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US Legislators Charge OnePlus Devices with Gathering Sensitive Personal Data

**They Aim to Investigate the Chinese OEM Regarding “Security Issues”**

**Key Information**

– A report indicates that two U.S. lawmakers have requested that the U.S. Commerce Department examine the Chinese OEM OnePlus due to “security issues.”
– The lawmakers have allegedly referenced evidence that “suggests” OnePlus devices are gathering possible “sensitive personal information” and transmitting it to servers located in China.
– The U.S. has faced challenges with firms like Huawei in 2020 and more recently with TikTok regarding similar matters.

On Friday night (June 27), it was reported that two U.S. lawmakers have shown interest in investigating the Chinese OEM OnePlus due to these concerns.

The report, shared by Reuters, claims to have uncovered a letter from the two U.S. lawmakers who wish to explore OnePlus over “security issues.” The lawmakers, Representative John Moolenaar and Raja Krishnamoorthi, have supposedly urged the U.S. Commerce Department to investigate OnePlus after accusing the devices of collecting user data “without clear user consent.”

The two Representatives assert that this inquiry would “establish” the types of information gathered by OnePlus devices, which may include “transfers of sensitive personal information and screenshots.”

According to these lawmakers, their interest in this investigation stems from an “analysis” conducted by a commercial entity. Reports suggest that the findings “indicate” possible unauthorized data collection by OnePlus devices, which is subsequently sent to servers owned by China.

Reuters informs that the U.S. Commerce Department did not immediately respond regarding this possible investigation. Android Central reached out to OnePlus for comment about this prospective probe by the U.S. Commerce Department but did not receive a response by the time of publication. This article will be updated upon receiving a reply.

**Is There Cause for Alarm?**

The U.S. government encountered another well-known Chinese brand back in 2020. Huawei faced scrutiny after the DOJ (Department of Justice) charged the OEM with racketeering and “stealing trade secrets.” This transpired during President Trump’s first term, which provided the company a 45-day ban extension, but this only applied to companies operating in the United States.

In a statement, the Commerce Department clarified that the extension on the Temporary General License aimed to avoid any “disruption” of network communication systems for individuals in rural areas. Huawei sought to contest its U.S. ban, labeling it “unconstitutional;” however, a judge quickly dismissed the lawsuit.

Conversely, hearing “security issues” brings to mind another ongoing situation in the U.S.: TikTok. In 2022, the ByteDance-owned app faced backlash over concerns that it was collecting U.S. user data, which was allegedly accessed in China. At that time, U.S. Federal Communications commissioner, Brendan Carr, claimed, “it harvests swaths of sensitive data that new reports show is being accessed in Beijing.”

We have since experienced a TikTok ban—and its subsequent return—and continue to navigate this issue today, as Trump granted the app a 75-day extension back in April. While the Trump Administration has shown interest in retaining the app, it seeks to do so in a manner that ByteDance finds unacceptable. The company has expressed a preference to forfeit its U.S.-based audience entirely rather than sell it.

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Crucial MagSafe Gear for Summer Journeys

# MagSafe for Travel: Essential Gear for Your Summer Travel Bag

MagSafe technology has transformed the way we power our devices, making it an optimal companion for those who travel. Its capacity to minimize the necessary cables and streamline the charging process means that MagSafe accessories are indispensable for anyone on the move. Although the idea of a universal MagSafe cable for every Apple device is still a dream, there are several key accessories that can enhance your travel adventures.

## Top Travel Battery Packs

When considering travel battery packs, there are two crucial types to keep in mind:

– **Get you through the end of the world**
– **Get you through the end of the day**

Each type serves unique functions, and for longer trips, having one of each is advantageous. For demanding travel days, the [Anker 633 Magnetic Battery, 10,000mAh Foldable Wireless Portable Charger](https://amzn.to/4l2Whif) stands out. It can deliver nearly two full charges for your iPhone and includes a built-in stand, making it ideal for airplane use.

For a more compact choice, the [LISEN 0.3’’ Ultra Slim MagSafe Portable Charger](https://amzn.to/3FFPa05) is an excellent option. With a capacity of 5,000mAh, it is sleeker and easier to transport, perfect for everyday use.

