Author: sparta

Upcoming ChatGPT Safety Enhancements: Launch of Parental Control Options and AI Age Estimation

a teenager reportedly took their own life with assistance from the chatbot. Following this heartbreaking occurrence, the family has taken legal action against the AI company, and the litigation is still in progress. In response to this situation, OpenAI is launching its new parental control features this month. The organization stated in a blog entry that it will place teen safety above user privacy and liberty.

Among the upcoming safety enhancements for ChatGPT, there is an AI function that may provoke some debate. OpenAI will allow ChatGPT to estimate the user’s age to ascertain how it ought to answer their inquiries. This AI age estimation feature is akin to what Google disclosed in late July. Google is similarly utilizing AI to ascertain the ages of YouTube users and Google account holders.

OpenAI’s CEO Sam Altman discussed the imminent parental controls and referenced the new AI age verification system in a separate blog entry. Altman remarked, “For instance, ChatGPT will be conditioned not to engage in

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Coming Soon: Car Key Wallet Integration for Three Automobile Brands

At the beginning of summer during WWDC, Apple revealed that car keys within the Wallet app would soon be provided by 13 additional vehicle manufacturers. Now, it appears that the initial three new brands may be on the verge of arrival.

### Three New Car Key Brands Preparing for Wallet Integration in Apple’s Backend, Awaiting Launch

In a recent update on X, Aaron Perris noted that Apple’s backend has been recently adjusted in preparation for the introduction of two new car key brands: Smart and Voyah. Furthermore, in the past weeks, a similar update was found for Rivian. The company’s second-generation R1S and R1T are slated for car key compatibility, and after this discovery, Rivian confirmed that Apple car keys are on the way.

When new brands and vehicles incorporate car key capabilities, it involves a two-step process. Both Apple and the car manufacturer must “flip all the switches” to enable car keys within Wallet. Currently, at least from Apple’s standpoint, the Wallet app is set for car keys to be available for vehicles from:

– Rivian
– Smart
– Voyah

These three were all part of Apple’s comprehensive list of 13 new vehicle brands preparing to support car keys. The backend activation by Apple indicates that these brands will officially launch support very shortly.

We will keep you informed when official announcements are released. However, it is reasonable to expect that Apple will prioritize the brands that are nearly ready for launch over those that are not quite there.

Ultimately, I am optimistic that these new brands will begin launching support any day now and that the remaining 13 brands will follow suit soon. Apple mentioned “soon” back in June. While I did not specifically anticipate any car key launches during the summer, with iOS 26 now officially released featuring significant Wallet app updates and new CarPlay enhancements, it’s an excellent time to begin implementing additional car key support.

For a complete list of currently supported car key brands, check out our guide here.

How significant is car key support in Apple Wallet to you? Does it affect your vehicle selection? Share your thoughts in the comments.

### Best iPhone Accessories

FTC: We utilize income-generating auto affiliate links. More.

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Investigating the KPop Demon Hunters Debate: The Influence of ChatGPT in Composing “Soda Pop”

The animated film KPop Demon Hunters is a significant success for Netflix. It’s contagious, to rephrase one of the movie’s key characters. The film has turned into a cultural sensation in just a few months, and it’s not solely the plot or the animation that keeps viewers hooked. The soundtrack of KPop Demon Hunters is the key element that’s prompting fans globally to rewatch it, sing along, or enjoy the catchy tunes repeatedly. Soda Pop is among those infectious tracks, surely a summer hit, which you may have noticed playing everywhere recently.

As it stands, KPop Demon Hunters is experiencing a contentious moment at the time of writing regarding Soda Pop and ChatGPT. You may have come across online articles about Vince, one of the co-writers of Soda Pop, claiming he utilized ChatGPT to assist in generating ideas for the song. According to Gizmodo, it seems the true intent was misinterpreted during translation, as the songwriter’s comments were taken out of context.

What’s the link between ChatGPT and Soda Pop?

All this transpired during OpenAI’s inauguration of their Korean office, an event that included various attendees, such as Vince, one of the five writers accredited by Netflix for Soda Pop. An OpenAI official shared a message in a now-removed tweet that Reddit preserved: “Fav moment from the launch celebration was hearing singer/songwriter Vince share that ChatGPT helped him write Soda Pop from KPop Demon Hunters! It allegedly provided him with ideas to make it sound ‘more bubbly.'”

