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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on Britt Lower’s Audition Video Recorded by Herself for ‘Severance’
    Britt Lower’s Audition Video Recorded by Herself for ‘Severance’

    **Britt Lower’s Audition for ‘Severance’: A Breakthrough on the Bathroom Floor**

    Within the realm of television, audition tales frequently showcase the resolve and inventiveness of performers. One such narrative emerges from Britt Lower, who embodies Helly R. in the acclaimed show ‘Severance.’ In a recent episode of the Severance Podcast facilitated by Ben Stiller and Adam Scott, Lower divulged the exceptional circumstances surrounding her audition tape, which she recorded on her bathroom floor.

    Prior to the pandemic altering the audition scene, Lower was getting ready for face-to-face auditions. However, due to a large number of contenders, her agents advised her to produce a self-tape at home. Lower took on this challenge wholeheartedly, deepening her connection to the script and the universe crafted by show creator Dan Erickson. She shared the emotional significance of the moment, articulating her yearning to embody Helly and the sorrow she experienced at the thought of missing out on the role.

    For her audition, Lower enacted the character’s initial scene, which also acts as the show’s opening. In this crucial scene, Helly R. regains consciousness disoriented on a conference room table, laying the groundwork for the series’ examination of identity and corporate culture. Interestingly, Erickson disclosed that the original script included a different scenario, with Mark S. awakening unclothed on the table, aided by Helly R. This twist underscores the show’s complex narrative framework and character interactions.

    Fans of ‘Severance’ can now view Lower’s noteworthy audition tape, which has been released by The Hollywood Reporter. Her performance encapsulates the essence of Helly R., highlighting her talent and the emotional richness she brings to the character.

    For those keen on delving deeper into the series, ‘Severance’ is streaming on Apple TV+, alongside other popular programs and films. The platform provides a subscription service for $9.99 per month, granting access to a variety of content, including ‘The Morning Show’ and ‘Silo.’

    In summary, Britt Lower’s path to securing her role in ‘Severance’ serves as an uplifting reminder of the commitment and ingenuity that actors infuse into their craft, even in atypical situations.

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on Apple Intelligence Unveils More Than 20 Fresh Features in iOS 26: Full List Accessible
    Apple Intelligence Unveils More Than 20 Fresh Features in iOS 26: Full List Accessible

    # New Features of Apple Intelligence Arriving in iOS 26

    Currently, Apple Intelligence boasts just over 20 features, but with iOS 26, over 20 additional features and enhancements will be introduced—all in one software update. Here’s a comprehensive breakdown of the new AI functionalities organized into four sections.

    ## Communication

    Enhancing communication is a major emphasis for Apple Intelligence in iOS 26, with improvements rolled out for the Messages, FaceTime, and Phone applications.

    ## Broadened Accessibility in More Apps and Languages

    Apple is broadening the capabilities of Apple Intelligence to include new system and third-party applications in iOS 26, as well as introducing support for additional languages.

    – **Enhanced Apple Maps Search**: More effective and robust search capabilities in Maps powered by AI.
    – **AI Actions within Shortcuts**: Utilize actions that leverage Apple’s AI frameworks, or writing tools, or features for image generation.
    – **Automated Categorization of Reminders**: Quickly convert a chaotic list into a well-structured and categorized one.
    – **Suggestions for Reminders**: Generate new reminders based on input from an email, website, or note.
    – **Order Tracking in Apple Wallet**: AI will extract order tracking information directly from your email inbox, including for Amazon orders.
    – **Third-Party App AI Models**: Applications can access Apple’s Foundation Models to integrate new AI functionalities.
    – **Newly Supported Languages**: Danish, Dutch, Norwegian, Portuguese (Portugal), Swedish, Turkish, Chinese (traditional), and Vietnamese.

    ## Upgrades to Image Creation

    The Genmoji and Image Playground features from Apple are set to receive multiple enhancements in iOS 26.

    ## Various Enhancements

    Completing the iOS 26 update for Apple Intelligence, there will be a new battery mode, significant visual intelligence updates, and extended notification summaries. Additionally, several watchOS 26 features related to Apple Intelligence will need iOS 26 to operate the AI models.

    ## iPhone Compatibility for Apple Intelligence in iOS 26

    Last year, at the launch of Apple Intelligence, it was compatible with a limited selection of recent iPhone models.

    – **Positive News**: If your iPhone was compatible with the AI features from last year, all of the new abilities of Apple Intelligence will function as well.
    – **Negative News**: Apple has not broadened AI support for any older devices.

