Author: sparta

    • sparta
    • Comments Off on How to Enhance Your Roku TV: 4 Essential Settings and Tips for Better Performance
    How to Enhance Your Roku TV: 4 Essential Settings and Tips for Better Performance

    Roku boasts a robust selection of streaming media devices that effortlessly enhance your old television with smart TV capabilities or provide an alternative to your TV’s OS. These streamers offer numerous advantages, such as a user-friendly and intuitive interface, applications for popular streaming services, access to local TV channels, and a variety of useful yet not immediately obvious features. Nevertheless, they are not the most powerful streamers available on the market, and occasionally, you might find your Roku TV Stick becoming slow and unresponsive. While a lagging interface or suboptimal app performance can be exasperating, these issues are often resolvable. Sadly, there isn’t a single universal setting that can eliminate all of your difficulties.

    Before we explore more comprehensive steps that require some effort, you can initiate a straightforward restart. Although it may not be the most sophisticated action, restarting can frequently resolve temporary memory issues, clear the cache of your sluggish Roku TV, and restart background services and system processes. There are multiple methods to reboot a Roku TV Stick. The simplest way is to press Home on your Roku remote and go to Settings > System > Power > System restart. If the Power sub-menu is not visible in System, the System Restart option should be accessible directly in the System menu. If your Roku TV remains laggy and slow post-restart, here are the next steps you can attempt.

    Troubleshooting your Roku TV

    <picture id="p2d3788c380

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    • Comments Off on 9to5 Readers Can Cut Costs by $112 to $224 on the Latest M5 MacBook Pro – Top Deals Offered
    9to5 Readers Can Cut Costs by $112 to $224 on the Latest M5 MacBook Pro – Top Deals Offered

    ### Special Offers on the Latest M5 MacBook Pro

    Apple has officially unveiled its much-awaited M5 MacBook Pro, boasting the cutting-edge M5 chip, which guarantees improved performance and efficiency for users. This new edition comes in a variety of configurations, with exclusive offers available for 9to5Mac readers, featuring substantial savings on the 14-inch models.

    #### Unique Pricing for 9to5 Readers

    Thanks to collaborations with reliable retailers such as Expercom, 9to5 readers can enjoy discounts between **$112 and $224** on the M5 MacBook Pro, based on the selected configuration. This pricing stands out, frequently underbidding major retailers such as Amazon. The base model is now priced at over **$110 off**, making it a compelling choice for those aiming to upgrade.

    To benefit from these offers, readers can click on the provided links to personalize their MacBook Pro and have the special pricing automatically reflected at checkout.

    #### Performance Specifications of the M5 MacBook Pro

    The M5 MacBook Pro features a 10-core CPU, a 10-core GPU, and a 16-core Neural Engine, providing up to **20% improved multithreaded performance** than its predecessor, the M4. This capability makes it perfect for multitasking and executing demanding creative software. Key specifications include:

    – **Next-Gen Speed**: The M5 chip enhances performance across personal, professional, and creative endeavors, complemented by a gorgeous Liquid Retina XDR display with peak brightness reaching **1600 nits**.
    – **Enhanced AI Features**: The integrated Neural Accelerator in the GPU enhances AI processing, empowering users to handle intricate tasks with ease.
    – **Outstanding Battery Life**: The MacBook Pro ensures remarkable performance whether on battery or connected to power, guaranteeing usability throughout the day.
    – **Flawless Integration with Apple Ecosystem**: The MacBook Pro synchronizes effortlessly with other Apple devices, providing features like iPhone Mirroring and simplified file sharing.

    #### Pricing Outlook for the Future

    Though current offers are enticing, prospective buyers may question whether prices will decline further during Black Friday sales. While this remains uncertain, the existing discounts apply to all configurations, allowing for flexibility for those wishing to buy now.

    For more comprehensive insights and to investigate the available configurations, readers are invited to visit 9to5Mac.

    ### Summary

    The new M5 MacBook Pro signifies a major leap in Apple’s laptop offerings, blending powerful specifications with appealing pricing for 9to5 readers. With its remarkable features and discounts, it is an outstanding option for anyone seeking a high-performance laptop.

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on Apple’s 2026 Mac Plan Revealed: Launch of 6 New Models and Various Chips
    Apple’s 2026 Mac Plan Revealed: Launch of 6 New Models and Various Chips

    Power On newsletter, Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman indicates that 2026 might be a pivotal year for Apple’s computers, featuring a potential revamp of the MacBook Pro, a new entry-level model, and extensive hardware enhancements on the way.

    As per the journalist’s insights, Apple is gearing up to launch a comprehensive M5 series encompassing Macs that include the standard M5 alongside the debut of M5 Pro, M5 Max, and M5 Ultra models. Depending on the timeline set by the company, there’s a chance that M6, M6 Pro, and M6 Max versions could be announced before the conclusion of 2026. Here’s everything you should be aware of regarding the Macs Apple aims to unveil in the coming year.

