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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Garmin Forerunner 970’s Running Tolerance Tool: A Vital Function That Goes Beyond Premium Features
    Garmin Forerunner 970’s Running Tolerance Tool: A Vital Function That Goes Beyond Premium Features

    Last week, my new Garmin Forerunner 970 alerted me that I likely shouldn’t run as I was nearing my weekly running capacity. Instead, I experienced firsthand the consequences of disregarding Garmin’s algorithm.

    I spent May in a slight running slump, with my mileage dropping around 40 miles from my monthly average. Therefore, I decided to bounce back in June with increased steps and miles. I began with a half marathon while wearing Ray-Ban Metas on June 1, and then I opted to join a local running group for another challenging, hilly run on Global Running Day.

    By the completion of my 7-mile run, I had fallen behind the group and felt physically drained with a tight right hamstring. Later, I checked my watch and discovered I was just above my body’s running capacity.

    Desperate to revitalize my fitness routine, I went for a low-aerobic jog a few days later once my training readiness score had improved a bit. This turned out to be a mistake: although my heart and lungs felt fine, my hamstring nearly gave out on me. I ended up limping home. After a week of recovery and a busy travel week at an XR convention, I found myself back where I began.

    This experience taught me two things: Garmin’s running capacity estimate is valid, and I sincerely hope it doesn’t remain exclusive to Garmin’s $750 running watch like other “premium” features.

    How Garmin Running Capacity functions

    Garmin states that Running Capacity assists you in “identifying potentially risky training patterns” and “intelligently managing the effects of running on your body as you aim to build and sustain mileage.”

    It builds on acute load, which refers to the training load’s effect on your body from the last seven days of workouts, which most Garmin Forerunner models monitor. However, this metric emphasizes excess post-exercise oxygen consumption (EPOC), instead of biomechanical load.

    This is where Running Capacity alters the approach. For each run, it considers your weight, speed, intensity, ground contact time, cadence, and significant inclines and declines, among other factors.

    The aim is to measure the “force exerted by the ground on your body.” A rapid downhill run, for instance, might be “three times more strenuous than an easy run on flat terrain.” You might not typically notice this since the run felt easy on your lungs.

    Garmin then evaluates your acute impact load miles against your running capacity, based on your recent running background. It alerts you if you’ve entered a “cautionary state” where you should be careful of potential injury or burnout.

    This is distinct from Garmin’s standard post-run recovery estimate, as it takes more than just your cardiovascular system into consideration. This context is crucial for runners!

    Naturally, most semi-serious runners will display better self-control than I did and halt when their body signals to stop. Nonetheless, running capacity remains essential context for anyone aiming to elevate their training.

    Beginner runners require this more than veterans

    Garmin’s entire wearable strategy involves locking software features, such as how the Forerunner 970 provides offline maps but the 570 doesn’t, or how the Forerunner 165 utilizes training load data in the background to suggest daily workouts but restricts you from viewing the widget. It requires additional payment for the best tools.

    And fine, if Garmin wants to restrict maps, real-time stamina, Strava Live Segments, and endurance scores to premium models like the 970 and Fenix 8, we just have to accept it.

    However, running capacity is intended to prevent injuries by warning individuals who are unaware of their limits. I would argue that it’s especially crucial for couch-to-5K runners or casual runners who could seriously injure themselves to understand how the impact of a run may not correspond directly to the number of miles they’ve run.

    Are casual runners likely to spend $750 on a running watch? No, and they shouldn’t! Not until they’re proficient enough to fully utilize the features. But running capacity doesn’t seem “advanced” to me; it feels essential.

    I shouldn’t have disregarded my running capacity data, but at least I was warned in advance. Other Garmin watch users lack that context. So while I find it improbable based on Garmin’s history, I’m hopeful that Garmin’s running capacity will eventually extend to more watches and assist people in avoiding injuries!

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Apple’s macOS Tahoe Implies Possible Cellular Features for Upcoming Macs
    Apple’s macOS Tahoe Implies Possible Cellular Features for Upcoming Macs

    At WWDC 2025, Apple showcased macOS Tahoe 26, its forthcoming operating system update for Macs, marking the final software to support Intel models. This fall, users can anticipate a redesigned interface, a completely new Safari, and a long-awaited Phone app.

