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Apple's introduction of the iPhone 16e, intended as a more accessible entry point to its latest technology, is generating discussion due to its notably higher price tag compared to previous budget-oriented models. The 16e aims to democratize access to Apple's advanced features, particularly its new AI capabilities, but the pricing strategy is prompting comparisons with competing Android devices.  Key Features and Trade-offs: The iPhone 16e includes several upgrades:
However, the 16e also presents some limitations:
Competitive Landscape: The iPhone 16e enters a competitive market where Android devices, such as the Google Pixel 8a and Samsung Galaxy A series, offer compelling alternatives. These Android phones frequently provide comparable or superior camera systems, higher refresh rate displays, and larger battery capacities, often at more competitive price points. Starting at $AU999; Google Pixel 8a $849; Samsung Galaxy A55 $699 Market Implications: The success of the iPhone 16e will depend on consumer willingness to pay a premium for the Apple ecosystem and its integrated software experience. The device's pricing strategy raises questions about Apple's approach to the "affordable" smartphone market, and analysts will be closely monitoring its performance. Ep305 Image Source: https://www.apple.com/au/iphone-16e/
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This type of attack bypasses two-factor authentication through session hijacking and real-time credential interception. Traditional phishing attacks typically capture only primary credentials, leaving 2FA intact. However, Astaroth intercepts all authentication data in real-time, rendering 2FA ineffective. How the Attack Works:
What You Can Do:
This phishing kit is readily available for purchase on cybercrime marketplaces for $2,000, making it a serious threat to users. It is crucial to remain vigilant and follow best practices to avoid falling victim to this attack. Ep305 Image created by AI
The Ingredient-Based Inspiration:
The Visual Approach: Fridge Inventory Made Easy:
Beyond Food: Cocktail Creations:
Why This Works:
Tips for Success:
Let Gemini take the guesswork out of meal planning and cocktail creation, making your kitchen adventures more enjoyable and stress-free. Ep305 Image created by AI
How it Works: Traditional motion detection and object recognition often generate a deluge of video clips, making it tedious to find specific events. AI video search eliminates this hassle. By leveraging large language models (LLMs), these systems understand natural language queries and can identify a wide range of objects and activities within the footage. "Home AI could enable language-based notifications and conversations about what's happening at home in real-time," explains Tete Xiao, CEO and co-founder of Prompt AI. "You can get insights such as which delivery service came by, whether the dog was fed and if suspicious activity was detected around your house. You could even ask what your kids did after school or if specific people it recognizes stopped by." Benefits and Use Cases:
Brands Embracing AI: Google Home, Ring (beta), Wyze, and various third-party AI platforms are already offering or developing AI video search capabilities. Amazon's Alexa is also showing signs of entering this space. While Arlo focuses on advanced object detection, and pet cams like Furbo use AI for pet activity analysis, it is expected that almost all video recording security camera companies will implement this technology. Privacy Concerns: The use of AI in home security raises significant privacy concerns. AIs require vast amounts of data for training, and users often grant companies permission to use their video footage for this purpose. This raises the risk of data breaches, employee abuse, and potential misuse of personal information. Furthermore, the cloud storage of video footage increases vulnerability to security flaws. Opting Out: Fortunately, most systems allow users to disable AI features or avoid participating in video AI searches. Users can also choose video cameras without subscriptions if they are very concerned about privacy. "We never train on user data without explicit permission, and even then, we do not use personal details—period," says Tete Xiao. "We also give users the ability to permanently delete their data from our platform at any time." As AI continues to integrate into home security, it's crucial for consumers to understand the benefits and risks, and to choose systems that prioritize privacy and data security. Ep305 Image created by AI
"Woah... this is an insane AR breakthrough." That's the sentiment echoing across the tech and medical communities as Medivis unveils SurgicalAR, a revolutionary tool poised to redefine surgical procedures. Gone are the days of surgeons relying solely on flat, 2D images from MRIs and CT scans. In their place, a world where 3D visualizations are overlaid directly onto the patient's body in real-time, thanks to the power of augmented reality (AR) and artificial intelligence (AI).  