Author: sparta

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    • Comments Off on Smart Glasses from Xreal and Meta Prohibited in Public Spaces on This Cruise Ship
    Smart Glasses from Xreal and Meta Prohibited in Public Spaces on This Cruise Ship

    MSC Cruises has introduced a new rule prohibiting the use of smart glasses in all communal areas on its vessels, citing concerns over privacy. Gadgets like Ray-Ban Meta smart glasses, which are capable of subtly capturing photos, videos, or audio, are currently banned. If guests are caught wearing these gadgets in public zones, crew members have the authority to seize them. This ruling is part of MSC Cruises’ revised luggage and prohibited items policy, designed to ensure that guests can unwind without the worry of being filmed without their approval.

    The cruise line highlights that while smartphones clearly indicate when photos are being taken, smart glasses look like ordinary eyewear, leading to ambiguity regarding recording actions. Even though some smart glasses feature LED indicators for recording, these can easily be missed in well-lit or busy settings.

    MSC Cruises has not completely restricted smart glasses from being brought onboard, but their use is not permitted in public spaces such as dining areas, pool decks, theaters, or lounges. Passengers are only allowed to utilize them in the comfort of their cabins. The policy implies that MSC favors guests to leave smart glasses at home to prevent any possible complications during their cruise.

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    • Comments Off on The Effect of Ethernet Cable Varieties on Internet Velocity: How Your Selection Might Be Hindering Your Performance
    The Effect of Ethernet Cable Varieties on Internet Velocity: How Your Selection Might Be Hindering Your Performance

    wired devices connected, such as MacBooks, gaming consoles, and desktop computers, will provide significantly enhanced performance and dependability for activities like online gaming, media streaming, and file sharing. However, what some might overlook is that wired Ethernet cables, akin to wireless networks, come with their limitations. Not every cable is equivalent, and indeed, some cables can restrict bandwidth or internet speeds.

    Ethernet cables are categorized by a “Cat” rating, representing their category. The Cat rating indicates the generation, with older generation cables only supporting lower speeds. For instance, Cat5 cables have a maximum capacity of 100 Mbps. In comparison, Cat5e or Cat6 can achieve up to 1Gbps, and Cat6a can reach speeds of 10Gbps, illustrating a considerable difference. Additionally, there are Cat7 and Cat8 cables, which are intended for large operations such as data centers or businesses focused on digital activities with high traffic.

    Here’s the challenging aspect, though. The lowest-rated cable in a connection dictates the maximum speed for the entire setup. For instance, if you use a network switch to connect two cables, one being Cat6 and the other Cat5; despite having the higher bandwidth cable, the speed will only reach the lower 100Mbps limit. The oldest and slowest cable will create a bottleneck effect. A common sign of sluggish internet over a wired connection is the use of an outdated, slower cable. The positive aspect is that it’s simple to verify. Most cables clearly indicate on their shell or jacket what category rating they possess. Cat5 will be marked accordingly, in contrast to Cat5e, Cat6, and so on.

    How various Ethernet cables impact connection speeds

    <div class="slide-key image-holder gallery-image-holder credit-image-wrap " data-post-url="https://www.bgr.com/2044410/how-different-ethernet-cable-types-matter-explained/" data-post-title="Do Different Ethernet Cables Really Matter? How You're Slowing Down Your Internet" data-slide-num="1" data-post-id="204441

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    • Comments Off on iPadOS 26.2 Released for iPad: Major Features and Enhancements
    iPadOS 26.2 Released for iPad: Major Features and Enhancements

    # Apple’s iPadOS 26.2: Key Enhancements and Features

    Apple has officially launched its newest software update for the iPad, iPadOS 26.2, introducing a range of new features and enhancements that improve the user experience. This update signifies a major advancement, particularly in terms of multitasking abilities and app features.

    ## Significant Multitasking Improvement

    One of the notable features of iPadOS 26.2 is the return of an essential multitasking tool that was previously found in iPadOS 18 but eliminated in the prior version, iPadOS 26.0. Users can now take advantage of drag and drop functionality to arrange apps in various multitasking configurations.

    ### Improved Drag and Drop Functionality

    With this update, users can drag app icons from the dock or Spotlight results and place them in different areas of the screen. This creates a more intuitive multitasking environment. When users hold an app icon over the display, it transforms into various shapes, indicating possible layout options for dropping. Users can opt to launch an app in fullscreen, a half-screen Split View, or as a Slide Over window, offering greater adaptability in managing multiple applications at once.

