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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on South Park Mocks Tim Cook’s Lavish Present to Donald Trump
    South Park Mocks Tim Cook’s Lavish Present to Donald Trump

    **Political Satire in South Park: Exploring Tim Cook’s Role in “Sickofancy”**

    Political satire has consistently been a defining feature of *South Park*, and the latest season elevates this tradition, especially in its critique of the Trump administration. In the third episode, named “Sickofancy,” the narrative cleverly mocks the tradition of gift-giving within politics, highlighted by a scene with Apple CEO Tim Cook.

    In this installment, a procession of guests bestows gifts upon President Trump, humorously suggesting that such offerings have become essential for any presidential favor. Tim Cook, depicted in an almost lifelike manner, gifts Trump a glass along with a 24k gold plaque, reminiscent of an actual incident where Cook presented Trump with a similar item during the launch of the American Manufacturing Program.

    The humor intensifies when Trump is later shown in bed with Satan, clutching Cook’s golden token and contemptuously labeling it as a gift from “some dip**it tech CEO.” This moment captures the show’s irreverent tone, fusing political critique with absurdity.

    Alongside Cook, other prominent personalities appear in the episode, such as Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg, who gifts a golden Meta Quest, and representatives from Florida and Qatar, who present a silver-plated space shuttle and a golden model of a Qatar Airways airplane, respectively.

    The episode reflects the current political climate, employing satire to address modern concerns while ridiculing the ridiculousness of political exchanges. As audiences engage with *South Park*’s portrayal of Tim Cook and the wider implications of gift-giving in political contexts, the series continues to challenge norms and stimulate reflection through its distinct comedic style.

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on Crowdfunded Mobile Phone Provides Complimentary Internet Access for AI Resources
    Crowdfunded Mobile Phone Provides Complimentary Internet Access for AI Resources

    **iKKO MindOne: A Compact AI-Driven Smartphone Featuring Complimentary Internet for AI Applications**

    Google is not the sole contender investing heavily in AI for its smartphones. While the newly unveiled Pixel 10 series appears promising, another AI-driven smartphone has gained interest: the iKKO MindOne. This tiny new device is wrapping up its campaign on Kickstarter.

    The iKKO MindOne is marketed as “card-sized,” with dimensions of merely 86×72mm and a thickness of only 8.9mm. This translates to 3.39×2.83 inches in size and 0.35 inches in thickness. It is indeed small, even when compared to other compact devices like the iPhone SE, which has been superseded by the iPhone 16e. For those seeking a somewhat larger gadget, iKKO offers an accessory known as the Snap-in-Case, which includes a full physical QWERTY keyboard and a built-in headphone jack.

    As per the information on the company’s Kickstarter page, the AI smartphone operates on Android 15 and includes a secondary lightweight OS named iKKO AI OS. What distinguishes the iKKO MindOne is its commitment to providing free global internet connectivity for AI-driven services. This encompasses language translation and real-time AI assistance akin to Gemini Live. While it does not offer unlimited free internet, it guarantees access to AI services in supported regions.

    The smartphone is akin to the size of a debit card, with the majority of its space taken up by a 4.02-inch AMOLED Sapphire Glass Display. There is no camera cutout on this compact screen, as the phone features a single camera that can rotate. It boasts a 50MP Sony sensor, which can be secured at any position. iKKO demonstrated the camera’s functionalities in a YouTube video, and it produces commendable results.

    Two versions will be available: the MindOne and the MindOne Pro. At this moment, only the MindOne Pro can be accessed via Kickstarter. The standard MindOne will lack the Sapphire Glass display and free global internet for AI services, but that is the sole distinction between the two.

    iKKO promotes the MindOne as a device “where focus meets freedom,” implying it is a smartphone that also serves as an AI-enabled productivity tool. It possesses 4G+ capabilities, 8GB of RAM, and 256GB of internal storage. Additionally, it has a 2200 mAh battery and accommodates a Nano-SIM card that can connect to various network carriers, including AT&T, T-Mobile, and Verizon.

    All current assertions are founded on the company’s Kickstarter page and promotional videos. The final product’s features may alter before its anticipated shipping date in December 2025. The base MindOne is priced at $389, while the MindOne Pro will retail for $499. Early Kickstarter backers can enjoy savings of up to $130 with early-bird pricing.

    Participating in Kickstarter campaigns entails risk, but iKKO possesses a solid reputation with successful campaigns that have delivered promised products, having previously released its ActiveBuds AI earbuds in 2023.

