How to Pin Up to 20 Conversations in Google Messages for Android Users
The limit for pinned conversations has been increased twofold.
Essential information
- Google Messages is increasing its supported pins for the second time.
- Now, users can pin as many as 20 conversations, keeping them at the forefront of their Google Messages inbox.
- Previously, Google had raised the cap from three to five, and then ten, before implementing the new 20-pin limit.
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Price Predictions for the Samsung Galaxy S25 After the Launch of the Galaxy S26
Here’s my forecast.
As the launch of the Samsung Galaxy S26 series draws near, the excitement is evident. Anticipated to be announced in Q1 2026, the upcoming lineup is expected to deliver major upgrades, featuring a custom Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 chipset and enhanced AI functionalities. With the Galaxy S26 series projected to be available by mid-March, consumers are keen to observe how these improvements will stack up against the current Galaxy S25 models.
The forthcoming release brings up questions regarding the future of the Galaxy S25 series. Traditionally, flagship devices do not experience permanent price reductions when their successors are introduced. Instead, price cuts are typically observed during significant sales occasions, such as Black Friday. Consequently, prospective buyers may discover the best offers on the Galaxy S25 series just ahead of the S26’s market debut.
Although the Galaxy S26 is likely to carry a higher price tag, starting at approximately $899, the upgrades may warrant the expense for those in search of state-of-the-art technology. Nonetheless, for shoppers prioritizing value, the Galaxy S25 continues to be an attractive choice, particularly if Black Friday promotions lead to a considerable price drop.
In summary, while the Galaxy S26 series offers thrilling innovations, astute shoppers might find the Galaxy S25 series to be a valuable acquisition during forthcoming sales events.
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tvOS 26.2 Brings Two Fresh Features for Apple TV 4K Users
**tvOS 26.2 Updates: User Profiles and Content Restrictions for Apple TV 4K**
tvOS 26 debuted earlier this autumn, showcasing user profiles for Apple TV 4K. The latest tvOS 26.2 beta brings major advancements, enhancing the accessibility and customization of profiles, especially for families.
### Major Features of tvOS 26.2
1. **Profile Setup Without Apple Account**:
A prominent update in tvOS 26.2 is the capacity to set up user profiles independently of an Apple Account. Previously, profile creation was mainly intended for Family Sharing, requiring that each family member possess their own Apple Account. This restriction has been removed, allowing profiles to be generated merely by entering a name and selecting content ratings. This update brings Apple TV’s profile framework in line with popular streaming platforms such as Netflix and Disney+.
2. **Content Restrictions for Children’s Profiles**:
Another key improvement is the addition of content restrictions within the Apple TV app, specifically tailored for children’s profiles. When a profile intended for a child is active, the Apple TV app will curate content according to the approved ratings connected to that profile. This capability features standard ratings such as TV-Y and TV-Y7, giving parents a more regulated viewing atmosphere for their children.
### Summary
The modifications in tvOS 26.2 signify Apple’s dedication to improving user experience on the Apple TV 4K, particularly for families. By streamlining profile setup and implementing content restrictions, Apple facilitates easier management of viewing preferences and helps ensure a secure environment for younger audiences. As these features become available, they are anticipated to greatly enhance the functionality of the Apple TV platform.
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Aqara G100 Brings HomeKit Secure Video and Extra Features in HomeKit Weekly Update
# Aqara G100: An In-Depth Assessment of HomeKit Secure Video Camera
HomeKit Secure Video remains the top choice for indoor camera storage, with the Aqara G100 capitalizing on this feature through impressive specifications. Featuring 2K resolution (outside of HomeKit), weather-resistant design, and AI detection abilities, the Aqara G100 is suitable for both indoor and outdoor applications. It integrates flawlessly with HomeKit, removing the necessity for extra services.
## Construction Quality and Aesthetics
The Aqara G100 showcases a robust and meticulously crafted design, offered in both white and black color variations. It employs a USB-C connection for power, supplemented by a cable included in the packaging, though it does not come with a wall charger. A rubber sleeve surrounding the cable connection aids in preventing moisture entry, making it appropriate for exterior installation. While the option to utilize a personal charger is beneficial, the lack of a wall adapter is a slight drawback, particularly for a camera device.
