Author: sparta

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    • Comments Off on “Galaxy S25 Images Surfaces, First Ever Tri-Fold Smartphone Revealed, plus More Leading Tech Updates”
    “Galaxy S25 Images Surfaces, First Ever Tri-Fold Smartphone Revealed, plus More Leading Tech Updates”

    ## A Summary of the Major Google/Android News Highlights from This Week

    Greetings to **Android Central’s News Weekly**, your reliable destination for a succinct recap of the week’s most pivotal tech updates. From innovative smartphone designs to revolutionary AI breakthroughs, this week has been brimming with developments that influence the tech landscape. Here’s a recap of the prominent stories that caught attention.

    —

    ### 1. **The Galaxy S25 Ultra Appears to Be Quite Flat**
    This week, Samsung’s anticipated **Galaxy S25 Ultra** made waves with leaked images indicating a noteworthy design transformation. The Ultra variant, which is typically recognized for its curved screen, is now likely to showcase a flat design, resembling more closely the entry-level Galaxy S24 models. According to **OnLeaks** leaks, the device will possess a flat display, frame, and back surface, featuring slightly curved corners.

    Although the **S Pen** was absent from the leaked images, it is still anticipated to be included in the final version. The foundational **Galaxy S25** also had its design exposed, revealing a similar flat look with a 6.2-inch screen and a camera setup akin to that of the **Galaxy Z Fold 6**. Both devices are expected to debut in **January 2025**.

    **Read more:** [Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra leaked renders](https://www.androidcentral.com/phones/samsung-galaxy-s25-ultra-leaked-renders-reveal-flat-design)

    —

    ### 2. **Huawei Mate XT: The Pinnacle of Foldable Design**
    Huawei has advanced foldable smartphones with the introduction of the **Mate XT**, the first commercially accessible **tri-fold phone** in the world. While brands like TECNO have showcased tri-fold ideas, Huawei is the pioneer in making one available to consumers. The Mate XT features a 6.4-inch display when folded and can unfold twice to unveil a substantial 10.2-inch tablet-like interface.

    Equipped with the **Kirin 9010** chipset, this device also offers 16GB of RAM, up to 1TB of memory, and a triple camera system with 50MP. Nevertheless, the Mate XT is priced at around **$2,800** and is presently only offered in China.

    **Read more:** [Huawei Mate XT launch details](https://www.androidcentral.com/phones/huawei-mate-xt-ultimate-design-launch)

    —

    ### 3. **Gemini Live Now Accessible for Free**
    Google’s **Gemini Live**, a conversational AI capability previously available exclusively for **Google One** subscribers, is now open to all Android users at no cost. This feature, which was introduced with the **Pixel 9**, facilitates more fluid interactions with AI, serving as a practical tool for idea generation, discovering new subjects, or even compiling grocery lists.

    While not flawless, Gemini Live has demonstrated effectiveness in managing different tasks, and it’s now obtainable through the **Gemini app** for Android.

    **Read more:** [Gemini Live free for Android](https://www.androidcentral.com/apps-software/gemini-live-is-available-for-free-on-android-phones)

    —

    ### 4. **OpenAI Grants Its AI More Time to “Reflect”**
    In an unexpected turn, **OpenAI** is easing up the pace with its latest AI model, **OpenAI o1**, which is created to take additional time to “reflect” before delivering responses. This methodology has been shown to enhance accuracy, particularly in intricate fields like science and mathematics. For example, the model successfully answered **83%** of the **International Mathematics Olympiad** queries correctly, marking a significant enhancement over earlier versions.

    This innovative AI model is currently in the preview stage and could transform the way we engage with AI in more reflective and precise manners.

    **Read more:** [OpenAI o1 preview](https://www.androidcentral.com/apps-software/openai-o1-lets-ai-think-before-answering)

    —

    ### 5. **Google Strengthens Sideloading Restrictions**
    Google is tightening its grip on sideloading applications on Android with the launch of its new **Google Play Integrity API**. This API conducts assessments to ascertain whether applications were obtained from the Play Store or sideloaded. If it’s determined that the app was sideloaded, developers can compel users to install the official Play Store variant, complicating any attempts to circumvent this requirement.

    Although sideloading provides added flexibility, it carries security dangers as apps installed outside the Play Store bypass the same security protocols.

    **Read more:** [Google’s new sideloading restrictions](https://www.androidcentral.com/apps-software/google-is-making-it-harder-to-sideload-apps-on-android)

    —

    ### Additional Stories to Keep Up With:
    – **Samsung encourages a switch to Google Messages**:

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    • Comments Off on Fitbit and Pixel Watches Set to Get Complimentary Fitbit Premium Health Feature Upgrade
    Fitbit and Pixel Watches Set to Get Complimentary Fitbit Premium Health Feature Upgrade

    # Your Old Fitbit and Pixel Watch Now Feature the Fitbit Daily Readiness Score

    In an important enhancement for fitness buffs and wearable technology users, Google has released Fitbit’s **Daily Readiness Score** at no cost on earlier models of Fitbit and Pixel Watch. Once a premium function, this tool is now open to a wider audience, allowing users to gain a deeper understanding of their body’s preparedness for physical activities.

