Category: Software

  • Google Pixel 9 Pro and Phones Get Android 16 Update and Features

    Google Pixel 9 Pro and Phones Get Android 16 Update and Features

    Key Takeaways

    1. Android 16 update is now available for Pixel smartphones, featuring design changes, Live Updates, and security enhancements.
    2. New “Pixel VIPs” feature allows users to organize important contacts’ calls, messages, and birthdays in one spot, with notifications enabled during “do not disturb” mode.
    3. Gboard introduces AI-generated stickers and the Pixel Recorder app can create AI-driven summaries of voice memos in multiple languages.
    4. Camera app now includes a tutorial button for functions and the Magnifier app can scan for text through the camera.
    5. Google Photos introduces an AI-powered one-click feature to enhance images.

    Today, Google has rolled out the Android 16 update for its Pixel smartphones. If you own a Pixel 9 Pro (starting at $999 on Amazon) or another compatible device, you can already get the newest operating system. The Android 16 update mainly brings design changes, Live Updates akin to those on the Apple iPhone, along with security enhancements.

    Exciting New Features

    Pixel users can also take advantage of a bunch of exclusive functionalities with the latest Feature Drop for June 2025. One of the highlights is the introduction of “Pixel VIPs,” which gather previous calls, messages, or birthdays from selected contacts into a single spot. You can even display this information on your home screen using a widget. Notably, calls from these VIPs will still ring through when “do not disturb” mode is activated.

    Enhancements in Applications

    In a fun twist, Gboard can now create stickers using AI and text input, so users don’t need to toggle between different apps. Also, the Pixel Recorder app is now capable of generating AI-driven summaries of voice memos in several languages, including German. Furthermore, the Feature Drop brings “Clear Voice” to the Pixel 8 series, a tool that aims to eliminate unwanted background noise from voice memos.

    Camera and More Improvements

    For those who love photography, the Camera app on Pixel devices has a new question mark button that opens a tutorial detailing its various functions. Additionally, Google’s Magnifier app can now scan for text visible through the phone’s camera, such as restaurant menus. Finally, Google Photos has introduced a new one-click feature that leverages AI to enhance images.

    Source:
    Link

    Google Pixel 9 Pro and Phones Get Android 16 Update and FeaturesGoogle Pixel 9 Pro and Phones Get Android 16 Update and Features

     

    Tags: , ,
  • iOS 26 Boosts iPhone Battery Life but Reduces Performance

    iOS 26 Boosts iPhone Battery Life but Reduces Performance

    Key Takeaways

    1. iOS 26 will be available in the fall for iPhone models from 11 to 16, featuring design changes and new AI capabilities.
    2. The new “Adaptive Power” feature slows down the processor and dims the screen to extend battery life, in addition to the existing Low Power Mode.
    3. A warning in settings indicates that certain tasks may take longer when Adaptive Power is active.
    4. iOS 26 will automatically switch to Low Power Mode when the battery level drops to 20%.
    5. The update may support future iPhone models like the rumored iPhone 17 Air, which could benefit from energy-saving features.

    Apple revealed iOS 26 on Monday, marking the next significant upgrade for the iPhone. This new operating system will be available in the fall for all models ranging from the iPhone 11 to the iPhone 16. The update brings a variety of design changes, innovative AI features, an overhauled camera app, and the introduction of a new gaming app. One noteworthy addition is the “Adaptive Power” feature, which users can turn on alongside the existing “Low Power Mode” found in the system settings.

    Understanding Adaptive Power

    While Low Power Mode mainly limits background tasks, like fetching new emails, Adaptive Power takes a different approach. It slows down the iPhone’s processor and dims the screen brightness. By focusing on these two energy-hungry elements, this feature aims to prolong battery life. It’s important to note that a message in the system settings warns users that certain tasks might take longer when Adaptive Power is in use. Additionally, when the battery level falls to 20%, iOS 26 will automatically switch to Low Power Mode.

    Future Prospects

    This feature seems particularly designed for the upcoming iPhone 17 Air, which is rumored to have a 6.6-inch display while housing a small 3,000 mAh battery. Therefore, users might rely heavily on features like Adaptive Power to make it through the day without needing to recharge. Speculations have also emerged that iOS 26 might utilize AI to monitor user habits and intelligently lower power usage. However, there’s no evidence of this feature in the initial beta version of iOS 26, at least not yet.

