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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Apple’s Approach to Re-enter the Chinese Market Features Discounts Backed by the Government
    Apple’s Approach to Re-enter the Chinese Market Features Discounts Backed by the Government

    ### Apple’s Strategic Transformation: Adopting Subsidies in China

    Following a difficult phase in the competitive smartphone arena, Apple has recently announced a considerable recovery in iPhone sales, marked by a 15% upswing attributed to renewed interest in crucial markets such as the U.S. and China. This revival arrives at a pivotal moment as Apple has been contending with intense rivalry from local Chinese brands that have been enhancing their market share, especially due to governmental subsidies on affordable smartphones.

    #### The Competitive Environment in China

    Over recent years, Apple has faced challenges in maintaining its presence in China as homegrown brands like Xiaomi and Huawei have thrived, gaining from bold pricing tactics and governmental backing. These domestic manufacturers have successfully provided consumers with high-quality smartphones at reduced prices, making it progressively harder for Apple to compete, particularly in the mid-range market.

    #### Participating in the Subsidy Program

    In a tactical decision to reclaim market share, Apple has opted to join China’s nationwide subsidy initiative. According to reports from the *South China Morning Post*, buyers in major cities such as Shanghai and Beijing can now enjoy discounts of up to ¥2,000 (around $278) on selected Apple products. This signifies a major shift for Apple, as it is the first occasion the company engages directly with the subsidy program via its own retail outlets, as opposed to depending on third-party platforms like JD.com and Alibaba.

    #### Specifications of the Subsidy Offer

    The subsidy initiative entails specific conditions that consumers need to consider:

    – **Location Limitations**: In Shanghai, the discount is exclusively available for in-store transactions at one of Apple’s eight physical retail locations. Conversely, Beijing customers can only take advantage of the subsidy through online purchases that are delivered within city limits.

    – **Eligible Products**: Not every Apple product is eligible for the subsidy. The government has imposed a minimum price of ¥6,000 for qualifying items, which encompasses certain models of the iPhone, iPad, and Apple Watch. Additionally, there is a ¥500 limit on the discount for these gadgets, while specific Mac models can benefit from a larger ¥2,000 discount.

    #### Consequences for Apple

    This strategic adaptation illustrates Apple’s readiness to modify its business model in response to evolving market conditions. With iPhone sales having dropped in the prior quarter, and local rivals enjoying double-digit progress, Apple’s involvement in the subsidy program is a clear demonstration of its dedication to remaining competitive in the Chinese market.

    By directly connecting with consumers through subsidies, Apple aims not only to elevate its sales figures but also to strengthen its brand visibility in a market increasingly dominated by local entities. This adaptability in strategy could prove vital as Apple navigates the intricacies of the Chinese smartphone environment, where consumer affinities and government regulations can shift swiftly.

    In summary, Apple’s choice to engage with the subsidy program in China is a noteworthy advancement in its endeavors to rejuvenate its sales and fortify its standing against formidable local rivals. As the company continues to refine its strategies, it will be intriguing to observe how this initiative affects its overall performance in one of the largest smartphone markets globally.

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on Netflix Plans to Eliminate 21 Indie Games from Its Service, Featuring Hades and Katana ZERO
    Netflix Plans to Eliminate 21 Indie Games from Its Service, Featuring Hades and Katana ZERO

    **Netflix Set to Eliminate 21 Indie Games, Including Hades: Essential Information**

    Netflix has revealed plans to eliminate 21 notable indie games from its mobile gaming service, with the initial round of eliminations commencing on July 1st. This choice arises as the streaming leader reassesses its gaming direction, which has encountered considerable transformations in the past few months.