## Configuration with HomeKit
Establishing the Aqara G100 with HomeKit is a simple endeavor. Just connect the camera, launch the Home app, and scan the QR code present on the device or in the quick start guide. The app navigates users through the installation, allowing them to assign the camera to a designated room and adjust privacy settings related to recording and streaming in accordance with their presence at home. After the setup, users can access the live feed alongside other HomeKit cameras within the app.
## HomeKit Secure Video: The Main Selling Feature
The association of the Aqara G100 with HomeKit Secure Video is a substantial benefit. Users enjoy encrypted storage in iCloud, event-driven recording, and prompt notifications for motion detection. The camera processes footage on-site, ensuring no unencrypted data exits the network. Although the camera is capable of 2K resolution, HomeKit Secure Video currently restricts recording quality to 1080p, which raises concerns about the ongoing limitations in 2025. Still, the video quality is quite remarkable.
## Conclusion on Aqara G100
Retailing for under $50, the Aqara G100 presents an attractive HomeKit camera option that offers flexibility for both indoor and outdoor scenarios. It is compatible with HomeKit Secure Video and offers versatile mounting options. While the omission of a power adapter is a minor hassle, the overall value, along with impressive night vision features, positions it as a strong competitor in the smart home camera landscape.
For purchase, the Aqara G100 can be found on [Amazon](https://amzn.to/4mT8iXN) and directly from
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Apple TV Earns Four Grammy Nominations for F1: The Film and Severance
The Recording Academy has revealed the nominees for the forthcoming 68th Annual Grammy Awards, with Apple earning a total of four nominations. Below are the specifics.
## Four nominations across four categories
This morning, the Recording Academy disclosed the complete lineup of nominees for the 2026 Grammy Awards, scheduled for February 1, 2026. Here are the categories Apple received nominations in, along with their competitors:
### Best Dance Pop Recording
– [Bluest Flame](https://apple.co/3Lls3dM), Selena Gomez & benny blanco
– [Abracadabra](https://apple.co/47PuAUZ), Lady Gaga
– [Midnight Sun](https://apple.co/4qOGB5C), Zara Larsson
– **[Just Keep Watching (From F1® The Movie)](https://apple.co/49443FK), Tate McRae**
– [Illegal](https://apple.co/49GGHpS), PinkPantheress
### Best Country Solo Performance
– [Nose On The Grindstone](https://apple.co/4orkLU9), Tyler Childers
– [Good News](https://apple.co/4ouCPNv), Shaboozey
– **[Bad As I Used To Be (From “F1® The Movie”)](https://apple.co/4r61slp), Chris Stapleton**
– [I Never Lie](https://apple.co/4piRuLN), Zach Top
– [Somewhere Over Laredo](https://apple.co/43fSxU3), Lainey Wilson
### Best Compilation Soundtrack For Visual Media
– [A Complete Unknown](https://apple.co/4kcNbPD), Timothée Chalamet
– **[F1® The Album](https://apple.co/3XiUprA), (Various Artists)**
– [KPop Demon Hunters](https://apple.co/4hNZrWH), (Various Artists)
– [Sinners](https://apple.co/4l0jmCu), (Various Artists)
– [Wicked](https://apple.co/4qPtQYu), (Various Artists)
### Best Score Soundtrack For Visual Media (Includes Film And Television)
– [How To Train Your Dragon](https://apple.co/3ZPlWTo), John Powell, composer
– **[Severance: Season 2](https://apple.co/4mI15ey), Theodore Shapiro, composer**
– [Sinners](https://apple.co/4l0jmCu), Ludwig Göransson, composer
– [Wicked](https://apple.co/4qPtQYu), John Powell & Stephen Schwartz, composers
– [The Wild Robot](https://apple.co/499gekC), Kris Bowers, composer
The ceremony is scheduled for Sunday, February 1, at the Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles. It will be broadcasted live on the CBS Television Network and streamed on Paramount+. To view the complete list of nominees, click [this link](https://www.grammy.com/news/2026-grammys-nominations-full-winners-nominees-list).
