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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Samsung Unveils New SmartThings Hub in the US, Boosting Smart Home Integration
    Samsung Unveils New SmartThings Hub in the US, Boosting Smart Home Integration

    Samsung has introduced the Aeotec Smart Home Hub 2 in the U.S., a sleek and powerful device tailored for smart home enthusiasts. This new hub is smaller than its predecessor, at half the size, while featuring a processor that is 70% faster and double the RAM, boosting performance and dependability. It is compatible with Zigbee, Thread, and Matter, making it suitable for a diverse array of smart devices. Thanks to its local processing abilities, routines will keep operating even when Wi-Fi connectivity is interrupted. With a price tag of $120, it serves as a mid-range option for those seeking to enhance their smart home setup, although it no longer provides Z-Wave support without extra hardware. Samsung’s goal is to bolster its presence in the smart home sector with this efficient and versatile hub.

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Five Electric Cars with the Least Theft Incidents in the US
    Five Electric Cars with the Least Theft Incidents in the US

    Highway Loss Data Institute (HLDI) indicates that eight out of the 20 least stolen vehicles are EVs.

    Consequently, if you possess an EV, you are at an advantage compared to those with an ICE vehicle from manufacturers like Hyundai, Honda, and Kia, as these brands’ cars rank among the most commonly stolen. But which EVs are less susceptible to theft, or do the theft rates remain similar across different EV models? Let’s explore.

    Teslas lead the ranking of least stolen vehicles

    <source media="(max-width: 428px)" srcset="https://www.bgr.com/img/gallery/these-5-evs-are-the-least-likely-to-be-stolen-in-the-us-is-yours-on-the-list/teslas-top-the-list-of

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Researchers Uncover Several New Species During Deep Sea Exploration
    Researchers Uncover Several New Species During Deep Sea Exploration

    A predatory death ball sponge feasting on its victims in the shadowy depths of the ocean floor might appear to be taken from a science fiction horror film, yet this was indeed what was uncovered during a groundbreaking voyage to the Southern Ocean. The death ball sponge was one of 30 species identified, expanding our comprehension of life and ecosystems beneath the waves.

    These discoveries in 2025 were led by The Nippon Foundation–Nekton Ocean Census, the Schmidt Ocean Institute, the Southern Ocean Species Discovery Workshop, and the Universidad de Magallanes in Chile. This initiative was a collective endeavor to seek out undiscovered species around the South Sandwich Islands and their vicinity. These islands sit at the boundary of the Southern Ocean and the Atlantic Ocean, southeast of Argentina.

    This segment of our oceans has been underexplored, and the expedition aimed to rectify that. By collaborating as an international team, swifter and more thorough research could be achieved. In addition to the captivating death ball sponge, other species found included zombie worms, shimmering scale worms, black corals, among others. Since over 99% of the deep sea remains enigmatic, this research employed cutting-edge technology to help unveil the secrets hidden in areas unreachable to humans.

    The newly identified species in the Southern Ocean

    The expedition guided researchers throughout the South Sandwich Islands region. They examined the South Sandwich Trench, the calderas of underwater volcanoes, and the seafloor surrounding Montagu and Saunders Islands. More than 2,000 new samples were gathered, and research teams are diligently sorting through all the findings.

    The carnivorous death ball sponge was particularly intriguing. The minute hooks adorning its body ensnare prey for nourishment, contrasting with the behavior of known ocean sponges. The zombie worms observed utilized symbiotic bacteria to digest the bone fat of larger creatures, compensating for their lack of a mouth. Additionally, the research teams captured the inaugural footage of a young colossal squid, which might eventually reach up to 45 feet in length and weigh over 1,000 pounds.

    The protected iridescent scale worms represented another remarkable discovery, as did a novel species of sea star. They also unearthed unidentified isopods, amphipods, gastropods, bivalves inhabiting volcanoes, and a new genus of sea-pen. This merely scratches the surface of their findings, as all samples are still undergoing continued study and verification. With expeditions like this one, which revealed life thriving at the ocean’s depths without sunlight, along with this record-breaking coral, we are gradually unlocking more about our underwater realm.

