Author: sparta

Apple Obtains Rights to Adapt Popular Psychological Thriller ‘The Teacher’

Apple has secured the rights for a feature adaptation of the 2024 hit “The Teacher,” a psychological thriller authored by Freida McFadden. The reveal was made in an exclusive report by Deadline, which noted that the project was obtained in a competitive environment. The adaptation is set to be developed by Spenser Cohen and Anna Halberg, who previously achieved success with their film “Tarot.”

“The Teacher,” released in February 2024, centers on Eve, a high school mathematics instructor who grows wary of a cunning student, Addie, connected to a past controversy involving a former educator. As the narrative unfolds, Eve’s spouse, Nate, who is also an educator, develops a relationship with Addie, resulting in unforeseen twists and a layered story of revenge.

Cohen and Halberg will not only write the screenplay but will also take on the role of executive producers alongside McFadden. Although the project is currently in its initial development phases, specifics about production schedules and release dates have not yet been revealed. Apple has not commented on the acquisition.

Apple TV, which offers a subscription service for $12.99 monthly, showcases a variety of popular series and films, including “Severance,” “The Studio,” “The Morning Show,” “Shrinking,” and “Silo.”

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Norway Transforms Travel with the World’s Lengthiest Undersea Road Tunnel

It will just be a matter of time until Norway hosts the longest and deepest undersea road tunnel in the world. The tunnel is known as “Rogfast,” derived from “Rogaland fastforbindelse” — named after the region where it is located and the Norwegian phrase for “fixed link.” Once finished, Rogfast is projected to be 17 miles in length and 1,286 feet below sea level. Currently, the world’s longest passenger tunnel is the Gotthard Base Tunnel located in Switzerland.

A primary objective of this construction initiative is to eliminate the requirement for ferry transport between the Norwegian cities of Bergen and Stavanger. The tunnel is designed to decrease travel duration by approximately 40 minutes and will feature two distinct tube structures — each containing two traffic lanes — along with a central roundabout that connects drivers to an additional tunnel leading to Kvitsøy island.

Rogfast is merely a component of the comprehensive E39 coastal highway renovation project. At present, traversing the 684-mile E39 highway takes about 21 hours and involves seven ferry crossings. Sometime before 2050, engineers aim to completely eradicate ferries through the construction of tunnels and bridges.

CNN reports that Anne Brit Moen, a project manager at Skanska — the international construction company charged with the northern section of the tunnel — stated: “The tunnel will greatly enhance connectivity along the Norwegian west coast by establishing a quicker and more dependable link between the Stavanger and Haugesund areas.”

Engineering Norway’s Rogfast tunnel

The construction of Rogfast has proven to be an intriguing challenge thus far. The project actually commenced in 2018 but faced a setback in 2019 due to budget overruns, prompting a project reorganization and the cancellation of several contracts. Work resumed in 2021, and the tunnel system is now expected to be finished by 2033. The anticipated cost is projected to reach 25 billion Norwegian kroner, which is approximately $2.4 billion.

Rogfast is being constructed by two firms: the previously mentioned Skanska in the north, and a partnership between Implenia and Stangeland Maskin for the central and southern segments. The northern and southern construction teams are working concurrently, aiming to meet at the midpoint.

The teams have a margin of error of only 1.97 inches, necessitating precise engineering. Such high accuracy levels require advanced construction tools, including a rotating laser scanner designed to collect data points throughout the tunnel. This facilitates the creation of a digital replica of the tunnel, which contractors can compare against the construction plans for discrepancies.

The project has already faced various challenges, including numerous saltwater leaks. Builders must also consider how to prevent air pollution from affecting drivers and are actively developing a sophisticated ventilation system powered by jet fans to expel harmful air from the tunnel.

With that in mind, we wonder if this might encourage more drivers to transition to one of the top electric vehicles, which would help maintain cleaner tunnel air.

Where innovation meets the ocean floor

Norway’s talent for innovation extends beyond underwater endeavors: The city of Bergen has discovered an ingenious way to manage waste by utilizing vacuum tubes that essentially extract garbage from the city, significantly reducing diesel emissions by as much as 90% due to a decrease in garbage truck usage.

While it’s anticipated that the construction of Rogfast will mark the end for numerous ferry-related jobs, this new roadway may positively influence other professions, schooling, and public services. Rogfast should also benefit the seafood industry and local economy, as vendors will have the capacity to operate over a broader area.