    Apple | The Verge | MacRumors

    Source:
    Link

     

    Tags: , ,
  • Samsung’s Reaction to Apple’s WWDC Announcements 2023

    Samsung’s Reaction to Apple’s WWDC Announcements 2023

    Key Takeaways

    1. Apple revealed new software updates with a Liquid Glass design, generating excitement and criticism.
    2. Samsung openly mocked Apple’s design choices and AI capabilities on social media, highlighting similarities to their own products.
    3. The Liquid Glass design has been compared to Windows Vista’s Aero UI, raising concerns about app visibility and readability.
    4. Samsung showcased its advanced Galaxy AI features, claiming superiority over Apple’s offerings in real-time translations and smart capabilities.
    5. Apple adopted a cautious approach regarding AI at WWDC 2025, focusing on user privacy and mentioning Siri only twice during the presentation.

    Apple has just revealed its newest software updates, which include fresh names and a Liquid Glass design. These innovations have not only intrigued Apple fans but have also drawn the ire of Samsung, Apple’s main competitor in the Android space. Rather than remain silent, Samsung decided to poke fun at Apple’s offerings, criticizing the “familiar” designs and lackluster AI capabilities.

    Samsung’s Response to Apple’s Announcements

    Samsung’s reaction to Apple’s announcements at WWDC 2025 was quite vocal. A tweet from Samsung Mobile US on X stated, “Customizable apps? Floating bars? That sleek glass UI? Looks… familiar.” The Liquid Glass design has been compared to the Aero UI from Windows Vista, while the new app icons in iOS 26 and macOS 26 arguably make it more difficult to identify apps or read text clearly.

    Flexing Galaxy AI

    In addition to calling out Apple, Samsung took the chance to showcase its Galaxy AI, which has been delivering features that Apple is just starting to test out. Posts from Samsung’s X account included remarks like, “New to live translations? Welcome aboard! We’ve been translating text and speech in real-time for a while now… #GalaxyAI,” and “AI is coming to your watch? Cute. Ours already knows when you’re too tired to care #GalaxyAI.”

    Apple Treads Carefully

    Unlike recent AI-focused presentations from Google and Samsung, Apple’s WWDC was notable for its minimal mention of AI. Siri was only mentioned twice throughout the 90-minute duration. It seems that Apple is being cautious, prioritizing user privacy while gradually incorporating AI features, which gives Samsung (and Google) some leeway to boast about their advancements, at least for the time being.

    Samsung's Reaction to Apple's WWDC Announcements 2023
    Tags: , ,
  • Apple’s Major Updates for iPhones, iPads, and Macs This Year

    Apple’s Major Updates for iPhones, iPads, and Macs This Year

    Key Takeaways

    1. Apple introduced iOS 26, iPadOS 26, macOS 26, and watchOS 26 featuring a new “Liquid Glass” design with enhanced transparency and light effects.
    2. Public beta testing for all new operating systems will start in July, with final versions available in the fall.
    3. iOS 26 is not compatible with all iPhones currently running iOS 18; specific compatible models were listed.
    4. iPadOS 26 introduces desktop-like multitasking and an improved file manager, available on select iPad models.
    5. watchOS 26 features a redesigned interface and AI capabilities like “Workout Buddy,” but these features require pairing with iPhone 15 Pro (Max) or iPhone 16 series devices.

    During the keynote event at WWDC yesterday, Apple unveiled iOS 26, iPadOS 26, macOS 26, and watchOS 26, among others. These new operating systems showcase Apple’s “Liquid Glass” design, which incorporates a variety of transparency effects and light reflections. This design approach makes widgets, app icons, menu bars, and pop-up windows appear much more contemporary than in previous versions.

