It’s been a difficult year or so for TNT Sports, Warner Bros. Discovery’s live sports rights arm in the U.S.

First, it lost its share of NBA rights to Amazon Prime Video as part of the league’s new media deal. Then the award-winning Inside the NBA was moved to ESPN and ABC. And now, WBD’s latest corporate shuffle, breaking apart the business into separate buckets for “streaming and studios” and its “global networks” legacy TV assets, leaves TNT Sports’ future more muddled than ever.

Monday’s announcement of the WBD split included thoughts that TNT Sports could be licensed out to HBO Max, licensed to another entity entirely or even spun off into another separate company. But in the meantime, TNT Sports is still a major player in televised live sports, and is even adding new premium inventory as it prepares for life without the NBA.

TNT Sports’ Current Rights

Even without the NBA, the group still splits the NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament rights with Paramount – games that accounted for 86.9% of total est. national linear TV ad spend across TNT, TBS and truTV over the course of the event, according to data provided by iSpot.

TNT Sports also airs NASCAR races, MLB (regular season, playoff) games, NHL (regular season, playoff) games, French Open, All Elite Wrestling, Big East and Big 12 men’s/women’s basketball games, U.S. men’s and women’s soccer action, and more.

Additionally, the group has also been sublicensing high-profile games from ESPN/ABC. After airing two of last year’s expanded College Football Playoff quarterfinal games from ESPN, it will do so again for 2025, and then potentially expand into the semifinal round after that.

There’s also the possibility that TNT Sports is the mystery “third partner” in MLB’s rights negotiations that also include Amazon and NBCUniversal. Such a move would make TNT baseball’s biggest TV partner, and shift the network’s primary sports focus to summer – when ESPN’s actually relatively light on content once its own MLB deal ends after this season.

Whether TNT Sports grabs a larger share of MLB rights or not, though, it will remain a major player in the competitive live sports market. In a TV environment that’s increasingly reliant on sports, that makes the property a very valuable commodity.

But Is It Valuable To WBD?

On Monday, WBD CEO David Zaslav downplayed the importance of sports for HBO Max sign-ups in the U.S., and stated that sports will stay on HBO Max for the time being.

Part of that could come from the fact that sports are not included in the $9.99-per-month basic with ads plan. Another could be that WBD has never really been clear on its sports streaming strategy. And still another comes from the fact that while TNT Sports has had valuable content among its ranks (especially when it had the NBA), you can find all of it via other streaming or cable/satellite providers.

So without much streaming cohesion between the sports content, traditional Discovery shows, Warner Bros. IP and prestige HBO content, it’s understandable to doubt how all of this works together – and how sports, in particular, fit into that puzzle without significant changes to how they’re positioned within the larger vision.

Could TNT Sports Be Valuable To Someone Else?

Right now? Yes. Spinning TNT Sports off into another separate entity or selling it to another entertainment company has significant value that could help pay down some of WBD’s lingering debts. But who’s really in the market for something like TNT Sports?

Disney already has ESPN, and has been shedding and consolidating expensive rights. NBCUniversal got out of the cable sports game, but could use more year-round programming. Paramount seemingly has a full plate. Amazon, Apple and Netflix have the money to purchase TNT Sports, but no real need beyond beefing up their sports production chops. And maybe that’s enough.

Fox is an interesting possibility to acquire TNT Sports, as Awful Announcing also points out. The move actually makes the most sense since it’s another boost for Fox in its ongoing battle with ESPN for sports eyeballs, and TNT’s sports properties have a lot of synergy with Fox’s own existing rights deals (NASCAR, MLB, college basketball).

Acquiring the backend of TNT’s March Madness rights – the deal runs through 2032 – would be the real prize here, and a coup for Fox. That alone may be worth the effort and the dollars required.

There’s also the streaming element here. Fox One is launching by the fall, and puts sports at the forefront of its overall offering. Looping TNT Sports into that would make it an even larger contender as one of the must-have streaming apps in the U.S.