Apple Music requires a current subscription. You can
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iOS 26.2: Summary of Latest Features for iPhone Users
# iOS 26.2: Fresh Features and Improvements
iOS 26.2 is officially open for beta testing, unveiling an array of new features and enhancements for iPhone users. This update brings improvements to Apple Podcasts, Reminders, and additional areas. Below is a detailed overview highlighting the key features of iOS 26.2.
## New Features in iOS 26.2
### Reminders
The Reminders app has introduced a much-anticipated “Urgent” feature. This enables users to set an alarm for tasks that require immediate attention, ensuring that crucial items on your to-do list are not missed.
### Apple Music
Apple Music upgrades its lyrics capability, permitting users to view lyrics for songs in their library even without internet access. This includes complete lyrics functionalities, such as translations and beat-by-beat synchronization.
### Apple Podcasts
iOS 26.2 rolls out three major enhancements to Apple Podcasts:
1. **AI-Generated Chapters**: The app can now automatically generate chapters for podcast episodes utilizing artificial intelligence, although producers can still supply their own chapters, which will take precedence.
2. **Podcast Mentions**: Users can now view and follow mentioned podcasts directly from the player and transcript, facilitating easier access to referenced shows.
### Sleep Score
With iOS 26.2, the Sleep Score feature on the Apple Watch has been fine-tuned. The criteria for classification levels have been modified to deliver a more precise evaluation of sleep quality. The revised 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 News app has experienced design updates to enhance user experience. The “Today” view now includes four specific buttons for quick access to Sports, Puzzles, Politics, and Food sections. Furthermore, a new “Following” tab has been introduced for simpler navigation of favorites, saved articles, and history.
### Changes for EU Users in iOS 26.2
For users in the European Union, iOS 26.2 delivers both good and bad news. The update extends Live Translation with AirPods to EU users, a feature that was postponed due to regulatory challenges. However, it also eliminates Wi-Fi network syncing between iPhone and Apple Watch, now requiring manual sign-ins for each network.
### Liquid Glass
iOS 26.2 improves the Liquid Glass feature by incorporating a slider on the Lock Screen, allowing users to tailor the transparency of the clock. This feature provides enhanced options for personalization.
### Additional Updates
Other significant updates in iOS 26.2 comprise:
– A new “Enhanced Safety Alerts” menu for controlling earthquake and imminent threat notifications.
– Support for tables within the Freeform app.
– An “Excluded Websites” menu in the Passwords app.
– A new Accessibility option for “Flash to Alerts,” which makes the screen flash for notifications.
## Conclusion
iOS 26.2 is now accessible to developers and public beta testers, with a complete rollout anticipated in mid-December. As testing progresses, additional features may be introduced. Users are invited to share their preferred changes and experiences with the new update.
Scientists Commemorate Nature’s Comeback One Year Following Klamath Dam Initiative
fouling Florida shores — would flourish, posing risks for fishermen relying on that river. It also led to a near extinction of the Klamath’s Chinook — a variety of salmon.
Although the dams have been taken down, a lengthy path to recovery remains for this fish population, yet researchers are encouraged by the progress seen thus far. Salmon have started to spawn in the upper river yet again. More than 400 miles of ecosystem is being restored, featuring lush vegetation, flowing water, and aquatic life transforming it into a haven. There has been a significant reduction in harmful algae. Moreover, kayakers are once again returning to the river, able to explore its full stretch for the first time in a century. The journey to reach this milestone was arduous, but this achievement makes the effort worthwhile.
The initiative to remove the Klamath dams
“AYN Odin 3 and KONKR Pocket FIT Transform Portable Gaming with Snapdragon 8 Elite Performance and Cost-Effective PC Game Emulation”
The Snapdragon Elite performance in Android gaming handhelds is simply incredible.
Beyond the Alphabet is a weekly piece that delves into the technology sector both within and beyond the borders of Mountain View.
