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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on macOS Tahoe 26.2 Beta 2 Now Available for Download
    macOS Tahoe 26.2 Beta 2 Now Available for Download

    **macOS Tahoe 26.2 Developer Beta 2: Fresh Features and Installation Instructions**

    Apple has unveiled the second developer beta of macOS Tahoe 26.2, just a week following the release of the initial beta version. This update showcases a new feature designed to improve the video calling experience.

    ### New Edge Light Effect Launched in Beta 2

    Contrary to the previous beta, which was launched later than other developer betas, macOS 26.2 beta 2 is released in tandem with its counterparts. The first beta lacked any user-facing features, leading to speculation that Apple was focusing on stability and bug resolutions. However, beta 2 introduces an intriguing new “Edge Light” effect. This feature provides a virtual illumination around the borders of the Mac display during video calls, enhancing the visual experience for users.

    In addition to the Edge Light effect, Apple is anticipated to further develop system-level MCP support and lay the groundwork for integrating third-party AI providers within the Image Playground, extending beyond just ChatGPT. The build number for this beta release is 25C5037j.

    ### Steps to Install the New Beta

    For developers keen on testing the new features of macOS Tahoe 26.2 beta 2, here’s a detailed guide on how to install it:

    1. **Backup your Mac**: Make sure all vital data is stored safely before proceeding.
    2. **Open System Settings**: Access the System Settings on your Mac.
    3. **Go to General ⇾ Software Update**: Find the Software Update section.
    4. **Click the ‘i’ icon next to Beta Updates**: This will reveal the beta update options.
    5. **Select the macOS Developer Tahoe Beta**: From the dropdown menu, select the macOS Developer Tahoe Beta.
    6. **Hit ‘Done’**: Confirm your choice to initiate the update process.

    ### Conclusion

    With the launch of the Edge Light effect and continuous enhancements to system functionality, macOS Tahoe 26.2 beta 2 represents a meaningful update for both developers and users. As always, feedback from users trialing the beta is crucial, and Apple invites sharing any insights or modifications observed during the beta testing period.

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on Beta 2 Launch for tvOS 26.2, watchOS 26.2, and Other Updates Now Available
    Beta 2 Launch for tvOS 26.2, watchOS 26.2, and Other Updates Now Available

    # Apple Launching tvOS 26.2 Beta 2 and More for Developers

    Apple has commenced the deployment of beta updates for its diverse platforms, including the second developer beta for tvOS 26.2, watchOS 26.2, visionOS 26.2, and others. This follows the introduction of the 26.2 beta cycle, which brought major updates for iPhone, iPad, and Mac users.

    ## Main Features in Recent Updates

    The latest updates for iOS, iPadOS, and macOS have introduced several enhancements, especially in the Podcasts app, a new Reminders feature, and a revamped Apple News app. These upgrades aim to improve user experience across Apple’s core devices.

    ### Highlights of tvOS 26.2 Beta 1

    The initial beta of tvOS 26.2 rolled out two significant features for Apple TV 4K users:

    1. **Profile Creation**: Users can now set up profiles without requiring an Apple Account.
    2. **Content Limitations**: The TV app now respects content limits established for children’s profiles, providing a safer viewing environment for younger viewers.

    ### Updates in watchOS 26.2

    The watchOS 26.2 beta featured modifications to the Sleep Score grading system, enhancing the way users monitor their sleep habits and overall health metrics.

    ### Emphasis on Bug Fixes and Performance Improvement

    In addition to the new features, Apple’s updates have largely concentrated on resolving bugs and enhancing performance across all platforms. This is customary in beta releases, as developers strive to polish the user experience ahead of the public launch.

    ## What’s Ahead?

    With the release of beta 2 for tvOS 26.2, visionOS 26.2, HomePod 26.2, and more, there is the possibility of further features being revealed as the beta cycle continues. Users and developers are encouraged to delve into these updates and report any new discoveries.

    As the beta cycle progresses, Apple is anticipated to roll out a public beta 2 version soon, provided no major bugs are found.

    ## Community Involvement

    Apple fans are welcome to share their experiences and insights regarding the fresh beta updates in the comments section. This community input is vital for both users and developers as they navigate the newest changes.

