Author: sparta

Apple Possibly Considering Major AI Purchase

It’s well-known that Apple’s initiatives in the AI domain have been rather unimpressive, to say the least. Firstly, the limitations of Apple Intelligence features are quite noticeable. Secondly, Apple’s collaboration with ChatGPT highlights the company’s deficit in the necessary AI capabilities to thrive in a progressively competitive and advanced market. Consequently, a recent speculation indicates that Apple might aim to utilize its cash reserves to quickly enhance its AI offerings.

A fresh rumor from Mark Gurman at Bloomberg, who is usually reliable regarding Apple rumors, reports that Apple executives have discussed the possibility of acquiring Perplexity AI. Furthermore, to emphasize the seriousness of these discussions, two of the named executives involved in the dialogues are Eddy Cue and Adrian Perica, Apple’s chief of mergers and acquisitions. Additionally, representatives from the two organizations have already participated in initial talks.

“Acquiring Perplexity would provide Apple with an influx of AI expertise, a recognized brand in the AI sector, and a consumer product,” Gurman observes. “A transaction could also potentially aid in future recruitment initiatives.”

What exactly is Perplexity AI?

In broad terms, Perplexity resembles ChatGPT in that both platforms utilize AI to create responses to user inquiries. However, the distinction lies in the fact that ChatGPT is more conversational, whereas Perplexity functions more like a conventional search engine, albeit in an enhanced manner.

It will be intriguing to see what Apple intends to do with Perplexity, should an acquisition take place. Perhaps it will be integrated into Siri and ultimately take the place of ChatGPT for more complex questions.

It’s also important to highlight that the search agreement between Apple and Google, where Google compensates Apple billions to establish Google as the default search engine on mobile Safari, may not be allowed to persist for much longer. Remember that Google is currently facing a DOJ lawsuit over alleged monopolistic practices in the search industry. Google was discovered to have inappropriately exploited its search dominance, and now it remains to be seen what the consequences will be. Some anticipate that Apple’s search arrangement with Google might eventually be abandoned. As a result, Apple may wish to make mobile search in Safari more conducive to AI.

Perplexity AI comes at a high price

Apple is among the wealthiest companies worldwide, which will be beneficial since Perplexity is not exactly inexpensive. The firm currently holds a valuation of $14 billion. If that figure is close to what Apple would pay, it would undoubtedly be the company’s priciest acquisition to date. As things stand, Apple’s $3 billion acquisition of Beats in 2014 remains its most costly corporate purchase.

Read More
Rokid’s Max 2 AR Glasses Provide a Convenient 215-Inch Screen Experience

**Android Central Verdict: Rokid Max 2 AR Glasses**

**Rating: 4 out of 5 stars**

The Rokid Max 2 AR glasses present a user-friendly design and incorporate Sony’s state-of-the-art Micro-OLED panel, delivering a 215-inch display. These glasses stand out by delivering a sharp image with significant adjustability, making them a formidable competitor against close rivals. With respectable built-in audio and USB-C compatibility, the Max 2 is well-suited for content streaming and gaming. However, users may need to wait for additional advancements for productivity applications.

**Pros:**
– User-friendly design
– Exceptional Micro-OLED panel
– Significant adjustability
– Pleasant built-in audio
– Easy connectivity

**Cons:**
– Minor adjustments compared to the original Max
– Limited software ecosystem

**Pricing and Availability:**
The Rokid Max 2 glasses launched in Q1 2025 and can be found in select worldwide markets. Their price is set at $399 on Amazon U.S., with a standard retail price of $529. A Rokid AR Spatial bundle is offered for $648, which includes the Station 2 accessory.

**What I Like:**
The Max 2 glasses are lightweight at 76g, providing a high degree of adjustability for a snug fit. The vision adjustment feature allows for precise control over the focus, ensuring a clear image. The tinted shade improves picture quality by minimizing ambient light disruption.

**What I Don’t Like:**
The Max 2’s brightness caps at 600 nits, which may not be adequate for outdoor environments. Furthermore, Rokid’s software ecosystem is still evolving, constraining productivity use cases.

**Alternatives:**
– **Xreal’s One:** Presents a lively Micro-OLED panel, 120Hz refresh rate, and excellent built-in audio.
– **RayNeo’s Air 3S:** Delivers a bright picture and offers good value at $269 on Amazon.

