Author: sparta

SmartGym App Unveils Enhanced Apple Intelligence Capabilities, Aesthetic Overhaul, and Further Improvements

**SmartGym: Optimized Fitness Experience with iOS 26 Update**

Over the past few years, SmartGym has served as a vital partner during every workout. Thanks to the recent update that coincides with iOS 26 and Apple’s Foundation Models framework, SmartGym has gained even greater strength and usability.

**Visual Revamp with Liquid Glass Design**

The newest update seamlessly incorporates SmartGym with Apple’s Liquid Glass design, ensuring a smooth and native experience. The CEO of SmartGym mentioned that they not only followed the standard guidelines but also improved various elements of the app, including charts and workout visuals, to embody this fresh aesthetic.

**AI-Driven Routines Import**

A key highlight of this update is the incorporation of Apple’s Foundation Models framework, which employs on-device AI to assist users in designing and modifying their training routines. Users can now bring in plain-text workout routines by effortlessly copying and pasting them into SmartGym. The app organizes these routines automatically, incorporating sets, reps, and rest periods, and customizes them according to available equipment.

**Enhanced Smart Trainer Features**

The Smart Trainer feature has also seen substantial improvements. It now monitors user progress and recommends modifications to maximize training sessions. This feature not only boosts workout efficiency but also supplies clear instructions for each exercise, ensuring users grasp how to execute them properly.

**Additional AI-Enhanced Features**

In addition to routine imports, SmartGym now provides personalized greeting messages based on users’ health information, helping to inspire them for their workouts. Users can even personalize the tone of these greetings, ranging from highly motivational to playfully snarky.

The app will also create informative monthly summaries, routine analyses, and performance statistics, offering users a thorough perspective on their fitness journey. Furthermore, a new chatbot feature permits users to inquire about nearly 700 exercises contained within the app’s library.

**New Functionalities and Features**

This update brings forth several new functionalities that leverage the latest iOS capabilities:

– **Widgets:** Redesigned widgets for the Home and Lock screens improve accessibility.
– **Apple Watch Control Center:** Users can now incorporate SmartGym controls into the Apple Watch Control Center for faster workout access.
– **Heart Rate Sensor Compatibility:** The app supports heart rate monitoring with AirPods Pro 3 and Powerbeats Pro 2, allowing users to track their heart rate without the need for an Apple Watch.

The update also brings support for AlarmKit, Live Workout Builder, continuous Live Activities, and more. SmartGym is free to download from the App Store, offering various subscription plans that make it a valuable resource for fitness enthusiasts.

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“Recent Firmware Upgrade Brings 6 Additional Features for AirPods Following iOS 26 Release”

With the launch of iOS 26, Apple is also refreshing the AirPods firmware, introducing multiple new features for AirPods Pro 2 and AirPods 4. Here are all the enhancements you can anticipate in the current update:

– **Live Translation:** First seen with AirPods Pro 3, Apple is now extending real-time conversation translation to its other earbuds equipped with H2 chips. Speech can be translated across English, French, German, Portuguese, and Spanish.
– **Studio-Quality Recording:** Apple claims that the microphones in AirPods now provide even superior quality for voice recordings, making the earbuds ideal for interviews, podcasts, and more.
– **Camera Remote:** When your AirPods are connected to an iPhone running iOS 26, you can press and hold on the AirPods stem to initiate video recording or capture a photo.
– **Sleep Detection:** AirPods 4 and AirPods Pro 2 have the ability to automatically recognize when you fall asleep and will pause songs, podcasts, or videos. You must navigate to your AirPods settings and enable “Pause Media When Falling Asleep.”
– **Charging Reminders:** iOS 26 introduces a notification reminding you to charge your AirPods case, ensuring you remain powered when you wish to enjoy your favorite music.
– **CarPlay Adjustment:** iOS 26 also includes a new “Keep Audio in Headphones” option, allowing you to take calls on your earbuds instead of using the car’s speakers while using CarPlay.

Next, we will guide you on how to manually update your AirPods.

