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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on “Recent iPad Pro Revelations, Launch of Powerbeats Fit, and Unique Notification Summary User Interface”
    “Recent iPad Pro Revelations, Launch of Powerbeats Fit, and Unique Notification Summary User Interface”

    ### Weekly Apple News Roundup

    In this week’s installment of the 9to5Mac Happy Hour, hosts Benjamin Mayo and Chance Miller delve into the most recent happenings in the Apple ecosystem. The conversation begins with a thrilling leak concerning the undisclosed M5 iPad Pro, which has sparked substantial excitement among technology aficionados.

    #### Key Points:

    1. **M5 iPad Pro Leak**: The hosts discuss the ramifications of the leaked details about the M5 iPad Pro, speculating on its features and the likely effect on the iPad range.

    2. **FCC Presentation**: The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) recently presented the new MacBook Pro and Vision Pro, offering insights into Apple’s forthcoming hardware selections.

    3. **Matter Update for Robotic Vacuums**: Benjamin recounts his experience with a major Matter update for his robot vacuum, which has significantly enhanced its functionality and compatibility with smart home devices.

    4. **iPhone Cameras in Use**: Apple has been using iPhone cameras to produce content for Friday Night Baseball, demonstrating the device’s remarkable camera capabilities in a professional context.

    5. **Beats Powerbeats Fit**: The episode also highlights the debut of the new Powerbeats Fit by Beats, showcasing its features and intended demographic.

    #### Happy Hour Plus

    For Happy Hour Plus subscribers, there is extra content available, including new follow-up discussions on the iPhone. Chance shares his thoughts on the iPhone Max, while Benjamin notes that his MacBook Air is collecting dust.

    Listeners can subscribe to 9to5Mac Happy Hour Plus for $5 each month or $50 annually, which includes ad-free episodes, pre- and post-show content, and exclusive episodes.

    #### Feedback and Interaction

    Listeners are invited to send in questions and feedback via Twitter, Mastodon, or Threads, or by emailing [email protected].

    For more in-depth discussions and insights, tune in to the complete episode available through the provided audio link.

    #### Conclusion

    Keep abreast of the latest Apple news and developments by subscribing to the 9to5Mac Happy Hour. With captivating discussions and expert insights, it’s an essential listen for any Apple supporter.

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Apple Launches Update for iOS 26 Issue Affecting iMessage Performance
    Apple Launches Update for iOS 26 Issue Affecting iMessage Performance

    ### iOS 26 iMessage Activation Challenges: A Troubleshooting Guide

    Following the launch of iOS 26 last month, numerous iPhone users have faced challenges with iMessage activation using their phone numbers. Apple has recognized this issue and has released a support document outlining the problem along with a possible remedy.

    #### Grasping the Issue

    Apple characterizes the problem in the following manner:

    > “Upon updating to iOS 26, you may find yourself unable to activate iMessage with your phone number if you possess an inactive SIM that shares the same phone number as your active SIM.”

    Users impacted by this dilemma might encounter several complications, such as:

    – iMessages not sending, marked by a “Not Delivered” notification.
    – Text messages solely being sent and received as SMS or RCS, shown by a green bubble.
    – Messages being dispatched through an email address rather than a phone number.
    – The identical phone number showing up twice under Settings > Apps > Messages > Send & Receive.

    #### Source of the Problem

    As noted by Apple, the trouble emerges when users have an active eSIM that carries the same number as their working physical SIM. This discrepancy can hinder the correct activation of iMessage.

    #### Steps to Fix the Problem

    Apple has laid out a step-by-step instruction set to assist users in resolving the iMessage activation challenge:

    1. Launch the **Settings** app and select **Cellular**.
    2. If two SIMs with the same phone number appear, locate the inactive one. If it is a physical SIM, remove it. If it is an eSIM, select **Delete eSIM** to eliminate the inactive eSIM.
    3. Once the inactive SIM is removed, navigate back to the **Settings** app and select **Apps**.
    4. Choose **Messages**.
    5. Click on **Send & Receive**.
    6. Select the displayed phone number to activate iMessage.

    #### Conclusion

    Should you have faced complications with iMessage activation following the update to iOS 26, adhering to Apple’s instructions may assist in rectifying the issue. Users are invited to share their experiences and indicate whether the suggested solution was effective in the comments section.

    For additional information, please consult the original support document from Apple.