    Public Beta and Release Timeline

    All the new operating systems will begin public beta testing in July, with the final versions expected to be available as a free update in the fall. iOS 26 boasts a plethora of new features but is not supported on all iPhones that are currently running iOS 18. The compatible iPhone models for iOS 26 include:

    The iPad is finally receiving desktop-like multitasking capabilities, along with an enhanced file manager, a sharper mouse cursor instead of a rounded one, and Apple’s fresh aesthetic. The new iPadOS runs on the following iPad models:

    Updates in macOS and Gaming Features

    A significant portion of macOS 26 centers around Apple’s comprehensive design overhaul. Surprisingly, this update also highlights numerous new gaming functionalities. However, support for older Intel-based Macs is somewhat restricted, as the system is compatible with the following Mac models:

    The Apple Watch is set to receive not only a revamped design through watchOS 26 but also innovative AI capabilities. One such feature is “Workout Buddy,” which aims to encourage users during their exercise routines. However, these AI features are only accessible when the Apple Watch is paired with an iPhone 15 Pro (Max) or an iPhone 16 series device. The watchOS 26 operates on the following smartwatch models:

    Apple.

    Source:
    Link

    Apple's Major Updates for iPhones, iPads, and Macs This YearApple's Major Updates for iPhones, iPads, and Macs This YearApple's Major Updates for iPhones, iPads, and Macs This YearApple's Major Updates for iPhones, iPads, and Macs This Year

     

    Tags: , ,
  • macOS Tahoe 26: iPhone Call Support, New Interface, AI Tools

    macOS Tahoe 26: iPhone Call Support, New Interface, AI Tools

    Key Takeaways

    1. New Interface: macOS Tahoe 26 introduces a Liquid Glass design with a translucent Dock, customizable folder colors, and new Control Center layouts.

    2. Phone App Integration: Users can make and receive calls directly from their Mac with the new Phone app, featuring Call Screening and Hold Assist.

    3. Spotlight Enhancements: Spotlight now allows users to perform actions directly from the search bar, with improved filtering tools and relevance-based sorting.

    4. Apple Intelligence Upgrades: Live Translation will be available in Messages and FaceTime, with new AI capabilities for Shortcuts and the option to connect with ChatGPT.

    5. New Apple Games App: The Apple Games app will consolidate games and features a Game Overlay for in-game adjustments and social interactions.

    Apple has given a sneak peek of macOS Tahoe 26, the upcoming version of its desktop operating system. The announcement was made during WWDC 2025. This update presents a new look called Liquid Glass, enhanced Continuity tools like the Phone app and Live Activities, and modifications to Spotlight which introduce more functions and integration capabilities.

    New Interface Features

    With macOS Tahoe 26, the interface gets a fresh look, featuring a translucent Dock, revamped sidebars, and a new menu bar. Users can personalize folder colors, change the Control Center layout, and toggle between various icon styles. There are new settings that enable the addition of emojis and symbols to folders, along with extra options for themes and appearance.

    Phone App and Live Activities

    For the first time, the Phone app will be available on macOS, allowing users to make and receive cellular calls directly from their nearby iPhone. The Mac version will include familiar features such as Recents, Voicemail, and Favorites, plus new functionalities like Call Screening and Hold Assist.

    Call Screening will automatically prompt unknown callers to identify themselves before the call connects. Hold Assist helps keep the user’s place in line while waiting for a live agent, enabling them to continue working without interruptions.

    Enhanced FaceTime and Spotlight

    Live Activities from the iPhone will also make their way to macOS. These real-time updates, including flight arrivals, Uber rides, and sports scores, will show up in the menu bar of the Mac. Clicking them will launch a mirrored view of the related iPhone app.

    FaceTime is getting a fresh layout with Contact Posters for recent callers, repositioned controls using the new design, and a More button for options like SharePlay and Live Translation. These changes will also be seen on iPhone and iPad.

    Spotlight Improvements

    Spotlight is also getting significant upgrades in macOS Tahoe 26. Users will have the ability to perform actions straight from the search bar, such as sending emails, starting timers, or creating notes.

    Furthermore, Spotlight will now feature filtering tools and quick keys—short character strings that trigger specific actions. Search results will be sorted and grouped based on their relevance as determined by the system, reflecting recent user behavior. Similar updates are expected for iOS and iPadOS as well.

    Apple Intelligence Expansion

    Apple Intelligence will see enhancements with this release. Live Translation will be available in Messages, FaceTime, and Phone, providing real-time transcription and language conversion. Shortcuts can now utilize both on-device and cloud-based AI models for multi-step workflows, such as comparing transcripts to notes or creating images with tools like Genmoji and Image Playground. Users will also have the option to connect with ChatGPT for more extensive text or image generation tasks. These features will also be rolled out on iPhone and iPad.

