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Android Might Unveil Its Own Take on a More Obscure iPhone Attribute

Apple rolled out NameDrop for the iPhone and Apple Watch with the launch of iOS 17, leaving many users uncertain about this new contact sharing feature. In fact, a large number sought out instructions for disabling NameDrop immediately after it became publicly available, with certain law enforcement agencies even putting out alerts about the option and advising users to deactivate it.

Although these alerts suggest that the feature might present more of a security threat than it actually does, as NameDrop still necessitates user authentication to share information with another device, that has not prevented it from emerging as one of the more overlooked contact sharing tools integrated into the operating system. Now, it seems that Google may be preparing to introduce something similar.

According to a recent APK teardown by Android Authority, Google initially embedded code for a NameDrop-like capability in version 25.44.32 beta of Google Play Services. The blog asserts that it has unearthed snippets of code associated with two functionalities referred to as Gesture Exchange and Contact Exchange. Now, with the rollout of Google Play Services version 25.46.31, the team behind that analysis was able to successfully activate one of the features linked to the new system.

An initial glimpse at Android’s alternative to NameDrop

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Firefox Unveils AI Window for Improved AI-Enhanced Browsing Experience

**Mozilla Unveils AI Window: A New Chapter in AI-Powered Browsing for Firefox**

Yesterday, Mozilla revealed an intriguing new experimental function for its Firefox browser named AI Window. This project is designed to consolidate the browser’s forthcoming AI features, offering users an inventive method to elevate their browsing journey.

### What is AI Window?

In a post on Mozilla’s Distilled blog, Ajit Varma, the VP of Product at Mozilla, characterized AI Window as “a novel, intelligent and user-governed area” within Firefox. This feature enables users to engage with an AI assistant during their browsing experience, providing assistance customized to their preferences. Notably, the feature is entirely optional, meaning users retain complete control over its functionality. If they deem it unhelpful, they can swiftly turn it off.

### User-Focused Strategy

Varma highlighted that although AI can deliver significant support, it may not attract every user consistently. Unlike other browsers that compel users to pick between universal AI integration or none at all, Mozilla is pursuing an alternative approach. The firm is encouraging users to take part in shaping the AI Window, making certain that the development process is guided by genuine user insights.

This “build in the open” tactic is a notable advantage for Mozilla. By involving users from the beginning, the company can sidestep errors and unnecessary duplication of features that have failed in competing browsers.

### How to Participate

Users keen on discovering the possibilities of AI Window can sign up for a waitlist by following [this link](https://www.firefox.com/en-US/ai/). For those wishing to delve further into the specifics, Varma’s complete blog post is accessible

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Revised Manual to My Preferred Discover My Accessories

# The Expanding Ecosystem of Find My Accessories

There is a thriving variety of Find My accessories available today. Each of these tools can enhance your daily life. After all, what could be a better investment than a means to monitor your most valuable belongings?

**Last updated November 14, 2025**: New products from Nomad and Chipolo have been added, and pricing and availability have been updated.

To recap, Find My accessories emit a low-energy Bluetooth signal that can be detected by nearby Apple devices. They do not depend on GPS technology. Instead, the location is transmitted securely and privately to the Find My network. This means that your Find My-enabled item can be located even if you’re far away, as long as there’s someone with an Apple device nearby.

Apple has continually introduced new features to the [Find My network](https://9to5mac.com/2024/11/11/ios-18-2-share-item-location-airtags-feature/), including a new system for sharing item locations.

## AirTag

No list of the best Find My accessories would be complete without mentioning Apple’s AirTags. Equipped with a U1 chip for Precision Finding support, a built-in speaker, and more, AirTags are essential for attaching to your luggage, backpack, keys, and various accessories.

AirTags have also seen significant enhancements since their launch in April 2021. Apple has introduced [new anti-stalking measures](https://9to5mac.com/2022/02/10/apple-announces-airtag-stalking-and-find-my-changes), [improved notification features](https://9to5mac.com/2022/04/29/airtag-firmware-update-enhances-unwanted-tracking-alert/), and other upgrades. You can now even utilize AirTags with your airline to [monitor your luggage](https://9to5mac.com/2025/07/03/airtags-newest-feature-is-perfect-for-travel-heres-how-it-works/).

