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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on Concealed iPhone Configurations and Functions You Might Not Know About [Video]
    Concealed iPhone Configurations and Functions You Might Not Know About [Video]

    # 15 Hidden iPhone Features That Simplify Life

    With each iOS update, Apple rolls out numerous features that can greatly improve the user experience. While certain features make headlines, many smaller yet significant settings can often go unnoticed. Here are 15 features and settings that every iPhone user should be aware of but may not be.

    ## 1. Blur Faces, License Plates, and More in the Photos App

    The Clean Up feature in the Photos app, introduced in iOS 18, allows users to eliminate unwanted elements from images. It also enables the blurring of sensitive information like faces and license plates. To utilize this feature:

    – Open the Photos app and select an image.
    – Tap Edit.
    – Choose Cleanup.
    – Circle the face or license plate you want to blur immediately.
    – Tap Done to save changes.

    ## 2. Change How Incoming Calls Appear

    iOS now provides options for how incoming calls are presented. You can opt for either a full-screen takeover or a banner that lets you continue using your phone while it rings. To modify this setting:

    – Open Settings.
    – Navigate to Apps → Phone.
    – Tap Incoming Calls.
    – Select either Banner or Full Screen.

    ## 3. Prevent Volume Buttons from Changing Ringer Volume

    By default, the physical volume buttons adjust both media and ringer volume. To stop this and set the buttons to control only media volume:

    – Open Settings.
    – Go to Sounds & Haptics.
    – Toggle Change with Buttons off.

    ## 4. Take Manual Control of Macro Mode

    The Macro camera feature on recent iPhones can automatically switch modes, which might interrupt your shot. To gain manual control:

    – Open Settings.
    – Go to Camera.
    – Tap Macro Control.
    – Enable it for manual control or disable it for automatic switching.

    ## 5. Share a Podcast from the Exact Moment You Are Listening

    The Podcasts app now lets users share specific moments from an episode, making it simpler to highlight intriguing segments. To share a moment:

    – Open the Podcasts app and play an episode.
    – Tap the captions button located in the bottom-left corner.
    – Long-press on any line of the transcript.
    – Tap Share to send it to someone, allowing them to jump right to that moment.

    ## Final Thoughts

    Apple consistently integrates helpful features into iOS, yet many stay hidden within settings or are introduced without sufficient details. By showcasing these features, users can unlock the full capability of their iPhones. There are plenty more features to discover, so stay alert for updates and enhancements.

    For a visual demonstration of these features, check out our informative video.

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Google CC: A Morning Email Helper for Gmail Users
    Google CC: A Morning Email Helper for Gmail Users

    Google’s expansive suite of applications and services offers a significant benefit for the Gemini AI experience. The chatbot functions as an assistant, prepared to deliver information instantly on a variety of subjects, including tasks that may relate to content housed within Google apps. For instance, it could be an email in Gmail and a document in Google Drive that are both crucial for a project, and Gemini can retrieve that information if it has access to both. This represents just one of the AI assistance experiences that Google has envisioned.

    In addition to linking Gemini with Gmail and Drive, Google has introduced a novel AI assistant named CC that will operate within Gmail to help you stay organized throughout your day. Unlike Gemini, which is available globally, CC is an experimental productivity assistant restricted to users in the U.S. and Canada. Individuals can gain access to CC after registering via a Google Labs waitlist. It remains uncertain how many users Google’s trial will initially support or the anticipated wait time, but Google indicated that CC will be accessible to adult users of Google consumer accounts, beginning with Google AI Ultra subscribers at the highest premium level of Gemini ($250/month).

    Interestingly, CC appears to be a counterpart to ChatGPT Pulse, a proactive AI agent within ChatGPT that provides a morning briefing experience in the chat app. Pulse can also connect to applications such as Gmail and Calendar, though this is optional. Similar to CC, Pulse necessitates the costly $200/month ChatGPT Pro subscription.

    What functionalities does CC offer with Gmail?

