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Google Messages Set to Launch Function for Simplified Engagement in Group Chats

core messaging application Google Messages for some time. Fortunately, Google is addressing that.

We’ve been aware that @mentions were on their way to Google Messages for a while; or, at the very least, that Google was developing them. Nevertheless, a recent article from 9to5 Google indicates that the feature is actually being deployed to users, enabling you to specifically mention individuals within the app in group conversations. Some users have already noticed it on Reddit, and it seems to be linked to the latest beta edition of the Google Messages application.

A significant enhancement for group chats on Android

Android Might Unveil Its Own Take on a More Obscure iPhone Attribute

Apple rolled out NameDrop for the iPhone and Apple Watch with the launch of iOS 17, leaving many users uncertain about this new contact sharing feature. In fact, a large number sought out instructions for disabling NameDrop immediately after it became publicly available, with certain law enforcement agencies even putting out alerts about the option and advising users to deactivate it.

Although these alerts suggest that the feature might present more of a security threat than it actually does, as NameDrop still necessitates user authentication to share information with another device, that has not prevented it from emerging as one of the more overlooked contact sharing tools integrated into the operating system. Now, it seems that Google may be preparing to introduce something similar.

According to a recent APK teardown by Android Authority, Google initially embedded code for a NameDrop-like capability in version 25.44.32 beta of Google Play Services. The blog asserts that it has unearthed snippets of code associated with two functionalities referred to as Gesture Exchange and Contact Exchange. Now, with the rollout of Google Play Services version 25.46.31, the team behind that analysis was able to successfully activate one of the features linked to the new system.

An initial glimpse at Android’s alternative to NameDrop

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Base Power Unveils Membership-Oriented Electricity Sales Approach Comparable to Costco

partially because of the widespread use of AI — and trust is diminishing, with potential local electrical fluctuations and interruptions. Hence, it stands to reason that backup power is gaining in attractiveness, merely to maintain essential functions. Backup power options present a feasible solution, yet a genuine backup generator that can support a household and family can exceed $15,000. That constitutes a significant initial investment.

Base is working to provide a more attainable and economical option for homeowners, featuring a monthly membership fee of $19, and a leased battery backup system for a singular payment of $695. However, the Base membership rate isn’t fixed. You might incur higher costs depending on fees, services, and other platform options, but overall, it’s still preferable to the exorbitant installation costs of a full-house generator, at least for some consumers. Zach Dell, CEO of Base Power, stated to Fortune that the product is secure and dependable, while a Costco-like subscription is “just significantly more economical.” He characterizes the competition as “premium” providers catering to “very affluent individuals,” in contrast to Base, which aims to deliver solutions for the general population.

Where and when will Base be accessible?

At present, Base Power has rolled out over 100 megawatt-hours of battery capacity in residential zones, with ambitions to establish an initial battery production facility in Austin, Texas. They’ve also indicated plans for a second factory

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Apple’s Upcoming Product Launches in 2025

M5 MacBook Pro last month saw continued speculation regarding a number of new products that the firm was said to be preparing to unveil before year-end. Nonetheless, it increasingly appears that Apple may not introduce any further new items to its lineup in 2025.

This week, Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman suggested the potential for a product refresh as Apple was gearing up to revamp its stores with holiday content. Additionally, numerous third-party retailers were marking the HomePod mini as either discontinued or running low in inventory, which might suggest an impending new model. However, as time passed, the company unveiled its holiday campaign without introducing new products (excluding the special edition iPhone Pocket, of course).

Considering this, is there a possibility that Apple will launch more products in 2025? Here’s what we know about Apple’s product releases for late November and early December, what might be on the horizon, and when these devices are expected to hit the market.

New HomePod mini, Apple TV, and AirTag remain forthcoming

Four Budget-Friendly Android Smartwatches Highly Praised by Users

Samsung Galaxy Watch 8 Classic is set to deliver impressive performance and make a bold impression on your wrist, but its steep price might lead you to consider other options. Given today’s rising costs, there’s no harm in selecting a more affordable Android phone over the Google Pixel 10 and pairing it with a device that complements its price. The smartwatches below boast remarkable features that work seamlessly with Android smartphones. 

Each item on this list offers a variety of core functions typical of smartwatches — including receiving phone notifications, monitoring health and fitness data, and ensuring reliable battery life — all without prompting any regrets over their cost. Naturally, each of these will connect with your Android device, and any smartwatch that mandates a certain version of Android OS has been specified. 

Linking a smartwatch to an Android phone is typically straightforward and requires only a few simple steps. Be sure to have Bluetooth activated on your smartphone for a successful link. For the majority of Android devices, you can access the quick settings menu by pulling down from the top of the screen and swiftly turning on Bluetooth. Alternatively, you can find Bluetooth settings by navigating through the Settings app, selecting Connected devices, tapping Connection preferences, and locating Bluetooth at the top.

