Author: sparta

    • sparta
    • Comments Off on Apple Wallet App Unveils Upgraded ‘Pay Later’ Functionality for Transactions
    Apple Wallet App Unveils Upgraded ‘Pay Later’ Functionality for Transactions

    ### Apple Wallet Improves Pay Later Features

    Since the sudden halt of Apple Pay Later last year, Apple has been consistently incorporating third-party ‘pay later’ services as substitutes. A recent update to the Apple Wallet has made these alternatives more accessible and easier to use.

    In the past, Apple Pay supported third-party ‘pay later’ services like Klarna and Affirm, but the procedure was often concealed and cumbersome. Users needed to choose and configure a pay later option during the Apple Pay checkout process, which required double-pressing the iPhone’s side button to initiate Apple Pay, selecting Other Cards & Pay Later Options, and going through the setup process at the point of purchase.

    The latest update significantly streamlines this process. As noted by Aaron Perris on social media, Apple has rolled out a new menu in the Wallet app. The ‘Pay Later Options’ feature is available to all Wallet app users on iOS 18 or iOS 26. Users can conveniently access this feature by tapping the ‘+’ button located in the upper-right corner of the app.

    This new menu showcases all accessible pay later options, enabling users to finalize the setup process for their selected service before making a purchase. This pre-authorization step boosts convenience and enhances the visibility of these services by incorporating them directly into the Wallet app.

    The timing of this update, aligning with the impending iPhone 17 release, indicates a strategic decision by Apple to elevate user experience and engagement with its payment services.

    As users become accustomed to these modifications, feedback regarding the experience with pay later options in Apple Pay is welcomed.

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    • Comments Off on iPhone 17 Air Anticipated to Cost $200 Extra Compared to the Least Expensive iPhone 16 Plus
    iPhone 17 Air Anticipated to Cost $200 Extra Compared to the Least Expensive iPhone 16 Plus

    iPhone 17 series unveiled on September 9, and now, a timely TrendForce report has disclosed the alleged specifications and pricing for each of the four devices debuting from the event. The analysts present specifications akin to earlier iPhone 17 speculations surrounding this year’s versions. The initial price points are somewhat more unexpected than what other experts have suggested for the iPhone 17 lineup, especially for the iPhone 17 Air, which might retail for $200 above the least expensive iPhone 16 Plus.

    TrendForce anticipates that the ultra-slim iPhone will begin at $1,099, a cost that some buyers of the iPhone 17 Air may find less palatable. The iPhone 17 Air is expected to include a single camera on its rear and a significantly slimmer battery than the $899 iPhone 16 Plus. The Air is speculated to measure 5.5mm in thickness compared to 7.8mm for last year’s Plus model, which also provided users with an additional ultra-wide camera alongside the primary lens.

    Nonetheless, there is some positive news in TrendForce’s analysis, assuming the details are correct. The iPhone 17 Air could come equipped with 256GB of storage and 12GB of RAM. The $899 iPhone 16 Plus includes 128GB of storage and 8GB of RAM. To acquire the 256GB model, you’d need to spend $999, but the RAM remains at 8GB no matter the storage variants. With the inclusion of the A19 chip, the iPhone 17 Air becomes a worthwhile enhancement as manufacturers elevate flagship devices to ensure they are prepared to accommodate AI functionalities for years ahead. Considering these rumored enhancements, the iPhone 17 Air’s starting price of $1,099 is just $100 above its predecessor.

    Price increases for all but one iPhone 17 variant

    <div class="slide-key image-holder gallery-image-holder credit-image

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on Apple Arcade Unleashes Two Significant Titles Incorporating a Common Essential Feature
    Apple Arcade Unleashes Two Significant Titles Incorporating a Common Essential Feature

    Apple Arcade has just unveiled two significant new offerings for its subscribers: NFL Retro Bowl ’26 and Jeopardy! Daily. In conjunction with their debut, an interview with Apple Arcade’s senior director sheds light on the increasing trend of IP-centric games launching.

    ## NFL Retro Bowl ’26 and Jeopardy! Daily are now live, part of a recent influx of IP-driven titles

    Apple Arcade has established a pattern of releasing fresh titles monthly, typically on the same day. For September, today marks that launch day.

    Among the newly released titles, two stand out prominently:

    *NFL Retro Bowl ’26* features a fresh Retro Bowl Championship Leaderboard that enables players to engage in matches corresponding with the 2025 NFL season games.

