Author: sparta

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    • Comments Off on Apple Excluded from Corning’s EU Antitrust Inquiry Accord
    Apple Excluded from Corning’s EU Antitrust Inquiry Accord

    The European Commission has wrapped up an antitrust inquiry into Corning’s glass supply contracts, concentrating on the company’s actions regarding its Gorilla Glass, which is extensively utilized in smartphones, tablets, and wearables. The inquiry prompted worries about Corning potentially misusing its dominant market status by binding original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) and glass processing firms into exclusive supply contracts, consequently restricting competition from other glass producers.

    Although Corning supplies specialty cover glass to Apple, the Commission found that these particular products did not fall under the inquiry’s purview, as they are specifically designed for Apple’s purposes. As a result, the investigation mainly focused on Corning’s interactions with other OEMs and finishers in the marketplace.

    In response to the Commission’s concerns, Corning proposed a set of commitments designed to ensure equitable competition. These commitments encompassed:

    1. Broadening the commitments to include both Alkali-AS Glass and Clear Glass Ceramics, which are expected to see increased usage in the future.
    2. Releasing all exclusive dealing provisions in existing contracts with OEMs and pledging not to incorporate similar provisions in upcoming contracts.
    3. Not mandating OEMs in the European Economic Area (EEA) to procure specific volumes of glass from Corning, nor conditioning price benefits on such purchases.
    4. Enforcing a limitation that prevents Corning from requiring OEMs to obtain more than 50% of their glass needs from them on a global scale.
    5. Guaranteeing that finishers are not compelled to buy more than 50% of their total worldwide demand for glass from Corning.
    6. Restricting patent enforcement related to break-resistant cover glass to claims based solely on patent infringement, steering clear of breach of contract allegations.
    7. Incorporating a standard anti-circumvention provision in contracts.
    8. Informing key stakeholders of the commitments in both English and Mandarin.

    These commitments will last for nine years, during which a trustee will oversee compliance. Corning’s agreement with Apple, however, will remain as is. This arrangement allows Corning to bypass further regulatory measures while fostering a more competitive landscape in the glass supply sector.

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    • Comments Off on Mysterious Underground Masses Could Initiate Volcanic Eruptions
    Mysterious Underground Masses Could Initiate Volcanic Eruptions

    Volcanic Eruptions Might Be Triggered by Enigmatic ‘BLOBS’ Beneath the Earth’s Surface

    Although many educational resources suggest that the Earth’s lower mantle—the layer situated far beneath the crust—is uniform, it is actually characterized by a rugged topography that shifts and evolves similarly to the crust overhead. Additionally, studies reveal that this lower mantle harbors two immense structures the size of continents, which researchers have labeled big lower-mantle basal structures, or BLOBS.

    The precise composition of these BLOBS remains unknown; however, scientists speculate they might comprise similar materials to their surroundings. Indeed, recent research appearing in the journal Communications Earth & Environment implies that volcanic activities on our planet could be influenced by volcanic plumes that migrate with their sources.

    The sources in question, researchers contend, may be the BLOBS located deep within the Earth. These cryptic structures seem to serve as the motivating factor behind the planet’s volcanic timeline, and although many scientists diligently work to validate this, analyses of prior simulations have presented a fairly lucid context.

    Initially, the researchers leveraged computer models to replicate the movements of the BLOBS from over 1 billion years ago. These simulations indicated that the BLOBS generated mantle plumes that were at times tilted or even ascended higher. This implies that the eruptions observed during the last billion years likely occurred above the BLOBS, or at least in close proximity to them.

    The researchers assert that this information indicates a potential link between the Earth’s volcanic activity and the BLOBS, regardless of their depth within the planet. The results are “promising,” as the researchers mention in a post on The Conversation, suggesting that future simulations may succeed in predicting where mantle plumes may emerge next. This could assist in developing a general warning system for volcanic activity.

