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HMD Teams up with Xplora for Kids' Devices

Friday, 11:27 AM   by Rich Brome

HMD has "formed a strategic partnership with Xplora, a leading provider of smartwatches for children." The partnership coincides with HMD's growing interest in the devices-for-kids category. HMD recently launched the Barbie Phone. HMD also recently launched The Better Phone Project, a global survey of 10,000 parents with the aim of better understanding needs in the kids category. HMD says it is "in the process of designing a suite of new solutions which serve as viable alternatives to smartphones, including a new type of phone, which are better suited to the needs of children and teens."


Apple Spending $1.5 Billion to Expand Satellite Service

Friday, 10:21 AM   by Rich Brome

A securities filing has revealed a new deal between Apple and Globalstar that will see Apple spend around $1.5 billion in exchange for "the expansion of iPhone services" as well as a 20% equity stake in Globalstar. Globalstar already provides the orbital satellite network for Apple's satellite communication service for iPhones, including Emergency SOS via satellite and Messages via satellite. Globalstar currently operates 31 satellites and allocates 85% of its network capacity to Apple. The company has ordered as many as 26 new satellites to replenish and upgrade its constellation. Competitors such as Iridium and Skylo provide similar services for non-Apple phones. All of these services require specific support in phone hardware, while SpaceX and AST SpaceMobile are preparing to launch satellite coverage services that work with existing phones.


Google Accelerating New Android Versions

Thursday, 2:36 PM   by Rich Brome

Google is changing its Android release schedule, releasing more new versions, sooner. While Google has stuck to a relatively consistent annual schedule in recent years, with Android 15 having just been released, the next major version — Android 16 — is now planned for the second quarter of next year. Google says this earlier release date is "to better align with the schedule of device launches across our ecosystem, so more devices can get the major release of Android sooner." Another, more minor, update is also planned for the fourth quarter of next year. The "major" update will bring API and behavior changes that typically come with a whole new version of Android, requiring all developers to test their apps for issues. The new "minor" update could introduce new features and APIs, but should not break any existing apps. With this new schedule, Google says to expect the first developer preview of Android 16 soon.


Google Wallet for Kids Coming in 2025

Wednesday, 2:15 PM   by Rich Brome

Google has confirmed that it plans to roll out a special version of Google Wallet for kids next year. The Android app will support tap payments in person, but not online transactions. It will also support gift cards and event tickets, but not ID cards. It will require that the Android device be enrolled in Family Link, Google's parental control solution. Via Family Link, parents will be able to add and remove payment cards, as well as view transactions. Google already offers a version of this for its Fitbit Ace LTE smartwatch, but it will now expand to Android phones.


Google Working on "Rich Ongoing Notifications" for Android

Oct 29, 2024, 2:32 PM   by Rich Brome

Recent beta versions of Android include the first bits of a new API for app developers called Rich Ongoing Notifications. It appears to let developers put an icon plus small bit of updating text directly in the status bar, similar to the "chip" that is displayed in the status bar during a phone call. The feature would therefore be similar to the Live Activities feature that Apple introduced in iOS with its Dynamic Island concept. The feature may be slated for Android 16. Android 15 was just released.


Apple Intelligence Launches in Beta, Requires Opt-In and Waitlist

Oct 28, 2024, 12:04 PM   by Rich Brome

Apple has released the final public version of iOS 18.1, which supports a beta version of Apple Intelligence, the company's new suite of AI features. Because it's still in beta, access to Apple Intelligence is not automatic. Users must manually opt in and wait for their turn to download the AI models. Apple's support site explains that users should "go to Settings, tap or click Apple Intelligence & Siri, then tap or click Join the Apple Intelligence Waitlist. Apple Intelligence is usually available for activation within a few hours of joining the waitlist, though wait times can vary. You will receive a notification when you can activate it on your device. On-device Apple Intelligence models will begin to download after activation." The models take up 4 GB of storage. Apple Intelligence on iOS also requires an iPhone 16 or iPhone 15 Pro. It also available only in US English for now. Apple Intelligence includes a smarter Siri, summaries of notifications, messages, & email, search in Photos, writing tools, and more.


iOS 18.2 Will Let Users Worldwide Set Third-Party Apps for Messaging, Calling

Oct 23, 2024, 5:29 PM   by Rich Brome

Apple has decided to lets iOS users worldwide choose their own default apps for messaging and calling, a welcome update for a feature that was previously expected to be limited to the EU to appease antitrust regulators there. The change will come in iOS 18.2, which just entered beta testing. Apple's own developer web site specifically says the feature is "available for all users worldwide". The options will be part of a new, consolidated "Default Apps" section in Settings, which will also contain options for email, Call Filtering, web browser, and Passwords & Codes. The screen also mentions contactless payments, a new option that appeared in iOS 18.1.


