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Credible iPad Air leak contradicts M4 chip rumor, points to M3

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apple ipad air display on couch

Ryan Haines / Android AuthorityTL;DR

A rumor recently suggested that 2025’s iPad Air would pack Apple’s high-end M4 chipset.
A more credible leak now indicates that the upcoming iPad Air will likely pack the M3 chip.
Apple will likely name its forthcoming budget phone the iPhone SE 4, not the iPhone 16E.

Last week, a Bloomberg report stated that Apple may skip the M3 chip and directly upgrade the iPad Air from M2 to M4. However, a more plausible leak has now contradicted the previous rumor, suggesting that the M4 SoC will remain exclusive to the latest iPad Pro and Mac computers.

Reputable leaker Evan Blass has found official references to some of Apple’s upcoming products, revealing some of their potential names, display sizes, and processors. For starters, the iPad Air will seemingly pack the M3 chip rather than the M4. So, those seeking a tablet fueled by Apple’s latest chip may still need to opt for the highest-end Pro variant. Otherwise, like its predecessor, the iPad Air M3 will likely offer 11-inch and 13-inch variants.Similarly, the shared references suggest that Apple’s budget phone will be called the iPhone SE 4 instead of the iPhone 16E. This indicates that the company may want to maintain a clear distinction between its iPhone lines and not associate its entry-level model with the flagship iPhone 16 series.Beyond that, the image mentions an unreleased iPad 11, suggesting that Apple may launch it with the iPad Air M3 and iPhone SE 4. This isn’t particularly surprising, but it adds more weight to previous leaks.Apple will likely reveal the entry-level and mid-range iPads, along with the next-gen iPhone SE, in March. It remains to be seen whether the company will deliver the announcements via press releases or hold a dedicated media event.
Got a tip? Talk to us! Email our staff at news@androidauthority.com. You can stay anonymous or get credit for the info, it’s your choice.Comments

The European Commission wants Elon Musk to reveal the secrets of the X recommendation algorithm (don’t we all?)

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The European Commission wants Elon Musk to reveal the secrets of the X recommendation algorithm (don’t we all?)

Elon Musk — or his company, X, at least — has been given until mid-February to provide the European Commission with details of how its recommendation algorithm works.

The request is part of a wider investigation by the EC to ensure that X is complying with the Digital Services Act (DSA). Many would be interested to learn something about how the recommendation system of this and other social media platforms works, and the Commission has further demands as well.

See also:

Citing a desire to “make the online environment fair, safe, and democratic for all European citizens”, Executive Vice-President for Tech Sovereignty, Security and Democracy, Henna Virkkunen, stressed the importance of ensuring X’s compliance with European legislations.

In all, there are three new measures being added to the existing investigatory proceedings into X:

First, the Commission is requesting the company to provide internal documentation on its recommender systems and any recent changes made to it, by 15 February 2025. 

In addition, a ‘retention order’ requires the platform to preserve internal documents and information regarding future changes to the design and functioning of its recommender algorithms, for the period between 17 January 2025 and 31 December 2025, unless the Commission’s ongoing investigation is concluded beforehand. 

Finally, the Commission issued a request for access to certain of X’s commercial APIs, technical interfaces to its content that allow direct fact-finding on content moderation and virality of accounts.  

The latest additions put X under further scrutiny in a probe which has been going on since 2023.

Image credit: L9871456 / Dreamstime.com

MALAYSIAN INTERNATIONAL COCOA FAIR (MICF) 2025 PRE-LAUNCH AND MEDIA SESSION

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MALAYSIAN INTERNATIONAL COCOA FAIR (MICF) 2025 PRE-LAUNCH AND MEDIA SESSION


“MyCocoa Delight: Indulge, Meet & Connect”
KOTA KINABALU, Malaysia, Jan. 20, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — The Malaysian International Cocoa Fair (MICF) 2025 will be held for the first time in Sabah from May 24 to May 27, 2025, at the Sabah International Convention Centre (SICC). The pre-launch ceremony was officiated by YB Datuk Chan Foong Hin, Deputy Minister of Plantation and Commodities, at the Hilton Hotel, Kota Kinabalu.

