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Five Preferred Characteristics for Chinese Smartphones in 2026

In 2026, the smartphone sector is anticipated to experience notable progress, especially in camera innovation, battery advancements, and international market expansion. Chinese smartphone manufacturers, including Vivo, OPPO, and Xiaomi, are leading the charge with devices that not only perform exceptionally but also excel in capturing breathtaking photos and providing extended battery longevity.

**Improved Camera Technologies**

The advancement of smartphone camera systems remains a key priority for producers. Gadgets like the Vivo X200 Ultra and OPPO Find X9 Pro have raised the bar with their exceptional imaging abilities. Looking ahead, larger sensors and enhanced tuning algorithms that boost image quality are expected. The trend of incorporating high-resolution lenses, such as 200MP telephoto options, is anticipated to persist, delivering users unmatched photographic opportunities.

**Innovations in Battery Technology**

Battery performance continues to be a vital element of smartphone functionality. The rollout of silicon-carbon batteries has transformed the landscape, enabling greater capacities without sacrificing design aesthetics. Phones that utilize these batteries can now sustain up to two days of use on a single charge. The augmented silicon content in anodes increases energy density, leading to batteries that surpass 8,000mAh in capacity. This innovation guarantees that devices remain lightweight while providing strong performance across diverse environmental conditions.

**Expansion in Global Markets**

Chinese brands are preparing to broaden their reach beyond Asia, focusing on Western markets through proactive marketing strategies. OPPO and Vivo have already begun to penetrate the European market, and this pattern is predicted to accelerate. By launching flagship models worldwide, these brands aspire to compete with established entities and secure a greater portion of the global market.

**Improvements in Display Technology**

Display technology is also undergoing significant enhancements. Partnerships with display manufacturers like BOE have produced panels that can dim to as low as 1 nit, improving usability in dim lighting. While current models boast 1.5K resolution displays, a transition to 2K panels with similar low-light performance is expected, granting users an elevated visual experience.

**Obstacles and Future Perspectives**

Despite these advancements, obstacles such as increasing DRAM costs could affect the availability of high-RAM variants. While 12GB of RAM is likely to become the norm, the need for additional memory may rise with the growing use of AI-driven applications. Nevertheless, the emphasis on innovation and user-focused features guarantees that Chinese manufacturers will remain integral in influencing the future trajectory of the smartphone sector.

In conclusion, 2026 is set to be a year filled with thrilling advancements in smartphone technology, characterized by enhanced camera systems, sophisticated battery solutions, and a bolstered global footprint. As brands strive to redefine the limits of what is achievable, consumers can anticipate devices that deliver outstanding performance and value.

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Tesla May Possibly Combine Widely Used iPhone Functionality with Apple CarPlay

**Tesla Could Introduce Another iPhone Feature That Users Will Adore With Apple CarPlay**

Tesla is said to be developing more iPhone functionalities for its cars, which could improve the experience for iPhone users. A report from Not a Tesla App suggests that the most recent iteration of the Tesla app, v.4.52.0, points to a new feature named Harmony Wallet Key Cards. This capability is anticipated to permit users of Huawei’s HarmonyOS to use their smartphones as a Tesla car key through NFC, Bluetooth, or UWB technologies, even if the Tesla app is not active in the background. This indicates that Tesla may soon provide comparable support for iPhone and Android users.

The Harmony Wallet Key Card feature would allow users to unlock their Tesla vehicles with a quick tap, even when their smartphone’s battery is depleted. This integration at the system level could greatly improve user convenience and security.

**Tesla and Rivian Keep Advancing Apple Features**

In other news, Rivian is also focusing on incorporating iPhone Car Key functionality into its automobiles. While Rivian’s CEO has mentioned that the company will not back Apple CarPlay, a report from Bloomberg reveals that Tesla is investigating a distinct method to integrate CarPlay. Tesla’s proposed solution encompasses a screen-on-a-screen windowed approach, enabling users to experience a customizable version of CarPlay alongside Tesla’s own interface.

This integration could feature well-liked Apple services such as iMessage, FaceTime audio, Apple Music, Apple Podcasts, Apple Maps, Apple Books, and widget support. Although the timeline for these features remains unclear, it seems that drivers may soon enjoy improved Apple integration in their electric vehicles.

Despite some manufacturers opting for exclusive software, the popularity of CarPlay in the United States underscores the desire for seamless integration between vehicles and iPhones. BGR will keep providing updates as these features are validated and made available.