Arm Cancels Qualcomm's License for Chip IP

Oct 23, 2024, 9:15 AM   by Rich Brome

Arm has escalated its legal tussle with Qualcomm by giving 60 days' notice that it is cancelling the architectural license agreement that allows Qualcomm to use Arm's intellectual property to design chips. The two companies are already involved in a legal battle scheduled to reach a Delaware court in December. At issue is Qualcomm's acquisition of Nuvia in 2021. Both Nuvia and Qualcomm were Arm licensees prior to the acquisition. Arm insists that Nuvia's license did not transfer and Qualcomm should re-negotiate its Arm license to include Nuvia technology. Qualcomm is already using Nuvia's CPU technology in its chips for laptops, and just announced the Snapdragon 8 Elite, the first chip for phones to use Nuvia technology (which Qualcomm has branded "Oryon"). Qualcomm claims that this latest move by Arm is a "strongarm" negotiating tactic to "increase royalty rates".


AT&T Finally Offering 30-Day Free Trial via eSIM

Oct 22, 2024, 1:34 PM   by Rich Brome   updated Oct 22, 2024, 3:06 PM

AT&T is now offering a 30-day free trial of its network via the eSIM capability of iPhones. T-Mobile has offered this option since mid-2021, and Verizon has offered it since late 2022. Prospective customers can take advantage of the offer without cancelling their current service on another network. Both their primary SIM and the secondary eSIM are available at the same time, so users can switch back and forth to compare networks. AT&T says it is the only carrier to include 25 GB of personal hotspot data in its free trial. AT&T's offer also includes unlimited talk & text, 100 GB of data (5G included), and international texting. AT&T plans to extend the program to compatible Android phones in 2025.


Samsung Upgrades its Health App with Medical Records, Nutrition-by-Barcode

Oct 22, 2024, 11:07 AM   by Rich Brome

Samsung has announced several major new features for its comprehensive Health app. Starting with version 6.28, users can import their medical records, including test results, prescriptions, hospital visits, and vaccinations. The app offers "meaningful insights and alerts that suggest next steps, such as recommending medical tests or actions." This feature integrates with popular electronic medical record (EMR) systems in the United States, including Epic Systems, athenahealth, Cerner Health, and Veradigm. Samsung partnered with b.well Connected Health on this feature. Samsung partnered with a different company — fatsecret — on another new feature: barcode scanning in the Food Tracker. This can make logging meals and/or viewing nutrition info as easy as scanning barcodes on food packaging. Samsung has brought a similar feature to the Medications Tracking feature, where users can simply scan a pill bottle with the camera to add a medication to their personal list.


Carriers Weigh in on FCC's Proposed Phone Unlocking Rule

Oct 22, 2024, 9:39 AM   by Rich Brome

T-Mobile and AT&T have submitted formal objections to the FCC over its proposed rule requiring carriers to unlock new phones after 60 days, regardless of whether the phone is fully paid off. (This type of unlocking would let customers use their phone with a different network.) T-Mobile and AT&T argue that — for their prepaid brands in particular — longer locking periods are necessary to ensure that phone subsidies are recovered. Prepaid phones sold by Metro by T-Mobile and Cricket (an AT&T brand) are typically subsidized so they can be sold far below their actual retail price. For example, Metro currently offers the Samsung Galaxy A15 5G — A $200 phone — for free. Metro currently locks phones for a full year to ensure the phone subsidy is recovered in monthly service charges. T-Mobile says that the FCC's proposed 60-day rule "would see subsidies reduced by 40% to 70% for both its lower and higher-end devices", and that a "handset unlocking mandate would also leave providers little choice but to limit their handset offers to lower cost and often lesser performing handsets." AT&T agrees, saying the proposed rule would create "upward pressure on handset prices and disincentives to finance handsets on flexible terms." Verizon is already subject to stricter phone unlocking rules as a condition of its FCC license for band 13, a core frequency band for its network. Verizon therefore voiced its support for the new rule, since it would create "a uniform unlocking policy that applies to all providers", effectively ending Verizon's current competitive disadvantage. However Verizon still acknowledged the need for longer locking periods in the prepaid market, saying "a longer, 180-day locking period for prepaid is necessary to enable wireless providers to continue offering subsidies that make phones affordable".


