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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Apple TV Earns Four Grammy Nominations for F1: The Film and Severance
    Apple TV Earns Four Grammy Nominations for F1: The Film and Severance

    The Recording Academy has revealed the nominees for the forthcoming 68th Annual Grammy Awards, with Apple earning a total of four nominations. Below are the specifics.

    ## Four nominations across four categories

    This morning, the Recording Academy disclosed the complete lineup of nominees for the 2026 Grammy Awards, scheduled for February 1, 2026. Here are the categories Apple received nominations in, along with their competitors:

    ### Best Dance Pop Recording

    – [Bluest Flame](https://apple.co/3Lls3dM), Selena Gomez & benny blanco
    – [Abracadabra](https://apple.co/47PuAUZ), Lady Gaga
    – [Midnight Sun](https://apple.co/4qOGB5C), Zara Larsson
    – **[Just Keep Watching (From F1® The Movie)](https://apple.co/49443FK), Tate McRae**
    – [Illegal](https://apple.co/49GGHpS), PinkPantheress

    ### Best Country Solo Performance

    – [Nose On The Grindstone](https://apple.co/4orkLU9), Tyler Childers
    – [Good News](https://apple.co/4ouCPNv), Shaboozey
    – **[Bad As I Used To Be (From “F1® The Movie”)](https://apple.co/4r61slp), Chris Stapleton**
    – [I Never Lie](https://apple.co/4piRuLN), Zach Top
    – [Somewhere Over Laredo](https://apple.co/43fSxU3), Lainey Wilson

    ### Best Compilation Soundtrack For Visual Media

    – [A Complete Unknown](https://apple.co/4kcNbPD), Timothée Chalamet
    – **[F1® The Album](https://apple.co/3XiUprA), (Various Artists)**
    – [KPop Demon Hunters](https://apple.co/4hNZrWH), (Various Artists)
    – [Sinners](https://apple.co/4l0jmCu), (Various Artists)
    – [Wicked](https://apple.co/4qPtQYu), (Various Artists)

    ### Best Score Soundtrack For Visual Media (Includes Film And Television)

    – [How To Train Your Dragon](https://apple.co/3ZPlWTo), John Powell, composer
    – **[Severance: Season 2](https://apple.co/4mI15ey), Theodore Shapiro, composer**
    – [Sinners](https://apple.co/4l0jmCu), Ludwig Göransson, composer
    – [Wicked](https://apple.co/4qPtQYu), John Powell & Stephen Schwartz, composers
    – [The Wild Robot](https://apple.co/499gekC), Kris Bowers, composer

    The ceremony is scheduled for Sunday, February 1, at the Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles. It will be broadcasted live on the CBS Television Network and streamed on Paramount+. To view the complete list of nominees, click [this link](https://www.grammy.com/news/2026-grammys-nominations-full-winners-nominees-list).

    Apple Music requires a current subscription. You can

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on iOS 26.2: Summary of Latest Features for iPhone Users
    iOS 26.2: Summary of Latest Features for iPhone Users

    # iOS 26.2: Fresh Features and Improvements

    iOS 26.2 is officially open for beta testing, unveiling an array of new features and enhancements for iPhone users. This update brings improvements to Apple Podcasts, Reminders, and additional areas. Below is a detailed overview highlighting the key features of iOS 26.2.

    ## New Features in iOS 26.2

    ### Reminders
    The Reminders app has introduced a much-anticipated “Urgent” feature. This enables users to set an alarm for tasks that require immediate attention, ensuring that crucial items on your to-do list are not missed.

    ### Apple Music
    Apple Music upgrades its lyrics capability, permitting users to view lyrics for songs in their library even without internet access. This includes complete lyrics functionalities, such as translations and beat-by-beat synchronization.

    ### Apple Podcasts
    iOS 26.2 rolls out three major enhancements to Apple Podcasts:
    1. **AI-Generated Chapters**: The app can now automatically generate chapters for podcast episodes utilizing artificial intelligence, although producers can still supply their own chapters, which will take precedence.
    2. **Podcast Mentions**: Users can now view and follow mentioned podcasts directly from the player and transcript, facilitating easier access to referenced shows.

    ### Sleep Score
    With iOS 26.2, the Sleep Score feature on the Apple Watch has been fine-tuned. The criteria for classification levels have been modified to deliver a more precise evaluation of sleep quality. The revised levels are:
    – Very Low: 0-40 points
    – Low: 41-60 points
    – OK: 61-80 points
    – High: 81-95 points
    – Very High: 96-100 points

    ### Apple News
    The News app has experienced design updates to enhance user experience. The “Today” view now includes four specific buttons for quick access to Sports, Puzzles, Politics, and Food sections. Furthermore, a new “Following” tab has been introduced for simpler navigation of favorites, saved articles, and history.

