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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on Ways to Enhance Your Experience with Spotify’s Latest Lossless Function
    Ways to Enhance Your Experience with Spotify’s Latest Lossless Function

    With Spotify introducing lossless music streaming for premium users, an entirely new dimension has emerged for your listening pleasure! Nonetheless, transitioning from lower-quality files accessible to non-premium users to the pristine 24-bit/44.1kHz FLAC files will necessitate some financial commitment on your end, as your Bluetooth earbuds may not be compatible with this new service.

    If you possess over-ear headphones, you might already have the suitable gear for Spotify’s lossless audio, but a DAC is probably still required. No need to worry; we’re here to assist! We’ve compiled the collective insights of Android Central’s audio experts to provide you with suggestions on how to maximize your Spotify Premium experience with lossless sound.

    Affordable options

    Android Central’s Harish Jonnalagadda recommends the robust yet compact FiiO KA11 USB-C dongle as his DAC choice. It’s exceptionally durable, featuring a flexible silicone and braided cloth-covered cable that links the USB-C side to the 3.5mm ported DAC. It delivers a warm sound profile with excellent mid and treble reproduction, and the cost is just $32.99.

    Brady Snyder has also been struck by the FiiO KA11, remarking that it’s “merely a USB-C to 3.5mm dongle on steroids” and that audio from your Android device “instantly sounds superior when processed through the KA11.”

    For in-ear monitors (IEMs), Jonnalagadda suggests the Truthear Hexa ($89.99), which delivers impressive sound quality, although some have found the bass to be slightly lacking. However, a little EQ can easily address this! They lack an inline microphone for calls, but they’re aesthetically pleasing, come with memory foam, and include two types of silicone ear tips.

    Regarding headphones, Snyder prefers KZ Audio’s KZ ZSN Pro X. He mentions that these $21.59 IEMs are cheaper than a meal nowadays and provide excellent audio for the cost. “I find the wrap-around cable design combined with the silicone ear tips to be very comfortable, and I appreciate that the cord is detachable if you need to swap or customize it.”

    Snyder describes the sound quality as “firmly good enough” for casual listening sessions. You can procure both of his recommendations for under $60! Quite affordable.

    For my own budget recommendation, I’m opting for the iFi Go Link USB-C DAC ($59.99). It features a stunning alloy body and a lovely braided cable. Its sound profile is rather neutral, providing an enjoyable soundstage and treble sparkle that gives music a live ambiance.

    For connecting to those DACs, I recommend the Sennheiser CX 300S in-ear headphones with inline call and playback controls. As you’re considering budget earbuds, the $38.90 price on Amazon for the red variant fits the criteria!

    The bass is decent, while the mids and highs are slightly emphasized, providing solid vocal clarity. Between the two options, you should be well-equipped to enjoy lossless audio for around $100, taxes included. If that’s still a bit challenging, you can’t go wrong with FiiO’s KA11 dongle DAC.

    Entry-level enhancements

    Harish kicks us off again with his DAC upgrade, the FiiO BTR17 Bluetooth 5.4 USB-C DAC AMP ($220). It accommodates not only wired connections but also LDAC and aptX Lossless. This unit is powerful with both 3.5mm and the more potent 4.4mm connections, allowing it to grow alongside your needs, and it includes a desktop mode to prolong battery life. This is an affordable DAC with some flagship traits that produces excellent sound!

    For your IEM, he’s endorsing the TIN HiFi P1 Max II, which features 14.2mm planar drivers. They come with a 3.5mm cable but lack an inline microphone.

    Brady’s upgrade suggestions include the esteemed Sennheiser HD600 and FiiO KA15. He notes that the former can achieve high volumes when paired with a good DAC and adapts well to a wide range of music genres, making them a versatile entry-level choice for audiophiles. They come with plush ear cushions and an adjustable headband, which he describes as “ideal for long listening sessions without discomfort.”

    While he hasn’t personally used the KA15, he points out that “it’s the natural upgrade from the KA11 that I adore. This DAC is a bit larger, but offers higher balanced output power suitable for high-impedance headphones, plus supports up to 768kHz/32bit and DSD256 sampling rates — more than sufficient for Spotify’s lossless sound. I also enjoy the small display and the design that gives the KA15 a vintage cassette player vibe.”