    The New Apple Games App

    macOS Tahoe will also introduce the Apple Games app, which consolidates all installed games and adds a Game Overlay. This floating panel allows gamers to adjust settings, chat with friends, or invite others to join in without leaving their current session. Games like Crimson Desert, Cyberpunk 2077, and Lies of P: Overture are being optimized for Apple’s latest M-series chips, featuring ray tracing and MetalFX.

    Safari and Other Updates

    Safari is set to undergo a redesign and is claimed to load frequently visited sites up to 50 percent quicker than Chrome, according to Apple’s internal testing. The Messages app will add polling features and customizable backgrounds. A new journaling app is also on the way for macOS. Accessibility updates will include Magnifier support via Continuity Camera and a new Braille Access interface. Many of these features are also coming to iOS, iPadOS, and visionOS.

    Photos and Notes Apps Upgrades

    The Photos app will be enhanced with a new interface and features like pinned collections, quick filtering and sorting tools, and adjustable tile sizes. These updates will align with the redesigned Photos experience on iPadOS.

    The Notes app will support importing and exporting markdown files, as well as saving and transcribing phone call recordings. Similar features will also be available on iPhone and iPad.

    Password Management Enhancements

    The Passwords feature is receiving version tracking, allowing users to see changes made to saved credentials along with timestamps. This functionality will be consistent across all Apple devices.

    macOS Tahoe 26 is currently available for developers, and a public beta is anticipated in July. The update will be released as a free software upgrade for compatible Macs in the United States and other areas this fall. A limited selection of Intel-based models, such as the 2019 Mac Pro and 2020 iMac, will still be supported. The Apple Intelligence features will require an M1 chip or newer (like the one found in this Mac mini on Amazon) and will initially be available in select languages.

    Source:
    Link

    Tags: , ,
  • Apple tvOS 26 Transforms Apple TVs into Karaoke Machines

    Apple tvOS 26 Transforms Apple TVs into Karaoke Machines

    Key Takeaways

    1. Karaoke Feature: tvOS 26 allows Apple TVs to function as karaoke machines using iPhones as microphones, with music, lighting effects, and real-time translations.

    2. Expanded Language Support: Enhanced Live Captions during FaceTime calls now available in multiple languages, including French, German, Japanese, Korean, Mandarin, and Spanish.

    3. Interface Redesign: The new Liquid Glass design features semi-transparent elements and updated poster art, aiming to reduce distractions while watching content.

    4. User Profiles and Recommendations: Personalized suggestions linked to user profiles for easier access; new APIs simplify app and watchlist transfers to new Apple TV devices.

    5. Stunning Screen Savers: Users can enjoy beautiful aerial photographs of various landscapes as screen savers when their Apple TVs are on.

    Apple has introduced tvOS 26 for its streaming media devices, Apple TV. This update brings a variety of new features and a redesigned interface. Developers can start using the OS right away, while the general public will get access to a beta version next month.

    Karaoke Feature

    One of the standout features of tvOS 26 is its capability to transform Apple TVs (2nd generation or later, like the one available on Amazon) into karaoke machines when used with iPhones (11 or newer) as microphones. The Apple Music app will provide music alongside lighting effects, real-time translations, and pronunciation of lyrics for songs in supported languages. Viewers can cheer on singers by sending emojis that appear on screen. Users have the option to choose any AirPlay-compatible speaker (for instance, this HomePod on Amazon) as the main output speaker for their Apple TVs.

    Expanded Language Support

    Apple TV users will benefit from enhanced language support for Live Captions during FaceTime calls, now available in French, German, Japanese, Korean, Mandarin, and Spanish. Users can also personalize their contacts with photos, making it easier to recognize them at a glance.

    Interface Redesign

    The interface has been updated with a Liquid Glass design, showcasing movies and shows with new poster art. The design features buttons and GUI elements that are semi-transparent, allowing for lighting effects from the images beneath them.

    These subtle interface elements aim to avoid distractions while watching content, but they could present challenges for users with limited vision. It still needs to be determined if a high-contrast version of the user interface can be activated in tvOS 26.

