Author: sparta

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    • Comments Off on “Highly Rated Family-Friendly Smartphone Still $350 Discounted on Amazon After Holiday Sales”
    “Highly Rated Family-Friendly Smartphone Still $350 Discounted on Amazon After Holiday Sales”

    The Google Pixel 10 Pro XL is an officially recognized large-screen powerhouse.

    (Image credit: Apoorva Bhardwaj / Android Central)

    There are still a few residual Black Friday phone bargains available, featuring a 29% discount on the Google Pixel 10 Pro XL at Amazon. The Pixel 10 Pro XL is our top choice for Android phones among parents, largely owing to its impressive camera array, expansive OLED screen, and significant performance enhancements compared to earlier models. It boasts a main camera, a telephoto, and an ultrawide lens on the back, along with a robust front camera.

    The 10 Pro XL generally lists for $1,200, so being vigilant for promotions like this is certainly advisable. Importantly, this also marks the lowest price ever noted for the device on Amazon, making it a solid option if you’re already seeking something in the higher-end price bracket.

    <div data-image="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/APdDaw44aSpsKffhWU53s9-200-100.jpg" data-link="https://target.georiot.com/Proxy.ashx?tsid

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on Four Apple Devices Anticipated to Debut Next Month
    Four Apple Devices Anticipated to Debut Next Month

    The year is nearing its end, and although Apple still has software launches pending, no new hardware is anticipated until 2026. Nonetheless, there are four new products speculated to be released early in 2026, potentially as soon as January.

    ### MacBook Pro 14-inch and 16-inch with M5 Pro and Max

    This autumn, Apple introduced its new M5 chip across three devices: MacBook Pro, iPad Pro, and Vision Pro. However, the new chip has yet to provide Pro or Max versions, and only the 14-inch MacBook Pro has utilized it. Reports suggest that Apple will roll out 14-inch and 16-inch MacBook Pros featuring M5 Pro and M5 Max early in 2026. Back in January 2023, Apple launched M2 Pro and M2 Max versions of the MacBook Pro, indicating a similar timeframe for the M5 introductions.

    ### New 12.9-inch MacBook

    For several years, analysts have urged Apple to introduce a budget-friendly MacBook to better compete with Chromebooks and more economical PCs. In early 2026, this may finally come to pass. Apple is reportedly gearing up to launch a 12.9-inch MacBook equipped with an iPhone-class A18 Pro chip and available in a range of vibrant colors. The anticipated price is speculated to be $599 or $699, with deliveries expected by mid-Q1 2026, making a late January reveal very plausible.

    ### iPad with A18 chip

    Earlier this year, Apple’s entry-level iPad underwent a spec improvement with an A16 Bionic chip. Early in 2026, the next iPad is expected to debut featuring an A18 chip that will support Apple Intelligence. Not much else is known about the new iPad, but it is expected to maintain the same design, with changes mainly internal.

    ### iPhone 17e

    Apple has another iPhone 17 variant in development, anticipated to launch very early in 2026. This February, Apple introduced a new addition to the iPhone lineup branded as iPhone 16e. Speculation indicates that Apple aims to refresh the ‘e’ model each year. The iPhone 17e will incorporate the same A19 chip as the iPhone 17 and will include the new Center Stage front camera. It’s also rumored to showcase design updates, featuring the Dynamic Island in place of a notch and slimmer bezels. Similar to the iPhone 16e, Apple’s new budget model will likely retail at $599 and feature only a single rear camera.

    ### Wildcards: M5 MacBook Air, M4 iPad Air, new Mac displays

    The four products mentioned above have all been speculated for release very early in 2026. However, several others could also debut in the same timeframe, including the M5 MacBook Air, M4 iPad Air, and new Mac displays. These items are expected to launch between winter and spring, aligning with the previously mentioned releases. For instance, the iPad Air and base iPad both debuted simultaneously earlier this year, and the new Mac displays might arrive alongside the M5 Pro and M5 Max MacBook Pro variants.