    Multiple Macs set for release in 2026

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on NotebookLM’s Mobile Application Unveils Long-Expected Essential Features
    NotebookLM’s Mobile Application Unveils Long-Expected Essential Features

    updates that introduced video summaries and additional functionalities such as the option to transform your video summaries into anime. When the company eventually launched NotebookLM for mobile devices, it included many of the same features as the desktop edition. Nonetheless, there were at least two essential features that were absent from the beginning — flash cards and quizzes.

    Although these two features might not appear to be significant, NotebookLM has garnered much of its popularity due to the variety of helpful tools available for those hoping to acquire new knowledge. Therefore, the absence of flash cards or quizzes in the mobile application was somewhat disappointing upon the app’s initial release. Fortunately, Google’s newest update addresses this shortcoming, while also providing you with greater control over which sources you wish to incorporate in new prompts.

    There’s more to the update

    <img class="gallery-image " src="https://www.bgr

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on Compact 10,000mAh Power Bank featuring Three USB Ports Now Offered for $26 Following Significant Discount
    Compact 10,000mAh Power Bank featuring Three USB Ports Now Offered for $26 Following Significant Discount

    The 45W power bank from INIU is perfect for on-the-go use and includes a cable that is built-in.

    (Image credit: Namerah Saud Fatmi / Android Central)

    If you’re seeking a dependable power bank, there are numerous excellent options available, and recently, I’ve been utilizing Baseus’ PicoGo magnetic power banks while on trips and the <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://target.georiot.com/Proxy.ashx?tsid=169923&GR_URL=https%3A%2F%2Famazon.com%2FUGREEN-25000mAh-Portable-Charger-Charging%2Fdp%2FB0CXHM5RY2%3Ftag%3Dhawk-future-20%26ascsubtag%3Dac-gb-7934867685181769620-20" data-url="https://www.amazon.com/UGREEN-25000mAh-Portable-Charger-Charging/dp/B0CXHM5RY2" target="_blank" referrerpolicy="no-referrer-when-downgrade" rel="sponsored noopener" data-hl-processed="hawklinks" data-google-interstitial="false" data-placeholder-url="https://target.ge

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on Significant Price Cut on Galaxy Watch Offered Before Black Friday
    Significant Price Cut on Galaxy Watch Offered Before Black Friday

    The Galaxy Watch 7 stands out as one of our top smartwatches for 2024, and it’s available for under $200.

    While the allure of the latest gadget is strong, considering last year’s model is always worthwhile. This is precisely why the [29% discount on the Galaxy Watch 7](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0D1YQ3MML/) is so attractive; the price of the new Watch 8 has increased by $100, yet the Watch 7 remains an excellent device.

    Upon its initial release, the Galaxy Watch 7 was priced at $249, which is already reasonable compared to other smartwatches like the Pixel Watch 3 that begins at over $300. With a 29% discount, the Galaxy Watch 7 is now priced at just $177, making it a deal that’s hard to refuse. Note that this price is for the smaller 40mm Bluetooth/Wi-Fi model. For the larger 44mm option, you can [save $50 off the initial price](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0D1YQ3MML/), bringing it down to $229.

    – [Check out all the best Black Friday offers at Amazon right now](https://www.amazon.com/deals)

    The Galaxy Watch 7 was already a fantastic watch at $229, but now [at just $177 on Amazon](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0D1YQKDML/), it’s even more attractive, costing nearly half of the newer Galaxy Watch 8. Typically, Wear OS smartwatches are not very budget-friendly, making this an opportunity you won’t want to miss.

    **Price check:** [$199 at Best Buy](https://www.bestbuy.com/product/samsung-galaxy-watch7-aluminum-smartwatch-40mm-bt-cream-2024/J3ZYG2KQ89)

    **✅Recommended if:** You’re searching for a high-performing smartwatch that integrates well with other Galaxy devices and Android smartphones. It’s also an excellent choice for health monitoring and fitness coaching.

    **❌Avoid this deal if:** You seek the most recent smartwatch with its enhanced display and AI-driven features, or if you own a Pixel or OnePlus device and desire a smartwatch with more comparable capabilities.

    ### The most affordable way to acquire a fantastic Galaxy smartwatch

    Although Samsung launched the [Galaxy Watch FE](https://www.androidcentral.com/wearables/samsung-galaxy-watch-7-vs-galaxy-watch-fe), it runs on older hardware, which makes it somewhat outdated. The [Galaxy Watch 7](https://www.androidcentral.com/wearables/samsung-galaxy-watch-7-review) features newer technology, ensuring exceptional performance ideal for anyone in need of a solid smartwatch compatible with their Galaxy phone.

