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Apple’s Launch of Foldable iPad Pushed Back to 2029 Because of Elevated Expenses

an iPhone Fold smartphone expected to debut in 2026, alongside an iPhone Flip clamshell said to arrive in 2028, and a foldable iPad that could be introduced as early as 2029. This timeline may seem unusual to those closely following Apple rumors, but it aligns with claims from two distinct reports this week. Initially, Kim Ki-hyun, director of the market research company Stone Partners, shared insights at the ETNews Tech Summit in Korea and mentioned that the foldable tablet had been postponed until after 2029. While Kim did not disclose many specifics about the gadget, he noted that the foldable iPad would incorporate an LTPO+ OLED display. Following this, Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman provided a report indicating that the launch of the foldable iPad had been pushed to 2029, attributing this to development obstacles faced by Apple.

In early September, analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, recognized for his accurate forecasts regarding unreleased Apple devices, mentioned that the foldable iPad might see a release in 2028. Gurman indicated that Apple’s latest plan targeted a 2028 launch, but this is now deemed unachievable. The company has encountered various engineering difficulties related to the device’s weight, display technology, and additional features. The tablet-laptop hybrid is expected to debut in 2029 or later, provided Apple does not decide to abandon the project. Bloomberg also highlights that some individuals connected to the initiative are uncertain about the eventual release of the foldable iPad. Apple has a history of discontinuing products that no longer seem viable, as evident with the Apple Car and the more affordable, lightweight Vision Pro.

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Steps for Removing Microsoft Copilot from Windows 11

Microsoft’s internal AI systems that facilitate interaction with the PC through text or voice, along with guided assistance from Copilot, and the capability to perform actions on a user’s behalf — akin to an agent-like AI. Although Microsoft matches the progress made by Google, Opera, OpenAI, and numerous others over recent years, not every Windows PC user desires their computer to become an AI-driven device. This may be due to a preference for choosing when to utilize AI or a lack of trust in the technology at this stage.

Naturally, Microsoft has had to reassess its strategy regarding various AI functionalities, having postponed the launch of its Recall feature due to privacy issues a few years back, as Windows was continuously capturing screenshots of the user’s display. However, if you’re hesitant about allowing Copilot to manage your Windows 11 PC, here’s how to disable it.

Transform your AI PC into a completely functional Windows PC

Android 16 Beta 3.1 Launched for Android Users Featuring Bootloader Resolution

Google has promptly addressed a bootloop problem impacting testers of Android 16 QPR2 Beta 3 by releasing a 3.1 patch. This update seeks to fix the “failed to load” issues that numerous Pixel users faced. The patch is being made available to all qualifying devices, with designated versions for Pixel 6, 6 Pro, and 6a. For users who continue to face difficulties, Google has outlined several remedies, including allowing the device to recover, activating USB debugging, or applying the update through Recovery mode. The bootloop issue surfaced shortly after the comprehensive QPR2 Beta 3 update, which brought new features such as app shortcut buttons and updates to Live Caption. Google swiftly tackled the issue by pausing the initial rollout and developing a remedy. Initial reports indicate that the patch effectively resolves the problem.

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AI Sports Eyewear Rise as Robust Contenders to Oakley’s Meta Vanguard

The $379 BleeqUp Ranger is loaded with impressive technology and is built for outdoor use. Sports eyewear is undergoing an AI transformation, and BleeqUp has emerged as a new player making noteworthy strides in this space. The brand launched the Ranger earlier this year, targeting cycling enthusiasts while proving equally effective for various outdoor pursuits. Marketed as a 4-in-1 smart sunglasses, they can record video, provide built-in audio, function as a walkie-talkie, and accommodate prescription lenses.

I’ve been using these glasses for nearly six months, with intensive use over the last two months during outdoor workouts, and they’ve performed remarkably well. Priced at $379, they offer a significant saving compared to Meta’s similar product. I primarily used them with my iPhone 17 Pro, and BleeqUp also offers an Android app that lets you connect the glasses to virtually any smartphone.

Starting with the design; the Ranger is lightweight at just 49g, comparable to standard sunglasses. It isn’t overly bulky, and I appreciate BleeqUp’s design choices. One major concern with smart wearables is their appearance, but the Ranger closely resembles conventional sunglasses at first glance.

