Author: sparta

    • sparta
    • Comments Off on User-Identified Smart TVs to Steer Clear Of: 4 Affordable Options
    User-Identified Smart TVs to Steer Clear Of: 4 Affordable Options

    fantastic, budget-friendly smart TVs that are available for purchase, of course, but if you’re not well-informed, it’s simple to make a costly error by choosing models that have caused issues for prior customers. No matter the price tag, you shouldn’t acquire a TV now only to have to fix it in the upcoming year, or be compelled to buy a new model because the one you selected malfunctioned.

    In reality, affordable TVs can endure for several years. This is more likely if you steer clear of models that receive low ratings, and those that previous customers advise others against buying. We have searched the web to identify cheap smart TVs that you should definitely avoid, based on user feedback, focusing on quality concerns and durability in particular.

    Panasonic W70 Series

    Panasonic was a powerhouse in the plasma TV industry and, at one time, dominated the category in the U.S. market. After stepping away from the U.S. market for nearly a decade, it made a comeback and has been launching new TVs in the U.S. since 2024. If you’re looking for an economical model from the brand, the W70 series may appear to be an ideal choice, as it is available in multiple screen sizes, starting at 43 inches. The 43-, 50-, and 55-inch versions are quite affordable, priced at under $400 without any discounts.

    All versions feature a 4K LED panel with HDR10+, HDR10, and HLG support, four HDMI ports, including one HDMI 2.1 port for increased bandwidth, and

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    • Comments Off on Amazon’s Kindle App Unveils Generative AI Chatbot for Questions About Book Lore and Characters
    Amazon’s Kindle App Unveils Generative AI Chatbot for Questions About Book Lore and Characters

    **The Feature Gently Circulating on iOS, Leaving Android Users Anticipating Until 2026**

    Amazon is launching a novel AI-driven feature for its Kindle app intended to enrich the reading journey by offering insights into the narratives users are engaging with. This function, named “Ask this book,” serves as a generative AI tool resembling a chatbot, enabling users to inquire about a book’s storyline, characters, and themes without revealing any spoilers. The feature is crafted to maintain readers’ immersion in their books without interrupting their reading experience.

    At present, the “Ask this book” feature is being introduced for iOS users within the United States, while Android users are projected to gain access in 2026. This postponement has left numerous Android users eagerly awaiting the new capability.

    The AI can address a broad array of inquiries, providing information about the storyline, character dynamics, and thematic aspects. Users can select any section of a book to activate the “Ask” button, which initiates a conversation with the AI. Amazon also supplies pre-formulated questions to assist users in getting started promptly.

    Despite the enthusiasm about this feature, there are apprehensions from authors and publishers concerning rights and copyright matters. The AI was launched without the awareness of rightsholders, prompting inquiries about the safeguards Amazon will implement for authors and publishers.

    Alongside “Ask this book,” Amazon is rolling out “Recaps,” a feature designed to give summaries on book series for Kindle and Kindle app users on iOS. This enhancement seeks to assist readers in catching up on their beloved series after intervals between book launches.

    As the Kindle app continues to develop, not every update has been warmly welcomed. Earlier this year, Amazon eliminated the capability to download and transfer Kindle books via USB to PCs, a decision thought to tackle DRM removal concerns. However, this alteration does not impact Kindle app users, who still retain the option to manage or delete books from their devices.

    As Amazon persists in advancing AI functionalities, the company encounters the challenge of balancing technological progress with the rights and apprehensions of authors and publishers.

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on iOS 26.3 Brings New iPhone Wallpaper Category and Enhances Gallery Functions
    iOS 26.3 Brings New iPhone Wallpaper Category and Enhances Gallery Functions

    ### iOS 26.3 Beta 1: Updated Wallpaper Features and Enhancements

    The release of iOS 26.3 beta 1 for developers brings some expected updates along with an exciting new feature: the wallpaper gallery has now introduced a specific Weather section.

    #### Divided Wallpaper Categories: Weather and Astronomy

    In this beta iteration, Apple has split the former ‘Weather & Astronomy’ section into two separate categories: Weather and Astronomy. This adjustment not only streamlines the wallpaper choices but also improves user experience by delivering more distinct options.

