AllYouCanTech

Samsung Unveils Plans for ‘Galaxy S25 Edge’ to Rival Anticipated iPhone 17 Air

# Samsung Unpacked 2025: An Insight into the Galaxy S25 Series and the Anticipated Galaxy S25 Edge

Samsung’s Unpacked 2025 event showcased a wave of excitement and innovation, featuring the much-awaited Galaxy S25, Galaxy S25+, and Galaxy S25 Ultra. The event’s standout moment, however, was a surprise reveal of the forthcoming ultra-slim Galaxy S25 Edge, primed to challenge Apple’s rumored iPhone 17 Air.

## The Galaxy S25 Series

The Galaxy S25 series signifies yet another advancement in Samsung’s premier smartphone lineup. Each variant is designed to provide state-of-the-art technology, upgraded camera functionalities, and superior performance. Although precise specifications for the S25, S25+, and S25 Ultra were unveiled during the event, attention swiftly turned to the Galaxy S25 Edge, anticipated to redefine smartphone aesthetics.

## A Sneak Preview of the Galaxy S25 Edge

The sneak preview for the Galaxy S25 Edge was concise, offering little more than its name and a glimpse of its ultra-slim design. While Samsung has not given an exact launch timeline, rumors indicate that the device might debut as soon as April or May 2025. The buzz surrounding the S25 Edge is amplified by its rivalry with Apple’s iPhone 17 Air, which is speculated to launch later this year.

### Thickness Comparison: Galaxy S25 Edge vs. iPhone 17 Air

Reports suggest that the Galaxy S25 Edge is likely to have a thickness of about 6.4mm. In comparison, the iPhone 17 Air is rumored to be even thinner, with a measurement of roughly 5.5mm at its slimmest point. This competition for sleek designs has become a central theme in the smartphone industry, as both brands seek to capture consumer interest.

## Design and Features

While the teaser fell short of providing comprehensive information about the S25 Edge, leaked images indicate a stylish design featuring three rear cameras. This notably sets it apart from the iPhone 17 Air, which is expected to include a single 48MP camera organized in a horizontal “camera bar” arrangement.

TM Roh, president of Samsung’s mobile devices division, shared thoughts on the design vision behind the Galaxy S25 Edge. He underscored the significance of merging cutting-edge technology with an appealing aesthetic. “Consumers desire top-notch performance, exceptional camera capabilities, and advanced AI, but simultaneously, they’re seeking a more visually striking form factor that distinguishes itself in the market,” Roh remarked.

## Competitive Pricing Strategy

Samsung plans to launch the Galaxy S25 Edge at a price lower than that of the Ultra models, aiming to make it accessible for a wider audience. This approach demonstrates Samsung’s dedication to meeting various consumer preferences while upholding excellence in performance and design.

## Conclusion

As Samsung prepares for the debut of the Galaxy S25 Edge, anticipation continues to grow within the tech sphere. The rivalry with Apple’s iPhone 17 Air adds an intriguing element to this narrative, as both brands strive to win over consumers eager for the latest advancements in smartphone technology. While information remains limited, the expectation of a sleek design coupled with impressive features positions the Galaxy S25 Edge as a device to look out for in 2025.

For those looking to discover Samsung’s newest offerings, pre-orders for the Galaxy S25 series are now open, complete with exclusive discounts. Keep an eye out for further updates as the launch date draws near!

Comparative Examination: iPhone 16 Pro Max versus Samsung S25 Ultra – Assessing AI Efficiency

# Samsung S25 Ultra vs. iPhone 16 Pro Max: An In-Depth Comparison

The smartphone landscape has evolved such that flagship models from top brands like Samsung and Apple exhibit significant similarities in both design and specifications. Recently, I was able to get some hands-on experience with the latest Samsung S25 series, focusing particularly on the S25 Ultra, and compare it to Apple’s newest model, the iPhone 16 Pro Max. In this article, we will explore the design, performance, and AI features of these two high-end smartphones to assist you in determining which might suit your needs best.