    Apple describes the Phone app on macOS Tahoe as follows: “Make and take calls with a click. Conveniently access your synced content like Recents, Contacts, and Voicemail — and enjoy the familiar features from iPhone.” Users will also gain the ability to manage unwanted calls and have Hold Assist assist while they wait for a live agent to answer the call.

    Although users have long been able to answer calls and use FaceTime on the Mac, the introduction of a dedicated Phone app in macOS Tahoe suggests that the company may be contemplating the introduction of cellular Macs, which isn’t as outlandish as it seems.

    Is Apple developing cellular Macs?

    The initial indication that a cellular Mac might be in development is the forthcoming Phone app. While Apple has also introduced the app for the iPad, it is crucial to note that making calls using the iPad’s eSIM independently remains unattainable as of iPadOS 26 beta 1.

    Another sign that this long-desired feature might be arriving on Macs is that Apple now manufactures its own 5G modems. Although the company’s C1 chip lags behind Qualcomm’s processors in nearly every aspect, it has demonstrated superior performance in battery life and overall efficiency, with the new iPhone 16e being a prime example.

    While a new 5G modem isn’t anticipated to be launched before 2026, Apple has set an ambitious target to incorporate its proprietary chip into the iPhone 18 lineup. Additionally, the iPhone 17 Air is anticipated to feature Apple’s C1, showcasing the company’s confidence in its in-house modem. Therefore, cellular Macs could also gain from this technology.

    The final indication that this development is forthcoming can be traced back to a Bloomberg report from a few years ago. At that time, Mark Gurman stated that Apple’s strategy for 5G and Wi-Fi modems would be crucial for delivering a cellular chip for the Mac: “The real test will be whether Apple can successfully apply its do-it-yourself approach to new areas. That includes building its own cellular modem, a component expected to be ready around 2026. The company will likely require two or three additional years to integrate that chip into cellular versions of the Apple Watch and iPad — and the Mac, once the component is incorporated into the company’s system-on-a-chip.”

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Glass Beads on the Moon Might Reveal Its Historical Mysteries
    Glass Beads on the Moon Might Reveal Its Historical Mysteries

    You may perceive the Moon as a dull, inactive sphere that circles our planet daily. Nonetheless, numerous scientists hold the view that the Moon is more vibrant than we think. Furthermore, they assert that the Moon’s concealed history could provide insights into its formation billions of years ago.

    Although it may appear grey from a distance, the Moon actually hosts thousands (perhaps even millions) of tiny glass beads. Astronomers suggest these beads might help us uncover more regarding our satellite’s history, as they likely originated during a phase of volcanic activity on the Moon.

    Many theorize that the Moon’s hidden history is connected to that volcanic activity, and that these beads, returned by Apollo astronauts, formed between 3.3 and 3.6 billion years ago. Currently, researchers employ modern methodologies to delve deeper into the beads.

    The discoveries made by the researchers indicate they have managed to investigate the beads and reveal additional details about the microscopic minerals within the lunar beads. Through this “unparalleled perspective,” they were able to peer into the Moon’s past. Each bead, the researchers highlight, narrates its own account of that history.

    Some beads exhibit a more orange hue, while others display a shiny black finish. The mere existence of these beads enlightens us about the Moon’s hidden history of volcanic eruptions, which has not been thoroughly studied.

    As we strive to establish colonies on other planets and potentially establish a Moon colony, we may decipher what led to the cessation of these eruptions, as astronomers have long regarded the Moon as “inactive” due to the absence of recent eruptions.

    Moreover, the beads possess shapes and chemical compositions that have never been observed here on Earth. By examining them, the researchers have gained a deeper understanding of our Moon than ever before.

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on Apple to Permit Third-Party Music Applications to Showcase Animated Artwork on iPhone Lock Screen
    Apple to Permit Third-Party Music Applications to Showcase Animated Artwork on iPhone Lock Screen

    ### iOS 26: Improved Lock Screen Functionality for Music Listening

    With the launch of iOS 26, Apple has unveiled a visually captivating improvement to the iPhone’s lock screen, especially during music playback. This update showcases a new configuration that enables album artwork to be animated and presented in full-screen format, turning the lock screen into a lively visual display. The playback buttons are tastefully designed to appear as if they are set on a surface of liquid glass, contributing a hint of elegance.

    #### How to Access the New Functionality

    Users can access this new functionality right away by utilizing [Apple Music](https://tinyurl.com/getapplemusic). To experience it, just play a track featuring animated album art and then lock the device. This feature is not exclusive to Apple Music; Apple is also offering this functionality to third-party developers via a new API.