While AirTags are not without flaws—offering only one form factor, lacking an integrated attachment system, and being nearly four years old—they still serve as an excellent entry point into the Find My ecosystem.

**Purchase AirTags:**

**Top AirTags accessories:**

## Chipolo’s Find My Ecosystem

Though Apple’s AirTag comes in just one design, Chipolo offers a range of trackers that fully integrate with Apple’s Find My ecosystem. This allows you to add them to the Find My app and monitor them alongside your Apple devices.

They also utilize Apple’s Find My network and AirTags to provide the most current location data.

– [Chipolo LOOP](https://geni.us/lF1oJev): An item tracker with an integrated loop holder and a rechargeable battery. The flexible silicone loop makes it easy to attach to keys, backpacks, luggage, and more.

– **[Chipolo One Spot](https://geni.us/uU6XQ)**: An AirTag-like tracker with Find My compatibility, featuring a built-in keyring hole so no additional case or attachment is needed.

## SwitchBot Wallet Finder

My [colleague Benjamin Mayo reviewed](https://9to5mac.com/2025/10/25/review-switchbot-wallet-finder-is-an-incredibly-useful-accessory-to-track-your-wallet-with-iphone-find-my/) the SwitchBot Wallet Finder, describing it as an “incredibly useful accessory for tracking your wallet” using your iPhone and the Find My ecosystem. Designed to fit into your wallet as a credit card, it also has a built-in keyring holder for easy attachment to a lanyard or backpack.

**Purchase the SwitchBot Wallet Finder:**

## Pebblebee’s Find My Ecosystem

Another favored brand for Find My accessories is Pebblebee.

– [The Pebblebee Clip](https://geni.us/hIwB2P2) is a compact tracker resembling the AirTag form but equipped with a keyring holder. It offers up to 12 months of battery life and can be recharged via a USB-C cable.

– Lastly, there’s the

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iOS 26.2: Summary of New Features for iPhone Users

# iOS 26.2: Fresh Features and Improvements

iOS 26.2 is now accessible for beta testing, bringing a variety of fresh features and enhancements for iPhone users. This update aims to improve user experience across numerous applications, such as Apple Podcasts, Reminders, and more. Below is a detailed summary of the new features found in the latest beta version.

## New Features in iOS 26.2

### Reminders
A highlighted addition in iOS 26.2 is the new “Urgent” option in the Reminders app. This functionality enables users to set alarms for tasks designated as urgent, ensuring that crucial tasks aren’t missed.

### Apple Music
The Apple Music app has undergone considerable improvements, especially regarding its lyrics feature. Users can now view lyrics for songs in their library without requiring a Wi-Fi or cellular connection. This encompasses complete lyrics, translations, and beat-by-beat syncing.

### Apple Podcasts
iOS 26.2 brings three significant features to Apple Podcasts:
1. **AI-Generated Chapters**: The app will automatically generate chapters for podcast episodes using AI, while producers can still submit their own chapters.
2. **Podcast Mentions**: When a podcast mentions another show, users can easily access it via a link included in the episode description.

### Sleep Score
The Sleep Score functionality on the Apple Watch has been improved based on user feedback. The classification criteria have been refined, making it more difficult to achieve higher scores. The new levels are:
– Very Low: 0-40 points
– Low: 41-60 points
– OK: 61-80 points
– High: 81-95 points
– Very High: 96-100 points

### Apple News
The Apple News app has experienced design modifications to enhance navigation. Users will discover dedicated buttons for quick access to Sports, Puzzles, Politics, and Food sections. Moreover, a new “Following” tab has been introduced to better manage favorites and saved articles.

### iOS 26.2 EU Changes
For users within the European Union, iOS 26.2 extends the Live Translation feature with AirPods, which had been previously delayed. Nonetheless, it also removes Wi-Fi network syncing between iPhones and Apple Watches due to regulatory standards.

