Author: sparta

iOS 26 Unveils New Feature for Improved Task Organization in Apple’s Reminders Application

### Apple’s Reminders App: Fresh Features in iOS 26

The Reminders app from Apple has experienced a remarkable makeover in iOS 26, showcasing a modern Liquid Glass aesthetic along with an array of new functionalities designed to enhance the user experience. A standout new feature is the ‘New Reminder’ control, which simplifies the reminder creation process without requiring users to launch the app.

#### Quick Task Creation with ‘New Reminder’ Control

Effective task management is vital for productivity, and the speed of task entry can significantly affect user contentment. With this recent update, Apple has streamlined the process for swiftly creating new reminders. The ‘New Reminder’ control can be deployed in multiple areas of your iPhone, such as:

– Action button
– Lock Screen
– Control Center

This feature allows users to bring up a popup panel for prompt task entry, including options for due dates, flags, and additional settings. By positioning this control in user-friendly spots, users can effortlessly make reminders while on the move.

#### Making Use of the Action Button

For individuals with the Action button on their iPhone, configuring it to activate the ‘New Reminder’ feature can be especially beneficial. This configuration allows users to quickly jot down reminders in mere seconds, regardless of being on the Lock Screen, Home Screen, or engaged with another application. The popup panel accommodates natural language input for due dates and affords swift access to crucial fields like:

– Assigned List
– Notes
– Date
– Location
– Flag

This adaptability makes the ‘New Reminder’ control an excellent option for those aiming to enhance their task management.

#### Conclusion

The upgrades to the Reminders app in iOS 26, specifically the ‘New Reminder’ control, considerably enhance the speed and simplicity of task creation. Whether you opt to incorporate this feature into your Control Center, Lock Screen, or Action button, it ensures that managing your tasks is more effective than ever. Users are invited to try out these new functionalities and share their feedback on the revamped Reminders app.

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Apple Intentions Notable Display Improvements for Three Future Products

Apple is set to execute a major display enhancement for three forthcoming products, namely the MacBook Air, iPad Air, and iPad mini, as reported by Mark Gurman from Bloomberg. The company is trialing these devices with OLED display technology, which is presently used in the iPhone, iPad Pro, and Apple Watch, while the Apple Vision Pro features micro-OLED technology.

Although there have been speculations about Apple developing an OLED MacBook Pro, this hardware is not anticipated to launch in the near future. The forthcoming M5 Pro and M5 Max MacBook Pro models will employ current display technology, with a redesign incorporating OLED displays expected for the M6 Pro and M6 Max versions, likely to arrive in 2027. As a result, the inaugural OLED MacBook Air is not expected until at least 2028, since the MacBook Air has yet to be updated to the latest M5 chip, which was recently revealed.

Among the three devices, the iPad mini is predicted to be the first to embrace OLED technology. Furthermore, Apple is allegedly developing a new water-resistant design for the iPad mini, which will be distinct from the method used for the iPhone. Rather than keeping speaker holes with gaskets and adhesives, Apple is investigating a novel speaker system that employs vibration-based technology, enabling the elimination of speaker holes to avoid water ingress.

The next iPad mini iteration is expected to unveil in 2026, with a probable price hike of $100, increasing the starting price from $499 to $599 for the OLED variant. The iPad Air may also experience a price rise, preserving a price divide between it and the iPad Pro. However, the entry-level iPad is not projected to shift to OLED technology according to current plans.

For further insights, you can check the complete report at Bloomberg.

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Two Powerful Android Keyboard Substitutes to Replace Google’s Gboard

adjusting the size of the Android keyboard can be challenging, since not every smartphone utilizes the same version.

Google’s Gboard stands out as the most widely used keyboard, so it’s likely your device comes equipped with Gboard. The primary exception is Samsung, which uses its proprietary keyboard application on its devices. As a result, numerous users look for alternative keyboard applications that provide enhanced control and customization features. Two of the most favored alternative keyboards include Microsoft’s SwiftKey and the open-source HeliBoard, both delivering a keyboard application that, fundamentally, serves very different functions.

