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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on The Garmin Venu 4: My Preferred Selection for a Fitness Watch
    The Garmin Venu 4: My Preferred Selection for a Fitness Watch

    I evaluated the Garmin Venu 4 alongside several other health and fitness devices.

    It’s been two years since the launch of the Venu 3, and the Venu 4 arrives with a fresh design and some additional features. Nevertheless, Garmin has largely kept the Elevate sensor unchanged, which isn’t necessarily negative. As demonstrated with the Venu X1, this sensor continues to prove itself to be quite precise.

    I’ve been utilizing the Garmin Venu 4 as my primary workout companion for a couple of weeks. I compared it with the Garmin Venu 3 to assess any changes (if there are any), and also with the Pixel Watch 3 to evaluate its performance against my preferred smartwatch.

    Fitness features I appreciate

    In contrast to the Forerunner series, the Garmin Venu 4 acts more as a versatile gadget, emphasizing overall fitness rather than just running. As a result, Garmin has packed numerous fitness features into the watch, building upon earlier versions while ensuring it’s suitable for anyone looking to just put it on and begin.

    Numerous helpful and new training features are available to enhance your workout experiences, but the one I focus on the most is Training Readiness. This metric considers various factors, including sleep, recovery duration, and acute load, to assess how intensively you should engage in your forthcoming workouts. Ideally, this serves as a useful tool to prevent overexertion, which can hinder your performance.

    The Venu 4 also accommodates more coaching features, allowing me to experience a better variety of workouts that refresh my usual routine. This feels more curated and diverse, which should appeal to enthusiasts of the Venu series. Weightlifters like myself will appreciate the watch’s enhanced ability to track reps and sets with greater accuracy than the Venu 3, leading to more precise exercise and muscle categorization in post-workout summaries.

    If you lack a coaching plan, you will also receive a wider selection of suggested workouts, marking a positive development from the Morning Report seen on the Vivoactive 6.

    After each workout, the Venu 4 offers a summary of the session, including metrics like training load to measure workout intensity. You’ll also receive a figure indicating your recovery time, which influences your training readiness. This figure represents your recovery period between challenging activities, including sleep. It’s Garmin’s way of advising you to relax.

    Heart rate

    Smartwatches are generally reliable when it comes to heart rate monitoring, but they are ultimately not perfect. The accuracy of the watch’s heart rate detection can hinge on several factors, including fit, positioning, cleanliness, and even the type of band used. Although Garmin’s Elevate V5 heart rate monitor on the Venu 4 has demonstrated reliability over the years, it is not without faults.

    In most instances, the Venu 4 aligned with my expectations during workouts. Having used smartwatches for some time, I have a good idea of what the readings should show. However, there are occasional moments when the watch seems slow to respond, as illustrated in the charts below:

    In the initial chart, the Venu 4 remained considerably lower than the Pixel Watch 3 throughout my run. I noticed this discrepancy in real-time, unable to identify the reason for such differing readings, as both devices were securely fastened on my wrists. Thankfully, the watch seemed to rectify itself as my pace increased, though it was confusing during my run.

    Following runs showed no significant discrepancies, with both watches remaining fairly consistent with each other. However, things got slightly odd when comparing the Venu 4 to the Venu 3 during my HIIT sessions.

    HIIT workouts typically exhibit more variability than runs, leading to fluctuating heart rates. Despite this, the Venu 4 showed a few brief but notable dips during certain workouts that the Venu 3 did not. What’s intriguing is that both smartwatches utilize the same Elevate sensor, leaving me puzzled about the source of these dips. Fortunately, the Venu 4 managed to correct itself most of the time.

    Overall, the heart rate sensor on the Venu 4 tends to be reliable, with occasional minor fluctuations.

    Step counter

    I put the Garmin Venu 4 through two abbreviated sessions of my usual walking test, covering a total of 2,000 steps each time. I compared the step counts with the Google Pixel Watch 4, Venu 3, and the Oura Ring 4 while simultaneously using a manual step counter on my phone. The results were pleasantly unexpected, especially for the Venu models.

    As demonstrated, during both sessions, the V

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Apple’s Latest iPhone Air Aims at Samsung Galaxy Devices
    Apple’s Latest iPhone Air Aims at Samsung Galaxy Devices

     iPhone Air – the most lightweight and elegant smartphone that Apple has manufactured to date. With the iPhone Air, Apple seemingly asserts that exceptional performance can still be achieved with an ultra-slim device, without compromising on durability, power, display quality, and other high-end characteristics. Conversely, the Samsung Galaxy series — one of the iPhone’s primary competitors — produces some of the largest smartphones currently available based on their size. Consider the Galaxy S25, for example. Although the device weighs just 162 grams, it still measures 7.2mm in thickness. 