    ## Closing

    Apple’s persistent dedication to enhancing its software through beta updates guarantees that users receive the optimal experience. With the latest features and enhancements, developers and users can anticipate a more fluid interaction with their devices.

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Steam’s Latest VR Headset Seeks to Tackle Key VR Issues
    Steam’s Latest VR Headset Seeks to Tackle Key VR Issues

    Following speculation prior to the announcement, Valve has finally revealed the new hardware lineup for Steam: a revamped controller, a hybrid PC-console known as the Steam Machine, and a fresh VR headset — the Steam Frame. Characterized as a “streaming-first” wireless VR headset, the Steam Frame includes controllers that are compatible with your entire Steam library. They feature a divided gamepad design, providing a joystick for each hand, reminiscent of the Meta Quest 3 and 3s controllers, but clad in an all-black aesthetic adorned with Steam buttons and logos, as expected.

    What makes the Steam Frame particularly thrilling is its solution to a prevalent issue with VR systems concerning the visual experience. The Frame is equipped with a 6GHz wireless adapter for both VR and non-VR streaming. This 6GHz adapter enables wireless streaming functionality. Unlike the conventional methods of connecting to a PC via DisplayPort or HDMI, the Frame utilizes the wireless adapter. This establishes a dedicated endpoint for your VR headset, but additionally, the Frame can connect through a separate general internet connection to eliminate challenges you might encounter via your local Wi-Fi network.

    The general connection facilitates game downloads, updates, access to the store, and other essential online functions. The 6GHz adapter’s role is to synchronize the audio and visual streams, ideally minimizing lag or connectivity problems. When engaging in VR gaming, such connection issues can be quite disruptive.

    The appeal of the Steam Frame as a noteworthy advancement

    Naturally, the Steam Frame also allows for standalone usage, similar to rival VR headsets. It’s driven by a Snapdragon 8 Series processor and boasts 16GB of LPDDR5 RAM — sufficient power for playing VR games directly on the device instead of streaming, should you choose. It operates on SteamOS, akin to the Steam Deck or the new Steam Machine. Most importantly, it offers a legitimate means of playing PC VR games without the need for a tethered connection, granting you greater freedom to move. This could alleviate many constraints associated with current PC VR configurations, particularly concerning performance when utilizing a wireless connection. The Steam Frame could rival the Meta Quest 3, which is among the finest VR headsets available today.

    It comes with storage options of 256GB and 1TB, and it has a microSD card slot for potential expansion. Additionally, it incorporates a rechargeable 21.6 watt-hour lithium-ion battery, a rear USB-C port for charging, a detachable integrated head strap, and inside-out camera tracking. For visuals, it offers a 2160 x 2160 LCD resolution for each eye, featuring a refresh rate of 72 to 144Hz, an IPD target range of 60mm to 70mm, and a maximum eyeglasses width of 140mm. It also boasts a significant field of view of 110 degrees. In terms of connectivity, the Steam Frame is compatible with Wi-Fi 6E via the included 6GHz adapter, Wi-Fi 7 2×2, and Bluetooth 5.3.

    Going forward, it appears that excitement is about to escalate for Steam users. While streaming Steam games on your phone is possible, why would you choose that over the Steam Frame in your living space? Alternatively, you could consider the recently announced Steam Machine to enjoy those games on your living room television instead.

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on OpenAI Unveils Release of GPT-5.1, Improving Conversational Abilities
    OpenAI Unveils Release of GPT-5.1, Improving Conversational Abilities

    ChatGPT has undergone another significant enhancement, this time with the introduction of GPT-5.1. OpenAI asserts that the update will enable “easier customization” of the chatbot while offering a “smarter, more conversational” interaction overall.

    Today, the company announced the rollout of GPT-5.1 in a [blog post](https://openai.com/index/gpt-5-1/), highlighting the inclusion of two new models named GPT-5.1 Instant and GPT-5.1 Thinking. Instant aims to deliver a “warmer, more intelligent” model that excels in adhering to user instructions, whereas Thinking will concentrate on providing sophisticated reasoning. OpenAI indicates that ChatGPT will not only manage simple tasks more effectively but will also possess an improved understanding of intricate tasks.

