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Gemini AI Now Incorporated with Android Auto for Improved Vehicle Intelligence

From your brainstorming partner to your guide, Gemini is here for you.

(Image credit: Brady Snyder / Android Central)

Essential information

  • Google integrates Gemini AI into Android Auto for upgraded driving assistance and multitasking features.
  • Gemini facilitates smooth communication and sophisticated task management, enhancing user experience during travel.
  • The AI boosts entertainment options, crafting playlists and providing local information while driving.

Google is finally implementing its Gemini intelligence into Android Auto, marking a significant enhancement! It was showcased during Google I/O, and it seems that some users on Reddit began noticing signs of the rollout earlier this month.

Today, the company has officially declared that Android Auto will be globally integrated with Gemini (Nov. 20). With Gemini in your vehicle, you will be able to accomplish more during your commute. This means you can engage in lengthy discussions with it while completing more complex tasks. For example, Gemini can serve as your guide and local authority, fully incorporated into Google Maps.

Gemini will assess reviews to provide business insights, respond to frequent queries, and assist users in locating and navigating to local destinations. If you say, “Hey Google, I need

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Savings of as much as $150 Offered on Garmin’s Leading Two Prior-Generation Timepieces

The Garmin holiday promotion provides considerable discounts on popular smartwatch models, making it an ideal moment for athletes and fitness enthusiasts to enhance their gear without overspending. While the newest models like the Fenix 8 and Forerunner 965 are on offer, the Venu 3 and Forerunner 265 emerge as budget-friendly options that still deliver a complete range of training tools.

The Garmin Forerunner 265, available for $299 at Best Buy, is a flexible choice for outdoor athletes. It comprises features such as training load focus, daily running recommendations, and Garmin’s dual-band GPS for accurate tracking. With a battery life of 13 days, it’s aimed at those dedicated to boosting their performance without requiring the extra features of the Forerunner 965, like offline maps.

For indoor athletes, the Garmin Venu 3, priced at $349, combines style with functionality. It boasts Garmin’s fifth-generation Elevate sensors, which provide ECGs, skin temperature insights, and precise heart rate readings. The Venu 3 also facilitates Bluetooth calling and phone assistant commands, rendering it a versatile option for individuals who appreciate both fitness tracking and smart capabilities.

Both the Forerunner 265 and Venu 3 have received high recommendations in their respective categories, presenting a mix of affordability and functionality. They might miss some of the advanced features available in newer models, yet they offer all the essentials required for most athletes to monitor their development and realize their fitness ambitions.

With the present discounts, these models provide a fantastic opportunity for those eager to step into the Garmin ecosystem or elevate their current devices without selecting the newest and priciest alternatives. Whether you’re a runner, hiker, or someone who enjoys indoor training, the Venu 3 and Forerunner 265 deliver strong features that accommodate a broad array of fitness requirements.

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AirPods Pro 3 and AirPods 4 featuring Active Noise Cancellation Now Offered at Best Prices for Black Friday Week

### Black Friday 2025 Offers on Apple AirPods

Apple has unveiled its yearly holiday gift card promotions, yet substantial reductions on its newest audio devices, including the AirPods Pro 3 and AirPods 4, are not included in this campaign. Nevertheless, with Amazon’s Black Friday Week 2025 event currently happening, shoppers can discover incredible bargains on these in-demand items.

#### AirPods Pro 3: Unbeatable Black Friday Price

The AirPods Pro 3 have emerged as one of the most desired items this Black Friday. At this moment, they are being offered at their most affordable price ever, presenting a great opportunity for those intending to buy a pair. The current price is **$220**, reduced from the usual price of **$249**. This offer is anticipated to be the lowest throughout the month, with only slight variations likely.

– **Apple AirPods Pro 3**: [**$220 (Reg. $249)**](https://geni.us/UlcZU) | Lowest price ever

#### AirPods 4 with Active Noise Cancellation: Amazon’s Best Price

For those seeking a more economical choice, the AirPods 4 featuring Active Noise Cancellation are also experiencing considerable discounts. Offered at **$109.99**, this deal marks a historic low for these earbuds, initially priced at **$179**. This offer provides a fantastic chance for consumers to experience premium audio with ANC at a significantly reduced price.

