Author: sparta

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    • Comments Off on EU Accuses Apple of Jeopardizing Users; Apple Retorts with Allegations of EU Hypocrisy
    EU Accuses Apple of Jeopardizing Users; Apple Retorts with Allegations of EU Hypocrisy

    As part of a probe into whether Apple adheres to the Digital Services Act (DSA), the EU has indicated it believes the company is not adequately shielding its customers from scams. The Cupertino firm is also charged with not offering sufficient safety precautions for children using its devices.

    The heated exchange between Apple and the EU has escalated in recent days, mere weeks after both parties faced off in court over the legality of the Digital Markets Act (DMA). In that situation, Apple claimed that the EU was enforcing onerous regulations, while the EU asserted that Apple was attempting to secure user loyalty for inflated profits.

    The current dispute revolves around the DSA, which requires that tech giants take appropriate measures to safeguard users from harm, including protecting customers from fraudulent apps and ensuring the safety and privacy of children. The EU has voiced concerns that Apple has not enacted enough measures to lessen the risks of financial scams through its App Store and to protect younger users.

    In retaliation, Apple’s VP of Legal, Kyle Andeer, sent a pointed letter accusing the EU of double standards. He argued that the DMA’s stipulations undermine Apple’s capability to effectively protect users. Apple maintains that the DMA compels the firm to permit developers to connect to external platforms without adequate safeguards, placing users at risk for potential fraud and scams.

    Apple additionally reproached the EU for purportedly shifting focus from problems caused by its own regulations, asserting that the Commission has overlooked misconduct by developers misleading users, including minors.

    The continuing conflict emphasizes the intricacies of regulatory systems in the tech sector, where laws designed to foster competition and safeguard consumers can sometimes clash, resulting in difficulties for companies like Apple in finding a balance between compliance and user safety.

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    • Comments Off on AYANEO Introduces Pocket Vert in First Teaser Video
    AYANEO Introduces Pocket Vert in First Teaser Video

    Hold your horses, there’s no need to get overly enthusiastic until we have the price.

    (Image credit: AYANEO)

    Essential information to grasp

    • AYANEO has given its initial glimpse of the Pocket Vert, a forthcoming handheld resembling a Game Boy.
    • It also disclosed some specifications, including a 3.5-inch LCD display with a resolution of 1600 x 1440.
    • A few aspects remain undisclosed, but AYANEO assures that more information will be “unveiled soon.”

    The excitement keeps rolling for AYANEO, as just last week, the company teased its first smartphone, and now there’s yet another new handheld making its debut. We initially learned about the AYANEO Pocket Vert in July during the company’s “Strategy Sharing Session” livestream. We are now getting our first view of the handheld, along with some additional key information.

    The Pocket Vert will mark AYANEO’s first vertical handheld since the release of the Pocket DMG in 2023. Following its launch, the DMG swiftly gained popularity within the community, despite its premium price point. AYANEO aims to recapture some of that allure with the Vert, albeit in a distinctly different manner.

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    • Comments Off on Google Maps Gets Significant Gemini Enhancement: Unveiling 4 New AI Capabilities
    Google Maps Gets Significant Gemini Enhancement: Unveiling 4 New AI Capabilities

    Conversations fueled by Gemini on Google Maps that would resemble chats in the Gemini app, with a significant twist: These discussions would focus on navigation and local attractions. That functionality isn’t fully available as it was depicted in that leak, but Google introduced four new Gemini features for Google Maps on Wednesday that will enhance the popular navigation application.

    Google Maps will incorporate voice-activated, hands-free dialogues with Gemini throughout the navigation process. “It’s akin to having an informed companion in the passenger seat who can expertly assist you in reaching your destination,” Google articulated the experience in a blog entry, which is similar to making Gemini your navigational assistant. This feature will roll out on Android and iPhone in the upcoming weeks.

    An illustration provided by Google depicts a driver inquiring about affordable dining options along the route. Gemini swiftly identifies a nearby location, and the driver then asks about parking. After Gemini provides the parking details, the driver instructs the AI to navigate there. Google Maps seamlessly integrates the stop, without altering the ultimate end point. Simultaneously, the driver prompts Gemini to schedule a Calendar event. The example illustrates the vehicle progressing along the route, showing the user was driving while communicating with Gemini. Additionally, the new conversational capabilities of Gemini in Google Maps will enable you to report traffic issues by voice.

