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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Pixel Watch 4’s Repairability Establishes a New Benchmark for Apple, Garmin, and Samsung
    Pixel Watch 4’s Repairability Establishes a New Benchmark for Apple, Garmin, and Samsung

    You likely cannot (or ought not) fix it on your own, but the Pixel Watch 4 demonstrates that alternative smartwatch manufacturers can excel.

    (Image credit: Michael Hicks / Android Central)
    Wear OS Weekly

    My weekly article delves into the condition of Wear OS, covering recent advancements and the newest applications and functionalities.

    iFixit indicates that the Google Pixel Watch 4 is the <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.androidcentral.com/wearables/google-pixel-watch/googles-pixel-watch-4-just-rewrote-the-rules-for-smartwatch-repair" data-before-rewrite-localise="https://www.android

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on Comparison of Samsung Galaxy S26 Pro and Galaxy S25: Evolution of the Base Model to Pro
    Comparison of Samsung Galaxy S26 Pro and Galaxy S25: Evolution of the Base Model to Pro

    Samsung has introduced a new title for its forthcoming flagship, but what are the actual changes?

    Samsung is revamping its next range of smartphones with innovative models and distinct names. The company is expected to disclose three Galaxy S26 variants early next year, specifically the Galaxy S26 Pro, Galaxy S26 Edge, and Galaxy S26 Ultra. In comparison to the existing lineup — which includes the Galaxy S25, Galaxy S25 Plus, Galaxy S25 Edge, and Galaxy S25 Ultra — the speculations and leaks create a vastly different narrative.

    The Samsung Galaxy S26 Pro, now featuring the new “Pro” designation, will compete with the Galaxy S25. You might be curious if the Galaxy S26 Pro will offer a novel and enhanced experience or merely a different label, and we’re here to clarify. Let’s analyze how the Galaxy S26 Pro measures up against the Galaxy S25 based on the latest rumors and leaks, which may evolve before the official announcement.

    Samsung Galaxy S26 Pro vs. Galaxy S25: Pricing and availability

    At present, the pricing and availability of the Samsung Galaxy S26 Pro remain uncertain. We don’t know if the Galaxy S26 Pro will experience a price increase this generation. It could hinge on whether Samsung includes 128GB or 256GB as the standard option. At most, we could anticipate an additional $100 on top of the Galaxy S25’s $799 starting price.

    Samsung may enhance the maximum storage and RAM options on the Galaxy S26 Pro, potentially increasing the highest capacity to 512GB or 1TB. The device’s memory might be upgraded to 16GB in certain configurations, or it might remain the same. We anticipate the complete Samsung Galaxy S26 series to be unveiled around January 2026, with overall availability following shortly thereafter.

    In comparison, the current Samsung Galaxy S25 starts at $799 for 128GB of storage and 12GB of RAM. The device caps at 256GB of maximum storage in the U.S. It comes in various color options, including Icyblue, Navy, Mint, and Silver Shadow. As the Galaxy S26 launch period nears, the Galaxy S25 is expected to see significant price reductions, particularly during holiday sales like Black Friday and Cyber Monday.

    Samsung Galaxy S26 Pro vs. Galaxy S25: Design and display

    The design of the Samsung Galaxy S26 Pro will be somewhat familiar to Galaxy enthusiasts, yet it’ll diverge from what we’ve come to expect from base models such as the Galaxy S25. The phone will feature a flat display and Gorilla Glass on the front, predominantly flat edges, and a glass rear. This time around, the camera lenses will be housed on an oval platform projecting from the back, taking cues from the Galaxy S25 Edge and Galaxy Z Fold 7.

    Samsung is anticipated to incorporate a 6.3-inch display in the Galaxy S26 Pro, making it larger than the Galaxy S25 in terms of overall dimensions. The expected measurements, derived from leaked CAD designs, are 149.3 x 71.4 x 6.96mm. This would render the Galaxy S26 Pro considerably taller, marginally wider, and somewhat slimmer than the Galaxy S25 it will succeed.

    The enlarged dimensions and more prominent camera bump may aid Samsung in distributing the internal components and achieving a thinner profile. However, the Galaxy S26 Pro is speculated to have a thickness of 10.23mm, including the camera bump.

    The precise weight of the upcoming model is unknown — the Galaxy S25 weighed 162 grams, but the Galaxy S26 Pro could be heavier due to additional components.

