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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Budget-Friendly Refurbished iPad Pros Enhance iPadOS 26 Capabilities
    Budget-Friendly Refurbished iPad Pros Enhance iPadOS 26 Capabilities

    ### Budget-Friendly Renewed iPad Pro Offers: A Fantastic Opportunity

    Recently, while browsing Apple offers on Amazon, I found that premium iPad Pros, especially the 12.9-inch variants, are surprisingly economical. For example, M1 models boasting 1TB storage and cellular options were listed for nearly $600. With the latest update of iPadOS 26, which improves the iPad’s capability to resemble a Mac, these offers are definitely worth highlighting.

    #### Revamped M1 iPad Pro Offers

    Amazon’s refurbishment initiative, “Amazon Renewed,” presents a range of pre-owned, cleaned, and tested gadgets at attractive prices, accompanied by a 90-day return policy for any concerns. The M1 iPad Pro models, launched in 2021, come with notable enhancements, such as Thunderbolt compatibility, a 12MP front-facing ultra-wide camera equipped with Center Stage, 5G support, and for the 12.9-inch variants, a mini-LED display recognized as “Liquid Retina XDR,” which achieves up to 1600 nits of peak brightness.

    Here are some prominent offers on renewed M1 iPad Pro models in superb condition:

    – **128GB** for $509
    – **256GB** for $539
    – **512GB** for $605
    – **1TB** (ideal for the 16GB memory) for close to $600

    Although the offers on 11-inch models aren’t as striking, they still warrant consideration.

    #### Revamped M2 iPad Pro Offers

    The M2 iPad Pro is quite akin to the M1 variant, with the primary distinction being Apple Pencil hover support, which enables users to view where the Apple Pencil will contact the display, improving accuracy. The M2 model also provides Wi-Fi 6E support.

    At this moment, there are no enticing offers on 11-inch M2 models, but the 12.9-inch selections are accessible in excellent condition with a 90-day return policy.

    For those in search of accessories, the **Logitech Combo Touch** keyboard and trackpad case pairs nicely with the 12.9-inch iPad Pro and is priced at $147.

    #### Revamped iPad Air Offers

    While the emphasis is on the M1 and M2 iPad Pros, it’s important to highlight the renewed iPad Air models, which share the same chipsets. Although you might sacrifice on display quality, connectivity, and audio, the iPad Air presents a more economical choice. Currently, there are no significant offers on renewed M2 iPad Air models.

    #### Final Thoughts

    The affordability of these renewed iPad models is remarkable. While it may be tempting to chase after the latest versions, opting for renewed models can lead to considerable savings while still delivering great performance. In context, a new M4 13-inch iPad Pro with 1TB of storage and 16GB of memory retails for about $1699, whereas an older M2 model with identical specifications is approximately $759, nearly $1000 less.

    If renewed iPads aren’t the right fit for you, there are also current offers on new models that are worth checking out.

    What are your opinions on iPadOS 26? Does it increase the attractiveness of the iPad for you?

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Comparison of Google Pixel Watch 4 and Pixel Watch 3: Achieving Genuine Flagship Recognition
    Comparison of Google Pixel Watch 4 and Pixel Watch 3: Achieving Genuine Flagship Recognition

    Here’s what the Google Pixel Watch 4 will enhance compared to its predecessor.

    The upcoming Pixel Watch

    The Google Pixel Watch is currently establishing its identity, and the anticipated Pixel Watch 4 is likely to further enhance the ultimate Wear OS smartwatch. We might witness a reduced bezel, improved battery life, a novel charging system, and even greater performance.

    Pros
    – Updated design featuring thinner bezels
    – Enhanced battery life due to Wear OS 6 and possibly larger capacity
    – Potential chip upgrade for superior performance

    Cons
    – Google might alter the charging system once more
    – Consistent Fitbit-style sensors and health insights
    – Waterdrop design may not appeal to everyone

    The existing Pixel Watch

    The Google Pixel Watch 3 has once more built upon the distinctive design and position of the Pixel Watch. It’s fashionable, incorporates vivid software, and emphasizes simplicity. However, the limited fitness features and battery life are significant downsides of choosing a Google smartwatch.