## Design Evaluation

In terms of design, both the Samsung S25 Ultra and the iPhone 16 Pro Max present a sophisticated, premium appearance. Samsung has introduced minor tweaks to the S25 Ultra, such as slightly thinner bezels, which have expanded the screen size from 6.8 inches to 6.9 inches. Additionally, the device boasts a more user-friendly design with curved side rails, enhancing its grip. Impressively, the S25 Ultra is about 15 grams lighter than its predecessor, improving its portability.

Both smartphones are constructed from top-quality materials, including titanium for the body and premium glass for the display. They come equipped with a triple camera system, lending them an elegant aesthetic. The main visual difference can be seen in the corners: the S25 Ultra features squared edges, whereas the iPhone sports rounded corners, appealing to varying design tastes.

## Performance: Analyzing Internal Specifications

When assessing the internal specifications of the S25 Ultra and the iPhone 16 Pro Max, a blend of strengths and shortcomings emerges:

| Feature | S25 Ultra | iPhone 16 Pro Max |
|—————————|——————|——————–|
| Single-Core Geekbench | 3049 | 3539 |
| Multi-Core Geekbench | 9793 | 8772 |
| Total Cores | 8 | 6 |
| Total RAM | 12GB | 8GB |
| Operating System | OneUI 7 | iOS 18.X |

The iPhone 16 Pro Max stands out in single-core performance, while the S25 Ultra excels in multi-core tasks due to its extra cores. In everyday scenarios, both devices perform exceptionally, managing multitasking and resource-intensive applications effortlessly.

### Key Specs of the S25 Ultra:
– 3NM processor
– 40% increase in NPU performance
– 37% increase in CPU performance
– 30% increase in GPU performance
– 40% increase in ray tracing capabilities
– 18% increase in frames per second (FPS)

## AI Features: Galaxy AI vs. Apple Intelligence

Artificial intelligence integration is becoming more crucial in smartphones, and both Samsung and Apple have made significant advancements in this field. Nevertheless, Apple Intelligence is still developing, with many anticipated features yet to be fully implemented.

### Galaxy AI Features
A notable aspect of Galaxy AI is its capability to execute cross-application actions. For example, you can instruct the Galaxy AI assistant to locate the next football match, add it to your calendar, and even notify your friends— all within a single command. Although it requests permission before sending messages, it greatly simplifies the process.

Another impressive feature enables users to extract details from a recipe video and save them to notes, demonstrating the practical utility across various applications.

### Apple Intelligence
Apple’s AI features, while promising, are still improving. Currently, they center around enhancing the user experience through conversational context and entertaining features like image generation. However, the complete array of functionalities is not fully available yet, which may hinder its effectiveness relative to Galaxy AI.

## Conclusion

In summary, both the Samsung S25 Ultra and the iPhone 16 Pro Max are outstanding devices that cater to distinct user preferences. If you value AI capabilities and a customizable software interface, the S25 Ultra could be the preferable option. Conversely, if you are well-established in the Apple ecosystem, the iPhone 16 Pro Max provides seamless integration with other Apple products.

Ultimately, the choice may hinge on your investment in a particular ecosystem and which features align more closely with your daily requirements. The S25 Ultra is set for pre-order starting at $1299, presenting a strong option for those looking to make an upgrade.

What are your opinions? Do you think Apple is likely to close the gap in the AI arena? Would you contemplate switching ecosystems? Let’s engage in a discussion!

“New Apple Intelligence Capabilities Accessible on Apple Watch”

# Discovering Apple Intelligence Features on the Apple Watch

Apple has made remarkable progress in weaving artificial intelligence (AI) into its ecosystem, improving user engagement across its devices. While Apple Intelligence is officially available on compatible iPhones, iPads, and Macs, the Apple Watch reaps the benefits of certain AI features when paired with a current iPhone. This article focuses on two essential AI capabilities found on the Apple Watch: Notification Summaries and Reduce Interruptions Focus mode.

