Author: sparta

    • sparta
    • Comments Off on Apple Maps’ Significant Issue Persists Unfixed in iOS 26 Update
    Apple Maps’ Significant Issue Persists Unfixed in iOS 26 Update

    Apple Maps has made significant progress from its rocky beginnings to becoming a fairly reliable service. Although I generally prefer it to Google Maps, I recognize that there are still issues when deciding between the two. Apple Maps, of course, gains an advantage from being seamlessly integrated within the Apple ecosystem, allowing for easy direction access directly from my Apple Watch or AirPods.

    Nevertheless, the accuracy provided by Google Maps is tough to surpass. Even now, I occasionally encounter inaccurate data on Apple Maps or routes that aren’t optimal. The service is also more effective in specific locations like New York, London, and Paris. To be fair, during my time in Perugia, central Italy, both platforms had difficulty presenting the most efficient paths.

    Even with an excellent mapping experience in Paris, Apple Maps still has a significant drawback that I doubt will be addressed in iOS 26 or watchOS 26: Walking directions while utilizing public transport.

    There’s nothing more touristy than exploring a large city with your phone in hand. But as someone who has spent their life in urban areas, that also makes me an easier target for pickpockets. When I set my directions on my iPhone and begin using my Apple Watch and AirPods, I just have to check my watch for guidance. It’s incredibly convenient and hassle-free.

    However, when I opt for the public transport option instead of walking, Apple Maps navigates the routes in a peculiar manner. Rather than providing haptic feedback on the watch or audio cues on the AirPods, it merely displays tiny dots on the Apple Watch screen that are difficult to see. Yes, it’s clearer on the iPhone, but that brings me back to why I try to minimize phone usage on the streets.

    The fix is straightforward, so why hasn’t Apple resolved it?

    Whether I need to walk a mile or just a few blocks, Apple should provide me with the same routing information as if I were walking the whole distance. Once I arrive at the bus stop or metro station, the directions can remain consistent. But when relying on public transport, Apple Maps should communicate more clearly how to reach my destination.

    This would simplify navigation and enhance safety, especially in unfamiliar cities.

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    • Comments Off on Brad Pitt’s F1 Film Shapes Apple’s Creation of iPhone 15 Pro Camera
    Brad Pitt’s F1 Film Shapes Apple’s Creation of iPhone 15 Pro Camera

    Brad Pitt’s forthcoming F1 film is becoming the blockbuster hit that Apple TV has been looking for. The Apple original is set to debut in theaters prior to streaming online, and that’s likely the premier way to experience F1.

    This isn’t a film filled with special effects, and that’s the primary reason I’m eager to see it. Director Joseph Kosinski, renowned for placing actors in actual jet fighters to shoot Top Gun: Maverick, did something comparable for this film about Formula 1 racing. He sought real footage from the cockpit while the Formula 1 cars rushed at speeds of up to 300 km/h on famous tracks globally. He chose authentic race footage over the simpler option of computer-generated races.

    If you’ve tuned into Formula 1 races, you’re aware that broadcast directors frequently shift to cameras inside the cars to provide a sort of first-person perspective of the race. That technology wasn’t adequate for Kosinski. Fortunately, he had a reliable partner assisting in enhancing the quality of those Formula 1 cameras: Apple.

    Indeed, Apple didn’t merely finance the F1 film; it also supplied crucial technology utilized to capture many of the scenes depicting Formula 1 drivers racing on renowned circuits.

    Apple had to integrate a few vital iPhone 15 Pro components within the fins on Formula 1 cars that house the standard cameras used for live broadcasts. It also engineered new camera features that subsequently launched to the public with the iPhone 15 series.

    Apple presented at WWDC 2025 regarding the advancements made to enhance the quality of footage a Formula 1 car can film, ensuring it functioned effectively for the F1 movie.

    Described by Wired and various YouTubers who attended the event, Apple’s camera expertise for the F1 race is truly remarkable.

    Apple essentially concealed the brains, battery, and camera of an iPhone 15 Pro within one of those small fins on a Formula 1 car to obtain professional footage. It accomplished this for multiple F1 cars, which utilized Apple’s iPhone cameras in real races during the 2023 and 2024 seasons. This indicates that Apple employed those iPhone components prior to the launch of the iPhone 15 series.

