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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on iOS 26 Issue Hinders iPhone 17 Owners from Accessing Apple Intelligence
    iOS 26 Issue Hinders iPhone 17 Owners from Accessing Apple Intelligence

    a glitch with searching within the Calendar application on iOS 26, although there exists a workaround that has resolved the problem for some users. It now appears that the company has acknowledged yet another glitch, and this one is somewhat more significant, with the issue impacting the functionality of Apple Intelligence on iPhone 17 devices specifically.

    As per a post in the Apple Support Community, an individual picked up their iPhone 17 Pro and began utilizing Apple Intelligence features without any problems. However, after a few days, the models seemed to cease functioning, and the iPhone 17 indicated that the “models need to be downloaded.” Upon reviewing their device’s storage, Apple Intelligence was already installed and occupying 6.59 GB.

    Others contributing to the same discussion have reported experiencing the same problem, with one even mentioning that the models were still “stuck downloading” and that they had followed all the troubleshooting steps with Apple Support over the phone.

    Another hurdle for Apple Intelligence

    <source

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on Amazon’s Best-Selling Android Tablet Delivers a Wide Range of Features for Less Than $200
    Amazon’s Best-Selling Android Tablet Delivers a Wide Range of Features for Less Than $200

    A quality tablet is always a valuable addition to your home. Whether you intend to keep it by your bedside for some late-night entertainment, or you have an older tablet you wish to revive, a reliable device serves multiple purposes. If you’ve been contemplating the purchase of a supplementary tablet for some post-work efficiency, or simply want something to entertain the kids for a bit, Amazon is running a rather appealing promotion at the moment.

    A great deal can be quite impactful, and Amazon is presently featuring its top-selling Android tablet, the Samsung Galaxy Tab A9+, at a price of $159, granting you a 28% discount from the typical $219.99 retail price. At such an economical rate, one might assume it’s an outdated model filled with adware, but the Galaxy A9+ has the ability to impress in numerous aspects.

    Positioned at the budget-friendly end of the Android tablet market, the Galaxy A9+ is an excellent option for those looking to acquire a feature-rich device without breaking the bank. While high-end gaming may not be within its capabilities, Amazon customers commend it for the performance it offers at such an affordable price. For the cost, the Galaxy Tab A9+ meets many criteria, making it ideal for anyone seeking an additional device or simply an inexpensive entry into the tablet ecosystem.

    Enjoy 28% off the Galaxy Tab A9+

    Featuring a vibrant 11-inch 1920 x 1200 LCD display, the Samsung Galaxy Tab A9+ also boasts Dolby Atmos quad speakers, delivering impressive sound that’s perfect for music, films, and games. Delving further into the specifications, this tablet comes with a Qualcomm Snapdragon 695 processor, 4 GB of RAM, and an 8MP rear camera. In terms of storage, the Galaxy Tab A9+ offers a 64GB capacity, with the ability to expand to 1 TB via a microSD card. However, note that the $159 variant supports only Wi-Fi, so opting for a 5G cellular connection will incur an additional cost.

    With over 10,000 units sold in the past month, the Galaxy A9+ boasts a 4.4-star rating from over 17,000 reviews. Customers praise the display for its brightness and clarity, with several applauding the vivid color representation. Many also recommend it as an excellent choice for children, and the included Samsung Kids app provides ample content to keep young minds engaged.

    Naturally, adults can join in the enjoyment as well, with some customers noting it serves as a superb e-reader, and the tablet’s built-in battery management system is beneficial for those who prefer to keep their devices plugged in while maintaining battery health. Whether you’re in search of an efficient streaming device, casual gaming, or simply need a secondary device to keep children occupied, the Samsung Galaxy Tab A9+ is a flexible tablet offered at a fantastic price.

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on New Color Selections Offered for Beats Solo Buds, Studio 4, and Studio Pro
    New Color Selections Offered for Beats Solo Buds, Studio 4, and Studio Pro

    **Beats Introduces New Color Variants for Solo Buds, Studio Pro, and Solo 4: The Retail Exclusivity Clarified**

    In light of a recent leak, Beats has introduced a range of new color variants for its sought-after audio devices, which include the Beats Solo Buds, Beats Studio Pro, and Beats Solo 4. Nonetheless, availability could differ notably by region, prompting inquiries regarding the exclusivity of these new hues.

    ### Retail-Exclusive in the UK, US, and Australia

    According to *MacRumors*, Beats has established collaborations with selected retailers worldwide to roll out these eye-catching new color variants.