## 1. Notification Summaries

A standout component of Apple Intelligence is the **Notification Summaries**. This feature leverages AI to evaluate incoming messages, news alerts, and other notifications, condensing the information into succinct alerts.

For users inundated with notifications, particularly from messaging platforms like Messages or collaboration tools such as Slack, this capability can be especially advantageous. Rather than facing a barrage of notifications, users can quickly glance at a single AI-created summary encompassing all pertinent information.

On the Apple Watch, this functionality proves to be particularly useful. Designed for quick glances, Notification Summaries enable users to swiftly evaluate critical information without having to inspect each notification one by one. This not only conserves time but also reduces distractions, allowing users to stay focused on their daily tasks.

## 2. Reduce Interruptions Focus Mode

Another cutting-edge AI feature available on the Apple Watch is the **Reduce Interruptions Focus mode**. Launched with iOS 18.1, this mode aims to assist users in better managing their notifications, thereby minimizing distractions throughout the day.

When enabled, the Reduce Interruptions mode smartly filters notifications, permitting only those recognized as important to come through. Apple characterizes this feature as a means to “intelligently allow important notifications to interrupt you and silence notifications deemed unimportant.”

This allows users to experience a more streamlined interaction, with non-urgent notifications kept at bay. While users retain the option to customize which apps are permitted to send notifications, the default configuration lets Apple Intelligence handle interruptions automatically, ensuring that users can concentrate on what truly matters.

## Conclusion: The Future of AI on Apple Watch

The incorporation of AI features such as Notification Summaries and Reduce Interruptions Focus mode signifies a notable advancement for the Apple Watch. These functionalities not only improve the user experience but also encourage a more thoughtful engagement with technology.

As Apple continues to enhance its AI capabilities, there is significant potential for the introduction of additional innovative features on the Apple Watch. For the time being, these initial offerings lay a solid groundwork, allowing users to navigate their day with fewer distractions and increased efficiency.

What are your opinions on these Apple Intelligence features? Have they proven beneficial on your Apple Watch? Share your experiences in the comments below!

“Google One Members to Get YouTube Premium Discount; New Feature Trial for 4x Playback Speed”

### Google One Subscribers to Enjoy Discounts and New Features for YouTube Premium

In an exciting turn of events for Google One subscribers across the United States, a fresh discount on YouTube Premium is about to be launched soon. This initiative seeks to increase the benefits of Google One subscriptions while offering users enhanced choices for their streaming enjoyment.

#### Discount Information

To be eligible for the YouTube Premium discount, users must hold a Google One Premium plan, starting at $9.99 per month for 2 TB of storage. Unfortunately, the more affordable plans—Basic (100 GB for $1.99) and Standard (200 GB for $2.99)—do not qualify for this discount.

The discount will grant a $2 reduction on the YouTube Premium Individual plan, which usually costs $13.99 per month. This effectively counteracts the price hike that took place in 2023, making it a more appealing choice for both current and prospective subscribers.

However, it’s crucial to recognize that this discount is not applicable to Family or Music Premium plans. Current subscribers of YouTube Premium wanting to benefit from this offer will need to cancel their existing subscriptions and re-register through Google One. Further details will be made available on the Google One website once the discount is activated on user accounts.

#### New Features for YouTube Premium Members

Beyond the discount, YouTube is also in the process of testing various new features for Premium subscribers. Notably, users can now try out multiple experimental features at the same time, instead of being confined to just one.

Some of the most eagerly awaited features include:

– **Enhanced Playback Speed**: Users can now ramp up playback speed to 4x on mobile devices, expanding the prior range of 0.25 to 2.0x in .5x increments. This allows viewers to digest content at a significantly quicker pace, catering to those who like to consume information rapidly.

– **Superior Audio Quality**: Premium members will experience better audio quality with a new 256 kbps audio option for music videos, providing a more immersive listening experience.