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Threads Introduces More Than 100 Communities Focused on Specific Topics
    Threads Introduces More Than 100 Communities Focused on Specific Topics

    **Threads Communities: A Fresh Approach to Engage on Meta’s Platform**

    If you’re a Threads user, you’ve probably come across topic tags that let users enhance their posts to connect with others who share similar interests. Recently, Meta has upgraded this feature by linking topic tags with its personalized feeds and debuting communities as a global beta. This article delves into the new communities feature, how it works, and the diverse interest-driven groups on offer.

    ### 100+ Communities Now Accessible

    Since Threads debuted, users have casually labeled groups centered around particular topics as “book Threads” or “TV threads.” In response, Threads has formally embraced the term “communities,” establishing public feeds dedicated to interest-based discussions.

    As stated in a press release from Meta, “Today, we’re unveiling communities on Threads. Communities are public, relaxed spaces where you can share unique viewpoints and engage in dialogues about subjects like basketball, TV, and others. Communities, currently being assessed across more than 100 of the most trending topics on Threads, enhance features like custom feeds and topic tags to facilitate meaningful connections with those who share your passions.”

    ### Highlighted Communities

    The rollout of communities has introduced a range of new interest-centric groups to Threads, including:

    – AI Threads
    – Art Threads
    – Book Threads
    – Cats of Threads
    – Design Threads
    – Dogs of Threads
    – F1 Threads
    – Fashion Threads
    – Gaming Threads
    – Hiking Threads
    – KPop Threads
    – MMA Threads
    – Music Threads
    – NBA Threads
    – NFL Threads
    – Photographers of Threads
    – Tech Threads
    – TV Threads
    – WNBA Threads

    To mark the launch, Threads’ new head, Connor Hayes, is immersing himself in NBA Threads, NFL Threads, and TV Threads.

    ### Distinct Features of Communities

    Every community on Threads comes with its own custom Like emoji, fostering a unique sense of camaraderie among members. Users can find communities using the Search tool or in their timeline, identified by blue topic tags. After joining a community, it will show up alongside their custom feeds in the app’s upper left menu and on their profile page within the newly introduced interests section.

    Going forward, community creators will earn special profile badges to acknowledge their activity and involvement in the app. Moreover, Threads intends to broaden the post ranking feature beyond communities, making it applicable in the For You feed.

    ### Conclusion

    The launch of communities on Threads marks a significant stride towards enhancing user interaction and nurturing connections around common interests. With over 100 communities at hand, users can dive into discussions that resonate with them. Which communities are you eager to check out? Share your thoughts in the comments.

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on ESPN and FOX Launch Innovative Streaming Package for Sports Fans
    ESPN and FOX Launch Innovative Streaming Package for Sports Fans

    ### New ESPN-FOX One Bundle Now Offered with 20% Savings

    If you’re an avid sports enthusiast, you’re aware of how expensive it can be to subscribe to all the essential streaming platforms. To alleviate streaming cost exhaustion, ESPN and FOX One have introduced a bundled option for their newly-launched streaming services.

    In August, prior to the commencement of football season in the US, two significant new streaming platforms were introduced: ESPN and FOX One. The former grants complete access to ESPN, encompassing all of the content and live games from the cable network, including Monday Night Football. FOX One delivers the live sports programming from FOX’s traditional channel, along with news and entertainment, now available for the first time as an independent streaming service.

    The timing of both rollouts just before autumn was intentional, with football season starting soon after. Although it was indicated at launch that a bundle would eventually be available, that bundle is now launching today.

    The ESPN and FOX One bundle offers both services for a total of $39.99/month. This represents a $10 reduction (20% savings) from the individual prices—ESPN is $29.99 on its own, while FOX One costs $19.99/month. You can sign up for the bundle either at stream.espn.com or FOXOne.com.

    For those curious, there is no possibility to combine the two streamers with Disney’s other streaming services, Disney+ and Hulu.

    Are you considering subscribing to ESPN and FOX One’s new bundle? Share your thoughts in the comments.

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Apple Watch Removes Need for Training Wheels Thanks to Outstanding Battery Life
    Apple Watch Removes Need for Training Wheels Thanks to Outstanding Battery Life

    **Apple Watch Battery Life: A Major Enhancement**

    The battery life of the Apple Watch has experienced significant enhancements, especially with the launch of the Apple Watch Ultra 3, which offers a battery life that can extend for several days. The Series 11 also showcases impressive performance, solidifying its position in the smartwatch sector.

