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watchOS 26 Announced With New Liquid Design Language, Apple Intelligence Features, Wrist Flick Gesture, Workout Buddy, And More

WWDC 2025 just happened and brought tons of exciting news in terms of software upgrades. We got to see the next-generation OS for iPhone, Macbook, and more. The keynote did not let down the Apple Watch fans, as watchOS 26 turned out to be one of the most significant updates in years, especially with how AI remained […]

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WWDC 2025 just happened and brought tons of exciting news in terms of software upgrades. We got to see the next-generation OS for iPhone, Macbook, and more. The keynote did not let down the Apple Watch fans, as watchOS 26 turned out to be one of the most significant updates in years, especially with how AI remained the focal point, allowing for more customization and personalization of features.

watchOS 26 is here, and it’s a game-changer,  introducing powerful Apple Intelligence-driven fitness features, with the all-new Workout Buddy taking center stage

While the hype remained about the other upgrades, the watchOS 26 overhaul cannot be ignored, given how it was heavily inspired by the Vision OS, making it one of the major updates for the wearable in a while. In terms of design, we see a fresh look that gives it a more clean look and the translucent UI seems to align with the rest of the software updates. The design language is more cohesive, especially with the Solarium or Liquid Glass theme that brings the interface closer to iOS 18, macOS 15, and visionOS.

With the help of the translucent background, the UI elements would pop out more clearly and add more layering, giving it a 3D touch. The animations would also be more fluid and smooth, especially on the smaller screen, and the AI prompts would not feel cluttered. Users have also been long waiting for a control center that can be customized, and this has been made possible with the watchOS. The update now extends third-party widget support in the control center, a feature that has been long anticipated and is definitely a usability upgrade given the amount of personalization that can be added up, allowing users to have control over what appears and where.

watchOS updates

One of the most promising upgrades is the AI-powered WatchOS 26, which will now be available for Apple Watch users. WatchOS 26 is bringing Apple Intelligence to your Apple Watch, although the features will not be directly available on the wearable’s hardware and would require pairing with the iPhone. Hence, the watch would feel smarter, given how options like smart notifications and AI-driven reply suggestions can now be used to get more personal replies.

Apple is also introducing more advanced health and fitness tools in the watchOS 26 that are meant to provide a proactive approach to well-being, and one of the major announcements in the update was the Workout Buddy, which is an AI-powered fitness coach to help make the workout experience more personalized and engaging by provided real-time voice guidance during your sessions and even giving motivational prompts every now and then. The AI coach is able to learn from your workout patterns and then provide suggestions accordingly and even match the music according to the workout. This feature is integrated into the Workout app and does not depend on any third-party downloads.

watchOS 26 also introduces a new wrist-flick feature that can help users trigger actions on the Apple Watch by simply flicking their wrist and not having to touch the screen. This Assistive Touch and gesture-based control system allows for clearing notifications, silencing alarms, exiting an app, and returning to the home screen simply by gestures and engaging in a hands-free experience. Additionally, the Live Listen and Live Caption options on the Apple Watch allow you to start or stop a live listening session on the watch, so there is no need to take out the phone constantly. With the help of the live captions on the Apple Watch display, you can check out conversations instantly and discreetly, allowing for quicker accessibility.

The watchOS 26 public beta will be available next month, and the final release is expected in fall 2025.



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iGB L!VE confirms London iGaming Week programme – Gaming

Clarion Gaming has announced details of London iGaming Week, a programme of immersive curated events, seminars and parties centred around iGB L!VE and taking place at iconic London venues. Clarion Gaming has confirmed details of London iGaming Week, which will take place on 1-4 July. Confirming the programme, Naomi Barton, global portfolio director responsible for iGB […]

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Clarion Gaming has announced details of London iGaming Week, a programme of immersive curated events, seminars and parties centred around iGB L!VE and taking place at iconic London venues.

Clarion Gaming has confirmed details of London iGaming Week, which will take place on 1-4 July.

Confirming the programme, Naomi Barton, global portfolio director responsible for iGB L!VE said: “London iGaming Week is an amazing opportunity for the global iGaming industry to come together for a week of connection, innovation and celebration.

“Running 1-4 July, it features social events such as the iGB Affiliate Awards, the EGR B2B Awards, welcome drinks in Canary Wharf, and the Legends by Fire and ICE celebration. 

“It also includes unique opportunities to network and learn at the iGB Start-Up Accelerator, the Affiliate and Operator Mixer, and Technology in Gaming, the inaugural conference for senior technology professionals sponsored by Pretty Technical on Tuesday 1 July.”