    ## What is the Fitbit Daily Readiness Score?

    The **Daily Readiness Score** serves as a tool to evaluate your body’s readiness for workouts and everyday activities. It considers various critical health indicators, including:

    – **Resting Heart Rate (RHR)**
    – **Heart Rate Variability (HRV)**
    – **Sleep Patterns**

    By examining these elements, the score gives a thorough overview of how well your body has recuperated from past activities and whether you’re prepared for more strenuous workouts or if you should take extra time to recover.

    ### How Does It Work?

    The score is determined on a scale ranging from **1 to 100**, with a higher score reflecting better recovery and readiness for physical endeavors. Here’s what the score signifies:

    – **Below 29**: Your body is in need of rest. It’s advisable to take a break and concentrate on recuperation.
    – **Between 30 and 64**: You’re somewhat ready for activity but might want to steer clear of high-intensity workouts.
    – **Above 65**: You’re prime for physical activity, and your body is prepared for more rigorous exercises.

    The score also considers your **sleep quality** from the last two weeks, alongside your **heart rate variability** and **resting heart rate**. This all-encompassing approach guarantees that the score reflects not just your activity from the previous day but also your overall recovery and health status.

    ### What’s New in the Latest Update?

    Previously, the Daily Readiness Score was restricted to **Fitbit Premium** members. Nonetheless, with the advent of the **Pixel Watch 3**, Google declared that this feature would be accessible without charge to all users. Now, this update has been brought to older Fitbit and Pixel Watch models, making it available to an expanded user base without requiring a premium plan.

    Moreover, the recent update has eliminated the impact of your **activity level** from the score’s calculation. This modification aims to enhance the score’s accuracy by emphasizing solely your body’s recovery, rather than being affected by how active you were the previous day.

    ## Which Devices Are Compatible?

    The Daily Readiness Score is now offered on a range of Fitbit and Pixel Watch models, including:

    – **Pixel Watch** (1st generation and above)
    – **Fitbit Charge 5** and **Charge 6**
    – **Fitbit Inspire 2** and **Inspire 3**
    – **Fitbit Sense** and **Sense 2**
    – **Fitbit Versa 2** and later versions
    – **Fitbit Luxe**

    To utilize this feature, make sure your Fitbit app is updated to **version 4.23** or a later version.

    ## Why Is the Daily Readiness Score Important?

    The Daily Readiness Score is an essential tool for anyone aiming to enhance their fitness routine. By offering insights into your body’s recovery status, it aids you in making educated choices about whether to exert yourself or to take a day of rest. This can be especially beneficial for athletes, fitness fans, or anyone striving for a healthy equilibrium between activity and recovery.

    For example, after an intensive workout or a hectic day, your body may demand more time for recovery. The Daily Readiness Score can assist you in preventing overtraining, which could result in injuries or fatigue. Conversely, if your score is elevated, you can confidently participate in more challenging physical activities, assured that your body is ready.

    ## How to Use the Daily Readiness Score

    Once the feature is activated on your device, you can view your score each morning via the Fitbit app. The app will present a detailed breakdown of your score, encompassing insights regarding your **sleep quality**, **heart rate variability**, and **resting heart rate**. Based on your score, you’ll receive personalized suggestions on whether to rest, engage in light activities, or opt for a more vigorous workout.

    ## Conclusion

    The introduction of the **Fitbit Daily Readiness Score** on older Fitbit and Pixel Watch models is a great enhancement for users wanting to maximize their fitness and recovery without incurring costs from a premium subscription. By providing a thorough assessment of your body’s readiness for physical exertion, this feature can guide you in making more informed choices about your exercise regimen, contributing to improved overall health and performance.

    Whether you’re an experienced athlete or simply aiming to remain active, the Daily Readiness Score is an essential resource that can assist you in finding the right balance between challenging yourself and allowing your body the recovery it requires. With this feature now available for free, it has become easier than

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    • Comments Off on Video Shows Eels Fleeing from Predator’s Stomach Following Consumption
    Video Shows Eels Fleeing from Predator’s Stomach Following Consumption

    # Bizarre Video Captures Eels Breaking Free from a Predator’s Stomach After Consumption

    The animal realm is rife with intriguing and occasionally odd survival tactics. From camouflage to poisonous defenses, various species have developed distinctive methods to evade predation. Yet, some animals, such as the Japanese eel, elevate survival strategies to an astonishing extent by fleeing from the stomachs of their predators after ingestion.

    A fresh investigation published in the journal *Current Biology* has illuminated how young Japanese eels execute this remarkable maneuver. The study, which included capturing video documentation of the eels’ escape, demonstrates that these agile creatures can slip out of a predator’s stomach by employing a clever approach.