In terms of features, Gboard offers a wealth of options and integrates seamlessly with applications like Google Translate, while supporting essential functions such as gesture typing and voice recognition. Recently, it has also introduced new AI writing tools to enhance your messaging experience. However, many users of Gboard believe the application has deteriorated over time, not to mention the significant privacy issues related to Google and its services, prompting individuals to seek alternatives.

SwiftKey is Microsoft’s alternative to Gboard

Launched back in 2010, SwiftKey is available for both Android and iOS devices. It was created to enhance the typing experience

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macOS Tahoe 26.1: Full Release Notes from Apple

### Apple Unveils macOS Tahoe 26.1 Release Candidate

Apple has now delivered the Release Candidate (RC) of macOS Tahoe 26.1 to beta testers, indicating that a public debut is imminent. This update introduces various new features and improvements designed to enhance user satisfaction and functionality.

#### What’s New in macOS Tahoe 26.1

The official release notes for macOS Tahoe 26.1 emphasize the following notable features:

– **Liquid Glass Setting**: Users can select between a standard clear appearance or a new tinted alternative that boosts the opacity of the material in applications and notifications on the Lock Screen.

– **Apple Music AutoMix Support**: This feature enables users to enjoy uninterrupted music mixing via AirPlay, enriching the listening experience.

– **Enhanced FaceTime Audio Quality**: The update improves audio fidelity during FaceTime calls, especially in low-bandwidth situations, ensuring clearer conversations.

– **Communication Safety and Web Content Filters**: For existing child accounts aged 13-17 (age may vary by region), these features are automatically activated to restrict access to adult websites, fostering safer online experiences.

Apple notes that certain features may not be accessible in all regions or on every device. For comprehensive information on the security aspects of the updates, users are advised to visit Apple’s support page.

#### Additional Notes

While the Liquid Glass setting was known previously, the other improvements were not identified during the beta testing period. Although the release notes for iOS 26.1 are still pending, it is expected that similar features will be part of the iPhone update.

It is crucial to acknowledge that Apple’s release notes might not cover every modification in the update. Frequently, there are smaller adjustments and minor features that may remain unlisted.

#### Conclusion

The macOS Tahoe 26.1 update is set to enhance user enjoyment with new features and upgrades. As the public release nears, users can anticipate exploring these improvements on their devices. For further details on feature availability and performance effects, users are urged to check Apple’s official website.

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Trump Praises Apple’s Investment in the U.S. During Tim Cook’s Presence at Tokyo Event

**Apple’s Contribution to U.S. Infrastructure Emphasized by President Trump in Japan**

Apple CEO Tim Cook participated in a prominent gathering for business leaders in Japan, where President Trump highlighted Apple’s notable investment in U.S. infrastructure. This event follows Cook’s recent visit to China and signifies his involvement in a crucial meeting focused on enhancing business relations between the U.S. and Japan.

At a ceremony held at the U.S. Ambassador’s Residence in Tokyo, a remarkable $490 billion U.S.-Japan investment was revealed. Subsequently, President Trump delivered a speech lasting about 40 minutes, during which he praised Tim Cook for Apple’s dedication to American manufacturing and investment.

Trump specifically mentioned Apple’s American Manufacturing Program, which encompasses an astounding total of $600 billion in domestic investments. In his address, Trump remarked, “Tim Cook is doing, I think, like, 600 or 650 billion dollars, right? Think of it. You’ve done more than the entire group here.” He compared Apple’s investment with the combined efforts of other attendees, emphasizing the importance of Cook’s contributions to the U.S. economy.

The event was graced by several prominent personalities, including Salesforce CEO Marc Benioff, Rakuten Group CEO Hiroshi Mikitani, OpenAI co-founder Greg Brockman, and SoftBank CEO Masayoshi Son, among others. This assembly highlights the importance of collaboration between major corporations and government officials in promoting economic growth and innovation.

The complete event can be accessed online, showcasing the discussions and interactions among these influential figures.

In summary, Tim Cook’s attendance at this event and the acknowledgment of Apple’s investments reflect the ongoing conversation about the impact of technology companies in advancing economic development and infrastructure enhancements in the United States.