    ### The Titles Scheduled for Removal

    Among the games slated for removal, Hades will depart the platform on July 1st, while the removal date for Carmen Sandiego remains uncertain. The full list of games being withdrawn includes:

    – Battleship
    – Braid, Anniversary Edition
    – Carmen Sandiego
    – CoComelon: Play with JJ
    – Death’s Door
    – Diner Out: Merge Cafe
    – Dumb Ways to Survive
    – Ghost Detective
    – Hades
    – Katana ZERO
    – LEGO Legacy: Heroes Unboxed
    – Ludo King
    – Monument Valley
    – Monument Valley 2
    – Monument Valley 3
    – Rainbow Six: Smol
    – Raji: An Ancient Epic
    – SpongeBob: Bubble Pop F.U.N.
    – TED Tumblewords
    – The Case of the Golden Idol
    – The Rise of the Golden Idol
    – Vineyard Valley

    Several of these games were unique to Netflix’s mobile platform, raising questions about their future availability on Android and iOS systems.

    ### Netflix’s Evolving Gaming Approach

    This action is part of a wider transformation in Netflix’s gaming strategy. After acquiring multiple game studios, the company encountered difficulties, including the discontinuation of its in-house AAA studio, Blue, which failed to launch any games. Netflix’s present emphasis seems to be on games connected to its original shows, multiplayer experiences, and popular mainstream titles.

    ### Responses from Developers and Future Outlook

    While some developers are striving to return their games to mobile stores as independent titles, others have voiced surprise at the removals. Devolver Digital has confirmed collaboration with game developers to re-release titles such as Poinpy, Katana Zero, and Death’s Door as premium applications. Meanwhile, Color Gray Games, recognized for the Golden Idol series, mentioned that they were taken by surprise by the announcement and are still evaluating their next moves.

    ### Final Thoughts

    As Netflix continues to fine-tune its gaming strategy, the cancellation of these indie titles signifies a major shift in its offerings. Players who appreciate gaming on the platform should hurry to enjoy these games before they vanish. The outlook for mobile gaming on Netflix remains unpredictable, but some developers are optimistic about reintroducing their titles in alternate formats.

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Top Three Budget-Friendly Garmin Selections for New Users
    Top Three Budget-Friendly Garmin Selections for New Users

    Garmin watches are pricier than ever before. Whether due to post-tariff strategies, inflation, or Garmin’s awareness of its devices’ popularity, the company is charging more than most competitors in the fitness watch market. After reviewing numerous Garmin watches, I can direct both new and returning Garmin users to the models they should prioritize. Otherwise, you might overspend without being ready for the drawbacks.

    In my perspective, Garmin watches can be categorized into three levels: Baseline, mid-range, and high-end. Garmin generally markets different styles of watches within each tier:

    | Audience | Baseline ($200–349) | Mid-range ($350–550) | High-end ($600+) |
    |———————-|————————————|———————-|——————————|
    | Running | Forerunner 55 / 165 / 255 | Forerunner 265 / 570 | Forerunner 965 / 970 |
    | Adventurers / hikers | Instinct E / 2 | Instinct 3 (Solar) | Enduro 3, Fenix 8, Tactix 8 |
    | Gym / all-around | Vivoactive 5 / 6, Lily 2 Active, Vivomove Trend | Venu 3 | Venu X1, MARQ Gen 2 |
    | Golf | Approach S12 / S44 | Approach S50 | Approach S70 |

    The baseline models are appealing because they come at a reasonable cost for fitness watches, but they typically feature older hardware, like last-generation health metrics and GPS tracking, or MIP displays, along with software that encourages upgrades to mid-tier models. They also have the “worst” battery life, yet still manage between 1–2 weeks, outperforming competitors.

    I usually suggest mid-tier Garmin watches, such as the Venu 3 or Instinct 3, as they provide an enhanced experience for only a bit more than an Apple Watch. However, these models also experience compromises and stripped-down features designed to make the expensive tier more enticing, like the outdoor-oriented Instinct 3 lacking maps.

    As impressive as watches like the Fenix 8 and Enduro 3 are, I cannot recommend spending a thousand dollars on a watch for anyone unfamiliar with Garmin’s UI idiosyncrasies and complex Connect app. Instead, let’s start you off with Garmin watches that will allow you to explore the ecosystem without feeling overwhelmed.

    Which Garmin watches offer beginner-friendly value

    With a significant occasion like Amazon Prime Day on the horizon, you might be anticipating a substantial discount on Garmin watches. However, from my years of experience covering these events, I’ve noticed that Garmin usually lowers prices on its watches according to these unofficial tiers.

