Author: sparta

New Leak Discloses Galaxy Z Fold 7 Available in Three Hues

It appears that last year’s exclusive Fold hues have received a subtle update and are now becoming accessible to everyone.

(Image credit: Samsung)

Key information to consider

  • The Galaxy Z Fold 7 has surfaced in three new colors in a leak: blue, silver, and black.
  • Samsung may be moving away from its traditional approach—previously restricted color options (black and silver) could now be available in stores everywhere, not just on Samsung.com.
  • Both foldable devices will sport a new Green Mint shade, but only through Samsung’s official store.

Anticipation is rising for Samsung’s Summer Unpacked event next month, featuring the Galaxy Z Fold 7 and Z Flip 7 likely as the main attractions. While leaks have already revealed a lot, a new set of nearly-official renders has provided us with an updated look at the forthcoming foldables, showcasing the Fold 7 in three striking color options. A few of these resemble the previously exclusive finishes available only on Samsung.com.

Evan Blass has disclosed some enticing details on Substack, unveiling several color variations for the soon-to-be-released Galaxy Z Fold 7. We expect three primary shades to reach the wider market, although Samsung may retain a few exclusive hues. The colors are not drastically different from those of the Galaxy Z Fold 6, but the manner in which they are being introduced certainly feels like a bit of a shake-up.

There’s an elegant blue that radiates opulence, a dazzling silver for

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Netflix Renews Mind-Bending Thriller from Warrior Nun Creator

Netflix is intensifying its commitment to the high-stakes teen drama Bet, a polished psychological thriller from Warrior Nun creator Simon Barry.

The series, centered around a talented teenage gambler, has officially received a second season renewal — even as it appears audiences are still mulling over their opinions on it. However, in contrast to the fervor for online petitions and fan campaigns that arose when Warrior Nun was canceled, Bet doesn’t yet appear to have garnered that same degree of dedicated support. A glance at YouTube trailer comments, for instance, showcases a considerable amount of harsh skepticism, with critiques ranging from the tone to the performances.

So, evidently, Netflix concluded: Sounds like a contender for renewal to us!

What is Netflix’s Bet about?

Barry, noted for cultivating a devoted fan base with the cult classic Warrior Nun (whose cancellation incited significant backlash, a topic I covered in detail), returns with a distinctly different project this time. Bet is a live-action adaptation of the well-known manga Kakegurui, reinterpreted through the lens of underground gambling at an elite high school. It’s stylized, quick-paced, and slightly outrageous.

Situated at the fictional St. Dominic’s Academy, Bet features Yumeko, portrayed by Miku Martineau. She’s a gambler harboring a traumatic background and an emotionless poker face. Trained by her mother to view betting as a blood sport, Yumeko enrolls at a highly competitive school where gambling is essentially a foundational activity. At St. Dominic’s, Yumeko swiftly demonstrates her ability to hold her own, capturing the interest of the merciless student council. With assistance from her new ally Ryan (Ayo Solanke), she begins eliminating challengers, edging closer to a long-hidden secret she aims to reveal.

Another notable point is that although Bet derives its central premise from Kakegurui, Barry clarified from the outset that it would not serve as a verbatim remake. “There was no purpose in attempting to replicate the original,” he stated to Netflix’s Tudum. “Instead, we opted to be guided by the essence that Kakegurui embodies in terms of tone, audacity, and enjoyment.”

So… why was Bet renewed?

This creative choice may shed light on the lukewarm reception. Among some of the recent YouTube comments linked to the series’ trailer:

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CarPlay Ultra Highly Unlikely to Be Offered in Specific Vehicles

When Apple revealed its intentions for CarPlay Ultra, 14 automotive companies initially agreed to incorporate the software. Nonetheless, numerous manufacturers are now reevaluating this choice as they aim to set their products apart and compete with the Chinese market. The Financial Times reports that some carmakers have distanced themselves from their original pledges, while others are still assessing the extent of integration they desire with Apple.

Aston Martin was the first to showcase CarPlay Ultra, but several other brands are choosing to create their own infotainment systems to possibly increase revenue from in-car services and vehicle data. In spite of this, CarPlay continues to be favored by drivers in the US, with Apple asserting that 98% of new vehicles come equipped with CarPlay, and the platform is utilized over 600 million times each day. This popularity could create difficulties for manufacturers withdrawing from CarPlay Ultra.

