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    • Comments Off on Apple Fitness+ Prospects Under Evaluation Because of Restructuring, As Per Report
    Apple Fitness+ Prospects Under Evaluation Because of Restructuring, As Per Report

    Apple Fitness+ is poised to experience a restructuring aimed at promoting growth, as mentioned in today’s Power On by Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman.

    Since its debut in 2020, Apple Fitness+ has remained relatively unchanged. It is one of the few Apple subscriptions that has not seen a price alteration, currently priced at $9.99 per month or $79.99 annually. In terms of new functionalities, Apple Fitness+ has introduced only a few features over the years, including Strava integration support and eliminating the requirement for an Apple Watch. For these reasons, it is perceived as one of Apple’s “least robust digital offerings,” according to Mark Gurman in today’s Power On newsletter.

    The primary challenges facing Apple Fitness+ are described as “high churn” and “limited revenue potential,” based on the report. Nonetheless, Apple intends to continue supporting the service. Fitness+ has cultivated a devoted user base, making any potential backlash not worthwhile, Gurman asserts. Additionally, discontinuing the service would not align well with Apple’s overarching health-centric branding. Gurman also points out that it is cost-effective to run, particularly since all content is created internally.

    To address these issues, Apple is evaluating Fitness+’s future and implementing organizational changes within the division. Sumbul Desai, Apple’s VP of Health, will be “adding Fitness+ to her portfolio.” As previously reported in October, Desai and Apple Health will now be under the oversight of SVP of Services Eddy Cue in light of COO Jeff Williams’ upcoming retirement. This new framework is designed to instill additional pressure on Fitness+ to enhance its performance.

    Beyond Fitness+, Apple has been concentrating on enhancing their fitness services. For instance, they recently introduced Workouts to iPhone users for the first time, eliminating the necessity for an Apple Watch. The newly released AirPods Pro 3 and Powerbeats Pro 2 incorporate heart rate monitoring that is compatible with Fitness+. Additionally, the Apple Watch has introduced Workout Buddy, a feature powered by Apple Intelligence that provides personalized feedback and motivation during workouts, utilizing voices trained by Fitness+ trainers. It is hoped that Fitness+ will soon attract similar attention and acquire new functionalities.

    Apple Fitness+ is priced at $9.99/month or $79.99/year, or is included in Apple One Premier. A 3-month free trial is also available with the purchase of a new Apple Watch, AirPods Pro 3, Powerbeats Pro 2, iPhone, Apple TV, or iPad.

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on Five Groundbreaking Devices You Were Unaware You Required
    Five Groundbreaking Devices You Were Unaware You Required

    Audiophile devices, for example, might not attract someone who doesn’t frequently listen to music. Nevertheless, this compilation is not aimed at individuals looking for a particular kind of product. Rather, we are highlighting five impressive gadgets that anyone can benefit from. 

    We emphasized products rich in features that provide excellent value. Additionally, every item is priced under $50 to prevent overspending. While these gadgets may not revolutionize your life, their wide appeal and affordable prices make many of them ideal holiday presents.

    We took measures to confirm that the items we discovered are of high quality. We did this by perusing hundreds of user reviews on platforms such as Amazon and choosing those that excel not only in user-friendliness and functionality but also in dependability. We also considered professional reviews and incorporated their insights.

    Jteman Cell Phone Stand

    If you’re like us, you appreciate a YouTube video or TV series to accompany you during meals. This is where the Jteman cell phone stand becomes useful. You can mount nearly any smartphone onto the stand and modify its height and angle to improve your viewing enjoyment. But this device offers even more. It features a built-in LED Bluetooth speaker that elevates your audio experience with 360-degree 3D surround sound to mask outside noises.

    Additionally, the speaker includes a built-in microphone for phone calls. It also has face buttons for volume adjustment and playback, so you don’t need to interact with your phone each time you wish to alter media. The device isn’t limited to phones, either. You can connect a computer using the provided USB-A to USB-C cable and use it as an external speaker.

    The Jteman cell phone stand is priced at $28.99, but it is currently available at a discount for <a target="_blank" href="https://r.bttn.io?btn_ref=org-225e4e0aac880b8f&btn_url

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on 8 Chromebooks Endorsed by Users for Their Worth
    8 Chromebooks Endorsed by Users for Their Worth

    **8 Chromebooks Users Consider Truly Worth The Investment**

    When Chromebooks debuted in 2011, they faced doubt. Why put money into a device that mainly runs Android applications when economical Windows laptops were on the market? Yet, Chromebooks have demonstrated their value with a lightweight operating system that boosts speed and battery performance, positioning them as a genuine alternative to more expensive Windows laptops.

