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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Google Rejects Disney’s Suggestion to Restore ABC on YouTube TV for Election Night
    Google Rejects Disney’s Suggestion to Restore ABC on YouTube TV for Election Night

    Due to a persistent contract disagreement, all channels owned by Disney were taken off YouTube TV over the weekend. In a single action, YouTube TV lost ESPN, ABC, and a few other channels. Naturally, numerous YouTube TV subscribers are upset, particularly now that we’re deep into the college football season. Indeed, some of the louder voices online have claimed that ESPN was the primary reason they subscribed to YouTube TV initially. Moreover, access to college football on ESPN was a significant aspect of YouTube TV’s marketing efforts this year.

    At this point, there’s no sign of when Disney and YouTube may come to a resolution. We are somewhat in unexplored territory at the moment. Disputes over contracts involving YouTube TV and content providers are not uncommon, but historically, YouTube TV usually manages to finalize a deal at the last minute. For instance, back in 2021, a comparable contract conflict between YouTube TV and Disney was resolved in less than 24 hours after Disney channels were taken down. Currently, Disney channels have been absent for five days, with no sign that a breakthrough in discussions is close.

    Disney requested Google to restore ABC for Election Day

    As contract talks between the two entities are progressing slowly, Variety reports that Disney has this week requested Google to reinstate ABC on YouTube TV on November 4th for 24 hours to allow viewers to watch the channel’s election coverage. “Despite the stalemate that prompted the current blackout, we have requested YouTube TV to bring back ABC for Election Day so subscribers can access the information they depend on,” a Disney representative stated earlier this week. “We prioritize public interest and hope YouTube TV will take this minor step for their customers while we continue working towards a fair agreement.”

    Unsurprisingly, YouTube TV declined. In a statement addressing the situation, YouTube TV commented that Disney’s proposal would only create confusion among customers who would see the ABC channel return only to be removed again just as suddenly. YouTube TV also mentioned that there are plenty of other options for customers to access election coverage, including the ABC News page on YouTube.

    Adding a bit of fuel to the fire, the statement included the following remark: “In fact, on the last two U.S. election days, the vast majority of tuned-in YouTube TV subscribers opted not to watch ABC.” As part of Google’s response, it suggested that Disney allow it to restore ABC and ESPN while negotiations continue, a request that Disney predictably turned down.

    YouTube TV isn’t affordable anymore

    What makes the removal of Disney-owned channels from YouTube TV particularly exasperating is that YouTube TV has evolved into a costly service over the past few years. In a way, it has become everything it aimed to challenge. There was a time when YouTube TV was undoubtedly the best streaming bargain available. When it debuted in 2017, it was only $35 per month. Since then, the service’s price has increased fivefold. Currently, YouTube TV costs $82.99 per month, which in many regions is more expensive than the costly cable packages YouTube TV was meant to replace.

    Amidst all the price increases in recent years, many individuals have begun questioning whether YouTube TV is actually worth it. And while I’m a fan of YouTube TV, it’s a valid question now that YouTube TV faces legitimate competition from platforms like Fubo, Sling TV, and Hulu.

    Regarding the current negotiations between YouTube TV and Disney, it’s uncertain which side is being unreasonable. Presumably, Disney wants to increase charges as YouTube TV’s subscriber base has surged in recent years. Meanwhile, YouTube TV likely aims to avoid another price hike, especially since it raised the monthly subscription cost by 14% less than a year ago.

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on New Enhancements and Modifications in iOS 26.2 Beta 1
    New Enhancements and Modifications in iOS 26.2 Beta 1

    next month, Apple is set to release the update to users and has commenced the beta testing phase for iOS 26.2. Currently, it appears that the company has a number of new functionalities underway.

    One of the key updates is that iOS 26.2 beta 1 introduces Live Translation support within the European Union. Apple had initially postponed this feature, citing potential conflicts with the EU’s Digital Markets Act, but according to Apple’s statement, it looks like the company has discovered a means to provide Live Translation for European Apple Accounts as well. Additionally, iOS 26.2 beta 1 continues to enhance the Alarms segment of the Clock application. Following the introduction of the Slide to Stop feature in iOS 26.1, the firm is now linking alarms to the Reminders app, allowing users to set an alarm to trigger when a reminder is created.

    More from Apple in iOS 26.2 beta 1

    <img class="gallery-image " src="https://www.bgr.com/img/gallery/everything-new-in-ios-26-2-beta-1/more-from-apple-in-ios-26-2

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on “Best Buy Provides 50% Off on Top-Rated Flip Phone in Early Black Friday Sale”
    “Best Buy Provides 50% Off on Top-Rated Flip Phone in Early Black Friday Sale”

    Snag the 2024 Motorola Razr at a 50% discount.

