations yield the same financial rewards, particularly in an industry characterized by ongoing learning, where salaries are influenced by what employers prioritize as most valuable at any given time. By 2025, these will be the top-paying positions in tech if salary is a key concern for you.

Principal software engineer

Steps to Obtain Your $20 YouTube TV Credit Amid the Current Disney Blackout

YouTube is attempting to compensate for the disruption.

(Image credit: Android Central)

Essential information

  • YouTube TV subscribers are receiving $20 credits due to the absence of Disney Channel.
  • Retrieve your credit through YouTube TV’s desktop platform with straightforward steps.
  • YouTube TV and Disney are still in talks, impacting channel accessibility.
Notice

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GameHub Debuts on Play Store, Streamlining Access to Windows Games on Android

Perhaps this will assist you in finally tackling your Steam backlog.

(Image credit: Andrew Myrick / Android Central)

Essential information

  • The GameHub app from GameSir is now available on the Google Play Store for free.
  • GameHub is a tailored version of Winlator, enabling the play of Windows games on Android devices.
  • In particular, GameHub allows users to log into their Steam account to download and play Windows games.

An emulation revolution is underway, and the outlook is increasingly optimistic. GameHub has just been introduced on the Play Store, offering arguably the simplest method to play Windows games on your preferred Android devices.

While this functionality has existed for a few years through platforms like Mobox, Vectras, and others, Winlator has emerged as the leading solution, quickly becoming the go-to choice for many. The downside of Winlator, however, lies in its lack of user-friendliness, which can easily confuse even those with a bit of technical expertise.

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