    In recent evaluations of battery lifespan, both the Apple Watch Series 10 and Series 11 exhibited a noteworthy 28 hours of use between charges. These evaluations included a one-hour workout and overnight sleep tracking, highlighting the watches’ efficiencies in practical situations. This represents a major upgrade from the original Apple Watch, which had difficulty achieving its claimed 18-hour battery life. Throughout the years, Apple has incorporated features such as 5G connectivity and brighter displays that can consistently display the time, all while preserving a sleeker design.

    The Apple Watch Ultra elevates battery efficiency even further, enabling users to wear it from Monday to Thursday without needing a recharge. This prolonged battery life is particularly attractive for individuals with active lifestyles or those who prefer not to frequently recharge their devices.

    Nonetheless, there are still some constraints regarding software updates. Like the iPhone, the Apple Watch mandates at least 50% battery charge to install updates. Unlike its smartphone counterpart, the Apple Watch must also remain connected to a charger during the update procedure. This measure is implemented to avoid the device losing power during the installation, which could make it inoperable.

    Despite the advancements in battery technology, users often face scenarios where they receive alerts about awaiting updates shortly after donning a fully charged watch. This leads to dissatisfaction, as the update process necessitates external power, even for smaller updates.

    Ideally, Apple Watch software updates would take place effortlessly overnight while the device charges. However, the requirement for consistent sleep monitoring and brief charging sessions complicates this task. Users frequently have to sift through settings to manually begin updates, only to encounter messages stating that the update cannot continue without being plugged into a charger.

    This slight nuisance reveals a potential area for enhancement in future watchOS updates. As battery technology progresses, it is anticipated that Apple will refine the update process to make it more user-friendly, allowing installations to occur without the stringent need for a charger connection.

    In summary, the Apple Watch has made considerable progress in battery longevity, especially with its newest models. Although challenges persist regarding software updates, the overall advancements in battery performance render the Apple Watch an appealing option for consumers looking for a dependable smartwatch.

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Amazon Declares $2.5 Billion Reimbursement to Prime Members Owing to Excess Charges
    Amazon Declares $2.5 Billion Reimbursement to Prime Members Owing to Excess Charges

    FTC and 17 states filed a lawsuit against Amazon for purported monopolistic behavior. They alleged that Amazon employed “punitive and coercive tactics” to illegally maintain monopolies.

    The FTC noted that several Amazon executives were cognizant of the challenges associated with unsubscribing from Prime and engaged in discussions about “unlawful enrollment and cancellation issues,” which led to the lawsuit. Amazon reached a settlement, and FTC Chairman Andrew Ferguson indicated that billions of dollars will be returned “to Americans’ wallets,” including a $1 billion civil penalty and $1.5 billion in consumer redress. Amazon is in the process of refunding the $1.5 billion to approximately 35 million affected customers. Amazon is required to cease its illegal practices and implement significant modifications to its Prime enrollment and cancellation procedures, which must include a clear and visible option for users to refuse membership. Moreover, this option cannot simply state “No, I don’t want Free Shipping,” as a catch-all, seemingly mocking the user’s intent to cancel.

    This settlement represents two significant FTC actions

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on Tinker: The Initial AI Offering from Thinking Machines Lab, Not a Rival to ChatGPT
    Tinker: The Initial AI Offering from Thinking Machines Lab, Not a Rival to ChatGPT

    Mira Murati’s Thinking Machines Lab (TML) AI startup has been active since the former high-ranking OpenAI executive departed from the organization that developed the ChatGPT chatbot and ignited the ongoing AI revolution. A year later, Murati’s AI company is set to launch its inaugural, eagerly awaited AI product.

    Named Tinker, this AI tool requires users to sign up for a waitlist starting Wednesday, and it doesn’t serve as the ChatGPT competitor that some might have anticipated from the startup. After all, numerous companies creating cutting-edge AI models are releasing commercial products aimed at mainstream consumers, particularly chatbots. However, Tinker is not that type of offering. It’s designed for a targeted group: AI aficionados, enterprises, researchers, and hackers looking to customize existing open-source AI models to suit their unique preferences.

    Murati, who formerly held the position of CTO at OpenAI, stepped in as interim CEO during Sam Altman’s removal in the fall of 2023. She departed OpenAI last year to establish a secretive startup that ultimately became known as Thinking Machines Lab. Murati is not the only prominent AI researcher involved in this venture. She co-founded the company alongside other OpenAI alumni, bringing on additional expertise from the ChatGPT creator. TML’s significant prowess in AI could be the reason the company successfully secured $2 billion at a $12 billion valuation this past summer, even before launching a commercial product. Now, Thinking Machines Lab has introduced Tinker, which is presently accessible to authorized users for creating their bespoke AI models.