– **“Jump Ahead” Feature for Web Browsing**: Previously only available on mobile, this feature permits users to skip to the most thrilling segments of a video while navigating through web browsers.

– **Picture-in-Picture for YouTube Shorts on iOS**: This feature enables users to enjoy their favorite Shorts while using other apps, elevating the overall user experience.

– **Smart Downloads for YouTube Shorts on iOS**: Users will receive curated Shorts that are automatically downloaded for offline viewing, ensuring they stay updated on popular content.

#### Additional Features and Enhancements

YouTube is also launching the “Ask Music” feature in YouTube Music for Android users in the UK and Ireland. This functionality allows users to request specific genres of music, such as “upbeat workout tracks” or “soothing jazz,” simplifying the search for the ideal soundtrack for any event.

Additionally, the YouTube app on iOS will unveil the “Ask” chat button, which will provide answers to inquiries about the video being viewed and recommend related content, enhancing user interaction.

### Conclusion

These advancements represent a notable leap forward for Google One and YouTube Premium subscribers, delivering increased value through discounts and thrilling new features. As these updates begin to implement, users can anticipate a more cohesive and enjoyable streaming adventure. For those eager to benefit from the discount, keep an eye on your Google One account for updates regarding eligibility and activation.

“iPhone 16 Model Records Notable Sales Growth, While A Well-Liked Variant Faces Decrease”

### Insights on iPhone 16 Sales by Apple: A Glimpse Forward

Apple is poised to announce its quarterly earnings next week, which will illuminate the iPhone 16 sales during the important holiday season. Nonetheless, a recent report from CIRP has already provided insights into the sales trends of the iPhone 16 models, revealing key data on consumer preferences and market movements.

#### Highlights from CIRP Report: Rise and Fall in iPhone 16 Models

CIRP’s most recent report examines the sales composition of various iPhone models after the iPhone 16 launch. Although the report refrains from publishing specific sales figures, it does emphasize the popularity of certain models and their performance relative to earlier versions.

The base iPhone 16 emerged as the top performer in terms of growth, comprising 21% of sales throughout the holiday quarter. This represents a notable rise from the iPhone 15, which held just 15% of sales during the same timeframe last year. This revival in popularity for the base model is in line with past trends, where previous base iPhones have also enjoyed robust sales during their launch phases.

In contrast, the premium iPhone 16 Pro Max, while still being the leading model in sales, saw a decrease in market share. It made up 23% of sales, a drop from the 26% seen with the iPhone 15 Pro Max during the December 2023 quarter. This minor reduction reflects a change in consumer behavior, as a greater number of buyers seem to be leaning towards the base model over the luxury variants.

#### Examining the Sales Composition

The rise in sales for the base iPhone 16 can be linked to several elements. Reports indicate that Apple has significantly enhanced the base model, making it more attractive to a wider demographic. The appealing combination of reasonable pricing and improved features likely encouraged consumers to choose the iPhone 16 instead of its predecessor, the iPhone 15, which didn’t perform as well against the iPhone 14.

On the flip side, the decrease in the Pro Max model’s sales share, while not severe, is significant. CIRP’s findings indicate that the total sales of the Pro and Pro Max models reached the lowest percentage of overall iPhone sales in the last five December quarters. This trend may suggest a growing inclination among consumers towards more budget-friendly alternatives, particularly in a financial climate where many are prioritizing value.

#### Future Outlook: Prospects for iPhone Sales

As Apple gears up for the next series of iPhones, including the awaited iPhone 17 lineup, industry experts are eager to observe how these trends will progress. The debut of new models, such as the iPhone 17 Air and an updated iPhone SE, could further alter the current sales environment.

The forthcoming earnings report will be pivotal in grasping how these dynamics translate into actual sales figures and what these might imply for Apple’s future strategy. As consumer preferences evolve, Apple may need to revise its product lineup to sustain its competitive advantage in the smartphone arena.