The Rogfast initiative is advancing steadily. By 2033, all the hours invested in meticulous planning, measuring, and recalibrating will culminate in an efficient transportation system that will allow Norwegians to travel from A to B more swiftly than ever. Perhaps this creativity will be infectious, leading other congested urban areas and coastlines to begin constructing their own underwater highways.

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Epic Games’ Fortnite Makes a Comeback on the Play Store as a Successful Battle Royale Game

Guess who has made a comeback.

Fortnite
(Image credit: Epic Games)

Key information

  • Epic Games’ hit battle royale, Fortnite, has made its way back to the Google Play Store after being removed during its antitrust dispute with the platform.
  • Tim Sweeney, the founder and CEO of Epic, shared the news of the game’s return on X earlier today (Dec 11), along with the official Fortnite account.
  • The Epic v Google case focused on the anticompetitive actions of the Play Store dating back to 2020, culminating in a victory for Epic in August.

Disclaimer

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Opera’s Agentic Browser Neon Now Accessible to the General Public

**Opera Neon: The AI-Driven Browser Now Open for Subscription**

After a phase of restricted waitlist access, Opera Neon, the firm’s subscription-based AI-driven browser, is now widely accessible. Here’s what it offers.

### No Waitlist, But $20/Month

Several months back, Opera introduced Neon, an experimental browser aimed at users who are comfortable with the concept of AI-enhanced (or even AI-led) web exploration.

Opera describes Neon in this manner:

> “Opera Neon is an agentic browser tailored for AI power enthusiasts. Unlike conventional web browsers, Opera Neon utilizes AI agents to execute tasks and even code web applications instead of merely presenting web pages. It also provides its users with access to the latest high-end models, including Gemini 3 Pro and GPT 5.1.”

Initially, the launch was available through a restricted waitlist, which Opera has been eliminating while refining Neon based on initial user insights.

Currently, Opera has removed the waitlist, allowing anyone to download and utilize Neon, provided they are prepared to subscribe at $19.90 per month, which also grants access to a Discord community.

Here’s Krystian Kolondra, Opera’s Executive Vice-President of Browsers, regarding today’s announcement:

> “Opera Neon is a product designed for individuals eager to be at the forefront of the latest AI technology. It’s an evolving project with substantial updates released each week. We’ve been developing it with our Founders community for some time and are now thrilled to share early access with a broader audience.”

### Key Features of Opera Neon

The AI-powered functionalities of Opera Neon encompass:

– **Tasks:** Independent workspaces that grasp context and enable the AI to evaluate, contrast, and act across multiple sources simultaneously.

– **Cards:** A feature that allows users to save commonly used prompts to enhance repetitive browsing tasks.

– **Do:** Neon’s agentic browsing function, which navigates on behalf of the user.

– **Make:** A handy tool that generates widgets, self-sufficient apps, and reports based on information supplied by the user or after a web search.

– **Deep Research and 1-Minute Research:** Agentic features that decompose a user’s query into parallel tasks when the request necessitates investigation beyond a basic search engine inquiry.

Opera Neon integrates with GPT-5.1, Gemini 3 Pro, Nano Banana Pro, Veo 3.1, Sora 2, and additional models to manage automation, organization, summarization, and related tasks associated with browsing.

To discover more about Opera Neon,

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Future Releases: AirTag 2, iPhone 18 Improvements, and Studio Display 2

# Apple Rumor Replay: Latest Updates on iPhone 18, AirTag 2, and More

This week’s edition of Rumor Replay at 9to5Mac presents thrilling news regarding forthcoming Apple products, featuring the awaited iPhone 18, the next-gen AirTag 2, and upgrades to the Apple Studio Display. Here’s an in-depth exploration of the latest speculations.

## iPhone 18: Face ID Beneath the Display

Recent disclosures from Weibo leaker Smart Pikachu indicate that the iPhone 18 will incorporate a groundbreaking under-display Face ID technology. This innovation employs “micro-transparent glass panels” to embed Face ID directly under the display, potentially negating the necessity for a notch or cutout.

While the exact models that will benefit from this technology are still unclear, earlier reports suggest that the iPhone 18 Pro, Pro Max, and perhaps a foldable version will feature this advancement. This development raises questions regarding the future design of display cutouts, with predictions that the Dynamic Island might reduce in size or evolve into a single hole-punch cutout for the front camera.

