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  • Apple Launches ‘CarPlay Ultra’ Experience: All You Need to Know – MacRumors

    Apple has officially introduced its next-generation CarPlay platform, now called “CarPlay Ultra,” and the rollout begins today with new Aston Martin vehicles. This advanced version of CarPlay will initially be available for orders in the U.S. and Canada, with existing Aston Martin models receiving a software update to support it in the coming weeks.

    Bob Borchers, Apple’s vice president of Worldwide Product Marketing, emphasized the transformation that CarPlay has brought to the driving experience. He stated that with CarPlay Ultra, the integration between iPhone and vehicle systems is more seamless, enhancing safety and usability.

    The collaboration with automakers like Aston Martin marks the beginning of a wider rollout of this innovative platform. CarPlay Ultra aims to provide a consistent interface throughout the vehicle, integrating deeply with the car’s systems.

    It will display real-time information on various screens, such as the instrument cluster, showing metrics like speed and fuel levels along with data from the iPhone, including maps and media. In addition to streamlined information access, drivers will benefit from new controls, including physical buttons and Siri voice commands, allowing users to manage vehicle functions, climate settings, and sound systems via the CarPlay Ultra interface.

    The platform also includes customizable iPhone-style widgets, enabling users to view information like calendar events or weather updates at a glance. Automakers can create themes that reflect their brand identity, and drivers can personalize the appearance to suit their tastes.

    Aston Martin expressed enthusiasm about being the first to launch CarPlay Ultra, noting that it enhances their existing infotainment technology and demonstrates their commitment to providing unique in-car experiences. While available now for Aston Martin, CarPlay Ultra will be rolled out to various automakers, including Hyundai, Kia, and Genesis, in the future.

    The system is compatible with iPhone 12 and later models running iOS 18.5 or newer.

  • Anker Innovations Launches Global Voluntary Recall for Specific Power Banks – Anker US

    If you need assistance or have inquiries, please feel free to reach out to us. For customers in the USA seeking help with Anker charging products, you can contact our support line at 1-800-988-7973.

    Our representatives are available to assist you from Monday to Friday, offering support from 6 AM to 5 PM (PT). At Anker, we take pride in providing a hassle-free shopping experience.

    When you purchase from the Anker Store, you benefit from a 30-day money-back guarantee, ensuring your satisfaction. Additionally, we offer fast and free shipping on all orders, so you can enjoy your products without delay.

    We also prioritize our customers’ needs with lifetime customer support. No matter when you reach out, we’re here to help you with any questions or concerns you may have about your purchases.

    To provide you with the best service, please select your country or region when contacting us. We’re committed to serving our global community and ensuring that everyone receives the support they need.

    Thank you for choosing Anker. We look forward to assisting you!

    © Fantasia Trading LLC 2025. All rights reserved.

  • Anker Innovations Issues Recall for PowerCore 10000 Power Bank (Model A1263) in the US

    Your safety is our highest priority. To determine if your Anker Power Bank (PowerCore 10K), model A1263, is part of the current recall, please complete the form provided.

    This recall is applicable to units sold between June 1, 2016, and December 31, 2022. To assist us in processing your request efficiently, we ask that you submit the serial number (SN) of your power bank, your order number, and a photograph of the product.

    This information is crucial for verifying whether your unit is affected. If it is confirmed that your product falls within the recall, you will have the option to choose between two forms of compensation: a $30 gift card redeemable at Anker.com or a free replacement Anker Power Bank (10K, 22.5W), model A1388.

    Please note that due to limited availability of the replacement units, processing times may vary. If you opt for the replacement, your new product will be shipped in the order your request is received.

    We appreciate your understanding, as delivery times cannot be guaranteed. We value your cooperation during this process, as our goal is to ensure your safety and satisfaction with our products.

    Thank you for your patience, and if you have any further questions, please refer to our official announcement regarding this recall.

  • Anker US Recalls PowerCore 10000 Power Bank (Model A1263) Due to Safety Concerns

    For any inquiries related to Anker charging products, you can reach us at our USA contact number: 1-800-988-7973. Our customer service team is available Monday through Friday from 6 AM to 5 PM (PT).

    We are committed to providing you with the best service. When you shop at the Anker Store, you can enjoy a hassle-free warranty along with a 30-day money-back guarantee.

    We take pride in our fast and free shipping, ensuring that your products arrive quickly at your doorstep. We also offer lifetime customer support to assist you with any questions or issues that may arise after your purchase.

