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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on How to Convert Your Raspberry Pi into a Television
    How to Convert Your Raspberry Pi into a Television

    From arcade cabinets and retro gaming handhelds to repurposed vintage camera flash gadgets, you can bring old technology back to life using a Raspberry Pi computer. Initiatives like these 10 Raspberry Pi projects to explore in 2025 are an excellent starting point, but if you’re looking to equip your home with vintage tech, consider projects such as the TVArgenta, a CRT-style television powered by a Raspberry Pi computer.

    TVArgenta, featuring elements like a classic TV casing and a channel-switching knob, is crafted by Ricardo Sappia. This endeavor is a heartfelt project aimed at showcasing beloved Argentinian commercials from his youth in the 1990s. Now residing in Germany, Sappia created TVArgenta to cherish those memories and introduce to children the advertisements that evoke his nostalgia. While initially made for commercials, TVArgenta offers numerous possibilities for those with a creative spirit. Although it’s a complex project that necessitates several components and 3D-printed elements, it remains a delightful, innovative demonstration of what can be achieved with a Raspberry Pi.

    How does TVArgenta function?

    If you’ve lamented discarding your old CRT television, TVArgenta resembles and operates similarly to the one you recall, albeit on a smaller scale. Simply power it on and use the knob to switch channels. However, the technology enabling this feature is far more advanced than that of traditional CRT TVs. For this creation, Sappia utilized the following components:

    – Raspberry Pi 4
    – 4.3-inch display
    – Rotary encoder
    – Compact audio amplifier and speaker
    – Custom 3D-printed casing
    – Power source, SD card, and mounting hardware

    For a complete inventory of necessary components, alongside the 3D files for printing the enclosure on your 3D printer, you can visit the project on Maker World. Additionally, you can check out the TVArgenta project on GitHub to obtain the required files for the Raspberry Pi.

    After configuring TVArgenta on your Raspberry Pi and assembling the display and other components within the enclosure, you can utilize the web UI to control content. As TVArgenta functions entirely offline, you’ll need to engage the web UI to upload content. You can also label content and create designated channels that organize material, which makes turning the knob on the TV feel authentic. Switching channels also generates a hint of static and noise to enhance the experience. If desired, you can arrange channel introductions that play every time you switch to a specific channel. Once you’ve tailored everything to your preferences, you’ll hardly need to adjust it again unless you want to add more material or create new channels.

    What can you do with TVArgenta?

    The main purpose of TVArgenta is to play nostalgic commercials in the background, but if commercials don’t catch your interest, there are alternatives. TVArgenta is not restricted in terms of content types it can present. The device stores information locally, allowing you to upload any video content through the web UI, including films, anime, iconic football games, F1 races, or your preferred YouTube videos. The potential is virtually limitless.

    TVArgenta is undoubtedly impressive. It serves as a conversation piece that merits a distinguished spot in your home or workplace. You can keep the device running on your desk with classic “Simpsons” reruns, or place it on your kitchen counter to stream “Iron Chef” episodes that inspire you to cook. Regardless, once you construct a TVArgenta, how you choose to utilize it is entirely your decision — it’s a delightful way to repurpose an old Raspberry Pi.

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on GM Vehicles Now Support Apple Music Without CarPlay
    GM Vehicles Now Support Apple Music Without CarPlay

    Apple Music in a GM car

    Taner Muhlis Karaguzel/Shutterstock

    In an unexpected turn of events, GM has declared that Apple Music will now be a native application on GM vehicles, effective today. At the outset, Apple Music will be accessible on the latest Cadillac and Chevrolet models, with plans to extend this availability to other GM brands in the future. With the integrated Apple Music app, GM vehicle owners can enjoy a vast library of songs, expertly curated playlists, podcasts, and all the features that standard Apple Music subscribers appreciate.

    GM highlights that access to Apple Music will be granted to GM owners for a period of eight years without extra charges, courtesy of an 8-year complimentary subscription to OnStar Basics. Currently, this complimentary access seems to be restricted to 2025 models. “We are introducing the Apple Music app to GM vehicles in a manner that fully utilizes our top-of-the-line audio capabilities,” stated GM’s VP of global product management, Tim Twerdahl, in a press announcement.