    #### The New API: MPMediaItemAnimatedArtwork

    The new API, referred to as

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Nine Crucial Measures to Protect Yourself from Hackers and Scammers
    Nine Crucial Measures to Protect Yourself from Hackers and Scammers

    **Shielding Yourself from AI-Driven Scams**

    Fraudsters are increasingly utilizing sophisticated AI technology to craft realistic schemes designed to dupe victims into transferring funds or revealing personal details for identity theft. With the rise of deepfake innovations, offenders can mimic the voices and even the appearances of friends or family members, making it simpler to mislead unsuspecting targets.

    The repercussions of these scams can be dire, with criminals potentially securing loans or piling up credit card charges in the victim’s name. Nevertheless, there are proactive measures you can adopt to protect yourself from these advanced risks. Below are crucial security and privacy strategies to contemplate.

    ### 1. Employ a Password Manager

    In the current digital era, managing various strong and unique passwords for every service is vital. A password manager makes this task easier by securely storing and creating passwords. Utilizing tools like the Passwords app on Apple devices can ensure that your accounts are safeguarded with strong passwords.

    ### 2. Update Old Passwords

    Many people have accounts with old and weak passwords. If you’ve reused passwords across different sites, you are at risk. Hackers often take advantage of compromised sites to access accounts on other platforms. Regularly refreshing your passwords, particularly for high-stakes accounts like banking or email, is crucial for maintaining security.

    ### 3. Utilize Passkeys When Possible

    Passkeys are slowly replacing conventional passwords, providing improved security. Instead of logging in with a password, a passkey allows your device to confirm your identity through biometric authentication (e.g., Face ID or Touch ID). This approach eliminates the threat of password theft, as no password is sent during the login.

    ### 4. Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)

    Implementing 2FA adds an extra layer of security to your accounts. Even if a hacker gets hold of your login information, they would still need another form of verification to access your account. Prefer authenticator apps over SMS-based verification to reduce risks linked to SIM-swap attacks.

    ### 5. Review Last-Login Information

    Frequent examination of the last-login details on your accounts can assist in identifying unauthorized access. Many banks and online services showcase this information, enabling you to track suspicious behavior.

    ### 6. Use a VPN for Public Wi-Fi Connections

    Public Wi-Fi networks present considerable security dangers, including Man-in-the-Middle (MitM) attacks. Employing a trustworthy VPN service can encrypt your internet connection, safeguarding your data from potential threats while using public networks.

    ### 7. Avoid Sharing Personal Information with AI Chatbots

    AI chatbots frequently utilize user interactions as training material, meaning any personal information shared could be retained and potentially exploited. Steer clear of sharing sensitive details during discussions with AI chatbots.

    ### 8. Think About Data Removal

    Your personal data might already be accessible through data brokers. To lessen the chances of scams, consider eliminating your information from these services. You can do this manually or leverage services like Incogni to aid in the process.

    ### 9. Double-Check Money Requests

    Exercise caution with any money requests, even if they seem to originate from reliable sources. Always verify such requests through a different communication channel. Establishing codewords with family members for emergencies can further bolster security.

    ### 10. Be Aware of Common Scams

    Recognize that requests for gift cards or money transfers typically signify scams. Always validate any changes in payment methods or accounts directly with the individual involved via known communication channels.

    By adopting these tactics, you can considerably diminish your risk of becoming a victim of AI-driven scams and safeguard your personal information from malicious entities.

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on Expected Revamp of the MacBook Pro by Apple in the Next Year: Features and Projections
    Expected Revamp of the MacBook Pro by Apple in the Next Year: Features and Projections

    **Apple’s MacBook Pro Revamp on the Horizon: Anticipations for 2026**

    Speculations suggest that Apple plans to revamp the MacBook Pro in 2026, marking five years since its last major overhaul. This upcoming refresh is sparking enthusiasm among users and technology fans alike, with three main features expected to characterize the new model.

    ### OLED Screen

    A pivotal alteration will be the introduction of OLED display technology to the MacBook Pro series for the first time. Following its introduction in the iPad Pro in 2024, these OLED screens are forecasted to provide improved brightness, better contrast ratios, and more vibrant colors. Sources indicate that Apple will incorporate Tandem OLED technology, which utilizes a two-stack configuration that enhances both brightness and durability compared to standard single-stack displays.

