Google Ceases Official Assistance with Last Update for Initial Pixel Watch
The latest update is being released alongside Wear OS 5.1.
Essential information
- The initial 2022 Pixel Watch is receiving its last software refresh, which serves as a minor farewell update instead of a significant enhancement.
- Build BW1A.251005.003.W1 maintains the watch on Wear OS 5.1 (Android 15), with merely security patches and slight enhancements.
- This update signifies the conclusion of guaranteed system and security support; however, app updates will persist through the Play Store.
Notice
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iPhone 20 Might Unveil Solid-State Buttons: Grasping Their Effects
a unique design for the iPhone 20. Apple previously did something similar with the iPhone X in 2017, which celebrated the 10th anniversary of the iPhone. Similar to the iPhone X, the iPhone 20 is expected to bring in several design features and elements that Apple may later implement across its entire iPhone range. The iPhone X debuted OLED screens with sleek, uniform bezels and a notch at the top that contained the Face ID recognition system. These features were subsequently incorporated into the later iPhone models. Earlier reports indicated that the iPhone 20 would feature a completely glass design with the display curving along all four sides. The device may not include a Dynamic Island cutout at the top, as the Face ID and selfie camera functionalities are expected to be embedded beneath the screen.
A fresh report on Tuesday has uncovered another significant design aspect for the iPhone 20 model. A source on Weibo disclosed that Apple intends to advance with solid-state button technology, aiming to implement it with the iPhone 20 in 2027. As reported by Instant Digital, Apple has finalized testing for solid-state buttons and aims to utilize this technology for all buttons on the iPhone 20, including the power button and Camera Control button on the right side, as well as the Action button and volume controls on the left side.
Regarding the Camera Control button (illustrated below in action), the report also mentions that Apple plans to streamline it for the upcoming iPhone 18 series next year. Apple will reportedly remove the capacitive sensing layer while maintaining the pressure-sensitive technology that enables users to execute various actions based on how they press the button.
What is solid-state button technology and why is it essential for the iPhone 20?
Apple @ Work Podcast: Investigating Cognixion’s Research on Implementing Vision Pro for Voice Production through Brain Signals and Artificial Intelligence
### Apple @ Work: Progress in Communication Technology for People with Disabilities
Within the domain of assistive technology, the amalgamation of cutting-edge devices and software is facilitating improved communication solutions for people with disabilities. A prominent instance is the recent partnership between Cognixion and Apple, employing the Apple Vision Pro in revolutionary clinical trials aimed at enhancing communication for individuals experiencing conditions such as ALS, spinal cord injuries, and disabilities resulting from strokes.
#### The Function of Cognixion
Cognixion is leading the charge in creating sophisticated communication tools that harness brain signals, eye tracking, and artificial intelligence (AI). Their newest project encompasses a clinical study analyzing how these technologies can be integrated to produce a seamless communication experience for those who may have lost their ability to speak or type due to their circumstances.
#### Apple Vision Pro: A Transformative Tool
The Apple Vision Pro is a cutting-edge device that provides an exceptional combination of augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) features. Its sophisticated sensors and processing capabilities allow it to decode intricate signals from the user, rendering it an ideal instrument for Cognixion’s inventive methodology. By leveraging the functionality of the Vision Pro, Cognixion aspires to offer a more intuitive and responsive communication approach for users, enabling them to articulate their thoughts and needs efficiently.
#### Mechanism of Operation
The system crafted by Cognixion employs a blend of brain-computer interface (BCI) technology and eye-tracking software. Users can produce communication signals through their cerebral activity, which are then deciphered by the AI algorithms. The eye-tracking aspect permits users to choose words or phrases merely by gazing at them, establishing a fluid and organic communication experience. This amalgamation of diverse technologies not only boosts accessibility but also empowers users by granting them autonomy over their communication.
#### Influence on Lives
The potential ramifications of this technology on the lives of individuals facing communication challenges are immense. By facilitating effective communication, Cognixion’s solution can markedly enhance the quality of life for users, promoting increased independence and social engagement. The clinical study seeks to corroborate these advantages and further hone the technology for wider use.
#### Conclusion
As technology progresses, the partnership between Cognixion and Apple illustrates how inventive solutions can tackle real-world problems encountered by individuals with disabilities. The incorporation of the Apple Vision Pro into communication aids signifies a major advancement in assistive technology, emphasizing the necessity of accessibility and inclusivity in the digital era.
For those keen on discovering more about this subject and keeping abreast of developments in assistive technology, tuning into the latest episodes of Apple @ Work can furnish valuable insights and discussions regarding these advancements.
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Samsung Update Improves Sound Quality of Galaxy Buds 3
Samsung has commenced the rollout of an update for its newest earbuds, the Galaxy Buds 3 and Buds 3 Pro, beginning in South Korea. This update mainly addresses stabilization enhancements for the audio and is fairly minor, with a download size of 7.30MB. The update is anticipated to expand to other areas, including the U.S., in the near future. Users must connect their earbuds to a Galaxy smartphone to start the update via the Settings app. This update follows earlier upgrades from One UI 7, which brought features such as intelligent audio modifications and customized sound profiles. Samsung is also said to be testing One UI 8.5, which could introduce further features and enhancements for the earbuds.
