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Top 4 Budget-Friendly Laptops Suggested by Consumer Reports

which laptop brands stand out as the most dependable in selecting the appropriate specifications and operating systems.

This is where reliable sources like Consumer Reports (CR) come into action. CR is recognized for its thorough assessments and impartial insights. Similar to a variety of other products, CR evaluates laptops, assessing their processing power, screen quality, battery longevity, and various other essential aspects, subsequently selecting a few as its recommendations for the finest laptops of the year. Therefore, to assist you in finding a reliable budget laptop, we have sifted through CR’s recommendations and identified the following five choices. Each of these laptops is priced below $1,000 and encompasses a broad spectrum of costs and specifications to cater to various budget tiers and needs.

Acer Aspire Go 15 Laptop AG15-51P-510U

The Acer Aspire Go 15 ranks among Consumer Reports’ best selections for those in search of an affordable laptop. It labels the Acer laptop as a “fantastic option for daily web surfing, email correspondence, and streaming.

Apple Validates Purchase of Chase for Apple Card and Reveals Additional Information

Apple has announced that Chase will take over as the new issuer of Apple Card, succeeding Goldman Sachs, with the change anticipated to take place in about 24 months. Throughout this timeframe, Apple Card holders may continue to utilize their cards as usual, and additional information will be shared as the transition date draws closer.

Jennifer Bailey, Apple’s VP of Apple Pay and Apple Wallet, highlighted the pride in how Apple Card has changed the credit card landscape, underlining the mutual dedication to innovation shared by Apple and Chase. Apple has established a new webpage to answer commonly asked questions about the transition.

Key points regarding the transition include:

– Current Apple Card users will not have to reapply.
– Mastercard will persist as the payment network.
– Users should keep settling their balances as they currently do; balances will roll over to Chase after the transition.
– Access to Savings will remain, with further details to be provided later.
– Users can oversee their Apple Card accounts via the Wallet app.
– Existing physical Apple Cards can continue to be used normally, with updates about new cards forthcoming.
– Apple Card Monthly Installments will still be an option for purchasing Apple goods.
– There will be no fees linked to Apple Card, including annual, late, or foreign transaction charges.
– Credit reports will show Chase as the new issuing bank once the transition is finalized.

At present, Apple indicates that there is no action required from Apple Card users for the transition to Chase, and any necessary updates will be shared directly with users as the transition date approaches. Additional information is available on Apple’s website.

Apple TV Comedy Series Achieves Most Acting Award Nominations of Any Television Program

Apple TV’s recent impressive awards season proceeds today, as the acclaimed comedy *The Studio* has just been recognized as the single most-nominated television program at the 32nd Annual Actor Awards.

### The Studio secures five nominations at The Actor Awards, surpassing all other TV programs

This weekend features the Golden Globes, where Apple is forecasted to secure some significant victories. However, prior to that event, another forthcoming awards ceremony has revealed its nominations.

The Actor Awards is a newly branded iteration of the SAG-AFTRA awards. Essentially, it’s an event where actors celebrate their peers.

The awards ceremony will be broadcast live on Netflix in March, but the recently unveiled nominations already suggest a potentially festive evening for Apple TV.

Apple nominees encompass Rhea Seehorn for *Pluribus*, Gary Oldman for *Slow Horses*, among others. Yet, the standout accomplishment for Apple TV is that *The Studio* received more nominations than any other individual television show.

The popular comedy garnered two nominations each in the “Outstanding Performance” categories for male and female actors, in addition to another nomination for ensemble cast.

Its total of five nominations outmatches any other television show this year.

### The Studio’s nominations and competitors

Here are the nominees, along with the competition:

**Outstanding Performance by a Male Actor in a Comedy Series**
– IKE BARINHOLTZ / Sal Saperstein – “THE STUDIO”
– ADAM BRODY / Noah Roklov – “NOBODY WANTS THIS”
– TED DANSON / Charles Nieuwendyk – “A MAN ON THE INSIDE”
– SETH ROGEN / Matt Remick – “THE STUDIO”
– MARTIN SHORT / Oliver Putnam – “ONLY MURDERS IN THE BUILDING”

**Outstanding Performance by a Female Actor in a Comedy Series**
– KATHRYN HAHN / Maya Mason – “THE STUDIO”
– CATHERINE O’HARA / Patty Leigh – “THE STUDIO”
– JENNA ORTEGA / Wednesday Addams – “WEDNESDAY”
– JEAN SMART / Deborah Vance – “HACKS”
– KRISTEN WIIG / Maxine Simmons – “PALM ROYALE”

**Outstanding Performance by an Ensemble in a Comedy Series**
– ABBOTT ELEMENTARY
– THE BEAR
– HACKS
– ONLY MURDERS IN THE BUILDING
– THE STUDIO

What insights do you have regarding this year’s Actor Awards nominations? Share with us in the comments.