Imagine trying to explain to future generations that surgeons once navigated the complexities of the human body by interpreting 2D slices on a screen. It's a stark contrast to the immersive, intuitive experience offered by SurgicalAR, a leap so significant it could easily be compared to moving from candlelight to electric light. Medivis has essentially transformed static, 2D diagnostic images into dynamic, 3D holograms, allowing surgeons to see a patient's anatomy as if it were transparent. This provides an unprecedented level of detail and spatial awareness, potentially minimizing errors and improving surgical outcomes. While 3D reconstructions of medical images have existed on monitors, the real game-changer here is the integration with AR. By overlaying these 3D models onto the patient's actual body, surgeons gain a real-time, intuitive understanding of the anatomical landscape they're operating within. This is not just a technological advancement; it's a paradigm shift. The question naturally arises: is there a genuine clinical need for AR in surgery? While healthcare professionals routinely utilize 3D reconstructions on monitors, the added dimension of AR offers a level of immersion that could significantly enhance surgical precision. The ability to visualize intricate anatomical structures in their true spatial context, directly on the patient, could be invaluable for complex procedures. Beyond the theoretical benefits, the practical implications are profound. Even the most skilled surgeons are human, and errors can occur. SurgicalAR has the potential to mitigate these risks by providing a more comprehensive and intuitive visualization of the surgical field. This could lead to reduced complications, shorter recovery times, and ultimately, saved lives. Of course, the successful implementation of any new technology hinges on its performance. Latency, or the delay between input and output, is a critical factor in surgical applications. Medivis's ability to achieve real-time rendering and seamless overlay is a testament to the advancements in AR and AI technology. The arrival of SurgicalAR marks a significant milestone in the evolution of surgical technology. It's a tangible example of how AR and AI are moving beyond science fiction and into the realm of practical, life-saving applications. As these technologies continue to mature, we can expect to see even more clever solutions that transform the way we approach healthcare. The era of 2D surgery is fading, and the future, it seems, is vividly 3D. Ep304 Image Source: Video on https://www.medivis.com/
Take the 2 minute quiz on the scamwatch website and test your understanding. (multiple choice) 1. What are some common signs that you are dealing with a scammer? 2. Phishing scams are attempts by scammers to deceive you into sharing your personal information. Which of the following can you rely on, to be sure you aren't dealing with a phishing scam? 3. You receive a call or message from an organisation you think you know, claiming your device or accounts aren't secure. What do you do? 4. Which of the following is a common tactic used by scammers to get you to give them money quickly? 5. What’s the first thing you should you do if you think you've had money or information stolen by a scammer? 6. Scammers may intercept and modify invoices or call you to change bank account details on a bill you’re expecting. What can you do to stay safe from these scams? 7. Which of the following is the best way to protect yourself from online shopping scams? 8. What does Scamwatch recommend people do to stay safe from scams?  Ep304 Image Source: https://www.scamwatch.gov.au/
Here's how to use Gemini to streamline your recipe experience: 1. Copy the Recipe Link:
2. Ask Gemini to Summarize:
3. Convert Units (Optional):
4. Generate a Shopping List (Optional):
Example Prompt: "Summarize this recipe: [Recipe URL]. Provide a list of ingredients and a list of steps. Also, convert all measurements to grams and milliliters. Generate a shopping list and save it to my Google Keep notes." Why This Works:
Tips for Best Results:
With Gemini, you can spend less time reading and more time cooking. Enjoy! Ep304 Image created by AI
The popular community-driven navigation app, known for its real-time incident reporting, has now rolled out school zone alerts, a feature highly requested by users. This addition builds upon Waze's core strength: leveraging user-generated data to provide timely and relevant information to drivers. Waze's unique selling point lies in its ability to harness the collective knowledge of its users. Drivers can report real-time hazards, such as accidents, traffic jams, and road closures, allowing the app to dynamically adjust routes and alert other drivers. Beyond these temporary incidents, Waze also incorporates "permanent hazards," like speed bumps and merging lanes, added by dedicated map editors. Now, this category includes school zones. The new school zone alerts, which began appearing on Waze platforms, including Android Auto and CarPlay, offer two distinct forms of notification. Drivers receive a pop-up alert on their screen, warning them of an approaching school zone and urging increased vigilance. Additionally, a dedicated school zone icon appears on the map, pinpointing the exact location of the hazard. These alerts are designed to cover both schools and kindergartens, and they are triggered not just by the buildings themselves, but also by nearby crosswalks, recognizing the increased likelihood of pedestrian traffic. This comprehensive approach ensures drivers are aware of potential risks and can take appropriate precautions. Ep304