    Aside from the significant distinction in screen size — 6.2 inches on the Galaxy S25 compared to 6.3 inches on the Galaxy S26 Pro — the two devices are likely to feature similar or identical display specifications. We anticipate Dynamic LTPO AMOLED 2X displays with 120Hz refresh rates and HDR10+ compatibility, at the very least. Differences may exist in brightness and cover glass, but we should expect a minimum of 2,600 nits and Corning Gorilla Glass.

    Regarding build quality, both devices will feature an Armor Aluminum frame and have IP68 certification for dust and water resistance.

    Samsung Galaxy S26 Pro vs. Galaxy S25: Hardware and specs

    Samsung is set to implement significant enhancements to the internals of the Galaxy S26 Pro, commencing with the processor. It will be driven by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5, potentially a “for Galaxy” variant, and may employ the Samsung Exynos 2600 chip in certain regions. These processors will likely be paired with either 12GB or 16GB of RAM.

    In contrast, the Samsung Galaxy S25 utilizes the Snapdragon 8 Elite for Galaxy. It is equipped with 12GB of RAM and continues to be a top performer for gaming, AI processing, and everyday usage. While

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Comparison of Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra and Galaxy S24 Ultra: The Single Feature That Justifies the Upgrade
    Comparison of Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra and Galaxy S24 Ultra: The Single Feature That Justifies the Upgrade

    If you’re continuing with the Galaxy S24 Ultra, the Galaxy S26 Ultra should present numerous incentives for an upgrade.

    Samsung consistently impresses with its Ultra series of Galaxy smartphones, and the Galaxy S26 Ultra is poised to be another powerhouse. With an enhanced privacy-driven display, state-of-the-art Qualcomm processor, upgraded cameras (?), and potentially even native Qi2 charging — there’s plenty to look forward to.

    Pros:
    – Privacy Display feature appears to be promising
    – New design is expected to enhance ergonomics
    – Long-term support anticipated
    – Possibility of native Qi2 charging with integrated magnets
    – Will feature Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 SoC

    Cons:
    – Price increases may occur
    – Weight could still pose a concern

    It’s astonishing to realize that by January 2026, it will have been nearly two years since Samsung launched the Galaxy S24 Ultra. At its release, it was arguably one of the leading Android smartphones with minimal competition. However, this will soon alter in a matter of months with the launch of the Galaxy S26 Ultra. If you haven’t upgraded to the Galaxy S25 Ultra yet, is it time to exchange your S24 Ultra for the S26 Ultra?

    In theory, the Galaxy S26 Ultra is set to provide a significantly more notable enhancement in design and features when compared to the S24 Ultra. Although everything is currently speculative, based on the available rumors and leaks, the Galaxy S26 Ultra appears to be an impressive flagship. Let’s explore all the details we have about the Galaxy S26 Ultra and how it surpasses the S24 Ultra.

    Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra vs. Galaxy S24 Ultra: Design and display

    Samsung seems to be gearing up for a substantial design revamp for the Galaxy S26 Ultra, assuming the leaked CAD renders of the new series are accurate. The Ultra is anticipated to align more closely with the standard S26 lineup, featuring even more pronounced rounded corners. This change should enhance ergonomics significantly compared to previous models. The device is also expected to be much thinner, with a thickness of just 7.8mm.

    This represents a significant improvement over the Galaxy S24 Ultra’s 8.6mm thickness. While there’s no word on weight, it’s expected to drop into the lower 200-gram range. Overall, you can anticipate a markedly better in-hand feel with the Galaxy S26 Ultra compared to the S24 Ultra.

    The Ultra series has consistently featured one of the best displays in any Android smartphone, and that’s set to improve further. Reports indicate that the Galaxy S26 Ultra will retain the slightly larger 6.9-inch display of its precursor, but it will incorporate a new Privacy Display feature. Clues regarding this feature were discovered in a One UI 8.5 teardown, indicating it will be exclusive to the S26 Ultra. This also suggests we’ll see new display technology in the Ultra, possibly the “Flex Magic Pixel” tech Samsung’s display team has developed.

    The Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra will emerge as more distinctive compared to the S26 Ultra, owing to its sharply angled edges. This boxy aesthetic has enabled the Ultra to distinguish itself from other Android flagships over the years. Naturally, this comes at the expense of ergonomics. It’s not the easiest phone to hold due to its substantial size and weight. However, build quality remains exceptional, ensuring that the device lasts long after software updates cease.

