Author: alex

UK CMA designates Apple and Google as market‑dominant, expanding oversight The UK’s Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has classified Apple and Google as market‑dominant in key digital areas and placed them under expanded oversight. The move mirrors elements of the EU’s Digital Markets Act and signals tighter scrutiny of app stores, in‑app payments, default settings and data practices in the UK. What’s changing Closer review of core platform rules: App store terms, billing options, default apps (e.g., browser/search) and cross‑service data use will face stricter checks. Conduct requirements: The CMA can set tailored obligations to curb self‑preferencing and improve fair access for rivals. User choice & interoperability: Potential measures to ease switching, enhance portability and open up more capabilities to third parties. Why it matters Consumers: Could gain more browser/app…

UK CMA designates Apple and Google with Strategic Market Status (SMS) The UK’s Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has designated Apple and Google with Strategic Market Status (SMS) in key digital markets. The decision places both companies under expanded oversight around how they run app stores, handle payments and use data—broadly aligning with Europe’s push to rein in dominant platform “gatekeepers.” What’s changing Closer scrutiny of core services: App store terms, in‑app payment rules, default settings (browsers/search), and data practices face tighter controls. Conduct requirements: The CMA can impose tailored conduct measures to curb self‑preferencing and ensure fair access for rivals. User choice & interoperability: Potential measures to make switching defaults easier, improve data portability, and open platform capabilities. Why it matters Consumers: Could see more browser/app choice, alternative payment…

UK CMA designates Apple and Google as market‑dominant, expanding oversight The UK’s Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has placed Apple and Google under expanded oversight in Britain, classifying them as having market‑dominant power in key digital markets. The move mirrors the European Union’s Digital Markets Act (DMA) approach and signals tighter control over how the two tech giants run app stores, handle payments and use data across their ecosystems. What’s changing Broader scrutiny of core services: App store terms, in‑app payments, default app settings and data practices face tougher review. User choice and interoperability: Rules may push for easier switching of defaults, improved portability and fairer access for rival services. Conduct requirements: The CMA can set tailored conduct measures and seek remedies if companies self‑preference or restrict competition. Why it…

Amazon pilots AI smart glasses for delivery drivers: HUD-guided drops, package checks and PoD Amazon is testing AI-powered smart glasses to support last‑mile delivery. The wearable combines computer vision with a heads‑up display (HUD) so drivers can verify packages, navigate complex locations and capture proof of delivery without juggling a phone. The company says hundreds of drivers have already trialed early versions and reported meaningful time savings per shift. How it works Auto‑activation after parking: When a vehicle stops, the HUD surfaces the correct packages for that address and shows the remaining list for the stop. Package verification: Computer vision checks if the driver pulled the right parcel before leaving the van. On‑foot guidance: Turn‑by‑turn directions appear in the lens, with callouts for hazards and help in apartments/complex buildings. Proof…

Amazon tests AI smart glasses for delivery drivers with HUD guidance and package checks Amazon is piloting AI-powered smart glasses to support last‑mile delivery. The wearable uses computer vision and on-device intelligence to recognize packages and guide drivers via a heads-up display (HUD) embedded in the lens. The goal: reduce phone juggling, speed up stops and improve safety during deliveries. What the glasses do Auto-activate after parking: The HUD highlights the correct packages for that stop and shows the remaining list. Package verification: Computer vision checks if the driver picked the right parcel before leaving the vehicle. Turn-by-turn navigation: Directions appear in the HUD, with callouts for hazards and help navigating complex locations (e.g., apartments). Proof of delivery: Drivers can capture delivery confirmation straight from the glasses, avoiding phone handling.…