    Google Maps will utilize landmarks for navigation

    <source media="(min-width: 429px)" srcset="https://www.bgr.com/img/gallery/google-maps-just-got-a-big-gemini-upgrade-here-are-4-new-ai-features/google-maps-will-use-landmarks-for-directions-176

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    • Comments Off on IKEA Launches 21 Innovative Matter-Compatible Smart Home Devices
    IKEA Launches 21 Innovative Matter-Compatible Smart Home Devices

    **IKEA Introduces 21 New Matter-Compatible Smart Home Offerings**

    IKEA has just rolled out a thrilling new range of 21 smart home offerings that support Matter, a universal connectivity framework aimed at improving compatibility among smart home gadgets. This news is especially exciting for HomeKit fans seeking economical alternatives.

    ### Overview of the New Range

    The fresh collection features:
    – **11 Smart Bulbs**: Multiple varieties and specifications to meet diverse lighting requirements.
    – **5 Sensors**: Engineered to boost home automation and security.
    – **3 Remote Controls**: For straightforward management of smart devices.
    – **1 Smart Plug**: Transforming standard appliances into smart solutions.

    ### Shift to Matter Compatibility

    Upon its initial entry into the smart home sector, IKEA’s products gained recognition for their cost-effectiveness in comparison to rivals. While the company committed to HomeKit integration, it took a while to fulfill that promise. With the new rollout, IKEA has completely adopted Matter compatibility, making all new offerings inherently compatible with HomeKit. This indicates a notable reintroduction of its smart home products, featuring both fresh and upgraded items developed from in-depth research and consumer insights.

    Stjepan Begic, a Product Developer at IKEA of Sweden, highlighted the objective of streamlining the smart home experience: “This launch aims to enhance the smart home journey, making it broader… keeping things straightforward from installation to everyday use.”

    ### New Product Highlights

    #### Smart Bulbs

    1. **E27/E26 Bulbs**: Offered in various specifications including color-shifting and dimmable features.
    2. **P45 E14 Bulbs**: Compact bulbs with both color and white light options.
    3. **GU10 Spotlight**: Directional spotlight with color-shifting capabilities.
    4. **Clear-Glass Decorative Bulbs**: Dimmable options in multiple sizes.

    #### Sensors

    1. **MYGGSPRAY**: Motion detector for automated lighting.
    2. **MYGGBETT**: Door/Window detector for security alerts.
    3. **TIMMERFLOTTE**: Temperature and Humidity Sensor for climate oversight.
    4. **ALPSTUGA**: Air quality detector measuring CO₂ levels and particles.
    5. **KLIPPBOK**: Water leak detector for early-warning against leaks.

    #### Remote Controls

    1. **BILRESA Remote Control with Dual Button**: For fundamental control of smart devices.
    2. **BILRESA Remote Control with Scroll Wheel**: For more intricate control of lighting and scenes.
    3. **BILRESA Remote Control Kits**: Vibrant kits available in various designs.

    #### Smart Plug

    – **GRILLPLATS Smart Plug**: Enables remote control of everyday appliances and monitors energy consumption.

    ### Conclusion

    IKEA’s recent smart home product launch signifies a crucial advancement in making smart technology approachable and user-centric. With the addition of Matter compatibility, these offerings are crafted to operate harmoniously within a smart home environment, providing customers with a wide array of choices to elevate their living areas.

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    • Comments Off on iOS 26.2 Brings Offline Lyrics Functionality for Apple Music
    iOS 26.2 Brings Offline Lyrics Functionality for Apple Music

    ### Apple Music Unveils Offline Lyrics with iOS 26.2

    Apple has just rolled out the inaugural beta of iOS 26.2, which brings a host of updates throughout its ecosystem, most notably upgrading Apple Music with the much-anticipated offline lyrics feature. This addition represents a significant enhancement for users who appreciate interacting with song lyrics while enjoying their preferred tracks.

    #### The Progression of Lyrics in Apple Music

    Since its launch in 2016, Apple Music has steadily improved its lyrics feature. Throughout the years, the platform has embraced numerous capabilities such as lyric search, live lyrics, karaoke mode, and lyric translations. However, one drawback persisted: accessing lyrics necessitated a reliable internet connection, whether via Wi-Fi or cellular data.