#### Summary

The CIRP report offers a valuable overview of the current status of iPhone 16 sales, showcasing both the growth of the base model and a minor decline in the high-end Pro Max version. As Apple readies itself for its quarterly earnings release, the ramifications of these trends will be closely watched by both investors and consumers. The changing smartphone sales terrain highlights the crucial role of innovation and consumer interaction in propelling future success for Apple.

What are your perspectives on the breakdown of iPhone 16 sales? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

Latest Offers: Enjoy Savings of Up to $470 on M3 MacBook Air, $119 Off Unlocked iPhone 15, Price Cuts on Alpine and Trail Loop Footwear, and Additional Deals

# Thrilling Discounts on Apple Gadgets: M3 MacBook Air, iPhone 15, and More

As technology progresses, so do the chances for shoppers to grab impressive deals on cutting-edge devices. At the moment, there are remarkable price cuts on a range of Apple products, including the M3 MacBook Air, iPhone 15, and accessories such as Apple Watch bands. Let’s dive deeper into these promotions and their implications for prospective buyers.

## Price Cuts on the M3 MacBook Air

The M3 MacBook Air has surfaced as one of the more budget-friendly choices within Apple’s laptop offerings. Presently, both the 13-inch and 15-inch variants are offered at a **$200 discount**, making them easier to acquire for a wider audience.

### Price Breakdown:
– **13-inch M3 MacBook Air (16GB/256GB)**: Now **$899** (was $1,299).
– **13-inch M3 MacBook Air (16GB/512GB)**: Now **$1,099** (was $1,699).
– **15-inch M3 MacBook Air (16GB/256GB)**: Now **$1,099** (was $1,499).
– **15-inch M3 MacBook Air (16GB/512GB)**: Now **$1,299** (was $1,699).

These offers not only represent significant savings but also illustrate a larger trend of Apple upgrading its base models with enhanced RAM, delivering better value to its customers.

## Unlocked iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Plus Discounts

For anyone seeking a new smartphone, Best Buy has rare offers on brand new unlocked **iPhone 15** and **iPhone 15 Plus** models. These devices come with **$119 off** their original prices, making them a compelling choice for those aiming to update their technology.

### Pricing:
– **iPhone 15**: Starting at **$679.99** (was $799).
– **iPhone 15 Plus**: Starting at **$799.99** (was $899).

This discount is particularly significant as deals on unlocked iPhones are quite rare, especially soon after their introduction.

## Apple Watch Accessories at Record Low Prices

In addition to laptops and smartphones, Apple Watch accessories are also experiencing price reductions. The official **Apple Watch Ultra Alpine Loop** and **Trail Loop** bands are now priced at **$85.99**, reduced from their standard price of $99. This represents nearly a 15% discount, making it a perfect moment to acquire these fashionable and practical accessories.

## Extra Offers on Apple Products

In addition to the featured deals, there are also notable price cuts on other Apple items and accessories:
– **M4 MacBook Pro (16GB/1TB)**: Now available for **$1,599**, down from $1,799.
– **Apple Watch Series 10 (46mm Jet Black)**: Open-box options are listed for **$315.99**, providing considerable savings compared to new models.

## Conclusion

With the current discounts on the M3 MacBook Air, iPhone 15, and several Apple Watch accessories, it’s an excellent time for consumers to think about upgrading their technology. Whether you’re a student, a professional, or simply in search of the latest gadgets, these deals present a wonderful chance to invest in premium Apple products at lower costs. Be sure to act swiftly, as these promotions may not be available for long!

Apple’s Miami Worldcenter Store Highlights Biophilic Design, Sustainability Efforts, and Improved Accessibility Attributes

# Apple Miami Worldcenter Store: A New Haven in Downtown Miami

Apple is poised to debut its newest retail establishment, the Apple Miami Worldcenter store, on Friday, January 24, 2025. This upcoming store aims to be more than merely a shopping venue; it exemplifies a dedication to sustainability, accessibility, and cultural inclusivity, echoing the dynamic essence of Miami.