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iPhone 17 Reaches Similar Display Performance to iPhone Air in DXOMARK Assessment

DXOMARK has released its display assessment outcomes for the iPhone 17 and iPhone Air, with both models attaining identical overall scores and placing #25 in the global rankings. Below are the specifics.

### iPhone Air: ‘A harmonious and sophisticated visual experience’

DXOMARK’s research indicates that the iPhone Air excels in handling reflectance, surpassing most competitors but trailing the Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra. The device delivers commendable color accuracy with True Tone activated and deactivated. However, video playback in dim environments may appear overly dark with automatic brightness adjustments, prompting users to opt for manual settings for improved visibility.

The iPhone Air features an average touch response time of 69ms, making it 3ms quicker than the Samsung Galaxy S25 Edge and 21ms swifter than the Google Pixel 10 Pro XL. It performs admirably in SDR and HDR video frame drops, although it falls behind in certain technical areas, such as 0 lux for video peak luminance in SDR.

In total, the iPhone Air received 154 out of 164 points in Readability, 155 out of 167 points in Color, 140 out of 167 points in Video, and 163 out of 164 points in Touch. It stands at 25th in the global rankings and 20th in the ultra-premium category.

### iPhone 17: ‘A significant enhancement in readability’

DXOMARK’s overall evaluation of the iPhone 17 emphasizes its polished and well-rounded performance across essential display metrics, highlighting considerable advancements in touch responsiveness and readability compared to its predecessor. Similar to the iPhone Air, the iPhone 17’s handling of reflectance falls short of the Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra but continues to outshine most competitors, ensuring strong legibility even under direct sunlight.

The display of the iPhone 17 closely resembles the Samsung Galaxy S25 concerning luminance reduction at wider viewing angles and exceeds both Samsung’s and Google’s devices in average reflectance and response time.

The iPhone 17 matched the iPhone Air’s scores: 154 out of 164 points in Readability, 155 out of 167 points in Color, 140 out of 167 points in Video, and 163 out of 164 points in Touch. As a result, it also secured the 25th position globally and 5th in the premium ranking.

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Google’s Pomelli AI Debuts as an All-Inclusive Marketing Tool

No design crew? No issue. Google’s latest AI crafts your brand’s social media campaigns.

(Image credit: Google)

Essential details

  • Google unveils Pomelli, an innovative AI marketing solution stemmed from Google Labs and DeepMind, designed to assist small and medium-sized enterprises in creating polished, brand-aligned campaigns.
  • Pomelli first analyzes your brand by examining your website to establish a “Business DNA” that encapsulates your tone, colors, fonts, and overall persona.
  • Integrated editing options allow users to modify text and graphics directly within the platform before exporting the finalized assets.

Notice

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T-Mobile Provides Free Google Pixel 9a and Earbuds in Latest Promotion, No Waiting for Black Friday Required

T-Mobile is serious about its newest promotion.

(Image credit: Michael Hicks / Android Central)

Black Friday is just around the corner, but I came across a fresh T-Mobile offer on the Google Pixel 9a that makes the major sales weekend feel slightly less essential. Here’s how it works: purchase the mid-tier smartphone on “most” data plans with T-Mobile and the major carrier will provide you with $499.99 in promotional credits over a span of 24 months.

That’s sufficient to make the Google Pixel 9a absolutely free, with no trade-in necessary! As if that weren’t enough, T-Mobile will also include a complimentary pair of Google Pixel Buds 2a earbuds, valued at an extra $129. Why search for Google Pixel deals this Black Friday when the preliminary offers are already this appealing?

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How to Turn Off Ads on Your Samsung Smart Refrigerator

In September, Samsung revealed that it would be introducing advertisements to select high-end smart refrigerators. This announcement was included in a changelog, with the company later affirming that the patch notes were genuine, contrary to what some users hoped. While Samsung doesn’t currently intend to implement ads across all of the smart fridge’s various themes, users of the Weather or Color themes will now begin to notice ads along the bottom third of the screen (via The Verge). Meanwhile, those utilizing the Gallery and Art themes will be free from advertisements, so not everyone will be impacted.