    This means you will require an iPhone 15 Pro or Pro Max, or any iPhone 16 or iPhone 17 model to access the new features.

    Which new Apple Intelligence functionalities in iOS 26 are you most excited about? Share your thoughts in the comments.

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Researchers Propose the Presence of a Concealed Lake Under Greenland’s Ice
    Researchers Propose the Presence of a Concealed Lake Under Greenland’s Ice

    An article featured in Nature Geoscience on July 30th, 2025 investigates a phenomenon that transpired in 2014 but was only recently unveiled due to satellite image archives. The Greenland Ice Sheet houses several subglacial lakes. One such lake experienced flooding, and in 2014, it burst through the glacier’s surface, discharging vast quantities of water. Why does this matter? Because this subglacial lake was previously unknown, and its flooding significantly impacted the ice sheet.

    Satellites disclosed the astonishing impact of this flooding event. It unleashed 23.8 billion gallons of meltwater over a span of 10 days. This averages to more than 25,000 gallons per second. It formed a crater that was 279 feet deep and spanned 0.77 square miles. Furthermore, it generated ice blocks reaching heights of 130 feet, fractured the ice sheet, and caused additional cracks in the vicinity.

    Initially, this region was assumed to be completely frozen. This event challenges entrenched beliefs regarding the movement of meltwater within ice sheets. The research indicates that existing climate models may not accurately predict how Greenland’s ice will react to future global warming.

    The implications of Greenland’s hidden lake on our geological knowledge

    The study underscores that over the last 30 years, approximately 169 billion tons of Greenland’s ice have melted annually due to intensified surface melting. This surface melt contributes to rising sea levels. As Arctic temperatures rise, the prevalence of meltwater is expected to increase. While it is recognized that surface meltwater can penetrate the ice bed and affect glacier motion, there remains ambiguity about its travel patterns, how much it is retained, and its overall environmental impact.

    One rising concern is Greenland’s concealed network of subglacial lakes. As evidenced in 2014, these lakes can drain abruptly and release large volumes of water from underneath the ice, influencing surface and flow dynamics. Such occurrences are not well understood, infrequently observed, and inadequately represented in climate models.

    The abrupt flooding of the subglacial lake disrupted the hydrological framework beneath the Greenland Ice Sheet and influenced the adjacent Harder Glacier. By evaluating over 5,800 ice velocity maps from 1985 to 2020, researchers noted that while the glacier had been speeding up since 2014, a sharp slowdown occurred immediately after the 2014 flooding, three times greater than the usual seasonal deceleration. The study suggests that the floodwater momentarily enhanced the efficiency of the subglacial drainage system, leading to reduced movement.

    Insights from the Greenland subglacial flood

    Researchers have posited a new hypothesis to account for the flooding. Rather than the conventional surface fractures forming directly above a water source, the study proposes that intense shear stress accumulated along the ice sheet’s frozen base spread outward and forced a crack to rise through the ice. This mechanism, known as hydrofracture, may have been intensified by altered glacier flow patterns that weakened the ice. The study observes that a similar drainage incident in 1990 did not produce surface fractures; consequently, the upward fracturing observed may occur only under certain conditions.

    To verify this hypothesis, further observation is required to understand how these fractures develop and their effects on ice sheets overall. With this knowledge, a refined model can be established to enhance present geological understanding and better predict future scenarios concerning melting ice sheets.

    The principal author of the study, Jade Bowling from Lancaster University, commented to Space.com, “The existence of subglacial lakes beneath the Greenland Ice Sheet is still a relatively recent discovery, and — as our study illustrates — there is still much we do not comprehend about their evolution and impact on the ice sheet system.” She added, “Crucially, our research highlights the necessity to better understand how frequently they drain, and what the repercussions are for the adjacent ice sheet.”

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Gemini Live’s Latest Functionality Seeks to Compete with Google Assistant
    Gemini Live’s Latest Functionality Seeks to Compete with Google Assistant

    Forthcoming Gemini Live Functionality Might Position It As An Authentic Alternative To Google Assistant

    According to fresh insights obtained from an APK dissection, it appears that Google is preparing to evolve Gemini into a full-fledged substitute for Google Assistant — a service the company intends to phase out by year-end. The tech behemoth has been consistently broadening its offerings with Gemini, having previously introduced Gemini Live, which can recognize what’s displayed on your screen and what lies ahead, providing information and responses derived from the visuals and videos it captures.