The frames are made from plastic, and I encountered no issues with their construction or fit. I received the standard orange lenses, but they can be upgraded to Zeiss lenses for an extra $20, which I recommend. All lenses provide UV400 protection, and after daily use, I noticed no scratches.

The Ranger features onboard controls for capturing images and videos, and adjusting music playback is straightforward. Charging occurs by connecting the pogo pins to the supplied cable, and the glasses boast a 260mAh battery, offering an hour of video recording or up to six hours of music playtime, which is acceptable.

BleeqUp includes a hard-shell carrying case with the glasses, primarily to keep the charging cable secure. With 32GB of internal storage, you can record up to five hours of video, powered by a custom Qualcomm Snapdragon W5 platform.

They capture 16MP photos and 1080p video at 30fps, although the image quality doesn’t rival that of my DJI Osmo Action 5 Pro; these glasses aren’t meant to compete with specialized action cameras. They aim to provide all-in-one sunglasses capable of shooting footage, and they succeed reasonably well in that regard.

I appreciate the inclusion of EIS, and the app automatically generates highlights from the captured content. However, connecting to the app was occasionally challenging, requiring several attempts to transfer data to my phone outdoors. Aside from that, I didn’t encounter many problems.

Regarding audio, the Ranger is equipped with xMEMS solid-state audio drivers, which is quite intriguing. I’ve tested several earbuds featuring xMEMS drivers, and they produce quality sound while conserving space compared to traditional audio drivers. The open-ear design provides good sound quality while allowing ambient noises to be heard.

In summary, the Ranger is an excellent option for any outdoor event, and its integrated design makes it a solid pick for those seeking sunglasses with added functionality.

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HBO Max Raises Subscription Rates for All Plans

Alterations are imminent.

(Image credit: HBO Max)

Essential information

  • HBO Max implemented a price increase today (Oct 21), which has already taken effect for new subscribers.
  • The provider’s three options, Basic with advertisements, Standard, and Premium, have escalated to $19.99, $18.49, and $22.99, respectively.
  • In 2024, when it was just Max, the platform enhanced prices for its basic offerings and annual subscriptions.

Notice

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Netflix’s Ad Revenue Anticipated to Increase Twofold in 2023

For many years, senior Netflix officials asserted that the platform would remain ad-free. Yet, in the rapid-paced realms of technology and entertainment, adjusting company policies as needed is essential. Thus, while numerous individuals were skeptical about Netflix’s choice to offer an ad-supported option, it has proven to be a wise business strategy. In its earnings call yesterday, Netflix revealed that ad revenue on the platform reached a record high in the recent quarter.

Moreover, if the current trajectory persists, Netflix co-CEO Greg Peters indicated that this year’s ad revenue could potentially double what it was in 2024. Additionally, Peters noted that the volume of ad agreements with corporate clients is increasing, resulting in a surge in ad revenue as the streaming platform expands its options for ad purchases and performance metrics. Peters also mentioned that later this year, Netflix will roll out interactive ads and try out various ad formats. Revenue for the September quarter stood at $11.5 billion, reflecting a remarkable 17% rise compared to the previous year.

Netflix’s demonstrated capability to recognize its mistakes

Samsung Introduces $1,800 Galaxy XR Headset to Rival Apple’s Vision Pro

Samsung’s Galaxy XR Merges AI and Immersion to Transform How We Work and Engage

Samsung is officially diving into extended reality (XR) with the introduction of Galaxy XR, its inaugural AI-native headset and the first product for the Android XR ecosystem. Unveiled today, this device initiates a broad collaboration between Samsung, Google, and Qualcomm to integrate artificial intelligence with immersive computing, a strategy that could revolutionize how individuals work, engage, and navigate digital environments.

At its essence, the Galaxy XR operates on Android XR, a novel platform co-created by the three technology leaders, featuring Google’s Gemini AI embedded within. This signifies that it’s not merely a headset operating Android applications but also an AI-enabled gadget that comprehends your environment, interacts intuitively through voice, vision, and gestures, and assists you in managing tasks in a human-like manner. Envision it as a spatial computing companion that doesn’t just follow commands but perceives what you perceive and responds in kind.

