Author: sparta

Spotify Update: How to Turn Off the ‘Create’ Button

Spotify has recently rolled out a noteworthy update to its mobile application by adding a “Create” button on the bottom navigation bar. This button enables users to generate new playlists, collaborative playlists, “Blends,” AI playlists, or initiate a “Jam,” and has sparked a variety of reactions since its launch. Numerous users expressed that a specific button for these functionalities was redundant, resulting in a cluttered user interface.

In light of user feedback, Spotify has made an update that permits users to disable the “Create” button. This modification, which became accessible on July 31, 2023, was a direct response to community suggestions aimed at enhancing the app’s practicality. To turn off the “Create” button, users can adhere to these steps:

1. Tap your profile image at the top of the app.
2. Choose “Settings and privacy.”
3. Under “Content and display,” toggle the “Create button” setting off or on.

It is essential to observe that this option is device-specific, meaning users will need to modify it on each device they utilize or when they obtain a new device.

The update has been extended to both Android and iOS users, ensuring that the option to customize the navigation bar is now broadly accessible. This adaptability allows users to personalize their Spotify experience according to their desires, boosting overall satisfaction with the app.

For those keen on more updates from Spotify, recent improvements include a revamped Spotify app for Android Auto, remote downloads for Wear OS, and enhanced playlist management functionalities. These advancements demonstrate Spotify’s dedication to continuously evolving its platform to cater to user requirements.

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Current Offers: 24GB Mac mini priced at $699, 48GB Variant with a $200 Reduction, $200 Discount on M4 Max Mac Studio, Black Magic Keyboard, and Additional Items

**Mac Mini and Mac Studio Offers: An Extensive Review**

In the realm of Apple products, the Mac mini and Mac Studio have established a niche for users in search of high performance without the hefty price of premium models. Currently, substantial discounts are being offered on these devices, making it an ideal moment for prospective buyers to contemplate enhancing their technology.

### Outstanding Savings on Mac Mini Models

One of the prominent deals available now is on the **24GB M4 Mac mini**, which has dropped to **$699**. This offer marks one of the lowest prices ever seen for this configuration, presenting a compelling choice for users who value RAM over storage. The 256GB SSD variant is especially remarkable, as it’s rarely available at this price.

Moreover, B&H is providing markdowns on upgraded versions, including **36GB and 48GB models**, each discounted by **$200** from their usual prices. These configurations are officially approved by Apple, guaranteeing that customers receive brand-new devices with the same warranty as standard models.

For those eyeing the base option, the **16GB/256GB Mac mini** can be found for **$539** on Amazon, with previous lows reaching **$499**. Nonetheless, the B&H offer on the **24GB model** presents a special chance for users needing additional memory for resource-intensive applications.

### Uncommon Price Reduction on the Mac Studio

Another notable deal features the **1TB M4 Max Mac Studio**, which has undergone a price cut of **$200**, bringing it down to **$1,999**. This model boasts a powerful **36GB of RAM**, a **14-Core CPU**, and a **32-Core GPU**, rendering it a perfect option for creative professionals demanding high performance for activities like video editing and music production.

This price decrease is especially significant since it allows consumers to purchase the 1TB model for the cost generally linked to the 512GB version. Such deals are uncommon, particularly for the newest generation of Mac Studio devices, which mainly cater to power users.

### Accessory and Charging Offers

In addition to the discounts on Mac products, there are also noteworthy deals on accessories, including the **black USB-C Apple Magic Keyboard with Touch ID**, which is being offered at a lower price. These accessories enhance the Mac mini and Mac Studio experience, improving the overall user satisfaction.

### M3 iPad Air Price Cuts

For those interested in tablets, Amazon is providing **$100 off** on a range of configurations of the **M3 iPad Air**, with prices commencing at **$499**. This model delivers a comprehensive experience powered by Apple’s M series chips, making it a viable option for users seeking a capable tablet without the elevated expense of an iPad Pro.

### Conclusion

With significant savings available on both the Mac mini and Mac Studio, alongside enticing deals on accessories and the M3 iPad Air, now is a prime opportunity for consumers to think about upgrading their Apple devices. Whether you are a creative expert or a casual user, these offers present a chance to invest in top-quality technology at lower prices.

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Tim Cook Suggests Possible Purchase of AI Firm to Strengthen Apple’s AI Functionality

During this week’s earnings call for the third quarter, Tim Cook, the CEO of Apple, disclosed that the company might look to acquire an AI firm to enhance its Apple Intelligence platform. Earlier reports indicated that Perplexity could be viewed as an ideal collaborator.