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on Report Suggests Apple Lacks Immediate Plans for Upcoming Mac Pro Launch
    Report Suggests Apple Lacks Immediate Plans for Upcoming Mac Pro Launch

    ### Apple’s Mac Pro: A Dwindling Future in the Age of Apple Silicon

    In the most recent edition of his Power On newsletter, Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman reveals that Apple has “largely dismissed the Mac Pro.” This declaration raises critical questions about the future of Apple’s premium desktop products, especially considering the company’s strategic shift towards its Mac Studio series.

    #### Recent Updates

    The Mac Pro received its last upgrade in 2023, featuring the M2 Ultra chip, a robust enhancement that highlighted Apple’s dedication to high-performance computing. However, Gurman notes that there are no current intentions for a new Mac Pro update. This standstill signals a change in Apple’s priorities, as the company is no longer working on an M4 Ultra chip that was anticipated to power the next version of the Mac Pro.

    Conversely, the upcoming high-end Apple Silicon chip will be the M5 Ultra, which is destined solely for the Mac Studio. This implies that the Mac Pro is unlikely to undergo any major updates in 2026, possibly signaling the conclusion of its evolution as a leading product.

    #### Internal Perspective

    Gurman’s observations indicate that the internal mood at Apple is one of acceptance regarding the Mac Pro’s prospects. He mentions, “the sentiment internally is that the Mac Studio now signifies both the present and future of Apple’s professional desktop strategy.” This transition suggests that Apple may be favoring the Mac Studio as the primary choice for professionals in need of powerful computing alternatives.

    #### The Future of the Mac Pro

    Although Gurman does not explicitly claim that Apple will never unveil a new Mac Pro, the current trajectory implies that the Mac Studio is being framed as the top selection for users desiring high performance. The absence of future plans for the Mac Pro raises doubts about whether Apple will ultimately discontinue the product line altogether.

    #### Conclusion

    As Apple continues to innovate and enhance its product lineup, the Mac Pro seems to be on a downward spiral, eclipsed by the capabilities and strategic path of the Mac Studio. For professionals in search of the most powerful Mac available, the Mac Studio presently stands out as the premier choice. The future of the Mac Pro is still unclear, and whether Apple will opt to revitalize it for the Apple Silicon age remains a subject of ongoing speculation.

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on Bloomberg: Latest Updates on the iPhone Air 2
    Bloomberg: Latest Updates on the iPhone Air 2

    **Updates on iPhone Air 2: Setbacks and Progress**

    This past week has been eventful for iPhone Air enthusiasts, as there have been mixed reports about the launch of the awaited iPhone Air 2. Initially, *The Information* indicated that Apple had postponed the release indefinitely due to underwhelming sales numbers. Yet, a day later, a different report clarified that the iPhone Air 2 had simply been delayed by six months, with a fresh launch goal now aiming for spring 2027 instead of fall 2026.

    Mark Gurman from *Bloomberg* has shared more details about the circumstances surrounding the iPhone Air 2. According to Gurman, the device was never designed for a 2026 launch, which contradicts the claim that the delay was solely based on sales performance. Instead, *The Information* proposed that the delay was intended to enable Apple to add a second camera to the iPhone Air 2.

    However, Gurman stresses that the primary emphasis for the forthcoming iPhone Air will be the shift to a new 2-nanometer processor, rather than notable design alterations. This new chip is anticipated to significantly improve battery longevity. Supply chain information reveals that the upcoming A20 chip will be produced using TSMC’s sophisticated 2nm fabrication process, featuring several technological advancements.

    With respect to the potential addition of a second camera, Gurman conveyed doubts. He pointed out that while integrating an ultrawide rear camera is technically possible, the congested design of the phone’s camera section makes this modification seem impractical for a device that hasn’t secured substantial market share. He speculated that the only condition under which this addition would be logical is if the design from a foldable iPhone, which has a dual rear-camera configuration, were to impact standard variants.