    #### Fresh Weather Wallpapers

    In the past, iOS 26.2 included just one Weather wallpaper. Now, with iOS 26.3 beta 1, users have the ability to choose from three unique Weather wallpapers. Each wallpaper showcases live weather conditions for the user’s location, making them not just visually appealing but also practical.

    The new wallpapers feature various fonts and distinct widget arrangements, enabling users to select a design that aligns with their personal style without requiring significant customization.

    #### Future Prospects

    Although the initial beta release is somewhat modest in terms of changes, it is anticipated that more features will surface in upcoming beta iterations after the holiday season. The launch of a dedicated Weather section marks an encouraging beginning, and many are hopeful it signals the start of additional exciting wallpaper features in the iOS 26.3 beta journey.

    As users delve into these new features, it prompts the inquiry of whether they favor Apple’s default wallpapers or their own personalized creations. The improvement in the wallpaper gallery is a move towards offering more tailored options for iPhone users.

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on Google’s Latest Easter Egg Disrupts Online Searches
    Google’s Latest Easter Egg Disrupts Online Searches

    Google Search frequently features references to significant occurrences. The “Pluribus” Google Search Easter egg exemplifies this. As reported by 9to5Google and showcased in the video below, the Google Search “6-7” Easter egg can be triggered by entering “6-7” or “67” into the search bar. Once activated, Google Search will mimic the hand gesture associated with the “6-7” meme — the palms-up weighing motion — by causing the search results to jiggle up and down. The only element absent is the accompanying sound, as Google Search doesn’t vocalize the phrase “six seven.”

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    • Comments Off on Reasons Why Wireless Charging Might Not Be Ideal for You
    Reasons Why Wireless Charging Might Not Be Ideal for You

    A phone and smartwatch on a wireless charger next to a laptop.

    Erstudiostok/Getty Images

    We rely on numerous tech gadgets daily — from smartphones to computers, headphones to smartwatches — making the charging of our devices a habitual task. You might have a tangled web of cords on your desk to power everything you require to get through your day. Naturally, this renders wireless charging as an alternative seem quite attractive. Connecting a single multi-charge unit, or a wireless charging pad, allows for a tidy replenishing of all your gadgets. It appears to be a straightforward solution.

    However, wireless charging may not suit everyone. For power users in particular, it could prove inadequate. Even the quickest wireless charging technologies, with a few exceptions, are typically slower than standard wired charging solutions. Additionally, they still need a cable (to the base), often have a higher cost, and come with limited compatibility. Moreover, using your phone for anything other than passive activities — such as watching videos or making calls — while it charges can be uncomfortable, even if it’s on a stand. Wireless charging serves well for quick boosts, but for consistent, primary charging, wired remains the preferred method.

    Wireless charging generally takes longer than wired charging

    <img class="gallery-image " src="https://allyoucantech.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/reasons-why-wireless-charging-might-not-be-ideal-for-you-2.jpg" data-slide-url="https://www.bgr.com/2048471/wireless-charging

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on Overview of Features Expected for Next Year’s iPhone Fold
    Overview of Features Expected for Next Year’s iPhone Fold

    **The Expected iPhone Fold: What to Expect**

    The flagship iPhone for next year is highly expected to be a folding device known as the iPhone Fold. With ongoing leaks and updates, we have a more defined understanding of its anticipated features.

    ### A Book-Style Design

    The iPhone Fold is forecasted to incorporate a book-style fold, allowing the device to open horizontally into a larger display, akin to an iPad mini. This design differs from the flip-style folding that several other brands have embraced.

    ### An Outer Display Measuring Around 5.25 to 5.5 Inches

    When shut, the iPhone Fold is predicted to showcase an outer display offering functionality resembling current iPhones. Reports indicate that this display is expected to be around 5.25 to 5.5 inches, with the latest estimates tending towards 5.25 inches.

    ### Punch-Hole Camera on the Outer Display

    The outer display will feature a punch-hole camera for selfies, replacing the Dynamic Island functionality found in existing models. This design selection aims to optimize screen space while still maintaining essential camera capabilities.

    ### An Inner Display in the 7.6 to 7.8 Inch Range

    The internal display is anticipated to range from 7.6 to 7.8 inches, slightly smaller than the current iPad mini’s 8.3-inch display. This additional screen size is expected to elevate user experience for multitasking and media engagement.

