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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Gemini for Home’s Early Access Initiative Launches for Everyone in 24 Hours
    Gemini for Home’s Early Access Initiative Launches for Everyone in 24 Hours

    **Gemini for Home: Broadening Early Access in the U.S.**

    Google is making remarkable progress in smart home innovations with the rollout of its Gemini for Home early access initiative, now offered exclusively to households in the U.S. This effort signifies a crucial transformation as Gemini is slated to take the place of Google Assistant on all Home and Nest devices released since 2016, which includes third-party speakers and displays.

    **Key Information:**
    – **Swift Expansion:** The early access initiative for Gemini for Home is now available to all users in the U.S., with invitations dispatched within 24 hours of sign-up.
    – **Device Compatibility:** Gemini will be incorporated into all Google Home and Nest devices, delivering a complete experience on newer models such as the Nest Hub (2nd-gen) and Nest Audio, while older devices will receive a simplified version.
    – **Third-Party Inclusion:** Even with Google’s cessation of support for third-party Assistant devices in 2023, these gadgets will still receive the Gemini upgrade.

    **How to Enroll in the Early Access Initiative:**
    Users keen on trying Gemini for Home can easily register via the Google Home app. By navigating to the Home settings and selecting Early Access, users can choose to receive an invitation swiftly.

    **Feedback and Future Enhancements:**
    Google highlights the significance of user feedback in fine-tuning Gemini for Home. Early users are encouraged to share their feedback and report any concerns through the Google Home app or the specific Gemini for Home known issues thread.

    This expansion highlights Google’s dedication to improving smart home experiences, with Gemini set to deliver more tailored and efficient interactions within the domestic setting. As the program progresses, U.S. users have a unique chance to influence the evolution of smart home technology.

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on OpenAI and Disney Forge Significant Licensing Deal for Character Utilization on Sora
    OpenAI and Disney Forge Significant Licensing Deal for Character Utilization on Sora

    Disney characters are arriving on OpenAI’s Sora video generation application — this time, with authorization. OpenAI and Disney have just revealed a “historic agreement” that will feature select Sora content on Disney+.

    This partnership forms part of an overarching $1 billion equity investment in OpenAI by Disney. The licensing agreement will begin with a duration of three years. Disney is positioned to enhance its equity investment in OpenAI down the line.

    Besides the licensing deal and equity stake, Disney will obtain access to OpenAI APIs “to create new products, tools, and experiences, including for Disney+,” as stated by OpenAI. Additionally, Disney will implement ChatGPT for its workforce as a component of the arrangement.

    OpenAI launched Sora for iPhone at the close of September. At first, there were minimal constraints regarding the intellectual property types users could produce. OpenAI gradually imposed restrictions on the use of licensed characters without consent following the initial rollout.

    Now, OpenAI and Disney are promoting the new “historic agreement” as “a crucial step in establishing significant standards for responsible AI in entertainment.”

    With the license, fans will have the opportunity to view curated selections of Sora-generated videos on Disney+, and OpenAI and Disney will work together to apply OpenAI’s models to drive new experiences for Disney+ subscribers, enhancing innovative and creative means to engage with Disney’s narratives and characters. Sora and ChatGPT Images are anticipated to begin generating fan-inspired videos featuring Disney’s multi-brand licensed characters in early 2026.

    Among the characters fans will be able to incorporate in their creations are Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, Lilo, Stitch, Ariel, Belle, Beast, Cinderella, Baymax, Simba, Mufasa, along with characters from the realms of Encanto, Frozen, Inside Out, Moana, Monsters Inc., Toy Story, Up, Zootopia, and many others; in addition to iconic animated or illustrated versions of Marvel and Lucasfilm characters like Black Panther, Captain America, Deadpool, Groot, Iron Man, Loki, Thor, Thanos, Darth Vader, Han Solo, Luke Skywalker, Leia, the Mandalorian, Stormtroopers, Yoda, and more.

    You can view the complete announcement here. Sora is available for free on the App Store.