If you happened to overlook the news and suddenly find ads on your fridge, there’s no need to panic — Samsung won’t compel you to view ads every time you start preparing dinner. There is, in fact, a surprisingly simple method to disable the ads and restore your Samsung smart fridge to its practical, intelligent, and ad-free functionality.

How to turn off ads on Samsung smart fridges

In contrast to the ads that Microsoft now integrates into Windows 11, Samsung has provided users with an option to disable the advertisements they are shown. As detailed in an announcement providing further information about the launch of the “pilot program,” Samsung indicates that users can navigate to the Advertisements tab in their Settings menu at any time to turn off the ads. The advertisement will also feature on the new Daily Board theme that is being introduced with this latest update, although it won’t occupy much space, appearing instead as a single tile on the board. Even if you choose not to disable them completely, you can always dismiss an ad, and it won’t reappear for the remainder of the campaign run, Samsung states.

Like many issues, the fact that Samsung is implementing this in fridges priced around $2,000 or more is the primary concern, as individuals already possess these smart appliances in their homes and are using them without having agreed to receive ads when they made their purchase. Furthermore, while the service will exclusively showcase Samsung advertisements for the time being, there are apprehensions that it’s only a matter of time before the company starts collaborating with other businesses and permits third parties to buy ads for display on its refrigerators.

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Five Unique Devices That Work with Your Phone’s USB Port

**5 Unusual Gadgets You Can Connect to Your Phone’s USB Port**

The USB-C ports found on contemporary Android devices and iPhones are remarkably adaptable. While most individuals utilize them mainly for charging or linking to computers, they provide an array of options. In addition to common accessories, there are numerous unconventional gadgets that can elevate your smartphone experience. Here are five distinct gadgets you can connect to your phone’s USB port:

**1. Thermal Imaging Cameras**

Thermal imaging cameras serve as valuable tools for both professionals and DIY enthusiasts. They can be utilized for building evaluations, wildlife monitoring, and more. Rather than carrying an independent thermal camera, you can choose a USB-C thermal camera attachment for your device. Brands such as Flir, Thermal Master, and Topdon supply these attachments, with prices varying from $100 to over $500. For example, the Topdon TC002C Duo offers 256×192p thermal imaging and can measure temperatures from -4°F to 1022°F.

**2. USB Bug Bite Healer**

Heat It presents a USB Insect Bite Healer that alleviates discomfort from bug bites. This accessory connects to your phone’s USB-C port and emits targeted heat to ease itching and pain. It includes an app that allows temperature adjustments, making it appropriate for children and individuals with sensitive skin. Compact and effective, it can perform up to 1,000 treatments per complete smartphone charge.

**3. USB Dust Plugs**

To safeguard your phone’s USB port from dust and debris, USB dust plugs are a sensible option. These plugs fit securely into the port, blocking unwanted particles. The Anti-Loss USB-C Dust Plugs come with an adhesive section that affixes to the back of your phone, assuring they remain in place. Priced at $6 for a pack of 10, they also contain port cleaning tools.

**4. USB Endoscope Cameras**

USB endoscope cameras are useful for examining narrow or hard-to-reach spaces. They consist of a small camera and LED light at one end of a cable, with a USB port on the opposite end. These cameras are ideal for plumbing, automotive, and wall inspections. Starting at approximately $15, they typically require a dedicated app. The $35 USB Endoscope Camera from Kinpthy is a favored selection, featuring dual cameras, adjustable LED lights, and water resistance.

**5. USB Lanyard Cable**

A USB lanyard cable merges a lanyard with a USB cable, offering a handy solution for charging and data transmission. The Satechi OntheGo USB-C Lanyard Cable supports 60W rapid charging and USB 2.0 transfer speeds. It can also serve as a crossbody strap, gaining traction following the release of Apple’s iPhone 17 accessory. The cable is woven for strength, and the connectors are safeguarded with aluminum caps.

These distinctive gadgets showcase the adaptability of USB-C ports, providing inventive ways to enhance your smartphone’s functionality.

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