Monthly Archives: September 2025

The iPhone 17 is tempting, but the Pixel 10 is still the smartphone I’d buy right now

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Pixel 10’s Gemini AI and Android 16 Software Outshine iPhone 17

As the major smartphone launches of the year come to a close, we have seen Samsung release the Galaxy S25 series and new foldables, Google unveil the Pixel 10 series about a month ago, and Apple introduce the iPhone 17 lineup at the recent “Awe Dropping” event. With all the new devices available, it’s time to compare which flagship best suits your needs and is worth upgrading to this year.

Interestingly, both Apple and Google have made significant improvements to their base models this year, bringing the entry-level flagships closer to their Pro counterparts. The iPhone 17 now features an adaptive 120Hz refresh rate, while the Pixel 10 boasts a major overhaul with a much-improved chipset and, notably, a new telephoto sensor for the first time.

However, if I were shopping for a new entry-level flagship, I would skip the iPhone 17 and choose the Pixel 10 as my everyday smartphone. Here’s why.

Pixel 10’s AI and Software: A Step Ahead

For years, I have recommended iPhones primarily because of their reliable software experience. Apple’s iOS has long been praised for its stability and smoothness. Recently, though, that reliability has started to wane. iOS 26, Apple’s biggest redesign in years, has introduced new features but also some issues. Even brand-new iPhone 17 users have reported minor stutters and lags shortly after initial setup.

In terms of software features, Apple now falls behind the increasingly useful Google Pixel experience. With the Pixel 10, Google has focused heavily on software, launching Android 16 with the Material 3 Expressive design featuring large UI elements and bold typography. After four weeks of use, I’ve encountered only minor lags, enjoying a smooth and reliable experience with apps and animations.

Gaming is still not the Pixel 10’s strong suit, but everyday use is buttery smooth. Google also introduced Gemini AI, powering new helpful features like Magic Cue, which surfaces info exactly when needed, and Camera Coach, which assists in taking better photos. Additional perks include Pixel Screenshots that save info for later, Now Playing, and the Add Me feature in the Camera app.

In contrast, Apple’s Apple Intelligence has underdelivered, providing few genuinely useful features so far, with the exception of Clean Up in the Photos app, which competes with Google’s Magic Editor but doesn’t quite surpass it.

Telephoto Zoom: A Must-Have That Apple Still Ignores

One of the biggest improvements in the Pixel 10 is the addition of a telephoto sensor in the base model, a first for Pixel phones. For years, base models only included a main and ultra-wide dual-camera system. The Pixel 10 now features a 48-megapixel primary sensor, a 13-megapixel ultra-wide lens, and a 10.8-megapixel telephoto lens capable of 5x optical zoom. Thanks to Google’s on-device Gemini models, it can achieve up to 20x digital zoom with Pro Res Zoom.

The iPhone 17 base model, however, continues with only two lenses: a 48-megapixel primary sensor and a 48-megapixel ultra-wide. While its ultra-wide shots may be sharper, the lack of a telephoto lens means it will always fall behind in zoom performance.

Once you have a telephoto sensor, you’ll be surprised how often you use it. Since owning the iPhone 14 Pro Max, I rarely take photos at 1x zoom anymore. Telephoto lenses are invaluable for concerts, sports, and other events where zoom shots make a huge difference. This is an area where the iPhone 17 cannot compete.

To be fair, the iPhone 17 does offer a superior selfie camera with new horizontal selfie mode while holding the phone vertically, plus stronger video recording capabilities. Still, for me, the Pixel 10’s zoom features are a more important advantage.

Qi2 Magnetic Wireless Charging Brings Pixel 10 Closer to iPhone’s Ecosystem

Apple’s ecosystem has long been a major selling point, with apps optimized for smooth performance and deeply integrated services like iMessage and FaceTime. Its MagSafe accessories create a seamless user experience with wireless chargers, power banks, wallets, and mounts.

Now, Google is catching up. The Pixel 10 supports Qi2 magnetic wireless charging, putting it on par with the iPhone’s MagSafe system. This means you can attach nearly all MagSafe accessories directly to the Pixel 10’s back without needing a third-party case or magnetic sticker.