    The Galaxy S24 Ultra boasts one of the finest displays available in a flagship, a status it still holds today. Nonetheless, it isn’t flawless; certain units in the initial batches reported an issue known as mura, where not every pixel generated the same brightness level, resulting in a grainy appearance. It does feature an anti-glare coating, which significantly enhances visibility when viewing the display under bright sunlight or artificial light sources.

    Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra vs. Galaxy S24 Ultra: Performance and specs

    The Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra will likely utilize a customized version of Qualcomm’s new Snapdragon 8 Gen 5 SoC. This chip promises a 20% increase in both CPU and GPU performance while consuming 20% less power. Improvements have also been made to the neural processor for managing additional on-device AI operations. Other specifications are expected to include 12GB of RAM and up to 512GB of storage, with a 1TB variant and potentially 16GB RAM available in select regions, similar to the S25 Ultra. We may also see a fresh hero colorway for the Ultra, inspired by the iPhone 17 Pro.

    As for the launch date of the Galaxy S26 Ultra? Given Samsung’s trend of unveiling new S series models at the beginning of the year in January, we can anticipate the same timeline for the S26 Ultra as well. The phone should be released…

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on Spotify’s AI DJ Now Accepts Requests on Android with Updated Prompt Functions
    Spotify’s AI DJ Now Accepts Requests on Android with Updated Prompt Functions

    Spotify has unveiled thrilling enhancements to its AI DJ functionality, boosting the experience for Premium members. The recent update permits users to submit “text requests” for tracks, complementing the current voice request feature. This development enables users to enter their song requests, thus broadening the interaction. Furthermore, Spotify has rolled out “personalized prompt suggestions” tailored to users’ listening habits and preference profiles, delivering customized music experiences.

    A key feature of this update is the addition of support for the Spanish language. Spanish-speaking users can now engage with the AI DJ via both voice and text in their own language. This update addresses a long-standing demand from the user community and is being launched for Premium users across more than 60 markets, including the U.S.

    Spotify’s AI DJ was first introduced a few years back, allowing for voice-based song requests. Users could request the DJ to play particular tracks, artists, or even music aligned with their mood or genre. With the introduction of the text request function, Spotify seeks to enhance the accessibility and personalization of the DJ.

    Beyond these updates, Spotify has recently introduced its “Lossless Listening” feature for Premium subscribers, improving audio fidelity for a richer listening experience. This feature can be utilized for private playlists, liked songs, DJ sessions, and more.

    In summary, Spotify remains committed to innovating and refining its platform, providing users with increasingly personalized and high-quality music experiences.

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Apple Intelligence Unveils More Than 20 Newly Added Features in iOS 26: Full List Accessible
    Apple Intelligence Unveils More Than 20 Newly Added Features in iOS 26: Full List Accessible

    # New Apple Intelligence Capabilities Now in iOS 26

    While Apple Intelligence may not yet present the significant Siri enhancements that were anticipated, a plethora of additional features has just been introduced in iOS 26. Here’s everything you need to know.

    In iOS 18, Apple Intelligence featured slightly over 20 functionalities. However, iOS 26 brings forth an additional 20+ features and enhancements—all within a single software update.

    Here’s the comprehensive list of new AI functionalities divided into four categories:

    ## Communication

    Communication takes center stage with Apple Intelligence in iOS 26, offering enhancements to the Messages, FaceTime, and Phone applications.

    ## Expanding into More Applications and Languages

    Apple has broadened the scope of Apple Intelligence to include new system and third-party applications in iOS 26, along with additional supported languages.

    – **Apple Maps Enhanced Search**: Improved, more efficient search capabilities in Maps thanks to AI.
    – **Shortcuts AI Actions**: Utilize actions that leverage Apple’s AI models, Writing Tools, or image generation features.
    – **Auto-Categorizing Reminders**: Effortlessly convert a messy list into a well-organized and categorized one.
    – **Reminders Suggestions**: Generate new reminders based on information from emails, websites, or notes.
    – **Apple Wallet Order Tracking**: AI will extract order tracking details directly from your email inbox, including Amazon orders.
    – **AI Models for Third-Party Applications**: Applications can utilize Apple’s Foundation Models to implement new AI functionalities.
    – **New Supported Languages**: Danish, Dutch, Norwegian, Portuguese (Portugal), Swedish, Turkish, Chinese (traditional), and Vietnamese.

    ## Image Creation Enhancements

    Apple’s Genmoji and Image Playground features have received several improvements in iOS 26.

    ## Miscellaneous

    Completing Apple Intelligence’s iOS 26 update, there’s a new battery mode, significant visual intelligence updates, and expanded notification summaries.

