Author: sparta

iPhone 17 Users Face Wired CarPlay Problems: Remedies and Solutions

Some iPhone 17 variants have been unavailable for months, including the standard model. The iPhone Air was the sole exception, as the ultra-slim device is not as desirable as the other variants. Apple has also rolled out two iOS 26 updates since September, namely iOS 26.1 and iOS 26.2, which are intended to address bugs in addition to bringing new functionalities. Nevertheless, some iPhone 17 users are facing connectivity challenges with CarPlay. 

In particular, the wired connection appears to be a persistent issue, based on recent social media reports that AutoEvolution has noticed. The problems aren’t exactly unexpected, given that some iPhone 17 users have faced both wired and wireless CarPlay difficulties shortly after the new devices were released. Other users also experienced wireless CarPlay problems with older iPhones after updating to iOS 26. What is surprising is that iPhone 17 users continue to report problems into late December. A Reddit user named helloworld747 recounted their CarPlay situation a few days prior to Christmas, stating that the iPhone 17 Pro fails to make a connection through a USB-A-to-USB-C cable with two different vehicles.

“Previous iPhones do not have this issue — I also own an iPhone 15 Pro (work phone)

Read More
Pluribus Finale Conclusion Majorly Updated After Input from Apple Executive

**Pluribus Season 1 Finale: A Creative Transformation Motivated by Apple Input**

The inaugural season of *Pluribus* recently came to a close, presenting audiences with a thrilling finale that underwent significant modifications due to input from Apple executives. The show’s creative team disclosed that the conclusion was adjusted to amplify its effect, resulting in a climactic scene that has ignited conversations among viewers.

**A Significant Transformation in the Finale**

In the season’s climax, lead character Carol confronts a crucial choice as she becomes aware of the Others’ plans to control her. In a daring decision, she opts to collaborate with Manousos on a mission to rescue the planet, culminating in the startling revelation of an atom bomb delivered to her residence. This scene acts as a strong callback to prior episodes, yet it was not included in the initial script.

In the official *Pluribus* podcast, the creators mentioned that they originally had a series of less intense conclusions. Nevertheless, following feedback from Apple, they reassessed their strategy. The executives conveyed concerns that the initial endings did not possess the required significance for a season finale. This provoked the team to conceive a more impactful conclusion, resulting in the atom bomb surprise.

**Director’s Perspective on the Original Ending**

Director Gordon Smith provided perspectives on the preliminary draft, which had a more understated conclusion. In this version, Carol’s homecoming was highlighted by a quiet agreement to ally with Manousos, illustrated through a “secret handshake.” Although this gentler ending was intriguing, it did not hold the same dramatic force as the altered finale.

**Anticipating Season 2**

With the first season completed, fans are excited to discover how the atom bomb revelation will play out in subsequent episodes. *Pluribus* has already received a green light for a second season, but audiences may encounter a prolonged wait for its return. Creator Vince Gilligan recognized the extended timeline, underscoring the careful process necessary to meet the show’s high standards.

**Conclusion**

The development of *Pluribus*’s season finale underscores the collaborative essence of television production, where feedback can catalyze profound creative alterations. As fans contemplate the original and modified conclusions, the anticipation for the upcoming season heightens, promising additional twists and developments in the journey of Carol and her companions.

Read More
Tesla is said to be working on integrating iPhone car key features into Apple Wallet.

### Tesla’s Extended Phone Key Functionality: Looking Forward

Recent updates in the Tesla application have indicated that the company is aiming to broaden its phone key functionality, possibly merging with Apple’s native car key feature within Apple Wallet. This initiative could greatly improve the user experience for Tesla users, especially those with Apple devices.

#### Initial Emphasis on the Chinese Market

Sources suggest that the first launch of this feature is targeted toward the Chinese market, leveraging Huawei’s HarmonyOS ecosystem. This approach aligns with Tesla’s typical strategy of debuting new features in China before rolling them out in other areas. Nevertheless, signs suggest that native support for iPhone users may be implemented soon after.

#### Present Capabilities

Currently, Tesla owners can use their iPhones and Apple Watches as key devices via the Tesla app. This feature enables users to lock, unlock, and start their vehicles straight from their devices. The expected integration with Apple Wallet would enhance these functionalities, providing a more cohesive experience.