Classic Gameplay: The game faithfully recreates the traditional mahjong solitaire experience, providing a familiar and enjoyable gameplay loop. Large Tile Sets: The game features a variety of beautifully designed tile sets, adding visual appeal and variety. Hundreds of Levels: With a vast number of levels, Vita Mahjong offers ample replayability and a constant stream of new challenges. User-Friendly Interface: The game boasts a clean and intuitive interface, making it easy to navigate and understand. Relaxing Atmosphere: The game's soothing background music and sound effects create a calming and enjoyable gaming experience. Vita Mahjong is a well-executed and enjoyable mahjong solitaire game that offers a relaxing and engaging experience. With its large selection of levels, beautiful visuals, and user-friendly interface, it's a great option for fans of the classic tile-matching puzzle. Available for Android and iOS in the usual places. Ep303
Thousands Targeted in Ongoing Phishing Scheme This campaign, since it was detected, has reached over 12,000 individual email addresses and numerous organizations. Primarily targeting users in the U.S. and Europe, with some Australian victims, the attack poses a significant threat due to Facebook's massive user base. Deceptive Tactics Employed Cybercriminals are using a clever tactic to appear legitimate. The phishing emails are sent via an automated mailing service, leveraging Salesforce's marketing tools, and use a "[email protected]" return address. This adds a layer of authenticity, making the emails harder to distinguish from legitimate communications. The emails themselves are designed to instill fear and urgency. They claim a copyright infringement violation, prompting recipients to click a link to a fake Facebook support page. This page then requests account credentials under the guise of an "account review," rather than a direct account disablement threat, which is a subtle, but effective, psychological manipulation. The Danger of Phishing Kits Adding another layer of severity to this attack, new reports indicate the use of phishing kits. These kits make it easier for cybercriminals to launch these attacks, even those with limited technical skills. This means the number of attacks could drastically increase. What You Need to Do Immediately: cue the broken record…
The Importance of Vigilance This Facebook phishing campaign serves as a stark reminder of the constant threat posed by cybercriminals. Staying vigilant and practicing safe online habits are crucial for protecting your personal information and avoiding becoming a victim. Ep303 Image created by AI
Why Share Passwords Securely?
How to Share Passwords Using Google Password Manager on any device: 1. Open Chrome:
2. Access Password Manager:
3. Choose the Password:
4. Tap "Share":
5. Select Family Members:
Important Tips:
Using this method, you can safely and efficiently share passwords with your family, ensuring everyone has access to the online services they need. Ep303 Image Source: https://passwords.google.com/
In a bold move in the online search space, OpenAI has announced that ChatGPT Search is now freely available to everyone, no account required. This update opens the doors to AI-powered web exploration for a vast audience, sparking questions about whether it's time to reconsider our reliance on traditional search engines like Google.  Search Without Barriers: OpenAI's announcement, delivered via X, eliminates the previous requirement of an OpenAI account for accessing ChatGPT Search. Users can now simply visit ChatGPT.com and begin searching, enjoying the benefits of AI-driven information retrieval without any signup process. What is ChatGPT Search? ChatGPT Search integrates web browsing directly within the popular chatbot, enabling users to receive up-to-date information, detailed summaries, and links to relevant sources. This functionality addresses a key limitation of earlier ChatGPT versions, which had a knowledge cut-off date, preventing them from providing information on current events. Challenging the Status Quo: The removal of the account requirement marks an additional pivotal moment for AI search engines. With its ability to provide in-depth summaries and source citations, ChatGPT Search presents a compelling alternative to traditional search methods. OpenAI states that "ChatGPT can search the web and get you fast, timely answers with links to relevant web sources directly in ChatGPT." A Gradual Rollout: The new feature will be rolled out to logged-out users over the next few days. If you don't see the search icon immediately, check back soon. Is it Time to Ditch Google? While ChatGPT Search offers a unique and powerful approach to information gathering, the question remains: is it ready to replace Google? Google Search has become deeply ingrained in our daily lives, serving as the primary gateway to online information for billions. ChatGPT Search, with its AI-driven summaries and source integration, offers a distinct experience. However, some users prefer the control and autonomy of curating their own information sources. That said, you can still do both or choose which you prefer. The Future of AI Search: ChatGPT Search is still in its early stages, and its capabilities are expected to evolve significantly. For those curious about AI-powered search, this is an opportune moment to explore its potential. Whether it will ultimately dethrone Google remains to be seen, but OpenAI's move undoubtedly signals a shift in the way we access and consume information online. Check it out ChatGPT.com Ep303 Image Source: https://openai.com/index/introducing-chatgpt-search/