    Initially, the watch debuted with Wear OS 5 but has been [recently upgraded to Wear OS 6](https://www.androidcentral.com/wearables/samsung-galaxy-watch/wear-os-6-galaxy-watch-7) (with One UI Watch 8 layered on top). This update brings along new functionalities such as Bedtime Guidance, Running Coach, and Vascular Load monitoring. Users can also access the [Now Bar](https://www.androidcentral.com/apps-software/how-set-up-use-now-bar-samsung-galaxy-phone) for quick live updates and new stackable widgets, enhancing the information provided by Tiles.

    A wonderful aspect of the Galaxy Watch 7 is its compatibility; you don’t necessarily need a [Galaxy smartphone](https://www.androidcentral.com/best-samsung-phones) to utilize it. It pairs seamlessly with any [Android phone](https://www.androidcentral.com/best-android-phones), allowing access to most health and fitness features. Additionally, if you opt for the LTE variant, it can be used independently of your smartphone, enabling you to run, stream music, take calls, and reply to messages without your phone.

    However, some features exclusive to Samsung will only function with a Galaxy smartphone, which is something to consider if you’re contemplating the Galaxy Watch 7. For instance, with a [Pixel smartphone](https://www.androidcentral.com/phones/google-pixel/best-google-pixel-phones), you could still use the Galaxy Watch, but you may find it more beneficial to choose a [Pixel Watch 3](https://www.androidcentral.com/wearables/google-pixel-watch-3-review) or even the newer [Pixel Watch 4](https://www.androidcentral.com/wearables/google-pixel-watch-4-review).

    In any case, don’t miss out on this fantastic Galaxy Watch 7 offer, as it’s uncertain whether prices will drop much further for

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on Top 5 Free Alternatives to PayPal Recommended by Users
    Top 5 Free Alternatives to PayPal Recommended by Users

    chance to generate a digital ID compatible with TSA’s system, along with the ability to keep your state-issued ID on your smartphone. In other words, they hold significance beyond just mobile payments and basic banking. PayPal is among the more well-known choices, controlling 45% of the worldwide payments landscape. PayPal features 434 million users, and vendors employ the platform, with 26.3 billion transactions processed in 2024 alone.

    Regrettably, PayPal is also recognized for its steep service charges and inadequate customer support, with more than 35,000 evaluations on Trustpilot resulting in a rating of less than two stars. Additionally, PayPal is notorious for experiencing outages periodically. The positive aspect is that it isn’t the sole application available, so it might not be ideal for you. Sometimes, just being aware of alternatives is sufficient. But are there any that are worth trying according to actual users?

    Options include Square, Venmo, Cash App, Google Wallet, Samsung Wallet, Apple Pay, Skrill, Payoneer, Stripe, Amazon Pay, and a few others — like Shopify Payments. There’s hardly any time to assess all of these services, but the competition is evidently strong. To determine which one suits you best, it’s beneficial to concentrate on user satisfaction.

    1. Apple Pay

    <source media="(min-width: 429px)" srcset="https://www.bgr.com/img/gallery/5-free-paypal-alternatives-that-are-actually

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    • Comments Off on Compatibility of iPhones with Google Fi Mobile
    Compatibility of iPhones with Google Fi Mobile

    affordable plans that can lighten your financial load. Among the most economical options available is Google Fi Wireless. Launched in 2015, Google Fi operates on T-Mobile’s network towers to provide cellular coverage all across the United States. However, since this is a Google offering, does that imply that Google Fi isn’t suitable for the iPhone? Not at all.

    If you are a proud iOS device user or are considering acquiring a new iPhone, you’ll be glad to know that Google Fi Wireless is compatible with most Apple devices. Nearly every iPhone model released since the iPhone 8 can connect, allowing most Apple users an uncomplicated method to access the Google Fi network without needing to replace their hardware. A couple of points to remember: you must be using an unlocked iPhone, and you also need to purchase and set up a Google Fi SIM card.

    By using Google Fi Wireless on your iPhone, you will have the capability to make calls, send texts, and access both 4G LTE and 5G data. Additionally, you will enjoy data and text coverage across more than 200 international locations when enrolling in the Flexible or Unlimited Premium plans.

    Setting up Google Fi Wireless on your iPhone

    <img class="gallery-image " src="https://www.bgr.com/img/gallery/can-iphones-use-google-fi-wireless/how-to-set-up-google-fi-wireless-on-your-

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on Samsung’s Newest Good Lock Update Fixes Back Tap Feature Problems
    Samsung’s Newest Good Lock Update Fixes Back Tap Feature Problems

    Experiencing difficulties with back tap gestures on your Galaxy phone? This update provides a solution.

