Author: sparta

Blender Unveils iPad Pro Application Offering Full Touch and Apple Pencil Compatibility

Blender, the popular open-source 3D design software, is undergoing a redesign tailored for tablet use, beginning with comprehensive support for the iPad Pro. Here’s what to anticipate.

In a comprehensive article on the Blender Developer Blog, Head of Product Dalai Felinto mentions that while tablets have existed for some time, “it is only recently, due to enhanced processing capabilities, that they have started to be utilized as primary computing devices.”

He notes that Blender’s initiative for tablets will eventually encompass “Android and other graphic tablets in the future,” but the initial rollout will kick off with the iPad Pro as they address UX hurdles, which include:

– Single, full-screen window workflow.
– Relatively limited screen space.
– No keyboard/mouse (initially, use should be alternative).
– Multi-input interface (touch + pen).
– Restricted processing power and battery life.
– Isolated file system.

Felinto further states that the company aims to deliver a consistent experience across both desktop and tablets in the long run, but for the time being, the iPad Pro version will concentrate on fundamental object manipulation and sculpting, “followed by Grease Pencil and storyboarding,” taking advantage of the Apple Pencil functionalities.

### Mockups and Demos

To show the progress of Blender’s adaptation for the iPad Pro, Felinto released a pair of videos demonstrating object manipulation and sculpting.

He also mentioned that developers keen on participating in the project can reach out via Blender’s DevTalk Forums or through their Chat website.

Lastly, a tech demonstration of Blender operating on the iPad Pro will be presented at SIGGRAPH 2025 in Vancouver, happening August 10–14. This will be succeeded by a design workshop at Blender HQ in Amsterdam, along with more live demonstrations during Blender Conference 2025, set for September 15–19.

Are you a 3D artist? What are your expectations for Blender on the iPad? Share your thoughts in the comments.

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Evaluating the Cameras of the Galaxy Z Fold 7 in Comparison to the iPhone and S25 Ultra

Where was this a year ago?

(Image credit: Andrew Myrick / Android Central)

One of my primary grievances regarding Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold series since the Fold 4 has been its camera performance. When investing this amount in a smartphone, one anticipates it to rank among the best, which has unfortunately not been the situation. Samsung returned to the drawing board with the Galaxy Fold 7, in several respects, and ultimately replaced the 50MP wide-angle lens with a 200MP sensor.

So, what better approach to determine whether the Galaxy Z Fold 7’s camera truly surpasses others than by making comparisons with multiple smartphones? However, I didn’t select just any devices; specifically, we have the Galaxy Z Fold 6, Pixel 9 Pro Fold, Galaxy S25 Ultra, and iPhone 16 Pro Max.

For the purpose of

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How to Verify Battery Condition on Your Android Device: 2 Techniques

Android device in your pocket. Android serves as Google’s mobile operating system, powering various smartphones such as the Samsung Galaxy and Google Pixel. A common feature among nearly all Android devices is their lithium-ion battery. These batteries provide substantial power and efficiency, but only while they are in good condition. As they age or deteriorate, you may observe your device draining its charge more quickly, requiring additional time to start up, or even experiencing unexpected shutdowns. Thus, monitoring your battery’s health is more crucial than you might realize.

There are two primary methods to assess the battery health of your Android device. You can utilize a dial code to conduct your phone’s diagnostics. Nevertheless, not every device is compatible with this dial code. Alternatively, you can employ either an internal or external application that tracks your phone’s battery health, such as Samsung’s Members application.

Checking battery health using a dial code

Google Pixel Back-to-School Offers: Premium Devices, Wearable Technology, and Additional Products

Deals on top-notch Google technology that cater to students.

(Image credit: Michael Hicks / Android Central)

Whether you’re looking for a new smartphone, wearable device, or a pair of basic earbuds, there’s typically no lack of amazing Google Pixel deals to explore during the back-to-school sale period. I’ve searched extensively online for the finest offers available for Android users, and you can discover a collection of my top picks below.

I’m referring to promotions that provide a complimentary Google Pixel 9a when you add a line with any Unlimited plan at Verizon, or this Walmart

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Instagram Bug Incorrectly Identifies Friends as AI

This situation is significantly affecting the user experience.

(Image credit: Jay Bonggolto / Android Central)

Essential information

  • Android Central’s Namerah Saud-Fatmi highlighted difficulties with Instagram, as the app prevents her from sending messages to friends due to them being characterized as an “AI chat.”
  • Those whom she follows and who follow her back do not show up when she tries to send Reels and other media.
  • Users on Reddit have begun reporting similar difficulties today (July 25); however, another user remarks that they have experienced this issue for the past two days.

Instagram is facing an unusual bug today (July 25), as users express their inability to message their friends for the most peculiar reason.