Though it may seem like a small upgrade, in practice it’s transformative. Accessories that were previously incompatible with the Pixel, like MagSafe stands and desk mounts, now work flawlessly. Additionally, the Pixel 10 supports faster 15W wireless charging. The broad accessory compatibility combined with better wireless charging has greatly enhanced my daily experience.

Conclusion: Pixel 10 Feels Like the Smarter Buy

Overall, the Pixel 10 delivers a complete package. Google has elevated its base flagship to meet—and in some aspects surpass—the iPhone 17, thanks to long-term software support, a superior software experience fueled by Gemini AI, the essential telephoto camera, and Qi2 magnetic charging compatibility.

While the Pixel 10 does come with some drawbacks, such as lower base storage and a less powerful processor compared to the iPhone 17, these are minor compromises for an everyday smartphone that feels smarter and more feature-complete.

For those considering an upgrade or looking for a solid entry-level flagship, the Pixel 10 is a compelling choice over the iPhone 17.

https://www.pocket-lint.com/iphone-17-is-tempting-but-id-buy-pixel-10/

Slovakia passes constitutional amendment recognising only two sexes

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Slovakia’s parliament has passed a constitutional amendment recognizing only two sexes, along with other measures that critics say may breach the country’s international obligations and undermine human rights protections.

The amendment, drafted by the government of populist Prime Minister Robert Fico, required a three-fifths majority to pass. It was approved with 90 votes in the 150-seat National Council, with support from twelve conservative opposition politicians who helped the ruling coalition secure the vote.

### Key Changes in the Amendment

The revised constitution now explicitly recognizes only two sexes: male and female. It also states that Slovakia retains sovereignty in matters of national identity—a term not specifically defined—particularly regarding fundamental cultural and ethical questions.

Additionally, the amendment makes it nearly impossible for anyone other than married couples to adopt children. The constitution had already defined marriage as a unique union between a man and a woman.

Parental consent is now required for access to sexual education, and equal pay for men and women is guaranteed.

### Reactions and Criticism

Justice Minister Boris Susko told parliament that the amendment aims to bolster traditional values. However, the move has faced strong condemnation from human rights organizations.

Amnesty International criticized the decision, stating: “Today, the Slovak government chose to follow the lead of countries such as Hungary, whose policies have led to an erosion of human rights.”

Michael O’Flaherty, Council of Europe Commissioner for Human Rights, had previously urged Slovak politicians not to approve the changes. He warned that “seeking to disapply specific rights because they touch upon ‘national identity’ would be fundamentally incompatible with the Slovak Republic’s international obligations.”

O’Flaherty also highlighted that the amendment denies the realities of trans and intersex people and may negatively affect human rights guarantees, including access to legal gender recognition.

### Political Context

Robert Fico has long been a divisive figure in Slovak politics. Critics argue that under his leadership, Slovakia has abandoned its pro-Western trajectory, instead aligning more closely with Hungary under Prime Minister Viktor Orbán.

Thousands of people have repeatedly rallied in Bratislava and across Slovakia to protest Fico’s pro-Russian stance and other controversial policies.

This latest constitutional amendment marks a significant shift in Slovakia’s legal and social landscape, raising concerns about the future protection of minority rights and international commitments.
https://www.breakingnews.ie/world/slovakia-passes-constitutional-amendment-recognising-only-two-sexes-1811542.html

Indore News: 60 MW Solar Power Plant At Jalud To Begin Operating By November

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**Indore’s 60-MW Solar Power Plant Nears Completion; Operations to Begin by November**

Indore Municipal Corporation (IMC) is set to commission its 60-megawatt solar power plant located at Jalud in Khargone district by November. The Rs 308-crore project, spread over 220 acres, was inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in December 2022 and is now in its final stages of completion.

This groundbreaking initiative is being financed through green bonds, with IMC successfully raising Rs 244 crore via a public issue. This makes it the country’s first renewable energy unit funded through such a mechanism, marking a significant milestone in sustainable project financing.