    The company shared examples illustrating how the outputs from GPT-5 and GPT-5.1 Instant will vary, showing that the company’s idea of “playfulness” is indeed more apparent in the communications. Moreover, the firm mentions that GPT-5.1 Instant will employ adaptive reasoning to assess whether it should contemplate before answering more challenging inquiries, enhancing accuracy without significantly slowing down the system.

    New avenues for customizing ChatGPT

    Instant isn’t the sole model designed to deliver a warmer interaction, as OpenAI states that Thinking will also provide a more comforting and empathetic response mechanism, even highlighting the distinction between it and GPT-5. However, the notable point is that this “release is a significant advancement” for the models, not just in functionality but also in user-friendliness. A considerable aspect of this is attributed to the newly introduced personalization features.

    In addition to adding support for GPT-5.1, users can now further tailor ChatGPT’s responses based on personality traits. The examples shared in OpenAI’s blog post present options like Candid, Quirky, Efficient, Professional, Friendly, and others. Once chosen, the personality will apply across all AI models. The prior Nerdy and Cynical options will still be available.

    The company is also experimenting with more detailed customization methods, which may allow for even finer adjustment options in upcoming releases similar to the [custom instructions](https://www.bgr.com/tech/chatgpt-custom-instructions-were-only-for-paid-subscribers-but-now-you-can-use-them-for-free/) currently available for the AI. There was no mention of the recently [leaked ChatGPT group chat feature](https://www.bgr.com/2024447/chatgpt-group-chat-feature-leaked/), so we will have to wait for further details on that front. Auto will continue to enable you to depend on the AI to identify which model is most appropriate for a given task. Additionally, if the more inviting response from GPT-5.1 is excessive, you can always revert to GPT-5 through the legacy models option in ChatGPT, just as you

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on Android Notebooks Launch with Characteristics Influenced by Microsoft Surface Pro 11
    Android Notebooks Launch with Characteristics Influenced by Microsoft Surface Pro 11

    **It’s Wonderful to Witness, but There’s Still a Long Path Ahead**

    The tech community is buzzing with the latest news from Qualcomm, especially the thrilling updates regarding the Snapdragon X series processors. A fresh rumor has emerged indicating that Qualcomm is integrating Android 16 support into its Snapdragon X series processors. This development represents a notable advancement in the tech giant’s ambitions to introduce Android laptops to the marketplace. Nonetheless, the journey is far from complete, and several challenges remain before these devices become a reality.

    **What You Should Be Aware Of**

    – Qualcomm is allegedly developing Android 16 support for its Snapdragon X Elite and X series processors.
    – It remains unclear if the Snapdragon X2 chips will obtain similar backing.
    – In spite of this advancement, the first Android laptops are still months away from coming to market.

    At the Qualcomm Snapdragon Summit earlier this year, the company confirmed that Android laptops were forthcoming. This revelation was received with excitement, as it represented an important milestone in the evolution of ARM-based laptops. The recent indication that Qualcomm is pursuing Android support for its premier ARM SoCs is an encouraging sign, showing that the initiative is progressing.

    However, the path to Android laptops is laden with obstacles. While the introduction of Android 16 support is a favorable advancement, significant technical and logistical challenges persist. The development timeline is anticipated to accelerate quickly, but it will likely take some time before we witness the first Android-powered laptops on store shelves.

    Qualcomm’s Snapdragon X series of processors, launched in June 2024, represented the company’s latest effort to bring Windows to ARM technology. The debut was accompanied by new hardware from brands like Samsung and Microsoft, highlighting the capabilities of ARM-based laptops. The Snapdragon X Elite, in particular, has received accolades for its remarkable performance, almost matching Apple’s M3 Pro and M3 Max in single-core CPU capabilities.

    The Snapdragon X2 series of processors, revealed at the latest Snapdragon Summit, seeks to build upon this success. The Snapdragon X2 Elite is expected to deliver significant enhancements in both CPU and GPU performance, providing a 31% boost in CPU capabilities and a 2.3X increase in GPU performance per watt. These enhancements are essential for the creation of Android laptops, as they offer the requisite power and efficiency to rival existing devices.

    Despite these encouraging strides, the first wave of Android laptops might not feature the Snapdragon X2. Qualcomm’s emphasis on the Snapdragon X Elite implies that the initial set of devices will depend on this processor. Nevertheless, the advancements achieved thus far are uplifting, and it is merely a matter of time before Android laptops become a reality.