Were you listening when we spoke about the Pepe Pet dryer? Well it seems the concept is catching on and with increased interest, pricing has basically halved. You can get one of these bench top marvels for half the original price $300 from many online retailers including: Catch, Kogan, AliExpress, ebay and even Woolies! Sheesh  Automated drying: The PEPE Dry Room uses warm air circulation to dry your pet's fur after a bath, eliminating the need for manual towel drying or blow drying. This can be especially helpful for pets who dislike the noise or force of a traditional hair dryer. Grooming features: Some models may include features like UV sterilization to keep the drying chamber clean and hygienic, as well as different drying modes for various fur types or needs. Stress reduction: The enclosed design can provide a sense of security for some pets, and the quiet operation helps minimize anxiety during the drying process. Convenience: It frees up your hands to do other things while your pet is drying, and it helps contain the mess of shedding fur. Ep302 Image Source: Screenshot taken on Google search website
Why Updates Matter: A Security Power-Up Browser developers are constantly working to improve security features and patch vulnerabilities that cybercriminals exploit. These updates are not just about adding new features; they're vital for safeguarding your digital experience. Here's how:
Beyond Updates: Smart Browsing Habits While keeping your browser updated is essential, it's also crucial to practice safe browsing habits:
The Bottom Line: Proactive Protection In the ongoing battle against online threats, staying proactive is key. By keeping your browser updated and practicing safe browsing habits, you can significantly reduce your risk of falling victim to malware, scareware, and other browser-based attacks. Take control of your online security and make browser updates a regular part of your digital routine. Ep302 Image created by AI
Sleep masks have been around for a while. They are basically a blindfold you put on which have speakers embedded in the material around your ears and you can pipe music through them to help you sleep - yawn so yesterday.  Enter the smart sleep mask. Yes they are a blindfold with hidden speakers and bluetooth connectivity to your phone for ease of control, but now we have emerging smart tech. Voice control, sleep tracking, sleep optimisation based on how much you stir can change the music to better suit the differing stages of your sleep. It’s early-ish days but there are some cool tweaks to this concept nearing the end of the pipeline. Check out Manta if you’re keen. Ep302 Image Source: mantasleep.com.au/products/manta-sleep-mask-sound
The Rise of ID Scanning Technology Companies like Scantek are driving the widespread adoption of ID scanning systems. These systems can verify ID authenticity, perform facial recognition to match individuals to their documents, flag troublemakers, and even share banned patron information between venues. This technology, often implemented at the industry's own initiative rather than legal mandate, is rapidly expanding its reach. Privacy Concerns and Legal Ambiguities Australian Privacy Commissioner Carly Kind has labeled the practice "very concerning" and "problematic." She highlights the inherent risks of collecting and storing sensitive data like driver's license and passport information, warning of potential misuse and long-term storage. While some states mandate ID scanning for specific venues or in designated "Safe Night Precincts," most bars and nightclubs operate without such legal requirements. The Privacy Act, being principle-based, offers flexibility but lacks clear "red lines," leaving room for interpretation. Data Breaches and Security Risks The potential for data breaches is a significant concern. There have been many breaches in many more sophisticated systems involving the personal details of over a millions of people in recent years and this just underscores the vulnerability of such systems. Cybersecurity experts warn that no technology is 100% secure, and businesses must carefully weigh the risks against the benefits of collecting and storing sensitive data. Even with robust safeguards, the reputational damage from a breach falls squarely on the venue. The Balancing Act: Safety vs. Privacy Venues argue that ID scanning enhances patron safety and reduces incidents. They also point to the technology's assistance in police investigations. However, privacy advocates argue that the collection of excessive personal information, beyond what's necessary for age verification, is a dangerous trend. Angus Murray, vice president of the Queensland Council for Civil Liberties, advocates for "data minimization," urging businesses to collect only the essential information. He also raises concerns about the use of facial recognition technology and the commercialization of personal data. The Future of Privacy: Reforms and Regulations The Australian government is in the process of reforming the Privacy Act, aiming to provide clearer guidelines and stronger protections. Future reforms may include stricter limits on data collection and harsher penalties for breaches. In the meantime, the patchwork of state-based regulations leaves a confusing landscape for both venues and patrons. As technology advances and data breaches become more frequent, the debate over ID scanning and privacy is likely to intensify. What Can You Do?