    What capabilities does Tinker offer?

    <div class="slide-key image-holder gallery-image-holder credit-image-wrap" data-post-url="https://www.bgr.com/1985035/thinking-machine-labs-tinker-launch-release-date

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on YouTube Evaluates Major Mobile Interface Alterations, Creating Split Views Among Users
    YouTube Evaluates Major Mobile Interface Alterations, Creating Split Views Among Users

    A Simplified Vision or a User Experience Blunder?

    YouTube is trying out an audacious overhaul of its mobile application interface, and opinions are already divided. The modification hasn’t reached all devices yet, but those who have experienced it have a lot to express regarding the alterations.

    The most apparent change is the arrangement of video pages. The channel’s profile picture is now bigger and positioned right beside the video title, instead of being placed underneath. YouTube is also replacing conventional channel names with usernames, as observed by Android Authority.

    In the meantime, the well-known row of buttons beneath a video — including like, dislike, share, download, and subscribe — has lost its textual identifiers, now featuring only icons. The notification bell has also been shifted from its typical location above the row and now leads the icon carousel.

    YouTube Shorts also face changes, with smaller buttons that some users claim are more challenging to tap.

    Some Reddit users state that the new layout appears “compressed” and strips away too much context at first glance, particularly for those who depend on quick assessments of channel names before deciding to view or engage.

    A Restricted Trial That Might Expand Globally

    As with most UI trials, not everyone is experiencing the update yet. It’s possible this is currently being rolled out to a limited group of users. This indicates YouTube is probably collecting feedback before a comprehensive deployment, though considering the extent of the changes, it’s evident the platform is committed to advancing the new design.

    Whether you admire it or detest it, the updated YouTube mobile UI signifies a notable change in direction. It’s an attempt at a sleeker, more content-focused experience that aims to optimize how we interact with videos.

    However, like any major redesign, it’s a risk. For every user who values the fresh, clear appearance, there’s another who perceives a once-familiar, effective tool being transformed into something alien.

    The true evaluation won’t arise from the initial backlash, but from whether we all adapt to it or if YouTube chooses to heed the feedback and refine the design once more.

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on Innovations from Google and Amazon Change Smart Homes into Smart Systems
    Innovations from Google and Amazon Change Smart Homes into Smart Systems

    AI might be taking over your household, and it’s not necessarily a negative development.

    The intelligent home is transitioning from merely a bunch of interconnected devices to a customized, shared computing space. With recent updates from Google and Amazon, it’s evident that generative AI represents the next significant advancement in transforming homes into not just smart, but genuinely intelligent places.

    Both firms are introducing AI-enhanced assistants—Gemini and Alexa Plus—that aim to make smart homes more instinctive, reachable, and enjoyable. While their methods vary slightly, the ultimate objective is consistent: to integrate smart living seamlessly into daily routines.

    Gemini and Alexa Plus: AI that comprehends your home

    Google’s Gemini for Home and Amazon’s Alexa Plus surpass basic voice commands. These assistants grasp context, identify individual family members, and facilitate automations simply by conversing.

    Want the lighting to lower when you begin your bath? Just state it. Need a morning routine that plays your favorite playlist and activates the coffee maker? Inquire of your assistant. These AI systems are designed to eliminate obstacles, allowing users to set up personalized automations without needing to navigate through apps or settings.

    This evolution makes smart homes communal. All household members can engage with the system in their unique manner, and the assistant adjusts accordingly.

    Multimodal hardware: Observing, listening, sensing

    To enhance these advanced assistants, both organizations are launching multimodal hardware that merges audio, video, and environmental sensing.

    Google’s fresh Nest collection features 2K HDR cameras and a compact Gemini-integrated speaker with ambient sensing capabilities. Amazon introduced new smart speakers, smart displays, security cameras, and video doorbells. Notably, one of the standout features, alongside Alexa Plus support, is Omnisense, allowing the latest Echo devices to provide presence detection while leveraging third-party sensors.

    These devices aren’t merely responsive—they’re anticipatory. They greet family members, modify settings based on who is present, and even foresee requirements. This marks a significant stride toward ambient computing, in which the home instinctively reacts to its occupants.