### Liquid Glass
iOS 26.2 upgrades the Liquid Glass feature, allowing users to modify the transparency of the clock on their Lock Screen. The Measure app also received a Liquid Glass design enhancement for its Level tool, accompanied by new animations across the system.

### CarPlay Updates
CarPlay users will enjoy two important updates:
1. The option to disable Pinned Conversations in the Messages app.
2. An increase in widget stacks available for certain vehicles, providing more customization.

### Additional Changes
Other minor modifications in iOS 26.2 include:
– A new “Enhanced Safety Alerts” menu for toggling alerts for earthquakes and imminent dangers.
– Support for tables in the Freeform app.
– An “Excluded Websites” menu in the Passwords app.
– A new Accessibility option for “Flash to Alerts.”
– Upgrades to the Games app, including sorting and filtering capabilities.

## Conclusion
iOS 26.2 is presently in beta testing for developers and public beta users, with a complete release anticipated around mid-December. As testing progresses, more features may be included, and users are encouraged to share feedback about their favorite updates. This release aims to enhance the overall functionality and user experience of iOS devices, marking an exciting advancement for iPhone users.

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Apple’s MLS Agreement Adjusted to End in 2029, Three Years Earlier Than Planned: Report

**Apple-MLS Agreement Undergoing Major Transformations Amid Apple TV Reveal**

Yesterday, Apple unveiled that all matches of Major League Soccer (MLS) would be accessible through an Apple TV subscription without any extra charge. This announcement signifies a major realignment in the relationship between Apple and MLS, which is poised to see several transformations, including an earlier conclusion to their agreement.

As reported by Eben Novy-Williams and Jacob Feldman at Sportico, the streaming collaboration between MLS and Apple will now wrap up three-and-a-half years sooner than the initially anticipated decade-long duration. The adjusted contract arrives as MLS gears up to transition to Apple TV in 2026 and modify its league calendar in the subsequent year.

In line with the updated terms, MLS is set to acquire $200 million for the 2026 season, marking the final one under the existing calendar. For the condensed “sprint” season in 2027, MLS will receive $107.5 million. Following that, the league will garner $275 million for both the 2027-28 and 2028-29 seasons. These particulars were revealed by sources familiar with the agreement, who asked to remain unnamed due to the confidential nature of the information.

Initially, the partnership was intended to span from 2023 to 2032, but the revised contract will now conclude in 2029. The deal encompasses further modifications beyond the adjusted timeline:

– Apple has given up its right to terminate the agreement after the 2027 season.
– The updated terms represent an approximate $50 million increase compared to what MLS would have received under the prior arrangement through June 2029.

Sportico mentions that while MLS could possibly renegotiate a new agreement with Apple in the future, the existing changes provide both organizations with enhanced flexibility. With the 2026 World Cup set to be hosted in the United States, Mexico, and Canada, an upswing in North American interest in MLS is expected, allowing the league to assess its options with more extensive data following the World Cup.

In conclusion, the developing partnership between Apple and MLS showcases a strategic initiative to boost viewership and adapt to the evolving realm of sports broadcasting. The choice to provide all MLS matches free of charge to Apple TV subscribers is likely to enhance engagement, while the modification of the league’s annual schedule may further foster its expansion. As both parties navigate these changes, the prospect for future collaboration remains viable, with 2029 still a considerable time away in the swiftly changing streaming landscape.

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Base Power Unveils Membership-Oriented Electricity Sales Approach Comparable to Costco

partially because of the widespread use of AI — and trust is diminishing, with potential local electrical fluctuations and interruptions. Hence, it stands to reason that backup power is gaining in attractiveness, merely to maintain essential functions. Backup power options present a feasible solution, yet a genuine backup generator that can support a household and family can exceed $15,000. That constitutes a significant initial investment.

Base is working to provide a more attainable and economical option for homeowners, featuring a monthly membership fee of $19, and a leased battery backup system for a singular payment of $695. However, the Base membership rate isn’t fixed. You might incur higher costs depending on fees, services, and other platform options, but overall, it’s still preferable to the exorbitant installation costs of a full-house generator, at least for some consumers. Zach Dell, CEO of Base Power, stated to Fortune that the product is secure and dependable, while a Costco-like subscription is “just significantly more economical.” He characterizes the competition as “premium” providers catering to “very affluent individuals,” in contrast to Base, which aims to deliver solutions for the general population.