Samsung refers to the Galaxy XR as the inaugural stage in its XR journey, with additional form factors — including AI glasses — already in development. The headset’s design prioritizes comfort for extended use, utilizing lightweight materials, a well-balanced frame, and a detachable light shield. The battery pack is separate, contributing to a lighter experience on the head while providing up to 2.5 hours of usage on a single charge.

Internally, it operates on Qualcomm’s Snapdragon XR2+ Gen 2 platform, featuring 16GB of RAM and a Micro-OLED display presenting 29 million pixels at rates of up to 90Hz. The visuals are described as sharp, fully immersive, and complemented by a rich audio experience from a dual-speaker arrangement. It also precisely tracks your head, hands, and eyes through a combination of cameras and sensors.

Your Favorite Android Applications, Reimagined in 3D

Right out of the box, Galaxy XR accommodates familiar Android experiences in a 3D form — Google Maps, YouTube, Google Photos, and even Circle to Search — all tailored for the new platform. You can navigate urban landscapes in 3D, delve into YouTube videos with real-time AI assistance, or simply draw a circle in the air to recognize objects around you. The new Media Auto Spatialization from Google Photos adds dimension to your 2D images and videos.

The headset also serves as a personal cinema, allowing you to stream in 4K, watch multiple sports events simultaneously, or engage in AI-enhanced XR gaming where Gemini offers coaching and game strategy insights. For creators, tools like Adobe’s Project Pulsar simplify 3D editing and cinematic layering to be straightforward and user-friendly.

From Play to Productivity: XR Enters the Enterprise Arena

Samsung is not limiting its focus to consumer use. The company is also extending Galaxy XR into the enterprise sector, partnering with entities like Samsung Heavy Industries to utilize it for virtual shipbuilding training. Moreover, it is collaborating with Qualcomm’s Snapdragon Spaces ecosystem to assist developers in realizing XR business applications.

And if the headset doesn’t appear futuristic enough, Samsung is also hinting at forthcoming AI glasses created in collaboration with Warby Parker and Gentle Monster, fusing smart technology with luxury fashion.

The Galaxy XR will be available starting October 21, 2025, for $1,800, through samsung.com and Samsung Experience Stores. Optional accessories like the Galaxy XR Controller and Travel Case will retail for $250 each. Early adopters will receive The Explorer Pack, a bundle worth over $1,000, which includes a year-long subscription to Google AI Pro, YouTube Premium, Google Play Pass, and an assortment of premium XR content.

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Samsung Introduces Fresh Rival to Ray-Ban Meta

Samsung is making significant progress in the smart glasses sector by teaming up with Gentle Monster and Warby Parker, two brands that are recognized for their cutting-edge eyewear designs. Both companies are employing distinctive strategies to incorporate smart technology into their offerings, while Samsung supplies the technological foundation.

Gentle Monster is concentrating on style-driven designs that include AI-native technology, striving to merge aesthetics with practicality. Their eyewear will showcase Gemini-centric AI functions, enabling users to operate them via voice commands. Furthermore, these glasses are anticipated to come equipped with cameras for capturing first-person views.

In contrast, Warby Parker is capitalizing on its esteemed reputation for providing outstanding customer experiences through elegantly crafted eyewear. Their partnership with Samsung hints at a concentration on developing smart glasses that could feature a display within the lenses, akin to Meta’s Ray-Ban Display Glasses. This collaboration seeks to deliver a smooth fusion of technology and style, potentially presenting a variety of designs that may or may not integrate display functionalities.

Both brands are integral to Samsung’s extensive XR roadmap, which encompasses AI glasses, VR headsets, and more, in partnership with Google. While particular models, pricing, and launch dates remain undisclosed, these collaborations mark a pivotal step by Samsung to compete with established players like Meta in the smart glasses field.

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Samsung’s Galaxy XR Headset: The Cutting-Edge ‘Computer for Your Face’

The Samsung Galaxy XR, driven by the Android XR platform, is set to make a notable impression in the productivity headset arena, overcoming the challenges encountered by earlier models like the Meta Quest Pro. The Galaxy XR, also referred to as Project Moohan, was presented at a recent demonstration event in New York City, where its cutting-edge features and capabilities were showcased.