She added: “An initiative that we are extremely excited about is our deeper partnership with LatAm Media Group, which will see us stage the first ever London LMG Futbol Experience. Taking place on Friday 4 July, the livestreamed 6-a-side football tournament will be played on a state-of-the-art 5G pitch with games officiated by fully qualified referees. 

“Delivering a mixture of competition and camaraderie, it’s a fantastic milestone which will build on iGB L!VE’s reputation for running the most popular business, networking and social iGaming events of the year.”

London iGaming Week represents a high-profile addition to what will be the biggest edition of iGB L!VE  on record. The first show to take place in London following its relocation from Amsterdam, it will provide attendees with access to over 22,000sqm of product innovation and inspiration. 

Connecting igaming operators, affiliates, tech vendors and game providers, iGB L!VE will welcome a projected 15,000 iGaming and affiliate pioneers helping businesses throughout the ecosystem to navigate the iGaming landscape, provide networking opportunities, showcase cutting-edge innovations and share crucial market knowledge. 

For more information and to register for iGB L!VE, 2-3 July 2025, ExCeL London, visit igblive.com.



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What Makes the Top Franchises of 2025 Stand Out

For the love of franchising This information is not intended as an offer to sell, or the solicitation of an offer to buy, a franchise. It is for information purposes only. Currently, the following states regulate the offer and sale of franchises: California, Hawaii, Illinois, Indiana, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, New York, North Dakota, Oregon, Rhode […]

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For the love of franchising

This information is not intended as an offer to sell, or the solicitation of an offer to buy, a franchise. It is for information purposes only. Currently, the following states regulate the offer and sale of franchises: California, Hawaii, Illinois, Indiana, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, New York, North Dakota, Oregon, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Virginia, Washington, and Wisconsin. If you are a resident of one of these states, we will not offer you a franchise unless and until we have complied with applicable pre-sale registration and disclosure requirements in your jurisdiction. Franchise offerings are made by Franchise Disclosure Document only.



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Cybercriminals breach Aflac as part of hacking spree against US insurance industry

“This attack, like many insurance companies are currently experiencing, was caused by a sophisticated cybercrime group,” Aflac said in a statement on Friday, without naming Scattered Spider. Aflac said it “stopped the intrusion within hours” after discovering it last week, that no ransomware was deployed, and that it continues to serve its customers. Link 0

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“This attack, like many insurance companies are currently experiencing, was caused by a sophisticated cybercrime group,” Aflac said in a statement on Friday, without naming Scattered Spider. Aflac said it “stopped the intrusion within hours” after discovering it last week, that no ransomware was deployed, and that it continues to serve its customers.



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Colab Platforms enters Esports Arena; Industry projected to grow to USD 6 billion by 2030

VMPL Advertisement Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India], June 21: In a move to shape the future of digital sports in India, Colab Platforms Limited (BSE: 542866), leading sportstech and gaming company has announced its foray into the billion dollar opportunity – Esports. With a vision to build India’s most rewarding competitive gaming ecosystem, company is building a […]

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Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India], June 21: In a move to shape the future of digital sports in India, Colab Platforms Limited (BSE: 542866), leading sportstech and gaming company has announced its foray into the billion dollar opportunity – Esports. With a vision to build India’s most rewarding competitive gaming ecosystem, company is building a player-first competitive gaming platform for India’s digital-first generation.

This new venture will focus on building India’s most transparent, skill based esports infrastructure, designed for both casual and pro gamers. Backed by Colab’s robust digital and operational ecosystem, the platform will feature low-entry, high-frequency competitive formats, creator-led tournaments, and proprietary game servers–starting with Counter-Strike 2 (CS2) and expanding into AAA and mobile titles in phases.

Highlights:-

-Colab Platforms is building a player-first competitive gaming platform for India’s digital-first generation.

-India with over 594 million online gamers and young populations has potential to become a Global Esports hub

-The platform will feature low-entry, high-frequency competitive formats, creator-led tournaments, and proprietary game servers–starting with Counter-Strike 2 and expanding into AAA and mobile titles

-Esports is expected to contribute Rs.1100+ crore to India’s economy by 2025

-Company has launched Rs. 250 million accelerator programme to drive sports-tech innovation in India

Esports is expected to contribute Rs.1100+ crore to India’s economy by 2025, with over 1.5 million esports athletes and growing. As India readies itself for the global gaming spotlight, Esports has rapidly evolved from niche subculture to a billion-dollar global industry. In 2024, the global Esports market surpassed $1.7 billion, with projections of reaching over $6 billion by 2030. With its inclusion in events like the Asian Games and discussions around Olympic recognition, esports is no longer just entertainment–it’s a sport of the future.