    ## Other Features

    In addition to multitasking improvements, iPadOS 26.2 unveils several other new features designed to enhance overall usability and functionality. While specific details on these features were not thoroughly addressed, users can anticipate a variety of enhancements that boost performance and streamline tasks.

    ## Conclusion

    iPadOS 26.2 is anticipated to be the final major update for the iPad this year, with a potential beta release for iPadOS 26.3 on the horizon. The return of drag and drop multitasking is a welcomed addition for numerous users, and the extra features further enrich the iPad experience. As users delve into these new functionalities, feedback on the most intriguing features is welcomed.

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    • Comments Off on Special Seasonal Promotions on Apple Accessories, Chargers, Tech Necessities, and Cloud Storage
    Special Seasonal Promotions on Apple Accessories, Chargers, Tech Necessities, and Cloud Storage

    # 2025 9to5Mac Festive Deal Aggregator

    The festive season of 2025 is here, and 9to5Mac has assembled a special selection of savings for its audience. This year’s Festive Deal Aggregator showcases an assortment of items, including leather goods, charging accessories, Apple Watch straps, iPad holders, everyday carry (EDC) enhancements, cloud storage promotions, and more. Numerous deals are available for a limited time, making them ideal for festive shopping or enhancing your technology collection.

    ## Twelve South

    – **Promotion**: 20% off sitewide using code **9TO52025** at checkout.
    – **Info**: This promotion is active until December 19 and encompasses all items, including the latest 2025 version Apple Watch Bands and the Curve Mini foldable tablet holder.

    ## Bluebonnet

    – **Promotion**: 20% off across the site with code **9to5** at checkout.
    – **Info**: Bluebonnet specializes in American-crafted leather products for Apple gadgets. This exclusive discount applies to their premium handmade leather items, including iPhone and Apple Watch accessories.

    ## Harber London

    – **Promotion**: 15% off everything with code **9to5-15%**.
    – **Info**: Harber London presents a selection of exquisite full-grain leather products, from bags to tech sleeves, available at a reduced price until Christmas Day 2025.

    ## Burton Goods

    – **Promotion**: 25% off using code **9to525** at checkout.
    – **Info**: Renowned for its stunning leather accessories, Burton Goods is offering this discount until December 15 on products like Apple Watch straps and leather cases for iPads and MacBooks.

    ## KeySmart

    – **Promotion**: Extra 10% off selected products.
    – **Info**: KeySmart features a range of wallet accessories and key organizers, with discounts reaching as high as 80% on certain items.

    ## STATIK

    – **Promotion**: Extra 10% off already reduced items with code **9to510**.
    – **Info**: STATIK offers distinctive charging accessories, ideal as stocking stuffers or EDC additions.

    ## SANDMARC

    – **Promotion**: 10% off all items with code **9TO5TOYS**.
    – **Info**: SANDMARC is celebrated for high-quality titanium Apple Watch bands and leather cases for iPhones, with exceptional discounts available this festive season.

    ## Bluetti

    – **Promotion**: Up to 8% extra savings on power stations.
    – **Info**: During Bluetti’s festive sale, readers can benefit from initial discounts of up to 55% along with additional savings by using specific codes for various product lines.

    ## CardPointers

    – **Promotion**: 50% off annual subscription for $45 and a lifetime option for $140.
    – **Info**: CardPointers assists users in maximizing credit card rewards and features a Safari extension for convenient access to spending insights.

    Stay tuned for further exclusive festive deals from more brands set to be unveiled next week.

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    • Comments Off on Location of the Most Severe Nuclear Catastrophe in US History to Be Converted for AI Energy Production
    Location of the Most Severe Nuclear Catastrophe in US History to Be Converted for AI Energy Production

    Based on data from Pew Research, in 2024, 4% of the overall electricity in the United States was utilized by data centers. In total, they accounted for approximately 183 terawatt-hours of electricity consumption. Additionally, the Environmental and Energy Study Institute indicates that large data centers can use up to 5 million gallons of fresh water daily — comparable to a community of 10,000 to 50,000 residents. To meet these significant demands, dependable resources are essential, especially in generating the vast amounts of power and electricity required. This necessity led to an unusual decision by the Trump administration to reactivate Three Mile Island, the site of one of the most significant nuclear disasters in the nation’s past. There are already indications that the AI surge may be causing electrical spikes and outages. This situation is likely to deteriorate as more data centers are established and demands increase.