Apple TV is priced at $12.99 monthly and features popular TV shows and films such as *Ted Lasso*, *Severance*, *Pluribus*, and more. It is also available through the Apple One bundle.

How to Conquer the Most Difficult Captcha in the World

I’m Not a Robot invites players to tackle 48 levels filled with progressively intricate CAPTCHA tasks. It begins simply: tick the box, identify the squares featuring a stop sign, interpret the twisted text — the basics. Then, things take a strange turn, as you’ll need to win at tic-tac-toe, engage in whack-a-mole, and locate Waldo. Soon enough, you’re descending into a chaotic realm of Rorschach tests, eye examinations, trigonometry, and a sequence of “park the car” tasks that will ignite road rage from the coziness of your own residence!

By the time the game puts you to the test with a “reverse Turing test,” you may start to doubt your grip on reality, but should you succeed, a certificate of humanity from Luis von Ahn, co-creator of CAPTCHA (and Duolingo!) awaits you as a reward. The experience is witty, whimsical, and thoroughly maddening. It’s also a brilliant demonstration of the genuine technology driving CAPTCHA.

How CAPTCHAs function

Apple Finds New Collaborator to Supplant Goldman Sachs for Apple Card Services

Apple has reportedly secured a new collaborator to take over from Goldman Sachs for its Apple Card, as outlined in a recent report from the Wall Street Journal. This shift follows over two years of speculation about Goldman Sachs’ intention to exit the partnership, mainly due to substantial financial setbacks in the consumer credit card market.

Per sources referenced by the Wall Street Journal, JPMorgan Chase is poised to step in as the provider for Apple’s iPhone-integrated credit card. Goldman Sachs has been looking to withdraw from the Apple Card arrangement, which has led to multi-billion dollar deficits for the bank. The agreement will see JPMorgan Chase taking on existing credit balances at a major discount, with projections indicating that Goldman Sachs could transfer about $20 billion in outstanding card balances for over a $1 billion markdown. This is significant as most co-branded credit card balances usually sell at a premium, making such discounts uncommon and suggestive of a difficult scenario.

Alongside managing the Apple Card, JPMorgan Chase is anticipated to support Apple-branded savings accounts. Current customers holding savings accounts with Goldman Sachs will have the choice to either stay with Goldman or move to a new account with JPMorgan.

The expected announcement of this arrangement is anticipated soon, following prior reports of the separation between Apple and Goldman Sachs regarding the Apple Card, which debuted in 2019. The Apple Card, exclusively available in the United States, provides various perks, including 3% cash back on purchases from Apple and select merchants when using Apple Pay, 2% cash back on other purchases made with Apple Pay, and seamless integration with the Apple Wallet app on iPhone. This card succeeded a previous co-branded card with Barclays, which lacked the same level of integration or the unique titanium card design.

Every iOS 16 Configuration Altered Instantly on My iPhone

# Personalizing Your iPhone with iOS 26: Essential Settings to Adjust

iOS 26 and its updates have rolled out a variety of personalization choices for iPhone users via the Settings app. Below are some key settings that can elevate your iPhone experience.

## Wallpaper Photo Blur on Always On Display

In iOS 26, the Always On Display feature has been updated to blur the wallpaper photo by default. This change is intended to highlight the new Liquid Glass clock more effectively or possibly to save battery power. If you wish to retain the original appearance of your Lock Screen photos, you can easily change this setting back. Go to **Settings ⇾ Display & Brightness ⇾ Always On Display** and switch off the ‘Blur Wallpaper Photo’ option.

## Lock Screen Camera Swipe

For years, users have been able to access the Camera app by swiping left on the Lock Screen. However, with the addition of various options to open the Camera, this gesture has become less common. In iOS 26.1, Apple allows users to turn off the Lock Screen swipe for opening the Camera. To disable this, navigate to **Settings ⇾ Camera** and locate the ‘Lock Screen Swipe to Open Camera’ toggle at the bottom. Switching it off will prevent unintentional launches of the Camera app.

