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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Top 5 Functional Applications for the Unused USB Ports on Your Computer
    Top 5 Functional Applications for the Unused USB Ports on Your Computer

    Universal Serial Bus (USB) connections available on your computer or laptop that are currently idle and neglected. Rather than allowing those robust ports to remain unutilized, why not connect some truly amazing technology designed to enhance your home and workspace experiences?

    We exist in an age where it appears that nearly everything is equipped with a USB interface, even those items that arguably ought not to be. This gives us the opportunity to make use of the vast array of USB devices available that can perform some remarkable tasks, many of which you might not have considered doing with that vacant USB port on your device.

    The subsequent list presents a variety of exciting and intriguing gadgets that can bolster security, augment the functions of your PC or laptop, let you indulge in nostalgia, and even items that will enhance the comfort of your desk setup, particularly as the chilly winter months approach.

    USB Security Key

    With security being more crucial now than ever, especially with approximately 16 billion credentials being compromised recently, it’s wise to utilize that extra USB port to increase your security. The <a href="https://r.bttn.io?btn_ref=org-225e4e0aac880b8f&btn_url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2FYubico-Two-factor-authentication-security-certified%2Fdp%2FB08DHL1YDL%2Fref%3Dsr_1_2_sspa%3Fcrid%3D1MFP4QA7XYGEI%26dib%3DeyJ2IjoiMSJ9.SRD7TDIIw6ldaB2ThaRei7KHU_hCpk2Ezr1vvI5nYEUx4FyIFLiV_HbbczfLmzDTKx8U6eqb-E

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on 5 Cherished Discontinued Headphones That Audiophiles Yearn For
    5 Cherished Discontinued Headphones That Audiophiles Yearn For

    best headphones for audiophiles have simply faded away from the market. At times, they disappeared because manufacturers pursued new trends. Other instances were due to rising production costs or market transitions toward more convenient and portable options. Regardless of the reasons behind this, many beloved models were discontinued. However, for passionate listeners, the unavailability of these headphones does not diminish their value, and they are now deeply missed.

    Discussions about them and the sound they once produced continue. Some models, like the Sennheiser HE-90 Orpheus and the Sony MDR-EX1000, can still be found functioning on the secondhand market, even if their prices are exorbitant. Perhaps there is a touch of nostalgia making these headphones highly sought after, yet these models were known for delivering newfound clarity and a distinct sound experience. Audiophiles often express that classic headphone designs provided balanced tonality, expansive soundstages, or a lifelike realism that transformed listening into an experience rather than mere background noise.

    Let’s explore some of the headphones that audiophiles frequently discuss in niche forums and uncover what made these models remarkable. From planar magnetic to electrostatic designs, and ultra-premium products to surprisingly compact treasures, each of these headphones contributed its unique charm.

    Sennheiser HE-90 Orpheus

    The Sennheiser HE-90 Orpheus was a no-expense-spared showcase of technology, and it is remembered as an engineering marvel. Launched in 1991, it combined handcrafted electrostatic HE-90 transducers with a large vacuum tube amplifier (HEV-90) that operated at exceptionally high bias voltages. This unique feature allowed the headphones to produce outstanding sound for the format.

    The audio produced by these headphones was renowned for its exceptional musicality. They featured an expansive soundstage, lush yet detailed mids, and a sweet yet controlled treble

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on A Summary of Mobile Technology Developments in 2025
    A Summary of Mobile Technology Developments in 2025

    Reflecting on the forecasts from the previous year.

    Grade: C+

    It’s time to anticipate what the upcoming year will offer for the devices and gadgets we enjoy. It’s always a combination of excitement, hopes, and genuine expectations.

    I made four significant forecasts last December regarding the mobile tech industry’s trajectory for 2025. These were based on a bit of insider insight, some practical reasoning, and prevailing trends. Let’s examine how things have unfolded.

    Foldables dominated in 2025

    Last year, I predicted that one of the most prominent trends in 2025 might be the emergence of foldable smartphones.

