Author: sparta

Exclusive Offer: Enjoy Nearly $1,000 Off the Galaxy Tab S11 Ultra

Large display, greater discounts

(Image credit: Brady Snyder / Android Central)

When it comes to laptop alternatives, there’s nothing else quite like the Samsung Galaxy Tab Ultra series. We’ve just launched our fourth version, with the recent announcement of the Galaxy Tab S11 Ultra. Now is an ideal moment to acquire one, allowing you to benefit from up to $795 in savings with trade-in, but act quickly as this offer will vanish shortly.

Despite its stunning 14.6-inch AMOLED screen, the performance and high-end design can significantly impact your finances. The same applies to the <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.androidcentral.com/tablets/samsung-galaxy-tab/i-dont-think-tablets-can-get-any-better-than-the-galaxy-tab-s11-ultra" data-before-rewrite-localise="https://www.androidcentral.com/tablets/samsung-galaxy-tab/i-dont-think-tablets-can-get-any-better-than-the-galaxy-tab-s11

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Essential Enhancements of Garmin Fenix 8 Pro in Relation to Fenix 8: A Review of Its Value

The Garmin Fenix 8 Pro brings about notable improvements compared to its predecessor, primarily with the incorporation of LTE and satellite data functionalities. These features enable users to maintain connections with friends and family during their adventures, enhancing safety and minimizing feelings of isolation. The Fenix 8 Pro allows for cellular calling, messaging, and tracking, in addition to satellite messaging and SOS notifications, transforming it into an independent device for outdoor aficionados.

A key highlight is the upgraded display technology. The Fenix 8 Pro boasts a distinctive MicroLED display with remarkable brightness, ensuring excellent outdoor visibility and color precision. Its AMOLED display is also brighter than that of the previous Fenix 8 model, improving legibility across various lighting environments. Nevertheless, these improvements entail certain compromises, like a bulkier design resulting from the LTE and satellite antennas, and a steeper price, particularly for the MicroLED version.

The Fenix 8 Pro comes in two sizes, 47mm and 51mm, both equipped with titanium and sapphire glass. There is no 43mm variant available, and it lacks solar charging capabilities. The pricing for the Fenix 8 Pro models exceeds that of the Fenix 8, with the MicroLED model being the priciest option.

Regarding battery longevity, the Fenix 8 Pro models deliver satisfactory performance, although the MicroLED version has a reduced lifespan when compared to other Garmin watches. The Pro models are somewhat heavier and bulkier owing to the extra features, which may not appeal to everyone.

For those who already possess a Fenix 8, transitioning to the Fenix 8 Pro might not be imperative unless the new connectivity functionalities are crucial. The Fenix 8 Pro is well-suited for individuals who regularly partake in outdoor pursuits without a smartphone and need dependable connectivity. Conversely, those who do not require these features might find the Fenix 8 or other Garmin models adequate.

In summary, the Fenix 8 Pro is a high-end choice for those in search of enhanced connectivity and display technology, albeit at a greater price and with certain design trade-offs.

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Evaluation of iOS 26: Apple’s New Age in Mobile Software Engineering

controversies surrounding its key attribute, the Liquid Glass design, but by the time Apple rolled out the Release Candidate version after its autumn press event, everything appeared to be aligning perfectly.

Unlike prior years, Apple is not merely enhancing certain elements of the software, but overhauling the entire iOS experience. Naturally, it will still feel very much like home for users, but Apple is marking the advancement of its software by making a leap from iOS 18 to iOS 26 — both to establish a greater sense of uniformity across all its software and to indicate that substantial changes are on the horizon.

In our review of iOS 26, we delve into the positives, negatives, and the grey areas of Apple’s latest iPhone software update based on three months of beta evaluations, and how the Release Candidate version has performed ahead of the official update launch.

Liquid Glass fails to bring the transformation Apple indicated

Unlock the Full Power of Your Apple Pencil with These Ignored iOS Functions

with an accompanying iPad. For creatives, it can be utterly indispensable, yet numerous available tools and features are equally beneficial in an office or educational environment, such as assisting with document marking, note-taking, or even annotating specific items. An Apple Pencil reinforces the notion that the iPad can serve as a viable substitute for a MacBook. However, there are aspects that even seasoned users might not be aware of. 

