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Gemini Live’s Latest Functionality Seeks to Compete with Google Assistant

Forthcoming Gemini Live Functionality Might Position It As An Authentic Alternative To Google Assistant

According to fresh insights obtained from an APK dissection, it appears that Google is preparing to evolve Gemini into a full-fledged substitute for Google Assistant — a service the company intends to phase out by year-end. The tech behemoth has been consistently broadening its offerings with Gemini, having previously introduced Gemini Live, which can recognize what’s displayed on your screen and what lies ahead, providing information and responses derived from the visuals and videos it captures.

Currently, Gemini Live can be accessed on both Android and iPhone devices, but a recent analysis of the Google app enabled Android Authority to explore potential new functionalities that might be on the horizon for the service. It’s crucial to emphasize that these features are not yet operational and may undergo complete alterations before reaching the public. Nonetheless, Android Authority managed to manipulate some settings within the app to unveil the new interface, which appears to be a major enhancement.

Simplified Accessibility to Gemini

This new modification seems poised to afford Gemini users more straightforward access to the capabilities of Gemini Live by employing a floating interface that utilizes a smaller window for Gemini itself, alongside card-like windows that produce a sleek picture-in-picture view atop the background application.

In Android Authority’s demonstration, the site successfully viewed its page on X while simultaneously crafting a note in Google Keep and examining something on Google Maps, all without needing to close the X application. In addition to the updates to the floating interface, the report specifies that Gemini does not automatically redirect you to the primary chat window for Gemini when you return. Rather, Android Authority claims that with the new feature enabled, you would actually revert to the app you were engaged with. This could enhance interaction with Gemini Live during multitasking. Naturally, as previously mentioned, APK analyses like this do not assure that these features will ultimately be realized. And, should they become available, they might change significantly before their public introduction.

Nonetheless, given how refined this appears already and the initiative for Gemini to succeed Google Assistant, it wouldn’t be surprising to see this feature released soon — potentially coinciding with the company’s launch of the new Pixel 10 series on August 20. We are already aware that the Pixel will incorporate new Gemini camera functionalities, so unveiling another upgraded AI feature would logically serve to highlight Gemini on the new Pixel devices.

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Thorough Clarification of the Distinctions Between USB4 and USB-C

USB cables featuring the Type-C connector. Anyone who has been on the hunt for new USB cables recently has certainly come across cables that appear identical, marked both as USB Type-C and USB4.

Although USB Type-C and USB4 may seem interchangeable on retail sites, they differ significantly. Type-C designates the connector pin utilized, while USB4 refers to the technical standard of the cable that employs the Type-C connector, specifically concerning the data transmission rates and charging capacity of the cable. Each USB cable adheres to various technical standards, with USB4 being the latest. USB4 employs the reversible Type-C connector, which is favored in modern smartphones, laptops, and other gadgets to provide enhanced power for faster charging and superior data transmission speeds compared to earlier versions of USB Type-C cables.

Numerous generations of USB Type-C connectors

AYANEO Pocket DS Pricing Unveiled Along with Extra Surprises

I doubt AYANEO could have taken my money any quicker if it had tried.

What you should be aware of

– Nearly a month after initially revealing the Pocket DS, AYANEO has disclosed pricing along with some extra features.
– These features include three-finger gestures for transferring content between the two screens, as well as a new launcher experience.
– Pre-orders are currently open via Indiegogo starting at $399 and going up to $640.

During a livestream, the price for the AYANEO Pocket DS was officially unveiled, coinciding with the launch of the Indiegogo campaign. It’s been a couple of weeks since the Pocket DS was first announced, but in true AYANEO style, we didn’t learn the price until today.

So without further ado, here’s what the Pocket DS will cost you, depending on the configuration:

| AYANEO Pocket DS Model | IGG Early Bird | Retail Price |
|————————|—————-|————–|
| 8GB/128GB (Shadow Black) | $399 | $519 |
| 12GB/256GB (Shadow Black) | $439 | $559 |
| 16GB/512GB (Shadow Black) | $499 | $619 |
| 16GB/1TB (Starry Yellow) | $599 | $719 |
| 16GB/1TB (Retro Gray) | $639 | $759 |

Shortly after announcing the price, the Pocket DS Indiegogo campaign launched, meaning you can place your pre-orders now. According to AYANEO, shipping is expected to start sometime in October, assuming there are no delays or production issues.

