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Connected Car Crisis

31/7/2024

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Connected Cars: A Connectivity Crisis
The promise of the connected car, once a beacon of automotive innovation, is now casting a long shadow. As automakers race to integrate advanced software and features into their vehicles, a growing disconnect between hardware and software is emerging.

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The recent spate of connectivity issues, particularly those stemming from the 3G sunset, has exposed the fragility of the automotive ecosystem. Models as recent as 2019 are now facing feature limitations, leaving owners frustrated and questioning the long-term value of their vehicles. It’s almost unbelievable that cars relied on the 3G network for OTA (Over-the-Air) updates but back in “very recent day”, the lowest common denominator was chosen and that was 3G.

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While automakers like Volkswagen and Nissan grapple with the consequences of outdated connectivity, the industry as a whole is facing a critical challenge: how to ensure that vehicles remain connected and up-to-date throughout their lifespan.

The concept of the "software-defined vehicle" holds immense potential, but it also carries significant risks. Automakers must strike a delicate balance between delivering cutting-edge features and ensuring long-term support for their products.

All this leaves consumers wondering about the true lifespan of their connected cars and the value of features that could become obsolete in just a few years. Let’s not get started about bugs in the update code either.

What do you think? Should automakers be held responsible for ensuring long-term connectivity in their vehicles?
​Drop us a message on miteradio.com.au or 0492 906 469.


​Ep211
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Listener Question - Free NBN Upgrades

30/7/2024

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I’ve received a letter offering me a free NBN upgrade. It’s unclear what the benefits are other than “better”, should I do it?
Millions of Australians are set to benefit from a significant upgrade to their internet speeds, as NBN Co rolls out free Fibre to the Premises (FTTP) upgrades for eligible Fibre to the Node (FTTN and FTTC) customers.
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Who is eligible?
Not all FTTN connections qualify for the free upgrade. To check your eligibility, you can visit the NBN Co website or contact your internet service provider (ISP). You must be on a 100Mbps plan or pay to upgrade to a 100Mbps plan.
How to get the upgrade:
  1. Check eligibility: Determine if your address is eligible for the FTTP upgrade.
  2. Choose a plan: Select an NBN 100, NBN 250, or NBN 1000 plan from a participating ISP.
  3. Schedule installation: NBN Co will arrange for a technician to install the new equipment.
  4. Cancel your old plan: Once the FTTP connection is active, cancel your existing FTTN plan.
Important Considerations:
  • Fees: While the upgrade itself is free, there may be fees associated with downgrading your plan or moving within 12 months of the upgrade.
  • Installation time: The upgrade process can take several weeks to complete.
  • Not all ISPs participate: Ensure your chosen ISP offers the FTTP upgrade.
A significant boost in internet speeds is on the horizon for many Australians. By taking advantage of this free upgrade, you can enjoy faster, more reliable internet connections.
Bottom line: if your internet is lousy with FTTN, maybe consider doing the upgrade for the extra few bucks.


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Grand Vividus Luxury Bed

30/7/2024

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The Million-Dollar Bed: Luxury Redefined - A bed fit for royalty (or at least, billionaires).   

Hästens, the Swedish luxury bed manufacturer, has redefined opulence with its Grand Vividus bed set, retailing at a staggering $1 million. Crafted by hand using the finest materials, these beds are designed to completely remove sleeping noises and give you the perfect sleeping posture.

The Grand Vividus is more than just a place to sleep; it's a statement of luxury. With its meticulous attention to detail and unparalleled comfort, it's no wonder this bed has attracted the attention of the world's elite… including Drake.   

At the heart of the Grand Vividus is a meticulous manufacturing process that involves a team of skilled artisans. Each bed undergoes over 500 hours of handcrafted labour, ensuring unparalleled attention to detail.   

The foundation of the bed is a spring system made from Swedish steel, renowned for its durability and resilience. Layers of natural materials, including horsetail hair, wool, cotton, and flax, are then carefully arranged to provide optimal comfort and support. The bed is encased in the finest leather, hand-stitched to perfection.   

This meticulous process, combined with the use of premium materials, results in a bed that offers exceptional comfort, durability, and a sense of unparalleled luxury. The Hästens Grand Vividus is more than just a place to sleep; it's a statement of opulence and a testament to the enduring power of craftsmanship.

While the price tag may seem astronomical, Hästens believes that sleep is an essential component of overall well-being and that investing in a high-quality bed is an investment in oneself.

Sleep in this bed and you will “truly wake up for the first time”

Would you splurge on a million-dollar bed for the ultimate sleep experience?

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Netflix Secret Codes

30/7/2024

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Unlock the Hidden Depths of Netflix: Dive into the Secret Menu
Think you've seen all Netflix has to offer? Think again! There's a whole world of hidden content waiting to be discovered.
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Netflix personalises your experience, but its algorithm can't show you everything. That's where the Netflix secret menu comes in. It's your key to unlocking thousands of niche genres and subcategories, from cult classics to Korean dramas for beginners.

