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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Google Pixel Revamps Emoji Designs to Match iPhone in Newest Android 16 Beta [Gallery]
    Google Pixel Revamps Emoji Designs to Match iPhone in Newest Android 16 Beta [Gallery]

    As part of the Android 16 QPR3 beta release that was deployed to Google Pixel smartphones, Google has revitalized its emoji collection, unveiling several redesigned icons in anticipation of a broader update slated for the future.

    Google’s emoji styles for Android, especially on Pixel models, have progressed over the years, displaying minor alterations in design for certain emojis and the introduction of fresh ones. Earlier this year, Google confirmed its adoption of Unicode 17.0 additions, but the latest beta update also features altered designs for existing emojis, now accessible in Android 16 QPR3 Beta 1.

    The revised emoji designs for facial expressions encompass:

    – Melting Face
    – Face Exhaling
    – Nauseated Face
    – Cold Face
    – Loudly Crying Face

    Most modifications are subtle; for example, the “Face Exhaling” emoji now possesses a more distinct frontward angle, while the “Loudly Crying Face” has a smaller mouth, aligning more closely with Apple’s interpretation. The “Cold Face” emoji has streamlined its appearance by eliminating the snow on top, again reflecting Apple’s style.

    This tendency to align more closely with Apple’s emoji designs seems to be a recurring theme in Google’s updates. Prior designs, which tended to be more animated or expressive, have been refined to produce a more familiar look for users migrating from iPhone or Samsung Galaxy phones. Noteworthy instances of this transformation are evident in the “Melting Face,” “Raccoon,” and “Flashlight” emojis, all of which have been overhauled to mimic Apple’s emoji selections.

    In addition to the aforementioned updates, numerous other alterations are present, including the redesign of various animals like the raccoon, tropical fish, and zebra, along with objects such as the loudspeaker and flashlight. Many of these revisions are live in the initial beta of QPR3, showcasing a clear trend towards designs that closely align with those of iOS emojis. For instance, the “Bacon” emoji now showcases a second strip of bacon to synchronize with Apple’s rendition.

    Nonetheless, the new Unicode 17.0 emojis, such as “Distorted Face,” “Orca,” and “Trombone,” are not yet ready for use, although they can be viewed in a browser.

    The updates are explicitly associated with the QPR3 beta, as illustrated by comparisons between devices operating the new beta and those still on the stable QPR2 release.

    In summary, the Android 16 QPR3 beta update signifies a notable advancement in Google’s continuous evolution of emoji design, indicating a transition towards a more cohesive aesthetic that appeals to users accustomed to Apple’s emoji set.

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on The Enduring Charm of the iPhone Air: An Examination of Its Design and Features
    The Enduring Charm of the iPhone Air: An Examination of Its Design and Features

    # iPhone Air: A New Chapter of Elegance and Durability

    When Apple unveiled the groundbreaking iPhone X in 2017, it signified the start of a lengthy journey into a fresh era of iPhone aesthetics. The following year, iPhone XR succeeded the older iPhone 8, introducing a full-screen display, Face ID, and a gesture-driven experience that significantly diminished the prominence of large bezels and the Home button.

    Eight years later, iPhone Air emerges as the nearest equivalent to another iPhone X milestone from Apple. The shift is less extensive in nature but equally purposeful. While iPhone X reset aspirations for the entire lineup, iPhone Air signifies a thoughtful deviation. Its ultra-slim design prioritizes a forward-looking appeal rather than feature overload, carving out a unique niche alongside Apple’s traditional designs.

    iPhone Air is also anticipated to have a longer shelf life compared to iPhone X. Apple replaced iPhone X with iPhone XS in under a year, whereas iPhone Air has a more relaxed association with time.

    ## An iPhone Beyond Time

    This looser association with time begins with a moment of introspection. If you upgrade frequently but find it difficult to value performance enhancements, pursuing yearly improvements in silicon may not be as vital as you presumed. For many iPhone users, the overall experience feels quite similar year after year, even as Apple consistently provides tangible advancements on paper.

    iPhone Air aligns neatly with that understanding. It serves as a device for individuals who realize that maxing out iPhone performance is no longer the primary goal. Gradual improvements in speed or efficiency become less significant when daily tasks already feel instantaneous, and the compromises required to maintain an ultra-slim silhouette are easier to accept.