As the lines between convenience and privacy blur, it's crucial to remain vigilant and advocate for responsible data handling practices. Ep302 Image created by AI
Concept only at this stage but if you're interested in a magical way to brew your morning coffee, the Sorting Hat Coffee Maker may be just what you need. 
While an official Sorting Hat Coffee Maker might not be on the market yet, the creativity and passion of Harry Potter fans could very well bring it to life someday. In the meantime, you can find plenty of other Harry Potter-themed kitchenware and merchandise to add a touch of magic to your daily routine. If you're interested in exploring this idea further, I recommend searching online for "Sorting Hat Coffee Maker" to see the various fan creations and concepts that exist. You might even find inspiration to create your own! Ep301
Google Chrome users are now enjoying a significant upgrade to their online safety with the rollout of an AI-powered "Enhanced protection" feature. After a three-month testing period in the Canary channel, the update has landed in the stable Chrome release across all platforms, including Windows, Android, and iOS.  This update supercharges Chrome's existing Safe Browsing feature, which has long offered "Enhanced protection" against malicious websites, downloads, and extensions. While the basic protection has been available for years, Google has now integrated artificial intelligence to provide real-time threat detection. This update is now widely available. While Google previously described Chrome's protection as "proactive," the shift to AI-driven security marks a substantial change. The exact mechanics of the AI integration remain somewhat unclear, but it's likely that Google is leveraging AI's ability to recognize patterns in real-time. This could allow Chrome to identify and warn users about potentially harmful websites and downloads, even those not previously flagged by Google's security systems. The AI also performs more thorough scans of downloads for suspicious activity. One key benefit of the new system is the potential for detecting zero-day threats – malicious sites or files that haven't yet been identified and added to traditional blacklists. The AI's ability to learn and adapt could provide a crucial layer of defense against these emerging dangers. While the enhanced protection offers a significant security boost, it does come with a caveat. Google has disclosed that browsing data is sent to their servers when the feature is active. This data sharing is a trade-off for the real-time analysis and threat detection capabilities provided by the AI. Enhanced protection with AI is disabled by default. Users who wish to activate it can do so by navigating to Settings > Security within the Chrome browser on their respective devices. The choice is now in the hands of the user: enhanced security with data sharing, or the standard level of protection. Ep301 Image Source: https://www.google.com/intl/en_au/chrome/
Have you used task Manager in Windows to see running programs and perhaps try to find a particular program to kill it? The Windows Task Manager is a powerful tool for monitoring your system's performance, but its constant, real-time updates can be a bit overwhelming. Processes jump around, resource usage fluctuates, and it's easy to lose track of what you're trying to analyze. If you've ever found yourself frustrated by this dynamic display, here's a simple trick to literally take control: freeze the Task Manager. How to Freeze the Task Manager:
 Ep301 Image Source: Screenshot taken by Mite Radio
Microsoft is making a serious push to win over users with its Edge browser, and it's not resorting to tricks this time. Instead, the company has focused on what truly matters: speed. In a recent blog post, Microsoft announced that Edge has become significantly faster, with performance improvements across a wide range of features.  Starting with version 132, Edge users have been experiencing an average 40% performance boost in 14 key areas, including Downloads, Drop, History, inPrivate browsing tabs, Favorites, and Browser Essentials. This means quicker loading times, smoother navigation, and an overall more responsive browsing experience. The secret behind this speed surge? Microsoft's migration to WebUI 2.0. This "markup-first architecture" streamlines the browser's code, reducing its size and the amount of JavaScript needed to run various interfaces. The result is a leaner, more efficient browser that can handle tasks with greater agility. Microsoft even provided a compelling example, showcasing how the Downloads UI is now a remarkable 54% faster on a Surface Laptop 4 with an Intel Core i7 