YB Datuk Chan Foong Hin and Director General of the Malaysian Cocoa Board, Datuk Dr. Ramle Hj Kasin, together with industry leaders on stage at the Pre-Launch Ceremony of MICF 2025, marking a significant journey towards global recognition of the nation’s cocoa industry.

According to YB Datuk Chan, Sabah was chosen as the location for MICF 2025 due to its critical role in Malaysia’s cocoa industry, contributing 60% of the country’s total cocoa production. He emphasized that MICF 2025 serves as a platform to promote Malaysia’s cocoa internationally, discuss key industry issues, and strengthen global collaboration in the sector.
With the theme “MyCocoa Delight: Indulge, Meet & Connect,” MICF 2025 will feature a variety of activities, including:

Cocoa Product Exhibition: Introducing innovations from local and global producers, including premium and artisanal chocolates.
International Conference: Discussing cocoa processing technology, premium cocoa production, and global market trends.
Business Networking Program: Creating collaboration opportunities for industry players.
Field Visits: Offering participants an understanding of the cocoa value chain.

YBhg. Datuk Dr. Ramle Hj Kasin, Director-General of the Malaysian Cocoa Board (MCB), announced the three main components of MICF 2025: Malaysian International Cocoa Conference (MICC), Malaysian International Cocoa Exhibition (MICE), and Malaysian International Cocoa Dinner (MICD). The event is expected to draw over 1,000 conference participants, 25,000 trade and public visitors, and more than 100 exhibitors from around the globe.
YB Datuk Chan also highlighted Malaysia’s potential, particularly Sabah, to reclaim its position as a leading cocoa cultivation hub in Asia. He stated, “Sabah was once a major player in cocoa production, and now, with cocoa prices at a historic high, we have an opportunity to revitalize this industry.”
MICF 2025 not only emphasizes the development of the cocoa sector but also provides an opportunity for tourists to explore the natural beauty of Sabah. Visitors can enjoy attractions such as Mount Kinabalu, pristine islands, and local cultural experiences, making MICF 2025 a unique blend of trade and tourism.
Supported by international organizations like the International Cocoa Organization (ICCO) and the Cocoa Association of Asia (CAA), MICF 2025 aims to establish Malaysia as a regional cocoa hub and strengthen the country’s position in the global market.
 

AI is helping firms feel optmistic in 2025, but lack of skills is not helping

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Manager is verifying the validity, security, approving requests, quality assurance, investment contracts. Online digital document work, paperless office. online survey. Checking mark up on check boxes


More businesses are optimistic about 2025 compared with 2023Cash, skills shortages and trade wars are all causes for concernThree in four leaders see AI as a top-three priority technologyThree in five (62%) global business leaders are optimistic about their organization’s outlook this year, which is an six percentage point increase over 2023, new research from Capgemini has revealed.In the year ahead, companies are set to continue investing in new projects despite market uncertainty, with exactly half of global organizations set to up their spending, its report found.Despite the initially positive outlook, some key hurdles remain. Thankfully, though, they are many ofthe same hurdles businesses have been facing for several years, which puts them in good stead to overcome them.Business optimism is climbingTop investment areas for 2025 include customer experience, engineering, research and development, innovation, and supply chain transformation, with artificial intelligence set to revolutionize each of these areas.That said, troubling economic conditions continue to restrict the free flow of cash – 56% are planning to reduce costs even further, rather than grow revenue in order to tackle limited funds.The ongoing skills shortage also continues to present its own challenges, with three in five (61%) UK leaders citing tech skills shortages as a competitive barrier, even though they want to increase investments in tech by up to 13% this year.Newer challenges are also bubbling to the surface, with four in five businesses seeking to diversify supply chains in order to reduce their reliance on China amid the US-China trade war that continues to play out – nearly three-quarters are now worried about potential trade tariffs and other measures.Sign up to the TechRadar Pro newsletter to get all the top news, opinion, features and guidance your business needs to succeed!“As we look to 2025, business leaders are navigating uncertainty with an attitude of confidence and resilience – two qualities that our research shows they are looking to instill in their organizations through technology investment,” noted Capgemini CEO Aiman Ezzat.Looking ahead, three in four execs globally ranked AI in their top three priority technologies for the year ahead, with the tech showing now signs of slowing down.You might also like

Sungrow Hydrogen Won The Largest Supply Contract For The 320MW Green Ammonia Project In Oman!