In terms of shipping, AYANEO also provided additional insights about its plans for distributing the Pocket DS. Essentially, the company will ship starting from “high to low,” prioritizing the 16GB/1TB models before moving on to the lower tier configurations. This isn’t particularly surprising, but at least we have a clearer explanation rather than being left in the dark.

Exciting software updates

Given that the Pocket DS is the first dual-screen gaming handheld, AYANEO is seizing the chance to ensure everything is right from top to bottom. During the livestream, the company elaborated on some software adjustments and innovations that are underway to fully utilize having a dual-screened device.

The first is the implementation of a three-finger gesture to transfer content from one display to the other. This should alleviate many potential frustrations when setting up your screen layout just the way you prefer. Supporting this, the Pocket DS will have three “Dual-Screen Modes” integrated into the software: Independent Display, Main Screen Only, and Second Screen Only.

Additionally, a new AYANEO DS Launcher is also under development. Current AYANEO handhelds use the “AYASpace” launcher, which generally functions well, but is clearly not tailored for a dual-screen handheld.

That said, the new DS Launcher includes some notable attributes like an App Drawer and Card-Style multitasking. AYANEO is also enhancing the ability to manage the second screen with a bar similar to those found on foldable phones. Plus, the Quick Control Center and Quick Settings are both being updated with pertinent settings and feature options.

“One More Thing”

This wasn’t all AYANEO revealed during the livestream, as the company had “One More Thing” to showcase—a third color option. Initially, the Pocket DS was expected to be available in “Shadow Black” and “Starry Yellow,” but now a limited edition “Retro Gray” has been added to the lineup.

The Retro Gray takes inspiration from the NES and Game Boy with its matte gray finish and DMG-colored buttons. Aside from that (and a higher price), it’s identical to the other models, but with a caveat.

Similar to the Starry Yellow option, the Retro Gray is only available in the 16GB/1TB configuration. AYANEO has a tendency to restrict its retro-themed color options to higher tiers, as observed with the AYANEO Pocket DMG, Pocket EVO, and various other gaming handhelds.

Count us excited

As someone who enjoys foldable devices and appreciates the form factor, the AYANEO Pocket DS will integrate seamlessly into my daily routine. The wait for placing a pre-order is finally over, and there’s even a new color option to select from ahead of its October release.

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Apple Wallet Now Accepts IDs in the Eleventh State

**Apple Wallet Support for IDs Grows in Montana**

The availability of digital IDs in Apple Wallet is broadening, with Montana becoming the newest state to partake. Residents of Montana can now integrate their state-issued ID into the Wallet app on their iPhones, enabling easy mobile access.

### Apple Wallet Support for IDs

Apple has declared that ID cards saved in Wallet can be used at specific TSA checkpoints at various airports throughout the United States. Furthermore, these digital IDs may be recognized at certain businesses and venues, although acceptance might differ.

Montana officials have made it clear that residents should still carry their physical IDs in addition to their digital counterparts.

The states currently supporting IDs in Apple Wallet comprise:

– Arizona
– California
– Colorado
– Georgia
– Hawaii
– Iowa
– Maryland
– Montana
– New Mexico
– Ohio
– Puerto Rico

The introduction of digital IDs in Apple Wallet has occurred incrementally, but Apple has suggested that additional states will soon embrace this capability. Future support is anticipated from Connecticut, Kentucky, Oklahoma, and Utah, with Arkansas and West Virginia expected to follow.

### Apple Wallet in iOS 26

The Apple Wallet app is poised for major improvements with the upcoming iOS 26 launch, which is set for next fall. Significant upgrades will feature enhanced boarding pass functionalities with detailed Live Activities, airport maps, and luggage tracking integration via AirTags and the Find My app.

For the first time, iOS 26 will permit U.S. users to keep their passports in the Wallet app, which can serve as identification at select TSA checkpoints, in applications, and in person.