**Should You Buy It?**
Consider purchasing the Max 2 if you’re looking for AR glasses for multimedia and gaming, desire a comfortable design, and seek good value. Refrain from buying if you need a comprehensive software ecosystem or productivity-oriented AR glasses. The Max 2 shines in the essentials, providing a robust design, adjustable fit, and outstanding image quality.

Read More
Spotify Ready to Introduce Long-Expected Lossless Audio Functionality

High-quality audio streaming could be forthcoming for Spotify users.

What you need to be aware of

– Lossless audio has been identified in the Spotify app code (v1.2.66) and user interface, suggesting the feature is finally on its way.
– It is anticipated that this feature will be available exclusively to Spotify Premium subscribers and will accommodate high-resolution playback (up to 24-bit/44.1 kHz).
– This advancement corroborates previous reports regarding a “Music Pro” add-on, indicating that Spotify is focusing on high-quality audio.

Spotify has yet to launch lossless streaming, and hints of it date back to 2021. However, if the current indications are to be believed, the feature is poised for a timely release.

The clues emerged via Spicetify’s account on X (as reported by The Verge). It reveals that the newest Spotify version 1.2.66 contains code referencing the lossless capability.

According to the images shared, lossless mode appears in the “Streaming quality” section of audio quality settings on the platform. It notes that using lossless mode will consume up to 1GB of data per hour and will support playback up to 24-bit/44.1 kHz — utilizing FLAC and Widevine. The code also suggests availability on Spotify Connect and the Web Player.

Users should also understand that this feature seems to be limited to Spotify Premium subscribers. The Spicetify post additionally notes a new Enhance Headphones feature that the music platform appears to be developing. However, the exact functionality of this feature has yet to be confirmed.

Anticipation since 2021

The news about the Lossless feature poised for Spotify has circulated since the initial announcement made by the company in 2021. Although progress has been slow, a recent Bloomberg article indicated Spotify’s intentions to introduce a new add-on subscription tier called Music Pro. This tier is designed to be a cost-effective enhancement, likely adding $6 to the current subscription plans.

A key component of the proposed plan, which is expected to debut this year, will include high-quality audio (HiFi) streaming alongside remixing tools, access to concert tickets, and the ability to blend tracks from various artists — supported by AI assistance.

Collectively, the emergence of the Lossless streaming option in the latest Spotify app signifies that the company is intensifying its efforts to deliver premium audio streaming to its users in the near future.

Read More
Fairphone 6 Embraces a Fresh, More Eco-Friendly Design

The eagerly awaited Fairphone 6’s leaked images indicate the company’s dedication to repairability.

What you need to know

– Leaked images showcase a modular design for the Fairphone 6, enabling straightforward component replacement.
– The Fairphone 6 is anticipated to introduce a new design featuring flat edges and a unique neon-themed power button, offered in black, white, and green hues.
– The Fairphone 6 is rumored to debut on June 25th with a starting price of €549, and may include a 6.31-inch pOLED 120Hz display, Snapdragon 7s Gen 3, and a 4415mAh battery.

Fairphone is poised to introduce its sixth eco-friendly device next week. Ahead of the launch, we now have purported images of the device displaying its design and key features.

According to the render images released by Roland Quandt via WinFuture, the supposed Fairphone 6 appears in three color options: black, white, and green. While the color schemes seem reminiscent of the previous model, the actual design of the phone is significantly altered. Regardless of the colors, there is a neon-themed power button, which at first sight resembles past Pixel models, such as the Pixel 3.

We are likely to notice flatter edges, and the protruding camera visor has been replaced with an individually positioned camera system at the rear.

According to the leaked promotional images of the alleged Fairphone 6, it is expected to have a back cover directly below the camera sensors secured with only a few screws. Once unscrewed, users may find it possible to remove the battery, as it is not glued to the device but secured with additional screws.

The report further mentions that a similar method is likely to be used for the cameras, display, and speaker module—all contributing to the sustainability goal that the Fairphone 6 aims to achieve.

The device is expected to launch on June 25 starting at €549, with specifications for the upcoming Android phone comprising a 6.31-inch OLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate, powered by Snapdragon 7s Gen 3, coupled with 8GB of RAM and 256GB of internal storage, which can be further expanded via microSD up to 2TB.

