Author: sparta

The Leading Design Element of the Pixel is Being Broadly Embraced and It Represents a Favorable Trend

The camera bar is taking the place of raised camera lenses, and it’s certainly overdue.

(Image credit: Nicholas Sutrich / Android Central)
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Smartphone design has experienced notable convergence over the past three years, particularly. Displays and side rails have become almost universally flat across various brands and product lines. Batteries have increased in size. Ultrawide and telephoto cameras are nearly ubiquitous. Even the corners of devices are almost exclusively rounded. Some of these developments are fantastic, while others I could easily do without.

Nevertheless, for far too many years, manufacturers have persisted with unattractive, bothersome protruding lenses, frequently positioned at the top-left of the device. This not only renders the lenses vulnerable to damage if the phone is dropped, but it also causes the phone to sit unevenly. Everyone is aware of how much phones tend to wobble when set on a table, and it can be quite irritating.

However, both the forthcoming iPhone 17 and the Galaxy S26 seem to be embracing

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Utilizing Apple AirPods with an Android Device: Compatibility and Functions

impressive audio performance, robust noise cancellation, and user-friendly ecosystem features. If you’re an Apple enthusiast — possessing devices like an iPhone, iPad, MacBook, and Apple TV — you’re likely aware of how effortlessly your AirPods transition between gadgets.

So, what occurs when you introduce an Android phone or tablet into the mix with AirPods? You might be shown the door. However, if the host is willing to overlook this peculiarity, you may find yourself questioning whether your beloved AirPods will link up with an Android device. Luckily, Apple crafted its earbuds and headphones to be compatible with more than solely Apple’s products.

That being noted, you’ll be foregoing a handful of features and UI shortcuts that are exclusive to iOS or iPadOS users. If that doesn’t hinder your experience too much, here are some guidelines on connecting your Apple AirPods to an Android phone or tablet.

Connecting AirPods to a non-Apple device

Apple Card Unveils Improved Cash Back Rewards for Uber and Uber Eats Customers

### Apple Card Provides Increased Cash Back on Uber and Uber Eats

For a short period, Apple is amplifying its Apple Card benefits by presenting an elevated 5% cash back on transactions made with Uber and Uber Eats. This initiative enables users to gain additional cash back on rides, food deliveries, and beyond, making it an appealing choice for regular users of these platforms.

#### Offer Specifics

The 5% cash back promotion is accessible until September 30th. To benefit from this offer, users need to employ their Apple Card alongside Apple Pay. It’s crucial to remember that using the card number directly will not qualify for the cash back reward. There is a spending limit of $500 for this promotion, meaning users can earn as much as $25 in cash back during the promotional timeframe.

Alongside the cash back incentive, all Apple Cardholders can enroll in a six-month complimentary trial of Uber One, which includes perks like no delivery fees. This initiative commenced earlier this year and further enhances the Apple Card experience.

#### Regular Cash Back Rates

Normally, transactions conducted with Uber and Uber Eats via the Apple Card yield 3% cash back, as these services are included among Apple’s select partner merchants. Additional merchants that qualify for the 3% cash back rate consist of:

– Ace Hardware
– Booking.com
– ChargePoint
– Duane Reade
– Exxon Mobil
– Nike
– Walgreens

#### Other Promotions

Apple is also hosting a separate promotion that offers 5% cash back at selected gas and EV charging locations, valid until September 15th. This contributes to the overall attractiveness of the Apple Card, which typically provides 2% cash back on all purchases made with Apple Pay and 1% when swiping the physical card.

#### Closing Thoughts

This temporary promotion from Apple not only boosts the cash back potential for Apple Card users but also promotes the use of Apple Pay for transactions. With the additional advantage of the Uber One trial, users can optimize their savings while enjoying the ease of rides and food delivery services.

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Galaxy S25 FE Debuts, Google Pixel 10a Information Surfaces, Lenovo Tablet Features IFA, and More Tech News

A summary of the most prominent technology news that captured attention this week.

