Author: sparta

Apple Pay Offer: Enjoy 20% Discount at Adidas

Apple has introduced a time-sensitive offer for Apple Pay users, providing a 20% discount on online purchases from Adidas. This offer remains valid until December 31, 2025, and mandates customers to input the promo code **APPLEPAY** at checkout while utilizing Apple Pay as their payment option.

The promotion was communicated through email to Apple Pay users, emphasizing the chance to save on a range of Adidas items, which includes footwear and clothing. The detailed specifics of the deal indicate that it is effective from December 23, 2025, at 6 a.m. PT until December 31, 2025, at 11:59 p.m. PT. Discounts can be applied to qualified merchandise buys made through the Adidas website or app, limited to one use per customer.

Nevertheless, certain exclusions are important to note. Specific items, such as particular versions of Gazelle, Samba, Campus, and Ultraboost, and others, are not eligible for the discount. Furthermore, the offer cannot be combined with any other promotions and is not applicable to in-store transactions. It is restricted to domestic U.S. orders and does not cover shipping, handling, gift cards, or taxes.

This offer is part of a collection of Apple Pay promotions aimed at increasing customer savings during the holiday season.

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Reassessing the Choice to Bypass the iPhone 17 Pro After Three Months

**iPhone Air vs. iPhone 17 Pro: A Three-Month Review**

Three months ago, I opted to transition from the iPhone 16 Pro to the iPhone Air, enticed by its cutting-edge and modern design. While my initial impressions of the iPhone Air have been predominantly positive, recent contemplation has prompted me to rethink my selection due to some arising issues and changes in my life.

### iPhone Air: Remarkable Performance

From the time rumors regarding the iPhone Air began, I was thrilled by the prospects of an ultra-slim model. Once launched, the iPhone Air surpassed my expectations in several significant aspects:

– **Battery Life**: The battery life has proven to be more impressive than I had expected, enabling prolonged usage without the need for frequent recharges.
– **Durability**: Despite worries about its slender design, the iPhone Air has shown to be quite resilient.
– **Screen Size**: The bigger screen, initially intimidating, has paired well with the streamlined design and improved my overall user experience.

Throughout most of my three-month usage, I had no grievances. The design, though quickly becoming familiar, still delivers a high-standard iPhone experience in an exceptionally slender package.

### Emerging Issues: Camera Concerns

Although I have been pleased, I have lately faced some troubles that have made the iPhone 17 Pro increasingly attractive. These issues mainly focus on the camera:

1. **Low-Light Performance**: The iPhone Air has difficulty in low-light scenarios, resulting in unsatisfactory photos. Reviews suggest that the primary camera’s effectiveness in low-light settings is lacking compared to that of the iPhone 17 Pro.

2. **Performance Throttling**: I have noticed delays in taking pictures, especially in dimly lit areas. While this was also a concern with my prior iPhone 16 Pro, the iPhone 17 Pro’s enhanced cooling system might alleviate this issue.

3. **Audio Distortion in Videos**: Several videos captured on the iPhone Air have suffered from distorted audio, likely caused by unintentionally covering the microphone. This wasn’t an issue with earlier models.

### Changes in Life Necessitating Reevaluation

Even though these camera problems alone might not justify a switch, recent life transitions have led me to rethink my requirements. My spouse and I are relocating from New York City to a suburban setting, which reduces the charm of the iPhone Air’s portability. Furthermore, we are expecting twins, which heightens my need for a dependable camera system to document precious moments. The iPhone 17 Pro, with its enhanced camera features, appears to be a more prudent choice for our expanding family.

### Conclusion: A Choice Still Pending

The iPhone Air has fulfilled my expectations and offered a fulfilling user experience. Nevertheless, I am now considering the advantages of the iPhone 17 Pro with greater seriousness than before. While I am not making an immediate choice, the idea of switching to the iPhone 17 Pro is becoming more appealing.

Are you using the iPhone 17 Pro or the iPhone Air? I would be interested to hear about your experiences with either device.

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Uncover These 5 Obscure Google Applications for Your Android Device

the finest complimentary Android applications released by Google.

However, Google offers more than simply these popular applications. A brief visit to its developer page on the Play Store reveals a complete array of tools accessible for your Android device. Some of these are hidden gems that are equally as useful and feature-rich as Google’s most downloaded applications.