    In contrast to the iPhone Air’s 5.6mm ultra-slim profile, the S25 is certainly bulkier. The iPhone Air also features a larger screen while maintaining a sleeker body. However, there’s also the S25 Edge, a device that more directly competes with the iPhone Air in terms of design. At only 5.8mm thick and weighing 163 grams, the S25 Edge is nearly the same size as the iPhone Air. It also accommodates a larger battery of 3,900 mAh and an extra camera. Yet, in Apple’s quest for luxury, a few design enhancements allow the iPhone Air to stand out in terms of feel and finish, while still leaving opportunities for hardware advancements in the future.

    Two different perspectives on durability and aesthetics

    <source media="(min-width: 429px)" srcset="https://www.bgr.com/img/gallery/apples-premium-iphone-air-has-a-clear-message-for-samsung-galaxy

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on The Key is in Enhanced Batteries, Not Quicker Charging.
    The Key is in Enhanced Batteries, Not Quicker Charging.

    Genuine all-day battery longevity need not be a fantasy. In the contemporary fast-moving environment, where smartphones form an essential part of our everyday routines, the need for batteries that last longer is increasingly urgent. Despite developments in technology, numerous flagship devices from companies such as Samsung, Apple, and Google still do not meet the all-day battery longevity that users desire. Although rapid charging options are emerging, they frequently involve risks and drawbacks.

    The fundamental problem lies in the current batteries not enduring long enough between charges, compelling users to depend on fast charging to keep their devices functional throughout the day. This dependence on quick charging can raise safety issues and may lead to battery deterioration over time. The emphasis should instead be on creating batteries that genuinely sustain usage from morning to evening, enabling users to recharge their devices securely during the night.

    Certain companies, including OnePlus, have sought to tackle this by devising methods to safely charge phones at elevated power levels. However, this strategy still fails to address the core issue of inadequate battery capacity. Rather than focusing on sleeker phones with smaller batteries, manufacturers should investigate innovative alternatives like solid-state batteries, which promise increased capacity, safety, and efficiency without adding bulk.

    While the current costs of solid-state batteries are high, their ability to transform battery life in smartphones is undeniably significant. Ideally, a smartphone would be compact, able to perform all necessary functions, and need charging only once daily. Until such innovations gain widespread acceptance, the pursuit of true all-day battery longevity persists, remaining a vital domain for advancement in the technology sector.

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Evaluation of the MX Master 4: Improvements to Logitech’s Favored Mac Efficiency Mouse
    Evaluation of the MX Master 4: Improvements to Logitech’s Favored Mac Efficiency Mouse

    **Logitech MX Master 4: An In-Depth Review**

    Recently, Logitech introduced the newest generation of its highly favored productivity mouse – the MX Master 4. After a month of hands-on usage, it’s obvious that this mouse presents an appealing option for both casual users and professionals alike.

    ### What’s Different?

    For those transitioning from the MX Master 3 or 3S, the MX Master 4 brings three major advancements: haptics, feel, and a new action wheel.

    1. **Haptic Feedback**: The MX Master 4 comes equipped with an outstanding haptic engine that enhances the entire user experience. For example, while utilizing the thumb pad for gestures, users enjoy tactile feedback with every movement, improving the feeling of control and responsiveness.

    2. **Enhanced Feel**: The materials employed in the MX Master 4 have seen upgrades. The prior silicone surfaces have been substituted with high-quality matte plastics, creating a more premium sensation. Users have observed that the MX Master 4 exhibits little wear even after prolonged use, in contrast to its forerunner.

    3. **New Mappable Button and Actions Ring**: The MX Master 4 boasts an additional mappable button, which is configured for gestures by default. The thumb pad is now associated with the new Actions Ring feature, enabling users to easily access various shortcuts. This function currently supports Adobe applications and can also be tailored for system operations.

    Furthermore, the MX Master 4 is bundled with a USB-C dongle, departing from the previous USB-A format. The ‘for Mac’ variant operates solely via Bluetooth, while the standard version includes the USB-C dongle, all offered at the same price.

    ### Is It Worth the Investment?

    The MX Master series has consistently been commended for its adaptability, especially for macOS users who take advantage of gestures. The MX Master 4 effectively merges the benefits of a mouse and a trackpad, rendering it a valuable asset for productivity.

    With the newly integrated haptic feedback, the mouse experience has been significantly improved. However, it comes with a steeper price of $119, which is $20 higher than the former MX Master 3S, likely due to tariffs.

