T-Mobile Broadens Availability of Famed Feature to AT&T and Verizon Customers
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In 2024, T-Mobile and Starlink received formal authorization to enhance their satellite communication coverage. This resulted in the creation of T-Satellite, enabling a broader range of applications to function without a traditional signal. Although registration with T-Mobile is necessary to maximize the perks of its alliance with Starlink, the company has revealed intentions to extend the “Text to 911” service to all users, including those on AT&T and Verizon networks.
The announcement states, “Emergencies are not concerned with who your mobile provider is, so T-Mobile is ensuring access to 911 is available to as many individuals as possible.” The service is now accessible to all, independent of their wireless provider, and enrollment can be done through T-Mobile’s product page. Users can also leverage additional T-Satellite functionalities, although these will incur a monthly fee of $10.
Furthermore, T-Mobile indicates that users must possess a compatible device, typically one that has launched in recent years with satellite functionality. It is essential to verify your device’s specifications to confirm it supports satellite features.
Additional reassurance, regardless of your provider
Xpeng Reveals Humanoid Robot Boasting Artificial Skin and Tailored Body, Scheduled for Launch in 2026
flying vehicle advancements, additionally, it revealed the next generation of its IRON humanoid robots during its AI Day held in Guangzhou, China. Xpeng introduced the eighth iteration of its robot initiative (and the third with a humanoid form), and plans to commence mass production of the newest models by late 2026.
What swiftly drew BGR’s focus was Xpeng’s daring shift from conventional humanoid robot designs. Rather than adhering to the more traditional male look seen in models from firms like Neura, Xpeng launched a form that is curvier and more feminine — arguably featuring more curves than a robot necessitates.
José Adorno/BGRThe firm also disclosed that its new robot boasts full-body synthetic skin designed to create a “warmer and more intimate” experience. Similar to how 1X showcased its intriguing Neo home robot, Xpeng’s robot permits users to modify its look by selecting its color, though Xpeng expands on this by providing varying body types (chubby, athletic, tall, or short), hairstyles, and, in the future, even outfits. Nevertheless, in contrast to other companies, Xpeng is not focusing on household tasks or industrial roles for its robots.
Tour guides and personal assistants
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Nintendo Store App Launched Worldwide, Showcasing Games, Consoles, Merchandise, and Additional Offerings
After several years of exclusivity in Japan, the official Nintendo Store app is now accessible in various countries, including the US. Here’s what you can accomplish with it.
## Purchase Switch games, merchandise, and more
In 2020, Nintendo introduced the “My Nintendo” app in Japan, enabling iOS and Android users to view content, such as Nintendo Direct streams, and acquire software, hardware, and services.
Now, as reported by *The Verge*, the company is broadening the app’s reach under the Nintendo Store title, launching it in areas like Brazil, Canada, Mexico, the UK, the US, and much of Europe.
As per the app’s current description in the App Store, users can browse and buy consoles and accessories, in addition to digital games and merchandise. They can also check in at official Nintendo stores and events to collect rewards.
Nintendo mentions that hardware availability might differ by region and that users can log in with their Nintendo Accounts for a more customized experience, including access to their gaming activity.
Here’s Nintendo’s complete description of what users can look forward to doing in the app:
– **Shop at My Nintendo Store:** This app allows you to browse Nintendo Switch™ 2 / Nintendo Switch systems and accessories, both physical and digital games, as well as other Nintendo products and merchandise—and then head straight to My Nintendo™ Store to make purchases. Note: Physical products may not be offered in all countries/regions.
– **Get the newest updates on games:** Keep informed with the latest news regarding Nintendo games, events, and additional content!
– **Receive alerts about sales:** Enable push notifications for when items on your Wish List are on sale.
– **Review your gaming activity:** Log in with your Nintendo Account to check your Nintendo Switch 2 / Nintendo Switch gaming activity. If you owned a Nintendo 3DS™ or Wii U™ system, you can see your gaming activity recorded before February 2020. Note: To access your Nintendo 3DS and Wii U gaming activity, you must link your Nintendo Network ID (NNID) to your Nintendo Account.
– **Check in at events:** Utilize the app to check in at official Nintendo stores and events and earn related rewards! Your check-in activity will also be available within the app.
The Nintendo Store app is available for iPhone and iPad.
