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Examination of AI Advancements in 2025: Performance Assessment of Google, Apple, OpenAI, and Additional Leading Entities

**Here’s an Overview of How AI Evolved in 2025, and How My Forecasts Fared**

The years 2023 and 2024 were pivotal for AI, but as we neared 2025, both consumers and industry experts raised concerns. Some doubted the trajectory of AI development, while others worried that companies like Google and Apple might overpromise and underdeliver.

At the end of last year, I made multiple forecasts, and the majority have been realized. AI has swiftly embedded itself into operating systems, becoming increasingly agentic and actionable. However, I was taken aback by Samsung’s clarity in differentiating between on-device and off-device Galaxy AI capabilities, permitting users to disable online features with a simple switch.

As we wrap up 2025, let’s assess the performance of the AI sector and the success of its leading entities.

**Evaluating My Predictions for AI in 2025**

After dedicated AI devices like the Humane AI Pin failed, I accurately predicted a transition towards integrating AI within mobile operating systems. Google spearheaded this movement, substituting Google Assistant with Gemini throughout Android and Wear OS. Microsoft’s Copilot evolved into a crucial element of Windows, while Apple faced challenges with Apple Intelligence in iOS and macOS.

Gemini Live’s multimodal video and screen sharing, first a prototype, emerged as a fundamental feature for Android in 2025. Google broadened the availability of Gemini Live to almost all Android devices, marking a noteworthy milestone.

While Google progressed in multimodal functionalities, the development of agentic control was slower than anticipated. The launch of the Gemini Agent and Google Antigravity app happened later than expected, as did OpenAI’s AgentKit. AI agents are now a primary concern for leading corporations.

I had expected a greater number of AI features incorporated into operating systems, ideally featuring on-device processing. However, growth in this domain was not as rapid as predicted, with Gemini Nano and Galaxy AI managing some on-device functions, yet not to the extent desired.

In late 2024, both Google and OpenAI’s CEOs dismissed worries about an AI “wall.” I believed that competition would propel advancement, and indeed, firms competed for dominance in AI benchmarks throughout 2025.

I expected indistinct boundaries between on-device and off-device processing. Samsung’s toggle for AI data processing countered my expectations, and I am anticipating that other companies will implement similar options.

**Google in 2025: A**

Google thrived in AI during 2025, with Gemini 3 reaching remarkable achievements and gathering nearly 350 million monthly active users by November. Gemini’s brief period as the leading free app in the iPhone App Store indicated its potential beyond Google’s ecosystems.

Google AI Pro amassed over 150 million subscribers, generating revenue through advertising trials and AI development tools via Google Cloud. Highlights included Gemini Live’s video capabilities, the Google Antigravity AI-based IDE, and the Nano Banana image generator. Google’s free AI functionalities, even catering to discontinued smart home products, further cemented its success.

Despite a robust AI strategy, Google’s absence of brand collaborations, such as Meta’s with Garmin or OpenAI’s with Disney, may pose a challenge for 2026.

**OpenAI in 2025: B-**

OpenAI seems to be refocusing for the future rather than aggressively creating new AI products. While ChatGPT retains a substantial user base, its current priorities appear uncertain, with recent enhancements like group chats and possible ad placements.

OpenAI’s $500 billion valuation gives it leverage, and its transformation into a for-profit entity was noteworthy. Collaborations with Jony Ive and Disney, along with a functioning prototype of an AI device, may bode well for 2026.

If OpenAI capitalizes on its for-profit structure, develops a successful AI device, and utilizes Disney’s investment, 2025 could be regarded as a pivotal year. However, the current performance justifies a grade of B-.

**The Remainder in 2025: C**

The majority of AI companies, aside from Google and OpenAI, performed moderately in 2025. Meta received a B grade for its sophisticated face-worn multimodal AI technology within smart glasses. The integration of Garmin with Meta AI was commendable, yet Meta’s excessive involvement of AI in unwanted areas overshadowed its accomplishments.

Apple and Samsung retained a standard performance, lacking any groundbreaking AI innovations. Apple’s ability to refrain from overpromising was admirable, whereas Samsung’s top AI features were largely attributed to Google.

In the AI model sphere, unexpected entrants like DeepSeek showed potential but quickly diminished.

**Final Assessment**

Despite the advancements in AI, the overall grade for 2025 stands at a B. While over a billion individuals utilize platforms such as ChatGPT, Gemini, and Copilot, the anticipated transformative effects have yet to be realized. The year 2025 concludes without the attainment of artificial general intelligence or solutions to significant global challenges. AI’s resource consumption raises concerns, and even OpenAI’s CEO recognizes the swift pace of change.