A 4415mAh battery capacity is anticipated to energize the Fairphone 6 with support for 33W fast charging. The camera setup on the phone is likely to feature a 50MP main sensor, a 13MP secondary sensor, and a 32MP front-facing camera. Finally, the Fairphone 6 reportedly holds a Class “A” certification for both reparability and durability, according to EU standards.

Read More
Xiaomi’s Buds 5 Pro: Remarkable Attributes Exceeding Outstanding Audio Performance

These earbuds feature Qualcomm’s XPAN integration, providing significantly improved connectivity.

Xiaomi has repeatedly demonstrated its capability to create earbuds with impressive audio performance and great value, and after testing most of its offerings in this category over the past decade, I generally appreciate the sound tuning and comfort. The Buds 5 Pro maintain this standard, bringing forth a distinctive feature that sets them apart from the competition — Wi-Fi integration.

The Buds 5 Pro utilize Qualcomm’s XPAN mode embedded within the Snapdragon Sound suite, enabling the buds to alternate between Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connectivity while delivering superior music playback quality. This mode supports up to 96kHz/24-bit, and it is exciting to finally witness this technology in action. The standard Buds 5 Pro are priced at £159 ($213) in the U.K., while the Wi-Fi version retails for £189 ($253).

Lightweight construction with rapid charging

Xiaomi succeeded in the design aspects, and the Buds 5 Pro exude a premium quality akin to the finest earbuds. The buds feature elongated stems with metal accents, and the casing has a matte finish. They fit very comfortably; the sound tube does not penetrate excessively into your ear, and the weight is evenly balanced across the shell and the stem.

Even after prolonged usage, I encountered no problems with these earbuds, and at just 5.6g, they are light enough that you often forget you have them on. The case showcases an elegant design with a transparent panel, and the only drawback is the lack of Qi charging — you are confined to USB-C. This is a missed opportunity by Xiaomi, especially considering that even budget models include this feature nowadays, making its absence on earbuds over $200 frustrating.

The earbuds offer IP54 dust and water resistance and sufficiently prevent sweat from entering during workouts. Thankfully, the design ensures they remain secure while running, and this has not posed any issues. Although I’m not usually fond of touch controls on earbuds, the extensive recognition area around the stem allows for accurate gesture activation.

The Buds 5 Pro are equipped with a 64mAh battery, while the case houses a 570mAh battery. I achieved over six and a half hours of music playback on a single charge, along with fast charging that provides two hours of playback from just a 10-minute charge.

The audio performance is exceptional

In terms of sound, the Buds 5 Pro feature a custom 11mm driver paired with a planar driver and dedicated tweeter, resulting in considerably superior sound quality compared to many earbuds. The buds produce engaging bass with satisfying rumble, clear mids that highlight vocals and instruments, and rich treble that extends well without any sibilance.

The bass is not overemphasized, and I discovered that adjusting the EQ to boost the low-end made these earbuds really come alive for most contemporary music. Out of the box, they seem primarily set up for viewing movies and TV shows, but there’s ample opportunity to customize the sound.

On that note, these earbuds excel at noise isolation. I used them consistently for over a month, and they’ve effectively blocked out the humming of the air conditioner as well as the sounds from my mechanical keyboard. Calls were clear as well, featuring environmental noise isolation, making them adept at minimizing wind noise during outdoor calls.

A Xiaomi phone is required to access the extras

Now for the additional features; they offer a 50ms low latency mode and enable spatial audio following a personalized hearing test. You gain access to AptX Lossless codecs, with the standout feature being 96kHz/24-bit audio — it’s refreshing to see Xiaomi exploit Qualcomm’s audio offerings. However, you must utilize a recent Xiaomi phone to access this mode — I tested it using the Xiaomi 15 Ultra — and it reverts to 48kHz/24-bit when paired with devices like the Xiaomi 15.

Spatial audio is exclusive to Xiaomi phones, mirroring a common practice among other brands with their products. Overall, using the Buds 5 Pro with the Xiaomi 15 Ultra has been a thoroughly enjoyable experience, as the combination of sound quality, lossless audio, and excellent connectivity gives these buds a notable advantage. Being within the Xiaomi ecosystem is essential to fully utilize some of the additional features, and for owners of the Xiaomi 15 or 15 Ultra, these earbuds are a highly recommended choice.