**How to update your AirPods firmware**

Earlier this year, Apple explained how to properly update the AirPods firmware. Unlike an iOS update, users cannot simply navigate to Settings and manually select to obtain the new version. However, updating your earbuds is relatively straightforward. Follow the steps below once you have iOS 26 installed on your device:

1. Ensure your AirPods are within Bluetooth range of an iPhone, iPad, or Mac that is connected to Wi-Fi.
2. Place your AirPods in the charging case and close the lid.
3. Connect the case to power using a charging cable and USB charger or port.
4. Keep the lid closed and wait at least 30 minutes for the firmware to update.
5. Open the charging case to reconnect your AirPods to your device.
6. Verify the firmware version again to confirm the update.

It is essential to note that these features are accessible for AirPods Pro 2, AirPods Pro 3, and AirPods 4. We will provide more information if additional new features are revealed by Apple for its earbuds in the latest firmware.

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Overview of the New Apple Intelligence Features Unveiled in Today’s Updates

# Apple Intelligence Updates: Major Features Revealed

While today is not the day Apple will unveil a redesigned, LLM-powered Siri, the latest updates introduce several exciting enhancements to the Apple Intelligence suite. Here are some notable points.

During WWDC25, Apple aimed to showcase the Apple Intelligence features it had previously launched, addressing its position behind competitors in AI. Subsequently, it introduced fresh Apple Intelligence features, highlighting only those it was confident could be delivered during the initial beta rollout or shortly thereafter.

Here are some of the most impressive Apple Intelligence functionalities you can start utilizing immediately by updating your Apple Intelligence-compatible devices today.

## Foundation Models Framework

This represents the most significant modification in today’s updates. Now, applications can connect directly with Apple’s on-device model, enabling them to provide AI features without depending on external APIs or the internet.

For users, this translates to more private AI functionalities, as prompts remain on the device. For developers, it offers a quicker and more efficient experience, taking advantage of the same on-device capabilities Apple employs for its own AI solutions. Currently, developers do not have access to Apple’s cloud-based model; this is restricted to on-device use only. Nevertheless, the capacity for any developer to implement AI features at no additional cost should inspire fascinating features and applications.

## Shortcuts and Automations

Shortcuts and automation are central to today’s updates, especially on macOS Tahoe 26.

You can now incorporate Apple Intelligence into your shortcuts, which allows you to include Writing Tools, Image Playground, and even Apple’s own models or ChatGPT as components in your workflow to boost productivity. If automation is new to you, it might feel daunting, but using AI-driven automation could revolutionize your workflow.

## Live Translation

The standout feature is Live Translation with AirPods, which automatically interprets spoken language during conversations. However, Live Translation is also available across Messages, Phone, and FaceTime.

In Messages, this feature automatically translates both incoming and outgoing text messages, while during a FaceTime call, it displays live translated captions. For phone calls, you will hear spoken translations, akin to the Live Translation feature with AirPods.

### Compatibility Details
– **Live Translation with AirPods**: Compatible with AirPods 4 featuring Active Noise Cancellation or AirPods Pro 2 and later, supporting English (U.S., UK), French (France), German, Portuguese (Brazil), and Spanish (Spain).
– **Live Translation in Messages**: Accessible in Chinese (Simplified), English (UK, U.S.), French (France), German, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Portuguese (Brazil), and Spanish (Spain) on supported devices.
– **Live Translation in Phone and FaceTime**: Available for one-on-one calls in English (UK, U.S.), French (France), German, Portuguese (Brazil), and Spanish (Spain).

Moreover, Apple Intelligence now offers voicemail summaries that appear alongside missed calls.

## Visual Intelligence

Apple has broadened its visual search capabilities beyond the camera, now extending to content shown on the screen.

When capturing a screenshot, iOS identifies the content, enabling you to highlight specific areas, search for similar images, or even pose questions to ChatGPT regarding what is shown in the screenshot. Visual Intelligence also extracts date, time, and location data from screenshots, proactively suggesting actions like adding events to the calendar, assuming the image is in English.