    “Manufacturers are expanding the limits of smartphone design, providing devices that effortlessly switch between phone and tablet functions. These gadgets are becoming increasingly affordable and dependable, presenting an appealing option for users seeking a multifunctional mobile experience.“

    And that’s largely what occurred. We didn’t just witness “budget” foldables advance with releases from Motorola and Samsung, but also the introduction of devices that fold in half; tri-folding phones have arrived and are here to stay.

    One thing I anticipated but didn’t observe was a notable increase in popularity. The foldable market remains viable, with companies selling enough units to sustain their design, development, and manufacturing, but it didn’t experience a substantial surge. With a wider array of models available, more are ending up with consumers, but the usage isn’t as widespread as I expected.

    The era of AI

    Last year, I mentioned that “Artificial intelligence (AI) is swiftly being woven into many facets of mobile technology. Features powered by AI are enriching user experiences in various ways … Anticipate this to persist throughout 2025, as companies seek new avenues to implement AI. Some of these will be impressive and beneficial; others may not. <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.androidcentral.com/apps-software/why-im

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on Distinctions Between Roku TV and Roku Streaming Stick
    Distinctions Between Roku TV and Roku Streaming Stick

    Roku TVs offer numerous advantages. They are available in various sizes and from multiple manufacturers, including Philips, TCL, Westinghouse, Magnavox, RCA, and Hisense. Roku also produces its own branded models. These smart TVs feature the Roku OS integrated directly, providing immediate access to the user-friendly Roku interface right when you turn it on. You can install your preferred streaming applications, such as Netflix, Disney+, and YouTube, as well as enjoy complimentary Roku channels.

    This option is particularly sensible if you’re considering enhancing your television. Many individuals prefer to place a Roku TV in a secondary space, such as a bedroom, den, or basement. However, there are larger Roku TVs available that fit well in a living room setting as well. The advantage is their affordability, though it’s worth noting why Roku TVs are priced so low. Nevertheless, you can still acquire cutting-edge features like 4K, HDR, and Dolby Vision, along with various types of TVs, such as miniLED and QLED. If you already own a display that you cherish, yet desire the

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on Expertise in Android Technology
    Expertise in Android Technology

    With the launch of Android 12 in 2021, Google implemented a somewhat debated modification to the Quick Settings panel. The individual toggles for Wi-Fi and mobile data were eliminated and replaced with a new, expandable Internet tile that contained the previous mobile data and Wi-Fi toggles. This modification sought to streamline the experience for users; however, it inadvertently made switching Wi-Fi and mobile data more cumbersome. Years after this alteration, it seems Google might be considering reinstating the old layout in a forthcoming update for Android 16.

    A brief overview of Android’s Internet Panel

    Before Android 12, the operating system featured distinct toggles for Wi-Fi and mobile data. These were handy shortcuts for those who needed to frequently switch these connections. Users could easily pull down the Quick Settings panel and tap on the Wi-Fi or mobile data tile to quickly toggle the respective setting.

    Upon the release of Android 12, Google replaced these individual toggles with a unified “Internet” tile. Tapping this tile brings up the new Internet Panel, which includes switches for controlling Wi-Fi and mobile data, a list of nearby networks, and an option to share the Wi-Fi connection.

    Although the Internet tile provides more features than the previous one-click Wi-Fi and mobile data tiles, it introduces an additional step whenever a user intends to toggle either setting. This is due to the requirement for users to expand the tile to access the mobile data or Wi-Fi controls. While this isn’t overly complicated, many perceive it as an unnecessary barrier, considering it wasn’t necessary before.

    Following the introduction of Android 12, numerous users voiced their dissatisfaction regarding the new Internet Panel, prompting Google to release a statement outlining the reasoning behind the alteration. Google claimed it designed the Internet Panel to tackle a prevalent issue users faced with network connectivity. The company discovered that when users disabled Wi-Fi to compel their Android devices to switch to mobile data, they frequently forgot to re-enable it, leading to excessive mobile data consumption.

    The Internet Panel aims to resolve this concern by offering an alternative to disabling Wi-Fi: a straightforward method for switching the active network connection to mobile data. Google recognized that long-time Android users would need some time to acclimate to the new tile. However, the company believed that once they did, they would find the Panel to be “a more intuitive and straightforward way for users to resolve their Wi-Fi connectivity problems while reducing user errors and unintended outcomes.”