## Apple Studio Display 2: Major Enhancements

Filipe Espósito from Macworld has disclosed that the forthcoming Apple Studio Display 2 will receive three notable upgrades:

1. **A19 Chip**: Boosting performance and capabilities.
2. **120Hz ProMotion**: Allowing for more fluid visuals and enhanced responsiveness.
3. **HDR Support**: Improving the display’s color and contrast for a superior viewing experience.

These features were unveiled in a pre-release build of iOS 26, signifying Apple’s commitment to modernizing its display products. Moreover, there are aspirations for an upgraded front camera, possibly implementing the iPhone 17’s Center Stage technology to rectify prior issues.

## AirTag 2: Improved Features

Filipe Espósito also disclosed various enhancements for the upcoming AirTag 2, as identified in leaked iOS 26 code. The enhancements comprise:

– A refined pairing process.
– Enhanced Precision Finding capabilities.
– Detailed battery level reporting.
– A feature named “Improved Moving” for superior tracking during movement.
– More precise tracking in busy environments.

These updates imply that Apple is concentrating on perfecting the AirTag experience, enhancing its current strengths rather than completely revamping the product.

## Intel’s Involvement in Future iPhone Chips

In a significant change, analyst Jeff Pu has observed that Intel may start manufacturing A-series chips for Apple’s budget iPhones beginning in 2028. This collaboration could diversify Apple’s chip manufacturing sources, decreasing reliance on TSMC and possibly reducing costs for consumers. The emphasis will be on non-pro smartphone system-on-chip (SoC) models, such as the A19 chip.

## Conclusion

This week’s Apple rumors underscore the company’s continuous innovation and dedication to improving user experience across its range of products. From the iPhone 18’s under-display Face ID to the enhanced features of the AirTag 2 and the expected upgrades in the Apple Studio Display, Apple is persistently advancing the frontiers of technology. As these developments progress, they are set to influence the future of Apple’s product ecosystem.

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5 Devices Frequently Plugged into the Wrong USB Port

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USB ports are present in nearly every electronic gadget, spanning PC desktops, laptops, smartphones, and tablets. Nevertheless, distinguishing the various ports by their appearance can be quite confusing. It’s difficult to fault someone for not recognizing the differences between USB 2.0 and USB 3.2 ports, as they maintain the same shape and size, with the only differing visual characteristic being the color. However, they exhibit a significant disparity in performance, as newer, quicker ports offer accelerated data transfer speeds; hence, it is advisable to utilize the appropriate port whenever feasible. Devices connected to the computer through the slower USB ports may demonstrate restricted functionality.

With a limited number of USB ports available on your computer, it’s essential to ensure that you’re utilizing the correct one for each device. External drives and other devices demanding high transfer speeds require access to the fastest USB port possible. Conversely, for devices such as computer mice, a basic USB 2.0 port is sufficient, allowing faster ports to be reserved for critical devices.

USB Hub

Best Buy Presents $400 Savings on Samsung Galaxy Tab S10 Ultra for Holiday Sale

The offer arrives shortly after Cyber Monday and Black Friday, reducing the tablet’s price to just $800.

(Image credit: Andrew Myrick / Android Central)

Tablet discounts from Black Friday are still available at certain retailers, particularly if you are open to a last-gen model. For instance, Best Buy continues to provide a $400 reduction on the Samsung Galaxy Tab S10 Ultra, a fantastic deal if you are okay with purchasing an older model and desire an S Pen.

The Samsung Galaxy Tab S10 Ultra features the largest display among the Galaxy lineup, coupled with sufficient power for it to function effectively as a laptop. It was our top tablet selection last year, although it initially faced significant pricing challenges upon release. While this is expected at the premium tier, it has stood the test of time as a formidable rival to the newest Ultra generation, especially with offers like these.

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iOS 26 Changes Affecting the iPhone’s Always On Display Functionality

# Apple’s Always On Display: Updates in iOS 26

Apple’s Always On Display (AOD) feature has been a key part of the iPhone experience since its debut with the iPhone 14 Pro. With the launch of iOS 26, Apple has implemented subtle yet impactful modifications to how this feature functions, which might not be immediately noticeable to users.

## Always On Display Modes

In earlier versions, including iOS 18, the Always On Display feature merely dimmed the Lock Screen wallpaper, enabling users to view key information such as the time, date, notifications, and widgets while the device remained locked. The screen would completely turn off under specific circumstances, such as when the device was face down, covered, or in particular modes like CarPlay or Low Power Mode.