    Selecting the appropriate Chromebook can be daunting due to the numerous options available. User feedback provides essential perspectives, mirroring actual experiences. Here’s a compilation of eight Chromebooks that users deem worthy of the expenditure:

    1. **Lenovo Chromebook Plus 14**
    – Features a high-end design with an aluminum chassis.
    – Showcases a 14-inch 1920 x 1200 OLED touchscreen.
    – Driven by MediaTek Kompanio Ultra 910 processor, 16GB RAM, and 256GB storage.
    – Delivers 10-12 hours of battery longevity.
    – Priced at $749 with a 4.8-star rating.

    2. **Asus Chromebook Plus CX34**
    – Economical choice at $599 with a 4.8-star rating.
    – Comes with an Intel Core i5-1335U CPU, 8GB RAM, and 128GB storage.
    – Features a 14-inch FHD IPS touchscreen.
    – Provides 9 hours of battery longevity.

    3. **Acer Chromebook Plus Spin 714**
    – High-quality construction with MIL-STD 810H certification.
    – 14-inch WUXGA IPS display featuring a 360-degree hinge.
    – Powered by Intel Core Ultra 5 115U processor, 8GB RAM, and 256GB storage.
    – Offers 10 hours of battery performance.
    – Listed at $750 with a 4.3-star rating.

    4. **Acer Chromebook 516 GE**
    – Perfect for cloud gaming with a 16-inch 2560×1600 IPS display and 120Hz refresh rate.
    – Runs on Intel Core i5-120U, 8GB RAM, and 256GB storage.
    – Delivers 10 hours of battery life.
    – Priced at $649.

    5. **Lenovo Chromebook Duet Gen 9**
    – Great for students with a detachable 2-in-1 design.
    – Sports a 10.9-inch 1920×1200 IPS display.
    – Features MediaTek Kompanio 838 processor, up to 8GB RAM, and 128GB storage.
    – Provides 8-9 hours of battery life.
    – Costing $379.

    6. **Asus Chromebook CM30**
    – Budget-friendly 2-in-1 model starting at $269.
    – 10.5-inch TFT display with 400 nits brightness.
    – Driven by MediaTek Kompanio 520 processor, 4GB RAM, and 64GB storage.
    – Grants 10 hours of battery performance.

    7. **Acer Chromebook Plus 515**
    – Well-rounded choice at $429 with a 4.3-star rating.
    – 15.6-inch full HD IPS display with touch capability.
    – Powered by Intel Core i3-1305U processor, 8GB RAM, and 256GB storage.
    – Offers 6-8 hours of battery life.

    8. **Samsung Galaxy Chromebook Plus**
    – High-end design featuring a 15.6-inch AMOLED display.
    – Runs on Intel Core 3 100U processor, 8GB RAM, and 256GB storage.
    – Provides 11 hours of battery longevity.
    – Listed at $599 with a 4.6-star rating.

    **Methodology**
    This guide was created by examining best-selling Chromebooks on sites like Amazon and Best Buy, along with expert insights and user feedback from platforms like Reddit. Most of these models are Chromebook Plus certified, providing significant value according to authentic users.

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on Problems with YouTube Performance for Opera GX Users Employing Ad Blockers
    Problems with YouTube Performance for Opera GX Users Employing Ad Blockers

    YouTube’s continuous struggle with ad blockers has intensified as Opera GX users are encountering significant access problems, overshadowing its streaming capabilities.

    A growing discussion is taking place on the YouTube subreddit where users are talking about the recent difficulties accessing the site (via 9to5Google). The current issues seem to be highly particular, with numerous reports from users of the Opera GX browser. The original poster noted that they were listening to music on YouTube when suddenly, everything ceased to function.

    The website went blank, and the video thumbnails disappeared.

    While many users assumed this meant YouTube was down or experiencing server issues, further reports suggest that ad blockers may be the culprit. One user indicates that accessing YouTube via Opera GX encounters the same trouble, while others mention that using a different browser does not lead to any problems. Another user remarked, “Mine was also broken, it seems related to Adblock, as the site operates perfectly without it, but fails completely with it. At least from my perspective.”

    Interestingly, another user claims they haven’t been able to open YouTube through Opera GX with ad block activated; however, entering via Google Chrome (with ad block) works without a hitch. User SH4DE_RL asserts that the built-in ad blocker in Opera GX is the source of the issue and that turning it off “resolves the problem.”

    These complications began arising for users earlier today (Nov 7). If you’re still facing them and you’re using the Opera GX browser, consider trying the solutions that some users have proposed on Reddit. This might rectify the situation, but it’s worth noting that users with AdBlock on YouTube have faced similar challenges.

