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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on Xiaomi 17 Ultra Release Expected to Come with Premium Price Tag
    Xiaomi 17 Ultra Release Expected to Come with Premium Price Tag

    **Xiaomi 17 Ultra Expected to Launch in Late December Amidst Quiet from Xiaomi**

    The technology community is rife with speculation regarding the much-anticipated unveiling of Xiaomi’s 17 Ultra, with suggestions indicating a launch in China on December 26. In spite of the anticipation, Xiaomi has not released any information about the specifics.

    **Key Information:**

    – A post on Weibo indicates a potential December 26 release for the Xiaomi 17 Ultra in China.
    – The smartphone might come in two configurations: 12/256GB and 16/1TB.
    – There are reports of features such as satellite communication for messaging and calls, along with a 200MP camera.

    **Speculations and Features:**

    The Xiaomi 17 Ultra is likely to mirror the trends of its predecessors, offering two RAM/storage configurations estimated to be priced at around 6,499 yuan (~$919) and 7,799 yuan (~$1,103). A short pre-order phase is expected to run from December 15 through December 25, alluding to a possible announcement around December 14 in the U.S.

    It is rumored that the device will feature satellite connectivity, particularly for the Chinese edition, leveraging Tiantong-1 and Beidou technology. This function may not extend to other regions.

    Photography aficionados are especially excited about the camera capabilities of the 17 Ultra. Reports indicate a Leica-labeled arrangement featuring a 200MP lens alongside three 50MP lenses, which are expected to offer notable enhancements in image quality.

    While early predictions pointed to a 2026 release, the schedule appears to have changed, though Xiaomi has yet to verify any particulars. As the expected date draws nearer, the tech industry eagerly anticipates formal announcements from Xiaomi.

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on How to Obtain a Complimentary $300 Verizon Gift Card for the Holiday Season
    How to Obtain a Complimentary $300 Verizon Gift Card for the Holiday Season

    Verizon’s festive sale just became significantly more captivating. Verizon’s holiday sale is active now, and once again, the Android phone offers are impressive. Promotions from carriers that provide a complimentary phone with a new line are quite standard, but Verizon is raising the stakes by offering a FREE $300 gift card when you purchase a device and add an eligible line to your service account.

    The highlight of this deal is its stackability, meaning you could receive a free device AND the free gift card if you take advantage of the holiday promotion today. I assure you, I’m serious. This offer applies to all of Verizon’s myPlan Unlimited plans, including the budget-friendly Unlimited Welcome tier.

    Verizon distinguishes itself with innovative holiday promotions. Just in time for the holidays, Verizon is presenting a deal that grants you a FREE $300 gift card when you purchase a phone with a new line on ANY myPlan Unlimited plan. Many of the finest Android phones are part of this promotion, and you can merge offers to enhance your savings.

    Google Pixel 10 128GB: $799.99 FREE with a new line on any myPlan Unlimited plan, plus a $300 gift card at Verizon. When you add a line with Verizon’s Unlimited Welcome, Plus, or Ultimate plan, you’ll accumulate $800 in promotional credits over 36 months. This is adequate to make the Google Pixel 10 (or another 2025 device) entirely free! Combine that with the above-mentioned $300 gift card offer, and your holiday shopping now feels much simpler.

    Verizon’s Unlimited Welcome, Unlimited Plus, and Unlimited Ultimate plans will all entitle you to the $300 gift card promotion, and since offers can be combined, you could end up with a free phone AND additional Verizon cash; all you need to do is cover the wireless service.

    The $300 gift card can only be used on Verizon.com, but the official store indeed features a broad selection of products to explore, including smartwatches, tablets, chargers, and protective phone cases. You can even apply the Verizon gift card to reduce your wireless balance!

    Deals from wireless carriers usually come with considerable fine print, making it refreshing to witness something this transparent from a Big Three provider. However, many of the top Verizon deals of the season are set to conclude on December 18th, so if this holiday promotion has sparked your enthusiasm, don’t delay in acting.