With impressive audio performance and unrivaled connectivity, the Buds 5 Pro rank among the top earbuds available today.

Read More
OpenAI and Jony Ive Remove ‘io’ Brand Mentions Following Trademark Legal Action

### OpenAI and Jony Ive: An Evolving Collaboration

OpenAI’s latest revelation of a collaboration with acclaimed designer Jony Ive has taken an unforeseen twist. The tech sector was buzzing with enthusiasm regarding the $6.5 billion agreement focused on creating groundbreaking AI hardware. However, just weeks following the announcement, OpenAI has pulled the initial blog post and the accompanying nine-minute video from its website. This article delves into the events related to this collaboration and the legal hurdles that have surfaced.

#### The Agreement is Still Advancing, Just with Slightly Less Branding

In spite of the withdrawal of promotional content, OpenAI has affirmed that the collaboration with Ive is still moving forward. The choice to remove the materials was prompted by a court order connected to a trademark lawsuit from Iyo, a startup focused on hearing devices that stemmed from Google’s experimental initiatives. As per a statement given to *The Verge*, OpenAI noted that the content was taken down following a complaint regarding their utilization of the title “io.”

OpenAI’s official announcement states:

> “This page is temporarily unavailable due to a court order stemming from a trademark grievance from iyO concerning our application of the name ‘io.’ We disagree with the complaint and are exploring our options.”

In reply, Jony Ive’s team has showcased their resolve to challenge the lawsuit. A representative for Ive remarked:

> “This is a completely unfounded complaint, and we will challenge it vigorously.”

#### The Essence of the Collaboration

The initial agreement, which was revealed earlier this month, entails OpenAI acquiring Ive’s hardware venture, IO Products. This acquisition aims to integrate Ive’s team with OpenAI’s research and engineering departments located in San Francisco. This partnership is regarded as a crucial step toward creating consumer-driven AI devices that emphasize human-centered design.

While the collaboration continues to progress, the future branding of the products remains ambiguous. The legal contention surrounding the “io” name brings up uncertainties as to whether the final products will be launched under that branding.

#### Conclusion

As OpenAI and Jony Ive maneuver through this legal obstacle, the tech world pays close attention. The partnership holds the potential to merge advanced AI technology with innovative design concepts, possibly altering the consumer technology landscape. While the branding may be in a state of uncertainty, the dedication to advancing revolutionary AI hardware persists.

Read More
Netflix Unveils Thrilling Kpop-Inspired Animated Film

What do you obtain when you combine K-pop fame, demon-fighting thrills, and mesmerizing animation? The answer: Netflix’s incredibly entertaining new animated film KPop Demon Hunters, which I viewed on the same day it was released over the weekend — my quick conclusion being that it’s an absolute delight. Even for someone like me, who isn’t particularly knowledgeable about K-pop.

Directed by Maggie Kang and Chris Appelhans, KPop Demon Hunters is produced by the same studio that brought us Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse and Netflix’s The Mitchells vs. The Machines. In other words: Wow, the animation in this film is breathtaking, teeming with vibrant colors and dynamism. And the narrative is equally thrilling, blending breathtaking action sequences with a soundtrack filled with original K-pop hits.

The main characters are a trio of superstar K-pop idols named Rumi, Mira, and Zoey who (in this tale) rule the charts by day and hunt down demons by night. The plot truly escalates when the girls confront their fiercest competition yet: The Saja Boys, a captivating boy band composed of heartthrobs that are also actual demons. I don’t want to reveal too much about the boy band’s intentions, as that would ruin much of the story. However, I will mention that even a K-pop novice like me could recognize all of the movie’s subtle (and not-so-subtle) references to real-world K-pop idols and their passionate fanbases.

In short, this film was undoubtedly crafted by individuals who have a genuine passion for the genre. And speaking of this: It goes without saying that a K-pop movie warrants an engaging, catchy soundtrack. Does this one meet that expectation? K-pop enthusiasts, you decide:

In my view, several tracks featured in KPop Demon Hunters, including hits like “Golden” and “Takedown,” could likely compete on the charts in real life, alongside some industry legends. Additionally, members of the actual K-pop girl group TWICE (Jeongyeon, Jihyo, and Chaeyoung) contribute their voices to a special rendition of “Takedown,” which appears in the movie’s end credits and is currently inspiring a TikTok dance challenge.