    Of course, GM emphasizes that Apple Music will fully leverage GM’s “advanced audio systems,” featuring Spatial Audio and Dolby Atmos. Overall, GM asserts that this collaboration will turn GM vehicles into “an immersive, three-dimensional sound environment,” crafted to optimize a car’s audio system and acoustics.

    GM adopts Apple Music while sidestepping CarPlay

    <img class="gallery-image " src="https://www.bgr.com/img/gallery/apple-music-without-carplay-these-gm-vehicles-can-now-use-it/gm-embraces

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on Google’s Dark Web Data Leak Checker Tool is Being Phased Out
    Google’s Dark Web Data Leak Checker Tool is Being Phased Out

    The firm will cease searching for newly leaked information in January and will eliminate previous reports by February 2026.

    (Image credit: Nandika Ravi/Android Central)

    Essential information

    • Google is phasing out its dark web reporting utility with scans concluding on January 15, 2026.
    • All reports will be deleted by February 16, 2026 due to the tool not providing actionable steps.
    • Google will shift its attention to more robust security features like security checkup, passkeys, and password audits.
    Notice

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Black Apple Watch Ultra 2 Reduced by $250, iPhone 16 Pro Max Discounts Surpassing $600, Along with Offers on Mac mini and AirPods
    Black Apple Watch Ultra 2 Reduced by $250, iPhone 16 Pro Max Discounts Surpassing $600, Along with Offers on Mac mini and AirPods

    ### Holiday Shipping and Pricing on Apple Gear: Best Offers Available

    As the festive season nears, consumers are hurrying to grab the top offers on Apple items. This article showcases some of the most notable reductions available on sought-after Apple gadgets, helping you make educated buying choices ahead of the holiday shipping cutoffs.

    #### Apple Watch Series 11: $100 Discount

    The Apple Watch Series 11 is presently offered at a $100 discount, with prices beginning at **$299**. This promotion is accessible through both Amazon and Best Buy, which has initiated a “Get it by Christmas” section to support timely deliveries. While certain colors may already be out of stock, many alternatives remain, making this an excellent chance for last-minute gifting.

    #### Apple Watch Ultra 2: $250 Discount

    Best Buy has launched a **24-hour Tech the Halls sale**, featuring the Apple Watch Ultra 2 at an impressive **$250 off**. This discount pertains to multiple configurations and shades, including the favored Black and Natural Titanium case options. Although the Ultra 2 isn’t the newest model, it still stands as a solid wearable device and is now available at a considerably reduced price, making it an appealing choice for those wanting premium features without the Ultra 3 cost.

    #### Apple EarPods and AirPods: Budget-Friendly Choices

    For those seeking wired alternatives, Apple’s EarPods are currently available for just **$9.99** on Amazon. This classic accessory is ideal for users who enjoy a wired listening experience. Furthermore, AirPods are also up for grabs at competitive rates, with the AirPods Pro 3 priced at **$209.99**, serving as a great option for wireless audio fans.

    #### iPhone 16 Pro Max: Up to $612 Discount

    Amazon’s Renewed Premium program has revealed considerable cuts on the iPhone 16 Pro Max, with reductions surpassing **$600** off the original list price. This deal encompasses various color selections, ensuring that shoppers can find a model that matches their tastes. The renewed devices come with a one-year warranty, providing reassurance along with remarkable savings.

    #### Accessories and Charging Offers

    Alongside the major product discounts, numerous accessory and charging promotions are also available. These include various cases and charging solutions that enhance the Apple ecosystem, ensuring users can augment their devices with quality accessories.

    ### Conclusion

    With the holiday season in full swing, it’s the perfect moment to seize these outstanding offers on Apple products. Whether you’re purchasing a gift or indulging yourself, these discounts provide a fantastic opportunity to obtain high-quality devices at lowered prices. Be sure to act swiftly, as inventory may vary and shipping cutoffs loom.

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on iOS 26.2 Brings Three New Improvements to Liquid Glass Capabilities
    iOS 26.2 Brings Three New Improvements to Liquid Glass Capabilities

    # iOS 26.2: Fresh Features and Liquid Glass Enhancements

    iOS 26.2 has launched, offering a range of new functionalities for iPhone users and broadening the cutting-edge Liquid Glass design. Here’s an in-depth overview of what’s included in this update.