(Image credit: Brady Snyder / Android Central)
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Weekly News

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Gavin and Stacey Actors to Head New Show on Apple TV+

**Stars of Gavin and Stacey to Develop New Drama for Apple TV+**

The cherished figures from the acclaimed BBC series *Gavin and Stacey*, James Corden and Ruth Jones, are set to launch an exhilarating new project. As reported by the Daily Mail, this duo has finalized a contract with Apple to create, produce, and star in a novel drama series for Apple TV+. Production is anticipated to kick off next year, marking a noteworthy progression in their already remarkable careers.

The forthcoming show is characterized as “overflowing with heart and warmth,” in line with the style of many of Apple’s successful comedic ventures. This new endeavor is expected to connect with viewers, similar to their earlier work on *Gavin and Stacey*, which has sustained a loyal following since its launch.

James Corden, who achieved global recognition as the host of *The Late Late Show* in the United States, holds a well-established connection with Apple TV+. He is famed for his widely popular segment, *Carpool Karaoke*, which is solely available on Apple TV+. Corden’s ties with Apple extend beyond *Carpool Karaoke*, as he has also been involved in various Apple Music promotional campaigns, including a notable instance where he transported Apple CEO Tim Cook to the keynote stage during the iPhone 7 event.

This existing partnership likely played a significant part in Apple obtaining the rights to the new series, coupled with a reported seven-figure offer, illustrating Apple’s financial dedication to the project. Although Apple has yet to officially announce the series order, the excitement around it is steadily increasing.

Corden and Jones share a long-standing history of collaboration in British television, tracing back to prior to Corden’s emergence as a late-night host in the U.S. Their alliance has yielded numerous successful endeavors, and the recent *Gavin and Stacey* Christmas special in 2024 shattered UK viewing records, underscoring their lasting charm.

As fans eagerly await further insights regarding this upcoming drama, the buzz surrounding Corden and Jones’s return to the screen is tangible. Their distinctive combination of humor and genuine storytelling is bound to draw a diverse audience on Apple TV+.

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Leaked CAD Renderings Reveal Distinctive Design of Galaxy S26 Edge

Speculation is rife regarding Samsung’s upcoming Galaxy series, prominently featuring the Galaxy S26 Edge. Leaked CAD images showcase a fresh design that includes squared corners, a flat screen with reduced bezels, and a sizable horizontal camera array. It is believed that this camera array will accommodate components that cannot fit inside the phone’s casing, enabling a sleeker design. The Galaxy S26 Edge is also anticipated to support Qi2 wireless charging, incorporating magnets into the back panel. Samsung may simplify its lineup by discontinuing the S26 Plus, concentrating on the Pro, Edge, and Ultra models. These modifications indicate a major design transformation, potentially inspired by Apple’s iPhone 17.

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Highlights from IFA 2025: Groundbreaking Ideas, Devices, and Fresh Technology Launches Displayed This Year

### IFA 2025: An Exhibition of Tomorrow’s Consumer Technology

IFA 2025 has commenced, highlighting a captivating range of advancements in consumer tech. This year’s exhibition features a mix of functional gadgets and visionary concepts that aim to transform daily interactions. Below is a summary of some of the most fascinating products revealed at the event.

#### Robots for Your Robots

A key innovation at IFA 2025 is the debut of robots designed to aid other robots. These sophisticated machines are crafted to ascend stairs, offering support for robotic aides that may face mobility challenges. This breakthrough underscores the rising trend of automation and robotics in home settings, with the goal of improving efficiency and accessibility.

#### Lawn Mowers That Play Fetch

In a charming twist on conventional lawn maintenance, a novel lawn mower has been introduced that can engage in a game of fetch with your dog. This creative gadget merges practicality with fun, enabling pet owners to maintain their gardens while entertaining their pets with playful activities. This multifunctional device reflects the growing interest in smart home products that serve both pets and their owners.

#### Qi2.2 25W MagSafe Technology

The newest evolution in wireless charging, Qi2.2, has been unveiled, showcasing 25W MagSafe capabilities. This innovation promises quicker and more efficient charging for compatible gadgets, enhancing the experience for users who depend on wireless power solutions. The incorporation of this technology into various devices is poised to significantly simplify the charging routine.

#### Modular Charging Stations

Another thrilling advancement is the launch of modular charging stations. These adaptable units permit users to tailor their charging arrangements to fit their requirements, facilitating simultaneous charging of multiple devices. This adaptability is especially useful in homes filled with various gadgets, ensuring that everything remains charged without the mess of tangled wires.