    Pros
    – Will gain Gemini and battery life enhancements with Wear OS 6
    – Larger, brighter display compared to previous models
    – Still capable of providing excellent performance and health monitoring

    Cons
    – Not the most rugged smartwatch available
    – GPS accuracy can be unreliable, and health features could be enhanced
    – Shorter battery duration

    The Pixel Watch embodies Google’s vision for what a Wear OS smartwatch should be, but even in its third iteration, the platform has ample room for improvement. While the Google Pixel Watch 3 is a favorite among Android users, it still falls short compared to Wear OS smartwatches from Samsung and OnePlus in crucial areas.

    That’s why we’re eager for the forthcoming Google Pixel Watch 4, which aims to tackle some of these challenges, potentially elevating the smartwatch into true flagship status. The Pixel Watch 4 has yet to be officially announced, but early rumors and leaks provide insights into what the next Google Watch could offer. Here’s a hypothetical analysis of how the Pixel Watch 4 might advance over the Pixel Watch 3.

    Google Pixel Watch 4 vs. Pixel Watch 3: Pricing and availability

    The Google Pixel Watch 4 is anticipated to debut alongside the Pixel 10 series, set to be unveiled at an event on August 20. For context, the Pixel Watch 3 was revealed on August 13, 2024, and became available from September 10, 2024.

    Concerning pricing, no current rumors or leaks indicate a price alteration for the Pixel Watch 4. Indeed, a recent leak suggests that the price will stay consistent in Europe, which is positive news. This means you’ll pay $349 for a 41mm watch and $399 for a 45mm watch, with optional LTE versions charging an additional $100. However, these prices remain unconfirmed and could certainly increase due to inflation and other supply chain concerns.

    The Google Pixel Watch 3 is currently obtainable in two sizes: 41mm and 45mm, with prices commencing at $349 and $399, respectively. Each size offers three color options: Matte Black and Polished Silver for both models, Champagne Gold as an exclusive for the 41mm version, and Matte Hazel as an exclusive for the 45mm variant. The upgrade to cellular connectivity costs an additional $100.

    Google Pixel Watch 4 vs. Pixel Watch 3: Design and display

    Leaked renders of the Google Pixel Watch 4 might provide an early glimpse of Google’s forthcoming smartwatch. In simple terms, the Pixel Watch 4 appears to have a contentious design if these renders turn out to be correct. They show the Pixel Watch 4 to be about 2mm thicker than its predecessor, with no rear charging pins apparent.

    These design modifications could provoke differing opinions among Pixel Watch enthusiasts. A positive aspect of this change is that the Pixel Watch 4 might revert to a wireless charging puck for power instead of the contacts and pins present on the Pixel Watch 3. Conversely, this would indicate that the Pixel Watch has altered charging methods three times in four generations, which isn’t ideal for consistency.

    Otherwise, the Pixel Watch 4 is expected to maintain the same “waterdrop” design language as its predecessors. This time, the bezels might be sleeker, helping to make the newer model appear more contemporary. If the case dimensions remain mostly unchanged, we could see the displays of the Pixel Watch 4 slightly expand compared to the 1.27- and 1.43-inch displays on the Pixel Watch 3.

    The Google Pixel Watch 3 has a thickness of 12.3mm, so if these rumors are accurate, the new model could approach 15mm in thickness. That certainly isn’t favorable, as the current Pixel Watch 3 is already on the thicker end of smartwatch dimensions. The recently announced Samsung Galaxy Watch 8 measures only 8.6mm thick, while the Apple Watch Series 10 is merely 9.7mm thick.

