Author: sparta

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    • Comments Off on 10 Unexpectedly Handy Devices for Your Bathroom
    10 Unexpectedly Handy Devices for Your Bathroom

    Raspberry Pi initiatives to enhance your smart home experience. For others, taking a simpler path might be a wiser choice.

    We’ve identified 10 various gadgets that can enhance your bathroom with useful improvements. These devices either augment items you may already possess or frequently utilize. They range from boosting your dental care routine to simplifying your post-shower preparation. Even if your bathroom time is minimal, discovering methods to streamline your routine while you are there is beneficial.

    Renpho Smart Scale

    If you’re seeking an easy-to-use device to monitor your health, a smart scale is a dependable choice. The Renpho Smart Scale is a popular option highly endorsed by numerous users. It pairs with your smartphone via an app, offering detailed insights beyond just your weight. It also integrates with several other wearables and apps that you might already have, like Samsung Health, Fitbit, or Apple Health. The Renpho Smart Scale is currently priced at $21.99 on Amazon and boasts a 4.6-star rating based

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    • Comments Off on “Unboxing and Hands-On Video of the Galaxy Z TriFold Unveils Features and Contents”
    “Unboxing and Hands-On Video of the Galaxy Z TriFold Unveils Features and Contents”

    The Galaxy Z TriFold has made its debut, showcasing its folding mechanism, software functionality, and additional features.

    (Image credit: Samsung)

    Key points to note

    • The Galaxy Z TriFold by Samsung has been officially announced, with a preliminary hands-on video demonstrating its capabilities.
    • This foldable device is packaged in a sizable box that includes a 45 W charger, a slim case, a USB-C cable, and the device in its unfolded state.
    • The Z TriFold boasts a 10.1-inch screen, weighs 309 grams, features a U-shaped fold design, and supports standalone Samsung DeX functionality.

    Notice

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    • Comments Off on Android Brings Back Enhanced QR Scanner Interface Following Initial Removal
    Android Brings Back Enhanced QR Scanner Interface Following Initial Removal

    The updated UI offers faster access to Flash, file selector, and feedback features.

    (Image credit: Sanuj Bhatia / Android Central)

    Essential information

    • Google is reinstating the revamped Android QR scanner UI after a brief pause in the rollout.
    • The updated QR scanner is available through Google Play Services 25.46.32, though numerous users have yet to receive it.
    • The refreshed UI consolidates flash, file selection, and feedback tools into a pill-shaped interface for improved single-handed operation.

    Notice

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    • Comments Off on Upcoming One UI 8 Watch Update for Users of Galaxy Watch 5 and 5 Pro
    Upcoming One UI 8 Watch Update for Users of Galaxy Watch 5 and 5 Pro

    Here’s what you can anticipate from this update.

    What you should be aware of:
    – One UI 8 Watch was introduced with the Samsung Galaxy Watch 8 series and has since expanded to the Galaxy Watch 6 and Galaxy Watch 7 families.
    – The Galaxy Watch 5 series is the next recipient, as the One UI 8 Watch beta initiative concluded on Dec. 1 for those devices.
    – The public rollout of One UI 8 Watch for the Samsung Galaxy Watch 5 and Galaxy Watch 5 Pro is expected shortly.

    Wear OS 6 introduced numerous new capabilities and enhanced performance to smartwatches this summer, yet some older Samsung watches are still awaiting the upgrade. One UI 8 Watch initially appeared on the Samsung Galaxy Watch 8 series and has since made its way to Galaxy Watch 7 and Galaxy Watch 6. According to a report from SamMobile, it seems that One UI 8 Watch will soon be available for even older Samsung Galaxy Watch models.

    A few months back, Samsung initiated a beta program in the U.S. and Korea for testing One UI 8 Watch on the Galaxy Watch 5 and Galaxy Watch 5 Pro. This beta program has just wrapped up as of Dec. 1, based on discussions in Samsung’s community forums. This indicates that the Wear OS 6-based update is very close to being available for the Galaxy Watch 5 and Galaxy Watch 5 Pro.

    For instance, owners of Galaxy Watch 6 and Galaxy Watch 6 Classic began receiving the One UI 8 Watch update merely hours after the conclusion of the beta program, as detailed in SamMobile’s report. Typically, the updates are released regionally, with varying schedules for different models. Participants in the One UI 8 Watch beta will automatically be upgraded to the public release version.

    If Samsung’s typical release trend remains consistent, users of Galaxy Watch 5 and Galaxy Watch 5 Pro can look forward to the stable One UI 8 Watch update rolling out in the next few days or weeks, following the end of the beta program.

    One UI 8 Watch represents a significant upgrade that incorporates all of Google’s Wear OS 6 enhancements alongside Samsung exclusives. Bedtime Guidance, Antioxidant Index, and the Now Bar are among the key new features. Additionally, Samsung’s Running Coach—an AI-driven running analysis tool that was initially introduced on newer watches—will also be available for older models.

