Blog Posts

Blog Posts

How to Keep Your Car Keys on an Android Smartwatch

digital keys for cars available on phones and smartwatches. The configuration procedure is akin for both ecosystems. In each scenario, drivers must verify that they possess the correct vehicle and operate compatible OS versions that facilitate digital key functionality. Subsequently, they can connect the vehicle with the phone and the smartwatch. The car keys will be saved within the designated wallet application.

Depending on the car’s make and model, you may need to tap your Android device against the door handle to secure and gain access to your vehicle. Additionally, you might need to bring the device close to the car key reader to ignite the engine. The optimal choice is known as “passive entry,” which allows you to manage the car (lock/unlock and start) without needing to keep the device adjacent to the handle or key reader.

How to keep car keys on an Android smartwatch

Smartwatches typically function in conjunction with smartphones rather than operating independently, irrespective of the platform. This implies that the Android phone serves as the primary device to pair with your vehicle before transferring the digital car key to your smartwatch. We have previously outlined how to keep your car keys on your Android phone. You are required to utilize the official application from your car manufacturer, employ an email link from the manufacturer, or use the car’s head unit to connect the Android phone with the vehicle. This procedure transforms your mobile device into a digital car key that serves as a substitute for the traditional key fob.

By
How to Keep Your Car Keys on an Android Smartwatch
Uncategorized

Five Abandoned Android Applications That Users Long for the Most

has eliminated numerous treasured applications, but due to a perpetually evolving technological environment filled with acquisitions and continually changing API modifications, there remains an abundance of obsolete third-party Android apps that users continue to long for.

So get ready for a nostalgic journey; it’s time to look back at some of the Android apps that are sorely missed. From beloved RSS readers to valued app launchers, many agree that Android suffers a decline, owing to the complete vanishing of numerous exemplary apps and their abrupt (and frequently unjustified) endings.

Google Reader

If you were to inquire with any random Android user about which app they yearn for the most, you’re likely to receive one of two responses. It will either be Google Reader or Inbox (more on Inbox below), and Google Reader has been absent since 2013, so it undoubtedly leads in the category of most missed simply by virtue of how long it has been gone.

For those who are not acquainted with Google Reader, it was a widely used RSS feed aggregator managed by Google. It debuted in 2005, and the Android app appeared in the Play Store in 2010 (then known as the Android Market). However, similar to many Google offerings that fail to achieve instant success, it faded away due to insufficient updates until it was shut down 5 years later, quite abruptly, which only served to further infuriate loyal users (a typical Google strategy, something the company is quite infamous for with its notorious Graveyard). Consequently, Google Reader secured its place in our nostalgic memories as an overlooked service that truly deserved more.

Although there are still numerous RSS feed aggregators available in the Android realm, like Feedly and <a href="https://play.google.com/store/apps/details

By
Five Abandoned Android Applications That Users Long for the Most
Uncategorized

Effect of HDMI Splitters on Television Image Quality

the distance of an HDMI cable, along with the varieties of displays to which your splitter is connected, can occasionally result in handshake problems or other audio-video issues.

In general terms, HDMI technology performs optimally when cable lengths remain at or below 25 feet. While there’s no strict guideline that prohibits longer cables from functioning, the AV signal transmitted by an HDMI cable is significantly more susceptible to degradation and interference over extended distances. Fortunately, active HDMI splitters are relatively easy to locate and offer signal amplification. This aids in preserving signal strength and quality while utilizing longer HDMI cables.

It’s also important to consider which HDMI port you’re using for the output cables from the splitter. If you are trying to split the AV signal from a gaming console such as the PlayStation 5, connecting an HDMI cable to one of the TV’s non-HDMI 2.1 ports may deactivate features such as Variable Refresh Rate and Automatic Low Latency Mode, potentially leading to sluggish gameplay.

Additional details regarding HDMI splitters

<source media="(min-width: 429px)" srcset="https://www.bgr.com/img/gallery/can-an-hdmi-splitter-hurt-your-tvs-picture-quality/other-things-to-know-about-hdmi-splitters-176665310

By
Effect of HDMI Splitters on Television Image Quality
Uncategorized

Holiday Tech Assistance: Keep Support and Inquire 9to5Mac Services

### Tech Support Stories and iOS 26 Insights: A Retrospective on 2025

As the holiday period comes to a close, Benjamin Mayo and Chance Miller return with captivating tales from the tech support domain, recounting their experiences and hurdles encountered in the field. This edition of the 9to5Mac Happy Hour podcast delves into the realities of tech support, showcasing the frequently amusing and frustrating scenarios that occur when technology fails to perform as expected.