## Adaptive Power Feature

The newly introduced Adaptive Power option in iOS 26 aims to prolong battery life without noticeably hindering performance. Unlike the standard Low Power Mode, which significantly limits performance, Adaptive Power makes subtle tweaks, such as reducing display brightness and extending the duration of some activities. You can find this feature under **Settings ⇾ Battery ⇾ Power Mode ⇾ Adaptive Power**. It activates only during unusually high battery usage, serving as a practical solution for users who want to save energy without compromising performance.

## Sleep Detection for AirPods

iOS 26 has brought a new capability for AirPods that senses when you are asleep and automatically pauses media playback. This is especially beneficial for those who listen to audiobooks or podcasts before going to sleep. To activate this option, go to the AirPods settings and enable ‘Pause Media When Falling Asleep.’ This feature is available for AirPods Pro 3, AirPods Pro 2, and AirPods 4, simplifying your listening experience by eliminating the need to find your place after pausing.

## Summary

The new settings in iOS 26 and iOS 26.1 provide users with greater control over their iPhone experience. Whether it’s personalizing the Always On Display, disabling accidental Camera openings, engaging Adaptive Power mode, or managing AirPods playback, these features can greatly enhance usability and customization. Take the time to explore these settings to tailor your iPhone to your liking.

“Rumored Launch Date and Specifications for OnePlus 15T”

The OnePlus 15T is making a return to discussions, now with additional specifications leading up to a rumored release.

What you need to know

– Latest OnePlus 15T speculation suggests the device could come equipped with a “maximum” 7,500mAh battery and a 50MP telephoto camera.
– A Chinese insider has indicated that the phone may aim for an April release in China, which aligns well, as the 13T launched around the same time.
– Previous rumors suggested the 15T might feature the latest Snapdragon 8 Elite flagship SoC and a 6.3-inch 1.5K display.

OnePlus generally produces a streamlined version of its flagship model within the “T” series, and rumors regarding this device have surfaced with launch information.

This week, well-known Weibo insider Digital Chat Station (DCS) shared insights on the Chinese social media platform about the supposed OnePlus 15T (via PlayfulDroid). The insider posits that OnePlus might aim to equip this model with a battery exceeding 7,000mAh. This is where speculation increases, with the post indicating that users could witness a capacity close to 7,500mAh.

DCS mentions that this higher figure is the “maximum,” suggesting that OnePlus may include a battery with a capacity ranging between 7,000mAh and 7,500mAh.

The device’s camera setup is said to incorporate a 50MP telephoto lens. While DCS did not elaborate on the main sensor, the publication revisited earlier speculations, which suggested the 15T could come with a dual-array. The insider then reacted to inquiries, touching on the phone’s launch timeframe. When one user asked, “When will it be released,” DCS replied, “Around April.”

Details about phone features weren’t disclosed in this leak, but we do have some specifications to consider, following an earlier update.

The 15T is on the horizon

Rumors regarding the OnePlus 15T have been relatively few and far between, with the last major leak surfacing last June. At that time, Digital Chat Station claimed that the OnePlus 15T was on its way with one aspect set to outperform the flagship: its battery. Those initial whispers suggested that the capacity would exceed that of the OnePlus 15; however, only now do we begin to understand what it might entail.

Additional rumors indicate that the device could feature a flagship Snapdragon SoC, alongside a smaller 6.3-inch 1.5K display and a 3D ultrasonic fingerprint scanner.

One aspect to keep in mind: if the OnePlus 15T is to surpass the 15 in battery performance, it may need to land somewhere between 7,400mAh and the speculated 7,500mAh maximum. When the OnePlus 15 made its debut in October, it featured a substantial 7,300mAh battery and 120W wired charging. It remains to be seen whether OnePlus will hit this rumored April launch window. This timeline makes sense, given that the 13T was released in the same month last year.

Gemini’s Latest Enhancements Turn Google TV into an Engaging Media Partner

With the collaboration of Nano Banana and Veo, Google TV is poised to transform user engagement by improving the viewing experience through cutting-edge AI functionalities. These elements, included in the Gemini update, empower users to engage with their TVs in more natural ways. Users can now look for specific images, modify them, and even convert them into animations or slideshows with the help of Nano Banana and Veo. Furthermore, the AI is capable of modifying settings based on straightforward voice commands, enhancing the personal touch of the TV experience. These enhancements are initially accessible on select TCL models and necessitate Android TV OS 14 along with a Google account for entry. Some advanced features might need a Google AI Pro subscription.