    *Jeopardy! Daily* is a daily puzzle experience filled with unique clues crafted by the beloved show’s writing team.

    Both titles are designed to attract a wide range of users, yet they share a significant commonality: they are based on well-known existing IP.

    The NFL and Jeopardy, of course, are both immensely recognizable brands and properties.

    This trend has become more apparent with the latest Arcade launches.

    ## The rationale behind Apple Arcade’s increased focus on IP-based games

    In an interview released today by The Verge, Apple Arcade’s senior director Alex Rothman acknowledged the success of IP-driven titles while contending that they aren’t monopolizing the service. Instead, they are part of a strategy to “meet the diverse needs of Apple users.”

    > “We’re not exclusively going all in on IP,” Rothman stated. “It’s a diversified mix, as we cater to a wide player demographic.” While Rothman is aware of the criticisms Arcade has received, he insists that Apple is committed to the Arcade for the long term. “We are genuinely passionate about games,” he remarked. “It’s not just the Arcade team; it resonates throughout the company.”

    The heightened focus on IP is not confined to Apple Arcade, but mirrors broader trends within the industry.

    A notable point from the article is that Apple now “links its partner developers with major IP holders for collaboration chances.” This is how one of Arcade’s biggest hits, Hello Kitty Island Adventure, was created.

    > “I believe *Hello Kitty* presents an intriguing story,” Rothman mentioned. He explained how the indie developer Sunblink initially released a game named *Heroish* on Apple Arcade in 2022. Rothman remarked that *Heroish* was “exceptionally high quality” and considered Sunblink an excellent collaborator to introduce a *Hello Kitty* game to Arcade. “We succeeded in bringing Sunblink together with Sanrio to create something truly unique,” Rothman noted. “Numerous attempts have been made over the years to develop *Hello Kitty* games, none of which succeeded until we paired Sunblink with

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on Google’s Veo 3 Technology Improves Google Photos’ Photo-To-Video Functionality
    Google’s Veo 3 Technology Improves Google Photos’ Photo-To-Video Functionality

    the Google Photos interface a few months back introduced a new “Create” tab that provides users with quick access to innovative AI editing features, including a tool enabling the transformation of photos into videos. On Wednesday, the firm revealed a significant update for Google Photos, integrating support for Veo 3, Google’s premier AI video creation model. Veo 3 will manage photo-to-video transformations within Google Photos, ensuring users receive higher-quality clips than previously available. Initially, the previous Veo 2 video creation model took charge of these animation processes.

    This enhancement is sensible, given that Google initially launched its Veo 3 photo-to-video AI editing feature in Gemini before it made its way to Google Photos. The Gemini functionality utilizes Veo 3 along with a text prompt to animate photos. The photo-to-video option in Google Photos is less intricate than in Gemini. Users can utilize the Create tab to infuse motion into still images, but they do not have the option to enter a text prompt. Instead, they can choose between two selections, “Subtle movement” and “I’m feeling lucky.” The AI then animates the images without providing more detailed control.

    Google clarified in a blog post that users will have a limited allowance of Veo 3 photo-to-video generations daily. Subscribers to Google AI Pro and Google AI Ultra will enjoy higher limits. Furthermore, the Create tab, which is currently accessible to users in the U.S., will also incorporate several additional AI editing functions.

    Additional AI editing features in Google Photos

    <source media="(min-width: 429px)" srcset="https://www.bgr.com/img/gallery/googles-veo

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on Playing YouTube Clips in the Background on Android Without Premium
    Playing YouTube Clips in the Background on Android Without Premium

    One of the primary advantages of a YouTube Premium subscription is the ability to play videos in the background. However, at $14 per month, it can be challenging to rationalize this expense, particularly if other Premium perks are not utilized. If only there were a means to access this functionality without enrolling and incurring another subscription fee.

    Fortunately, Microsoft is currently piloting a novel feature in its Edge browser for Android that could pose a challenge to YouTube’s paywall. This might even encourage Chrome users to migrate to Edge. Recently, a flag was uncovered in Microsoft Edge Canary — the browser’s beta testing channel — that permits users to play videos in the background when utilizing Edge. And here’s the highlight: This capability is not limited to YouTube videos. Any site that hosts an embedded media player stands to benefit from this new Edge flag.

    At this stage, we are still experimenting with the Edge Canary iteration of this feature. This means that you can’t simply launch the standard Edge application; you’ll first need to install Edge Canary on your compatible Android device.