    Earlier this summer, there was an incident involving users and ad blockers, where reports suggested YouTube was “slowing down” videos. The platform reportedly chose to throttle or dampen videos for those employing ad blockers.

    Reports indicated that the platform would postpone videos and also attempt to redirect users to a Google support page, pretending it was a different issue. Naturally, the support page recommended removing any extensions (such as AdBlock).

    YouTube has been embroiled in this conflict against ad blockers for several years now, trying various strategies. One of the most visible attempts was its experiment of completely halting video streaming unless users disabled the blocker or subscribed to YouTube Premium.

    YouTube is already dealing with several issues, as users are becoming increasingly frustrated with its TV streaming aspect. Recent reports suggest that users are contemplating abandoning the service, especially as they miss channels provided by Disney, including ESPN and ABC. Furthermore, a substantial number of surveyed users reportedly indicate that if these problems persist, they will seek alternatives.

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Uncover 5 Obscure Free Apple CarPlay Applications for iPhone
    Uncover 5 Obscure Free Apple CarPlay Applications for iPhone

    iOS 26 brought a host of enhancements and features to the Apple infotainment system, featuring a redesigned look thanks to the innovative Liquid Glass UI. Additionally, Apple incorporated widgets into the vehicle dashboard, allowing users to quickly access messages, navigation, smart home controls, and more. Users can activate these vital widgets by navigating to the CarPlay settings on their iPhone.

    In addition to popular vehicle-friendly applications like Spotify, Waze, and Audible, there exists an extensive array of third-party tools that elevate your CarPlay experience — many of which are free. These apps assist in locating parking or EV charging stations, and even enable streaming of your favorite audio content. Here are some of the most overlooked CarPlay applications to maximize the potential of your vehicle’s infotainment system.

    SpotHero

    We are all familiar with the difficulties of locating a parking space in an unknown location, a task made even harder when navigating a large, crowded city. Thankfully, the SpotHero app is available to assist and is free to download for iOS and CarPlay. From your vehicle’s infotainment screen, you can search for available parking, reserve a spot, and obtain directions to your car’s temporary location. You may also keep destinations in a favorites list for frequently visited locations.

    For CarPlay synchronization to function, your iPhone must be operating iOS 14 or later. Additionally, ensure that you have a payment method other than Apple Pay saved in the app for bookings, along with your phone number, vehicle make, model, and license plate. Finally, ensure that the precise search location feature is activated for SpotHero within iOS Settings.

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on US States That Have Prohibited DeepSeek and Possible Future Bans
    US States That Have Prohibited DeepSeek and Possible Future Bans

    DeepSeek rapidly gained popularity. This achievement triggered a surge of allegations from Western AI companies claiming that DeepSeek had misappropriated essential data. Shortly thereafter, a larger security concern emerged, as American lawmakers feared that the firm had granted the Chinese government and military access to sensitive user data. Consequently, the U.S. DeepSeek AI bans commenced.

    In its April 2025 assessment, Congress’s Select Committee on the Chinese Communist Party discovered that “the application extracts data back to the People’s Republic of China (PRC), generates security risks for its users, and utilizes a framework that secretly censors and alters information in accordance with Chinese legislation” and was “developed using appropriated U.S. technology.” As a consequence, multiple state governments opted to prohibit the platform from their governmental computer systems. So far, at least 17 U.S. states have enacted some type of government restriction on DeepSeek, including: Texas, New York, Virginia, Tennessee, Iowa, North Dakota, South Dakota, North Carolina, Nebraska, Arkansas, Oklahoma, Alabama, Kansas, Georgia, Pennsylvania, Oregon, and Nevada.

    Until now, no regulations prevent individuals or businesses from utilizing DeepSeek on private computer networks. Nevertheless, several federal and military entities have also taken steps to eliminate the application’s use on government systems. Additionally, it is significant to highlight that the United States is not the sole nation alarmed by DeepSeek’s privacy breaches, as numerous European and Asian countries have likewise imposed restrictions on the platform.

    U.S. authorities confront DeepSeek

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on Google Declares End of Clock App Support for Non-Pixel Watches After User Outcry
    Google Declares End of Clock App Support for Non-Pixel Watches After User Outcry

    Maintaining Exclusivity for Pixel Watch Users

    What You Need to Know
    – Google’s Wear OS Clock application is now solely for Pixel smartwatches.
    – Users of non-Pixel watches will lose access to the Clock application and any updates.
    – Wear OS 6 upgrades are being distributed to eligible devices, improving user experience.

    Earlier this week, Google announced that it will withdraw its Wear OS Clock application from non-Pixel smartwatches, impacting users who depended on its functionalities. The choice to reserve this feature for Pixel watches supposedly arises from intensifying competition as brands pursue their own proprietary solutions, shifting the Wear OS environment.