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on Apple’s Case Against App Store Age Verification Exposes Its Weaknesses
    Apple’s Case Against App Store Age Verification Exposes Its Weaknesses

    **Apple’s Campaign Against the App Store Age Verification Proposal: A Privacy Dilemma**

    Apple CEO Tim Cook recently made a trip to Washington, D.C., to advocate against a suggested App Store age verification measure called the App Store Accountability Act. This proposed law recommends that app stores, like Apple’s and Google’s, should bear the legal responsibility for confirming the ages of users instead of individual developers. The initiative seeks to simplify the age verification process, necessitating that users verify their age just once to the app store, which would subsequently oversee age-gating for applications accordingly.

    ### The App Store Age Verification Measure

    The App Store Accountability Act has gained momentum as a potential answer to the tedious age verification procedure. At present, users are required to provide age verification to multiple developers each time they download an application with a minimum age limit. The suggested legislation would transfer this duty to the app stores, permitting a more centralized and efficient verification process.

    ### Apple’s Rejection

    Apple has actively opposed the notion, with Cook’s recent lobbying endeavors emphasizing the company’s position. Hilary Ware, Apple’s chief of privacy, expressed the company’s apprehensions in a correspondence to Congress, contending that the suggested law could endanger user privacy by compelling adults to reveal personal details for app downloads.

    ### The Privacy Discussion

    While Apple positions the proposal as a privacy risk, the actual scenario may be rather the reverse. The fundamental concern isn’t whether users are required to supply personal information to verify their age, but rather the frequency of such requirements. Mandating users to present sensitive information to numerous developers introduces a considerable privacy threat. Conversely, permitting a reliable entity like Apple to manage age verification once could improve user privacy and security.

    This proposal could enhance the user experience, as individuals would only need to confirm their age a single time instead of repeatedly for each new application download. This centralized system could lessen the risks tied to disclosing personal information to several developers.

    ### The Future of Age Confirmation

    Although it is reasonable for Apple to hesitate before accepting legal responsibility for age verification, embracing this transition could enable the company to emerge as a leader in privacy-conscious solutions. By championing a streamlined approach that emphasizes user privacy, Apple could bolster its reputation and credibility among consumers.

    In summary, the App Store age verification proposal offers Apple a chance to showcase its dedication to user privacy while easing the app download process. As conversations regarding this legislation progress, the equilibrium between privacy and responsibility will be a pivotal element in determining the future of app store guidelines.

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on Five Obsolete Devices That Have Become Obsolete
    Five Obsolete Devices That Have Become Obsolete

    vinyl turntables equipped with contemporary enhancements are gaining more popularity. Similarly, a sense of nostalgia is prompting millennials and Gen Z to gravitate towards disposable cameras. Nevertheless, the fascination with these devices caters to a specific segment of purchasers, and it’s improbable that outdated technology will reclaim its former status in the mainstream market. Here are five gadgets that were once trendy and deemed necessary, but are now rarely utilized.

    Numeric keypad phones

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

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Guide to Utilizing the Google Maps Parking Location Feature Available Only on iPhone
    Guide to Utilizing the Google Maps Parking Location Feature Available Only on iPhone

    The Google Maps functionality will prove useful, particularly if you’ve ever found yourself taking longer than anticipated to locate your vehicle in a crowded area. Google Maps assists in recalling your car’s parking location — a feature that has been around for several years. Recently, however, Google enhanced it significantly, automating the process for iPhone users. Previously, it was necessary to remember to manually mark your parking space, which is just as easy to overlook as recalling where you left your car without navigational app assistance.

    The reason behind Google opting for an automated parking feature exclusively on iPhone, instead of debuting it on Android first, remains unclear. Typically, Google releases the same map functionalities on both systems, although Android usually takes precedence. Being in control of the operating system allows Google to implement new Google Maps features more swiftly on Android than iPhone. Interestingly, Apple Maps already offers automatic parking location marking. All that’s required is an iPhone 6 or newer operating on iOS 10 or above to access this feature.

    The process within Apple Maps is not entirely automatic. You must activate the Show Parked Location setting in Maps, and afterward, the app will log your parking location once the iPhone disconnects from CarPlay or the Bluetooth system of your vehicle. The connection is essential, as it notifies the app that you are no longer inside your car.

