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Netflix film night when suddenly your display turns black, begins flickering, or unusual sparkles start moving across the screen. Before you freak out about your pricey TV, it might be your HDMI cable that’s at fault. Indeed, HDMI cables can deteriorate over time, and identifying the symptoms early can spare you from hours of aggravation and unnecessary troubleshooting.

High-grade HDMI cables can endure for an extended period with proper maintenance. However, lower-quality cables or those that experience rough handling tend to fail far sooner. Physical harm from bending or twisting the cable, along with environmental aspects like heat and humidity, all play a role in a cable failing. Cables can also malfunction due to internal wiring problems or damage to the connectors.

Unlike a number of gadgets that either function flawlessly or don’t work at all, HDMI cables can experience partial failure, leading to perplexing intermittent issues that complicate diagnosis. You might see a picture one moment and lose it the next, or notice audio cutting in and out unpredictably. Grasping what leads to HDMI cable failure and how to recognize the warning signs can assist you in resolving HDMI connection problems more swiftly.

HDMI Forum has formally introduced the latest iteration of the HDMI specification, Ultra96 or HDMI 2.2. This version features enhanced resolutions and refresh rates, supporting 12K at 120 FPS and 16K at 60 FPS. However, hold back your enthusiasm, as this technology isn’t set to be implemented in the televisions you currently own, so no upgrades are necessary at this moment. When a new standard is established, it often takes years for manufacturers to integrate it into new devices. For example, HDMI 2.1 was unveiled in November 2017, but it didn’t appear in a consumer product until September 2020, initially debuting in an NVIDIA graphics card rather than a display or television. HDMI 2.2 may experience a similar, if not longer, delay before it becomes available in retail products.

Additionally, there were dubious choices regarding the implementation of the HDMI 2.1 standard, especially concerning how some manufacturers have created “fake” versions. It’s quite possible that your HDMI 2.1 ports are not genuine, as certain features of the new standard are optional. Indeed, this situation is as perplexing as it sounds. Some HDMI 2.1 ports may lack the features and specifications they are supposed to have.

The new HDMI 2.2 version brings forth additional ports, along with a new Ultra96 cable that collectively enables a higher bandwidth of up to 96 Gbps, which is double that of the previous version. Nevertheless, akin to how HDMI 2.1 phased out earlier versions, HDMI 2.2 will follow suit. All ports will be designated as 2.2, and since the new functions are “optional,” it is likely we will encounter numerous “fake” HDMI 2.2 ports.

**Tesla Could Introduce Another iPhone Feature That Users Will Adore With Apple CarPlay**

Tesla is said to be developing more iPhone functionalities for its cars, which could improve the experience for iPhone users. A report from Not a Tesla App suggests that the most recent iteration of the Tesla app, v.4.52.0, points to a new feature named Harmony Wallet Key Cards. This capability is anticipated to permit users of Huawei’s HarmonyOS to use their smartphones as a Tesla car key through NFC, Bluetooth, or UWB technologies, even if the Tesla app is not active in the background. This indicates that Tesla may soon provide comparable support for iPhone and Android users.

The Harmony Wallet Key Card feature would allow users to unlock their Tesla vehicles with a quick tap, even when their smartphone’s battery is depleted. This integration at the system level could greatly improve user convenience and security.

**Tesla and Rivian Keep Advancing Apple Features**

In other news, Rivian is also focusing on incorporating iPhone Car Key functionality into its automobiles. While Rivian’s CEO has mentioned that the company will not back Apple CarPlay, a report from Bloomberg reveals that Tesla is investigating a distinct method to integrate CarPlay. Tesla’s proposed solution encompasses a screen-on-a-screen windowed approach, enabling users to experience a customizable version of CarPlay alongside Tesla’s own interface.

This integration could feature well-liked Apple services such as iMessage, FaceTime audio, Apple Music, Apple Podcasts, Apple Maps, Apple Books, and widget support. Although the timeline for these features remains unclear, it seems that drivers may soon enjoy improved Apple integration in their electric vehicles.

Despite some manufacturers opting for exclusive software, the popularity of CarPlay in the United States underscores the desire for seamless integration between vehicles and iPhones. BGR will keep providing updates as these features are validated and made available.