During a recent project review meeting, Mayor Pushyamitra Bhargav highlighted the plant’s dual purpose: promoting renewable energy and reducing electricity costs for the Narmada water project. “The plant is almost ready. Final charging tests are about to begin, and transmission line issues will soon be resolved. From November, Indore will start receiving electricity from this facility,” she stated.

Currently, IMC incurs an expenditure of approximately Rs 25 crore every month to pump water from the Narmada river at Jalud, nearly 80 km away, to Indore for domestic use. With the solar power plant operational, the civic body expects to save nearly Rs 5 crore per month in energy costs.

Mayor Bhargav further emphasized IMC’s pioneering role as the first urban local body in India to establish a renewable energy project funded through green bonds. “This initiative sets a new benchmark for civic-driven sustainability efforts,” she said.

The project not only underscores Indore’s commitment to clean energy but also exemplifies innovative financing models that can be replicated by other municipalities aiming for a greener future.
https://www.freepressjournal.in/topnews/indore-news-60-mw-solar-power-plant-at-jalud-to-begin-operating-by-november

Maharashtra CM Fadnavis Hopes Navi Mumbai Airport Will Be Named After Late Leader D. B. Patil

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**CM Fadnavis Hopes Navi Mumbai International Airport Will Be Named After Late Leader D. B. Patil**

Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has expressed optimism that the upcoming Navi Mumbai International Airport will be named in honor of the late leader D. B. Patil from the P&W party. Recently, the state government sent a formal proposal to the Union government to endorse this naming.

“I am confident that the Union government views the proposal positively and that the process is currently underway,” said CM Fadnavis. “I believe we can name the Navi Mumbai airport after D. B. Patil.”

**Naming Issue Sparks Local Protests**

However, the naming decision has become a political flashpoint within Navi Mumbai. Communities directly affected by the airport’s development—particularly the Agri-Koli population—have been advocating strongly for the airport to bear the name of their leader, D. B. Patil.

In recent weeks, these demands have been made visible through various rallies and protests. Notably, a bike rally led by NCP MP Suresh Mhatre was organized to highlight the community’s call for recognition.

**Remembering D. B. Patil’s Legacy**

D. B. Patil was a veteran leader known for his unwavering advocacy for project-affected people (PAPs). He earned widespread respect for his relentless efforts to ensure fair compensation for lands acquired during Navi Mumbai’s development.

One of his landmark achievements was the establishment of the 12.5% developed land scheme for PAPs, a milestone that continues to benefit many families.

As discussions continue, the proposal to name the airport after D. B. Patil remains a symbol of the broader struggle for justice and recognition among Navi Mumbai’s affected communities.
https://www.freepressjournal.in/mumbai/maharashtra-cm-fadnavis-hopes-navi-mumbai-airport-will-be-named-after-late-leader-d-b-patil

Centre Approves Appointment Of 24 Judges To Allahabad High Court

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**Centre Clears Appointment of 24 Judges to Allahabad High Court**

*New Delhi:* The Centre on Friday approved the appointment of 24 judges to the Allahabad High Court, following recommendations made by the Supreme Court Collegium.

A notification issued by the Union Ministry of Law and Justice stated, “In exercise of the power conferred by clause (1) of Article 217 of the Constitution of India, the President is pleased to appoint S/Shri (i) Vivek Saran, (ii) Vivek Kumar Singh, (iii) Smt Garima Prashad, (iv) Sudhanshu Chauhan, (v) Abdhesh Kumar Chaudhary, (vi) Smt Swarupama Chaturvedi, (vii) Siddharth Nandan, (viii) Kunal Ravi Singh, (ix) Indrajeet Shukla, (x) Satya Veer Singh, (xi) Dr Ajay Kumar-II, (xii) Chawan Prakash, (xiii) Divesh Chandra Samant, (xiv) Prashant Mishra-I, (xv) Tarun Saxena, (xvi) Rajeev Bharti, (xvii) Padam Narain Mishra, (xviii) Lakshmi Kant Shukla, (xix) Jai Prakash Tiwari, (xx) Devendra Singh-I, (xxi) Sanjiv Kumar, (xxii) Smt Vani Ranjan Agrawal, (xxiii) Achal Sachdev and (xxiv) Smt Babita Rani, to be Judges of the Allahabad High Court with effect from the date they assume charge of their respective offices.”