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    • Comments Off on DuckDuckGo Scam Blocker Discovers Deceptive E-Commerce Sites, Cryptocurrency Platforms, Malware Notifications, and Additional Threats
    DuckDuckGo Scam Blocker Discovers Deceptive E-Commerce Sites, Cryptocurrency Platforms, Malware Notifications, and Additional Threats

    **DuckDuckGo Improves Anti-Scam Functionality with New Scam Blocker**

    The privacy-centric web browser DuckDuckGo has recently enhanced its anti-scam functionality by launching a feature aimed at identifying and blocking fraudulent ecommerce platforms, cryptocurrency websites, virus alerts, and more. This upgrade is available at no cost to all users on both Mac and iOS platforms, removing the necessity for a Privacy Pro subscription.

    Historically, DuckDuckGo provided defenses against typical phishing and malware threats, in addition to harmful advertisements. However, these features have now been unified and rebranded under the new Scam Blocker designation.

    ### New Safeguards Provided by Scam Blocker

    The Scam Blocker brings two main protective measures:

    1. **Fraudulent Investment Websites and Surveys**: This aspect focuses on sites that seek to trick users into divulging personal information or making unwise financial choices. These scams can include a range of deceptive offers, such as investment programs, cryptocurrency trading, discounted medications, and cash incentive surveys. Frequently, these sites seem credible, but their offers are usually “too good to be true.”

    2. **Scareware**: These misleading sites falsely assert that a user’s device is plagued by spyware or viruses. Scareware fosters a sense of urgency, deceiving users into pursuing fake tech support or acquiring unnecessary antivirus solutions.

    Alongside these new protections, the Scam Blocker maintains previously established defenses against:

    – **Phishing Websites**: These sites impersonate official businesses to steal login information or sensitive data. Cybercriminals frequently construct fake websites that resemble well-known brands or use link rerouting to mislead users.

    – **Malware Websites**: Downloading files from such sites can result in malware infections, potentially harming devices or stealing personal data. Some malware sites automatically initiate downloads without user consent.

    – **Tracker-Based Malicious Advertisements**: Referred to as “malvertising,” this method incorporates malware-infested ads within legitimate websites. Certain harmful ads can compromise systems without any user clicks.

    ### Shielding Users from Identity Theft and Fraud

    DuckDuckGo’s goal is to protect users from the rising dangers of identity theft and fraud, specifically scams that mislead individuals into spending money on non-existent goods and services. When a user clicks on a link leading to a recognized scam, DuckDuckGo will prevent the page from loading and show an alert.

    In contrast to Safari, which relies on Google’s Safe Browsing Service to notify users about phishing sites—thus transmitting data regarding visited sites to Google—DuckDuckGo’s mechanism is entirely anonymized and does not share information with external parties.

    While the Scam Blocker feature is available for free to DuckDuckGo browser users, a Privacy Pro subscription is necessary to utilize the VPN, which extends protection to browsers like Safari and Chrome.

    ### Conclusion

    DuckDuckGo’s upgrades to its anti-scam features demonstrate its dedication to user privacy and safety. With the launch of the Scam Blocker, users can explore the internet with enhanced assurance, knowing they are shielded from a diverse range of online dangers.

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    • Comments Off on Apple Explores Generative AI to Improve Chip Development, Claims Hardware Chief
    Apple Explores Generative AI to Improve Chip Development, Claims Hardware Chief

    **Apple’s Investigation of Generative AI in Chip Development**

    Recently, Johny Srouji, Apple’s Senior Vice President of Hardware Technologies, disclosed at an event organized by the Interuniversity Microelectronics Centre (imec) in Belgium that Apple is examining the application of generative AI to improve its custom silicon design process. This inquiry aims to utilize AI’s capabilities to boost productivity and efficiency in chip creation.

    ### Increased Design Output in Shorter Timeframe

    In his address, Srouji highlighted the “significant potential” of AI-supported tools in Apple’s chip design process. He mentioned that these tools could deliver a considerable increase in productivity, allowing the company to achieve “greater design work accomplished in shorter time.” This strategy reflects the industry’s escalating trend of embedding AI into Electronic Design Automation (EDA) tools, which are essential for managing the intricacies of chip creation.

    Apple presently employs EDA tools from leading vendors such as Cadence and Synopsys. These firms are proactively integrating generative AI functionalities into their systems, which assist in automating and accelerating layout and verification processes that conventionally require extensive manual engineering work. Srouji recognized the crucial role these EDA companies have in facilitating Apple’s chip design challenges.

    ### Perspectives on Apple Silicon Transition

    Alongside discussing AI’s possibilities, Srouji offered insights into Apple’s shift from Intel-based Macs to Apple Silicon, which commenced in 2020. He portrayed this transition as a “substantial gamble” without a contingency plan, asserting, “There was no backup plan, no split-the-lineup plan. So we went all in, encompassing a monumental software initiative.” This frank commentary underscores the risks and commitments intrinsic to Apple’s strategic pivot towards its silicon architecture.

