Author: sparta

    • sparta
    • Comments Off on HomeKit Weekly: Key HomeKit Accessories for Safeguarding Your Home While Away
    HomeKit Weekly: Key HomeKit Accessories for Safeguarding Your Home While Away

    # HomeKit: Your Vital Travel Ally for the Summer Season

    The summer season is in full effect, bringing along the excitement of travel. Whether it’s a vacation, a baseball tournament, a work conference, or all of the above, HomeKit can assist you in monitoring your home. When on the go, there are several crucial components of my HomeKit configuration that I trust completely. One important detail to remember is that you will need a [HomeKit hub](https://support.apple.com/en-us/102557) for remote access to your devices.

    ## Automate Your Outdoor Irrigation

    Following one of the wettest Mays in recorded history in my region, the unpredictable nature of the dog days of summer can be a concern. An effortless HomeKit solution for summer travel is automating your outdoor irrigation. If you’ve ever returned home to find a dead lawn or wilted plants after a week away, you can empathize with the frustration.

    There are several products designed for compatibility with HomeKit that connect to your hose, enabling you to manually activate your sprinkler or establish automations based on the schedule or local weather conditions.

    ## Return to a Comfortable Atmosphere

    There’s nothing more unpleasant than stepping into a warm, stuffy house after a lengthy journey and having to wait hours for it to cool down. Conversely, you don’t want to waste energy cooling your home throughout the week while you’re absent. Utilizing a HomeKit-compatible thermostat, you can adjust your AC back to your desired temperature the night prior (I prefer to do this so it can start cooling down when temperatures are cooler) and save money over the week.

    ## Automate Your Lights to Give the Appearance of Being Home

    One of the classic tricks for when you’re on vacation is leaving a few lights on to create the illusion that someone is home. However, a light that is left on continuously can make it even more obvious that you’re away. This is where HomeKit proves useful. Once you automate certain lights, you can adjust them remotely to make it seem like people are present. You can also set up some HomeKit automations to achieve this.

    ## Keep an Eye on Your Home with HomeKit Cameras

    While traveling, I prefer not to worry excessively about my property, but I do want to remain informed if any issues arise. That’s where HomeKit Secure Video comes into play. I’ve installed a few cameras outside to keep me updated on any happenings. With HomeKit Secure Video, the footage is safely stored in iCloud+, and since I possess multiple

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on Uncover Samsung Promotion: Enjoy Savings of Up to $560 on Galaxy S25 with Trade-In, Concludes Sunday
    Uncover Samsung Promotion: Enjoy Savings of Up to $560 on Galaxy S25 with Trade-In, Concludes Sunday

    That’s $500 in trade-in credit, along with complimentary double storage.

    (Image credit: Brady Snyder / Android Central)

    Until Sunday, June 8th, the fantastic Discover Samsung Sale is slashing prices on some of our top Android devices. For example, Samsung is providing a complimentary storage upgrade to 256GB on the Galaxy S25 and other models, with this specific offer saving you $70. Furthermore, Samsung will give purchasers up to $500 in immediate trade-in credit on the device, plus three months of Samsung Care Plus for free, and access to early upgrades through the New Galaxy Club program.

    It’s important to mention that the Samsung Galaxy S25 is our choice for the <a

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on Gemini App Introduces ‘Scheduled Actions’ Functionality for Streamlined Task Automation
    Gemini App Introduces ‘Scheduled Actions’ Functionality for Streamlined Task Automation

    Specify to Gemini what you need and when, and it will make it happen.

    (Image credit: Andrew Myrick / Android Central)

    Essential information

    • Google revealed that its “Scheduled Actions” feature in the Gemini app is being launched today (June 6) for Gemini AI Pro and Ultra subscribers.
    • These scheduled actions function as automated tasks that users can instruct Gemini to execute at a designated time/day, including a morning email summary and more.
    • There’s a lot more expected for Gemini as, during I/O 2025, Google showcased Deep Think upgrades and 2.5 Flash improvements for the model.

    Google is implementing an update for the Gemini app that promises to save you time and effort in your everyday routine.

    In a press statement, Google announces it is beginning to roll out “Scheduled Actions” within the Gemini app for Gemini AI Pro and Ultra subscribers. The announcement indicates this feature aims to “simplify routine tasks” and provide “customized” updates directly from Gemini to the user. In a following blog entry, Google mentions users will have the capability to instruct Gemini to execute “a task at a specific time or convert a prompt you’re already using into a recurring action.”

    It appears Gemini will manage a broad spectrum of potential user actions. For instance, users can receive a morning summary based on their emails from Gemini. Moreover, Gemini can retrieve and showcase sports scores, summarize important calendar events, and much more.

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    • Comments Off on “Best Children’s Tablet Offered at 41% Off on Amazon for Planning Family Vacations”
    “Best Children’s Tablet Offered at 41% Off on Amazon for Planning Family Vacations”

    (Image credit: Amazon)

    Tablet offers for kids appear periodically, and this one arrives just in time for summer family vacations. For a limited time, shoppers can enjoy a 41% discount on the Amazon Fire 7 Kids Edition, which is among our preferred devices for children. Featuring a robust, easy-to-grip design and approximately 10 hours of battery life, the Fire 7 Kids Edition is an excellent choice for younger users and is approved for ages 3 to 7.

