"Vogue" by Madonna is a groundbreaking pop song that showcases remarkable artificial stereophonic sound production. Released in 1991, the track has sold over six million copies and topped charts worldwide. The song's iconic music video was directed by David Fincher and features QSound technology, which creates a three-dimensional soundscape. The track's unique sound design, featuring sharp snaps, sustained synth chords, and a Roland TR-909 drum machine, has been praised for its innovative use of audio effects.
Apple's recent product updates have sparked interest among tech enthusiasts, but some devices may not be worth purchasing right now. According to ZDNet's recommendations, the 2024 iMac and MacBook Air M3 may not be the best choices due to their high prices and limited upgrades. Meanwhile, the iPhone 16 is a major upgrade with new features like AI workloads handling. The Apple Watch Series 10 and AirPods Pro also receive updates, but some users might prefer waiting for further improvements.
ZDNET has reviewed the HP OmniBook Ultra Flip, an ultraportable work laptop that stands out from the crowd. With a comfortable design, OLED touchscreen, and strong audio system, it's an attractive option for those looking for a lightweight portable device. The laptop features an Intel Core Ultra 7 processor, integrated Intel Arc graphics card, and 32GB of memory, making it suitable for average office tasks. While its performance may not be exceptional, the Omnibook Ultra Flip excels in audio quality and battery life, lasting 13 hours on a single charge.
However, some drawbacks include limited ports, lack of mini docking stations, and bloatware from Asus apps that don't seem to serve a purpose. The laptop's price tag of $1,600 may be too steep for some, especially considering the performance and software issues. If you're in the market for an ultraportable work laptop, it's worth exploring alternatives like the Dell Inspiron 14 Plus or MSI's Prestige AI Plus Evo.
Amazon's Kindle Colorsoft is a top contender in the color E Ink tablet market, according to a recent review by ZDNet. The device features a customizable color display, fast performance, and wireless charging, making it an attractive option for readers who enjoy books with colorful illustrations or comics. While some may prefer larger screens, the Kindle Colorsoft's compact size makes it easy to hold and read.
Attention Android Auto users! Google is ending support for older phones running Android 8, effective immediately. As of this week, phones with this OS version will no longer be able to access the in-car information and entertainment app. The requirement changed earlier this year, but users can still access Android Auto on devices with this operating system. However, a recent message now displays, stating that the phone no longer supports Android Auto.
This change affects both wired and wireless versions of Android Auto. To continue using the service, you'll need to update your phone to a more recent OS version, likely Android 9 or above.
Raspberry Pi has released a new touchscreen display, the Raspberry Pi Touch Display 2. The 7-inch display features a resolution bump from 800x480 to 720x1280 pixels and is now compatible with Raspberry Pi boards from the Raspberry Pi 1B+. The display's form factor has also been slimmed down thanks to an integrated display driver PCB.
Get ready for Black Friday and Cyber Monday deals on Apple Watches! Apple is offering more cash back for trade-ins, making it a great time to upgrade. Expect 10-20% discounts on Apple Watch Series 9 and potentially the new Series 10. Popular retailers like Amazon, Walmart, Best Buy, Target, and Macy's will offer holiday savings online and in-store.
Source: https://www.zdnet.com/article/best-black-friday-apple-watch-deals-2024/
Linux Lite, a popular open-source operating system, has recently released version 7.2 with a new AI-powered feature for its desktop environment. The AI chatbot, called "Linux Lite AI Chat," provides users with direct support and answers to Linux-related questions and issues. This subtle approach to introducing AI to the Linux desktop is seen as a step forward for users who may struggle with the operating system.
The update also includes improvements to the Xfce desktop environment, such as a new theme manager and font options for the clock applet. Additionally, the release comes with Linux kernel 6.8.0-49 and supports Ubuntu 24.04, which is a Long Term Support (LTS) release.
Black Friday is just around the corner, and ZDNET has compiled a list of the best deals under $25. The tech website scoured retailers across the internet to find early Black Friday deals that won't break the bank. Some of the top picks include a TP-Link extender for 58% off, a smart scale for tracking fitness goals, and Apple AirTags for keeping track of lost items.
Source: https://www.zdnet.com/article/best-black-friday-deals-under-25-2024/
Columbus, Ohio has confirmed that a ransomware attack in July compromised the personal data of approximately 500,000 residents. The attack, attributed to the Rhysida gang, involved the theft of sensitive information including names, dates of birth, addresses, and financial details. City officials initially claimed the stolen data was "corrupted" and "unusable," but a cybersecurity researcher later revealed that hundreds of thousands of residents' personal information was listed on the dark web.
