Apple Intelligence Expands To Eight New Languages In April With iOS 18.4

During the launch of the iPhone 16e, Apple CEO Tim Cook announced that Apple Intelligence will expand its language support in April, likely with the iOS 18.4 update. The new languages include French, German, Italian, Portuguese, Spanish, Japanese, Korean, and Simplified Chinese. Additionally, localized English support will be introduced for users in India and Singapore.

Currently, Apple Intelligence is only available in English-speaking regions, including the United States, United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, New Zealand, and South Africa. This expansion will significantly increase accessibility, allowing more users worldwide to take advantage of Apple’s AI-powered features.

During Apple’s Q4 2024 earnings call, Cook emphasized the growing importance of Apple Intelligence, stating that once users start using these features, they become an integral part of daily life. He particularly highlighted the email summarization tool, which he personally relies on to manage hundreds of emails per day.

Apple introduced Apple Intelligence features with iOS 18.1, but the lack of multilingual support has limited adoption outside of English-speaking countries. With the upcoming update, Apple aims to broaden its global reach and enhance the usability of its AI-powered tools for a more diverse user base.

Apple Intelligence includes AI-driven tools that assist with tasks such as text generation, content summarization, and smart automation. These capabilities are designed to improve productivity, helping users manage emails, notifications, and other digital interactions more efficiently.

Expanding language support aligns with Apple’s long-term strategy to enhance the global usability of its devices. As AI becomes a key part of the Apple ecosystem, adding more language options ensures greater adoption and improved user experience across different regions. The update will roll out in April 2025, making Apple Intelligence more accessible to millions of new users.

Apple Intelligence Expands To Eight New Languages In April With iOS 18.4

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You can now apply for the 'opportunity to purchase' an RTX 5090 or 5080 from NVIDIA

While graphics cards have been getting almost ludicrously more powerful over the years, it’s also been increasingly difficult to actually buy one. In an effort to address this problem, NVIDIA has introduced a plan it’s calling Verified Priority Access for its recently released GeForce RTX 50 series of GPUs. Verified Priority Access offers an unspecified number of people the chance to buy either a GeForce RTX 5090 or RTX 5080 Founders Edition graphics card direct from the company.

This “opportunity” will only be available to US customers with an NVIDIA account that was created on or before January 30 at 9AM ET/6AM PT. Interested parties can sign up on a form and invites will be sent starting next week.

NVIDIA took a similar approach to dealing with shortages of its 4090 card, although that was an invite-only pilot. This system could help keep more of the products away from scalpers or crypto operations in favor of legitimate customers. But considering how long GPU access has been an issue, it would be nice to see more robust responses coming from the manufacturers.

This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/computing/you-can-now-apply-for-the-opportunity-to-purchase-an-rtx-5090-or-5080-from-nvidia-235549765.html?src=rss

Samsung Galaxy A06 5G Launched: The 1st 5G Phone In The A0 Series Starts At $120

Samsung has launched the Galaxy A06 5G in India, making it the first 5G-enabled device in the A0 series. Priced at ₹10,500 (~$120), the phone offers impressive long-term software support, with four OS updates and security patches until 2030—a level of support comparable to some flagship models.

The Dimensity 6300 processor powers the device, supporting 12 5G bands for broad network compatibility. It runs Android 15 with One UI 7 out of the box, offering a smoother experience. Compared to the A06 4G model, which only gets two OS updates, the 5G version provides double the software longevity.

The 6.7-inch PLS LCD has a 720 x 1600 resolution and a 90Hz refresh rate, offering a more fluid display experience. A side-mounted fingerprint sensor debuts in this model for improved security.

For photography, the phone includes a 50MP main camera (f/1.8, AF) capable of recording 1080p video at 30fps and slow-motion at 720p/120fps. A 2MP depth sensor complements the rear setup, while an 8MP front camera (f/2.0) is housed in a notch.