    Additionally, Apple has numerous watchOS 26 Apple Intelligence features that necessitate iOS 26 to operate the AI models, potentially qualifying them as iOS features as well.

    ## iPhone Compatibility for Apple Intelligence in iOS 26

    When Apple Intelligence was launched last year, it supported a limited number of very recent iPhone models.

    There’s some good news and bad news regarding iOS 26:

    – The good news is, if your iPhone supported last year’s AI capabilities, all of Apple Intelligence’s new features will function as well.
    – The bad news is, Apple has not extended AI support to any earlier devices.

    This means you will require an iPhone 15 Pro or Pro Max, or any iPhone 16, iPhone 17, or iPhone Air model to access the new features.

    Which new Apple Intelligence capabilities in iOS 26 do you enjoy the most? Share your thoughts in the comments.

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Apple Unveils Fix for Ongoing ‘Not Delivered’ iMessage Problem
    Apple Unveils Fix for Ongoing ‘Not Delivered’ iMessage Problem

    Apple has recently revised a support document that deals with frequent problems users might face with iMessages, specifically the “Not Delivered” notification, messages showing as SMS/RCS in green bubbles, or messages sent from an email address instead of a phone number.

    As stated by Apple, these problems can occur if users fail to activate their eSIM during the initial setup of a new iPhone running iOS 26. When users choose to configure their eSIM later through the Settings app, iMessage does not activate automatically, which can lead to potential messaging difficulties.

    To fix this, Apple advises users to manually activate iMessage after setting up their eSIM. The following steps outline the process:

    1. Launch the Settings app and tap on Apps.
    2. Choose Messages.
    3. Switch iMessage off and then back on.

    This advice is especially pertinent for users who bypass the eSIM setup during the initial configuration of their new iPhone, as well as for those who change carriers and set up a new eSIM later on.

    This isn’t the first iMessage-related issue reported since the launch of iOS 26. Earlier this month, Apple addressed another situation affecting users who were unable to activate iMessage with their phone numbers, providing further troubleshooting steps.

    Users encountering difficulties with iMessage since updating to iOS 26 or acquiring a new iPhone are encouraged to follow the mentioned steps to ensure proper activation and functionality.

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on Steve Jobs to Be Honored on the 2026 American Innovation $1 Coin
    Steve Jobs to Be Honored on the 2026 American Innovation $1 Coin

    The US Mint has declared that Steve Jobs, Apple’s co-founder, will appear on one of the coins in the forthcoming American Innovation $1 Coin Program for 2026. This program, which started in 2018, is designed to honor American innovation by releasing $1 coins that symbolize significant contributions from individuals or groups throughout the United States, encompassing all 50 states, the District of Columbia, and five U.S. territories.

    In earlier years, the initiative has recognized remarkable inventions and personalities, including the lightbulb from New Jersey, the Hubble Space Telescope from Maryland, and George Washington Carver from Missouri. For 2026, the Mint has unveiled four new designs, with Jobs representing California.

    The coin depicting Steve Jobs was crafted by Elana Hagler and sculpted by Phebe Hemphill. The design features a young Jobs in a contemplative stance against the backdrop of northern California’s oak-dotted rolling hills, symbolizing how his surroundings shaped his vision to create complex technology that is more intuitive and accessible. The inscriptions on the coin encompass “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA,” “CALIFORNIA,” “STEVE JOBS,” and the phrase “MAKE SOMETHING WONDERFUL.”

    Besides Steve Jobs, the other coins in the 2026 collection will pay tribute to Dr. Norman Borlaug from Iowa, the Cray-1 Supercomputer from Wisconsin, and mobile refrigeration from Minnesota.

    For further details regarding the American Innovation $1 Coin Program, you can visit the US Mint’s official website.

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on Comparison between M5 MacBook Pro and M4 MacBook Air: Assessing the Top Entry-Level Mac Acquisition
    Comparison between M5 MacBook Pro and M4 MacBook Air: Assessing the Top Entry-Level Mac Acquisition

    **Apple Reveals New 14-Inch MacBook Pro Featuring M5 Chip: An In-Depth Review**

    Today, Apple launched its newest entry-level 14-inch MacBook Pro, equipped with the M5 chip, retailing at $1599. This version comes in close proximity to the MacBook Air, particularly when similarly equipped. As the MacBook Air is released with older Apple Silicon, those considering a purchase might question its ongoing relevance.