    Meanwhile, consumers seeking an ARM-powered laptop can consider options like the Lenovo Chromebook Plus 14, which showcases noteworthy performance with its MediaTek Kompanio Ultra processor. While it may not run Android, it offers a preview of the potential of ARM-based laptops.

    As Qualcomm relentlessly explores the possibilities of ARM processors, the future of Android laptops appears bright. However, there remains considerable work required before these devices achieve mainstream acceptance. The road ahead may be lengthy, but the progress made thus far demonstrates the promise of this technology.

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Challenges Accessing X: Typical Problems and Remedies
    Challenges Accessing X: Typical Problems and Remedies

    Users are finding themselves locked out due to 2FA verification cycles and login difficulties.

    (Image credit: Jay Bonggolto / Android Central)

    Key information to understand

    • X platform users are encountering login troubles attributed to a verification loop that impacts access on both app and website.
    • YubiKey re-enrollment, required by November 10, causes access challenges for certain users.
    • Even with some reports, the majority of users are not affected while X engineers address the issue.
    Notice

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on OpenAI Unveils GPT-5.1 for ChatGPT Featuring Improved Warmth and Smarter Capabilities
    OpenAI Unveils GPT-5.1 for ChatGPT Featuring Improved Warmth and Smarter Capabilities

    **OpenAI Unveils GPT-5.1: Advancements in Communication and Intelligence**

    In August, OpenAI launched GPT-5, signaling a major upgrade to its ChatGPT model. Now, only three months later, the organization has released GPT-5.1, which claims to be “more personable, smarter, and superior in following your directives.”

    ### Instant and Thoughtful Enhancements

    OpenAI highlights that GPT-5.1 improves both the communication approach and the intelligence of the model. The enhancements are divided into two primary models:

    – **GPT-5.1 Instant**: This is the most frequently used model, crafted to be more conversational and responsive to user guidelines. The outputs produced by this model are meant to sound less like scripted information and more like authentic writing, with a warmer tone now set as the standard.

    – **GPT-5.1 Thinking**: This sophisticated reasoning model has been optimized for speed, enabling quicker responses to straightforward tasks while being more comprehensive on complex issues. It also adopts the warmer tone by default.

    OpenAI has implemented new features that permit users to choose the tone of responses, providing options like friendly, efficient, professional, candid, and quirky. This functionality seeks to improve user engagement by personalizing outputs to individual tastes.

    A significant enhancement in the Instant model is its improved adherence to user instructions. For example, the model can now respond to prompts with a defined word count, addressing a typical annoyance users faced with earlier versions.

    ### Accessibility

    GPT-5.1 is being made available to paying customers on Pro, Plus, Go, and Business plans, with the rollout expected to extend over the coming days. Users without a subscription and those not logged in will receive access to the new model following the initial rollout phase. OpenAI has assured that GPT-5 will continue to be accessible for at least three months for paying users, responding to feedback regarding the sudden discontinuation of previous models after GPT-5 was introduced.

    Furthermore, Apple has announced that ChatGPT will incorporate GPT-5 via Siri with Apple Intelligence beginning with iOS 26, with a transition to GPT-5.1 expected in an upcoming software update.

    For additional information, you can view the complete GPT-5.1 announcement from OpenAI

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on Crucial Internal Wallpapers for iPhone 17 Pro and iPhone 17 Pro Max
    Crucial Internal Wallpapers for iPhone 17 Pro and iPhone 17 Pro Max

    **iPhone 17 Pro and iPhone 17 Pro Max Internal Wallpapers Unveiled by Basic Apple Guy**

    After two months of dedicated effort, Basic Apple Guy has unveiled the eagerly awaited iPhone 17 Pro and iPhone 17 Pro Max Internal Wallpapers. Here’s how you can obtain them.

    ### Almost 3,000 Layers for Flawless Replicas

    It has become customary that whenever Apple introduces a new product, Basic Apple Guy crafts breathtaking, flawless wallpapers showcasing the internals of the new device. In recent weeks, Basic Apple Guy has shared updates on social media, hinting at the new iPhone Internal Wallpaper collection.