    ### Under-Display Camera for the Inner Screen

    For the inner display, it’s rumored that Apple will integrate an under-display camera, a technology facilitating a seamless screen experience. While there are challenges with this technology, it is expected to be positively received by users.

    ### Touch ID Integrated into the Side Button

    Due to the challenges of implementing Face ID on both displays, Apple is likely to incorporate Touch ID into the side button of the iPhone Fold, providing a secure and convenient unlocking solution.

    ### A Sturdy Hinge and Creaseless Display

    Among the significant challenges for folding smartphones has been the durability of the hinge and the visibility of creases in the display. Apple is reportedly working on developing a strong hinge mechanism and reducing crease visibility, which has been a notable issue in earlier folding devices.

    ### Rear Cameras Still Uncertain

    Information regarding the rear camera arrangement remains ambiguous. It is presumed that the iPhone Fold will include multiple rear cameras similar to those in the iPhone Pro models, but the high production costs may result in compromises in this aspect.

    ### A Pricing in the $2000-2500 Range

    The expected price for the iPhone Fold is likely to vary from $1,800 to $2,500, with general agreement around $2,000 to $2,500. This pricing positions the device as a premium product, potentially making it a harder sell compared to standard iPhone models.

    ### Will You Purchase One?

    Currently, approximately 100 pre-production models are thought to be in existence, yet the official release is still a way off. Considering the anticipated features and pricing, consumer interest will play a vital role in gauging the iPhone Fold’s success.

    As we wait for further details, the enthusiasm around the iPhone Fold keeps growing, with many eager to see how Apple will advance in the folding smartphone arena.

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on Google Ends Dark Web Tool for Personal Data Verification: Reasons Clarified
    Google Ends Dark Web Tool for Personal Data Verification: Reasons Clarified

    strong, distinctive passwords that are difficult to breach. When an account is compromised, the true ordeal starts. You must safeguard the affected properties, update passwords across numerous applications and websites, and begin monitoring additional sensitive data. Regardless of how promptly you respond, the instant hackers acquire your personal details, whether it’s an email password or your name and address, your information will merge into those expansive databases that malicious entities trade on the dark web, with or without your awareness. This is where a Google service known as dark web report could be useful, as it can alert you to your personal details appearing in data breaches on the dark web. Unfortunately, Google has opted to terminate the service starting February 16, 2026, after determining that the dark web monitoring feature does not meet adequate standards.

    Google communicated via email to dark web report users regarding this alteration, as reported by 9to5Google. The organization also noted the discontinuation of the service in a support document. Both notifications reference the identical timeline. On January 15, dark web report will cease scanning for new findings. A month later, on February 16, the data will be inaccessible to users. All information will be purged.

    Why is Google discontinuing dark web reports?

    <div class="slide-key image-holder gallery-image-holder credit-image-wrap " data-post-url="https://www.bgr.com/2053246/google-discontinued-dark-web-tool-checks-personal-data-why/" data-post-title="Google Discontinued The Dark Web Tool That Checks For Your Personal Data – Here's Why" data-slide-num="1" data

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on Google Search’s Updated Plus Button Signifies Major Progress in AI
    Google Search’s Updated Plus Button Signifies Major Progress in AI

    **Google Quietly Introduces a File Upload Shortcut That Transforms Search Functionality**

    Google has rolled out a subtle yet impactful enhancement to its Search capabilities by incorporating a new plus (+) button in the Search bar. This functionality invites users to interact with AI-driven searches by enabling them to upload images or files directly. Once a file is uploaded, users are smoothly shifted into AI Mode, where Google’s generative models deliver summaries, explanations, or responses based on the file’s content.

    This enhancement is presently being evaluated on desktop browsers, including Incognito mode, with mobile support yet to be launched. The introduction of the plus button streamlines the process of entering AI Mode, making it more prominent and user-friendly. This transition underscores Google’s continued efforts to evolve Search from a keyword-centric tool into a more conversational platform, incorporating features like AI Overviews and independent AI Mode.

    The new functionality aligns with Google’s aim of minimizing the steps necessary to leverage AI capabilities, positioning file uploads as a core feature rather than a concealed option. Although the interface may not straightforwardly indicate AI interaction, uploading a file sparks a conversation with Google’s multimodal chatbot, enriching the search experience.

    For the time being, the feature is accessible to desktop users, who often manage PDFs, documents, and screenshots, offering Google valuable insights into user behavior. The prospective rollout to mobile devices could further weave in camera and image-based searches, in harmony with established user practices.