    In Australia, shoppers can acquire the new **Matte Ivory Beats Solo Buds**, alongside the **Metallic Gold Beats Solo 4** and **Soft Pink Beats Studio Pro**, solely at JB-Hi-Fi. In the United Kingdom, the identical **Matte Ivory Beats Solo Buds** can be found at Argos.

    In the United States, Amazon holds the exclusive rights to offer the **Sand Gray Beats Studio Pro** and **Metallic Pink Beats Solo 4** headphones.

    This scenario prompts inquiries regarding whether these color variants will continue to be limited to certain retailers and countries. Currently, there has been no confirmation regarding wider accessibility, but updates will be shared as more details emerge.

    ### Conclusion

    With the launch of these new color variants, Beats aspires to meet varying consumer tastes while simultaneously fostering a sense of exclusivity through limited retail alliances. Whether you are in Australia, the UK, or the US, these new shades provide a chic way to experience premium audio. Stay alert with your local retailers for the newest selections, and don’t forget to mention your favorite color in the comments!

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Apple Creates ChatGPT-Like Application for Evaluating New Siri, Improbable for Public Launch
    Apple Creates ChatGPT-Like Application for Evaluating New Siri, Improbable for Public Launch

    Mark Gurman from Bloomberg indicates that Apple has developed an application reminiscent of ChatGPT to explore the latest functionalities of its more interactive personal assistant. Among its features, the voice assistant will be capable of sifting through user data and executing actions within various apps.

    The AI-driven application from Apple appears to fulfill some of the commitments it made during the WWDC 2024 presentation, like being able to inquire Siri about “that podcast your friend shared a few weeks back,” enabling the personal assistant to grasp the context and locate the podcast episode for you. Moreover, this updated assistant will have the ability to modify a photo through voice instructions.

    Though Gurman does not foresee Apple launching the standalone app, the company is assessing how this ChatGPT-inspired software might function with its staff while it continues to consider whether users would appreciate a chatbot format on their iPhones.

    Improved Siri is merely the beginning of Apple’s AI journey

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Top 4 Non-Charging Applications for Your iPhone’s USB-C Port
    Top 4 Non-Charging Applications for Your iPhone’s USB-C Port

    what makes USB-C such a significant advancement for Apple. 

    On the latest iPhone Pro editions, the USB-C port supports USB-3 transfer rates when used with the appropriate cable, enabling file transfers to be significantly quicker than previous models. This is particularly important for videographers capturing 4K ProRes video or for content creators who frequently transfer sizeable photo collections. Yet, even if you’re using a basic iPhone 15 or 16, the port’s functionality allows you to connect external storage devices, power accessories, or even link to displays. 

    The most advantageous aspect is that you no longer require a bag filled with Apple-exclusive equipment. USB-C accessories for iPhones include everything from chargers to docks and hubs and even portable thermal cameras, and all of these will likely be compatible with your MacBook, iPad, or even an Android device. Thus, while charging may be the primary use case, reducing USB-C to merely a Lightning substitute is underestimating its full potential. 

    Connect a keyboard to take notes

    While iPads and Macs continue to be the preferred Apple devices for extensive typing tasks, the iPhone has subtly evolved into an effective productivity tool, particularly the larger Pro and Pro Max variations featuring nearly 7-inch screens. However, composing lengthy emails or documents on a touchscreen remains far from optimal. That’s where connecting your iPhone to a physical keyboard can significantly improve the experience. 

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on Google Maps Gets Significant Upgrade Improving Public Transit Navigation
    Google Maps Gets Significant Upgrade Improving Public Transit Navigation

    Maps crashing when attempting to search for transit directions.

    The modifications were noticed by Android Authority, which identified the discrepancies while navigating through Paris to a local theater. One of the main concerns, as per that report, was how Google Maps previously restricted access to many other functionalities within Maps while utilizing public transit options. This created a challenge in discovering nearby dining spots during an ongoing route, often resulting in neglected starting points and entirely different routes appearing in the application. Clearly, this is not a favorable way for the app to function for users dependent on it for walking or subway navigation.

    To begin with, the report suggests that Maps now displays your current route status on a consistent bar that extends along the bottom of the Google Maps interface. This allows you to explore other information within the app without the anxiety of losing track of your location or missing your next stop.

