A logical use of AI one would think. This will help with the language barrier as well as thick accents, but the enhancements are only one sided. It won’t help the foreigners understand the Aussie accents and lingo. Clearly there would be preference for Australian-based call centres, but this is a smart move using smart technology. Teleperformance, a major player in the call centre industry, have not publicly confirmed which Australian companies are currently using the accent modification technology. Nevertheless, sources indicate that Teleperformance is in discussions with organisations across various sectors, including banking and finance, transport and logistics, gaming and tech, telecommunications, education, and healthcare. This suggests a potentially widespread adoption of AI-powered accent neutralisation in customer service interactions across Australia in the near future. This makes me nervous in the hands of cyber criminals but I’m not sure if this is the chicken or the egg. Ep328 Image created by AI
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In the latest Google Chrome update, they have added an inbuilt PDF reader - meaning if you click a PDF online it will automatically open in the browser. The unintended side effect for me is that my existing file association for PDF which was ADOBE PDF reader was automatically changed to Chrome. Confusingly it now identifies the files in File Explorer as text files. I did a bit of digging and to encourage users to utilize this functionality, the update reset the default PDF file association to Chrome. This is a common strategy software developers use to promote new or improved features within their applications. Anyway, if you’re happy with the change (or didn’t really notice) then forget me and go on with your life, but, if it bothers you, click a PDF file -> Open with -> change the association to one of the installed options or choose another app.  Ep327 Image Source: Screenshot taken by MITE Radio
While the concept of space-based solar power is a real area of research, the claims surrounding this particular project appear to be significantly overblown and verge on science fiction. The reports suggest a facility positioned 36,000 kilometers above Earth, perpetually facing the sun to generate unprecedented amounts of clean energy, transmitted back to the planet via microwaves. Chinese aerospace engineer Long Lehao was even quoted comparing its significance to moving the Three Gorges Dam into space. Look, science fiction has led the way to all sorts of inventions and maybe this will have wings eventually. Conceptually this is a great idea. 100% 24x7 sun time. You can potentially harness as much electricity as you have, solar panels up there. … but then what? How do you use it, store it, transport it? Microwave transmission? Really? Wow. Gotta give them credit for the idea. Ep327 Image created by AI
Has your phone suddenly become a battery-guzzling sloth? Is your laptop's fan whirring like a jet engine for no apparent reason? Is everything S L O W? Subtle shifts in your device's performance or behavior could be silent red flags so it may be time to do some scanning for Malware. There are many virus companies that provide great antivirus protection but Malware is a slightly different kettle of fish that is better found using specialist software like my favourite - Malwarebytes.  Think of Malwarebytes as a smart guard for your devices. Malwarebytes learns what normal activity looks like on your phone or computer. If a program starts acting strangely – using lots of internet when you're not using it, or opening on its own – Malwarebytes can notice this unusual behavior. It's like a security guard spotting someone acting suspiciously. Malwarebytes also looks at the files on your device. It knows what healthy files usually look like. If it finds a file with weird characteristics that match known bad files, it gets suspicious. This program also watches your internet connections. If your device tries to connect to websites known for spreading malware, Malwarebytes can block it. So, if your device is acting weird, running a scan with Malwarebytes can help find and remove these problems. It's like having a smart detective look for and get rid of any unwanted guests on your phone or computer. Just remember to keep Malwarebytes updated so it can recognize the newest threats. Try it for free and see how you like it. I like the peace of mind it gives me, especially if I’ve just accidentally clicked something I shouldn’t have. Ep327 Image Source: https://www.malwarebytes.com/
In theory, once payment is made, the gates should automatically open, allowing the customer to exit. If the system detects that items may not have been paid for, the gates will remain closed. Coles states that team members are available in the self-checkout area to manually open the gates for customers who have paid or who were just browsing and did not make a purchase. There are a number of concerns around customer frustration, false imprisonment, technical glitches (of course), accessibility concerns, general safety concerns and more… I questioned a staff member while I was waiting at the closed gate and she explained that the cameras pick up a customer as they enter the self checkout zone and assign an identifier which then follows the person to the checkout, monitors the transaction and payment then flags the gate that this person can leave. I asked if facial recognition was used and the answer was, um, I don’t think so. Given the recent backlash with Kmart, Bunning and Good Guys using facial recognition, I hope Coles have found a better way to track customers. The (Office of the Australian Information Commissioner ) OAIC launched formal investigations into Kmart and Bunnings due to concerns about their facial recognition practices. As of now, there haven't been similar investigations announced regarding Coles' self-checkout gates specifically related to facial recognition, likely due to Coles' denial of its use. Ep327 Image created by AI
