5 Suggestions for Discovering the Top Android Offers on Prime Day: A Resource for Authentic Tech Savings
Prime Day can be hectic; this guide is intended to assist.
Skip to:
Three Netflix Releases You Can’t Miss Next Week
As the calendar turns to July, Netflix is swiftly releasing some of its most talked-about offerings for the summer.
Whether you’re seeking a dose of real-world corporate intrigue, thrilling supernatural exploits, or dark fantasy with an ethereal twist, next week’s lineup has something for everyone. In this article, we will provide a summary of three noteworthy titles debuting on the platform that certainly merit a place on your watchlist — and they encompass a new docuseries, a sequel to a beloved Netflix original film, and the concluding season of a cult classic Netflix original series.
We will begin with an upcoming documentary film I previewed in a different post, as it happens to be one of five documentaries with the Trainwreck label coming to Netflix in July.
Readers who have been around for a while will not need reminding, but it is hard to emphasize just how significant American Apparel was in the mid-2000s. Renowned for its sexually suggestive advertisements, the brand became a giant in fashion retail partly through its shocking marketing — while its internal operations were quite chaotic.
Directed by Sally Rose Griffiths, Trainwreck: The Cult of American Apparel explores the tumultuous ascent and decline of the company from the perspective of those who truly experienced that downfall. Central to the narrative is founder Dov Charney, a contentious figure accused of fostering a toxic, cult-like environment. Anticipate behind-the-scenes insights, unsettling accusations, and an abundance of black-and-white images that might leave you questioning what we were all thinking at that time.
The undying mercenaries are returning.
After breaking into the Netflix Top 10 in 2020, The Old Guard emerged as an unexpected summer sensation. The sequel is finally here, bringing back Charlize Theron as Andy, the once-immortal fighter now confronting her own mortality. With old betrayals still lingering, including Quynh’s desire for revenge, the team encounters a mysterious new threat that could reveal their existence and dismantle centuries of secrecy.
Directed by Victoria Mahoney, The Old Guard 2 raises the stakes with international backdrops, emotionally charged action sequences, and new cast members Uma Thurman and Henry Golding. As co-creator Greg Rucka mentioned in an interview with Netflix’s Tudum, “What I find most intriguing about these immortal characters is that fundamentally, they all face the same questions we do: ‘What am I doing here? What is the purpose of my life?’” Ultimately, this sequel promises more intense battles and fresh locations, with both a director and star focused on captivating and astonishing us.
The Sandman: Season 2, Volume 1 (Streaming July 3)
Neil Gaiman’s The Sandman makes a return with the first half of its second and final season, continuing the story of Morpheus, the Lord of Dreams. Volume 1 resumes just weeks after the Season 1 conclusion, with Dream (Tom Sturridge) in the process of reconstructing his realm while attempting to move on from the past. However, in the realm of The Sandman, the past rarely remains concealed.
Read More
“Google Photos’ ‘Ask Photos’ Function Provides Quicker Outcomes, Decreasing Wait Times for Gemini”
The organization is also broadening the feature’s availability to additional users beyond the early access phase.
Key points to consider
- Google has unveiled an enhancement for Photos that accelerates its Ask Photos feature for general/basic inquiries.
- Now, when inquiring about broad terms like “beaches” or “dogs,” Ask Photos will prioritize showing relevant outcomes while Gemini works to provide more detailed responses.
- Ask Photos started its early access period in September 2024, but a recent update from earlier this year revamped its Gemini chat interface.
Google is gearing up to broaden its AI image search on Android; however, the feature is gaining speed for results in its recent update.
The firm emphasized a forthcoming update for Ask Photos, its AI-driven search feature in Google Photos, in a blog post focusing on keywords. Specifically, Google mentions it’s tackling a significant issue that users have expressed in feedback regarding how “sluggish” Ask Photos can be in delivering results. However, this appears to be limited to the AI’s capability to handle inquiries about general/broad topics such as “beaches” and “dogs,” according to Google.
The update that begins to roll out this week should significantly enhance the speed of Ask Photos in providing answers, yet the AI will not stop there.