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on Steps to Protect Your Personal Information from Stalkers
    Steps to Protect Your Personal Information from Stalkers

    # Safeguarding Your Private Information in the Era of Data Brokers

    Given that data brokers are earning substantial profits from the sale of your personal information, it has become increasingly simple for nefarious actors to obtain sensitive data such as your phone number, email, physical address, and even your social security number. This situation not only subjects you to spam and scams but also poses serious threats to individuals who may be at risk of stalking and harassment.

    ## Steps to Eliminate Personal Information

    Data brokers are firms that focus on purchasing and vending personal data. While they occasionally attract attention due to data breaches, most of their activities take place in obscurity. Despite persistent conversations regarding possible regulatory actions, data broking continues to be a legal enterprise, often taking advantage of the terms users consent to when registering for websites or applications.

    Luckily, there are measures you can implement to eliminate your personal information from the web.

    ### Conduct a Google Search to Find Websites with Your Information

    Begin by searching for your name online. Utilize different variations of your name and other identifying details to narrow your search results. For example:

    “`
    Jane Doe
    Jane Doe Boston
    Jane Doe doctor
    Jane Doe Massachusetts General Hospital
    Jane Doe Harvard
    “`

    In certain instances, you may be able to remove the information directly from profiles you have established. If that is not possible, use the website’s “Contact Us” feature to ask for removal. If they do not comply or do not reply, look for a DMCA Takedown Request option, as these requests are generally reviewed by the website’s legal division.

    ### Request Google to Remove Search Results

    If a site does not remove your information, you can ask Google to eliminate links to that content through their [personal data removal request form](https://reportcontent.google.com/forms/rtbf). The outcome will depend on your location and Google’s evaluation of privacy versus public interest.

    ### Examine People Search Services

    People search websites are created to gather contact details. Inspect platforms like [Spokeo](https://www.spokeo.com), [Whitepages](https://www.whitepages.com), and [BeenVerified](https://www.beenverified.com) to see if your personal information appears. Adhere to their opt-out guidelines to remove your information.

    ### Scrutinize Your Social Media Accounts

    Review your profiles on social media platforms including Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and LinkedIn. Make sure that your privacy settings are as stringent as you desire, and contemplate deleting or modifying the privacy settings on previous posts that may include sensitive data.

    ### Consider a Data Removal Service

    Manually identifying all organizations that possess your data and submitting removal requests can be time-consuming. Think about utilizing a paid data removal service like Incogni, which can simplify the process. They provide discounts for readers and permit you to protect multiple phone numbers and addresses.

    ## Additional Methods to Protect Yourself

    In more severe situations, further actions may be required to protect your privacy. Services like [Google Voice](https://apps.apple.com/us/app/google-voice/id318698524) enable you to create virtual phone numbers, and acquiring a [PO Box](https://www.usps.com/manage/po-boxes.htm) can assist in safeguarding your physical address.

    If you have shared location data with anyone, revisit your settings to ensure you are no longer disclosing your location. Inspect your app permissions and revoke access from any applications that could be sharing your location publicly.

    If someone is causing you distress or instilling fear for your safety, don’t hesitate to reach out to law enforcement. If the issue involves a former partner, contact the domestic abuse team since they specialize in such situations.

    Maintain records of any unwanted contact to support law enforcement and gather proof for a possible restraining order. Keep messages and call logs, and take screenshots of texts as soon as they come in.

    For additional guidance and resources, visit the

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Indie App Highlight: ‘Nunch’ – A Chic Calorie and Macro Monitoring Tool
    Indie App Highlight: ‘Nunch’ – A Chic Calorie and Macro Monitoring Tool

    # Indie App Highlight: Nunch – Your Premier Macro Tracker

    Welcome to Indie App Highlight, a weekly series where we feature the newest apps in the indie app landscape. This week, we present Nunch, an innovative app crafted to assist users in effortlessly tracking their diet and eating behaviors.

    ## Key Features of Nunch

    Nunch primarily distinguishes itself with its intuitive interface. The app boasts a sleek design that enables users to swiftly obtain crucial details like calories, macros, and weight development straight from the dashboard. With stunning visuals and graphs, Nunch streamlines the input of nutritional information.