    Your satisfaction is our priority, and we are here to help. To ensure that we serve you better, please select your country or region when contacting us or placing an order.

    Thank you for choosing us for your charging needs. We look forward to serving you.

    © Fantasia Trading LLC 2025 200923810277

  • Is the used pricing of the M1 MacBook Air still considered too high?

    Hello,

    I am looking to upgrade my current 11″ 2015 MacBook Air, as it is becoming too slow for my needs. The M1 MacBook Air really catches my eye; it’s powerful and I appreciate its sleek wedge design.

    However, I have some reservations about the M3 model that my wife owns—it doesn’t embody the Apple aesthetic to me. I am leaning towards the 16GB version, which is currently priced above 630 Euros.

    This seems quite high considering there are now three newer processor options available. I expected that prices would have decreased significantly five years after the initial release of the M1.

    While there are 8GB models available for approximately 500 Euros, I plan to keep my Macs for a long time, so opting for more RAM would enhance the longevity of the device. Best regards,

    Philip

  • How to Charge Your AirPods or iPhone Using Your iPhone – MacRumors

    If you own an iPhone or iPad equipped with a USB-C port, you can utilize this port to charge various devices such as AirPods, an Apple Watch, or even another iPhone. This feature proves useful during situations when you lack a spare charger or power outlet.

    The operation is straightforward and quite convenient. For instance, if your AirPods or Apple Watch run out of battery and a charger is unavailable, the iPhone or iPad’s battery can provide a quick boost.

    Instead of carrying an extra battery pack, you can simply use your device to recharge these accessories. Additionally, if you connect an iPhone 15 or newer model to another iPhone of the same kind, they will automatically communicate to identify which device has a lower battery.

    Power will then be transferred from the device with a fuller charge to the one that needs it the most. This means if your iPhone is low on battery and your friend’s device is fully charged, plugging in can get you through until you find a more sustainable charging solution.

    The capability also extends to USB-C Android phones, provided they support USB Power Delivery. Connecting your power-sensitive iPhone to such an Android device can allow the Android phone to charge your iPhone.

    However, if the Android device does not support USB PD, the outcome may vary, and it’s unpredictable which device will charge the other. For this feature to work, you’ll need the right cable.

    For older AirPods with a Lightning port, a Lightning to USB-C cable is necessary. If you have AirPods with a USB-C charging case, a USB-C to USB-C cable will be required.

    Charging an Apple Watch entails using a dedicated USB-C charging puck. However, do note that charging another device via iPhone 15 or newer is limited to just 4.5W.

    While this is adequate for smaller gadgets like an Apple Watch, the slow charging speed may be a concern when attempting to charge another iPhone. Currently, despite ongoing rumors about reverse wireless charging for AirPods on the back of a MagSafe-enabled iPhone, this feature has yet to be released.

    Hence, for now, utilizing a USB-C connection remains the most efficient method to recharge your accessories while on the go.

  • Imagining Apple’s iPhone Designs: A Look Ahead to Each Year Through 2030 – MacRumors

    This week, display analyst Ross Young from Counterpoint Research sparked renewed interest in the anticipated display changes for the iPhone 18 Pro, as well as broader developments expected for the 20th anniversary iPhone in 2027. These discussions also extend to Apple’s flagship device trajectory for the remainder of the decade. Young challenges a previous report from *The Information* that suggested the iPhone 18 Pro models would feature a small hole in the top-left corner for the front-facing camera.

    Instead, he asserts that these high-end models will have a narrower Dynamic Island. This change is reportedly due to Apple’s plan to relocate some Face ID components beneath the display. Supporting Young’s claim, *Bloomberg*’s Mark Gurman has also indicated that Apple will reduce the size of the Dynamic Island for at least some models next year, reinforcing the notion that the iPhone 18 will not adopt a front camera hole layout.

    Looking ahead to 2027, Young projects that the 20th-anniversary iPhone will maintain the smaller Dynamic Island. This position contradicts Gurman’s assertions that the device might feature a completely uninterrupted display without any cutouts. To add further speculation, Young predicts that by 2028, all Face ID components may be positioned under the screen, with only the selfie camera using a punch-hole design similar to what *The Information* suggested for the upcoming models.

    Regarding the highly anticipated all-screen iPhone, Young believes Apple may not realize this design until 2030, a full three years later than some expectations. Young expresses confidence in his display roadmap for the iPhone through 2030, with developer Filip Vabroušek visualizing this evolution. Vabroušek’s images combine various rumors, including Gurman’s claim of curved glass edges and thin bezels for the anniversary model.