One UI 8 Beta Unveils Dynamic Lock Screen Functionality with Image Morphing
Samsung is said to be enhancing customization options, allowing us to truly personalize our phones.
What you need to know:
– The recent One UI 8 beta from Samsung supposedly highlighted new lock screen customization features in its “What’s New” splash screen.
– The software hints at a lock screen that “adapts to your photos,” enabling the clock to adjust around people and pets on your lock screen.
– One UI 8’s beta was released for the Galaxy S25 series in late May, with Beta 2 arriving earlier in June, and speculation suggests the software could launch in July.
Some social media clips have reportedly showcased a new feature for your One UI lock screen in the upcoming OS. As mentioned by tipster X Toprak, the latest One UI 8 beta for the Galaxy S25 Ultra revealed an addition to lock screen customization in its “What’s New” page (via Android Authority). The splash page introduced a feature for “trying a lock screen clock that adapts to your photos.” As users scroll through these new features, Samsung’s video clip illustrates how the clock morphs around elements in your selected photo.
In the clip shared by the tipster, the clock can identify and adjust around a person’s head or other aspects of your photo for a more contemporary, artistic look on your lock screen. In the beta, Samsung mentions that this new clock functionality “interacts with people and animals.”
This change to the lock screen gives the clock a distinctive font while morphing. Depending on the angle or curve in a photo, the clock can elongate or expand to fit seamlessly alongside it. The publication also references notable tipster Ice Universe, who noted a key aspect: this stylistic feature functions only when the lock screen is completely active.
When using Samsung’s AOD (always-on display), the morphing features of the clock remain static; however, when the lock screen is fully activated, it will adjust around the photo as anticipated.
One UI 8 has plenty in store:
One UI 8 finally arrived for the Galaxy S25 series at the end of May. The initial beta included numerous enhancements compared to what users experienced in One UI 7. The beta already demonstrated improvements for the Now Bar and Now Brief, offering more personalized insights and suggestions for everyday tasks. Auracast is enhancing audio connections via QR code scanning. Additionally, in One UI 8’s beta, users can connect with multiple Auracast devices.
Several other apps, such as the Reminders app and the Calendar, have also received updates.
In a related note, Samsung’s Gallery app was observed with a new feature: “Private Album.” Created to keep your sensitive photos and videos away from unwanted eyes, this feature has led to speculation suggesting it is a “simpler” version of Samsung’s Secure Folder, which may also receive an upgrade. This would be specifically tailored for your photos and videos without needing to set up Secure Folder just to access that content. This is anticipated to launch alongside One UI 8.
It remains unclear when One UI 8 (Android 16) will be available on Samsung’s devices, although there are rumors that its next foldable will introduce the software (with the stable release coming alongside it).
Read More
Researchers Doubtful Regarding Reasons for Shark Inactivity When Upside Down
Sharks are captivating animals and rank among the most powerful predators in the sea. Nonetheless, they display an unusual behavior termed tonic immobility, wherein they become rigid when flipped onto their backs. This reaction parallels the freeze response observed in creatures such as rabbits, lizards, snakes, and possums. In spite of their daunting reputation, sharks can be rendered inert merely by being turned upside down, a method often employed by researchers for secure handling during studies.
Tonic immobility in sharks is a thoroughly studied occurrence, yet its function continues to baffle scientists. Various theories have been suggested, including it acting as an anti-predator mechanism, a mating behavior, or a reaction to sensory overload. Nevertheless, recent research indicates that none of these theories withstand closer examination. The anti-predator hypothesis seems improbable as freezing presents no clear survival benefit, and predators like orcas could take advantage of this weakness. The reproductive hypothesis is also debatable, given that tonic immobility is observed in both genders, and the sensory overload theory has yet to be validated.
In a research study examining 13 species of sharks, rays, and a chimaera, only seven species demonstrated tonic immobility when inverted. This variability adds to the complexity of understanding this behavior. Despite considerable research efforts, the precise reason for sharks undergoing tonic immobility remains undefined, underscoring the necessity for additional exploration into this fascinating feature of shark biology.