You likely already recognize some of the fundamental iPad functionalities, such as swiping left with three fingers to reverse actions or swiping right to reinstate actions in most applications, but the Apple Pencil introduces additional capabilities that can enhance the device’s potential. This encompasses converting handwritten notes into typed text, along with several tricks for note-taking, including directly from the iPad’s Lock Screen. Many of these features are straightforward quality-of-life enhancements that Apple enthusiasts have come to anticipate from the brand, yet some contribute to the adaptability of this remarkable writing instrument. While a lot of users are still anticipating that the upcoming generation of Apple Pencil will be compatible with iPhone, there is still plenty of utility that current users can harness while utilizing their iPad.

Convert your handwriting to text

visionOS 26 Debuts Today: Fresh Features for Apple Vision Pro

Apple has launched visionOS 26, the newest version of its spatial operating system tailored for the Apple Vision Pro. While this release does not bring a sweeping redesign like certain earlier versions, it does introduce several notable improvements that users will appreciate.

A key feature of visionOS 26 is the addition of spatial widgets. Users can now affix a variety of widgets, including photos, weather updates, and calendar entries, directly within their surroundings. These widgets blend effortlessly into the user’s environment and are retained by the Vision Pro, ensuring a customized experience even when users exit the area.

Developers are anticipated to design their own applications featuring spatial widgets, broadening the capabilities beyond just system apps.

Another significant enhancement is the updated personas. The latest personas in visionOS 26 are more articulate and vivid, providing a more captivating visual representation during user interactions.

The update also promotes shared experiences among Vision Pro owners. Whether viewing a 3D film, engaging in a spatial game, or collaborating on a supported application, users can now partake in these activities together, with their personas visible in the shared experience—previously a feature limited to FaceTime.

Moreover, visionOS 26 introduces spatial scenes, which leverage a new generative AI algorithm to improve the depth and immersion of images. This capability extends beyond images, enabling users to experience spatial scenes in Safari, the Spatial Gallery app, and various third-party applications, like Zillow, where users can explore lifelike scenes of properties.

Other significant features in visionOS 26 encompass support for PS VR2 controllers for gaming, Logitech Muse support for spatial drawing, a fresh Jupiter environment, native playback for 180 and 360-degree content, a revamped control center, phone call relay from iPhone, folders in home view, and additional languages for Apple Intelligence.

For those thinking about acquiring an Apple Vision Pro, it might be prudent to hold off, as there are rumors of an upcoming version featuring an M4 or M5 chip potentially debuting in October, possibly available in a new Space Black color option.

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New AirPods Features Launched in iOS 26

iOS 26 represents a significant upgrade for iPhone users, but it also brings a host of new functionalities for AirPods users—particularly for those with AirPods Pro 2, AirPods 4, or the latest AirPods Pro 3. Below are the enhancements set to arrive for AirPods users who update to iOS 26.

### iOS 26 Introduces Up to Seven New AirPods Features, Based on Your Model

Each year, Apple rolls out new functionalities for AirPods users through firmware updates, and this year is no different. Accompanied by iOS 26, iPadOS 26, macOS Tahoe, and more, Apple is deploying new AirPods firmware that introduces a range of new capabilities. The updated build for at least certain models is **8A356**.

When you combine the new operating system updates with the refreshed AirPods firmware, users can take advantage of up to seven novel features:

1. Automatic pausing when you drift off
2. Notifications for battery charging
3. Seamless switching for CarPlay
4. Live Translation
5. High-fidelity audio recording
6. Camera Remote functionality
7. Improved voice clarity during calls

Here’s a brief overview of what these features entail.

If you frequently doze off with AirPods in, Apple can now identify that and **automatically pause** your audio. This is less crucial for music but could be a game-changer for podcasts and audiobooks.

In addition to various battery-related functionalities, iOS 26 now includes **notifications for AirPods charging reminders**. You’ll receive alerts when your AirPods case is running low and when it has reached a full charge.

One of my preferred AirPods features, automatic switching, was previously unavailable for CarPlay. However, with iOS 26, your AirPods Bluetooth connection can **automatically switch between your device and the car**.

The first three features will be available across a majority of AirPods models.

If you are using AirPods Pro 2, AirPods 4, or the new AirPods Pro 3, you’ll also enjoy four additional features.

**Live Translation** debuts in beta as an Apple Intelligence function that allows you to engage in face-to-face conversations with individuals who speak a different language.

Have you tried recording audio with your AirPods? Thanks to Apple’s ‘**high-fidelity audio recording**,’ those recordings should sound significantly improved.

**Camera Remote** operates similarly to the Camera Remote app on the Apple Watch. You can take a photo or video by pressing your AirPods’ stem. This option can be set up in Settings.