#### Augmented Features with Apple Wallet Integration

Incorporating Apple’s car key platform would bring a variety of new features for Tesla users, including:

– **Locking and Starting from Wallet**: Users would be able to manage their vehicles directly within the Wallet app, removing the need for the Tesla app to operate in the background.
– **Sophisticated Access Technologies**: Innovations like Ultra-Wideband (UWB), tap-to-unlock, and NFC access could improve convenience and security.
– **Key Sharing**: The Wallet app would permit users to share their car keys via Messages, Mail, and AirDrop, simplifying the process of granting access to others.
– **Battery Life Resilience**: Significantly, Apple’s car key platform remains operational even when an iPhone’s battery is depleted, allowing entry to the vehicle for up to five hours after battery exhaustion.

#### Industry Landscape

Rivian has already introduced Apple car key support for its R1T and R1S models through a recent software update, showcasing a growing movement among electric vehicle manufacturers to adopt this technology. Meanwhile, Tesla continues to pursue the integration of CarPlay support, a sought-after feature among users. Reports indicate that Tesla might unveil CarPlay support by the year’s end, whereas other manufacturers like GM have chosen not to back Apple’s in-car platform.

### Conclusion

Tesla’s potential adoption of Apple Wallet’s car key feature signifies a major advancement in vehicle access technology. By enhancing user experience and aligning with industry trends, Tesla is well-positioned to retain its competitive advantage in the electric vehicle sector. As developments progress, Tesla users can anticipate a more integrated and user-friendly method for accessing their vehicles.

Read More
Apple TV’s Decision to Cancel Rashida Jones’ Sci-Fi Series Triggers Disappointment

an Apple TV series faced cancellation despite its distinctive premise rooted in Colin O’Sullivan’s 2018 book, “The Dark Manual.” It garnered a highly praised critical response (90% critics’ score on Rotten Tomatoes) and featured writing that is simultaneously poignant, humorous, and intellectually stimulating.

Starring the incredibly adaptable Rashida Jones, “Sunny” chronicles her character Suzie, an American expatriate in Kyoto, Japan, grappling with the mysterious disappearance of her husband and son in a plane accident. Struggling to find closure in a foreign country, Suzie is enveloped in depression and anger, uncertain about her next steps or whom to confide in amidst her profound sorrow. It is then that she receives a domestic robot named Sunny (Joanna Sotomura), seemingly created by her husband Masa (Hidetoshi Nishijima). He played a significant role at the robotics firm ImaTech and did not actually work at the refrigerator company she was led to believe. His presumed demise might not have been a mere accident. Although she is initially averse to robots, Suzie gradually unearths that Sunny was intended for her with a purpose: it could be the initial clue in a series that will compel her to uncover the truth about what really occurred to Masa and their son, rather than the deceit she was fed.

Sunny presents a captivating blend of technology, crime intrigue, and personal narrative

<div class="slide-key image-holder gallery-image-holder credit-image-wrap " data-post-url="https://www.bgr.com/2059478/apple-tv-should-have-never-canceled-sci-fi-series-sunny-rashida-jones/" data-post-title="Apple TV Should Have Never Canceled This Sci-Fi Series Starring Rashida Jones" data-slide-num="1" data-post-id="205947

Read More
“Galaxy S26 Will Launch Satellite Voice Call Feature”

Samsung is advancing beyond basic SOS messaging.

Key information you should be aware of

  • Samsung appears to be focused on going beyond just emergency SOS, with the Galaxy S26 potentially introducing comprehensive satellite voice calls.
  • This innovation is attributed to Samsung’s new Exynos Modem 5410, crafted to manage both satellite and standard cellular links within a single chip.
  • It is compliant with 3GPP Release 17, the universal standard that underpins contemporary satellite communications.

Samsung may be gearing up to enable complete satellite voice calling for the Galaxy S26 series, stepping beyond the emergency-only messaging seen thus far. Should this occur, Samsung would take a more assertive approach than Apple’s current SOS-only functionality.

Presently, satellite capabilities on smartphones are focused on emergency assistance. Apple’s Emergency SOS and similar services on Android allow you to send brief texts when out of signal range, but that is the extent of it. Now, Samsung intends to extend these capabilities.

The primary reason this is feasible is due to Samsung’s new Exynos Modem 5410. This chip accommodates both non-terrestrial networks (NTN) and advanced 5G technology within one device. In simpler terms, it is engineered to connect directly with satellites while still managing conventional cellular networks effectively.

Samsung claims the modem complies with 3GPP Release 17 standards, which serves as the backbone for satellite-based mobile communications. This is the same infrastructure that carriers and satellite providers are constructing worldwide. The goal is for your phone to maintain connectivity whether you are in urban environments, traveling, or far from populated areas.