    ## The Great Escape: The Eels’ Technique

    Conducted by a team of scientists, the study utilized X-ray video technology to document the escape process in real-time. The recorded material indicates that following their ingestion, the juvenile eels start searching for a way out. They achieve this by probing the predator’s body, frequently inserting the ends of their tails through the predator’s esophagus and gills. Once they identify a suitable exit, the eels coil their bodies and extricate themselves, escaping through the gills.

    This extraordinary behavior was noted in 32 eels that were captured, with 28 attempting to escape after swallowing. Among these, 13 succeeded in maneuvering their tails into the predator’s gills, and nine managed to break free. On average, these eels took around 56 seconds to complete their audacious escape.

    ## An Exceptional Survival Technique

    While numerous animals depend on defensive strategies like speed, camouflage, or toxins to avert being consumed, the Japanese eel’s approach is significantly more adventurous. By permitting themselves to be consumed and subsequently escaping from within, these eels have crafted a survival tactic that is both uncommon and highly effective.

    Earlier research had indicated that eels could escape through their predators’ gills, but until this point, scientists had not precisely ascertained how they achieved this. The implementation of X-ray video technology in this study enabled researchers to closely examine the process, offering new understandings of the eel’s evasion strategies.

    ## Implications for Future Investigations

    The team conducting the study believes that the X-ray techniques utilized to observe the eels could be implemented in other predator-prey dynamics, potentially uncovering new insights into the survival strategies of diverse species. Gaining an understanding of how animals like the Japanese eel manage to extricate themselves from seemingly untenable situations could enhance scientific knowledge regarding the evolutionary pressures shaping these behaviors.

    Moreover, this study provokes intriguing considerations regarding the predator-prey relationship. While predators are generally perceived as dominant, the Japanese eel’s capability to escape from inside a predator’s anatomy challenges this notion and underscores the intricacy of survival in the animal kingdom.

    ## Conclusion

    The Japanese eel’s ability to break free from a predator’s stomach exemplifies the extreme measures some animals pursue for survival. By utilizing their tails to locate an exit through the predator’s gills, these eels have established a distinct and potent survival strategy that differentiates them from other species. As researchers delve deeper into these behaviors, further insights into the remarkable adaptability of life on Earth may emerge.

    For those keen to witness this astonishing escape firsthand, the video documentation of the eels’ flight can be viewed in reports from *Phys.org* and various other scientific sources.

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    • Comments Off on Apple’s Johny Srouji Affirms That Every iPhone 16 Variant Boasts 8GB of RAM: Further Details from 9to5Mac
    Apple’s Johny Srouji Affirms That Every iPhone 16 Variant Boasts 8GB of RAM: Further Details from 9to5Mac

    # Apple Reveals iPhone 16: A Dive into Apple Intelligence with Upgraded RAM

    On Monday, Apple captured attention with the introduction of its newest flagship products, the iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Pro. These latest versions are hailed as the first iPhones meticulously crafted to tap into the capabilities of Apple Intelligence, thanks to the launch of the A18 and A18 Pro chipsets. In a recent discussion, Johny Srouji, Apple’s Senior Vice President of Hardware Technologies, shared details about the iPhone 16’s features, particularly emphasizing the substantial enhancement in RAM across all four models.

    ## Upgraded RAM for Superior Performance

    One of the standout modifications in the iPhone 16 series is the boost in RAM. Each of the four models—the standard iPhone 16, iPhone 16 Plus, iPhone 16 Pro, and iPhone 16 Pro Max—now boasts 8GB of RAM. This represents a significant enhancement compared to last year’s iPhone 15 lineup, where the standard models had 6GB of RAM, and only the Pro models featured 8GB. This upgrade is essential, as it empowers all iPhone 16 variants to leverage Apple Intelligence, a functionality that was previously restricted to the Pro models.

    Srouji confirmed this RAM upgrade in an interview with Geekerwan, marking the first occasion Apple has openly shared the RAM specifications for its devices. Historically, Apple has been cautious about releasing detailed hardware specifications, making this announcement particularly significant.

    ## The Significance of Apple Intelligence

    Apple Intelligence serves as a crucial feature that enhances the functionality of the new iPhones. Srouji elaborated that the increased RAM was vital not only for facilitating this cutting-edge feature but also for boosting overall device performance. He remarked, “Our aim is to create the finest products, ensuring the best user experience. With regard to Apple Intelligence, DRAM is one aspect.”

    The 8GB of RAM is anticipated to greatly enhance various applications, particularly in high-performance gaming scenarios. Srouji underscored that the extra memory will aid AAA-titled games and improve overall gaming performance on the device. He also noted that the seamless integration of software and silicon enables Apple to optimize memory usage effectively, ensuring that applications do not squander memory resources.

    ## Apple Silicon: A Distinct Advantage

    In the discussion, Srouji additionally talked about how Apple Silicon stacks up against competitors in the market. He pointed out that Apple excels in single-thread performance across its silicon offerings, including the iPhone, iPad, and Mac. This emphasis on performance rather than merely increasing core counts distinguishes Apple from many rivals.