As reported by Gizmodo, an English version of a report in Joongang Daily published on Monday suggested that Vince used ChatGPT for conceptualizing Soda Pop. However, the Korean version of the piece indicates that Vince made a broader comment regarding the use of ChatGPT in K-Pop music production. “I sometimes use ChatGPT to get some inspiration while producing K-Pop,” Vince noted, according to a Gizmodo translation. The machine translation of the Korean version of the Joongang Daily article also conveys a similar outcome.

Joongang Daily rectified the English version of the article on Wednesday, eliminating the reference to Vince using AI to create Soda Pop. Since the tweet that ignited this KPop Demon Hunters AI controversy was also taken down, it appears that everything was a significant misunderstanding resulting from language discrepancies. Ironically, it may have been AI that failed to correctly translate the original article into English, as disclosed in a note at the conclusion of the amended story. The note states that the original Korean article was translated by a bilingual reporter with the assistance of generative AI tools prior to being evaluated by an English-speaking editor.

KPop Demon Hunters soundtrack is an enormous triumph

Notwithstanding the corrections, some harm may have been inflicted, as the news of Vince employing ChatGPT to write Soda Pop for KPop Demon Hunters may have circulated prior to the corrections. Some fans could have misinterpreted how certain music for the animated film was created. Netflix and Vince have not yet provided a statement on the issue.

Regardless of whether Vince utilized AI, the KPop Demon Hunters soundtrack is a tremendous success. Soda Pop stands out as one of the breakout hits of KPop Demon Hunters. Performed by the fictional Saja Boys band, the song climbed onto the Billboard Hot 100 chart in the US, reaching No. 5, and hit No. 3 on the Global 200 chart. KPop Demon Hunters is officially the most popular film on Netflix as of late August. The film surpassed 266 million views by early September, establishing itself as the streaming platform’s most-watched title to date. Previously, the first season of Squid Game held that position.

Regarding Netflix’s use of AI in its original content, the streamer has already acknowledged utilizing an undisclosed generative AI tool to create special effects for one of its TV shows. This disclosure came well after the show’s rise to fame. Since then, the streamer has published a detailed guide for studios exploring the use of AI in producing Netflix originals.

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NASA’s Method for Enhancing Functions on Mars Rovers

digitally charting Mars using images exclusively. These robots assist in addressing crucial inquiries such as: Is there a possibility of water existing on Mars? Are there locations suitable for human habitation in the future?

Rovers are designed to remain functional for many years to maximize their capabilities. However, akin to your smartphones and laptops, these robots also require periodic updates that introduce new functionalities and resolve issues. But how does NASA manage to execute these updates from vast distances on a remote planet? Software upgrades to rover systems can be conducted from afar despite the separation. NASA teams engage in thorough testing on Earth prior to deployment, sometimes for several years before rolling out a new update. Occasionally, these robots may encounter mechanical problems, prompting the on-ground teams to devise more innovative solutions.

How NASA incorporates software features into rovers

iOS 26 Update Brings 4 Fresh Features to HomePod

two fresh features arriving on Apple’s smart speakers. Now that iOS 26 is officially rolled out, Apple’s support document has revealed several additional functions in this update, significantly enhancing the AirPlay experience, regardless of whether you possess the original HomePod, the second generation, or the HomePod mini.

Although the HomePod seems somewhat sidelined by Apple amidst all the new updates, it’s likely due to the ongoing delays in the more customized Siri experience. Current rumors suggest that Apple is working on a HomePod featuring a display, which could leverage a new homeOS experience. However, as this anticipated device greatly depends on a smarter Siri, the company has seemingly opted to defer numerous features. Nonetheless, if you own one of the existing HomePod models, there are four features you can start using right away.

All that’s new with HomePod 26

iPhone 17 Pro Evaluation: Assessing Its Professional Capabilities and Performance

# iPhone 17 Pro Review: A New Benchmark in Performance and Aesthetics

Upon the announcement of the iPhone 17 Pro, Apple asserted that the launch of the iPhone Air empowered the Pro models to achieve exceptional performance levels and features. After a week of evaluating the iPhone 17 Pro and iPhone 17 Pro Max, it is evident that Apple has indeed expanded the horizons of smartphone innovation.

## Design

The iPhone 17 Pro showcases a novel aluminum unibody structure crafted from a lightweight aerospace-grade 7000-series aluminum alloy. Although Apple has previously incorporated aluminum in its designs, the uninterrupted feel of the iPhone 17 Pro distinguishes it from its predecessor, the iPhone 16 Pro. The curvature from front to back boosts comfort, facilitating easier handling.