    Older Garmin Fenix or Epix models may see price drops of several hundred dollars, yet newer mid-range watches typically receive a $100 discount, while budget Garmin models might only get a $50 reduction. Keep this information in mind to set realistic expectations; a mid-range Garmin watch is unlikely to dip into my baseline tier, even during a fantastic sale.

    If you are looking to enter the Garmin brand at a reasonable price with relatively updated hardware, consider the 2025 Garmin Vivoactive 6. A colleague of mine, a recent convert to Garmin who casually lifts weights, described it as fantastic “if you’ve never used Garmin before” for how it gradually introduces users into the ecosystem and its confusing interface without overwhelming them; he particularly valued the Strength Coach and walking recommendations.

    (If you’re inclined to buy something right now, the Vivoactive 5 is $100 off ($199), featuring the same 1.2-inch AMOLED display, 11-day battery life, health sensors, all-systems GNSS accuracy, and aluminum bezel.)

    My next suggestion (and my personal favorite in the budget category) is the Garmin Forerunner 165. It offers the same 11-day battery life, 1.2-inch AMOLED display, and GNSS accuracy as the Vivoactive 6. While it may not be as visually appealing and is missing many of the Vivoactive’s sports modes, it adds an altimeter for elevation tracking — essential for hikers and runners — along with daily suggested running workouts.

    I wish it included tools found in the Forerunner 265’s training load or the Forerunner 970’s running tolerance, but the Forerunner 165 is suitable for runners getting started with Garmin Coach, training effects, and post-run recovery suggestions without feeling overloaded. It’s currently $40 off on Amazon, close to an all-time low.

    My final recommendation for beginners, the Garmin Lily 2 Active, is one I have not personally tried, but I was surprised to learn that my sister Megan purchased one (without any suggestion from me) and is thrilled with it.

    Unlike short-lived Garmin hybrids like the Vivomove Trend that lack integrated GPS, the Lily 2 Active lasts up to nine days, or nine hours with GPS. Yet it still appears

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on Upcoming Launches on HBO & Max: July 2025
    Upcoming Launches on HBO & Max: July 2025

    **Max Streaming Service: Highlights for July 2025**

    Max, the premium streaming platform from Warner Bros. Discovery, is poised to deliver an exceptional variety of new content in July 2025. Renowned for its vast catalog, Max features offerings from HBO, Adult Swim, Discovery, TLC, among others. This month, the service will introduce an exciting combination of major films, critically acclaimed shows, and brand-new original programming.

    **Major Film Releases:**

    – **Sinners (2025):** This original horror feature directed by Ryan Coogler has enthralled viewers with its captivating narrative and stands as one of the highest-grossing films of the year.
    – **Death of a Unicorn (A24):** Featuring Paul Rudd and Jenna Ortega, this movie is one of four A24 titles launching on Max this month.
    – Additional prominent A24 films include **Opus**, **I Love You Forever**, and **On Becoming a Guinea Fowl**.

    **Series and Special Programming:**

    – **Dear Ms.: A Revolution in Print (HBO Original):** Unlocking on July 2, this series delves into the influence of the legendary feminist magazine.
    – **Shark Week 2025 (Discovery):** Debuting on July 20, this annual celebration guarantees thrilling new shark documentaries.
    – **Eva Longoria: Searching For Spain (CNN):** A gastronomic adventure across Spain, launching on July 22.

    **Returning Favorites:**

    – **90 Day Fiance: Happily Ever After?, Season 9 (TLC):** Continues to follow the stories of beloved couples.
    – **Beat Bobby Flay, Season 38 (FOOD Network):** The culinary showdown returns with even more exhilarating challenges.