## Charging Options for the Hotel

Traveling frequently entails managing a tangle of chargers and wires. To streamline this experience, the [UGREEN 100W Charging Station 4-Port](https://amzn.to/43EmrBW) is a superb travel ally. This compact device features a MagSafe charger on top, along with two USB-C outputs and a USB-A output, allowing for simultaneous charging of multiple devices, including your iPhone, Mac, AirPods, iPad, Nintendo Switch, and Kindle.

If you’re in search of a more economical option, the

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iOS 18.6 Beta 2 Launched: Explore the New Features Coming Soon

A few weeks after Apple began testing iOS 18.6, the company has released beta 2 for developers. While this particular update may not be the most exciting among iOS 18 versions, it certainly introduces new features.

For instance, users in the EU will experience a different approach when installing third-party app markets and applications from the internet. With new guidance from the European Commission under the Digital Markets Act, Apple is unable to instill fear in users regarding the download of apps outside the App Store.

Moreover, Apple is preparing to implement Apple Intelligence support in China. While Mandarin support has been available since iOS 18.4, the company is collaborating with Alibaba to facilitate this platform in the region.

In February, Bloomberg detailed the agreement between Apple and Alibaba, as the Chinese government mandates that Apple utilize local models for its Apple Intelligence platform. At that time, the report stated that these stipulations only pertain to devices purchased within China. Users who acquired an iPhone, iPad, or Mac abroad will still be able to use the original version of Apple Intelligence.

Alibaba will handle the “censorship and filtering of AI outputs to align with requirements set by the Chinese government. Conversely, Baidu will oversee Visual Intelligence and search functionalities.

Additionally, the iOS 18.6 beta code has unveiled Apple’s upcoming smart home hub. A file suggests that this accessory is in development at Apple. Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman recently disclosed that Apple intended to unveil its new homeOS software (and its first smart home hub product) at a March event. However, due to delays related to Siri features, the company postponed the presentation.

Notably, iOS 18.6 beta is not the sole software revealing new products. iOS 26 beta code has also uncovered at least three new products anticipated in the near future.

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Leak Information Thickness of Galaxy Z Fold 7 and Flip 7

**Galaxy Z Fold 7: What Will Its Thickness Be?**

As the tech community looks forward to Samsung’s upcoming Unpacked event on July 9, 2025, anticipation is growing regarding the introduction of the Galaxy Z Fold 7 and Flip 7. Recent disclosures indicate that these foldable gadgets will be remarkably thin, establishing new benchmarks in the foldable smartphone arena.

**Galaxy Z Fold 7: A New Standard in Slimness**

The Galaxy Z Fold 7 is set to be the extremely thin foldable device that fans have been eagerly awaiting. According to leaks from the Chinese social platform Weibo, the Fold 7 will incorporate a Snapdragon 8 Elite “for Galaxy” processor and will be only 4.2 mm thick when unfolded and 8.9 mm when folded. This reflects a notable decrease from the Galaxy Z Fold 6, which measured 5.6 mm when unfolded and 12.1 mm when folded. Even though it is marginally thicker than the upcoming Honor Magic V5, which claims the title of the world’s slimmest foldable at 8.8 mm, the dimensions of the Fold 7 are remarkable. The device is also projected to weigh a mere 215g, making it 24g lighter than its predecessor.

**Galaxy Z Flip 7: Small Yet Mighty**

The Galaxy Z Flip 7 is also poised to astonish with its slim profile. Leaks indicate that the Flip 7 will be 13.7 mm when closed and 6.5 mm when opened, in comparison to the Flip 6’s 14.9 mm and 6.9 mm, respectively. The new Flip iteration will sport a marginally larger 6.9-inch display along with a 4.1-inch cover display, both boasting a peak brightness of 2,600 nits. Furthermore, the Flip 7 is anticipated to feature a 4,300 mAh battery, an enhancement from the previous model’s 4,000 mAh battery.

**Growing Excitement**

While these specifics are derived from leaks and have not yet been verified by Samsung, they offer an exhilarating preview of what the Galaxy Z Fold 7 and Flip 7 will bring. As Samsung gears up for the official introduction of these devices, technology enthusiasts can anticipate foldable phones that merge refined aesthetics with robust performance.

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Comparison between Moto G Stylus 2025 and Samsung Galaxy A36: Identifying the Better Mid-Range Smartphone

**Moto G Stylus 2025 vs. Samsung Galaxy A36: A Mid-Range Smartphone Face-off**

In the dynamic arena of mid-range smartphones, the Moto G Stylus 2025 and Samsung Galaxy A36 differentiate themselves with their distinct features. Both devices are tailored for users seeking a compromise between performance, capabilities, and cost-effectiveness, yet each possesses unique advantages and drawbacks.