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on Presenting the Pixel Buds 2a: Budget-friendly ANC and Gemini Compatibility
    Presenting the Pixel Buds 2a: Budget-friendly ANC and Gemini Compatibility

    The Pixel Buds 2a have been officially unveiled by Google during the Made by Google event, alongside the Pixel 10 series and Pixel Watch 4. Priced at $129, these earbuds incorporate features from the premium Pixel Buds Pro 2 into a more budget-friendly option. The Pixel Buds 2a take over from the Pixel Buds A-series and are the first economical Google earbuds to feature Active Noise Cancellation (ANC), branded as Silent Seal 1.5. Although the ANC might not match the performance of Silent Seal 2.0 found in the Pixel Buds Pro 2, it still represents a notable improvement for the A-series.

    The design of the Pixel Buds 2a is akin to the Pixel Buds Pro 2, showcasing a stem-free design and an oval-shaped white case. They retain the twist-to-adjust fit and hold an IP54 rating for resistance to sweat and rain. Inside, the earbuds are equipped with Google’s Tensor A1 chipset, enabling Gemini features such as message summarization and schedule checks without requiring a phone. The custom speaker driver and high-frequency chamber promise exceptional sound quality.

    Regarding battery performance, the Pixel Buds 2a provide up to 7 hours with ANC activated and up to 20 hours when using the case. With ANC deactivated, they can deliver double the battery life of the first-generation Pixel Buds A-series. Notably, the case features a replaceable battery, allowing for simple substitution without the need to replace the earbuds themselves. The Pixel Buds 2a are also compatible with Find Hub for convenient location tracking.

    Offered in Iris and Hazel colors, the Pixel Buds 2a are available for pre-order now and will be sold on the Google Store, Amazon, and Best Buy starting October 9, 2025.

    In addition, Google has launched a new Moonstone hue for the Pixel Buds Pro 2, coordinating with the new Pixel 10 Pro shade. New capabilities for the Pixel Buds Pro 2 include Adaptive Audio, which modifies settings based on surroundings, Loud Noise Protection, and gesture-based controls for calls and texts. The new color will launch on August 28, 2025, at a price of $229.

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Google’s AI Health Coach Set to Debut on Fitbit and Pixel Watches Next Month
    Google’s AI Health Coach Set to Debut on Fitbit and Pixel Watches Next Month

    Google has recently launched an AI-driven personal health coach for Pixel Watch and Fitbit devices, intended to serve as a fitness mentor, sleep guide, and wellbeing consultant. This groundbreaking AI coach tailors itself to users’ objectives, recovery, and activity levels, delivering customized workout and sleep recommendations. The AI health coach, powered by Google Gemini, takes into account wellness metrics, goals, and real-life situations to provide personalized guidance. It modifies workout regimes based on recovery, enabling users to adjust their routines according to their physical condition. Furthermore, the AI coach offers sleep enhancement strategies using sophisticated algorithms to evaluate sleep duration and phases, adapting suggestions based on daily activity levels.

    The AI coach can respond to user inquiries, such as whether to emphasize sleep or exercise, and recommend workouts for specific objectives like weight loss. Google is also introducing a revamped Fitbit app with AI functionalities, presenting clearer metrics and a user-friendly interface. This AI personal health coach will first be offered as a preview for Fitbit Premium users in the U.S., with registrations open for early access. The integration of Google Gemini ensures that the AI coach learns from user behaviors and health data, improving its capability to deliver valuable insights and suggestions.

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Google Introduces Pixel Watch 4: Improved Health and Fitness Monitoring Capabilities
    Google Introduces Pixel Watch 4: Improved Health and Fitness Monitoring Capabilities

    The Pixel Watch 4, revealed at Google’s primary event in NYC, brings noteworthy improvements in both design and functionality. This timepiece showcases slimmer bezels with an Actua 360 domed glass display, delivering a nearly borderless experience with a 15% decrease in bezel size. The display is now 50% brighter, achieving up to 3,000 nits of peak brightness, and is safeguarded by Corning Gorilla Glass. The Pixel Watch 4 comes in two sizes, 45mm and 41mm, with prices commencing at $399 for the Wi-Fi variant and $499 for the LTE version.

    Fueled by the Snapdragon W5 Gen 2 and the Cortex-M55 co-processor, the watch incorporates Google’s Gemini AI, enabling users to handle emails, calendar appointments, and playlists. Users can engage the AI simply by raising their wrist. Additionally, the Pixel Watch 4 features a newly designed custom speaker and haptic engine to enhance audio and vibration responsiveness.