    #### The Latest Offline Lyrics Functionality

    With the debut of iOS 26.2, Apple Music users can now view lyrics even when not connected to the internet. This update has been eagerly awaited by many users, since it allows them to enjoy lyrics in situations where connectivity is challenged, such as during air travel or in locales with weak signals. In the past, users were unable to see lyrics in these scenarios, but the new update rectifies this issue.

    #### Advantages of Offline Lyrics

    The capacity to view lyrics offline significantly enriches the user experience, offering an effortless way to engage with music sans the need for an internet connection. This feature is especially advantageous for those who travel often or find themselves in areas with inconsistent service. It also positions Apple Music favorably against competing streaming platforms like Spotify, which still mandates an internet connection to access lyrics.

    #### User Reactions and Expectations

    The rollout of offline lyrics has been met with excitement from the Apple Music user community. Users have long advocated for this functionality, and Apple’s move to implement it signifies the company’s attentiveness to customer suggestions. The offline lyrics feature is regarded as a quality-of-life enhancement that, while not immediately evident, will be valued when users require it.

    #### Conclusion

    The inclusion of offline lyrics in Apple Music with iOS 26.2 is a notable enhancement that meets the desires of users who enjoy following along with lyrics. As Apple continues to innovate and address user demands, features like this contribute to solidifying Apple Music’s standing in the competitive streaming arena. Whether you are a regular traveler or simply someone who enjoys music, the ability to access lyrics offline is a valued improvement that amplifies the listening experience.

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on Google Unveils the Logic Behind the Choice of the ‘Nano Banana’ Name
    Google Unveils the Logic Behind the Choice of the ‘Nano Banana’ Name

    a puzzling Nano Banana AI image creator gained immense popularity, not solely due to its intriguing title, but rather because of the AI-generated visuals users continuously shared online. Some speculated that Nano Banana, while in development on LM Arena, was an unreleased model from Google that would soon be revealed. By the end of August, Google launched Nano Banana, disclosing its official designation, Gemini 2.5 Flash Image, and rendering it broadly accessible to users. Despite this, the public persisted in referring to it as Nano Banana, which Google ultimately embraced, incorporating the name across all platforms where the AI image generation model is presented.

    Until recently, Google had not clarified the significance of Nano Banana, a label that seemed nonsensical in the overarching context of Google AI initiatives, where Gemini serves as the primary brand. Some might have speculated that Nano Banana was merely a random temporary label Google opted for when submitting the AI image generation model to LM Arena. It turns out that was precisely the case. Google confirmed that the designation was randomly selected in the middle of the night, not stemming from a meticulously devised plan. The name became popular as the model gained traction and users continued to refer to it as Nano Banana. In hindsight, the choice of name was a moment of late-night ingenuity, as it provided the AI model with a distinct identity.

    How Google chose the Nano Banana name

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    • Comments Off on Apple’s CarPlay Continues to Be a Robust Rival Despite GM’s Attempts
    Apple’s CarPlay Continues to Be a Robust Rival Despite GM’s Attempts

    **GM’s Choice to Discontinue CarPlay: A Contentious Decision**

    General Motors (GM) has recently revealed its plan to withdraw support for Apple’s CarPlay, igniting significant discussion and backlash. This decision, articulated by GM CEO Mary Barra and Chief Product Officer Sterling Anderson, has faced skepticism, especially given GM’s failure to present a clear and convincing alternative.

    In a segment on the Decoder podcast, Anderson compared GM’s choice to a “Jobsian approach,” alluding to Apple’s audacious decisions during Steve Jobs’s tenure, such as eliminating the disk drive in favor of flash storage. Anderson indicated that GM is also aiming for the future by creating its own infotainment system. Nonetheless, this analogy has drawn criticism, as Apple’s choices were frequently supported by advanced technology, whereas GM’s infotainment system is not yet regarded as a suitable substitute for CarPlay.

    CarPlay is lauded for its dependability and intuitive interface, qualities that GM’s system has not yet achieved. Detractors contend that GM’s choice appears motivated more by economic factors than by a sincere attempt to improve user experience. Anderson asserts that GM’s system provides a more immersive environment, but the details on how it exceeds CarPlay remain unclear.

    The choice to forsake CarPlay has raised concerns regarding GM’s strategic direction and its capacity to offer a convincing alternative. As the automotive sector progressively incorporates technology, the success of GM’s infotainment system will be vital in assessing whether this decision was a visionary move or a miscalculation.