    Despite their capacity for destruction—the Hunga volcano eruption of 2022 continues to break records long after—significant volcanic eruptions can also produce new islands and landmasses. Understanding where they happen—or where they occurred historically—could aid in saving lives and enhancing our knowledge of how our planet has evolved over different eras. Certainly, much remains to be uncovered about the enigmatic BLOBS nestled deep within the Earth. Yet, this research serves as a critical lead that could pave the way for numerous new discoveries and insights.

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    • Comments Off on “Crucial Attribute Required for Pixel Watch 4 to Emerge as Leading Fitness Smartwatch”
    “Crucial Attribute Required for Pixel Watch 4 to Emerge as Leading Fitness Smartwatch”

    The Pixel Watch serves as a solid fitness tracker, yet it could benefit greatly from Garmin’s expertise.

    For the past year, I’ve made the Pixel Watch 3 my main smartwatch. When compared to other Wear OS devices I’ve tried before, this one stands out as the best due to its elegant design, seamless performance, and impressively good battery life. However, despite the Fitbit integration being a valuable addition, there’s a specific feature that prevents it from being my preferred gym smartwatch, which is why I often revert to a Garmin watch during workouts.

    The Pixel Watch excels at monitoring my workouts, particularly my running sessions (when I actually manage to do them), but it falls short in tracking weightlifting. In fact, by comparison to other smartwatches, it’s quite basic, and I’m genuinely surprised that Google hasn’t enhanced this feature for its leading smartwatch. While heart rate, active calories, and cardio load data are available, what I truly need is the ability to automatically count my repetitions.

    This is an area where Garmin excels; even Samsung has some capabilities in this regard. Given the recent emphasis on running features, I would greatly appreciate seeing the Pixel Watch 4 incorporate rep counting into its features.

    Garmin’s Method for Counting Reps and Sets

    I appreciate that Garmin can automatically count repetitions and manage the start or stop of sets. This functionality means I don’t have to keep track manually; the watch does it for me. At the gym, I can easily get lost in my music. While I’m not as dedicated as some who meticulously log every set in notebooks, I still aim to stay on track with my workouts. Often, I forget which rep or set I’m on, so it’s convenient to check my Garmin watch.

    Although I’m not fully versed in the technicalities, Garmin claims it can monitor “weight training exercises that involve distinct and consistent movements, like the bench press,” along with “exercises aimed at specific muscle groups/body parts.” After executing the same motion multiple times, it will recognize that I am in a set and begin counting my repetitions, retroactively adding the earlier reps to my current count.

    When I cease those movements, the watch automatically records that set and initiates a resting phase, complete with its own timer, ensuring I don’t overdo or underdo my rest between sets. That rest period ceases once the watch detects that I’m engaged in repetitive movements again, at which point it will begin counting reps for the new set.

    The Pixel Watch 3 simplifies things by merely tracking my workout without counting reps, sets, or rest durations. However, it does have the capability to automatically recognize certain activities like running and walking. I believe Fitbit could leverage the same movement data for weightlifting reps like Garmin does. Even if it’s not flawless, having some functionality would be preferable to having none.

    I’m not alone in my belief that Google could improve. Nicholas Sutrich, a senior editor at Android Central, notes that his Amazfit watch makes his Pixel Watch feel inferior, especially highlighting its capacity to log and analyze repetitions during workouts. Similar to Garmin, Amazfit utilizes this data in a practical manner that Google could emulate.

    It’s not perfect, but it’s better than nothing

    While the accuracy isn’t perfect, Garmin watches such as the Venu 3 and Forerunner 570 perform admirably, typically being only one or two reps off in their counts. If any discrepancies arise, Garmin allows for quick adjustments to the rep count and even lets you record the weight while it counts down to the start of your rest period.

    You can also modify the last set if you forget to do so, or use the Garmin app to make adjustments later.