    Fitness and health monitoring have been elevated with over 40 workout modes and advanced heart sensors that can identify irregular heartbeats and stress levels. The ECG application offers AFib evaluations, while the body-response sensor provides immediate stress feedback. Sleep tracking capabilities observe sleep duration and phases, and users can enter health information for emergency situations.

    Safety attributes include Loss of Pulse detection, Safety Check, Emergency Sharing, Fall Detection, and Car Crash Detection. The Pixel Watch 4 is the inaugural smartwatch to feature SOS Satellite Communication capabilities.

    The battery life for both models varies, with the 45mm variant providing up to 72 hours in battery saver mode and the 41mm version lasting up to 48 hours. Charging has been modernized with a new Quick Charging Dock, doing away with rear panel pins.

    The Pixel Watch 4 is open for pre-order, featuring new color choices and bands, such as the Moonstone hue for the 45mm model and the Gradient Stretch Band for extra comfort. The official market release is anticipated on October 9.

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on Google Unveils Qi2 Pixelsnap and Pixel Watch 4 Accessories to Enrich Pixel Ecosystem
    Google Unveils Qi2 Pixelsnap and Pixel Watch 4 Accessories to Enrich Pixel Ecosystem

    Google’s recent product unveiling features the Pixel 10 and Pixel Watch 4, along with a cutting-edge selection of accessories that improve charging functionality and present personalized style choices. The new Pixelsnap accessories ensure flawless compatibility with the Pixel 10 series, which marks the first Android phone range to completely embrace Qi2 wireless charging. This innovation brings compatibility with MagSafe-style accessories, enhancing charging efficiency and reliability.

    The Pixelsnap Charger comes in two versions: a straightforward puck and a stand, both engineered to provide optimal charging performance. The Pixel 10 Pro XL can reach charging speeds of up to 25W, while other Qi2-compatible devices, including the Fold, support up to 15W. The stand is removable, compact, and operates efficiently even when the Fold is open, making it perfect for multitasking.

    For users seeking a more functional accessory, the Pixelsnap Ring Stand acts as both a grip and a kickstand. Cases for the Pixel 10 now utilize Pixelsnap technology and are offered in various colors like Obsidian, Porcelain, Lemongrass, and Indigo. Furthermore, the Pixel Flex 67W dual-port charger is perfect for those who prefer wired charging, enabling two devices to charge simultaneously.

    On the wearable side, the Pixel Watch 4 introduces a range of new bands and a stylish magnetic USB-C quick-charge dock. The dock is crafted to integrate effortlessly into any workspace, while the bands cater to a variety of style inclinations. Selections include functional, sweat-resistant Active Bands, eco-conscious Woven and Performance Loop bands made from recycled materials. For a more elegant look, options such as metal mesh, slim stainless steel, and link bands are offered, along with leather varieties in Crafted and Two-Tone styles. The Gradient Stretch Band provides a more comfortable fit suitable for casual occasions.

    The Pixelsnap accessories and Pixel Watch 4 bands are open for pre-order now, with a wider release set for August 28. These latest innovations from Google aim to enrich user experience by offering smarter charging alternatives and customizable style features.

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on Google Docs Set to Get Improved Functionalities from NotebookLM
    Google Docs Set to Get Improved Functionalities from NotebookLM

    transform documents into audio recordings, enabling users to listen rather than read. This can be particularly beneficial if you find it easier to absorb information audibly, or if you wish to review a document while on the go. Google showcased this innovative feature, along with various upcoming Gemini functionalities, earlier this year.

    The audio technology is driven by Gemini, just like the audio summaries in NotebookLM. I decided to test it on a few of my own documents in Drive, and similar to NotebookLM, I was genuinely impressed by its effectiveness and speed. To access the new feature, you can open a document, click on Tools, then Audio, and Listen to this tab; additionally, the author can incorporate the audio version directly into the document, facilitating effortless listening for readers with a single click.

    Google is utilizing Gemini to enhance Docs

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on 9to5Mac Daily: August 20, 2025 – Summary of iPhone 17 Covers and Possible Apple Watch with Touch ID Capabilities
    9to5Mac Daily: August 20, 2025 – Summary of iPhone 17 Covers and Possible Apple Watch with Touch ID Capabilities

    **9to5Mac Daily: Your Destination for Daily Apple News and Insights**

    In the rapidly changing realm of technology, keeping informed about the newest advancements is vital, especially for Apple aficionados. The 9to5Mac Daily podcast provides a convenient means to catch up on the leading stories of the day, offering listeners thoughtful commentary and analysis on Apple-related news.