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How to Access the Secret Menu:
There isn't a single menu, but rather a system of codes. These codes, when added to a Netflix URL, unlock specific curated collections of movies and shows.
Finding Your Next Obsession:
  • Netflix-Codes.com: This website is your one-stop shop for exploring hidden categories. With over 36,000 codes, you'll find something to pique your interest, whether it's "Supernatural Soaps" or "Movies Directed by Women."
  • Browser Extensions: Want a more streamlined experience? Install "Better Browse for Netflix" (Chrome) or "FindFlix" (Chrome, Firefox). These extensions add a drop-down menu with categories directly to your Netflix interface.
Unlocking the Magic:
There are several ways to use the codes:
  • Through the Website: Visit Netflix-Codes.com, find your desired category, tap the code, and it should open the Netflix app (if installed) or the category in your web browser.
  • Custom URLs: Feeling tech-savvy? Use the codes to build your own Netflix URLs.Try Google: for example - “netflix 90 minute”
  • http://www.netflix.com/browse/genre/81466194 takes you to "90-Minute Movies."
  • https://www.netflix.com/au/browse/genre/81396425 “under 90-Minute options”
  • https://www.netflix.com/au/browse/genre/81396426 “2-hour movies”
  • https://www.netflix.com/au/browse/genre/81396430 “over 2-hour movies”
  • https://www.netflix.com/au/browse/genre/81602050 “30-minute Laughs”
  • https://www.netflix.com/au/browse/genre/3300242 “Sci-Fi TV Shows”
Unleash the Power of Choice:
No more endless scrolling! With the secret menu, you're in control. Explore hidden gems, discover new favourites, and say goodbye to algorithm fatigue. So, what are you waiting for? Start exploring the depths of Netflix today!

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One time Passwords

30/7/2024

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Exploring Safer Alternatives to One-Time Passwords for Online Security
One-time passwords (OTPs) sent via SMS have long been a staple of mobile app logins, but cybersecurity experts are increasingly warning about their vulnerabilities. While SMS OTPs are susceptible to phishing attacks, SIM swapping, and message interception, there are more secure alternatives that general users should consider:- authenticator apps and multi-device passkeys.
Authenticator Apps: A Stronger Option
Authenticator apps like Google Authenticator and Microsoft Authenticator are widely regarded as a more secure alternative to SMS OTPs. These apps generate unique, time-sensitive codes directly on your mobile device, offering several advantages:
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  1. Enhanced Security: Unlike SMS OTPs, which can be intercepted, authenticator apps store codes locally on your phone. This means no sensitive information is transmitted over networks that could be compromised.
  2. Time-Sensitive Codes: The codes generated by authenticator apps typically expire after 30 to 60 seconds, further reducing the window of opportunity for potential attackers.
  3. Device-Specific Protection: If your mobile device is password-protected and equipped with facial recognition or fingerprint scanning, it adds another layer of security to accessing the authenticator app.
While authenticator apps significantly improve security, they are not entirely foolproof. For instance, sophisticated phishing attacks could trick users into entering their authenticator codes on fake websites. Despite this, they remain a much safer option compared to SMS OTPs.
Multi-Device Passkeys: Eliminating Passwords
Another promising alternative is the use of multi-device passkeys, which aim to eliminate traditional passwords altogether. Passkeys utilise a combination of a private key stored on your device and public key cryptography. Here’s how they enhance security:
  1. Password-Free Authentication: Passkeys replace the need for passwords, which are often a weak link in online security. This reduces the risk of password-related breaches.
  2. Phishing Protection: Passkeys work only on registered websites and apps, making it significantly harder for attackers to deceive users with fake login pages.
  3. Streamlined User Experience: Passkeys offer a seamless login experience, as users don't need to remember or manage passwords.
While passkeys are not yet universally adopted and may not fully meet regulatory standards for multi-factor authentication, they represent a significant step forward in online security.
Choosing the Right Method for You
For general users, transitioning from SMS OTPs to authenticator apps or passkeys can provide a substantial security upgrade. Here's a quick guide on how to get started:
  1. Download an Authenticator App: Choose a reputable authenticator app like Google Authenticator or Microsoft Authenticator and follow the setup instructions to link it to your online accounts.
  2. Enable Passkeys: If available, enable multi-device passkeys on your accounts. Check with your service providers or app settings for options to switch to passkey-based authentication.
  3. Stay Informed: Keep up to date with the latest security recommendations and be aware of potential phishing tactics that could target even these advanced authentication methods.
By adopting these more secure alternatives, you can significantly reduce the risk of unauthorised access to your online accounts and enjoy a safer digital experience.

​Ep210


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Is this a parcel tracking scam?

29/7/2024

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The email is supposedly from Royal Mail, is this a scam?

Yes, this is a scam. Almost all of the links go to the correct locations, but when you go the the parcel delivery it asks you to 'update your details' and thats the information the hackers are trying to extract from you. 
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Animated Bluetooth Speakers

29/7/2024

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Gondola Speaker: A Unique Blend of Form and Function

Who needs a boring old box when you can have a miniature cable car delivering tunes? This concept speaker is as visually stunning as it is audibly pleasing. With its charming gondola design and synchronised movement to the music, it's like bringing a piece of alpine adventure into your living room.