AI models and interfaces have become more potent than ever, yet the enthusiasm surrounding AI’s potential has not fully materialized. Given this context, a B grade is the highest I can assign AI.

Key Display Advancement for iPhone Fold Allegedly Doubtful, Based on Leak

### Apple Continues to Explore Solutions for ‘Crease-Free’ Display on iPhone Fold

Next autumn, Apple is anticipated to unveil its first foldable iPhone, sparking considerable excitement among technology aficionados. Recent leaks suggest that a vital aspect of the iPhone Fold—the crease-free display—is still in the works.

As per Weibo leaker Digital Chat Station, Apple intends to create a “crease-free visual experience” and is presently experimenting with ultra-thin flexible glass (UFG) in various thicknesses. Despite encountering technical hurdles, Apple has the opportunity to enhance the design prior to the expected launch in September of next year.

Furthermore, two Chinese manufacturers are delving into UFG technology and carrying out similar extensive folding tests. Should these companies successfully manage their supply chain technology, they might introduce rival products next year.

Reports indicate that Apple has postponed the introduction of a foldable iPhone due to the requirement for a display that aligns with its stringent standards. The company has been prudent, particularly as rivals like Samsung have been providing foldable devices for several years. The quest for a crease-free display underscores Apple’s dedication to quality.

While Digital Chat Station remains hopeful about the design of the display, the ongoing modifications could affect production capacity, possibly resulting in limited availability at launch.

As the release date draws nearer, the significance of a crease-free display is generating discussion among consumers. Would this characteristic sway your decision to buy the iPhone Fold?

iOS 26.3 Launch Date: Anticipated Arrival of the Upcoming iPhone Update

Apple’s initial iPhone update for the new year will be iOS 26.3, which has recently appeared in beta. Here’s the anticipated release date for iOS 26.3 for all users.

### Expected launch of iOS 26.3 in late January

When it pertains to software and specific hardware introductions, Apple adheres to fairly consistent patterns. Most new software releases arrive with a rhythm that changes little from year to year.

Thus, to determine the launch date for iOS 26.3, we simply need to reference Apple’s past few years of data. Here are the release dates for the previous several iOS x.3 updates:

– iOS 18.3: Monday, January 27
– iOS 17.3: Monday, January 22
– iOS 16.3: Monday, January 23

Each launch date is very closely aligned, with only minor variations in the precise day. However, if you examine the calendar more closely, a definite pattern emerges. Each of the last three x.3 launches occurred precisely one week after Martin Luther King Jr. Day. This year, that date will be January 26.

If Apple continues this established trend, **iOS 26.3 is set to be released in late January**—approximately one month from now. Monday, January 26, stands as the most probable launch date, though it could potentially shift to a later day that same week.

For those eager to experience iOS 26.3 ahead of time, joining Apple’s public beta program will provide early access.

### New features and modifications in iOS 26.3 so far

Generally, Apple’s x.3 updates are not heavy on new features and modifications, and that remains true with iOS 26.3. The first beta version introduced only three smaller updates:

1. Wallpaper modifications
2. Android transfer option
3. Notification forwarding for EU users

In the iPhone’s wallpaper settings, iOS 26.3 separates Weather into its own distinct section, apart from Astronomy. It also introduces a couple of new Weather options to the gallery.

The Android transfer is a fresh setting that results from an Apple-Google partnership. It simplifies the transition from an iPhone to an Android device. Concurrently, Google is launching a similar feature for users migrating to iPhone.

Additionally, for those residing in the EU, it will soon be possible to set up notification forwarding for non-Apple Watch wearables. One of the standout features of the Apple Watch is its capability to receive all notifications from your iPhone. Soon, in the EU, this functionality will extend to third-party smartwatches and wearables.

To date, Apple has only released one beta for iOS 26.3, so we hope additional new features will surface in beta 2 and subsequent versions.

The Ultimate Free Productivity Application Every Android User Must Try

productivity-maximizing and attempting to solidify. This typically means utilizing various productivity applications, ranging from specialized to-do list tools to habit monitoring apps and digital planners. The issue? Many individuals ultimately stop using them after some time. Tasks accumulate, overdue alerts increase, and before long, you can’t even tell which app serves what purpose anymore. There exists a more straightforward solution already available on every Android device: Google Calendar.

