Google Chrome for Android just gained a nifty new feature – "Listen to this page." This tool lets you have webpages read aloud to you directly within the browser, eliminating the need to switch between apps or juggle tasks.
Imagine this: You've finished breakfast but need to do the dishes before you go off to work…, but an article catches your eye. No problem! Hit "Listen to this page," sit back, and let Chrome narrate the content while you focus on the dishes. Here's what makes "Listen to this page" so handy:
Curious to try it out? Head to a text-heavy webpage on your Android device using Chrome. Look for the familiar three-dot menu in the top right corner. If you have the feature, you'll see "Listen to this page" listed just below "Translate." A Feature in Progress: While "Listen to this page" seems to be rolling out gradually, some users might not have it yet. It's also worth noting that the feature was initially spotted in the Chrome beta version, so a wider release might be imminent. For iPhone users, Safari offers a similar feature called "Listen to Page" that utilises Siri's voice.
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Ditch the screen, work anywhere! The future of laptops is here with AR glasses! But is it a game-changer or a gimmick? Find out about the wild new Spacetop G1  Now here’s a crazy idea that might just work!
Sightful, a company betting big on augmented reality (AR), has taken a bold leap with the Spacetop G1 – a laptop that ditches the screen entirely! Partnering with AR glasses maker XReal, Sightful offers a glimpse into a future where computing happens through smart glasses. Imagine lounging by the pool, not with a traditional laptop, but with sleek AR glasses displaying your work. The Spacetop G1's promotional video showcases this futuristic vision, with users working seamlessly through stylish AR glasses. The glasses themselves cleverly store inside the laptop's base, where a traditional screen would reside. But is this a revolutionary breakthrough or a niche novelty? Experts remain cautious. AR technology is still in its early stages, and the Spacetop G1 caters to a very specific, unproven market. The hefty $1,900 price tag further limits its appeal to adventurous early adopters. Here's a closer look at the Spacetop G1's potential drawbacks:
The Spacetop G1 might not be a mainstream hit, but it's a fascinating glimpse into the future of AR. However, companies like Sightful still have a long way to go in convincing consumers that a keyboard-glasses combo is the future of portable computing. Australian telecommunications giant Telstra has significantly ramped up its commitment to fighting climate change. In a recent blog post, Telstra's Chief Sustainability Officer, Justine Rowe, announced the company's new goal of slashing greenhouse gas emissions by a staggering 70% by 2030. This ambitious target is a substantial increase from their previous commitment of a 50% reduction.
Telstra's plan goes beyond simply offsetting their emissions – they're setting their sights on true decarbonization. "We're moving away from the purchase of carbon credits," wrote Rowe, "and will instead be focusing on decarbonisation efforts." This shift in strategy suggests Telstra is prioritising long-term solutions like renewable energy use and energy efficiency improvements. The financial benefits of this approach are twofold. Reducing emissions directly translates to lower energy bills for Telstra. Additionally, by focusing on decarbonization, Telstra is likely to avoid potential future costs associated with carbon credits, which can fluctuate in price. Some of the large power-consuming infrastructure that Telstra uses includes: Mobile Network Base Stations: These cell towers are ubiquitous and constantly transmit and receive signals to facilitate mobile phone connectivity. While individual towers may not use a massive amount of power, the sheer number of them across Telstra's network contributes significantly to their energy consumption. Data Centers: Telstra operates numerous data centres that house servers and equipment crucial for storing and processing vast amounts of data. These facilities require significant power to keep the equipment running cool and operational 24/7. Fiber Optic Network: Telstra utilises a vast network of fibre optic cables that transmit data over long distances. While the cables themselves don't consume a lot of power, the equipment required to power and manage the signal transmission does. Exchange Buildings: These buildings house the switching equipment that routes phone calls, internet traffic, and other data across Telstra's network. The complex electronics within these facilities contribute to their power consumption. This sets a strong example for other businesses to follow. So printing is fine so WiFi is connected - all good
Scanning generally needs extra drivers to be installed. If your printer is fairly new, Windows might be OK with using the Windows scanner. Search for "Windows Scan" in the Start menu. You can get it from the MS Store if not installed. If you strike out, you will need to install the scanner drivers from the manufacturers website.