## A Peek into the Design

The Apple Miami Worldcenter store features a **biophilic design**, a principle that highlights the bond between humans and the environment. This architectural style integrates natural components such as greenery, timber, and water features, crafting a space that harmonizes with Miami’s lush landscapes. Upon entering the store, guests will encounter a setting brimming with plants and flora inspired by the city’s diverse Latin American heritage.

Apple has stressed that this store was designed with ecological considerations in mind. The building utilizes locally sourced mass timber and low-carbon materials, meaningfully lowering the carbon emissions related to its development. Additionally, like all Apple locations, the Miami Worldcenter store will operate entirely on renewable energy and uphold carbon neutrality.

## Accessibility at the Forefront

Consistent with Apple’s dedication to inclusivity, accessibility has been a key priority in the store’s design. The arrangement follows universal design standards, guaranteeing that all patrons can traverse the space with ease. Prominent features include:

– **Diverse Table and Seating Heights**: Crafted for product exploration and ease of use, these aspects accommodate a wide range of customers.
– **Wheelchair Accessibility**: Broader pathways offer plenty of room for wheelchair users to navigate the store comfortably.
– **Assistive Listening Technology**: The store will provide a portable hearing loop for customers utilizing hearing aids, enhancing their shopping experience. Moreover, the “Today at Apple” sessions will include an assistive listening loop, ensuring that everyone can engage fully.

The Apple Miami Worldcenter store will also showcase the first designated Apple Pickup area in Miami, facilitating online orders for in-store pickups, offering a handy option for those unable to receive deliveries at home.

## A Skilled Team

The new establishment will be staffed by a team of over 150 trained employees, all prepared to deliver outstanding customer service and support. Apple aims to cultivate a welcoming environment where ingenuity and creativity can thrive, in line with its mission to inspire its customers.

## Opening Day

The grand debut of the Apple Miami Worldcenter store is scheduled for 10 AM on January 24, 2025. This occasion signifies a considerable enhancement to Miami’s retail scene, promising to be a sanctuary in the city’s heart where technology and nature harmonize.

As Apple expands its global presence, the Miami Worldcenter store emerges as a symbol of the company’s commitment to sustainability, accessibility, and cultural respect. With its distinctive design and a focus on community involvement, this store is expected to become a cherished destination for both residents and visitors.

For those keen to catch a glimpse of the new store, Apple has released a collection of photos and a video highlighting its breathtaking design and features, encouraging all to experience the beauty and innovation that lies ahead.

### Conclusion

The Apple Miami Worldcenter store is more than just another retail space; it signifies an innovative approach to design and community interaction. With its biophilic architecture, emphasis on accessibility, and commitment to sustainability, this store is destined to transform the shopping experience in Miami. As the opening day nears, anticipation grows for what promises to be an extraordinary enhancement to the city’s vibrant landscape.

Examination of a 2015 Phone Design Indicates that the Camera Bump of the iPhone 17 Air Might Be Visually Appealing

# The iPhone 17 Air: An In-Depth Examination of Its Controversial Camera Design

A recent image claiming to show the **iPhone 17 Air** camera bump appeared online, igniting a flurry of discussions on social media and technology platforms. Although the image’s authenticity is still in question, preliminary reports indicate that this design might indeed align with the aesthetic of the forthcoming model. Still, the reception has not been overwhelmingly favorable.

## The Design and Initial Feedback

The released image features a camera bump that has drawn parallels to other smartphones, especially the **Google Pixel 9**. Detractors have labeled the design as “top-heavy” and “unbalanced,” with certain users humorously wondering if the Pixel 9 had returned. Comments ranged from “This looks rather silly in these images” to “This is not appealing at all,” reflecting a general discontent with the design.