Most Android users frequently access Google Calendar several times per week without recognizing its true potential. You may utilize Calendar to organize a meeting or remember a friend’s birthday, but not much else. In the meantime, others are downloading numerous complex applications, attempting to create intricate scheduling systems that ultimately disintegrate. If you’ve ever experienced the stress of managing multiple tools, Google Calendar is like that dependable friend who’s been nearby all along, raising their hand as if to say, “Hey, I can manage all of this.”

It is entirely free, filled with excellent features, and integrates effortlessly with Gmail, Google Tasks, and other Google services you likely use on a daily basis. While it may seem like just another scheduling application, productivity specialists and a multitude of users vouch for it as their preferred system for genuinely accomplishing tasks.

Transform tasks into time blocks with integrated features

Police Identify Shooter at Brown University After Reddit Post

**The Significance of Reddit in Uncovering the Brown University Shooter**

In an astonishing development, a remark made in a Reddit discussion was crucial in pinpointing the shooter involved in the Brown University episode. This situation illustrates the capacity of social media platforms to serve as vital sources of key information during investigations.

Rhode Island Attorney General Peter Neronha disclosed that a particular Reddit remark enabled police and FBI agents to locate a rental vehicle connected to the suspect. The comment, shared in the r/providence subreddit, contained essential details that eventually assisted in identifying the shooter.

A Reddit user, who went by “John,” detailed his observations about a grey Nissan with Florida license plates, which he suspected was related to the shooter. He described witnessing the person using a key fob to open the car, only to step back just moments later. His thorough description included the vehicle’s positioning, which was situated near the Rhode Island Historical Society. This information prompted another Reddit user to notify the FBI tip line, resulting in further action by local authorities.

Attorney General Neronha affirmed that John’s tip was crucial to the investigation. He remarked, “That person guided us to the car, which directed us to the name, which led us to the images of that individual renting the vehicle, which corresponded with the clothing of our shooter here in Providence, that matched the satchel.” This series of events underscores the considerable influence community-sourced information can have in crime resolution.

FBI agent Ted Docks recognized John’s input, indicating that he should be considered for the $50,000 reward offered for tips leading to the suspect’s apprehension. This event not only showcases the strength of online communities in disseminating information but also highlights the significance of alertness and communication in ensuring public safety.

In summary, the identification of the Brown University shooter via a Reddit comment demonstrates how digital platforms can act as essential assets in law enforcement initiatives. As social media continues to develop, its function in promoting information sharing and supporting investigations is poised to expand, emphasizing the necessity for responsible participation within these communities.

Anticipated Comeback of Three Well-Liked Series on Apple TV: What to Look Forward To

Apple TV has curated an impressive lineup to launch 2026, featuring the return of three highly popular shows that you still have the chance to binge-watch. Here’s what’s on the way.

## #1: Shrinking season 3

Shrinking stands out as one of Apple TV’s most cherished series, and it’s set to make its comeback shortly. Created by Ted Lasso co-creator Bill Lawrence, the show boasts one of the finest ensemble casts in television today, led by Jason Segel and Harrison Ford.

Shrinking season 3 will debut **Wednesday, January 28** with its initial episode, followed by weekly drops through April 8.

For those who are not yet acquainted with the series, here’s Apple’s spoiler-free overview of its premise:

> “Shrinking” tracks a grieving therapist who begins to shatter the norms and express his true thoughts to his clients. Disregarding his training and ethics, he navigates significant, tumultuous transformations in the lives of those around him … and in his own.

Lawrence has mentioned that the central theme of season 3 revolves around “moving forward,” succeeding the first season’s emphasis on grief and the second on forgiveness.

This time, the robust ensemble will also include newcomers Jeff Daniels and Michael J. Fox, among others.

You can [catch the first two seasons of Shrinking here](https://tv.apple.com/show/shrinking/umc.cmc.apzybj6eqf6pzccd97kev7bs?itscg=30200&itsct=tv_box_link&mttnsubad=umc.cmc.apzybj6eqf6pzccd97kev7bs&at=1000l3cvR) on Apple TV.

## #2: Hijack season 2

Apple TV has been intensifying its array of thriller content recently, and early next year will see the return of one of its top series.

Hijack season 2 launches **Wednesday, January 14** with its first two episodes, followed by weekly installments through February 25.

Idris Elba takes the lead in this series, which employs a real-time 24-style format where the storyline progresses in tandem with real-world time. The first season unfolded on a hijacked aircraft, but the upcoming season will dive underground.

Here’s Apple’s formal synopsis:

> In the gripping second season of “Hijack,” a Berlin subway train and its passengers become hostages, while officials rush to protect hundreds of lives. Sam Nelson (Idris Elba) finds himself at the core of the chaos onboard, where a single misstep could lead to calamity.