In a fascinating twist on tech, veterinarians in Australia are pioneering a new use for the Apple Watch: monitoring the heart rates of lions and other large wildlife. This approach, spearheaded by Dr. Chloe Buiting (@Jungle_doctor on Instagram), highlights the exciting ways technology can contribute to wildlife conservation.
Check out the viral Instagram video showcasing a sedated lion with an Apple Watch strapped to its tongue, a creative and rather unconventional application of the device. The caption playfully acknowledges this, stating, "Apple Watch can measure a lion's heart rate if you strap it to the tongue... a true - 'technology meets conservation' story." This ingenious technique finds its roots in the work of Dr. Fabiola Quesada, a renowned wildlife veterinarian. Dr. Quesada successfully tested the Apple Watch by attaching it to an elephant's ear to measure its heart rate, demonstrating the method's potential for large animals. For lions, veterinarians strategically place the Apple Watch on the tongue of a sedated animal. This allows for real-time monitoring of heart rate during medical procedures, ensuring vital signs are tracked efficiently. This is especially crucial for ensuring the health and safety of large, potentially dangerous wildlife during medical interventions. The secret behind the Apple Watch's heart rate monitoring lies in a technology called photo-plethys-mography. This method works by exploiting the fact that blood absorbs green light and reflects red light. The watch uses green LED lights and light-sensitive photodiodes to measure blood flow through the wrist (or, in this case, the tongue!). By flashing the LEDs rapidly, the watch detects variations in light absorption and calculates heart rate. According to Apple, the watch's optical heart sensor can measure heart rates between 30 and 210 beats per minute. To ensure accuracy, the sensor adjusts for weak signals by increasing LED brightness and sampling rate. It can even use infrared light for continuous heart rate monitoring and notifications. This use of the Apple Watch in wildlife conservation demonstrates the constant evolution of technology and its potential to benefit animal well-being. It's a testament to the ingenuity of veterinarians and a promising step forward for wildlife care.
Peter Dutton announced that the Coalition would ban users under 16 from social media within 100 days if elected. The proposal aims to protect children's mental health, but details on enforcement are unclear. Dutton compared the ban to getting a licence, emphasising technology for age verification. Concerns were raised about teens using VPNs to bypass restrictions. Dutton suggested collaboration with tech companies like Apple for solutions. Prime Minister Albanese supported the ban, advocating for a thorough trial and funding. The feasibility of such a ban remains uncertain, with global challenges in enforcing age verification on social media. Realistically, any significant changes to social media age access are likely to be driven by developments in the United States, where there is increasing momentum. Meta's CEO Mark Zuckerberg has previously suggested that age verification should be managed by tech giants like Apple and Google, preventing children from downloading the apps on their devices in the first place. My take? Messy, expensive and unlikely to be very successful - if at all. I vote for Graham Nash - Teach your children from 1970.