– **Apple AirPods 4 with ANC**:

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Android Quick Share Works with AirDrop on iPhone, Debuting with Pixel 10

**Google’s Quick Share Now Supports Apple’s AirDrop: A New Chapter in Cross-Platform File Exchange**

In a pivotal move towards improving compatibility among mobile operating systems, Google has revealed that its Quick Share capability on Android devices is now able to work with Apple’s AirDrop system. This integration facilitates smooth file transfers, such as photos and videos, between Android and Apple devices, signifying a significant progression in cross-platform communication.

### How It Functions

When utilizing Quick Share on an Android device, Apple devices will be visible as selectable sharing options, as long as AirDrop’s “Everyone for 10 minutes” setting is enabled. After the iPhone user accepts the transfer, the file will be dispatched. Similarly, Android devices will also appear on iPhones, iPads, and Macs, allowing for bi-directional sharing.

This feature operates through a direct, peer-to-peer link, ensuring that data is not sent through a server, which boosts privacy and security. Google highlights that shared content is not recorded, and no additional data is exchanged during the transfer.

### Security and Privacy Protocols

Google has instituted a multi-tiered security framework to protect the sharing process across different platforms. Essential security measures consist of:

– **Secure Sharing Channel**: The communication pathway is designed using Rust, a memory-safe programming language that safeguards against typical vulnerabilities like buffer overflow threats.

– **Integrated Platform Protections**: The security framework of both Android and iOS delivers strong defenses against harmful files and exploitation. This layered protection guarantees thorough safety for users when sending or receiving files.

– **User Authority**: Users retain control over what they permit, as file transfers necessitate explicit consent before completion.

### Prospective Collaboration and Aspirations

Despite the successful integration, Google has clarified that it did not work directly with Apple on this feature. The company conveyed its willingness to explore future collaboration possibilities to further enhance interoperability challenges between iOS and Android systems.

This effort is part of Google’s wider commitment to making cross-platform communication more fluid for users, allowing for rapid and effortless file sharing without worrying about the type of device being used.

### Accessibility

The Quick Share feature is presently accessible on the Pixel 10 series, with anticipated plans for wider deployment in the future.

This advancement not only improves user experience but also mirrors a growing inclination towards interoperability in the technology sector, where users increasingly anticipate seamless interactions across various platforms.

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Apple Wallet Might Soon Feature Digital IDs in Two States

# Apple Wallet Broadens Digital ID Functionality: Arkansas and Virginia Enter the Program

Apple Wallet has recently made notable progress in its digital ID framework, especially with the launch of a novel Digital ID feature that incorporates US passports. As the feature starts to gain popularity, the support for state driver’s licenses is also on the rise, with Arkansas and Virginia emerging as the newest states to embrace this cutting-edge technology.

## Increasing Adoption of Digital IDs

Following a slow commencement, Apple Wallet’s digital ID project is now gaining traction. Within the last half-year, three new states have rolled out digital driver’s licenses, and the recent launch of a passport-based solution in iOS 26.1 is anticipated to further boost adoption. Apple has earlier revealed commitments from several states, such as Connecticut, Kentucky, Oklahoma, and Utah, to provide digital IDs.

## Arkansas and Virginia’s Pledge

As noted by MacRumors, Arkansas and Virginia have officially declared their support for Apple Wallet’s digital ID feature. Both states have made updates on their official government websites to demonstrate this commitment, signaling that residents will soon be enabled to incorporate their state-issued driver’s licenses and IDs into Apple Wallet on their iPhones and Apple Watches.

For example, the Virginia mobile ID page mentions:

> “Virginia has agreed to incorporate ID in Apple Wallet in the future, allowing residents to add their VA driver’s license and ID to Apple Wallet on iPhone and Apple Watch.”

While no specific timelines have been shared regarding the deployment of this feature, the existence of mobile ID apps in both states indicates that integration with Apple Wallet may occur sooner rather than later.

