Author: sparta

The Battery Performance of the Pixel 10: Grasping the Issues

A brief explanation upfront is preferable to handling torches and pitchforks down the line.

(Image credit: Nandika Ravi/Android Central)

If you’re a casual technology user, you might believe that the Pixel 10’s battery is poor and that your phone will cease to charge entirely after about six months to a year. It actually isn’t, and it won’t. However, that’s the impression given by the headlines you’ve seen this week.

There are two factors influencing this, and I’m prepared to upset some people by sharing my thoughts on them.

1. Occasionally, tech websites misrepresent the situation.

Mathematical Constraints in Thwarting Malware: A Review

**Comprehending Malware: The Ongoing Danger in the Digital Era**

Malware has represented a major issue in the field of technology since its origin, with the first virus surfacing in 1982 as a joke on Apple II computers. In spite of progress in security measures, malware still presents a danger, not only because of the ingenuity of cybercriminals and nation-states, but also due to the inherent limitations in our capacity to detect it.

At the center of this dilemma lies Rice’s Theorem, a concept in computer science indicating that it is theoretically impossible to develop a program that can flawlessly ascertain whether another program is harmful. The difficulty arises from the reality that the term “harmful” is intrinsically linked to behavior, influenced by a myriad of factors, including coding, environment, and user inputs. Anticipating how a program will behave is similar to predicting the result of a recipe without actually cooking the dish.

Even if we could form a precise definition of harmful behavior, antivirus software encounters considerable challenges. They cannot assess every possible execution pathway, operate indefinitely, or mimic every environment where malware might function. This limitation is intensified by the ever-changing nature of malware, which employs advanced techniques to avoid detection. For example, polymorphic and metamorphic malware can encrypt their code or modify their structure, making it challenging for traditional detection techniques to recognize them. As a result, what may appear suspicious today might be seen as legitimate tomorrow.

Contemporary antivirus solutions have enhanced their functionalities, employing signature detection to identify known malware patterns, behavioral monitoring to track suspicious activities, and sandboxing to evaluate code in a controlled environment. Although these strategies effectively capture a large portion of threats, they cannot assure total protection. According to Rice’s Theorem, even the most advanced systems, including hypothetical superintelligent AIs, would find it difficult to achieve 100% detection rates.

The ramifications of undetectable malware go beyond simple annoyance; they raise alarms about prospective situations, such as the possible deployment of such malware to counter a runaway artificial general intelligence (AGI). This concept resonates with themes present in various science fiction stories, underlining the persistent struggle between technological progress and security threats.

In summary, while the battle against malware is continual and intricate, grasping its nature and the limitations of detection techniques is essential for formulating effective methods to reduce risks. As technology keeps evolving, so too must our strategies for cybersecurity, ensuring that we stay alert in the face of constantly changing threats.

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Will Smith’s Reported Utilization of AI to Replicate Concert Audiences: A Multifaceted Matter

Will Smith faced criticism this week after he shared a brief video on Instagram and YouTube Shorts that showcased audiences at some of his recent shows. A number of fans quickly identified discrepancies in the video, indicating that Will Smith’s team might have utilized generative AI to produce a fabricated clip. TechCrunch and blogger Andy Baio highlighted that the video uploaded by Will Smith does display characteristics of being created or modified by AI. Nevertheless, the audiences shown in the clip are genuine, as are many of the AI-modified signs and individuals showcased.

The situation appears to be more intricate than simply Will Smith employing AI to fabricate videos of pretend crowds. Baio performed an in-depth examination suggesting that Will Smith’s team could have leveraged AI to convert photos from his recent performances into videos. Such tools are widely accessible to the public. Indeed, Google has recently unveiled a new Veo 3 capability that enables users to transform any still image into a video.

However, there is another factor that might undermine Will Smith amid this AI controversy. Google recently conducted an experiment for YouTube Shorts where it employed AI (machine learning) to enhance the quality of Shorts without securing the creator’s consent. Viewers criticized that the videos appeared to be AI-generated. It seems that the YouTube Shorts clip of Will Smith that sparked fans’ dissatisfaction this week could have been impacted by this experiment.

Reasons behind the belief that Will Smith’s concert video is AI-generated

“My favorite part of the tour is seeing you all up close,” Will Smith states in the video’s caption. “Thank you for seeing me too.” The video is merely one minute long, showcasing the artist performing during his European tour before large crowds. The clip emphasizes the fans and some of the signs they held. One sign features a man stating that Will Smith’s music assisted him in overcoming cancer. However, the man’s face appears unnatural on YouTube, and one of his hands seems to blend with the hand of a woman in front of him. Another sign displays unreadable text that appears to have been generated by AI. Furthermore, a sign reading “Lov U Fresh Prince” transforms into “Lov U Fr6sh Crince” later in the video.