    ### Industry Background and Future Consequences

    Srouji’s comments are not unexpected, as numerous companies are investigating generative AI to hasten silicon design processes. Nevertheless, Apple’s prior reluctance to adopt generative AI in consumer-facing applications makes its current exploration of the technology for internal engineering processes especially remarkable. This transition suggests a potential change in how Apple addresses chip design, potentially resulting in more innovative and efficient products in the future.

    As the field of chip design progresses with AI advancements, Apple’s dedication to integrating these technologies could strategically position the company in the competitive semiconductor market. The collaboration with EDA vendors and the exploration of generative AI tools might ultimately enhance Apple’s ability to produce state-of-the-art silicon for its devices.

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    • Comments Off on Anker Announces Recall for PowerCore 10000 Power Bank Because of Fire Safety Risk
    Anker Announces Recall for PowerCore 10000 Power Bank Because of Fire Safety Risk

    ### Anker PowerCore 10000 Recall: Key Safety Details

    Anker, in partnership with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, has declared a recall of the Anker PowerCore 10000 power bank due to a possible fire safety concern linked to its lithium-ion battery. This recall pertains to units produced between January 1, 2016, and October 30, 2019, and sold in the United States from June 1, 2016, to December 31, 2022.

    #### Recall Information

    The model specifically affected by this recall is the Anker PowerCore 10000 (Model: A1263). The problem identified is that some power banks may overheat, resulting in the melting of plastic parts and presenting a risk of smoke and fire hazards.

    If you possess an Anker PowerCore 10000, it is vital to verify the product information found on the bottom of the unit. Look for these identifiers:

    – PowerCore 10000
    – A1263

    If either of these identifiers is found, you should cease using the power bank immediately and make sure it is disconnected from any electrical source.

    #### Replacement and Claim Steps

    Anker is providing two options for customers to address this situation:

    1. A replacement unit with the same capacity.
    2. A $30 Amazon gift card.

    To start the claim, there is no need to return the recalled unit. Instead, you must take two pictures of the power bank:
    – One photo displaying the model number and serial number (SN) found on the bottom of the device.
    – Another photo of the power bank with the submission date and the word “recall” or “recalled” written on it in permanent marker.

    You may then fill out the claim form available on Anker’s website.

    #### Instructions for Disposal

    Before disposing of the recalled power bank, await confirmation from Anker that your unit is affected. Extra caution should be exercised when discarding lithium-ion batteries, as they must not be placed in standard e-waste recycling bins.

    Municipal household hazardous waste (HHW) collection facilities may accept these recalled batteries; however, it is recommended to contact them in advance to verify their policies regarding recalled lithium-ion batteries. If they do not accept them, consult your local municipality for further instructions.

    #### Final Thoughts

    Anker is a well-respected brand, and this recall highlights its dedication to consumer safety. Users must remain alert about the products they buy, especially those involving lithium-ion batteries, and steer clear of unknown brands that may not provide sufficient safety features. For additional information regarding the recall and the claims process, please visit Anker’s official recall page.

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    • Comments Off on Two Must-Watch Netflix Documentaries to Enjoy This Month
    Two Must-Watch Netflix Documentaries to Enjoy This Month

    If your Netflix lineup is in need of a splash of real-life drama, this month brings forth two markedly different yet equally captivating documentary releases that may keep you firmly planted on your couch. One chronicles high-stakes aspirations on the NFL sidelines, whereas the other depicts a literal nightmare at sea.

    While Netflix’s premier offerings are typically its original dramas like *Squid Game* and *Wednesday*, its series and films inspired by true events are often just as engaging — and impactful. This is certainly true of the two new releases for June that we’re highlighting in this article, one of which premiered today.

    ## Two exciting new documentary releases on Netflix

    If you’re a fan of Netflix documentaries, make sure to check out [this comprehensive overview](https://bgr.com/entertainment/i-watched-a-ton-of-netflix-documentaries-this-year-these-were-my-5-favorites/) I created summarizing some of the impressive releases I viewed last year. And, as always, you can keep up with the regular [lineup of fresh titles](https://bgr.com/entertainment/new-on-netflix-june-2025/) dropping on [the streaming giant](https://bgr.com/entertainment/netflix-previews-the-sandman-season-2-a-showstopper-everywhere-you-look/) by following our monthly new release summary. For now, though, we will take a deeper look at the docuseries *America’s Sweethearts: Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders* (Season 2) and the documentary film *Trainwreck: Poop Cruise*.