In comparison to other significant entities, Perplexity AI would represent the most sensible choice for acquisition. Although it would probably be the largest purchase Apple has ever undertaken, given its current valuation of $18 billion, it may be a logical move, as the corporation has had difficulties staying competitive due to significant delays affecting Apple Intelligence and Siri.

Notably, Beats has been Apple’s most successful investment thus far, having paid $3 billion for the audio brand in 2014. Nevertheless, Tim Cook stated that the company remains committed to heavily investing in AI, viewing it as “one of the most profound technologies of our lifetime.” Tim Cook remarked to CNBC, “We are significantly growing our investments. We’re embedding it across our devices, across our platforms, and across the company.”

Apple’s Acquisitions in 2025

In contrast to some of its prominent rivals, Apple hasn’t made any pioneering acquisitions in the last year. Nonetheless, Tim Cook pointed out that Apple has acquired “around” seven companies in 2025, but none have been “huge in terms of dollar amount.” For example, at the end of May, Digital Trends reported that Apple had secured the video game studio RAC7.

The CEO of Apple also mentioned that the firm is “open to M&A (mergers and acquisitions) that accelerates our roadmap.” Given the sluggish output in recent years and the number of promising initiatives that have been abandoned, this isn’t particularly surprising. It’s also important to recognize that even when Apple acquires a company, immediate changes for end users may not follow.

For instance, Apple took a couple of years to incorporate Dark Sky into the Weather app. More recently, after acquiring Pixelmator, the company has kept the app unchanged, having just added Apple Intelligence support for the editor. Therefore, even if Apple were to acquire Perplexity AI today, we would likely still be at least a year away from observing significant changes on the Apple Intelligence platform.

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AYANEO Confronts Retroid and Anbernic with Soon-to-Launch KONKR Pocket Fit

I’m not entirely certain what to make of AYANEO’s alleged “budget” brand.

What you need to know

– Besides various handhelds and mini PCs, AYANEO has launched KONKR, a budget-friendly sub-brand.
– The KONKR Pocket FIT is scheduled to debut as the company’s “initial flagship product” later this year.
– Pricing information is still pending, but we do know it operates on the latest Snapdragon G3 Gen 3.

It’s been a significant week for AYANEO as the company kicked off Monday by unveiling its product roadmap for the upcoming months. As if the announcement of the AYANEO Pocket DS wasn’t sufficient, CEO Arthur Zhang also unveiled a new sub-brand, KONKR.

During the announcement, Zhang stated that KONKR is “redefining what ‘value’ signifies in handheld gaming.” We also found out about the first device in the line, as the KONKR Pocket FIT was revealed.

The concept of an affordable Android handheld from AYANEO is compelling, as this market is already being led by Retroid and Anbernic. Especially given that the KONKR Pocket FIT features Qualcomm’s latest flagship gaming chip, the Snapdragon G3 Gen 3.

Earlier this year, the Retroid Pocket Flip 2 and Pocket Classic were launched, with prices set at either $179/$229 or $119/$129, respectively. While the Pocket Classic is the first handheld to utilize the Snapdragon G1 Gen 2, the Pocket Flip 2 is available with either the Dimensity 1100 or Snapdragon 865, two SoCs that are at least four years old.

By 2025, Anbernic has been increasingly focusing on the Android segment with products such as the RG557, RG Slide, and now the RG477M. The RG557 and RG477M are both powered by the Dimensity 8300, priced at $250 and $240, respectively.

Considering this, it’s hard to believe that the Pocket FIT will fit into this price range. Unlike the dual-screened Pocket DS, the Pocket FIT is driven by Qualcomm’s latest gaming chip, the Snapdragon G3 Gen 3. This chip was unveiled at GDC earlier this year and is currently featured in the AYANEO Pocket S2 and Pocket S2 Pro.

The S2 is currently available on Indiegogo starting at $439 for the 8GB/128GB variant, whereas the S2 Pro begins at $559 for the 16GB/512GB option. Shipping has commenced for these devices, but once the campaign wraps up, prices will climb to $499 and $619, respectively.

At first glance, one might assume that the Pocket S2 and S2 Pro feature an OLED screen, and if KONKR chose an LCD panel, it could lower the price. However, that’s not accurate as both the Pocket S2 and Pocket FIT are fitted with LCD screens. Compounding the confusion is that the FIT’s display offers a faster 144Hz refresh rate, as opposed to the 60Hz panel of the S2.