    Apple initially expected the iPhone Air to account for 6% to 8% of new iPhone sales, a performance level akin to that of the iPhone 16 Plus. Gurman’s report does not provide a precise release date for the iPhone Air 2, but he sketches out Apple’s wider strategy: the company plans to launch three premium models—iPhone 18 Pro, iPhone 18 Pro Max, and a new foldable iPhone—in fall 2026, followed by the iPhone 18, iPhone 18e, and possibly an updated iPhone Air roughly six months later. This trend suggests that Apple intends to debut between five and six new models each year.

    A significant insight from Gurman’s assessment is that Apple never planned for the iPhone Air to follow an annual release timeline, which is why it is called “iPhone Air” rather than “iPhone 17 Air.” Moreover, Gurman emphasizes that one of the reasons behind the iPhone Air’s existence is to act as a testing platform for technologies and designs that will be implemented in the upcoming foldable iPhone. The foldable device is anticipated to utilize many of the same materials, miniaturization methods, internal parts, batteries, and software refinements as the iPhone Air.

    In summary, while the launch of the iPhone Air 2 has encountered setbacks and ambiguity, it continues to be a vital component of Apple’s strategy for innovation and market standing in the smartphone arena.

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on 5 Key Apple CarPlay Features You Should Be Aware Of
    5 Key Apple CarPlay Features You Should Be Aware Of

    iOS 26 introduced entirely new features for Apple CarPlay, including the updated Liquid Glass design, the capability to incorporate widgets onto your CarPlay display, the option to send Tapbacks in Messages, and more.

    However, this only skims the surface of what Apple CarPlay offers: Behind the scenes, there are numerous hidden settings and functionalities to enhance and refine your upcoming CarPlay experience, some of which have been available for quite a while. With just a few extra taps and screen swipes, you can customize your CarPlay dashboard more effectively.

    In light of that, we have compiled this list of five essential hidden features that every Apple CarPlay user should be aware of. Whether you prefer a streamlined interface with fewer distractions or are someone who desires access to every widget and additional screen available, our compilation provides insights and strategies for all CarPlay users. Once you discover where to search, you’ll find Apple CarPlay is much more adaptable and interactive than the majority of iOS users comprehend.

    Never lose track of where you parked with Apple and Google Maps

    View of an outdoor parking area.

    SofikoS/Shutterstock

    There’s nothing more frustrating than roaming back and forth along city avenues looking for your vehicle that you believed was merely two blocks away from the 7-11 on Blink Street. This predicament is even worse at night, as it becomes more challenging to see who or what is approaching around the bend.

    Yet, did you realize that CarPlay is typically monitoring

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on Complimentary Tool Offered for ChatGPT Users to Speed Up Slow Dialogues
    Complimentary Tool Offered for ChatGPT Users to Speed Up Slow Dialogues

    ChatGPT users frequently express dissatisfaction regarding a prevalent problem: How a tab unexpectedly becomes unresponsive after an extended interaction with the chatbot. This often leads to user frustration and necessitates starting a new chat, which entails re-entering all instructions, data, and information anew. Nevertheless, initiating a new chat disrupts the workflow, and the responses may lack the context from the earlier conversation.

    The issue generally lies not with ChatGPT, but rather with your browser. The ChatGPT interface retains all messages from the conversations in your browser, and as more interactions accumulate, your browser must manage an extensive chat history. For processing and displaying thousands of messages, the browser utilizes a significant amount of RAM and CPU resources, which can lead to lag and sluggishness.

    A quick, temporary solution to this is to clear your browsing history to free up some memory or use the dedicated ChatGPT application. However, a free extension available on the Google Chrome Web Store, named ChatGPT LightSession, claims to address this issue more effectively.