    Currently, Gemini Live can be accessed on both Android and iPhone devices, but a recent analysis of the Google app enabled Android Authority to explore potential new functionalities that might be on the horizon for the service. It’s crucial to emphasize that these features are not yet operational and may undergo complete alterations before reaching the public. Nonetheless, Android Authority managed to manipulate some settings within the app to unveil the new interface, which appears to be a major enhancement.

    Simplified Accessibility to Gemini

    This new modification seems poised to afford Gemini users more straightforward access to the capabilities of Gemini Live by employing a floating interface that utilizes a smaller window for Gemini itself, alongside card-like windows that produce a sleek picture-in-picture view atop the background application.

    In Android Authority’s demonstration, the site successfully viewed its page on X while simultaneously crafting a note in Google Keep and examining something on Google Maps, all without needing to close the X application. In addition to the updates to the floating interface, the report specifies that Gemini does not automatically redirect you to the primary chat window for Gemini when you return. Rather, Android Authority claims that with the new feature enabled, you would actually revert to the app you were engaged with. This could enhance interaction with Gemini Live during multitasking. Naturally, as previously mentioned, APK analyses like this do not assure that these features will ultimately be realized. And, should they become available, they might change significantly before their public introduction.

    Nonetheless, given how refined this appears already and the initiative for Gemini to succeed Google Assistant, it wouldn’t be surprising to see this feature released soon — potentially coinciding with the company’s launch of the new Pixel 10 series on August 20. We are already aware that the Pixel will incorporate new Gemini camera functionalities, so unveiling another upgraded AI feature would logically serve to highlight Gemini on the new Pixel devices.

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Thorough Clarification of the Distinctions Between USB4 and USB-C
    Thorough Clarification of the Distinctions Between USB4 and USB-C

    USB cables featuring the Type-C connector. Anyone who has been on the hunt for new USB cables recently has certainly come across cables that appear identical, marked both as USB Type-C and USB4.

    Although USB Type-C and USB4 may seem interchangeable on retail sites, they differ significantly. Type-C designates the connector pin utilized, while USB4 refers to the technical standard of the cable that employs the Type-C connector, specifically concerning the data transmission rates and charging capacity of the cable. Each USB cable adheres to various technical standards, with USB4 being the latest. USB4 employs the reversible Type-C connector, which is favored in modern smartphones, laptops, and other gadgets to provide enhanced power for faster charging and superior data transmission speeds compared to earlier versions of USB Type-C cables.

    Numerous generations of USB Type-C connectors

    <img class="gallery-image " src="https://allyoucantech.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/thorough-clarification-of-the-distinctions-between-usb4-and-usb-c-1.jpg" data-slide-url="https://www.bgr.com/1940975/usb4-usb-c-difference-explained

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on AYANEO Pocket DS Pricing Unveiled Along with Extra Surprises
    AYANEO Pocket DS Pricing Unveiled Along with Extra Surprises

    I doubt AYANEO could have taken my money any quicker if it had tried.

    What you should be aware of

    – Nearly a month after initially revealing the Pocket DS, AYANEO has disclosed pricing along with some extra features.
    – These features include three-finger gestures for transferring content between the two screens, as well as a new launcher experience.
    – Pre-orders are currently open via Indiegogo starting at $399 and going up to $640.

    During a livestream, the price for the AYANEO Pocket DS was officially unveiled, coinciding with the launch of the Indiegogo campaign. It’s been a couple of weeks since the Pocket DS was first announced, but in true AYANEO style, we didn’t learn the price until today.

    So without further ado, here’s what the Pocket DS will cost you, depending on the configuration:

    | AYANEO Pocket DS Model | IGG Early Bird | Retail Price |
    |————————|—————-|————–|
    | 8GB/128GB (Shadow Black) | $399 | $519 |
    | 12GB/256GB (Shadow Black) | $439 | $559 |
    | 16GB/512GB (Shadow Black) | $499 | $619 |
    | 16GB/1TB (Starry Yellow) | $599 | $719 |
    | 16GB/1TB (Retro Gray) | $639 | $759 |

    Shortly after announcing the price, the Pocket DS Indiegogo campaign launched, meaning you can place your pre-orders now. According to AYANEO, shipping is expected to start sometime in October, assuming there are no delays or production issues.

    In terms of shipping, AYANEO also provided additional insights about its plans for distributing the Pocket DS. Essentially, the company will ship starting from “high to low,” prioritizing the 16GB/1TB models before moving on to the lower tier configurations. This isn’t particularly surprising, but at least we have a clearer explanation rather than being left in the dark.

