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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on HBO Max Subscription Fee Hike: Revised Charges Effective Today
    HBO Max Subscription Fee Hike: Revised Charges Effective Today

    failed rebranding initiative, is facing a price hike on all its subscriptions. Beginning Tuesday, October 21, the ad-supported HBO Max Basic plan will rise by $1 per month, going from $9.99 to $10.99. If you choose the annual option, expect to pay an additional $10 yearly, totaling $109.99.

    The HBO Max Standard plan is increasing by $1.50, now priced at $18.49 monthly. Additionally, an annual Standard plan will now cost $184.99, which is $15 higher than the prior plan. The Premium plan is seeing the largest increase, with customers needing to pay an extra $2 each month, or an additional $22.99 per year. Those with an annual Premium subscription will need to budget $229.99 to access HBO’s highest tier plan.

    This latest price increase takes effect for new customers starting today. Current HBO Max subscribers will notice the higher fees when they renew on or after November 20.

    More costs, same offerings

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on WhatsApp Unveils New Functionality to Protect Users from Internet Scams
    WhatsApp Unveils New Functionality to Protect Users from Internet Scams

    new protective features aimed at assisting users in better recognizing online fraud. Meta’s latest tools hold significant value, as users enhance their ability to spot prevalent scam strategies, scammers swiftly adjust by creating new plots.

    In relation to WhatsApp, Meta revealed that it will now send a security alert whenever a user is asked to share their screen with an unfamiliar contact. This measure is intended to tackle a frequent fraud where individuals are misled into thinking there’s a problem with either their device or bank. Consequently, scammers graciously suggest sharing a user’s screen so they can thoroughly investigate the supposed issue and eventually resolve the fabricated concern. Naturally, with screen sharing activated, scammers can monitor typed passwords and confidential financial data in real-time.

    Since scams of this kind usually target senior citizens, Meta announced its collaboration with the National Elder Fraud Coordination Center (NEFCC), a non-profit “that unites law enforcement and companies such as AARP, Amazon, Capital One, Google, Microsoft, and Walmart to fight against fraud aimed at older adults.”

    Messenger is also enhancing its scam detection capabilities

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on Top Recommended Headphones by Experts Now on Amazon
    Top Recommended Headphones by Experts Now on Amazon

    according to RTings, the Sony WH-1000XM6 noise cancelling wireless headphones, priced between $448 and $460 on Amazon depending on your selected style. The previous version made it onto BGR’s list of the finest headphones in 2024, based on expert evaluations, and the older Sony WH-1000XM4 remain some of the top ANC headphones on the market, so it’s not surprising that the latest model receives such acclaim.

    Equipped with what Sony describes as advanced processors and an adaptive microphone system, the WH-1000XM6 headphones provide exceptional active noise cancellation (or ANC), which is ideal when you’re on the go. You won’t have to be concerned about your music, audiobooks, or podcasts being overshadowed by the surrounding noise of urban areas, a bustling home, or any other activity occurring around you. This is made possible by the QN3 HD noise

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Apple is Developing an 18-Inch Foldable iPad Anticipated to Release in 2029 with an Estimated Price Tag of $3000
    Apple is Developing an 18-Inch Foldable iPad Anticipated to Release in 2029 with an Estimated Price Tag of $3000

    ### The Future of Apple’s Bendable Devices: iPhone and iPad

    As Apple advances its innovations, the tech titan is rumored to launch its inaugural bendable iPhone in 2026, unless unexpected developments arise. At the same time, the creation of Apple’s first bendable iPad has faced considerable obstacles, potentially delaying its release to 2029 or beyond.

    #### The Bendable iPhone

    The much-anticipated bendable iPhone is projected to showcase a design that reduces the crease typically associated with foldable screens. This methodology is in line with Apple’s partnership with Samsung Display Co., which is also developing display technology for the bendable iPad. The bendable iPhone is expected to be a major enhancement to Apple’s product assortment, targeting consumers eager for avant-garde smartphone tech.

    #### Obstacles with the Bendable iPad

    Conversely, the bendable iPad initiative has encountered more intricate engineering obstacles. As reported by Mark Gurman at Bloomberg, the device is estimated to retail for about $3,000 and might not be available until 2029 at the earliest. The development challenges encompass concerns related to weight, functionalities, and display technology. The current prototype weighs nearly 3.5 pounds, which is considerably heavier than current iPads, ranging from 1 to 1.3 pounds.

    The design of the bendable iPad is anticipated to mimic a 13-inch laptop when unfolded, with the display taking the place of standard keyboard and trackpad elements. Unlike the bendable iPhone, the iPad is not expected to have an external display when folded, simplifying certain features of its design.

    #### Market Positioning

    Although the bendable iPad might generate excitement upon its eventual unveiling, its steep price and weight indicate that it may not directly rival current iPads. Instead, it could be positioned more akin to a premium MacBook Pro, appealing to a specialized market prepared to pay for high-end technology.

