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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on How Artificial Intelligence Is Revolutionizing Holiday Shopping
    How Artificial Intelligence Is Revolutionizing Holiday Shopping

    AI specialists lack faith in chatbots owing to inadequate training and “hallucinations” — a phrase that refers to instances when an AI model claims something is accurate and genuine when it is, in fact, not. These complications lead to the question of whether a present from someone can truly be personal and significant if they did not invest time in selecting it. Furthermore, are there any advantages to allowing AI to assist you in shopping?

    AI removes the human element from holiday gift giving

    <img class="gallery-image " src="https://www.bgr.com/img/gallery/ai-is-completely-changing-holiday-shopping-heres-how/ai-takes-away-the-human-side-of-holiday-gift-giving-176530026

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Evaluate the Risks Prior to Installing iOS 26.3 Beta 1
    Evaluate the Risks Prior to Installing iOS 26.3 Beta 1

    Last Friday, Apple unveiled iOS 26.2 for all iPhone users. This update introduces various new features and crucial security patches, marking it as the final significant software update from Apple for the year. Nonetheless, the company is anticipated to commence beta testing for iOS 26.3 shortly. It remains uncertain what Apple has in store for this update apart from the Unity wallpapers set to be released in January to honor Black History Month, but even if you are keen on trying out Apple’s latest software, iOS 26.3 beta 1 is one you might want to pass on.

    Unlike most other beta releases, this is one we cannot suggest to the typical iPhone user. After all, it will take nearly a month before Apple launches the second beta version due to delays stemming from the holiday season. Nevertheless, if you encounter any significant bugs in iOS 26.3 beta 1 or even minor annoying problems, you’ll have to wait until the second week of January for a new build containing bug fixes.

    iOS 26.3 should arrive soon. Although Apple generally takes longer than normal to launch the second version of its x.3 iOS beta builds, this cycle is typically one of the briefest for any beta. In previous years, Apple only released two to three beta versions of iOS x.3 before the Release Candidate version was available. In simpler terms, everyone should have access to iOS 26.3 by early February.

    It is also notable that over the past three years, Apple has aimed for the end of January or early February for the rollout of an iOS update. The more significant aspect of iOS 26.3 is actually what follows it. After all, the company did not introduce a completely new Siri with iOS 18.4 and postponed new Apple Intelligence functionalities and smart home products as well. With Apple engineers concentrating on delivering this major software update, this could signal that iOS 26.3 will be a relatively minor update.

    Last week, a report disclosed some features of iOS 26.4 that Apple has been developing, along with insights into upcoming functionalities expected for iOS 27 and iOS 28. We anticipate that 2026 will be another significant year for Apple’s software updates, particularly regarding Siri.

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Apple’s Choice to End the iPod After Twenty Years
    Apple’s Choice to End the iPod After Twenty Years

    Apple retired the iPod series in May 2022, three years following the launch of the seventh-generation iPod touch. The rise of smartphones and streaming platforms played a significant role in this decision.

    Throughout the years, mobile phones evolved to be just as capable and user-friendly, if not more so, than the iPod hardware. Whatever functionalities your iPod offered, your smartphone could likely replicate or enhance. Additionally, it became incredibly practical to have one device that managed everything from phone calls and text messages to music playback.

    Using iPods today feels like giving your ears a nostalgic getaway

    <img class="gallery-image " src="https://www.bgr.com/img/gallery/why-apple-discontinued-the-ipod-after-20-years/using-ipods-today-is

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Causes for the Postponed Access to Motion Cues in Android 17
    Causes for the Postponed Access to Motion Cues in Android 17
    (Image credit: Derrek Lee / Android Central)

    Essential Information

    • Google has been discreetly developing an alternative to Apple’s Vehicle Motion Cues for over a year now.
    • The delay for this feature might be related to a new API that necessitates a significant quarterly Android release or a version upgrade.
    • Android 17 could potentially introduce the Motion Cues/Motion Assist feature in conjunction with a dedicated API.
    Notice

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Google Upgrades AI Mode for Search Live Interactions with Enhanced Fluidity and Expressiveness
    Google Upgrades AI Mode for Search Live Interactions with Enhanced Fluidity and Expressiveness