Customization options have consistently been somewhat limited yet functional. Users could select whether to show their wallpaper and notifications, creating a balance between a tidy, utility-driven screen and one that maintained the aesthetic of the user’s selected wallpaper.

## iOS 26 Introduces One Major Change

The most significant modification in iOS 26 is the default setting of the Always On Display, which now blurs the wallpaper instead of merely dimming it. This adjustment is designed to improve the clarity of the clock and widgets, making them more noticeable. However, this alteration may lessen the visual appeal for those who enjoy seeing their chosen wallpaper.

For users who prefer the previous functionality, Apple has added a toggle in the settings. By going to Settings > Display & Brightness > Always On Display, users can turn off the blurred wallpaper feature, restoring the full clarity of their Lock Screen image as it was before the update.

## Conclusion

The introduction of blurred wallpapers in iOS 26 signifies a change in how Apple views the Always On Display feature. While the modification may enhance readability, it also prompts questions about user preferences regarding aesthetics versus functionality. Users now have the ability to personalize their experience, ensuring that the Always On Display can accommodate individual tastes and requirements.

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Qualcomm Unveils Two New Snapdragon Processors for Mid-Range Devices

Qualcomm has unveiled the introduction of two new chips designed to boost the performance of budget-friendly devices, emphasizing advancements in AI and photography. The Snapdragon 6s 4G Gen 2 and Snapdragon 4 Gen 4 are tailored for the mid-range and entry-level segments, respectively, delivering substantial performance enhancements.

The Snapdragon 6s 4G Gen 2 incorporates Kryo CPU cores with clock speeds reaching 2.9GHz and features an upgraded Adreno GPU, resulting in a 20% increase in graphical performance. It accommodates 120fps and low-latency on FHD Plus displays, rendering it perfect for seamless visuals and effective multitasking. This chip also advances photography skills, facilitating support for cameras up to 108MP and enabling simultaneous multi-photo and video capture. AI improvements comprise enhanced voice assistant response times, improved microphone functionality, and echo cancellation.

The Snapdragon 4 Gen 4, while sharing some features, prioritizes battery efficiency through Quick Charge 4 Plus technology, enabling devices to charge from 0% to 50% in approximately 15 minutes. It also accommodates 108MP cameras and integrates hardware-based multi-frame noise reduction to minimize graininess in images. Both chips are part of Qualcomm’s mobile strategy, concentrating on the budget device market with notable AI and photography advancements.

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Shazam Unveils Function to Emphasize Notable Moments in Tracks That Engage User Focus

**Shazam’s Innovative ‘Popular Segments’ Feature: Understanding Music Engagement**

In the dynamic realm of music consumption, grasping listener engagement is vital for both creators and audiences. Shazam, the well-known music identification app, has recently launched a pioneering feature named ‘Popular Segments,’ which offers crucial insights into the specific moments in songs that attract the most listener attention.

### What is ‘Popular Segments’?

Debuted on the Shazam website, the ‘Popular Segments’ feature uncovers the pivotal moments within a track that led users to utilize Shazam for song recognition. This functionality relies on user activity data that Apple has not shared before, providing a fresh layer of engagement for music lovers.

As stated by Apple, ‘Popular Segments’ highlights the most frequently engaged segments of a song from the past week. This interactive resource enables users to discover which parts of the song resulted in the highest Shazam tag activity. By moving over a graph, users can identify precise time markers and related segments, delivering a clear understanding of what resonates with listeners.

### Insights from Industry Experts

Ole Obermann from Apple Music stresses the importance of this feature, stating, “Shazam has always aimed to connect fans with music that inspires them. With Popular Segments, we’re enhancing that connection—showing precisely which moment in a song captivated the listener, while offering artists and the industry that invaluable insight.” This remark highlights the opportunity for artists to gain a deeper understanding of their audience and adjust their music accordingly.

### Accessing Popular Segments

The ‘Popular Segments’ feature is available on Shazam.com for users on both desktop and mobile devices. Although there is currently no word on whether this data will be incorporated into the Shazam iPhone app, the web platform provides an extensive overview of listener engagement.

### Conclusion

Shazam’s ‘Popular Segments’ feature represents a substantial leap in the analysis and comprehension of music engagement. By identifying the specific moments that captivate listeners, it not only enriches the experience for fans but also delivers artists and the music industry essential insights into listener preferences. As music continues to change, tools like these will play a pivotal role in influencing the future of music creation and consumption.

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