    Once access is granted, CC will start pulling information from Gmail, Calendar, and Google Drive to present a customized to-do list each day called “Your Day Ahead.” CC might be the solution to a challenge many individuals face: managing their inbox. Ironically, CC will send daily briefs via email, but these will be emails you’ll want to engage with. The video above demonstrates a CC brief, showing the assistant pulling pertinent information from Google apps and prioritizing tasks. Driven by Gemini, CC will provide you a succinct overview of your calendar and remind you of critical deadlines and events, such as paying a car loan or attending a social gathering.

    Additional useful features of CC might include offering updates on your deliveries and providing extra contextual information regarding events. One entry in the “Your Day Ahead” email in the video is noted as “Private Hose Viewing.” CC specifies the event’s location, reminds the user this is their second visit, and suggests they “remember to check the backyard space.” Presumably, this suggestion comes from an email or note the user created after the first visit.

    The CC assistant can also be utilized to create content, such as drafting emails and keeping track of ideas and tasks. To communicate instructions to CC, you will need to send them via email in Gmail, rather than using a separate chat application. This method may not represent the most optimal interaction, as one of the aims of utilizing a product like CC is to reduce the number of emails. That being said, CC is not a finalized product: It is unclear whether it will evolve into an optional feature in Gmail or Gemini, but Google will likely continue to enhance the CC experience while it explores its capabilities.

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on Evaluation of OnePlus 15R: Outstanding Battery Life at a Budget-Friendly Cost
    Evaluation of OnePlus 15R: Outstanding Battery Life at a Budget-Friendly Cost

    The OnePlus 15R: An In-Depth Review

    The OnePlus 15R constitutes a significant addition to the OnePlus family, closely mirroring the design of the regular OnePlus 15. The key difference is its reduced camera module size, while it sustains the same design aesthetic as its pricier sibling. Offered in Charcoal Black and Mint Breeze, the latter presents a refreshing light green shade. Both models showcase a frosted glass back, delivering a luxurious feel while reducing smudges. The minimalist design is highlighted by the OnePlus logo and the camera module located on the back.

    Regarding sturdiness, the OnePlus 15R stands out with its IP66, IP68, IP69, and IP69K ratings, ensuring exceptional protection against high-pressure water jets, dust, and immersion. This degree of durability is uncommon among smartphones, particularly in this price range, guaranteeing the device’s robustness under various circumstances.

    The design incorporates the flat-edge style popular among contemporary smartphones, featuring gentle curves along the edges for improved comfort during extended usage. The camera module is located in the top-left corner, slightly elevated from the device’s body.

    A notable element is the “Plus Key” positioned on the left side, which substitutes the conventional ringer switch. This customizable button is mainly designed for OnePlus’s Mind Space feature but can be adjusted for additional functions like launching the camera or toggling the flashlight. Nevertheless, its customization flexibility is limited compared to the iPhone’s Action Button, as it cannot be programmed to open any application.

    Common features consist of a USB-C port at the bottom, accompanied by the power button and volume rocker on the right side. The front glass is crafted from Corning Gorilla Glass 7i, offering decent scratch and drop resistance. All in all, the OnePlus 15R is an elegant, well-built device that surpasses its budget-friendly classification.

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Google’s Ingenious “Avatar: The Last Airbender” Easter Egg Pleases Die-Hard Fans
    Google’s Ingenious “Avatar: The Last Airbender” Easter Egg Pleases Die-Hard Fans

    Reddit users who came across this easter egg on Google view it as a nostalgic nod to this iconic moment, although some argue that, rather than being a purposeful easter egg, it might merely be a chance occurrence within Google’s search algorithm. Some users theorize that individuals searching for video snippets or interpretations of the quote were simply entering “war in Ba Sing Se” on Google, leading the tool to organically begin suggesting the correction to guide users toward the

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on NotebookLM Unveils Chat History Functionality Solely on Web Platform
    NotebookLM Unveils Chat History Functionality Solely on Web Platform

    Mobile app users who are eagerly anticipating the chat history feature on NotebookLM will need to exhibit a little more patience. Although the feature has started to roll out for the web client, Google has stated that it will be available on iOS and Android apps “soon.” This new chat history capability enables users to pick up conversations after a session ends, a functionality that was not previously offered. Users can remove their chat history at any moment, ensuring their privacy. NotebookLM, a resource for research and study, has been improved with this feature, contributing to a more fluid user experience. Currently, mobile users will have to wait for the update to access this new option.