    It’s crucial to note that this feature generally functions best during workouts where the watch can effectively monitor your movements. Garmin actually maintains a list of workouts that may pose challenges for its tracking capabilities, so it’s important to consider this if you plan to depend on this feature:

    – Stationary wrist exercises: dips, pull-ups, push-ups, planks
    – Leg isolated exercises: extensions, seated presses, calf raises, hamstring curls
    – Complex/hybrid motions: box jumps, “CrossFit” style workouts, burpees
    – Short-range exercises: shoulder shrugs
    – Battle ropes and jump rope

    In these scenarios, the watch may not acknowledge that you’re completing any activity and will display you as being in a rest period. Consequently, leg day tends to be the only occasion when this feature proves unreliable, other than with squats. Nonetheless, they are generally dependable for weightlifting and can serve as a suitable alternative to pen and paper.

    It’s not just about counting reps; there’s so much more involved.

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    • Comments Off on Pixel Watch 4 Might Tackle Major Issues Confronting Google’s Wearables
    Pixel Watch 4 Might Tackle Major Issues Confronting Google’s Wearables

    Google’s forthcoming Pixel Watch 4 is stirring excitement with speculations suggesting it will be more repair-friendly and fitted with improved safety features. Traditionally, Pixel Watches have posed challenges for repair due to their sealed construction. Nevertheless, the Pixel Watch 4 is anticipated to showcase a revamped design that facilitates access to its internals, possibly rendering components such as the battery or cover glass replaceable, although specifics are yet to be clarified.

    This change aligns with Google’s earlier declarations regarding enhancing repairability throughout its devices. The initiative could signify a notable departure from the existing trend where malfunctioning Pixel Watches require complete replacements owing to the absence of official repair avenues.

    In addition to enhanced repairability, the Pixel Watch 4 is rumored to bring forth sophisticated emergency functionalities. It might feature satellite SOS capabilities, mirroring similar options provided by rivals like Apple. This capability could significantly boost the watch’s attractiveness in emergency scenarios, though information on its operation is still pending.

    Another expected attribute is a Breathing Emergencies alert, employing the watch’s SpO2 sensor to track blood oxygen levels. Should levels fall below a certain threshold, the watch would provide a warning, potentially notifying users of respiratory concerns.

    While comprehensive specifications are not yet disclosed, these anticipated enhancements are highly awaited as Google gears up for its August 20 event, where further details are likely to be shared.

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    • Comments Off on Google Launches Pixel 10, Fitbit Suffers Outage, Galaxy Z Fold 7 Encounters Hinge Issues, and More Updates
    Google Launches Pixel 10, Fitbit Suffers Outage, Galaxy Z Fold 7 Encounters Hinge Issues, and More Updates

    A summary of the most notable tech news that emerged this week.

    (Image credit: Nandika Ravi/ Android Central)
    Weekly News

    (Image credit: Future)

    Weekly News is our feature where we showcase and condense some of the week’s leading stories so you can stay updated on the newest developments in technology.

    This is Android Central’s Weekly News, your essential destination for a brief summary of the week’s most important tech headlines. Here, we explore the major updates that deliver the latest advancements and breakthroughs shaping the digital world.

    This week, Google announces the launch date for its Pixel 10, Fitbit experienced an unplanned outage, issues with the Galaxy Z Fold 7’s hinge emerged, details about the Pixel 10 Pro Fold specs leaked, and a Galaxy S26 leak provides insights on the upcoming Galaxy Ring. Let’s get started.

    <h2 id="google-sets

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    • Comments Off on Comparative Examination of MacBook Air and MacBook Pro: Best Buying Choice for 2025
    Comparative Examination of MacBook Air and MacBook Pro: Best Buying Choice for 2025

    # Selecting the Ideal MacBook: An All-Inclusive Guide

    MacBooks are celebrated for their design and performance, but with multiple models to choose from, making the right selection can feel daunting. This article is designed to guide you through the choices available according to your budget and needs.

    ## Summary of MacBook Models

    Apple provides two main MacBook models: the **MacBook Air** and the **MacBook Pro**. Both models come in various sizes: the MacBook Air can be found in 13-inch and 15-inch variations, whereas the MacBook Pro is offered in 14-inch and 16-inch formats.