    Srouji elaborated on the meticulous design considerations behind Apple’s silicon, stating, “We utilize numerous simulation and performance modeling tools, and we analyze actual data.” He explained that Apple takes into account multiple factors, such as battery capacity, power delivery systems, and thermal management, to guarantee that their devices are not over-engineered, which he termed wasteful.

    ## Conclusion

    The iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Pro signify a substantial advancement for Apple, especially with the launch of Apple Intelligence and the RAM boost across all models. As Apple persists in innovating and merging hardware and software, users can look forward to enhanced performance and a richer experience with their devices. The complete interview with Johny Srouji offers a comprehensive look at the technical choices behind the iPhone 16 and is highly recommended for those intrigued by the future of Apple technology.

    For additional insights, you can view the full interview

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    • Comments Off on More than One Million Android TV Streaming Devices Affected by Vo1d Malware
    More than One Million Android TV Streaming Devices Affected by Vo1d Malware

    ### Android TV Malware Warning: Essential Information Regarding the Android.Vo1d Threat

    In the rapidly changing landscape of technology, security risks remain a significant worry. Even if you’re loyal to the iPhone, it’s very likely you possess an Android device within your household, such as an Android TV streaming box. Recent findings show that these devices are now being targeted by a menacing malware dubbed **Android.Vo1d**, which has reportedly infected more than 1.3 million Android TV boxes across 197 nations, including Brazil, Morocco, and Pakistan.

    This article will explore what Android.Vo1d is, its mechanisms, the devices impacted, and what measures you can take to safeguard your Android TV box from this malware.

    —

    ### What is Android.Vo1d?

    **Android.Vo1d** is a complex piece of malware identified by the antivirus firm **Dr.Web**. It is engineered to infiltrate Android TV boxes, devices that facilitate streaming content directly onto television sets. The malware has been detected in numerous models of Android TV boxes and is capable of performing a variety of harmful functions, including downloading and executing files from a remote server.

    The malware operates via several modules:

    1. **Android.Vo1d.1**: This component is charged with initiating the malware and managing its operations. It guarantees that the malware remains active by restarting its processes if needed.

    2. **Android.Vo1d.3**: This module installs and triggers the **Android.Vo1d.5** daemon, which is encrypted and resides within the malware. It also has the capability to download and execute additional files as commanded by a remote **Command and Control (C&C)** server.

    3. **Android.Vo1d.5**: This daemon surveils designated directories on the device and installs any APK files (Android application packages) it discovers, further endangering the system.

    —

    ### Affected Devices and Firmware Versions

    According to Dr.Web, the following Android TV boxes and firmware versions have been reported as compromised by the malware:

    – **R4**: Android 7.1.2; R4 Build/NHG47K
    – **TV BOX**: Android 12.1; TV BOX Build/NHG47K
    – **KJ-SMART4KVIP**: Android 10.1; KJ-SMART4KVIP Build/NHG47K

    These units are especially susceptible due to their frequent use of outdated Android versions, which may lack the latest security updates. This renders them prime targets for attackers eager to exploit security vulnerabilities.

    —

    ### How Does Android.Vo1d Function?

    The Android.Vo1d malware operates through a multi-step procedure:

    1. **Infection**: The malware is introduced to the device, likely via a compromised application or firmware update. The precise origin of the infection remains uncertain, but it is believed that attackers are targeting devices with outdated Android systems.

    2. **Persistence**: Upon installation, the **Android.Vo1d.1** module guarantees that the malware stays active by restarting its processes if they are interrupted. This complicates the removal of the malware by users.

    3. **Command and Control**: The malware interacts with a remote C&C server that can send instructions to download and execute additional harmful files. This capability allows the malware to adapt and perform new actions as directed by the attackers.

    4. **APK Installation**: The malware also scrutinizes specific device directories for APK files. When such files are uncovered, it installs them, potentially introducing more harmful applications to the system.

    —

    ### Why Are Android TV Boxes Targeted?

    Even though Android TV boxes might not house the same sensitive information as smartphones or personal computers, they still present appealing targets for cybercriminals. Here are several reasons for this:

    1. **Outdated Software**: Numerous Android TV boxes operate on older Android versions that frequently lack timely security updates. This vulnerability makes them susceptible to exploits that newer versions of the operating system have rectified.

    2. **Wide Distribution**: Android TV boxes enjoy immense popularity globally, with countless units sold. This creates a substantial pool of potential victims for cybercriminals to exploit.

    3. **Network Access**: Despite these devices not storing sensitive data, they are connected to home networks. Once breached, they could serve as a conduit for attacking other devices within the same network, such as computers, smartphones, and smart home appliances.

    —

    ### How to Safeguard Your Android TV Box

    While the Android.Vo1d malware poses a serious concern, there are measures you can take to shield your Android TV box from infection:

    1. **Update Your Device**: Confirm that your Android TV box is operating on the latest Android version and has all security patches applied. Many devices remain vulnerable due to their use of outdated software.