The device includes a USB-C (v2.0) port, 3.5mm headphone jack, Wi-Fi 5, and Bluetooth 5.3. Storage is expandable via microSD, and it supports 25W wired charging for its 5,000mAh battery. It has an IP54 rating for dust and water resistance.


Specs

Samsung Galaxy A06 5G – Specifications
Display6.7-inch LCD, HD+ resolution, 90Hz refresh rate, waterdrop notch
ProcessorMediaTek Dimensity 6300
RAM4GB or 6GB
Storage64GB or 128GB (expandable via MicroSD)
Rear Cameras– 50MP main camera
– 2MP depth sensor
Front Camera8MP
Connectivity5G, Wi-Fi Dual Band, Bluetooth 5.3
SecuritySide-mounted fingerprint sensor
Battery5,000mAh with 25W fast charging
Operating SystemAndroid 15 with One UI 7
Dimensions167.3 x 77.3 x 8 mm
Weight191g

Availability and Price

The Galaxy A06 5G is available in three colors—Black, Gray, and Light Green—and comes in 4/64GB (₹10,500/~$120), 4/128GB (₹11,500/~$132), and 6/128GB (₹13,000/~$149) variants. It will be sold online and in stores across India, with availability in other markets yet to be confirmed. A one-year screen protection plan is available for ₹129 (~$1.48).

Samsung Galaxy A06 5G Launched: The 1st 5G Phone In The A0 Series Starts At $120

, original content from Ubergizmo. Read our Copyrights and terms of use.

The BBC Radiophonic Workshop's archive is now available to sample

Attention audiophiles: the archive of the BBC Radiophonic Workshop is being made available to the public for the first name. This department was founded in the 1950s as a laboratory that could invent original music and sound effects for BBC radio, and later television, programming. Over the years, its roster of innovative musicians and composers created audio for iconic BBC productions of the 1950s and 1960s such as Doctor Who, Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy, the Goon Show and Blake’s 7. In addition to developing those signature sounds, members’ work also laid early foundations for creating electronic music and sampling. In the words of Radiophonic Workshop archivist Mark Ayres, the department “was purely for making bonkers noises.”

Now, the BBC Radiophonic Workshop library is being offered to today’s creators to sample through a collaboration between Spitfire Audio and BBC Studios. This library includes sounds from the studio’s original tapes as well as new recordings and content from the Workshop’s members and associates. The collection has subheadings for topics such as found sounds, junk percussion and synths, so there’s a lot of fascinating stuff to explore. It is available at an introductory price of $159 (£119/€143) until March 6; afterwards, the standard price will by $199 (£149/€179).

This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/audio/the-bbc-radiophonic-workshops-archive-is-now-available-to-sample-223100146.html?src=rss

The BBC Radiophonic Workshop's archive is now available to sample

Attention audiophiles: the archive of the BBC Radiophonic Workshop is being made available to the public for the first name. This department was founded in the 1950s as a laboratory that could invent original music and sound effects for BBC radio, and later television, programming. Over the years, its roster of innovative musicians and composers created audio for iconic BBC productions of the 1950s and 1960s such as Doctor Who, Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy, the Goon Show and Blake’s 7. In addition to developing those signature sounds, members’ work also laid early foundations for creating electronic music and sampling. In the words of Radiophonic Workshop archivist Mark Ayres, the department “was purely for making bonkers noises.”

Now, the BBC Radiophonic Workshop library is being offered to today’s creators to sample through a collaboration between Spitfire Audio and BBC Studios. This library includes sounds from the studio’s original tapes as well as new recordings and content from the Workshop’s members and associates. The collection has subheadings for topics such as found sounds, junk percussion and synths, so there’s a lot of fascinating stuff to explore. It is available at an introductory price of $159 (£119/€143) until March 6; afterwards, the standard price will by $199 (£149/€179).

