Author: sparta

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    • Comments Off on IDC Reports Decrease in Worldwide Smartphone Sales Attributed to Tariffs
    IDC Reports Decrease in Worldwide Smartphone Sales Attributed to Tariffs

    The global smartphone market is navigating a difficult phase, as underscored by a recent report from IDC, which has adjusted its worldwide smartphone sales projection for 2025 to a mere 0.6% year-over-year increase, totaling 1.24 billion units. This revision arises amid economic challenges, particularly due to U.S. tariffs affecting the electronics industry.

    The report suggests that the smartphone market will persist in experiencing slow growth over the coming five years, with an average growth rate of only 1.4%. Numerous factors contribute to this pattern, including consumers retaining their devices for longer periods and an increasing inclination towards refurbished smartphones, which present a more cost-effective option.

    In spite of ongoing trade conflicts between the U.S. and China, these two countries continue to be the main catalysts for smartphone sales growth. However, the report forecasts a 1.9% decrease in Apple’s sales in China, as Huawei captures more market share.

    The U.S. market is anticipated to grow by 1.9% in 2025, a decrease from a previous projection of 3.3%, attributed to uncertainties and price hikes associated with tariffs. In China, Android smartphone sales are expected to increase by 3% year-over-year, bolstered by government subsidies and discounts.

    The report further emphasizes the possible repercussions of U.S. tariff increases on smartphones, generating uncertainty for manufacturers outside the U.S. Nevertheless, nations such as India and Vietnam are emerging as significant alternatives for smartphone manufacturing.

    In a recent turn of events, judges from the U.S. Court of International Trade have blocked President Trump’s proposed 10% tariffs on imports from major trading partners, ruling that the administration acted beyond its authority. This ruling may offer temporary respite to the smartphone sector, but the long-term perspective remains unclear.

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    • Comments Off on Researchers Uncover Vital Proof of Mars’ Atmospheric Transformations Through the Ages
    Researchers Uncover Vital Proof of Mars’ Atmospheric Transformations Through the Ages

    Researchers have recently collected evidence of the sputtering of Mars’ atmosphere for the first time, a finding that could offer vital insights into the planet’s history and its possible habitability moving forward. It is widely accepted that Mars once possessed a strong atmosphere, allowing for rivers and lakes on its surface. Nevertheless, data explaining the process of how these water bodies dried up has remained hard to find.

    Considering the difficulties in obtaining samples from the Mars Sample Return mission, scientists are looking into alternative approaches to comprehend Mars’ atmospheric changes. By examining nine years of data, researchers have achieved notable progress in this field.

    The information, gathered by NASA’s MAVEN spacecraft since its arrival in Mars’ orbit in 2014, consists of detailed insights into the planet’s atmosphere and its ongoing loss. The researchers have presented their results in *Science Advances*, highlighting the sputtering of ions surrounding the atmosphere, which they consider a key element in the erosion of the Martian atmosphere.

    The study indicates that at altitudes exceeding 350 kilometers (217 miles), the density of argon—an ion utilized to monitor atmospheric sputtering—fluctuates significantly according to the orientation of the solar wind’s electric field. Conversely, lower atmospheric heights exhibit more stable density.

    This finding is a vital component in understanding the historical transformations of Mars’ atmosphere. It also clarifies how sputtering has evolved compared to millions of years ago, when the Sun was younger and more vigorous.

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    • Comments Off on Apple Research Shows Promise for AirPods to Operate as AI Cardiac Monitors
    Apple Research Shows Promise for AirPods to Operate as AI Cardiac Monitors

    The Apple Research team has released a study examining the ability of AI models to estimate heart rates from stethoscope audio recordings, even though they were not specifically designed for this purpose. The results are encouraging, showing that AI can accurately estimate heart rates from recordings of heart sounds, referred to as phonocardiograms.

    This research tested six widely-used foundation models that were trained on audio or speech to assess their heart rate estimation capabilities. Interestingly, these models showed performance levels similar to those of traditional methods that depend on handcrafted audio features. Notably, Apple’s proprietary model, a version of CLAP (Contrastive Language-Audio Pretraining), surpassed the baseline, demonstrating the most effective performance in various assessments.

    The evaluation process used a publicly accessible dataset comprising over 20 hours of labeled hospital heart sounds. Apple segmented these recordings into brief 5-second clips, resulting in around 23,000 heart sound snippets which were utilized to train a neural network for heart rate classification.

    An important finding from the study indicated that larger models did not necessarily provide superior outcomes. In fact, the deeper layers of these models frequently contained less useful information for cardiorespiratory data, suggesting that representations from shallower or mid-layers were more effective.