**Design and Construction**

The Moto G Stylus 2025 showcases a striking design with a vegan leather rear and a stove-inspired camera configuration, providing a textured hold. It is marginally lighter at 191g and features an IP68 rating for enhanced water resistance. On the other hand, the Samsung Galaxy A36 boasts a polished glass rear reinforced with Gorilla Glass Victus Plus, offering a more luxurious appearance. It is heavier at 195g and carries an IP67 rating, which is slightly inferior in water resistance compared to its Motorola rival.

**Screen**

Both smartphones are equipped with a 6.7-inch display that supports a 120Hz refresh rate. Nonetheless, the Moto G Stylus 2025 takes the lead with a superior resolution of 1220 x 2712 and a peak brightness of 3,000 nits, making it more adept in bright settings. The integrated stylus adds utility for jotting down notes and engaging in creative activities. The Samsung Galaxy A36, featuring its Super AMOLED display, delivers impressive color accuracy and contrast but does not reach the brightness and resolution levels of the Moto G Stylus 2025.

**Performance and Power Supply**

Inside, both devices are driven by the Snapdragon 6 Gen 3 processor, ensuring efficient performance for routine tasks. They are equipped with a 5,000mAh battery; however, the Moto G Stylus 2025 offers quicker 68W wired charging and 15W wireless charging, while the Galaxy A36 provides 45W wired charging without any wireless charging options.

**Cameras and Storage Options**

The Moto G Stylus 2025 is outfitted with a 50MP primary camera utilizing a Sony LYTIA 700C sensor, a 13MP ultrawide lens, and a 32MP front-facing camera capable of 4K video captures. It also permits expandable storage of up to 1TB. Meanwhile, the Samsung Galaxy A36 features a 50MP Sony IMX882 sensor, an 8MP ultrawide lens, and a 12MP selfie camera, lacking an option for expandable storage.

**Software and Upgrades**

Motorola’s Moto G Stylus 2025 operates on Android 15 with Hello UX, offering two operating system upgrades along with three years of security updates. It comes with essential Moto AI functionalities and a streamlined interface. Samsung’s Galaxy A36, running on One UI 7 based on Android 15, guarantees six years of operating system and security updates, delivering long-term benefits. It incorporates various AI-driven features in the “Awesome Intelligence” suite.

**Final Thoughts**

The decision between the Moto G Stylus 2025 and Samsung Galaxy A36 ultimately hinges on personal preferences. The Moto G Stylus 2025 shines with its stylus, quicker charging capabilities, and enhanced display resolution, making it suitable for users who prioritize these attributes. Conversely, the Samsung Galaxy A36 provides exceptional software support and an elegant design, attracting those who value long-lasting updates and a high-end appearance. Both smartphones are priced at $399, ensuring that either choice is a smart option for budget-minded consumers.

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Engaging with CarPlay Ultra: Unveiling Its Most Remarkable New Function

# CarPlay Ultra: A New Chapter in Personalization and Capability

iOS 26 signifies a major turning point in the trajectory of CarPlay, bringing forth one of the most significant upgrades in recent memory. Alongside this enhancement, Apple has introduced CarPlay Ultra, a fresh iteration that promises improved capabilities and personalization possibilities. A recent hands-on evaluation underscores the merits of this cutting-edge system.

## Personalization is the Key Advantage of CarPlay Ultra

Bradley Iger from *The Verge* had the chance to test CarPlay Ultra in the Aston Martin DBX707, among the select few vehicles currently featuring this sophisticated system. The partnership between Aston Martin and Apple in creating CarPlay Ultra has been described as an educational journey for both companies, maneuvering through the intricacies of global safety standards and user interface creation.

### A Joint Development Effort

The creation of CarPlay Ultra involved a strong alliance between Apple and Aston Martin, with Apple supplying a versatile framework for the automaker’s engineering team. This partnership enabled Aston Martin to customize the system effectively to align with driver requirements.

### Amplified Personalization Features

One of the prominent attributes of CarPlay Ultra is its wide-ranging customization options. In contrast to the standard version of CarPlay, CarPlay Ultra presents numerous personalization alternatives. Aston Martin has designed a distinctive theme for its digital gauge cluster, in addition to several themes offered by Apple. Users can further personalize these themes with varying colors and wallpapers, boosting the visual enjoyment of their driving experience.