    This specific offer pertains to the 16GB model, although the 32GB variant is also on discount. It’s available in blue, purple, and red and includes a year of Amazon Kids Plus for free alongside a two-year warranty against accidental damage. Additionally, this portable tablet for travel is equipped with an intuitive parent dashboard that simplifies managing parental controls and age restrictions, as well as a microSD slot for expandable storage.

    <div data-image="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/YCfvhJBv2r4fbhAEy6rGZK-200-

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on The OnePlus Pad 3 Takes on Samsung and Apple with Remarkable Features
    The OnePlus Pad 3 Takes on Samsung and Apple with Remarkable Features

    **Android Central Judgment: OnePlus Pad 3 Review**

    The OnePlus Pad series has advanced considerably, with the OnePlus Pad 3 presenting a high-end design and superb software, positioning it as a formidable player in the tablet arena. Although there are some compromises, its pricing renders it a desirable choice.

    **Advantages:**
    – Remarkable price-to-performance value
    – Subtle AI functionalities
    – Expansive display paired with an ergonomic keyboard
    – Sleek and lightweight construction
    – Works with OnePlus Stylo 2
    – Enhanced Open Canvas capabilities

    **Drawbacks:**
    – O+ Connect restricted to macOS
    – Absence of a fingerprint scanner
    – No microSD card slot
    – Utilizes IPS LCD rather than OLED

    **Pricing and Availability:**
    The OnePlus Pad 3 is up for preorder from June 5 to July 8, with a cost of $699 in a singular color, Storm Blue. Preorders for the Smart Keyboard and Folio Case are also on offer, featuring special promotions for early customers.

    **Design and Display:**
    The device is equipped with a 13.2-inch LCD display boasting a 144Hz refresh rate, showcasing a premium design akin to top-tier tablets. Even without OLED, the screen remains impressive, accommodating users sensitive to PWM.

    **Accessories:**
    OnePlus presents a more expansive Smart Keyboard Cover, retaining compatibility with the OnePlus Stylo 2. The keyboard provides a well-known typing experience, although some users might encounter cursor movement challenges.

    **Performance:**
    With the Snapdragon 8 Elite, 12GB of RAM, and 256GB of storage, the Pad 3 offers robust performance. While it doesn’t support expandable memory, external SSDs function effectively for extra storage requirements.

    **Software and AI:**
    The Pad 3 emphasizes productivity enhancement with advancements in Open Canvas. AI features are included but are not excessive, featuring a specific AI key and Circle to Search functionality.

    **Issues:**
    O+ Connect operates smoothly with macOS but does not cooperate with Windows, diminishing its utility for certain users.

    **Rivalry:**
    The OnePlus Pad 3 stands against Samsung and Apple in the premium tablet marketplace, providing a mix of functions and pricing that renders it an enticing option.

    **Should You Purchase It?**
    Evaluate the OnePlus Pad 3 if you desire a leading Android tablet with outstanding performance and design at an affordable price. Refrain from buying it if you favor OLED displays or require LTE/5G capabilities.

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on The Galaxy Z Fold 7 Probably Set to Debut Lacking Anticipated Magnets: Here’s Why It Shouldn’t Surprise You
    The Galaxy Z Fold 7 Probably Set to Debut Lacking Anticipated Magnets: Here’s Why It Shouldn’t Surprise You

    What you can expect is “Qi 2 ready”.

    (Image credit: Derrek Lee / Android Central)

    For the past few years, every significant release of an Android phone has been met with speculation about whether this would be the device compatible with those clever magnetic Qi2 chargers. In nearly every instance, the reply isn’t what users wish to hear, and it seems the Galaxy Z Fold 7 will follow this trend, as it is rumored to lack built-in MagSafe charging.

    I’ve mentioned it previously, and I’ll reiterate: stop anticipating it. It’s not that those magnetic Qi2 chargers aren’t useful; I definitely understand the attraction for those who cannot or choose not to put their phone down long enough to recharge, and substantial funds have been allocated to inform you that you should desire it. When a phone is released and you discover you must purchase a case to utilize the magnetic accessories, it’s disheartening.

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on The Scientific Explanations for Why Certain Individuals Have Difficulty in Noisy Surroundings
    The Scientific Explanations for Why Certain Individuals Have Difficulty in Noisy Surroundings

    For certain individuals, loud surroundings can be overwhelming for their cognitive processing. A bustling eatery, a gathering with acquaintances, or simply standing in line to board the next train to work can render it nearly impossible to concentrate on conversations occurring around them. Now, researchers might have finally unraveled the mystery behind this phenomenon.

    As outlined in a new study published in *Brain and Language*, this issue stems from specific alterations in the insulae. These are two structures located within the frontal lobe that play a crucial role in higher cognitive functions such as managing emotional and sensory data.

    These critical areas are essential to the brain’s functionality, and the researchers found that individuals who experience difficulties hearing speech in a packed environment possess fundamentally different neural wiring. The left insula demonstrates a heightened connection to auditory regions in those individuals.