    Google’s Live with Search capability now includes instantaneous vocal guidance, improving user engagement through interactive discussions. By leveraging the enhanced Gemini native audio framework, Search Live can modify voice tempo, tone, and style on-the-fly, delivering a more seamless and expressive experience. This functionality is being introduced for U.S. users on iOS and Android versions of the Google app. Originally launched as a Google Labs initiative, Search Live has become essential to the AI Mode experience, facilitating conversational exchanges while linking users to web resources and sites. The recent update, driven by the Gemini 2.5 Flash Native Audio framework, supports more fluid, natural conversations, with adjustable voice options that automatically respond to user preferences. This enhancement is part of a comprehensive rollout, accessible in Google AI Studio and Vertex AI for developers. The improved feature commenced its rollout on December 12 and aims to be available to all U.S. users by the week’s conclusion.

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Google Unveils Gemini Image Markup Features to Improve Application Precision
    Google Unveils Gemini Image Markup Features to Improve Application Precision

    You can now finally direct Gemini’s focus with the latest image markup features.

    (Image credit: Brady Snyder / Android Central)

    Essential information

    • Gemini now allows you to sketch directly on images, enabling you to convey your intent to the AI without lengthy explanations in text.
    • You have the option to circle, highlight, doodle, or annotate, and Gemini interprets these markings as context for analysis or modifications.
    • This seems to be a subtle server-side trial, so the new features might not be available immediately, even with an updated app.

    Notice

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Quest 3 Offered at $407 for a Short Duration
    Quest 3 Offered at $407 for a Short Duration

    This is the finest offer I’ve encountered throughout the holiday period on ANY electronic device, and the all-time lowest price for the Quest 3, plus it comes with a $100 Amazon digital credit!

    (Image credit: Nicholas Sutrich / Android Central)

    Are you looking to purchase a Meta Quest 3 as a gift this holiday season? There has NEVER been a better moment than today, as Amazon has the all-time lowest price for the greatest VR console ever created! Grab it now for $92.89 off, in addition to a $100 Amazon digital credit.

    Previously, the lowest price we observed was during Black Friday when Meta provided $75 gift cards with the Quest 3, but you still needed to pay $499 upfront for that. This time, it’s a fantastic $92.89 off with no hassle, and Amazon even adds a digital credit for your convenience.

    <div data-editorial-currency="USD" data-editorial-price="407.1" data-editorial

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on Meta Ray-Ban Display Glasses Set to Include Virtual Handwriting and Instagram Reels Compatibility by 2026
    Meta Ray-Ban Display Glasses Set to Include Virtual Handwriting and Instagram Reels Compatibility by 2026

    **EMG Handwriting and Instagram Reels: The Horizon of Ray-Ban Display Glasses**

    Meta is poised to transform the wearable technology realm with the launch of two innovative features for its Ray-Ban Display glasses by 2026: EMG handwriting and support for Instagram Reels. These developments are set to enrich user engagement and entertainment choices, further establishing the glasses’ role in the smart eyewear industry.

    **EMG Handwriting: A New Chapter of Interaction**

    The EMG handwriting functionality leverages the Meta Neural Band, a cutting-edge wristband outfitted with EMG technology. This tech tracks motor neurons to identify gestures, enabling users to type by drawing or gesturing. Meta’s CTO, Andrew Bosworth, emphasizes the promise of this feature, noting that it will quickly recognize each letter of the alphabet, signifying a significant change in human-computer interaction. Initial access to EMG handwriting is anticipated next month, with wider access to follow thereafter.

    **Instagram Reels: Mobile Entertainment**

    In light of user interest in video functionality, Meta aims to roll out support for Instagram Reels on the Ray-Ban Display glasses. This feature, currently in internal testing, will enable users to view Reels straight from their glasses, with a launch expected in the next few months. This addition is set to boost the entertainment appeal of the glasses, attracting a larger audience.

    **The Path Forward**

    Although the Ray-Ban Display glasses, offered at $799, target early adopters, the forthcoming features are expected to broaden their capabilities and market appeal. With a monocular display and restricted prescription support, the glasses are designed as a specialized product. Nevertheless, the launch of EMG handwriting and Instagram Reels support heralds a bright future for smart eyewear, paving the way for more sophisticated interactions and immersive experiences by 2026.