    ### Changes for EU Users in iOS 26.2
    For users in the European Union, iOS 26.2 delivers both good and bad news. The update extends Live Translation with AirPods to EU users, a feature that was postponed due to regulatory challenges. However, it also eliminates Wi-Fi network syncing between iPhone and Apple Watch, now requiring manual sign-ins for each network.

    ### Liquid Glass
    iOS 26.2 improves the Liquid Glass feature by incorporating a slider on the Lock Screen, allowing users to tailor the transparency of the clock. This feature provides enhanced options for personalization.

    ### Additional Updates
    Other significant updates in iOS 26.2 comprise:
    – A new “Enhanced Safety Alerts” menu for controlling earthquake and imminent threat notifications.
    – Support for tables within the Freeform app.
    – An “Excluded Websites” menu in the Passwords app.
    – A new Accessibility option for “Flash to Alerts,” which makes the screen flash for notifications.

    ## Conclusion
    iOS 26.2 is now accessible to developers and public beta testers, with a complete rollout anticipated in mid-December. As testing progresses, additional features may be introduced. Users are invited to share their preferred changes and experiences with the new update.

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Scientists Commemorate Nature’s Comeback One Year Following Klamath Dam Initiative
    Scientists Commemorate Nature’s Comeback One Year Following Klamath Dam Initiative

    fouling Florida shores — would flourish, posing risks for fishermen relying on that river. It also led to a near extinction of the Klamath’s Chinook — a variety of salmon.

    Although the dams have been taken down, a lengthy path to recovery remains for this fish population, yet researchers are encouraged by the progress seen thus far. Salmon have started to spawn in the upper river yet again. More than 400 miles of ecosystem is being restored, featuring lush vegetation, flowing water, and aquatic life transforming it into a haven. There has been a significant reduction in harmful algae. Moreover, kayakers are once again returning to the river, able to explore its full stretch for the first time in a century. The journey to reach this milestone was arduous, but this achievement makes the effort worthwhile.

    The initiative to remove the Klamath dams

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on “AYN Odin 3 and KONKR Pocket FIT Transform Portable Gaming with Snapdragon 8 Elite Performance and Cost-Effective PC Game Emulation”
    “AYN Odin 3 and KONKR Pocket FIT Transform Portable Gaming with Snapdragon 8 Elite Performance and Cost-Effective PC Game Emulation”

    The Snapdragon Elite performance in Android gaming handhelds is simply incredible.

    (Image credit: Andrew Myrick / Android Central)
    Beyond the Alphabet

    (Image credit: Nicholas Sutrich / Android Central)

    Beyond the Alphabet is a weekly piece that delves into the technology sector both within and beyond the borders of Mountain View.

    Upon its initial release, the Steam Deck eclipsed the competition. Not simply because of

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on Three Fresh Features in iPadOS 26 That Improve the iPad Experience
    Three Fresh Features in iPadOS 26 That Improve the iPad Experience

    # iPadOS 26: A Revolutionary Update for iPad Users

    iPadOS 26 marks an important enhancement for iPad users, bringing a variety of productivity improvements that enrich the user interface. Here are three key features that have greatly influenced my usage of the iPad Pro.

    ## 1. Enhanced Windowing System

    The enhanced windowing system stands out in iPadOS 26, permitting users to display up to 12 apps simultaneously. This feature transcends merely the quantity of apps; it offers the capability to resize and arrange apps according to personal preferences. Unlike earlier multitasking systems, this update allows users to personalize their workspace, facilitating the efficient management of multiple tasks. While there are still some constraints, such as the Slide Over feature being limited to one app at a time, the overall experience with the updated windowing system has been significantly improved.

    ## 2. Enhanced Dock Features

    The dock has consistently been a vital part of the iPad experience, and iPadOS 26 significantly enhances its features. Major improvements include:

    – **Persistent Dock**: The capacity to keep the dock displayed at all times accelerates the process of switching between apps, making it more intuitive.
    – **Expanded App Capacity**: Users can now hold almost twice the amount of apps in the dock, along with folders from the Files app, improving organization and accessibility.
    – **Refined Multitasking**: These enhancements foster a more Mac-like experience, streamlining the multitasking procedure and simplifying the management of various applications.

    ## 3. New App Menu Bar

    The arrival of a specialized menu bar for apps signifies a notable leap in app usability on the iPad. This feature enables developers to highlight the full potential of their applications, granting users straightforward access to various controls and keyboard shortcuts. The menu bar enhances the overall workflow, facilitating easier navigation through app functionalities and uncovering features that might have been overlooked previously.