Snapdragon 8 Elite is Qualcomm's Newest Top-End Chip for Phones

Oct 21, 2024, 2:05 PM   by Rich Brome

Qualcomm's newest flagship chip for flagship phones is the Snapdragon 8 Elite. For the first time in a chip for phones, Qualcomm is using its own, all-new Oryon CPU architecture, the fruit of its acquisition of Nuvia in 2021. Qualcomm claims the new Oryon CPU delivers a 45% performance improvement in both single- and multi-core tasks compared to last year's Snapdragon 8 Gen 3. The prime core runs at up to 4.32 GHz and the performance cores run at up to 3.53 GHz. Qualcomm is also using a cutting-edge 3nm manufacturing process, which contributes to a 27% overall power savings. Power savings are even better in some areas, such as 45% for AI, 44% for CPU, and 40% for graphics. Qualcomm also claims 45% faster AI and 40% better gaming performance. The 8 Elite also includes the X80 modem and FastConnect 7900 announced in February. These bring standards-based support for satellite connectivity as well as integrated UWB. The 8 Elite also supports Bluetooth 6.0. Qualcomm is breaking with its usual naming scheme for smartphone chips, where this would otherwise have been called the Snapdragon 8 Gen 4. The Snapdragon 8 Elite is expected to reach the market in phones starting "in the coming weeks" from brands that include Samsung, OnePlus, and Asus.


Chrome on Android to Play Nicer with Third-Party Password Managers

Oct 18, 2024, 1:51 PM   by Rich Brome   updated Oct 18, 2024, 1:58 PM

Google is improving how its Chrome web browser on Android integrates with third-party auto-fill services such as password managers. Currently, such software must use a "compatibility mode" in Chrome that can be glitchy and is being phased out. Starting in Chrome version 131, a new "Autofill services" setting will let users choose a third-party service. Chrome 131 is scheduled to be released November 12, with a beta version already available. Users will have to manually choose a third-party autofill service in system settings (if they haven't already done so), then choose "Autofill using another service" in Chrome settings. Chrome will then use whatever service was chosen in the system settings. Google recommends that third-party password manager apps show a prompt to users, to inform them of these steps they need to take. Google plans to phase out Chrome's "compatibility mode" sometime in "early 2025".


FCC Strengthens, Modernizes Phone Hearing Aid Compatibility Requirements

Oct 18, 2024, 8:00 AM   by Rich Brome

The FCC has adopted new rules that will require 100% of cell phones sold in the US to be hearing-aid compatible (HAC). The FCC is also modifying its rules to incorporate Bluetooth connections to hearing aids. Currently, phone manufacturers and service providers are only required to offer HAC in 85% of the models in their lineup. (In practice, most reach 100%, or nearly, already.) The new rules address three distinct ways someone might use a phone with a hearing aid: acoustic, telecoil (T-coil), and Bluetooth. Acoustic means simply holding the phone up to your ear, and phones must be designed so they don't create interference when used this way. This benchmark moves from 85% to 100%. The telecoil requirement remains at 85%, but since Bluetooth is a more modern alternative to telecoil, the FCC will now require that at least 15% of phone models support Bluetooth connections to hearing aids. Further, 100% of phones must support either telecoil or Bluetooth. Phone makers have two years to meet these requirements, while national carriers will have 2 1/2 years, and smaller carriers will have 3 1/2 years. For now, companies will be able to meet the Bluetooth requirement with proprietary solutions like Apple's MFi and Google's ASHA. But in four years, companies will be required to support non-proprietary standards like the new Hearing Access Profile (HAP) introduced as part of Bluetooth LE Audio.


Android 15 Exits Beta, Starts Rolling Out

Oct 15, 2024, 11:41 AM   by Rich Brome   updated Oct 15, 2024, 12:17 PM

Android 15 is finally, officially launching, starting today with Pixel devices. This version had an unusually long beta testing period. Among many new features, the biggest may be a suite of new anti-theft features. Most interesting is Theft Detection Lock, which uses AI and the phone's sensors to detect when a phone may have been snatched and automatically lock it. Google has also added "authentication requirements for settings targeted by thieves, like removing your SIM or turning off Find My Device, and will lock down your device if we sense multiple failed attempts for apps and settings." These features are not necessarily on by default, often needing to be activated manually in Settings. Android 15 also brings "Private Space", a place to hide sensitive apps behind an additional layer of authentication. Finally, Android 15 brings a standardized way for carrier messaging apps to send and receive messages via satellite. Android 15 should come to Samsung and other Android phone brands in the coming months. Google is also using the Android 15 update for Pixel phones to do a new "Feature Drop" with new Pixel-exclusive features. This includes Audio Magic Eraser, to clean up audio in your captured videos. The camera app gains a new Underwater mode, to capture better colors underwater. Finally, the Pixel Weather app now includes a three-part pollen tracker for seasonal allergies.


JLab's Newest ANC Earbuds are Just $30

Oct 15, 2024, 11:24 AM   by Rich Brome

JLab's new Go Pop ANC are the new most affordable Bluetooth earbuds on the market with ANC (active noise cancellation), at just $30. The buds have a decent feature list, too, with a "Be Aware" pass-through mode, 10mm drivers, customizable EQ, IP55 rating for sweat and rain, Multipoint Bluetooth, and Google Fast Pair support. They also offer over seven hours of charge, or over 24 hours with case charging. That case has a built-in USB-C cable for convenience. They're available now, in black, fuchsia, or teal.