This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/audio/the-bbc-radiophonic-workshops-archive-is-now-available-to-sample-223100146.html?src=rss

iPhone 16e: Apple’s Affordable Upgrade With A18 Chip Starts At $599

Apple has officially launched the iPhone 16e, an upgraded successor to the iPhone SE 3. This new model brings significant changes, including a refreshed design inspired by the iPhone 14, enhanced hardware similar to the iPhone 16, and the company’s first in-house 5G modem, the C1.

The iPhone 16e marks the end of the SE series, integrating into Apple’s main lineup with a more modern look. It features a 6.1-inch OLED display with a resolution of 2532 x 1170 pixels and a 60 Hz refresh rate. While it lacks higher refresh rates, it supports up to 1,200 nits of brightness, Ceramic Shield protection, and HDR10+ with Dolby Vision. The design includes a notched display with Face ID and a single rear camera, available in black and white.

Internally, the device is powered by the A18 chip with a six-core CPU and a four-core GPU, slightly less powerful than the standard iPhone 16. It includes at least 8 GB of RAM, ensuring support for Apple Intelligence AI features. Storage options range from 128 GB to 512 GB.

A major highlight is Apple’s first self-developed 5G modem, the C1, which aims to offer improved connectivity and power efficiency. The camera system includes a 12 MP front camera and a single 48 MP rear sensor with optical stabilization and 2x digital zoom. It supports 4K Dolby Vision recording at 60 FPS.

The iPhone 16e promises a strong battery life of up to 26 hours of video playback, surpassing the iPhone 16. It includes a USB-C 2.0 port, an Action Button, satellite communication (in select regions), Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.3, NFC, and IP68 water and dust resistance. However, it lacks MagSafe charging.

Specifications

FeatureDetails
Display6.1-inch Super Retina XDR OLED, 2532 x 1170 resolution, 60 Hz refresh rate, 1,200 nits peak brightness, 2nd-gen Ceramic Shield, HDR10+ and Dolby Vision
ProcessorApple A18 chip with 4-core GPU
Storage Options128 GB, 256 GB, or 512 GB
Rear Camera48 MP, f/1.6 aperture, Optical Image Stabilization (OIS)
Front Camera12 MP, f/1.9 aperture
Water & Dust ResistanceIP68 certified
Connectivity5G, Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.3, GPS, NFC
Security & FeaturesFace ID, Action Button, satellite communication (region-dependent)
Battery LifeUp to 26 hours of video playback, 7.5W wireless charging
ColorsBlack and White
Dimensions146.7 x 71.5 x 7.8 mm
Weight167 g
Operating SystemiOS 18
Price & AvailabilityStarts at $599, pre-orders begin February 28

Availability and Price

Pre-orders begin on February 28, with prices starting at $599 (128GB) and going up to $899 (512GB).

iPhone 16e: Apple’s Affordable Upgrade With A18 Chip Starts At $599

, original content from Ubergizmo. Read our Copyrights and terms of use.

iPhone 16e: Apple’s Affordable Upgrade With A18 Chip Starts At $599

Apple has officially launched the iPhone 16e, an upgraded successor to the iPhone SE 3. This new model brings significant changes, including a refreshed design inspired by the iPhone 14, enhanced hardware similar to the iPhone 16, and the company’s first in-house 5G modem, the C1.

The iPhone 16e marks the end of the SE series, integrating into Apple’s main lineup with a more modern look. It features a 6.1-inch OLED display with a resolution of 2532 x 1170 pixels and a 60 Hz refresh rate. While it lacks higher refresh rates, it supports up to 1,200 nits of brightness, Ceramic Shield protection, and HDR10+ with Dolby Vision. The design includes a notched display with Face ID and a single rear camera, available in black and white.

Internally, the device is powered by the A18 chip with a six-core CPU and a four-core GPU, slightly less powerful than the standard iPhone 16. It includes at least 8 GB of RAM, ensuring support for Apple Intelligence AI features. Storage options range from 128 GB to 512 GB.