Xiaomi Redmi Watch 5

The Xiaomi Redmi Watch 5 offers an affordable price of $33.99, making it a

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Amazon’s Best-Selling Roku Accessory Priced at $10

a pack of two Roku TV remotes, suitable for various Roku devices, available for just $10 at the moment.

This two-pack of replacements from Acoyer is designed for Roku TV devices. These are smart TV sets with Roku integrated, from brands such as Hisense, TCL, Element, Philips, and others. You will see that the TV remotes are distinct from those meant only for media players, like the Roku Express remote, as they include a power button — that on/off button is intended for the TV itself. Overall, having replacements is always a good idea even if you haven’t misplaced the original remote yet. You never can tell when it might happen, and in a busy home, it’s often a question of if, not when. A remote is essential to navigate the interface, as well as to adjust settings and manage the system, such as clearing the data cache.

Typically, the two-pack costs $15, but it is currently on sale for $10. When compared to the official Roku TV remote, you would only obtain one remote for the same price. Nevertheless, keep in mind that the deal model does not seem to be Roku’s voice remote. This can be identified by the absence of a mic hole beneath the power button and it’s not indicated as voice-enabled.

Two Roku remotes for the cost of one

Researchers Uncover Most Ancient Documented Air Sample Encased in Antarctica

have discovered life flourishing beneath Antarctica in the past, but their most recent discovery is not quite as intricate. A group of researchers from the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institute has collected samples from the Antarctic ice in a location known as Allan Hills. The samples consist of ice and air — in fact, exceptionally ancient air — trapped in minuscule air bubbles within the ice. This represents the most ancient air ever recorded and offers scientists a peek into the conditions of the planet in earlier times.

While it might appear straightforward to locate ancient ice and air, the Earth is so geologically dynamic that obtaining such samples can prove challenging, much less acquiring ones that offer significant information about historical climate conditions. Additionally, this is made possible solely due to Antarctica’s distinct characteristics. The accumulation of ice and snow ensnares substances and freezes them, forming a kind of time capsule that ultimately becomes sealed and buried beneath the surface. To access these frozen time capsules, researchers employ what are known as vertical cores, lengthy sections of ice removed from below the surface. They can utilize the samples and the data collected to reconstruct the planet’s environmental state at the moment the original materials were ensnared. Naturally, the information is confined to the Antarctic area.

What insights do we have regarding the air samples and the Earth’s history?

Google Presents Special Upgrade Offer for Pixel Users

Google has included the Pixel 8 and 8 Pro, which debuted in 2023, in its refurbished offerings. As a result, if you own a Pixel 6 or 7 series device, you might want to explore the newly available Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro in Google’s refurbished store at a discounted price.

Google’s Pixel 8 and 8 Pro can be purchased refurbished for 30% less

Amazon Presents Smart TV Priced at $120, Perfect for Holiday Presents

The Hisense 40-inch 1080p Smart TV is now listed on Amazon with a 20% reduction, available for $119.99. This television boasts an LCD display with a Full Array backlight, which enhances contrast and local dimming in comparison to edge-lit alternatives. The integrated Natural Color Enhancer modifies color tones for more realistic visuals. Operating as an Amazon Fire TV on Fire OS, it grants access to popular streaming platforms like Apple TV, pending active subscriptions. Viewers can develop custom profiles for a personalized watching experience and connect the TV to smart home systems, enabling functionalities like Picture-in-Picture.

The television offers multiple modes to elevate viewing, including an AI Sports Mode that minimizes blur and improves commentary for sports fans. Video game players enjoy a designated mode that cuts down input lag to 16ms for more fluid gameplay.

Customer feedback on Amazon averages a rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars for this television. Numerous users commend its picture quality, labeling it as “crystal-clear,” and deem the brightness adequate. Its dimensions are favored for fitting in bedrooms while still delivering sharp images. Reportedly, the setup process is straightforward, supported by on-screen instructions and pre-installed applications. Hisense holds a reputation as one of the top-rated smart TV brands regarding customer satisfaction.

Responses about sound quality vary, with some individuals experiencing a humming noise when unplugged and sporadic sound loss after restarting. A few buyers mentioned unexpected shutdowns or lagging problems. Nonetheless, the TV is regarded as a solid choice for those seeking an economical option.

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Apple Store App Revamped with Liquid Glass Aesthetic for Festive Shopping Period

Apple has made iOS 26 available to all users, while the company continues to enhance its stock applications with the Liquid Glass design aesthetic. The most recent first-party application to receive this revamped UI experience is the Apple Store app, which has also been given a new icon. The standout feature is the updated Liquid Glass menu bar, allowing users to navigate through sections in a more captivating manner. The Apple Store app includes the For You tab, Products, Go Further, Bag, and Search.

The For You tab showcases trade-in recommendations, AppleCare options, Today at Apple events, and various product information. The Products tab prominently displays the latest Apple devices, along with a special section for holiday selections. The new Go Further tab emphasizes Today at Apple events, tips and tricks for Apple products, and recommended services. Lastly, you can visit the Bag tab to review the items you’re intending to purchase.

Apple Stores are also prepared for the festive season