You can manage your Android smartphone through your PC — applicable to most Android devices. This can be achieved via remote access or local management. In remote access, the connection is dependent on the internet, allowing you to reach your PC or Mac from any location. Conversely, local management necessitates that your devices remain connected to the same Wi-Fi network.

Both forms of management are supported on devices that still run older Android versions, making it a great method to repurpose an outdated Android device. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you set up your Android smartphone for controlling your computer, using Chrome Remote Desktop (for remote access) and Unified Remote (for local management).

which USB port you select on your computer and across various devices, encompassing power adapters utilized for charging. But what is the actual power that can be delivered through USB?

The current maximum attainable power output for consumer USB is 240 watts via USB PD 3.1 over USB-C. The abbreviation “PD” represents power delivery, a charging standard launched alongside the widespread use of USB-C connectors. It is fundamentally the subsequent evolution of USB, facilitating quicker and more dependable charging for high-demand devices such as contemporary smartphones and computers.

Beyond that, the output gets reduced. The highest output is 100 watts through USB-C 3.0, 15 watts through standard USB-C, and 4.5 watts through USB 3.0. The output is even lower for older standards, with USB 2.0 and USB 1.0 providing 2.5 watts or even less. Connecting a new smartphone equipped for fast charging to an older USB port or using incompatible USB cables may lead to a decrease in charging speed overall, potentially insufficient to keep up with power consumption. Devices such as the iPhone 15 and most newer smartphones necessitate USB-C Power Delivery for charging that can handle 7.5 watts or greater.

Ford Reinforces That Apple CarPlay Support Will Remain

In an environment where automotive manufacturers are increasingly reassessing their backing for external infotainment platforms, Ford has reiterated its dedication to Apple CarPlay. This announcement brings comfort to numerous Ford users, particularly considering General Motors’ choice to eliminate support for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Ford CFO Sherry House highlighted the significance of offering customers options and access to technology during the 2025 Barclays Global Auto and Mobility Tech Conference. House remarked, “We believe that [Apple CarPlay] is a feature our customers truly appreciate, so we’re going to keep providing them access to it.”

This declaration is notably important as it positions Ford advantageously against rivals such as GM, who are drifting away from backing CarPlay and Android Auto. Ford’s position guarantees that its customers can keep enjoying third-party infotainment systems instead of being restricted to the standard software provided by the automaker.

What is the status of Apple CarPlay Ultra?

While Ford’s allegiance to Apple CarPlay is evident, the automaker has not adopted Apple’s forthcoming version, CarPlay Ultra. This iteration proposes deeper integration of the iPhone with the vehicle, but Ford CEO Jim Farley has conveyed hesitancy. In a discussion with The Verge, Farley questioned how much control Apple might desire over the car, asking, “Do you want the Apple brand to initiate the vehicle? Do you want the Apple brand to set speed limits?”

Despite these apprehensions, Ford’s foundational Apple CarPlay experience remains intact. House’s remarks during the Barclays conference emphasize that while Ford might not endorse CarPlay Ultra, the current CarPlay functionality will persist in Ford vehicles.

Looking toward the future, Ford intends to roll out Gemini support in 2026, enhancing its technological capabilities. Furthermore, Ford is concentrating on crafting its own native applications to bolster its relationship with customers. House acknowledged that engagement rates for some of Ford’s newest applications and features have significantly risen, showcasing the company’s dedication to innovation and customer satisfaction.

A quick scan on Amazon reveals a variety of [accessories to enhance your Apple TV experience](https://www.bgr.com/1933478/apple-tv-accessories-on-amazon/). For example, a Bluetooth keyboard can make it quicker to search for the title of your favorite series without incessantly pressing the remote. In addition, noise-cancelling earbuds are perfect for private listening when you wish to avoid disturbing your housemates.

While external devices provide convenient enhancements, one of the most enjoyable aspects of your Apple TV comes from a built-in option: screen savers. Streaming devices and modern televisions frequently come with integrated screen savers that prevent image retention. This occurs when images become permanently displayed on the screen due to prolonged inactivity. Aside from safeguarding your display, screen savers serve as a simple method to integrate your TV into your living area seamlessly. Instead of appearing as an empty and dull black spot on the wall, your television can transform into a piece of art featuring gallery-quality visuals, a digital photo frame showcasing your cherished moments, or an exhibition of stunning landscapes and cityscapes from around the world.

