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Five Creative Add-ons to Elevate Your iPhone 17 Pro

With the new iPhone models achieving remarkable sales, numerous accessory manufacturers have refreshed and launched new products aimed at enhancing the user experience with the iPhone 17 Pro. Among these are the recently unveiled Sandmarc’s innovative tetraprism lens and various other accessories, such as a revamped Game Boy-style case from Gamebaby and a 3-in-1 wireless charger capable of powering new iPhones at rates up to 25W due to Qi2.2 technology.

Although the speculation surrounding the iPhone 18 models and the forthcoming foldable iPhone has intensified, the iPhone 17 Pro continues to stand out as one of Apple’s most successful releases. It not only features a redesigned look with Apple’s modified camera plateau, but the Cosmic Orange hue has significantly contributed to the smartphone’s sales.

In addition, Apple’s latest device boasts a robust A19 Pro chip, vapor chamber technology that mitigates overheating during intensive tasks, and novel camera functionalities that position this iPhone as an excellent choice for anyone currently using an iPhone 15 or older. That being said, I have been trying out some exciting new accessories recently and think you would also appreciate them, along with additional new releases that could further enhance the iPhone 17 Pro’s capabilities.

Sandmarc’s new tetraprism lens

For those aiming to elevate their iPhone photography, the San Diego-based company Sandmarc has introduced its latest Tetraprism 72mm Lens, which enhances the telephoto capabilities of the iPhone to as much as 24x optical zoom. With the iPhone 17 Pro series, Apple provides up to 8x optical zoom and 40x digital zoom.

iOS 26 Changes Affecting iPhone Always On Display Capability

### Apple’s Always On Display: Modifications with iOS 26

Apple’s Always On Display feature, first launched with the iPhone 14 Pro, has seen a subtle yet impactful transformation with the introduction of iOS 26. This update alters the presentation of the Lock Screen wallpaper, influencing user experience in ways that might not be immediately noticeable.

#### Always On Display Modes

In the past, the Always On Display feature merely dimmed the Lock Screen wallpaper, permitting users to view crucial information such as the time, date, notifications, and widgets while the device remained locked. With iOS 26, the standard functionality has shifted to blurring the wallpaper rather than simply dimming it. This alteration improves the visibility of the time and widgets but may lessen the aesthetic appeal for users who favor showcasing their selected wallpaper.

Users still retain the ability to tailor their Always On Display settings. They can decide whether to display the wallpaper and notifications, opting for either a streamlined, utilitarian view or a more customized appearance that maintains the essence of their Lock Screen design.

#### iOS 26 Brings One Major Change

The main modification in iOS 26 is the automatic introduction of blurred wallpapers by default when the display is dimmed. While this adjustment may enhance readability, it changes the overall look of the Lock Screen. Some users might favor a clear view of their wallpaper instead of a blurred rendition, which can obscure the original picture.

To cater to user preferences, Apple has integrated a toggle within the settings. Users can go to Settings > Display & Brightness > Always On Display to turn off the blurred wallpaper feature, restoring the original clarity of their Lock Screen visuals.

### Conclusion

The updates implemented in iOS 26 concerning the Always On Display feature illustrate Apple’s continuous commitment to improving user experience while offering options for personalization. Whether users lean towards the new blurred wallpaper for better readability or the classic dimmed version for aesthetic purposes, the capability to switch between these settings ensures that individual preferences are honored.

Apple Unveils C1X Chip in Latest Offerings, Providing Three Unique Benefits

Apple has officially unveiled two new products: the iPhone 17e and the iPad Air driven by the M4 chip. Both devices feature the new C1X 5G modem, which presents several benefits over earlier non-Apple modems.

### #1: Increased Data Speeds

One of the main advantages of the C1X modem is its superior speed potential. As reported by Apple, the C1X modem delivers “up to 50 percent quicker cellular data performance” in the M4 iPad Air in comparison to the M3 model’s Qualcomm modem. The iPhone 17e, succeeding the iPhone 16e that incorporated the C1 modem, experiences a noteworthy enhancement as the C1X is claimed to be up to 2x quicker than its predecessor. Beyond mere speed, the C1X modem is engineered to smartly manage data traffic, prioritizing time-sensitive information to elevate overall responsiveness during network congestion.