    Moreover, it appears that Apple may remove the existing notch in favor of a smaller camera hole cutout. This adjustment aims to create a more uninterrupted viewing experience, potentially akin to the Dynamic Island feature present on the newest iPhones.

    ### Slimmer Profile

    As reported by Bloomberg, the 2026 MacBook Pro will feature a redesigned, slimmer profile. While specific details regarding chassis modifications remain limited, the overarching goal is to achieve a more elegant look. This redesign follows years of minor updates, with Apple aiming to bestow a more contemporary appearance alongside the new display technology.

    ### State-of-the-Art M6 Chip

    The forthcoming MacBook Pro will also launch Apple’s M6 chip series, expected to utilize TSMC’s state-of-the-art 2nm technology. This new generation of Apple Silicon will likely encompass the M6, M6 Pro, and M6 Max variants, offered in both 14-inch and 16-inch models. The shift to a smaller process node is projected to deliver substantial performance and efficiency enhancements, further boosting the MacBook Pro’s functionalities.

    ### Conclusion

    The most striking aspect of the imminent MacBook Pro redesign is undeniably the shift to OLED technology, which pledges to enhance the visual experience for users. The inclusion of a slimmer design and the robust M6 chip will also add to a more sophisticated and capable device.

    For users who prefer not to wait for the 2026 launch, the current M4 MacBook Pro models are available at reduced prices, making them an appealing choice for immediate acquisition. As excitement grows for the revamped MacBook Pro, users can anticipate a notable upgrade in both performance and aesthetics.

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on New Research Uncovers That Dinosaurs Experienced Cancer as Well
    New Research Uncovers That Dinosaurs Experienced Cancer as Well

    New studies indicate even dinosaurs experienced cancer

    Investigators may have uncovered a critical clue for human cancer studies dating back nearly 70 million years. The crucial evidence is actually the fossilized remains of a diminutive, cow-sized dinosaur, which scientists assert bore a small tumor. They have now associated what seems to be red blood cells with the tumor, demonstrating that dinosaurs might have faced cancer millions of years ago, as well.

    This finding signifies more than merely that dinosaurs suffered from cancer; it also suggests that tissue could be present in other fossils and that it may have been preserved more frequently than previously thought. The techniques that enabled this discovery are also relatively underutilized, according to the researchers.

    Moving forward, however, the conservation of these samples is vital, as comprehending how dinosaurs coped with cancer might lead to significant advancements in human cancer research. Given the progress scientists have made in innovative cancer therapies over the years, such findings could significantly aid future investigations.

    Fortunately, proteins located in calcified tissues such as bone are considerably more stable than typical DNA. Furthermore, as we delve deeper into the genetics of the dinosaurs found in these fossils, we might reveal more about how cancer impacted the broader population of dinosaurs. It is known that some species, like elephants and whales, do not develop cancer.

    The tumor discovered on this specific dinosaur is a type still observed in humans today, indicating that this kind of tumor has been affecting animals on Earth for millions of years. Learning how they managed it without modern medical interventions could potentially unveil further avenues for researchers.

    Naturally, locating additional dinosaur tissue for examination will not be straightforward. There is no method to ascertain when tissue will still be intact in a fossil. Yet, ongoing exploration could yield tissue and DNA that investigators can utilize in their efforts to comprehend not only the past but also our current position in the battle against lethal diseases like cancer.

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on Indie App Highlight: ‘Queue’ Eases Maintaining Connections with Your Contacts
    Indie App Highlight: ‘Queue’ Eases Maintaining Connections with Your Contacts

    ### Indie App Spotlight: Queue – Your Personal CRM for Relationships

    Navigating the multitude of people in your life can be quite demanding, especially in today’s fast-moving environment. Queue is a groundbreaking application designed to assist you in effectively managing your relationships, serving as a personal CRM (Customer Relationship Management) tool for your social interactions.

    #### Highlights of Queue

    Life often gets hectic, making it easy to drift away from friends, family, or acquaintances. Queue tackles this challenge by offering a range of features to help you maintain connections. Here are some of its notable attributes:

    1. **Import Contacts**: Queue enables you to import individuals directly from your iPhone’s contacts. Furthermore, you can fetch contacts from Google Calendar events and Gmail conversations. Future updates will extend support to LinkedIn connections, simplifying the management of professional relationships.