The Supreme Court Collegium, headed by Chief Justice of India B.R. Gavai, met on September 1 and approved the proposal for elevation of advocates Vivek Saran, Adnan Ahmad, Vivek Kumar Singh, Garima Prashad, Sudhanshu Chauhan, Abdhesh Kumar Chaudhary, Swarupama Chaturvedi, Jai Krishna Upadhyay, Siddharth Nandan, Kunal Ravi Singh, Indrajeet Shukla, and Satya Veer Singh to the Bench.

In a separate statement uploaded on the apex court’s website, the Collegium also approved the appointment of judicial officers Dr. Ajay Kumar-II, Chawan Prakash, Divesh Chandra Samant, Prashant Mishra-I, Tarun Saxena, Rajeev Bharti, Padam Narain Mishra, Lakshmi Kant Shukla, Jai Prakash Tiwari, Devendra Singh-I, Sanjiv Kumar, Vani Ranjan Agrawal, Achal Sachdev, and Babita Rani.

It is to be noted that the names of advocates Adnan Ahmad and Jai Krishna Upadhyay, though recommended by the Supreme Court Collegium, are yet to receive clearance from the Union government.
https://www.freepressjournal.in/india/centre-approves-appointment-of-24-judges-to-allahabad-high-court

Thane News: Bhiwandi Nizampura City Municipal Corporation Registers 3 FIRs For Illegal Road Digging And Water Connections

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**Thane: BNCMC Launches Strict Drive Against Illegal Road Digging and Water Connections**

The Bhiwandi Nizampura City Municipal Corporation (BNCMC) has initiated a stringent drive targeting violators involved in unauthorized road digging for drainage installations and illegal water connections. Acting under the directives of Municipal Commissioner Anmol Sagar, the corporation registered three FIRs against individuals accused in separate incidents.

### Incident 1: Road Dug for Drainage Line

The first case occurred at Roshan Baug near Dhobi Talav Stadium in Bhiwandi, where Asif Shaikh allegedly dug up a corporation-owned road and installed a drainage line without permission. This unauthorized activity caused a financial loss of ₹98,000 to the corporation. Consequently, an FIR was lodged against him at the Bhoiwada police station under sections 324(4), 324(5), and 326(B) of the Bharatiya Nyay Sanhita.

### Incident 2: Illegal Water Connections

In the second incident, Naseem Akhtar Ansari, a plumber, was found to have tapped into the corporation’s main water pipeline at Roshan Baug without approval. Officials confirmed that he had created seven illegal water connections, resulting in a loss of ₹84,000 to the BNCMC. An FIR was registered against Naseem under sections 324(4), 326(A), and 303(2) of the Bharatiya Nyay Sanhita at the Bhoiwada police station.

### Incident 3: Unauthorized Pipeline Taps

The third case was reported on Dargah Road, Bhiwandi, where Samir Mohammad Yusuf Momin allegedly tapped five illegal connections from the main water pipeline without the corporation’s consent. Action is being taken in accordance with relevant laws.

### Enforcement Team

The drive was conducted by a team led by civic officer Nafees Momin, along with engineer Sandeep Patnawar, Sarfaraz Ansari, Viraj Bhoir, and supporting staff members.

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https://www.freepressjournal.in/mumbai/thane-news-bhiwandi-nizampura-city-municipal-corporation-registers-3-firs-for-illegal-road-digging-and-water-connections

Jon Rahm hits first tee shot as Ryder Cup gets under way

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Europe’s Jon Rahm got the 45th Ryder Cup underway in a frenzied atmosphere on the first tee at Bethpage Black on Friday. On a day when United States President Donald Trump was due to visit, Europe hoped to make a strong start in their defence of the trophy.

Rahm was playing alongside Tyrrell Hatton in the opening foursomes match against Bryson DeChambeau and Justin Thomas of the US. The hosts were backed by the majority in a lively crowd, but it was Rahm who had the honour of playing the first shot at 7:10 am local time (12:10 pm UK).