So to be honest, I’m not quite clear on AYANEO’s strategy with the KONKR brand. Of everything the company announced this week, only the Pocket DS has piqued my interest more. But if we see a starting price in the range of $250 to $300 for a handheld featuring the Snapdragon G3 Gen 3, AYANEO KONKR could significantly change the landscape.

Where does this FIT?

On paper, the KONKR Pocket FIT looks poised for immediate success. However, we still don’t know its price, and there’s a lot at stake regarding whether AYANEO will execute this correctly.

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Tim Cook Announces iOS 26 as Apple’s Most Favored Beta Launch So Far

**Apple’s Three Main OS Updates Showing Remarkable Popularity in Beta**

Apple has recently announced strong quarterly earnings, with CEO Tim Cook emphasizing the appeal of the beta versions of iOS 26, iPadOS 26, and macOS Tahoe during the investor discussion. The latest updates have sparked considerable interest, fueled by their cutting-edge features and a novel design aesthetic referred to as the Liquid Glass design.

Tim Cook mentioned that these updates represent the most sought-after developer betas Apple has ever launched. This observation is remarkable as it includes not only iOS 26 but also macOS Tahoe and iPadOS 26, highlighting a robust enthusiasm among both developers and users.

The buzz around iPadOS 26 is credited to its various productivity improvements, which have evidently struck a chord with iPad users keen to utilize the new functionalities. Traditionally, developers have been hesitant to embrace macOS betas, but the appeal of the Liquid Glass design and the necessity for app compatibility with the forthcoming update have heightened interest in macOS Tahoe.

It’s also significant to point out that Apple has removed the earlier $99 yearly fee for accessing developer betas, which likely aids in boosting participation in beta testing. This change indicates that the trend of increased enthusiasm for developer betas may also carry over to public beta releases.

As the beta testing phase progresses, it is clear that a compelling design can greatly affect user engagement and upgrade choices. The excitement surrounding iOS 26 has ignited discussions among users, with many showing a keen interest in experiencing the new features.

In summary, Apple’s newest OS updates are not only improving user experience but also nurturing a dynamic community of developers and users eager to discover the new opportunities these updates offer.

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Images of iPhone 17 Air Battery featuring Steel Case Leaked by Source

In a little more than a month, Apple is set to reveal its extremely slim iPhone 17 Air model. Recently, tipster Majin Bu provided a glimpse of what is reported to be the battery component of this upcoming device.

### Initial Glimpse at Suspected iPhone 17 Air Battery

Today on his platform, tipster Majin Bu posted multiple images of what’s purportedly the genuine battery of the iPhone 17 Air. The battery is encased in a steel housing, akin to the design utilized in last year’s iPhone 16 Pro. Bu claims that the battery capacity is around 2900mAh, which is consistent with details from other leak sources.

The iPhone 17 Air is anticipated to feature a 6.6-inch screen, introducing a brand-new size to Apple’s offerings. Its main attraction will undoubtedly be the exceptionally sleek new design, with earlier reports suggesting that the device will measure about 5.55mm in thickness, making it the slimmest iPhone to date.

iOS 26 brings updated features aimed at improving battery management, such as an Adaptive Power mode. However, it appears probable that the iPhone 17 Air will have the most limited battery life among the iPhone 17 lineup. Depending on users’ requirements, it is hoped that the battery will still be adequate for typical daily usage.

Are you considering purchasing an iPhone 17 Air? Does battery life concern you? Share your thoughts in the comments.

### Top iPhone Accessories

*FTC: We use income generating auto affiliate links.*

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How to Find the Absent GIF Keyboard on Your iPhone

GIF Keyboard by Tenor or a similar application can also typically be located in the same area.

Nonetheless, while users anticipate switching to the GIF Keyboard by tapping the globe icon located in the lower left corner of Messages, directly beneath the primary keyboard, this feature has been absent for some — leaving only the smiley face icon and the regular emoji keyboard available. However, there’s no need to stress; reinstating it requires just a quick modification of your iPhone settings.

Has Apple removed the GIF Keyboard?

Tim Cook Talks About iPhone Risks in Light of New Device Form Factors Influenced by AI

During the Q3 2025 earnings call today, Apple CEO Tim Cook tackled the rising speculation that advancements in AI, along with the new hardware form factors they enable, might eventually displace screen-based devices such as the iPhone.

### Complementary, Not Substitutes

When questioned if Apple envisions a future where reliance on smartphones decreases due to AI-influenced changes in how individuals engage with technology, Cook reacted strongly:

> “Considering all the functionalities an iPhone offers, from connecting individuals to enhancing app and game experiences, capturing photos and videos, assisting users in exploring the world and managing their financial activities, and facilitating payments, among numerous other capabilities, it’s hard to imagine a reality where the iPhone isn’t present.”