    Exciting software updates

    Given that the Pocket DS is the first dual-screen gaming handheld, AYANEO is seizing the chance to ensure everything is right from top to bottom. During the livestream, the company elaborated on some software adjustments and innovations that are underway to fully utilize having a dual-screened device.

    The first is the implementation of a three-finger gesture to transfer content from one display to the other. This should alleviate many potential frustrations when setting up your screen layout just the way you prefer. Supporting this, the Pocket DS will have three “Dual-Screen Modes” integrated into the software: Independent Display, Main Screen Only, and Second Screen Only.

    Additionally, a new AYANEO DS Launcher is also under development. Current AYANEO handhelds use the “AYASpace” launcher, which generally functions well, but is clearly not tailored for a dual-screen handheld.

    That said, the new DS Launcher includes some notable attributes like an App Drawer and Card-Style multitasking. AYANEO is also enhancing the ability to manage the second screen with a bar similar to those found on foldable phones. Plus, the Quick Control Center and Quick Settings are both being updated with pertinent settings and feature options.

    “One More Thing”

    This wasn’t all AYANEO revealed during the livestream, as the company had “One More Thing” to showcase—a third color option. Initially, the Pocket DS was expected to be available in “Shadow Black” and “Starry Yellow,” but now a limited edition “Retro Gray” has been added to the lineup.

    The Retro Gray takes inspiration from the NES and Game Boy with its matte gray finish and DMG-colored buttons. Aside from that (and a higher price), it’s identical to the other models, but with a caveat.

    Similar to the Starry Yellow option, the Retro Gray is only available in the 16GB/1TB configuration. AYANEO has a tendency to restrict its retro-themed color options to higher tiers, as observed with the AYANEO Pocket DMG, Pocket EVO, and various other gaming handhelds.

    Count us excited

    As someone who enjoys foldable devices and appreciates the form factor, the AYANEO Pocket DS will integrate seamlessly into my daily routine. The wait for placing a pre-order is finally over, and there’s even a new color option to select from ahead of its October release.

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on Apple Wallet Now Accepts IDs in the Eleventh State
    Apple Wallet Now Accepts IDs in the Eleventh State

    **Apple Wallet Support for IDs Grows in Montana**

    The availability of digital IDs in Apple Wallet is broadening, with Montana becoming the newest state to partake. Residents of Montana can now integrate their state-issued ID into the Wallet app on their iPhones, enabling easy mobile access.

    ### Apple Wallet Support for IDs

    Apple has declared that ID cards saved in Wallet can be used at specific TSA checkpoints at various airports throughout the United States. Furthermore, these digital IDs may be recognized at certain businesses and venues, although acceptance might differ.

    Montana officials have made it clear that residents should still carry their physical IDs in addition to their digital counterparts.

    The states currently supporting IDs in Apple Wallet comprise:

    – Arizona
    – California
    – Colorado
    – Georgia
    – Hawaii
    – Iowa
    – Maryland
    – Montana
    – New Mexico
    – Ohio
    – Puerto Rico

    The introduction of digital IDs in Apple Wallet has occurred incrementally, but Apple has suggested that additional states will soon embrace this capability. Future support is anticipated from Connecticut, Kentucky, Oklahoma, and Utah, with Arkansas and West Virginia expected to follow.

    ### Apple Wallet in iOS 26

    The Apple Wallet app is poised for major improvements with the upcoming iOS 26 launch, which is set for next fall. Significant upgrades will feature enhanced boarding pass functionalities with detailed Live Activities, airport maps, and luggage tracking integration via AirTags and the Find My app.

    For the first time, iOS 26 will permit U.S. users to keep their passports in the Wallet app, which can serve as identification at select TSA checkpoints, in applications, and in person.

    Further enhancements in iOS 26 will improve order tracking, simplify the viewing of saved credit card information, introduce new functionalities for Apple Pay, and allow users to opt out of promotional notifications.

    For a complete summary of the new features in Apple Wallet with iOS 26, check out the specialized guide available online.

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on Apple Anticipated to Postpone M5 MacBook Pro Launch Until Next Year: Is It Worth the Wait?
    Apple Anticipated to Postpone M5 MacBook Pro Launch Until Next Year: Is It Worth the Wait?

    ### Apple MacBook Pro Updates: Anticipations for the M5 Model

    Apple has historically revamped the MacBook Pro annually, mostly in October. This year, however, speculation suggests a deviation from this trend, with the forthcoming MacBook Pro variant likely debuting early next year. This prompts the inquiry: should you postpone your purchase for the new model?