    For those contemplating the MX Master line, now is a prime time to make a purchase. Users of the MX Master 3 may discover the upgrade to be beneficial, particularly with the enhanced DPI sensor (8000 DPI on the 3S/4 compared to 4000 DPI on the 3) and quieter clicks.

    ### Conclusion

    Logitech has effectively enhanced its well-liked productivity mouse, making it even more enjoyable to operate. The MX Master 4 is priced at $119 on Amazon and is available in three colors: graphite, pale gray, and white (the latter exclusively in the ‘for Mac’ variant).

    Ultimately, the MX Master 4 emerges as a leading option for anyone in search of a high-quality mouse that amplifies productivity and comfort.

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Dream Chaser Spaceplane’s 2026 ISS Mission Aborted
    Dream Chaser Spaceplane’s 2026 ISS Mission Aborted

    the Dream Chaser spaceplane’s planned mission to the International Space Station (ISS) in 2026 has been officially canceled. In a collaborative decision made by NASA and Sierra Space, the spacecraft’s inaugural orbital mission will no longer include docking with the ISS. Rather, the mission will function as a free-flying demonstration. This alteration is a response to both technical and programmatic challenges that have arisen during the vehicle’s extended development.

    Initially, Dream Chaser was designed to execute several cargo missions to support the ISS under NASA’s Commercial Resupply Service-2 (CRS-2) contract. However, due to ongoing delays, changing launch timelines, and heightened scrutiny regarding certification and safety, NASA has freed itself from the obligation to secure a set number of resupply missions. The updated strategy provides NASA with the option to utilize Dream Chaser for future ISS cargo flights, but it is no longer mandatory. If needed, NASA can call upon Dream Chaser for cargo missions to the ISS. This indicates that the spaceplane will need to adopt a more adaptable role in low Earth orbit, possibly for commercial or national security applications. As the ISS approaches its anticipated decommissioning in 2030, this new direction may align better with the spacecraft’s long-term sustainability.

    Chasing the dream

    <source media="(max-width: 428px)" srcset="https://

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on Devices and Accessories Compatible with the iPhone 17 USB-C Port
    Devices and Accessories Compatible with the iPhone 17 USB-C Port

    # Investigating the USB-C Features of the iPhone 17, iPhone 17 Pro, and iPhone Air

    The launch of the iPhone 17, iPhone 17 Pro, and iPhone Air signifies a major transformation in Apple’s design approach with the integration of a USB-C port at the bottom of these devices. This modification implies that users transitioning from older iPhones will no longer be able to utilize their Lightning accessories. Nonetheless, the benefits of the USB-C port greatly surpass this drawback, offering users improved functionality and adaptability.

    ## Improved Charging Functionality

    One of the key advantages of the USB-C port is its capability to enable quicker charging. Using a compatible USB-C cable and a new charger, users can recharge their iPhones from empty to full much faster than before. The USB-C standard permits a wide variety of accessories to be automatically detected by iOS, enhancing the user experience.

    It is critical to recognize that not every USB-C cable is the same. Some are intended solely for charging, while others allow data transfer. To take full advantage of the iPhone 17 Pro’s features, users should choose a USB-3 rated cable, which provides data transfer speeds of up to 10Gbps.

    ## Universal USB-C Charging

    The iPhone 17 is accompanied by a high-quality woven USB-C cable that supports charging exclusively. For users seeking greater versatility, Apple provides additional USB-C charging cables, and numerous economical choices are available from third-party manufacturers. Users can recharge their devices with any USB-C power adapter, including well-known alternatives like Anker’s dual charger. For maximum charging efficiency, a 40-watt power adapter is advisable.

    With the embrace of USB-C, Apple has simplified its charging solutions throughout its product range. Devices such as AirPods, MacBook Pro, and iPads can now be powered using the same USB-C cable, minimizing the number of cables users must carry.

    ## Power Sharing: Charge Other Devices

    The increased battery capacities in the latest iPhones enable users to use their devices as portable power banks. This functionality allows users to charge other accessories, such as AirPods or another iPhone, simply by connecting them with a USB-C cable. This feature is especially handy during emergencies when another device is low on power.

    ## Connecting to External Displays

    The USB-C port also introduces new opportunities for linking to external displays. Users can straightforwardly project their iPhone 17 screen to a 4K TV or monitor via a USB-C to HDMI cable. This removes the necessity for extra dongles, simplifying the process of sharing content on larger screens. For extended activities, such as gaming, users might consider utilizing an Apple USB-C Digital AV adapter, which facilitates HDMI connections, continuous charging, and passthrough USB-C.