In spite of the negative responses, it is important to contextualize these reactions. Leaked images frequently suffer from low quality, and in this instance, the distortion from vacuum-sealed packaging could be contributing to the unappealing look. As a commenter pointed out, “those are pretty tough conditions for anything to appear good!”

## The Nature of Change in Apple Designs

Traditionally, Apple designs have been met with criticism upon their first unveiling. There appears to be a three-stage progression in public opinion: initial rejection, gradual embrace, and eventual appreciation. This trend indicates that while the design of the iPhone 17 Air may not resonate with users at this moment, it might gain acceptance as time passes.

Moreover, the new design could introduce practical advantages. A notable benefit is that the phone is less likely to tip when resting on a flat surface, a frequent frustration for iPhone users. The camera bump’s configuration may also marginally angle the display toward the user, enhancing usability when accessing notifications or applications.

## A Nod to the Past: Nexus 6P Inspiration

Some analysts have observed that the iPhone 17 Air’s camera bump closely resembles that of the **Nexus 6P**, a smartphone introduced in 2015. This connection might evoke fond memories for some users, as the Nexus 6P was praised for its design and functionality. By streamlining unnecessary elements, the iPhone 17 Air could potentially adopt a more polished appearance that pays tribute to its forerunner.

## Conclusion: A Design Worth Considering

Although the initial feedback regarding the iPhone 17 Air’s camera bump may be less than enthusiastic, it’s vital to remain open-minded. As seen with prior Apple designs, public sentiment may evolve as users become more familiar with the new look. The practical benefits of the design, such as minimizing wobble and enhancing usability, might eventually outbalance initial reservations about its visual appeal.

For those who prioritize screen size and camera capabilities, the **Pro Max** model may remain the favored choice. Nevertheless, the design of the iPhone 17 Air could attract users seeking a novel approach to the smartphone experience. As we await more details and official confirmations, the dialogue surrounding the iPhone 17 Air will likely continue to progress.

*Photo credit: Kārlis Dambrāns (edited by 9to5Mac)*

Plex Introduces New Apple TV Application, Available Now in Preview Mode

# Plex Enhances Features and Innovations for 2025

Plex, the popular media server and streaming platform, has made major announcements designed to improve user engagement and experience. With an emphasis on connectivity and discovery, Plex is launching new features for all users, alongside upgraded video streaming capabilities for Plex Pass subscribers. Significantly, the service is expanding its preview of the updated Plex experience to Apple TV users, marking a crucial advancement in its evolution.

## Improving Discovery and Community Involvement

In a recent blog entry, Plex detailed its vision for 2025, highlighting the necessity of enhancing discovery while nurturing a sense of community among its users. A key feature being introduced is the capability for users to write and share reviews of content accessible on Plex. This feature not only enables users to voice their thoughts but also allows them to interact with others by commenting on reviews made by fellow Plex users.

Plex’s strategy for discovery extends beyond merely locating content to view; it seeks to link users with others who share similar interests. Users can now access their Plex profiles on [watch.plex.tv](https://watch.plex.tv/) and make them publicly visible. By default, all Plex users are discoverable through the app’s search function, unless they have modified their privacy settings. This new feature allows users to share links to their profiles, displaying their viewing history, Watchlist, and beyond.

### Privacy Considerations

Plex recognizes the significance of privacy with the rollout of this new feature. While the default setting permits user discoverability, those who previously opted out of this feature will not be automatically re-enrolled. Users can adjust their privacy settings via the app, with options to share ratings and reviews at varying visibility levels:

– **Anyone**
– **Anyone signed in to Plex**
– **Friends of Friends**
– **Friends only**
– **Private**

This adaptability ensures users can retain control over their shared information while still participating in the community.

## New Apple TV App Preview

After a significant redesign of its iPhone app last November, Plex is now extending its preview experience to Apple TV users. The updated app boasts a redesigned navigation system and visually striking enhancements, including larger, more engaging artwork. This redesign transcends merely aesthetic improvements; it signifies a substantial overhaul under the hood, as the app has been completely rewritten. By converging its platforms under a singular codebase, Plex aims to simplify the development of future updates and features.