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Gemini Launches Innovative Tool for Tailored Mini App Creation
    Gemini Launches Innovative Tool for Tailored Mini App Creation

    Google’s Opal initiative is transitioning to Gemini via a custom Gem, enabling users to craft personalized AI mini apps on the web. This capability is fueled by Google Opal, a no-code application builder offered as a Google Labs initiative. With Opal, Gemini can develop mini apps featuring user interfaces customized for particular workflows or tasks. Opal, which launched in July 2024, empowers users to create AI mini apps by designing workflows through a streamlined app-building procedure that accommodates text-based prompts. Although Opal is not explicitly labeled within the Gemini app, users can now produce mini app Gems by choosing prompts or entering text in the designated box. The app creation journey is steered by prompts aimed at assisting users in articulating their intended AI mini app functionalities. Once built, users can access a condensed version of Opal’s visual editor to comprehend and modify the app’s processes. Gems fashioned with Opal are driven by Google Labs and are poised for future utilization within the Gemini web application. Users can begin exploring this capability in Gemini immediately.

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on OnePlus 15R Amazes with Premium OLED Screen
    OnePlus 15R Amazes with Premium OLED Screen

    The OnePlus 15R has established a new benchmark in smartphone display innovation with its flicker-free OLED panel, delivering unmatched eye comfort while maintaining high quality. This device boasts a 165Hz refresh rate OLED, positioning it as an outstanding option for gaming fans. Its 3200Hz touch sampling rate guarantees a responsive gaming experience, and the 3840Hz PWM dimming rate offers exceptional eye protection, effectively minimizing flicker to an all-time low. The OnePlus 15R’s display reaches remarkable brightness levels, improving visibility outdoors and ensuring comfort in dim environments. With a genuine 10-bit panel, it presents vivid colors without the requirement for temporal dithering, further reducing flicker. This smartphone not only competes with but exceeds the display quality and eye safety of many more expensive models, making it a notable selection within its price category.

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on Google Fixes Pixel Phone Accidental Dialing Problem
    Google Fixes Pixel Phone Accidental Dialing Problem

    A genuine pocket mode is on its way to Pixel phones, and it’s about time.

    What you need to know

    – A Google engineer has officially denoted the persistent accidental touch problem with Pixel phones as “resolved” in the company’s issue tracker.
    – This addresses grievances going back to the Pixel 6, during which phones would initiate emergency calls or open applications while stowed away in pockets.
    – The resolution was not part of the December update, indicating a launch in early 2026 or the forthcoming Feature Drop.

    Numerous Pixel users are familiar with the irritation of extracting their phone from a pocket only to discover it has called someone, activated the flashlight, or launched applications on its own. After years of complaints, Google is finally indicating that a remedy is on the horizon, meaning Pixel owners may soon experience the end of the annoying pocket dialing.

    This issue has persisted for quite some time, highlighting the significance of the forthcoming modification. Since the Pixel 6, users have frequently reported their devices registering touches while locked and tucked away in pockets.

    Contrary to certain Android devices that depend on proximity sensors and motion data to prevent touch input when a phone is pocketed, Pixel devices were never equipped with a genuine accidental touch prevention or pocket mode.

    As time progressed, the frustration increased in Reddit discussions and Google’s issue tracker. Owners recounted experiences of their phones dialing contacts unexpectedly or illuminating the screen just enough to register unintended touches.