    ### Apple Silicon Versions

    The MacBook Air features the standard Apple Silicon, which is the **M4 chip** at present. If you are considering previous-generation models, you may discover options with the **M2** or **M3** chips. The MacBook Pro, in contrast, presents three different Apple Silicon variants: **M4**, **M4 Pro**, and **M4 Max**. It’s worth noting that the 16-inch MacBook Pro does not include the base M4 chip.

    ## Breakdown of Apple Silicon

    Grasping the distinctions between the M4, M4 Pro, and M4 Max chips is vital:

    – **M4 Chip**: This variant is the most efficient, equipped with a 10-core CPU and a 10-core GPU. It offers outstanding battery endurance and is perfect for daily tasks.
    – **M4 Pro Chip**: Provides a remarkable performance increase with options for a 14-core CPU and a 20-core GPU or a 12-core CPU with a 16-core GPU. It is suitable for more intensive workflows.
    – **M4 Max Chip**: The most robust option, featuring a 16-core CPU and a 40-core GPU, tailored for demanding tasks that require high graphics performance.

    Generally, the standard M4 chip will meet the needs of most users unless you are involved in high-performance activities.

    ## M3 versus M4 MacBook Air

    The M4 MacBook Air brings improvements over the M3, which include:

    – A new **12MP center stage webcam** featuring ultra-wide capabilities and zoom functionalities.
    – A new **Sky Blue color**, superseding Space Gray.

    While the M4 presents these advancements, the M3 can be acquired at reduced prices, making it a compelling choice for those on a budget. For example, a 15-inch M3 MacBook Air with 512GB storage and 24GB RAM can be bought for $1,299, while the M4 equivalent starts at $1,499.

    ## MacBook Pro Characteristics

    Opting for the **MacBook Pro** in place of the Air revolves around enhanced performance and additional features:

    – **Display**: The MacBook Pro features a more luminous HDR display with 1000 nits of sustained brightness, compared to the Air’s 500 nits.
    – **Cooling**: The Pro model incorporates active cooling, which allows for consistent performance during intensive tasks.
    – **Ports**: The Pro model comes with extra connectivity options like HDMI, an SD card slot, and an additional Thunderbolt port.

    Moreover, the MacBook Pro includes larger batteries, providing up to 24 hours of video playback on a single charge in the base models.

    ## Pricing Summary

    ### MacBook Air Pricing

    – **M3 Chip**: Varied configurations available at favorable prices.
    – **M4 Chip**: Higher pricing due to its advanced technology and features.

    ### MacBook Pro Pricing

    – **14-inch MacBook Pro**: Pricing differs based on the chosen configuration.
    – **16-inch MacBook Pro**: Typically pricier due to its larger size and augmented features.

    ## Final Thoughts

    Apple’s MacBook range presents an assortment of options tailored to varying needs and budgets. With continuous promotions and the present market landscape, now is a prime opportunity to purchase a MacBook, whether for personal endeavors or professional requirements.

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    • Comments Off on Possible Significant Defect in iPhone 17 Air Disclosed by Leak
    Possible Significant Defect in iPhone 17 Air Disclosed by Leak

    Speculation is rife regarding Apple’s anticipated iPhone 17 range, with the most excitement centered on the incredibly slim iPhone 17 Air. Scheduled to be unveiled alongside the iPhone 17, iPhone 17 Pro, and iPhone 17 Pro Max this autumn, the iPhone 17 Air is hailed as the lightest iPhone to date. Nonetheless, this stylish design entails a compromise: a reduced battery size. Insights from tech insider Instant Digital on Weibo imply that the iPhone 17 Air will feature a battery capacity of under 3,000mAh, consistent with earlier whispers of a 2,800mAh battery. This marks a notable decrease in comparison to the iPhone 16 Pro Max’s 4,685mAh and the iPhone 16’s 3,561mAh. The most recent iPhone with a battery smaller than 3,000mAh was the iPhone 13 mini in 2021, which had a 2,438mAh capacity.