    **Podcast Accessibility**

    Listeners can tune into 9to5Mac Daily through various platforms, ensuring episodes are easily accessible wherever you like to listen. The podcast is available on:

    – [iTunes and Apple’s Podcasts app](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/9to5mac-daily/id1331816080)
    – [Stitcher](https://www.stitcher.com/podcast/9to5mac-daily)
    – [TuneIn](https://tunein.com/radio/9to5Mac-Daily-p1089524/)
    – [Google Play](https://play.google.com/music/m/I5d4dzs7dauazmfxvvrynyiuram?t=9to5Mac_Daily)
    – [Dedicated RSS feed](https://feedpress.me/9to5macdaily) for Overcast and other podcast platforms.

    **Daily Broadcasts**

    New editions of 9to5Mac Daily are recorded each weekday, ensuring that listeners get timely updates on the most recent Apple news. By subscribing to the podcast, you ensure that new episodes are sent directly to you as soon as they are released, keeping you informed without interruption.

    **Highlighted Stories**

    Each episode covers a variety of stories pertinent to the Apple ecosystem, from product launches and software updates to industry trends and insights. The podcast acts as a valuable tool for anyone wanting to enhance their knowledge of Apple and its influence on technology.

    **Support and Subscription Choices**

    Listeners have the chance to support the podcast directly through 9to5Mac Daily Plus. By subscribing, you can gain access to benefits such as:

    – Ad-free versions of every episode
    – Extra content that offers deeper insights into the discussed subjects

    **Engagement and Input**

    The 9to5Mac Daily team welcomes listener interaction. You can share your feedback by contacting via email at

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    • sparta
    • Comments Off on Moises App Unveils AI Bandmate Creation from Solo Instrument Recordings
    Moises App Unveils AI Bandmate Creation from Solo Instrument Recordings

    **Moises Introduces AI Studio: A Revolutionary Tool for Musicians**

    In a major development, Moises, the renowned 2024 iPad App of the Year, has launched an innovative feature known as AI Studio. This cutting-edge tool enables musicians to take a recording of a single instrument and create complementary instrumental tracks that harmonize with the original beat and style. This article delves into the functionalities of AI Studio and its influence on music production.

    ### Moises: A Pioneer in AI Music Innovation

    Since its debut in 2020, Moises has positioned itself as a leading app for AI-powered instrument isolation. It allows users to break down “flattened” songs into separate tracks, making it easier to focus on lead vocals, guitar solos, or bass lines. Acknowledged for its game-changing potential, Moises earned the recognition of iPad App of the Year by Apple in 2024, further enhancing its standing in the music and AI industries.

    In the wake of this honor, Moises secured a $40 million Series A funding round, spearheaded by monashees and Connected Ventures, increasing its presence among music lovers and AI enthusiasts.

    ### Launching AI Studio

    Today, Moises revealed the debut of AI Studio, a feature that goes beyond its earlier offerings. AI Studio constructs individual instrumental segments, such as bass lines or drum beats, that perfectly harmonize with the user’s recording. The feature functions as an interactive bandmate, responding to the creative directions of the musician.

    According to Moises, AI Studio can take basic musical elements, like a piano chord sequence or guitar riff, and generate additional instruments that integrate smoothly with the original track. This stems-first method of music creation facilitates rapid experimentation with concepts and arrangements.

    ### A Distinctive Method to AI Training

    Moises underscores that its AI models are educated on high-quality individual instrument recordings, setting it apart from other platforms that might depend on complete songs. This context-aware training strategy provides musicians with improved control over their creative endeavors, allowing them to define every aspect of their music as they envision it.

    ### Accessibility and Subscription Plans

    AI Studio is accessible to Free, Premium, and Pro users on the Moises Web and Desktop application. Each subscription tier comes with varying monthly allotments of generative credits, with additional credits available for purchase as required.

    ### Conclusion

    With the launch of AI Studio, Moises continues to expand the horizons of music production. By equipping musicians with tools that enhance their artistic abilities, Moises cements its role as a frontrunner in the AI music application arena. As the app progresses, it pledges to empower musicians to discover new sonic possibilities and refine their creative expressions.

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