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    • Comments Off on Starliner Failure Leads to Unplanned Crew Ejection, Contravening Navy Captain Customs
    Starliner Failure Leads to Unplanned Crew Ejection, Contravening Navy Captain Customs

    **NASA Astronauts Prolong Space Mission Following Boeing’s Starliner Delay**

    NASA astronauts Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams are well-acquainted with extended missions away from Earth. Both seasoned professionals have held captain roles in the US Navy and have previously completed six-month assignments aboard the International Space Station (ISS). However, their ongoing mission, which commenced on June 5, 2024, with Boeing’s Starliner spacecraft, has taken an unforeseen turn, prolonging their time in space considerably beyond the initial schedule.

    ### A Pivotal Mission with Unforeseen Hurdles

    Wilmore and Williams became the inaugural astronauts to board Boeing’s Starliner spacecraft, representing a significant achievement for both Boeing and NASA. The mission was originally designed to last merely a few weeks, with a minimum duration of eight days. However, technical difficulties with the Starliner spacecraft have transformed what was meant to be a brief test flight into a prolonged eight-month stay on the ISS.

    The Starliner test flight, already postponed by seven years, experienced multiple issues that prevented it from fulfilling all its goals. Ultimately, NASA officials concluded that the spacecraft was not safe enough for the astronauts’ return to Earth. Consequently, Wilmore and Williams will resurface in February 2025 aboard a SpaceX Dragon spacecraft, which has shown itself to be a dependable alternative.

    ### A Tough Choice

    On September 6, 2024, the Starliner capsule successfully returned to Earth via parachutes in New Mexico, but without its crew. NASA faced the difficult choice of sending the spacecraft back unmanned after encountering a series of problems, including the failure of five thrusters during the spacecraft’s approach to the ISS in June. While the thrusters functioned correctly during the capsule’s departure from the ISS, one thruster failed on the crew module during reentry. These complications raised safety concerns that NASA and Boeing engineers must address prior to Starliner’s subsequent flight.

    During a press briefing, Wilmore shared his frustration about not being able to return on the Starliner but recognized the necessity of prioritizing safety. “As the commander or pilot of your spacecraft, you don’t wish to see it depart without you, yet that’s what transpired,” he remarked.

    Williams, who observed the Starliner’s departure from the ISS’s cupola module, voiced similar thoughts. “We were watching our spaceship depart at that moment,” she noted. “Naturally, we have extensive knowledge of Starliner, so it was clear what was occurring at each step.”

    ### Appreciating the Alternatives

    NASA’s choice to retain Wilmore and Williams on the ISS highlights the significance of having multiple spacecraft alternatives for crewed missions. The astronauts are currently adapting to their extended tenure, conducting scientific experiments, spacewalks, and maintenance activities aboard the ISS. They have also fashioned makeshift seating in a SpaceX Dragon spacecraft presently docked at the station, which will act as their emergency escape in case of unforeseen circumstances.

    “We were quite fortunate to have the space station available, and that we had the choice to remain and the option to return differently if that’s what the data indicated,” Wilmore stated.

    This situation underscores the differences between contemporary space missions and past tragedies, such as the 2003 Columbia disaster. In that instance, NASA engineers raised concerns regarding the space shuttle’s heat shield but lacked the means to rescue the crew. This time, NASA could keep the astronauts secure aboard the ISS and arrange their return via another spacecraft.

    ### A Long Legacy of Extended Missions

    This is not the first instance of astronauts having their missions prolonged due to spacecraft malfunctions. Most recently, in 2023, NASA astronaut Frank Rubio had his mission lengthened from six months to one year following a coolant leak in the Russian Soyuz spacecraft intended for his return. Russian officials judged the impaired Soyuz unsafe for human evacuation and dispatched another spacecraft to collect Rubio and his fellow crew members.

    Wilmore and Williams, both accomplished Navy test pilots, are adapting to the extended mission with ease. “We’re both Navy, accustomed to deployments; we aren’t surprised when those deployments change or extend,” Williams remarked. “Our families have adapted to that too.”

    ### Anticipating the Future

    In spite of the obstacles, both astronauts remain dedicated to their tasks aboard the ISS. They are trained for a range of activities, including spacewalks, managing the station’s robotic arm, and carrying out scientific research. They are also getting ready for their eventual return to Earth aboard a SpaceX Dragon spacecraft, scheduled to launch later this year with two crew members—a NASA commander and a Russian cosmonaut—leaving two seats vacant for Wilmore and Williams.

    “We have a ride home, and we’re eager for the upcoming months to engage in various activities on the International Space Station,” Williams expressed.