Nonetheless, the design has ignited discussions, especially concerning the two-tone back finish that incorporates a glass cutout for wireless charging. This design element disrupts the unibody visual, and perceptions about its attractiveness vary. Additionally, the plateau design on the rear, which houses internal components like a larger battery, has garnered mixed feedback. While it may improve functionality, it modifies the device’s visual profile.

The iPhone 17 Pro is offered in striking colors, including cosmic orange and deep blue. The lack of classic black or space gray choices has left some disappointed, but the vivid colors present a refreshing alternative.

## Thermals and Performance

Internally, the iPhone 17 Pro has experienced a comprehensive redesign, highlighting a new thermal management system featuring an Apple-designed vapor chamber. This system adeptly disperses heat, enabling the device to sustain performance during heavy tasks. In tests, the iPhone 17 Pro consistently operated cooler than the iPhone 16 Pro, even during intensive activities.

The A19 Pro chip, outfitted with a 6-core CPU and GPU, delivers substantial performance enhancements. Benchmark evaluations reveal a 14% boost in CPU speed and an impressive 40% surge in GPU performance compared to the A18 Pro. Moreover, the device is equipped with 12GB of RAM, improving multitasking efficiency.

## Camera

The iPhone 17 Pro’s camera system stands out as a highlight, featuring multiple lenses that offer versatility for photography aficionados. The primary camera is equipped with a 48MP Fusion sensor capable of taking high-quality images at various focal lengths. The arrival of a new 48MP Fusion Telephoto camera provides remarkable zoom capabilities, enabling 4x optical zoom at 100mm and 8x digital zoom at 200mm.

In real-world applications, the camera’s performance has been remarkable, especially in low-light environments. The updated computational photography features enhance image quality, rendering it a powerful asset for capturing moments.

## Battery Life

The battery performance of the iPhone 17 Pro is impressive, with the device easily sustaining a full day under ordinary use. Apple claims up to 33 hours of video playback, marking a notable advancement over previous models.

## Additional Features

The iPhone 17 Pro includes several noteworthy elements, such as enhanced connectivity with Qualcomm’s modem and Apple’s new N1 networking chip for improved Wi-Fi and Bluetooth performance. The display is equipped with an anti-reflection layer to mitigate glare, and the new Ceramic Shield 2 coating enhances scratch resistance.

## Conclusion

The iPhone 17 Pro signifies a significant advancement in Apple’s smartphone range, merging state-of-the-art technology with a daring design. It adeptly balances performance, camera functions, and user experience, making it an excellent option for those in search of a premium smartphone. As Apple continues to progress, the iPhone 17 Pro establishes a new benchmark for what users can anticipate from a flagship device.

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Evaluation of the iPhone Air: The Thinnest Variant to Date and Its Consequences

**The iPhone Air: A New Chapter in Smartphone Aesthetics**

Occasionally, Apple makes a design choice that establishes a clear distinction, marking a shift from one era to another. The iPhone Air embodies this type of device. Remarkably slim, it sets a fresh benchmark for how an iPhone should be held, while also illustrating the trade-offs that accompany innovative design. This article delves into the iPhone Air’s design, resilience, functionality, and overall user interaction.

### Design

The iPhone Air signifies the most profound alteration to the iPhone form since the shift from iPhone 11 to iPhone 12. While the latter offered a more rugged aesthetic, the iPhone Air is a complete redesign that recalls the iPhone X. It feels unlike any iPhone that came before it, measuring a mere 5.6 mm in thickness, making it Apple’s slimmest iPhone yet. This marks a substantial improvement over the iPhone 6, which was 6.9 mm thick.

Not only is the device slimmer, but it is also lighter, weighing just 165 grams. The sleek titanium edges grant it a luxurious touch, enhancing its visual allure. The 6.5-inch display paired with its slender profile gives the impression of holding the future of mobile technology.

### The Plateau Design

A defining aspect of the iPhone Air is the plateau on its rear, which accommodates the camera, speaker, and Apple silicon. This design decision permits Apple to free up more space for the battery while concentrating the device’s processing units within the plateau. Although this design may feel unfamiliar at first, it becomes less obtrusive over time.

### Durability

In spite of its slender profile, the iPhone Air delivers impressive durability. Apple uses a grade 5 titanium frame, addressing past issues concerning bending in older models. Extensive testing has demonstrated that the iPhone Air can endure significant stress without sustaining damage. Moreover, the device incorporates Apple’s new Ceramic Shield 2 coating, which augments scratch resistance.

