Author: sparta

Report Indicates iPhone Air 2 Was Not Intended for 2026 Launch

The Information reported last week that the launch of Apple’s iPhone Air 2 model, previously rumored for September 2026, won’t occur as suggested. Initially, the news outlet stated that the iPhone Air 2 had been postponed indefinitely. Subsequently, The Information indicated that the iPhone Air 2 might debut as soon as early 2027, featuring a dual-lens camera setup. On Sunday, Bloomberg published Mark Gurman’s latest “Power On” newsletter, where the Apple insider partially corroborated the earlier reports. The iPhone Air 2 is not arriving in 2026. However, Gurman importantly notes that Apple had no intention of releasing the second-generation ultra-thin smartphone in September 2026.

“From what I’ve heard, the plans for the second-generation iPhone Air weren’t actually set for next year — at least not in the past few months,” Gurman stated. “This wasn’t a delay due to the phone’s sales results. The choice to call the device the iPhone Air (instead of the iPhone 17 Air) indicated that it wasn’t meant to be tied to a yearly release cadence.” Nonetheless, it remains vague what “recent months” refers to. The iPhone Air has been on the market for two months already. In contrast to the three iPhone 17 variants, the iPhone Air was significantly available both online and in physical stores during that period, momentarily selling out in China, where it was only launched last month due to regulatory reasons.

Gurman also mentions that Apple “didn’t really expect much excitement for the Air.” The company aimed for the iPhone Air to represent 6% to 8% of new iPhone sales, similar to the iPhone 16 Plus from last year. Gurman highlights that Apple didn’t expend any marketing resources.

Read More
Reasons Behind the US Contemplating a Prohibition on TP-Link Wi-Fi Routers in Residences

vigorously contests any assertion that its products pose national security threats to the United States.” TP-Link devices are well-liked, but overall market share remains contentious. In a hearing conducted before the House Select Committee on the Chinese Communist Party, former NSA Cybersecurity Director Rob Joyce estimated that TP-Link commands at least 60% of the U.S. Wi-Fi retail market. Conversely, the TP-Link Systems website asserts that the figure is a lesser 36.6%. The main point is that TP-Link stands as one of the leading Wi-Fi router brands in the U.S., although this might shift due to the current ban. No Wi-Fi routers available for purchase, and no mesh systems either. This is disappointing, given that TP-Link offers one of the finest Wi-Fi mesh systems available. This could render these devices inaccessible for many, but if you believe they are security threats, perhaps that’s not entirely unfavorable.

Read More
Reports Indicate Apple May Cease Production of the Mac Pro

Bloomberg, Apple has recently opted to cancel several proposed updates for the Mac Pro – following a significant enhancement to the current model – and does not intend to refresh the computer at all in 2026. Furthermore, there’s no sign that a completely new version of the Mac Pro is present on Apple’s product roadmap. Quoting insider sources, Bloomberg reports that “Apple has essentially dismissed the Mac Pro.” Nevertheless, this should not be interpreted as Apple neglecting its Pro-focused users. Quite the opposite, Apple is said to believe that the Mac Studio “currently symbolizes both the present and future of Apple’s professional desktop approach.”

Apple’s Mac Studio stands as a deserving heir to the Mac Pro

<div class="slide-key image-holder gallery-image-holder credit-image-wrap " data-post-url="https://www.bgr.com/2028244/apple-abandon-mac-pro-reports/" data-post-title="Apple May Abandon The Beloved Mac Pro As Per Reports" data-slide-num="1" data-post-id

Read More
Apple Anticipated to Launch Three New iPhones in 2026 in Place of iPhone 18

Power On newsletter reports that Apple’s upcoming product launch this fall will be limited to the iPhone 18 Pro, iPhone 18 Pro Max, and iPhone Fold.

It seems the company plans to postpone the launch of the standard iPhone 18 to early 2027, to coincide with the release of the iPhone 18e and possibly the next generation of the iPhone Air. Gurman suggests that introducing new iPhone models biannually could enable Apple to achieve more consistent revenue throughout the year, alleviate pressure on staff and manufacturing associates, and avert the risk of different models undermining each other’s sales. Additionally, customers will find it simpler to select their desired model when Apple unveils future iPhones.

The future of the iPhone Air is unclear

Apple CEO Tim Cook May Step Down as Soon as Next Year

Financial Times reports that Tim Cook might resign from his role as CEO of Apple as soon as next year. Consequently, Apple’s succession strategy is actively progressing as the company considers potential candidates for the CEO role.

The leading candidate for the top position at Apple is said to be John Ternus, who currently serves as the Senior Vice President of Hardware Engineering. Ternus, a long-serving Apple professional, joined the esteemed Product Design team at Apple in 2001. Throughout his time at Apple, Ternus has played a significant role in supervising hardware engineering for multiple product lines, such as the iPad, iPhone, and AirPods. Ternus’ profile on Apple’s leadership page highlights that he was a “key leader in the ongoing transition of the Mac to Apple silicon.” Interestingly, before taking on the role of CEO at Apple, Cook was pivotal in the transition of the Mac from PowerPC processors to Intel chips.