None of this is to say that anything happens to TNT Sports in the immediate term. But now WBD is splitting up its businesses, time is officially ticking for the sports entity.

watchOS 26 brings a fresh design, AI-powered Workout Buddy, smarter Smart Stack, Live Translation in Messages, and new gestures for a more personalised Apple Watch experience.

California – Apple has previewed watchOS 26, its next major software update for the Apple Watch, delivering a blend of cutting-edge intelligence and design aimed at offering users a more personalised, active, and connected experience.

Among the standout features is a striking new Liquid Glass design, which refreshes the look and feel of the interface across Smart Stack widgets, Control Center, in-app navigation, and the popular Photos watch face. Apple says this new design enhances visual richness without sacrificing the familiar functionality Apple Watch users expect.

Leading the update is Workout Buddy, a groundbreaking AI-powered fitness feature. Powered by Apple Intelligence, Workout Buddy offers real-time, spoken motivational cues tailored to each user’s fitness data and history. Whether it’s tracking mile splits, celebrating personal records, or offering a pep talk mid-run, Workout Buddy brings an almost human-like coaching experience to workouts. It supports a variety of workouts including running, walking, cycling, and strength training, and will be initially available in English for users with Apple Intelligence-compatible iPhones.

The Workout app itself has received its most significant redesign yet, with new corner controls for easier access to customisation tools like Pacer, Race Route, and Workout Views. Additionally, Apple Music integration now recommends playlists based on a user’s preferences and workout types, enhancing the motivational experience.

Apple has also enhanced the Smart Stack with new “hints” — context-based prompts powered by AI and sensor data. These proactively suggest actions, such as launching Backtrack when off-grid or starting a Pilates session when arriving at a known studio.

Messaging gets a boost with Live Translation, which can auto-translate incoming and outgoing texts in real-time. The feature also suggests smart actions based on conversation context and supports custom backgrounds and improved smart replies.

In terms of interaction, Apple introduces a new wrist flick gesture to dismiss notifications or silence alerts with one hand — useful when multitasking. Speaker volume now auto-adjusts based on ambient sound levels to avoid disturbances.

Other new additions include:

• Notes app on Apple Watch with Siri integration.
• Hold Assist and Call Screening when paired with iPhone.
• Live Listen enhancements for hearing-impaired users.
• A redesigned watch face gallery with curated collections.

Developers can also tap into new APIs to customise widgets, integrate apps into Control Center, and enhance Smart Stack interactivity using user context like location.

watchOS 26 is set to roll out later this year, bringing a more intelligent, responsive, and elegant Apple Watch experience to users worldwide.

Caltech scientists are actively studying how to seamlessly integrate technology—things like sensors, actuators, and microprocessors, but also novel materials—into things that we wear. And the social media and technology company Meta Platforms, Inc. (Meta), has spent the past 10 years pushing forward the development of virtual, augmented, and mixed reality technologies, while also investigating the basic science underlying wearable technologies.

Now Caltech and Meta have formalized an agreement that will bring together the Institute’s innovative research approach in areas such as materials science, human–computer interfaces, sensing and tracking, and machine learning, with Meta research projects exploring how people interact with integrated technologies. As part of the agreement, Meta has renovated and opened a 1600 square foot research lab on campus, with a campus faculty lead, and is investing in a variety of research projects at the Institute through a grant-making fund. The new partnership will initially focus on the science underlying smart wearables but could extend to other areas of shared interest.

Chiara Daraio, the G. Bradford Jones Professor of Mechanical Engineering and Applied Physics, who is currently on leave as a Meta research scientist, leads the effort. For the past several years, she has been collaborating with Meta and has seen first-hand the opportunities that Meta has to offer in working with the Institute.