Venture into Esports aligns with Colab’s broader vision of building a 360° sports ecosystem, which already includes ventures in sports commerce, athlete development, fan engagement tools, and sports-tech innovation. It will also synergize with Colab’s existing initiatives:

-Integration with Colab’s Sports Innovation Accelerator for esports startups

-Co-branded streamer partnerships and leagues for visibility and user acquisition

-Expansion into mobile esports, VR arenas, and gamified fitness formats in future phases

India, has a potential to become a global Esports hub with over 594 million online gamers and one of the world’s youngest digital populations. Government initiatives like eSports recognition under the Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports, and growing corporate and academic interest, are further fueling this momentum.

Puneet Singh, Managing Director of Colab Platforms Ltd, said, “Esports isn’t just the future of gaming–it’s the future of entertainment, career building, and digital identity. At Colab, we’re building an esports ecosystem where every match, every win, and every hour of gameplay creates real value for the player.”

Colab aims to become the platform of choice– where skill matters, community thrives, and careers are built. Company also aim to scout and elevate India’s top gaming talent–creating a pipeline that can compete in global leagues and represent Indian esports on the world stage.

Colab Esports: What Makes It Different

At the heart of Colab’s esports vision is a commitment to accessibility, fairness, and next-gen competition. Built with India’s Gen Z and Millennial gamers in mind, the platform is designed to break barriers and reimagine what competitive gaming can look like–rewarding, community-driven, and inclusive.

From hyper-local engagement strategies to creator-led tournament formats and a player-centric progression system, Colab Esports is laying the groundwork for an ecosystem where every player–casual or competitive–finds their space to grow, compete, and win. Colab is aiming to build not just another esports platform, but a nextgeneration gaming infrastructure ready to scale with the country’s digital sports revolution.

For the financial year 2024-25, the company has reported consolidated Total Revenue Rs. 70.05 crores, up from Rs. 2.25 Crores in FY 2023-24 — a massive 3006.18% increase. Net profit stood at Rs. 2.86 Crores from Rs.1.78 Crores last year, a growth of 60.4%. In Q4 FY2024-25, company recorded Total Revenue of Rs. 20.49 crores, Y-o-Y increase of 7638% growth. Net profit for the quarter was Rs. 95.29 lakhs, up 379.11% from Rs. 19.9 lakhs during the same period last year.

Strategic Initiatives of Colab Platforms in FY 2024-25:-

-Entered the Rs. 15,766 crore sports management and tech sector, to leverage its technological prowess across various segments including management and development of sports Intellectual Properties (IPs), Fan Engagement platforms.

-Acquired the Northern Challengers team in the Big Cricket League, captained by former India opener Shikhar Dhawan, enhancing brand recognition and direct fan connection.

-Launched www.colabsports.in, a dedicated marketplace for sports and fitness products, catering to India’s rapidly growing $58 billion sports and fitness industry.

-The company also announced its entry into the predictive gaming market, targeting a Rs. 50,000 crore opportunity with a rapidly growing user base.

-Introduced a Rs. 250 million Sports-Tech Growth Accelerator Program to empower early-stage startups, fast-track innovation, and transform India’s sports technology ecosystem.

About Colab Platforms Ltd.

Colab Platforms Limited is listed on the Bombay Stock Exchange. The company has been delivering innovative technological solutions across various sectors, leveraging its expertise in advanced technologies to drive growth and enhance user experiences. Colab Platforms Limited is dedicated to providing customized, technology-based processing solutions that help clients achieve their objectives and exceed expectations.

Recognizing India’s rapid emergence as a global technology hub, Colab Platforms harnesses the nation’s diverse and talented professionals to contribute significantly to the development of the professional community. For more information please www.colabplatforms.com

(ADVERTORIAL DISCLAIMER: The above press release has been provided by VMPL. ANI will not be responsible in any way for the content of the same)

(The story has come from a syndicated feed and has not been edited by the Tribune Staff.)





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Chen Hang Uses Innovative Technology To Advance Fitness Methodologies

While advancing artificial intelligence and big data analytics already permeate many facets of professional and personal life, emerging technology is filtering further into the fitness industry. As the fitness world gradually enters an era of intelligence and data-driven optimization, Chen Hang, a bodybuilder and ACE-certified personal trainer, is leveraging innovative technology in fitness to create […]

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While advancing artificial intelligence and big data analytics already permeate many facets of professional and personal life, emerging technology is filtering further into the fitness industry. As the fitness world gradually enters an era of intelligence and data-driven optimization, Chen Hang, a bodybuilder and ACE-certified personal trainer, is leveraging innovative technology in fitness to create a space and community for gym-goers. 