Apple has approved another illegal streaming app, "Univer Note", which masquerades as a productivity platform but offers pirated films in certain regions. The app, available on the App Store, only surfaces pirated movies for users in France, Canada, and the Netherlands, with options labeled in French and subtitles or dubbing in the original language. Meanwhile, users in other regions see a regular productivity app.
Source: https://www.theverge.com/2024/11/4/24287574/apple-approved-illegal-streaming-app-univer-note
Valorant's anti-cheat system, Vanguard, has been successful in reducing cheating in PC gaming. According to Phillip Koskinas, director of anti-cheat on Valorant, the system is winning the war against PC gaming cheaters. Vanguard uses a kernel-level system and has been praised by researchers at the University of Birmingham for its effectiveness.
However, some experts warn that AI-powered cheating could become a significant issue in the future. Microsoft's efforts to secure Windows 11 features are expected to help Valorant further, but there are concerns about Linux support.
Source: https://www.theverge.com/2024/11/4/24283482/valorant-is-winning-the-war-against-pc-gaming-cheaters
GM's software boss, Baris Cetinok, discusses the company's approach to creating seamless user experiences in its vehicles. He emphasizes the importance of having a strong conviction to own and integrate all aspects of the vehicle's infotainment system, rather than relying on third-party platforms like CarPlay or Android Auto.
Cetinok highlights Super Cruise as an example of how native integration can create a more magical experience for users, citing features such as map navigation that takes into account road conditions, battery levels, and energy-efficient routes. He also mentions the potential for Level 3 autonomy and robotaxis to require similar integrations.
The New York Times Tech Guild has gone on strike, affecting over 600 software engineers, product managers, data analysts, and designers. The guild is seeking its first union contract with the company, which includes a "just cause" provision, pay increases, pay equity, and return-to-office policies. This comes just one day before the presidential election, when the Times' backend systems will be under heavy stress. The strike has raised concerns about potential disruptions to the Times' election coverage.
X, formerly Twitter, is rolling out a change to its blocking feature. Starting now, people you've blocked will still be able to view your public posts and following/followers lists. This decision aims for "greater transparency," according to X's engineering account. However, this update may make it easier for blocked users to harass others without their knowledge. Critics argue that friction in blocking is important and that the change aligns with app store guidelines. The updated block function will still disable interactions between the blocker and the blocked user.
Source: https://www.theverge.com/2024/11/4/24287585/x-twitter-block-change-view-public-posts
Looking for a unique and fun gift for your next white elephant party? WIRED has got you covered with their top 13 picks! From smart light strips that can add ambiance to any room, to adorable sushi magnets that will make anyone laugh, there's something for everyone on this list. Other highlights include a planner to help keep resolutions on track, a retro phone that looks like it just came from the 70s, and even a Prank-O-Box to wrap up your gift in style. Whether you're looking to add some tech to someone's life or just want something fun and quirky, WIRED's got you covered.
Source: https://www.wired.com/gallery/best-white-elephant-gifts/
Wired recently reviewed the best gaming headsets, highlighting their pros and cons. The Beyerdynamic MMX 200 was praised for its accurate audio quality, but also noted for being expensive and finicky with connections. To find the right headset, consider factors like audio quality, surround sound options, comfort, adjustable boom microphones, visible mic muting and indicator LEDs, mic monitoring, equalizer (EQ) and customization tools.
Amazon's recent call for employees to return to the office five days a week has sparked debate on the effectiveness of hybrid work arrangements. One company that tested hybrid work found that it improved employee satisfaction and reduced turnover, but had no significant impact on productivity. The study suggests that flexibility in work arrangements can lead to better work-life balance.
Source: https://hbr.org/2024/10/one-company-a-b-tested-hybrid-work-heres-what-they-found
Gitpod, a cloud development environment provider, has announced that they are abandoning Kubernetes for their development environments. In a recent blog post, Gitpod's team shared their reasons for leaving Kubernetes, citing challenges with security and operational overhead. They have developed a new architecture, called Gitpod Flex, which is designed to provide improved resource isolation, compatibility with other workloads, and enhanced security.
Source: https://www.gitpod.io/blog/we-are-leaving-kubernetes
Paul Rand, a renowned designer, has shared his thoughts on designing a logo for NeXT Computers. In his article, he explores different typography options and discusses the importance of finding a meaningful device that reinforces the company's name. He presents two main ideas: using the word "NEXT" in all capital letters with a lowercase "e" to create visual contrast, or creating a simple, geometric letter style that can be easily manipulated.
Rand also suggests using a black cube as a logo, which he believes has visual impact and is easy to remember. He proposes incorporating different color combinations to make the design more appealing and adaptable for various applications.
Source: https://www.paulrand.design/work/NeXT-Computers.html