“Never a dull song in this whole film,” one fan exclaimed on X. “Absolute cinema. Give me a TV show with 15 seasons and 24-hour episodes, 27 sequels and prequels, and a graphic novel.” I can’t say I disagree with that feeling.

From the emotional journey of a pop diva learning to accept her true self to the stunning anime-style visuals, KPop Demon Hunters is packed with one dazzling spectacle after another — and I had a fantastic time watching it. It was pure escapist entertainment, and you can’t ask for much more than that from an animated feature film.

Read More
Presenting the MacBook Enhancement Initiative: Acquire a MacBook for $33.28 each month.

**Transforming MacBook Ownership: The Emergence of Subscription Services**

With Apple’s newest MacBook models enhancing performance to unprecedented levels, consumers are moving away from the conventional pay-upfront approach. A fresh contender is altering the way Mac users obtain their upcoming device: Upgraded, a subscription service for MacBooks that aims to simplify and make acquiring a new MacBook more affordable.

### The Change in Purchasing Options

For many years, Apple enthusiasts had two main choices: pay a hefty sum upfront or finance through a 12-month plan, often with restricted availability. Yet, a third choice is gaining popularity: Upgraded, which allows users to finance a brand-new MacBook over 36 months with 0% APR, starting at just $33.28/month for the MacBook Air and $52.17/month for the MacBook Pro.

### The Functionality of Upgraded

Upgraded permits users to select any specifications, including custom builds with additional RAM or storage, with monthly payments adjusting accordingly. After making 24 payments, users can either upgrade to the latest model by sending back their old device in a prepaid box or complete the remaining payments to keep it for good. This approach eliminates the inconvenience of selling devices via platforms like Craigslist or Facebook Marketplace, as Upgraded handles returns and ensures secure data removal before refurbishing and reselling devices.

### Financial Adaptability

The initial expense of a MacBook Pro with enhanced specifications can surpass $2,000. Upgraded allows users to avoid locking up substantial cash upfront. Instead, they can invest that money into index funds or high-yield savings accounts, buy accessories to improve their setup, or save for travel and emergencies. This model is especially advantageous for freelancers, entrepreneurs, and students, where cash flow is vital.

John Erik Metcalf, founder and CEO of Upgraded, mentioned, “We want to provide people a way to have the device that empowers them, without the financial strain.”

### Customized for Every User

Upgraded serves both power users and casual fans. Unlike traditional retail options, which frequently restrict buyers to basic models, Upgraded enables users to choose configurations that fit their particular needs, such as increased RAM for multitasking, expanded SSD storage for large files, or faster CPUs for intensive applications. This adaptability guarantees that students and professionals can obtain a machine that will endure throughout their academic or professional journeys without needing frequent replacements.

### Eco-Friendly Practices

Reselling older devices can be a tedious and risky endeavor, often consuming valuable hours. Upgraded simplifies this process by allowing users to select a new MacBook, transfer their data, and return their old device in a prepaid box—making the upgrade seamless and efficient. Furthermore, each returned MacBook is securely wiped, refurbished, and reintroduced into circulation, significantly lowering carbon emissions as reported by Apple’s environmental assessments.

### Supported by Industry Leaders

Upgraded enjoys the backing of prominent figures in the tech world, including Greg Brockman, co-founder and President of OpenAI, and Paul Bucheit, creator of Gmail, along with Y Combinator. With a 4.9-star rating on Trustpilot, Upgraded has already aided thousands of customers in upgrading their Macs affordably.

### Summary

For developers, students, designers, or any Apple aficionado, Upgraded offers a more intelligent method to obtain a MacBook without the upfront financial stress and with a hassle-free upgrade experience. Explore options starting at $33.28/month and see why more individuals are choosing this revolutionary MacBook upgrade plan in 2025. Visit

Read More
Scientists Caution About Possible Adverse Effects of Extracting CO2 from the Ocean

We’re losing the battle to manage climate change, prompting many scientists to seek alternative strategies to address the continually increasing global temperatures. Although we’ve proposed several different approaches, many come with extra complications. Recently, researchers have found that one of the most talked-about methods, marine carbon dioxide removal (mCDR), may actually exacerbate the situation by reducing the oxygen levels in the ocean.