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on Guide for Substituting Batteries in Apple AirTags and Necessary Battery Specification
    Guide for Substituting Batteries in Apple AirTags and Necessary Battery Specification

    Apple AirTags are excellent for monitoring belongings you wish to keep safe, such as wallets, handbags, carry-on luggage at the airport, or any items that are hard to replace. While they are quite useful, a depleted battery can quickly undermine the effectiveness of the device. Fortunately, changing the battery is straightforward and quick. The battery within an AirTag generally has a lifespan of about a year, depending on how frequently you track it through the Find My app.

    Swapping out a depleted battery is as easy as taking off the AirTag’s metal cover to reach the coin cell and inserting a fresh one. Luckily, you don’t have to figure out for yourself when it’s time to change the battery; your iPhone will notify you when it’s necessary. Just make sure to keep kids at a distance while you handle the device, as an AirTag contains several small components. Additionally, the battery itself is toxic and can pose serious dangers if ingested.

    Changing the battery in an AirTag

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Spotify Free Unveils On-Demand Song Playback Option
    Spotify Free Unveils On-Demand Song Playback Option

    **Spotify Free: Modifications and Features**

    Spotify has consistently been at the forefront of the music streaming sector, providing users with options for both free and premium subscriptions. While the free version has gained millions of users, it has also included various limitations aimed at urging upgrades to the premium service. Nonetheless, as of today, one of these key restrictions has been removed.

    ### Limitations of Spotify Free

    In the past, Spotify Free users encountered four primary drawbacks:

    1. **Ads Interruptions**: Users dealt with recurrent advertisements that disrupted their listening enjoyment.

    2. **Inferior Audio Quality**: The audio clarity for free users was significantly lower compared to that of premium members.

    3. **Restricted Track Skips**: Free users had a limited number of skips, hindering their ability to avoid unappealing songs.

    4. **Mobile Shuffle-Only Playback**: This limitation forced users to listen to songs in a shuffled sequence, as they could not choose particular tracks unless they utilized their skips wisely.

    ### A Major Change: Direct Track Selection

    The most notable alteration for Spotify Free users is the elimination of the shuffle-only playback limitation on mobile devices. Users can now pick any track from a playlist or album and listen to it instantly, improving the overall user experience. This adjustment tackles one of the most frequent grievances from free users, granting them enhanced control over their listening options.

    ### Context of the Change

    This modification follows Spotify’s announcement regarding the rollout of lossless audio for premium subscribers, signaling the company’s steadfast dedication to enhancing its service. By revoking the shuffle-only playback limitation, Spotify aims to maintain its free user population while still highlighting the advantages of a premium subscription.

    ### Conclusion

    With these updates, Spotify Free is becoming a more appealing choice for users who may have been reluctant to switch to a premium plan. The capability to select specific tracks without the shuffle restriction greatly improves the listening experience, positioning Spotify as a more formidable competitor in the streaming landscape. As the platform continues to develop, it will be fascinating to observe how these changes influence user interaction and subscription figures.

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on OmniFocus 4.8 Brings On-Device Apple Intelligence Features
    OmniFocus 4.8 Brings On-Device Apple Intelligence Features

    # OmniFocus 4.8: Adapting to Apple’s Foundation Models Framework

    Omni Group has achieved a remarkable advancement with the launch of OmniFocus 4.8, intricately tailored for macOS Tahoe 26, iOS 26, iPadOS 26, and visionOS 26. This update features a total visual overhaul with the Liquid Glass design and unveils revolutionary capabilities through the incorporation of Apple’s Foundation Models framework.

    ## Brief Overview of Apple’s Foundation Models Framework

    Apple’s Foundation Models framework empowers developers to leverage local AI models, facilitating the creation of innovative features without reliance on external APIs. Access to these local models boosts privacy, speed, and overall user satisfaction, functioning independently of internet connectivity.

    ## Implications for OmniFocus 4.8

    By adopting Apple’s Foundation Models, OmniFocus 4.8 enhances its Omni Automation feature capabilities, serving both casual and intensive users. The update introduces seven new plug-ins aimed at optimizing tasks and improving productivity:

    – **Prompt Tester**
    – **Prompt for Array Response**
    – **Solar Power Project**
    – **Intelligent Assist**
    – **Help Me Estimate**
    – **Help Me Plan**
    – **Clipboard Events**

    For example, if a user is contemplating the installation of solar panels, they can directly prompt OmniFocus from the project entry. The application will generate an all-encompassing project plan, replete with actions, sub-actions, descriptions, and prioritized steps.