Iger’s hands-on assessment demonstrated that users can seamlessly navigate through multiple gauge cluster theme alternatives and information displays via a touchpad on the steering wheel. This degree of personalization not only enhances visual coherence but also brings new functionalities. For example, Apple Maps can show navigation prompts on both the gauge cluster and the infotainment system, allowing drivers to select the perspective that best fits their needs.

### Effortless Performance

Worries regarding input latency or unresponsiveness have been mitigated, with Iger noting that CarPlay Ultra functions effortlessly, even while wirelessly connected to the vehicle. The system’s reaction to inputs is instantaneous, ensuring a fluid user experience without any discernible delays or interruptions.

## Conclusion

CarPlay Ultra signifies a notable leap in in-vehicle technology, providing drivers with a tailored and effective interface that enriches their driving journey. With its collaborative development approach and emphasis on personalization, CarPlay Ultra establishes a new benchmark for automotive technology. As users delve into the functionalities of this forward-thinking system, it is evident that Apple is dedicated to empowering both automobile manufacturers and drivers.

For those keen on discovering more about CarPlay Ultra, *The Verge* offers an extensive hands-on evaluation that explores its features and functionalities in greater detail.

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Pixelmator Pro Unveils Initial Apple Intelligence Capabilities Alongside Further Enhancements

### Pixelmator Pro 3.7 Update: A Step Forward in AI and Accessibility

Pixelmator, now under Apple’s ownership, has recently experienced a major change with the rollout of version 3.7 for Pixelmator Pro on Mac. This update signifies the launch of Apple Intelligence capabilities, alongside important accessibility enhancements, showcasing Apple’s dedication to improving user experience throughout its software.

#### Overview of Pixelmator Applications

Since Apple’s acquisition, the Pixelmator suite includes three separate applications:

– **Pixelmator Pro for Mac**
– **Pixelmator for iPhone and iPad**
– **Photomator for iPhone, iPad, and Mac**

Traditionally, Pixelmator Pro has been the flagship offering, and this recent update solidifies its position with enhanced features and capabilities.

#### Key Features of the Pixelmator 3.7 Update

The 3.7 update brings an array of new tools and enhancements, particularly emphasizing AI functionalities and accessibility upgrades:

##### Image Playground

– **Creative Image Generation**: Users can produce original images based on existing photos, descriptions, or individuals from their Photos library.
– **Add to Playground Feature**: This permits users to recreate image layers or illustrations in various artistic styles, including animation and illustration.
– **Layer Management**: Generated images can be added as new layers or can replace existing ones, enabling custom designs to be utilized in templates or mockups.

##### Writing Tools

– **Text Enhancement**: The update introduces tools for proofreading, summarizing, rewriting, and adjusting text tone within designs.
– **Compose Feature**: Utilizing ChatGPT, users can create original text content based on prompts or descriptions, enriching creative workflows.
– **Easy Access**: Users can swiftly access Writing Tools by hovering over or Control-clicking highlighted text.

##### Other Improvements

– **RAW Image Support**: The update allows users to open and modify RAW images from OM SYSTEM OM-1 Mark I cameras, including those captured with High Res Shot.
– **VoiceOver Enhancements**: Enhanced support provides spoken and braille descriptions of tools, making the application more accessible to users with visual impairments.
– **Keyboard Navigation**: Users can navigate through tool options using the keyboard in conjunction with VoiceOver.
– **Hover Text**: Hovering over items in the Tools sidebar reveals their names in large text, improving visibility.

#### Conclusion

The Pixelmator Pro 3.7 update signifies a major leap in photo editing technology, incorporating AI features that facilitate creative workflows while amplifying accessibility for all users. As Apple persists in advancing its software ecosystem, Pixelmator Pro emerges as a formidable tool for both amateur and professional designers.

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iOS 18.6 Beta 2 Launch: Important Features and Enhancements to Expect

Apple has recently launched iOS 18.6 beta 2 for developers, along with associated updates like macOS Sequoia 15.6 and others. Here’s what you can anticipate.

## Apple Presenting Two Beta Cycles This Summer, Featuring iOS 18.6

It is uncommon for Apple to provide multiple distinct beta cycles for its software, with summer being the notable exception.

