Monthly Archives: November 2025

Apple’s big smart home push is finally set for early 2026

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It looks like Apple is finally ready to take the smart home seriously. A new report claims the company is launching its first smart displays in early 2026, marking a significant step forward in its smart home strategy. However, Apple faces a huge uphill battle against well-established rivals like Google and Amazon.

### Apple’s Smart Home Strategy: What’s New?

Apple’s efforts in the smart home space have always felt somewhat half-baked. The HomePod, while an excellent speaker, has never really been the centerpiece of a connected home ecosystem. That could change soon. According to recent reports, Apple plans to kick off a serious smart home push around March-April 2026.

This new initiative is expected to begin with the company’s first-ever smart display. There will reportedly be two versions: a standard speaker-base model (imagine an Apple-fied version of Google’s Nest Hub) and a wall-mounted variant. This product launch isn’t happening in isolation—it’s set to coincide with a major AI upgrade and a much-improved Siri experience.

Moreover, this smart display is just the starting point. Apple is said to be laying the foundation for a broader smart home security ecosystem that will include cameras and other devices later in the year.

### Why This Matters

Apple’s entry into the smart display market is a big deal because, quite frankly, it is very late to the game. Google, with its Nest Hub lineup, and Amazon, with its Echo Show series, have dominated the smart home space for nearly a decade.

These companies have not only sold hardware but have also created massive, sticky ecosystems deeply integrated into millions of homes worldwide. They have built what the report describes as “deep moats” around their platforms—making it difficult for newcomers to compete.

Apple’s biggest challenge isn’t just releasing a good product; it’s convincing users who are already comfortable with Alexa or Google Assistant to either switch or add another smart ecosystem to their homes. Given that Apple’s previous efforts have often felt siloed, this will be no easy task.

### Can Apple Catch Up?

With this upcoming launch, Apple is making a bold bet on the smart home future. But will their newly introduced devices and improved Siri be enough to surpass Amazon and Google? Only time will tell.

What do you think? Can Apple succeed in the smart home arena, or is it too little too late?

**Is Apple poised to surpass Amazon and Google in the smart home space?**

– Yes
– No

Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!
https://www.phonearena.com/news/apples-big-smart-home-push-is-finally-set-for-early-2026_id175393

Restaurant Tycoon 3: Drive Thru guide

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**Restaurant Tycoon 3 Drive Thru Update Guide**

*Restaurant Tycoon 3* is a popular tycoon simulation game developed by Ultraw Games. In this engaging title, you get to open your own restaurant and build the best food chain on the server. With its latest update, the game has introduced an exciting new feature — the Drive Thru!

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### What is Drive Thru in Restaurant Tycoon 3?

On November 2, 2025, *Restaurant Tycoon 3* launched a major update featuring the Drive Thru. This new element allows players to spawn cars on their plot and deliver food directly to them, adding a fresh layer of strategy and interaction to your restaurant empire.

Since the core gameplay focuses on growing and managing your tycoon business, the Drive Thru feature is a valuable addition that lets you serve more customers efficiently.

The developers have also introduced two new staff members called “Operators,” who are dedicated to managing the Drive Thru. Upgrading these Operators to their maximum levels is key to maximizing the potential of this feature.

Additionally, players can redeem exclusive in-game rewards by using the latest promo codes.

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### How to Use the Drive Thru Feature in Restaurant Tycoon 3

Follow these simple steps to utilize the Drive Thru feature in your restaurant:

1. **Purchase the Drive Thru Upgrade**
First, go to the “Upgrades” section in the game menu and buy the Drive Thru upgrade.

2. **Build Your Drive Thru Path**
Enter build mode and click the “Drive Thru” option. You will have access to seven different components to create a path on your plot, which will facilitate the take-away service.

3. **Design the Road Layout**
– Use the **Entrance** segment to mark the start of your Drive Thru road.
– Incorporate **Straight lanes** and **Turn lanes** to customize the path customers will follow.