    #### M5 MacBook Pro: Anticipated Features

    The forthcoming M5 MacBook Pro is expected to maintain the well-known 14-inch and 16-inch miniLED screens found in earlier versions, along with the same overall aesthetic style. Major visual design alterations are not anticipated.

    On the hardware front, the M5 will incorporate Apple’s latest M5 Silicon, manufactured using a third-generation 3nm process based on TSMC’s N3P technology. This enhancement is projected to yield modest performance gains compared to the M4, estimated between 10-20%.

    A significant hardware advancement may include the addition of Wi-Fi 7, which was introduced with the iPhone 16 series but has yet to be assimilated into the Mac lineup. This could be a crucial upgrade for users desiring swifter connectivity.

    In summary, the M5 MacBook Pro seems to be a minor update compared to the M4 model, which underwent notable enhancements, such as Thunderbolt 5, a nano texture display option, a new 12MP Center Stage webcam, and brighter screens.

    #### Should You Forego the M5?

    There are multiple factors to contemplate regarding passing on the M5 MacBook Pro. Firstly, the M4 model was a major update, rendering it a tempting choice for those wishing to upgrade from older M1 or M2 versions. The M4 14-inch MacBook Pro has recently achieved an all-time low price of $1299, making it a desirable option.

    A more compelling reason to delay is the expected M6 MacBook Pro, which promises a complete redesign featuring a new OLED display, a slimmer profile, and additional enhancements. With the M5 anticipated to launch in the first quarter of 2026 and the M6 projected for the fourth quarter of the same year, it may be prudent to either acquire an M4 model if immediate requirements emerge or wait for the M6 if possible. The sole exception would be for those who specifically desire Wi-Fi 7 on their MacBook.

    #### Conclusion

    In conclusion, while the M5 MacBook Pro will introduce some enhancements, the M4 model continues to be a robust contender for those in need of an upgrade at present. With the M6 nearing, potential purchasers should carefully evaluate their choices prior to making a decision.

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on Apple Watch Unveils Activity Challenge to Encourage National Parks
    Apple Watch Unveils Activity Challenge to Encourage National Parks

    ### Apple Watch Owners Prepare for the 2025 National Parks Challenge

    Apple Watch owners are invited to join the upcoming 2025 National Parks Challenge, scheduled for Sunday, August 24. This event honors the great outdoors and the splendor of national parks, encouraging users to engage in physical exercise while enjoying nature.

    #### Challenge Overview

    Participants can earn a unique award by completing any workout of 20 minutes or longer. This flexibility allows users to select from a wide range of workout options, provided they meet the minimum duration criteria. Workouts can be tracked using any app compatible with Apple Health, making it accessible for everyone.

    #### Incentives for Participation

    By finishing the challenge, participants will receive a virtual trophy, along with animated stickers that can be used in Messages, FaceTime, and other services. The stickers will showcase lively animations, including:

    – An animated rendition of the virtual trophy
    – A whale emerging from the water
    – A hiker
    – A kayaker

    These incentives not only serve as a playful way to celebrate the accomplishment but also motivate users to share their success with friends and family.

    #### Alerts and Reminders

    Apple Watch users can look forward to notifications about the challenge as the event date gets closer. This reminder will help ensure that participants are ready to join in the celebration of outdoor activities and national parks.

    In summary, the 2025 National Parks Challenge is an excellent opportunity for Apple Watch users to partake in physical activity while relishing the beauty of nature. Save the date for August 24 and prepare to earn your rewards!

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Apple Unveils Fifth Beta Firmware Update for AirPods Introducing Compatibility with iOS 26 Features
    Apple Unveils Fifth Beta Firmware Update for AirPods Introducing Compatibility with iOS 26 Features

    Apple has rolled out a new beta firmware iteration for AirPods testers, focusing on the AirPods Pro 2 and AirPods 4, which are now being updated to build 8A5343a. This update comes on the heels of the earlier version 8A5324b that was released in July.

    This is the second firmware rollout since Apple launched its public beta initiative for AirPods earlier this summer. The program has made it easier for users to apply firmware updates, and today’s release marks the first update since the program’s debut.

    The updated software gives testers a preliminary glimpse at several features anticipated in iOS 26. Notable features include automatic pausing when the user dozes off, high-fidelity audio recording, functionality to use AirPods as a camera remote, enhanced automatic switching while using CarPlay, and better voice clarity during phone calls.

    At this moment, these enhancements are limited to AirPods Pro 2 and AirPods 4. Users who wish to participate in the beta can sign up for Apple’s developer or public beta program, both of which are free and provide a much simpler update experience compared to earlier versions.

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