#### iOS 26 Hold Assist: A Mixed Experience

In this show, the hosts also explore the newly introduced iOS 26 Hold Assist feature. Although it was hoped to enhance user experiences, listener feedback indicates that it may not meet expectations in real-world use. This part of the discussion underscores the discrepancy between theoretical technological advancements and their actual use, igniting a dialogue about user experience and practicality.

#### Ask9to5Mac Segment

To conclude the episode, Benjamin and Chance interact with their audience through the Ask9to5Mac segment. They respond to questions posed by listeners, offering insights and guidance on various tech-related subjects. This participatory segment of the podcast nurtures a sense of community and motivates listeners to engage actively.

#### 9to5Mac Happy Hour Plus

For those seeking additional exclusive content, the hosts promote the 9to5Mac Happy Hour Plus subscription. This premium option features ad-free episodes, extra pre- and post-show content, and special bonus episodes. Subscribers can directly support Benjamin and Chance while enjoying enriched content for just $5 a month or $50 a year.

#### Hosts

– **Chance Miller**
– **Benjamin Mayo**

#### Feedback and Interaction

Listeners are invited to send their inquiries and feedback through a variety of platforms, including Twitter, Mastodon, and Threads, or by emailing [email protected]. This interaction enables the hosts to adjust content to better align with their audience’s interests and concerns.

### Conclusion

The 9to5Mac Happy Hour podcast remains a significant resource for tech aficionados, mixing humor, insights, and community interaction. As Benjamin and Chance review the past year and anticipate what lies ahead, their discussions stay relevant and enjoyable for anyone intrigued by the constantly changing landscape of technology.

By
Holiday Tech Assistance: Keep Support and Inquire 9to5Mac Services
Uncategorized

iPhone 17 Pro Owners Experience Speaker Hiss Problem During Charging

### iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max Users Report Unanticipated Sound During Charging

Shortly after the debut of the iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max, users began voicing their worries regarding a strange issue: a static or hissing sound coming from the speakers while the device is charging. This concern has been raised by a segment of users, leading to discussions on various platforms, including Reddit and Apple’s Support Community.

#### Nature of the Problem

The sound reported by users is reminiscent of an old radio, with accounts indicating that it may arise during audio playback, especially when the volume is reduced. Some users have mentioned that the static noise can be heard even when no media is being played, and in some cases, a faint crackle or hiss is noticeable while scrolling through web pages. This problem seems to persist no matter if the iPhone is plugged into a charger or not.

#### User Experiences

Feedback on the intensity of the speaker issue varies from user to user. While a number have resolved the problem by swapping their device for a new one, others still hear the noise across different models. A notable illustration of the issue can be found in a video uploaded by a user that demonstrates the static noise.

#### Possible Remedies and Upcoming Updates

As of the current iOS version, 26.2, users who reported the speaker issue in September continue to face the problem. There is optimism that the forthcoming iOS 26.3 update, anticipated to be released in the next few weeks, may rectify this issue, although no definitive proof of a solution has been confirmed yet.

#### Conclusion

The speaker noise issue impacting the iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max has sparked concerns among users, triggering discussions and inquiries about possible solutions. As the community awaits the next software update, affected users are encouraged to share their insights and any fixes they may have discovered.

By
iPhone 17 Pro Owners Experience Speaker Hiss Problem During Charging
Uncategorized

Three Budget-Friendly Substitutes for USB Drives

the largest USB drive currently available for purchase is 4TB, yet its cost does not provide great value. Additionally, their transfer rates and durability fall significantly short compared to modern options. Moreover, the conventional USB-A connector is being substituted with the contemporary USB-C connector in many devices. Furthermore, individuals no longer require a physical product to exchange files. With fast internet and cloud storage services, the processes of accessing, syncing, and sharing files have become simpler than ever. This digital ease of use is challenging to surpass. Gradually, USB drives are being supplanted by more affordable alternatives.

Portable SSDs

<div class="slide-key image-holder gallery-image-holder credit-image-wrap" data-post-url="https://www.bgr.com/2060491/usb-flash-drives-cheap-alternatives-replaced-them/" data-post-title="The 3 Cheap Alternatives That Replaced USB Drives" data-slide-num

By
Three Budget-Friendly Substitutes for USB Drives
Uncategorized

Apple’s View on the Future of Large Language Models Contrasts with Industry Standards: Report

Apple’s AI Strategy: A Prudent Path Amid Criticism

Apple has encountered significant criticism regarding its artificial intelligence (AI) strategy, especially after the postponement of several major updates to Siri earlier this year. Nonetheless, a recent report highlights the reasoning behind Apple’s unique stance on AI, which departs from that of its competitors.