    Moreover, they exhibit signs of this rewiring consistently, even in the absence of active speech amidst noise. According to the researchers, this serves as further proof of how our brains reorganize themselves to fulfill the roles we require. This also prompts fresh inquiries regarding brain functionality, as it was previously assumed that these regions would be less active when the brain was at rest.

    However, the fact that they were still engaged consistently, even in the absence of any information to interpret, indicates that we must consider distinct baseline connectivity alterations. But the findings did not end there.

    The researchers noted that one participant had relatively inadequate hearing for pure tones. Nonetheless, when evaluating their ability to discern speech amidst noise, that participant outperformed all others. This could indicate that individuals with hearing impairments can potentially rewire their brains through practice in identifying sounds.

    This discovery is undoubtedly intriguing and suggests a need for more extensive research into hearing loss. Additionally, given the strong link between hearing loss and dementia, the researchers believe these findings might aid in improving our understanding of cognitive decline. This could hold particular significance, as dementia cases have surged in China recently.

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on Google Tests Generative AI for Improved Weather Summaries in Search
    Google Tests Generative AI for Improved Weather Summaries in Search

    Users can receive immediate, AI-driven weather insights directly within their Google Search results.

    (Image credit: Nicholas Sutrich / Android Central)

    Essential information

    • Google seems to be trialing a generative AI weather summary between hourly and 10-day forecasts in search outcomes.
    • The AI-generated summary offers comprehensive weather insights with a dropdown option and links to pertinent articles.
    • This feature is presently undergoing testing and appears to be confined to Southern California, showing a notable distinction from Pixel 9’s AI Weather reports.

    Google is expected to introduce a new generative AI summary for users seeking weather updates for a specific area.

    At this moment, individuals frequently searching for weather details for a particular location on Google encounter hourly and 10-day forecasts among the search results. However, soon the search application will be presenting a new summary located between the two forecasts, as previously noted, as reported by 9to5Google.

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on Apple’s Latest AI Model Examines Speech Patterns to Detect Irregularities and Its Importance
    Apple’s Latest AI Model Examines Speech Patterns to Detect Irregularities and Its Importance

    ### Apple’s Cutting-Edge Strategy in Speech Recognition and Accessibility

    In its continual progress in speech and voice technologies, Apple has recently released a transformative study that highlights a person-centered method to a challenging machine learning task: grasping not just the words spoken but also the manner in which they are articulated. This innovation carries substantial ramifications for accessibility.

    #### Voice Quality Dimensions (VQDs)

    Within the study, researchers established a framework for speech evaluation based on what they label Voice Quality Dimensions (VQDs). These dimensions encompass measurable characteristics such as intelligibility, harshness, breathiness, and pitch monotony. These are the same features that speech-language therapists consider when evaluating voices impacted by neurological disorders or diseases. Apple is advancing models that can identify these features.

    #### Teaching AI to Hear and Understand

    Most currently available speech models are predominantly trained on standard, healthy voices, which frequently results in subpar performance with users displaying non-standard speech patterns. This results in a notable accessibility gap. To combat this, Apple’s researchers trained lightweight probes—basic diagnostic models functioning alongside existing speech systems—using a vast public dataset of annotated atypical speech, which includes voices from individuals with ailments like Parkinson’s, ALS, and cerebral palsy.

    Rather than concentrating on transcribing spoken language, these models assess how the voice sounds across seven primary dimensions:

    1. **Intelligibility**: The clarity of understanding spoken words.
    2. **Imprecise consonants**: The precision of consonant pronunciation.
    3. **Harsh voice**: A rough or strained quality of the voice.
    4. **Naturalness**: The fluidity and typicality of the speech.
    5. **Monoloudness**: Consistency in loudness without fluctuation.
    6. **Monopitch**: Absence of pitch variation, resulting in a uniform tone.
    7. **Breathiness**: A light or whispery quality in the voice.

    Essentially, these models have been trained to “listen like a healthcare professional,” prioritizing vocal traits over merely the spoken content.

    #### Model Effectiveness and Transparency

    Apple employed five models (CLAP, HuBERT, HuBERT ASR, Raw-Net3, SpICE) to extract audio features and developed lightweight probes to predict voice quality dimensions from these characteristics. The probes showed commendable performance across most traits, although results varied by specific attribute and assignment.

    A remarkable feature of this research is the transparency of the model’s outputs, which is rare in AI. Rather than offering a vague “confidence score,” the system specifies particular vocal qualities that influence its classifications. This attribute could significantly improve clinical evaluation and diagnosis.

    #### Beyond Accessibility

    Remarkably, Apple’s research went beyond the realm of clinical speech evaluation. The team experimented with their models on emotional speech using a dataset named RAVDESS. Although not specifically trained on emotional sounds, the VQD models yielded intuitive predictions. For instance, angry voices displayed reduced monoloudness, calm voices received a lower harshness rating, and sad voices were recognized as more monotone.

    This study could pave the way for a more relatable Siri, which could adjust its tone and speech in response to the user’s emotional condition, rather than just their verbal expressions.

    The complete study is accessible for further exploration on

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