At present, Aston Martin, Hyundai, Genesis, and Porsche intend to endorse CarPlay Ultra. Companies such as Jaguar Land Rover, Ford, Nissan, Infiniti, Acura, Honda, and Lincoln are rethinking their strategies. Meanwhile, Audi, Mercedes-Benz, Polestar, Renault, and Volvo Cars have opted not to support CarPlay Ultra.

Apple has established explicit regulations regarding data sharing, ensuring that CarPlay Ultra does not require extra sharing of vehicle data, which remains securely stored within the automaker’s own databases. Vehicle data is not transmitted to the iPhone. The implementation of CarPlay Ultra in vehicles is yet to be determined, and updates will be provided as further information emerges.

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Samsung Laptop Now $500 Discounted, Yet One Aspect Spurs Worries

Forget about Prime Day; this Samsung offer is available right now.

The summer sale season is upon us, making it a perfect opportunity to discover Samsung Galaxy bargains, whether you’re searching for a smartphone, a watch, or a laptop. For example, the Galaxy Book 5 Pro 360 is now $500 off when you trade in an old or damaged device on Samsung.com, or you can receive a straightforward $250 discount if you prefer to order without any additional steps.

This is an uncommon deal on one of the finest Samsung laptops ever created, but with Prime Day 2025 just weeks away, one question lingers: is it smarter to purchase the device now or hold off to see if it gets a price drop during Amazon’s major sale? Let’s delve into this discussion.

Samsung Galaxy Book 5 Pro 360 1TB: Starting at $1,199.99 with trade-in | $1,449.99 without at Samsung

The Galaxy Book 5 Pro 360 is an outstanding laptop with a stylish design and all the robust specifications you could desire, but it’s also quite pricey. Thankfully, Samsung is providing up to $500 in instant trade-in credit via its site, or you can bypass the trade-in process and receive a direct $250 discount on your purchase.

✅Recommended if: you want to enjoy one of the finest Samsung laptops ever made, featuring a sleek, convertible design, a stunning touchscreen display, and impressive battery life; you essentially want a powerful laptop and portable Android tablet combined.

❌Skip this deal if: you prefer not to spend over $1,000 on a laptop; you want to see what laptop deals Amazon Prime Day (July 8-11) will present.

To begin, it’s essential to highlight just how amazing the Galaxy Book 5 Pro 360 truly is. Eager to enjoy the flexibility of a convertible laptop myself, I transitioned to the 360 from my MacBook Pro last year and never regretted it.

The device features an ultra-lightweight and slim design — comparable in thickness to some Android phones — with a breathtaking 16-inch AMOLED touchscreen display and an impressive array of ports, while under the hood you’ll find the powerful Intel Core 7 Ultra processor and 16GB of RAM. This top-tier model also comes with a hefty 76WHr battery, Quad Dolby Atmos speakers, and 1TB of storage, all while weighing in at under four pounds.

Nevertheless, even with the maximum credit, the Galaxy Book 5 Pro 360 will still cost you over $1,000, so it’s understandable to wonder what Prime Day deals we might see next month. My price tracking tools indicate that the laptop has never dipped below $1,444 at Amazon, and although it might drop further during Prime Day, I suspect the price of the Galaxy Book 5 Pro 360 won’t fall much below $1,199.99 during the sale.

You’ll also forfeit some additional perks that Samsung includes with its deals. For instance, purchasing the laptop from Samsung right now gives you a 47% discount on the Galaxy Buds 3 Pro when bundling your order, plus six months of SiriusXM streaming for free (a $59.94 value).

To sum up, I’d say if you have the funds and want a premium Samsung laptop today, you can feel confident knowing you’ve made a wise purchase with this deal. However, if the purchase isn’t urgent, or if you think you could opt for something less expensive (like one of the best Chromebooks, for example), it might be best to wait for Prime Day. After all, you never know what kinds of discounts Amazon may offer.

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HDMI 2.2 Guidelines Unveiled with ‘Ultra96’: Consequences for Your Configuration

The HDMI Forum has formally announced the launch of version 2.2 of the HDMI specification, which adds support for video resolutions reaching 16K at 60Hz and boosts maximum bandwidth to 96Gbps. This revision also introduces a new cable category known as Ultra96.

