Apple to standardize App Tracking Transparency prompts in Germany after regulator pressure Apple has agreed to fundamentally revise the central consent prompts of its App Tracking Transparency (ATT) framework following concerns raised by Germany’s Bundeskartellamt. The regulator is investigating whether the previous design — which differentiated between Apple’s own services and third-party apps — distorted competition within the iOS ecosystem. The planned changes will make the consent dialogs more uniform across apps and services, removing the clear distinction that critics said advantaged Apple’s first-party offerings. Apple’s move is a response to competition law scrutiny and aims to ensure clearer, fairer choice presentation for users. What changed and why it matters Standardized prompts: Consent dialogs will be aligned so users see consistent information regardless of whether the app is from Apple…

Signal adds encrypted cloud backups to iOS Signal has introduced cloud backup support for iOS users. Chats can now be stored in an encrypted form on Signal’s servers and restored on a new device using a personal recovery key. The feature follows a similar Android backup option introduced earlier this year and aims to simplify device transfers. The important security detail is that backups are encrypted and can only be decrypted with the recovery key you receive when creating the backup. If you lose that key, Signal cannot restore your data — so treat the key like a password and store it in a secure place. What this change means Easier device migration: Moving to a new iPhone is simpler — you can upload an encrypted backup and restore it…

Aqara Panel Hub S1 Plus adds Siri & AirPlay support in Germany Aqara has updated its Panel Hub S1 Plus — the large in‑wall switch with an integrated display — to support Siri and AirPlay in Germany. The device, designed to fit into a standard wall switch box, now integrates more tightly with Apple’s ecosystem, allowing voice control via Siri and media/interaction via AirPlay. The Panel Hub S1 Plus hasn’t become a mainstream product yet, likely because it requires in‑wall installation and targets users who want a more permanent, panel‑style smart control. With Siri and AirPlay support, Aqara aims to make the device more attractive to Apple HomeKit users. Key details What’s new: Siri voice control and AirPlay support have been added, improving Apple ecosystem compatibility. Form factor: Built for…

Best wireless chargers for 2025: top picks and a practical buying guide Wireless charging is easier and faster than ever. Our roundup highlights the best wireless chargers for 2025 — from simple bedside pads and upright stands to MagSafe docks, 3‑in‑1 stations and compact travel pucks. Below you’ll find what to look for, how charging performance differs, and recommendations for common use cases. Key takeaways Choose MagSafe‑compatible chargers if you use iPhone and want faster, aligned charging. Look for Qi2 certification and 15W+ output for the best universal performance. Think about use: pads for nightstands, stands for desks, pucks for travel, and multi‑device stations for nightstands or family setups. What to look for in a wireless charger Don’t just buy for the phone you have today — consider future devices.…

Vodafone increases data on CallYa prepaid plans and adds new annual packages Vodafone has updated its CallYa prepaid lineup: customers (new and existing) now get more data in the Allnet Flat tariff tiers at the same prices, and the operator has introduced two new CallYa annual packages. The change takes effect immediately, giving prepaid users more generous data allowances without a price hike. For example, the Allnet Flat S will now include 25 GB of data (up from 15 GB). Vodafone says the increases are permanent and apply across the standard prepaid Allnet Flat options, though exact boosts per tier may vary — check Vodafone’s site for the full breakdown and eligibility. What’s new Higher data caps: Allnet Flat tiers receive increased monthly data allowances while retaining their current prices.…

Apple AI lead John Giannandrea steps down to advisory role, will retire in spring 2026 Apple announced that John Giannandrea, Senior Vice President for Machine Learning and AI Strategy, is leaving his current operational role and moving to an advisory position immediately. The company says he will fully retire in spring 2026. The move represents a notable shift in Apple’s AI leadership. Giannandrea joined Apple in 2018 after leading search and AI efforts at Google. At Apple he oversaw machine learning, Siri improvements and broader AI strategy initiatives, including work toward "Apple Intelligence" features. His departure from an active executive role raises questions about the company’s AI roadmap and leadership transition. What this could mean Short-term: an internal leadership reshuffle as Apple assigns operational responsibility for ML and AI projects.…

Best Cyber Monday TV deals 2025: OLEDs, mini‑LEDs and budget picks Cyber Monday is one of the best times of year to upgrade your TV — and 2025 has meaningful discounts across budget LED sets, mini‑LED performers and high‑end OLEDs. We scanned retailer prices and highlight the standout deals you can still find right now. Below we break offers into price tiers and list streamer and subscription promos worth checking. Prices and stock move fast during Cyber Week, so add to cart and confirm final checkout pricing before you buy. Top picks under $500 Hisense U65QF (55-inch) — ~$398: entry‑level LED with high peak brightness and Fire TV. A solid budget pick where glare is a problem. $500–$1,000: best value TCL QM6K (75-inch) — ~$698: mini‑LED with quantum‑dot color, full‑array…

Cyber Monday speaker deals: best discounts on Bluetooth, smart speakers and soundbars Cyber Monday has pushed many speaker prices to annual or all‑time lows — from pocketable portables to premium soundbars. Brands on sale include Anker/Soundcore, JBL, Sonos, Bose, Ultimate Ears, Marshall and Sony. Stock is changing fast, so act quickly if you see a price you like. Below is a concise guide to the best current bargains by price tier, plus quick buying tips to help you choose the right speaker for your needs. Top deals by price tier Under $50 Anker Soundcore 2 — ~$28: 24‑hour battery, boosted bass — excellent budget pick. JBL Go 3 — ~$30: IP67, rugged and pocketable for outdoor use. Echo Dot (5th Gen) — ~$32: Best smart speaker under $50, now with…

Samsung Galaxy Z TriFold unveiled: three‑panel foldable arrives in Korea Dec 12 Samsung has officially revealed the Galaxy Z TriFold, its long‑teased three‑panel foldable that converts into a 10‑inch tablet when unfolded and folds down to a 6.5‑inch cover screen. The device will go on sale in Korea on December 12, with launches planned for China, Taiwan, Singapore and the UAE; U.S. availability is scheduled for the first quarter of 2026. The TriFold uses an inward‑folding design meant to protect the main display. Samsung says the hinge and panel engineering minimize gaps between panels while preventing contact when closed. The handset also includes a safety feature that vibrates and shows an on‑screen alert if it detects an incorrect fold. Key specs Display: 10" fully unfolded main screen; 6.5" external cover…

Top AI news — Dec 1, 2025: OpenAI expands into enterprise, launches ChatGPT Atlas; Anthropic targets developers Here are the five most significant AI stories for today, with short summaries, why they matter, and links to source announcements. Dates shown are publication dates. 1. OpenAI and Accenture Forge Major AI Partnership — Dec 1, 2025 OpenAI announced a collaboration with Accenture to embed advanced AI systems like ChatGPT Enterprise across Accenture’s consulting and operations workforce. Accenture will train large numbers of employees on OpenAI tools and become a major partner for enterprise deployments. Why it matters: This partnership accelerates enterprise adoption of generative AI at scale and could reshape productivity and workflows across many industries. Accenture announcement · OpenAI news 2. OpenAI Takes Equity Stake in Thrive Holdings — Dec…