## Genmoji and Image Playground

You can now merge two distinct emojis (and optionally, a text description) to create a new Genmoji. Personal attributes like hairstyle and facial hair for Genmoji can also be adjusted based on individuals from your Photos library.

In Image Playground, the most noteworthy update is the integration of OpenAI’s image generator, allowing users to choose from predefined styles or enter a text prompt to create images. You can also utilize Image Playground to craft Messages Backgrounds and Genmoji without needing to exit the app.

## Conclusion

Apple is evidently encountering hurdles in improving Siri and its AI capabilities. However, the recent enhancements to its Apple Intelligence offerings are well-considered and executed, likely enhancing user productivity. The new features are definitely worth exploring, even for those who may have overlooked them in the past.

For more comprehensive coverage of today’s Apple OS releases, visit 9to5Mac.

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Apple explores the possible effects of iOS 26 on the battery longevity of the iPhone.

# iOS 26: Comprehending Its Effects on Battery Life and Performance

iOS 26 is now accessible for iPhone users, and Apple has launched a new webpage to underline the significance of software updates, along with their possible repercussions on battery life and device performance.

## Short-term Effects on Battery and Performance

Apple has recently released a support document outlining the intricacies of software updates, highlighting the difference between major releases (e.g., 26.0) and minor updates (e.g., 26.1 or 26.1.1). A key emphasis of this document is the section named “Performance and battery impact,” which offers useful insights for users.

As per Apple, after completing a major update, users might notice a temporary reduction in battery life and a rise in thermal activity. This is a standard situation, as the device carries out background tasks such as indexing data, fetching new assets, and updating applications.

### Main Points from Apple’s Clarification

1. **Short-lived Pressure**: After a major software update, it is typical for the iPhone’s battery to deplete more rapidly and for the device to become temporarily warmer.

2. **Possible Long-term Consequences**: There may be an enduring effect on performance and battery life if new features require more resources from the device.

This information corroborates the experiences of numerous iPhone users who have faced comparable issues with prior updates.

## Anticipations After Installing iOS 26

The main message for users is that after installing iOS 26, there will be an initial period of heightened background processing that may burden the device. Generally, this should sort itself out within a few days. Nevertheless, sustained battery impact could occur if users extensively utilize new features that are resource-demanding.

Apple stresses that the degree of this impact can differ depending on individual usage habits.

In summary, while the short-term effects of iOS 26 on battery life and performance are anticipated, users should remain mindful of the possibilities for longer-term effects based on their usage of the new features. Grasping these dynamics can assist users in managing their expectations and enhancing their iPhone experience following the update.

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Exclusive Offer: Enjoy Nearly $1,000 Off the Galaxy Tab S11 Ultra

Large display, greater discounts

(Image credit: Brady Snyder / Android Central)

When it comes to laptop alternatives, there’s nothing else quite like the Samsung Galaxy Tab Ultra series. We’ve just launched our fourth version, with the recent announcement of the Galaxy Tab S11 Ultra. Now is an ideal moment to acquire one, allowing you to benefit from up to $795 in savings with trade-in, but act quickly as this offer will vanish shortly.

Despite its stunning 14.6-inch AMOLED screen, the performance and high-end design can significantly impact your finances. The same applies to the <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.androidcentral.com/tablets/samsung-galaxy-tab/i-dont-think-tablets-can-get-any-better-than-the-galaxy-tab-s11-ultra" data-before-rewrite-localise="https://www.androidcentral.com/tablets/samsung-galaxy-tab/i-dont-think-tablets-can-get-any-better-than-the-galaxy-tab-s11

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Essential Enhancements of Garmin Fenix 8 Pro in Relation to Fenix 8: A Review of Its Value

The Garmin Fenix 8 Pro brings about notable improvements compared to its predecessor, primarily with the incorporation of LTE and satellite data functionalities. These features enable users to maintain connections with friends and family during their adventures, enhancing safety and minimizing feelings of isolation. The Fenix 8 Pro allows for cellular calling, messaging, and tracking, in addition to satellite messaging and SOS notifications, transforming it into an independent device for outdoor aficionados.