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Qualcomm Announces Notable Revenue Growth Fueled by AI Sales
The corporation anticipates a robust first quarter, supported by remarkable financial outcomes from the prior fiscal year. Qualcomm announced a 10% rise in revenue for FY Q4, achieving $11.3 billion, primarily fueled by its QCT segment. The Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset designed for premium Android smartphones significantly enhanced headset sales, which climbed by 14% to almost $7 billion. Furthermore, the Automotive and IoT divisions experienced revenue increases of 17% and 7%, respectively, highlighting the effectiveness of Qualcomm’s diversified approach. CEO Cristiano Amon conveyed enthusiasm about the company’s progress, emphasizing an 18% year-over-year growth in total QCT non-Apple revenues and a 27% surge in combined fiscal year Automotive and IoT revenue. With the rollout of their automated driving stack and expansion into data centers and cutting-edge robotics, Qualcomm is set for ongoing success in the forthcoming quarter.
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iOS 26.2 to Remove Essential iPhone and Apple Watch Functionality in EU, Based on Report
Apple’s continuous attempts to adhere to the EU’s Digital Markets Act (DMA) may soon result in the elimination of a crucial feature for users in Europe. A recent report suggests that with the launch of iOS 26.2, iPhones will no longer have the capability to synchronize Wi-Fi networks to Apple Watches within the EU.
### Wi-Fi Network Synchronization Between iPhone and Apple Watch May Be Turned Off with iOS 26.2 in the EU
Apple has recently revealed that the AirPods Live Translation feature will debut in the EU concurrently with iOS 26.2. This functionality was previously accessible in the US and other areas with iOS 26, but its introduction in Europe was postponed due to further engineering adjustments needed for DMA compliance.
Nevertheless, along with this new feature, it seems that iOS 26.2 will also bring a setback for EU users. Apple has communicated to the French outlet Numerama that the capability to sync Wi-Fi information between an iPhone and an Apple Watch will be disabled in Europe due to the stipulations of the DMA.
Apple’s choice arises from the European Commission’s demand to make the iPhone’s Wi-Fi accessible to third-party accessories by the end of 2025. If Apple does not turn off Wi-Fi syncing, it would have to permit third-party devices access to Wi-Fi networks, which the company regards as a potential threat to user privacy.
### Privacy Issues and Adherence to DMA
Apple has raised concerns about the European Commission’s request, stating that permitting the sharing of Wi-Fi connection histories with external parties could jeopardize user security. For instance, a rival like Meta could possibly monitor users’ whereabouts and behaviors via their Wi-Fi connections, resulting in targeted ads based on their location.
The European Commission’s mandate would require Apple to replicate the connectivity features of the Apple Watch with third-party devices. After thorough evaluation, Apple decided to deactivate the Wi-Fi syncing capability on the Apple Watch in Europe to comply with the DMA while upholding its privacy principles.
### User Experience Effects
The specific ramifications for Apple Watch users after the iOS 26.2 update are still uncertain. Reports indicate that the feature might remain functioning when the paired iPhone is in range, but complications could emerge when the iPhone is outside of range. However, Apple has not yet offered comprehensive details on how this modification will affect user experience.
### Conclusion
As Apple maneuvers through the intricacies of adhering to the EU’s DMA, the choice to disable Wi-Fi syncing between iPhones and Apple Watches in Europe underscores the ongoing conflict between regulatory demands and user privacy. The impending changes in iOS 26.2 will signify a notable transformation for users in the EU, raising concerns about the future of device compatibility and user experience in the region.
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Apple Pursues Compensation of $540,000 Following Dismissal of Successful Lawsuit
**Apple and Amazon Pursue Reimbursement for Legal Fees After Price-Fixing Lawsuit Dismissal**
In September 2023, Apple and Amazon were exonerated from accusations in a price-fixing lawsuit linked to iPhones and iPads. The lawsuit, filed in 2022 by the law firm Hagens Berman on behalf of plaintiff Steven Floyd, alleged that the companies engaged in anticompetitive conduct aimed at reducing the number of resellers for these devices on Amazon’s platform. U.S. District Judge Kymberly Evanson dismissed the case, noting that Floyd’s departure from the case was marred by miscommunication from his legal representatives about his availability.
In the wake of the dismissal, Apple and Amazon submitted a petition to Judge Evanson, requesting reimbursement for legal fees resulting from what they term “well-documented misrepresentations” by Hagens Berman. The companies contend that these misrepresentations not only squandered court resources but also incurred unnecessary costs for them. Their filing cites Supreme Court precedents that permit the awarding of fees when attorneys behave in bad faith.
Specifically, Apple is asking for $540,000 in fees, while Amazon is requesting $1.4 million. A representative for Hagens Berman, Steve Berman, has indicated that the firms will “vigorously” oppose the fee request, claiming that the companies are not entitled to such reimbursements.
This legal dispute underscores ongoing tensions within the tech sector regarding competition and pricing strategies, as well as the intricacies involved in class action lawsuits. As the case unfolds, it will be imperative to track the developments and consequences for both companies and the wider market.