    Seen from this perspective, iPhone Air is less about settling for fewer features and more about valuing those that stand out. A marginally quicker iPhone 17 Pro won’t make your iPhone Air seem outdated in a year if you predominantly appreciate the ultra-thin form factor.

    ## Pro Enhancements Won’t Date Air

    And regarding lenses, the same rationale holds for iPhone Air’s camera configuration. For iPhone Air purchasers, the lack of certain lenses simplifies the upgrade evaluation. There’s no anticipation for Apple to extract slightly improved results from a feature you seldom utilize. The end result is a device that maintains a sense of stability across generations, even as Apple advances its premium models.

    This stability supports the notion that iPhone Air doesn’t age in the same manner as other iPhones. Camera enhancements are significant motivators for yearly upgrades, and stepping away from that cycle makes it simpler to retain a device longer without the fear of being outdated.

    By identifying the device merely as iPhone Air, Apple avoids tying it to a specific numerical generation. Without a 17 in its title, the model feels less connected to a particular year and less vulnerable to the annual comparison cycle that characterizes the rest of the lineup. When the iPhone 18 series eventually debuts, iPhone Air doesn’t automatically appear as last year’s model like a numbered version might.

    ## iPhone Air ‘Delay’ Speculations as a Marketing Angle

    That separation from the yearly rhythm, whether by design or otherwise, influences how the device is perceived over time. iPhone Air is more straightforward to assess on its own merits rather than as a bridge to the next version.

    This also favors consumers who often tend to adopt early but didn’t participate from the onset. If the release cycle extends beyond a strict twelve-month interval, acquiring iPhone Air later in its lifecycle feels less psychologically burdensome. The device doesn’t seem obsolete just because the calendar has advanced. Instead, it conveys a design that Apple aims to allow to flourish, making later purchases feel just as legitimate as those made early on.

    Ideally, iPhone Air would marry its ultra-slim form with the same camera system present in Apple’s Pro models. However, the reality is that physical constraints still impose strict limitations, and sophisticated camera hardware inevitably occupies space. Rather than pursuing an unachievable ideal, Apple is embracing those limitations to develop an iPhone that feels unique, intentional, and remarkably enduring.

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on 9to5Mac Daily: December 18, 2025 – Introduction of iOS 26.3 Beta Trials
    9to5Mac Daily: December 18, 2025 – Introduction of iOS 26.3 Beta Trials

    ### 9to5Mac Daily: Your Go-To for Daily Apple News

    In the rapidly evolving tech landscape, keeping abreast of current events is vital, particularly for Apple fans. **9to5Mac Daily** is a podcast created to offer succinct and insightful summaries of the key stories concerning Apple and its ecosystem. New episodes are made available every weekday, enabling listeners to stay informed about the latest happenings and analysis.

    #### How to Tune In

    Listeners can enjoy **9to5Mac Daily** on various platforms, allowing you to catch up no matter where you are. The podcast can be found on:

    – [iTunes and Apple’s Podcasts app](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/9to5mac-daily/id1331816080)
    – [Stitcher](https://www.stitcher.com/podcast/9to5mac-daily)
    – [TuneIn](https://tunein.com/radio/9to5Mac-Daily-p1089524/)
    – [Google Play](https://play.google.com/music/m/I5d4dzs7dauazmfxvvrynyiuram?t=9to5Mac_Daily)
    – [Dedicated RSS feed](https://feedpress.me/9to5macdaily) for Overcast and other podcast platforms

    By subscribing, you guarantee that new episodes arrive as soon as they are ready for listening.

    #### Sponsored Promotions

    Beyond the latest updates, **9to5Mac Daily** frequently highlights sponsorships that offer listeners exclusive deals. For example, Backblaze is presently extending a 30% discount for 9to5Mac listeners using the code **9to5Xmas**, valid throughout the month. This deal helps users protect their data with dependable backup solutions.

    #### Premium Content

    For those seeking an upgraded listening experience, there’s the option to subscribe to **9to5Mac Daily Plus**. This subscription grants access to ad-free episodes and additional bonus content, making it a great investment for dedicated podcast fans.