Fujifilm X‑T30 III adds film‑sim dial, faster AF and 6.2K/10‑bit video — still no IBIS Fujifilm has revived its compact enthusiast line with the X‑T30 III. It keeps the proven 26.1MP X‑Trans APS‑C sensor but adds a faster image processor, improved AI subject‑detect autofocus and a dedicated film‑simulation dial for quick creative looks — all in a body that weighs just ~378g. Highlights New film‑simulation dial: Replaces the mode dial (as on the X‑T50) for instant access to looks like Reala Ace and Nostalgic Neg, plus 3 custom “recipe” positions. Speed & autofocus: The latest processor roughly doubles image processing speed versus the X‑T30 II and brings AI subject detection (Auto‑Tracking, Animals, Birds, Vehicles). Video upgrades: Record up to 6.2K/30p using the full sensor, or 4K/60p with a mild 1.18×…

Fujifilm X‑T30 III adds film‑sim dial, faster AF and 6.2K/10‑bit video — still no IBIS Fujifilm has revived its compact enthusiast line with the X‑T30 III. It keeps the proven 26.1MP X‑Trans APS‑C sensor but adds a faster image processor, improved AI subject‑detect autofocus and a dedicated film‑simulation dial for quick creative looks — all in a body that weighs just ~378g. Highlights New film‑simulation dial: Replaces the mode dial (as on X‑M5/X‑T50) for instant access to looks like Reala Ace and Nostalgic Neg, plus 3 custom “recipe” positions. Speed & autofocus: Latest processor roughly doubles image processing speed vs. X‑T30 II and brings AI subject detection (Auto‑Tracking, Animals, Birds, Vehicles). Video upgrades: Record up to 6.2K/30p using the full sensor, or 4K/60p with a mild 1.18× crop. Major modes…

AirPods Pro 3 see first price cuts — should you buy now or wait for holiday deals? After launching in early September, Apple’s AirPods Pro 3 are now seeing their first modest discounts at select retailers. It’s a small dip for now, but it often signals bigger promotions as Black Friday and Cyber Monday approach. What’s changed First price drop: Early markdowns break launch pricing and typically precede better holiday offers. Retailer differences: Lesser-known shops may advertise deeper cuts — weigh those against warranty and return policies. Holiday trend: Apple audio gear frequently sees stronger bundle or gift card promos closer to peak sales weeks. Smart buying tips Set price alerts and compare totals (taxes, shipping, potential gift cards). Favor extended returns so you can re-buy if a better deal…

Fujifilm X‑T30 III: film‑sim dial, faster AF and 6.2K 10‑bit video — still no IBIS Fujifilm has refreshed its compact X‑T line with the X‑T30 III, keeping the 26.1MP X‑Trans APS‑C sensor but adding a faster image processor, improved AI subject‑detect autofocus and a dedicated film‑simulation dial. It remains very light at about 378 g, aimed at travel and street shooters who want tactile controls and modern video features. What’s new Film‑simulation dial: Replaces the previous mode dial (like the X‑M5/X‑T50) for quick access to looks such as Reala Ace and Nostalgic Neg, plus three custom recipe slots. Speed & AF: Latest processor doubles image processing speed vs. X‑T30 II and brings AI subject detection (Auto‑Tracking, Animals, Birds, Vehicles) for stickier focus. Body & controls: Generous physical dials and buttons;…

Fujifilm X‑T30 III adds film‑sim dial, faster AF and 6.2K video — but still no IBIS Fujifilm has refreshed its compact X‑T series with the X‑T30 III, keeping the 26.1MP X‑Trans APS‑C sensor but adding a faster image processor, improved AI subject‑detect autofocus, and a new film‑simulation dial for quick creative looks. It remains very light at ~378 g, making it a strong option for travel and street photography at a $999 body‑only price. What’s new Film‑simulation dial: Replaces the previous mode dial (similar to X‑M5/X‑T50). Quick access to looks like Reala Ace and Nostalgic Neg, plus three custom recipe slots. Speed & AF: Latest processor doubles image processing speed vs. X‑T30 II and brings AI subject detection (Auto‑Tracking, Animals, Birds, Vehicles) for stickier focus. Video upgrade: 6.2K/30p using the…