    ![Dallas Cowboys cheerleader Reece in Netflix’s “America’s Sweethearts” docuseries. Image source: Netflix](https://allyoucantech.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/two-must-watch-netflix-documentaries-to-enjoy-this-month-1.jpg&strip=all&w=768)

    ### [America’s Sweethearts: Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders](https://bgr.com/entertainment/meet-americas-sweethearts-in-new-netflix-documentary-series/) – Season 2 (Available now)

    High kicks, million-dollar smiles, and the sounds of AC/DC’s “Thunderstruck” echoing inside AT&T Stadium can indicate only one thing: It’s cheerleader audition time in Dallas again.

    From Emmy-winning director Greg Whiteley comes the second season of [this behind-the-scenes glimpse](https://bgr.com/entertainment/americas-sweethearts-are-back-footballs-favorite-cheer-squad-returns-to-netflix/) at the most legendary cheerleading team in professional football. The new season opens with open tryouts, as aspirants from across the nation vie for a spot on the Dallas Cowboys cheer squad. Keep in mind, securing a place is so intense that even returning stars like Reece and Kelly V aren’t guaranteed a position. The seasoned cheerleaders must prove their worth every year to retain their spot, just as the newcomers do.

    “I have the ability to make a dream come true — or not,” longtime DCC director Kelli Finglass states in the season premiere.

    While the glitzy game day performances remain a highlight, the true strength of *America’s Sweethearts* lies in how the show explores the personal stories of the cheerleaders — balancing second jobs, grappling with body image issues, navigating social media, and, in some instances, confronting deep-seated trauma. Season 2 also revisits the contentious topic of pay, providing an honest perspective on the ongoing struggles between performance, perception, and compensation.

    ### [Trainwreck: Poop Cruise](https://www.netflix.com/title/81763679) (Streaming June 24)

    As for this next Netflix documentary, *Trainwreck: Poop Cruise* revisits the notorious 2013 Carnival cruise that descended into chaos following an engine room fire that left the ship powerless. For four grueling days, over 4,000 passengers were trapped onboard without air conditioning, limited food supplies, and malfunctioning toilets. Raw sewage seeped throughout the ship, tempers flared — and media coverage, particularly from cable news, went into overdrive.

    “Just on our deck alone, there were the biohazard bags lined up across the floor,” passenger Bettina Rodriguez

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    • Comments Off on Research Suggests 40% Chance of Planet Nine’s Existence
    Research Suggests 40% Chance of Planet Nine’s Existence

    There has been considerable discussion regarding the presence of an enigmatic ninth planet, commonly known as “Planet Nine” or “Planet X.” However, researchers now assert that there is likely at least a 40% probability that Planet Nine truly exists.

    The latest findings are detailed in the journal *Nature Astronomy*, and they suggest that given the mechanisms of planetary formation, it is quite plausible for a ninth planet to exist somewhere beyond the areas we have explored in our solar system.

    ### Considerable discussion

    The debate over the existence of Planet Nine has persisted since Pluto was reclassified. Scientists have repeatedly challenged the theory, yet we continue to seek evidence. Most recently, researchers claimed they might have uncovered signs of a mysterious ninth planet. Nevertheless, the definitive proof we have been pursuing remains elusive for astronomers.

    Now, new research enhances the likelihood that Planet Nine is genuine by examining how the planets in our solar system were formed billions of years ago. According to the researchers, it is entirely plausible that planets which formed beyond our recognized eight could have been pushed outward into the solar system, far past Neptune’s orbit.

    In fact, several objects exist with even more elongated orbits than Neptune and our outer planets. This is why the concept of Planet Nine has consistently sparked interest among astronomers. However, this new study goes further than merely suggesting it could exist; it asserts that based on the data, there is a 40% chance of its existence, assuming all the right conditions align.

    Those odds are not particularly high, of course. However, it represents a refreshing development for those who have been striving to validate the existence of Planet Nine for years. The current hope is that upcoming space telescopes will venture deeper into the far reaches of our solar system and potentially confirm the existence of this ninth planet (and perhaps more) once and for all.

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on Google’s Most Recent Update Allows Authentic Voice Engagement with Search
    Google’s Most Recent Update Allows Authentic Voice Engagement with Search

    Envision having a conversation with Google Search, and it responds in kind. Google is introducing Search Live, a new take on AI Mode that allows you to speak directly to Search in the app. This marks a significant step toward making the entire experience feel more human and less like traditional searching.

    Key points to know:
    – Search Live in the Google app enables you to actually converse with Google — simply vocalize your questions and it replies in real time.
    – You can continue texting, scrolling, or doomscrolling while interacting with Search since it operates in the background.
    – The feature utilizes a tailored version of Gemini, resulting in more natural conversations.