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How to Manage a Computer with Your Android Device

You can manage your Android smartphone through your PC — applicable to most Android devices. This can be achieved via remote access or local management. In remote access, the connection is dependent on the internet, allowing you to reach your PC or Mac from any location. Conversely, local management necessitates that your devices remain connected to the same Wi-Fi network.

Both forms of management are supported on devices that still run older Android versions, making it a great method to repurpose an outdated Android device. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you set up your Android smartphone for controlling your computer, using Chrome Remote Desktop (for remote access) and Unified Remote (for local management).

Remotely share your computer screen using Chrome Remote Desktop

watchOS 26 Brings Three Significant Enhancements for Apple Watch Faces

The watch face stands out as one of the most significant features of the Apple Watch, and watchOS 26 introduces substantial enhancements to watch faces in three key areas. Here’s what’s new.

## #1: Completely new watch faces

As is often the case with significant new versions of watchOS, Apple’s latest update brings a selection of entirely new watch faces.

watchOS 26 contributes a total of four new faces. According to Apple’s release notes:

– **Exactograph** reinterprets a classic regulator watch, distinguishing hours, minutes, and seconds for enhanced time accuracy.
– **Flow** features Liquid Glass numerals that refract a flowing orb of color responsive to wrist movement.
– **Waypoint** serves as a dynamic compass that indicates your position relative to saved locations in Maps or points of interest (Available on Apple Watch Ultra).
– **Hermès Faubourg Party** showcases animated shorts that emerge in accordance with the time of day or specific gestures featuring a range of characters (Available on Apple Watch Hermès).

It’s always exciting to have additional watch face choices, and I am particularly fond of the new Flow and Waypoint faces this year.

## #2: Enhancements to existing faces

Several watch faces that you are already familiar with received updates in watchOS 26 as well.

The Photos face, which Apple identifies as its most favored option, saw two enhancements this year:

1. Liquid Glass time
2. Featured photos option

In line with the systemwide Liquid Glass aesthetic, there’s now a ‘Glass’ color option for the clock on the face that allows more of your photo to be visible. Choosing ‘Featured’ for your image source guarantees you’ll view many of the top photos in your library.

In addition to the improvements for the Photos face, Apple has expanded support for ticking seconds with the always-on display to a broader range of faces.

Always-on seconds support was introduced last year with Apple Watch Series 10, but initially, only a handful of watch faces featured the capability. It has now extended to more devices and software.

Apple Watch Ultra 3 and Apple Watch Series 11 now provide ticking seconds in always-on mode, and the roster of supported faces has significantly increased.

## #3: Watch face ‘hints’

Upon installing watchOS 26 on your Apple Watch, you might spot a distinctive UI element on your watch face.

A new feature called ‘hints’ will materialize at the bottom of your display, resembling a Liquid Glass complication.

Hints suggest apps and actions linked to the Smart Stack.

Here’s how it operates, according to Apple:

> In watchOS 26, the Smart Stack enhances its prediction algorithms by utilizing more contextual data, sensor data, and insights from a user’s routine to deliver Smart Stack hints, a proactive prompt for actionable suggestions that are instantly useful. Crafted from Liquid Glass, Smart Stack hints will show on the display as a subtle visual cue. For instance, a hint for Backtrack may pop up when a user finds themselves in a remote area lacking connectivity, or a hint for a Pilates workout might appear when a user arrives at a studio around their typical time.

The Smart Stack has traditionally offered suggested data and actionable prompts, but users previously had to scroll the Digital Crown of their Apple Watch to manually access Smart Stack and locate them.

By bringing these suggestions directly onto the watch face, Apple aims to enhance their visibility and usefulness.

Which features of the new watch face options in watchOS 26 have you been enjoying on your Apple Watch? Share your thoughts in the comments.

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Anticipated Launch of Shrinking Season 3: Fresh Trailer Highlights Thrilling Twists

**Shrinking Season 3: What to Anticipate from Apple TV’s Beloved Comedy**

Apple TV’s celebrated comedy series, *Shrinking*, is scheduled to make its return for the much-anticipated third season on January 28. Following the triumph of its earlier seasons, the show continues to win over audiences with its distinct blend of humor and heartfelt moments.

### Premiere Information

*Shrinking* Season 3 will begin with a unique hour-long episode, succeeded by weekly installments that will run until April 8. This structure enables fans to enjoy each episode while heightening excitement for the evolving plotlines.

### The Creative Forces Behind *Shrinking*

The series is co-created by Bill Lawrence, also recognized for his contributions to the cherished show *Ted Lasso*. Alongside Lawrence, *Shrinking* showcases the skills of Brett Goldstein and Jason Segel, both of whom enrich the show’s captivating storytelling and character arcs.