Measuring a mere 15 x 15 x 5 mm – smaller than a euro coin – the device currently produces 100 microwatts of power at a constant 3V. Betavolt highlights the battery's high energy density, reportedly exceeding that of conventional lithium batteries by a factor of ten. The company emphasizes the safety features of the BV100, stating that it produces no external radiation. The low-energy beta particles emitted by the nickel-63 are contained within the battery's design, and the company asserts the device will not leak radiation even if damaged. Furthermore, they point out the minimal environmental impact, as the nickel-63 decays into stable copper, eliminating the complexities of recycling associated with traditional batteries. Betavolt envisions a range of applications for this long-lasting power source, particularly in areas where longevity and low maintenance are critical. These include medical implants like pacemakers, remote sensors for the Internet of Things, aerospace equipment, micro-robots, and low-power artificial intelligence devices. The battery's modular design allows for scalability by connecting multiple units to achieve higher power outputs. While the current power output of the BV100 is limited to microwatt levels, the company has ambitious plans for future development. They aim to release a 1-watt version very soon and are exploring the use of other radioactive isotopes to create batteries with increased power and varying operational lifespans. Ep326 Image created by AI
Here are 5 quick cyber tips to help avoid scams. 
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"The main factor you have to consider is that Wi-Fi travels very well over open air, and it travels very poorly through hard material. The best place to put a router is centrally located out in the open away from any cabinets, kitchen, plumbing, walls, things like that." 5 worst places: 1. Down on the Floor: Losing Elevation, Losing Signal 2. Trapped Behind the Couch: Soft Obstructions Still Matter 3. Banished to the Basement: Out of Sight, Out of Range 4. Locked Inside Cabinets: A Recipe for Overheating and Weak Signals 5. Nestled Near Another Router: Wi-Fi Interference Wars The Simple Solution: Open and Elevated Move it around and run a speedtest to see what the results are like. Ep326 Image created by AI
Interestingly, this seemingly trivial etiquette isn't without its proponents within the AI community. Some architects, like Microsoft's design manager Kurtis Beavers, suggest that using polite language can actually influence the AI's responses, fostering more respectful and collaborative outputs. The logic here is that these "prediction machines," as they're sometimes called, learn from the patterns in our prompts, potentially mirroring the level of politeness they receive. A Microsoft memo even suggests that generative AI tends to reflect the professionalism and clarity present in the user's input. A recent survey indicated that a significant majority of US users, around 67 percent, admit to being courteous with their chatbots. While some believe it's simply "the right thing to do," a smaller fraction humorously cite concerns about a future AI uprising as their motivation. Regardless of the reasons behind our digital politeness, the environmental impact of AI is a growing concern. A study by the Washington Post in collaboration with researchers highlighted that even generating a short, 100-word email consumes a measurable amount of electricity. Extrapolate that to the countless lengthy prompts we feed AI chatbots daily, and the energy consumption becomes substantial. The reality is that the data centers powering these AI marvels already account for roughly two percent of global energy consumption, a figure expected to surge as AI becomes more integrated into our lives. So, the next time you're tempted to thank your AI assistant, perhaps consider the broader implications. Perhaps a more direct approach, or even handling the task yourself, might be a more environmentally conscious choice. It's a thought-provoking reminder that even our seemingly small digital interactions carry real-world consequences. Ep326 Image created by AI
But what if you could tap into that retro vibe without buying a whole new device? Enter a clever, do-it-yourself USB-C accessory that promises to transform your everyday smartphone into a dedicated retro gaming handheld. Simply plug it into the bottom of your phone, and just like that, you're holding a portal to classic gaming experiences, channeling the iconic feel of beloved retro machines – all without emptying your wallet. The brainchild of designer Maximilian Kern (Max.K), this innovative gamepad takes a different approach to mobile gaming controllers. 