    As Apple gears up for the debut of the new M5 iPad Pro, boasting enhanced performance and quicker charging while maintaining the same external design as its predecessor, the anticipation for the bendable iPad continues to escalate. With several years remaining for product development, Apple has the chance to refine the device and tackle its challenges.

    For those interested in further details regarding the bendable iPad and its evolution, an in-depth report is available on Bloomberg’s website.

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Anker Unveils Two Fresh Compact and Handy Nano Chargers for iPhone 17
    Anker Unveils Two Fresh Compact and Handy Nano Chargers for iPhone 17

    **Anker’s Latest Charging Innovations for iPhone 17 Owners**

    Last month, Anker introduced a range of new charging devices specifically designed for the iPhone 17, featuring the groundbreaking 35W Nano charger equipped with a built-in retractable cable and the ultra-compact 70W Nano charger. After several weeks of testing, these products have demonstrated exceptional functionality and convenience.

    ### Nano 35W Power Adapter with Integrated Cable

    The 35W Nano charger distinguishes itself with its distinctive built-in retractable cable, which, despite slightly increasing the size compared to average 35W adapters, presents an effective solution for rapid charging. The 2.3ft cable length is perfect for short-distance charging, enabling users to connect their devices easily on adjacent surfaces. Even with its size, the charger remains slim enough to fit in a pocket, and its prongs fold in for hassle-free transport.

    Moreover, the 35W Nano features an additional USB-C port, offering versatility for users who like using their own cables. This charger is ideal for anyone in search of a portable solution that supports fast charging for iPhones (excluding the iPhone 17 Pro) and can also act as a functional charger for devices such as the MacBook Air, although without fast charging capabilities.

    Offered in black and white, the 35W Nano charger can be obtained on Amazon for $40.

    ### Nano 70W Power Adapter with Braided Cable

    Of the two chargers, the 70W Nano has emerged as the most versatile. It incorporates three ports: two USB-C and one USB-A, capable of delivering up to 70W from a single port. This capability is particularly advantageous for users of devices like the 14-inch M4 MacBook Pro, as it is significantly more compact than the original Apple power adapter.

    The 70W Nano also features foldable prongs, enhancing portability. A significant benefit is the inclusion of a 6-foot braided USB-C charging cable, negating the necessity for an extra purchase.

    However, a slight downside is the presence of the USB-A port. While some users may still find it beneficial, many would prefer an extra USB-C port instead. Nevertheless, the 70W Nano supports the new 40W fast charging for the iPhone 17 Pro, establishing it as a highly flexible charger.

    The 70W Nano charger is available for $35 on Amazon, reduced from its regular price of $50, and can be found in black or white.

    ### Conclusion

    Anker’s latest charging innovations for the iPhone 17 provide practical features and compact designs, making them outstanding options for users seeking efficient charging solutions. Whether choosing the 35W Nano with its integrated cable or the more adaptable 70W Nano, both chargers deliver valuable functionality for contemporary device users.

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on “Essential 4 Android Photography Applications for Improved Image Taking”
    “Essential 4 Android Photography Applications for Improved Image Taking”

    Google Pixel 10 and Samsung Galaxy S25 may not provide seasoned photographers with the necessary camera settings to capture the world according to their personal visual preferences. However, numerous Android smartphones possess camera hardware that can achieve more, making it a question of discovering the right software to unleash a phone’s photographic capabilities.

    The Google Play Store boasts a variety of Android photography applications — both free and premium — that can assist you in fully exploiting your phone’s camera potential. We’ve distilled them to the must-haves, and among these, you’ll find choices that provide comprehensive exposure controls and the capacity to shoot RAW images, as well as some that include editing features to help you create the desired aesthetic.

    ProShot

    The extensive manual settings available in ProShot are a key element of how the app delivers DSLR-like photography on Android. With ProShot, it’s possible to manually tweak ISO settings, shutter speeds, white balance, focus, and even exposure compensation. ProShot accommodates both RAW and JPEG photography, and similar to DSLR and mirrorless cameras, it enables you to capture images in both RAW and JPEG formats simultaneously. Shooting in RAW provides greater editing flexibility, which is beneficial whether you have professional goals or aim to take Instagram-ready photos of the moon.

    If Instagram and other social media platforms are your main photography avenues, ProShot’s aspect ratio choices offer some adaptability. It features options for 4:3, 16:9, and 1:1 photography, while also permitting the setup of custom aspect ratios.

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on OpenAI Debuts ChatGPT Atlas Web Browser to Rival Chrome
    OpenAI Debuts ChatGPT Atlas Web Browser to Rival Chrome

    Since the emergence of algorithmic AI in public awareness, it has integrated itself into various aspects of our everyday routines. Numerous web developers have made agreements with OpenAI to incorporate ChatGPT into their platforms or have attempted to build their own algorithmic AI independently. Instead of continuing these partnerships or allowing others to take the lead, OpenAI has seemingly resolved to eliminate intermediaries and provide ChatGPT directly to users through its own web browser.