If you’re keen on exploring new methods to enhance your productivity or enjoy your leisure time, here are five lesser-known applications created by Google that you ought to try. Each has 100 million downloads or fewer, yet they are remarkably useful for various users.

Photomath

Upcoming Top 10 Series on Apple TV+

# Upcoming Apple TV Shows in Early 2026

Apple TV experienced its most successful year yet in 2025, and the anticipation remains high with an impressive array of new and returning shows debuting in early 2026. Here are the top 10 Apple TV series to anticipate.

## January

### Tehran (Season 3)
– **When:** January 9
– **Genre:** Espionage Thriller

“Tehran” centers on Tamar (Niv Sultan), a Mossad hacker-agent who embeds herself in Tehran using a false identity. After going rogue at the conclusion of season two, Tamar must transform and regain Mossad’s trust to stay alive. This season includes returning stars Shaun Toub and Shila Ommi, as well as newcomers Hugh Laurie and Sasson Gabai.

[Watch Tehran’s first two seasons here](https://tv.apple.com/show/tehran/umc.cmc.337cdk1ou0bmn6frmzxwm7xqd?itscg=30200&itsct=tv_box_link&mttnsubad=umc.cmc.337cdk1ou0bmn6frmzxwm7xqd&at=1000l3cvR).

### Hijack (Season 2)
– **When:** January 14
– **Genre:** Thriller

In the second season of “Hijack,” a Berlin underground train is taken captive, placing Sam Nelson (Idris Elba) at the heart of the emergency. The authorities rush to rescue the hostages while Sam makes perilous choices.

[Watch Hijack’s first season here](https://tv.apple.com/show/hijack/umc.cmc.1dg08zn0g3zx52hs8npoj5qe3?itscg=30200&itsct=tv_box_link&mttnsubad=umc.cmc.1dg08zn0g3zx52hs8npoj5qe3&at=1000l3cvR).

### Drops of God (Season 2)
– **When:** January 21
– **Genre:** Drama

In the second season of “Drops of God,” siblings Camille and Issei start a dangerous journey to find the roots of the world’s finest wine, a mystery that could endanger their relationship as they encounter hidden rivalries and undisclosed truths.

[Watch Drops of God’s first season here](https://tv.apple.com/show/drops-of-god/umc.cmc.497ttx33nudgzywis3i2bnvuk?itscg=30200&itsct=tv_box_link&mttnsubad=umc.cmc.497ttx33nudgzywis3i2bnvuk&at=1000l3cvR).

### Shrinking (Season 3)
– **When:** January 28
– **Genre:** Comedy

“Shrinking” narrates the story of a grieving therapist who starts bending the rules and expressing his true thoughts to his clients, resulting in dramatic changes in their lives and his own.

[Watch Shrinking’s first two seasons here](https://tv.apple.com/show/shrinking/umc.cmc.apzybj6eqf6pzccd97kev7bs?itscg=30200&itsct=tv_box_link&mttnsubad=umc.cmc.apzybj6eqf6pzccd97kev7bs&at=1000l3cvR).

## February

### The Last Thing He Told Me (Season 2)
– **When:** February 20
– **Genre:** Thriller

In the second season, Hannah (Jennifer Garner) and her stepdaughter Bailey (Angourie Rice) race against the clock to bring their family back together when Owen (Nikolaj Coster-Waldau) reemerges after five years on the run.

[Watch The Last Thing He Told Me’s first season here](https://tv.apple.com/show/the-last-thing-he-told-me/umc.cmc.5dkcy23fuhcdhw1zcmqn10rc5?itscg=30200&itsct=tv_box_link&mttnsubad=umc.cmc.5dkcy23fuhcdhw1zcmqn10rc5&at=1000l3cvR).

### Monarch: Legacy of Monsters (Season 2)
– **When:** February 27
– **Genre:** Sci-Fi

The second season continues the tale of two siblings discovering their family’s ties to the enigmatic organization Monarch, while confronting new dangers and hidden secrets that could alter everything.

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iPhone 18 Pro: Six Anticipated Features Anticipated in Next Year’s Launch

Next year’s iPhone 18 series is set to introduce an exciting foldable variant, yet the most sought-after models are expected to be the iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max. Here are six rumored new features for the iPhone 18 Pro.