    Holiday shopping 2025 – quick links:
    – Best Buy: up to 50% off Chromebooks, Android phones, and more
    – Amazon: major discounts on headphones, smart home tech
    – Walmart: price drops on ASUS laptops, locked phones
    – Samsung: new Galaxy XR headset, trade-in opportunities
    – Verizon: free phones with new line, trade-in
    – T-Mobile: free Galaxy phones, $300 back w/ 5G Home Internet
    – Mint Mobile: 50% off Pixel 10, BOGO Unlimited plans
    – AT&T: get a free Z Flip 7 with trade-in, new line

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Google Unveils New Galaxy XR Capabilities and Hints at Future Smart Glasses
    Google Unveils New Galaxy XR Capabilities and Hints at Future Smart Glasses

    From AI Glasses Without Screens to an Engaging Workspace, Arriving Next Year

    Google is concluding this year with notable advancements in its virtual reality realm, highlighted at The Android Show: XR Edition. The event emphasized the strides achieved with Android XR smartglasses and announced new features for Samsung’s Galaxy XR headset.

    The Galaxy XR headset presents “PC Connect,” which permits users to extend their workspace beyond their desktop into the headset. This capability facilitates a multi-screen interface for improved productivity or an immersive gaming adventure. Furthermore, “Travel mode” converts compact areas into engaging workspaces or personal cinemas, while “Likeness” generates a realistic digital replica of the user’s face, reflecting expressions and movements in real-time.

    Project Aura by XReal was also introduced, boasting a 70-degree field of vision and optical see-through technology. These glasses superimpose digital content within the user’s line of sight, delivering a vast display for work or leisure without obstructing the surroundings. The glasses are wired and connected to a phone-sized device featuring a trackpad for computations, set to be launched next year.

    Google is developing two types of glasses: screen-free AI glasses equipped with integrated speakers, microphones, and cameras, and display AI glasses with a small screen for confidential information. The screen-free AI glasses are anticipated to debut next year.

    Developer Preview 3 is being rolled out to empower developers to create new experiences for AI glasses and wired XR glasses.

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on Samsung’s Five Most Popular Smartphones in Q3 2025 Were All Non-Flagship Models
    Samsung’s Five Most Popular Smartphones in Q3 2025 Were All Non-Flagship Models

    Apple and Samsung have once more demonstrated their prominence in the smartphone arena, each securing five of the top ten positions on Counterpoint Research’s list of best-selling smartphones for Q3 2025. Apple has reinforced its standing in the premium sector, with all of its leading models priced over $600. The iPhone 16 series, especially the base version, spearheaded the effort, holding onto its top position for the third straight quarter with a 4% volume share. The iPhone 16 Pro, iPhone 16 Pro Max, and iPhone 16e closely trailed, underscoring Apple’s stronghold in the premium market.

    Conversely, Samsung has thrived in the budget and midrange categories, with its Galaxy A series occupying the fifth through ninth positions. The Galaxy A16 5G proved to be the top-seller among Samsung’s offerings, succeeded by the Galaxy A06, Galaxy A36, Galaxy A56, and Galaxy A16 4G. Importantly, Samsung had no premium devices on the chart, indicating a departure from the prior year when the Galaxy S24 was a notable presence.

    The lack of Samsung’s premium devices, like the Galaxy S25, from the best-sellers list signifies a potential early seasonal downturn as buyers look forward to the forthcoming Galaxy S26 series. Counterpoint Research credits Samsung’s performance in the midrange sector to the incorporation of AI features, boosting the value and competitiveness of these devices.

    Furthermore, the report highlights the escalating consumer inclination for 5G technology, with all top five positions filled by 5G-enabled smartphones. This pattern emphasizes the rising significance of 5G capabilities in consumer buying decisions across multiple regions.

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on Riyadh Air: Investigating the Consequences of Being the Globe’s Initial AI-Native Airline
    Riyadh Air: Investigating the Consequences of Being the Globe’s Initial AI-Native Airline

    airlines turning to AI algorithms for dynamic pricing that could result in increased fares for certain passengers. However, Riyadh Air aims to surpass what some of its competitors might offer by incorporating AI functionalities into every aspect of the customer and employee experience. The advantage of Riyadh Air over its competitors lies in the fact that the airline has only just begun its journey.

    It’s currently operating a select number of initial flights, with intentions to commence commercial operations in early 2026. This gives Riyadh Air the opportunity to execute its AI-native approach from the beginning, instead of adapting extensive airline operations into an AI-native framework. “We faced a clear decision — become the last airline relying on outdated technology or the first built on the platforms that will shape the next decade of aviation,” stated Adam Boukadida, Chief Financial Officer of Riyadh Air. “With IBM, we’ve removed fifty years of legacy in one move. Riyadh Air is designed not just for today; it’s designed for the future and paves the way for many airlines to emulate in the coming years.”