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    • Comments Off on Apple Music Co-Lead to Speak at Web Summit in Lisbon Next Week
    Apple Music Co-Lead to Speak at Web Summit in Lisbon Next Week

    ### Ole Obermann to Present at Web Summit 2025

    Ole Obermann, who has recently taken on the role of co-lead at Apple Music, is scheduled to present at the forthcoming Web Summit 2025 in Lisbon. This gathering, taking place from November 10 to 13, has evolved into a vital platform for leaders in technology and business, drawing notable personalities from diverse sectors.

    #### Insight into Ole Obermann

    Obermann became part of Apple in May 2025, bringing a vast array of experience from his former position as Global Head of Music Business Development and IP Rights at ByteDance. His impressive career also encompasses leadership roles at prominent music firms like Sony Music Entertainment and Warner Music Group. At Apple Music, Obermann manages a broad array that consists of Shazam, Platoon, and numerous label and publishing collaborations.

    #### Web Summit Features

    The Web Summit has a tradition of showcasing distinguished Apple executives, with former speakers such as Sarah Herrlinger and Craig Federighi. This year, participants can anticipate Obermann discussing Apple’s collaborative strategies and projects within the music sector, although specific information regarding the title or theme of his session is still pending.

    Alongside Obermann, the event will feature a variety of speakers, including Lovable CEO Anton Osika, Qualcomm CEO Cristiano Amon, actress Jameela Jamil, and The New York Times Publisher A.G. Sulzberger.

    For further details regarding the Web Summit, please check their official website.

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    • Comments Off on T-Mobile Broadens Availability of Famed Feature to AT&T and Verizon Customers
    T-Mobile Broadens Availability of Famed Feature to AT&T and Verizon Customers

    tmobile storefront, tmobile signage on front of building

    Smith Collection/gado/Getty Images

    In 2024, T-Mobile and Starlink received formal authorization to enhance their satellite communication coverage. This resulted in the creation of T-Satellite, enabling a broader range of applications to function without a traditional signal. Although registration with T-Mobile is necessary to maximize the perks of its alliance with Starlink, the company has revealed intentions to extend the “Text to 911” service to all users, including those on AT&T and Verizon networks.

    The announcement states, “Emergencies are not concerned with who your mobile provider is, so T-Mobile is ensuring access to 911 is available to as many individuals as possible.” The service is now accessible to all, independent of their wireless provider, and enrollment can be done through T-Mobile’s product page. Users can also leverage additional T-Satellite functionalities, although these will incur a monthly fee of $10.

    Furthermore, T-Mobile indicates that users must possess a compatible device, typically one that has launched in recent years with satellite functionality. It is essential to verify your device’s specifications to confirm it supports satellite features.

    Additional reassurance, regardless of your provider

    <source media="(min-width: 429px)" srcset="https://www.bgr.com/img/gallery/t-mobile-just-made-one-of-its-best-features-available-to-everyone-even-on

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    • Comments Off on Xpeng Reveals Humanoid Robot Boasting Artificial Skin and Tailored Body, Scheduled for Launch in 2026
    Xpeng Reveals Humanoid Robot Boasting Artificial Skin and Tailored Body, Scheduled for Launch in 2026

    flying vehicle advancements, additionally, it revealed the next generation of its IRON humanoid robots during its AI Day held in Guangzhou, China. Xpeng introduced the eighth iteration of its robot initiative (and the third with a humanoid form), and plans to commence mass production of the newest models by late 2026.

    What swiftly drew BGR’s focus was Xpeng’s daring shift from conventional humanoid robot designs. Rather than adhering to the more traditional male look seen in models from firms like Neura, Xpeng launched a form that is curvier and more feminine — arguably featuring more curves than a robot necessitates.

    XPENG will even let you customize the clothes of your robotJosé Adorno/BGR

    The firm also disclosed that its new robot boasts full-body synthetic skin designed to create a “warmer and more intimate” experience. Similar to how 1X showcased its intriguing Neo home robot, Xpeng’s robot permits users to modify its look by selecting its color, though Xpeng expands on this by providing varying body types (chubby, athletic, tall, or short), hairstyles, and, in the future, even outfits. Nevertheless, in contrast to other companies, Xpeng is not focusing on household tasks or industrial roles for its robots.

    Tour guides and personal assistants

    <div class="slide-key image-holder gallery-image-holder credit-image-wrap " data-post-url="https://www.bgr.com/2018475/xpeng-iron-humanoid-robot-synthetic-s

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