    Boosting smart home adoption with AI

    One of the most promising advancements is how AI is facilitating broader smart home adoption. Amazon disclosed that users of Alexa Plus are embracing smart home functionalities at double the pace of traditional Alexa users. This is a considerable surge, driven by AI’s capability to inform, guide, and support.

    Visualize asking your assistant, “How can I upgrade my light switch to a smart one?” Alexa Plus can assist you in the process, recommend compatible products, and even suggest local electricians if you’re hesitant to handle it on your own. This type of interactive, conversational assistance reduces entry barriers and makes smart home enhancements feel less daunting.

    AI also aids users in uncovering features they were previously unaware of. It can propose automations based on your routines, recommend energy-efficient practices, or assist with troubleshooting, all through natural dialogue.

    Amazon’s ecosystem advantage

    Amazon remains at the forefront of smart home adoption, attributed to its extensive install base and third-party partnerships. Alexa Plus capitalizes on this by providing developers with access to a new Alexa Plus Store, enabling services like Lyft, GrubHub, and TaskRabbit to integrate directly into the assistant.

    The television serves as a portal into the intelligent home, and Amazon’s profound insight into consumer shopping and media inclinations grants it a distinctive advantage. Alexa Plus can deliver contextual recommendations, scene-specific searches, and even manage other devices via the TV interface.

    Smart speakers fulfill a similar function, serving as hubs for entertainment, communication, and automation. With surround sound integration and ambient sensing, Amazon is transforming these devices into central nodes of the interconnected home.

    And let’s not overlook Amazon’s collaboration with Oura, which suggests a future where biometric data from wearables could influence smart home automations, like adjusting lighting in response to sleep patterns or initiating routines based on stress levels.

    Google’s strength: Search, Android, and wearables

    Google’s strength is anchored in its software ecosystem. Gemini is intricately integrated into Android smartphones, Google Search, and wearables such as the Pixel Watch. This grants Google a unique advantage in contextual intelligence and seamless cross-device functionality.

    While wearables aren’t currently a significant aspect of the smart home landscape, they are on the verge of becoming crucial. Google’s ecosystem is well-prepared to harness biometric data, location awareness, and user behaviors to foster smarter automations.

    Moreover, Google’s partnership with Walmart positions them to challenge Amazon’s Blink cameras, while enhancing retail visibility and broadening their influence in home security.

    Market outlook: A mixed forecast for growth

    So, what implications does this have for the smart home market and consumers?

    Despite the enthusiasm, the near-term market outlook remains cautious. Many new AI functionalities are being added to existing devices, indicating that the hardware market might not experience a significant boost immediately. In fact, global shipments of smart speakers and displays are predicted to decline in 2025 and into the early part of 2026.

    Cameras are anticipated to grow, but

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on Apple Glasses Anticipated to Embrace Unique Release Approach
    Apple Glasses Anticipated to Embrace Unique Release Approach

    Apple’s Vision Air Project Put on Hold to Focus on Apple Glasses

    Yesterday, Bloomberg indicated that Apple’s ‘Vision Air’ initiative is being halted to shift resources towards the high-priority Apple Glasses endeavor. This change in direction underscores Apple’s strategic approach as it strives to bolster its offerings in the augmented reality (AR) domain.

    Apple Glasses Launch and Release Timeline

    As per the report, Apple is anticipated to reveal the Apple Glasses next year, with a release scheduled for 2027. This method represents a departure from Apple’s usual product launch pattern, where new items are typically available for purchase soon after their announcement. Traditionally, Apple upholds a culture of confidentiality, often delaying announcements until a product is market-ready. Nevertheless, the Apple Glasses might adopt a less typical two-phase rollout approach.

    Mark Gurman from Bloomberg pointed out that Apple plans to debut the new model as early as 2026, with a following launch set for 2027. This timeline implies a longer period between the introduction and the actual market availability of the product, a rarity for the company.

    Apple’s Experience with Two-Phase Product Launches

    The last time Apple used a staggered release approach was with the Apple Vision Pro, which was unveiled in June 2023 but did not ship until early 2024. Similar two-phase launches have also been observed with the original HomePod and the Apple Watch. Such strategies are often employed for entirely new product categories, giving developers extra time to create applications for new platforms. In some instances, it helps to alleviate concerns regarding Apple’s speed in specific technological areas.

    While the plans for the Apple Glasses may still be subject to change, the current anticipation is that the product could debut at WWDC 2026, even if it doesn’t become accessible until 2027. The reasoning behind this two-phase release strategy remains a subject of speculation among industry analysts and consumers alike.

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