    What precisely is an AI-native airline?

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on Crucial USB Devices Strongly Suggested by iPhone Users
    Crucial USB Devices Strongly Suggested by iPhone Users

    gadgets that can be connected to your device. However, despite the numerous options accessible, determining what is genuinely beneficial and what is deceptive can be challenging.

    Thankfully, you can’t go wrong with suggestions from fellow iPhone users who courageously tried various USB devices. We’ve assembled a compilation of the best iPhone USB gadgets based on product ratings on Amazon that other users vouch for.

    The compilation features practical gadgets that enhance your iPhone experience, including a flash drive — unlike the typical iPhone accessories such as power banks, charging cables, and adapters commonly found in most online lists. For further information concerning our selection process for these products, the complete methodology can be found at the conclusion of the article.

    Backbone One Mobile Gaming Controller

    Your iPhone is packed with impressive capabilities and excels in mobile gaming. Yet, relying on touch screen controls isn’t always ideal for certain genres of games like action-oriented RPGs. Backbone’s One Mobile gaming controller resolves this by presenting a familiar layout for playing those game types. The device features a design inspired by traditional controllers with a D-pad, joysticks, and buttons, ensuring you’ll feel comfortable using it.

    This controller is compatible with USB-C iPhones, beginning with the iPhone 15 series. It is also adjustable, accommodating any model from the iPhone 15 to the iPhone 17. You can utilize the controller to enjoy mobile games on your iPhone (from the App Store or Apple Arcade). Additionally, it allows gaming from external platforms like Steam and Xbox Cloud Gaming. The Backbone companion app enables you to aggregate your games from various sources into a unified interface, <a href="https://www.bgr.com/tech/this-controller-could-turn-your-iphone-into-a-real-gaming-console

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on Amazon’s Best-Selling Apple Watch Priced at a $200 Savings Ahead of the Holidays
    Amazon’s Best-Selling Apple Watch Priced at a $200 Savings Ahead of the Holidays

    The Apple Watch requires no explanation as the prominent smart wearable from one of today’s leading technology firms. Beyond the elegant and fashionable case and band styles that shape the exterior, the software is user-friendly and consistently receives updates that introduce new functionalities, the most recent being in watchOS 26.2. These updates feature fresh watch faces, new user interface modifications, and overall performance enhancements to ensure the device operates more efficiently. It also aids in prolonging the lifespan of older models for those who purchased them a while back.

    Considering all of this, potential buyers might be thrilled to learn that the popular Apple Watch SE 3, equipped with GPS and in the 40mm size, is now $200 ahead of the holiday season, reduced from its regular price of $249. On Amazon alone, the Apple Watch SE 3 has amassed over 500 ratings worldwide, boasting a 4.8 out of 5 aggregate score, with 87% of all reviews rated five stars. Digging deeper, users have remarked that it “performs excellently,” is the “ideal upgrade” from a previous version, or is simply the “best everyday watch” overall.

    The design, user experience, and features all meet user satisfaction; however, as often seen with smart devices under frequent use, the battery life has mixed reviews based on usage patterns. Apple indicates that you can expect around 18 hours of battery life. Some users report longer durations, while others experience less. Nevertheless, with Apple’s health monitoring functionalities, seamless integration with iPhones and Macs, and added safety features like crash or fall detection, the Apple Watch stands out in the wearable technology market. This offer reduces the regular price by $50, giving you one of the most budget-friendly options in the Apple Watch range.

    Why consider this Apple Watch deal?

    The Apple Watch SE 3 update is a feature of Apple’s latest 2025 lineup, which also includes the Apple Watch Ultra 3 and Series 11. Notably, the SE 3 aims to be the most cost-effective option, showcasing the S10 chip, an always-on display — a first for the budget model — and new gesture controls. Its popularity arises from the fact that it maintains usability and premium features without compromising quality to achieve a lower price point — you still receive many of the same functionalities and technologies found in pricier Apple Watch versions, validating the watchOS software.