    For users lacking precise nutritional data for a meal, Nunch provides an extensive database of thousands of nutrient-verified foods. This functionality allows for accurate meal logging, even when specific numbers are not available. Moreover, Nunch permits users to build a customized meal library, simplifying the process of reusing and sharing recipes with friends and family.

    A notable benefit of Nunch is its iCloud Sync feature, ensuring your data stays current across your iPhone and iPad without any tracking issues. Users can also personalize their experience with a variety of themes and icons, adding a unique flair to their app interaction.

    ## Get the App

    Nunch is accessible on the App Store for iPhone and iPad users with iOS 18.2 and upwards. The app provides a 7-day free trial, after which it is priced at $4.99 per month or $34.99 annually. Importantly, Nunch is completely free of advertisements, ensuring a smooth user experience without distractions.

    For anyone seeking to improve their dietary tracking and reach better health targets, Nunch is an excellent application that merges functionality with an attractive design.

    Discover Nunch today and make the first move towards improved dietary management!

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on Surprisingly Enthralled by the Antioxidant Index of Samsung Galaxy Watch 8
    Surprisingly Enthralled by the Antioxidant Index of Samsung Galaxy Watch 8

    The Galaxy Watch 8, Classic, and Ultra have unveiled an exclusive capability that assesses your body’s carotenoids via your thumb, delivering an antioxidant index. This function intends to shed light on whether you’re meeting the recommended daily fruit and vegetable intake as advised by the World Health Organization. Carotenoids, the coloring agents present in vibrant fruits and vegetables, serve as antioxidants, mitigating oxidative stress caused by unhealthy lifestyle choices.

    Samsung’s BioActive sensor employs multihued LEDs to identify carotenoids stored in the skin, as the capillaries in the wrist can impede precise readings. By placing your thumb on the sensor, the watch can more accurately evaluate carotenoid levels. This non-invasive technique presently emphasizes carotenoids, but future software enhancements may encompass additional antioxidants.

    The antioxidant index organizes results into Adequate (75–100), Low (50–75), and Very Low (0–49), where adequate scores signify sufficient intake. The index can be affected by diet, stress, and lifestyle habits such as smoking and alcohol consumption.

    A personal experiment with the Galaxy Watch 8 revealed that enhancing the consumption of carotenoid-rich foods, including carrots, sweet potatoes, leafy greens, and citrus fruits, gradually elevated the antioxidant index score. Nevertheless, the sensor mainly identifies carotenoids, so the true antioxidant level may be greater due to other non-pigmented antioxidants that are not accounted for by the watch.

    While this feature provides a helpful baseline for health, it is crucial to uphold a balanced diet comprising foods abundant in other antioxidants to ensure overall health. The Galaxy Watch 8 series presents this groundbreaking health monitoring tool, in addition to various features like circadian rhythm tracking and heart health insights, making it a significant resource for health-minded individuals.

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on Apple Excluded from Corning’s EU Antitrust Inquiry Accord
    Apple Excluded from Corning’s EU Antitrust Inquiry Accord

    The European Commission has wrapped up an antitrust inquiry into Corning’s glass supply contracts, concentrating on the company’s actions regarding its Gorilla Glass, which is extensively utilized in smartphones, tablets, and wearables. The inquiry prompted worries about Corning potentially misusing its dominant market status by binding original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) and glass processing firms into exclusive supply contracts, consequently restricting competition from other glass producers.

    Although Corning supplies specialty cover glass to Apple, the Commission found that these particular products did not fall under the inquiry’s purview, as they are specifically designed for Apple’s purposes. As a result, the investigation mainly focused on Corning’s interactions with other OEMs and finishers in the marketplace.