    How Google Maps helps you save your parking location on iPhone

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on Reasons the iPad 12 May Become the Preferred Option for Consumers in 2026
    Reasons the iPad 12 May Become the Preferred Option for Consumers in 2026

    MacWorld uncovered details about some of Apple’s iPads slated for 2026 within an internal pre-release version of iOS 26, suggesting that the iPad 12 tablet will be equipped with the A19 chip that currently drives the standard iPhone 17 model. 

    The iPad 11, which launched earlier this year, is powered by an A16 chip; the same processor Apple debuted with the iPhone 14 series in 2022. Apple has typically utilized an older iPhone chip in its most economical iPad, resulting in the tablet trailing behind the latest iPhones in performance. This approach is not necessarily unwise for a basic tablet that starts at $349 and is frequently used mainly for consuming content.

    The iPad mini, iPad Air, and iPad Pro serve as superior options compared to the base iPad for tasks and productivity, particularly following the iPadOS 26 update that enhances the iPad’s functionality to resemble that of a Mac. An A19-equipped iPad 12 could emerge as the preferred choice next year rather than one of the pricier iPad models. It’s not solely about the 50% performance increase that the A19 chip offers over the A16 chip in the iPad 11. The addition of 8GB of RAM and the more efficient N1 wireless chip may yield a more significant impact.

    What makes the iPhone 17 unique?

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Hands-On Encounter with the Galaxy Z TriFold at Dubai Mall: Samsung’s Tri-Fold Innovation Surpasses Huawei Mate XT
    Hands-On Encounter with the Galaxy Z TriFold at Dubai Mall: Samsung’s Tri-Fold Innovation Surpasses Huawei Mate XT

    The Galaxy Z TriFold represents Samsung’s newest advancement in foldable technology, delivering a tablet-sized experience within a tri-fold design. Set to debut in the U.S. in early 2026, it is already accessible in South Korea and the UAE. This device features a sleek aesthetic similar to the Galaxy Z Fold 7 but expands to a 10-inch display when opened, while maintaining a slim 4.2mm profile. The hinges operate smoothly, and the lack of a visible crease enhances the overall user experience.

    The Galaxy Z TriFold is equipped with a 200MP camera module akin to the Z Fold 7 and a Kevlar-textured back, offering a luxurious feel. The device supports a 120Hz refresh rate on both its inner and cover screens, ensuring a bright and responsive display. It is powered by the Snapdragon 8 Elite, promising sufficient performance for a range of tasks.

    Nonetheless, the design has its drawbacks. It can only operate in two configurations: a complete 10-inch tablet mode and a 6.5-inch cover panel mode. In contrast to Huawei’s Mate XT, which provides greater versatility, the Z TriFold’s design confines it to a single folding method, accompanied by a notification system for improper folding.

    In spite of these limitations, the Z TriFold offers improved durability, with IP48 ingress protection, and a sturdy 5,600mAh battery, the largest found in any Samsung phone so far. Samsung’s software integration continues to be robust, guaranteeing a fluid user experience.

    With a price tag exceeding $3,000, the Galaxy Z TriFold is a high-end device with restricted availability, reflecting Samsung’s careful strategy regarding this new form factor. It stands as a strong rival to Huawei’s Mate XT, signifying a major advancement in the development of foldable devices.

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Spotify Investigates Emerging Trend of Improving User Authority Over Algorithms
    Spotify Investigates Emerging Trend of Improving User Authority Over Algorithms

    **Spotify’s Innovative AI-Driven Addition: Prompted Playlists**

    Spotify has recently introduced a groundbreaking feature known as Prompted Playlists, allowing users to take charge of their music listening experience. This announcement arrives just after Instagram launched the “Your Algorithm” feature, enabling users to impact the content displayed on their feeds. Both advancements indicate a rising trend among technology firms to offer users increased control over algorithmic experiences.

    ### Comprehending Prompted Playlists

    The Prompted Playlists feature allows users to articulate their preferred music choices in everyday language. Requests can vary from general desires to very specific commands. For example, a user might request “songs from my favorite artists in the past five years” or “upbeat pop and hip-hop for a 30-minute 5K run.” This kind of customization aims to boost user satisfaction by curating playlists that mirror personal tastes and preferences.

    Spotify’s algorithm takes into account the user’s complete listening history, ensuring that the playlists not only feature current favorites but also integrate previous listening behaviors. This thorough strategy ensures that Spotify maintains playlists that are fresh and pertinent, adapting to shifts in user preferences over time.