## Conclusion

The enhancement of digital ID support in Apple Wallet marks a substantial leap forward in how individuals can manage their identification. As more states like Arkansas and Virginia join the movement, users can anticipate a more accessible and secure method of carrying their IDs. The rising adoption of digital IDs not only improves user experience but also showcases the continuing shift towards digital solutions in daily life.

Have you had the chance to utilize Digital ID through state or passport support in Apple Wallet? Share your thoughts in the comments.

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EU Suggests Major Changes to Cookie Alert Regulations and AI Management

In a freshly released document, the European Commission discloses its intention to reduce the frequency of cookie pop-ups while also clarifying and simplifying AI regulations. As stated in a press release, the EU aims to update the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) by lessening the prevalence of bothersome cookie banner pop-ups along with refining AI guidelines.

With these forthcoming modifications, users will have the ability to express their consent with a single click and store their cookie preferences through their browser settings or operating system. This way, users won’t need to provide or refuse cookie tracking permission each time they visit a new page.

However, that’s not the only alteration proposed by the European Commission, which is also advocating for a “digital omnibus package.” This would ease existing regulations concerning AI, cybersecurity, and data within the European Union. Here’s what you need to know about these amendments and their potential implementation timeline.

EU aims to accelerate AI integration

According to the press release, the European Commission seeks to help businesses save up to 5 billion euros in administrative expenditures by the year 2029. This goal could be achieved by standardizing how cybersecurity matters are reported, as businesses currently must prepare various reports following different regulations. An additional enhancement is that for “high-risk” AI systems, companies would only be required to fulfill all obligations once the necessary support tools and standards are established, allowing them a grace period of up to 16 months for compliance.

The new legislation would also clarify rules under the Data Act, and a new “European Business Wallet” for enterprises would provide digital signing, timestamping, document sharing, and secure cross-border business identification, which could potentially lead to annual savings of up to 150 billion euros. Nonetheless, the EU aims to cut administrative burdens by at least 25% by the conclusion of 2029.

Conversely, opponents of these changes, including European Digital Rights, argue that the EC’s proposals could undermine the core principles of human rights and technology policy within the EU. With the proposal now made public, it must be presented to the European Parliament and the Council of the European Union for approval.

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Reasons the M4 MacBook Air is a Superior Black Friday Buy Compared to the M1

For the majority of the last five years, the M1 MacBook Air has been the clear selection for users transitioning from an Intel Mac. Outstanding battery life, swift performance, and above all: dependable. While the M2 MacBook Air introduced a redesign and the M3 option a minor spec upgrade, the M1 variant remained the preferred MacBook to purchase due to its affordability.

This Black Friday will not be an exception, as shoppers may discover this laptop priced as low as $600. Nevertheless, there are additional factors to ponder before acquiring this model in late 2025. For instance, the M1 model found on online marketplaces comes with 8GB of RAM and 256GB of storage, which has become insufficient for the present AI and multitasking tasks most users handle daily. Furthermore, Apple continues to provide an outdated design and subpar webcam. For this reason, this Black Friday, opting for the M4 MacBook Air would be advisable.

The M4 MacBook Air may very well be Apple’s best offer currently available

With discounts anticipated around $750, the M4 MacBook Air will be priced $150 more than the M1 model. However, customers will benefit from an entirely new design, a significantly more powerful processor, and a base 16GB of RAM, which has become the new benchmark for managing multitasking and AI functionalities. Additionally, you sidestep the purchase of a computer that may begin to lose capabilities shortly.

Although the M1 MacBook models remain excellent computers, Apple is likely to start emphasizing features for newer Macs, as macOS 27 may concentrate exclusively on Apple Silicon devices, and macOS Tahoe signifies the conclusion for Intel Macs.

In light of this, if you’re looking for a new MacBook this Black Friday, acquiring the M4 MacBook Air could very well be the most prudent option. Especially now that Apple has launched the M5 MacBook Pro, while the Air version is still a few months away.

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iOS 26 Unveils Seven Fresh Features for AirPods Pro: An In-Depth Review

# iOS 26 Unveils New Features for AirPods, Enriching User Experience

iOS 26 marks a major enhancement for iPhone users, delivering a variety of new capabilities, especially for AirPods enthusiasts. This update is particularly advantageous for users of AirPods Pro 3, AirPods Pro 2, and AirPods 4, all equipped with Active Noise Cancellation (ANC). Below is a detailed summary of the new features launched with iOS 26.

