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Amazon has today announced it is merging with satellite internet provider Globalstar Inc. to bolster Leo, its Starlink rival. Globalstar isn't a household name but you do know its work, as it provides Apple's emergency satellite connectivity for compatible iPhones and Watches. In a statement, Amazon says the deal will grow Leo's space-based footprint and enable direct-to-device service for its burgeoning satellite network.
An interesting wrinkle is Apple owns 20 percent of Globalstar, which it bought for $1.5 billion in 2024, but that didn't get a mention. Instead, the release says Amazon and Apple have agreed Leo will "power satellite services for supported iPhone and Apple Watch models." And that this support will continue as Leo's network evolves, as well as collaborating "with Apple on future satellite services using Amazon Leo's expanded satellite network."
The release adds Leo's direct-to-device service won't start until 2028, and the deal itself isn't expected to close until 2027. That is, of course, unless Amazon doesn't placate the FCC into extending its deadline to get more satellites into orbit before July 2026. At present, the company needs to have 1,600 satellites in orbit by that deadline, but only expects to have around 700 actually up in the heavens and working by then.
This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/general/amazon-buys-the-satellite-internet-company-behind-apples-sos-system-130150744.html?src=rss
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 Samsung just released its lineup of Micro RGB TVs for 2026, and it includes models that start at 55 inches and go up to 85 inches. These 4K sets feature the company's Micro RGB display technology, which uses thousands of little red, green and blue LEDs to minimize color bleed and enable "expanded color with pinpoint accuracy."
The display is assisted by a new AI processor that has been specifically designed to calibrate the picture to bring out all of that gorgeous color. The company says this results in "stunningly sharp images with incredible detail." The processor also assists with motion smoothing, in addition to handling all of those smart TV apps.
These displays support HDR10 Advanced, which is an updated standard co-developed by Samsung. This ensures genre-based optimization and enhanced brightness, among other features.
Samsung
The TVs are split into two lines. The R95H is the beefier of the two, with access to Samsung's anti-glare technology and a 165Hz refresh rate. The R85H tops out at 144Hz. All models include Dolby Atmos sound and the ability to pair up to five Samsung sound devices via its Q-Symphony technology.
They can also all access Samsung's Art Store, wh
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NEW RESOURCES TechCrunch: Google quietly launched an AI dictation app that works offline. "Google on Monday quietly released an offline-first dictation app called ‘Google AI Edge Eloquent' on iOS to take on […]
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