    In a news release issued today, OpenAI unveiled ChatGPT Atlas, a fully AI-driven web browser. Unlike previous attempts to weave search features into the existing ChatGPT framework, Atlas functions as a browser with ChatGPT embedded at its core, utilizing the system to infuse different services and functionalities into typical web browsing experiences. At launch, ChatGPT Atlas is exclusively available for download and usage on macOS, with plans for a release on Windows, iOS, and Android at an unspecified point in the future development timeline.

    ChatGPT is accessible from anywhere in Atlas

    With the Atlas browser, having a dedicated tab open to interact with ChatGPT is no longer necessary. Instead, there is an integrated sidebar that can be summoned to ask ChatGPT questions, summarize the content in your current browser tab, offer writing suggestions, analyze data, and perform other comparable functions. You can adjust the settings on your ChatGPT sidebar to either retain or discard information from previous sessions. For example, if you searched for holiday decorations in a session last week, it can retrieve those same tabs or generate new tabs with related information.

    The preview version of Atlas accessible for Plus, Pro, and Business accounts includes a newly introduced feature known as Agent mode, which OpenAI originally revealed earlier this year. In addition to providing answers and information, Agent mode can actively perform tasks on your behalf, such as ordering groceries for a cooking recipe or compiling data into a work brief.

    OpenAI has made it clear that, unless you opt to participate, any content you explore on Atlas will not be utilized to train its AI models. Furthermore, you can deactivate ChatGPT’s memory functions and browse in incognito mode to temporarily disconnect from ChatGPT.

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on NASA Advances with Artemis 3 Development Despite Setbacks in Artemis 2
    NASA Advances with Artemis 3 Development Despite Setbacks in Artemis 2

    NASA has announced the launch date for the inaugural crewed mission returning to the moon – Artemis II has yet to embark from Earth.

    So the major question is: Why is NASA developing Artemis III when Artemis II hasn’t even taken off? The explanation is rooted not in oversight but in the intricacies of simultaneous development. As Artemis III progresses through production, Artemis II is finalizing the last phases of safety assessments, technical problem-solving, and crew preparation. Regrettably, these tasks have also turned out to be more challenging than initially anticipated.

    What’s causing the delay for Artemis II?

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Google Wallet Simplifies Travel for Android Users with Convenient Management of Plane and Train Tickets
    Google Wallet Simplifies Travel for Android Users with Convenient Management of Plane and Train Tickets

    **Google Play Services Upgrade: Instant Notifications for Google Wallet**

    Google is preparing to roll out a major upgrade to Play Services at the end of October, improving the capabilities of Google Wallet with Android 16’s instant notifications. This upgrade will enable Android users to receive real-time updates on their lock and home screens for trains, flights, and events, guaranteeing prompt alerts for travel and event timings.

    Originally, Android 16’s Live Updates included notifications for food deliveries and ride-sharing services. With this new upgrade, users can now monitor their travel schedules, assisting them in reaching stations and gates punctually. This feature was initially showcased during Google’s I/O conference in May, with the first rollout in Canada and India.

    The upgrade also connects Gmail with Google Wallet, allowing users with Android 12 or later to receive alerts when a loyalty pass from Gmail is added to Wallet. Furthermore, the process of adding new cards to Wallet is simplified, as users can now include cards via supported issuer applications without needing to input details manually.

    In addition to travel upgrades, the Play Services v25.41 update encompasses security enhancements and features for developers. Users can now perform reCAPTCHA verifications on mobile devices and manage concealed passkeys in Google Password Manager. Developers receive new resources to aid in ad-related functionalities within their applications.

    In summary, the upgrade seeks to simplify travel experiences and bolster security, making Google Wallet a more vital component of the Android ecosystem.

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Samsung Tablet Now $70 Less Expensive at Best Buy
    Samsung Tablet Now $70 Less Expensive at Best Buy

    The Samsung Galaxy Tab A9 Plus, sporting an 11-inch display, provides a more expansive screen compared to the standard A9 model. Currently, this tablet is offered at a reduced price of $250 at Best Buy, down from its original price of $319.99, making it a compelling choice for cost-aware shoppers. The A9 Plus is part of Samsung’s budget-friendly tablet series introduced last year, and it comes with a 256GB storage option.

    This tablet features both front and rear cameras, USB-C charging, and a headphone jack, which is uncommon in the current tablet market. It is fueled by a Qualcomm Snapdragon 695 SoC processor and 8GB of RAM, delivering satisfactory performance for daily activities. The device also allows for expandable storage of up to 1TB through a microSD slot.

    The A9 Plus is ideal for users in search of an economical tablet with a sizable screen and reliable battery life, particularly for those who already possess Samsung devices. However, it may not be the best fit for individuals who need high-quality camera capabilities or USB-C fast charging. Regardless of its economical nature, the A9 Plus features a 90Hz refresh rate display, making it an excellent option for casual users wanting a larger screen experience without overspending.

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