“Caltech excels at fundamental science—tackling hard, interdisciplinary questions and coming up with creative solutions,” says Daraio, also a Heritage Medical Research Institute Investigator. “Meta needs to solve precisely these kinds of deep scientific challenges, driven by the desire to build revolutionary technologies. To meet these needs, Meta brings to Caltech new intellectual challenges and a long-term vision to support foundational research and achieve breakthroughs together.”

Looking to the future, Daraio imagines that much of what we wear will become ever-more intelligent. This naturally leads to fascinating new questions for scientists: What new materials will allow us to integrate hardware technologies into wearables, while ensuring that they remain comfortable, effective, and durable? How do we make sense of inputs coming from multiple sensors to provide data that is ultimately useful to the wearer? How can we make electronic computing devices fit more seamlessly into daily life?

“These are fundamental questions, which offer plenty of space for interdisciplinary scientific inquiry and engineering advancements,” Daraio says. “This is an exciting opportunity for the Caltech community. As a campus, we are small but mighty. In terms of intellectual capabilities, curiosity, and creativity, we have a lot to offer. And, in return, we can be inspired by new tech needs, applications-driven challenges, and, of course, resources that this agreement will make available to the campus at large.”

A handful of Meta researchers moved into the new campus-based research lab at the end of March. Located in the Beckman Institute, the new research space was renovated to include workspaces, conference rooms, and two labs equipped for experimental research on sensing and haptics, the science of generating a sensation of touch through force or motions such as vibrations. Additional Meta team members are expected to arrive and begin working on campus in the coming months. Importantly, Caltech students, postdoctoral scholars, staff, and faculty members who partner with Meta will have the opportunity to work collaboratively with Meta research scientists, use Meta equipment, and intern in the Meta space on campus.

At the same time, Meta is offering calls for proposals to Caltech researchers, including for gift and sponsored research projects. There are also plans to host a joint seminar series or symposium to get students and researchers mixing and discussing challenges and opportunities that exist on the computing and experimental sides of the work.

Meta has a track record of funding Caltech research, and these new projects carry on that tradition.

One of the Meta-funded projects is led by Domniki Asimaki, professor of mechanical and civil engineering, along with Daraio and Kaushik Bhattacharya, the Howell N. Tyson, Sr., Professor of Mechanics and Materials Science. They are working to understand how ultrasound waves propagate on the skin, especially when a force or pulse is applied. “Studies like ours can help us better understand how to use ultrasound tests to interpret touch signals,” Asimaki says.

In another Meta-funded project, Wei Gao, professor of medical engineering, is developing the next generation of emotionally intelligent wearables that combine soft bioelectronics with adaptive haptic interfaces.

“Support from Meta is accelerating the translation of physiological insights into immersive, therapeutic augmented reality experiences that are both personalized and scalable,” says Gao, who is also a Heritage Medical Research Institute Investigator and a Ronald and JoAnne Willens Scholar.

Partnering with Industry

In recent years, Caltech has sought to expand interactions with industry to further the impact, development, and reach of fundamental science research in areas where there is a strong match between the Institute’s work and a company’s pursuits, says Fred Farina, Caltech’s chief innovation and corporate partnerships officer. “This collaboration with Meta is a good example of this type of partnership. We’re interested in fundamental research and pushing the boundaries of knowledge, and they’re obviously interested in bringing novel technologies and products to the marketplace,” he says. “We’re also interested in impact in the world and society through these new products and services. And to have that impact, we need to partner with industry.”

The new partnership was designed to be able to quickly respond as new questions arise from the research. The collaboration creates an umbrella framework that covers multiple research areas, effectively streamlining the process to create sponsored projects between Caltech and Meta moving forward. “Hopefully, when there are mutual interests that spark an idea, it can very quickly turn into a collaboration and project,” Daraio says. “There is a lot of enthusiasm on both sides of this agreement.”

Apple introduced watchOS 26 at WWDC 2025, featuring a redesigned interface, enhanced fitness tools, smarter notifications, and improved messaging capabilities. The update focuses on personalization, convenience, and intelligence to support users in staying active, healthy, and connected.