Talking to Your Tomatoes? It's Not Crazy Anymore, Thanks to AI
Remember the days when talking to your plants seemed like the plot of a quirky sitcom? Well, those days are over. Thanks to a creative technologist and the power of artificial intelligence, your tomato plants can now "talk back" – well, sort of. From Quirky to Practical: AI Gives Plants a Voice Matt Reed, a creative technologist, has developed a system that uses a Raspberry Pi computer, environmental sensors, and an AI chatbot to bridge the communication gap between humans and plants. While the initial image might be a person chatting with a potted tomato wearing googly eyes, the concept is surprisingly practical. How Does it Work? Sensors Speak Louder Than Words (or Lack Thereof) Plants can't exactly tell us when they're thirsty or need more sunshine. But they do react to these conditions! Reed's system uses sensors to measure factors like soil moisture and light levels. This data is then fed into a large language model (think of it as a super-powered AI translator) along with some plant-based knowledge. The result? A conversation that lets you know if your precious tomatoes are feeling a bit parched or craving some extra sun. Is This Just a Gimmick? Not Quite. Sure, the idea of a talking tomato plant might seem a bit out there. But there's a genuine benefit here. While you could technically interpret the raw sensor data yourself, wouldn't it be easier to simply ask your plant what it needs? It's all about intuitive communication – well, as intuitive as talking to a tomato can be. The Future of Plant-Human Conversation (and Beyond!) This is just the beginning. Reed envisions adding even more sensors to the system, allowing for richer interactions and a deeper understanding of your plant's needs. And if tomatoes can talk, what else is on the horizon? The possibilities are endless! Imagine a world where your houseplants can warn you about poor air quality, or your garden provides insights into the health of the soil. So next time you catch yourself whispering sweet nothings to your philodendron, don't worry about what the neighbours might think. The future of plant communication is here, and it's powered by AI.
Apple fired a salvo of artificial intelligence (AI) products at its developer conference this week, but will it be enough to jumpstart slowing iPhone sales?
A Cautious Embrace of AI: Since the rise of ChatGPT in 2022, Apple remained relatively quiet on the generative AI front. This changed on Monday, with CEO Tim Cook unveiling a suite of AI features, including:
While the new features offer exciting possibilities, some critics raise concerns. Integrating Siri with a wider range of apps raises questions about user data privacy. Pressure to Compete: Apple faces mounting pressure from investors and competitors like Microsoft and Meta, who are aggressively pursuing AI leadership. Stagnant iPhone sales in China further highlight the need for innovation. The Challenge: Beyond Products Apple's core strength lies in selling devices to consumers, not offering AI solutions to businesses. The key will be significantly enhancing user experience on iPhones, iPads, and other Apple products. Early Days for Generative AI: Analysts like Thomas Husson (Forrester) caution that generative AI is still nascent in the consumer market. Apple, he argues, hasn't delivered a revolutionary product unlike some may have hoped. Instead, they've followed their typical approach – providing developer tools to improve the user experience within the Apple ecosystem. The AI Question for Apple: Can AI features ever become a major selling point for Apple products, or will they remain secondary to the core user experience? Only time will tell if Apple's AI strategy will reignite iPhone sales and solidify their position in the evolving tech landscape. I think yes 🙂
Musk Meltdown: Tech Titan Threatens Apple Device Ban Over OpenAI Feud
In a fiery Twitter tirade, Elon Musk, one of the world's richest people and CEO of Tesla and X, has threatened a full-blown Apple device ban at his companies if Apple integrates OpenAI technology directly into its operating system. The Spark: This outburst comes on the heels of Apple's recent WWDC (Worldwide Developers Conference), where details about potential future integrations with OpenAI, a leading artificial intelligence research lab, might have been hinted at. Security Concerns or Underlying Tensions? Musk claims this integration poses an "unacceptable security violation." However, this raised some eyebrows, considering Musk is currently embroiled in a legal battle with OpenAI and actively promotes a rival AI company. This suggests the move may be fueled by more than just security concerns. Faraday Cage Fury: The bombastic tweet further details that visitors to Musk's companies will be forced to surrender their Apple devices, which will be "stored in a Faraday cage" – a metal box that blocks electromagnetic signals. A Brewing Tech War? This incident highlights the escalating tensions within the tech industry, particularly between Musk and Apple. Whether this is a genuine security concern or a strategic move in a larger tech war remains to be seen. Impact and Implications: If Musk follows through, this ban could have significant logistical challenges for employees and visitors who rely on Apple devices for work and personal use. It also raises questions about the future of collaboration within the tech industry if such animosity persists. The Verdict: More Drama to Come? So, we wait with bated breath to see if this is just another tantrum or the beginning of a full-blown tech war.
GameScent: Smelling the Future of Gaming... or Just a Whiff of Hype?