    (Image credit: Motorola)

    Deals on Android smartphones are arriving ahead of schedule this year, with Black Friday and Cyber Monday still on the horizon. If you’re in the market for an affordable phone right now, Best Buy has the 2024 Motorola Razr discounted by 50% or more as of this writing. Should you choose to have Best Buy activate it for you, the cost can drop to just $250, or $350 if you want to set it up with your carrier independently.

    The 2024 Razr is quite comparable to the 2025 version, differing mainly in its enhanced camera capabilities and improved construction. Nonetheless, prices for this year’s model are unlikely to fall to such low levels, making last-gen an attractive option for casual users.

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on Delta Unveils Support for iOS 26 Boarding Passes in Wallet
    Delta Unveils Support for iOS 26 Boarding Passes in Wallet

    ### iOS 26: Enhanced Boarding Pass Functions in Apple Wallet

    Apple has rolled out a revamped boarding pass functionality in the Wallet app as part of iOS 26. This upgrade improves the travel experience by integrating Live Activities, faster access to key flight information, and extra features designed to boost user convenience.

    #### Recent Airline Integration

    Last month, United Airlines became the first U.S. airline to adopt the new Wallet features, soon followed by Air Canada. Currently, Delta Airlines is also joining this trend, offering its passengers the upgraded boarding pass functionality.

    The newly introduced Delta boarding pass features were initially highlighted by a user on X, who observed the updates after upgrading to iOS 26.2. While it’s not verified that these features are limited to iOS 26.2, Delta may enhance its boarding passes independently of the iOS version.

    #### Major Enhancements of the Revamped Boarding Pass Design

    The updated boarding passes within Apple Wallet feature three notable improvements:

    1. **Live Activities**: This capability enables users to get real-time notifications about their flight status straight within the Wallet app.

    2. **Airport Maps**: Travelers can view comprehensive airport details through Apple Maps, facilitating easier navigation during their journeys.

    3. **Luggage Tracking with Find My**: Passengers can monitor their luggage utilizing the Find My app, ensuring peace of mind and added convenience.

    The refreshed design presents an extensive overview of flight details, including options to share flight information with others and quickly access detailed airport data. This marks a substantial improvement over the conventional boarding pass design, which usually only shows fundamental flight details.

    #### Current and Prospective Support

    Presently, Delta, Air Canada, and United Airlines support the latest boarding pass features. Apple has declared that additional airlines, such as American Airlines, JetBlue, Jetstar, Lufthansa Group, Qantas, Southwest Airlines, and Virgin Australia, are anticipated to adopt these functions in the near future.

    #### Upcoming Enhancements

    In the future, one of the significant updates for the Apple Wallet app will be the addition of support for U.S. passports, further increasing the app’s usefulness for travelers.

    To summarize, the new boarding pass functions in Apple Wallet signify a considerable improvement in how travelers handle their flight information, making the process more streamlined and user-friendly.

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on iOS 26.2 Could Unveil 30-Day AirDrop Pairing Functionality for Devices
    iOS 26.2 Could Unveil 30-Day AirDrop Pairing Functionality for Devices

    Apple is developing a new feature that will enable users to maintain AirDrop pairing between devices for as long as 30 days. Here are the specifics.

    ### New configuration might provide enhanced privacy options

    With the release of iOS 26.2 developer beta 1 earlier today, Apple seems to be focused on giving users greater authority over who can share files through AirDrop, no matter if the sender is a recognized contact or not.

    At present, AirDrop offers three visibility options:

    – **Receiving Off**
    – **Contacts Only**
    – **Everyone for 10 minutes**

    According to code analyzed by 9to5Mac, Apple appears to be introducing a new choice that will enable users to connect their devices for AirDrop using a PIN, which will allow them to “find each other in AirDrop when nearby for the next 30 days.”

    This indicates that users will have the ability to link two devices by inputting a short PIN, keeping them visible to each other in AirDrop for the upcoming month, without having to revert to “Everyone for 10 minutes.”

    The feature, which is not yet functional in iOS 26.2 beta 1 and may be subject to changes, will allow users to adjust this setting in Settings.

    Over the years, Apple has aimed to enhance AirDrop privacy and reduce issues arising from unsolicited AirDrop requests. This feature seems to be a continuation of that initiative, whether it is introduced as a fourth option or as part of a larger reform of AirDrop permissions.