Central to watchOS 26 is the Liquid Glass interface, a visually dynamic design that enhances the Apple Watch’s display with depth and fluidity. This innovative interface introduces a more immersive visual experience, making interactions feel smoother and more engaging. Complementing this is the updated Photos watch face, which integrates Liquid Glass numerals, offering users a more expressive and customizable way to personalize their devices.

Navigation has also been streamlined with the addition of Smart Stack widgets, which provide contextual information at a glance. These widgets adapt dynamically to user behavior, making sure that relevant data is always accessible. Additionally, the Control Center has been redesigned for quicker access to essential tools, improving overall usability. Together, these updates create a more intuitive and visually appealing interface, enhancing the day-to-day experience of using the Apple Watch.

Advancements in Fitness Tracking

Fitness tracking remains a cornerstone of the Apple Watch, and watchOS 26 introduces significant enhancements to this functionality. The revamped Workout app, powered by Apple Intelligence, delivers personalized insights and real-time feedback during exercise sessions. Users receive spoken motivation and updates on milestones, pace, and progress, helping them stay focused on their fitness goals.

The app’s customizable layout allows users to seamlessly integrate music or podcasts into their workouts, creating a more enjoyable and tailored exercise experience. These updates cater to users of all activity levels, from casual walkers to dedicated athletes, reinforcing the Apple Watch’s role as a comprehensive fitness companion.

Key fitness updates include:

• Real-time performance tracking with spoken feedback.
• Customizable workout layouts for a personalized experience.
• Integration of music and podcasts into exercise routines.

Smarter Notifications and Communication

watchOS 26 introduces smarter, more context-aware notifications and communication tools. Using advanced prediction algorithms, the system now provides proactive suggestions based on user behavior and contextual data. This ensures that notifications are not only timely but also relevant to the user’s current activities.

One of the standout features is Live Translation, which enables real-time translation of both incoming and outgoing messages. This functionality assists seamless communication across language barriers, making the Apple Watch a valuable tool for global connectivity. Additionally, improved Smart Replies, powered by AI, offer contextually appropriate responses, while a simple wrist flick gesture allows users to dismiss notifications or calls effortlessly. These updates enhance the Apple Watch’s ability to keep users connected and informed, making communication more efficient and intuitive.

Accessibility Features for Inclusive Interaction

Accessibility remains a key focus for Apple, and watchOS 26 introduces several new features designed to meet the needs of diverse users. The Live Listen feature provides real-time captions for users who are deaf or hard of hearing, allowing more effective communication in various settings.

The redesigned Notes app allows users to create, pin, and manage notes directly from their wrist, offering greater convenience for on-the-go organization. Meanwhile, Call Screening enables users to handle incoming calls more efficiently, and Ambient Noise Adjustment automatically optimizes speaker volume based on the surrounding environment.

These features highlight Apple’s commitment to inclusivity, making sure that the Apple Watch remains accessible and adaptable to a wide range of users.

Empowering Developers with New Tools

watchOS 26 also introduces a suite of new tools and resources for developers, allowing them to create more immersive and customizable apps. Expanded APIs now support the integration of design elements such as Liquid Glass and Smart Stack widgets, allowing developers to take full advantage of the platform’s capabilities.

The introduction of location-based features opens up new possibilities for geolocation-driven applications, while the redesigned Watch Face Gallery offers users greater flexibility in exploring and personalizing watch faces. These updates empower developers to push the boundaries of what’s possible on the Apple Watch, fostering innovation and creativity within the ecosystem.

Key developer updates include:

• Expanded APIs for enhanced app design and functionality.
• Support for location-based features and geolocation-driven apps.
• A redesigned Watch Face Gallery for improved customization.