## New AirPods Features in iOS 26

Apple continuously improves AirPods capabilities with every major iPhone release, and iOS 26 is no different. This time around, the update brings as many as seven new functionalities, concentrating on elevating the experience for AirPods Pro owners.

### List of New Features

1. **Battery Charging Alerts**
2. **Seamless Switching for CarPlay**
3. **Real-Time Translation**
4. **Automatic Playback Pause When You Sleep**
5. **High-Quality Audio Recording**
6. **Camera Control**
7. **Improved Voice Clarity on Calls**

### General Features for All AirPods

All AirPods users will gain from two new functionalities in iOS 26, regardless of the model:

– **AirPods Charge Alerts**: Users will get alerts when their AirPods case battery is low and when it’s fully charged, improving battery management.

– **Seamless Switching for CarPlay**: This feature enables AirPods to automatically change their Bluetooth connection between devices and the car, simplifying usage while driving.

### Exclusive Features for AirPods Pro 3, Pro 2, and AirPods 4

For those using AirPods Pro 3, Pro 2, or AirPods 4 with ANC, five additional functionalities are available:

– **Real-Time Translation**: This capability utilizes Apple Intelligence to aid in face-to-face conversations with speakers of different languages, enhancing interaction.

– **Automatic Playback Pause**: If users tend to doze off with their AirPods in, this feature will halt audio playback automatically, proving especially beneficial for podcasts and audiobooks.

– **Camera Control**: Similar to the Camera Remote feature on the Apple Watch, users can take photos or videos by pressing the stem of their AirPods, offering a convenient method to document moments.

– **High-Quality Audio Recording**: This upgrade enhances the quality of audio recordings captured with AirPods, yielding a more professional sound.

– **Improved Voice Clarity on Calls**: This feature enhances the clarity and quality of voice conversations, addressing one of the core functionalities of AirPods.

## Conclusion

Apple remains at the forefront of innovation with its AirPods series, rolling out new features through firmware updates that do not necessitate hardware alterations. With iOS 26, the emphasis has been on refining the experience for newer models, yet it’s commendable that AirPods Pro 2 users still benefit from these updates despite the model being over three years old.

Even if your AirPods can only utilize a portion of the new features, iOS 26 presents an array of thrilling upgrades for iPhone users that justify the update. For more information on the AirPods firmware update process, additional details are available through Apple’s official channels.

Which new AirPods features excite you the most? Share your opinions in the comments!

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Black Friday Week Offers: AirPods Pro 3 at Unprecedented Lowest Price, M4 Mac Mini for $479 ($200 Off M4 Pro Model), iPads From $280, and Additional Offers

The Amazon 2025 Black Friday Week promotions are officially underway, showcasing substantial markdowns on sought-after electronics. Among the highlight deals is the latest AirPods Pro 3 priced at $220, representing the lowest cost ever for this variant. Furthermore, the AirPods 4 equipped with Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) can be acquired for an unprecedented price of $110.

The discounts span various products, including considerable savings on Apple’s M4 MacBook Air models, beginning at $749 with a generous $250 reduction. The base model M4 Mac mini is also priced at $479, a substantial drop from its standard $599. Additional savings consist of up to $150 off the M3 iPad Air and the iPad mini 7, with the iPad 11 set at merely $280.

### AirPods Pro 3 Black Friday Offer
The AirPods Pro 3, initially listed at $249, are now available for $219.99. This price reduction is consistent with ongoing deals from other retailers, making it a favorable choice. Preliminary discounts were observed before Black Friday; however, the current offer presents the best available cash discount from a leading retailer.

### M4 Mac Mini Offers
Amazon’s Black Friday event entails a unique chance to acquire the M4 Mac mini for $479, a price rarely encountered for this model. This entry-level version comes with 16GB of RAM and a 256GB SSD, appealing to those in search of a powerful yet budget-friendly desktop. Moreover, noteworthy savings are provided on the M4 Pro Mac mini, with reductions of up to $200.