#### Flagship Headphones

Audio aficionados will rejoice at the new flagship headphones presented at IFA 2025. These headphones offer exceptional sound quality, top-tier noise cancellation features, and comfortable designs, appealing to both casual listeners and serious audiophiles. With a commitment to immersive audio experiences, these headphones are essential for anyone who loves music.

#### Gaming Handhelds

The gaming industry is strongly represented at IFA 2025, featuring several new handheld gaming devices that are creating a buzz. These portable consoles showcase stunning graphics, extensive game libraries, and improved battery life, attracting gamers who prefer mobility without compromising performance. Competition in this market is intensifying, promising thrilling choices for gaming on the move.

#### Gemini Smart TVs

Smart TVs have evolved with the launch of Gemini models, which include state-of-the-art display technology and built-in smart functionalities. These televisions deliver superior picture quality, user-friendly interfaces, and compatibility with a range of streaming services, establishing them as a central entertainment hub in contemporary homes. The emphasis on user experience and connectivity is clear in these new models.

#### New Tablets

Finally, IFA 2025 has witnessed the unveiling of a variety of new tablets that cater to diverse users, from professionals to students. These devices feature powerful processors, high-definition displays, and versatile capabilities, making them perfect for both work and leisure. The progress in tablet technology continues to blur the distinctions between laptops and mobile devices.

### Conclusion

IFA 2025 is shaping up to be a pivotal moment in the consumer tech arena, showcasing innovations that combine functionality with creativity. From robots that aid other robots to intelligent lawn mowers and sophisticated charging systems, the technology of the future appears promising. As these products become available, they are expected to enrich our daily lives in extraordinary ways.

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Personalized Zagg Screen Protectors Ready for Purchase at IFA 2025

Any model, any type — Zagg On Demand is a screen protector device I never realized I needed.

(Image credit: Brady Snyder / Android Central)

Screen protectors are considered essential accessories for Android phones, safeguarding your devices from cracks and scratches. Nevertheless, as a reviewer testing numerous phones and an even larger variety of screen protectors, I find them rather cumbersome. Application can be tricky, they are often out of stock at nearby stores when needed, and may require frequent replacement. There could be a more efficient solution, and I experienced it at the Zagg booth during IFA 2025.

Zagg’s On-Demand InvisibleShield kiosk functions like a custom screen protector vending machine. Simply name almost any device model and select a film variant, such as matte or privacy, and place your order akin to ordering coffee. The Zagg On Demand device holds information for thousands of devices, complete with exact measurements for each.

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“Nothing Hints at Imminent Ear 3 Release, Guarantees Availability ‘Shortly'”

Nothing, the cutting-edge tech firm renowned for its distinctive product designs, has begun to tease its newest entry in the audio series, the “Ear (3).” This announcement was shared on their official X account alongside a close-up photo of what seems to be the charging case for the upcoming earbuds. The teaser, which merely states “Ear (3). Soon,” implies that the official launch may be imminent.

The teaser has ignited interest and conjecture among tech aficionados, with many keenly anticipating additional insights regarding the Ear 3. The company has yet to provide specific details about the features or specifications of the latest earbuds, but excitement is mounting, especially in light of their prior product launches.

Last year, Nothing caught the market off guard with the debut of the Ear Open in September, an open-ear style product that was first detected through Singapore’s IMDA certification database. The release of the Ear Open was unexpected, yet it swiftly attracted attention due to its innovative design and capabilities.

As we approach September, the timing of the Ear 3 teaser corresponds with Nothing’s past launch trends, fueling speculation that the new earbuds may be unveiled this month. The company’s previous earbuds, the Nothing Ear, were launched in April of last year, featuring 11mm dynamic drivers, a 46mAh battery in each earbud, and a 500mAh charging case, delivering a unique audio experience with remarkable bass and sub-bass performance.

With the Ear 3, Nothing is anticipated to expand upon its reputation for providing high-quality audio products with unique designs. While the specifics remain under wraps, the tech community is eager to discover how the Ear 3 will enrich the user experience and what novel features it may bring.

Stay tuned for further updates as Nothing continues to reveal more about the Ear 3 in the weeks ahead.

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