These elements led to backlash. Fans suspected that Will Smith fabricated the crowds at his performances, including the signs they showcased. Nonetheless, Andy Baio performed an admirable analysis of Will Smith’s social media posts in an effort to clarify the situation. The signs are authentic. The man who asserted that Will Smith’s song aided his cancer recovery was indeed present. The woman in front of him was holding the sign alongside him. The “Lov U” sign had appeared in photos that the singer shared on his social media platforms prior to the video being released.

Is YouTube Shorts responsible?

Baio conjectures that Will Smith’s team may have utilized AI to transition some of these photos into videos and then combined them into a lengthier clip. This resulted in unwanted visual artifacts that are hallmark signs of AI usage. However, Baio contends that the YouTube Shorts AI initiative may also be culpable in this instance, as Google automatically enhanced the clip shared on Shorts, making it resemble an even more fully AI-generated video.

The identical clip posted on Instagram appears more authentic, as machine learning wasn’t applied to enhance details and smoothen faces. Baio shared a side-by-side comparison on YouTube that illustrates the differences between Instagram and YouTube Shorts:

Despite reasonable justifications, the backlash is understandable, given the rising volume of AI-generated content shared online. Will Smith has neither confirmed nor denied the use of AI in these promotional presentations. As a reminder, not all generative AI tools include visible watermarks to inform viewers that the content has been created with AI. Google did not reveal the YouTube experiment until users raised concerns. Even Netflix has employed AI in a television show without prior disclosure of the practice.

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Employing Camera Coach on the Google Pixel 10: A Comprehensive Tutorial

**Camera Coach: Your Compact AI Photography Instructor**

The Google Pixel 10 has launched, featuring enhanced camera capabilities thanks to improved color science and a new image signal processor. But how can the typical user make the most of these enhancements? Introducing Camera Coach, an AI-driven feature created to assist you in taking breathtaking photos with your Pixel 10.

**What is Camera Coach?**

In contrast to Google’s current AI photo editing solutions that alter images after they are taken, Camera Coach offers immediate guidance before you snap a picture. Available on the Pixel 10 and Pixel 10 Pro, this function leverages AI to evaluate your viewfinder and provide suggestions for superior shots, including framing and lighting modifications.

**How to Activate Camera Coach on the Pixel 10**

Turning on Camera Coach is simple:

1. Launch the Pixel Camera app by double-pressing the side button.
2. Click the Camera Coach icon located in the top-right corner.
3. Allow Camera Coach to assess the viewfinder and choose a theme or rescan the scene.
4. Wait for the processing as Camera Coach formulates tailored recommendations.
5. Adhere to the on-screen prompts and take your photo.

**When to Utilize Camera Coach**

Camera Coach is perfect for individuals starting in photography, delivering custom tips to refine your abilities. However, it might not be the best choice for rapid shots due to processing durations. Employ it for intricate setups or when striving for that flawless photo.

Camera Coach elevates your Pixel 10 into a portable photography mentor, rendering advanced photographic techniques accessible for all.

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Apple TV+ Preparations for the Upcoming Launch of New Seasons for Two Major Hit Series Soon

Apple TV+ is preparing to unveil its most remarkable autumn lineup ever, featuring the comeback of two of its most cherished series.

### The Morning Show Returns September 17

Apple TV+ launched in 2019 with “The Morning Show” as its premier series, which has remained a favorite among viewers. The fourth season of “The Morning Show” will debut on **September 17**, with new episodes rolled out weekly until November 19. This season showcases an outstanding cast, including Jennifer Aniston, Reese Witherspoon, Jon Hamm, and Oscar winners Marion Cotillard and Jeremy Irons.

The plot resumes in spring 2024, almost two years after season three, tackling themes of accountability and truth in a divided America. The season will investigate modern issues such as deepfakes and conspiracy theories, prompting inquiries about trust and the nature of reality.

### Slow Horses Returns September 24

Another cherished series, “Slow Horses,” is set to make its comeback for the fifth season on **September 24**, with episodes airing weekly until October 29. The show stars Gary Oldman as Jackson Lamb and welcomes new character Roddy Ho, portrayed by Nick Mohammed. This season focuses on the enigmatic events surrounding Roddy’s new girlfriend and the resulting espionage.