    The U.S. Department of Energy, by granting a $1 billion federal loan to Constellation Energy, the operator of Pennsylvania’s Three Mile Island facility, approved the plan to reconstruct and reactivate. The plant will be renamed the Crane Clean Energy Center and modified to generate 835 megawatts for the community and Microsoft’s nearby data centers. In 2024, Constellation entered into a 20-year purchasing agreement with Microsoft, committing to restart the reactor to bolster its AI solutions.

    According to the DOE, the reactivated facility will supply energy to around 800,000 homes in the vicinity, reduce electricity costs, create over 600 jobs, and enhance the power grid. U.S. Secretary of Energy Chris Wright elaborates that it will “offer affordable, reliable, and secure energy to Americans throughout the Mid-Atlantic region.” It will also guarantee that “America has the energy necessary to expand its domestic manufacturing sector and succeed in the AI competition.” This is encouraging news for supporters of AI, at least.

    <div class="news-article" readability="42.064

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on Top Android Tablet of 2025 Gets Extra Black Friday Discount: A Festive Buying Suggestion
    Top Android Tablet of 2025 Gets Extra Black Friday Discount: A Festive Buying Suggestion

    Put aside the iPads and Galaxies; this is the ultimate tablet offer of the season.

    (Image credit: Andrew Myrick / Android Central)

    If you’re in search of an excellent Android tablet deal to complete your holiday shopping, it’s the perfect moment to end the quest. The OnePlus Pad 3, our top choice for tablets in 2025, has just received a 17% price cut at Amazon, bringing it down to its all-time lowest price.

    To provide some context, that’s the same level of discount we witnessed during last month’s Black Friday and Cyber Monday events. I thought we were done with amazing discounts on Android tablets until the new year, but I’m pleasantly surprised to be incorrect about this.

    <div data-custom-prom

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    • Comments Off on Information on Google’s Three Key Updates for Translate on Android
    Information on Google’s Three Key Updates for Translate on Android

    Users traveling or exploring new content receive enhanced real-time translations.

    (Image credit: Namerah Saud Fatmi / Android Central)

    Essential information to consider

    • Google has introduced an update to its Translate app on Android, enhancing its ability to translate slang and colloquial phrases.
    • The application, utilizing Gemini’s AI capabilities, incorporates “streaks” into its practice sessions, allowing users to further challenge themselves.
    • Google indicates it is expanding the beta version of the Translate app on Android, allowing users with headphones to hear real-time translations in various formats.

    Note

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    • Comments Off on Apple Introduces iOS 26.2 Showcasing Liquid Glass Upgrades, CarPlay Enhancements, and More Improvements [Release Notes]
    Apple Introduces iOS 26.2 Showcasing Liquid Glass Upgrades, CarPlay Enhancements, and More Improvements [Release Notes]

    # iOS 26.2: An In-Depth Look at New Functionalities and Upgrades

    Apple has officially released iOS 26.2 for iPhone, unveiling an array of thrilling functionalities and upgrades that elevate user engagement. This update is accessible to all users, including those utilizing developer and public beta versions. Below, we delve into the main revisions and enhancements present in this latest version.

    ## Release Notes

    ### Apple Music
    – **Favorite Songs Playlist**: The Favorite Songs playlist is now featured in the Top Picks area on the home tab.
    – **Offline Lyrics**: Users can access lyrics for downloaded tracks without an internet connection.

    ### Podcasts
    – **Automatically Generated Chapters**: This functionality makes it easier to navigate through podcast episodes.
    – **Links to Mentioned Podcasts**: Users can directly follow other podcasts mentioned in episodes from the player and transcript.

    ### Games
    – **Library Filters**: Users can search for games by category, size, and other criteria.
    – **In-Game Challenge Score Banners**: Real-time notifications inform players when someone gains the lead.
    – **Controller Support**: Enhanced compatibility for connected controllers like Backbone and Razer.