    The issue runs deep

    For many, the most concerning aspect was unintentional emergency dialing—an issue that’s not merely irritating but potentially grave. Google has acknowledged this issue previously; however, substantive solutions never materialized, leading users to depend on workarounds like disabling gesture-based wake features and sacrificing convenience to prevent pocket-related mishaps.

    Now, things are evolving. A Google engineer recently revised the official issue tracker, marked the accidental touch prevention flaw as “resolved,” and advised users to watch for upcoming software updates (via PiunikaWeb).

    Although the company hasn’t officially announced the feature or elaborated on its operation, this status change strongly implies that Google has introduced a system-level solution that more effectively recognizes when a Pixel is in a pocket or confined space and accordingly dampens touch input.

    This fix is not part of the December Pixel update, nor has it been surreptitiously rolled out via a server-side adjustment. Instead, it appears that it will be included in a future Android update or Pixel Feature Drop, potentially in early 2026.

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on Tesla’s Newest Product Launch Falls Short as It Isn’t an Electric Car
    Tesla’s Newest Product Launch Falls Short as It Isn’t an Electric Car

    Tesla is a brand that stands for breakthrough advancements, the forefront of technology, and innovative systems that intertwine science-fiction with reality. Alright, perhaps that’s a little overstated, but the company is recognized for stretching the limits of contemporary technology with its electric vehicles, robotics, and much more. Unsurprisingly, you would anticipate that its next offering would continue to challenge those limits. A high-tech sandwich maker? A sophisticated shuttle for individuals to explore low earth orbit? Perhaps a cutting-edge diving device for discovering the ocean’s mysteries? As it turns out, it’s nothing of the sort. It’s [simply a basic pickleball paddle](https://shop.tesla.com/product/tesla-plaid-pickleball-paddle-by-selkirk?sku=2272753-00-A) — basic in the sense that it lacks any connected technology or wireless attributes. Also basic in that, well, it’s quite basic.

    Tesla claims it’s “optimized for high performance play,” so there’s that, at least. What’s even more concerning is its price tag of $350, in a sport where quality gear typically costs under $100. Manufactured by Selkirk, and “inspired by the aerodynamic [design of Tesla vehicles](https://www.bgr.com/2049186/is-tesla-cyber-truck-reliable-according-consumer-reports/),” this one-of-a-kind paddle boasts a custom composition with embedded weights, an edgeless design, and an open throat face. Tesla asserts that it took months of partnership and extensive research and development to create this distinctive paddle. It also includes a carrying bag, which is a nice addition, I suppose.

    ### What makes the Tesla pickleball paddle unique?

    “[Paddle up, human](https://x.com/tesla_na/status/1999554694826365256/photo/1).” That’s how Tesla announced the pickleball paddle on X — which may or may not be clever. A bit less clever is the composition of the board, regarding the materials used, not the design. All together, it’s a carbon fiber board with a foam core featuring some unique styles and functional design aspects developed through “a shared passion for quality and performance.” Selkirk Co-Owner & Director of Research & Development Tom Barnes and Tesla’s Director of Product Design Javier Verdura collaborated to develop this robust mixed-material paddle.

    Speaking [to Business Insider](https://www.businessinsider.com/tesla-latest-launch-expensive-lifestyle-product-pickleball-paddle-2025-12), Tom Barnes mentions that the paddle “wasn’t merely a branding endeavor, [but] a genuine engineering collaboration.” He notes that after over a year of exchanging data, perfecting paddle geometry, and conducting stress tests on prototypes, possibly with Tesla’s robots, the paddle came to fruition. The limited batch of paddles also sold out rapidly, within less than three hours post-launch. This aligns with the brand’s previous success, given that the Tesla Model Y was the [first EV ever to earn the title of the world’s best-selling car](https://www.bgr.com/tech/tesla-model-y-becomes-first-ev-ever-to-be-the-worlds-best-selling-car/). However, this isn’t a car; it’s a pickleball paddle. At least it didn’t feature the boxed edges of

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