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Sungrow Hydrogen won the largest supply contract for the 320MW green ammonia project in Oman!


HEFEI, China, Jan. 20, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — On January 18th, Sungrow Hydrogen signed supply agreement with ACME Group and will provide water electrolysis hydrogen production equipment for the 320MW green ammonia project in Oman. It also marks the official start of the cooperation between ACME Group and Sungrow Hydrogen in the Middle East.

Signing ceremony between ACME Group and Sungrow Hydrogen

According to the agreement, Sungrow Hydrogen will provide multiple sets of 1000Nm³/h ALK hydrogen production equipment and flexible green hydrogen production solutions for the project. The delivery will be completed within 2025.
The project is the core part of ACME’s green energy strategy in the Middle East is anticipated to begin operations in 2026. Upon commencement, the initial capacity for green ammonia production will be 300 tonnes per day. Undoubtedly, it has the potential to greatly strengthen Oman’s position in the global green hydrogen industry in the future.
Sungrow Hydrogen’s competitiveness in the global green hydrogen industry is on the rise. In 2024, its electrolyzer products were set to receive prestigious certifications from CE and TÜV and its 20MW Water Electrolysis Hydrogen Production Empirical Platform (the largest one worldwide) has been granted with Laboratory Accreditation Certificate by China National Accreditation Service for Conformity Assessment (CNAS). Additionally, Plant No.2 of the Sungrow Hydrogen Intelligent Manufacturing Centre has recently become operational. This facility features China’s first automated assembly line for ALK electrolyzers, which is expected to boost production efficiency by 60%. As a result, Sungrow Hydrogen’s annual production capacity has now increased to 3GW.
With advanced technology and efficient service, Sungrow Hydrogen actively participates in multiple large-scale integrated green hydrogen, ammonia, and methanol demonstration projects worldwide. In the future, Sungrow Hydrogen will continue to collaborate with global partners to jointly advance the development of green hydrogen projects, powering up the global green hydrogen industry.

 

OPPO teases Find N5’s unreal thinness & unexpected water resistance

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OPPO teases Find N5's unreal thinness & unexpected water resistance

The OPPO Find N5 will become the world’s thinnest foldable, as per OPPO’s CEO. Its thinness appeared online before, and now the chief of OPPO Find series, Zhou Yibao, has decided to add more fuel to the fire. He shared images that tease the Find N5’s unreal thinness, while an unexpected water rating has also been reaveled.
The OPPO Find N5 will offer unreal thinness and unexpected water resistance rating
If you check out the four images in the gallery below, you’ll see what we’re dealing with. The phone, in its unfolded form, is stacked next to two coins, four credit cards, and an iPhone. Needless to say, it will be immensely thin.

The coins and credit cards are very revealing, but the fact that this phone will essentially be half the thickness of the iPhone (we’re presuming that the iPhone 16 Pro or Pro Max are used here), is truly stunning.
If we do some math, that puts its thickness when unfolded at 3.5-4mm. As a reminder, the HONOR Magic V3 is the thinnest book-style foldable these days, it’s 4.35mm thick when unfolded. The OPPO Find N3 aka OnePlus Open, is 5.8mm thick when unfolded. So this will be quite the difference.
All of this points to true thinness when folded too
Considering how thin the phone will be when unfolded, it can’t exactly be thick when folded either, can it? That phone will definitely feel like a regular slab phone in the hand when folded.
Another detail that Yibao revealed is the phone’s water rating. As a reminder, the OPPO Find N3 aka OnePlus Open offered only IPX4 rating for splash resistance. Well, the OPPO Find N5 will arrive with an IPX8 and IPX9 certification.
In other words, that means that this phone will become the only foldable to offer protection against high temperature and pressure water jets. Needless to say, that’s quite surprising, but certainly a welcomed addition.
The OPPO Find N5 will become official next month, though we still don’t know the exact date.