Where and when will Base be accessible?

At present, Base Power has rolled out over 100 megawatt-hours of battery capacity in residential zones, with ambitions to establish an initial battery production facility in Austin, Texas. They’ve also indicated plans for a second factory

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16 Essential Meta Quest Game Announcements and Unexpected Releases Accessible Now

Almost half of these titles are available for play today, with a lot to anticipate in the upcoming months.

The holiday season has arrived, bringing along a multitude of new games ready for those unwrapping new consoles hidden beneath the tree, in addition to plenty of options for those of us who already own one. The Meta Quest 3 and Meta Quest 3S are experiencing a significant influx of new titles, and the latest VR Games Showcase recently revealed 20 more announcements that will certainly delight your headset.

However, the VRGS is not the only show in town; several developers have also stealthily released new trailers and announcements for upcoming games that you simply cannot miss. Here’s everything I’ve carefully selected below!

Available now!

You can catch the complete VR Games Showcase above, which includes the announcements I have compiled here along with a multitude of others, but let’s first explore the games available to play right now before we dive into the wishlist items. I will provide links to each trailer and store listing below so you can experience the games without delay!

Vampire Survivors but it’s in virtual reality (trailer) (Meta store link): This one caught me by surprise! Vampire Survivors transitions to pseudo-3D with this exclusive VR version, featuring all the massive hordes you’ve come to know in the iconic game, now with the uniquely immersive experience of a diorama.

Hotel Infinity (trailer) (Meta store link): Set aside a 2m by 2m square space of your physical floor and get ready to explore Hotel Infinity as if you were Tanjiro entering the Infinity Castle. The environment consistently shifts and transforms as you physically navigate through it, showcasing MC Escher-style impossible architecture that will continually amaze you. It’s an ideal representation of the capabilities of VR.

Glassbreakers: Champions of Moss (trailer) (Meta store link): I don’t have much knowledge about MOBAs and have never played DOTA, but this Moss offshoot has piqued my interest. It’s a real-time strategy game resembling a mix between Demeo Battles and classic board games like Catan, and its quick battle format makes it perfect for an engaging weeknight VR session.

Syberia VR (trailer) (Meta store link): The classic point-and-click adventure game from the early 2000s has just been remastered and is fully playable in VR on the Meta Quest. I adored this game in my high school years and am excited to experience the entire journey again from a new viewpoint!

EXOSHOCK (trailer) (Meta store link): There are plenty of VR shooters available, but occasionally one emerges that distinguishes itself from the crowd. This co-op PvE sci-fi squad shooter aims to redefine teamwork among friends with unique combat mechanics and a memorable art style. Give the alpha client a try by joining the Discord now.

Banners & Bastions (trailer) (Meta store link): I previously played Banners & Bastions during its early access phase, and now a significant update introduces loads of new content, including major UX enhancements, controller compatibility, new bosses and adversaries, and more! It’s a fast-paced strategy puzzle game you’ve got to experience!

Dimensional Double Shift (trailer) (Meta store link): The creators of Job Simulator have taken the well-established formula and incorporated multiplayer, encouraging teammates to collaborate for high scores while fulfilling orders, repairing cars, and exploring the uniqueness of each dimension. The New Joysey dimension recently launched on Meta Quest, and the game will also be available on Galaxy XR starting December 11.

Coming soon

Star Trek: Infection: This sci-fi horror title offers a notably different perspective on what I would typically expect from a Star Trek game, but perhaps that’s what makes it so captivating! We anticipate this one to debut before the year concludes.

Deadly Delivery (trailer): Have you ever pondered how all those creatures inhabit dungeons in the age of Amazon and Door Dash? Deadly Delivery provides the answer by allowing you and three friends to dress as goblins and deliver packages to the dungeon inhabitants. But beware, as these dungeons come equipped with numerous traps and hostile residents. Set to release on December 4.