    #### Connect with the Community

    **9to5Mac Daily** promotes audience interaction. Share your opinions or suggestions by emailing the team at [[email protected]](mailto:[email protected]). Additionally, listeners are encouraged to rate the podcast on platforms such as [Apple Podcasts](https://geo.itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/id1331816080?at=10laZc&pt=11l8808) or recommend it via

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Amazon Delivery Driver Charged with Cat Theft
    Amazon Delivery Driver Charged with Cat Theft

    a Best Buy shopper unwrapped a package only to find it filled with stones instead of the $1,200 graphics card they had purchased, adding to the growing list of delivery woes making news. Recently, an Amazon delivery driver was accused of taking someone’s cat after delivering a parcel, with the whole event captured on surveillance footage. The driver later admitted to the police that he had taken the cat, claiming he believed it was a stray. According to People, the cat, which initially tried to escape when approached by the Amazon driver, ultimately leaped from the delivery vehicle, but it remains unaccounted for.

    Diane Huff-Medina, a mother of three, stated in a Facebook update that their cat, Piper, was taken on December 11. “An Amazon delivery worker took our cat… after delivering a package on Thursday evening. We just want her back home safe,” she wrote in her message.

    The woman also posted a surveillance clip showing the Amazon Flex worker leaving a package around 6:00 p.m. He then spots the cat, gives it a pat, and tries to lift it. Despite the cat’s struggles, the man manages to carry the pet to his vehicle. The cat, known to be an indoor-outdoor animal, is microchipped, yet Piper was not wearing a collar at the time she was taken by the Amazon delivery driver.

    Amazon terminated the driver

    <source media="(min-width: 429px)" srcset="https://www.bgr.com/img/gallery/amazon-driver-allegedly-stole-someones-cat/amazon-fired-the-driver-1766079421

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on Google Maps Brings Back Previously Discontinued Feature for Winter Season
    Google Maps Brings Back Previously Discontinued Feature for Winter Season

    the Google Maps functionality after it ceased the feature the previous year.

    “We received feedback from numerous users who regretted the absence of ski details on Google Maps, so we’re reintroducing ski lifts and trails this winter,” a Google representative informed Powder. “You will notice current ski information starting with well-known resorts across North America and Europe.” Interestingly, this stands in contrast to the rationale provided by Google last October when it turned off the feature. “Over the years, we’ve discovered that the majority of users do not rely on Google Maps for this sort of information, opting instead for maps directly from the specific ski resorts, as they are perceived to be the most credible source of this data,” a Google Maps product manager explained to an individual who raised questions about the modification. “Consequently, we have been in the midst of eliminating this data from Maps, which you may have already observed.”

    Ski enthusiasts dissatisfied with Google’s choice initiated at least one petition urging the company to restore the feature. Close to 3,000 individuals signed one of these petitions. It remains uncertain if this particular petition influenced Google’s decision, but the company acknowledged the sentiment.

    Ski trails and lifts in Google Maps

    <

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Arrange Your Battery Drawer with This Useful Dollar Tree Fix
    Arrange Your Battery Drawer with This Useful Dollar Tree Fix

    declutter your tech space. Dollar Tree provides sets of drawer organizers that can help sort different batteries, making them simpler to find and enhancing the overall neatness.

    Be aware that the stock of specific Dollar Tree items may differ by location, and these products, at these prices, were available at the time of writing. You can purchase directly from Dollar Tree’s website for delivery, or you can check for availability at local stores. Dollar Tree has 9,000 locations throughout the United States and Canada, making it convenient to visit and discover great items for DIY home organization.

    Utilizing Dollar Tree containers for organizing drawers

    <source media="(max-width: 428px)" srcset="https://www.bgr.com/img/gallery/say-goodbye-to-your-messy-battery-drawer-with-this-useful-dollar-tree-find/using-dollar-tree-boxes-for-drawer-

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Google Strives to Streamline Satellite Connectivity on Android Devices
    Google Strives to Streamline Satellite Connectivity on Android Devices

    Early indications in Google’s Android Canary environment imply that enhancements are being made for an improved satellite experience.

    What you should know:
    – An Android leak after a recent Canary build indicates that Google aims to broaden the usability of the OS for satellite connections.
    – A “Satellite” Quick Settings tile was observed, simplifying access for users with plans that support this feature, along with a “Satellite apps” menu.
    – T-Mobile’s T-Satellite service launched “Satellite-ready” applications this fall, supporting platforms like X, AccuWeather, WhatsApp, and others.

    Google has been identified testing a forthcoming feature that all of Android may utilize, potentially addressing satellite connectivity directly.