    **Full List of New Releases:**

    **Available July 1:**
    – Annabelle (2014)
    – Better off Dead…
    – Big Star: Nothing Can Hurt Me
    – Canyon River
    – Carol
    – Chopped: Volume 4, Season 61 (FOOD Network)
    – Cunningham
    – Dames
    – Dances With Wolves
    – Dances With Wolves: Extended Cut
    – Film Geek
    – Get Out
    – Get Shorty (1995)
    – In Time
    – Insidious
    – Jewel Robbery
    – Jimmy the Gent
    – Lady Killer
    – Lawyer Man
    – Life as We Know It
    – Love & Other Drugs
    – Love Crazy
    – Moana with Sound (1926)
    – Mortal Kombat (1995)
    – Mortal Kombat (2021)
    – Mortal Kombat Legends: Battle of the Realms
    – Mortal Kombat Legends: Cage Match
    – Mortal Kombat Legends: Scorpion’s Revenge
    – Mortal Kombat Legends: Snow Blind
    – Mortal Kombat: Annihilation
    – Napoleon Dynamite
    – One Way Passage
    – Other Men’s Women
    – Picture Snatcher
    – Private Detective 62
    – Red Dawn (1984)
    – Shadow of the Thin Man
    – Shaun the Sheep Movie
    – Showgirls
    – Sinner’s Holiday
    – Smart Money
    – Snatched (2017)
    – Song of the Thin Man
    – Suicide Squad: Hell to Pay
    – Taxi! (1932)
    – The Amityville Horror (1979)
    – The Amityville Horror (2005)
    – The Big Lebowski
    – The Brink (2019)
    – The Great Wall
    – The Kennel Murder Case
    – The Key
    – The Last House on the Left
    – The Meg
    – The Public Enemy
    – The Road to Singapore (1931)
    – The St. Louis Kid
    – The Strawberry Blonde
    – The Thin Man Goes Home
    – The Three Stooges
    – Toni Morrison: The Pieces I Am
    – Torrid Zone
    – Two O’Clock Courage
    – Tyrel
    – Valentine’s Day
    – Valley of the Sun (1942)
    – What’s Your Number?
    – What’s Your Number? Extended Edition
    – Winner Take All (1932)
    – Woman at War

    **Available July 2:**
    – Dear Ms.: A Revolution in Print (HBO Original)
    – My Big Fat Fabulous Life, Season 13 (TLC)

    **Available July 3:**
    – Batman Ninja vs. Yakuza League
    – The Deep Three, Season 3

    **Available July 4:**
    – On Becoming a Guinea Fowl (A24)
    – Sinners (2025)

    **Available July 7:**
    – 90 Day Fiance: Happily Ever After?, Season 9 (TLC)
    – Wardens of the North, Season 4 (Animal Planet)

    **Available July 10:**
    – Back to the Frontier, Season 1 (Max Original, Magnolia Network)
    – Celebrity IOU, Season 10 (HGTV)
    – Isadora Moon, Season 1B (Max Original)

    **Available July 11:**
    – Chasing the West

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Researchers Uncover the Makeup of the Moon’s Core
    Researchers Uncover the Makeup of the Moon’s Core

    For many years, researchers have pondered what lies beneath the Moon’s dusty exterior. Recently, fresh studies have yielded some of the most compelling evidence to date regarding the Moon’s interior.

    By utilizing information from lunar laser-ranging experiments and different space missions, a group of scientists created a comprehensive model of the Moon’s inner structure. Their results indicate a stratified configuration, featuring a molten outer core encasing a solid inner core. This inner core seems to possess a density comparable to that of iron, suggesting that the Moon’s center is a metallic sphere rather than a liquid mass or entirely solid ball.

    This revelation aids in addressing a long-standing scientific enigma. Past research, inclusive of seismic data from the Apollo missions, alluded to a complex core, yet the clarity was insufficient to resolve the discussion. However, with this new study, researchers have gained a clearer understanding of the Moon’s insides, reinforcing the notion that the Moon once had an active interior capable of producing a magnetic field.

    That primordial magnetic field, which disappeared about 3.2 billion years ago, may have been formed by activity within the Moon’s molten layers. The fresh findings also support the hypothesis of “mantle overturn,” where denser materials within the Moon descend while lighter ones rise. This could clarify why certain elements are found in volcanic areas on the surface.

    These outcomes additionally confirm earlier assessments made in 2011, creating a rare instance of scientific validation across independent research. Both studies observed comparable core sizes and density, indicating a common structure between Earth and its satellite.