3D glasses are so last decade. The future of immersive gaming might involve your nose as well as your eyes and ears. Enter GameScent, a device that releases scents based on in-game events, aiming to heighten the realism (and maybe weirdness) of your gaming experience. But is this a step forward in gaming, or a gimmick destined to be relegated to the dusty shelf of forgotten gaming accessories? Let's sniff out the truth. The kit is a box with compartments for vials of scents and it plugs into your devices to listen to the audio being produced. AI then comes in to work out what is the most suitable scent to emit. The Promise: A Multisensory Adventure Imagine the smoky aroma of battlefields, the crisp scent of a forest, or the pungent odour of a zombie horde (hopefully not too realistic!). The goal? To deepen your immersion in the game world by engaging another sense. The Reality: A Mixed Bag of Aromas Reviews for GameScent are a bit…aromatic (get it?). While some users appreciate the novelty and the potential for heightened immersion, others find the scents to be underwhelming or even unpleasant. The "gunfire" scent might be more like burnt rubber, and the "forest" fragrance might smell more like pine-sol than a relaxing nature walk. Additionally, the reliance on audio cues can lead to some strange scent choices – does a boss battle really need a burst of "fresh cut grass" smell? The Verdict: A Fun Experiment, But Not a Gaming Essential (Yet) At its current iteration, GameScent feels more like a quirky experiment than a must-have gaming peripheral. The novelty factor is undeniable, and it can be fun to experience gaming with an extra sensory layer. However, the limited scent selection and the potential for unpleasant smells hold it back. The Future of Smelly Gaming? Despite its current shortcomings, GameScent represents an interesting step forward in interactive gaming. Imagine a future where scents are more nuanced and tailored to specific in-game situations. A truly immersive olfactory experience could be truly groundbreaking. Incidentally, similar concepts exist in the world of movies.
Xiaomi, the tech giant known for its smartphones and electronics and more recently electric cars… Well they are also making waves in the field of robotics. Their humanoid robot, CyberOne, unveiled in 2022 just quietly, is no longer just a concept. Xiaomi Robotics is actively integrating CyberOne into its own manufacturing process, paving the way for a future of intelligent automation.
From Prototype to Production Partner:
My take? Test in-house, prove its worth then market it to all - great idea! Apple Unleashes AI Power at WWDC 2024! Is your iPhone about to get smarter? New OS updates, AI magic, and a long-awaited app finally arrives! WWDC 2024 highlights!  Apple's annual developer conference, WWDC 2024, unveiled a wave of updates across its entire product line. Here's a quick rundown of the biggest announcements:
VisionOS & Apple Vision Pro:
Apple's highly anticipated AI venture, Apple Intelligence, finally makes its debut.
Netflix Announces End of Support for Older Sony BRAVIA TVs in Asia Pacific
Sydney, Australia - June 6, 2024 - Sony recently announced that the Netflix app will no longer be supported on dozens of older BRAVIA TV models in the Asia Pacific region, including Australia. This change will take effect on July 24, 2024, and will impact 37 specific Sony BRAVIA models released in 2014. Affected TVs and Options: While these older TVs will lose access to the Netflix app, users can still enjoy the streaming service through other means. Sony recommends utilising a supported television streaming device like a Google Chromecast, Apple TV, or Amazon Fire TV Stick. These external devices connect to the TV's HDMI port and offer a wider range of apps and features, including access to Netflix. A Decade of Service Comes to an End: The affected Sony BRAVIA models are all over a decade old, having been released in 2014. As technology evolves and streaming services update their apps, it becomes increasingly challenging to maintain compatibility with older hardware. Sony's Statement: In a statement, Sony said, "The Netflix app will no longer be supported on certain 2014 BRAVIA televisions from July 24, 2024." The company clarified that the Netflix app will continue to function normally on these models until the official end-of-support date. For More Information: Sony advises consumers with questions to contact Netflix directly for further information. This change highlights the importance of considering a TV's future compatibility with streaming services when making a purchasing decision. For those affected by this update, there are still options available to continue enjoying Netflix on their older Sony BRAVIA TVs.