### The Technical Details

The HDMI 2.2 specification now accommodates video resolutions of up to 16K at 60Hz and 12K at 120Hz. For uncompressed formats with full 4:4:4 chroma and 10-bit and 12-bit color depth, it is capable of supporting 4K at 240Hz and 8K at 60Hz. This functionality is made achievable through the enhanced 96Gbps bandwidth and next-generation FRL signaling, which improves reliability in high-bandwidth conditions.

Chandlee Harrell, president of the HDMI Forum, remarked, “The HDMI Forum is excited to unveil the new HDMI 2.2 Specification to enable enhanced performance capabilities and features for innovative and immersive new solutions and products. (…) Furthermore, the introduction of the new Ultra96 feature name will assist consumers and end-users in confirming that their product’s maximum bandwidth is accommodated.”

### What is Ultra96?

Ultra96 is designed as the subsequent evolution beyond the current “Ultra High Speed” cables, which support a maximum of 48Gbps. The HDMI Forum clarifies that “Ultra96” is a feature designation that manufacturers are urged to adopt to signify a product’s capability to handle up to 64Gbps, 80Gbps, or 96Gbps bandwidth in accordance with the HDMI 2.2 Specification. The new Ultra96 HDMI Cable accommodates up to 96Gbps and all HDMI 2.2 functionalities.

Ultra96-certified HDMI cables and compatible devices are anticipated to begin arriving later this year. Additionally, HDMI 2.2 rolls out the Latency Indication Protocol (LIP), aimed at enhancing audio/video synchronization across systems where signals traverse multiple devices before reaching the ultimate display.

Although 16K displays are not yet commonly accessible, and the majority of content currently maxes out at 4K or 8K, HDMI 2.2 is oriented towards future-proofing, ensuring manufacturers have a reliable standard as hardware and media evolve in terms of frame rates and resolutions.

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UPDF 2.0: Significant Enhancement for AI-Driven PDF Editing Application

**Exploring the PDF Terrain: An In-Depth Look at UPDF 2.0**

In 2025, despite the progress in technology, managing PDFs continues to be one of the most daunting file formats. Users regularly encounter obstacles such as text editing, file size reduction, compatibility complications, and difficulties in collaboration. These issues are exacerbated by the steep prices associated with many PDF editing tools.

Introducing UPDF 2.0, a cutting-edge PDF editor that aims to streamline the PDF experience. Having utilized UPDF for over three years, I can confirm its efficiency and user-friendly interface. The latest iteration, UPDF 2.0, unveils a plethora of features crafted to improve usability, driven by comprehensive customer feedback.

### Main Features of UPDF 2.0

UPDF serves as a comprehensive PDF solution that marries user-friendliness with an attractive interface. The 2.0 update delivers 18 new features, including:

– **Batch Tools**: Execute numerous tasks such as OCR, compression, watermarking, and additional functions concurrently.
– **Streamlined UI**: An uncluttered interface that follows a “3-click rule,” reducing unnecessary actions.
– **Smart Creation**: Effortlessly generate PDFs from ID cards or transform multi-page documents into long images.
– **Enhanced Security**: The “Sanitize Document” option eliminates metadata for user privacy.
– **Cross-Format Tools**: Convert PDFs to PowerPoint, extract pages, and much more.
– **Custom Skins and Templates**: Tailor your experience with a variety of skins and templates.

Lifetime updates are included, providing a free upgrade for current UPDF 1.0 users.

### Revolutionizing PDF Editing

Historically, PDFs have posed challenges due to formatting issues and compatibility problems. UPDF tackles these challenges with a number of exceptional features:

– **Edit PDFs Like Word Docs**: Alter text, images, and layouts directly without concerns about formatting errors.
– **Real-Time Annotation and Syncing**: Collaborate effortlessly across devices, leaving comments and highlights that sync immediately.
– **OCR and PDF Conversions**: Transform scanned PDFs into editable formats or export to Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.
– **Batch PDF Tools**: Edit or compress multiple PDFs simultaneously, conserving precious time.
– **AI-Powered Tools**: Interact with your PDFs through chat, receive instant summaries, translate text, and generate mind maps.
– **Fill & Sign Forms**: Conveniently complete and sign forms digitally.