Cricket's Newest 5G Phones are Around 50 Bucks

Oct 10, 2024, 11:51 AM   by Rich Brome   updated Oct 11, 2024, 11:13 AM

Cricket has launched updated versions of its two most affordable 5G phones. The Cricket Magic 2 5G replaces the Cricket Magic 5G. It has a much larger battery at 5,000 mAh (vs. 4,000 mAh before), a new MediaTek Dimensity 6100+ chipset, and adds a 5 megapixel wide-angle camera. Other features remain similar, including 6.6" HD+ 90 Hz display, 4 GB RAM, 64 GB storage (expandable), 13 megapixel main camera, NFC, fingerprint reader, and a headset jack. Cricket lists the price at $100 but is currently offering it to existing customers for $40, or free to new customers. The new Cricket Outlast 5G is a significant departure from the original Outlast. While the first Outlast was a 4G phone with a huge 6,000 mAh battery, the new Outlast 5G is a 5G phone with a more-common 5,000 mAh battery and slightly better specs than the Magic 2 5G. Those specs include a larger 6.8" display, 6 GB of RAM, 128 GB storage, and a 50 megapixel main camera. Other specs are similar to the Magic 2 5G, including the same MediaTek Dimensity 6100+ chipset. Cricket is currently selling the Outlast 5G for $60, or free for new customers. Third-party retailers like Walmart are also selling these phones under different names for AT&T Prepaid, with similar pricing. The "AT&T Propel 2 5G" is the same phone as the Magic 2 5G, while the Outlast 5G goes by "Motivate Pro 5G" as an AT&T phone. The original Magic, new Magic 2 (and Propel 2), and original Outlast were all manufactured by Tinno, which also makes the Cricket Debut S3. However the new Outlast 5G (and Motivate Pro) is made by Coosea, which also makes the Cricket Icon 6.


T-Mobile Enables Text Via Satellite as Carriers Prepare for Hurricane Milton

Oct 9, 2024, 8:17 AM   by Rich Brome   updated Oct 9, 2024, 8:45 AM

T-Mobile, Verizon, and AT&T have put out detailed information on how they're preparing for Hurricane Milton and responding to Hurricane Helene. For the first time, T-Mobile is activating Starlink Direct-to-Cellular satellite SMS service for its customers, including the ability to text 911. This experimental service is being deployed on a temporary, emergency basis in Florida as well as the areas previously impacted by Hurricane Helene. This service enables any ordinary T-Mobile phone to receive service via satellite (at this time, for texting only) when land-based networks are unavailable. Engadget reports that phones will display a network name of "T-Mobile SpaceX" when connected to the service. SpaceX advises that the service works best outdoors or, if necessary, near a window. Because the Starlink Direct-to-Cellular fleet is only partially deployed, service may be intermittent. Separately, Verizon announced that it's waiving all "domestic call, text, and data usage for postpaid consumer and Verizon Small Business customers most impacted by the storm in parts of Florida from Oct. 9th – Oct. 23rd, 2024."


T-Mobile Testing Satellite Coverage in Hurricane-Affected Areas

Oct 7, 2024, 10:26 AM   by Rich Brome

T-Mobile and SpaceX have received special permission from the FCC to test their new satellite coverage technology in areas affected by Hurricane Helene. The SpaceX Starlink system used by T-Mobile works with essentially all existing T-Mobile phones, using an existing cellular frequency band (band 25). T-Mobile has already activated the system to send out emergency alerts in North Carolina, which can be received by any compatible phone, not just those of T-Mobile customers. The two companies also said they "may" test "basic texting (SMS) capabilities for most cell phones on the T-Mobile network in North Carolina." Because of the limited number of satellites deployed to date, service is likely to be intermittent for now.


Google Now Lets You Search with Camera + Voice

Oct 3, 2024, 11:31 AM   by Rich Brome

Google has enhanced its Google Lens feature on mobile to support voice queries while doing a visual search with your phone's camera. On both iOS and Android, you can now ask Google questions like "why did the artist paint this?" or "what kind of clouds are these?", using your voice, while pointing your phone's camera at a painting or the sky, for example. To access the feature, open the Google (search) app, tap the camera (Google Lens) icon, aim, and hold down the shutter button while speaking. The feature can also be accessed from the dedicated Google Lens app, or anywhere else a Google Lens icon appears, such as in camera apps or home screen widgets.


Tracfone Doubles Data on Plans

Oct 3, 2024, 11:14 AM   by Rich Brome   updated Oct 3, 2024, 4:46 PM

Tracfone, a Verizon prepaid brand, has revised its plans to add more value. Plans that previously included 2–10 GB of data now include twice as much, up to 20 GB, for the same price. Tracfone is further enhancing these plans by now allowing mobile hotspot at all price points, a feature previously reserved for the most expensive plan. The new 20 GB plan runs $40/month, the new 4 GB plan runs $20/month, and there are $25 and $30 plans as well. The $15/month plan now includes 1 GB of data when it previously included none. Tracfone is also introducing discounts when buying multiple months in advance; 10% off when buying three months, 15% off for six, and 20% off when buying a whole year of service. All of these plans include unlimited voice and texts. Tracfone also still offers plans with fixed buckets of voice minutes and texts.