### Performance

The iPhone Air is driven by the A19 Pro chip, sporting a 6-core CPU and a 5-core GPU. Benchmark results reveal that it is roughly 15% quicker in multi-core performance compared to its predecessor. The device also comes equipped with 12GB of RAM, enhancing app memory retention relative to earlier iterations.

### Connectivity

The iPhone Air unveils two newly designed Apple chips: the C1X modem and the N1 wireless networking chip. The C1X modem is engineered to be faster and more energy-efficient than its predecessor, while the N1 chip supports Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 6, boosting connectivity dependability.

### Camera

The iPhone Air showcases a solitary 48MP Fusion Main camera, which is a notable compromise compared to the multi-camera systems in other models. While it performs admirably under varied lighting conditions, the lack of an Ultra Wide or Telephoto camera might not appeal to some users. Additionally, the device features an upgraded 18MP front-facing camera with Center Stage technology, enhancing selfie quality and composition.

### Battery Life

Battery performance is another domain where the iPhone Air makes concessions. While Apple claims it can deliver up to 27 hours of video playback, actual usage may differ widely. Many users might find they need to recharge the device before day’s end, especially with heavy usage. The arrival of a MagSafe battery pack can aid in prolonging usage time.

### Conclusion

The iPhone Air is a visually striking device that challenges the limits of smartphone aesthetics. While it does involve trade-offs, especially regarding camera functionalities and battery life, it presents an unmatched aesthetic and tactile experience. The iPhone Air is perfect for individuals who value design and portability over extensive camera options and battery endurance. As Apple continues to redefine innovation, the iPhone Air may herald the dawn of a new chapter for the iPhone series.

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Examination of Current Touchscreen Mac Speculations and Their Validity

**The Transformation of Apple’s Touchscreen MacBook Pro: A Much-Anticipated Change**

Recent revelations from Ming-Ching Kuo suggest that Apple might be on the verge of producing a touchscreen MacBook Pro, with expectations aimed for late 2026. This development reignites an enduring discussion regarding the practicality and appeal of touchscreen features in Apple’s laptop range.

### Apple’s Historical Dismissal of Touchscreen Macs

For more than ten years, Apple has held a steadfast position against the incorporation of touchscreen technology in its Mac computers. This viewpoint has been articulated by several prominent figures within the organization:

– **Steve Jobs (2010)**: In a memorable remark, Jobs voiced doubts about the practicality of touchscreen laptops, asserting, “It turns out it doesn’t work. Touch surfaces don’t want to be vertical… It’s ergonomically terrible. Touch surfaces want to be horizontal.”

– **Tim Cook (2012)**: Cook likened the merging of tablets and PCs to fusing a toaster with a refrigerator, implying that such combinations might not deliver an enjoyable user experience.

– **Jony Ive (2016)**: Ive suggested the challenges of implementing touchscreen functionality on Macs, hinting that there were logical reasons for steering clear of it.

– **Phil Schiller (2016)**: Schiller provided details on the comprehensive testing Apple undertook, ultimately deciding that touchscreens did not fit within the Mac’s design principles.

– **Craig Federighi (2020)**: Federighi indicated that the design development of macOS was not swayed by touch considerations, further affirming the company’s conventional viewpoint.

### Transforming Outlooks

In spite of these historical dismissals, the landscape of personal computing has transformed dramatically. Touchscreen laptops have become commonplace, and younger users are familiar with devices that flawlessly blend touch and traditional input methods. The proliferation of Chromebooks in educational environments has further normalized touchscreen technology in computing.

A significant change in Apple’s stance may be manifested in the launch of iPadOS 26, which has fused iPad and Mac functionalities. This convergence implies that Apple’s earlier arguments against touchscreen Macs may no longer be valid, as the company adjusts to evolving user demands and market trends.

### The Argument for a Touchscreen MacBook Pro

Although individual preferences differ—some users may not recognize the need for a touchscreen on a laptop—there exists a strong case for Apple to consider this feature. If introduced without substantially raising costs, a touchscreen could improve the user experience for those who seek it.

The expected timeframe of one year following the release of iPadOS 26 for a touchscreen MacBook Pro appears reasonable, considering the evolving dynamics in user habits and technology integration.

### Conclusion

As Apple deliberates on the future of its Mac range, the prospective launch of a touchscreen MacBook Pro signifies a notable shift from its historical position. Whether this decision will resonate with consumers remains uncertain, but it undoubtedly mirrors a wider trend towards hybrid functionality in personal computing. The dialogue surrounding this subject persists, encouraging users to express their opinions and aspirations for the future of Apple’s laptops.