    That’s precisely what makes the current Amazon deal so appealing. The Apple Watch SE 3 is already attractively priced, but this offer discounts it by $50, making it even more affordable ahead of the holidays. Certainly, it would serve as an ideal smartwatch for anyone looking to indulge, but it also makes for a remarkable gift, especially for someone dear to you.

    It may be obvious to mention that the Apple Watch excels at far more than just showing time, but there are numerous lesser-known features that make it an excellent gift for the active and busy individuals you know. For instance, you can control your Apple TV with your Apple Watch, craft personalized workouts, function as a quick-access walkie-talkie with fellow Apple Watch users, and identify sleep issues such as sleep apnea. Of course, that’s just the tip of the iceberg. This deal is likely to gain popularity, especially given those Amazon user reviews. Users truly appreciate the Apple Watch SE 3.

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on “Upgrade Opportunity to Save Costs for Users of Older Amazon Fire TV Sticks”
    “Upgrade Opportunity to Save Costs for Users of Older Amazon Fire TV Sticks”

    the Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Max is affordable and user-friendly, making it a potential candidate for replacing your outdated model. What you might not realize is that you can make it even more economical by trading in an older Fire TV Stick or any unused Amazon device, such as an Echo Dot. Through Amazon’s trade-in program, you can return the Amazon Fire TV Stick Lite, Fire TV Stick International, or Fire TV Stick HD to receive a $3 discount in addition to a gift card that can offer up to 20% off through the trade-in value.

    The Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Max enhances the resolution to 4K quality, as indicated by its name, and also features a more advanced search option that supports Alexa, enabling you to utilize voice commands to locate your preferred content. Additionally, it is compatible with Dolby Vision, HDR10+, and Dolby Atmos Audio formats, and comes with 16GB of onboard storage for apps and games, which Amazon claims is twice as much as the original Fire TV Stick 4K.

    Why should you consider upgrading to the Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Max?

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on Apple Pay Video Showcases iPhone’s Speed Edge in Critical Scenarios
    Apple Pay Video Showcases iPhone’s Speed Edge in Critical Scenarios

    **Is Apple Pay Quicker Than Other Payment Options?**

    In the rapid realm of digital transactions, swiftness and ease are crucial. Apple Pay, Apple’s mobile payment and digital wallet system, has cemented its status as a frontrunner in this domain. A recent promotional clip titled “Outrun” highlights the benefits of utilizing Apple Pay in urgent circumstances, like when an individual is escaping from a dinosaur. This funny yet captivating scenario underscores the demand for rapid payment options, particularly in high-pressure situations.

    ### The “Outrun” Clip

    Apple’s newest commercial showcases a woman making a quick payment at a gas station with her iPhone while being pursued by a dinosaur. The advertisement stresses that even in tumultuous settings, handling payments for essentials like fuel should be effortless and effective. The slogan, “Life is chaotic. Paying shouldn’t be,” captures the essence of the campaign. The video demonstrates that Apple Pay can be used at various places that accept contactless payments, including cafes, grocery stores, taxis, train stations, and gas stations.

    ### Speed Comparison with Alternative Payment Methods

    While the ad is amusing, it prompts an essential inquiry: Is Apple Pay truly faster than other payment solutions?

    1. **Contactless Payments**: Apple Pay employs NFC (Near Field Communication) technology, enabling users to make transactions by merely holding their iPhone close to a compatible terminal. This method is generally quicker than conventional card swipes or inserting chip cards, which entail extra steps.

    2. **Mobile Wallets vs. Conventional Methods**: In contrast to cash or checks, mobile wallets like Apple Pay provide a more rapid transaction experience. Users can finalize a payment in moments, while cash dealings may involve counting bills and coins, and checks necessitate writing and approval.

    3. **User Experience**: The interface of Apple Pay is tailored for speed. With options like Face ID or Touch ID, users can quickly authorize their payments without needing to input a PIN or password, which can delay the process.

    ### Conclusion

    Apple Pay’s focus on speed and convenience is clear in its promotion and performance. While the “Outrun” clip creatively demonstrates the advantages of the service, the underlying technology validates its assertions of quicker transactions compared to conventional payment methods. As digital payments keep evolving, Apple Pay persists as a formidable player in the race for the quickest and most effective payment option.

    For those who enjoy the catchy song featured in the advertisement, “KA-POW” by Cain Culto is accessible on Apple Music.

    What are your sentiments regarding the efficacy of Apple Pay? Share your thoughts in the comments.

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