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on iOS 26.2 Unveils New Tables Functionality in Freeform App
    iOS 26.2 Unveils New Tables Functionality in Freeform App

    ### iOS 26.2 Beta 1 Brings Table Functionality to Freeform App

    Apple has launched the initial beta of iOS 26.2, featuring a major upgrade to its Freeform app by adding table support. This enhancement improves the app’s capabilities, enabling users to arrange information more efficiently.

    #### What is Freeform?

    Freeform is a dynamic digital workspace created for creativity and teamwork. It acts as an online whiteboard where individuals can gather various forms of content, such as images, sketches, links, and documents. As stated by Apple, the app enables users and groups to brainstorm, outline concepts, take notes, and assemble ideas seamlessly.

    #### New Features in iOS 26.2

    Before this enhancement, Freeform already accommodated a diverse range of content types such as sketches, photos, richly formatted lists, text, stickers, and videos. The addition of tables in iOS 26.2 and iPadOS 26.2 represents a significant improvement, offering users a robust new means for data organization.

    Tables can be easily generated within the app’s attachment screen, allowing for adjustments in size and content. Users can insert text and lists into their tables, making it a useful feature for both individual and group projects. The interface supports quick resizing of tables through corner drag indicators, and new rows and columns can be added via clearly visible “+” buttons.

    #### User Experience

    Although some users may not have fully leveraged Freeform since its debut, the introduction of tables is set to capture more interest. The usability and the option to organize information in an orderly fashion could greatly enhance the app’s attractiveness.

    #### Conclusion

    The addition of table functionality in Freeform with iOS 26.2 is a valuable update for users aiming to boost their productivity and organization within the app. As Apple progressively enhances its applications, this feature is expected to make a significant difference for both casual and advanced users. Users are invited to discover this new capability and share their feedback as they adjust to these updates.

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on iOS 26.2 Brings Enhanced Earthquake Alerts, Upcoming Threat Notifications, and a Fresh Alert Sound
    iOS 26.2 Brings Enhanced Earthquake Alerts, Upcoming Threat Notifications, and a Fresh Alert Sound

    Apple is preparing to improve user safety by launching a new Enhanced Safety Alerts feature in iOS 26.2. This functionality, which is currently accessible in the developer beta, is designed to deliver users more immediate and pertinent alerts concerning natural disasters and looming dangers.

    ### Fresh Tone and New Choices for Safety Alerts

    In the newest release of iOS 26.2 developer beta 1, Apple has introduced a new section named **Enhanced Alerts** under **Settings > Notifications**. This area enables users in supported locations to turn alerts for earthquakes and imminent threats on or off. Furthermore, there is a privacy feature that allows users to share their approximate location with Apple, aiming to enhance the accuracy and dependability of these alerts.

    The Enhanced Safety Alerts function works alongside the existing Government Alerts section, which encompasses AMBER Alerts, Public Safety Alerts, Test Alerts, and Emergency Alerts. Users will have detailed controls over location accuracy and sound settings for these alerts.

    Additionally, the beta version presents a new alert tone, enriching the auditory experience for users when they receive critical notifications.

    For anyone interested, the new alert tone can be heard through the provided audio link.

    This update showcases Apple’s continuous dedication to user safety and the significance of timely information during emergencies.

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on Apple Card Welcomes Hertz as a Fresh 3% Daily Cash Associate Alongside Extra Perks
    Apple Card Welcomes Hertz as a Fresh 3% Daily Cash Associate Alongside Extra Perks

    ### Apple Card Boosts Perks with Hertz Alliance

    Apple Card holders can now take advantage of a thrilling new benefit: 3% Daily Cash back on car rentals with Hertz. This announcement marks a noteworthy enhancement to the rewards offered to Apple Card users, increasing the overall value of the card.

    #### Major Advantages of Using Apple Card with Hertz

    By using your Apple Card to book eligible rentals via the Hertz app or website, you unlock a range of advantages, including:

    – **3% Daily Cash Back**: Receive 3% Daily Cash back on qualifying rentals when booked with Apple Pay at participating Hertz locations.
    – **Complimentary Emergency Roadside Service**: Benefit from worry-free complimentary roadside assistance.
    – **Reduced Rate Vehicle Protection**: Add loss damage waiver vehicle coverage at a reduced cost of $16.95 per day (plus tax).
    – **No-Cost Additional Driver**: Add an extra driver for free upon pickup.
    – **Discounts on Pay Later Rates**: Get at least 5% off Pay Later base rates for rentals.