    In summary, iPadOS 26 introduces a plethora of new features that greatly amplify productivity and usability for iPad users. The improved windowing system, dock enhancements, and app menu bar are merely a few illustrations of how this update transforms the iPad experience. Which new features are you finding enjoyable in iPadOS 26?

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on WhatsApp Launches Improved Security Features for High-Risk Accounts
    WhatsApp Launches Improved Security Features for High-Risk Accounts

    **WhatsApp Unveils Stringent Account Settings for At-Risk Users**

    Individuals who are more susceptible to cyber threats will soon benefit from advanced security features on WhatsApp. This new capability, noted in the recent WhatsApp update on TestFlight, aims to add an additional layer of defense for those who might become targets of cybercriminals.

    ### Summary of the New Feature

    According to WABetaInfo, the feature named “Stringent account settings” can be located within the Privacy > Advanced area of the application. It empowers users to activate a set of rigorous security protocols if they feel they are in danger of a cyber incident.

    ### Essential Security Protocols

    Upon activation, the stringent account settings will automatically impose various protective protocols:

    – **Blocking Media and Attachments**: Users will not receive media and attachments from unknown contacts, lowering the risk of harmful content.
    – **Revised Privacy Settings**: The application will restrict who can reach out via calls or messages, boosting privacy.
    – **Secured Settings**: Certain settings will be locked to uphold a high security standard, though users can deactivate the stringent account settings whenever they choose.

    ### Effect on User Experience

    Though these security protocols are advantageous for at-risk users, the launch of stringent account settings may affect the overall quality of messaging and calls. Users should keep in mind that call quality might be diminished when this feature is enabled.

    ### Additional Modifications

    Beyond the main protocols, activating stringent account settings will also result in further modifications, which include:

    – Muting unknown callers.
    – Limiting automatic group invitations to known contacts.
    – Turning off link previews.
    – Informing users of changes to encryption keys.
    – Enabling two-step verification.
    – Reducing the visibility of personal data for unknown contacts.

    ### User Convenience

    While many of these security features are already accessible on WhatsApp, the stringent account settings option simplifies the process by automatically adjusting all pertinent settings. This enables at-risk users to swiftly implement thorough security measures without needing to navigate each option individually.

    ### Release Information

    Similar to other beta features on WhatsApp, there is currently no defined schedule for when the stringent account mode will be officially rolled out to the entire user base.

    In summary, the introduction of stringent account settings on WhatsApp marks a noteworthy advancement in enhancing user security, especially for those who may be more exposed to cyber threats.

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on Waymo Grows Robotaxi Fleet in Key US Cities
    Waymo Grows Robotaxi Fleet in Key US Cities

    operate entirely autonomous vehicles in urban areas across the nation. Among these cities are Atlanta, Austin, and New York City. If you’re unaware, Waymo is a ride-hailing platform, akin to a taxi service, mainly accessible through the Waymo app. However, based on the location, you can arrange for a Waymo cab via Uber. You request a ride, and it will transport you to your desired location, without the need for drivers. The company claims that Waymo vehicles have autonomously navigated public roads for over 100 million miles and have successfully conducted more than 10 million paid rides. Therefore, it is no surprise that the company is expanding into at least three additional U.S. cities.

    In November, the Waymo blog reported that users will soon be able to hail Waymo self-driving taxis in Las Vegas, San Diego, and Detroit. However, local residents won’t have access to the service initially. The blog mentions that the autonomous vehicles must first familiarize themselves with “

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on iPhone Fold to Feature 24MP Under-Display Selfie Camera
    iPhone Fold to Feature 24MP Under-Display Selfie Camera

    https://t.co/JoZfrhG1tr pic.twitter.com/5YHLHQL5jF

    — Max Weinbach (@MaxWinebach) November 5, 2025

    Max Weinbach posted the image above, which also originates from a JPMorgan report, revealing alleged specifications for various iPhone models, ranging from iPhone 16 (2024) to iPhone 19 (2027). The image displays an “underdisplay 24Mpx 6P” camera noted for next year’s foldable iPhone. It is uncertain whether the two supposed JPMorgan documents that emerged this week are the same, but it appears improbable that we are examining two different notes from the same research group.

    A first for the industry

    <div class="slide-key image-holder gallery-image-holder

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on How Siri, Fueled by Gemini, is Anticipated to Operate Internally
    How Siri, Fueled by Gemini, is Anticipated to Operate Internally

    **Google and Apple’s $1 Billion Collaboration: The Future of Siri with Gemini**

    Earlier this week, Bloomberg disclosed that Google and Apple are close to finalizing a substantial annual agreement worth $1 billion for a variant of the Gemini model, intended to upgrade Siri’s functionalities next year. This collaboration not only signifies a major financial investment but also introduces a crucial transformation in the framework that will affect user experience.