### M4 MacBook Air Offers
The M4 MacBook Air series is experiencing significant discounts, with all configurations seeing a $250 reduction. Starting at $749, these models are now readily available in various colors and configurations, making it an ideal time to invest in a fresh laptop.

### iPad Promotions
The sale encompasses markdowns on the M3 iPad Air, boasting savings of up to $150, alongside the iPad mini 7 and the iPad 11, which is now listed at $280. These promotions present a fantastic opportunity for individuals aiming to enhance their tablet experience.

### Accessory and Charging Discounts
In addition to the electronics, Amazon is showcasing a range of accessories and charging products at discounted rates, amplifying the overall value of the Black Friday event.

### Nomad 2025 Black Friday Promotions
The Nomad 2025 Black Friday sale is also in effect, providing discounts of up to 75% on leather iPhone cases, Apple Watch bands, and additional items. This promotion extends through Cyber Monday, offering plenty of time to benefit from these deals.

In conclusion, the Amazon 2025 Black Friday Week promotions offer a remarkable opportunity to purchase high-demand electronics and accessories at notable discounts. With prices at historic lows, shoppers are urged to act promptly to secure these deals before they are gone.

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Apple Music Unveils ‘Top of 2025’ Playlists and Declares Artist of the Year

Apple Music has recently unveiled a varied selection of new ‘Best of 2025’ playlists and has honored Tyler, The Creator as its Artist of the Year. Here are the specifics.

## Fresh ‘Best of 2025’ playlists now on Apple Music

As 2025 quickly approaches its end, Apple Music’s editorial team has curated an impressive selection of ‘Best of 2025’ playlists to celebrate this year’s fresh tracks.

Here’s a list of the new playlists complete with direct links:

Apple’s entire collection of playlists is accessible under the ‘New’ tab in the Music app.

You can relish all of these playlists with an active [Apple Music subscription](https://music.apple.com/listen-now?itscg=30200&itsct=music%5C_box&ls=1&at=1000l3cvR) or via [Apple One](http://one.apple.com/?at=1000l3cvR&itscg=30200).

## Tyler, The Creator named Apple Music Artist of the Year 2025

In addition, Apple Music has recognized Tyler, The Creator as its Artist of the Year for 2025.

[According to the press release](https://www.apple.com/newsroom/2025/11/tyler-the-creator-is-apple-musics-artist-of-the-year-for-2025/):

> Tyler’s contributions throughout 2025 solidified his status as one of the most talented artists of his generation. On Apple Music, Tyler experienced his most successful year to date with unprecedented global plays, listeners, and listening hours, as fans amassed over 4.5 billion minutes of listening time from November 2024 to October 2025.
>
> He kicked off the year with his most ambitious and prosperous tour in promotion of his most introspective album thus far — the recently launched *CHROMAKOPIA*. This remarkable endeavor in storytelling and character development became his biggest album ever on Apple Music in terms of first-day and first-week plays. Yet, he continued to create. He composed, recorded, and released another album during the tour: *DON’T TAP THE GLASS*, a concise but impactful burst of urgent, minimalistic rap that vastly contrasts its predecessor, and immediately soared to No. 1 on Apple Music’s overall charts in over 55 nations on its release day.

The Artist of the Year award is a tradition initiated by Apple Music a few years ago and comes with an exciting accolade. Recipients receive a physical award featuring “Apple’s custom silicon wafer suspended between a polished sheet of glass, paired with a machined and anodized aluminum body.”

The [2024 honoree](https://9to5mac.com/2024/11/21/apple-musics-2024-artist-of-the-year-is-billie-eilish-the-first-ever-two-time-winner/) was Billie Eilish, marking her as Apple Music’s first-ever two-time recipient. Meanwhile, [in 2023](https://9to5mac.com/2023/11/08/taylor-swift-apple-music-artist-of-the-year/), Taylor Swift received the honor.

Apple Music is [offered for $10.99/month](https://music.apple.com/listen-now?itscg=30200&itsct=music_box&ls=1&at=1000l3cvR) for individuals, or you can subscribe through

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