The concept behind mCDR aims to enhance the ability of our oceans to sequester carbon dioxide. At present, our oceans serve as the planet’s largest carbon sink, estimated to absorb about a quarter of anthropogenic CO2 emissions. Consequently, numerous experts believe the ocean could play a pivotal role in reversing the effects of human-induced climate change. However, significant challenges remain.

Our oceans are already under strain due to the persistent alterations in our planet’s environment. For instance, the oxygen levels in the ocean are significantly declining. Moreover, a substantial portion of the ocean is becoming deprived of sunlight, further driving down oxygen levels. With rising ocean temperatures, scientists caution that the deeper layers of our oceans will become considerably less effective at circulating oxygen.

This situation will impact marine ecosystems worldwide, resulting in reduced oxygen levels and diminished marine biodiversity. While we have proposed strategies to curb this warming, what if those initiatives could inadvertently worsen the situation? This is the inquiry that new research published in Environmental Research Letters seeks to address. The research team examined various mCDR techniques and discovered that many of them could indeed have detrimental effects.

We’ve devised multiple strategies to mitigate ocean warming. Though these might prevent sea levels from rising, most would necessitate some level of biomass production, leading to sinking organic matter in the ocean. The researchers caution that this would yield unintended consequences for the ocean’s oxygen levels.

One strategy involves essentially fertilizing the ocean by introducing nutrients like iron to encourage phytoplankton growth, like those depicted in the image above. These blooms can absorb more carbon dioxide. Though these organisms would eventually sink and transport the carbon to the ocean floor, they would also consume oxygen as they decompose. Through simulations, the researchers analyzed the effects of 100 years of ongoing fertilization on ocean oxygen levels.

They discovered that over a century, the ocean could experience a reduction of approximately three percent in its oxygen capacity globally. This figure is more than twice the loss attributed solely to global warming. Furthermore, they found that certain regions beneath the fertilized areas could potentially decline by over 50 micromoles, changes that would surpass the deoxygenation observed under high-emission climate scenarios.

This new research illustrates that while we may propose beneficial ideas for the climate, not all of these will be advantageous for the ocean. Our aim, as humans striving to assist our planet, should be to identify the most effective methods to do so without causing further harm. So far, it appears that the majority of mCDR techniques might do more damage than good in the long term. It seems we need to reevaluate our approach.

Read More
Researchers Uncover Possible Indicators of a Fifth Fundamental Force of Nature

Every activity in our universe is driven by a “natural force.” At present, four primary forces are recognized by scientists: gravity, electromagnetism, weak nuclear force, and strong nuclear force. The last two are often categorized as nuclear forces. However, some researchers theorize that a fifth natural force could be present, with a recent study asserting the discovery of supporting evidence.

A team of scientists hailing from Switzerland, Australia, and Germany posits that this fifth force might be concealed deep within atomic cores. Although the Standard Model of physics has progressed over time to aid in elucidating quantum and cosmic phenomena, significant gaps remain that perplex scientists and physicists alike.

Dark matter is a major enigma, naturally, and even gravity has not been completely unraveled, despite being a fundamental force of nature. The introduction of a fifth natural force, along with additional fields and particles, could significantly enhance our comprehension of the universe. However, gathering the proof that verifies these forces’ existence poses a challenge.

This motivated the researchers involved in the new investigation to begin with a smaller scale. Rather than exploring at a cosmic level, they directed their studies towards atomic phenomena. Their investigation concentrated on the nuclei of four diverse forms of calcium. Typically, electrons are bound by the attraction between their charge and the positively charged particles located at the atom’s center.

However, with a slight push, they can effectively move to a higher orbital state. This occurrence is referred to as atomic transition. The specific timing of this leap is greatly influenced by the nucleus’s configuration, which implies that an element can undergo several atomic transitions depending on the number of neutrons it contains.

The researchers theorize that a fifth natural force could be the underlying factor driving these subtle interactions. Their experiments revealed a minute gap between the atomic transitions — precisely enough space for a particle with a mass estimated between 10 and 10 million electronvolts.

To ascertain if this ambiguity truly represents another force of nature, further experimentation and refined calculations will be necessary.

Read More