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Xiaomi Launches Android 16 Deployment with 15T Series
The update process for your Xiaomi phone’s Android 16 is now confirmed.
Key details
- Xiaomi has initiated the rollout of the stable Android 16 update featuring its new HyperOS 3 interface, commencing with the Xiaomi 15T and 15T Pro models.
- The update is currently available for a limited number of users and will gradually roll out globally, positioning Xiaomi among the first leading manufacturers — alongside Google and Samsung — to provide Android 16.
- HyperOS 3 brings enhanced animations, refined icons, personalized layouts, and AI-based wallpapers.
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NASA’s Perseverance Rover Obtains Most Detailed Panoramic Photo of Mars
delivered to us by NASA’s Perseverance rover, functioning from a site on the surface of the Red Planet known as “Falbreen.” The imaging team of Perseverance successfully combined 96 images taken on May 26, 2025, utilizing the rover’s Mastcam-Z instrument, capitalizing on particularly clear skies to produce the remarkable mosaic.
Yet aside from the breathtaking landscapes, researchers are equally thrilled by some of the geological features that Perseverance managed to focus on, such as several sand ripples, rugged terrain approximately 40 miles distant from Falbreen, and a sizable rock situated atop a dark, crescent-shaped sand structure. This rock is located only about 14 feet from the rover, and experts are labeling it as a “float rock,” as they suspect it originated from another area and was moved to its present position by wind, water, a landslide, or other processes.
Regarding the compiled image, Jim Bell, the principal investigator of Mastcam-Z based at Arizona State University in Tempe, commented in a press release, “The comparatively dust-free skies offer a vivid view of the nearby terrain
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Samsung Probes Reported Fire Case Linked to Galaxy S25 Plus
For one Galaxy S25 Plus, the hypothetical transformed into a catastrophe.
What you need to know
– A Galaxy S25 Plus in South Korea allegedly ignited while not charging, raising safety alarms among Samsung users.
– The owner claims the phone overheated and erupted into flames — fortunately, no injuries were reported.
– Samsung has possession of the charred device at its service center and is examining the cause internally.
We’ve all experienced our phones becoming slightly too hot. It’s a sporadic annoyance we’ve grown accustomed to. But for one user in South Korea, that familiar warmth escalated into something much more severe: an actual fire.
A Galaxy S25 Plus device in South Korea reportedly overheated and ignited while it wasn’t even connected to a charger (via SamMobile). The event has triggered justifiable anxiety among Galaxy users, particularly since it recalls the notorious Galaxy Note 7 disaster nearly a decade prior.
As stated in a post on Samsung Korea’s forum page, the owner of the Galaxy S25 Plus observed the device heating up unusually during use. Shortly afterward, the phone made a loud popping noise, fell to the ground, and exploded into flames.
Fortunately, no one was hurt, but the device was left entirely ruined. The user brought the charred remnants to a Samsung Service Center in South Korea, where the company has started an internal review to identify what occurred.
One critical point is that the phone was not connected to power when the fire ignited. This raises questions about whether the issue extends beyond just a charging problem. It could involve a defective battery, excessive heat from apps running in the background, or an issue with how the new hardware manages heat.
It’s not the first heat-related complaint
The Galaxy S25 series is powered by Samsung’s latest Exynos 2500 or Snapdragon 8 Gen 4 chipsets, both recognized for their performance, but initial user feedback has also indicated higher-than-normal operating temperatures under stress.
Currently, Samsung hasn’t released any formal statement, implying that this may be an isolated incident. However, the company is expected to conduct thorough diagnostics to eliminate broader safety worries.
The Galaxy S25 Plus fire might be a singular manufacturing flaw, but for a device bearing Samsung’s flagship label, even one incident like this is sufficient to raise concerns. Until the company’s investigation is complete, Galaxy S25 owners may want to monitor their phone’s temperature, just to be cautious.
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Samsung Postpones One UI 8.5 Beta Launch Because of Modifications in Galaxy S26 Series
Rumors suggest that the One UI 8.5 beta launch may extend beyond its anticipated November debut. The beta for Samsung’s One UI 8.5 concerning the Galaxy S25 series is probably postponed due to modifications in the Galaxy S26 lineup. The One UI 8.5 update is set to introduce AI notifications, revamped Quick Settings, and enhanced lock screen personalization. The postponement arises from Samsung abandoning plans to substitute the Galaxy S26 Plus with the S26 Edge model.
Samsung was initially thought to begin the first One UI 8.5 beta for the Galaxy S25 series in November, but it now seems that the beta initiative will be postponed because of alterations in the future Galaxy S26 series. Samsung has been diligently testing One UI 8.5 internally for several weeks. Recent information has disclosed various features expected for Galaxy smartphones, such as AI notifications, a completely customizable Quick Settings interface, enhancements to Modes and Routines, new options for the lock screen, and other additions.