Read More
Integration of Google Photos Unveiled for Samsung TVs with Distinctive Characteristics

Google Photos integration is officially coming to Samsung TVs, beginning with Memories in March 2026. Samsung is enhancing its smart TVs with Google Photos support through a software update in 2026. The initial rollout includes Memories, allowing users to view moments based on people and locations on their TV. The complete Google Photos application is not yet available; rather, a tailored Photos experience will be incorporated into the TV software.

In anticipation of CES 2026, where the company is set to unveil its latest range of smart TVs, Samsung has declared its plan to introduce Google Photos support on Samsung TVs. Samsung utilizes its proprietary operating system known as One UI Tizen rather than Android for running applications and services on its TVs. Although the user experience has typically been seamless and packed with features, the absence of Google Photos support (which is also not available on Google TV) has been a significant gap. This is finally set to change.

Samsung has revealed that it will soon provide Google Photos on Samsung TVs, enabling users to relive their cherished moments on a larger, immersive display. However, the company is not yet bringing the complete Google Photos app. Instead, a curated method to explore photos on the TV will be introduced.

The first feature from Google Photos arriving on Samsung TVs is Memories. Similar to the way the Google Photos app showcases Memories on Android devices, users will have the ability to view photos and videos categorized by people, locations, and significant moments on their TV. This feature will launch starting in March 2026.

Later in 2026, Samsung intends to enhance Google Photos functionality, including Create with AI, allowing users to utilize Nano Banana for themed template generation, and Remix to alter image styles, along with Photo to Video that animates static moments into brief clips. Users will also eventually have the option to enjoy their photos as topic-based slideshows.

In essence, rather than providing complete library access on TV, Samsung aims for Google Photos to be integrated into the smart TV experience. Samsung states that users will start experiencing Photos seamlessly incorporated throughout their day via Daily+ and Daily Board once they log into their Google account.

Samsung mentions that Google Photos will begin appearing on select Samsung TV models starting in 2026 through a software update later in the year.

Read More
Comparison of OnePlus 15R and Google Pixel 9a: Assessing Budget Smartphones

The OnePlus 15R represents a new budget-friendly option that you might weigh against the Google Pixel 9a as an economical smartphone choice. Both devices are budget picks in their respective ranges that feature premium characteristics for Android users, inclusive of significant AI integration. They have both been launched relatively recently: the Google Pixel 9a debuted in March 2025, while the OnePlus 15R was released in December 2025. Choosing between them may seem daunting, but we’re here to assist.

OnePlus 15R vs. Google Pixel 9a: Core specifications

The OnePlus 15R boasts a 6.83-inch 1.5K AMOLED screen presenting a resolution of 2,800 x 1,272 and certified by TÜV Rheinland’s Intelligent Eye Care 5.0, along with a remarkable 165Hz refresh rate. Its peak brightness of 1,800 nits can reduce to 1 nit as needed. According to Android Central’s Harish Jonnalagadda, the display is gentle on the eyes. However, he notes that refresh rates of 144Hz or 165Hz are only available in six gaming titles; for all other applications, it defaults to a standard 120Hz.

Nonetheless, Nicholas Sutrich adds that in his hands-on review, he found it features the most flicker-free OLED display he has encountered, which is a significant advantage for individuals with sensitivities. He praised the brightness and outdoor visibility, which he characterized as exceptional, and he values the eye care capabilities, even claiming its display is among the finest in OLED technology.

Available in Charcoal Black or Mint Breeze with Velvet Glass technology, the OnePlus 15R exhibits rounded corners and a reimagined camera bump designed to lessen hand fatigue during prolonged use.

The substantial 7,400mAh battery is a notable highlight, guaranteeing the phone’s longevity and functionality in tough circumstances. It utilizes OnePlus’ Silicon NanoStack technology, consisting of 15% silicon for enhanced energy density. It also incorporates 55W SUPERVOOC quick charging with the provided charger but can reach up to 80W with the OnePlus SUPERVOOC 100W Dual Ports GaN Power Adapter Lite.

However, it lacks wireless charging, which is a drawback compared to the outstanding flagship OnePlus 15. It can maintain 80% of its capacity after four years, ensuring prolonged battery health. Jonnalagadda mentions that the device effortlessly lasts up to two days without complications, and even a day and a half under heavy usage.

Similar to the OnePlus 15, it is highly durable, achieving not only an IP68 rating for dust and water resistance but also IP66, IP69, and IP69K ratings. This assures the phone can endure submersion, high-pressure water jets at close range, and elevated temperatures. Thus, whether in the hot tub or at a backyard water fight, it’s capable of withstanding it all.