A key highlight is the upgraded display technology. The Fenix 8 Pro boasts a distinctive MicroLED display with remarkable brightness, ensuring excellent outdoor visibility and color precision. Its AMOLED display is also brighter than that of the previous Fenix 8 model, improving legibility across various lighting environments. Nevertheless, these improvements entail certain compromises, like a bulkier design resulting from the LTE and satellite antennas, and a steeper price, particularly for the MicroLED version.

The Fenix 8 Pro comes in two sizes, 47mm and 51mm, both equipped with titanium and sapphire glass. There is no 43mm variant available, and it lacks solar charging capabilities. The pricing for the Fenix 8 Pro models exceeds that of the Fenix 8, with the MicroLED model being the priciest option.

Regarding battery longevity, the Fenix 8 Pro models deliver satisfactory performance, although the MicroLED version has a reduced lifespan when compared to other Garmin watches. The Pro models are somewhat heavier and bulkier owing to the extra features, which may not appeal to everyone.

For those who already possess a Fenix 8, transitioning to the Fenix 8 Pro might not be imperative unless the new connectivity functionalities are crucial. The Fenix 8 Pro is well-suited for individuals who regularly partake in outdoor pursuits without a smartphone and need dependable connectivity. Conversely, those who do not require these features might find the Fenix 8 or other Garmin models adequate.

In summary, the Fenix 8 Pro is a high-end choice for those in search of enhanced connectivity and display technology, albeit at a greater price and with certain design trade-offs.

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Evaluation of iOS 26: Apple’s New Age in Mobile Software Engineering

controversies surrounding its key attribute, the Liquid Glass design, but by the time Apple rolled out the Release Candidate version after its autumn press event, everything appeared to be aligning perfectly.

Unlike prior years, Apple is not merely enhancing certain elements of the software, but overhauling the entire iOS experience. Naturally, it will still feel very much like home for users, but Apple is marking the advancement of its software by making a leap from iOS 18 to iOS 26 — both to establish a greater sense of uniformity across all its software and to indicate that substantial changes are on the horizon.

In our review of iOS 26, we delve into the positives, negatives, and the grey areas of Apple’s latest iPhone software update based on three months of beta evaluations, and how the Release Candidate version has performed ahead of the official update launch.

Liquid Glass fails to bring the transformation Apple indicated

Unlock the Full Power of Your Apple Pencil with These Ignored iOS Functions

with an accompanying iPad. For creatives, it can be utterly indispensable, yet numerous available tools and features are equally beneficial in an office or educational environment, such as assisting with document marking, note-taking, or even annotating specific items. An Apple Pencil reinforces the notion that the iPad can serve as a viable substitute for a MacBook. However, there are aspects that even seasoned users might not be aware of. 

You likely already recognize some of the fundamental iPad functionalities, such as swiping left with three fingers to reverse actions or swiping right to reinstate actions in most applications, but the Apple Pencil introduces additional capabilities that can enhance the device’s potential. This encompasses converting handwritten notes into typed text, along with several tricks for note-taking, including directly from the iPad’s Lock Screen. Many of these features are straightforward quality-of-life enhancements that Apple enthusiasts have come to anticipate from the brand, yet some contribute to the adaptability of this remarkable writing instrument. While a lot of users are still anticipating that the upcoming generation of Apple Pencil will be compatible with iPhone, there is still plenty of utility that current users can harness while utilizing their iPad.

Convert your handwriting to text

visionOS 26 Debuts Today: Fresh Features for Apple Vision Pro

Apple has launched visionOS 26, the newest version of its spatial operating system tailored for the Apple Vision Pro. While this release does not bring a sweeping redesign like certain earlier versions, it does introduce several notable improvements that users will appreciate.

A key feature of visionOS 26 is the addition of spatial widgets. Users can now affix a variety of widgets, including photos, weather updates, and calendar entries, directly within their surroundings. These widgets blend effortlessly into the user’s environment and are retained by the Vision Pro, ensuring a customized experience even when users exit the area.

Developers are anticipated to design their own applications featuring spatial widgets, broadening the capabilities beyond just system apps.