Consumer Cellular Gets Into Medical Alert Devices

Oct 3, 2024, 10:54 AM   by Rich Brome

The Iris Ally is a new medical alert device from Consumer Cellular. The device and service includes automatic fall detection, a feature that competitors charge extra for. The Ally is small, weighs 1.5 ounces, and is fully waterproof. It can hang from a lanyard or clipped to a waistband. The device is $89 up front, with service running $25/month. Through the end of the year, existing customers can get the Ally for $44.50. For a limited time, AARP members can get the device 50% off until the end of the year and an ongoing 5% off the monthly service fee.


OpenSignal Rates Carrier's 5G Performance

Oct 3, 2024, 10:45 AM   by Rich Brome

OpenSignal has released its latest annual ranking of 5G networks worldwide. T-Mobile USA and Puerto Rico came in first in 5G availability among all 5G networks on the planet. In other key categories — like 5G download speed — no US carrier cracks the top-20 list globally. However, AT&T and Verizon did both place in the top 5 worldwide for "most improved" year-over-year in 5G download speed. In a similar report focusing on the US released in July, T-Mobile came in first for "average overall download and upload speeds" as well as "consistent quality". However Verizon came in first for video and gaming "experience" and 5G upload speed. AT&T, meanwhile, came in first for overall "availability" (regardless of technology).


Pebblebee's New Trackers Work with Both Apple and Google Find My Networks

Oct 1, 2024, 11:50 AM   by Rich Brome

Peeblebee has launched a new lineup of "Universal" Bluetooth item-tracking tags that are the first to be compatible with both Apple Find My and Google's Android Find My Device networks. The $35 tags are rechargeable and come in three form factors: Tag, Card, and Clip. The rectangular Tag is the smallest. The round Clip has a lanyard hole ideal for attaching to keys and bags. The Card is 2.8mm thin to fit into wallets and laptop sleeves. The Clip can charge directly via USB-C, while the Card and Tag come with a magnetic charger. The Tag lasts 8 months on a single charge, while the Clip lasts 12, and the Card, 18. All include a buzzer and lights to aid finding when lost, and are rated IPx6 for water resistance. Both the Apple and Google networks work similarly, by leveraging Bluetooth of smartphones and other connected devices worldwide. Encryption and anonymization ensures privacy and security. Cross-platform anti-stalking features help guard against unwanted tracking.


EchoStar Sells Dish TV to Focus on Boost Mobile

Sep 30, 2024, 11:15 AM   by Rich Brome

EchoStar has reached an agreement to sell its Dish satellite TV business — including its Sling streaming TV service — to DirecTV. This will help the company "focus more clearly on enhancing and further deploying its nationwide 5G Open RAN wireless network, which will provide more choices and better service to consumers under the Boost Mobile brand". The company will also continue focusing on new direct-to-device (D2D) satellite solutions, such as satellite service for phones. EchoStar is already partnered with Skylo to provide such service.


Verizon Experiencing Outage

Sep 30, 2024, 11:05 AM   by Rich Brome

Many Verizon customers are reporting an outage in mobile service. Reports started around 9:30 Eastern this morning. DownDetector shows the majority of issues on the east coast. Verizon says it is aware of an issue and is working to resolve it.


Samsung Galaxy S24 FE Boosts Display and Battery Size

Sep 26, 2024, 10:34 AM   by Rich Brome   updated Sep 26, 2024, 10:49 AM

Samsung has revealed the Galaxy S24 FE, this year's edition of the company's most affordable model in the flagship S-series. Compared to last year's S23 FE, this model has a larger 6.7-inch display (with 120 HZ refresh), and a larger 4,700 mAh battery. It's powered by a Samsung Exynos 2400 series chipset that supports ray-traced graphics, paired with 8 GB of RAM. It will come with 128 GB of storage; a 256 GB version will be available unlocked and with Verizon. The camera system is similar to last year's, with a 50 megapixel main camera, 12 megapixel wide-angle camera, and 3x, 8-megapixel telephoto camera with OIS. It also supports wired fast charging, as well as fast wireless charging and reverse wireless charging. Naturally, it comes with a full suite of AI features, including Generative Edit, Circle to Search, Live Translate, and Note Assist. It comes in four colors: Blue, Graphite, Gray, and Mint. All three major national carriers will offer the phone. Pricing for the Galaxy S24 FE starts at $650. Pre-orders start today, with full availability on October 3rd.