    Mishaal Rahman for Android Authority reported a pair of newly developing features within a recent Android Canary build. As per the findings, Google is set to introduce improved satellite connectivity management for applications and mobile services. Rahman notes that Google’s code hints at a “Satellite apps” inclusion within the overall satellite connectivity settings.

    While the standard (previously supported) applications are mentioned here, Rahman detected other apps such as X (formerly Twitter), Snapchat, AccuWeather, and Google Weather.

    In another note, Rahman observed that the Android Canary build is gearing up for a “Satellite” Quick Settings tile. The tile appears to operate similarly to your internet or Bluetooth tiles; however, Rahman’s testing showed “Satellite” as “not available.” Although this isn’t completely unusual, given the way it was uncovered, a deeper inspection of the early code indicates that this tile signifies the support of your mobile plan.

    Rahman suggests that Google will apply a similar UI behavior to its satellite apps list as well. For this purpose, the company will heavily weigh LTE or NB-based satellite plans. The report mentions that the latter is less capable of handling bandwidth for text and voice communications. Development is still in progress, so this may not be seen until a future Android release.

    Connected in the shadows

    It’s undeniable that cellular service providers have entered the satellite arena, as T-Mobile did with its T-Satellite service this summer. This service provided connectivity to users subscribing to its supported plan for MMS messages, including images, GIFs, videos, and audio files. Downloading files such as an image or GIF was reported to take a minute or two, while videos could take up to 20 minutes to transmit.

    T-Mobile’s MMS support complements SMS for standard text messages. The company indicated that there would be additional advancements for its satellite service, which became evident in October. T-Satellite introduced “Satellite-ready” applications for Android and iOS users. Apps like WhatsApp, X (Formerly Twitter), AccuWeather, and others are available over its T-Satellite network, keeping users informed when their cell signal is lost.

    Pixel 9 users reported access to T-Mobile satellite service earlier this year, and Spectrum and Xfinity users received texting support in March. Most recently, the European carrier, Orange, provided a short exclusive satellite connectivity window for the Pixel 9 and 10 in November.

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Sony WH-1000XM5 Headphones Now Offered at All-Time Low Price
    Sony WH-1000XM5 Headphones Now Offered at All-Time Low Price

    Although they belong to the previous generation, the Sony WH-1000XM5 headphones remain a formidable choice. If you’re searching for an excellent headphone bargain for the festive season, there are several noteworthy options to consider. For instance, Amazon has reduced the price of the Sony WH-1000XM5 headphones by 38%, resulting in a discount of $152 on our top recommendation for the best wireless headphones available. This price drop makes it the lowest these headphones have ever been offered, bringing them under $250, a range where they are highly competitive against other choices.

    Certainly, these headphones are from the last generation, but given their significantly lower price than the Sony WH-1000XM6 model and their impressive audio performance, they still perform admirably. With the WH-1000XM5s, users enjoy active noise cancellation, extended battery life, several integrated microphones for excellent call quality, and spacious speaker cups that are favored by most consumers.

    This offer is available in Black, Midnight Blue, or White, all of which come equipped with a robust processing module for adaptive noise cancellation utilizing the microphone setup. Additionally, they boast fast charging, touch controls, and simple customization through Sony’s mobile application.

    If you don’t require the expensive enhancements featured in the next-generation WH-1000XM6 headphones, these are a solid alternative at this reduced price, offering various immersive listening modes, wear detection, an included carrying case, and more.

    ✅Recommended if: you seek a fantastic deal on a potent pair of noise-cancelling headphones and are unconcerned about their last-generation status; you need a strong ANC profile that adjusts to your environment utilizing a broad array of built-in speakers; you want over-ear headphones with comfortable speaker cups for prolonged listening, alongside a long battery life and quick charging.

    ❌Skip this deal if: you would rather upgrade to the latest-generation model for access to additional microphones and a revamped audio profile, provided your budget allows; you prefer headphones with smaller speaker cups; you want headphones you can listen to while they are charging.

    The Sony WH-1000XM5 headphones are our top choice in the wireless headphone category for a variety of reasons. Primarily, their regular price is more accessible for many compared to the newer WH-1000XM6s, while still providing powerful, adaptive ANC, spatial audio, and user-friendly touch controls, making them enjoyable to operate.