    In response to the Commission’s concerns, Corning proposed a set of commitments designed to ensure equitable competition. These commitments encompassed:

    1. Broadening the commitments to include both Alkali-AS Glass and Clear Glass Ceramics, which are expected to see increased usage in the future.
    2. Releasing all exclusive dealing provisions in existing contracts with OEMs and pledging not to incorporate similar provisions in upcoming contracts.
    3. Not mandating OEMs in the European Economic Area (EEA) to procure specific volumes of glass from Corning, nor conditioning price benefits on such purchases.
    4. Enforcing a limitation that prevents Corning from requiring OEMs to obtain more than 50% of their glass needs from them on a global scale.
    5. Guaranteeing that finishers are not compelled to buy more than 50% of their total worldwide demand for glass from Corning.
    6. Restricting patent enforcement related to break-resistant cover glass to claims based solely on patent infringement, steering clear of breach of contract allegations.
    7. Incorporating a standard anti-circumvention provision in contracts.
    8. Informing key stakeholders of the commitments in both English and Mandarin.

    These commitments will last for nine years, during which a trustee will oversee compliance. Corning’s agreement with Apple, however, will remain as is. This arrangement allows Corning to bypass further regulatory measures while fostering a more competitive landscape in the glass supply sector.

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on How to Select the Ideal Smartphone for Your Requirements: Professional Advice
    How to Select the Ideal Smartphone for Your Requirements: Professional Advice

    Nothing can claim to be the best at all things.

    In the realm of technology and consumer items, the pursuit of the “ultimate” is a widespread endeavor. Whether it’s the top smartphone, laptop, or any other device, buyers frequently aim for the highest-performing choice. Nonetheless, the truth is that no product can be the best across the board. This idea is particularly clear in the domain of smartphones, where individual preferences and distinct requirements significantly influence what is deemed “best” for a person.

    When looking to purchase a new phone, many individuals want the top option available. However, the interpretation of “best” significantly differs based on personal priorities. For example, a phone that scores highly in camera performance might not boast the finest battery longevity, while a gadget with excellent speed might fall short in aesthetic design. The variation in features and specifications explains the multitude of “best phone” lists, each focusing on different criteria such as camera quality, battery endurance, performance, and design.

    The understanding that nothing can be the best at everything extends beyond smartphones. It applies to countless areas of life, including technology, personal choices, and even professional abilities. In the realm of smartphones, this suggests that while a device may shine in certain domains, it can also underperform in others. For instance, a phone with a fantastic camera might not provide the most seamless software experience, or a model with an attractive exterior might sacrifice battery efficiency.

    Ultimately, the ideal phone for a person hinges on their unique needs and choices. Some users value camera excellence, while others prioritize battery longevity or processing power. This variety in priorities is why there isn’t a single “best” phone suitable for all users. Instead, consumers need to assess their requirements and select a device that corresponds with their inclinations.

    In summary, the notion that nothing can be the best at all things serves as a reminder that individual preferences and particular requirements play an essential role in defining what is “best” for a person. In the smartphone landscape, this means that while a gadget may excel in certain capabilities, it may not be the optimal selection for everyone. Ultimately, the finest phone is the one that satisfies the unique needs and desires of the user.

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on Mysterious Underground Masses Could Initiate Volcanic Eruptions
    Mysterious Underground Masses Could Initiate Volcanic Eruptions

    Volcanic Eruptions Might Be Triggered by Enigmatic ‘BLOBS’ Beneath the Earth’s Surface

    Although many educational resources suggest that the Earth’s lower mantle—the layer situated far beneath the crust—is uniform, it is actually characterized by a rugged topography that shifts and evolves similarly to the crust overhead. Additionally, studies reveal that this lower mantle harbors two immense structures the size of continents, which researchers have labeled big lower-mantle basal structures, or BLOBS.

    The precise composition of these BLOBS remains unknown; however, scientists speculate they might comprise similar materials to their surroundings. Indeed, recent research appearing in the journal Communications Earth & Environment implies that volcanic activities on our planet could be influenced by volcanic plumes that migrate with their sources.