    ### General Enhancements and Bug Fixes
    – **Lock Screen Customization**: New options for modifying the look of the Lock Screen with Liquid Glass material.
    – **Enhanced Safety Alerts**: Users receive notifications about imminent dangers like floods and natural disasters, including maps and safety tips (available in the U.S.).
    – **Reminder Alarms**: New alarms for reminders assist users in effectively managing urgent tasks.
    – **AirDrop Codes**: A verification code appears on the receiver’s device for added security when AirDropping with unknown contacts.
    – **Apple News Navigation**: Quick links to trending topics are now accessible at the top of the Today feed.
    – **Home App Multipack Pairing**: Simplifies the configuration of multiple accessories sold as a bundle.
    – **Accessibility Flash Alerts**: The device screen can flash upon receiving notifications.
    – **Freeform Tables**: Tables can now accommodate various types of content, dynamically resizing as needed.

    ## Notable Features in Beta

    ### AirDrop Codes
    A new functionality enables users to AirDrop between devices without needing to be saved contacts for 30 days. This was first introduced in iOS 26.2 beta 3.

    ### Liquid Glass Level Design
    The Measure app has undergone a Liquid Glass-inspired redesign, enhancing the visual presentation while keeping clarity of displayed numbers.

    ### iPadOS Improvements
    iPadOS 26.2 beta 3 reintroduces multitasking capabilities, allowing users to drag app icons from the Dock to activate Slide Over or Split View.

    ### Default Voice Assistant Code
    Leaked code suggests that Apple is working on a feature to substitute Siri as the default voice assistant in Japan, adhering to regulatory requirements.

    ### Games App Navigation
    The Games app now features sorting and filtering capabilities, alongside real-time score updates during gameplay.

    ### Sleep Score Changes
    The Sleep Score system for monitoring sleep has been revised, with “Very High” replacing “Excellent” as the top rating, reacting to user input for more precise evaluations.

    ### Apple Podcasts Enhancements
    AI technology is being used to enhance the Apple Podcasts app, facilitating automatic chapter generation and linking to mentioned podcasts.

    ### Apple News Design
    The News app has been optimized with quick links to popular sections, improving user navigation.

    ### AirPods Live Translation
    Commencing in December, AirPods Live Translation will be available in EU countries, aligning with the full rollout of iOS 26.2.

    ### Liquid Glass Lock Screen Slider
    A new Liquid Glass slider empowers users to modify the translucency of the Lock Screen clock, enhancing customization possibilities.

    ### Reminders Alarms and Timers
    The Reminders app now includes alarms for urgent tasks, offering a heightened notification level that can bypass Focus modes.

    ## Conclusion

    iOS 26.2 introduces a plethora of new functionalities and upgrades that markedly enhance user experience across a range of applications and settings. From improved music and podcast features to better safety notifications and customization choices, this update showcases Apple’s dedication to continuously improving its software ecosystem. Users are encouraged to explore these new functionalities and fully leverage the capabilities available in iOS 26.2.

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    • Comments Off on Fresh Submissions Reveal Insights into Elon Musk’s Legal Action Against Apple and OpenAI
    Fresh Submissions Reveal Insights into Elon Musk’s Legal Action Against Apple and OpenAI

    xAI’s lawsuit against Apple and OpenAI revolves around accusations of anticompetitive behavior, particularly regarding the visibility of its Grok app within the App Store. The lawsuit echoes Elon Musk’s persistent apprehensions since acquiring Twitter, now X, about competition in the AI domain.

    ### A Bit of Context

    In July 2025, xAI rolled out Grok 4, launched the Grok Imagine feature, and introduced customizable chatbots, leading to a significant advancement in Grok’s App Store ranking from 60th to 29th, ultimately reaching 5th place after being made free for all users. Musk contended that Apple was deliberately obstructing Grok’s visibility, a claim that was promptly challenged by platform users.

    Musk’s allegations resulted in the initiation of a lawsuit asserting that Apple and OpenAI are working together to sustain their monopolies in the AI sector. The lawsuit alleges that Apple’s editorial oversight of the App Store enables it to favor OpenAI’s ChatGPT, thereby suppressing competition from other generative AI chatbot creators such as xAI.

    ### Allegations in the Lawsuit

    xAI’s complaint details that Apple is purportedly restricting the discoverability of rival AI applications while endorsing ChatGPT. The lawsuit claims that Apple’s actions aim to inhibit competition within both smartphone and generative AI sectors. Musk argues that Apple, having overlooked AI opportunities, is now safeguarding its smartphone monopoly by advancing OpenAI, which he characterizes as a monopolist in the generative AI chatbot space.