    ### Conclusion

    While the Starliner test flight did not unfold as intended, NASA’s capacity to adapt and

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    • Comments Off on iPadOS 18 Assessment: A Robust Upgrade with a Significant Absent Function
    iPadOS 18 Assessment: A Robust Upgrade with a Significant Absent Function

    # iPadOS 18 Review: An Impressive Update With One Key Absence

    Apple’s newest operating system upgrade, iPadOS 18, is nearly upon us, offering a plethora of new functionalities designed to enhance the iPad’s capabilities and versatility. Nonetheless, despite the numerous enhancements, there is one notable absence that users might find disheartening. In this review, we’ll explore the advantages and disadvantages of iPadOS 18, emphasizing the most significant changes alongside what’s still lacking.

    ## Advantages and Disadvantages of iPadOS 18

    ### Advantages:
    – **Revitalized OS**: iPadOS 18 has a refreshed feel with multiple redesigned elements that enhance user experience and make it more intuitive.
    – **Smart Script**: This feature revolutionizes the approach for students, writers, and anyone using the iPad for note-taking or document drafting.

    ### Disadvantages:
    – **Apple Intelligence**: Despite high expectations, Apple Intelligence is still absent in this iteration.
    – **Stage Manager Limitations**: Users anticipating developments for Stage Manager will be let down, as no new enhancements are present.

    ## First Impressions

    iPadOS 18 signifies a shift from previous updates that emphasized integration with macOS features such as Stage Manager, Universal Control, and Sidecar. Instead, this update focuses on strengthening the iPad’s tablet capabilities. Although the M4 iPad Pro was anticipated to capitalize on the potential of iPadOS 18, the update caters to all iPad users, not just those with the cutting-edge hardware.

    ### A New Direction for iPadOS

    With iPadOS 18, Apple has realigned its priorities, positioning the iPad more as a tablet rather than a substitute for a laptop. This is clear in the features that emphasize usability, creativity, and productivity, as opposed to imitating the Mac experience.

    ## Highlighted Features of iPadOS 18

    ### 1. **Calculator App: At Last**

    After 14 years, Apple introduces a native Calculator app for the iPad. While it may appear to be a straightforward addition, the app boasts an impressive new capability known as **Math Notes**. This feature enables users to type or write mathematical formulas and view them resolved in real-time. This tool is accessible in both the Calculator app and the Notes app, making it invaluable for students and professionals alike.

    ### 2. **Smart Script: The Standout of iPadOS 18**

    Smart Script enhances the Scribble functionality, Apple’s handwriting recognition tool. It allows users to modify handwritten content as effortlessly as typed text. Whether adjusting spacing, erasing sentences, or resizing paragraphs, Smart Script streamlines note-taking and writing on the iPad. This feature is especially beneficial for students and writers who depend on the iPad for their tasks.

    ### 3. **Game Mode: A New Chapter for iPad Gaming**

    First introduced in macOS Sonoma, **Game Mode** is now part of iPadOS 18. This feature reduces background processes to sustain high frame rates during prolonged gaming sessions. Combined with Apple’s powerful chips, Game Mode guarantees seamless gameplay without overheating or quick battery depletion. Additionally, tailored Spatial Audio for gaming will be introduced later this autumn, further enriching the gaming experience.

    ### 4. **Other Significant Features**

    – **SharePlay**: Enhanced screen-sharing capabilities enable users to draw and interact with their screens during FaceTime calls.
    – **Freeform**: Users can now arrange scenes to segment sections of a board according to topics, simplifying content presentation.
    – **Calendar and Reminders Integration**: Calendar now consolidates both events and tasks from Reminders, facilitating improved schedule management.

    ## The Missing Element: Apple Intelligence

    In spite of the numerous advancements in iPadOS 18, **Apple Intelligence** is still nowhere to be found. Apple has assured that this functionality will be integrated in a future release (iPadOS 18.1), but for now, users need to wait. Apple Intelligence is anticipated to introduce features like Writing Tools, which can edit articles, summarize alerts, and enhance images. However, based on preliminary evaluations, it remains uncertain whether these functions will make Apple Intelligence particularly notable.

    ## Device Compatibility

    With iPadOS 18, Apple ceases to support various older iPad models. The following devices are eligible for the new update:

    – iPad Pro (2018 or newer)
    – iPad Air 3 or newer
    – iPad mini 5 or newer
    – iPad 7th generation or newer

    ## Final Thoughts: A Robust Update with Scope for Growth

    iPadOS 18 is a commendable update that introduces several practical features to the iPad, enhancing its strength and versatility as a tablet. The arrival of Smart Script, Game Mode, and the long-awaited Calculator app

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    • Comments Off on “iPhone 16 Will Omit Stickers from the Packaging, Signifying a Change in Apple’s Strategy” – 9to5Mac
    “iPhone 16 Will Omit Stickers from the Packaging, Signifying a Change in Apple’s Strategy” – 9to5Mac

    ### Apple’s iPhone 16: A New Era Minus Stickers

    In a significant change for Apple fans, the newly unveiled iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Pro will no longer feature the classic Apple stickers in their packaging. This alteration, verified through internal notices to Apple Store teams and reported by 9to5Mac, underscores the corporation’s persistent dedication to eco-friendly practices and signals the conclusion of a cherished tradition for Apple customers.