These features have changed my engagement with PDFs, making them easier to manage and modify.

### Compatibility and Accessibility

UPDF is tailored for Apple users, featuring a minimalist UI that integrates effortlessly with macOS, iPadOS, and iOS. It operates smoothly on all Apple devices, with cloud syncing and strong security features. Moreover, it is also available on Windows and Android, ensuring a versatile user experience across different platforms.

### Why Opt for UPDF?

Among the many PDF editors available, UPDF distinguishes itself for several reasons:

– **Cross-Platform Usability**: Functions on all leading platforms.
– **Lifetime Upgrades**: Ongoing enhancements at no extra cost.
– **Budget-Friendly**: Priced much lower than competitors like Adobe.
– **AI Integration**: Incorporates genuine AI tools for improved functionality.
– **Customization Features**: The first PDF tool offering complete UI customization.
– **Frequent Updates**: Monthly product improvements.
– **Money-Back Guarantee**: A 30-day guarantee to ensure you are satisfied.

A free trial is also available, enabling users to explore UPDF’s features before making a commitment.

### Closing Thoughts

If you are looking for an all-encompassing PDF editor that combines functionality with affordability, I highly recommend UPDF. With over three million active users, it’s evident that UPDF is positively influencing the PDF editing domain. Currently, there is a limited-time offer for UPDF Pro for under $70 for a lifetime license, or a yearly plan for $39.99, with a 7-day free trial on offer.

Have you encountered difficulties with PDF documents? Have you given UPDF a try? Share your insights and experiences!

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Two Major Instances Alter My Experience with the Galaxy S25 Ultra

I simply can’t decide between ultra-functional and ultra-minimalist.

(Image credit: Nicholas Sutrich / Android Central)

I have never particularly enjoyed using cases on my devices, but I am even less thrilled about the prevalent trend toward completely flat phones. The elegant curves that made phones pleasant to hold have vanished, replaced by flat, hard edges that are fundamentally dull and uninspiring.

As a result, I’ve begun to explore, testing some of the top Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra cases, and I’ve identified two standout options that enhance the phone’s design in a distinctive and impactful way.

One is supremely minimalist, featuring no frame or rear coverage. It consists of just two components made from “Aerospace-grade aluminum” that safeguard your phone from the edges that first make contact when dropped. The other sports a more conventional case design that might seem unremarkable at first, but three NFC buttons on the side enable you to customize physical controls to perform nearly any function you desire on the device.

9to5Mac Daily: June 25, 2025 – News on CarPlay Ultra Speed Humps and More Updates

### 9to5Mac Daily: Your Destination for Daily Apple News and Insights

In the rapidly evolving tech landscape, keeping up with the newest news and advancements is vital, particularly for Apple fans. The **9to5Mac Daily** podcast functions as a crucial tool for those who wish to stay informed about the leading stories within the Apple ecosystem. Accessible on several platforms, including [iTunes](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/9to5mac-daily/id1331816080), [Stitcher](https://www.stitcher.com/podcast/9to5mac-daily), [TuneIn](https://tunein.com/radio/9to5Mac-Daily-p1089524/), [Google Play](https://play.google.com/music/m/I5d4dzs7dauazmfxvvrynyiuram?t=9to5Mac_Daily), and via a dedicated [RSS feed](https://feedpress.me/9to5macdaily), the podcast keeps listeners informed at all times.

#### What to Anticipate from 9to5Mac Daily

Every episode of **9to5Mac Daily** is recorded during weekdays, providing a reliable flow of information. The podcast explores a broad array of subjects, including product launches, software upgrades, market trends, and insights into Apple’s corporate strategies. By subscribing, listeners can obtain new episodes immediately upon release, guaranteeing they never overlook a critical update.

#### Special Features and Sponsorship

The podcast is backed by **Bitwarden**, a password management service that includes features like Apple Watch authenticator compatibility, secure autofill for Safari and iOS applications, and enterprise-level security tools. This collaboration underscores the significance of security in today’s digital environment, especially for users overseeing multiple accounts and confidential data.