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    • Comments Off on General Motors Unveils Intentions for Apple Wallet Incorporation Following Confirmation of Car Key Functionality Through Code Discovery
    General Motors Unveils Intentions for Apple Wallet Incorporation Following Confirmation of Car Key Functionality Through Code Discovery

    ### Apple Wallet Digital Car Key Support for General Motors Vehicles

    Recent advancements in automotive technology have led to notable progress in the incorporation of digital solutions, especially with the launch of Apple Wallet’s digital car key feature. General Motors (GM) has verified intentions to endorse this groundbreaking feature, permitting users to save a digital version of their car keys on their iPhones.

    #### Background on Digital Car Keys

    The idea of digital car keys was brought forth by Apple, allowing users to unlock, start, and oversee their vehicles using their smartphones. This feature aims to enhance both convenience and security, facilitating various interaction methods with the vehicle, including passive entry, proximity unlocking, and remote access.

    1. **Passive Entry**: Users can approach their vehicle with their iPhone, which will automatically unlock the door. Upon entering, the car can be started without the need for a physical key. When departing, the car locks itself as the user walks away with their device.

    2. **Proximity**: This approach enables users to lock, unlock, and initiate their vehicle by merely holding their iPhone near the door handle or key reader.

    3. **Remote Access**: Users can remotely lock and unlock their vehicle, along with accessing additional features through their device.

    #### GM’s Confirmation and Future Plans

    Apple had previously revealed that GM would be one of the 13 automotive manufacturers backing the digital car key feature. While specific timelines and supported models were initially vague, recent discoveries in backend code have shown that GM is advancing significantly toward implementation.

    Reports indicate that GM has now officially verified its intention to incorporate Apple Wallet digital car keys, though specific information regarding the launch date and compatible vehicle models has yet to be provided. GM’s lineup includes well-known brands like Chevrolet, Buick, and Cadillac, signifying wide potential for this feature across various vehicle segments.

    #### Implications for Users

    The inclusion of Apple Wallet digital car keys in GM vehicles signifies a transition towards a more connected and user-centric automotive experience. As consumers increasingly demand convenience and technological integration in their vehicles, this feature is expected to attract a tech-savvy demographic.

    Furthermore, this initiative follows GM’s controversial choice to eliminate Apple CarPlay from certain models. To address potential backlash, GM has introduced a new Apple Music app within its infotainment systems, showcasing the company’s commitment to maintaining a connection with Apple users.

    #### Conclusion

    The forthcoming support for Apple Wallet digital car keys in General Motors vehicles represents a major milestone in the advancement of automotive technology. As the automotive sector continues to adopt digital solutions, consumers can anticipate improved convenience and security in their driving experience. With additional details expected in the future, excitement for this feature’s introduction is increasing among both GM and Apple fans.

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    • Comments Off on Top 5 Alternate History Television Series Accessible for Streaming
    Top 5 Alternate History Television Series Accessible for Streaming

    a gripping adaptation of Len Deighton’s novel, portraying a post-war Britain under Nazi control. The narrative intertwines the lives of a detective and the looming threat of German forces, capturing the essence of oppression and rebellion. As the protagonist navigates this perilous landscape, he grapples with loyalty, betrayal, and the struggle for freedom.

    Critics have praised SS-GB for its atmospheric storytelling, strong performances, and meticulous attention to historical detail. The series draws viewers into a dark reimagining of history, offering a haunting glimpse at a world where tyranny prevails. Its intricate plot and complex characters keep audiences engaged, making it a standout entry in the alternate history genre.

    **11.22.63**

    11.22.63 presents a captivating tale: what if you could go back in time to prevent the assassination of President John F. Kennedy? Based on Stephen King’s novel, this series follows a high school teacher who discovers a portal to the past. Tasked with altering history, he faces unexpected challenges and moral dilemmas, underscoring the unpredictable nature of time travel.

    The show is commendably crafted, weaving historical events with personal narratives in a way that is both thrilling and thought-provoking. Viewers are drawn into the weight of the consequences that come with meddling in time, and the series explores themes of destiny versus free will. The attention to period detail transports the audience to the 1960s, making 11.22.63 a compelling watch that offers a fresh perspective on a pivotal moment in American history.

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