Lastly, with **improved voice clarity during calls**, iOS 26 enhances AirPods’ functionality for one of their most prevalent uses.

### Summary of AirPods Features in iOS 26

Particularly with AirPods Pro 2, Apple has established a new benchmark by delivering substantial AirPods features through firmware updates. With iOS 26, this trend continues, extending the benefits to AirPods 4 and AirPods Pro 3.

Even if your AirPods only support a handful of the latest features, iOS 26 is brimming with additional exciting enhancements on your iPhone that justify an upgrade.

For a comprehensive look at how the AirPods firmware updates process works, full details can be found here.

Which new AirPods features are you looking forward to the most? Share your thoughts in the comments.

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Apple Unveils iOS 26, iPadOS 26, macOS Tahoe, watchOS 26, tvOS 26, and visionOS 26

After an extensive three-month beta testing period, Apple has released iOS 26, iPadOS 26, macOS Tahoe, watchOS 26, tvOS 26, and visionOS 26 for all users. If your devices are compatible, you can download the newest software from **Settings** > **General** > **Software Update**.

These software updates all incorporate the new Liquid Glass design. While it will be more evident on iOS, iPadOS, and macOS, Apple has also made adjustments to the user interface of watchOS, tvOS, and visionOS. This redesign allows Apple users to enjoy new Clear icons, a refreshed Control Center, redesigned apps, and matching names for all the updates.

In iPadOS 26, Apple is emphasizing [multitasking and productivity features](https://www.bgr.com/tech/how-to-master-all-of-ipados-26s-upgraded-multitasking-features/) more seriously, introducing a new window tiling system, a Preview app for document signing and sketching, along with enhanced Apple Intelligence features powered by ChatGPT. macOS Tahoe introduces enhanced Continuity features, an updated Spotlight search, and serves as the final major OS update for Intel Macs. Apple states that [macOS 27 will be exclusively for Apple Silicon computers](https://www.bgr.com/1939592/macos-27-m1-macs-beginning-end-support-new-features/).

### watchOS 26, tvOS 26, and visionOS 26 have launched

With watchOS 26, Apple Watch users can utilize the [new Workout Buddy](https://www.bgr.com/1947792/watchos-26-workout-buddy-conversational-siri-preview/). This Apple Intelligence feature requires an iPhone 15 Pro or later within proximity, providing the optimal way to receive additional motivation from an AI coach utilizing your Health app data.

Conversely, tvOS 26 focuses on simplifying the discovery of new content. It features a redesigned Apple TV app, makes profile switching easier than ever, and expedites the sign-in process for new streaming services.

Lastly,

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Reasons Your Vintage MacBook May Incite Hold-Ups at TSA Security Lines

laptop and smartphone inspections. While it might simplify your journey to leave electronics behind, you could need to take your MacBook for professional or leisure purposes. Nevertheless, your MacBook, particularly if it’s an earlier version, might elicit some apprehensions from TSA personnel due to its lithium-ion battery.

Apple’s MacBook utilizes lithium-ion batteries, promoting their rapid charging and prolonged retention of power. The lightweight nature of these batteries is advantageous for the portability of a MacBook. Their capacity to prolong their lifespan when the charge begins to deplete makes them ideal for laptops.

However, the TSA remains vigilant regarding lithium-ion batteries as they have the potential to ignite. This could lead to additional inquiries or more thorough inspections of your MacBook by the TSA. There are also specific regulations that you must adhere to concerning your MacBook and its battery to ensure a smooth boarding process.

Why the TSA is apprehensive about MacBook batteries

How to Resolve Steam Not Launching: A Comprehensive Guide

your Steam games.

When Steam fails to launch, the issue may arise from various factors. In certain instances, the application’s process might be frozen in the background, hindering a new launch. At other times, your computer could be experiencing a minor system error that disrupts the client. Moreover, antivirus software or a VPN may mistakenly identify Steam as a potential risk and prevent it from executing. Damaged files, obsolete updates, or even persistent cache problems could also contribute to the issue. Here are the two simplest solutions if you’re having trouble getting Steam to open.

Utilize Task Manager to terminate a non-responsive Steam app

PC Enhancements That Might Not Be Financially Wise

new Ryzen 9 processors set to enhance everything. Although these items are quite clear regarding performance-for-cost, not every part available will deliver a significant advantage. Certain component enhancements may appear advantageous at first glance but are ultimately not worth the investment. The last thing anyone desires is to invest heavily for a slight improvement in performance, particularly when there are opportunities to save money for a more significant and effective upgrade elsewhere.

PCIe Gen 5 SSDs