You can [view Hijack’s entire first season here](https://tv.apple.com/show/hijack/umc.cmc.1dg08zn0g3zx52hs8npoj5qe3?itscg=30200&itsct=tv_box_link&mttnsubad=umc.cmc.1dg08zn0g3zx52hs8npoj5qe3&at=1000l3cvR) on Apple TV.

## #3: Drops of God season 2

Drops of God might not reach the same mainstream appeal as Shrinking or Hijack, but it ranks among the most highly praised series available on Apple TV.

The show is a multilingual drama inspired by a renowned manga series, featuring dialogues in English, French, and Japanese. It revolves around a high-stakes competition in the realm of gastronomy and fine wines, layered with intricate complexities that enhance its allure.

Drops of God season 2 will kick off **Wednesday, January 21**, with weekly releases through March 11.

Here’s a spoiler-free synopsis from Apple:

> As the wine community grieves the passing of Alexandre Léger, his estranged daughter, Camille, discovers that his extraordinary collection now belongs to her. However, before she can seize her inheritance, Camille must triumph over Alexandre’s protégé, Issei, in a sensory challenge.

You can [watch the first season of Drops of God here](https://tv.apple.com/show/drops-of-god/umc.cmc.497ttx33nudgzywis3i2bnvuk?itscg=30200&itsct=tv_box_link&mttnsubad=umc.cmc.497ttx33nudgzywis3i2bnvuk&at=1000l3cvR) on Apple TV.

Which of these returning Apple TV series are you excited to watch? Share your thoughts in the comments.

Apple TV is [available for $12.99 monthly](https://tv.apple.com/channel/tvs.sbd.4000?itscg=30200&itsct=tv%5C_box%5C_link&at=1000l3cvR) and showcases popular TV shows and films like [Ted Lasso](https://tv.apple.com/show/ted-lasso/umc.

iPhone Fold and New Galaxy Foldable Gadgets Might Mirror the Initial Pixel Fold Design

**The Development of Foldable Smartphones: An Examination of Google’s Pixel Fold and Emerging Trends**

The smartphone industry has experienced a considerable transformation in design, especially with the emergence of foldable devices. Google’s Pixel Fold, introduced in 2023, represented a significant foray into this domain, exhibiting a distinctive design that strayed from the conventional foldable style. Nevertheless, as the sector evolves, it seems that key companies like Apple and Samsung are leaning towards a more classic approach, reminiscent of the original Pixel Fold’s design.

### Google’s Pixel Fold: A Distinctive Yet Disappointing Beginning

The initial Pixel Fold was lauded for its groundbreaking design, featuring a compact book-like shape that unfolded to display a larger internal screen. This stood in stark contrast to Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold, which took on a taller and slimmer profile. Despite its initial potential, the Pixel Fold encountered backlash for overheating problems, resulting in a somewhat disappointing long-term reception.

In its later versions, Google chose to align more closely with Samsung’s design ethos, departing from the original Pixel Fold’s unique aspect ratio. This transition signifies a wider trend across the industry, as manufacturers aim to fine-tune their devices for app functionality and user satisfaction.

### The Comeback of the “Passport” Style Foldable

Recent information indicates that Apple’s forthcoming iPhone Fold will adopt a 4:3 aspect ratio for its inner display, similar to that of the iPad. Samsung is also in the process of creating a “wide fold” device boasting a comparable aspect ratio. This return to a more standard foldable configuration reflects the dimensions of the original Pixel Fold, which featured a 6:5 aspect ratio, slightly exceeding the 4:3 format.

Both Apple and Samsung are anticipated to incorporate displays that improve usability and app compatibility. Apple’s upcoming device is rumored to sport a 7.58-inch inner display, while Samsung’s will feature a 7.6-inch panel, with exterior displays measuring 5.4 inches. In contrast, the Pixel Fold included a 5.8-inch outer display and a 7.6-inch inner display.

### The Significance of App Compatibility

The revival of the “passport” style foldable can be primarily linked to the demand for improved app support. Traditionally, numerous Android applications have not been optimized for broader screens, resulting in a less than ideal user experience on devices such as the original Pixel Fold. As Google prioritizes enhancing the Android tablet app ecosystem, the moment may be ripe for a comeback of this form factor.

For Apple, the choice to implement an iPad-like inner display for the iPhone Fold could unlock a vast array of applications already optimized for larger screens. This strategic decision is likely to elevate user experience and expand the allure of foldable devices within the marketplace.