    #### The Sticker Circumstance

    For individuals acquiring an iPhone 16 directly from an Apple Store, the ability to ask for Apple stickers is still an option; however, this does not apply to purchases made through third-party vendors or carrier partners. Furthermore, those opting for home delivery will not receive stickers with their devices. This decision has ignited discussions among enthusiasts and collectors who have valued the stickers as a component of the Apple unboxing experience.

    #### Environmental Aims

    Apple’s choice to remove stickers from the iPhone 16 packaging is part of a wider strategy aimed at diminishing its environmental impact. The company has set lofty objectives to achieve carbon neutrality by 2030, and the transition to fiber-based packaging for the iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Pro is a pivotal move in that direction. Apple has asserted its commitment to eliminating all plastic from its packaging by next year, and this change aligns with that goal.

    The packaging of the iPhone 16 is now fully fiber-based, which not only mitigates plastic waste but also bolsters the overall sustainability of the product. This transition is part of Apple’s continuous efforts to spearhead environmental responsibility within the tech sector, establishing a benchmark for other firms to emulate.

    #### A Pattern in Apple Offerings

    The lack of stickers in the iPhone 16 packaging is not merely a singular event. Earlier this year, with the launch of the Apple Vision Pro, customers observed the absence of stickers in that product’s box as well. Similarly, the newly released iPad Pro and iPad Air, launched in May, also did not include stickers. This trend indicates that Apple is systematically phasing out the inclusion of stickers across its product range, indicating a substantial change in the company’s approach to product packaging.

    #### Conclusion

    While the omission of Apple stickers from the iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Pro packaging might appear to be a minor detail, it reflects a broader shift in Apple’s ideology regarding sustainability and environmental accountability. As the company continues to innovate and respond to evolving consumer expectations, it remains uncertain how these modifications will impact the overall customer journey. For the moment, Apple aficionados will need to acclimate to this new reality, but they can still request their cherished stickers at the point of sale—at least for now.

    As Apple forges ahead in promoting eco-conscious practices, consumers can anticipate more alterations in the future that prioritize sustainability over tradition.

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    • Comments Off on 1.3 Million Android TV Boxes Compromised by Backdoor Malware; Researchers Indicate the Cause of Breach is Unclear
    1.3 Million Android TV Boxes Compromised by Backdoor Malware; Researchers Indicate the Cause of Breach is Unclear

    ### Android.Vo1d Malware: A New Menace to Streaming Devices

    In a worrisome update, cybersecurity experts have detected a significant malware infestation impacting close to 1.3 million streaming devices utilizing an open-source variant of Android in nearly 200 nations. The malware, dubbed **Android.Vo1d**, has compromised these devices, granting cybercriminals the ability to install further malicious software at their discretion. The infection has mainly focused on Android-operated TV boxes using outdated or unofficial firmware, raising concerns about the safety of lesser-known streaming devices.

    #### What is Android.Vo1d?

    Android.Vo1d is an advanced malware that has breached the system storage of streaming devices powered by Android, especially those utilizing versions of the Android Open Source Project (AOSP). In contrast to the proprietary Android TV OS, which is limited to authorized producers, AOSP is open-source and can be altered by any hardware manufacturer. This openness has rendered AOSP-based devices more susceptible to malware attacks, as they frequently run on obsolete firmware or lack the stringent security measures that Google applies to certified Android TV devices.

    The malware functions by injecting malicious modules into the system storage of the compromised devices, where it can be remotely updated via command-and-control (C&C) servers overseen by the attackers. Once operational, Android.Vo1d is capable of downloading and executing supplementary malware, integrating infected devices into a larger botnet or facilitating other malicious endeavors.

    #### How Does Android.Vo1d Infect Devices?

    Despite thorough investigation, cybersecurity firm **Doctor Web** has not yet pinpointed the precise entry point that resulted in the infections. Nevertheless, they have suggested several plausible avenues:

    1. **Exploitation of System Flaws**: One hypothesis is that the malware takes advantage of weaknesses in the operating system to obtain root access, enabling it to install itself in critical system locations.

    2. **Unofficial Firmware**: An alternative theory posits that the malware was preinstalled on devices operating with unofficial or modified firmware. Numerous budget device manufacturers employ outdated Android versions and market them as current models, making them more vulnerable to recognized exploits.

    3. **Supply Chain Breach**: It’s possible that the devices were compromised during the manufacturing phase, meaning they were already infected at the time of purchase by consumers.

    #### Affected Devices and Firmware Versions

    Doctor Web has recognized various models of TV boxes that have fallen victim to Android.Vo1d. These encompass:

    | TV Box Model | Declared Firmware Version |
    |——————–|———————————–|
    | R4 | Android 7.1.2; R4 Build/NHG47K |
    | TV BOX | Android 12.1; TV BOX Build/NHG47K |
    | KJ-SMART4KVIP | Android 10.1; KJ-SMART4KVIP Build/NHG47K |

    These devices operate on outdated Android versions, which are more prone to exploits. For instance, Android 7.1 became available in 2016, Android 10.1 in 2019, and Android 12.1 in 2022. Many of these units are advertised as newer editions but are, in reality, functioning on older, less secure iterations of the operating system.