4. **Set Up Service Blocks**
There are two types of Service blocks you need:
– The **Receiver** block: where customers place their orders, positioned immediately after the Entrance.
– The **Take-away window**: placed preferably near your kitchen to speed up food delivery.

5. **Manage Waiting Area for Cars**
After placing an order, cars will wait near the takeaway block marked with a “Stop” sign.

6. **Place the Drive Thru Window**
Purchase the Drive Thru window from build mode and place it next to the stop point. This window allows your Operators to deliver food to customers efficiently.

7. **Mark the Exit**
Finally, add the **Exit** segment to mark the Drive Thru’s exit point for vehicles.

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### Tips for Success

– Upgrade your **Operators** to their highest level for faster and smoother service.
– Position the takeaway window close to your kitchen to reduce delivery time.
– Experiment with different path designs to optimize customer flow.

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### Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

**Q: When is the next update for Restaurant Tycoon 3 coming out?**
A: The next update is scheduled for November 7, 2025.

**Q: How many components are included in the Drive Thru feature?**
A: There are seven different Drive Thru components available in build mode.

**Q: How do I purchase the Drive Thru feature?**
A: The Drive Thru upgrade can be bought from the “Upgrades” section in the game menu.

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For more tips on getting started, don’t miss our [Beginner’s Guide to Restaurant Tycoon 3](#) to make the most of your first few hours in the game.

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*Edited by Adarsh J Kumar*

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*Don’t forget to check out our latest Roblox codes for 2025 to unlock exclusive in-game rewards!*
https://www.sportskeeda.com/roblox-news/restaurant-tycoon-3-drive-thru-guide

Goodbye Old Friend: Seatguru Has Shut Down After 24 Years Of Service

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Veterans of the travel game might remember SeatGuru, a website founded in 2001 that became an essential tool for travelers worldwide.

SeatGuru published detailed airline seat maps and seat ratings, allowing users to pick — and avoid — seats on almost any airline in the skies.

Sadly, as of yesterday, SeatGuru is no longer available.
https://loyaltylobby.com/2025/11/02/goodbye-old-friend-seatguru-has-shut-down-after-24-years-of-service/?omhide=true

Mercedes Mone sends a message to Tony Khan following major AEW announcement

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Mercedes Mone is set to step foot into the Blood & Guts match later this month for the first time in her career.

This match type is known for its chaos and brutality, making it one of the most barbaric contests in professional wrestling. Fans can expect an intense and hard-hitting encounter as Mercedes takes on this challenging environment.
https://www.sportskeeda.com/aew/news-mercedes-mone-sends-message-tony-khan-following-major-aew-announcement

NYC principal under probe showered taxpayer funds on pals — including Jay Z’s bankrupt ex-manager and wife

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**NYC Principal Under Probe Showered Taxpayer Funds on Pals Including Jay-Z’s Bankrupt Ex-Manager and Wife**
*By Susan Edelman | NY Post | November 2, 2025*

A Queens principal who counts former Jay-Z manager Damon Dash and his wife as close pals has allegedly turned her school into a slush fund for friends, according to whistleblowers.

Aneesha Jacko, principal of PS 35 Nathaniel Woodhull in Hollis, is accused of spending tens of thousands in taxpayer funds to purchase books published by her associates, hiring others as consultants, and prominently featuring their brands on a sprawling mural in the school lobby — essentially turning it into a billboard, staffers say.

“It absolutely blows my mind that she is still allowed to run our school,” said one faculty member. Jacko has led PS 35 since October 2020.

The Special Commissioner of Investigation (SCI) for city schools has been probing complaints about Jacko’s spending for more than three years, spokesperson Jason Brooks confirmed. “The case is still open, and therefore the SCI cannot comment,” he said.

Officials have not accused Jacko of any criminal wrongdoing at this time.

However, the SCI issued a report in 2022 faulting Jacko for granting excessive overtime to a favored teacher, resulting in $10,500 in improper payments. The independent agency also referred three other complaints to the New York City Department of Education for further investigation.