## Updated design: Dynamic Island reduces size, cohesive back

The iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max are predicted to keep the primary sizes and styles of this year’s devices. However, three significant alterations will refresh the design:

1. Smaller Dynamic Island
2. Cohesive appearance on back
3. New color selections

The Dynamic Island is being minimized due to Face ID components being relocated beneath the display. This should facilitate the tiniest display cutout seen in years.

The two-tone back design of the iPhone 17 Pro has garnered mixed reactions. To address this, Apple intends to seamlessly integrate the colors of the aluminum and glass sections for a cohesive appearance.

Speculation regarding iPhone 18 Pro colors suggests Apple is experimenting with Coffee Brown, Purple, and Burgundy hues. It’s too early to determine the final colors, but the bolder colors from the 17 Pro have appeared to be well-received.

## A20 Pro chip

Each year, the iPhone receives a cutting-edge chip. The A20 Pro chip for the iPhone 18 Pro is anticipated to represent a significant advancement.

The A20 Pro will be Apple’s inaugural chip manufactured using a 2nm process, and it will also implement WMCM (Wafer-Level Multi-Chip Module) packaging.

These advancements are expected to result in notable improvements compared to this year’s A19 Pro, thereby allowing the iPhone 18 Pro to shine in performance, efficiency, and AI capabilities.

## Adjustable aperture camera and additional features

Camera enhancements are continually among Apple’s key upgrades for new iPhones.

For the iPhone 18 Pro, a variable aperture main camera is anticipated, allowing for enhanced control over depth-of-field (DoF) in photography. As my colleague Ben notes:

“You can achieve a shallow DoF to separate the subject from the background, a medium DoF for isolation while keeping the background recognizable, or a deep DoF to have everything in focus.”

Other camera modifications are also expected with the iPhone 18 Pro, but the adjustable aperture feature is the most prominent rumor thus far.

## Enhanced battery life than ever before

The iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max feature the largest batteries in any iPhone to date and have received positive acclaim. It appears that Apple will continue to meet consumer demand by increasing battery size once more.

A credible source indicates that the iPhone 18 Pro Max will be thicker and heavier than its predecessor, likely in order to accommodate a larger battery.

While the smaller 18 Pro model is not specifically mentioned, initial rumors for the iPhone 17 Pro suggested that only the Pro Max would receive a larger battery, and Apple surprised us by providing both Pro models with similar upgrades. Therefore, it is probable that both iPhone 18 Pro models will see battery enhancements.

## Camera Control 2.0

Camera Control made its debut on the iPhone 16 as a designated button for the camera, offering various touch-sensitive gestures for adjusting zoom, exposure, tone, and more. However, many users found it overly complex and difficult to use beyond a basic button.

Apple is reportedly revamping Camera Control on the iPhone 18 lineup, simplifying the features. Touch-sensitive elements will be eliminated, and possibly other modifications will be introduced to create a more user-friendly experience overall.

## C2 modem

Following years of development, Apple has officially begun replacing Qualcomm’s cellular modems with its own proprietary solutions. The C1 modem was introduced in the iPhone 16e, followed by the C1X in the iPhone Air, and now a C2 modem is anticipated for the iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max.

Apple’s 5G cellular modems have demonstrated strong performance, providing efficiency and battery-life enhancements in comparison to Qualcomm’s offerings. Anticipate the C2 modem to enhance the solid foundation of Apple’s C1 modems upon its release in the iPhone 18 Pro.

## iPhone 18 Pro features: conclusion

There is much we already understand about the iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max, yet many details are likely still undisclosed. Fall 2026 remains a while away, so we can expect to gather more insights about new iPhone 18 Pro features as the launch nears.

For the moment, it appears that the iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max will deliver more of the enhancements users desire: improved performance, extended battery life, a refreshed design, and camera improvements.

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iOS 26.2 Brings Fresh Functionalities to Six iPhone Apps: Find Out More

# iOS 26.2: Updated Features Across Six Apple Applications

iOS 26.2 is now released, unveiling a variety of new features that improve the performance of Apple’s built-in applications. Below is a comprehensive summary of the changes across six important apps.