    How to activate background playback in Edge Canary

    <source media="(max-width: 428px)" srcset="https://www.bgr.com/img/gallery/how

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on Samsung Health Broadens Accessibility to Healthcare through Virtual Physician Consultations and Structured Exercise Sessions
    Samsung Health Broadens Accessibility to Healthcare through Virtual Physician Consultations and Structured Exercise Sessions

    **Bringing Appointments, Prescription Monitoring, and a Brand-New Fitness Program, Just a Tap Away**

    Samsung Health is transforming virtual healthcare by unveiling three new features that deliver appointments, prescription monitoring, and fitness programs directly to your fingertips. The Korean OEM has teamed up with health brands to improve user access to virtual healthcare services.

    **Key Features:**

    – **Virtual Doctor Consultations:** Samsung Health launches the Find Care feature, enabling users to connect with virtual doctors for same-day or same-week appointments. This service is in collaboration with HealthTap, offering a convenient alternative to traditional visits.

    – **Prescription Oversight:** Health Records now collaborates with Walgreens, streamlining prescription monitoring. Users can effortlessly manage their medications, review past prescriptions, and keep informed about their health routines right within the app.

    – **Structured Fitness Program:** Samsung Health provides premium fitness content, including guided exercises for various fitness levels. Users can explore high-intensity interval training (HIIT), Pilates, and recovery routines, with videos sorted by trending workouts and seasonal suggestions.

    These enhancements, available from September 8, are designed to ensure effortless access to healthcare and fitness resources, helping users sustain their health and wellness objectives seamlessly.

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on Discounts on Technology: $1,200 Off 8TB M4 Pro Mac Mini, $300 Off MacBook Pro, iPhone 15, Nomad Leather iPad Case, and Additional Offers
    Discounts on Technology: $1,200 Off 8TB M4 Pro Mac Mini, $300 Off MacBook Pro, iPhone 15, Nomad Leather iPad Case, and Additional Offers

    **Remarkable Offers on Apple Products and Accessories: September 2025**

    In this installment of *9to5Toys Lunch Break*, we showcase some of the most substantial price reductions currently available on Apple items and accessories, ideal for tech aficionados aiming to enhance their equipment.

    ### M4 Pro MacBook Pro Discounts

    The M4 Pro MacBook Pro range is experiencing considerable markdowns ahead of the forthcoming Apple event. At present, Amazon is presenting a **$300 price decrease** on the 24GB/512GB M4 Pro MacBook Pro, lowering the price to **$1,699** from its standard price of **$1,999**. This promotion is one of the best we’ve tracked this summer and corresponds with prior holiday price cuts.

    ### iPhone 15 Pro Savings

    As we near the release of the iPhone 17, Amazon is delivering great savings on the previous-generation iPhone models. The **256GB iPhone 15 Pro** is now priced at **$370 off**, available for **$729.55** in Amazon Renewed Premium condition. Originally listed at **$1,099**, this model presents an exceptional chance for those wishing to obtain a top-tier smartphone without the latest price tag.

    ### M4 Pro Mac Mini Deal

    For individuals seeking a robust desktop option, B&H is providing an outstanding deal on the **M4 Pro Mac mini** equipped with **64GB of RAM** and **8TB of storage**, now at **$3,199**—a remarkable **$1,200 off** the regular list price of **$4,300**. This setup is perfect for professionals in need of extensive storage and memory for resource-intensive applications.

    ### Accessory and Charging Offers

    Alongside the hardware promotions, discounts are also available on accessories. Notably, **Nomad** is providing a **20% discount sitewide** for *9to5* readers, applicable to a range of products including Apple Watch bands, MagSafe charging stations, and more. To capitalize on this offer, apply the code **9to520** at checkout.

    ### Conclusion

    With these significant markdowns on Apple items and accessories, now is a prime opportunity to think about upgrading your tech. Whether you’re in the market for a new MacBook Pro, an iPhone, or accessories, these offers present substantial savings that shouldn’t be overlooked.

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    • Comments Off on TCL NXTPAPER 60 Ultra: The Global Pioneer in Phones with Natural Light, Flicker-Free Display
    TCL NXTPAPER 60 Ultra: The Global Pioneer in Phones with Natural Light, Flicker-Free Display

    TCL’s NXTPAPER innovation has captured attention over the years. It was more than just transforming content consumption on Android NXTPAPER tablets into e-paper-like experiences. TCL crafted NXTPAPER displays to enhance eye safety for mobile devices. The firm introduced the technology to smartphones, evolving it throughout the years. NXTPAPER 4.0 signifies TCL’s latest display suite for smartphones and tablets, unveiled at CES 2025 earlier this year. Fast-forward to IFA 2025, now ongoing in Berlin, Germany, and TCL is poised to provide consumers with the NXTPAPER 60 Ultra smartphone, the first device globally featuring a natural light display.