Further enhancements in iOS 26 will improve order tracking, simplify the viewing of saved credit card information, introduce new functionalities for Apple Pay, and allow users to opt out of promotional notifications.

For a complete summary of the new features in Apple Wallet with iOS 26, check out the specialized guide available online.

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Apple Anticipated to Postpone M5 MacBook Pro Launch Until Next Year: Is It Worth the Wait?

### Apple MacBook Pro Updates: Anticipations for the M5 Model

Apple has historically revamped the MacBook Pro annually, mostly in October. This year, however, speculation suggests a deviation from this trend, with the forthcoming MacBook Pro variant likely debuting early next year. This prompts the inquiry: should you postpone your purchase for the new model?

#### M5 MacBook Pro: Anticipated Features

The forthcoming M5 MacBook Pro is expected to maintain the well-known 14-inch and 16-inch miniLED screens found in earlier versions, along with the same overall aesthetic style. Major visual design alterations are not anticipated.

On the hardware front, the M5 will incorporate Apple’s latest M5 Silicon, manufactured using a third-generation 3nm process based on TSMC’s N3P technology. This enhancement is projected to yield modest performance gains compared to the M4, estimated between 10-20%.

A significant hardware advancement may include the addition of Wi-Fi 7, which was introduced with the iPhone 16 series but has yet to be assimilated into the Mac lineup. This could be a crucial upgrade for users desiring swifter connectivity.

In summary, the M5 MacBook Pro seems to be a minor update compared to the M4 model, which underwent notable enhancements, such as Thunderbolt 5, a nano texture display option, a new 12MP Center Stage webcam, and brighter screens.

#### Should You Forego the M5?

There are multiple factors to contemplate regarding passing on the M5 MacBook Pro. Firstly, the M4 model was a major update, rendering it a tempting choice for those wishing to upgrade from older M1 or M2 versions. The M4 14-inch MacBook Pro has recently achieved an all-time low price of $1299, making it a desirable option.

A more compelling reason to delay is the expected M6 MacBook Pro, which promises a complete redesign featuring a new OLED display, a slimmer profile, and additional enhancements. With the M5 anticipated to launch in the first quarter of 2026 and the M6 projected for the fourth quarter of the same year, it may be prudent to either acquire an M4 model if immediate requirements emerge or wait for the M6 if possible. The sole exception would be for those who specifically desire Wi-Fi 7 on their MacBook.

#### Conclusion

In conclusion, while the M5 MacBook Pro will introduce some enhancements, the M4 model continues to be a robust contender for those in need of an upgrade at present. With the M6 nearing, potential purchasers should carefully evaluate their choices prior to making a decision.

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Apple Watch Unveils Activity Challenge to Encourage National Parks

### Apple Watch Owners Prepare for the 2025 National Parks Challenge

Apple Watch owners are invited to join the upcoming 2025 National Parks Challenge, scheduled for Sunday, August 24. This event honors the great outdoors and the splendor of national parks, encouraging users to engage in physical exercise while enjoying nature.

#### Challenge Overview

Participants can earn a unique award by completing any workout of 20 minutes or longer. This flexibility allows users to select from a wide range of workout options, provided they meet the minimum duration criteria. Workouts can be tracked using any app compatible with Apple Health, making it accessible for everyone.

#### Incentives for Participation

By finishing the challenge, participants will receive a virtual trophy, along with animated stickers that can be used in Messages, FaceTime, and other services. The stickers will showcase lively animations, including:

– An animated rendition of the virtual trophy
– A whale emerging from the water
– A hiker
– A kayaker

These incentives not only serve as a playful way to celebrate the accomplishment but also motivate users to share their success with friends and family.

#### Alerts and Reminders

Apple Watch users can look forward to notifications about the challenge as the event date gets closer. This reminder will help ensure that participants are ready to join in the celebration of outdoor activities and national parks.

In summary, the 2025 National Parks Challenge is an excellent opportunity for Apple Watch users to partake in physical activity while relishing the beauty of nature. Save the date for August 24 and prepare to earn your rewards!