    Simpler methods to locate additional destinations

    <img class="gallery-image " src="https://www.bgr.com/img

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Apple is Confronted with Claims of Ignoring Labor Issues at Key Chinese Supplier
    Apple is Confronted with Claims of Ignoring Labor Issues at Key Chinese Supplier

    ### Apple and Labor Conditions at Foxconn Zhengzhou: An Ongoing Concern

    A recent investigation by [China Labor Watch](https://9to5mac.com/guides/china-labor-watch/#posts) has raised significant alarms about labor conditions at Foxconn Zhengzhou, a major supplier for Apple. The results indicate that, although some advancements have occurred, numerous issues from earlier years persist.

    #### Overview of China Labor Watch

    Established in 2000, China Labor Watch is a standalone, non-profit entity committed to advocating for the rights of workers and bolstering the labor movement in China. Throughout its history, the organization has persistently spotlighted alleged labor infractions at Apple suppliers, especially at Foxconn and Pegatron.

    #### Main Highlights of the 2025 Report

    The most recent report contrasts working conditions at Foxconn Zhengzhou in 2025 with those observed in 2019. While it notes the removal of underage workers, it asserts that this stands as the sole notable enhancement. The report suggests that numerous issues have either intensified or remained static over the six-year timeframe.

    Crucial points from the report encompass:

    – **Deteriorating Conditions**: Factors such as the wage framework, ethnic and regional bias, information management, and workplace safety have worsened since 2019.
    – **Stagnant Earnings**: Base salary for employees stays between 2,100 and 2,400 RMB (around $294–$336), with overtime and bonuses pushing total compensation to close to 3,000 RMB ($420).
    – **Persistent Issues**: Concerns surrounding overtime hours, student labor, wage standards, training, union representation, gender and pregnancy inequality, and dormitory conditions have not progressed.

    The report underscores that Chinese authorities are cognizant of these labor concerns but have permitted them in return for technological advancements from Apple. The manufacturing of the new iPhone 17 at Foxconn Zhengzhou illustrates this ongoing partnership.

    #### Apple’s Reaction

    In light of the report, Apple reaffirmed its dedication to upholding exceptional standards of labor, human rights, and ethical behavior. The company stressed that suppliers are required to ensure safe working environments and treat employees with respect. Apple also highlighted its practice of conducting regular third-party evaluations and rapid responses when issues are detected in its supply chain.

    Apple’s announcement included:

    > “Our suppliers are mandated to provide safe working environments, treat employees with respect and dignity, act fairly and ethically, and employ environmentally friendly practices wherever they manufacture products or provide services for Apple. (…) We routinely conduct third-party assessments, and whenever an issue arises in our supply chain, we act promptly to guarantee that our high standards are maintained.”

    #### Final Thoughts

    The insights from China Labor Watch illuminate persistent hurdles in labor conditions at Foxconn Zhengzhou, even with some strides made towards eradicating underage labor. The report acts as a reminder of the intricate challenges entailed in global supply chains and the urgency for continued examination and enhancement of labor practices. For further information, the complete report can be accessed

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on Unlaunched YouTube AI Functionality Now Accessible for Testing by Android Users
    Unlaunched YouTube AI Functionality Now Accessible for Testing by Android Users

    The Platform is Taking Its AI Capabilities a Bit More Seriously with a “Special” Area

    YouTube has revealed the debut of “YouTube Labs,” a special area for testers to investigate and create the next wave of AI functionalities for videos, music, and beyond. This initiative signifies a notable advancement in the platform’s dedication to weaving AI into its offerings.

    What You Should Know:
    – YouTube Labs is a fresh testing environment where users can help mold the future of AI on the platform.
    – The initial test involves the YouTube Music app, which includes “AI music hosts” that offer commentary, facts, and trivia to enhance the auditory experience.
    – Participation is restricted to a chosen group of U.S. testers, with registration currently available.

    YouTube’s initiative to create a specialized area for AI development emphasizes its commitment to pushing forward AI innovations. The platform intends to engage testers more directly in the process, allowing them to play a role in the advancement of AI on YouTube.

    The premier experiment, “AI Music Hosts,” is crafted to enrich the listening experience by providing music-related anecdotes, trivia, and commentary. This feature is akin to Spotify’s AI DJ but promises a more engaging experience.

    YouTube’s ongoing AI efforts include prior experiments such as the “jump ahead” feature for Premium users and the “Ask about video” feature, which has been completely launched. These initiatives exemplify YouTube’s commitment to utilizing AI to bolster user engagement and content exploration.

    As YouTube persists in assessing AI’s potential, YouTube Labs signifies a pivotal advancement in embedding AI into the platform’s framework, delivering users innovative means to engage with content and influencing the future of digital entertainment.

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