Read More
Apple Unveils Additional Features in iOS 18.6
**iOS 18.6: New Features and Modifications for EU Users**
iOS 18.6 is in beta testing, with an official release anticipated next month. Unlike the major iOS 26 update scheduled for this fall, iOS 18.6 will mainly concentrate on bug fixes and stability enhancements. Nevertheless, Apple has announced two notable features specifically aimed at users in the European Union (EU).
### Simplified Installation of Apps and Marketplaces from the Internet
Apple has unveiled significant updates to its App Store policies that will influence both users and developers in the EU. These modifications are intended to improve the user experience when installing third-party applications and marketplaces directly from the internet.
#### Major Changes:
1. **Third-Party App Marketplaces**: Users will have an easier time installing third-party app marketplaces from the internet.
2. **Third-Party Apps**: The methodology for installing third-party apps directly from the web will also be made more efficient.
At present, iOS requires users to go through warning screens when trying to install apps or marketplaces outside of the official App Store. EU regulators have voiced concerns regarding these warnings, leading Apple to adopt a more user-friendly strategy.
#### Updated Installation Process:
– **Initial Installations**: When a user first attempts to install an app from a particular developer, they will go through a comprehensive disclosure process.
– **Subsequent Installations**: For later installations from the same developer, the process will be streamlined, making it as hassle-free as downloading apps from the App Store.
These modifications aim to reduce user anxiety and provide a more seamless installation experience for third-party applications.
### Additional Features and Upcoming Updates
Although no additional features for iOS 18.6 have been verified at this time, there is speculation that this update may bring Apple Intelligence support to China for the first time.
As the beta testing stage progresses, EU users are encouraged to share their feedback on the new features and changes associated with iOS 18.6.
In summary, iOS 18.6 marks an important advancement in how users in the EU can engage with third-party applications and marketplaces, conforming to regulatory expectations and enhancing user experience.
Read More
iOS 26 Launch Date: Anticipated Release Information for the Latest iPhone Update
Apple’s forthcoming major iPhone update, iOS 26, is geared to unveil a Liquid Glass redesign alongside a multitude of novel features. While beta testers have the opportunity to try out iOS 26 now, the expected public release date is projected for mid-September.
### iOS 26 Set to Debut This Fall, Most Likely in Mid-September
Apple has announced that iOS 26 will be launched for all users this fall. Reviewing the historical patterns of past iOS releases aids in pinpointing the anticipated launch timing. The last three major iOS updates were rolled out on these specific dates:
– **iOS 18**: September 16, 2024
– **iOS 17**: September 18, 2023
– **iOS 16**: September 12, 2022
Each of these releases aligned closely with Apple’s annual iPhone event, typically held in early September. In light of this pattern, iOS 26 is likely to be made public in mid-September, shortly following the reveal of the iPhone 17 series.
During this mid-September period, users with compatible iPhones will have the opportunity to install iOS 26 and take advantage of the new Liquid Glass design, alongside major updates to the Messages app, Apple Music, Wallet, CarPlay, and more.
### Public Beta for iOS 26 Launches This July
For those enthusiastic about experiencing iOS 26 ahead of its official launch, Apple will provide a public beta version. This public beta is set to be released in July and will be open to anyone interested through registration at beta.apple.com.
As with any beta software, the public beta of iOS 26 may feature bugs and performance challenges that can impact device functionality. Apple gathers insights from public beta users to identify and rectify issues prior to the full rollout in the fall. Users ready to embrace potential risks can gain early access to the innovative features of iOS 26.
### Conclusion
With the upcoming release of iOS 26 in mid-September and the public beta set for July, Apple users can anticipate exciting new updates. The Liquid Glass redesign and improvements across various applications are poised to significantly enhance the overall user experience.
Read More
New Functionality: Suppress Certain Words in Threads with a 30-Day Timer Feature
Meta’s Threads App: Liberation from Instagram and Fresh Features
Meta is advancing its Threads app, shifting it from a basic auxiliary to Instagram into an independent platform. Recent enhancements have rolled out a specialized direct messaging (DM) system, autonomous mute lists, and a novel feature that enables users to establish temporary filters that will automatically lapse.