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Apple Unveils Fifth Beta Firmware Update for AirPods Introducing Compatibility with iOS 26 Features

Apple has rolled out a new beta firmware iteration for AirPods testers, focusing on the AirPods Pro 2 and AirPods 4, which are now being updated to build 8A5343a. This update comes on the heels of the earlier version 8A5324b that was released in July.

This is the second firmware rollout since Apple launched its public beta initiative for AirPods earlier this summer. The program has made it easier for users to apply firmware updates, and today’s release marks the first update since the program’s debut.

The updated software gives testers a preliminary glimpse at several features anticipated in iOS 26. Notable features include automatic pausing when the user dozes off, high-fidelity audio recording, functionality to use AirPods as a camera remote, enhanced automatic switching while using CarPlay, and better voice clarity during phone calls.

At this moment, these enhancements are limited to AirPods Pro 2 and AirPods 4. Users who wish to participate in the beta can sign up for Apple’s developer or public beta program, both of which are free and provide a much simpler update experience compared to earlier versions.

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Apple’s iOS 26 Liquid Glass Directives Indicate Possible Unreleased Items

design language that Apple has been hinting at for over a year. As highlighted by Hockenberry, Apple instructs developers to steer clear of corners and concentrate on “concentricity,” which may seem puzzling to those currently updating their apps to iOS 26. While we have witnessed significant modifications from developers making their apps and visuals more cohesive for iPhones, iOS 26 might suggest deeper transformations, extending beyond just the obvious icons and glass effect.

Hockenberry observes that with iOS 11, Apple also introduced safe area insets, and the rationale behind developers avoiding certain areas of the screen was unclear. After the introduction of the iPhone X with its notch and home tab indicator, the reasoning became apparent. That said, we may be approaching a moment akin to iOS 11, as iOS 26 prompts developers to bypass corners. Nevertheless, while we don’t anticipate a major product launch in the upcoming months, this update could be hinting at the forthcoming generation of Apple products.

Liquid Glass may be ideal for the iPhone Fold

Android Set to Get Much Awaited iMessage Functionality

iPhone 15 Pro Max to a Galaxy S25 Ultra earlier this year, one of the first aspects I found myself missing was the capability to erase text messages that I had sent. The function to unsend messages via iMessage has been incredibly helpful since Apple rolled it out. Although it has some restrictions — you can only remove messages within two minutes of sending them — the “Undo Send” feature operates effectively. Without that option, transitioning to Google Messages felt like regressing in a few different respects.

Now, it seems that Google is at last introducing that capability to Android via Google Messages, as they have been beta testing the ability to delete sent messages for everyone within a chat since the beginning of this year. The update was first noted by Android Authority late last week, but it still seems to be in the process of being rolled out to users, as the Android devices in my home have not yet received the update.

A few inquiries about restrictions

Vanessa Kirby’s crime suspense film dominates Netflix rankings following Fantastic Four

Vanessa Kirby’s latest Netflix film “Night Always Comes” currently ranks as the streamer’s #2 most-viewed movie in the U.S., marking a clear shift from her character in Marvel’s “Fantastic Four.” Directed by Benjamin Caron, the movie investigates themes of survival and sacrifice, centering on Kirby’s character, Lynette, as she races against the clock to protect her home. The film examines the concept of quiet heroism and poses questions about who truly feels safe and the price of that safety.

“Night Always Comes” is only outdone by the animated phenomenon “KPop Demon Hunters” on Netflix’s rankings. Kirby’s performance has turned the film into one of the most discussed titles on the platform. Caron, who previously collaborated with Kirby on “The Crown,” adapts Willy Vlautin’s 2021 novel, chronicling Lynette’s turbulent journey through a single night in Portland. The film boasts a remarkable cast including Jennifer Jason Leigh, Stephan James, Julia Fox, Eli Roth, Randall Park, and Michael Kelly.

In spite of mixed reviews, holding a 56% critics’ score on Rotten Tomatoes, Kirby’s performance is lauded for its intensity and depth. Her interpretation of Lynette, fueled by an urgent need for safety and haunted by her past, showcases her acting talent. The film, although polarizing, underscores Kirby’s exceptional skill and her ability to engage viewers.

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