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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Opting for a More Budget-Friendly Option to Meta’s Elite Strap with Battery
    Opting for a More Budget-Friendly Option to Meta’s Elite Strap with Battery

    My Quest 3 requires a comfort and battery enhancement, so I’m picking up this cozy, 10,000mAh battery strap for significantly less than the official strap.

    I’ve been relying on the standard Quest 3 strap since I acquired it in 2023, and I’m eager for a shift. I considered the official Meta Quest Elite Strap at 20% off for Amazon Prime Day, but it’s still slightly above my budget! So I’m taking a cue from my colleague Nick and exploring his preferred alternative, the Yoges Y13 Elite Strap with Battery, now at 37% off ($37.99) instead!

    Last year, Nick — our go-to expert on Quest accessories — shared that he and his son “swear by this as the best Elite Strap available” due to its “soft padding” and easy-to-clean material. Plus, the battery pack can be detached from the back for separate charging away from the Quest itself.

    This Elite Strap provides an additional 10,000mAh of capacity, nearly twice the Quest 3’s built-in 5,060mAh capacity, allowing for hours of extended playtime. It offsets the front-heavy design, ensures a more secure fit than the standard strap with an adjustable knob, and offers added cushioning.

    ✅Recommended if: You aim to save money while enhancing the core Quest 3 experience with improved comfort, hygiene, and extended battery life.

    ❌Skip this deal if: You prefer the official Meta accessory or another third-party option featuring a halo strap design that can be tilted more easily.

    Among the top Quest 3 accessories, Nick has evaluated other Elite Straps on sale for Prime Day, prominently the BOBOVR M3 Pro for $39.99 (20% off). This provides a halo-style strap that alleviates facial pressure, along with a 5,200mAh hot-swappable battery pack.

    The popular BoboVR elite strap has a smaller battery than the Yoges Y13, but you can purchase multiple packs and swap one in as another drains. It’s a comfortable choice with a balanced weight and adaptable fit.

    ✅Recommended if: You favor a halo strap over a more conventional Elite Strap design and are open to obtaining extra battery packs to fully utilize the hot-swap feature.

    ❌Skip this deal if: You prefer the Yoges strap’s doubled battery and more secure fit right out of the box.

    Nick has noted that this strap tends to wobble a bit for him during high-energy games, and since I enjoy using my Quest 3 for workouts, I think I’ll opt for Yoges’s strap first, despite BoboVR’s strap being more popular.

    There are other excellent premium Elite Straps available, such as the Kiwi Design H4 for $67 (15% off) or the BOBOVR S3 Pro at 20% off featuring a head-cooling fan, but I’m concentrating on a simple, elegant solution that saves me the most money, which means the Yoges Y13. Fortunately, you have plenty of choices if you decide to upgrade to something even better!

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on Mastering the Advanced Multitasking Capabilities of iPadOS 26
    Mastering the Advanced Multitasking Capabilities of iPadOS 26

    **iPadOS 26: Transforming Multitasking with an Innovative Windowing System**

    iPadOS 26 is poised to elevate the iPad into a more robust multitasking tool, bringing features that position it as a genuine laptop alternative. With the launch of a fresh windowing system, users can now tap into improved multitasking functionalities. Below is a summary of the primary features and ways to optimize them.

    ### Full Screen Applications, Windowed Applications, and Stage Manager

    Say goodbye to Split Screen and Slide Over; iPadOS 26 debuts three fresh modes:

    – **Full Screen Applications:** Engage with apps in full screen and swipe Home to toggle between them.
    – **Windowed Applications:** Adjust and organize several windows in a single interface for seamless multitasking.
    – **Stage Manager:** Organize windows across various groups to create a concentrated multitasking environment.

    Full Screen Applications will be recognizable to most users. The Stage Manager functionality, which was previously available on M1 or newer iPads, is now enhanced by the Windowed Applications experience, available on all devices supporting iPadOS 26. This represents a notable improvement for base-model and iPad mini users.

    These features can be found in the Settings app under Multitasking & Gestures.