1 While many existing phone controllers mimic the horizontal layouts of PSPs and Switches, using clamps and grips that flank your device, this design champions simplicity and a faithful nod to the original handheld era. Its unique portrait orientation is the key. By connecting via the USB-C port at the bottom of your phone, it instantly conjures the familiar vertical silhouette of the legendary Game Boy. It’s small, but don't let its compact size fool you. This unassuming accessory still packs a punch in terms of control, offering a satisfying array of buttons, including cleverly placed shoulder buttons on the sides for games that demand a little extra finesse. It's a stripped-down design, focusing on the essentials, yet surprisingly versatile enough to handle a wide range of classic titles. Opting for a USB-C connection offers significant advantages over Bluetooth. Say goodbye to the frustration of syncing issues and signal interference. Plus, you won't need to worry about charging yet another gadget, as this gamepad cleverly draws power directly from your phone. There are no fiddly clamps or complicated attachments – just a snug, direct connection for instant retro fun. Adding to the old-school charm is the transparent shell, allowing you to peek at the circuit board within, a delightful nod to the maker spirit. Of course, such an ingenious DIY project comes with a couple of considerations. The compact nature of the design might feel a little cramped for those with larger hands, and the weight of the phone could put some strain on the USB-C port depending on how you grip it. However, for DIY enthusiasts and retro gaming aficionados yearning for a unique and affordable way to revisit their favorite classic titles, this portrait-mode gamepad is a playful and rewarding project that lets you proudly display your maker ingenuity while diving back into pixelated perfection. Ep325 Image Source: Images courtesy of Maximilian Kern (Max.K)
Despite the robust anti-fraud measures implemented by these major financial institutions, cybersecurity experts are warning that affected individuals face a "definite" risk of financial loss. This discovery follows recent cyberattacks targeting Australian superannuation funds, where stolen passwords were used in attempts to access pensioners' accounts. The Australian cybersecurity firm Dvuln, which unearthed this extensive breach, has determined that these passwords were not obtained through vulnerabilities in the banks' systems. Instead, they were directly pilfered from users' own devices that had been infected with insidious "infostealer" malware. So, "This is not a vulnerability in the banks. These are customer devices that have been infected." Infostealer malware is a particularly dangerous form of malicious software designed to infiltrate devices, silently harvest a wide range of sensitive data – including passwords, credit card details, cryptocurrency wallet information, local files, and browser data like cookies and autofill information – and transmit it directly to cybercriminals. With Infostealer, the threat extends far beyond just banking credentials, noting that the average infostealer victim has hundreds of other account details stored in their browser, including PayPal and e-commerce accounts with linked credit cards. Figures suggest around 58,000 infected devices in Australia alone with something in the order of 31 million devices worldwide. The biggest risks are in Windows devices around 90% although mobile device numbers are on the increase.
If you suspect a problem, get onto your bank and alert scamwatch. Ep325 Image created by AI
The system, dubbed the "Fish Doorbell," was developed after engineers noticed that the dam gate, intended to regulate water flow, had inadvertently become a popular hunting spot for predatory birds and larger fish. Migrating fish, drawn to the open passage, were easy targets as they congregated near the gate. "It was like a free all-you-can-eat buffet for the local wildlife," says dam operator Jan van der Plons. "We needed a way to help the fish get through safely." The solution? A live-streaming camera focused on the gate and a big, red, very tempting "Open Gate" button on a website. Now, anyone, anywhere in the world, can log on, watch the fish gather, and with a single click, open the gate, giving them a fighting chance against lurking predators. "It's surprisingly addictive," admits avid "Fish Doorbeller" and self-proclaimed aquatic traffic controller, Agnes de Vries from Amsterdam. "You see all these little guys waiting, and you just have to help them. It's strangely empowering." The website, https://visdeurbel.nl/en/ has become a viral hit, attracting thousands of viewers daily. Some even leave humorous comments in the chat, ranging from "Come on, swimmers, you can do it!" to "Release the Kraken… I mean, the fish!" While the project has a lighthearted appeal, it serves a serious purpose. The data collected from the system helps researchers understand fish migration patterns and optimize gate operations to minimize predation. "It's a win-win," says van der Plons. "We get valuable data, the fish get a safer passage, and the world gets a new, slightly bizarre, but undeniably captivating online obsession." So, next time you're bored, skip the cat videos and save some fish! You might just become the internet's next unlikely hero. https://visdeurbel.nl/en/ Ep325 Image created by AI