Jacko’s closest associates include Damon Dash — Jay-Z’s ex-business partner and co-founder of Roc-A-Fella Records — and Dash’s wife Raquel Horn. Dash is a controversial figure who overcame drug dealing in his youth but recently filed for bankruptcy to avoid $5 million in lawsuit debts. He currently owes New York $2.1 million in back taxes.

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*Read the full story at nypost.com.*

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**Topics:** Business/Economy | Conspiracy | Education | History
**Keywords:** bankrupt, funds, principal, taxpayers

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*“Must be nice to be Jay-Z’s bankrupt ex-manager.”*
https://freerepublic.com/focus/f-chat/4350209/posts

San Antonio Spurs vs Phoenix Suns Preview and Prediction – Nov. 2 | 2025-26 NBA Season

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The San Antonio Spurs will hit the road to face the Phoenix Suns in one of eight scheduled league games this Sunday. The Suns have started the season with an impressive 5-0 record, marking their best start in 59 years. Their most recent game was a home victory against the Miami Heat on Thursday, winning 107-101.

For the Spurs, center Victor Wembanyama showcased an outstanding performance with 27 points, 18 rebounds, and six assists. Sophomore guard Stephon Castle contributed 21 points, six rebounds, and eight assists.

On the other hand, the Suns currently hold a 2-4 record. They snapped a four-game losing streak on Friday with a commanding 118-65 home win over the Utah Jazz. Guard Devin Booker led the charge, recording 36 points, five rebounds, and nine assists. Grayson Allen also made a significant impact with 14 points, seven rebounds, and six assists.

**San Antonio Spurs vs. Phoenix Suns Game Details**
– **Date & Time:** Sunday at 8 p.m. ET
– **Location:** PHX Arena, Phoenix, Arizona

**Betting Lines:**
– Moneyline: Spurs (-230) vs. Suns (+190)
– Spread: Spurs (-5.5) vs. Suns (+5.5)
– Total (O/U): Over 227.5 (-110) / Under 227.5 (-110)

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### Head-to-Head and Recent Matchups

The Spurs have historically held the advantage against the Suns, leading their head-to-head meetings 139-90 out of 229 games. However, Phoenix has been more competitive recently, winning six of the last ten matchups.

Their most recent meeting was on April 11, with the Suns winning convincingly 117-98 at home. In that game, Suns forward Ryan Dunn posted 26 points and 11 rebounds, while Spurs forward Julian Champagnie added 23 points and five rebounds.

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### Predicted Starting Lineups

**San Antonio Spurs**
– PG: Dylan Harper
– SG: Stephon Castle
– SF: Devin Vassell
– PF: Harrison Barnes
– C: Victor Wembanyama

**Phoenix Suns**
– PG: Devin Booker
– SG: Grayson Allen
– SF: Royce O’Neal
– PF: Ryan Dunn
– C: Mark Williams

*Note: Starting lineups are subject to change ahead of tipoff.*

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### Betting Tips

Victor Wembanyama’s over/under is set at 28 points. Currently averaging 30.2 points per game this season, the safer bet leans toward the under. Similarly, Devin Booker has an over/under of 29 points and is averaging 30.3 points per game, making the under the safer choice here as well.

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### Game Prediction

The Suns enter this game as underdogs against the Spurs. San Antonio holds a 69.7% win probability compared to Phoenix’s 34.5%. Given recent form and player performances, the Spurs are favored to continue their strong start with another victory on the road.

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Stay tuned for expert picks and further analysis as game day approaches!
https://www.sportskeeda.com/basketball/san-antonio-spurs-vs-phoenix-suns-preview-prediction-nov-2-2025-26-nba-season

XRP Price Prediction: $2.60 Resistance the Last Hurdle Before A Potential Move to $3.00

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XRP Nears $2.60 Resistance as Traders Await a Breakout

XRP is currently approaching a key resistance level at $2.60, capturing the attention of traders and investors alike. The cryptocurrency’s price action is closely watched as it nears this critical hurdle, which could determine its short-term direction.