    The study highlights the importance of merging traditional signal processing methods with cutting-edge AI to improve the reliability of heart rate estimations. The researchers intend to enhance these models for healthcare applications, create lighter versions suitable for low-power devices, and investigate other physiological sounds.

    While the study does not assert clinical claims, it underscores the potential for incorporating these models into Apple devices, including iPhones, Apple Watches, and AirPods, which could leverage in-ear microphones for monitoring heart rates.

    For additional information, the complete paper is accessible on arXiv.

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    • Comments Off on Apple Tops Q1 2025 Sales as Samsung’s Galaxy A Series Demonstrates Robust Performance
    Apple Tops Q1 2025 Sales as Samsung’s Galaxy A Series Demonstrates Robust Performance

    The most recent report showcases the top 10 best-selling smartphones worldwide for the first quarter.

    (Image credit: Samsung)

    Key insights

    • Counterpoint research outlines the leading 10 best-selling smartphones in Q1 2025, with Samsung positioned in the middle tier.
    • At the forefront for Samsung is its latest Galaxy A16 5G, which debuted in January preceding the S25 series.
    • Though the only premium smartphone for Samsung is the Galaxy S25 Ultra (ranked seventh), Apple’s entry-level iPhone 16 secures the top rank.

    As we near mid-year, smartphone analytics for the first quarter have been disclosed.

    Counterpoint research reveals the globe’s 10 “best-selling” smartphones for Q1 2025. The firm’s data indicates that these top 10 devices maintained “consistent” overall global sales in the past quarter. However, Android smartphones occupy only the fifth to ninth positions. Notably, four of the leading Android devices in Q1 are budget Galaxy A series options from Samsung.

    Galaxy A16 5G comes first, closely followed by the Galaxy A06. According to the statistics, the former saw a 17% YoY (year-over-year) increase, likely a result of its North American launch on January 2. This occurred a few weeks ahead of Samsung’s significant flagship announcement, which leads us to the next point of Counterpoint’s research. Specifically, we focus on the Galaxy S25 Ultra, the sole recent flagship from Samsung to enter the top 10 of best-selling smartphones.

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    • Comments Off on Guy Ritchie’s Netflix crime thriller “The Gentlemen” Gets Thrilling News Update
    Guy Ritchie’s Netflix crime thriller “The Gentlemen” Gets Thrilling News Update

    The most suave drug dealers on Netflix are officially resuming operations.

    Filming for Season 2 of The Gentlemen is currently in motion, and Guy Ritchie’s polished crime thriller is gearing up for another sequence of betrayals, dry humor, and elite criminal chaos. And if you thought the inaugural season was filled with vibrant personalities, just wait until you see who’s entering the mix this time:

    At the forefront of the newcomers is none other than Hugh Bonneville, known from Downton Abbey and Paddington, a casting decision that guarantees a delightful blend of refined charm and possible threat, ideally matched to the show’s audacious criminal setting. He joins a cast that features the return of Theo James, Kaya Scodelario, Daniel Ings, Ray Winstone, Joely Richardson, and Vinnie Jones — all of whom are back in their roles from Season 1.

    James, of course, portrays Eddie Horniman — the unwilling aristocrat-turned-crime kingpin — while Scodelario plays Susie Glass, the scene-stealing provisional leader of a criminal organization stepping in for her imprisoned father Bobby. In terms of the storyline, the upcoming season begins a year after the events of Season 1, with Eddie and Susie collaborating within Bobby’s criminal enterprise abroad. However, Bobby seems to be losing his grasp on reality and making erratic choices, prompting Eddie and Susie to determine how best to handle the situation — with care.

    That’s something I’m particularly eager to see in the new season, by the way — the fact that it won’t be limited to elite English estates. As Ritchie noted, the narrative will expand into new locations, including the picturesque Italian lakes. Greater stakes, larger egos, and a bit of a globetrotting extension of the story’s landscape will undoubtedly result in precisely the type of high-energy chaos that fans of The Gentlemen can fully anticipate.

    “I am thrilled to return to the set for Season 2 of The Gentlemen,” Ritchie shared with Netflix’s Tudum. “This chapter experiences a purposeful expansion, both in location and themes, as we travel from the English countryside to the Italian lakes. Eddie and Susie find themselves navigating a progressively unstable empire, as they are attacked on all sides by a wave of mysterious new entrants. The stakes are raised, the power balances are more fragile, and I’m excited to collaborate once again with this outstanding cast and crew.”