Initially launched with the Google TV Streamer last year, Google opened up a preview program allowing users with older hardware to test drive the convenient smart home control center. Now, it appears the feature has officially launched, with reports surfacing over the past 24 to 48 hours of users accessing the Home Panel on various devices, from older Chromecast units to integrated Google TV sets like those from Hisense. The Home Panel seamlessly integrates with your Google Home ecosystem. Once the update hits your device, a simple access gesture (likely bringing up an overlay on the right side of your TV screen) will reveal a dashboard to manage your Google Home-compatible smart devices. This includes everything from adjusting your smart thermostat and checking your video doorbell feed to controlling security cameras, managing speaker volume, and dimming your smart lights. Mirroring the functionality offered by competitors like Apple's tvOS and Amazon's FireOS, the Google TV Home Panel will also display smart home notifications. Imagine seeing a notification pop up on your TV screen when someone rings your Nest Doorbell – a convenient way to stay informed without interrupting your viewing. The widespread availability of the Home Panel is tied to a recent software update for Google TV devices. Upon powering on your updated Chromecast or Google TV, you should encounter a prompt asking to set up the Home Panel. However, this pop-up will likely only appear if you have smart home devices already linked to your Google account. It's crucial to note that the Google account on your streaming device must be the same one connected to your Google Home setup for the Home Panel to function. Additionally, the feature will only be accessible on primary Google accounts and not on children's profiles. This update is also a positive sign for owners of older Chromecast devices, even those that have been discontinued with no new models on the horizon. The rollout of the Home Panel demonstrates Google's commitment to continuing feature updates and improvements for its existing user base. For those invested in the Google smart home ecosystem, this free upgrade transforms your TV into a central control hub, making managing your connected devices easier and more integrated than ever before. Keep an eye out for the software update on your Google TV or Chromecast with Google TV – a smarter home experience on your biggest screen is just around the corner. Ep325
Ep324 This image is used under the Fair Use provision for the purpose of review and commentary. Source: Google App Store.
Here's a handy guide to five habits that can help you stay one step ahead of the scammers: 1. Master Your Passwords: If you're still using the same old password across multiple accounts, now's the time for an upgrade. Strong passwords or passkeys should be a complex mix of at least 14 characters, including uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and special symbols. Consider using a password manager like Bitwarden, 1Password, or NordPass to generate and securely store strong, unique passwords for all your accounts. And crucially, always enable multi-factor authentication (MFA) whenever it's offered for an extra layer of security. 2. Sharpen Your Scam Radar: Scammers are becoming incredibly skilled at impersonating trusted organizations like banks or government departments. Be extra cautious of unexpected emails or social media messages asking for your information or urging you to download software. Remember the mantra: stop, check, protect. Take a moment to breathe, independently verify the communication by contacting the organization directly through official channels, and then block and delete any suspicious messages. Be particularly careful when sending money to new accounts. Features like CommBank's NameCheck can help by verifying account details before your first payment. 3. Practice Good Banking Hygiene: Your banking app likely has built-in security features – use them! CommBank's Security check up, for example, allows you to manage location-based security, which alerts the bank to unusual account access locations. Review and enable security alerts for suspicious activity notifications. Regularly check and adjust your daily payment limits to match your typical spending habits. Keeping limits higher than necessary increases your potential loss if your account is compromised. 4. Check In With Your Circle: Scammers often thrive on isolation. A simple way to stay safe is to regularly check in with friends and family. As a spokesperson for the National Anti-Scam Centre points out, "Everyone is vulnerable to scams at certain times, such as dating and romance scams after a breakup or a job scam when the cost of living is high. Scammers isolate you from your support networks. They want to create a situation where you rely entirely on them." Talking about potential scams can help you and your loved ones identify red flags. 5. Report Every Scam Encounter: Even if you haven't lost money, reporting scams is crucial. By reporting incidents to the National Anti-Scam Centre via scamwatch.gov.au, you provide valuable information that helps them understand scam tactics, identify vulnerable populations, and work on disrupting and stopping these criminal activities. As their spokesperson says, "Your reports help the National Anti-Scam Centre identify the scams that are causing the most harm to Australians." Ep324 Image created by AI
You can use the wake words Announce or Broadcast then say what you want. The systems will then record what you’ve said and play it out on all connected devices. Great for “Dinner’s Ready!” There are preset commands that use the device voice. Google Assistant has preset messages for common announcements like "Hey Google, broadcast wake up" ("It's time to wake up") or "Hey Google, broadcast dinner" ("Dinner is served"). You can reply using the reply command. You can talk to specific devices or all devices as you wish. Ep324 Image created by AI
So, it’s time to do an audit of your existing passwords, cut out the fluff and strengthen things up a bit. Here are some essential password tips for everyone:
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This linear path is not only environmentally unsound but also geopolitically precarious. The mining of REEs is an energy-intensive process with significant greenhouse gas emissions. Furthermore, the global supply chain for these materials is often concentrated, as highlighted by China's recent announcement of export restrictions on seven REEs, including dysprosium – a key component in magnetic storage, motors, and generators vital to the U.S. tech industry. In a significant step towards a more sustainable and resilient technology ecosystem, Western Digital (WD) has unveiled a large-scale hard disk drive recycling program. This initiative, a collaborative effort with Microsoft and recycling industry experts CMR (Critical Materials Recycling) and PedalPoint Recycling, aims to transform end-of-life HDDs from waste into a valuable resource stream. The process focuses on reclaiming Rare Earth Oxides (REO) containing dysprosium, neodymium, and praseodymium – all crucial for various high-tech applications. Importantly, the entire REO reclamation process takes place within the United States, ensuring these recovered materials re-enter the domestic market, ready to be used in the manufacturing of new technological products. Dubbed the Advanced Recycling and Rare Earth Material Capture Program, WD's initiative has already demonstrated impressive results, diverting 47,000 pounds of hard drives, SSDs, and caddies from landfills or less efficient recycling methods. The program has achieved a remarkable reclaim rate of over 90% for REEs and 80% for the total shredded material. If you like numbers: The potential impact of widespread hard drive recycling is immense and continuously growing. According to the Financial Times, in 2022, there were an estimated 23,000 data centers housing a staggering 70 million servers. With each server containing multiple hard drives that typically reach their end-of-life after just three to five years, the volume of potential e-waste is staggering. Projections estimate that global e-waste will reach a staggering 75 million tons by 2030. Ep323 Image created by AI
Here's the simple version of how it works:
This is particularly scary because:
The bad guys behind this seem to be Chinese speakers, and they're even offering support to other criminals who want to use this method. This scam has already been seen in Italy. What Google says: Google says their Play Protect system should help protect you from apps with this kind of malware if you download them from the official Play Store. But be careful about installing apps from anywhere else! The bottom line: Be super careful about messages asking you to call numbers or download apps, especially if they're about your bank. Don't tap your card on your phone if someone you don't trust tells you to! Ep323 Image created by AI
You may not know about a handy Windows feature called Clipboard History. It essentially keeps a record of multiple items you've copied (text, images, links, etc.) instead of just the most recent one. This allows you to paste something you copied earlier without having to go back and copy it again. 
Ep323 Image Source: Screenshot taken by MITE Radio
The Ministry of Education in Beijing outlined that the AI lessons will be integrated into existing subjects where relevant, or offered as standalone classes. The curriculum will be carefully tailored to suit the cognitive abilities of different age groups. Younger students can expect to engage with simple, interactive tasks designed to introduce basic AI concepts, while older students in high school will delve into more complex topics, potentially including machine learning principles and the ethical considerations surrounding AI development. Education Minister Huai Jinpeng, in a press conference held earlier today, underscored the transformative power of artificial intelligence and its profound potential to reshape society across various sectors. He stated that this early introduction to AI will equip the next generation with crucial skills and a foundational understanding necessary to navigate and contribute to an AI-driven future. Minister Huai also announced the forthcoming release of a national AI education white paper, which will provide detailed guidelines and frameworks for the implementation of this nationwide program. "Artificial intelligence is no longer a futuristic concept; it is rapidly becoming an integral part of our daily lives," Minister Huai asserted. "By making AI education mandatory from a young age, we are not only fostering a generation of AI-literate citizens but also cultivating the future innovators and leaders who will propel China to the forefront of this critical technological frontier." This bold step by China reflects a growing international recognition of the importance of AI literacy. Several other nations, including the United States and Italy, have also begun incorporating AI into their educational frameworks, albeit with varying approaches and scope. However, China's move to make AI education compulsory for all students marks a significant escalation in these global efforts. The announcement has sparked a range of reactions from educators, parents, and technology experts. While many applaud the initiative as a forward-thinking strategy to prepare students for the demands of the 21st century, some have raised questions about the readiness of teachers and the availability of suitable educational resources across the vast Chinese education system. The government has assured that comprehensive teacher training programs and the development of high-quality AI education materials are being prioritized to ensure the successful implementation of this ambitious program. All eyes will be on China - at least for now. Ep323 Image created by AI
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