### #2: ‘Limit Precise Location’ Privacy Feature

With the rollout of iOS 26.3, Apple has introduced a new privacy feature named ‘Limit Precise Location,’ available solely on devices with Apple-built modems, including the iPhone 17e and M4 iPad Air. This function boosts user privacy by diminishing the accuracy of location data shared with cellular networks. When activated, the device may only reveal a general location, such as the vicinity, rather than a specific address. Although currently supported by select carriers, the roster is anticipated to grow, enabling more users to benefit from this privacy upgrade.

### #3: Enhancements in Battery Life

Apple’s proprietary 5G modems have consistently shown better energy efficiency relative to third-party alternatives. The C1X modem upholds this trend, significantly curtailing battery drain associated with cellular connectivity. For example, the M4 iPad Air features “up to 30 percent less modem energy consumption” compared to the M3 model for active cellular users. This efficiency carries over to the iPhone 17e, where the C1X modem plays a role in exceptional battery life, building on the improvements introduced with the C1 modem in the prior generation.

In summary, the launch of the C1X modem in the iPhone 17e and iPad Air with M4 signifies a notable leap in speed, privacy, and battery efficiency, reinforcing Apple’s dedication to enhancing user experience with its newest devices.

Budget-Friendly Android-Compatible Devices Priced Below $30

essential open-source applications and handy hardware that is compatible with it and its various devices. Practically, this implies that you can discover all kinds of cool gadgets that work with your Android smartphone without breaking the bank, including portable remotes, tracking tiles, wireless speakers, and beyond.

Thanks to its inherent adaptability and the means of inter-device communication such as USB connections and Bluetooth, you can link a variety of different gadgets, accessories, and utilities to your Android smartphone. This can enhance your phone’s overall functionality and utility, as well as simply introduce exciting features that it previously lacked. If you can obtain those additional features at a fair price, that’s even better.

All the following products compatible with Android are easily available for purchase on Amazon. Each one is priced at under $30 at the time of this writing and is supported by user reviews of at least 4 out of 5 stars.

FiKavi Scrolling Ring Remote

It’s enjoyable to relax on the couch with your phone, browsing through TikTok or reading an e-book, but it’s a bit less enjoyable to constantly reach over to scroll through videos or turn pages. Rather than shifting from your cozy position, simply pair the FiKavi Scrolling Ring Remote with your phone. It’s available on Amazon for $19.99.

This finger-sized remote control can connect to your Android smartphone via Bluetooth and be used for effortless navigation on most video and social platforms, including TikTok.

The Underrated Sci-Fi Movie from 2008 Featuring Hayden Christensen Deserves a Follow-Up

which “Avengers: Doomsday” may still resurrect) along with Christopher Nolan’s “The Dark Knight” (the masterpiece that previously claimed the top audience score on Rotten Tomatoes), yet it still achieved commercial success amid such intense rivalry.

Even though it amassed $225 million globally against its $85 million production budget at the box office, Liman’s film was undeniably eclipsed by other significantly superior genre films. Additionally, it didn’t aid its cause that critics were quick to tear it apart, emphasizing its numerous flaws in excruciating detail. Nevertheless, despite its damaged reputation, “Jumper”‘s creative concept holds the promise of being successfully revitalized through a sequel or complete reboot that could showcase it from a fresh perspective. In fact, many might be unaware that it has already spawned a spin-off TV series in 2018.

Impulse was an unexpected

Mastodon Introduces Button for Sharing Website Content

Sharing content to Mastodon is getting easier with the addition of a universal “Share to Mastodon” button for the decentralized social media platform. Announced on Monday, the widget allows users to share content on any Mastodon server by connecting your Mastodon account and redirecting you to the server that account is on. The blog post […]

FFmpeg at Meta: Large-Scale Media Processing

FFmpeg is truly a multi-tool for media processing. As an industry-standard tool it supports a wide variety of audio and video codecs and container formats. It can also orchestrate complex chains of filters for media editing and manipulation. For the people who use our apps, FFmpeg plays an important role in enabling new video experiences […]

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The post FFmpeg at Meta: Media Processing at Scale appeared first on Engineering at Meta.

Honor’s Cutting-Edge Robot Phone Distinguishes Itself at MWC 2026

**Honor’s Groundbreaking Robot Smartphone: A DJI Osmo Pocket Integrated into a Mobile Device**

At the Mobile World Congress (MWC) 2026 in Barcelona, Honor introduced a pioneering gadget that combines the features of a DJI Osmo Pocket with the practicality of a smartphone. Named the “Robot Phone,” this cutting-edge device is expected to launch in the latter part of 2026, aiming to transform mobile photography and videography.