Ditch the Scratchy Airline Headphones:
This Gadget Saves Airplane Entertainment (and Your Sanity)Remember the days of tangled wires and uncomfortable aeroplane headphones? Those scratchy relics of the past are about to become a distant memory thanks to the AirFly wireless transmitter. Finally, someone addressed the fact that most of us have ditched wired headphones in favour of the freedom of Bluetooth. This ingenious little device bridges the gap between your favourite Bluetooth headphones and aeroplane entertainment systems. Simply plug the AirFly into the headphone jack on your seat, pair your headphones with the transmitter, and voila! You're free to indulge in your movie marathon (we won't judge, eight-hour flights are rough) with the comfort and sound quality of your own headphones. Passenger Tested, Passenger Approved I looked up a few reviews and BuzzFeed writer Jessica Hall recently put the AirFly to the test on an eight-hour flight. Faced with the prospect of enduring scratchy airline headphones for the entire journey, she knew her trusty over-the-ear Bluetooth headphones were the only way to go. The AirFly proved to be the perfect solution, allowing her to enjoy her flight in comfort and with superior sound quality. Happy Travellers Rave About the AirFly Travellers are raving about the AirFly, "You don't know it yet, but you need this... Huge improvement in comfort and sound quality over the airlines' headphones." They also highlight the AirFly's versatility, praising its usefulness on tours where typical listening equipment can be equally uncomfortable. So ditch the aeroplane headphone struggle and upgrade your travel experience. The AirFly is a must-have for any frequent flyer or anyone who values comfort and sound quality on the go.
Why Reset? 3 Big Benefits:
Taking the time to reset your Windows PC once a year can bring significant benefits. Not only will it clear out digital clutter and improve performance, but it can also help identify and eliminate potential problems. So why wait? Give your PC a refresh and enjoy a faster, smoother digital experience!
From Missing Tools to Millions: Carpenter Cracks Open Massive Theft Ring with Tiny Apple Trackers
Imagine losing your livelihood in a blink – that's what happened to a Virginia carpenter when his work van was broken into twice, stealing the tools he needed to put food on the table. But this story doesn't end in despair. It's a tale of resilience, a dash of tech-savviness, and a surprising discovery that led to the bust of a multi-million dollar stolen goods operation. AirTags: Not Just for Stalkers While Apple's AirTags have been unfortunately linked to stalking concerns, this story flips the script. Our hero, the carpenter, decided to fight back. He cleverly hid AirTags in his larger tools, hoping to track them down if the thieves returned. Third Time's the Charm (for Justice) Unfortunately, a third break-in occurred. This time, however, the carpenter was armed with the power of AirTags. Using his iPhone, he embarked on a determined hunt, following the signal for hours through Maryland suburbs until it led him to a seemingly innocuous storage facility. A Treasure Trove of Stolen Dreams What unfolded next was beyond anyone's imagination. Upon involving the police and securing a search warrant, they discovered a shocking truth. The storage unit wasn't just holding the carpenter's stolen equipment; it was a hidden warehouse for a massive stolen goods operation. Millions in Tools, Countless Victims The discovery was staggering – a staggering 15,000 stolen tools, including saws, drills, and generators, were packed inside. The estimated value? A whopping $3 to $5 million! This wasn't just the carpenter's stolen equipment; tools from countless local businesses, homes, and fellow carpenters were also recovered, some dating back to 2014. The Investigation Unfolds The investigation is ongoing, with police searching for the culprits. So far, 80 victims have been identified, but the true number could be in the hundreds or even thousands. Unfortunately, reuniting stolen tools with their rightful owners is proving challenging. A Hero Emerges: Tools Recovered, Livelihood Saved Though only a handful of his stolen tools have been returned, our hero carpenter has helped dismantle a major criminal operation. He represents the countless victims whose livelihoods were threatened by theft. "They don't know what they do to me," he said of the thieves. "They steal our job." This story highlights the potential of technology for good. While AirTags have faced concerns about misuse, they've also proven themselves as valuable tools in the fight against crime.