A major highlight is Apple’s first self-developed 5G modem, the C1, which aims to offer improved connectivity and power efficiency. The camera system includes a 12 MP front camera and a single 48 MP rear sensor with optical stabilization and 2x digital zoom. It supports 4K Dolby Vision recording at 60 FPS.

The iPhone 16e promises a strong battery life of up to 26 hours of video playback, surpassing the iPhone 16. It includes a USB-C 2.0 port, an Action Button, satellite communication (in select regions), Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.3, NFC, and IP68 water and dust resistance. However, it lacks MagSafe charging.

Specifications

FeatureDetails
Display6.1-inch Super Retina XDR OLED, 2532 x 1170 resolution, 60 Hz refresh rate, 1,200 nits peak brightness, 2nd-gen Ceramic Shield, HDR10+ and Dolby Vision
ProcessorApple A18 chip with 4-core GPU
Storage Options128 GB, 256 GB, or 512 GB
Rear Camera48 MP, f/1.6 aperture, Optical Image Stabilization (OIS)
Front Camera12 MP, f/1.9 aperture
Water & Dust ResistanceIP68 certified
Connectivity5G, Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.3, GPS, NFC
Security & FeaturesFace ID, Action Button, satellite communication (region-dependent)
Battery LifeUp to 26 hours of video playback, 7.5W wireless charging
ColorsBlack and White
Dimensions146.7 x 71.5 x 7.8 mm
Weight167 g
Operating SystemiOS 18
Price & AvailabilityStarts at $599, pre-orders begin February 28

Availability and Price

Pre-orders begin on February 28, with prices starting at $599 (128GB) and going up to $899 (512GB).

iPhone 16e: Apple’s Affordable Upgrade With A18 Chip Starts At $599

, original content from Ubergizmo. Read our Copyrights and terms of use.

The Last of Us season 2 premieres on HBO and Max on April 13

The second season of The Last of Us now has a firm premiere date. HBO has announced that its adaptation of Naughty Dog’s games will hit the network and Max on April 13. “Five years after the events of the first season, Joel and Ellie are drawn into conflict with each other and a world even more dangerous and unpredictable than the one they left behind,” HBO said in a press release. Ominous!

Warner Bros. Discovery had already confirmed that the latest batch of episodes would arrive this April, in large part to make sure that the season is eligible for next year’s Primetime Emmy Awards. Given that the third season of The White Lotus premiered this week, a mid-April start date makes sense for TLOU. There are only seven episodes this time around in any case, and they’ll all air before the Emmy eligibility window closes on May 31.

The second season of the series is based on The Last of Us Part 2, but it won’t take us through all of the events of the second game. It’ll take at least two seasons to retell the story of that terrific, if overly lengthy misery simulator

In the meantime, if you haven’t played the sequel yet, you’ll soon be able to do just that on PC. The Last of Us Part II Remastered will hit Steam and the Epic Games Store on April 3. Meanwhile, the game’s developer, Naughty Dog, recently revealed its tasty-looking first entry in a brand-new sci-fi franchise.

This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/entertainment/tv-movies/the-last-of-us-season-2-premieres-on-hbo-and-max-on-april-13-211022032.html?src=rss

Italian media groups file criminal complaint over the WhatsApp hack on journalists

The fallout continues from the recent WhatsApp hacking campaign (by a still-unconfirmed entity) that targeted nearly 100 journalists and activists. Bloomberg reported on Wednesday that a collection of Italian media groups has filed a criminal complaint with the Rome Public Prosecutor’s Office. They hope to discover who installed the zero-click spyware, which was made by the Israeli-founded Paragon Solutions.

According to Bloomberg, the complaint describes the spyware as an “intolerable intrusion into the personal and professional dimension of journalists,” exposing them and their sources “to enormous and still persistent risks for their individual safety.” It alleges that those responsible violated Italy’s laws banning the “illicit installation” of eavesdropping equipment.