On Friday afternoon, Android Central’s Namerah Saud-Fatmi faced a strange glitch while trying to send messages to contacts on Instagram. Her report indicated that the app issued the following “error” message: “AI chats aren’t available to everyone yet.” Saud-Fatmi confirmed that the individuals she is attempting to contact are among those she follows and who also follow her back; however, these contacts do not show up correctly when seeking to “share posts or reels.”

Furthermore, her report mentions that “trying to message them from their profiles presents the aforementioned message.” Reinstalling the app appeared to provide a temporary solution.

M5 iPad Pro Will Unveil Four New Features Later This Year

# Apple iPad Pro with M5 Chip: Anticipations for This Fall

Apple is ready to unveil its new iPad Pro devices this fall, showcasing the highly awaited M5 chip alongside various other enhancements. Here’s an in-depth examination of what we can look forward to in this newest iteration.

## Brand New M5 Chip

The launch of the M5 chip marks one of the most consequential upgrades for the upcoming iPad Pro. Following the precedent set by the earlier M4 iPad Pro, it is anticipated that Apple will introduce the M5 chip in an iPad rather than within a Mac. Although specific information regarding the M5 chip’s improvements is not disclosed, users can expect boosts in CPU, GPU, and Neural Engine efficiency, particularly targeting AI functionalities.

## Dual Front-Facing Cameras

The iPad Pro is expected to incorporate dual front-facing cameras, a noteworthy enhancement from last year’s version that featured a single camera located on the landscape side. Reports suggest that Apple intends to add a second camera on the portrait side while keeping the existing landscape camera. This dual-camera arrangement will improve video calling experiences, facilitating better performance in any orientation. It may also introduce innovative features such as Desk View and additional multi-camera functions.

## 16GB RAM

With the M4 iPad Pro, Apple offered a bifurcated RAM configuration: devices with 1TB of storage or higher included 16GB of RAM, while lesser storage configurations were restricted to 8GB. Considering the developments in iPadOS and the rising necessity for RAM due to AI tools, it is projected that the M5 iPad Pro will standardize 16GB of RAM across all variants, promising a smoother and more effective user experience.

## Wi-Fi 7 Support

The latest iPad Pro is likely to include support for Wi-Fi 7, the forefront of wireless technology. While the M4 iPad Pro was confined to Wi-Fi 6E, Apple has already incorporated Wi-Fi 7 into its iPhone 16 range. Wi-Fi 7 offers notable benefits, such as maximum transfer speeds reaching up to 46 Gbps—five times quicker than Wi-Fi 6E. It utilizes broader channels and minimizes interference, enabling concurrent data transmission over various frequencies.

## M5 iPad Pro Features: Conclusion

Although Apple may have some unexpected features planned for the M5 iPad Pro, the enhancements appear to be more of a slight specification upgrade compared to the significant redesigns exhibited in the M4 model. The primary emphasis for users is likely to be the software improvements that accompany iPadOS 26, which aims to optimize the robust hardware features of the new iPad Pro.

For individuals contemplating an upgrade, the mixture of updated hardware and software could provide a strong incentive for acquiring the M5 iPad Pro. As the launch date nears, many are excited to discover how these features will improve the overall user experience.

What new functionalities do you wish to see in the M5 iPad Pro?

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OpenAI Unveils August Launch for Significant GPT-5 Enhancement to ChatGPT

the capabilities of GPT-5, along with captivating hints from OpenAI CEO Sam Altman. These indications point towards an upcoming GPT-5 launch.

Pushing speculation aside, recent reports suggest that OpenAI is indeed preparing the ChatGPT upgrade for August. The Verge and Axios have reported that GPT-5 is expected next month, featuring several thrilling new enhancements, including unlimited access for the ChatGPT Free tier.

Teasers from Sam Altman regarding GPT-5

Apple Set to Introduce Two Fresh Home Products This Autumn: Inside Information

Apple has an exciting array of hardware releases this autumn, with over 15 new items on the horizon. Among these, two standout entries in the Home product category are the updated Apple TV 4K and the HomePod mini 2. Here’s what to look forward to with these forthcoming devices.

## Updated Apple TV 4K

It has been almost three years since Apple unveiled new Apple TV hardware, but that pause is about to conclude. The updated Apple TV 4K is slated for launch this autumn, boasting several rumored enhancements.

The existing model’s A15 Bionic chip is projected to be replaced by either an A18 or A17 Pro chip. This enhancement is likely designed to enable Apple Intelligence functionalities, which demand greater processing power than the current chip can supply. While Apple has yet to disclose particular features for tvOS 26, they may unveil these specifics alongside the refreshed Apple TV 4K model.

Another expected addition is an integrated camera, which would make FaceTime and other video calls possible without the need to use an iPhone as a webcam. Indicators within tvOS 26 imply that this feature is indeed forthcoming.