    2. **Custom Reminders**: The app intelligently reminds you to check in with your contacts. These reminders can be tailored to fit your schedule and preferences, ensuring you seize every chance to connect.

    3. **Track Interactions**: Queue maintains a log of the duration since you last engaged with someone. This functionality helps to avoid awkward silences resulting from prolonged gaps in communication.

    4. **Note-taking**: For those who may find it difficult to remember specifics from discussions, Queue provides a note-taking feature. You can document essential points from your encounters, which can be especially beneficial for retaining context over extended periods.

    In conclusion, Queue serves as an invaluable resource for managing relationships that might not be in the spotlight but are nonetheless important. It prevents connections from fading and promotes meaningful exchanges.

    #### Download the App

    Queue is accessible on the App Store, featuring a one-week free trial. Following the trial, a subscription of $4.99 per month is required. The application is compatible with iPhones operating on iOS 17.6 and higher.

    For those aiming to improve their relationship management capabilities, Queue offers a practical solution that fuses technology with personal connection.

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Latest Top iPad Offers After the Launch of iPadOS 26
    Latest Top iPad Offers After the Launch of iPadOS 26

    # Budget-Friendly Renewed iPad Pro Offers: An Intelligent Choice for Tech Lovers

    A recent dive into Apple bargains on Amazon uncovered a fascinating pattern: premium iPad Pros, particularly the 12.9-inch variants, can be snagged at surprisingly reasonable prices. For example, M1 variants featuring 1TB of storage and cellular options are available for less than $700. With the recent update of iPadOS 26, which improves the iPad’s features to mirror those of a Mac, these offers deserve your attention.

    ## Renewed M1 iPad Pro Offers

    Amazon’s refurbishment initiative, “Amazon Renewed,” provides a selection of pre-owned, cleaned, and tested gadgets at attractive rates, alongside a 90-day return guarantee for any problems. The M1 iPad Pro models, released in 2021, came with noteworthy advancements, such as Thunderbolt compatibility, a 12MP front-facing ultra-wide camera equipped with Center Stage, 5G support, and a mini-LED screen on the 12.9-inch models, termed “Liquid Retina XDR,” which can achieve up to 1600 nits of peak brightness.

    As these models continue to age, exceptional bargains have surfaced. For those contemplating storage alternatives, a 1TB option is advisable due to its 16GB of RAM, in contrast to the 8GB found in models with 512GB and less storage. Current pricing includes:

    – 128GB for $529
    – 256GB for $549
    – 512GB for $569

    While discounts on 11-inch models are not as attractive, they remain available for interested buyers.

    ## Renewed M2 iPad Pro Offers

    The M2 iPad Pro closely resembles the M1 variant, with the main difference being compatibility with Apple Pencil hover, providing users with an indication of where the Apple Pencil will contact the screen for greater accuracy. The M2 model also accommodates the newer Wi-Fi 6E standard.

    If the Apple Pencil hover capability intrigues you, or if you are in search of a newer iPad without breaking the bank, the M2 iPad Pro is a reliable choice. Nonetheless, enticing offers on 11-inch M2 models are currently limited. All listed units are in top-notch condition and include a 90-day return policy.

    For those in need of a keyboard and trackpad case for their new 12.9-inch iPad Pro, the Logitech Combo Touch is an excellent match at $129.99.

    ## Renewed iPad Air Offers

    While this discussion centers on the M1 and M2 iPad Pros, it’s also important to note the more recent iPad Air models, which incorporate these chipsets as well. Though there are trade-offs in display quality, connectivity, and audio, choosing an iPad Air can result in substantial savings. The iPad Air models are available in a range of colors, enhancing their attractiveness.

    Currently, no significant deals exist on renewed M2 iPad Air models.

    ## Conclusion

    The cost-effectiveness of these renewed iPad devices is noteworthy. While the allure of the latest models is strong, selecting a renewed gadget can lead to considerable financial savings while still delivering outstanding performance. For reference, a new M4 13-inch iPad Pro with 1TB of storage and 16GB of RAM retails for around $1699, whereas an older M2 model with identical specifications can be purchased for just $759—almost a thousand dollars less for a still highly efficient device.

    For those uninterested in renewed iPads, there are also current promotions on new models.

    What do you think about iPadOS 26? Does it enhance the iPad’s attraction? Share your thoughts in the comments.

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