    User Profiles and Recommendations

    Personalized suggestions and watchlists are linked to user profiles, which appear on the screen when the Apple TV is woken up for quick login options. Developers will find it easier to transfer watchlists and apps to new Apple TV devices, thanks to new APIs that connect app logins to user accounts, simplifying the transition from older models to the latest ones.

    For users who keep their Apple TVs on, they can enjoy stunning aerial photographs of cityscapes, earth, landscapes, or underwater scenes as screen savers.

    Source:
    Link

    Apple tvOS 26 Transforms Apple TVs into Karaoke Machines
    Tags: , ,
  • iOS 16 Unveiled: Exciting Redesign and New Features Revealed

    iOS 16 Unveiled: Exciting Redesign and New Features Revealed

    Key Takeaways

    1. Apple has renamed all software updates to a unified version number, now at 26, including iOS 26.
    2. iOS 26 introduces significant lock screen enhancements with 3D wallpapers and dynamic elements, plus a revamped Phone app with AI call screening.
    3. The update features Live Translation across all apps and real-time text translation during phone calls and music playback.
    4. iMessage receives new updates, including themes, typing indicators, an automatic spam filter, and the ability to create polls.
    5. The iOS 26 developer beta is available for iPhone 11 and newer, with specific features exclusive to iPhone 15 Pro and newer models; a public beta will launch in July.

    As mentioned by Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, Apple has made a significant change in how it names its software updates. Everything is now numbered 26, including iOS 26. This update introduces a major visual change that aligns with Apple’s new Liquid Glass style. There’s a lot to anticipate in this update, although some may justifiably claim that many of these features have already been seen on Android for some time.

    Exciting Lock Screen Enhancements

    The first noticeable upgrades with iOS 26 pertain to the lock screen, which now offers 3D wallpapers and elements that change dynamically based on what’s shown on the screen. The Phone app has also undergone a much-needed makeover and has added some new functionalities. With Call Screening, AI technology can now answer calls for you. This feature has been available on Google Pixel phones for a while, so it’s nice to see iOS finally catch up.

    Live Translation and More

    Another impressive feature in iOS 26 is Live Translation. It operates across all apps, including iMessage, and can even translate text in real-time during phone calls. Additionally, song lyrics in the Music app can be translated as they play. Apple Music now includes a mixer-like feature that allows for smooth transitions between songs. iMessage has finally updated to compete with giants like WhatsApp and Telegram, offering themes for individual conversations and ‘typing’ indicators.

    Moreover, iMessage now includes an automatic spam text filter. Messages from unknown contacts will remain hidden in your notifications unless you choose otherwise. Users can also create polls. Apple Maps now remembers places you’ve visited, similar to Google Maps. Apple has taken another cue from Google with Apple Games, a centralized hub for all your games.

    Availability and Compatibility

    The iOS 26 developer beta is currently available for download on the iPhone 11 and newer devices. Features that utilize Apple Intelligence will only function on the iPhone 15 Pro, Pro Max, and newer models. A public beta for iOS 26 is set to launch in July, with a stable version expected to follow shortly after.

    Source:
    Link

    iOS 16 Unveiled: Exciting Redesign and New Features RevealediOS 16 Unveiled: Exciting Redesign and New Features RevealediOS 16 Unveiled: Exciting Redesign and New Features RevealediOS 16 Unveiled: Exciting Redesign and New Features RevealediOS 16 Unveiled: Exciting Redesign and New Features RevealediOS 16 Unveiled: Exciting Redesign and New Features RevealediOS 16 Unveiled: Exciting Redesign and New Features RevealediOS 16 Unveiled: Exciting Redesign and New Features RevealediOS 16 Unveiled: Exciting Redesign and New Features Revealed

     

    Tags: , ,
  • Apple’s iPhone Anniversary: iOS 26 Hints at New Design

    Apple’s iPhone Anniversary: iOS 26 Hints at New Design

    Key Takeaways

    1. iOS 26 features a redesigned user interface with a “Liquid Glass” effect, emphasizing transparency and blurred backgrounds.
    2. The new iPhone design is set to be revealed on the 20th anniversary of the original iPhone, marking a shift from the iPhone 16 design.
    3. The upcoming iPhone model, likely the iPhone 19 Pro, will be predominantly made of glass with a glass frame and rounded edges.
    4. The screen will have extremely thin bezels and will eliminate the punch-hole design, placing the selfie camera and Face ID sensors beneath the display.
    5. The anniversary model is internally codenamed “Glasswing,” and may include a cutting-edge battery made entirely from silicon.