    Which early 2026 Apple products are you most excited about? Let us know in the comments.

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    • Comments Off on Chrome Boosts Autofill Efficiency by Leveraging Google Account and Wallet Information
    Chrome Boosts Autofill Efficiency by Leveraging Google Account and Wallet Information

    Google Chrome functionality that can be particularly beneficial during this season. We are engaging in more shopping and travel throughout the holidays than at any other period, which results in increased time spent on computers and mobile devices for online purchases and trip arrangements. These tasks come with their own set of frustrations. We need to re-enter the same details repeatedly, whether it’s payment information, shipping locations, or travel pass information. This is the challenge Chrome seeks to address by working with Google Account and Google Wallet data to enhance the autofill experience considerably.

    Google Chrome autofill suggestion on desktop.Google

    The integration with Google Account enables the Chrome browser to securely retrieve data from your account, including your name and email, when signing up for new services or logging in. This same Google Account information allows Chrome to display your Home and Work addresses that you may wish to utilize while shopping online this festive season. A single click empowers you to autofill the necessary details and finish your shopping experience more swiftly than ever, provided you are using Chrome while logged into your Google Account. This new feature will be accessible on desktop, Android, and iPhone.

    What about loyalty card IDs and travel information?

    <source media="(min-width: 429px)" srcset="https://www.bgr.com/img/gallery/chrome-can-use-google-account-and-wallet-data-to-speed-up-autofill/what-about-loyal

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on Marvel Actors Evaluated for Jake Sully Character in James Cameron’s Avatar Movies
    Marvel Actors Evaluated for Jake Sully Character in James Cameron’s Avatar Movies

    Jake Sully (Sam Worthington) in war paint in Avatar: The Way of Water

    20th Century Studios

    It’s widely known that Matt Damon is recognized as the individual who declined both a share and the lead role in James Cameron’s “Avatar” films. He shouldn’t be too disappointed, however, as he wasn’t the only one who lost the chance to travel to Pandora. Prior to Sam Worthington taking on the character of Na’vi convert Jake Sully, two equally intriguing stars were considered for donning blue CGI skin.

    During a discussion on the Empire podcast, Cameron disclosed that MCU stars Chris Evans, aka Steve Rogers, and the present Gambit, Channing Tatum, were both approached for the role before the director made his final decision. “Chris Evans, and Sam, and Channing Tatum. That was my choice,” Cameron reminisced. “I genuinely appreciated Channing’s charm. I liked Chris’ appeal. They were both exceptional guys. But Sam possessed a distinctive voice quality and a certain intensity.” This casting decision resulted in Sam Worthington featuring in three of Cameron’s fantastical adventures since 2009, culminating in “Avatar: Fire and Ash,” set for release on December 19, 2025.

    According to Cameron, it only required one pivotal moment in the initial film to confirm his leading man and prove that Worthington was prepared to lead the Na’vi into warfare. After all, embarking on a war requires an electrifying speech, and Worthington accomplished it flawlessly on his first attempt.

    How Worthington secured his Avatar role

    <source media="(min-width: 429px)" srcset="https://www.bgr.com/img/gallery/two-marvel-stars-nearly-played-jake-sully-in-james-camerons-avatar-m…

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on The Emergence of Smart TVs as Possible Substitutes for Streaming Devices
    The Emergence of Smart TVs as Possible Substitutes for Streaming Devices

    many prominent smart TV manufacturers possess their own exclusive streaming platforms that enable you to download apps and begin streaming from your favorite services immediately upon setup. There is no requirement to install or attach an additional streaming device.

    If you have the means to create your own library, there are several alternatives that can substitute those streaming devices. The first option is to operate your own Plex Media Server. Alternatively, you might explore Jellyfin if Plex does not suit your preferences. Another option is to set up a local NAS server for media streaming, which essentially allows you to take a hard drive filled with your favorite media and share it across your local network, or even remotely for streaming outside your network. As users increasingly favor these alternatives, the necessity for a dedicated streaming device is expected to diminish.