### Conclusion

As the foldable smartphone sector continues to advance, the movement back to a more classic design, exemplified by the upcoming devices from Apple and Samsung, indicates a maturing of the technology. The original Pixel Fold’s innovative take may have paved the path for a new wave of foldables that emphasize user experience and app compatibility. With major players reassessing their designs, the future of foldable smartphones appears bright, merging innovation with functionality.

Three Leading Airlines Now Provide Boarding Passes in Apple Wallet for iOS 26

### iOS 26 Upgrades for Apple Wallet: Transformation of Boarding Passes

The Wallet app from Apple has seen major enhancements with the introduction of iOS 26, particularly improving the boarding pass feature. This update has garnered the interest of numerous leading airlines, with Southwest Airlines recently joining United and Delta in implementing these new capabilities.

#### The Progression of Boarding Passes in Apple Wallet

Apple Wallet acts as a versatile platform, enabling users to keep a variety of items like car keys, event tickets, and credit cards. Among its numerous functionalities, boarding passes are especially favored for their practicality. With the launch of iOS 26, Apple has rolled out multiple enhancements to simplify the travel journey:

1. **Live Activities**: Users can now effortlessly share their boarding passes with friends and family, allowing loved ones to monitor flights in real-time.

2. **Airport Maps**: Integrated airport maps furnish essential navigation details, assisting travelers in maneuvering through terminals with greater ease.

3. **Luggage Tracking with Find My**: This feature allows users to monitor their luggage directly from the boarding pass, providing reassurance during travel.

These upgrades consolidate crucial travel information into one easily accessible platform, enhancing the travel experience’s smoothness and efficiency.

#### Airline Embrace of New Features

The implementation of these new boarding pass functionalities depends on individual airlines. Presently, United and Delta have effectively incorporated the new boarding pass features. Recently, Southwest Airlines has also started providing the enhanced boarding passes, representing a significant advancement in improving customer satisfaction.

Beyond these three airlines, Apple has revealed that various others will soon back the new boarding pass features, including Air Canada, American Airlines, JetBlue, Jetstar, Lufthansa Group, Qantas, and Virgin Australia. This expansion is well-timed, aligning with the busy travel season, ensuring that a greater number of travelers can take advantage of the new options.

#### Conclusion

The launch of sophisticated boarding passes in Apple Wallet through iOS 26 signifies a remarkable milestone in how travelers handle their flight details. As more airlines embrace these features, travelers can anticipate a more unified and user-friendly journey. If you have tried the new boarding passes with additional airlines, sharing your experience could offer helpful insights for other travelers.

Comprehending the Difference Between Wi-Fi and Wireless Internet

Quartz), Wi-Fi was a label created by advertisers because the actual designation — IEEE 802.11 — was too long to fit on the sticker. When individuals inquired about the meaning of Wi-Fi, they were told it stood for “wireless fidelity,” a complete fabrication designed to perpetuate the illusion that Wi-Fi was a legitimate name.

A simple way to grasp this is to visualize your internet service as the water supply entering your home. Wi-Fi acts as the plumbing that delivers that water to various rooms. Mobile data is the costly bottled water you purchase while traveling. Each serves distinct functions, yet fundamentally, they are different technologies.

Wi-Fi distributes internet in a limited space

Wi-Fi requires two essential components to operate: a direct internet connection from an ISP (typically cable, fiber, or another broadband connection) and a router that transmits the signal to all adjacent Wi-Fi-enabled devices. The coverage area isn’t extensive, reaching approximately 150 feet (46 meters) indoors and up to 300 feet (90 meters) outdoors. Within that range, Wi-Fi is quicker than cellular data, which is why even those with unlimited data plans prefer using Wi-Fi at home. It’s simply more dependable and significantly cheaper.

The IEEE states that Wi-Fi first emerged in 199

Creative Methods to Reutilize Your Old Kindle

There’s a poignant sense of nostalgia associated with gadgets we once cherished. This bond with technology is particularly strong regarding devices like e-book readers. These gadgets accompanied us through numerous tales, tranquil evenings, and extensive travels. However, despite all that affection and nostalgia, outdated devices frequently find themselves stashed away in a drawer once we opt for newer, more alluring, or sleeker models. But what if there are methods to rejuvenate these old Kindle devices? 

A vast realm of creative repurposing awaits discovery, and you can apply some of these suggestions to revive your Kindle. After all, it essentially functions as a screen that can transform into a digital clock, a photo display, or a message board on your refrigerator for your shopping lists. These inventive ideas will not only minimize your electronic waste but will also bring something aesthetically pleasing and significant to your home and life.

Kindle timepiece

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