Accessible Passion

Motivated by his personal passion for fitness, Hang began his professional career by building personal channels on both YouTube and Bilibili. On these digital platforms, the fitness enthusiast was able to share comprehensive content surrounding professional training methodologies, scientifically backed fitness concepts, and practical instructional materials. Sharing his passion through clear and simple explanations, coupled with professional data analysis, has helped make fitness concepts more accessible. Hang has earned thousands of subscribers and become a prominent content creator in the Chinese-speaking fitness community.  

While his digital journey has helped Hang realize online education can disseminate fitness knowledge, he also realized the need to address the personalized needs of trainees, especially those who require more detailed guidance for professional training. This realization prompted Hang to launch his entrepreneurial journey, exploring how smart technology and fitness can be blended to provide more precise training guidance. 

Tiger Gate Gym

Bellevue, Washington, may be a high-tech hub; however, it lacks a dedicated fitness community for Chinese residents. With limited professional bodybuilding and strength training facilities, the area can be challenging for Chinese fitness enthusiasts seeking a space that can meet their personalized needs. After recognizing this specific lack of Chinese community environments, Hang was determined to create a fitness space aligned with Asian fitness culture, creating a professional and data-driven training hub for Seattle-area Chinese and bodybuilding lovers.

With his vision in mind, Hang established Tiger Gate Gym in Bellevue in August 2023. Fostering a bodybuilding community that is centered around an intelligent physical training system, Tiger Gate Gym’s mission goes beyond promoting bodybuilding and powerlifting; it utilizes AI, big data analytics, and deep learning to help trainees optimize their workout plans and improve their training outcomes. 

The innovative application of an intelligent physical training system both validates the feasibility of combining technology with fitness and lays the foundation for Hang’s future developmental plans. Hang is actively developing a range of AI-powered training systems, which include smart fitness equipment for data analysis and optimization, a deep-learning-based movement recognition and evaluation system, and personalized training plans for each trainee. His research achievements have secured industry recognition, with multiple practical patents and software copyrights already granted, covering technologies for lat pull training devices, personalized intelligent fitness plan generation systems, and fitness effectiveness evaluation and health risk warning systems. These advancements will help serve as a strong foundation for the future growth of Tiger Gate Gym. 

All Things Are Difficult Before They Are Easy

The early stages of Tiger Gate Gym were not without challenges for Hang. Due to the lack of brand recognition, initial gym membership growth was slow, while high operational costs placed significant financial pressure on the venture. Yet, despite these difficulties, Hang was able to adapt his strategy and focus on open house events to attract bodybuilding enthusiasts to experience the smart training system firsthand. Hang’s ability to respond flexibly to such challenges and implement innovative solutions boosted Tiger Gate Gym’s visibility. By the end of 2023, the gym had gathered more than 500 members and welcomed over 1,500 visitors, securing a firm foothold in Bellevue and the wider Seattle area. 

Due to Hang’s technological innovations and strategic marketing, Tiger Gate Gym has become more than a professional training facility; it is a Chinese fitness community that serves as a space for cultural exchange and community building, bringing together Chinese fitness lovers, athletes, and trainers.

Thinking About the Future

While growing Tiger Gate Gym, Hang is thinking about the future, actively planning strategic partnerships with notable enterprises to expand the influence of the gym. By focusing on collaborating with leading fitness platforms, like Wellhub, which has established close relationships with major tech giants such as TikTok and SpaceX, Hang aims to position Tiger Gate Gym in the professional and corporate fitness market. He also hopes these initiatives will open up the gym to a broader market for widespread adoption of smart fitness technologies, creating more personalized and efficient training solutions that drive the fitness industry toward a more technology-driven future. 

As membership continues to steadily increase, the demand for a larger space has also become evident to the founder. This had led Hang to begin negotiations for a new location that will be three times the size of the current gym space. The new 11,000 square-foot space will include cardio equipment, functional zones, a stretching area, and expanded facilities such as saunas and shower rooms. Additionally, the new space will have a dedicated training section for women to offer a more inclusive and personalized experience for all members coming to work out. 

Looking to the future, Hang plans on continuing to push for technological innovation in the industry. Simultaneously, he anticipates launching his line of fitness supplements and blending AI-driven training systems that are able to offer more personalized nutrition solutions for athletes. With the help of his research team, he also aims to advance smart training technologies, intending to extend AI fitness innovations to a broader market, positioning them as a crucial part of the fitness industry’s future.

Building on his success, his vision is centered on the expansion of Tiger Gate Gym, shaping the gym into a lasting force that connects, inspires, and empowers the Chinese fitness community. 