    Which trend is ideal for you: Smart TV software

    <img class="gallery-image" src="https://www.bgr.com

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on X Unveils ‘Clear’ Location Tags for Accounts, Igniting Extensive Examination
    X Unveils ‘Clear’ Location Tags for Accounts, Igniting Extensive Examination

    **Illuminating Deceptive Online Personas: The Significance of Location Tags**

    In an effort to address false information and bot activities, X (previously Twitter) has implemented location tags on account profiles. This functionality is designed to disclose the geographic origin of user accounts, fostering transparency regarding their locations. Nevertheless, the launch has faced its share of obstacles and debates.

    **Key Insights:**
    – X has rolled out location tags to assist users in identifying where accounts originate, especially in the fight against misinformation and automated accounts.
    – The tagging process has uncovered that several accounts, particularly those participating in political discussions, are operating from countries outside the U.S. despite their claims.
    – Specialists caution that this move is part of an ongoing “cat-and-mouse” game between technology firms and individuals aiming to distort information.

    **Obstacles and Debates:**
    Following the feature’s launch, users soon discovered errors in the location tags. Some accounts that seemed to be based in the U.S. were found to be functioning from various other nations. This inconsistency has sparked worries about the dependability of the tool and its potential to inadvertently create opportunities for manipulation.

    **The Influence of VPNs:**
    The use of VPNs further complicates matters, as they enable individuals to disguise their real location, which could reduce the efficacy of location tags.

    **Effects on Political Dialogue:**
    The discovery that several political accounts are not based in the U.S. has ignited discussions regarding the genuineness of online political interactions. This facet of the feature is meant to assist users in determining whether the political information they engage with is authentically American.

    **Insights from Experts:**
    Technology analysts, including Lance Ulanoff, have voiced doubts about the feature’s capability to markedly diminish bot activity or misinformation. They contend that while it has sparked essential dialogues, its real-world efficacy could be limited.

    **Continual Efforts and Future Outlook:**
    X is actively seeking to refine the accuracy of location tags, recognizing the necessity for regular updates to amend any inaccuracies. In spite of the issues, the feature has seen widespread use, reflecting a public interest in uncovering the origins of online accounts.

    In summary, while location tags on X offer a chance to improve transparency and fight misinformation, their effectiveness remains under examination. The persistent struggle against false information and bot actions continues to be intricate, necessitating ongoing adaptation and innovation from technology companies.

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on T-Mobile Prepaid Presents Holiday Promotion: Two Unlimited Lines for $75/Month
    T-Mobile Prepaid Presents Holiday Promotion: Two Unlimited Lines for $75/Month

    Enjoy significant wireless savings this festive season.

    (Image credit: Android Central)

    While many are busy shopping for gifts, there’s another kind of holiday sale you shouldn’t overlook: offers from your wireless provider. For example, T-Mobile Prepaid is currently offering a deal that enables you to obtain two lines of Unlimited service for just $75 each month. Given that a single line typically costs $55 per month, the potential savings here can be substantial. Plus, T-Mobile proudly states that it’s 25% less expensive than AT&T Prepaid.

    Alternatively, if you opt for four lines on the 10GB plan, it will only be $100 per month while this holiday offer is active. That breaks down to just 25 dollars per line! A variety of prepaid providers roll out special promotions during this season, but it’s rare to find a wireless deal that accommodates the entire family.

    T-Mobile Prepaid’s holiday deal is ongoing

    <div data-image="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/LyeCMKb3jYui876qcYpcrN-200-100.jpg" data-link="https://www.prf.hn/click/camref:1011l4gJeA

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on Report: Tony Fadell, Co-Inventor of iPod, Surfaces as Possible Contender for Apple CEO Role
    Report: Tony Fadell, Co-Inventor of iPod, Surfaces as Possible Contender for Apple CEO Role

    ### New Report Provides Insight into Potential Successors for Apple CEO

    As discussions heat up regarding Tim Cook’s future retirement from his position as CEO of Apple, a new report explores possible successors, spotlighting various candidates and the underlying dynamics within the organization. The report, written by Aaron Tilley and Wayne Ma for *The Information*, examines the ramifications of recent changes in leadership at Apple, including the exits of key executives such as John Giannandrea, Alan Dye, Lisa Jackson, and Katherine Adams.