How To God (trailer): Ever played Black & White on the PC in the 2000s? How to God places players in control of a world, granting them divine powers and a giant creature that may or may not heed their commands. It’s a virtual pet simulation combined with a Civilization-style world builder! I tried it in early access, and now it is launching for everyone on December 4.

Men in Black (trailer): Talk about a surprise release! From the developers of Jurassic World Aftermath and Augmented Empire comes a game that places you directly in the literal shoes of the famous Men in Black. It’s characterized as a stealth action game providing you with access to countless gadgets and the mission to eliminate

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Save More Than 20% on Hulu’s Streaming Package by Transitioning from YouTube TV

Who needs Black Friday when streaming offers are already this impressive?

(Image credit: Jay Bonggolto / Android Central)

The season for Black Friday streaming offers is upon us, but there’s no need to wait until November 28th to seize one of Hulu’s top deals. Register for the Hulu with Live TV, Disney Plus, and ESPN+ package before November 18th and you will receive a 20% discount on your first three months of streaming. That date is just around the corner, so if you’re interested, don’t delay!

This Black Friday streaming offer emerges during a well-publicized dispute between Disney Plus and YouTube TV. The Google-managed live TV platform recently lost access to several Disney channels due to the ongoing conflict, and as talks progress, the abrupt removal of ABC and ESPN content has prompted many users to abandon YouTube TV entirely.

Luckily for users (and unfortunately for YouTube), Hulu has come to the rescue with this package deal, ensuring you won’t miss anything. Hulu with Live TV provides immediate access to 95 live channels – comprising local news, ESPN sports, and cable networks like NBC, Paramount, and Discovery – along with regular streaming content from Hulu, Disney Plus (with advertisements), and ESPN Select.

Of course, a resolution between Disney and YouTube TV is expected to occur eventually, so if you’d prefer to stick with your current service, it’s worth noting that YouTube is providing a $20 credit as a form of apology. However, if you’re tired of corporate executives interfering with your beloved live programming – after all, they did disrupt Monday Night Football – there are numerous streaming alternatives to explore. The Hulu discount mentioned earlier is just the cherry on top.

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iPhone Progression: Advancing Past Steve Jobs’ Product Approach and Foreseeing Upcoming Developments

Apple’s Expanding iPhone Portfolio: Addressing Early Challenges

Apple Inc. has experienced considerable change since the death of its co-founder, Steve Jobs. The company has broadened its iPhone portfolio to cater to a varied and expanding user demographic, yet this diversification has resulted in some initial difficulties.

### Recent Changes to Apple’s iPhone Offerings

Over the past year, Apple has implemented significant modifications to its iPhone lineup:

– The iPhone SE has been phased out and succeeded by the iPhone 16e, which is positioned at a higher price tier with expectations for yearly updates.
– The iPhone Plus has been discontinued as well, paving the path for the new iPhone Air, which offers a distinct set of features and benefits.
– The iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max have been upgraded with a more distinguished ‘Pro’ identity, featuring sturdier designs and enhanced camera capabilities.

Even with the rollout of these new models, the response has been varied. The iPhone 17 Pro seems to be performing well in terms of sales, while both the iPhone Air and iPhone 16e are reportedly encountering difficulties in the marketplace.

### Reflecting on Steve Jobs’ Product Philosophy

Steve Jobs was recognized for his focus on simplicity within product lines. Upon returning to Apple, he established a 2×2 product matrix to streamline the company’s offerings. This framework sorted products into consumer and professional categories, which aided in maintaining clarity for customers.

Traditionally, the iPhone lineup adhered to a similar format, including two consumer models (iPhone and iPhone Plus) and two professional models (iPhone Pro and Pro Max), with the iPhone SE acting as an affordable alternative. However, the recent adjustments have added complexity that strays from this usual structure.

### The Prospective Future of Apple’s iPhone Lineup

Looking forward, Apple is poised to launch six flagship iPhones within the next 18 months:

– iPhone 18e
– iPhone 18
– iPhone Air 2
– iPhone 18 Pro
– iPhone 18 Pro Max
– iPhone Fold

This broadened lineup offers both possibilities and hurdles for Apple. While it strives to meet the diverse needs of its user base, the intricacy of the offerings may bewilder consumers.