Image Credit: Tiger Gate Gym

This post was authored by an external contributor and does not represent Benzinga’s opinions and has not been edited for content. This content is for informational purposes only and not intended to be investing advice. These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.



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Gen Z’s Getting Gains With AI, but Boomers Just Aren’t Buying It

ABC Fitness’ latest report reveals a rise in AI adoption led by Gen Z, but trust issues and privacy concerns could stall momentum. Here’s what the fitness tech company uncovered and what it recommends for fitness operators  Something unexpected is happening inside gyms this summer, and it’s not just the spike in foot traffic. Amid […]

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ABC Fitness’ latest report reveals a rise in AI adoption led by Gen Z, but trust issues and privacy concerns could stall momentum. Here’s what the fitness tech company uncovered and what it recommends for fitness operators 

Something unexpected is happening inside gyms this summer, and it’s not just the spike in foot traffic. Amid the AI frenzy, not everyone’s sold.

ABC Fitness’ new Summer 2025 Wellness Watch Report reveals how consumers are engaging with AI, who’s still skeptical and what fitness operators can do to keep up.

Drawing on data from 40 million members, more than 30,000 gyms, over 500,000 fitness professionals and third-party research from ClubIntel, the report outlines where growth and engagement opportunities are emerging.

Here’s what the fitness technology company found:

Summer Slump? Not This Year

Although summer usually draws fitness consumers to the beach or barbecues instead of the gym, ABC Fitness is reporting an 8.3% year-over-year increase in check-ins and a 27% jump in new memberships across gyms and studios driven largely by HVLP-loving Gen Z and Millennials. The fitness tech company also found members average seven studio visits per month, with gym check-ins up 15% monthly.

As ABC Fitness notes, opportunity lies in tech and AI, with new tools and data emerging that can help boost both retention and acquisition.

credit: Photo by Ilias Chebbi on Unsplash

“AI is becoming an integral part of the member lifecycle, from the moment someone walks in the door to long after they’ve joined,” ABC Fitness vice president of AI Robert Jackson said. “It’s helping fitness businesses personalize experiences, predict behavior and automate engagement in ways that were never possible before. The future belongs to those who use AI not just as a tool but as a core part of how they operate and grow.”

Boomers Aren’t Sold (Yet) on AI

One key finding from ABC Fitness: while 26% of active consumers say they’re “very familiar” with AI-powered fitness and wellness tools, that number plummets to just 6% among Boomers. Likewise, only 12% of Boomers “strongly agree” that AI can support their personal health and fitness goals, compared to 33% of Gen Z and 38% of Millennials.

credit: Photo by Centre for Ageing Better on Unsplash

Among users who have engaged with AI, 61% use it for fitness tracking and 49% rely on it for nutrition. Additionally, 36% use AI for virtual fitness training or generating workouts and 37% use mental wellness apps. Gen Z shows the highest engagement overall, with 64% saying they’ve used an AI fitness and wellness app, compared to 59% of Millennials, 41% of Gen X and just 17% of Boomers.

Nearly half of respondents (49%) say they use AI-powered tools daily for fitness and wellness, compared to 30% who use them weekly, 18% occasionally and just 4% rarely.

Privacy, Cost & Confusion Fuel Skepticism

Despite rising usage, trust remains a barrier. Nearly half of consumers report running into inaccurate data from AI tools. Only 17% of Boomers completely trust AI-driven fitness apps, while 43% of Millennials and 33% of Gen Z express full confidence.

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Personal trainer working out with client

Top concerns include data and privacy (55%) and lack of awareness or understanding (38%), followed closely by worries about over-reliance on technology and cost (both at 37%), lack of personalization (35%) and difficulty understanding or using AI tools (24%).

The Opportunity

With Boomers still on the fence and privacy a growing concern, the fitness industry faces both a challenge and an opportunity for long-term engagement, especially as younger generations continue to set the pace.

To stay competitive, ABC Fitness urges operators to focus on personalization through adaptive coaching, tailored workout plans and real-time feedback, delivered via intuitive, user-friendly platforms that resonate across age groups.

ABC Fitness and Crunch Fitness
credit: ABC Fitness

The report also calls for stronger privacy safeguards, including transparent data policies and secure storage of personal health information. Enhanced connectivity between wearables and apps is another priority, to ensure accurate tracking of performance, recovery and health metrics.

Gamification features like leaderboards, achievement badges and interactive challenges can also drive engagement, ABC Fitness points out. Other recommendations include on-demand AI workouts, virtual coaching, digital communities and biometric-driven recovery tips to help users balance effort with rest.





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