    The effort to reinstate Android’s original Wi-Fi and mobile data tiles

    Google’s rationale for this decision is understandable, particularly since it must design the Android operating system considering billions of users. Nevertheless, this choice still did not sit well with power users who felt restricted by a change that “dumbed down” the Quick Settings panel. These users sought methods to revert the modification, and fortunately, a workaround was soon identified.

    Regrettably, this workaround became ineffective in Android 13, compelling users to seek alternative remedies. Several third-party apps can add Wi-Fi and mobile data tiles to the Quick Settings panel; however, they all necessitate elevated permissions since Android does not offer public APIs to toggle these connections. While many power users may accept this prerequisite, not everyone will. Moreover, this solution excludes users who are knowledgeable enough to track their data usage but lack the technical know-how to utilize ADB.

    For years, there was no sign that Google intended to reverse this change. However, following the release of Android 16 QPR2 earlier this month, new indicators have arisen. Michael Bestas, a key developer of LineageOS, found evidence within the Android Open Source Project (AOSP) suggesting Google aims to separate the Internet tile into distinct Wi-Fi and mobile data tiles.

    This evidence appears in code alterations submitted earlier this year, which were made public with the release of the Android 16 QPR2 source code. The first code alteration, titled “Add separate mobile data tile,” simply adds “a mobile data tile that allows toggling mobile data on/off.” This tile is designated as “Mobile Data,” and when tapped, it will prompt a dialog asking the user whether they wish to toggle mobile data.

    The second code change, titled “Add wifi tile with toggle,” introduces “a new wifi tile with toggle to pause and scan for wifi.” In contrast to the new mobile data tile, the Wi-Fi tile will still be referred to as “Internet” and will display “the current default non-wifi internet provider when Wifi is not default.” This adjustment is aimed at facilitating “the transition away from the Provider Model,” where “Provider Model” refers to the Internet Panel. A note in the newly added code implies that Google intends to “migrate to a Wifi-only tile,” but there is no indication of when this might occur, or when the Internet tile will actually be separated.

    At present, this modification is gated behind a feature flag labeled “com.android.systemui.qs_split_in

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on Samsung’s Forthcoming Galaxy Z Fold Anticipated to Showcase Improved Camera System
    Samsung’s Forthcoming Galaxy Z Fold Anticipated to Showcase Improved Camera System

    Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold 8 is set to make important advancements in camera technology, tackling a long-standing criticism of the foldable series. Traditionally, the Z Fold line has focused on productivity and large displays, often sacrificing camera improvements. Nevertheless, the forthcoming Galaxy Z Fold 8 may change this pattern with significant upgrades.

    Speculation indicates two primary camera enhancements for the Z Fold 8. The ultrawide camera is anticipated to upgrade from 12MP to an impressive 50MP, promising sharper, more detailed wide-angle images. Furthermore, the telephoto lens might improve from 10MP to 12MP, keeping its 3x optical zoom but providing sharper zoomed pictures.

    Samsung seems to be retaining the 200MP main sensor from the Z Fold 7, reflecting trust in its existing flagship technology. While the front cameras are expected to stay the same, this emphasis on the main and secondary cameras suggests a change in priorities, aligning foldable devices with the imaging capabilities of conventional smartphones.

    As foldable devices gain popularity and demand higher prices, consumer expectations for camera performance have grown. The Galaxy Z Fold 8’s expected camera improvements could establish it as a strong competitor in the photography sector, likely setting a new benchmark for foldable phones. If these rumors are accurate, the Z Fold 8 may debut in 2026 as the first in its lineup to provide competitive camera quality without compromise.

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Over 500,000 Windows Users Switch to Linux: Explanations Provided
    Over 500,000 Windows Users Switch to Linux: Explanations Provided

    official support will conclude in October 2025, followed by a period of limited free Extended Security Updates (ESU) until October 13, 2026 (with paid ESU available until 2028). In essence, Microsoft is eager to responsibly conclude support for Windows 10 at the earliest opportunity, despite Windows 10 being touted as “the last version of Windows” ever created.