### Additional Highlights

Along with these returning series, Apple TV+ will launch several new offerings this fall, including the Spike Lee film “Highest 2 Lowest,” the intriguing series “Pluribus” from the creator of “Breaking Bad,” and “Down Cemetery Road,” a crime thriller by the author of “Slow Horses.”

Apple TV+ is accessible for **$12.99 per month**, featuring a variety of hit shows and films, including “Ted Lasso,” “Severance,” and “Silo.”

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Evaluating the Pixel 10 Pro’s Camera at the Supposed Wedding Location of Taylor Swift

We evaluate the cameras of the Pixel 10 and Pixel 10 Pro to determine their performance compared to other Android devices.

Google’s Pixel smartphones are frequently viewed as among the finest regarding photography. With Google’s exceptional computational photography and AI integration, Pixel phones simplify the process of taking excellent images without requiring extensive consideration.

In this thorough examination of the Pixel 10 cameras, Android Central writers Nick Sutrich and Derrek Lee assess Google’s latest flagship AI devices. Nick focuses on the Pixel 10 Pro models, while Derrek examines the standard Pixel 10. Both photographers capture images across various locations and scenarios, comparing the outcomes with those from other Android and Pixel models. Nick even journeys to the Biltmore Estate, where rumors suggest Taylor Swift’s upcoming wedding might occur.

Is Google still the ruler of smartphone cameras? Let’s examine how these devices perform.

Google Pixel 10 camera specifications

Camera | Pixel 10 | Pixel 10 Pro | Pixel 10 Pro XL
—|—|—|—
Rear Camera 1 | 48MP 1/2-inch wide, ƒ/1.70, 82-degree FOV
Quad PD AF | 50MP 1/1.3-inch wide, ƒ/1.68, 82-degree FOV
Quad PD AF | 50MP 1/1.3-inch wide, ƒ/1.68, 82-degree FOV
Quad PD AF
Rear Camera 2 | 13MP 1/3.1-inch ultrawide, ƒ/2.2, 120-degree FOV
Quad PD AF | 48MP 1/2.55-inch ultrawide, ƒ/1.7, 123-degree FOV
Quad PD AF | 48MP 1/2.55-inch ultrawide, ƒ/1.7, 123-degree FOV
Quad PD AF
Rear Camera 3 | 10.8MP 1/3.2-inch telephoto, ƒ/3.1, 23-degree FOV
5x optical
Dual PD AF | 48MP 1/2.55-inch telephoto, ƒ/2.8, 22-degree FOV
5x optical
Dual PD AF | 48MP 1/2.55-inch telephoto, ƒ/2.8, 22-degree FOV
5x optical
Dual PD AF
Front Camera | 10.5MP wide, ƒ/2.2, 95-degree FOV
Dual PD AF | 42MP, ƒ/2.2, 103-degree FOV
Dual PD AF | 42MP, ƒ/2.2, 103-degree FOV
Dual PD AF

Google Pixel 10 Pro and 10 Pro XL

The Google Pixel 10 Pro and Pixel 10 Pro XL come equipped with the same camera hardware, eliminating the need to choose between device sizes. Thus, the results presented here will be consistent across both versions.

Main camera and motion performance

For an extended period, Google Pixels were recognized for the best motion capture quality in the industry; however, we began noticing this dominance wane last year. Both Honor and OnePlus have made significant strides in motion capture fidelity, occasionally surpassing Pixel cameras. Samsung has also made considerable improvements to its historically problematic motion capture with the Galaxy S25 Ultra.

In this motion test, my wife used a toy lure to provoke our cat’s movements in the living room. I held two phones side by side and pressed the shutter button at the same time. Each device was permitted two shots, allowing for a side-by-side view of the photos below. This approach ensures there is no selection bias to the best of my ability.

The findings were largely as expected if you’ve observed our previous motion tests. The Honor Magic 7 Pro clearly outperformed the rest, decisively beating the other phones. I would say the Pixel 10 Pro and Pixel 9 Pro performed similarly; although the Pixel 10 produced slightly brighter images, I favor the texture in the shots from the Pixel 9 Pro.

The assessment between the Pixel 10 Pro and OnePlus 13 is somewhat trickier to evaluate. While the Pixel 10’s images are brighter, they appear smoother compared to those from the OnePlus 13. The cat’s fur looks detailed in one image taken by the OnePlus 13, whereas in the other, it’s on the Pixel 10 Pro. Perhaps I’ll give a very slight advantage to the Pixel 10 Pro in this case.