Why IPads Stand Out | Premium Build, Powerful Processors & More

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Why IPads Stand Out | Premium Build, Powerful Processors & More

Tablets have become indispensable for work, entertainment, and creativity, offering versatility in a portable package. Among the myriad of options available, Apple’s iPads consistently lead the market, renowned for their premium design, seamless performance, and robust ecosystem. iPads remain a favorite for their unmatched reliability and long-term value. Here are five key reasons why iPads stand out in the crowded tablet market.

Why iPads stand out?

1. Premium Build Quality

One of the key reasons why iPads stand out is their premium build quality. Apple ensures every iPad, from the base model to the high-end iPad Pro, features a sleek aluminum body that feels both sturdy and luxurious. Unlike most Android tablets, where premium materials are reserved for flagship models, Apple maintains this quality across its entire lineup. This consistency in design and build is a major factor for Apple’s reign in the tablet market.

2. Regular and Long-Term Software Updates

Another reason why iPads stand out is Apple’s commitment to regular and long-term software updates. These updates not only keep the devices secure but also introduce new features that enhance the user experience. While Android tablets often struggle with short-lived update cycles, Apple provides years of reliable support, ensuring that even older iPads remain functional and up-to-date. This long-term support is a crucial aspect of why iPads stand out among competitors.

3. Seamless Ecosystem Integration

The seamless integration within Apple’s ecosystem is a significant factor on why people favor ipads. Features like Handoff, AirDrop, and Universal Control make multitasking across Apple devices effortless. Whether you’re transferring files, continuing tasks, or using the same peripherals across devices, iPads work flawlessly with iPhones, Macs, and Apple Watches. While Android has made progress in cross-device connectivity, Apple’s ecosystem remains a prime example of why iPads stand out.

4. Top-Tier Performance

Performance is yet another reason why iPads stand out in the tablet market. Apple’s custom A-series and M-series processors deliver exceptional speed and efficiency. Whether you need a tablet for everyday tasks, gaming, or professional work like video editing, there’s an iPad to suit your needs. This powerful performance ensures why iPads stand out when compared to other tablets, many of which lack the same level of hardware optimization.

5. Better Resale Value

The resale value of iPads is a testament to why iPads stand out as a long-term investment. Thanks to their premium build, regular software updates, and Apple’s brand reputation, iPads retain their value far better than most Android tablets. Selling a well-maintained iPad can significantly offset the cost of upgrading, which is another reason why iPads stand out for budget-conscious users looking for a durable and reliable device.

Conclusion

From premium build quality to top-tier performance, it’s easy to see why iPads stand out in the tablet market. Their seamless integration within Apple’s ecosystem, years of software support, and better resale value make them a preferred choice for users worldwide. While Android tablets are catching up in certain areas, the unmatched reliability, quality, and longevity of iPads consistently show why iPads stand out as the top option for both casual and professional users alike.

iOS 19 leak shows off visionOS-inspired Camera app redesign

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iOS 19 redesigned Camera app concept

TL;DR

According to a YouTuber, iOS 19 will overhaul the Camera app by adopting glassy UI elements resembling visionOS.
He also suggests that the design language could extend to other parts of the system, such as the home screen and other first-party apps.
Apple will likely unveil iOS 19 during WWDC25 in June and release the OS update to all users in September.

Last year, a rumor stated that iOS 18 would overhaul the built-in Camera app and introduce a visionOS-like design. That did not materialize, though. A different source is now making a similar claim, declaring that the Apple Camera app on iOS 19 would adopt the alleged translucent UI.