    The lawsuit additionally asserts that the exclusive partnership between Apple and OpenAI positions ChatGPT as the sole generative AI chatbot embedded in iPhones, compelling users to depend on it for essential functions, despite the existence of potentially more groundbreaking alternatives like Grok.

    ### Legal Proceedings and Requests for Evidence

    In spite of attempts by Apple and OpenAI to dismiss the case, U.S. District Judge Mark Pittman has called for additional evidence. xAI has since requested documents from international firms, including South Korea’s Kakao Corporation and Alipay, to bolster its assertions. The filings indicate that super apps, which integrate multiple features, threaten Apple’s market supremacy and contribute to elevated iPhone pricing.

    xAI’s inquiries encompass questions about the financial relevance of super apps, their effects on smartphone switching, and how Apple’s policies influence app distribution and innovation.

    ### Broader Implications

    The lawsuit seems to go beyond App Store rankings, implying that Musk is leveraging legal avenues to tackle broader concerns regarding X’s goals to evolve into a super app in the West. This goal stands in stark contrast to the triumph of Asian super apps, which have prospered under analogous App Store regulations.

    The legal approach taken by xAI raises doubts about the legitimacy of its accusations and whether they genuinely confront anticompetitive conduct or merely serve as a strategy to reshape the competitive environment in favor of X.

    ### Conclusion

    The resolution of xAI’s lawsuit could have profound effects on the app ecosystem and competition within the AI market. While the substantiation of xAI’s claims merits scrutiny, the underlying motivations behind the lawsuit may indicate deeper strategic goals rather than an uncomplicated antitrust matter. The courts will ultimately assess the merit of these claims and the future of competition in the AI sector.

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    • Comments Off on iOS 26.2 Launches Innovative ‘AirDrop Codes’ Function: Understanding Its Operation
    iOS 26.2 Launches Innovative ‘AirDrop Codes’ Function: Understanding Its Operation

    ### iOS 26.2 Launches AirDrop Codes: A Fresh Approach to Secure Sharing

    iOS 26.2 has been officially released, introducing a variety of new features, including a noteworthy upgrade to AirDrop called “AirDrop codes.” This innovative feature is designed to enhance the security and ease of sharing files, images, and more with others.

    #### What Are AirDrop Codes?

    AirDrop has long been a fundamental feature for iPhone users, facilitating quick and convenient sharing between devices. With the rollout of AirDrop codes in iOS 26.2, Apple introduces an additional layer of verification for users connecting with unfamiliar contacts. Per Apple’s release notes, AirDrop codes generate a unique code on the recipient’s device that the sender is required to input to finalize the transfer. This guarantees that only legitimate users can share files, boosting the overall security of the function.

    #### Setting Up AirDrop

    When configuring AirDrop on your iPhone, users have typically encountered three choices:

    1. **Receiving Off**
    2. **Contacts Only**
    3. **Everyone for 10 Minutes**

    The introduction of AirDrop codes effectively adds a fourth choice. If you wish to exchange files with someone not listed in your contacts, you can grant temporary access to each other using a one-time code. Once the sender inputs this code, both devices will recognize each other as AirDrop options for the following 30 days.

    #### Managing AirDrop Connections

    Users can handle their AirDrop connections via the Settings menu by going to **Settings ⇾ General ⇾ AirDrop**. Apple mentions that users will automatically be visible to each other for 30 days post sharing a one-time code. This capability is particularly beneficial for those who often share files with acquaintances without intending to permanently store them in their contacts.

    #### Benefits of AirDrop Codes

    The launch of AirDrop codes addresses certain limitations of the existing settings. The “Everyone for 10 Minutes” option significantly compromises security, while “Contacts Only” can be inconvenient due to the effort involved in creating a new contact. AirDrop codes offer a swift, simple, and secure method of sharing files, making it a more effective choice for users needing to transfer files without the complications of contact management.

    #### Conclusion

    With the debut of iOS 26.2, AirDrop codes signify a major advancement in the secure and convenient sharing of files by users. This new feature not only improves the user experience but also mitigates security issues related to sharing files with unknown contacts. As users become accustomed to this new capability, it will be intriguing to observe how often they take advantage of AirDrop codes for their sharing requirements.

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