    When the update becomes available for your watch model, you can install it by going to Watch settings > Watch software update > Download and install.

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    • Comments Off on Apple Music Unveils the Year’s Top 5 Most Frequently Played Tracks Along with Extra Insights
    Apple Music Unveils the Year’s Top 5 Most Frequently Played Tracks Along with Extra Insights

    ### Apple Music Replay 2025: A Year in Review

    Apple Music has officially rolled out its yearly recap for 2025, giving users a tailored overview of their listening habits from the past twelve months. This edition not only emphasizes unique listening behaviors but also presents the most played tracks globally, offering a glimpse into the musical trends that characterized the year.

    #### Global Top Songs of 2025

    As part of the Apple Music Replay 2025 announcement, Apple has revealed the top five most adored songs on its platform worldwide:

    1. **ROSÉ & Bruno Mars – “APT.”**
    2. **Kendrick Lamar & SZA – “luther”**
    3. **Lady Gaga & Bruno Mars – “Die With A Smile”**
    4. **Kendrick Lamar – “Not Like Us”**
    5. **Billie Eilish – “BIRDS OF A FEATHER”**

    For those keen on further exploration, a full list of the top 100 tracks is available in a dedicated playlist on Apple Music.

    #### Understanding the Charts

    Apple’s year-end charts monitor plays from November 1, 2024, to October 31, 2025. This timeframe means songs released late in the year, such as Taylor Swift’s “The Life of a Showgirl,” had a limited opportunity to gather plays.

    Alongside the global top songs, Apple Music has compiled top 100 playlists for different regions, including the USA, as well as popular Shazam tracks and the most searched lyrics of the year.

    #### Notable Highlights from 2025

    Apple Music also reported some intriguing statistics from the year:

    – **KPop Demon Hunters**’s song “Golden” achieved an impressive milestone by holding the #1 spot on the Daily Top 100 for 70 consecutive days, setting the record for the longest run in the top position.
    – **Morgan Wallen** made a significant mark with 12 tracks in the Top 100, more than any other artist, with “I’m The Problem” landing at #18 overall and #4 on the USA charts.

    #### Subscription Information

    Apple Music is priced at $10.99 each month for individual users, with options to include it as part of the Apple One subscription package.

    #### Conclusion

    The launch of Apple Music Replay 2025 not only enables users to contemplate their personal music journeys but also underscores the wider trends influencing the music landscape. Whether the top tunes of the year match your preferences or surprise you, Apple Music remains a significant force in the streaming sector.

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on How to Utilize a Concealed Android Function to Safeguard Your Browsing Information at the Office
    How to Utilize a Concealed Android Function to Safeguard Your Browsing Information at the Office

    Someone investigating could observe the addresses you access, and possibly your activities, by leveraging contextual hints related to your searches. Private DNS guarantees that all data is encrypted. This effectively safeguards the information behind an encryption key. It would then be shielded from unwanted scrutiny, whether at work or home.

    The positive aspect is that Google claims private DNS is activated by default in Android for “all networks capable of utilizing private DNS.” However, if you wish to verify its activation or review its status, here’s how: Go to Settings, then Network & Internet, then Private DNS and choose either Off, Automatic, or Private DNS provider hostname — the latter allows you to input a private DNS server. On Samsung devices, this option can be found under Settings, then Connections, then More Connection Settings, then Private DNS.

    You might consider adding a private DNS provider

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    • Comments Off on Google Unveils Conversational AI Feature for Mobile Search
    Google Unveils Conversational AI Feature for Mobile Search

    Google Search has now been transformed into a fluid AI chat experience on mobile in a new experiment.

    (Image credit: Google)

    Essential Information

    • Google is evaluating a more fluid transition from AI Overviews to AI Mode, allowing users to enter an AI chat with just one tap.
    • This new process maintains the user within the search results while facilitating more detailed follow-up inquiries without initiating a new search.
    • The trial is being rolled out for Search on mobile worldwide.
    Notice

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    • Comments Off on Samsung Galaxy Z TriFold Debuts: Sleek, Adaptable Mobile Device Starting at $2,500
    Samsung Galaxy Z TriFold Debuts: Sleek, Adaptable Mobile Device Starting at $2,500

    Samsung has officially introduced the Galaxy Z TriFold, an innovative smartphone equipped with two hinges and three screen segments. With a price tag of around $2,500 in Korea, the Galaxy Z TriFold is expected to be pricier than the Galaxy Z Fold 7, potentially costing $3,000 in the U.S. The device comes with premium specifications, including a Snapdragon 8 Elite processor, 16 GB of RAM, and storage options of either 512 GB or 1 TB. Its camera setup is similar to that of the Galaxy Z Fold 7, featuring a 200-megapixel primary sensor. The cover display measures 6.5 inches, boasting a resolution of 2520 x 1080, a peak brightness of 2,600 nits, and a 120Hz adaptive refresh rate.