### Cast and Special Guests

The diverse cast of *Shrinking* is a key element of its charm. Season 3 is set to reintroduce familiar faces, such as Goldstein, Damon Wayans Jr., Wendie Malick, and Cobie Smulders. Furthermore, the new season will welcome prominent guest stars like Jeff Daniels and the multi-award-winning advocate Michael J. Fox, enhancing the storyline’s allure.

### Trailer Launch

The recently unveiled trailer for Season 3 highlights the show’s distinctive humor and poignant moments, teasing the obstacles and development the characters will experience. Fans can watch the trailer for an early glimpse of what lies ahead.

### Where to Stream

For anyone wishing to catch up on the initial two seasons of *Shrinking*, they can be streamed on Apple TV. The platform provides a subscription service priced at $12.99 monthly, featuring a range of popular shows and films, including *Ted Lasso* and *Severance*.

### Final Thoughts

As *Shrinking* gears up to make its comeback, fans are excited to witness the characters’ growth and the new hurdles they will face. With its strong creative team, talented cast, and compelling narratives, Season 3 is set to be another remarkable chapter in this cherished series.

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iOS 27: Seven New Capabilities Anticipated to Be Unveiled

# Features Coming in iOS 27: What to Anticipate

The forthcoming significant iPhone software update, iOS 27, is scheduled to be revealed at WWDC in June, with various thrilling features rumored to be part of the launch. Below is a glance at seven expected upgrades that could enhance the iPhone experience.

## 1. Apple Health+

Apple is said to be developing an AI-driven health service known as Apple Health+. This new addition is designed to improve the current Health app by integrating features such as coaching, food tracking, and educational content. The objective is to offer users tailored advice to assist them in reaching their health and wellness goals. There is conjecture that Health+ may connect with Apple Fitness+, possibly unifying the two services into a holistic health ecosystem.

## 2. Multitasking Features for iPhone Fold

With the anticipated debut of the first iPhone Fold in September, iOS 27 is expected to introduce multitasking capabilities specifically for this new device. Users might experience a windowing system akin to that of iPadOS, facilitating a more adaptable and efficient use of the foldable screen, resembling an iPad mini when opened.

## 3. Siri Visual Overhaul

Siri is poised for substantial changes, including a visual overhaul in iOS 27. Following the major AI upgrades anticipated in iOS 26.4, the redesign seeks to modernize Siri and align it with the latest developments in AI technology. This two-stage rollout allows Apple to refine Siri’s features before presenting a complete visual update.

## 4. AI-Enhanced Web Search Functionality

Apple is reportedly crafting an AI-augmented web search tool for iOS 27. While information remains sparse, this feature is likely to expand on the current Spotlight search function, potentially incorporating AI capabilities to enhance search outcomes and user experience.

## 5. Upgraded Collections in Photos App

Enhancements are expected for the Photos app in iOS 27, particularly regarding collections. Leaked codes indicate advancements that could improve how users manage and share their images. A revamped Shared Albums feature is among the desired improvements, following significant revisions made in earlier iOS updates.

## 6. Innovative AirPods Pairing System

A novel pairing system for AirPods is also rumored to be part of iOS 27. This update, found in early internal builds, aims to bolster the already robust pairing features of AirPods, streamlining the connection process for users.

## 7. Overhaul of the Calendar App

Apple is reportedly focusing on a major redesign of the Calendar app, which has not received significant updates in recent times. Although specific details are limited, this revamp is expected to modernize the application and enhance its functionality across Apple’s devices.

## Bonus: Snow Leopard-Style Update

In addition to new features, iOS 27 is anticipated to prioritize bug fixes and performance upgrades, echoing the “Snow Leopard” update for Mac. This strategy aims to bolster overall software quality, guaranteeing a smoother and more dependable user experience.

As the launch of iOS 27 draws near, users are keen to discover which features will be finalized. The mix of groundbreaking new tools and a dedication to performance enhancements promises to render this update one of the most exhilarating yet.

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The Real Power Output Capability of a USB Port

which USB port you select on your computer and across various devices, encompassing power adapters utilized for charging. But what is the actual power that can be delivered through USB?

The current maximum attainable power output for consumer USB is 240 watts via USB PD 3.1 over USB-C. The abbreviation “PD” represents power delivery, a charging standard launched alongside the widespread use of USB-C connectors. It is fundamentally the subsequent evolution of USB, facilitating quicker and more dependable charging for high-demand devices such as contemporary smartphones and computers.