    ### M5 vs M4 Chip

    For many, the chip choice is paramount. The M5 chip presents numerous upgrades over the M4:

    – **15% improved multithreaded CPU capabilities**
    – **45% enhanced GPU performance**
    – **30% boost in unified memory bandwidth**
    – **4x peak GPU compute capability for AI**

    These upgrades signify a notable advancement in GPU performance, which could be vital as Apple emphasizes local AI systems. Nevertheless, the M4 chip still provides sufficient performance for typical users, and selections shouldn’t be based exclusively on impending AI advancements.

    ### Air vs Pro: Is the Extra Cost Justified?

    The 14-inch MacBook Pro brings forth various benefits over the MacBook Air, justifying its elevated price. Key advantages include:

    – **Extra Ports**: The MacBook Pro offers three Thunderbolt/USB-C ports, an HDMI port, and an SD card slot, while the Air has only two Thunderbolt/USB-C ports.
    – **Cooling Mechanism**: The Pro is equipped with an active cooling system, vital for demanding CPU/GPU operations, whereas the Air depends on passive cooling that may result in thermal throttling under sustained heavy use.
    – **Display Excellence**: The MacBook Pro’s miniLED display accommodates HDR content, providing superior color fidelity and brightness (1000 nits) compared to the Air’s conventional display (500 nits).

    ### Conclusion

    Generally, the price disparity between the MacBook Air and MacBook Pro is approximately $400 when similarly configured. The Air begins at $1199 with 256GB of storage, while the Pro comes with 512GB. Considering this price difference, potential purchasers should deliberate their choices thoroughly.

    While the new 14-inch MacBook Pro is attractive, it may be prudent to hold off for potential deals, as new MacBooks frequently experience price drops soon after launch. The M4 MacBook Air is often discounted, with current deals making it substantially less expensive than the new Pro variant.

    Ultimately, the choice should depend on whether the user requires the Pro’s superior thermal management, display quality, or extra ports instead of merely the M5 chip’s features.

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on EU Regulations Do Not Prevent Apple from Bundling a Charger with the M5 MacBook Pro
    EU Regulations Do Not Prevent Apple from Bundling a Charger with the M5 MacBook Pro

    ### The Latest M5 14-Inch MacBook Pro: Unpacking the Charger Debate

    The recent launch of the new M5 14-inch MacBook Pro has ignited significant dialogue and misunderstanding, especially regarding its packaging in the UK and EU. Notably, the gadget does not come with a power adapter included, prompting many to assume this choice is driven by European Union regulations. Nevertheless, the situation is more intricate.

    #### What EU Regulations Indicate and Their Implications

    The European Union has taken a proactive stance on tackling the escalating problem of electronic waste (e-waste). Two central issues led to this emphasis, motivating the EU to introduce fresh regulations.

    1. **Variety of Charging Standards**: Traditionally, several manufacturers have employed different charging port standards for their devices, such as MicroUSB, MiniUSB, USB-C, and coaxial connectors. This lack of uniformity meant that consumers frequently ended up with obsolete chargers when upgrading their devices.

    2. **Excessive Charging Adapters**: Numerous consumers gather multiple chargers over time, contributing to waste. To address this, the EU’s **Common Charger Directive** requires that new devices standardize on USB-C charging ports. Furthermore, manufacturers must provide consumers the option to acquire devices with or without a charger, thus minimizing unnecessary waste.

    #### Implications for Apple

    It is essential to clarify what the EU regulations do not dictate:

    – **Support for Multiple Charging Standards**: The regulations do not prohibit companies from adopting more than one charging standard. It merely mandates that devices must be chargeable using USB-C. This latitude allows Apple to provide the MacBook Pro with both MagSafe and USB-C charging options.

    – **Provision of Chargers**: The regulations do not forbid companies from including chargers at no additional cost. Instead, they stress that consumers should have the choice. Apple’s decision to omit the charger from the MacBook Pro packaging is a tactical approach to sidestep the challenges of manufacturing two versions of the product in Europe.

    Apple could readily provide customers the option to add a charger to their purchase. The decision to charge for the charger is a business choice rather than a legal obligation.

    #### Summary

    The absence of a power adapter in the new M5 14-inch MacBook Pro is not a direct consequence of EU law disallowing such items, but rather a manifestation of Apple’s strategy to conform with the EU’s emphasis on minimizing e-waste. As consumers become increasingly environmentally aware, the option regarding the inclusion of a charger may be well-received, fostering a more sustainable approach to technology usage.

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