The Galaxy XR distinguishes itself with outstanding hardware, featuring a comfortable, lightweight design and a remarkable resolution of 3,552 x 3,840 pixels. This top-notch display heightens the immersive experience, positioning it as a formidable player in the VR headset industry. Nevertheless, the real power of the Galaxy XR is found in its software ecosystem, propelled by Google’s Android XR platform.

A key advantage for the Galaxy XR is its vast app support. In contrast to the Meta Quest Pro, which faced challenges with limited app collaborations, the Galaxy XR provides an extensive selection of productivity, gaming, streaming, social, and browsing applications. This varied app ecosystem enables users to interact with numerous applications at once, making the headset ideal for prolonged use.

The incorporation of Google’s Gemini AI further enriches the Galaxy XR experience. Gemini streamlines app navigation, delivers contextual information, and even facilitates personalized interactions in gaming situations. This AI-driven methodology ensures that users can fully leverage the headset’s capabilities across different scenarios.

Samsung’s emphasis on both casual and enterprise applications positions the Galaxy XR as a multipurpose device. From engaging Google Maps tours to corporate training simulations, the headset serves a wide-ranging audience. Moreover, the assurance of compatibility with all Android platform applications guarantees that users can tap into a vast content library from the beginning.

Despite its promise, the Galaxy XR encounters obstacles regarding adoption. The headset’s price of $1,799 may deter some consumers, particularly when viewed as a supplementary device alongside existing gadgets like laptops or tablets. However, for those in search of a comprehensive VR experience with substantial app support and AI integration, the Galaxy XR offers an enticing option.

Samsung’s strategic collaboration with Google and its dedication to creating AI smart glasses reflect a progressive outlook on the XR market. Although the Galaxy XR may not immediately cater to the mass market, its innovative characteristics and extensive app ecosystem establish it as a frontrunner in the productivity headset domain. As Samsung continues to enhance its XR solutions, the Galaxy XR is poised to lead the charge for future advancements in the field.

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Apple Vision Pro Equipped with M5 Chip Produced in Vietnam During Ongoing Supply Chain Shift

**Apple Vision Pro: A New Chapter in Manufacturing in Vietnam**

When the revised Apple Vision Pro debuts in stores tomorrow, it will not just showcase the robust M5 chip and the new Dual Knit Band, but will also bear a noteworthy label alteration: “Product of Vietnam.” This signifies a crucial moment in Apple’s initiative to diversify its supply chain.

### Apple’s Balancing Act Persists

The initial Apple Vision Pro was produced in China, but the revised iteration indicates a transition towards Vietnam for assembly. This choice corresponds with Apple’s sustained efforts to diminish reliance on Chinese manufacturing amidst escalating geopolitical tensions between the U.S. and China. As reported by Bloomberg, while the Vision Pro will carry the label of a product of Vietnam, the Dual Knit Band sold separately will remain produced in China. This dual sourcing illustrates the intricacies of global supply chains and the necessity for adaptability in production.

### Tackling Geopolitical Tensions

Apple’s launch occurs at a vital moment as it encounters pressure from both the U.S. government, which promotes increased domestic manufacturing, and the Chinese government, where Apple holds substantial investments. CEO Tim Cook’s recent trip to China, where he reaffirmed Apple’s dedication to investing in the nation, underscores the delicate equilibrium Apple must uphold in its operations.

Since the beginning of the trade war, Apple has strategically transitioned the production of devices aimed at the U.S. market to countries like Vietnam, India, Thailand, and Malaysia, while still depending significantly on China to meet global demand. The choice to manufacture the Vision Pro in Vietnam may be driven by the headset’s comparatively low production volume and the modest hardware updates in the updated model.

### A Symbolic Transition

The assembly of the Apple Vision Pro (M5) in Vietnam represents a noteworthy advancement in Apple’s broader strategy to diversify its manufacturing capabilities. As the company aims to broaden its range of wearables and head-mounted devices, this move could set the stage for additional production transitions in the future.

In summary, the revised Apple Vision Pro not only highlights technological progress but also signifies a strategic shift in Apple’s manufacturing strategy, reflecting the company’s resilience in a complex global environment.

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