YouTube channel Front Page Tech claims to have viewed a verified video of the never-before-seen iOS 19, showcasing a completely redesigned Camera app. The new look mirrors visionOS, featuring glassy buttons and round icons. While the YouTuber hasn’t shared the leaked video itself, he allegedly created a comparable mockup based on the real deal.Beyond the revamped Camera app, Front Page Tech suggests that the translucent user interface could expand to more parts of iOS 19, including the home screen and other Apple applications. However, such a significant change is unlikely to occur through a single OS update, as credible reports indicate that Apple is already struggling to develop announced features on time.iOS 19 beta will likely debut to registered developers during WWDC25 in June. If Apple sticks to its release schedule, users with compatible iPhone models can expect the public launch towards mid-September. Besides the questionable Camera leak, iOS 19 is rumored to introduce more Apple Intelligence features. These could include a smarter Siri that can handle more complex queries like ChatGPT.
Got a tip? Talk to us! Email our staff at news@androidauthority.com. You can stay anonymous or get credit for the info, it’s your choice.Comments

Audioengine’s B1 Next Gen Bluetooth Receiver Adds Bluetooth AptX Adaptive Support to Vintage Amps

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Audioengine Next Gen B1 Bluetooth Music Receiver

Talk about being ahead of the curve…back in 2014. Audioengine’s B1 Bluetooth Receiver has been around for over a decade and it was definitely time for an updated version of the best-selling product. The new Audioengine B1 Next Gen Music Bluetooth Receiver looks and feels a lot like its predecessor on the outside; all of the changes are internal and they have managed to keep the price at $189.

Just like the original B1, the B1 Next Gen Bluetooth Music Receiver is targeted at those who have older audio systems and would like to add streaming capability via Bluetooth. Just connect the digital or analog audio output of the B1 Next Gen to a compatible input on your system and you are set to go.

The B1 Next Gen incorporates Bluetooth 5.3 with support for Qualcomm’s aptX Adaptive codec. This combination can receive music from any compatible Bluetooth source (such as a smartphone) from up to 100 feet away, without being subject to interruptions and dropouts; although we think that manufacturers need to stop claiming this because internal walls and house construction definitely impact the signal strength.

Audioengine Next Gen B1 Bluetooth Music Receiver Front and Back

Dynamic Audio Quality

Bluetooth 5.3 with aptX Adaptive can adjust the bit rate dynamically to deliver the best audio performance based on wireless conditions.

Similar to how a GPS adjusts traffic routes, aptX Adaptive adjusts to changing wireless conditions to provide the best possible audio quality while maintaining a stable connection. 

Upgraded Internal DAC

For optimal playback sound quality, the B1 Nextgen included an ESS-9018K2M DAC chip (an upgrade from the AKM 4396) which upsamples audio to 32-bit/96 kHz, providing improved clarity and detail.

Before you chime in with “32-bit/96kHz” isn’t as good enough — please remind yourself what percentage of the music on your phone, tablet, or laptop is over 24-bit/96kHz — let alone 16-bit/44.1kHz.

99% of the people who will consider the B1 Next Gen BT receiver, will be using an Android smartphone or iPhone and streaming from Spotify, TIDAL, Qobuz, Apple Music or Amazon Music HD and adding a 32-bit DAC to their legacy devices like an older amplifier will be a major step-up.

USB-C

In addition to Bluetooth, you can also access hi-res audio via a direct USB-C physical connection. You can physically connect your smartphone, tablet, or even a PC for an enhanced listening experience on your old gear.

Audioengine Next Gen B1 Bluetooth Music Receiver atop Sony A/V Receiver

Hi-Resolution Wireless Bridge

When connected to a system that doesn’t currently have its own Bluetooth or wireless streaming capability, the Next Gen functions as a wireless bridge between your phone or other streaming device and your traditional stereo, preamp, or external DAC.

No additional apps, passwords, or network setups are required. Anything that is required is handled by your wireless or wired source.  
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From Nate Rodriguez, CEO of Audioengine: “Our commitment to innovation and customer satisfaction drives us to continually enhance our products. The updated B1 Bluetooth Audio Receiver with Bluetooth 5.3, aptX Adaptive and 32-bit audio gives our customers the freedom to upgrade their stereo receiver to stream via Bluetooth with incredible clarity”.

Comparison

Pro Tip: The B1 Next Gen and B1 have the same external appearance.