Iridium on Track to Provide Standards-Based Satellite Service Direct to Phones

Sep 25, 2024, 10:11 AM   by Rich Brome

The 3GPP (standards body for cellular technology) has agreed to make its NTN satellite service spec compatible with Iridium's satellites in 3GPP Release 19, due by the end of 2025. This will add a major new provider to the standards-based NTN ecosystem. Uniquely, Iridium's constellation provides 100% global service, including over oceans and in polar regions. Existing 3GPP standards include optional NTN satellite service compatible with satellites from Echostar, Viasat, Ligado, Terrestar, and Inmarsat. Skylo partners with all of those companies and facilitates satellite NTN service for Google and Verizon. NTN satellite service requires specific hardware support in a phone to work. The new Google Pixel 9 series includes this hardware, as will forthcoming phones from Samsung. MediaTek makes chipsets that include NTN support, and Qualcomm will offer them soon. Qualcomm and Iridium originally tried to partner on a proprietary solution called Snapdragon Satellite, which was abandoned after the rest of the industry chose to pursue standards-based solutions instead.


Suicide Lifeline Calls Getting Geo-routing, Like 911

Sep 25, 2024, 9:49 AM   by Rich Brome   updated Sep 25, 2024, 1:50 PM

The FCC today announced that wireless calls to 988 will be routed to nearby suicide & crisis centers based on the caller's actual location, instead of the previous area-code-based routing. This will make the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline work more like 911, where the cell phone's GPS and nearest-tower information is automatically used to route the call to the most appropriate call center. Two of US's largest wireless carriers — T-Mobile and one other — have already implemented this new "georouting" as of last week. The FCC will soon vote on a new rule requiring all carriers to implement this technology. FCC Chairwoman Rosenworcel says of the new rule: "Georouting means those responding to 988 calls have a lot more knowledge of local resources at their fingertips and are better equipped to get the caller the help they need, where they need it."


iOS 18 Lets you use Matter Smart-home Devices Without a Hub

Sep 18, 2024, 2:30 PM   by Rich Brome

Apple has quietly slipped a new smart-home feature into the just-released iOS 18. You can now set up and use a Matter-compatible smart-home device with just your phone, instead of requiring a separate Matter hub device. (Matter is the new open industry standard for cross-platform smart-home technology.) This new feature enables only manual, local control; a hub is still required to operate devices in an automated way, or remotely. Apple says this new feature works with plug-in or hard-wired devices today, while battery-powered devices may require a firmware update to work in this hub-less mode. Matter devices can use Wi-Fi and/or Thread for wireless connectivity. iOS 18 lets any iPhone connect to a Wi-Fi-enabled Matter device. Connecting to a Thread-only device requires an iPhone with a Thread radio. Google also recently started putting Thread radios in its phones, starting with the Pixel 9 series. This implies that Google may add a similar feature to Android soon.


T-Mobile Launches New Priority Lane for First Responders

Sep 18, 2024, 2:14 PM   by Rich Brome

T-Mobile has announced T-Priority, a new offering for first responder agencies that uses network slicing to give participating first responders a promised minimum level of service, a step beyond simple priority access that other networks offer. Thanks to network slicing — a feature of 5G SA networks like T-Mobile's — the portion of the network devoted to first responders can automatically grow to meet demand, such as during major emergencies. The first customer will be the City of New York. New "first responder rate plans launch later this year and are available for state, local and federal agencies. They're also available to businesses, like utility and transportation organizations, that provide critical support during emergencies."


iOS 18 Available to Everyone Today

Sep 16, 2024, 1:20 PM   by Rich Brome

iPhone users can now update to the final (non-beta) version of iOS 18. This version was originally announced as bringing "Apple Intelligence" AI features, but these have now been postponed until version 18.1 — expected "next month" — or some aspects of it have been pushed back to an even later update. iOS 18.0 still brings many new features, including support for RCS, which will improve conversations with "green bubble" friends using Android. Such conversations will now support high-quality photos and videos, as well as read receipts. iOS 18 also brings new freedom to customize app icons, and a new Control Center with additional Controls and customization. iPhone users can update by going to Settings, then General, then Software Update. iOS 18 is compatible with the iPhone XR / XS, iPhone 11 series and newer, and the iPhone SE 2nd Generation (2020) or newer.


Google, TSA Testing New "ID Pass" in Wallet, Created by Scanning Passport

Sep 12, 2024, 10:39 AM   by Rich Brome

Google will soon start beta testing a new type of digital ID in Google Wallet. This "ID Pass" serves the same function as a digital driver's license (mID) at TSA airport security checkpoints and potentially other places where you need to verify your identity. In this case, it's created by scanning your passport (the photo page and chip) with your phone, then scanning your face to confirm it's you. This creates an "ID Pass" that will be accepted at TSA checkpoints that already take mID. The TSA has a web site that lets you check which airports accept digital IDs before you travel. Importantly, an ID Pass is not a digital passport, and Google still recommends carrying a physical ID. Google also shared that Iowa, New Mexico, and Ohio will be the next US states to enable mID in Google Wallet.