Although the inquiry didn’t directly reference OpenAI’s recent collaboration with Jony Ive’s company and the forthcoming AI-focused io product, it certainly lingered in the minds of those present during the exchange.

It’s also important to highlight that not too long ago, Apple’s Eddy Cue suggested that “you may not need” an iPhone by 2035. Nonetheless, the context was quite different: aimed at downplaying Apple’s collaboration with Google, in an effort to persuade the court to leave it unaffected in the ongoing antitrust proceedings against Google.

Curiously, Cook also hinted at potential future Apple products that might feature more profound AI integration, stating:

> “That doesn’t imply that we aren’t considering other possibilities as well, but I believe that these devices are more likely to be complementary, not replacements.”

While it should be expected that Apple is exploring beyond its current offerings as platforms for AI, it is less common for Cook to formally acknowledge prospective future product paths.

One of these anticipated products might be the speculated screen-equipped HomePod, which allegedly had its launch postponed due to Apple’s difficulties with the updated Siri, and is now anticipated to debut in spring 2026.

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Samsung Contemplating Incorporation of Perplexity and Additional AI Assistants for Galaxy S26

Samsung May Incorporate Perplexity And Additional AI Assistants For Galaxy S26

Owing to its strong ties with Google, Samsung has been promoting Gemini as its primary AI assistant across the company’s diverse mobile devices. Nonetheless, a recent discussion between Bloomberg and Samsung Electronics executive Choi Won-joon indicates that the Galaxy S26 could debut with compatibility for not only Gemini, but also a variety of other potential AI assistants, including Perplexity.

Although it appears that no definitive decisions have been reached at this point, Choi mentioned that Samsung was “engaging with multiple vendors” regarding the AI chatbots that will be integrated into its upcoming flagship smartphone. This has led many to speculate that future Samsung devices such as the S26 could be equipped with ChatGPT, Gemini, Perplexity, and possibly additional AI agents right out of the box.

This development would simplify the process of utilizing them as your primary digital assistant, which would be beneficial for both Samsung and its users, in my opinion. The specifics of the level of access those chatbots could have to the device and personal data remain uncertain, as does the likelihood of this actually occurring.

Google and Samsung Maintain a Robust Partnership

Many inquiries regarding these potential collaborations stem from the longstanding relationship between Google and Samsung. In recent years, Samsung has served as the unofficial ambassador for Gemini, having sold some of the initial devices that introduced new Google AI functionalities, such as Circle to Search. While Google retains some features exclusively for the Pixel series — and the forthcoming Pixel 10 lineup looks quite impressive — Samsung boasts the most extensive range of Gemini features beyond Google’s own branded devices.

As such, it will be intriguing to observe how well this partnership withstands if Samsung indeed seeks to introduce other AI assistants into the equation, considering that Google compensated Samsung significantly to feature Gemini on the S25. Since Gemini may not be the preferred AI assistant for everyone, having access to Perplexity, ChatGPT, or any other chat alternative more readily would represent an upgrade. However, the ease of achieving this remains to be clarified, as we still need to wait and see whether these discussions result in any long-term modifications.

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Samsung’s Galaxy Z Trifold and Android XR Headset Scheduled for Launch This Year

Samsung has stopped hesitating.

(Image credit: Michael Hicks / Android Central)

Essential information

  • Samsung’s XR headset is officially scheduled for release later this year, coinciding with the launch of the company’s tri-fold phone.
  • The TriFold will operate on Android XR, feature dual Micro OLEDs with eye tracking capabilities, and fold inward using two hinges.
  • Samsung also hinted that the Galaxy S25 FE and Tab S11 are anticipated to launch in the upcoming months.

In its Q2 2025 earnings call, Samsung validated that the Project Moohan XR headset is set to debut later this year. It will launch alongside a new tri-fold phone, preparing to make a direct challenge to Apple’s Vision Pro and providing Samsung with an edge that competitors currently lack.

In 2025, Samsung has already launched the Galaxy S25 series, Z Fold 7, Z Flip 7, and Galaxy Watch 8. Now, it has confirmed that a tri-fold phone is also on the horizon, aimed for release in the latter half of the year (via SeekingAlpha).

While we’ve been <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.androidcentral.com/phones/samsung-galaxy/more-evidence-of-samsungs-galaxy-z-trifold-hints-at-its-existence" data-before-rewrite-localise="https://www.androidcentral.com/phones/samsung-galaxy/more-evidence-of-samsungs

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