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    • Comments Off on Selecting the Ideal iPad: Perspectives from Apple
    Selecting the Ideal iPad: Perspectives from Apple

    # Exploring the iPad Range: An In-Depth Overview

    In recent years, purchasing an [iPad](https://www.amazon.com/stores/Apple/page/45E1434A-FD58-40A7-BC14-A698CD36DF7C/?tag=marcmendes-20) has turned into a rather perplexing endeavor. With several models that feature overlapping attributes and accessories, it’s no longer straightforward to suggest a single iPad for a specific user. Nonetheless, Apple has a clear vision of its iPad range and the intended audience for each model.

    Apple categorizes its four distinct [iPad](https://www.amazon.com/stores/page/203FCFDF-1254-461E-9A68-F8813C0E0A64?tag=marcmendes-20) offerings into: [base iPad](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DZ7871B8/ref=fs_a_ipt2_us4?tag=marcmendes-20) for “everyday tasks,” [iPad mini](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DK3YF38G/?tag=marcmendes-20) for “compact and powerful on the go,” [iPad Air](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DZ74YQ1V/ref=fs_a_ipt2_us3?tag=marcmendes-20&th=1) for “Mac-level performance without the Mac-level weight,” and [iPad Pro](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0D3J6L2ZC/ref=fs_a_ipt2_us1?tag=marcmendes-20) for “no-budget pros.”

    Here’s a brief overview of how Apple markets each device, along with some insights into what Apple truly means (or omits) when advertising its range.

    ## iPad

    > “Adorable. Sketchable. Enchanting.”

    Apple positions the current [11th-generation iPad](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DZ7871B8/ref=fs_a_ipt2_us4?tag=marcmendes-20) as a go-to choice for casual users looking for a vibrant and enjoyable device “for your daily activities,” which… isn’t very informative.

    **Interpretation?** Streaming while lounging, FaceTime with grandmother, schoolwork in Pages, and perhaps the occasional [Apple Pencil](https://www.amazon.com/Apple-Pencil-Generation-Compatibility-Industry-Leading/dp/B0DWTQPTZH/?tag=marcmendes-20) sketch. Plus, it doesn’t include Apple Intelligence support, which some may consider a bonus.

    On its website, Apple emphasizes its full-screen-no-Home-button design, along with compatibility for the Apple Pencil and [Magic Keyboard Folio](https://www.amazon.com/Apple-Magic-Keyboard-Folio-10th-Generation/dp/B0BJLFH8RC/?tag=marcmendes-20&th=1). While this might complicate distinguishing between models, these are definitely advantageous features for those opting for this version.

    **My opinion:** Even without Apple Intelligence support, this remains the optimal, cost-effective choice. The real challenge is storage capacity. At $349, 128 GB has become the norm, but depending on usage, this can fill *quickly*. Opt for 256 GB if possible, or ensure your cloud budget is ready.

    **Technical specifications:** 11” Liquid Retina display with sRGB color and True Tone, A16 chip, 4K 12MP rear camera, landscape 12MP Ultra Wide front camera, [Apple Pencil 1st gen](https://www.amazon.com/Apple-Pencil-Generation-Compatibility-Industry-Leading/dp/B0DWTQPTZH/?tag=marcmendes-20) and [USB-C](https://www.amazon.com/Apple-MUWA3AM-A-Pencil-USB-C/dp/B0CL7J12YK/?tag=marcmendes-20) compatibility, [Magic Keyboard Folio](https://www.amazon.com/Apple-Magic-Keyboard-Folio-10th-Generation/dp/B0BJLFH8RC/?tag=marcmendes-20&th=1) compatibility.

    ## iPad Air

    > “Aerial speed.”

    Starting at $599, Apple advertises the

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    • Comments Off on Cutting-Edge Device Transforms Air into Fuel
    Cutting-Edge Device Transforms Air into Fuel

    In 2022, nearly 30% of greenhouse gas emissions in the U.S. were attributed to transportation. The majority of this emission stemmed from internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles powered by fossil fuels. Despite extensive investment and anticipations, electric vehicles currently represent only 8% of the cars on American roads.

    For numerous drivers, the transition to an electric vehicle remains prohibitively expensive, inconvenient, or unattractive. This is the void that Aircela, a start-up from New York, aims to address.

    Earlier this month, the company presented a functional device that generates actual, usable gasoline utilizing merely air, water, and renewable energy. The unit is comparable in size to a commercial refrigerator. It captures carbon dioxide from the air and transforms it into fuel by merging the gas with water.

    The fuel produced can be directly filled into a standard car’s tank. During a live demonstration, Aircela showcased the machine manufacturing fuel on the spot, illustrating the feasibility of generating gasoline from the atmosphere.