Zooming Made Easy:
Nvidia Surges Past Apple to Become World's Most Valuable Company, Fueled by AI Boom
Taipei, Taiwan - June 6, 2024 - In a major shift in the tech landscape, chipmaker Nvidia has surpassed Apple to become the world's most valuable company by market capitalization. The news comes on the heels of Nvidia's announcements for new artificial intelligence (AI) chips unveiled at Computex, a leading technology trade show. This morning, Nvidia's stock price skyrocketed, pushing its market cap to a staggering $3.01 trillion, according to The Verge. This surpasses Apple's current market cap by a whole $10 billion. Nvidia's Meteoric Rise The past five years have been nothing short of phenomenal for Nvidia.
AI: The New Gold Rush Analysts believe Nvidia is perfectly positioned to capitalise on the AI revolution. Their chips are seen as the essential tools for companies and researchers developing cutting-edge AI applications. The Verge aptly describes Nvidia's role as "selling shovels in a gold rush." That saud, the competition is heating up with AMD, Intel, and Qualcomm all investing heavily in developing their own AI chips. While Nvidia currently holds the top spot, the future of the AI chip market remains to be seen.
Phone Umbrellas: A Sunny Solution or a Shady Scheme?
We've all been there: the struggle to see your phone screen on a bright, sunny day. Enter the phone umbrella, a quirky gadget promising to shield your phone from the sun's glare while you keep scrolling. But is this a must-have tech accessory, or a gimmick destined for the back of the gadget graveyard? Let's break down the rain (or rather, sun) or shine on this product. Shielding Your Screen, But Not Your Style? The phone umbrella attaches to your phone via a magnet or a stick-on ring, providing shade for your precious display. This undoubtedly helps combat screen glare, a major pain point for outdoor phone users. However, some reviewers mention the umbrella being a bit bulky, potentially making your phone look a bit...well, awkward. Bye-Bye Brightness Woes, Hello Sunstroke Prevention? One of the umbrella's touted benefits is its ability to prevent your phone from overheating. By blocking direct sunlight, the umbrella could theoretically help keep your phone cooler, avoiding those dreaded "phone needs to cool down" messages. This is a definite plus for anyone who loves taking their phone on long, sunny adventures…. but I call bulldust, really. The Verdict: A Niche Solution for Sun-Loving Scrollers The phone umbrella seems like a product with a specific target audience – people who spend a lot of time outdoors using their phones. For them, the ability to combat screen glare and potentially prevent overheating could be a game-changer. However, for casual phone users who don't mind cranking up the brightness or seeking shade when needed, the phone umbrella might be more of a novelty than a necessity. Final Thoughts: Not a huge investment at $19.99. If you find yourself constantly squinting at your phone screen on sunny days, it might be worth a try. Just be prepared for a few raised eyebrows and potential questions about your unique phone accessory.
You could try this as a workaround, but it may not work for your model. If your remote has the 4 coloured buttons. You can get to 7plus. Steps
Some other things
Declutter Your Device: A Guide to Deleting Downloaded Files on iPhone and Android
Does your phone feel sluggish? Are you constantly bombarded with "storage full" warnings? It might be time to spring clean your downloaded files! Unlike apps, which live prominently in your app drawer, downloaded files can lurk unseen, silently consuming precious storage space. iPhone: Cleaning Up the Downloads Folder
Unlike iPhones, where downloads are usually centralised, Android offers more flexibility (and sometimes, more confusion!) Here's how to tackle downloads on your Android device: Method 1: Using the Files App (Most Common)
If you can't locate a dedicated Downloads folder in the Files app, some apps might store their downloads within their own folders. For instance, downloaded Chrome PDFs might be found within a Chrome folder. Explore the Files app to see if downloaded files reside within specific app folders. Windows: File explorer Look for downloads in the left pane If not there c:\users\”username”\downloads |
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