AST SpaceMobile Successfully Launches First Five Commercial Sats

Sep 12, 2024, 8:26 AM   by Rich Brome

This morning, a SpaceX rocket successfully took five new satellites into orbit that will eventually provide satellite service (including 5G data) for existing AT&T and Verizon cell phones in places without cellular coverage. The launch of these "BlueBird" satellites operated by AST SpaceMobile follows a successful testing campaign using "BlueWalker" test satellites (already in orbit) to validate the technology. This "Block 1" group of five satellites will be enough to cover the whole United States, but not continuously; service will be available intermittently, as the satellites pass overhead. This will enable a beta testing campaign by AT&T and Verizon. AST is already manufacturing the next 17 "Block 2" satellites. By the time AST has launched around 45–60 BlueBird satellites, they will be able to offer 24/7 continuous service throughout the US, Europe, Japan, and more. SpaceX is currently working on a competing system by upgrading its Starlink network, which will be used by T-Mobile. Both the AST and SpaceX systems rely on massive antenna arrays that are large enough to emulate a cell phone tower from space.


T-Mobile Tests Wireless Emergency Alert Via Satellite

Sep 11, 2024, 2:27 PM   by Rich Brome

T-Mobile and SpaceX have successfully tested a wireless emergency alert (WEA) via the Starlink network's new direct-to-cell capability. The test message was sent by emergency operators and received by a Starlink direct-to-smartphone satellite currently in low earth orbit. The message was then automatically "broadcast to a geographic area impacted by the hypothetical evacuation notice and received by a T-Mobile smartphone" successfully. The service works in areas without cellular coverage. This can be particularly useful when a disaster — such as a wildfire — has damaged cell towers, creating new cellular "dead zones" at a time when emergency communication is critical. Of the 6,000+ Starlink satellites currently orbit, so far 175 have the new direct-to-cell technology that acts like a cell tower in space and can communicate with existing phones. SpaceX continues to add more Starlink satellites with this new functionality. "As that happens, T-Mobile intends to beta test the service before launching it commercially." T-Mobile promises a text message service initially, followed by voice and data in following years, as the system grows. Verizon and AT&T are testing a similar system from AST SpaceMobile, which will launch its first five commercial satellites into orbit (via a SpaceX rocket) tomorrow. Both systems will work with most existing phones, while "NTN" satellite services from Apple and Skylo (supporting Google and Samsung phones) require specific hardware support in each phone.


iPhone 16 Brings More Features to All Price Points, Including New Camera Control

Sep 9, 2024, 3:07 PM   by Rich Brome   updated Sep 9, 2024, 4:55 PM

Apple has announced the iPhone 16 series, which — compared to previous years' models — does not restrict as many key features to the Pro models, or to the most-expensive Pro Max model. For example, the all-new Camera Control on the side comes on all four models. All four models can also run Apple Intelligence thanks to the new A18 series of chips with 16-core Neural Engine, although Apple has delayed Apple Intelligence until iOS 18.1 (and some features of it until a later update). The smaller iPhone 16 Pro also has the 5x telephoto camera that was previously exclusive to the Pro Max. The new Camera Control detects light and firm touches, as well as swipe gestures. This provides a faster way to launch the camera and snap photos and videos, as well as adjust settings. A new Visual Intelligence feature lets you use the camera to summon business info from Maps, or add an event to your calendar by pointing at a poster. For other visual searches, it seems to rely on Google Image Search or ChatGPT to identify what you're looking at. The ultra-wide camera has been upgraded with auto-focus, and it captures more light, and doubles as a macro camera. The standard models also gain larger batteries. The Pro models have new, larger displays (6.3- and 6.9-inch) with thinner bezels. They retain titanium bodies and advanced triple cameras. The ultra-wide cameras have been upgraded to 48 megapixels and auto-focus. A new A18 Pro chip has several upgrades over the standard A18 chip in the non-Pro models, including a 6-core GPU (instead of 5-core) and larger CPU caches. This enables it to be 15% faster than last year's A17 Pro. A new thermal system enables up to 20% better sustained performance for gaming, and hardware-accelerated ray-tracing is now up to 2x faster. Upgraded ISP and media functions on the Pro chip enable pro-quality 4K video at 120 fps for new Cinematic Slow Motion features, including real-time color grading and Dolby Vision. The Pro models can also capture Spatial Audio with video, thanks in part to four new "studio-quality" microphones. The iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Plus start at $799 and $899, respectively (both with 128 GB storage, also avail. with 256 or 512 GB). The iPhone 16 Pro starts at $999, with 128 GB storage (also avail. with 256 GB, 512 GB, or 1 TB). The iPhone 16 Pro Max starts at $1199, with 256 GB storage (also avail. with 512 GB or 1 TB). Pre-orders begin Friday, with the phones in stores Sept. 20.