    In spite of the smaller battery, Apple is implementing features to address user concerns. iOS 26 will showcase an Adaptive Power capability aimed at enhancing battery longevity through minor performance tweaks. Furthermore, Apple intends to launch a new battery case specifically for the iPhone 17 Air. Internal evaluations suggest that 60-70% of iPhone 17 Air users should anticipate a full day’s use without needing to recharge, compared to 80-90% for the other iPhone 17 variants.

    For those weighing the option of the iPhone 17 Air, it might be prudent to hold off for battery life assessments and reviews after the launch to arrive at a well-informed conclusion.

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    • Comments Off on HSBC Report Suggests Apple’s AI Errors May Prolong iPhone Upgrade Interval
    HSBC Report Suggests Apple’s AI Errors May Prolong iPhone Upgrade Interval

    **Apple’s AI Release and Its Influence on iPhone Upgrades: Perspectives from HSBC**

    In a recent bulletin to investors, HSBC has raised alarms about Apple’s gradual introduction of AI features unveiled at WWDC 2024. The bank suggests that this hold-up has not led to a notable improvement in user experience, which might cause users to delay their next iPhone upgrade. This article explores the consequences of these changes for Apple and its product sales.

    ### Status of Current iPhone Sales

    HSBC’s analysis indicates that the iPhone remains a vital element of Apple’s income, representing around half of the company’s revenue. However, the initial enthusiasm regarding the incorporation of AI into Apple’s product range has diminished. The bank observes that the expected boost in the iPhone renewal cycle has yet to occur, as the AI features have not proven to significantly enhance user experience.

    ### Varied Perspectives on Upgrade Incentives

    Interestingly, HSBC’s insights diverge from a recent study by CIRP, which showed that merely 13% of U.S. iPhone purchasers upgraded specifically to exploit new features. Conversely, the majority of users—40%—indicated they bought a new iPhone due to problems with their prior device, while 27% replaced phones that were either non-functional or lost. This indicates that pragmatic requirements might drive upgrades more than the appeal of new technology.

    ### AI’s Influence on Future Upgrades

    HSBC cautions that setbacks in rolling out AI-enhanced features, especially an improved Siri, could encourage many users to postpone upgrading their devices. The bank recommends that Apple should concentrate on improving traditional hardware specs in the forthcoming iPhone 17 to boost demand. They expect that advancements in specifications could reflect the favorable response seen with the iPhone 16.

    ### Economic and Production Hurdles

    Besides the worries about AI incorporation, HSBC points out increasing tariff-related challenges as a major threat to Apple. The bank highlights that Apple is having difficulty re-localizing production swiftly enough to lessen the impact of tariffs, estimating a 20% tariff effect on imports from China. This economic scenario complicates Apple’s sales strategy further.

    ### Stock Forecast

    Considering these factors, HSBC has upheld a Hold rating on Apple stock, establishing a price target of $220. Presently, shares are trading around $211.18, remaining rather stable over the previous three months.

    ### Conclusion

    As Apple navigates the obstacles presented by the sluggish rollout of AI features and external economic challenges, the company’s capacity to innovate and address consumer demands will be pivotal. The forthcoming iPhone 17 may prove to be a critical juncture for Apple, as it aims to rejuvenate sales and improve user experience amid a fast-changing technological environment.

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    • Comments Off on Suggested Improvements for the Find My App: Three Essential Modifications for Apple to Evaluate
    Suggested Improvements for the Find My App: Three Essential Modifications for Apple to Evaluate

    **Title: Reevaluating Location Sharing: Upgrades for the Find My App**

    In recent dialogues surrounding privacy and technology, a significant trend has surfaced among Generation Z: a more laid-back perspective towards sharing their location. Many individuals in this group feel at ease continuously informing friends of their whereabouts, perceiving it as an inherent aspect of social engagement. Nevertheless, for those who favor a more prudent stance on location privacy, there are potential enhancements within the Find My app.