Furthermore, the new Apple TV will feature Apple’s inaugural in-house Wi-Fi and Bluetooth chip. While this may not appear highly compelling at first glance, it has the potential to substantially improve the efficiency of Apple’s smart home devices, enabling them to collaborate more effectively and synchronize data more smoothly.

## HomePod mini 2

The initial HomePod mini was introduced nearly five years ago, in November 2020, and the HomePod mini 2 is anticipated to be the first hardware update for this device. Information regarding the new iteration is still scarce.

Reports suggest that the HomePod mini 2 will also include Apple’s new in-house Wi-Fi and Bluetooth chip, which could enhance connectivity among devices. A new selection of colors is expected, along with compatibility for more advanced Wi-Fi standards such as Wi-Fi 6E or 7.

A key topic of conjecture is whether the HomePod mini 2 will support Apple Intelligence to boost Siri’s capabilities. The existing model uses an Apple Watch-class S5 SiP, and it’s anticipated that the new variant will incorporate a more sophisticated chip, likely the S9 or S10, to enable these features.

## New Home Products: Conclusion

This year was initially envisioned to be crucial for Apple’s smart home strategy, but delays in the launch of the ‘HomePad’ device have altered those plans. Nevertheless, if Apple can effectively roll out upgrades to the Apple TV 4K and HomePod mini this autumn, followed by the expected HomePod Touch in the spring, it could result in a markedly improved Apple Home ecosystem.

Are you excited about the new Apple TV 4K or HomePod mini 2? Share your thoughts in the comments.

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Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7: Information on S Pen Compatibility

The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 represents the newest entry in Samsung’s foldable smartphone series, presenting numerous enhancements compared to its forerunner, the Galaxy Z Fold 6. A notable alteration is the lack of S Pen compatibility, which has been featured in earlier iterations since the original Fold. This choice to omit the S Pen was largely influenced by the aim to uphold a sleek, ultra-slim design, thereby enhancing the device’s portability and seamlessness.

The Galaxy Z Fold 7 boasts a 6.5-inch exterior display and an 8-inch interior screen when opened. Navigation and input methods encompass swipes, taps, and voice commands, excluding the S Pen. The removal of S Pen support enabled Samsung to engineer a thinner, more robust display with a subtler crease. The device measures 8.99mm when closed and around 4.2mm when opened, positioning it among the most slender foldables on the market.

Adding S Pen support would necessitate a bulkier design to integrate an active layer for stylus usage, which Samsung chose to avoid in order to maintain battery longevity, performance, and a sleek silhouette. While the Galaxy Z Fold 6 supported an S Pen, it did not feature a dedicated slot for it, which would have contributed to the device’s heft.

Although S Pen support is absent, the Galaxy Z Fold 7 shines in entertainment capabilities, including video streaming, web surfing, multitasking, and content creation. Samsung is reportedly investigating the creation of a more compact S Pen for future foldable variants, indicating that stylus functionality may come back in subsequent versions.

Currently, users of the Galaxy Z Fold 7 can depend on touch input and voice commands via Google Gemini for navigation and various tasks. Many users deem the compromise for a slimmer design, enhanced performance, extended battery life, and a larger, unobstructed display to be worthwhile.

The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 is priced at $1,999.99, highlighting its status as a high-end foldable device with state-of-the-art features and design.

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Comparison of Google Pixel 10 and Pixel 8: Assessing the Necessity for an Upgrade

Major transformations are on the horizon for the base-model Pixel this year. Google is set to unveil the Pixel 10, which intends to bring notable enhancements compared to its predecessors. The Pixel 10 will boast a more refined design and improved hardware, featuring the latest 3nm Tensor G5 chipset. This iteration will present a triple-camera layout on the rear, incorporating a telephoto lens for the first time.

Potential customers can anticipate a larger battery and quicker charging capabilities. The Pixel 10 may also be compatible with magnetic Qi2 charging. Nevertheless, some may perceive the design as reminiscent of the Pixel 9, with expectations that the device will be bulkier and heavier than the Pixel 8. The primary camera’s 48MP sensor might be interpreted as a step back from the Pixel 8’s 50MP sensor.

The Pixel 10 is anticipated to be revealed at a Made by Google event on August 20, with pre-orders commencing that same day. The smartphone will probably be offered in four shades: Obsidian, Frost, Indigo, and Limoncello, and is speculated to have a starting price of $799 for the 128GB version.

In contrast, the Pixel 8, which debuted in 2023, remains a formidable option with its 120Hz OLED display and Tensor G3 chipset. It consistently receives Android updates and features a lighter design. However, it does not include the telephoto lens and processing capabilities of the soon-to-be-released Pixel 10.

Ultimately, the choice to upgrade will rely on personal preferences and the importance assigned to the new attributes of the Pixel 10. For individuals content with the Pixel 8’s performance, it may still function effectively as a daily device for the foreseeable future.

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