    The sources in question, researchers contend, may be the BLOBS located deep within the Earth. These cryptic structures seem to serve as the motivating factor behind the planet’s volcanic timeline, and although many scientists diligently work to validate this, analyses of prior simulations have presented a fairly lucid context.

    Initially, the researchers leveraged computer models to replicate the movements of the BLOBS from over 1 billion years ago. These simulations indicated that the BLOBS generated mantle plumes that were at times tilted or even ascended higher. This implies that the eruptions observed during the last billion years likely occurred above the BLOBS, or at least in close proximity to them.

    The researchers assert that this information indicates a potential link between the Earth’s volcanic activity and the BLOBS, regardless of their depth within the planet. The results are “promising,” as the researchers mention in a post on The Conversation, suggesting that future simulations may succeed in predicting where mantle plumes may emerge next. This could assist in developing a general warning system for volcanic activity.

    Despite their capacity for destruction—the Hunga volcano eruption of 2022 continues to break records long after—significant volcanic eruptions can also produce new islands and landmasses. Understanding where they happen—or where they occurred historically—could aid in saving lives and enhancing our knowledge of how our planet has evolved over different eras. Certainly, much remains to be uncovered about the enigmatic BLOBS nestled deep within the Earth. Yet, this research serves as a critical lead that could pave the way for numerous new discoveries and insights.

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on ASUS ProArt 6K Display for Mac Users Scheduled to Release in August at an Appealing Price Point
    ASUS ProArt 6K Display for Mac Users Scheduled to Release in August at an Appealing Price Point

    ### ASUS Launches Budget-Friendly 6K 32-Inch ProArt Monitor

    Following its first reveal at Computex 2024 and presentation at CES 2025, ASUS has disclosed the release date, pricing, and specifications of its latest 6K 32-inch ProArt monitor. Anticipated to debut in late August, this monitor is set to revolutionize the market for creatives and professionals in search of high-resolution displays.

    #### Pricing and Availability

    The ASUS ProArt monitor will be priced at $1299, making it the most economical 32-inch 6K choice on the market. This pricing significantly beats competitors, including Apple’s Pro Display XDR at $4999 and Dell’s option at $2999. Although there are more affordable 32-inch 4K monitors, the 6K resolution is vital for those requiring sharp Retina scaling on macOS, offering a pixel density of 218 pixels per inch (ppi).

    #### Key Features

    The ASUS ProArt monitor showcases several remarkable specifications:

    – **Color Precision**: Achieving a Delta E<2 color accuracy, it guarantees exact color reproduction, essential for graphic design and video editing.
    – **Color Coverage**: The monitor covers 98% of the DCI-P3 color spectrum, making it ideal for professional color grading and media creation.
    – **Brightness**: With a peak brightness of 600 nits, it enhances visibility and richness in different lighting environments.
    – **Anti-Glare Finish**: The monitor incorporates an anti-glare surface, which may not be favored by those who like glossy displays.

    #### Connectivity Options

    The ProArt monitor is outfitted with an array of ports to support various configurations:

    – **Thunderbolt 4 Ports**: Two Thunderbolt 4 ports facilitate high-speed data transfer and the ability to daisy-chain multiple devices.
    – **DisplayPort 1.4 and HDMI 2.1**: These ports offer versatility for connecting to different devices.
    – **USB-C for KVM**: This functionality allows users to manage several computers with a single keyboard and mouse setup.
    – **USB Hub**: Additional connectivity features a USB hub with one USB-C port and two USB-A ports, alongside a headphone jack and integrated speakers.
    – **Power Delivery**: The Thunderbolt ports provide up to 96W of passthrough charging for compatible USB-C laptops.

    #### Conclusion

    The ASUS 6K 32-inch ProArt monitor is poised to be an appealing choice for both professionals and hobbyists, presenting high-end features at an attractive price. With its release scheduled for late August, it is expected to offer exceptional capabilities for creative work, making it a valuable addition to any workspace. For further information, check out the

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