processor and 32GB of RAM, thanks to the switch to WebUI 2.0. But Microsoft isn't stopping here. The company has pledged to continue optimizing Edge's performance in the coming months, targeting areas like settings, print preview, and read aloud. This commitment to ongoing improvement suggests that Edge's speed advantage may only grow stronger. The good news for Edge users is that these performance enhancements are already available. Edge version 132 rolled out in early January 2025, and the current stable release, version 133, likely includes these speed improvements. So, if you're an active Edge user, you're probably already enjoying a faster browsing experience. With these significant performance gains, Microsoft is making a strong case for Edge as a top-tier browser. It's a clear indication that the company is listening to user feedback and prioritizing performance to compete with rivals like Chrome and Firefox. Ep301
Keeping your Windows PC running smoothly just got easier. Microsoft has released PC Manager, a free, built-in tool designed to optimize Windows 10 and 11 performance, eliminating the need for third-party cleanup software. This move marks a significant shift, bringing system maintenance in-house after years of reliance on external applications like CCleaner. A New Era of PC Optimization: While Microsoft has long provided security tools like Windows Defender, system maintenance has traditionally been left to third-party developers. PC Manager changes this, offering an official, integrated solution for optimizing performance. Following a successful trial in China, Microsoft has launched PC Manager globally, directly competing with established cleanup software. Its seamless integration with Windows offers a key advantage, minimizing compatibility issues and security risks often associated with third-party programs.  What PC Manager Offers: This free tool provides a range of features to boost system efficiency and declutter your PC:
A Game Changer for Windows Users: PC Manager offers a compelling alternative to third-party optimization tools, providing a secure and reliable way to maintain PC performance. Early users have praised its ease of use and effectiveness. "Switching to PC Manager was seamless," says tech enthusiast Lily Thompson. "It's easy to use, and since it's developed by Microsoft, I feel more secure using it. My PC runs like new again!" The Future of PC Manager: Currently available in multiple languages, including English, Spanish, and Chinese, PC Manager is expected to expand to more regions soon. Microsoft has also indicated that future updates are planned based on user feedback, ensuring the tool continues to evolve alongside Windows 10 and 11. A Must-Try for Windows Users: With PC Manager, Microsoft has raised the bar for PC maintenance, offering a free, built-in solution that simplifies system optimization. If you're a Windows 10 or 11 user, PC Manager is definitely worth exploring. It's a simple yet powerful way to refresh your computer and experience improved performance. It may already be installed for your PC. If not Microsoft Store -> Microsoft PC Manager. Ep300 Image Source: Screenshot taken by MITE Radio
Scams are a growing threat, and the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) is fighting back with its "Stop. Check. Protect." campaign. This initiative aims to equip Australians with the tools they need to identify and avoid scams. The Three-Step Approach: The campaign emphasizes three crucial actions:
 Why This Campaign Matters: Scams are becoming increasingly sophisticated, making them harder to spot. This campaign aims to raise awareness about common tactics and empower individuals to take control. By promoting these simple steps, the ACCC hopes to create a more scam-resistant Australia. How You Can Get Involved: The "Stop. Check. Protect." campaign will be featured across various media platforms, including television, online video, and social media. It's a call to action for all Australians to be vigilant and play their part in combating scams. Remember: Anyone can be a target. By staying informed and following these simple steps, you can protect yourself and your community from the harm of scams. Ep300 Image Source: https://www.scamwatch.gov.au/
Google Family Sharing lets up to six family members share purchases, subscriptions, and more. Maximize its potential with these tips:
 1. Sign in to your Google Account:
2. Create a family group:
3. Invite family members:
4. Accept the invitation:
Important Notes:
Once your family group is created, you can start sharing Google services and content! Unlock the full potential of Family Sharing for a more connected and organized household. Ep300 Image Source: https://families.google/families/