    #### The Succession Scenario

    The changes in Apple’s executive team have sparked intensified conversations about Cook’s future. Among the mentioned candidates, one particularly notable figure is Tony Fadell, a previous Apple hardware executive and co-creator of the iPod. As per sources, Fadell has shown interest in the CEO role, suggesting he would consider a return to Apple. Nonetheless, views on his candidacy vary, with some insiders considering him a divisive figure due to his earlier time at the company, which concluded in 2010.

    Fadell’s advocates argue that his entrepreneurial drive and background—especially as the co-founder of Nest, sold to Google for $3.2 billion—could introduce a refreshing approach to Apple. They assert that a shift in leadership could be advantageous for the company, particularly from someone with a strong vision for products.

    #### Other Possible Contenders

    While Fadell’s name stands out, the report also identifies John Ternus, Apple’s current hardware lead, as a leading candidate for the CEO position. However, there are doubts regarding Ternus’s preparedness for such a prominent role, leading some to contemplate that an announcement about succession may not be on the immediate horizon.

    #### Reactions from the Industry

    The speculation regarding Apple’s leadership change mirrors broader apprehensions about the company’s trajectory amidst considerable executive departures. Analysts and industry watchers are closely monitoring who will ultimately take over for Cook, especially considering the hurdles Apple faces in preserving its innovative prowess.

    Despite the excitement, some commentators, including those from 9to5Mac, voice skepticism regarding the thoroughness of the report’s findings. They highlight that much of the speculation surrounding Fadell is anchored in informal conversations rather than solid proof from within Apple, making it challenging to evaluate the practicality of his candidacy.

    ### Conclusion

    As Apple traverses a period of considerable transformation, dialogue about its forthcoming CEO is likely to heat up. The possible return of Tony Fadell introduces an intriguing element to the story, but until more concrete information surfaces, the company’s future leadership remains ambiguous. The tech community will be attentive as events develop in the upcoming months.

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on Upcoming ChatGPT Update Anticipated Following ‘Code Red’ Announcement
    Upcoming ChatGPT Update Anticipated Following ‘Code Red’ Announcement

    **OpenAI’s Reaction to Google’s Gemini: Anticipating the GPT-5.2 Update**

    In a swiftly changing environment of generative AI, OpenAI has recently positioned itself as a competitor following the debut of Google’s Gemini generative AI model. Reports suggest that OpenAI has issued a “code red” in reaction to this rivalry, leading to an expedited schedule for the launch of its next significant update, GPT-5.2.

    ### Overview of OpenAI’s Model Enhancements

    OpenAI’s progress with its generative AI models has experienced notable growth over the last few months. The company introduced GPT-5 on August 7, 2025, featuring enhancements that optimized user experience by efficiently directing queries to different sub-models, facilitating quicker responses or more detailed answers. Merely three months following that, on November 12, OpenAI unveiled GPT-5.1, characterized as a “warmer, more intelligent” version.

    ### Expectation for GPT-5.2

    The forthcoming GPT-5.2 update is anticipated to be released on December 9, 2025, merely a week away. Sources acquainted with OpenAI’s intentions indicate that this update is crafted to directly address the capabilities presented by Google’s Gemini 3, which has received notable attention for its remarkable performance and accolades from industry figures, including Sam Altman and Elon Musk.

    ### Emphasis of the Update

    According to sources, GPT-5.2 will emphasize enhancements in “speed, reliability, and customizability” instead of launching numerous new features. This targeted approach aims to bridge the performance divide that Gemini 3 has established within the competitive AI arena.

