Author: sparta

    • sparta
    • Comments Off on Current Offers: Save up to $175 on AirPods Pro 3 and M5 iPad Pro, $30 on MagSafe Charger, TechWoven, and Additional Items
    Current Offers: Save up to $175 on AirPods Pro 3 and M5 iPad Pro, $30 on MagSafe Charger, TechWoven, and Additional Items

    **Apple Holiday Promotions: Last-Minute Deals You Can Still Grab**

    As the holiday season nears its peak, numerous shoppers are in search of the finest bargains to place beneath the tree. This year, Apple products take center stage, with a variety of attractive offers still up for grabs. From AirPods to Mac minis, here’s a compilation of the top Apple holiday promotions you can still take advantage of.

    ### AirPods Pro 3: Nearing All-Time Low Prices

    For those in pursuit of premium sound, the AirPods Pro 3 stand out as an exceptional choice. Recently, they were listed at a fantastic price of $199, but even at this moment, you can find them for **$209.99 shipped** at Amazon and Best Buy. This price is simply $10 away from the all-time low, making it an ideal last-minute present. However, shipping durations may vary, and Best Buy currently represents the more reliable option for ensuring delivery by Christmas.

    If you’re searching for a deal that includes a warranty, Best Buy also has an open-box set for **$196.99 shipped**, offering a slightly lower cost while still guaranteeing a dependable purchase.

    ### M4 Mac Mini: Outstanding Value

    The M4 Mac mini has become one of the most appealing value offerings in Apple’s range. At present, you can acquire the base model for **$479 shipped**, matching its Black Friday pricing. This model is especially attractive for individuals establishing a home office or creative area without overspending.

    For those requiring additional storage, the upgraded 16GB/512GB model is up for grabs at **$689 shipped**, delivering substantial savings when contrasted with its list price of $799. This offer stands as one of the best values for a current-generation Mac.

    ### M5 iPad Pro: Discounts Up to $175

    Apple’s newest M5 iPad Pro is also experiencing considerable price reductions this holiday season. With discounts of up to **$175 off**, this tablet is an excellent gift for anyone eager to enhance their tech collection. Amazon currently boasts the best prices across the entire lineup, positioning it as a top spot for holiday shopping.

    ### Apple Watch Series 11: $100 Off

    The Apple Watch Series 11 is another sought-after item this holiday season. Presently, you can locate it for **$299** and **$329**, each at $100 off. While certain colors and models are rapidly selling out, options are still accessible for those who move quickly. Best Buy’s “Get it by Christmas” section is especially beneficial for ensuring prompt delivery.

    ### Conclusion

    As the holiday season comes to a close, these Apple deals offer fantastic opportunities for last-minute shoppers. Whether you’re in search of top-notch earbuds, a powerful Mac, a versatile iPad, or a fashionable smartwatch, there are still remarkable options available. Act swiftly to secure these deals and guarantee your gifts arrive in time for Christmas.

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    • Comments Off on PayPal Pursues US Banking License to Provide Savings Accounts and Loans
    PayPal Pursues US Banking License to Provide Savings Accounts and Loans

    **PayPal’s Initiative to Create a Bank in the U.S.**

    PayPal, a prominent player in the fintech sector, is on the brink of initiating its own banking establishment in the United States. This pivotal development follows the White House’s easing of regulatory requirements, enabling fintech companies to more readily seek banking licenses. In light of this transition, a number of cryptocurrency enterprises have already obtained initial approvals to evolve into banking institutions.

    In December 2025, PayPal revealed that it had filed applications with the Utah Department of Financial Institutions and the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) to form PayPal Bank, a proposed industrial loan company chartered in Utah. This initiative aims to improve access to financial services for small businesses throughout the U.S.

    The envisioned PayPal Bank intends to provide interest-bearing savings accounts to its clientele. The funds generated from these accounts will be used to extend loans to small businesses, tackling a major obstacle that many entrepreneurs encounter: obtaining funding for development and expansion. Alex Chriss, President and CEO of PayPal, highlighted the significance of this program, stating, “Securing capital remains a significant hurdle for small businesses striving to grow and scale.” He asserts that the formation of PayPal Bank will not only enhance PayPal’s business framework but also boost operational effectiveness, ultimately aiding small business advancement and economic prospects nationwide.

    The Financial Times noted that PayPal’s application corresponds with a trend in which various crypto firms and neobanks have aimed to capitalize on the more lenient regulatory landscape fostered during the Trump administration. This receptiveness has encouraged unconventional financial entities to penetrate the regulated banking domain, marking a significant transformation in the financial services landscape.

    Should PayPal’s application be approved, customer deposits will enjoy insurance from the federal government, offering an extra layer of protection for users. Importantly, PayPal already possesses a banking license in Luxembourg, demonstrating its proficiency in the banking arena.

    As PayPal advances its banking goals, it seeks to cultivate a more inclusive financial framework that supports small businesses and stimulates economic development in the U.S.

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    • 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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    • sparta
    • 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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    • 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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