A decisive close above $2.72 could pave the way for XRP to target the $3.00 mark, signaling strong bullish momentum. On the other hand, if the price falls below $2.54, there is a risk of a decline towards the $2.02 support level, indicating a potential pullback.

Market participants are eagerly awaiting clear signals as XRP tests these important price points, which will likely influence trading decisions in the near term.

Read more about this analysis and other cryptocurrency updates on Cryptonews.

https://cryptonews.com/news/xrp-price-prediction-2-60-resistance-the-last-hurdle-before-a-potential-move-to-3-00/

Making reference to itself Crossword Clue

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That should be all the information you need to solve the **Making reference to itself** crossword clue!

Be sure to check out more clues and answers on our [Crossword Answers](#) page to enhance your solving experience.

The post **Making reference to itself Crossword Clue** appeared first on **Try Hard Guides**.
https://tryhardguides.com/making-reference-to-itself-crossword-clue/

Columbia Sportswear Had A Flat Quarter, But Underlying Trends Are Not That Good

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**Columbia Sportswear Had a Flat Quarter, But Underlying Trends Are Not That Good**
*Nov. 02, 2025 | 8:14 AM ET*

Columbia Sportswear Company (COLM) delivered slightly better-than-expected Q3 results, but underlying trends remain challenged, especially in the U.S. and direct-to-consumer channels. While the top-line performance was supported by earlier wholesale shipments, the company faced pressure on the bottom line due to impairments.

COLM continues to face margin pressure from tariffs and rising selling, general, and administrative expenses (SG&A). Operating margins for the full fiscal year 2025 are expected to decline, with further headwinds anticipated in fiscal year 2026.

On the positive side, product and marketing innovation—including new campaigns and higher-priced items—offer some promising opportunities. However, the overall impact of these initiatives remains uncertain at this stage.

With a valuation at approximately 15 times earnings and a flat growth outlook, COLM appears more attractive than it did a year ago. Nevertheless, a cautious **Hold** rating is warranted given the challenges ahead.

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### Q3 2025 Results Highlights

Columbia Sportswear reported Q3 2025 results that slightly exceeded expectations on the top line, driven mainly by earlier wholesale shipments. However, impairments impacted the bottom line, reflecting persistent operational challenges.

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### Operational Perspective

This analysis is provided by Quipus Capital, a long-only investment firm focused on evaluating companies from an operational, buy-and-hold perspective. Unlike market-driven analyses, our research emphasizes understanding long-term earnings power, competitive dynamics, and investing in companies we would be comfortable holding regardless of short-term price fluctuations.

Most of our recommendations result in “Hold” ratings by design, reflecting a cautious approach in a generally bullish market. Only a small fraction of companies are deemed Buy candidates at any given time. Hold ratings offer valuable information for future investors and encourage a healthy dose of skepticism.

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### Disclaimer

All articles represent the author’s opinions only and are provided “as is” without any warranty. They do not constitute professional investment advice. Readers should conduct their own due diligence and consult licensed professionals before making investment decisions. The author disclaims any liability for actions taken based on the information contained herein.

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### Analyst’s Disclosure

I/we have no stock, option, or similar derivative positions in any companies mentioned, nor plans to initiate any within the next 72 hours. This article expresses my own opinions. I am not receiving compensation for it other than from Seeking Alpha. I have no business relationships with any companies mentioned.

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### Seeking Alpha Disclosure

Past performance is no guarantee of future results. No recommendation or advice is given regarding the suitability of any investment. Views expressed may not reflect those of Seeking Alpha as a whole. Seeking Alpha is not a licensed securities dealer, broker, U.S. investment adviser, or investment bank. Our analysts include both professional and individual investors who may not be licensed or certified by any regulatory body.

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https://seekingalpha.com/article/4836746-columbia-sportswear-had-a-flat-quarter-but-underlying-trends-are-not-that-good?source=feed_all_articles