    ### Latest Features and Enhancements

    Alongside the impending update, OpenAI has been proactive in refining its current model. Recent features encompass the introduction of group ChatGPT sessions and the integration of text and voice modes, allowing users to transition effortlessly between varied interaction styles. These advancements illustrate OpenAI’s dedication to continuously adapting its offerings to fulfill user requirements.

    ### Final Thoughts

    As OpenAI gears up to unveil GPT-5.2, the AI community is keenly observing how this update will compare against Google’s Gemini 3. With an emphasis on boosting speed, reliability, and customizability, OpenAI strives to strengthen its foothold in the generative AI domain and effectively address the challenges posed by its rivals.

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on iPhone 17’s Cheapest Variant Encounters Shortage, Surpassing Pro Max in Popularity
    iPhone 17’s Cheapest Variant Encounters Shortage, Surpassing Pro Max in Popularity

    **iPhone 17 Out of Stock: Most Affordable Model Now Scarcer Than Pro Max**

    As we enter the first week of December, an unprecedented event in iPhone history is unfolding. The iPhone 17 remains sold out across the U.S. and several critical international markets, particularly the standard iPhone 17 model. The iPhone 17 Pro Max is now more accessible than the standard iPhone 17 in various regions, including the U.S. This is atypical for Apple’s latest iPhones, where typically the Pro and Pro Max versions are the first to sell out and most likely to face inventory issues during the December quarter.

    This year, the base iPhone 17 marks a significant triumph for Apple. As highlighted below, customers are facing delivery wait times of three to seven business days for the iPhone 17. The iPhone 17 Pro Max is available in several markets, although select storage configurations might be out of stock. The iPhone 17 Pro and iPhone Air do not show any shortages in the markets we surveyed on Friday.

    BGR has been monitoring iPhone 17 delivery schedules since the preorder phase commenced. Each Friday, barring Black Friday, we have provided the shipping estimates for the four new iPhone models based on insights gathered from Apple’s online stores in the U.S., Canada, U.K., France, Switzerland, Germany, Ireland, China, and Japan. The method is consistent across all markets. We replicate the process of placing an order on Apple’s online store for each of the four iPhone models. We assess all color and storage configurations for each variant, and Apple’s system generates a shipping estimate.

    **Availability Improves for All iPhone 17 Variants**

    The stock information from this week indicates that Apple has been addressing iPhone 17 demand. Shipping projections for the iPhone 17 Pro Max have shown improvement since two weeks ago. Even in the U.S., the 256GB, 512GB, and 2TB versions are readily available. Notably, the 1TB model is experiencing a wait time of 3-5 days in North America, increasing to 7-10 days in China. The figures below illustrate the varying shipping estimates visible on Apple.com according to the iPhone 17 Pro Max storage choice made.

    For the base iPhone 17, shipping estimates have enhanced in North America and China, yet stock limitations have resurfaced in other regions. Currently, both storage configurations (256GB and 512GB) in all five color selections are sold out in the markets we monitor. Shipping timelines are 3-5 business days for Europe and Asia and 5-7 business days for North America. Interestingly, the iPhone 17 is once again sold out in Japan, a market where the device was available two weeks prior:

    – **iPhone 17 Pro Max**: 3-5 business days (U.S. – 1TB model Canada – 1TB/2TB model), 3-5 to 7-10 business days (China – 1TB model) in stock (U.S.*, Canada*, U.K., France, Switzerland, Germany, Ireland, China*, Japan)
    – **iPhone 17 Pro**: in stock (U.S., Canada, U.K., France, Switzerland, Germany, Ireland, Japan)
    – **iPhone 17**: 3-5 business days (U.K., France, Switzerland, Germany, Ireland, China, Japan), 5-7 business days (U.S., Canada)
    – **iPhone Air**: in stock (U.S., Canada, U.K., France, Switzerland, Germany, Ireland, China, Japan)

    An IDC report released earlier this week highlighted that the iPhone 17 series will contribute to a record quarter and year for Apple. Additionally, the iPhone 17 has supported the overall smartphone market in surpassing growth anticipations. Our assessments indicate that demand for the iPhone 17 continues to be robust in December.

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