Your brand new smart TV might be watching you as much as you're watching it. A feature called Automatic Content Recognition (ACR), often pre-loaded on new TVs, collects detailed data on your viewing habits, raising privacy concerns for many consumers.  ACR: What Your TV Knows About You: ACR technology identifies what's playing on your screen, whether it's from streaming services, cable TV, video games, or even commercials. It tracks not only what you watch, but also how long you watch it. This includes whether you finish shows, how quickly you watch sequels, if you change channels during commercials, and your preferred streaming services. Essentially, ACR builds a detailed profile of your viewing behavior. Surprised? Not really… Who's Collecting Your Data? The data collected by ACR goes to various entities. Initially, it's gathered by your TV manufacturer (e.g., Samsung, Sony, LG, Vizio), to personalize recommendations within the TV's operating system (like webOS or Tizen). However, the data often goes beyond the manufacturer. Streaming services (Netflix, Disney+), advertisers, marketing agencies, and data analytics firms can also access this information. Essentially, anyone who can profit from knowing your viewing preferences can potentially gain access to your ACR data. Disabling ACR: A Challenge, But Possible: While manufacturers don't make it easy, disabling ACR is possible. The settings are often buried within menus and labeled differently depending on the TV brand. Look for options related to "Privacy," "User Agreements," or "Viewing Data." The specific terminology can vary, so look for anything related to tracking your screen or viewing habits. Finding the Setting: Carefully examine privacy options and disable anything that involves tracking what you watch. If you're struggling to find the setting, search online for instructions specific to your TV manufacturer and model. Example: Disabling ACR on Samsung TVs:
Beware the Warnings: When you disable ACR, your TV might display warnings about reduced user experience. Don't be deterred. While personalized recommendations might be affected, the core functionality of your TV will remain intact. Protecting Your Privacy: ACR is likely enabled by default on most new smart TVs. It's crucial to check your TV's privacy settings and disable ACR if you're concerned about your viewing data being collected and shared. Taking control of your privacy is more important than ever in our increasingly connected world. Ep300 Image created by AI
In a move that's raising eyebrows (and maybe a few tiny, mussel-sized ones), the city of Warsaw, Poland, has outsourced its water quality control to a team of eight highly discerning shellfish. These aren't your average mussels; these are elite, sensor-equipped guardians of the city's H2O, and they have the power to shut down the entire water supply if they deem it necessary.  Think of it as a tiny, aquatic version of a strike. When water quality takes a dive (pun intended), the mussels close their shells in protest. If four or more of these eight tiny tyrants decide the water isn't up to snuff, the control system automatically pulls the plug. One can only imagine the frantic calls to city hall: "Uh, Mayor, the mussels are at it again. Looks like we're on bottled water for the foreseeable future." These aren't just any mussels; they're like tiny, shelled water critics. "Hmm, chlorine. Slightly metallic. Is that... Tuesday? One star. Would not recommend." And just like any good employee, they get regular breaks. After a three-month tour of duty, these discerning bivalves are released back into the wild, presumably to write scathing reviews of their experience on Yelp: "Two stars. Water pressure was inconsistent, and the commute was terrible." This ingenious (and slightly absurd) system leverages the natural filtering abilities of mussels. They can filter up to 50 gallons a day, but if the water gets too funky, they clam up (literally). It's this natural "nope, not today" reaction that Warsaw has turned into a high-tech (well, relatively high-tech) water safety system. It's a testament to the fact that sometimes, the best way to solve a complex problem is to just ask a mussel. Ep299 Image Source: Credit to Julia Pełka (Gruba Kaáka)
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AuthorDelve into the world of MITE Radio through our captivating blogs. From music and tech to community news, our articles offer fresh perspectives and behind-the-scenes glimpses. Stay informed, connect with our community, and explore MITE Radio in a new way today! Archives
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