    Clearly, this has proven to be inaccurate. Microsoft has also complicated the process of upgrading older hardware to Windows 11, due to its strict requirement for a TPM 2.0 security chip, which numerous older desktops and laptops do not possess. As a result, quite a few Windows 10 users find themselves without a viable upgrade route to Microsoft’s current OS on their devices, allowing Linux to fill the gap, with distributions like Zorin demonstrating the evidence to support this trend.

    Microsoft’s setback is Linux’s opportunity

    Image of Microsoft's logo on a building

    Jewhyte/Getty Images

    Among the numerous Linux distributions, ranging from Fedora to Ubuntu, Zorin (founded on Ubuntu) has long aspired to serve as a substitute for Windows. With its taskbar resembling Windows 11 and a start menu that feels familiar, Zorin is designed to facilitate a smooth transition from Windows to Linux.

    In an environment where numerous Windows 10 users are seeking to switch to an operating system that values their privacy, as well as their hardware (regardless of its age), Zorin is likely one of the initial distros a Linux-interested Windows user will consider. With Zorin already surpassing a million downloads, with 78

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Apple @ Work: The Significance of ABM Warranty and New Business Manager APIs for IT Teams
    Apple @ Work: The Significance of ABM Warranty and New Business Manager APIs for IT Teams

    **Apple Business Manager API and ABM Warranty: A New Chapter for IT Administration of Apple Devices**

    The administration of Apple devices within enterprise settings has consistently presented distinct challenges, especially in tracking warranties and device statuses. Nevertheless, with the advent of the Apple Business Manager API, IT teams now have the ability to access device data in a secure and streamlined way, enhancing the management of extensive fleets of Apple devices.

    **Grasping the Apple Business Manager API**

    The Apple Business Manager API grants third-party tools secure access to device data directly from Apple. This functionality is vital for IT departments tasked with efficiently managing a multitude of devices. By unveiling more device details and management features through official APIs, Apple is empowering developers to craft applications that fulfill enduring requirements within the IT sector.

    **Presenting ABM Warranty**

    One pivotal application is ABM Warranty, designed to supply IT teams with a simplified method to access Apple device warranty details. This tool extracts warranty data embedded in Apple Business Manager and displays it in a user-friendly format. With capabilities such as color coding to signify warranty status—whether devices are under warranty, out of warranty, or nearing expiration—ABM Warranty streamlines the decision-making process regarding device repairs and replacements.

    **Essential Features of ABM Warranty**

    – **Thorough Warranty Overview**: ABM Warranty provides a transparent display of warranty statuses for all devices, enabling IT teams to promptly identify which devices need attention.
    – **Filtering and Exporting**: Users can filter devices by platform and export data to CSV files, facilitating integration with other IT management systems.
    – **In-depth Device Insights**: The application delivers historical coverage details for individual devices, including any AppleCare Plus incidents, ensuring that IT teams have all relevant information readily available.
    – **Upcoming Enhancements**: The future roadmap for ABM Warranty includes features like keychain-based certificate selection and integration with Apple School Manager, promising enhanced functionality.

    **The Influence of Apple’s API on IT Administration**

    The launch of the Apple Business Manager API signifies a noteworthy transformation in how IT teams interact with Apple devices. For years, there has been a need for increased visibility into warranty statuses and repair records, and the API addresses this by offering structured data access. This transformation not only boosts the capabilities of tools like ABM Warranty but also sets the stage for further advancements in IT management solutions.

    **Final Thoughts**

    For organizations overseeing Apple devices in large quantities, tools like ABM Warranty are becoming indispensable elements of their operational procedures. With the groundwork laid by Apple’s API access, IT teams can finally achieve the visibility they have long desired, leading to more educated decision-making concerning device management. By utilizing applications like ABM Warranty, organizations can optimize their processes and guarantee that their Apple devices remain well-supported and efficient.

    For those keen on exploring ABM Warranty, it is available for download on the Mac App Store, enabling organizations to commence managing their warranty data effectively with minimal setup.

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