## Reminders

The Reminders app has transformed from a basic list tool into a robust task manager. The newest update adds the option to tag reminders as ‘Urgent’ when they have a specific due time. This feature activates an alarm on the iPhone when the reminder is due, which can be snoozed for 9 minutes, enabling users to temporarily silence the alarm while staying on top of the task. Furthermore, the alarm function employs Live Activities for visual alerts, ensuring essential tasks are not missed.

## Apple Podcasts

Apple Podcasts has undergone three major improvements in iOS 26.2:

1. **Automatic Chapters**: By leveraging podcast transcripts, Apple now automatically forms chapters for episodes, improving navigation and user enjoyment.
2. **Podcast Mentions**: Listeners can effortlessly access links to other episodes or recommendations referred to by hosts throughout the show.
3. **‘From This Episode’**: This feature enables listeners to discover related content and suggestions seamlessly.

These upgrades seek to enhance Apple Podcasts as a more appealing option among various podcast platforms.

## Freeform

The Freeform app has introduced a powerful new capability: support for tables. This open canvas application enables users to construct boards filled with text, images, charts, and links. The incorporation of tables offers users a familiar experience reminiscent of other Apple apps like Notes, improving collaboration and organization within Freeform.

## Apple Games

Apple Games, a new application introduced in iOS 26, has received three improvements based on user feedback:

1. **Library Filters**: Users can now sort their game library by diverse criteria, such as titles that present challenges or those played by friends.
2. **Controller Support**: The app now features enhanced navigation for users employing Bluetooth controllers, upgrading the gaming experience.
3. **Real-time Challenge Updates**: Challenge scores are updated in real-time during gameplay, keeping players informed of their status.

These modifications aim to refine the overall gaming experience for both new and existing users.

## Apple Music

Apple Music has added support for offline lyrics in iOS 26.2. This feature enables users to access song lyrics even when offline, such as during flights or in areas without cellular service. While the specifics of how lyrics are stored remain unclear, it is expected that all music added to a user’s library will support this functionality.

## Apple News

The Apple News app has received numerous design updates in iOS 26.2 to enhance accessibility to its growing features. New quick links at the top of the Today screen facilitate easy access to sections such as Puzzles, Sports, Politics, and Food. Additionally, the navigation tab bar has been improved, including a new tab for content that was previously hidden behind the Search tab, and the Search feature now consists of quick link suggestions.

## Conclusion

iOS 26.2 introduces a multitude of new features that enhance the functionality and user experience of various Apple apps. From improved task organization in Reminders to offline lyrics in Apple Music, these updates demonstrate Apple’s dedication to continuously developing its ecosystem. Which new features are you most eager about?

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Instacart Ends AI Pricing Experiment After Consumer Reports Inquiry

Consumer Reports’ investigation revealed that Instacart was conducting AI pricing experiments within the app, with some consumers being charged up to 23% more than others for identical products. While Instacart contested some results at first, the grocery delivery service declared on Monday that it will cease all AI pricing trials. Customers may still observe pricing discrepancies for the same products across various retailers, akin to the variations seen in physical stores, but Instacart will not employ AI to alter the prices displayed in the app during ordering.

“We’ve paid close attention to our customers’ feedback. We acknowledge that the experiments we conducted with a limited number of retail partners, which led to differing prices for identical items at the same store, were off-base for some shoppers,” the company stated in a blog entry on Monday. “In a time when families are striving hard to maximize every dollar spent on groceries, these experiments raised concerns, causing some to question the prices they encounter on Instacart. That is unacceptable -– particularly for a company founded on trust, transparency, and affordability.”

Instacart announced that “effective immediately,” all item price trials will be discontinued. Retailers will no longer have access to the Eversight AI technology utilized during the pricing experiments. “From now on, if two families are buying the same items, simultaneously, from the same store on Instacart, they will encounter the same prices — period,” Instacart emphasized.

Findings from Consumer Reports

Poll: Views on Suggested Aspect Ratios for iPhone Fold

### The iPhone Fold: A New Era in Mobile Design

The buzz around the forthcoming iPhone Fold has ignited conversations regarding its design, especially the ratio of its screens. Historically, smartphones have stuck to traditional aspect ratios, but recent information hints that the iPhone Fold might challenge this standard.