The firm was earlier anticipated to launch the public beta program for the Galaxy S25 series during the latter part of November. This, however, no longer appears to be the situation. Trustworthy Samsung insider Tarun Vats revealed on X that the One UI 8.5 beta initiative is facing a delay. While Vats did not provide a specific date for the revised rollout, he noted that a November release “seems improbable now.”
The purported reason for the delay is linked to recent adjustments within the Galaxy S26 lineup. Samsung was believed to be reorganizing the lineup by rebranding the standard Galaxy S26 to the Galaxy S26 Pro and substituting the Galaxy S26 Plus with a sleeker Galaxy S26 Edge — considered the alleged successor to the Galaxy S25 Edge. The Galaxy S26 Ultra was expected to stay unchanged, resulting in three models instead of four.
Nevertheless, earlier this month, reports verified that Samsung abandoned plans to swap the Galaxy S26 Plus with the Edge version due to insufficient demand for the Galaxy S25 Edge. Now, recommencing development on the Galaxy S26 Plus just months ahead of launch seems to have disrupted the company’s timeline, which in turn appears to have postponed the One UI 8.5 beta as well.
Samsung had regained the momentum it lost during the sluggish rollout of One UI 7 with the prompt release of One UI 8 across multiple Galaxy devices, but this recent setback could affect the launch of One UI 8.5. It’s still unverified whether the beta will be delayed, leaving some room for optimism. However, if past experiences are any guide, a delay seems probable. We will monitor the situation closely and inform you as soon as the beta becomes available.
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First Official Glimpse of Samsung’s Much-Anticipated Trifold Smartphone Unveiled
Samsung has introduced its inaugural trifolding smartphone, the Galaxy Z TriFold, which features dual hinges and an impressive 10-inch display. The Galaxy Z TriFold was presented at the APEC Summit in Korea, representing a notable advancement in Samsung’s path of innovation. This latest device incorporates two hinges, enabling it to fold into three segments, and offers a 10-inch screen when fully extended, in addition to a 6.5-inch cover display.
The Galaxy Z TriFold is speculated to come with a 200MP camera and be driven by the Snapdragon 8 Elite processor. Its distinctive U-shaped folding design allows both exterior screens to fold inward, setting it apart from rivals such as Huawei’s Mate XT. Although the device was exhibited behind protective glass at the event, animations showcased its folding features.
Press images leaked by @UniverseIce indicate that the Galaxy Z TriFold preserves Samsung’s aesthetic, resembling the Galaxy Z Fold 7, complete with selfie cameras on both the inner and outer displays. While the official launch date is yet to be announced, speculation suggests a potential release next month. Initially anticipated to debut in the U.S., recent information implies that the Galaxy Z TriFold may first launch in Asian markets, including Korea, Taiwan, China, Singapore, and the UAE.
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Amazon Provides Almost 50% Off on Budget-Friendly 4K Fire TV
If you’re in search of an affordable smart TV on Amazon for your dorm or guest space, the current offer on the 50-inch Insignia F50 model is certainly appealing. Although the TV lists for $300, it is available for just $180 at the moment. Even with this budget-friendly price, the TV includes all the key features you seek in a contemporary TV, such as a smart TV operating system powered by Amazon’s Fire OS, which grants access to popular streaming platforms and the Alexa voice assistant to assist in controlling the TV and compatible smart home devices.
AirPlay functionality is also included, allowing you to stream content directly from your Apple gadgets. The Insignia F50 enjoys considerable popularity on Amazon, boasting a commendable average rating of 4.3 out of 5 from thousands of verified purchasers who commend the TV’s bright colors, clear 4K images, and outstanding value for the cost.
Numerous captivating features
The Insignia F50, a brand under Best Buy, is an LED television with 4K resolution and a 60Hz refresh rate. While it does not support dynamic HDR formats like Dolby Vision and HDR10+, it does accommodate HDR10, enabling you to experience compatible content in high-dynamic range for realistic visuals. Moreover, the unit features DTS Virtual X support for an immersive surround sound experience via the TV’s built-in speakers and offers various connectivity options, including Wi-Fi 5 and Ethernet. Notably, it includes three HDMI ports, one of which serves as an eARC port for connecting a soundbar. Additionally, there is an optical output and a 3.5mm audio jack to connect non-HDMI audio devices.
Furthermore, a USB 2.0 Type-A port is available for linking your external storage drives, along with composite video RCA connectors for older devices. However, as a budget model, the F50 exhibits a relatively simple design with slim bezels on three sides and a thicker bottom bezel. Nevertheless, it does come equipped with VESA mounting holes for convenient wall installation. While there are many positive aspects to the Insignia TV, it is worth noting that a small number of Amazon consumers have reported receiving defective units that either ceased functioning or exhibited issues after a few days or weeks.
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