The Spaniard played a nervy opener before DeChambeau launched the host’s challenge with a superb straight drive, followed by a birdie putt to win the hole.

Prior to the start, DeChambeau and Thomas, carrying a US flag, had entered the arena to a huge roar from the crowd gathered in the 5,000-capacity grandstand at the first tee. US captain Keegan Bradley had earlier encouraged fans to raise the volume, adding to the vibrant atmosphere.

There was also an early taste of the potential hostility to come as European linchpin Rory McIlroy was booed when shown practising on the large screen.

The opening match was set to be followed by three more in the morning session. In match two, Ludvig Aberg and Matt Fitzpatrick faced world number one Scottie Scheffler and Russell Henley. Europe’s strong pairing of world number two McIlroy and Tommy Fleetwood, who both won their foursomes outings in 2023, took on Collin Morikawa and Harris English. Robert MacIntyre and Viktor Hovland completed the morning proceedings against Xander Schauffele and Patrick Cantlay.

Trump’s visit prompted a huge increase in security measures, and he was expected to arrive at Bethpage prior to the start of the afternoon fourballs session. Gates opened at 5 am to allow the crowd ample time to enter the course, with many heading straight to the first tee to soak up the electric atmosphere.
https://www.breakingnews.ie/sport/jon-rahm-hits-first-tee-shot-as-ryder-cup-gets-under-way-1811321.html

BREAKING: Shraddha Kapoor announces animated THEATRICAL film Chhoti Stree; Dinesh Vijan reveals, “It’ll end with a scene from Stree 3”

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Ayushmann Khurrana, blockbuster producer Dinesh Vijan of Maddock Films, director Aditya Sarpotdar, writer Niren Bhatt, and the much-loved Shraddha Kapoor, known for her role in *Stree*, attended the trailer launch of Maddock’s highly awaited film, *Thamma*.

At the event, Shraddha Kapoor made a huge announcement about an exciting addition to the Maddock Horror Comedy Universe.

**BREAKING: Shraddha Kapoor Announces Animated THEATRICAL Film *Chhoti Stree*; Dinesh Vijan Reveals It Will End with a Scene from *Stree 3***

Shraddha Kapoor began by saying, “This is my most favourite part of the Maddock Horror Comedy Universe. When Dinoo (Dinesh Vijan) told me about it, I told him, ‘Sach mein aapka naam Dinesh Vision hi hona chahiye!’”

Then she dropped the big news: “Guys, Maddock Horror Comedy Universe is coming out with *Chhoti Stree* as an animated film! It will be released in theatres. It’ll be a dhamaal film for kids, families, basically, for everyone.”

She further added, “It’s a really exciting time for India. It really feels amazing to be a part of this universe.”

Producer Dinesh Vijan shared more details about *Chhoti Stree*: “Kids and adults all watch *Stree* together. The interesting bit about *Chhoti Stree* is the way Amar and Niren have conceptualized it. It will end with a scene from *Stree 3*. So, it will transform from an animation to a live-action movie in the end. It will also answer the question — ki *Stree* ki back story kya hai. It will arrive six months before *Stree 3*.”

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### Maddock Horror Comedy Universe Logo Launch

Another big announcement at the *Thamma* trailer launch was the unveiling of the logo of the Maddock Horror Comedy Universe.

Shraddha Kapoor said, “We can call Dinesh Vijan as Dinesh Vision. He expanded his vision a lot after *Stree*. He gave us films like *Bhediya*, *Munjya*, and now *Thamma* is all set to release. Toh hum sabko aur zyada mazaa aane waala hai.”

She continued, “I feel that to be part of a film like that was very special. We want to now do films which are rooted in our culture. Thankfully, the audience is giving us that validation. That is something very amazing as we become a part of moving cinema forward. This is something that we are making in India. Abhi bahar gaav ke universes ko bhool jaao! Hamara khud ka desi horror comedy universe hai yaar!”