    According to Sony, these headphones can deliver up to 30 hours of playback on a single charge, while fast charging via the USB-C port can restore up to 3 hours of battery in just 3 minutes. They also feature straightforward customization and EQ settings through the Sony Sound Connect app, alongside 360 Reality Audio and effortless access to digital voice assistants such as Siri and Google Assistant.

    Overall, it appears quite difficult to make a poor choice with these, especially given the current price point.

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on Apple TV’s New Psychological Thriller Announces Premiere Date
    Apple TV’s New Psychological Thriller Announces Premiere Date

    **Imperfect Women Debuts on March 18, 2026**

    The official Apple TV account on X has announced the launch date for its eagerly awaited psychological thriller, *Imperfect Women*, set to premiere on March 18, 2026. The series boasts an impressive cast, featuring Leslie Odom Jr., Elisabeth Moss, Kerry Washington, Kate Mara, Joel Kinnaman, and Corey Stoll.

    This limited series centers on three lifelong friends whose close relationship is dramatically challenged following a shocking crime that alters their lives. The storyline is expected to explore the intricacies of friendship and the effects of trauma as the investigation into the murder uncovers uncomfortable revelations.

    Lesli Linka Glatter, famed for her contributions to *The West Wing*, and Jet Wilkinson, known for *The Chi*, have been confirmed as directors for the project. *Imperfect Women* is based on the novel of the same title by Arminta Hall.

    After its premiere, new episodes will be made available weekly, wrapping up on April 29, 2026. Apple has also released the first promotional image showcasing the lead actresses, Moss, Washington, and Mara.

    Apple TV+ offers subscriptions for $12.99 a month and features a range of award-winning shows and films, such as *F1 The Movie*, *Severance*, and *The Morning Show*.

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Upcoming iPhone Capabilities, Launch of iOS 26.2, and Apple Music Integration with ChatGPT
    Upcoming iPhone Capabilities, Launch of iOS 26.2, and Apple Music Integration with ChatGPT

    **iOS 26.2 Release and Upcoming Developments: Takeaways from 9to5Mac Happy Hour**

    As the technology sector prepares for the late-year public debut of iOS 26.2, Benjamin Mayo and Chance Miller from 9to5Mac explore the new updates and upcoming opportunities in their latest podcast episode. The conversation not only emphasizes the near release of iOS 26.2 but also signals the start of the beta phase for iOS 26.3, promising thrilling new features and enhancements.

    ### Main Takeaways from the Podcast

    1. **iOS 26.2 Release**: The highly awaited public launch of iOS 26.2 is poised to introduce a variety of upgrades to Apple devices, with an emphasis on user experience and performance enhancements.

    2. **iOS 26.3 Beta Phase**: Following the release of iOS 26.2, the beta phase for iOS 26.3 has commenced, enabling developers and eager users to explore upcoming features and share their feedback.

    3. **iPhone Development Insights**: Recent insights from The Information provide details on Apple’s future iPhone strategies, suggesting groundbreaking designs and functionalities that may transform user engagement with their devices.

    4. **Integration of ChatGPT with Apple Music**: A significant advancement is the smart integration of ChatGPT with Apple Music, which could boost user interaction and offer tailored music recommendations.

    5. **Experimentation with PSVR2 and Vision Pro**: Chance discusses his experience utilizing the PSVR2 spatial controllers with Apple’s Vision Pro, examining the prospects for immersive interactions across platforms.

    ### Additional Content

    For those interested in deeper discussions, the podcast provides a subscription option called **9to5Mac Happy Hour Plus**. Subscribers receive ad-free episodes, exclusive pre- and post-show material, and bonus episodes for a small fee. This service not only supports the hosts directly but also enhances the listener experience.

    ### Feedback and Community Involvement

    Listeners are invited to connect with the hosts by sending in questions or feedback through social media channels like Twitter, Mastodon, and Threads, or by reaching out via email at [email protected]. This engagement nurtures a community of Apple lovers eager to exchange insights and inquiries.

    ### Conclusion

    The 9to5Mac Happy Hour podcast remains an essential resource for Apple enthusiasts, offering timely updates and expert commentary on the latest happenings in the Apple ecosystem. As the launch of iOS 26.2 draws near, the anticipation surrounding Apple’s innovations is tangible, with many excited to see how these advancements will influence the future of their devices.

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