    The system employs a method known as direct air capture, which extracts CO₂ from the environment and combines it with water and clean energy to create gasoline. According to a spokesperson, the device seizes around 10 kilograms of CO₂ daily, yielding one gallon of gasoline each day. It has a capacity of up to 17 gallons at a time.

    While this quantity is insufficient to refuel a car overnight, it represents a commendable beginning. The true potential lies in its scalability. The compact design of the machine allows for widespread deployment in residential areas, gas stations, or industrial environments.

    Furthermore, by utilizing carbon already present in the atmosphere, the emissions produced are virtually neutral. Naturally, the system only functions as a clean alternative if it is powered by renewable electricity. No individual device can independently resolve emissions issues.

    Nonetheless, Aircela’s method may present a feature that many climate solutions lack: alignment with existing lifestyles. Given that advancements in creating lighter, more efficient electric vehicles are still in progress, discovering more sustainable methods to generate gasoline could prove to be a significant advancement.

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    • Comments Off on Future Updates: iOS 26, Apple Eyewear, HomePod Release, and Additional Features
    Future Updates: iOS 26, Apple Eyewear, HomePod Release, and Additional Features

    ### Apple Product Speculations: Essential Insights for the Coming Years

    This article encapsulates the latest speculations regarding Apple’s product introductions and software advancements, underlining the expected progress in the years ahead.

    #### Apple Glasses Aiming for 2026 Release

    The idea of augmented reality (AR) glasses has long been a goal for Apple, closely associated with initiatives like ARKit and Vision Pro. Recent information suggests that Apple is speeding up its development of smart eyewear, aiming for a release by late 2026. These glasses are anticipated to include cameras, microphones, and speakers, allowing for features such as phone calls, music playback, live translations, and navigation through Siri.

    **Takeaways:** The swift advancement of Apple Glasses indicates a tactical move in response to rivals like Meta, and the incorporation of AI technology could position these glasses as a major breakthrough in Apple’s hardware portfolio.

    #### iOS 26 and Comprehensive Apple OS Overhauls

    Apple is said to be organizing sweeping redesigns across its operating systems, including iOS, iPadOS, macOS, tvOS, watchOS, and visionOS, adopting a new naming strategy. Rather than using previous version numbers, Apple will roll out iOS 26, macOS 26, and more, with the goal of achieving increased harmony across platforms.

    **Takeaways:** The rebranding underscores a necessity for clarity in versioning as Apple broadens its ecosystem. The focus on unified design across all operating systems represents a favorable progression for users.

    #### HomePad Arrival Anticipated This Year

    The awaited HomePad device, which was initially forecasted for a spring release, is now expected to debut by year’s end. Reports indicate a favorable outlook for its launch, likely aligning with the holiday shopping period.

    **Takeaways:** A timely introduction of HomePad would bolster Apple’s product range during the holiday season, appealing to consumers in search of smart home solutions.

    #### New ‘Games’ Application for iPhone

    Apple is working on a new gaming-centric application for the iPhone, which will act as a launcher for games and include features from Game Center. This app is projected to enhance the gaming experience on iOS devices.

    **Takeaways:** The launch of a dedicated gaming app signifies Apple’s dedication to refining its gaming ecosystem, potentially leading to a more pronounced emphasis on gaming in the future.

    ### Conclusion

    The speculations regarding Apple’s forthcoming products and software updates paint an exciting picture for the company. With advancements like Apple Glasses, a unified operating system redesign, the anticipated HomePad, and a new gaming app, Apple seems set to significantly enhance its product range. As these developments transpire, they are likely to influence the user experience and strengthen Apple’s standing in the technology market.

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    • Comments Off on Garmin Smartwatch Offered at Unprecedented Low Price Following Memorial Day Sale
    Garmin Smartwatch Offered at Unprecedented Low Price Following Memorial Day Sale

    (Image credit: Michael Hicks / Android Central)

    If you’re searching for an excellent deal on a smartwatch, you might just hit the jackpot, as one of Garmin’s top models is currently discounted for a short time. At present, Amazon and various other stores have slashed the price of the Garmin Venu 3 by $100, which we consider the best Garmin smartwatch thanks to its stunning AMOLED screen, 14-day battery life, and its blend of GPS, heart rate, sleep tracking capabilities, and additional features. This offer is for the 45mm variant, which boasts a 1.4-inch display and weighs approximately 47g.

    For those eyeing another model, Amazon has also quietly introduced several other <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.androidcentral.com/wearables/garmin/amazon-quietly-drops-huge-sale-on-garmin-smartwatches-here-are-the-5-deals-that-matter" data-before-rewrite-localise="https://www.androidcentral

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