    Likewise, users wanting to establish a new exercise regimen can take advantage of the “Help Me Plan” plug-in. By inputting details such as goals, frequency, intensity, and preferred activities, the plug-in will create a customized exercise plan. Users can adjust their inputs and regenerate the plan until it aligns with their expectations.

    Advanced users will value the comprehensive scripting support within Omni Automation, which allows for more intricate configurations and the ability to analyze logs and responses through the Automation Console window. The ability to send natural language prompts and obtain structured outputs in JSON format transforms OmniFocus into a formidable tool for actionable programming, merging automation with AI-driven insights.

    Ken Case, CEO of Omni Group, highlights the significance of this integration, asserting that it enables users to harness AI while ensuring their privacy, as all interactions take place on their Apple devices. Plug-in authors can creatively integrate these language models with OmniFocus data, enhancing the overall utility and user experience.

    ## 9to5Mac’s Perspective

    The core of this update lies in its potential to alleviate mental barriers in project planning. While automation may initially appear intimidating, with OmniFocus 4.8, users can easily shift into a more efficient workflow. The integration of Apple’s Foundation Models is both sophisticated and thorough, making this update highly advisable for anyone looking to boost their productivity through automation.

    For further details on Omni’s collaboration with Apple’s Foundation Models framework, visit

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Upcoming Product Releases: Apple Smart Glasses and 14 Additional Items After the iPhone 17
    Upcoming Product Releases: Apple Smart Glasses and 14 Additional Items After the iPhone 17

    The iPhone 17 Pro Max was sold out in just a few minutes on Friday, while the iPhone 17 Pro and the regular iPhone 17 ran out of stock over the weekend. Even certain color and storage variants of the iPhone Air are now experiencing shipping delays of two to three weeks as of this writing. Apple has also begun offering the newly released AirPods Pro 3 and 2025 Apple Watch versions online, but the company still has more products to unveil. As reported by Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, there are over a dozen Apple devices under development.

    A number of these products are merely enhancements to current ranges, such as the upcoming MacBooks and iPads powered by the M5 chip. However, Gurman highlighted some of the more thrilling Apple innovations, including the first foldable iPhone, which is expected to be available to consumers in the coming years. The foldable iPhone is anticipated to debut next year and may be priced beyond $2,000 because of some expensive components. Furthermore, the 20th-anniversary iPhone is likely to introduce significant innovations, featuring a design with curved glass edges. Unsurprisingly, this device may come at a higher price point than other iPhone models. Additionally, Apple’s initial smart glasses could be launched within the next 12 to 16 months, but they might lack an integrated display for augmented reality features.

    M5 iPad Pro, MacBook Pro, MacBook Air, iPhone 17e, and more

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    A person holding a Google chromecast.

    Diego Thomazini/Getty Images

    In 2013, Google introduced the initial Chromecast – a device that captured considerable attention. Priced at $35, this small HDMI stick enabled any “dumb” TV to stream Netflix and YouTube. The appeal lay in what it avoided. Google wasn’t trying to create the ultimate entertainment system or usurp cable TV. It aimed merely to address a single frustrating issue: sending media from your mobile device to a large screen without wires or complex setups. It performed adequately for several years. However, as time went on, users began raising their expectations.

    They wanted to browse Netflix for shows and films directly on their TVs rather than solely on their phones — a capability that Chromecast lacked at the time. They desired voice commands, menus, and the ability to explore catalogs. Convenience became paramount. Roku recognized this early on; likewise, Amazon with the Fire TV and Apple with its TV box. Even Google’s own Android TV platform began heavily emphasizing the full-interface experience. The original Chromecast? It increasingly felt somewhat… restricted. While Google maintained the brand’s presence with the Chromecast Ultra and later the Chromecast with Google TV, the basic “just casting” version couldn’t meet the evolving demands of users. Ultimately, Google phased out the standalone Chromecast lineup entirely, integrating it with Google TV — a decision we’ll delve into further below.

    Smart TVs rendered it obsolete

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on Ruling on Epic Games versus Apple in Australia Issued, Apple Characterizes It as Harmful
    Ruling on Epic Games versus Apple in Australia Issued, Apple Characterizes It as Harmful

    **Epic Games vs. Apple: A Pivotal Antitrust Case in Australia**

    In a noteworthy turn of events last month, Epic Games achieved success in its antitrust lawsuit against Apple in Australia. The court determined that Apple must permit side-loading and third-party payments, a ruling that has the potential to transform the app distribution framework on iOS devices.