    ## Utilizing Portable Storage

    By connecting USB-C hard drives and SD card readers, users can directly manage their files on their iPhones. This function is especially advantageous for photographers who wish to transfer images from their cameras straight to their devices. The iPhone 17 Pro’s camera app supports ProRes 4K video recording at high frame rates, making it vital to have sufficient storage. By attaching a USB-3 compatible portable SSD, users can capture high-quality video without the concern of running out of space.

    ## Connecting Ethernet and Hardware Keyboards

    The USB-C support on the iPhone facilitates easy connections with various plug-and-play accessories. Users can attach wired keyboards for typing, USB-C microphones for enhanced audio quality during recordings, and even Ethernet adapters for stable internet access. This versatility increases the iPhone’s usability for productivity tasks.

    ## Compatibility with USB-C Headphones

    For users who prefer wired audio, the iPhone 17 is compatible with any USB-C headphones, including Apple’s USB-C EarPods. This compatibility allows users to easily switch between devices, utilizing the same headphones with their iPhone, Mac, or iPad.

    ## Multi-Port Hubs for Enhanced Connectivity

    The adaptability of USB-C extends to multi-port hubs, enabling users to link multiple accessories at once. For instance, a 5-in-1 hub can facilitate connections to external displays, power sources, and USB devices simultaneously. However, users should keep in mind that the iPhone can deliver a maximum of 4.5 watts of power to the hub, so power-intensive accessories may need an external power supply.

    In summary, the switch to USB-C on the iPhone 17, iPhone 17 Pro, and iPhone Air introduces an array of new features and functions that enrich the overall user experience. From accelerated charging and data transfer to versatile connectivity options, the USB-C port significantly broadens what users can accomplish with their devices.

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on Crucial Apple CarPlay Add-ons for All Motorists
    Crucial Apple CarPlay Add-ons for All Motorists

    CarPlay’s often overlooked features highlight the importance of having the right accessories to fully utilize this essential iOS component. Instead of sifting through a vast array of subpar or questionable products, here are some accessories that are indeed worth your investment.

    With CarPlay accommodating both wireless and wired setups, some key accessories include a wireless screen, a wireless adapter, or a reliable USB cable to guarantee the best connection between your iPhone and your vehicle. The list provided below showcases some of the most sought-after products on Amazon, ensuring your investment goes towards an accessory that will keep you energized on a long journey.

    Once you discover the ideal accessory for your car, you will undoubtedly maximize your Apple CarPlay experience. From customizing the dashboard to designing your own unique startup sounds, there are countless ways to create a driving experience that is personalized to your needs. Check out the options below to determine if any of these accessories suit you.

    A wireless screen that does it all

    CarPlay can provide an excellent experience, particularly with the enhancements introduced in iOS 26, but that experience can be significantly limited if your vehicle lacks the necessary support. Since buying a new car or infotainment system exclusively for CarPlay compatibility can be quite costly, a fantastic alternative might be the <a href="https://r.bttn.io?btn_ref=org-225e4e0aac880b8f&btn_url=https%3A%2

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Apple @ Work: The Argument for Decreasing Software Update Waiting Periods to 30 Days
    Apple @ Work: The Argument for Decreasing Software Update Waiting Periods to 30 Days

    **Reassessing Apple’s Software Update Postponement: Advocating for 30 Days**

    Apple has traditionally afforded IT administrators a 90-day period to postpone software updates across their systems. This strategy aimed to provide IT teams with sufficient time to assess and approve updates before rolling them out to numerous devices. Nevertheless, as the field of cybersecurity and software development progresses, the necessity of this prolonged delay is being re-evaluated.

    ### The Initial Justification for a 90-Day Postponement

    The 90-day pause was implemented during an era when enterprise IT encountered considerable obstacles concerning software compatibility. Major organizations frequently needed extensive testing to confirm that updates wouldn’t interfere with vital applications or services. This extended deferral enabled IT departments to partner with vendors and ready their support teams, achieving a balance between preserving system integrity and adopting technological innovations.

    ### Evolving Era: Why the 90-Day Postponement Seems Obsolete

    In recent times, the characteristics of software updates have changed significantly. Apple has enhanced its update mechanisms, making them more trustworthy and less susceptible to compatibility challenges. With the launch of developer and public beta initiatives for iOS, iPadOS, and macOS, IT teams have more chances to trial new releases well ahead of their public deployment. Furthermore, security updates are being issued more regularly, decreasing the necessity for a protracted delay.