    Understanding what is contained within the Moon is crucial for grasping its formation, development, and potential future behavior. With anticipated human missions to the Moon in the near future, seismic instruments and sophisticated sensors might soon yield even more precise measurements to bolster these discoveries.

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Apple TV 4K Launch Date: Expected Schedule for the Upcoming Version
    Apple TV 4K Launch Date: Expected Schedule for the Upcoming Version

    **Apple TV 4K: Expected Release and Characteristics of the Upcoming Model**

    Apple last refreshed its Apple TV 4K streaming device in late 2022, and excitement is rising for the next iteration. Mark Gurman from Bloomberg indicates that the new Apple TV 4K is projected to debut “toward the end” of 2025, likely in October or November. This schedule coincides with Apple’s usual autumn product release pattern, which generally features new iPhones and Apple Watches in September, followed by Mac announcements in October.

    ### Predicted Release Schedule

    Gurman’s analysis implies that Apple is gearing up for a notable launch of the new Apple TV 4K in late 2025. Traditionally, Apple has taken advantage of the fall season for significant product unveilings, and while the specific announcement date is still unclear, it seems plausible that the new model will be revealed in October, with deliveries possibly starting in November.

    The forthcoming launch will represent nearly three years since the last iteration of the Apple TV 4K, making it a much-anticipated occasion for Apple fans and consumers.

    ### Features to Look Forward To

    Although precise information regarding the new Apple TV 4K’s features remains limited, several upgrades are anticipated:

    1. **Novel Apple-Crafted Wi-Fi Modem**: The upcoming model is expected to feature a new Wi-Fi modem designed by Apple, which could enhance connectivity within the growing Apple Home device ecosystem.

    2. **Integrated Camera**: Clues from tvOS 26 hint at the possibility of an integrated camera being included in the new Apple TV 4K, which could introduce new functionalities for video conferencing and interactive features.

    3. **Advanced AI Functions**: There is speculation that the new Apple TV 4K will incorporate sophisticated Apple Intelligence capabilities, potentially expanding the Siri experience. To support these advancements, the device will likely come with a more robust chip, possibly the A17 Pro or A18, coupled with enhanced RAM.

    4. **Uncertain Specifications**: Aside from these expected enhancements, numerous details are still unknown. The tech community is keen to see how Apple plans to innovate with this new model, particularly in terms of user interface and overall efficiency.

    ### Final Thoughts

    As the debut of the next-generation Apple TV 4K nears, enthusiasm continues to grow regarding the new features and enhancements Apple will unveil. With a projected launch towards the end of 2025, consumers are optimistic for innovations that will improve their viewing experiences and integrate effortlessly with the wider Apple ecosystem. What features are you excited to see in the new Apple TV 4K?

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Google Fi Launches Visual Voicemail Functionality for iPhone Users
    Google Fi Launches Visual Voicemail Functionality for iPhone Users

    Google Fi Wireless is improving its service for iPhone users by introducing support for visual voicemail, a feature that enables users to handle their voicemail messages more effectively. This update, which was previewed in April 2025, will see the voicemail functionality shift from the Google Fi app to the native iOS Phone app, enhancing the user experience.

    Previously, Google Fi subscribers needed to depend on the Google Fi companion app to access and manage their voicemail. With this update, users can now play, share, and delete voicemail messages directly in the iOS Phone app. This modification also resolves the problem of receiving duplicate voicemail notifications from both the Fi and Phone apps, improving overall user convenience.

    As part of this transition, Google Fi is discontinuing voicemail capabilities within the Google Fi app for iOS users. Subscribers are advised to download any available voicemail messages using Google Takeout before the August 13, 2025, deadline. Comprehensive instructions for this process can be accessed on the Google support page.

    The launch of visual voicemail commenced on the announcement date, with Google Fi anticipating full availability by July 2, 2025. Post this date, users will be able to configure their voicemail and manage greetings directly through the Phone app, further simplifying the voicemail management experience.

    This update comes after the introduction of RCS support for iPhone users in iOS 18.4 earlier this year, representing a significant advancement in enhancing Google Fi’s compatibility and functionality on Apple devices. Additionally, Google Fi recently marked its 10th anniversary, rolling out a simplified setup process for iPhones, international 5G service in 92 countries, and data-only eSIMs.