### Apple’s Prudent AI Expenditure

Despite the backlash, there is an increasing sense of hope surrounding Apple’s AI strategy as it approaches the new year. Wall Street analysts have started to propose that Apple’s prudent expenditure on AI could ultimately become an asset. A report from *The Information* supports this idea, suggesting that Apple’s leadership possesses a distinct viewpoint on the future of large language models (LLMs).

The report notes that some Apple executives are of the opinion that LLMs will eventually become standardized. This perspective might clarify why Apple has chosen to take a more conservative approach in funding its own AI models compared to competitors like OpenAI, Meta, and Google, which have invested heavily in LLM development.

### The Prospects of LLMs and Apple’s Stance

The notion that LLMs will transition into commodities indicates that Apple is setting itself up to harness existing technologies rather than heavily invest in creating proprietary models. This approach suggests that Apple’s success in AI will depend less on crafting custom models and more on its capability to integrate AI efficiently across its hardware, software, and services.

At present, Apple excels in these domains, which could lay a robust groundwork for its AI projects in the future. By concentrating on enhancing the ecosystem where AI operates, Apple may be able to take advantage of developments in AI technology without facing the substantial costs linked to developing proprietary models.

### Conclusion

While Apple’s AI strategy has faced criticism, the company’s cautious approach might ultimately turn out to be a strategic benefit. As the AI landscape continues to transform, Apple’s emphasis on integration and enhancement could place it in a favorable position in a future where LLMs are broadly available and commoditized. The ongoing trends in this field will be closely monitored by industry analysts and consumers alike.

By
Apple's View on the Future of Large Language Models Contrasts with Industry Standards: Report
Uncategorized

Reasons and Indicators of a Defective HDMI Cable

Netflix film night when suddenly your display turns black, begins flickering, or unusual sparkles start moving across the screen. Before you freak out about your pricey TV, it might be your HDMI cable that’s at fault. Indeed, HDMI cables can deteriorate over time, and identifying the symptoms early can spare you from hours of aggravation and unnecessary troubleshooting.

High-grade HDMI cables can endure for an extended period with proper maintenance. However, lower-quality cables or those that experience rough handling tend to fail far sooner. Physical harm from bending or twisting the cable, along with environmental aspects like heat and humidity, all play a role in a cable failing. Cables can also malfunction due to internal wiring problems or damage to the connectors.

Unlike a number of gadgets that either function flawlessly or don’t work at all, HDMI cables can experience partial failure, leading to perplexing intermittent issues that complicate diagnosis. You might see a picture one moment and lose it the next, or notice audio cutting in and out unpredictably. Grasping what leads to HDMI cable failure and how to recognize the warning signs can assist you in resolving HDMI connection problems more swiftly.

How to determine if your HDMI cable is defective

<img class="gallery-image" src="https://allyoucantech.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/reasons-and-indicators-of-a-defective-hdmi-cable-1.jpg" data-slide-url="https://www.bgr.com/2056141/can-hdmi-cable-go-bad/" data-post-id

By
Reasons and Indicators of a Defective HDMI Cable
Uncategorized

Upcoming HDMI 2.2 Launch: No Urgent Upgrade Required

HDMI Forum has formally introduced the latest iteration of the HDMI specification, Ultra96 or HDMI 2.2. This version features enhanced resolutions and refresh rates, supporting 12K at 120 FPS and 16K at 60 FPS. However, hold back your enthusiasm, as this technology isn’t set to be implemented in the televisions you currently own, so no upgrades are necessary at this moment. When a new standard is established, it often takes years for manufacturers to integrate it into new devices. For example, HDMI 2.1 was unveiled in November 2017, but it didn’t appear in a consumer product until September 2020, initially debuting in an NVIDIA graphics card rather than a display or television. HDMI 2.2 may experience a similar, if not longer, delay before it becomes available in retail products.

Additionally, there were dubious choices regarding the implementation of the HDMI 2.1 standard, especially concerning how some manufacturers have created “fake” versions. It’s quite possible that your HDMI 2.1 ports are not genuine, as certain features of the new standard are optional. Indeed, this situation is as perplexing as it sounds. Some HDMI 2.1 ports may lack the features and specifications they are supposed to have.

The new HDMI 2.2 version brings forth additional ports, along with a new Ultra96 cable that collectively enables a higher bandwidth of up to 96 Gbps, which is double that of the previous version. Nevertheless, akin to how HDMI 2.1 phased out earlier versions, HDMI 2.2 will follow suit. All ports will be designated as 2.2, and since the new functions are “optional,” it is likely we will encounter numerous “fake” HDMI 2.2 ports.

Why am I not required to upgrade anything?

There’s no specific timeline for the effective rollout of HDMI 2.2, which means the standard is indeed released, but it won’t

By
Upcoming HDMI 2.2 Launch: No Urgent Upgrade Required
Uncategorized