The Brick device blocks distracting apps via an NFC chip that users tap to start and stop blocking sessions, but this functionality can be replicated using blank NFC tags costing about a dollar or printed QR codes. Free apps such as Foqos for iOS, built by developer Ali Waseem, let users configure app-blocking profiles tied to NFC tags, QR codes, barcodes, or daily schedules, and can prevent users from disabling the block by deleting the app.
wired.com
· 2026-09-27
U.S. District Judge Jeffrey White certified a class of banks and credit unions that issued Apple Pay-enabled cards and paid transaction fees to Apple, allowing them to jointly pursue a 2022 lawsuit. The judge also rejected Apple's bid to strike expert testimony plaintiffs say demonstrates Apple's monopoly over mobile wallets. The suit claims Apple has collected up to $1 billion a year by requiring card issuers to pay 0.15% on credit transactions and half a cent on debit transactions while blocking rival wallets from the iPhone's NFC chip.
macrumors.com
· 2026-09-26
Circular has launched its Ring 3 series, succeeding last year's Ring 2, in two versions: a titanium Pro model retaining ECG-based AFib detection, and a lighter Slim model using biocompatible epoxy but lacking ECG tracking. Both rings add vibrating alerts for alarms and reminders and an NFC chip enabling contactless payments directly from the ring.
theverge.com
· 2026-09-03
GoKawiil