During the summer, Apple consistently tests its significant new OS versions in both developer and public betas. This year, those consist of iOS 26, macOS 26, iPadOS 26, and so forth. These substantial updates are set to release for all users this fall and are currently undergoing testing by developers—with a public beta version expected in July.

However, Apple also has new x.6 updates for its existing software versions, which are currently in beta testing as well.

Updates include:
– iOS 18.6
– iPadOS 18.6
– macOS Sequoia 15.6
– watchOS 11.6
– tvOS 18.6
– visionOS 2.6

As the last anticipated significant releases in the current software cycle, these updates are not expected to feature many new functionalities—except possibly for users in the EU.

Instead, the releases concentrate on bug fixes and improved stability. Essentially, Apple recognizes that many users will continue to use iOS 18 for some time instead of upgrading to iOS 26. Therefore, it aims to ensure the software is in particularly good condition before redirecting all its efforts to future OS versions.

Today’s new beta 2 releases are unlikely to feature anything novel not present in beta 1, aside from the previously mentioned EU changes. However, if you’re located in the EU, you might encounter the updated experience for downloading apps and marketplaces from the internet.

Have you set up iOS 18.6 beta 2? Discover anything different? Share your thoughts in the comments.

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Revealed: Apple’s Vision Pro Development Strategies Until 2028

Apple’s Vision Pro Timeline: What Lies Ahead for the Mixed Reality Headset?

Apple continues to advance its Vision Pro, its high-end mixed reality headset. In spite of its gradual international introduction, prominent analyst Ming-Chi Kuo has disclosed Apple’s bold timeline for the Vision Pro leading up to 2028, showcasing a range of new offerings and enhancements.

Towards the end of 2025, Apple is anticipated to unveil an updated version of the current Vision Pro. The major improvement will be the incorporation of a new M5 chip, representing a significant upgrade from the existing M2 processor. Kuo predicts that Apple will distribute between 150,000 to 200,000 units in 2025. Nevertheless, he suggests that the device will continue to be a niche market player, aimed at sustaining market presence, evolving the ecosystem, managing component stock, and investigating XR headset functionalities. Some existing user feedback, such as concerns regarding the headset’s weight and battery duration, may not be resolved in this version.

In the latter half of 2027, Apple is expected to roll out the much-anticipated Apple Vision Air. This edition will present a completely fresh design, being 40% lighter than its predecessor. It will run on Apple’s next-generation flagship iPhone processor, which is likely to be the A21 Pro. The weight reduction will be accomplished by replacing glass with plastic, incorporating a substantial amount of magnesium alloy, and minimizing the number of sensors. The Vision Air will also be offered at a much more affordable price.

Looking ahead, the brand-new Apple Vision Pro 2 is projected to enter mass production in the latter part of 2028. This variant will feature a completely redesigned structure, be considerably lighter, and have a more accessible price. In contrast to the Vision Air, the Vision Pro 2 will utilize a Mac-level processor.

Furthermore, there could be an additional Vision Pro under development. As per Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, a tethered version of the Vision Pro is being planned. This model would connect to a Mac via a cable, harnessing the Mac’s processing power and graphics capabilities to minimize the latency commonly experienced with wireless devices.

Apple’s strategy for the Vision Pro series reflects a dedication to innovation and transformation in the mixed reality domain, focusing on creating lighter, more powerful, and cost-effective devices in the upcoming years.

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Upcoming Netflix Programs: 11 New and Returning Series (June 29-July 5)

**New and Returning Netflix Shows (6/29 – 7/5)**

Netflix is enhancing its collection with a selection of new and returning shows this week. Here’s a summary of what’s arriving:

1. **Attack on London: Hunting The 7/7 Bombers (July 1)**
– A compelling documentary series regarding the 7/7 bombings in London, showcasing insider perspectives and unseen footage.

2. **Mom: Seasons 1-8 (July 1)**
– The full series of the sitcom featuring Anna Faris and Allison Janney, centered on a mother-daughter pair dealing with life and recovery.

3. **PAW Patrol: Seasons 2-3 (July 1)**
– The beloved children’s animated series makes its return with more escapades of Ryder and his team of rescue dogs.

4. **Portlandia: Seasons 1-8 (July 1)**
– Fred Armisen and Carrie Brownstein’s distinctive sketch comedy series based in Portland, showcasing a changing cast of eccentric characters.

5. **Yellowjackets: Season 2 (July 1)**
– The next chapter of the suspenseful Showtime series, exploring the consequences of a significant character’s demise in season 1.

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