    ### When to Utilize Each Feature

    – **Full Screen Applications:** Ideal for concentrating on a single task.
    – **Windowed Applications:** Excellent for individuals who often multitask and toggle between apps. It permits background activities, like video rendering, to persist while you pursue other tasks, such as chatting.
    – **Stage Manager:** Optimal for activities requiring multiple apps open at once, boosting productivity for those who need to manage apps like Mail, Slack, Safari, and ChatGPT simultaneously.

    The new multitasking features of iPadOS 26, paired with accessories like Apple’s Magic Keyboard, deliver a flexible and effective user experience, establishing the iPad as an impressive tool for both professional and recreational use.

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Prime Day Discount on Pixel 9 Presents an Enticing Option to Pixel 9a
    Prime Day Discount on Pixel 9 Presents an Enticing Option to Pixel 9a

    The Google Pixel 9 has just been offered a fantastic discount for Prime Day.

    (Image credit: Derrek Lee / Android Central)

    While Samsung caught us off guard with the $2,000 price tag on the Galaxy Z Fold 7, Google is pleasantly surprising us with this Pixel 9 offer. Although it may not reach Pro-level, this compact AI device provides significant value, which is what makes it such a great bargain whenever it goes on sale. For Prime Day, the Pixel 9 isn’t just marked down, but it’s marked down, featuring an impressive $250 discount that seems almost unbelievable.

    Priced at $799, the <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.androidcentral.com/phones/google-p

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Apple’s Upcoming Vision Pro to Include Two Significant Enhancements
    Apple’s Upcoming Vision Pro to Include Two Significant Enhancements

    There was a period when Apple would debut a new product and crowds would begin gathering days or even weeks beforehand. Although the latest iPhone and Apple Watch iterations don’t generate that same level of enthusiasm anymore, the company remains an unstoppable powerhouse, demonstrated by the iPhone 16 being the top-selling smartphone globally in the first quarter of 2025. Nevertheless, Apple isn’t invulnerable, which is why we are eager to see the reception for the upcoming Apple Vision Pro, which emerged in a Bloomberg report on Wednesday.

    As per Bloomberg, Apple intends to unveil a new Vision Pro model as soon as this year. This isn’t the budget-friendly version that might draw a broader audience or a revamped headset boasting new capabilities. Instead, it appears to resemble an off-year iPhone model, offering updated specifications and a few modifications to align it with contemporary devices.

    In fact, according to the Bloomberg report, there are genuinely only two significant enhancements anticipated for the second-generation Apple Vision Pro. We’ll explore them and their implications for the next-gen spatial computer below.

    Enhanced, quicker, more robust processor

    The second-generation Apple Vision Pro will transition to the M4 chip — the same Apple-engineered silicon chip that powers the latest iPad Pro, iMac, and MacBook Air, along with recent Mac mini and MacBook Pro models. This represents a substantial upgrade over the M2 found in the original Vision Pro, introducing two additional CPU cores, doubled RAM, increased RAM speed, and 8 billion transistors. The first-generation Vision Pro was certainly not slow, but the new variant will far surpass it.

    Moreover, the report indicates that Apple aims to boost the number of cores in the Neural Engine. This enhancement should facilitate improved compatibility with AI features and functionalities, which will be crucial when Apple Intelligence finally operates as expected.

    More ergonomic head strap

    One of the most perplexing drawbacks of the original Vision Pro is how uncomfortable it becomes to wear for prolonged periods. Apple marketed the spatial computer as a device suitable for all-day use, yet with the strap included in the package, numerous users were deterred from trying it.

    The report does not provide any specific information, but new straps are reportedly being prototyped for the next Vision Pro. There are no current plans to significantly reduce the device’s weight, so enhancing the strap represents the next best alternative.

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on Meta Suggests More Than $200 Million to Apple’s Leader of Foundation Models for Hiring
    Meta Suggests More Than $200 Million to Apple’s Leader of Foundation Models for Hiring

    Earlier this week, Ruoming Pang, the executive who recently headed Apple’s AI models team, departed the company to join Mark Zuckerberg’s Meta Superintelligence Labs (MSL). Reports suggest that Pang was attracted by one of the most substantial compensation packages witnessed in the ongoing AI talent competition, surpassing $200 million over several years.