    ### The Relevance of Instagram’s Announcement

    The timing of Spotify’s announcement is especially significant, as it occurs alongside Instagram’s rollout of the “Your Algorithm” feature. This new function allows Instagram users to examine their key interests and directly affect the content they encounter in their feeds. By choosing topics they wish to see more or less of, users can customize their experience on the platform, addressing dissatisfaction with algorithm-driven content delivery.

    ### Consequences for User Empowerment

    The recent updates from both Spotify and Instagram illustrate a larger movement within the tech sector to respond to user frustrations regarding algorithmic content. Numerous users have voiced their displeasure over the lack of influence they have on what they encounter, leading to a call for more tailored experiences. By enabling users to guide the algorithms, these platforms are recognizing this feedback and working to improve user satisfaction.

    ### Final Thoughts

    As Spotify introduces its Prompted Playlists feature, it represents a meaningful advancement towards enhanced user empowerment in music streaming. Alongside Instagram’s latest modifications, these innovations signify a transformation in how tech companies engage with users, emphasizing personalization and user control. As these features become more popular, it will be fascinating to observe their impact on user experiences across various platforms.

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on “Recent Pixel 10a Leaks Suggest Specs Comparable to Prior Google Mid-Range Version”
    “Recent Pixel 10a Leaks Suggest Specs Comparable to Prior Google Mid-Range Version”
    (Image credit: Michael Hicks / Android Central)

    Essential information

    • Recent Pixel 10a speculations suggest that the phone has gained certification for Verizon’s Network, which has also revealed some technical specifications.
    • The smartphone is anticipated to feature a ~6.3-inch screen with a 48MP primary camera, a 5,100mAh battery, and an 8/128GB option.
    • Although these specifications closely resemble those of the Pixel 9a, earlier whispers indicate that the 10a might utilize a similar Tensor G4 chip as seen in its predecessor.
    Notice

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Startup Sets Sights on Reviving Twitter Following Reddit’s Rollout of Verification Checkmarks
    Startup Sets Sights on Reviving Twitter Following Reddit’s Rollout of Verification Checkmarks

    **Resurrecting Twitter: A Startup’s Daring Challenge to X Corporation**

    Opting to let go of one of the most recognizable brands globally was among the many creative choices made by Elon Musk when he acquired Twitter and rebranded it as X. Now, a startup aims to bring back the original name, claiming that X Corporation no longer requires the trademark.

    The legal discussions could become quite fascinating, particularly since one of the individuals involved in the initiative is Stephen Coates – the former general counsel of Twitter.

    ### Startup Seeks to Relaunch Twitter

    A Virginia-based startup named “Operation Bluebird” revealed this week that it has submitted a formal petition to the US Patent and Trademark Office, requesting the federal agency to annul X Corporation’s trademarks of the terms “Twitter” and “tweet,” as X has reportedly abandoned them.

    The petition asserts, “The TWITTER and TWEET brands have been eliminated from X Corp.’s products, services, and marketing, effectively forsaking the iconic brand, with no plans to resume usage of the mark. The TWITTER bird was grounded.”

    There is robust legal precedent for losing trademark protection once the names have been forsaken by their original proprietors. The objective is to initiate a new social network at the domain twitter.new. This domain is already operational, and the company is encouraging users to reserve their usernames now.

    ### Reddit Introduces Verification Checkmarks

    Another decision made by Musk was to discontinue the use of blue checkmarks as a means of confirming ownership of notable Twitter accounts, instead transforming it into a subscription feature. However, the initial purpose of verification checkmarks has been adopted by other social platforms, and now Reddit is following suit.

    Reddit is commencing “a limited alpha test” of this feature with a select “curated” group of accounts that includes journalists from major media organizations such as NBC News and the Boston Globe. Businesses already using an “official” badge, which Reddit began testing in 2023, will also be awarded a grey “verified” checkmark instead of the “official” label.

    While this currently remains an invitation-only feature for high-visibility accounts, the company indicates that it will eventually be accessible to all. There are no added benefits and no specific criteria aside from ensuring your Reddit account is in good standing and not NSFW-related.

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