    ## Lock Screen Clock Slider

    Since the introduction of iOS 26 in September, Apple has permitted users to modify the opacity of the Lock Screen clock. With the rollout of iOS 26.2, this opacity slider has been refined, allowing users to achieve a more striking Liquid Glass effect.

    To utilize the new slider, users can enter the wallpaper editing mode by long-pressing the Lock Screen, selecting ‘Customize,’ tapping on the clock, and confirming the ‘Glass’ option is enabled. This enables further tweaks to the clock’s look, improving its opacity and overall design.

    Apple’s release notes emphasize this feature:

    > “Additional Lock Screen time customization option allows you to adjust its appearance further, giving the Liquid Glass material greater or lesser opacity.”

    ## Enhanced Animations

    The Liquid Glass effect was initially presented at WWDC, but previous versions of iOS did not fully embody its desired fluidity. iOS 26.2 introduces fresh animations for popup menus and controls that resonate with the original concept, introducing a whimsical and dynamic vibe to the user interface. These improvements are system-wide, benefiting third-party applications that utilize Apple’s native APIs, thus enhancing the overall iPhone experience.

    ## Measure App Update

    The Measure app has also undergone a notable update with the Liquid Glass effect. The integrated Level tool now boasts a striking new design that interacts with the numbers and grid background as users shift their iPhones. This update not only enhances functionality but also elevates visual appeal, making the app more enjoyable to utilize.

    ## Conclusion

    iOS 26.2 presents thrilling new features and extends the Liquid Glass design across various system applications, including the Lock Screen and Measure app. These updates enhance customization choices and elevate the overall user experience with fresh animations and effects. As Apple persists in its innovation, users can anticipate even more upgrades in upcoming releases.

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    Ways to enhance the performance of an older iPhone operating on iOS 26

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on Comparison between Samsung Galaxy S26 Plus and Google Pixel 10 Pro XL: Selecting the Top Android Flagship
    Comparison between Samsung Galaxy S26 Plus and Google Pixel 10 Pro XL: Selecting the Top Android Flagship

    Here’s how Samsung’s upcoming midsize flagship will stack up against Google’s premier model.

    The Samsung Galaxy S26 Plus aims to elevate its predecessor with Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 at its core. Anticipated features include a silicon-carbon battery, Qi2 support, and enhancements to the camera. However, design modifications are not expected.

    Pros:
    – Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 serves as a robust gaming and overall performance engine
    – Integrated magnets for Qi2 and MagSafe compatibility
    – High-capacity silicon-carbon battery
    – Ships with One UI 8.5 pre-installed

    Cons:
    – Charging speed remains relatively slow
    – Design closely resembles previous Galaxy iterations
    – Potentially insufficient camera upgrades

    The Google Pixel 10 Pro XL is packed with impressive AI functionalities, notably Gemini and Camera Coach. Powered by the Tensor G5 chip, it offers 16GB of RAM and storage options reaching 1TB. Coupled with an excellent camera system and display, the Pixel 10 Pro XL ranks among the leading Android flagships available.

    Pros:
    – Convenient charging via MagSafe and Qi2 compatibility
    – At the heart is Gemini alongside Nano and unique features like Camera Coach
    – Commitment to seven years of Android OS updates
    – Rear triple-camera setup with a 5x telephoto lens

    Cons:
    – Necessary battery and performance limits after 200 cycles
    – Qualcomm outperforms Tensor in gaming and raw processing
    – Bulkier and heavier compared to Galaxy S26 Plus

    The Google Pixel 10 Pro XL marked a significant enhancement, establishing a benchmark for Android flagships in 2025. The device further augmented its AI processing abilities while introducing Qi2 and MagSafe for the first time. Notably, the Pixel 10 Pro XL supports Qi2 25W for rapid wireless charging. It is now incumbent upon Google’s competitors to meet this benchmark, starting with Samsung and the Galaxy S26 Plus.

    Although the Samsung Galaxy S26 Plus remains unofficial, speculation and leaks are intensifying in anticipation of an anticipated early 2026 release. The new smartphone is predicted to receive the customary chip advancement, modest camera enhancements, and Qi2 magnets. Nevertheless, the design and fundamental experience are expected to remain the same.