    ### The Existing Landscape of Location Sharing

    The Find My app provides users with limited choices for location sharing: one hour, until midnight, or indefinitely. While these options fulfill basic requirements, they may show rigidity in specific instances. For example, after an evening out, friends may want to confirm that everyone gets home safely without the stress of ongoing location sharing the next day. Likewise, during group vacations, users might prefer to keep track of one another until their trip concludes, without having to remember to terminate indefinite sharing.

    ### Suggested Improvements

    1. **Date and Time Selector**: Implementing a feature that enables users to designate a date and time for location sharing to finish would overcome many existing constraints. For instance, setting the sharing to stop at 6 AM rather than midnight would offer reassurance after a late night. For trips, a date selector could allow users to automatically terminate sharing at the end of their journey.

    2. **“Until I Arrive Home” Feature**: A more user-friendly solution would be allowing users to share their location “Until I arrive home.” This would remove the necessity of contemplating specific timeframes. Once users reach their desired destination, the app would automatically halt sharing their live location while still reassuring the group that they have made it home securely.

    3. **Automatic Group Sharing**: Rather than manually choosing friends to share location data with, a function that employs Bluetooth to detect which contacts are physically present could simplify the procedure. Users could merely choose to “Share with contacts nearby,” permitting the app to automatically include those in proximity without compromising privacy by sharing with individuals not in the contact list.

    ### Conclusion

    As location sharing becomes more embedded in social interactions, it is crucial for applications like Find My to advance. By integrating features such as a date and time selector, an “Until I arrive home” option, and automatic group sharing, Apple could improve user experience while accommodating diverse views on privacy. These enhancements would appeal to both the carefree tendencies of younger users and the more wary inclinations of others, cultivating a more adaptable and user-friendly app.

    Are these upgrades something you would want to see in the Find My app? Share your opinions and engage in discussions on this developing topic.

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    • Comments Off on WhatsApp Improves In-App Assistance Procedure for Users
    WhatsApp Improves In-App Assistance Procedure for Users

    **WhatsApp Shifts to AI-Enhanced Support: A New Chapter in Customer Care**

    If you’ve ever sought in-app assistance on WhatsApp, you’re familiar with the process that began with completing a form, perhaps adding a few documents, and waiting for a support agent to eventually reach out. This conventional approach is now advancing, as WhatsApp transitions to an AI-driven support framework, which aims to simplify the user journey.

    ### Goodbye to the Form, Hello to AI

    Navigating help databases can often lead to frustration, particularly when users urgently need support. The former method on WhatsApp could be especially stressful, as users filled out a contact form and dispatched it into oblivion, uncertain about when they would hear back. This lack of promptness was far from ideal, especially during critical situations.

    As per reports from WABetaInfo, WhatsApp is rolling out a new assistance feature that enables users to seek help more directly. By going to **Settings > Help > Help Center > Contact Us**, users will be taken to a chat interface where an AI support bot will strive to comprehend the issue at hand. The bot can sift through WhatsApp’s help articles and direct users towards possible solutions using natural language.

    If the bot needs additional details to provide effective assistance, it can pose follow-up inquiries before passing the conversation to a human representative. This update is anticipated to improve the overall support experience by offering quicker replies and more pertinent help.

    Notably, this AI-powered support feature was recently incorporated into the TestFlight beta of WhatsApp, and some users have already indicated access to it within the regular app, suggesting a gradual rollout.

    ### AI-Driven Support is Unavoidably Becoming the Norm

    WhatsApp is not the only player in this move towards AI-enhanced customer service. Numerous companies are acknowledging the advantages of incorporating generative AI assistants into their support frameworks. These AI solutions can autonomously handle common inquiries, freeing human agents to focus on more intricate issues that need personal attention.

    When executed effectively, AI chatbots can markedly diminish the number of routine queries, resulting in more rapid resolution times for users. This transition not only boosts user satisfaction but also optimizes the workload for human support agents, creating a more streamlined support ecosystem.

    As the realm of customer support continues to transform, the adoption of AI technologies like those being embraced by WhatsApp is likely to set a benchmark across numerous sectors, revolutionizing how businesses engage with their customers and meet their needs.

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