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New AirPods Configuration in iOS 26 Tackles Frequent Bluetooth Problems
### iOS 26 Unveils ‘Keep Audio with Headphones’ Functionality
iOS 26 comes loaded with fresh features, but one that captures the attention of numerous users is the launch of the ‘Keep Audio with Headphones’ option. This newly introduced feature enables users to stop their AirPods’ audio from being automatically redirected to other Bluetooth speakers, such as in-car entertainment systems.
#### Management of Audio Streaming
If you often utilize AirPods or other Bluetooth headphones, you might have faced the annoyance of your iPhone’s audio unexpectedly shifting to a nearby Bluetooth speaker. This can be especially disruptive while enjoying music or podcasts, as the sound abruptly erupts from a speaker instead of your headphones.
Luckily, iOS 26 tackles this problem with a new setting that can be activated effortlessly. Although it defaults to off, users can turn it on to retain control over their audio output.
#### Steps to Activate ‘Keep Audio with Headphones’
To enable this feature on your iPhone running iOS 26, follow these easy instructions:
1. Launch the **Settings** app.
2. Tap on **General**.
3. Choose **AirPlay & Continuity**.
4. Switch on **Keep Audio with Headphones**.
This setting guarantees that when utilizing AirPods or other wireless headphones, your audio will stay with the headphones even if other devices, like speakers or vehicles, connect to your iPhone.
#### Apple’s Explanation of the Feature
Apple defines this feature as a means to maintain audio with headphones when other devices pair with your iPhone. This simple yet effective solution resolves a long-standing problem for many users seeking uninterrupted listening experiences.
#### User Preferences and Considerations
While some users might enjoy the prior automatic switching behavior, many are likely to embrace this new option. The rollout of ‘Keep Audio with Headphones’ may also align well with the new support for automatic CarPlay switching, offering users greater control over their audio preferences.
#### Summary
The ‘Keep Audio with Headphones’ feature in iOS 26 is a significant enhancement for AirPods users, granting them the ability to preserve their audio experience without unforeseen disruptions. This setting gives users the power to decide how their iPhones interact with surrounding devices, improving overall usability and satisfaction. Will you turn on this new feature for your AirPods?
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The ‘Super Predator’ That Inspires Greater Fear in Animals Than Lions
Current Biology featured an article titled “The fear of the human ‘super predator’ pervades the South African savanna.”
Interestingly, the research indicated that it wasn’t the sounds of barking dogs or gunfire that frightened the animals the most. Instead, it was the mere sound of human dialogue. This noise instilled fear even in species typically seen as threats to humans, such as leopards, hyenas, and warthogs. The researchers surmised that the mere presence of humans intimidates wildlife. This situation adversely affects the African wildlife tourism sector and contributes to a decline in animal populations. There are justifiable reasons for the animals’ fear—we are one of the main factors contributing to species extinction—but there might be a way to channel this fear to aid in the conservation of certain species.
The apprehension of humans compared to lions
Apple and Google Discuss $1 Billion Deal for Tailored Gemini Model to Improve Siri
Bloomberg’s article on the subject reveals that Apple is negotiating to potentially invest this amount for access to an “ultrapowerful 1.2 trillion parameter artificial intelligence model.” This new model would enhance the company’s forthcoming Siri overhaul, aimed at making the Apple assistant even more proficient.
A new Siri powered by Gemini
Top 4 Most Suggested USB-C Hubs and Docks for Steam Deck Owners
accessing non-Steam titles using a variety of tools. It can also function as a practical desktop PC through Desktop Mode, enabling the use of a physical keyboard like the sleek and modern Keychron K3. However, to maximize the potential of your device, you will want to acquire a dedicated hub or dock.
These USB-C accessories will significantly enhance your Steam Deck experience. They frequently allow for video output to a display, provide additional ports for connecting a mouse and keyboard, and even include ethernet support for a more reliable internet connection. A hub or dock for the Steam Deck can be a vital resource to give you many more ways to enjoy gaming as you prefer.
Valve has its own Steam Deck dock that is quite robust, but many consider it pricey for its features. If you visit Amazon, you’ll discover a wide range of hubs and docks that work perfectly with the Steam Deck, often at less than half the price of Valve’s option. Yet, not every hub and dock is equal, so we have compiled and spotlighted some of the top-rated options based on feedback from Amazon reviewers.
Anker Steam Deck Dock
Anker is a prominent name in the accessory industry. If you require an electronic accessory, there’s a good chance Anker has what you need. The <a href="https://r.bttn.io?btn_ref=org-225e4e0aac880b8f&btn_url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2FAnker-Charging-Station-Steam-Ethernet%2Fdp%2FB0CS6BWL4Q%2Fref%3Dsr_1_7%3Fcrid%3D3IQFQ3
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