“Latest Update Results in Performance Problems for Two Generations of Google Pixel Flagship Models”

These problems appear to be directly linked to a Play update, yet they don’t seem to persist.

Key points to consider:
– A report indicates that Google’s Pixel 10 and 9 series devices are experiencing difficulties after a Play systems update.
– Certain devices are dealing with unresponsive Pixel Launchers; moreover, numerous Pixel phones are also booting up rather slowly post-update.
– December was challenging for the Pixel 10 series, as users reported significant app crashes and issues with the AOD.

There is a report suggesting that some users with Google’s latest Pixel phones may encounter problems after a behind-the-scenes update.

The potentially slow or “buggy” Pixel 10 and 9 phones were highlighted by 9to5Google, which noted several issues following a Play system update. The publication remarked on difficulties with a Pixel 10 unit after a minor 15MB patch. This device appeared to experience the most significant problems, as the post underscored an extremely sluggish Pixel launcher. It mentioned that the Pixel launcher “did not fully load.”

The device’s display was stuck, showing its wallpaper for an extended period without presenting a major requirement: its UI. Furthermore, 9to5 observed that their status bar was also absent after the update.

Tests involving a Pixel 10 Pro, which also exhibited issues, were conducted. The report noted that the Pro model had trouble after rebooting. Specifically, the device’s display “remained black” for what felt like an extended duration. It’s uncertain how widespread these issues are and if they are directly related to the latest Google Play systems update (which might be the case, given the timing).

The publication emphasizes that once the rebooting sequences are finished, the Pixel devices don’t seem to exhibit difficulties. A common issue reportedly stems from the rebooting sequence and its sluggishness.

A rough start to the new year:
The Pixel 10 has faced some challenges lately, as December brought complications with the severe cold. Users began receiving the monthly patch early last month, but quickly reported AOD (always-on display) concerns across all channels. Reportedly, the update led to a significant flickering issue with the AOD that users found difficult to remedy.

The flickering occurred during wireless charging, with clock refreshes, and even while unlocking the device. This problem was relatively confined to the Pixel 10 series, likely annoying consumers with Google’s newest lineup.

Shortly thereafter, a second issue emerged, with reports describing frustrating app crashes following the December patch. Apps would freeze, remain on their splash screen, or show the “not responding” error. Basic troubleshooting measures proved ineffective, prompting even greater calls for Google’s intervention. Fortunately, some relief for the Pixel 10 issues arrived by mid-December, as Google released a vital (emergency) update.

The patch aimed to address battery drain and touch-related problems.

Integration of Apple Health Unveiled in New ‘ChatGPT Health’ Functionality

**ChatGPT Health: An Innovative Step in AI-Enhanced Health Support**

OpenAI has rolled out ‘ChatGPT Health,’ an innovative feature that connects with leading health platforms like Apple Health and MyFitnessPal. This initiative is designed to address the rising need for AI-informed health support, with over 230 million individuals worldwide seeking health and wellness advice from ChatGPT weekly.

### Objective and Utility

ChatGPT Health aims to assist users in navigating their health information more efficiently. OpenAI highlights that this feature is not meant to substitute professional medical services, but to complement them by offering users dependable information. The aim is to empower individuals to feel more knowledgeable and assured regarding their health choices.

This new feature securely integrates users’ health data with ChatGPT’s sophisticated intelligence, enabling tailored interactions. Users can select which health partners are authorized to share their data with ChatGPT, ensuring privacy and governance over personal information.

### Creation and Partnership

The creation of ChatGPT Health has been a careful journey, spanning over two years and involving collaboration with more than 260 healthcare professionals from 60 countries and various fields. This comprehensive feedback has influenced the feature’s responses, focusing on providing valuable information while prioritizing user safety. The physicians offered insights on how to communicate health data clearly and when to advise follow-up appointments with healthcare providers.

### Privacy and Safety Improvements

OpenAI has introduced distinctive privacy features for ChatGPT Health, which include:

1. **Specialized encryption and segregation**: This guarantees that health-related discussions remain private and distinct.
2. **No utilization of health discussions for training**: Engagements within the ChatGPT Health feature are not used for training OpenAI’s core models, thereby enhancing user privacy.

### Initial Launch and Future Growth

ChatGPT Health is presently being launched to a select group of users, with intentions for broader access down the line. Users keen on merging their health data with ChatGPT can discover additional details on OpenAI’s official website.

As AI technology advances, ChatGPT Health signifies a major leap towards offering accessible and tailored health guidance, epitomizing the growing convergence of technology and healthcare.