    Apple is set to launch iOS 26 at WWDC in just a few hours. This new version will provide the iPhone with a completely redesigned user interface that emphasizes transparency, lighting, and shadows more than ever before. Windows, buttons, and pop-ups will appear as if they are crafted from frosted glass, creating a blurred effect with the objects behind them. This “Liquid Glass” interface aims to divert attention from the fact that the company lacks any major AI innovations.

    A Glimpse of the Future

    Bloomberg reports that iOS 26 also serves as a sneak peek at the iPhone’s new glass design, which is expected to be revealed on the 20th anniversary of the original iPhone. This marks Apple’s decisive move away from the iPhone 16 design after over six years. The upcoming model, likely to be the iPhone 19 Pro, is anticipated to hit the market in 2027. According to Bloomberg, this iPhone will be almost entirely constructed from glass, with the frame reportedly transitioning from titanium to glass, and the display will have rounded edges on all four sides.

    Design Innovations

    The bezels of the screen are rumored to be “extraordinarily thin,” and Apple is believed to be eliminating the punch-hole design altogether. For the first time on the iPhone 19 Pro, both the selfie camera and Face ID sensors will be installed discreetly beneath the display. The anniversary model has supposedly been given the internal codename “Glasswing,” named after a butterfly known for its transparent wings. Previous speculations also suggested the inclusion of a cutting-edge battery made entirely from silicon, moving away from the current mix of about 20% silicon and carbon.

    Source:
    Link

    Tags: , ,
  • GNCA Tip Line: Microsoft Recall Bypass & Battery Safety Tips

    GNCA Tip Line: Microsoft Recall Bypass & Battery Safety Tips

    Key Takeaways

    1. Baseus is recalling 55,380 portable battery chargers due to safety issues, including battery swelling and fires.
    2. The Internet Archive faces a lawsuit from major music companies over its digitization project, claiming it’s a threat to fair use and historical access.
    3. The U.S. PIRG Education Fund launched the “Electronic Waste Graveyard” database, highlighting over 100 discontinued tech products contributing to e-waste.
    4. Signal’s new desktop update disables Microsoft’s Recall feature by default, addressing privacy and security concerns for users.
    5. Washington state passed bill HB 1483 to improve consumer access to repair information and tools, marking progress in right to repair legislation across the U.S.

    Shenzhen-based electronics company Baseus is pulling back around 55,380 of its 30,000 mAh 65-watt portable battery chargers. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission has reported 76 issues linked to these devices, with 72 cases of battery swelling and four fires—three of which caused damage to property. The affected models have the identification number BS-30KP365 and serial numbers that end with 0–9 or the letter D. Customers can obtain a replacement by providing proof of purchase and photographs of the serial number. This isn’t the first time Baseus faced such problems; in 2024, it recalled 132,000 wireless chargers due to similar fire hazards.

    Legal Challenges for the Internet Archive

    The Internet Archive, well-known for its Wayback Machine and efforts in preserving public records, is currently facing another lawsuit. A group that includes Universal Music Group, Sony Music Entertainment, and Capitol Records is taking action against the non-profit due to its “Great 78 Project,” which digitizes 78 RPM records from the early 20th century. The Archive has described the lawsuit as a significant threat, defending that the project is fair use and provides crucial access to historical materials. This platform is essential for journalists, educators, and engineers. More than 850 musicians and close to 90,000 people who signed a petition are urging for the lawsuit to be dismissed.

    New Database for Electronic Waste

    The U.S. PIRG Education Fund has rolled out an interactive database called “Electronic Waste Graveyard,” which lists over 100 tech products that are no longer in production. This includes PCs, smartphones, wearable tech, and car accessories that have been left behind because of software expiration or the end of cloud services. One notable example is Amazon’s Halo Rise sleep tracker, which was discontinued less than a year after it was launched. According to PIRG, more than 130 million pounds of electronic waste have arisen from such product discontinuations since 2014, with an estimated 1.66 billion pounds expected from Windows 10 PCs after support ends in October 2025.