    #### Broadened 3% Daily Cash Earning Opportunities

    With the incorporation of Hertz, Apple Card users can now earn 3% Daily Cash at various other popular retailers, including:

    – Apple
    – Ace Hardware
    – Booking.com
    – Chargepoint
    – Exxon
    – Mobil
    – Nike
    – Uber
    – Uber Eats
    – Walgreens

    #### Daily Cash Earning Framework

    Every purchase made with Apple Card using Apple Pay earns 2% back, while transactions with the physical card yield 1% back. This structure encourages users to utilize Apple Pay to maximize rewards.

    #### Instant Access to Daily Cash

    A standout feature of Apple Card’s Daily Cash is that it becomes accessible immediately upon transaction posting to your account. Users can choose to save it to their Apple Cash balance, transfer it to their Apple Card Savings Account, or apply it as a statement credit to lower their balance.

    #### Final Thoughts

    The new alliance between Apple Card and Hertz not only boosts the rewards for cardholders but also offers additional services that can enhance the convenience and affordability of car rentals. As Apple continues to expand its offerings, users are encouraged to make the most of these benefits and share their experiences.

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Researchers Acquire Landmark Photograph of Two Black Holes in Motion
    Researchers Acquire Landmark Photograph of Two Black Holes in Motion

    The Astrophysical Journal. The photograph captures two supermassive black holes situated at the core of the quasar OJ 287, approximately 5 billion light-years away from our planet (in the constellation Cancer), partaking in a 12-year orbital choreography.

    This visual evidence marks a significant advancement. Although theories and indirect observations of binary black hole systems (like the remarkable discovery of two colliding black holes) have been in existence for a long time, this is the inaugural occasion where we have distinctly observed two such colossal entities revolving around one another. The outcome enhances our comprehension of the growth and merging processes of black holes, and it may even provide fresh observational foundations for validating the predictions of general relativity. The image delivers a striking confirmation of years of theoretical efforts and observational clues, establishing it as one of the most thrilling advancements in black hole astrophysics.

    Black holes and binary black holes

    <source media="(min-width: 429px)" srcset="https://www.bgr.com/img/gallery/scientists-finally-captured-a-groundbreaking-image-of-two-black-holes-orbiting-each-other/black-holes-and-binary-black-h

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on The Initial Commercially Accessible Aerial Vehicle Is Here
    The Initial Commercially Accessible Aerial Vehicle Is Here

    Futuristic films and animations frequently portray airborne vehicles, such as the flying family car from the beloved animated series, “The Jetsons.” Regrettably, the present-day passenger vehicles remain firmly on the ground. However, a company named Jetson has introduced a new aerial vehicle, referred to as the Jetson One. Formally classified as an electric Vertical Take-Off and Landing Vehicle, or eVTOL, this is a single-person flying device that resembles a larger drone.

    Constructed with an aluminum and carbon fiber frame, the Jetson One operates with eight electric motors that rotate eight propellers to maintain flight. A built-in flight computer reportedly simplifies the flying experience, with altitude and direction controls conveniently situated within the flight stick. It has a weight of 235 pounds, batteries included, and can support a pilot weighing up to 210 pounds. Its maximum speed reaches 63 miles per hour, with a ceiling height of 1,500 feet, indicating the upper limit of its safe altitude. Unexpectedly, no pilot’s license is necessary for operation.

    In video footage showcasing the Jetson One in motion, a group of four vehicles dart through the skies, demonstrating its distinctive racing inspirations — Jetson characterizes it as a Formula One racer of the air. The average flight duration is around 20 minutes, suggesting it may not be suitable for lengthy commutes just yet. The current listing price stands at $128,000, with initial shipments projected for 2028. In comparison, Jetoptera’s VTOL flying car aims to achieve Mach 1 via a fluidic propulsion mechanism, though it is not yet available for purchase.

    Has anyone acquired the Jetson One?

    As stated by Jetson, more than 500 orders have been placed for its new eVTOL, and one client has already received their vehicle: Palmer Luckey. He is recognized as the co-founder of Oculus. He is also the initial owner of a Jetson One, regarded as a “historic milestone,” according to the company. Jetson delivered it to a site in California, where founder and CTO Tomasz Patan assisted Luckey in its setup along with CEO Stephan D’haene. Reportedly, Luckey required only 50 minutes of ground training before taking control for his inaugural flight.

    “Launching our first Jetson ONE with Palmer Luckey, a visionary who has transformed both consumer and defense technology, establishes the context for what Jetson signifies: innovation, freedom, and the future of transportation,” stated D’haene. This bodes well for the future of transportation, and it will be fascinating to observe the evolution of this technology. Although it is the first to launch commercially, the Jetson One is not the sole flying car generating buzz. Alef unveiled an extraordinary flying car that might soon enter production, and let’s not forget the minivan-style Luft Pinoy EV-meets-eVTOL system.

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