    So, how will the Samsung Galaxy S26 Plus measure up against the Google Pixel 10 Pro XL? Let’s examine everything we know thus far in this anticipatory comparison.

    Samsung Galaxy S26 Plus vs. Google Pixel 10 Pro XL: Pricing and availability

    Rumors and leaks indicate uncertainty from Samsung as the launch of the Galaxy S26 series approaches. Initial reports suggested a shift in the lineup with a Galaxy S26 Pro replacing the base model and a Galaxy S26 Edge taking the place of the midsize variant. However, it appears Samsung will adhere to tradition with the Galaxy S26, Galaxy S26 Plus, and Galaxy S26 Ultra — at least initially.

    Samsung typically unveils its devices in January each year, but an October leak indicated a delay for the Galaxy S26 lineup until March. More recently, rumors have found a middle ground, with expectations now leaning towards a late February 2026 debut for the Galaxy S26 Plus. It will likely retain the same starting price of $999, with configurations available for 256GB or 512GB of storage.

    In contrast, the Google Pixel 10 Pro XL is presently available as the brand’s foremost non-folding flagship. Priced at $1,199 for the base model featuring 256GB of storage, it can be upgraded to a maximum of 1TB. Color options include Moonstone, Jade, Porcelain, and Obsidian.

    Samsung Galaxy S26 Plus vs. Google Pixel 10 Pro XL: Design and display

    We anticipate minor design alterations for the Samsung Galaxy S26 Plus, but the speculated adjustments primarily align the smartphone with the design aesthetics of models like the Galaxy S25 Edge and Galaxy Z Fold 7. Rather than having separate rear camera lenses as seen in the Galaxy S25 Plus, the Galaxy S26 Plus will adopt a pill-shaped camera module where the three cameras will be positioned. This represents the most significant, yet relatively subtle, design transformation for the Galaxy S26 Plus.

    Overall, the Galaxy S26 Plus will maintain a rectangular and angular body with flat aluminum side edges. It continues to be a glass sandwich, protected by Corning’s Gorilla Glass Victus 2 on the front and back. For enhanced durability, Samsung is expected to complete the package with IP68 certification against dust and water ingress, a standard feature for some time.

    Phone manufacturers typically upgrade the display of their devices each year, whether through size increases, smaller bezels, or enhanced brightness. However, for all necessary considerations, Samsung’s Galaxy S26 Plus will likely showcase a similar or identical display to that found within the

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Activating and Employing Power Saving Mode in Google Maps
    Activating and Employing Power Saving Mode in Google Maps

    View a battery-saving map to conserve power when it’s most necessary.

    (Image credit: Google)

    Mobile phone users frequently deplete their battery by enjoying music, streaming content, or engaging in mobile gaming. While these activities are excellent for entertainment, it’s essential to preserve battery power for vital functions, such as making phone calls or utilizing Google Maps for directions. In a Pixel Drop, Google has facilitated the journey to your destination with a new power-saving mode in Google Maps when battery is low.

    The power-saving mode in Google Maps has its limitations. It’s not solely for Pixel smartphones. Rather, it is exclusively accessible to the four Google Pixel 10 models. If you’re fortunate enough to possess one of the latest Pixel devices, you can enhance your battery life using this feature. Below is everything you should understand about the power-saving mode in Google Maps, along with instructions on how to activate it.

    Requirements for using Google Maps power-saving mode

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Samsung Galaxy Watch 7 Gets 48% Price Cut Just Before Christmas
    Samsung Galaxy Watch 7 Gets 48% Price Cut Just Before Christmas

    This is the lowest price the Samsung Galaxy Watch 7 has ever been.

    (Image credit: Andrew Myrick / Android Central)

    Holiday smartwatch discounts are available, and this next option is an excellent selection for the frugal shopper. Amazon has introduced a 48% off holiday offer for the Samsung Galaxy Watch 7, reducing the previous-generation watch to only $129, marking its lowest price to date.

    The Galaxy Watch 7 was our choice for last year’s top Android smartwatch overall, and there are multiple reasons for this. The latest Watch 8 introduced some enhancements and upgrades, but the Watch 7 remains a strong contender. It’s particularly appealing at this price, being the lowest it has ever reached and standing out against competitors with significant power and features.

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