    As per Bloomberg, Meta’s proposal for Pang featured a significant base salary, a signing bonus, and a considerable quantity of Meta shares, with the stock being the most lucrative element of the deal. The compensation structure stipulates that Pang will only receive the complete payout if he remains with the company and the stock performs well. This bold tactic by Meta underscores its dedication to enhancing its MSL division.

    Curiously, the $200 million amount surfaced soon after Meta’s CTO, Andrew Bosworth, minimized the company’s recruitment initiatives, even though claims from OpenAI’s Sam Altman stated that researchers were being offered $100 million to switch jobs. Bosworth indicated that while the talent market is competitive, it is not as intense as Altman suggested.

    Pang’s exit might indicate a broader trend, as several engineers from his previous team are reportedly contemplating offers from Meta or planning their departures. In response to Pang’s leaving, Apple announced the appointment of Zhifeng Chen as the new lead for its Foundation Models team and adopted a more decentralized management framework among senior engineers.

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Synology Attains a Harmony of Ease of Use and Sophisticated Management through BeeStation and DiskStation
    Synology Attains a Harmony of Ease of Use and Sophisticated Management through BeeStation and DiskStation

    **Synology: A Pioneer in NAS and Cloud Offerings**

    Synology has made a name for itself in the field of network-attached storage (NAS), delivering dependable and sturdy products from its DiskStation range. Recently, the company has broadened its product lineup with BeeStation, a private and family-oriented cloud storage solution. This piece evaluates two of Synology’s offerings: the BeeStation Plus, created for user convenience, and the DiskStation DS925+, a more classic and adaptable NAS option.

    ### BeeStation Plus: Streamlining Private Cloud Storage

    The BeeStation Plus is crafted for individuals who value a simple, intuitive experience. It requires very little setup, making it an excellent choice for those who are new to NAS technology. Users can easily configure the device by plugging it in and connecting it to Ethernet, then scanning a QR code to start the setup process. The associated BeeStation applications for iPhone, iPad, and Mac significantly improve usability.

    With a total storage capacity of 8TB (6.98TB usable), the BeeStation Plus is optimized for efficient file and media storage. Transferring data, including a large collection of photos and videos, is effortless with the BeeStation Photos app. The device also works seamlessly with Finder on Mac and the Files app on iOS, enabling users to manage their files with ease. Moreover, it is compatible with other cloud services like Dropbox, Google Drive, and Microsoft OneDrive for synchronization.

    #### Backup and Specifications

    BeeStation Plus provides several backup options, including Synology’s cloud protection service, BeeProtect. This feature allows users to keep multiple backup versions, thus ensuring data safety. After a complimentary trial, BeeStation Plus is offered at $11.99/month or $119/year, with a standard variant providing 4TB of storage.

    The Plus model is powered by a stronger Intel Celeron J4125 CPU and features 4GB of RAM, making it ideal for families with several users. It supports AI functionalities for photo searching and can act as a Plex Media Server, although it lacks the customization options available in DiskStation products.

    ### DiskStation DS925+: Strength and Adaptability

    On the other hand, the DiskStation DS925+ represents a more sophisticated NAS option, featuring swappable drives and RAID storage for redundancy. It operates on Synology’s DSM OS, offering a browser-based interface that accommodates Docker, automation, and numerous self-hosting applications. The DS925+ is equipped with four SATA drive bays, two M.2 NVMe slots, and dual 2.5GbE networking ports, allowing for expansion up to 180TB of raw storage.

    This model is fueled by an AMD Ryzen V1500B quad-core CPU and comes with 4GB of DDR4 ECC RAM, which can be extended up to 32GB. The DS925+ is especially beneficial for users seeking a customizable solution for applications like media streaming, home automation, and local backups.

    #### Comparison with Other DiskStation Variants

    The DS925+ finds a middle ground between performance and scalability, providing more features than entry-level choices while maintaining compactness and affordability compared to larger alternatives. It supports advanced DSM functionalities and delivers solid storage solutions for both household and small office settings.

    ### Conclusion

    To summarize, Synology’s BeeStation Plus represents a fantastic option for everyday users in search of an easy-to-use cloud storage solution, while the DiskStation DS925+ is aimed at power users desiring a customizable and flexible NAS. Both products address different requirements, positioning Synology as a multifaceted player in the storage solutions arena.