    All about ChatGPT LightSession, and how it works

    The ChatGPT LightSession extension for Google Chrome conceals old and invisible messages from your browser’s display, which helps to free up your computer’s memory. Instead of displaying the entire chat, the browser now concentrates on rendering the most recent messages, leading to quicker responses in the chat. This does not imply that the extension removes anything from ChatGPT’s memory. The chatbot maintains the full context of the entire conversation thread, allowing you to reference any previous point during the discussion.

    For those apprehensive about privacy, as per the developer’s documentation, ChatGPT LightSession operates locally on your device. The developer asserts that the data “doesn’t go to any external servers” and that he doesn’t “

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Four Essential Android Applications for Efficient Fitness Monitoring
    Four Essential Android Applications for Efficient Fitness Monitoring

    essential applications on Android that you ought to utilize; the applications listed below are ideal for anyone who is passionate about gym activities or maintaining an active lifestyle. From logging your gym achievements to monitoring your nutrition while managing your weight, everything mentioned here will suit anyone who enjoys beginning their day with a protein shake and a cardio workout. Even if you have never lifted a dumbbell or worn running shoes, many of these applications can assist you in getting started.

    All of the applications are free to download, but keep in mind that they may offer in-app purchases or a subscription to access the complete experience. Premium features are indicated where relevant. While there’s no guarantee that the technology in these applications will enable you to shed fifty pounds in three months, each of the applications listed below can be advantageous when paired with the right fitness regimen. It’s also recommended to consult with a healthcare professional before commencing any new exercise program, if feasible.

    FitNotes – Workout Log for the Gym

    If you are someone who prefers to take a pen and notebook to the gym to document all the details about your progress and new personal bests, then FitNotes will aid you in tracking everything without any extra mess. With a workout log, an exercise database, the capability to create and modify routines, and even a calendar to monitor performance, FitNotes is perfect for anyone aiming to tap into their inner Mike Mentzer.

    Using the workout log, you can swiftly view and manage everything by swiping through it, or utilize the calendar to jump to a specific date. You can input your exercises and provide details about particular movements, such as tracking your sets and repetitions or documenting your travel distance and duration. The exercise

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on Reasons Amazon Fire TVs Are Affordable
    Reasons Amazon Fire TVs Are Affordable

    **The Explanation Behind the Low Prices of Amazon Fire TVs**

    In the past few years, the prices of televisions have significantly decreased due to improvements in technology, enhanced manufacturing processes, and intensified competition in the market. Among the budget-friendly alternatives are Amazon’s Fire TV series, which encompasses media players and economical television sets. These gadgets remain affordable even without discounts, but how does Amazon sustain such attractive pricing? The solution lies in data gathering and advertising.

    Amazon Fire TVs, similar to Roku TVs, are low-cost because they gather and sell user information. This information encompasses browsing patterns, viewing habits, and buying tendencies. Furthermore, the Fire TV interface is loaded with advertisements, ranging from home screen promotions to ads that appear between content. These advertisements, coupled with data sales, yield substantial income for Amazon, enabling them to subsidize the prices of their devices. By maintaining low prices, Amazon draws in more customers, initiating a cycle of expanded data collection and ad impressions, resulting in increased financial benefits.

    **Ensure You are Aware of What You’re Getting Into**

    Although Amazon Fire TVs present excellent value, it’s crucial to be aware of what you are agreeing to. These devices are licensed through various manufacturers, primarily tailored for casual media viewing rather than gaming, and are significantly ad-supported. If these features do not appeal to you, you might want to explore alternative options for your upcoming television or streaming service. Moreover, consider the durability of inexpensive TVs, as you may find yourself needing to replace them sooner than anticipated.

    Amazon is not the only company engaging in this method; other brands like Samsung and LG also collect and sell user information to mitigate expenses. While some platforms, including Fire TV, provide options to modify ad and data tracking preferences, complete disabling is not possible. You can check Amazon’s Security & Privacy section to limit targeted ads, but data tracking and advertisements are generally inescapable, as users consent to these conditions during the setup of their devices.