**A Smartphone Equipped with a Built-in Gimbal**

The Honor Robot Phone initially resembles a conventional smartphone, showcasing a punch-hole camera and a sizable display. Nonetheless, the true innovation lies on the rear, where a sliding cover uncovers a 200MP camera attached to a three-axis motorized arm. This arm operates similarly to a gimbal, stabilizing video through counter actions, much like the DJI Osmo Pocket.

For creators, this fusion provides the advantage of gimbal-level stabilization without needing extra tools. The device’s AI features further amplify its capabilities, enabling the camera to automatically track subjects, ensuring they stay in focus even while in motion.

**Sophisticated Features and AI Integration**

In addition to stabilization, the Robot Phone includes functionalities such as AI SpinShot, which allows for 90- and 180-degree rotational movements for cinematic effects. The device’s AI is also capable of responding to its surroundings, reacting to music and voice commands, infusing a playful aspect into its operations.

In a demonstration, the Robot Phone illustrated its ability to move and “dance” to music, showcasing its advanced features. Honor asserts that developing one of the world’s smallest micro motors was essential to integrate the ultra-compact 4DoF gimbal system within the smartphone.

**Innovation and Potential Issues**

The Robot Phone’s cutting-edge design is set to attract creators in search of stable video recording without extra accessories. Nevertheless, concerns regarding the long-term durability of the motorized system persist, a matter that will only be resolved through comprehensive testing.

While detailed specifications and pricing are still pending, the Robot Phone’s 200MP sensor stands out as a remarkable feature. As its market release nears, this device emerges as one of the most captivating and unique smartphones anticipated. Stay tuned for further updates on this revolutionary offering from Honor.

You Might Be an Influencer Without Knowing It

In late February, Puck reported on a strange case: An influencer with more than a million followers was inadvertently promoting products on Instagram. On some of Julia Berolzheimer’s posts, a “Shop the look” button hovered in the corner. When followers clicked it, they were fed similar items to what Berolzheimer was wearing. Her job is […]

MagSafe Monday: The SUPERONE MagSafe iPhone Grip Serves as a Practical Improvised Stand

### The SUPERONE MagSafe Phone Grip: An In-Depth Assessment

In recent times, the shift towards more expansive smartphones has made many users yearn for the compactness of smaller devices. The iPhone 13 mini, for instance, was particularly beloved by those who appreciated a more manageable size. Nevertheless, with the launch of larger models such as the iPhone 17 Pro Max, users frequently experience discomfort during extended use. The SUPERONE MagSafe phone grip presents a solution, offering a secure grip and a handy stand while not hindering the capability of wireless charging.

#### Construction Quality

A notable attribute of the SUPERONE grip is its clever design. Unlike conventional magnetic ring holders that incorporate rigid metal loops, which can become uncomfortable over time, the SUPERONE grip uses an adjustable soft Velcro strap. This feature enables users to personalize the fit according to their finger size, improving comfort whether you’re reading in bed or checking emails from the couch. The fabric material feels significantly more pleasant in hand compared to other grips, rendering it a more attractive option for prolonged use.

#### The On-the-Go Stand

Beyond functioning as a grip, the SUPERONE MagSafe accessory converts into a multi-angle kickstand. This characteristic is especially beneficial for video calls or movie watching, as it can be adjusted to different angles thanks to its dual joints that pivot 360 degrees. Whether you wish to prop your phone in portrait or landscape mode, the SUPERONE grip is capable of accommodating your needs. Its adaptability makes it a great companion for travel, enabling users to effortlessly position their phone on an airplane table or desk.

#### Magnet Power

An essential component of any MagSafe accessory is its magnetic strength. The SUPERONE grip is engineered to support up to 5.5 pounds of force, guaranteeing that it firmly attaches to your iPhone without the likelihood of slipping or falling. In practice, it securely snaps onto a MagSafe case and remains stable, even when taken out of your pocket.

#### Conclusion

One of the most attractive features of the SUPERONE MagSafe grip is its non-permanent nature. It doesn’t make any lasting changes to your phone case, allowing for easy removal when utilizing a wireless charging stand. Its compact dimensions mean it can be easily stored in a pocket or bag, making it a practical selection for users who prefer to go without a case most of the time.

In summary, the SUPERONE MagSafe phone grip showcases the advantages of the MagSafe ecosystem, providing a straightforward yet effective resolution to common smartphone usage dilemmas. For those who long for the compactness of smaller iPhones, this accessory offers a means to augment the usability of larger models without compromising comfort or functionality.

You can acquire the SUPERONE MagSafe grip from [Amazon](https://amzn.to/4rPYuRv).