#### Subscription Alternatives

For those eager to elevate their listening experience, 9to5Mac Daily provides a subscription option through [9to5Mac Daily Plus](https://9to5mac.com/join/). Subscribers can appreciate episodes without advertisements and gain access to exclusive content, making it a valuable choice for devoted listeners.

#### Engaging with the Community

Listeners are invited to share their opinions and feedback by contacting via email at [[email protected]](mailto:[email protected]). Furthermore, reviews and suggestions on platforms like [Apple Podcasts](https://geo.itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/id1331816080?at=10laZc&pt=11l8808) and

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Apple’s C1 Chipset Set to Appear in Soon-to-Be-Released Product, Leaving Out Others

When Apple unveiled its iPhone 16e this year, it introduced a new element: the C1 modem. However, newer models such as the M3 iPad Air and A16 iPad have not incorporated it. Here’s a look at where the C1 will next be implemented, and which devices are not anticipated to receive it.

## Why the C1 Modem Was Worth the Wait

For several years, Apple has been developing its own cellular modem technology. Until that technology was ready, the company relied on Qualcomm for 5G modems for its products.

Although Qualcomm’s modems are recognized as high-quality, the relationship between the company and Apple has not always been smooth, partly due to the elevated costs connected with Qualcomm’s components.

Cost reduction was one reason Apple sought to create its own 5G modem. Another significant reason is that Apple generally likes to manage the entire technology stack in its products. This facilitates enhanced hardware-software integration that results in improved overall user experiences.

The new C1 modem offers two major benefits:
1. Enhanced battery life due to efficiency advancements.
2. More responsive data handling in crowded environments.

Despite these advantages, Apple is not outfitting all its products with the new modem just yet. The M3 iPad Air and A16 iPad do not feature it, nor does the M4 MacBook Air, as cellular Macs are still not available. Several products this fall are expected to opt-out of the C1 as well, continuing to rely on Qualcomm’s 5G modem. Nonetheless, one flagship product is next in line to incorporate the C1.

## Where Apple’s C1 Will and Won’t Show Up Next

As per various sources, Apple’s upcoming product equipped with the C1 modem will be its ultra-slim flagship iPhone 17 Air. This new device is anticipated to debut in the fall as a successor to the Plus model in Apple’s assortment. It will prioritize design over practicality, showcasing a remarkably thin profile, a single back camera, and, naturally, the C1 modem.

A plausible reason for the inclusion of the C1 in the iPhone 17 Air is its efficiency improvements, which will be vital for a model with limited physical space for a battery.

Regarding Apple’s fall offerings, reports suggest that the iPhone 17 Air is the sole new model set to feature the C1. The standard iPhone 17, 17 Pro, and 17 Pro Max will continue to make use of Qualcomm’s modem.

The rationale behind Apple’s gradual rollout of the C1 into its devices remains ambiguous. It could be linked to existing purchasing agreements with Qualcomm, a strategy to address potential connectivity challenges with the C1, or merely risk management.

Regardless, if you wish to experience Apple’s state-of-the-art C1 modem, you will need to acquire the iPhone 17 Air or the iPhone 16e. Alternatively, you can await next year, when the complete iPhone 18 range is projected to implement a new C2 modem.

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Google to Improve Notification Synchronization Across Android Devices

This is all part of Google’s broader strategy to introduce a Handoff-like capability across Android devices.

(Image credit: Nicholas Sutrich / Android Central)

Essential insights

  • Google is developing a competitor to Handoff—but it’s not merely a clone of Apple’s; it could surpass it.
  • Recent code investigations indicate it will manage applications, tasks, media, and even notifications across multiple devices.
  • If successfully launched, you’ll be able to initiate something on your phone and continue it on your tablet or Chromebook.

It’s widely acknowledged that Google is crafting its iteration of Apple’s Handoff for Android—but here’s the interesting part: recent evidence hints at the potential for it to exceed Apple’s version, offering even more valuable features than anticipated.

An exploration of the newest Google Play Services beta (v25.25.31) by Android Authority has revealed some promising insights. Within the code, there were explicit references to a “Handoff” feature, specifying its intended functionalities, such as resuming tasks, applications, and media exactly where you stopped, regardless of your device.

It also encompasses the synchronization of notifications across your devices. Indicators suggest an impressive and streamlined cross-device integration is on the horizon.