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Top New MacBook Offers for November Beginning at $599
    Top New MacBook Offers for November Beginning at $599

    # The Budget-Friendly MacBook Era: An In-Depth Guide to Apple’s Latest Releases

    During the Apple Silicon period, MacBooks have become increasingly available, with new models commencing at just $599. With potential international tariffs looming, these offers may be fleeting, making this an ideal moment for anyone in the market for a new MacBook.

    Apple’s latest macOS Tahoe update has also eliminated support for nearly all Intel Macs, with very few exceptions. Those wishing to keep up with Apple’s software should consider upgrading to a more recent model.

    ## M1 MacBook Air

    Since the launch of Apple Silicon, Apple has rolled out four MacBook Air models, equipped with M1, M2, M3, and M4 chips. The M1 MacBook Air maintains the characteristic wedge shape from the Intel era, which many users still favor.

    Even after four years, the M1 MacBook Air stands strong in the market. It boasts remarkable performance courtesy of the M1 chip, a brilliant Retina display (though with thicker bezels than its successors), a dependable keyboard, and up to 18 hours of battery life. Notably, it runs quietly, making it perfect for use in public spaces.

    The M1 MacBook Air is the least expensive choice on this list, although locating new models with over 256GB of storage can be difficult. Nevertheless, it is the only Apple Silicon MacBook available in a classic Gold hue.

    – **Price**: Starting at [$599 at Walmart](https://howl.link/yui329teypivr) for the 13-inch version with 256GB of storage and 8GB of RAM.

    ## M3 MacBook Air

    In 2022, Apple revealed a newly designed MacBook Air sporting a sleeker profile, a bigger display with narrower bezels, and the return of MagSafe. This model debuted with the M2 chip, and the design has carried over to the M3.

    While M2 MacBook Airs are mostly sold out, select M3 models, particularly the 15-inch variant, are still on the market.

    – **15-inch MacBook Air with M3 chip**:
    – 512GB of storage, 24GB of RAM: [$1099 at Amazon](https://amzn.to/489Yepa) (discounted by $600).

    This model is perfect for users requiring more unified memory for effective multitasking.

    ## M4 MacBook Air

    In March, Apple introduced a revamped MacBook Air featuring the M4 chip. This iteration resembles its predecessor but adds a new Center Stage webcam and a Sky Blue color choice, replacing Space Gray.

    Presently, there are noteworthy discounts on the latest MacBook Air models, making them an excellent purchase ahead of the holiday season.

    – **13-inch models with M4 chip**:
    – 256GB of storage, 16GB of RAM: [$749 at Amazon](https://amzn.to/421Yxj9).
    – 512GB of storage, 16GB of RAM: [$949 at Amazon](https://amzn.to/4o0M7jn).
    – 512GB of storage, 24GB of RAM: [$1149 at Amazon](https://amzn.to/3KyKcEp).

    – **15-inch models with M4 chip**:
    – 256GB of storage, 16GB of RAM: [$949 at Amazon](https://amzn.to/4i8YJ4T).
    – 512GB of storage, 16GB of RAM: [$1149 at Amazon](https://amzn.to/4nV3KSp).
    – 512GB of storage, 24GB of RAM: [$1349 at Amazon](https://amzn.to/4i2wTHe).

    ## M4 MacBook Pro

    Apple revamped the MacBook Pro in 2021, incorporating a miniLED display with ProMotion, extra ports (including an HDMI and an SD card slot), larger batteries, and enhanced thermal management. The new models also come with a 1080p webcam.

    While the MacBook Pro typically commands a higher price than the Air models, some great deals still exist. The M4 and M4 Pro chip versions deliver exceptional performance and features.

    – **16-inch models**:
    – M4 Pro MacBook Pro with 512GB of storage, 24GB of RAM: [$2199 on Amazon](https://amzn.to/4e1tacQ).
    – M4 Pro MacBook Pro with 512GB of storage, 48GB of RAM: [$2535 on Amazon](https://amzn.to/445lGSw).
    – M4 Max MacBook Pro with 1TB of storage, 36GB of RAM:

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