Users eager to test the new Apple TV app can enroll in the beta by visiting the [Plex forums](https://forums.plex.tv/t/how-to-access-the-plex-experience-preview/895091). The company is keen to collect feedback from the community to refine the app further, acknowledging that it remains a work in progress.

## Improved Streaming Quality for Plex Pass Subscribers

For Plex Pass subscribers, the streaming experience is set to see considerable enhancement with the rollout of HEVC (High-Efficiency Video Coding) hardware encoding. This innovation enables superior video streaming quality over the same bandwidth, offering a more visually satisfying experience without sacrificing performance. Furthermore, HEVC encoding retains HDR (High Dynamic Range) metadata, negating the need for tone mapping and ensuring users receive the highest picture quality.

## Conclusion

Plex’s latest announcements demonstrate its dedication to enriching user experience and fostering a dynamic community around its platform. With new discovery features, an exciting preview for Apple TV users, and enhanced streaming quality for Plex Pass subscribers, the service is positioned for a transformative 2025. For more information on these updates, you can explore Plex’s

Upcoming Launch of iOS 18.4 Beta: Anticipated Schedule for Release

# iOS 18.4 Beta: What to Anticipate Following the iOS 18.3 Launch

Apple is approaching the end of its iOS 18.3 beta cycle, marking a significant change in its software development schedule. With the public rollout of iOS 18.3 expected around January 27, 2025, the tech company is likely to introduce the first beta of iOS 18.4 shortly after. This article explores the anticipated timeline for the iOS 18.4 beta launch, the established trends in Apple’s software updates, and what users might look forward to in the new version.

## iOS 18.4 Beta 1: Anticipated Release Timeline

Apple has demonstrated a fairly stable pattern regarding its software update releases. Following the introduction of a new version, the next beta is generally issued within a few days. Drawing from historical data, we can make informed predictions regarding the arrival of iOS 18.4 beta 1.

### Historical Precedent

To exemplify this trend, we can reference the release dates from prior years:

– **2024**
– iOS 17.3 debuted on January 22
– iOS 17.4 beta 1 made available on January 25

– **2023**
– iOS 16.3 launched on January 23
– iOS 16.4 beta 1 followed on February 16

– **2022**
– iOS 15.3 became available on January 26
– iOS 15.4 beta 1 was released on January 27

The data indicates that Apple typically issues the beta version of its software shortly after the public launch of the preceding version. Hence, if iOS 18.3 launches on January 27, we could see iOS 18.4 beta 1 as early as January 28 or within the same week.

## Possible Delays for iOS 18.4

Although the historical trend hints at a swift turnaround for the beta release, 2023 has shown Apple can stray from its usual timing. Notably, Apple has scheduled iOS 18.4 to be publicly accessible in April 2025. This timeline raises the possibility of an earlier beta release or an extended wait.

### Emphasis on AI Features

A key factor influencing the release schedule is the focus on innovative artificial intelligence features in iOS 18.4. Apple has expressed a need to collect substantial beta testing data, especially regarding the enhanced Siri capabilities. Given the significance of these features, it’s conceivable that Apple will expedite an early beta release to facilitate thorough testing and feedback.

## Conclusion

In conclusion, while we can expect the launch of iOS 18.4 beta 1 to occur soon after the debut of iOS 18.3, the specific circumstances related to this release could result in shifts in the timeline. The emphasis on incorporating advanced AI features may motivate Apple to accelerate the beta process, ensuring comprehensive testing before the public release in April. As always, the tech community looks forward to updates from Apple, and users are invited to express their opinions on the prospective timeline for iOS 18.4 beta in the comments section.

### Top iPhone Accessories

For those interested in upgrading their iPhone experience, checking out the best available accessories can be advantageous. From sturdy cases to cutting-edge chargers, numerous options exist that can enhance your device.

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