Upon its initial release, the Steam Deck eclipsed the competition. Not simply because of
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Three Fresh Features in iPadOS 26 That Improve the iPad Experience
# iPadOS 26: A Revolutionary Update for iPad Users
iPadOS 26 marks an important enhancement for iPad users, bringing a variety of productivity improvements that enrich the user interface. Here are three key features that have greatly influenced my usage of the iPad Pro.
## 1. Enhanced Windowing System
The enhanced windowing system stands out in iPadOS 26, permitting users to display up to 12 apps simultaneously. This feature transcends merely the quantity of apps; it offers the capability to resize and arrange apps according to personal preferences. Unlike earlier multitasking systems, this update allows users to personalize their workspace, facilitating the efficient management of multiple tasks. While there are still some constraints, such as the Slide Over feature being limited to one app at a time, the overall experience with the updated windowing system has been significantly improved.
## 2. Enhanced Dock Features
The dock has consistently been a vital part of the iPad experience, and iPadOS 26 significantly enhances its features. Major improvements include:
– **Persistent Dock**: The capacity to keep the dock displayed at all times accelerates the process of switching between apps, making it more intuitive.
– **Expanded App Capacity**: Users can now hold almost twice the amount of apps in the dock, along with folders from the Files app, improving organization and accessibility.
– **Refined Multitasking**: These enhancements foster a more Mac-like experience, streamlining the multitasking procedure and simplifying the management of various applications.
## 3. New App Menu Bar
The arrival of a specialized menu bar for apps signifies a notable leap in app usability on the iPad. This feature enables developers to highlight the full potential of their applications, granting users straightforward access to various controls and keyboard shortcuts. The menu bar enhances the overall workflow, facilitating easier navigation through app functionalities and uncovering features that might have been overlooked previously.
In summary, iPadOS 26 introduces a plethora of new features that greatly amplify productivity and usability for iPad users. The improved windowing system, dock enhancements, and app menu bar are merely a few illustrations of how this update transforms the iPad experience. Which new features are you finding enjoyable in iPadOS 26?
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WhatsApp Launches Improved Security Features for High-Risk Accounts
**WhatsApp Unveils Stringent Account Settings for At-Risk Users**
Individuals who are more susceptible to cyber threats will soon benefit from advanced security features on WhatsApp. This new capability, noted in the recent WhatsApp update on TestFlight, aims to add an additional layer of defense for those who might become targets of cybercriminals.
### Summary of the New Feature
According to WABetaInfo, the feature named “Stringent account settings” can be located within the Privacy > Advanced area of the application. It empowers users to activate a set of rigorous security protocols if they feel they are in danger of a cyber incident.
### Essential Security Protocols
Upon activation, the stringent account settings will automatically impose various protective protocols:
– **Blocking Media and Attachments**: Users will not receive media and attachments from unknown contacts, lowering the risk of harmful content.
– **Revised Privacy Settings**: The application will restrict who can reach out via calls or messages, boosting privacy.
– **Secured Settings**: Certain settings will be locked to uphold a high security standard, though users can deactivate the stringent account settings whenever they choose.
### Effect on User Experience
Though these security protocols are advantageous for at-risk users, the launch of stringent account settings may affect the overall quality of messaging and calls. Users should keep in mind that call quality might be diminished when this feature is enabled.
### Additional Modifications
Beyond the main protocols, activating stringent account settings will also result in further modifications, which include:
– Muting unknown callers.
– Limiting automatic group invitations to known contacts.
– Turning off link previews.
– Informing users of changes to encryption keys.
– Enabling two-step verification.
– Reducing the visibility of personal data for unknown contacts.
### User Convenience
While many of these security features are already accessible on WhatsApp, the stringent account settings option simplifies the process by automatically adjusting all pertinent settings. This enables at-risk users to swiftly implement thorough security measures without needing to navigate each option individually.
### Release Information
Similar to other beta features on WhatsApp, there is currently no defined schedule for when the stringent account mode will be officially rolled out to the entire user base.
In summary, the introduction of stringent account settings on WhatsApp marks a noteworthy advancement in enhancing user security, especially for those who may be more exposed to cyber threats.
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