Another significant enhancement is the updated personas. The latest personas in visionOS 26 are more articulate and vivid, providing a more captivating visual representation during user interactions.

The update also promotes shared experiences among Vision Pro owners. Whether viewing a 3D film, engaging in a spatial game, or collaborating on a supported application, users can now partake in these activities together, with their personas visible in the shared experience—previously a feature limited to FaceTime.

Moreover, visionOS 26 introduces spatial scenes, which leverage a new generative AI algorithm to improve the depth and immersion of images. This capability extends beyond images, enabling users to experience spatial scenes in Safari, the Spatial Gallery app, and various third-party applications, like Zillow, where users can explore lifelike scenes of properties.

Other significant features in visionOS 26 encompass support for PS VR2 controllers for gaming, Logitech Muse support for spatial drawing, a fresh Jupiter environment, native playback for 180 and 360-degree content, a revamped control center, phone call relay from iPhone, folders in home view, and additional languages for Apple Intelligence.

For those thinking about acquiring an Apple Vision Pro, it might be prudent to hold off, as there are rumors of an upcoming version featuring an M4 or M5 chip potentially debuting in October, possibly available in a new Space Black color option.

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New AirPods Features Launched in iOS 26

iOS 26 represents a significant upgrade for iPhone users, but it also brings a host of new functionalities for AirPods users—particularly for those with AirPods Pro 2, AirPods 4, or the latest AirPods Pro 3. Below are the enhancements set to arrive for AirPods users who update to iOS 26.

### iOS 26 Introduces Up to Seven New AirPods Features, Based on Your Model

Each year, Apple rolls out new functionalities for AirPods users through firmware updates, and this year is no different. Accompanied by iOS 26, iPadOS 26, macOS Tahoe, and more, Apple is deploying new AirPods firmware that introduces a range of new capabilities. The updated build for at least certain models is **8A356**.

When you combine the new operating system updates with the refreshed AirPods firmware, users can take advantage of up to seven novel features:

1. Automatic pausing when you drift off
2. Notifications for battery charging
3. Seamless switching for CarPlay
4. Live Translation
5. High-fidelity audio recording
6. Camera Remote functionality
7. Improved voice clarity during calls

Here’s a brief overview of what these features entail.

If you frequently doze off with AirPods in, Apple can now identify that and **automatically pause** your audio. This is less crucial for music but could be a game-changer for podcasts and audiobooks.

In addition to various battery-related functionalities, iOS 26 now includes **notifications for AirPods charging reminders**. You’ll receive alerts when your AirPods case is running low and when it has reached a full charge.

One of my preferred AirPods features, automatic switching, was previously unavailable for CarPlay. However, with iOS 26, your AirPods Bluetooth connection can **automatically switch between your device and the car**.

The first three features will be available across a majority of AirPods models.

If you are using AirPods Pro 2, AirPods 4, or the new AirPods Pro 3, you’ll also enjoy four additional features.

**Live Translation** debuts in beta as an Apple Intelligence function that allows you to engage in face-to-face conversations with individuals who speak a different language.

Have you tried recording audio with your AirPods? Thanks to Apple’s ‘**high-fidelity audio recording**,’ those recordings should sound significantly improved.

**Camera Remote** operates similarly to the Camera Remote app on the Apple Watch. You can take a photo or video by pressing your AirPods’ stem. This option can be set up in Settings.

Lastly, with **improved voice clarity during calls**, iOS 26 enhances AirPods’ functionality for one of their most prevalent uses.

### Summary of AirPods Features in iOS 26

Particularly with AirPods Pro 2, Apple has established a new benchmark by delivering substantial AirPods features through firmware updates. With iOS 26, this trend continues, extending the benefits to AirPods 4 and AirPods Pro 3.

Even if your AirPods only support a handful of the latest features, iOS 26 is brimming with additional exciting enhancements on your iPhone that justify an upgrade.

For a comprehensive look at how the AirPods firmware updates process works, full details can be found here.

Which new AirPods features are you looking forward to the most? Share your thoughts in the comments.

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