    The decision has sparked significant debate, particularly with the publication of the complete 900-page ruling. Apple has criticized the judge for reportedly misjudging the privacy and security threats tied to the acceptance of alternative app distribution methods.

    Central to the case was the issue of what defines market dominance. Apple argues that it does not possess a monopoly, characterizing the relevant market as either “smartphones” or “apps.” Considering its minor share in the global smartphone market, Apple claims it cannot be considered dominant. In contrast, regulators generally see the market as “iOS apps,” where Apple holds a 100% monopoly over app sales and distribution. This viewpoint was supported by the judge, leading to Apple’s objection.

    In a statement, Apple conveyed its disagreement with the court’s conclusions, reiterating its stance that it does not have a monopoly in Australia or worldwide. The company intends to seek a resolution that upholds its intellectual property while guaranteeing a secure experience for users and developers.

    While the court refrained from imposing explicit directives on Apple, it voiced concerns regarding privacy and security ramifications arising from the ruling. Nonetheless, the court recognized Apple’s entitlement to charge for its intellectual property and defended its ban on third-party app stores.

    The ruling made mention of the European Union’s Digital Markets Act, indicating that allowing side-loading could be both viable and sensible. Apple, however, contends that its app review process is essential for safeguarding users from potentially harmful applications. This argument is somewhat weakened by the existence of fraudulent apps within the App Store; a 2021 report suggested that nearly 2% of top-grossing apps were scams, costing iPhone users around $50 million. Recently, a dating app that compromised the private information of countless women was accepted into the App Store, raising further doubts about Apple’s vetting procedures.

    Despite these concerns, Apple asserts that it turned down almost 2 million apps in the last year, maintaining that its role as a gatekeeper is warranted, even if its record is not without flaws.

    The outcome of this case could have extensive ramifications for both app developers and consumers, as it challenges the conventional app distribution model and provokes essential discussions regarding user safety and market competition. As the discourse continues, stakeholders are invited to express their opinions on this critical issue.

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on Snapchat Unveils Snap OS 2 for the Latest Spectacles AR Eyewear
    Snapchat Unveils Snap OS 2 for the Latest Spectacles AR Eyewear

    ### Snap OS 2.0: A New Chapter for Snap Spectacles AR Glasses

    Snap Inc. has officially announced the launch of Snap OS 2.0, the operating system crafted for its forthcoming Snap Spectacles augmented reality (AR) eyewear. This latest iteration brings forth numerous thrilling features aimed at improving the user experience and broadening the device’s functionalities.

    #### Overview of Snap Spectacles

    Last year, Snap introduced its fifth-generation Snap Spectacles to developers, with intentions to launch a consumer version in 2026. The buzz surrounding these eyewear is immense, as they mark the first entirely standalone AR glasses that do not necessitate a smartphone or external computing device. The progression of Snap OS 2.0 is a pivotal move in delivering this groundbreaking product to consumers.

    #### Key Features of Snap OS 2.0

    1. **Revamped Web Browser**: The updated Snap OS includes a brand-new web browser that showcases quicker loading times and a refreshed home screen outfitted with widgets and bookmarks. Notably, it now accommodates WebXR, facilitating immersive web experiences that utilize augmented reality.

    2. **Spotlight Lens**: A notable feature is the introduction of the Spotlight lens, enabling users to interact with content from Snapchat creators within a three-dimensional environment, removing the need for a smartphone.

    3. **Gallery Lens**: The debut of the Gallery lens simplifies the process for users to view and arrange their captured memories. This interactive carousel allows for smooth management of videos prior to sharing or posting.

    4. **Travel Mode**: Understanding the necessity for functionality while on the move, Snap OS 2.0 integrates a travel mode that ensures AR content remains fixed, even as users traverse on planes, trains, or automobiles.

    5. **Gaming Integration**: The popular VR dance rhythm game, Synth Riders, is set to debut on the Spectacles, further enhancing the entertainment possibilities accessible to users.

    #### Conclusion

    Snap OS 2.0 signifies a major leap in the functionalities of Snap Spectacles, establishing them as a serious contender in the AR landscape. With features aimed at improving user engagement and content creation, Snap is well-positioned to make a notable impact within the realm of augmented reality. As the release date nears, enthusiasm continues to surge around the possibilities of these innovative glasses.

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