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“The Outsiders: An Innovative iOS Fitness Tracker for Committed Athletes”

Alongside the launch of iOS 26, Gentler Stories, the parent entity of the well-known fitness application Gentler Streak, revealed its second application named The Outsiders. After the triumph of its first app, Gentler Stories chose to concentrate more on fitness enthusiasts with The Outsiders. This app is primarily designed for performance-oriented athletes who engage in structured training and track data-driven advancements. All this terminology is part of the company’s aim to represent a community that previously couldn’t access all essential workout data in a single app with a proper explanation of their progress.

Consequently, Gentler Streak persists in its quest to be a more inclusive fitness tracker, while The Outsiders caters to individuals who consider training an integral part of their identity. “They’re self-driven, adhere to structured sessions at moderate to high intensity, and prioritize performance enhancement,” co-founder Katarina Lotrič shares when discussing the target demographic for the app. Focused on training load and recovery, the app provides clear indications on when to exert yourself and when to ease off, based on metrics obtained from your Apple Watch that reflect prior efforts, in addition to sleep and vital signs data.

The primary app interface — referred to as Today — displays your Training Readiness score, which is determined by the ratio of chronic training load merged with body metrics and sleep quality. The developers state that this helps users comprehend the level of effort their body is prepared for and assists them in determining the appropriate intensity for the day. The Progress tab aids in understanding your training specifics, heart rate during exercises, and training load.

A calendar presents your training overview, allowing you to monitor intense training phases and recovery weeks. Finally, the Workouts tab is akin to the one found in Gentler Streak, providing comprehensive insights into all workouts you have completed in the current week, month, and year. With the app now accessible on the App Store, The Outsiders is already optimized for Apple’s Liquid Glass UI and delivers a robust array of metrics for dedicated athletes. An upcoming update will introduce features like cycling power zones, efficiency factor, aerobic decoupling, intensity factor, and variability index based on Apple Watch data. Additionally, an Apple Watch app is in development to access essential information directly from the wrist. The Outsiders is free to download but necessitates a subscription to unlock all benefits.

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Apple’s Suggestions for Attaining Ideal Fit with AirPods Pro 3

### The New AirPods Pro 3: A Guide to Ideal Fit with Silicone Foam Ear Tips

The newly released AirPods Pro 3 features a notable enhancement in ear tip design, incorporating silicone foam ear tips that guarantee a superior fit compared to earlier versions. A review by Chance Miller from 9to5Mac highlights that these new ear tips offer “a marked improvement in fit,” elevating the overall user satisfaction.

#### Grasping the New Ear Tips

Apple has highlighted the significance of selecting the correct ear tip size for optimal functionality. Users might need to rethink their typical size, as numerous individuals have shared that they require a smaller size with the AirPods Pro 3. This latest model comes with five ear tip sizes included in the package: XXS, XS, S, M, and L, with medium still being the default choice. The introduction of the XXS size accommodates a wider variety of ear shapes and sizes.

#### Suggestions for Attaining the Best Fit

Even experienced AirPods Pro users might discover that a different ear tip size is necessary. Apple recommends beginning with the medium size, which is already attached, and adjusting based on comfort and seal. Follow these steps to ensure a proper fit:

1. Insert the AirPods with the medium-sized ear tips into your ears, making sure they are comfortably and securely seated.
2. If a proper seal is eluding you, adjust the AirPods or consider using a larger ear tip. On the other hand, if the ear tip feels overly large or uncomfortable, select a smaller size.

#### Evaluating the Fit with the Acoustic Seal Test

After choosing the ear tip size that is most comfortable, you can make use of the new Acoustic Seal Test to check the fit. This feature replaces the former Ear Tip Fit Test and is accessible for AirPods Pro 3 users with iOS or iPadOS 26 or higher. Here’s how to perform the test:

1. Ensure your AirPods Pro are paired with your iPhone or iPad.
2. Go to Settings > Bluetooth.
3. Tap the More Info button next to your AirPods in the device list.
4. For AirPods Pro 3, choose Acoustic Seal Test and tap Continue, then hit the Play button.

If the test suggests that changes are required, try repositioning your AirPods or testing different ear tip sizes. It is important to note that you might need varying sizes for each ear.

#### Conclusion

The silicone foam ear tips of the AirPods Pro 3 signify a major leap in comfort and fit, with Apple urging users to explore different sizes for the best experience. By adhering to the outlined recommendations and using the Acoustic Seal Test, users can ensure they are maximizing the performance of their new AirPods Pro 3.

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