    What you need to know

    – Samsung is deploying an update for its Good Lock component RegiStar.
    – The minor update encompasses fixes for three bugs affecting Gemini and Back Tap.
    – It enhances Back Tap reliability and resolves an issue that caused it to malfunction when in power saving mode.

    Samsung is refreshing the RegiStar module for the Good Lock app, which offers customization options for Galaxy phones, with some useful bug fixes. The update is now available on the Samsung Galaxy Store with version 1.0.67, as initially reported by SamMobile. It resolves a bug in the Gemini app for Samsung Galaxy Z Flip devices and provides two fixes related to Back Tap across all Galaxy phones.

    The first aspect of the patch tackles a concern with launching the Gemini app on the cover screen of a Galaxy Z Flip device. With the Galaxy Z Flip 7 and One UI 8, Samsung introduced complete support for the Gemini app on the cover screen of its clamshell foldables.

    Moreover, the app update’s release notes indicate that Samsung has implemented a “Back Tap stability patch” in the RegiStar module. This should enhance the success rate of Back Tap, a feature enabling users to open applications and access functionalities by merely tapping the back of their Galaxy S or Galaxy Z device.

    Additionally, the RegiStar module update introduces a fix for a “function error in power saving mode” concerning Back Tap. Although the patch seems to consist solely of bug fixes without new features, it is advisable to install the RegiStar update, especially if you’ve faced these problems.

    What can you accomplish with Good Lock’s RegiStar?

    For those who are unfamiliar, Good Lock serves as the hub for custom software features tailored for power users looking to maximize their Galaxy phone experience. There are 20 specific modules available within Good Lock, including RegiStar, which has recently received an update. Here’s what you can do with RegiStar, as outlined in the app’s Galaxy Store description:

    – Rearrange the menu of Settings home screen
    – Alter order, conceal, manage groups
    – Configure display method for Samsung account on the Settings home screen
    – Review settings change history, modify notification settings
    – Activate features by tapping the back of the device (Galaxy S/ Flip only)
    – Execute features via long-pressing the side key
    – Implement features by pressing the screen firmly (Fold 4 only)

    You can obtain Good Lock and RegiStar from the Galaxy Store app. That’s also where you’ll discover the latest RegiStar update if you have the module installed. Open the Galaxy Store app, click the hamburger menu, and then click Updates to locate and implement it.

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on Apple Fitness+ Prospects Under Evaluation Because of Restructuring, As Per Report
    Apple Fitness+ Prospects Under Evaluation Because of Restructuring, As Per Report

    Apple Fitness+ is poised to experience a restructuring aimed at promoting growth, as mentioned in today’s Power On by Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman.

    Since its debut in 2020, Apple Fitness+ has remained relatively unchanged. It is one of the few Apple subscriptions that has not seen a price alteration, currently priced at $9.99 per month or $79.99 annually. In terms of new functionalities, Apple Fitness+ has introduced only a few features over the years, including Strava integration support and eliminating the requirement for an Apple Watch. For these reasons, it is perceived as one of Apple’s “least robust digital offerings,” according to Mark Gurman in today’s Power On newsletter.

    The primary challenges facing Apple Fitness+ are described as “high churn” and “limited revenue potential,” based on the report. Nonetheless, Apple intends to continue supporting the service. Fitness+ has cultivated a devoted user base, making any potential backlash not worthwhile, Gurman asserts. Additionally, discontinuing the service would not align well with Apple’s overarching health-centric branding. Gurman also points out that it is cost-effective to run, particularly since all content is created internally.

    To address these issues, Apple is evaluating Fitness+’s future and implementing organizational changes within the division. Sumbul Desai, Apple’s VP of Health, will be “adding Fitness+ to her portfolio.” As previously reported in October, Desai and Apple Health will now be under the oversight of SVP of Services Eddy Cue in light of COO Jeff Williams’ upcoming retirement. This new framework is designed to instill additional pressure on Fitness+ to enhance its performance.

    Beyond Fitness+, Apple has been concentrating on enhancing their fitness services. For instance, they recently introduced Workouts to iPhone users for the first time, eliminating the necessity for an Apple Watch. The newly released AirPods Pro 3 and Powerbeats Pro 2 incorporate heart rate monitoring that is compatible with Fitness+. Additionally, the Apple Watch has introduced Workout Buddy, a feature powered by Apple Intelligence that provides personalized feedback and motivation during workouts, utilizing voices trained by Fitness+ trainers. It is hoped that Fitness+ will soon attract similar attention and acquire new functionalities.

    Apple Fitness+ is priced at $9.99/month or $79.99/year, or is included in Apple One Premier. A 3-month free trial is also available with the purchase of a new Apple Watch, AirPods Pro 3, Powerbeats Pro 2, iPhone, Apple TV, or iPad.

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