    In light of these improvements, the rationale for a 90-day delay seems increasingly shaky. The instruments and resources accessible to IT teams today empower them to adequately prepare for updates more efficiently than ever.

    ### The Argument for a 30-Day Postponement

    Shortening the maximum deferral to 30 days would strike a more suitable balance between IT flexibility and security. A month provides ample opportunity for organizations to evaluate updates against critical applications and affirm workflows while also lessening the risk of unpatched devices being vulnerable to known threats.

    With Apple’s focus on enhancing the dependability of its updates, the necessity for an extended delay has lessened. A 30-day limit would improve security by guaranteeing that devices are updated more swiftly, while simultaneously allowing IT teams the essential time to effectively manage the transition.

    ### Conclusion

    Apple has established a reputation for delivering devices that are straightforward to deploy and manage securely. The move to Declarative Device Management underscores Apple’s commitment to providing IT teams with enhanced tools and visibility. While the 90-day software update delay was once a logical method, it no longer fits with the current landscape of software management. A transition to a 30-day max delay would strengthen security without imposing considerable loads on IT departments, promoting a more agile and responsive strategy to software updates.

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on Kuxiu’s X40 Turbo Unveils Cosmic Orange Color Variant and Offers 25W Qi2.2 Charging [Hands-on Review]
    Kuxiu’s X40 Turbo Unveils Cosmic Orange Color Variant and Offers 25W Qi2.2 Charging [Hands-on Review]

    # Apple’s iPhone 16 and 17 Series: A Revolutionary Upgrade with Qi2.2 Wireless Charging

    Apple has achieved remarkable progress with its newly launched iOS 26 update, adding support for the novel Qi2.2 wireless charging standard across the iPhone 16 and iPhone 17 series. This update enables users to fast-charge their devices wirelessly at rates of up to 25W, representing a significant leap in charging technology.

    ## The Kuxiu X40 Turbo Charger

    Following this update, Kuxiu, a well-known name in iPhone accessories, has introduced the Qi2.2 X40 Turbo charger, which I had the chance to evaluate last month. This charger is the first to provide genuine Qi2.2 25W fast charging capabilities for compatible iPhones. Recently, Kuxiu has launched a new iteration of the X40 Turbo, specifically crafted to match the Cosmic Orange iPhone, featuring a color-coordinated anodized orange aluminum frame.

    ### Key Highlights of the Kuxiu X40 Turbo Charger

    – **25W Qi2.2 Fast Charging**: Works with the following models:
    – iPhone 16, 16 Plus, 16 Pro, 16 Pro Max
    – iPhone 17, 17 Pro, 17 Pro Max
    – iPhone Air
    – **15W Qi/MagSafe Charging**: For previous iPhone models.
    – **Fast Charging for Apple Watch and AirPods**: Diverse charging options.
    – **Compact Design**: 25% smaller and sleeker than the original X40.
    – **Thermal Control**: Ensures efficiency with temperatures below 40 °C.

    ### Flexible and User-Friendly Design

    The Kuxiu X40 Turbo charger is ideal for various environments, whether on a bedside table, at a workstation, or during travel. It comes with a 45W charging brick, a braided USB-C cable, and a hardshell carrying case, all offered for under $80.

    ## My Experience with the Charger

    I used the new orange variant with the iPhone 17 Pro over several days, achieving reliable outcomes akin to my earlier tests with the iPhone 16 Pro. Charging from 10% to 80% took under 50 minutes, and the charger stayed cool during this time. The magnets aligned perfectly, and the 25W charging speed rendered wireless charging effective for everyday use. The charger’s slim and compact structure allows it to be folded into a puck or expanded into a stand mode, emphasizing its versatility and robust build quality.

    ### Understanding Qi2.2 Support

    The Qi2.2-compatible charger is a transformative tool for users with iPhone 16 or newer models running iOS 26 or later, facilitating 25W charging speeds. Older iPhone models will only be able to utilize 15W charging.

    ## Pricing, Availability, and Final Remarks

    The Kuxiu X40 Turbo in Cosmic Orange is available for $78.99 on Kuxiu’s official site. This pricing includes the charger, a braided USB-C cable, a 45W charging brick, and a hardshell carrying case, making it one of the best all-in-one packages currently on the market. Kuxiu also offers the charger in three additional colors: wood grain, gray, and black. Nevertheless, for those owning a Cosmic Orange iPhone, the new orange variation is an essential accessory.

    In summary, the Kuxiu X40 Turbo charger not only improves the charging experience for iPhone users but also aligns seamlessly with Apple’s latest design philosophy, making it a crucial accessory for anyone looking to enhance their iPhone’s functionality.

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