WhatsApp said it reached out privately to notify the victims of the hack, which reportedly took place in December and targeted users across Europe. Three Italian victims have come forward, including Francesco Cancellato (a journalist and head of Fanpage.it) and activists Beppe Caccia and Luca Casarini. The latter two focus on charity with the group Mediterranea Saving Humans.

WhatsApp said the zero-click hack used malicious PDFs sent to groups on the platform. The company has since released a fix to prevent future uses of the exploit.

Italy's Prime Minister, Giorgia Meloni (R), speaks next to  Italy's Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani during a debate on communications, ahead of the European Council , at the Chamber of Parliament in Montecitorio palace in central Rome, on December 17, 2024. (Photo by Andreas SOLARO / AFP) (Photo by ANDREAS SOLARO/AFP via Getty Images)
Italy Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni speaking in Parliament in Rome.
ANDREAS SOLARO via Getty Images

The scandal is putting pressure on Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni and her far-right Brothers of Italy party. Earlier this month, the government confirmed that at least seven Italian phones were involved in the campaign and that its National Cybersecurity Agency was investigating. Arturo Di Corinto, a spokesman for the agency, told Bloomberg this week that the investigation was ongoing.

The Italian government has denied involvement in the hacks, but speculation abounds. Last week, Cabinet Minister Luca Ciriani confirmed in parliament that the government had a long-standing contract with Paragon to assist with intelligence and national security-related issues. However, he insisted the law was “rigorously respected.”

The Guardian reported that Paragon recently suspended a contract with Italy after the spyware attack became public. However, Ciriani said the intelligence services contract with Paragon is still active, which suggests there was a second agreement. Indeed, Israel’s Haaretz reported that Paragon had two contracts with Italy to use its military-grade Graphite software, which WhatsApp has said was used to infect the victims’ devices.

Paragon, essentially a professional spyware company, has a policy of only doing business with democratic governments. It recently entered into a controversial $2 million contract with the US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) department. Paragon was acquired in December by American private equity company AE Industrial Partners. The company hasn’t yet commented on the hacking.

This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/cybersecurity/italian-media-groups-file-criminal-complaint-over-the-whatsapp-hack-on-journalists-203150860.html?src=rss

Instagram adds a whole slew of new DM features in latest update

Instagram is rolling out an update for its messaging system that adds several new tools. These features could allow Instagram to better compete with direct-messaging rivals like Apple iMessage and various third-party platforms.

First up, there’s music-sharing. The update lets users share tunes in both one-on-one messages and group chats. Just open up the sticker tray and tap on the “Music” option. This will open up a search bar of Instagram’s audio library. There are a couple of caveats here. The song has to be available via Instagram and clips are maxed out at 30 seconds.

Direct messages will also now have a translation tool that works with 99 languages. The functionality here looks incredibly simple. Users just have to hold down a message and tap “Translate.” The translated message should appear directly below the original one. Easy peasy.

The tool in action.
Meta

There’s a new way to pin messages, images or even Reels to the top of chats. Hold down the message and tap “Pin.” Instagram says folks can pin up to three messages per conversation. I could see this being handy to keep oft-requested information at the ready, though it’ll likely be used primarily for memes (not that there’s anything wrong with that.)

Instagram will also let people schedule messages by long-pressing the send button. This can be used to plan messages up to 29 days in advance. Finally, the platform has introduced a way to invite people to a group chat via a QR code. All of these tools begin rolling out today to iOS and Android users worldwide. A web update is in the works but isn’t available just yet.

Instagram sure has been busy adding new features to its software. It recently began testing a dislike button for comments. The platform announced that it was working on a video-editing app, similar to CapCut. The service even expanded the length of Reels to three minutes, likely to compete with TikTok. It also recently got rid of third-party fact checkers.

This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/social-media/instagram-adds-a-whole-slew-of-new-dm-features-in-latest-update-184535399.html?src=rss