For your Apple TV, you can choose from four screen saver styles: Aerials, which feature videos of scenic locations; Memories & Slideshows that display photos from your iCloud Photo Library; Portraits, which show digital clocks with your selected images in the background; or Snoopy, which includes themed videos featuring Peanuts characters Snoopy and Woodstock. The screen saver is adjustable and configurable, making it simple to tailor it to your taste. Here’s how to set up and utilize screen savers on your Apple TV.

### How to set up screen savers on your Apple TV

By default, Apple TVs come with screen savers enabled. The device will automatically rotate through all available Aerial videos after five minutes of inactivity. You can easily customize your Apple TV’s screen saver settings according to your preferences. Here’s the process:

1. Navigate to Settings.
2. Select Screen Saver.
3. Change Current Selection to the desired type of screen saver you wish to display.
4. Adjust Start After to your preferred delay period between your last interaction with the TV and the activation of the screen saver.
5. Turn off Show During Music and Podcasts to disable the screen saver while music or a podcast is playing.

You can further personalize each screen saver type directly from the Settings too:

1. Go to Settings, then Screen Saver.
2. To customize Aerials:
– Under Screen Saver Preferences, click on Aerials.
– Set the Download Frequency (how often Aerial videos are downloaded) to Daily, Weekly, Monthly, or Never.
– Choose one of the themes (Cityscape, Earth, Landscape, or Underwater) to show.
3. To customize Memories & Slideshows:
– Select Memories & Slideshows.
– Under Your Photos, click on Memories.
– Choose All Memories to include all images, or Favorites to display only your selected favorites.
– Go to Albums to select specific albums, just your favorite pictures, or your recently shared album.
– Under Other, select Music Albums to utilize album art from your Apple Music library.
– Whenever available, go to Style and choose your preferred transition style.
4. To customize Portraits:
– Press Portraits.
– Select which options (People, Pets, Nature, and Cities) to include.
– Adjust the update frequency to your desired time interval for portrait transitions.

Remember that for Memories & Slideshows and Portraits, you need to set up iCloud Photos on your Apple TV first.

### How to control your Apple TV screen saver

While you can determine the inactivity period before the Apple TV screen saver activates, you also have the option to manually turn it on. This is one of the [valuable Apple TV tips every user should know](https://www.bgr.com/tech/apple-tv-hidden-features-9-helpful-tricks-everyone-should-know/). You can initiate the screen saver from your home screen or within any app. From the home screen, press the back button on your Apple TV remote once, then long-press it. From any app, simply press the back button multiple times. Your selected screen saver should appear. During the screen saver, you can still interact with it. Here’s how:

1. Press the up button on your remote to view all screen saver types and switch to a different one.
2. Tap the clickpad on your remote to reveal information about the screen saver. If it’s an Aerial shot, the location will be displayed. If it’s a Memory, it will indicate which one is being shown.
3. Swipe/press right on your remote to navigate to the next visual.

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Waymo is already employing self-driving vehicles, and you can now experience a ride in a robotaxi in various cities across the U.S. The roadway infrastructure may require modifications to accommodate the increasing number of autonomous vehicles (AVs) anticipated in the coming years. A group of transportation engineers at North Carolina State University has been focused on one component of this infrastructure since 2020: incorporating a fourth traffic signal, which they propose could be white (although it could actually be any new hue).

When the white traffic signal activates, human drivers will understand that they need to perform a single action: Follow the vehicle in front and mimic its movements until the signal changes. This concept arises from the capability of AVs to interact with one another as well as with traffic signals. The white signal would illuminate only if a sufficient number of AVs are present at a busy intersection. When a human-operated vehicle reaches the intersection, it would adhere to the actions of the AVs. Drivers would continue to obey conventional traffic light regulations until the fourth signal activates, but if a certain threshold of human-operated vehicles is present at the intersection, they would revert to the traditional traffic light system.

The underlying idea is that AVs linked to a smart traffic light could enhance traffic flow and diminish fuel consumption. The initial proposal suggested a single computing system to gather data regarding the quantity of AVs nearby, in conjunction with managing traffic at the intersection. In 2023, the researchers introduced a new distributed computing system.