I was quite surprised by the results of the Galaxy S25 Ultra test. Typically, Pixels excel over Samsung’s devices in any motion test, but that was not the situation here. The Pixel 10 Pro only marginally outperformed in certain aspects of the

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Factors to Consider When Acquiring the Google Pixel 10 Pro Fold

It’s more about deciding whether you ought to postpone or proceed.

(Image credit: Nandika Ravi/ Android Central)
Beyond the Alphabet

(Image credit: Nicholas Sutrich / Android Central)

Beyond the Alphabet is a weekly column that delves into the technology realm both within and beyond the borders of Mountain View.

If someone had told me three years ago that Google would not only introduce a foldable but would also be bringing out its third model, I would have laughed. Yet, here we stand, with the Pixel 10 Pro Fold.

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Top 5 MacBook Docking Stations on Amazon Evaluated by Customer Ratings

recent MacBook Pro versions, the brand is infamous for lacking sufficient ports in its Mac laptops. This leads users to face challenges while connecting multiple peripherals, displays, and storage devices to their MacBooks. Luckily, MacBook docking stations are available to enhance the port availability on your Mac laptop; be it a MacBook Air, Pro, or the basic MacBook from previous generations.

Docking stations or USB-C hubs are handy devices featuring a diverse range of ports that connect to Thunderbolt (TB) or standard USB-C ports on your MacBook, enabling you to connect additional devices beyond the usual limits set by your Mac’s standard port offerings.

Nonetheless, selecting an appropriate docking station can be daunting due to the myriad of options on the market. Thus, here are five of the top Mac-compatible docking stations and USB-C hubs available on Amazon that have garnered positive feedback from users.

Satechi Slim Pro hub

Satechi’s Slim Pro Hub is a compact USB-C dock that easily connects to contemporary MacBooks, expanding the port variety to seven distinct ports. It has been engineered to ensure it doesn’t obstruct the MagSafe port on your MacBook, a common issue found in earlier USB-C hubs with a similar layout that were launched when Apple had eliminated MagSafe from its Mac laptops.

The standout feature of this hub is the built-in USB4 40Gbps port, which can deliver up to 100W of power and supports up to 6K 60Hz displays, making it perfect for linking fast external storage drives, displays, or charging your laptop. Among the other USB ports, there is a USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C port, alongside two USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-A ports. Unfortunately, these ports lack power delivery capabilities, rendering them suitable only for peripherals and storage drives. Satechi has also incorporated an HDMI port capable of handling up to 4K 60Hz displays and two slots for your microSD and SD cards.

The USB-C hub boasts a premium and stylish appearance, thanks to its aluminum construction. However, this also translates to a premium price of $80, leading many Amazon customers to find it somewhat pricey for its offerings. An additional issue noted by some users is the snug fit of its USB-A ports, which can prove inconvenient. Still, it has achieved an impressive average rating of 4.4 from over 700 reviews.

Anker 332 USB-C hub

The <a href="https://r.bttn.io?btn_ref=org-225e4e0aac880b8f&btn_url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2FAnker-Display-MacBook-Thinkpad-Laptops%2Fdp%2FB0BQLLB61B

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Apple Ceases Signing iOS 18.6.1, Blocking Downgrades from iOS 18.6.2

Apple has just unveiled iOS 18.6.2 for iPhones, representing a major update in its software offerings. This new release follows shortly after the last version, iOS 18.6.1, which Apple has ceased signing. As a result, users are no longer able to revert to the previous version, with iOS 18.6.2 being the exclusive choice for upgrades.

The recent update, iOS 18.6.2, includes a vital security patch concerning the ImageIO system framework, which plays a crucial role in image display on iPhones. While this update primarily emphasizes security, it is vital for users to implement it to keep their devices protected against possible vulnerabilities.

As Apple prepares for the forthcoming iOS 26, expected to feature a significant redesign and new functionalities, users are advised to move to the latest version. The iOS 26 update is anticipated to introduce considerable modifications, such as a new Liquid Glass design, which will enhance the overall user experience.

For those on older iOS versions, the only pathway to an upgrade is now via iOS 18.6.2. Users encountering bugs or performance challenges with this recent update are invited to report their experiences, as feedback can be beneficial for subsequent updates.

In conclusion, iOS 18.6.2 is currently the only version accessible for iPhone users, underscoring the necessity of keeping devices updated for security and performance improvements.

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