    Now, the iPhone 17 Pro and iPhone 17 Pro Max Internal Wallpapers can be found in nine distinct shades, and you can download them [here](https://basicappleguy.com/basicappleblog/iphone-17-pro-internals-wallpapers), where you can also assist with a $4.99 gift to support their efforts.

    The wallpapers are exceptionally intricate, as Basic Apple Guy constructs the artwork based on Apple’s own repair guides.

    Here’s Basic Apple Guy:

    > “The entire process consumes a significant amount of time; each wallpaper demands dozens of hours to finalize. I begin with an 800×1500 image from Apple’s repair manual and scrutinize every detail to comprehend how the components are organized, layered, and interconnected before reproducing them in Sketch as accurately as possible. Each element is arranged, drawn, curved, layered, and textured by hand. Some features take mere seconds; others, such as the perimeter railing, can nearly take an hour. It is an ongoing process of adjusting, layering, and fine-tuning almost 3,000 layers to ensure precision and that they fit harmoniously into the overall design. And once I complete those 3,000 layers for one phone, I open a fresh document and begin anew on the second Pro device.”

    You can discover more about the creation process in their [blog post](https://basicappleguy.com/basicappleblog/iphone-17-pro-internals-wallpapers). Moreover, Basic Apple Guy intends to develop an internals wallpaper pack for the iPhone Air next.

    ### Accessory Offers on Amazon

    *FTC: We utilize revenue-generating auto affiliate links.

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on “Uncover the Advantages of This Easy Apple Shortcut”
    “Uncover the Advantages of This Easy Apple Shortcut”

    ### Harnessing the Potential of Apple’s Shortcuts App: A Revolutionary Tool for Accessing App Settings

    The Shortcuts app by Apple has emerged as a crucial resource for iPhone users, particularly with the new enhancements introduced in iOS 26. While the app presents numerous intricate automations, many users discover that the most straightforward shortcuts can deliver the greatest advantages. One such shortcut, recently revealed by tech aficionado Quinn Nelson, simplifies the procedure for accessing an app’s settings, making it faster and more efficient.

    #### The Difficulty of Navigating Settings

    With last year’s overhaul of the iPhone’s Settings app, users have faced increased challenges in finding specific app settings. The conventional approach required digging through several menus: Settings > Apps >

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on George RR Martin Initiates Legal Action Against ChatGPT’s Game of Thrones Fan Fiction
    George RR Martin Initiates Legal Action Against ChatGPT’s Game of Thrones Fan Fiction

    George RR Martin stands in front of a poster for the new Game of Thrones television series, House of the Dragon.

    Jeff Kravitz/Getty Images

    George RR Martin is engaged in one of the most significant copyright disputes of recent years. In October 2025, a federal judge in New York rejected OpenAI’s plea to dismiss Martin’s allegations that ChatGPT infringed upon the copyrights of his literary works and television series by creating outlines for sequels to Game of Thrones without his approval. This legal action combines similar allegations from prominent authors, including activist Ta-Nehisi Coates, comedian Sarah Silverman, and notable fiction writers like Jonathan Franzen, David Baldacci, Jodi Picoult, and John Grisham. The decision follows the plaintiffs’ acquisition of internal Slack communications revealing OpenAI’s discussions about eliminating databases of pirated literature. This discovery may influence the evaluation of OpenAI’s infringement intentions, possibly escalating fines from $750 to $150,000 per piece. As a reference, OpenAI’s various legal disputes involve tens of millions of creative and journalistic works.

    This lawsuit is part of a series of copyright conflicts confronting AI companies this year. In lawsuits involving Meta, Anthropic, and OpenAI, plaintiffs have claimed that these AI powerhouses harvested data from pirated book collections, such as LibGen and Bibliotik, to train their algorithms. In September, Anthropic reached a $1.5 billion settlement with a group of writers regarding the exploitation of these unauthorized repositories to develop its chatbot, Claude. In March, a judge ruled that OpenAI and Microsoft could not prevent a lawsuit from a coalition of news organizations, accusing them of using The New York Times and other media outlets to train their data systems. Social media applications utilizing AI video, like Meta’s Vibes, OpenAI’s Sora, and Character.AI’s Feed, have also encountered criticism for using protected characters. Collectively, the outcomes of these legal matters will have significant repercussions for the rapidly expanding industry.

    Is it fair use?

    <picture id="p

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