    The NXTPAPER 60 Ultra boasts a Circular Polarized Light (CPL) display that creates the natural light display effect. The company describes that “light waves rotate in a circular motion to mimic natural light,” while retaining “vivid visual details with professional-grade color precision,” and offering “comfortable viewing experiences as natural as gazing at nature.” In other words, the natural light display effect aims to alleviate eye strain. This is one of the seven technologies included in the NXTPAPER 4.0 suite.

    TCL NXTPAPER 4.0 tech features for the NXTPAPER 60 Ultra phone.TCL

    Besides mimicking diffuse natural light, NXTPAPER 4.0 displays also incorporate zero flickering and blue-light mitigation technologies, a matte paper-like texture that minimizes reflections, dim-light eye protection technology for low-light settings, circadian screen comfort that adjusts the warmth and brightness of the display to align with the environment, and a nano-matrix surface that enhances both paper

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on Exposed Data Unveils Bright Orange Color Choice for iPhone 17 Pro
    Exposed Data Unveils Bright Orange Color Choice for iPhone 17 Pro

    ### Expecting the iPhone 17: Thrilling Color Choices and Features

    As the clock ticks down to Apple’s eagerly awaited iPhone 17 event, excitement is rising among tech aficionados and Apple supporters alike. Set for September 9 at Apple Park in Cupertino, California, the event is expected to showcase the newest advancements from the tech behemoth.

    #### Final Leaks and Speculations

    With only five days left before the event, credible sources have started to release last-minute leaks that indicate what consumers might anticipate. Notably, informant Sonny Dickson has shared pictures of what are presumed to be Camera Control buttons for the iPhone 17 hardware. These visuals display a range of colors, including yellow, green, blue, pink, and black. However, the most notable color grabbing attention is a lively orange, reminiscent of the hue used on the Apple Watch Ultra Action button.

    #### A Daring New Color Selection

    The addition of a daring orange shade for the iPhone 17 Pro could signify a major shift from Apple’s conventional color range. Traditionally, Apple has been cautious with its color selections for the Pro line, often favoring more muted shades. If the rumors prove accurate, this vibrant orange could represent the most daring color option yet for an iPhone Pro model, appealing to buyers seeking a unique and striking device.

    #### Community Feedback and Hopes

    As the reveal date draws near, the community is alive with thoughts regarding the possible color options. The idea of a vibrant orange iPhone 17 Pro has ignited conversations among enthusiasts, with many voicing intrigue about how this color will be embraced in the market. The introduction of such a bold shade could draw in a new segment of users who value personalization and distinctiveness in their devices.

    #### Conclusion

    The forthcoming iPhone 17 event is poised to be a pivotal moment for Apple, with the likelihood of introducing groundbreaking features and thrilling color choices. As we await the formal announcement, the tech community stays enthusiastic to see if the speculated vibrant orange iPhone 17 Pro will materialize. Keep an eye out for updates as Apple discloses its latest offerings, and feel free to share your opinions on these possible color options in the comments.

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    An image of a submarine, submersed in a body of water.

    Imaginima/Getty Images

    If you haven’t been living in isolation, you’ve likely heard about the OceanGate submersible that tried to dive to the Titanic in 2023 but didn’t come back. The reality is far more severe than most people understand. Many believe that submersible accidents entail water gradually leaking in, but in the case of an implosion? It’s an entirely different scenario. To illustrate, we experience roughly 15 PSI of pressure at sea level. However, at the depth the Titan was aiming for, nearly 13,000 feet down, the pressure exceeds 6,000 PSI.

    Although submarines are constructed to withstand extreme pressure, they are also exceedingly delicate. Any minor deviation in the manufacturing process, a minuscule layer of fiber that hasn’t properly adhered, or a single bolt subjected to excessive stress – and it’s basically over. With even a minute allowance, water can rush into a submersible at speeds exceeding 1,500 miles per hour. This results in such violent compression of the air inside that it leads to a tremendous release of heat and energy. The hull collapses inwards — akin to crushing an empty can with your hand. As underwater robotics specialist Michael Brannigan remarked to Belfast News Letter at the time, “I’d probably say they didn’t even see it coming.”

    How deep-sea pressure destroys a vessel

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