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AirPods 4 Come With or Without ANC

Sep 9, 2024, 2:26 PM   by Rich Brome

Apple has announced the 4th-generation AirPods, which come in two versions that look identical but have very different features. As with the AirPods 3, they come with or without a wireless charging case. Both charging case options are now standardized on USB-C, but only the wireless charging version adds a speaker for use with Find My when lost. The pricier model is known as "AirPods 4 with ANC", which — as the name implies — come with Active Noise Cancellation. This includes advanced ANC features like Transparency mode (for hearing a blend of outside noise), Adaptive Audio (intelligent Transparency mode that adapts to a the noise environment), and Conversation Awareness, which lowers media volume when you start speaking to someone. AirPods 4 with ANC will sell for $179. The non-ANC AirPods 4 do not have these features, but sell for just $129. They do still have many new features, including Apple's new H2 chip, a "new acoustic architecture" for better sound, and Personalized Spatial Audio with dynamic head tracking. They also have AI-powered background noise removal, and the ability to answer yes/no questions from Siri with a head nod. The USB-C case is also now smaller, while maintaining 30 hours of total battery life.


Apple Watch Series 10 Puts Larger Display in Thinner, Lighter Body

Sep 9, 2024, 2:06 PM   by Rich Brome

Apple has refreshed the Apple Watch in its tenth generation with a refined design that's both thinner and lighter, while making the display larger and adding multiple all-new features. The new display is up to 9% larger than the previous generation and offers up to 40% more brightness when viewed at an angle. The aluminum body is 10% thinner and 10% lighter. The premium material option is now polished titanium, which is 20% lighter than the previous stainless steel option. The hardware now includes a loudspeaker than can play music, a larger coil for faster charging (80% in 30 minutes), and a depth gauge + water temperature sensor that automatically activate in water. The new S10 chip that powers the watch includes a 4-core Neural Engine for AI features, including background noise filtering on outbound phone calls and a new Sleep Apnea detection feature. (The Sleep Apnea feature will also come to last year's models via software update.) New apps include: Translate, Tides, and Vitals. The Workout app gains a new kayaking mode. A new Photos face overlaps a person with the displayed time, much like the similar feature already on iPhone. Finish options for aluminum include an all-new polished Jet Black, plus brushed silver and rose gold. Titanium color options include gold, slate gray, and "natural". As usual, it's available in two sizes: 42mm and 46mm, which are compatible with 41mm and 45mm bands for older models (respectively). Pricing starts at $399 for the aluminum version; add $30 for the larger size and/or $100 for cellular connectivity. The titanium version is only offered with cellular, starting at $699; add $50 for the larger size. Pre-orders start now; shipping Sept. 20th.


AirPods Pro Turn Into Hearing Aids with Software Update

Sep 9, 2024, 12:53 PM   by Rich Brome   updated Sep 9, 2024, 1:39 PM

Apple has announced a software update for the existing AirPods Pro 2 that will turn them into certified over-the-counter hearing aids for mild-to-moderate hearing loss. The update also brings a new Hearing Test feature that performs a detailed at-home hearing text in five minutes. Finally, a new Hearing Protection mode lets you hear your surroundings while dynamically adjusting for dangerously loud sound levels.


Cricket Adds New Affordable Phones Under Cricket Brand

Sep 9, 2024, 11:36 AM   by Rich Brome

Cricket has launched two new affordable 4G phones as white-label models (under its own brand). The Cricket Icon 6 replaces the Icon 5, and the Cricket Debut S3 replaces the Debut S2. Both models offer significant upgrades across the board compared to their predecessors. The Cricket Icon 6 sports a larger (6.8-inch) display with faster (90 Hz) refresh, larger (5,000 mAh) battery, better cameras (50 megapixel main), more storage (64 GB), and adds NFC for tap payments. It also has a memory card slot, headset jack, fingerprint reader, and 10-watt charging. It's powered by a MediaTek Helio P35 chipset. The Icon 6 is manufactured by Coosea, which also made the Icon 5 and Cricket Innovate E. Cricket is selling the Icon 6 for $90. The Cricket Debut S3 is slightly lower-end. Compared to the Debut S2, it has a larger (6.6-inch) display with faster (90 Hz) refresh, bigger (4,000 mAh) battery, more RAM (4 GB), and the addition of NFC and a fingerprint reader. Like the Icon 6, it's powered by a MediaTek Helio P35 chipset. The Debut S3 is made by Tinno, which also also made Debut S2 and Cricket Outlast. Cricket is selling the Debut S3 for $80. Both Coosea and Tinno also make white-label phones for Boost.


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