    ### Grasping the 1.2 Trillion Parameters

    As per Bloomberg’s findings, Google is projected to supply Apple with a model featuring 1.2 trillion parameters, which will function on Apple’s Private Cloud Compute servers. This setup guarantees that Google will not have access to the data processed by this model, a significant benefit for user privacy.

    The impressive scale of a 1.2 trillion parameter model is noteworthy, but making direct comparisons with competing models is intricate. Recently, prominent AI labs like OpenAI and Anthropic have stopped revealing the parameter counts for their leading models, resulting in speculation surrounding the actual capabilities of models like GPT-5 and Claude Sonnet 4.5. Estimates fluctuate widely, with some indicating they possess fewer than a trillion parameters, while others suggest they could scale to several trillion.

    ### The Mixture of Experts Framework

    A prevalent characteristic among many sophisticated AI models is the employment of a mixture of experts (MoE) framework. Apple has already integrated a version of MoE in its current cloud-based model, which is rumored to comprise 150 billion parameters.

    MoE organizes a model with numerous specialized sub-networks, or ‘experts.’ For each input, only a selection of these experts is activated, improving computational efficiency and speed. This allows models to sustain elevated parameter counts while reducing inference costs, as not every parameter needs to be engaged for each input.

    For example, a model with 1.2 trillion parameters may activate merely 2-4 experts per input, implying that around 75-150 billion parameters are employed at any given time. This technique allows the model to operate at a high level while keeping computational requirements manageable.

    ### Future Consequences for Siri

    While there have been no detailed reports outlining the framework of the model Google may deliver to Apple, it is highly probable that the MoE approach will be essential for effective operation, particularly given the model’s size. The performance of the Gemini-enhanced Siri relative to other models available at its launch next year remains to be observed, but the incorporation of such cutting-edge technology could greatly improve user engagement and functionality.

    In summary, the partnership between Google and Apple signifies a major advancement in AI technology, particularly in the domain of virtual assistants. The anticipated deployment of a 1.2 trillion parameter model, likely making use of a mixture of experts architecture, could transform how Siri functions and communicates with users, establishing a new benchmark in the industry.

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Flight Sight Unveils Engaging Video and 3D Helicopters on Apple Vision Pro
    Flight Sight Unveils Engaging Video and 3D Helicopters on Apple Vision Pro

    ### Apple Vision Pro Revolutionizes Helicopter Training with Flight Sight App

    Apple Vision Pro has recently broadened its array of services with the launch of an innovative app tailored for helicopter training and flight simulations. Crafted by Rogue Labs, Flight Sight merges state-of-the-art technology with engaging content to deliver an unparalleled educational platform.

    #### Features of Flight Sight

    Flight Sight is heralded as the “future of immersive helicopter training and flight simulations.” The app features a range of sophisticated attributes:

    – **180-Degree Apple Immersive Video**: Training footage is recorded with the Blackmagic URSA Cine Immersive camera, delivering a realistic perspective on helicopter operations.
    – **Hyper-Realistic 3D Models**: Users can inspect detailed 3D representations of helicopters, showcasing complex interiors and exteriors.
    – **Flight Pattern Animations**: The app offers spatial airport procedure maps that aid in visualizing arrivals and departures, enriching comprehension of flight operations.
    – **Scalable Learning Interactions**: Users can adjust aircraft models for close inspections, fostering deeper understanding of helicopter mechanics.

    #### Insights from Rogue Labs

    Matt Barnes, founder and CEO of Rogue Labs, revealed the inspiration behind Flight Sight. With a background in education and aviation, Barnes sought to elevate flight training standards. He acknowledged the significance of acclimating students to the cockpit setting before real flights, aiming to alleviate stress and improve learning effectiveness. The unveiling of Apple Vision Pro provided the technological advancement necessary to fulfill this vision.

    Rogue Labs had previously attempted to craft similar experiences on Meta’s Quest platform but encountered challenges due to display limitations. Enhancements in visionOS 26 have greatly refined the development process, facilitating features like SharePlay and improved memory management.

    John Racine, the creative and technical director at Rogue Labs, underscored the assistance received from Apple during the Flight Sight development process, which encompassed workshops and support on design and coding.

    #### Future Developments

    Barnes stressed that the existing iteration of Flight Sight is merely the start. The team is dedicated to continually incorporating new content each month, ensuring the app remains valuable for both training and general aviation enthusiasts.

    Flight Sight is intended not only for trainees but also for anyone intrigued by aviation or technology. Users can delve into immersive videos, flight maps, and 3D models, creating an engaging experience for all.

    #### Availability

    Flight Sight is currently available for purchase on the App Store for $9.99, with additional in-app purchases to unlock further content. This groundbreaking app signifies a notable advancement in the field of aviation training and immersive experiences on the Apple Vision Pro platform.

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