    The hallmark of the Galaxy Z TriFold is its unique design, crafted to fold inward to safeguard the display. It features an alarm system to avert improper folding, dual-rail hinge mechanisms, and a shock-absorbing layer on the foldable screen. The device is constructed from Advanced Armor Aluminum and titanium, providing IP48 dust and water resistance. Notably, the foldable display may still be susceptible to dents and scratches. Samsung offers a one-time 50% discount on display repairs. The 10-inch foldable screen has a resolution of 2160 x 1584, a peak brightness of 1,600 nits, and a 120Hz refresh rate. The phone is equipped with a 5,600 mAh battery, supports 45W wired and 15W wireless charging, weighs 309g, and measures 12.9 mm in thickness when folded.

    Samsung has improved the software functionality for the Galaxy Z TriFold, enabling it to operate as a standard phone when folded and as a 10-inch tablet when opened. Users can execute up to three applications simultaneously or run a single app in full-screen mode. The device accommodates both portrait and landscape orientations and includes a built-in DeX mode, converting it into a laptop-like interface. DeX mode facilitates up to four workspaces, each capable of running five applications in resizable windows. Users may also connect the device to an external monitor to boost productivity. The Galaxy Z TriFold integrates AI capabilities from Samsung’s Galaxy AI platform, offering six months of complimentary Google AI Pro access.

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    • Comments Off on OpenAI Unveils Upcoming Improvements for ChatGPT After Gemini 3 Incident
    OpenAI Unveils Upcoming Improvements for ChatGPT After Gemini 3 Incident

    **Code Red at OpenAI: Enhancements for ChatGPT Arriving Soon After Gemini 3 Alarm**

    OpenAI is at a pivotal juncture as it reacts to escalating rivalry from Google’s recently launched Gemini 3, which has eclipsed OpenAI’s AI models in crucial benchmarks. This situation has led OpenAI CEO Sam Altman to circulate a “code red” memo, indicating an immediate need for enhancements to ChatGPT. The action is taken as OpenAI strives to safeguard its revenue streams, boasting over 800 million monthly users, the majority of whom utilize the free tier. In contrast, Gemini’s user base has rapidly expanded, climbing from 450 million in July to 650 million in October.

    The debut of Google’s Nano Banana image generator in August has further heightened the competitive environment. Google subsequently introduced the Gemini 3 Pro alongside an upgraded Nano Banana Pro image generator. Moreover, the launch of Claude Opus 4.5 by Anthropic has increased the pressure on OpenAI. With these changes, OpenAI faces the risk of losing users, including paying subscribers, to its competitors. The company, which has yet to turn a profit, must continue securing funding to sustain operations and enhance its data centers. To reach profitability, OpenAI aims to elevate its revenue to $200 billion by 2030.

    **Upcoming ChatGPT Reasoning Model Set to Exceed Gemini 3**

    In light of the competitive danger, OpenAI is poised to unveil a new ChatGPT reasoning model that is anticipated to surpass Gemini 3. Altman’s memo specifies several upgrades, including improved personalization options, increased speed, and greater reliability. The new model will also possess the capability to address a wider array of inquiries. These upgrades align with OpenAI’s strategy to enhance ChatGPT’s functionality and extend its global presence.

    The critical nature of the situation is highlighted by OpenAI’s implementation of color codes to denote issue severity, with “code red” signifying the utmost level of urgency. This follows a prior “code orange” for advancing ChatGPT. Interestingly, Google proclaimed its own code red three years ago following ChatGPT’s remarkable success, resulting in continuous enhancements to its AI offerings.

    Despite the priority on refining ChatGPT, certain initiatives, such as ChatGPT ads, AI agents for shopping and healthcare, and upgrades to ChatGPT Pulse, will experience delays. OpenAI’s ChatGPT lead, Nick Turley, underscored the company’s dedication to enhancing ChatGPT’s features and broadening access globally while making the platform more user-friendly and personalized.

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    • Comments Off on Feature Phone for Children: Device Without Social Media
    Feature Phone for Children: Device Without Social Media

    HMD Global and Xplora have joined forces to develop the XploraOne, a smartphone tailored specifically for kids, emphasizing safety and parental oversight while removing social media access. This innovative device seeks to offer a well-rounded solution for parents worried about their children’s unmoderated internet use. The XploraOne comes equipped with vital features such as messaging, calling, location tracking, and a straightforward camera, devoid of the interruptions caused by games or app stores. Parents have the ability to manage contacts, approve schedule alterations, set calling limitations, review messages, and access their child’s photo gallery remotely, ensuring a secure and regulated setting for young users. Although the pricing details remain unverified, it is anticipated to be in line with Xplora’s range of wearables. This endeavor enhances the existing collaboration between HMD and Xplora, succeeding the HMD Fusion X1, which launched robust parental control features. The XploraOne presents a promising alternative for parents in search of a kid-friendly phone that does not provide full internet access.

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