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on Informational Update: Ask About Possibly Improved Mobile Provider Offers Accessible to You
    Informational Update: Ask About Possibly Improved Mobile Provider Offers Accessible to You

    **Rivalry Among Mobile Providers: A Legal and Marketing Arena**

    The mobile provider sector is witnessing an unparalleled level of rivalry, with firms vigorously competing for clientele and participating in legal conflicts over advertising methods. This fierce competition has spawned inventive promotional approaches and, in certain instances, legal proceedings that illustrate the extremes to which these entities will go to obtain market dominance.

    A prominent case is the lawsuit involving AT&T and T-Mobile. AT&T has initiated legal action against T-Mobile regarding its “EasySwitch” feature, which assists prospective customers in comparing prices and obtaining customized offers. T-Mobile, positioning itself as the “uncarrier,” has rolled out this tool to lure customers away from its rivals. The feature permits users to enter their login details to review their existing rates and access personalized offers, leading AT&T to implement strengthened security protocols to safeguard its customer information.

    As reported by *The Wall Street Journal*, this situation has evolved into a technical game of cat-and-mouse, with AT&T accusing T-Mobile’s EasySwitch tool of unlawfully penetrating its computer networks and breaching its service agreements. The lawsuit contends that T-Mobile’s actions were aimed at extracting confidential customer data and business information from AT&T.

    Beyond legal matters, mobile carriers often contest each other’s advertising assertions. The National Advertising Division (NAD) typically arbiters these disputes, and the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has also become involved. For example, T-Mobile came under scrutiny after AT&T challenged its claims of superior 5G capabilities over rivals. The NAD subsequently referred T-Mobile to the FTC for failing to comply with an investigation concerning these assertions.

    As competition intensifies, consumers find themselves in a prime position to negotiate improved offers. With providers eager to keep or gain customers, it is wise for individuals to examine proposals from rival companies. By assessing various offers and utilizing competitor deals, consumers can often secure substantial reductions on their current plans.

    To enhance the likelihood of obtaining a better offer, customers may reach out to their existing provider’s customer service and declare a desire to terminate their plan. This usually connects them to a retention team whose objective is to convince customers to remain, frequently resulting in attractive deals.

    In summary, the intense rivalry among mobile providers is transforming the telecommunications landscape. As companies partake in both marketing advancements and legal confrontations, consumers are poised to gain from the resultant offers and negotiations. Now is an ideal moment for individuals to reevaluate their mobile plans and pursue improved deals in this ever-changing market.

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on Kindle Unveils AI-Driven “Ask this Book” Functionality in iOS Application
    Kindle Unveils AI-Driven “Ask this Book” Functionality in iOS Application

    ### Amazon’s Latest Kindle Feature: Inquire About This Book

    If you’ve ever picked up a book after some time and experienced difficulty recalling characters or storylines, Amazon’s new **Inquire About This Book** feature for Kindle is crafted to help you. This unique, AI-driven tool is intended to improve the reading experience by offering contextual details without disclosing spoilers.

    #### Overview of Inquire About This Book

    The **Inquire About This Book** feature empowers readers to engage with their Kindle books in an innovative manner. By selecting any excerpt, users can ask questions regarding the text, and the feature will supply answers based on the content up to the current point in the reading. This capability is presently accessible for thousands of popular English-language Kindle titles.

    Amazon highlights that the feature is meant to serve as a knowledgeable reading assistant, providing insights into plot nuances, character dynamics, and thematic concepts while ensuring that no spoilers for unread content are revealed.

    #### Availability

    Initially debuting on iPhone, **Inquire About This Book** is anticipated to expand to Kindle devices and Android smartphones in the following year. At present, it is available for a selection of English-language books in the United States, with thousands already included.

    #### How to Use Inquire About This Book

    Using **Inquire About This Book** is simple:

    1. **Select a Passage**: While reading, just highlight any text.
    2. **Pose Questions**: After highlighting, suggested inquiries will show up. You can either choose one of these or enter your own question into the provided text box.
    3. **See Recaps**: If you require a brief summary after a reading interruption, click on the **See Recaps** button available in select books.

    This feature is aimed at keeping readers engaged and knowledgeable, facilitating a fluid reading experience without breaks.

    #### Conclusion

    Amazon’s **Inquire About This Book** feature signifies a major evolution in how readers engage with digital literature. By delivering instant, contextual, and spoiler-free information, it acts as a beneficial tool for both casual readers and passionate bibliophiles. As this feature extends to more devices and titles, it promises to elevate the overall reading experience for Kindle enthusiasts.

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