    Signal Blocks Recall Feature

    The encrypted messaging app Signal has released an update for its desktop application that disables Microsoft’s Recall feature by default. Recall, which is only available on Copilot+ PCs equipped with NPUs, saves continuous screenshots of users’ activities to facilitate AI-driven data retrieval. Critics argue that this feature, although local, creates significant privacy and security risks. Signal’s developers have added a screen security feature that stops Windows 11 from recording chat windows, highlighting Microsoft’s inadequate protection measures as their reason.

    Fortnite Returns to the iOS App Store

    After a prolonged legal dispute regarding in-app purchase limitations, Fortnite is now back on the iOS App Store. The legal issues began in 2020 when Epic Games bypassed Apple’s payment system, leading to its removal from the platform. Courts later decided that Apple must permit developers to inform users of alternative payment methods. Epic’s CEO Tim Sweeney views this reinstatement as a win for fairness on platforms, though he acknowledges that further progress is needed on a global scale.

    New Repair Access Legislation in Washington

    Washington state has enacted bill HB 1483, which broadens consumer access to repair information, tools, and parts. Certain exclusions apply to video game consoles, motor vehicles, medical devices, and low Earth orbit broadband equipment manufactured before 2044. This law will come into effect in 2026. Advocacy organizations like iFixit have welcomed the new law, noting that Apple has decided to add iPads to its self-repair program as a result. Now, all 50 states have presented some type of right to repair legislation.

    The first episode of GNCA’s Tipline highlights ongoing trends across various industries—like early product obsolescence, the decline of digital ownership, or regulatory loopholes that big corporations take advantage of. More episodes are on the way. This sort of reporting is what many people need—something that cuts through corporate noise and illustrates how everyday technology problems link to real-world impacts. It’s a means to feel less helpless and more informed, especially in times when it seems like large companies hold all the power.

    Source:
    Link

    Tags: , ,
  • Apple WWDC 2025: How to Watch Keynote Livestream and What to Expect

    Apple WWDC 2025: How to Watch Keynote Livestream and What to Expect

    Key Takeaways

    1. Apple’s software updates, including iOS 26, are expected to have new version numbers based on the release year.
    2. The updates will feature a refreshed design inspired by Vision OS, incorporating “liquid glass” effects.
    3. Major updates will include iPadOS 26, watchOS 26, tvOS 26, and Vision OS 26, with the possibility of introducing homeOS for smart devices.
    4. Functional updates may include new Camera, Calendar, and Phone apps, along with the Preview app from macOS and AI-driven features for battery life and translation.
    5. A new Games app is anticipated, and unexpected announcements may occur during the WWDC keynote on June 9, 2025.

    It is uncertain whether this will turn out to be the most significant update for iOS and similar systems. Regardless, the new versions of Apple’s software are anticipated to receive new version numbers that will correspond to the year they are released, which means iOS 19 is expected to change to iOS 26. Furthermore, these major updates will bring a refreshed appearance inspired by Vision OS and are said to feature numerous “liquid glass” effects. Over the last few weeks, these plans have been leaked, with some developers already revealing what the new design might resemble.

    Upcoming Features and Predictions

    In addition, Bloomberg’s top Apple analyst, Mark Gurman, has shared his forecasts for Apple’s WWDC keynote set for June 9, 2025. He does not predict any new hardware but anticipates that alongside iOS 26, there will be updates for iPadOS 26, watchOS 26, tvOS 26, and Vision OS 26. Apple may also introduce homeOS for smart home devices. Most of the other updates are expected to focus primarily on a visual revamp rather than new functionalities.

    Potential Functional Changes

    That said, Apple might present some functional updates too, such as new Camera, Calendar, or Phone applications. Additionally, the Preview app familiar from macOS could potentially come to iPhones and iPads, while AI-driven features might enhance battery life and enable translation of various types of content throughout the system. Lastly, gamers can look forward to a new Games app. It’s worth noting that Apple could also have some unexpected announcements. The livestream is set to begin at 1:00 PM ET and can be watched on YouTube, with the link provided below.

    Source:
    Link

    Tags: , ,