    In a Wear OS support discussion, the tech company stated that it has ceased support for its Clock application on all non-Pixel smartwatches. The message indicates that if you own a Pixel Watch, this new move will not affect you. Conversely, if you possess “any other Wear OS” watch, you will notice this alteration. To clarify, Google mentions that watches that do not have the Clock application already installed will no longer be able to find it on the Play Store.

    If you have previously installed the Clock application, you can continue utilizing it; however, it is important to note that it will not receive updates any longer.

    Google clarifies that this change is due to other “watch brands providing their own default clock applications on Wear OS.” Consequently, Google’s Clock application, which could previously be downloaded on a Galaxy Watch, has been removed. The clock feature is gone, along with the integrated alarm, timer, and stopwatch functionalities within the application.

    Some users on the Wear OS support discussion have expressed their dissatisfaction with the decision, but it appears that Google’s choice is definitive. The company highlights that there are alternative clock applications available on the Play Store for Wear OS watches for users seeking different options.

    This is Certainly a Shift

    Wear OS 6 began transitioning eligible devices into its new, more dynamic wrist-based interface this year. The Pixel Watch 4 already included this updated software, and Google initiated its rollout to older devices in October.

    A few weeks ago, users of Pixel Watch 3 and 2 began receiving their Wear OS 6 upgrade (the outlook is not promising for the original Pixel Watch). Initially, the OTA images began appearing for the update, and Android Central swiftly confirmed that it had started being officially deployed to the two previously mentioned watches. Users were expected to see this earlier this month, but it’s likely that by now, late in October, many more should have it.

    The Wear OS 6 demonstration that Google presented showcased a more seamless scrolling experience with a fully immersive UI for its unique glass-domed Pixel Watch display.

    Does This Impact the Google Clock Application on Pixel Watches?
    Owners of Pixel Watches remain unaffected. The Google Clock application will continue to be pre-installed, operate as intended, and receive future updates from the Play Store across all Pixel Watch models.

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Google’s Initial Pixel Watch Obtains Its Last Small Update
    Google’s Initial Pixel Watch Obtains Its Last Small Update

    This will be the final software update for the Google Pixel Watch.

    (Image credit: Nicholas Sutrich / Android Central)

    Essential Information

    • The original 2022 Pixel Watch is getting its last software upgrade with security improvements but no significant enhancements.
    • The update BW1A.251005.003.W1 keeps the device on Wear OS 5.1, effectively ending major system updates.
    • Google will still roll out app updates through the Play Store to maintain functionality even after the conclusion of significant Wear OS updates.
    Notice

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones (2nd Gen): Highly Rated ANC Headphones Currently on the Market
    Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones (2nd Gen): Highly Rated ANC Headphones Currently on the Market

    Android Central Conclusion

    Rating: 4 out of 5 stars

    From my initial encounter with Bose’s noise-cancelling headphones, they have significantly advanced, and I’m pleased to express that I can fully endorse them to more than just the frequent flyers. Their ANC is outstanding, and the sound quality this year is impressively detailed, featuring some additional perks that justify the cost.

    Advantages
    – Noise cancelling (Naturally!)
    – Detail extraction
    – Charge while listening
    – Flat fold disconnect
    – USB-C Audio
    – Comfort

    Disadvantages
    – Microphones are inactive when Bluetooth is not in use
    – LDAC offers wider compatibility compared to aptX Adaptive

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on How to Tell Apart Costly and Inexpensive TVs
    How to Tell Apart Costly and Inexpensive TVs

    more affordable TVs may display the same resolution specifications as their higher-priced rivals, the quality of the experience they provide can vary significantly. This is due to the fact that resolution is merely one aspect of the overall picture quality. Elements such as brightness, color fidelity, motion performance, and construction quality contribute to how realistic your films, games, and television programs seem.

    Promotional terms like 4K, UHD, and HDR can create the impression that all contemporary TVs are fairly similar. Nevertheless, the reality is that two displays with the same specifications on paper can look and feel distinct in reality. The distinction between “economical” and “luxury” transcends mere opulence: it pertains to efficiency, durability, and user satisfaction. Grasping the origins of that disparity can assist you in looking past marketing jargon and understanding what you are truly paying for when selecting your next television.

    What distinguishes high-end and budget TVs?

    <source media="(max-width: 428px)" srcset="https://www.bgr.com/img/gallery/can-you-really-tell-the-difference-between-expensive-and-cheap-tvs/what-sets-expensive-and-cheap-tvs-apart-1761143489.sm.webp"

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