#### Unique Display Ratios

Preliminary expectations suggested that the iPhone Fold would incorporate a standard aspect ratio on its outer display, switching to an inner screen that is taller than it is wide. Nonetheless, new findings propose that the internal display might actually be broader than it is tall when fully opened. This possible alteration indicates an atypical aspect ratio that could transform how users engage with their devices.

#### Imagining the Design

Tangible prototypes crafted by designer Ben Geskin offer a sneak peek into what this new design could entail. These prototypes show the folded device mimicking the dimensions and form of a passport, delivering a distinctive handling experience. The current renders depict a standard iPhone silhouette when closed, but the shift to a wider screen when opened hints at a considerable break from current iPhone aesthetics.

#### Consequences of a Broader Aspect Ratio

Should the information regarding the wider-than-tall inner display prove correct, it could signify a pivotal shift in the smartphone arena. The aspect ratio may affect not just the visual appeal of the device but also its performance. A broader screen could improve multitasking efficiency, lead to a more enjoyable video viewing experience, and provide additional display space for applications.

#### Differentiating in the Industry

Despite some doubt surrounding this unconventional design, Apple may be striving to set the iPhone Fold apart in a crowded marketplace. By embracing a distinctive aspect ratio, Apple could garner attention and forge a unique identity for the device. As the smartphone sector progresses, design innovation remains essential for engaging consumer interest.

#### Final Thoughts

The iPhone Fold is poised to revolutionize smartphone design, especially if it adopts a wider-than-tall display. As we look forward to more details and official updates from Apple, anticipation surrounding this device continues to build. Users are invited to share their opinions and engage in discussions regarding this groundbreaking take on smartphone design.

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OnePlus Working on Smartphone with Battery Capacity Surpassing Total of Two Galaxy S25s

OnePlus is allegedly developing a smartphone equipped with an extraordinary 9,000mAh battery. This upcoming device, known internally as “Volkswagen,” is rumoured to have a compact sub-6-inch OLED screen featuring a 165 Hz refresh rate. It is expected to be driven by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8s Gen 4 processor. The smartphone is anticipated to include a dual-camera configuration and enable up to 80W wired charging. This battery size surpasses the combined capacity of two Samsung Galaxy S25 base models. The launch of the phone could occur in Q1 2026.

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Paul Dano’s Celebrated Sci-Fi Movie about AI and the Future of Humanity Now Streamable on Netflix

**Paul Dano’s Sci-Fi Tour de Force “Pantheon” Explores the Future of Humanity with AI**

In the swiftly changing realm of artificial intelligence, the intrigue surrounding AI’s possible effects on society has spurred numerous stories. Among these is the widely praised series “Pantheon,” now streaming on Netflix. This sci-fi production, featuring Paul Dano, Katie Chang, and Aaron Eckhart, investigates the crossroads of human consciousness and technology, offering a thought-provoking journey into digital immortality and technological singularity.

**A Hidden Treasure in Sci-Fi Television**

Initially debuted on AMC’s streaming service, AMC+, “Pantheon” rapidly earned the label of a “criminally underrated masterpiece.” Despite its tumultuous path, which included a cancellation of its second season for a tax write-down, the series breathed new life on Netflix. With a flawless score from critics on Rotten Tomatoes and a 95% rating from viewers, “Pantheon” has enthralled audiences with its complex storytelling and engaging characters.

**Plot Synopsis**

The story revolves around three central figures: Maddie Kim, Caspian Keyes, and Vinod Chanda. Maddie, played by Katie Chang, struggles with the loss of her father, only to find out that his consciousness has been transferred to a digital space. Paul Dano’s character, Caspian, is unwittingly controlled by a technological conglomerate, while Vinod, portrayed by Raza Jaffrey, fights against his mandatory digital upload. Collectively, they unveil a conspiracy involving a covert arms competition among world superpowers.

**Themes and Perspectives**

“Pantheon” compels viewers to ponder the nature of humanity in an era of technological progress. The show’s creator, Craig Silverstein, highlights the intertwined nature of technology and human essence, urging society to be accountable for its inventions. This narrative aligns with current debates regarding AI’s influence on our forthcoming trajectory.

For those fascinated by “Pantheon,” additional sci-fi series like “Black Mirror” and “Love, Death & Robots” provide equally riveting explorations of techno-futurist concepts. As AI continues to advance, “Pantheon” remains a poignant mirror reflecting the possible directions humanity may follow.

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