    BeeStation Plus is available for $409.99, while the DiskStation DS925+ is priced at $639.99, not including storage drives. Both products can be purchased on Synology’s website and through various retailers.

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Price Reduction Notification: Trendy Phone Controller Now at a Lower Price, Encouraging Acquisition of an Extra
    Price Reduction Notification: Trendy Phone Controller Now at a Lower Price, Encouraging Acquisition of an Extra

    Honestly, if you enjoy gaming while mobile but dislike touch controls, the G8 Plus is ideal.

    (Image credit: Harish Jonnalagadda / Android Central)

    Although I genuinely enjoy playing games and emulating classic systems on my phones and tablets, touch controls are horrible. So if you’re similar to me and favor physical controllers, the GameSir G8 Plus is currently at its lowest price ever for Prime Day.

    In contrast to the G8 Galileo, the G8 Plus pairs with your devices through Bluetooth rather than USB-C. This advantage is notable since some phones and tablets lack a centrally located USB-C port, and it allows you to keep your case on.

    Even at its standard price of $99, I would fully endorse the G8 Plus to anyone. But considering it’s currently <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://target.georiot.com/Proxy.ashx?tsid=169923&GR_URL=https%3A%2F%2Famazon.com%2FBluetooth-Controller-iOS-Wireless-Joysticks-Minecraft%2Fdp%2FB0D8JJRCJN%3Ftag%3Dhawk-future-20%26ascsubtag%3Dac-us-1075653313933518696-20" data-url="https://www.amazon.com/Bluetooth

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on “Reasons to Steer Clear of Preordering the Galaxy Watch 8 on Prime Day, Regardless of Amazon’s Offer”
    “Reasons to Steer Clear of Preordering the Galaxy Watch 8 on Prime Day, Regardless of Amazon’s Offer”

    It’s a timeless Prime Day conundrum.

    (Image credit: Andrew Myrick / Android Central)

    Samsung Unpacked concluded earlier today, and if you’re planning to preorder the Galaxy Watch 8, I’ve discovered a Prime Day promotion that you need to hear about. Purchase the watch prior to its official launch on July 25th, and Amazon will reward you with a $50 gift card with no conditions attached. 

    <div data-image="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/bPLi3GK48NDVrnUA6ydiWi-200-100.jpg" data-link="https://target.georiot.com/Proxy.ashx?tsid=169923&GR_URL=https%3A%2F%2Famazon.com%2Fdp%2FB0FCP941GG%3Ftag%3Dhawk-future-20%26ascsubtag%3Dhawk-custom-tracking-20" data-link-merchant="Amazon US" data-link-text="View Deal" data-merchant-id="1471" data-merchant-name="Amazon US" data-merchant-network="Amazonus" data-merchant-url="amazon.com" data-model-name="Samsung Galaxy Watch 8 40mm (BT): $349.99, plus free $50 gift card at Amazon" data-show-fallback="button" data-webp-image="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/bPLi3GK48NDVrnUA6ydiWi-200-100.jpg.webp" data-widget-introduction="

    Samsung Galaxy Watch 8 40mm (BT): <a href

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Think about the Motorola Flip Phone instead of the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 7 FE this Prime Day.
    Think about the Motorola Flip Phone instead of the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 7 FE this Prime Day.

    The Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 7 FE, retailing at $900, is a recent arrival in the foldable smartphone arena, yet it may not present the greatest value for buyers. Although it is advertised as an affordable alternative, the device features only 128GB of baseline storage and runs on the outdated Exynos 2400 chipset. This renders it less attractive, particularly in comparison to the Motorola Razr 2024.

    On the other hand, the Motorola Razr 2024, priced at $699.99, delivers a more enticing offer. It is equipped with 256GB of base storage, 8GB of RAM, larger displays, and a more powerful battery that supports quicker charging. At present, an Amazon Prime Day promotion brings its price down to $499.99, making it an exceptional choice.

    The design of the Razr 2024 incorporates aspects from the Razr Plus 2023, offering a premium appearance at a lower price point. It is advisable for individuals seeking a foldable device without the necessity of overpaying for obsolete components. While the Galaxy Z Flip 7 FE is available for pre-order, the Razr 2024 showcases superior value and functionality, positioning it as the more desirable selection for budget-minded consumers.

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