Beyond that, the output gets reduced. The highest output is 100 watts through USB-C 3.0, 15 watts through standard USB-C, and 4.5 watts through USB 3.0. The output is even lower for older standards, with USB 2.0 and USB 1.0 providing 2.5 watts or even less. Connecting a new smartphone equipped for fast charging to an older USB port or using incompatible USB cables may lead to a decrease in charging speed overall, potentially insufficient to keep up with power consumption. Devices such as the iPhone 15 and most newer smartphones necessitate USB-C Power Delivery for charging that can handle 7.5 watts or greater.

Slow charging versus rapid charging via USB

Ford Affirms Ongoing Backing for Apple CarPlay Integration

Ford Reinforces That Apple CarPlay Support Will Remain

In an environment where automotive manufacturers are increasingly reassessing their backing for external infotainment platforms, Ford has reiterated its dedication to Apple CarPlay. This announcement brings comfort to numerous Ford users, particularly considering General Motors’ choice to eliminate support for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Ford CFO Sherry House highlighted the significance of offering customers options and access to technology during the 2025 Barclays Global Auto and Mobility Tech Conference. House remarked, “We believe that

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The Most Remarkable Aspect of Your Apple TV Is Not Connected to Streaming

A quick scan on Amazon reveals a variety of [accessories to enhance your Apple TV experience](https://www.bgr.com/1933478/apple-tv-accessories-on-amazon/). For example, a Bluetooth keyboard can make it quicker to search for the title of your favorite series without incessantly pressing the remote. In addition, noise-cancelling earbuds are perfect for private listening when you wish to avoid disturbing your housemates.

While external devices provide convenient enhancements, one of the most enjoyable aspects of your Apple TV comes from a built-in option: screen savers. Streaming devices and modern televisions frequently come with integrated screen savers that prevent image retention. This occurs when images become permanently displayed on the screen due to prolonged inactivity. Aside from safeguarding your display, screen savers serve as a simple method to integrate your TV into your living area seamlessly. Instead of appearing as an empty and dull black spot on the wall, your television can transform into a piece of art featuring gallery-quality visuals, a digital photo frame showcasing your cherished moments, or an exhibition of stunning landscapes and cityscapes from around the world.

For your Apple TV, you can choose from four screen saver styles: Aerials, which feature videos of scenic locations; Memories & Slideshows that display photos from your iCloud Photo Library; Portraits, which show digital clocks with your selected images in the background; or Snoopy, which includes themed videos featuring Peanuts characters Snoopy and Woodstock. The screen saver is adjustable and configurable, making it simple to tailor it to your taste. Here’s how to set up and utilize screen savers on your Apple TV.

### How to set up screen savers on your Apple TV

By default, Apple TVs come with screen savers enabled. The device will automatically rotate through all available Aerial videos after five minutes of inactivity. You can easily customize your Apple TV’s screen saver settings according to your preferences. Here’s the process:

1. Navigate to Settings.
2. Select Screen Saver.
3. Change Current Selection to the desired type of screen saver you wish to display.
4. Adjust Start After to your preferred delay period between your last interaction with the TV and the activation of the screen saver.
5. Turn off Show During Music and Podcasts to disable the screen saver while music or a podcast is playing.

You can further personalize each screen saver type directly from the Settings too:

1. Go to Settings, then Screen Saver.
2. To customize Aerials:
– Under Screen Saver Preferences, click on Aerials.
– Set the Download Frequency (how often Aerial videos are downloaded) to Daily, Weekly, Monthly, or Never.
– Choose one of the themes (Cityscape, Earth, Landscape, or Underwater) to show.
3. To customize Memories & Slideshows:
– Select Memories & Slideshows.
– Under Your Photos, click on Memories.
– Choose All Memories to include all images, or Favorites to display only your selected favorites.
– Go to Albums to select specific albums, just your favorite pictures, or your recently shared album.
– Under Other, select Music Albums to utilize album art from your Apple Music library.
– Whenever available, go to Style and choose your preferred transition style.
4. To customize Portraits:
– Press Portraits.
– Select which options (People, Pets, Nature, and Cities) to include.
– Adjust the update frequency to your desired time interval for portrait transitions.

Remember that for Memories & Slideshows and Portraits, you need to set up iCloud Photos on your Apple TV first.

### How to control your Apple TV screen saver

While you can determine the inactivity period before the Apple TV screen saver activates, you also have the option to manually turn it on. This is one of the

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