That being said, a conclusive decision regarding Tim Cook’s successor has not yet been reached. The report mentions that an announcement could be forthcoming in early 2026, as this would allow enough time for Cook’s successor to arrange everything before WWDC in June and the crucial iPhone launch in September.

Why might Tim Cook resign?

Five NASA-Inspired Innovations and Electronics Typically Present in Your Household

breathtaking discoveries in the solar system for quite some time. 

The emblem conjures visions of rockets soaring into space and astronauts floating among the stars. However, NASA’s innovation and research initiatives have also led to the development of technology that we utilize every day. The challenges of space exploration have compelled NASA to seek out solutions to issues that aren’t typically found elsewhere. Tools need to be light yet sturdy, compact yet robust, and able to operate dependably in harsh environments. 

Even so, addressing these challenges allows NASA engineers to create technologies applicable on Earth. Gadgets that aid in household cleaning, instruments that protect our families, and even our cherished selfie cameras all bear the mark of NASA’s ingenuity. While NASA staples like freeze-dried ice cream may not be available in your kitchen, the influence of the American space program is evident in numerous devices throughout your home. Let’s take a look at some of the NASA innovations we encounter daily.

Cordless vacuums

Google’s Song Search Function Enhanced with Gemini-Inspired User Interface on Android

More dynamic, more vibrant.

(Image credit: Nandika Ravi/ Android Central)

Essential information

  • Google revamps its song search with an updated Gemini-style interface for a better user experience.
  • The new centrally positioned ‘G’ logo and enhanced audio improve the intuitive search capability for Android users.
  • The redesigned interface is gradually rolled out in connection with recent Material 3 enhancements for consistent Google aesthetics.

Notice

Read More

Google Improves Gemini App by Introducing Video Creation from Photos Function

You have the option to upload images to assist Gemini in making the correct decisions.

(Image credit: Brady Snyder / Android Central)

Essential information

  • Starting today, Google is introducing the Ingredients to Video feature from Veo 3 to the Gemini app.
  • This feature made its initial appearance in Flow, enabling users to direct video prompts through reference images.
  • Gemini users on the Google AI Plus, Pro, or Ultra subscription tiers can access this feature.

Notice

Read More

Devices to Steer Clear of Connecting to GFCI Outlets at Home

disconnected specific devices to cut down on your energy expenses. However, have you ever thought about those peculiar outlets featuring black and red buttons? Recognized as Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCI), these outlets made their debut in the early 1970s. They are mandated in new building projects to safeguard homeowners and have contributed to an 81% decline in household electrocutions since their inception. These outlets are engineered to avert electrocution by deactivating when a ground fault is sensed.

You will find GFCI outlets in damp environments as the National Electrical Code (NEC) initially required them to be installed within six feet of any water source. New regulations from the NEC, implemented in 2023, now state that all kitchen outlets must be GFCI, which has led to some confusion, even among experts. While these outlets play a crucial role in residential settings, they are not always the most suitable option for powering specific appliances like refrigerators and microwaves.

Microwaves

New AI-Enhanced Intelligent Ring Captures Ideas Rather Than Steps

**Stream Ring: Transforming Wearable Technology with Voice and AI**

In a market overflowing with fitness trackers and health devices, the Stream Ring stands out as a novel option, emphasizing voice interaction and AI features. Created by Sandbar, a firm established by ex-Meta staff members Mina Fahmi and Kirak Hong, this smart ring is crafted to record voice notes and enable AI communication, sidestepping conventional health metrics.

**Essential Features and Pricing**

The Stream Ring can be preordered at $249 for the silver model and $299 for the gold version. Unlike other devices, it is activated only when the user touches the integrated glass pad, ensuring user privacy and control. While unlimited voice note storage is at no cost, gaining access to unlimited AI chats necessitates a $10/month Stream Pro subscription.

**Design and Usability**

Worn on the index finger, the Stream Ring is equipped with a microphone and touchpad. By pressing the touchpad, users can initiate the microphone, receive haptic feedback, and have their spoken notes transcribed and transmitted to a companion app via Bluetooth.

**AI Chatbot Functionality**

Central to the Stream Ring is its AI chatbot, capable of engaging in dialogue and imitating the user’s speaking style through the ‘Inner Voice’ mode. This characteristic sets the Stream Ring apart from other wearables that concentrate on health tracking.

**A New Path in Wearable Devices**

Foregoing the health-monitoring trend, the Stream Ring attracts individuals looking for a gadget that values immediate practical use over continuous tracking. Expected to ship next summer, it is aimed at creators, professionals, and those tired of pervasive monitoring.

By centering on voice and AI, the Stream Ring presents a distinctive offering in the wearable technology sector, appealing to users who prioritize privacy and functionality over health data.

Read More