—

### About *Thamma*

*Thamma* stars Ayushmann Khurrana, Rashmika Mandanna, Paresh Rawal, and Nawazuddin Siddiqui. The film is directed by Aditya Sarpotdar, famed for *Munjya*, and is slated to release on Diwali this year.

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**Also Read:** [*Thamma* Trailer Launch: Shraddha Kapoor Does a GRAND Launch of Logo of MHCU aka Maddock Horror Comedy Universe; Says, “Abhi Bahar Gaav Ke Universes Ko Bhool Jaao!”](#)

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### Related Pages

– *Stree 3* Box Office Collection
– Bollywood News Live Updates
https://www.bollywoodhungama.com/news/bollywood/breaking-shraddha-kapoor-announces-animated-theatrical-film-chhoti-stree-dinesh-vijan-reveals-itll-end-scene-stree-3/

Pimpri-Chinchwad Woman Threatened With AI-Generated Obscene Photos By Close Friend

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**Pimpri-Chinchwad: Colleague and Close Friend Arrested for Threatening Woman with AI-Generated Obscene Photos**

Officials announced on Friday that the person accused of threatening a woman by circulating AI-generated obscene photos of her on Instagram is her colleague and close friend. The accused allegedly fabricated a scenario in which he portrayed himself as helping the female colleague to gain her sympathy.

According to police, even after making threats under the guise of social media, he assisted the woman in visiting the police station and filing a complaint about the incident, pretending to be her genuine friend. However, his deception was short-lived. The Cyber Police Station arrested him after conducting a thorough technical investigation.

### Accused Identified

The accused has been identified as Sudarshan Sunil Jadhav, 25, a resident of Chakan and native of Washim. He works at a private company in Chakan.

### Rejected Romantic Proposal Led to Threats

Police revealed that Sudarshan had asked his 20-year-old female colleague to enter into a romantic relationship. The woman politely rejected his proposal, explaining that she was not ready. In response, reportedly out of anger, Sudarshan secretly took her photos, created a fake social media account, and sent obscene messages to her from it.

He further used AI technology to create obscene photos of the woman. He sent these photos and messages to the woman and threatened to circulate them on social media platforms.

### Deceptive ‘Friendship’ to Gain Trust

A police official stated, “The accused did not stop there. Wanting to appear as her ‘knight in shining armour,’ he approached the woman when she was clearly distressed and asked her what was wrong.” Trusting him, the woman confided in him about the threats she had received.

The accused then took the victim to the Chikhali Police Station and helped her file an official complaint.

### Cyber Police Conduct Parallel Investigation

Recognizing the severity of the crime after the First Information Report (FIR) was filed, Pimpri-Chinchwad Commissioner of Police Vinay Kumar Choubey ordered the Cyber Police to carry out a parallel investigation.

The Cyber Police collaborated with social media companies and mobile service providers to identify the owner of the relevant mobile number.

Deputy Commissioner of Police (Crime), Dr. Shivaji Pawar, said, “When questioned, the suspected mobile number holder claimed that his phone was lost a few days prior and that he had filed a police complaint.”

Following this, the Cyber Police obtained the IP address of the device used for the fake social media account and traced a new mobile number linked to the activity. Based on this evidence, Sudarshan Jadhav was apprehended from his residence.

He confessed to the crime, admitting that he acted out of anger due to the rejection.

### Police Team Involved

This operation was carried out by PI Ravikiran Nale, API Pravin Swami, PSI Prakash Katkade, and Police Constables Hemant Kharat, Subhash Patil, Pravin Shelkande, Vaishali Barge, and Swapnil Khanse.

The investigation was guided and supervised by Pimpri-Chinchwad Commissioner of Police Vinay Kumar Choubey, Joint Commissioner of Police Dr. Shashikant Mahavarkar, Additional Commissioner of Police Sarang Awhad, Deputy Commissioner of Police Dr. Shivaji Pawar, and Assistant Commissioner of Police (Crime 1) Dr. Vishal Hire.
https://www.freepressjournal.in/pune/pimpri-chinchwad-woman-threatened-with-ai-generated-obscene-photos-by-close-friend