    According to the tech giant’s blog post, Search Live permits real-time talking with Search; you can verbally pose questions, receive immediate responses, and explore related links if you wish. All you need to do is open the Google app, tap the new “Live” icon, and commence your conversation. The AI will reply, allowing you to continue the dialogue for as long as you desire.

    Need assistance with a recipe, organizing a trip, or simply feeling inquisitive? You can now engage in conversation with Google Search and receive instant responses. Even better, it operates in the background, so you can keep scrolling, texting, or engaging in other activities while the chat continues.

    Powered by a twist on Gemini:
    Search Live, integrated within the Google app for Android and iOS, employs a customized approach to Gemini for facilitating real-time voice interactions with Search. But it’s not merely about vocal inquiries. You can direct your camera at an object, ask what it is, and receive immediate responses.

    Currently, this feature is being tested and only accessible to Labs users in the U.S.—and the camera functionality isn’t live just yet. However, Google indicates that it will be available soon, enabling you to point your phone at an item while Search perceives what you’re discussing in real time.

    Moreover, there’s a useful transcript link that allows you to review your chat whenever desired. You can tap it to read the conversation and continue the chat by typing. If you wish to revisit an earlier chat, simply navigate to your AI Mode history and resume the discussion.

    Just weeks after launching AI Mode across the U.S., Google is already escalating its efforts. The debut of Search Live is a decisive move targeting competitors like Perplexity AI and ChatGPT Search.

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    • Comments Off on Apple’s AI-Enhanced Transcription Outperforms OpenAI’s Whisper in Effectiveness
    Apple’s AI-Enhanced Transcription Outperforms OpenAI’s Whisper in Effectiveness

    Apple’s Latest AI-Enhanced Transcription Surpasses OpenAI’s Whisper

    It seems Apple is implementing various behind-the-scenes AI advancements for iOS 26 and macOS Tahoe. While many features build on existing capabilities, the company will also introduce a chatbot-like interaction for users wishing to engage with Apple Intelligence privately via the Shortcuts app, alongside a highly effective speech API that excels beyond OpenAI’s Whisper.

    At least, that’s according to MacStories’ John Voorhees in his practical review. He enlisted his son’s help to create Yap, a “basic command-line tool that takes audio and video files as input and provides SRT- and TXT-formatted transcripts.”

    During his experiments, he successfully transcribed a 7GB 4K video version of a 34-minute AppStories podcast episode in just 45 seconds and produced an SRT file. After testing other AI transcription models, Apple’s performance exceeded that of all competitors:

    Yap: 45 seconds.
    MacWhisper (Large V3 Turbo): 1 minute and 41 seconds.
    VidCap: 1 minute and 55 seconds.
    MacWhisper (Large V2): 3 minutes and 55 seconds.

    Although Apple’s AI transcription model is not without flaws and struggled with certain last names and terms like “AppStories,” Voorhees was taken aback by Yap’s efficiency, being 55% quicker than OpenAI’s top model while maintaining equivalent transcription quality.

    That being said, when iOS 26 and macOS Tahoe launch, expect to see new applications leveraging Apple’s cutting-edge AI models to analyze spoken language and transcribe information. As these models are freely available for developers, they are set to enhance the audio transcription market.

    At present, these features are confined to developers utilizing the beta iterations of iOS 26, macOS Tahoe, and Xcode 26.

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on Leak Indicates Samsung’s Forthcoming Unpacked Event is Near
    Leak Indicates Samsung’s Forthcoming Unpacked Event is Near

    Insider Evan Blass has indicated that the upcoming Galaxy Unpacked event is set for early July.

    (Image credit: Samsung)

    Essential information

    • Rumor has it that Samsung’s summer Galaxy Unpacked event is tentatively scheduled for July 9 at 10 am ET.
    • Insider Evan Blass announced the date on X, but did not disclose the venue of the event.
    • This year, Samsung is anticipated to unveil its foldables and has been sharing several teasers about the expected “ultra” foldable.

    Numerous rumors have emerged regarding the timing of Samsung’s next Galaxy Unpacked event. While some insiders suggest mid-July, others indicate early July. The latest rumor points to the summer Unpacked event possibly occurring on July 9 at 10 am ET.

    This information originates from respected insider Evan Blass, who used X to share the event details in a brief post. However, he did not provide information regarding the event’s location. Previous rumors hinted that Samsung might be introducing its next foldable lineup in New York for the first time in three years.

    In light of this, the Korean manufacturer is expected to unveil the next generation of foldables: <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.androidcentral.com/phones

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