You can choose between 256GB or 512GB storage, with the latter option available solely in the Charcoal Black variant, and it can be complemented with the Sandstone or hole-pattern magnetic case. The device promises four years of software updates and six years of security updates.

In summary, Jonnalagadda perceives the design as a downgrade, aside from an Electric Violet finish exclusively available in India. He believes the Panda glass used isn’t as robust as Corning Gorilla Glass, despite the remarkable IP ratings.

The Google Pixel 9a is offered in Iris, Peony, Porcelain, or Obsidian, featuring a composite matte back along with a satin metal finish. It showcases a smaller 6.3-inch OLED display protected by Corning Gorilla Glass Actua and offers a resolution of 2,424 x 1,080, with an adaptive refresh rate spanning 60-120Hz. Its brightness peaks at 2,700 nits. Michael Hicks notes in his review that it’s comfortable for outdoor visibility with satisfactory color saturation. While viewing videos side by side with the upgraded Google Pixel 9, he observed no notable disparity in color accuracy or contrast.

With sharp edges and an IP68 water- and dust-resistance rating, it marks the first Pixel device devoid of the conventional camera housing, which allows for a larger battery and an ultra-sleek design. Hicks remarks that the subtlety of the camera housing is almost excessive, but he values that its thinness prevents wobbling and remarks on the phone’s remarkable lightness. He notes that the design modification was justified to accommodate a more expansive battery.

Its battery capacity is slightly above average at 5,100mAh, which comfortably lasts over a day according to Hicks, even under heavy usage, and can extend to two days with lighter use. However, this still pales in comparison to the OnePlus 15R. Nonetheless, you can count on a rated 30+ hours per charge, potentially extending to 100 hours, or just over 4 days, through Extreme.

Read More
Comparison between OnePlus 15R and OnePlus 13R: Main Distinctions and Characteristics

The OnePlus 15R may appear superior due to its recent release, but the truth tells a different story. Although the OnePlus 15R brings enhancements compared to the 13R, like a more luminous AMOLED display, excellent battery longevity, and commendable performance, it also has its share of downsides. The 15R comes at a higher price, lacks a telephoto camera, features mediocre cameras, and sports a nondescript design. Furthermore, it does not include a 16GB variant, which was an option with the 13R.

Conversely, the OnePlus 13R, which is $100 less expensive, boasts a sturdier design, impressive hardware, a better main camera, and remarkable battery longevity. It also comes standard with 256GB of storage and seamless software. While the auxiliary cameras on the 13R might not match the main lens’s quality, and its charging time approaches an hour, it still stands as a commendable choice.

Regarding design and display, the 15R presents an uninspiring aesthetic and is bulkier and heavier than the 13R. It features an updated fingerprint sensor and enhanced water resistance but omits the traditional Alert slider. The display shines with its 1.5K resolution LTPS AMOLED screen, although the 165Hz refresh rate is only applicable in select games. In contrast, the 13R is lighter, maintains the Alert slider, and provides a brighter display with Aqua Touch technology.

On the hardware front, the 15R is equipped with the Snapdragon 8 Gen 5 chip, which surpasses the 8 Gen 3 in the 13R regarding power; however, the difference is minimal for everyday use. The 15R’s larger battery offers improved life, yet the 13R’s performance remains stellar, and its battery longevity is equally commendable.

Both devices operate on OxygenOS, with the 15R coming pre-installed with OxygenOS 16 based on Android 16. The 13R will gain the same software features through updates.

In terms of cameras, the 15R’s lack of a telephoto lens is a notable drawback. The 13R, however, features a 2x optical zoom telephoto lens, delivering clear, magnified images.

In summary, the OnePlus 13R proves to be a more advantageous flagship compared to the 15R, presenting a more well-rounded package at a reduced price. The 15R’s upgrades do not warrant the increased cost and missing features, rendering the 13R the clear preference for many users.

Read More
Robot Comes Back from Antarctic Expedition with Disturbing Findings

interactive map indicating which coastlines may be submerged permanently in the future.

Displaced from its trajectory, this float was found beneath the Denman Glacier’s ice in an area extremely challenging for researchers to monitor and gather information. Although the research team was concerned it was irretrievably lost, it resurfaced nine months later. Accompanying it was a collection of vital data regarding the Denman Glacier and the effects of climate change on Antarctica as a whole.

The findings of the robot

High-speed HDMI cables are capable of transmitting more data quickly