### Conclusion

Apple’s efforts to diversify its iPhone lineup illustrate its growth and the necessity to appeal to a wider audience. Nonetheless, the early challenges faced by the iPhone Air and iPhone 16e indicate that the company might need to refine its approach. As Apple navigates these initial hurdles, the emphasis will be on effectively distinguishing each product while preserving the simplicity that defined Jobs’ vision. The future of the iPhone lineup may call for patience and flexibility as Apple continues to progress in a competitive landscape.

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SwitchBot Unveils New Matter Lighting Collection with Integrated HomeKit Support, Hub-Free

SwitchBot is expanding its collection of smart home products, introducing an exciting new lighting series that operates with Matter over Wi-Fi. This allows you to link lights straight to HomeKit without the need for a hub or bridge (aside from an Apple TV or HomePod). The latest offerings from SwitchBot feature new RGBIC lights, a versatile neon rope light, and even a candle warmer lamp that can harmonize with your existing HomeKit scenes and automation. SwitchBot has had a successful run in 2025, launching several new products that integrate seamlessly with HomeKit.

### SwitchBot RGBIC Light Series

The RGBIC series consists of a floor lamp, strip light, and a neon rope light. Each device allows for complete color control through HomeKit once onboarded via Matter over Wi-Fi. The RGBIC lights can showcase multiple colors simultaneously, ideal for mood lighting, TV backlighting, or festive displays. SwitchBot has introduced support for both RGB colors and adjustable warm and cool white shades, giving you the ability to switch from vibrant scenes to standard lighting as desired. The strip light has an IP44 rating for light outdoor use, making it appropriate for covered outdoor spaces.

### SwitchBot RGB Light Series

For those seeking more straightforward lighting, the RGB series features the Floor Lamp 3 and LED Strip Light 3. These models forego segmented color control but offer adjustable brightness, 16 preset modes, and five dynamic effects. They function similarly to the RGBIC variants in HomeKit, allowing automation, Siri control, and color adjustments directly from the Home app.

### SwitchBot Neon Rope Light

Currently available only in North America, the neon rope light stands out as one of the more imaginative options in the range. You can shape it around furniture, shelves, or signage to provide personalized accent lighting. With its Matter support, you can adjust color and brightness straight from the Home app or incorporate it into your HomeKit scenes/automations. It’s flexible, simple to set up, and brings a playful touch to any space.

### SwitchBot Candle Warmer Lamp

The candle warmer lamp is the most distinctive item in the new collection and among the first of its type to support Matter over Wi-Fi. Rather than using a flame, it warms your candle with light, creating the same cozy ambiance without fire or smoke. Thanks to its Matter compatibility, you can manage it via the Home app and include it in your HomeKit scenes/automations. Picture saying, “Hey Siri, set the evening scene,” and having your lights dim and the candle warmer illuminate.

### Matter and HomeKit Support

What sets this lighting series apart is that all products connect directly to HomeKit via Matter over Wi-Fi. No need for a SwitchBot Hub or extra bridge. Simply plug them in, launch the Home app, scan the Matter code, and you’re good to go. Within moments, you can assign them to rooms, rename them, and add them to your existing HomeKit scenes or automations.

Since these lights utilize Wi-Fi instead of Thread, they don’t depend on a mesh network or require a separate border router. For many users, this is a significant advantage, as Wi-Fi coverage is readily available in most households. Matter offers the same benefits of privacy, local control, and support for multiple platforms.

For HomeKit users, daily interaction feels just like using any other native accessory. You can alter colors, fine-tune brightness, and incorporate the lights into automations, such as turning everything on at sunset or off when you leave your home.

### Wrap Up

SwitchBot continues to demonstrate its understanding of what smart home users truly seek: products that integrate with Matter and need no complicated setup. This new Matter over Wi-Fi lighting series satisfies both criteria. You receive native HomeKit control and adaptable options suitable for almost any environment or style. It’s encouraging to see SwitchBot consistently enhance its ecosystem with additional Matter support. Each new release makes the platform feel increasingly open and a lot more enjoyable to use.

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