### Freedom from Instagram Constraints
In a recent update, Instagram chief Adam Mosseri disclosed a major improvement to Threads’ “Hidden Words” capability. In the past, silencing a word on Threads would also silence it on Instagram, leading to a cumbersome experience for users seeking to control their preferences separately. With the new update, Threads users can now exclude certain words, phrases, and emojis without impacting their Instagram configurations.
Moreover, Threads has added the functionality to mute words on a temporary basis. Users can create filters that expire after 30 days, complete with a countdown feature showing the remaining time. This allows users to steer clear of spoilers or popular topics without permanently silencing them, offering a more adaptable method for content management.
To oversee mute filters, users can go to **Settings > Content preferences > Hidden Words**.
These updates signify a vital advancement in Threads’ evolution, highlighting its role as a distinct entity from Instagram and improving user governance over their experience.
Read More
Apple Purchases Office Campus It Had Been Leasing for US$350 Million
**Apple’s Latest Property Purchases in South Bay: A $516 Million Commitment**
Apple Inc. has garnered attention this week with major property purchases in California’s South Bay region, amounting to over $516 million. This strategic initiative highlights the company’s dedication to broadening its presence in an area that has been essential to its activities for many years.
### Latest Purchases
Just days after completing a $166.9 million transaction for the Cupertino Gate office complex, Apple revealed the acquisition of Mathilda Commons, a dual-building office complex in Sunnyvale, for $350 million. This campus covers 382,500 square feet and is situated roughly seven miles north of Apple Park, the company’s main office. The facility is intended to host up to 1,900 employees, showcasing Apple’s continuous growth and the escalating demand for office space within the tech industry.
### Strategic Significance
Apple’s willingness to pay nearly 20% above the assessed value of Mathilda Commons as of January signifies the site’s strategic relevance and the competitive nature of the local real estate market. Kristina Raspe, Apple’s Vice President of Global Real Estate and Facilities, highlighted the company’s deep-rooted connection to the Santa Clara Valley, stating, “The Santa Clara Valley has been home to Apple for more than 40 years, and we’re proud to continue investing in world-class facilities for our teams here.”
### Wider Trends in Real Estate
This acquisition is in line with Apple’s recent pattern of transforming long-held leases into outright ownership of properties in the South Bay. Over the past few years, the company has executed several significant purchases, including a $450 million agreement in 2021 for a five-building office complex and a ten-building campus known as Apple Results Way in 2023, as well as a $70 million office building acquisition within the same year.
### Summary
Apple’s proactive expansion in the South Bay property market not only underscores its growth path but also its dedication to establishing a strong presence in a region that has been crucial to its achievements. As the technology sector continues to progress, Apple’s real estate investments are likely to be vital in addressing its workforce and operational requirements.
Read More
A Manual for Utilizing Google’s Veo 3 AI Film Creator at No Cost
Google’s I/O 2025 event introduced numerous revolutionary AI innovations, with Veo 3 emerging as a prominent feature. Veo 3, the newest version of Google’s AI video generation software, presents notable enhancements compared to the previous version. It can produce ambient sounds, audio, and dialogue for AI-generated films, all from a straightforward text input. This software aligns spoken language with video segments and ensures character consistency throughout various scenes, positioning it as a formidable asset for filmmakers.
However, Veo 3 comes with a high price tag, necessitating a $249.99/month Google AI Ultra subscription. Alternatively, it can be utilized through third-party platforms like Adobe’s Firefly, Freepik, and LTX Studio, although these options also require subscriptions. A more budget-friendly choice will launch on June 27, when Veo 3 becomes available through Google’s Vertex AI in public preview, enabling users to experiment with its functionalities before deciding on a subscription.
Google’s blog emphasizes Veo 3’s prowess in generating seamless, lifelike videos that match audio with visuals, deliver cinematic quality with intricate creative details, and replicate realistic movements governed by actual physics. These attributes are set to transform AI video generation, equipping users with the resources to craft high-definition, believable scenes. Google has also provided sample clips to the public, demonstrating Veo 3’s features.
Read More