    #### How Android.Vo1d Functions

    After Android.Vo1d breaches a device, it alters several essential system files to guarantee it can endure reboots and persist in its malicious actions. Some of the altered files include:

    – **install-recovery.sh**: A script executed when the operating system initializes. The malware incorporates itself into this script to ensure it launches automatically.
    – **daemonsu**: A file that grants root permissions to the malware, empowering it to modify the system.
    – **debuggerd**: A system daemon generally used for error reporting. The malware replaces this file with a script that activates its malicious modules.

    The primary functions of the malware are concealed in two components: **vo1d** and **wd**. These components collaboratively enable the malware to maintain its presence on the device while allowing it to download and execute further malicious programs from the C&C server. The malware can also surveil specific directories for APK files and install them automatically, broadening its capabilities.

    #### Geographic Distribution of Infections

    The infections have been spotted in a diverse array of countries, with the highest concentrations found in:

    – Brazil
    – Morocco
    – Pakistan
    – Saudi Arabia
    – Russia
    – Argentina
    – Ecuador
    – Tunisia
    – Malaysia
    – Algeria
    – Indonesia

    This worldwide distribution suggests that the malware does not focus on specific areas but is instead propagating indiscriminately on a global scale.

    !

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    • Comments Off on iPhone 16 Pro Brings ProRAW Image Capture in JPEG-XL Format
    iPhone 16 Pro Brings ProRAW Image Capture in JPEG-XL Format

    # JPEG-XL Arriving on iPhone 16 Pro: A Revolutionary Shift in Mobile Photography

    As the tech community buzzes in anticipation of the iPhone 16’s release, remarkable enhancements in its photographic functions are already gaining attention. One of the standout features is the adoption of the JPEG-XL format for ProRAW photography, a breakthrough that aims to transform how users capture and store photographs.

    ## What is JPEG-XL?

    JPEG-XL is an innovative image format crafted to provide exceptional compression without compromising on quality. Unlike conventional JPEG formats, JPEG-XL has the capability to compress RAW images, leading to significantly smaller file sizes while preserving high fidelity. This is especially advantageous for photographers needing high-resolution images but faced with storage restrictions.

    ### Key Features of JPEG-XL

    1. **Optimized Compression**: JPEG-XL can significantly shrink file sizes. For example, a 48MP ProRAW photo saved in JPEG-XL format may only take up 46MB, compared to about 75MB for the identical image in the traditional ProRAW format on the iPhone 15 Pro.

    2. **Support for Advanced Features**: The format accommodates contemporary imaging standards, such as transparency, High Dynamic Range (HDR), and an expanded color spectrum, making it an excellent selection for both professional photographers and enthusiasts.

    3. **Diverse Options**: Users of the iPhone 16 Pro will benefit from various JPEG-XL options:
    – **JPEG Lossless (Most Compatible)**
    – **JPEG-XL Lossy**
    – **JPEG-XL Lossless**

    ### Storage Efficiency

    Apple has shared details regarding the storage demands of JPEG-XL images at different resolutions:

    – **12 MP ProRAW**:
    – JPEG-XL Lossy: 11 MB
    – JPEG-XL Lossless: 18 MB
    – **48 MP ProRAW**:
    – JPEG-XL Lossy: 20 MB
    – JPEG-XL Lossless: 46 MB

    This effective storage capability enables users to take more pictures without filling up their device’s storage.

    ## Compatibility and Accessibility

    While only the iPhone 16 Pro models will support capturing images in JPEG-XL format, any Apple device running iOS 17 or later, in addition to macOS 14 or beyond, will be able to view these images. This ensures seamless sharing of high-quality pictures across various devices for users.

    ## Enhanced Camera Features in iPhone 16 Pro

    The iPhone 16 Pro is not limited to JPEG-XL; it is loaded with a variety of new camera features that enhance mobile photography:

    – **4K Video at 120 FPS**: Users can shoot breathtaking 4K videos at elevated frame rates, resulting in smooth, professional-quality footage.
    – **Next-Generation Photographic Styles**: Real-time modifications to color, highlights, and shadows grant users greater creative control over their imagery.
    – **New 48-Megapixel Ultra-Wide Lens**: This upgrade boosts the camera system’s versatility, allowing for sweeping landscape images and group photos without loss of detail.

    ## Conclusion

    The addition of JPEG-XL to the iPhone 16 Pro signifies a major advancement in mobile photography. With its effective compression, compatibility with cutting-edge imaging features, and the ability to capture premium-quality images in reduced file sizes, it is poised to change how users engage with photography on their smartphones. As the iPhone 16 models become available for pre-order, both enthusiasts and professionals are eager to delve into the opportunities this new technology offers for their creative projects.

    For further details about the iPhone 16 Pro and its features, remain updated for the official launch on September 20.

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