    For additional information on Google Fi and its offerings, users can check out recent promotions, including discounts on the Pixel 9 and the Unlimited Premium plan, as well as updates regarding the ‘VPN by Google’ service which replaces the former Google Fi VPN on Pixel devices.

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on iOS 18.6 Code Indicates Progress on AirTag 2: Anticipated Launch Date Unknown
    iOS 18.6 Code Indicates Progress on AirTag 2: Anticipated Launch Date Unknown

    **AirTag 2: What to Anticipate and When to Anticipate It**

    When insider Kosutami suggested that Apple aimed for a May or June unveiling of the upcoming AirTag, it was in line with Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman’s prior article hinting at a mid-2025 launch. However, as June nears its conclusion without a new AirTag, fresh insights on Apple’s launch timeline have surfaced.

    ### When is AirTag 2 Arriving?

    The most recent updates suggest that Apple has established compatibility for the second-generation AirTag on iOS 18.6. This indicates that AirTag 2 will not depend on the more demanding iOS 26 for operation. Nevertheless, trustworthy sources from 9to5Mac indicate that Apple is now aiming for a Fall launch, likely coinciding with the iPhone event in September. While an earlier announcement could happen, it appears improbable, making September the most likely window for the AirTag 2’s release.

    ### What to Anticipate from AirTag 2

    Although Apple has not issued any official statements, numerous leaks offer a glimpse into possible features of the forthcoming AirTag 2:

    – **Enhanced Connectivity and Range:** The upcoming AirTag is expected to feature a 2nd-gen UWB chip, improving tracking abilities and location accuracy. The Precision Finding function may increase its range to 60 meters, a notable rise from the existing 15 meters of the first-generation AirTag.

    – **Improved Security and Privacy:** Issues have been raised concerning stalkers disabling the AirTag’s speaker, complicating the ability for victims to find concealed devices. To address this, Apple is reportedly enhancing the new AirTag’s resistance to tampering.

    – **Superior Battery Management:** The new AirTag may implement notifications for both low and critically low battery statuses, assisting users in avoiding scenarios where their tracker unexpectedly loses power. This enhancement might indicate a need for improved battery management due to increased power demands from upgraded components.

    There is speculation that the second-generation AirTag could transition to a rechargeable battery, replacing the current CR2032 coin cell, particularly in light of the expected improvements in battery notifications. However, this has yet to be verified.

    As excitement grows for the AirTag 2, users are pondering whether to hold off on acquiring new AirTags or to upgrade from the first generation.

    ### AirTag Deals on Amazon

    For those interested in the current AirTag selections, explore the available deals on Amazon.

    **FTC Disclaimer:** We utilize income-generating auto affiliate links. Further details can be located on our affiliate page.

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on Google Targets Cutting-Edge 2nm Technology for Pixel 11
    Google Targets Cutting-Edge 2nm Technology for Pixel 11

    This marks a significant alteration following prior speculations.

    (Image credit: Google)

    Essential information

    • An article from an international publication asserts that Google is aiming to enhance its Tensor G6 SoC utilizing a 2nm process, instead of a “more cutting-edge” 3nm.
    • Information is scarce (as anticipated); nevertheless, the Tensor G6 is expected to debut in the Pixel 11 series in 2026.
    • Speculations from late 2024 suggested that the Tensor G6 could incorporate improved AI capabilities and health-oriented features for users.

    A speculation suggests Google is keen on swiftly boosting the performance potential of its proprietary chip through another production method alteration.

    This was emphasized by Dan Nystedt on X after a Chinese publication released the report (via 9to5Google). The announcement reiterates Google’s prior transition to TSMC after collaborating with Samsung for its Tensor chip development. The purported source of the publication claims Google will shift to a 2nm process for the Tensor G6.

    This is a rather nascent rumor, given that we are probably a year (or longer) away from Google unveiling the Tensor G6. However, what is clear is that we anticipate this chip will drive the Pixel 11 series in 2026.

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