    Young’s approval of the image does not indicate agreement with Gurman’s claims, as he has no specific information on that aspect. What are your thoughts on the iPhone’s predicted evolution leading to 2030? Are you confused, disillusioned, or indifferent?

    Share your opinions in the comments.

  • Enhance Your Sound Creativity by Layering Tracks Using Voice Memos – MacRumors

    The iPhone 16 Pro and iPhone 16 Pro Max feature a new capability in the Voice Memos app that allows users to add a second audio layer to an existing recording. This feature is perfect for those looking to include vocals, narration, or extra instrumentals without the hassle of using headphones.

    With the advanced A18 Pro chip, these iPhone models can play an original Voice Memo through their speakers while simultaneously isolating and capturing new audio. This innovation provides musicians, podcasters, or anyone who frequently records voice notes with the ability to layer sounds, enhancing their recordings effortlessly.

    After recording, users can edit and fine-tune layered recordings directly on their device, or transfer them to professional software like Logic Pro for more advanced mixing. To create a layered recording, start by opening the Voice Memos app located in the Utilities folder.

    Select the existing recording you wish to augment, and tap the waveform icon to access the audio. From there, pressing the plus icon allows you to prepare for recording a new layer.

    When you’re ready, simply tap the red record button to capture the additional audio. After recording, you’ll notice the new layered recording in your Voice Memos list, marked with an overlapping tiles symbol.

    You can mix these layers easily by adjusting the Layer Mix slider found in the settings, enabling you to balance the sound effectively. For editing flexibility, you can separate the layers by using the More button and selecting “Separate Layers.” This generates two distinct recordings, which can then be altered or played independently.

    It’s important to note that while the layering feature is exclusive to the iPhone 16 Pro models, playback is available on any device running compatible software. Layered recordings are saved in the QuickTime Audio format, and on older devices, separating the layers converts them to accessible .m4a files.

    However, only the original layer can be transcribed or recorded in stereo, as additional layers are captured in mono.

  • Samsung Offers Student Discounts on Galaxy Book Laptops

    Samsung is currently offering exciting discounts for students on its Galaxy Book laptop line. This promotion includes special trade-in offers that can provide up to $600 in credit when trading in select devices.

    The discounts can be accessed through Samsung’s educational program, where students can register with a valid email address to unlock these offers. The Galaxy Book series consists of various models featuring different display sizes, battery life, and price ranges.

    Among the options available, the Galaxy Book4 Edge is the most affordable, priced at $799.99, while the premium Galaxy Book5 Pro can go up to $1,749.99 before any trade-in credits are applied. These discounts make high-quality laptops more accessible for students, especially during the back-to-school season.

    For those interested in further savings, other platforms may host deals on different tech products. Additionally, a newsletter dedicated to deals can keep consumers informed about the latest offers and promotions, ensuring they do not miss out on significant discounts.

    In other technology news, Apple continues to develop its iOS system and is preparing for new product launches. Recent reports suggest that both the Apple Watch Ultra 3 and the iPhone 17 series are set to be unveiled later this year.

    Additionally, Apple is exploring new features for its CarPlay software and expanding services for premium credit card holders. As technology evolves, companies like Samsung and Apple are working to provide the latest innovations while also catering to students and tech enthusiasts looking for quality products at competitive prices.

  • Trouble Accessing MacRumors Forums: Here’s What You Need to Know for Resolution

    MacRumors.com is not experiencing any issues. However, I have encountered some problems in the past when clicking on the forum link from their main page.

    Currently, I notice that occasionally a page will load correctly. For instance, I just posted in the game forum, but when I went back to select another forum, I encountered the same formatting issue again.

    The page was devoid of any proper layout, which made it challenging to navigate. In an attempt to resolve this, I duplicated the tab that was currently open.

    This action led me to a properly formatted page of the gaming forum. From there, I could select different forums without running into the formatting problem.

    However, I have observed that sometimes, when the bad format does occur, the page takes an unusually long time to load. At other times, it simply fails to load altogether.

    It’s quite inconsistent; on some occasions, the page opens up with no formatting at all, which can be frustrating. It seems that the issue fluctuates and can happen randomly, creating a less than ideal user experience.

    Overall, while MacRumors.com itself is functioning well, my interactions with the forum links have highlighted a few technical glitches that I hope get resolved soon.