B1 Next Gen  (2025)B1 (2014)Price:$189$189 (discontinued)Bluetooth5.3 with aptX AdaptiveVersion not indicated with aptX, A2DP, and AVRCPConstructionAnodized AluminumAnodized AluminumDACESS-9018K2M DAC 32-bit/96kHzAKM AK4396 DAC 24bit/192kHzInputs: Bluetooth 5.3/USB Type-CBluetoothOutputsStereo RCA, Optical (Toslink)RCA stereo, optical (SPDIF)Wireless Range:Up to 100 feet (30 meters)Up to 100 feet (30 meters)Signal-to-Noise Ratio100dB100dBTHD+N <0.02%<0.02%Crosstalk<70dB>-86dB Frequency Response (±0.5dB)10Hz – 20kHz 1OHz- 20kHz Latency~30msNot IndicatedPower Supply 5V via included USB-C5V via included USBPower Input5V, 200mASV, 200mADimensions3.5 x 3.5 x 1 inches89 x 89 x 26 mm3.5 x 4.0 x1 inches89 x 101.6 x 26 mmWeight1.01 lbs 1.01bsWarranty3 years3 yearsIn the BoxB1 Nextgen Bluetooth Music ReceiverPower adapter with USB C cableRCA audio cableMicrofiber bagSetup guideB1 Bluetooth Music ReceiverPower adapter with detachable cable42-inch RCA cable Microfiber bagSetup Guide

The Bottom Line

It’s not very often that an audio product stays in a line-up for 10 years – but Audioengine makes products that are practical and last. 

The Audioengine B1 fell into that category, but there comes a time when an upgrade is needed. The B1 Next Gen retains everything that was great about the B1, such as its compact design, plug-and-play operation, and overall ease of use. 

However, on the inside, the B1 Next Gen is designed to deliver better sound quality via Bluetooth version 5.3 with Aptx HD Adaptive, a new DAC, and the addition of USB-C connectivity.

With the same price tag as the original B1, if you have an older audio receiver or system that doesn’t already have built-in Bluetooth or wireless streaming, the Audioengine B1 Next Gen is an inexpensive and practical way to add it. 

Pro Tip: You can’t connect the B1 or B1 Next Gen directly to speakers unless you are using powered speakers.

Price & Availability

The Audioengine B1 Next Gen Bluetooth Music Receiver is available now for $189 at Amazon or directly through Audioengine.

Related Reading

NASA’s TESS Discovers Fastest Disintegrating Planet Ever Seen: What You Need to Know

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NASA

Astronomers have identified the fastest disintegrating exoplanet observed to date, a discovery made possible by NASA’s Transiting Exoplanet Survey Satellite (TESS). The planet BD+05 4868 Ab, located approximately 141 light-years from Earth, is being eroded at an extraordinary rate due to intense bombardment from its host star, BD+05 4868 A. The planet is losing mass equivalent to that of Earth’s moon every million years and is on track to vanish entirely, marking it as a rare find for the scientific community.Insights from the StudyAs reported by space.com, according to findings presented by a team from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), BD+05 4868 Ab is among the closest disintegrating exoplanets to be observed. Its unique condition provides researchers with a rare opportunity to examine the internal structure of rocky planets as their material is expelled into space. These insights were detailed during the 245th American Astronomical Society meeting in Maryland.Marc Hon, a postdoctoral associate at MIT and leader of the research, highlighted to space.com the significance of this observation, describing the planet’s massive dust trails. These trails extend approximately 9 million kilometres and consist of two distinct sections, formed by varying sizes of dust grains. Hon added that the transit signal caused by this trail blocks 1 percent of the star’s light, lasting 15 hours.Future Research Using JWSTThe research, conducted alongside scientists from Pennsylvania State University, aims to deepen understanding of planetary disintegration. Penn State’s team has previously employed similar techniques to study another disintegrating exoplanet, K2-22b. Jason Wright, a professor of astronomy at Penn State, noted that BD+05 4868 Ab offers an exceptional opportunity due to the brightness of its host star, which is 100 times brighter than those of previously studied disintegrating planets.Efforts are now underway to leverage the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) to study BD+05 4868 Ab in greater detail. The findings could illuminate the composition of such planets, offering a groundbreaking perspective on planetary interiors beyond the solar system.