Focus on Personalization and Integration

watchOS 26 places a strong emphasis on personalization and seamless integration across Apple’s ecosystem. The updated operating system allows users to tailor their Apple Watch experience to their unique preferences, whether through customizable watch faces, adaptive widgets, or personalized fitness insights.

Moreover, the integration of advanced AI-driven features ensures that the Apple Watch continues to evolve alongside its users, adapting to their needs and habits over time. This focus on personalization and adaptability underscores Apple’s commitment to delivering a smartwatch experience that is both intuitive and empowering.

With watchOS 26, Apple has introduced a range of updates that enhance the functionality, usability, and accessibility of its smartwatch platform. From the visually dynamic Liquid Glass interface to the advanced AI-driven fitness tracking and context-aware notifications, this release demonstrates Apple’s dedication to innovation and user-centric design.

By empowering developers with new tools and prioritizing inclusivity, watchOS 26 ensures that the Apple Watch remains a versatile and indispensable tool for users worldwide. Whether tracking fitness goals, managing notifications, or allowing real-time translation, watchOS 26 continues to position the Apple Watch as a leader in the smartwatch industry. Here are more guides from our previous articles and guides related to Apple watchOS that you may find helpful.

Filed Under: Apple, Top News

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FRESNO, Calif., June 10, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Crunch Fitness today announces the opening of Crunch North Fresno in California. The $5 million, 40,000-square-foot state-of-the-art fitness facility will open its doors in Winter 2025. Operated by Crunch Fitness franchisee Fitness Ventures LLC, Crunch North Fresno will be located at 7370 North Blackstone Avenue, creating new fitness offerings for residents of Fresno.

Fusing fitness with entertainment, Crunch North Fresno will offer top-quality cardio and strength training equipment, power half-hour circuit training, TRX^®, personal training, Olympic Lifting Platforms, a dedicated group fitness studio, Ride cycling classes, a functional HIITZONE™ training area with indoor turf, tanning, HydroMassage^® beds, Kids Crunch babysitting, and full-service locker rooms with showers and a sauna.

Fitness Ventures LLC owns and operates Crunch Fitness locations across the U.S. Crunch North Fresno will be Fitness Ventures’ 74^th location nationwide, and the franchisee has plans to open at least 10 more locations this year.

“We are excited to bring the Crunch brand to North Fresno. Crunch is for everyone – from the first-time gym-goer to the seasoned athlete,” said Brian Hibbard, CEO of Fitness Ventures LLC. “With a high-energy and fun environment, and memberships starting at $9.99 per month, we have options to meet everyone’s goals and budget.”

Crunch Fitness ranked #1 in the fitness category for the second year in a row and #32 overall in the annual Entrepreneur Franchise 500^®– the world’s most comprehensive franchise ranking. Crunch Fitness continues to expand nationwide and push the bar with innovative offerings for its members.

Prospective members can visit CrunchNorthFresno.com for more information about memberships and to sign up. The first 500 founding members to lock in their rate will receive $1 down, one month free, a complimentary t-shirt, discounts on small group and personal training, and more.

Crunch is also expanding its team within Fresno and is looking for individuals who are eager to help their community experience fitness, wellness, relaxation, and recovery. Crunch believes in not only being the best place to work out but also the best place to work. Interested applicants can apply today at CrunchNorthFresno.com.

About Crunch:

Crunch is a gym that believes in making serious exercise fun by fusing fitness and entertainment and pioneering a philosophy of ‘No Judgments.’ Crunch serves a fitness community for all kinds of people with all types of goals, exercising all different ways, working it out at the same place together. Today, we are renowned for creating one-of-a-kind group fitness classes and unique programming for our wildly diverse members. Headquartered in New York City, Crunch serves three million members with over 500 gyms worldwide in 41 states, the District of Columbia, Australia, Canada, Costa Rica, Portugal, Puerto Rico, Spain, and India. Crunch is rapidly expanding across the U.S. and around the globe.

SOURCE Crunch Fitness