Sungmin Hwang's Gondola speaker concept is a refreshing departure from the typical Bluetooth speaker design. By merging the aesthetics of a cable car with the functionality of a music player, the designer has created a visually captivating and interactive piece.

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The speaker’s design is more than just eye-catching; it's functional. The moving gondolas provide a unique visual representation of music playback, offering a tangible connection to the digital world. The absence of a traditional display is compensated by the charming and informative LED light on top.

This concept highlights the potential for innovative design in everyday tech products. By combining form and function in such a harmonious way, the Gondola speaker not only plays music but also tells a story.

It's a testament to the designer's creativity that a seemingly unrelated object like a cable car can inspire such a functional and aesthetically pleasing product. This concept could potentially spark a new trend in audio device design, where form and function are equally prioritised.

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Chrome Reading Mode

29/7/2024

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When you open a webpage with an article and advertising you can view it in Reading Mode.
In Chrome Settings (3 dots)… Ellipses -> More Tools -> Reading Mode

You will see a new column which you can then resize with no rubbish 🙂
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Ep 209
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Google Passwords Disappear

29/7/2024

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It must be bug month… Google Password Glitch Leaves Millions in the Dark
A significant bug in Google Chrome has resulted in the disappearance of saved passwords for millions of Windows users. The issue, which lasted nearly 18 hours, left users unable to access their stored credentials.
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According to Google, a "change in product behaviour without proper feature guard" caused the problem, affecting an estimated 15 million users. While the issue has since been resolved, it highlights the potential risks of relying solely on browser-based password managers.

The incident has sparked renewed concerns about the security of storing sensitive information within a single platform. Many experts recommend using dedicated password managers for added protection.
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As Google continues to investigate the root cause of the issue, users are advised to exercise caution and consider alternative password management solutions.

Have you been affected by this Google Chrome password glitch? Share your experience with us.

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Sodium Batteries

26/7/2024

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Sodium-Ion Batteries: A Game-Changer for Renewable Energy?
The push for renewable energy has ignited a race to develop efficient and affordable energy storage solutions. While lithium-ion batteries have dominated the market, a new contender is emerging: sodium-ion batteries.
The Challenge of Renewable Energy
Solar and wind power, while abundant and clean, are intermittent energy sources. To ensure a reliable power supply, we need technologies that can store excess energy for use when the sun isn't shining or the wind isn't blowing. This is where sodium-ion batteries come into play.​
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Sodium-Ion: A Promising Alternative
Unlike lithium-ion batteries, sodium-ion batteries rely on the abundant element sodium. This makes them potentially cheaper and more sustainable. While they currently offer lower energy density, ongoing research is rapidly improving their performance.
Key Advantages of Sodium-Ion Batteries:
  • Lower cost: Sodium is more abundant and cheaper to extract than lithium.
  • Longer lifespan: Sodium-ion batteries tend to have a longer cycle life.
  • Sustainability: Reduced environmental impact compared to lithium mining.

The Road Ahead
While sodium-ion batteries hold immense promise, they still face challenges in terms of energy density and commercialization. However, with ongoing research and development, they could become a major player in the energy storage market.
You may be thinking that seawater is a great renewable source for sodium, but… the process is complex and energy-intensive, making it currently less practical than extracting sodium from other sources like salt deposits.
Challenges and Considerations:
  • Energy Consumption: The process of extracting sodium from seawater requires significant amounts of energy.
  • Purity: The extracted sodium needs to be highly pure for battery applications, which requires additional processing steps.
  • Environmental Impact: Large-scale seawater extraction and processing can have environmental consequences, such as changes in marine ecosystems.
  • Economic Feasibility: While the abundance of seawater is a potential advantage, the overall cost-effectiveness of the process compared to other sodium sources needs to be carefully evaluated.
​Ep208
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More Blue Screen Blues

26/7/2024

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Microsoft users are facing yet another headache, just days after the widespread CrowdStrike-related blue screen issue. The latest problem stems from the July Patch Tuesday security update, which has triggered a BitLocker encryption recovery screen for some users.
What's Happening?
After installing the update, affected Windows devices (including both consumer and server versions) may reboot into a BitLocker recovery screen, requesting a recovery key. Here’s the kicker - This occurs even if BitLocker encryption was not previously enabled.
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Who's Affected?
The issue appears to be impacting a subset of Windows users running various versions of Windows 10, 11, and Windows Server editions.
Microsoft's Response:
Microsoft has acknowledged the problem and is currently investigating. They have advised users to enter their BitLocker recovery key to regain access to their devices.
How to Recover:
  1. Enter the BitLocker recovery key when prompted.
  2. Retrieve the recovery key from your Microsoft account if needed.
Prevention Tips:
While there's no guaranteed way to prevent this issue, maybe turn off updates for a couple of weeks in Update -> Settings -> Advanced.
Have you encountered this issue? Share your experience miteradio.com.au

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Google Kills the Cookie Killer Plan

25/7/2024

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Google has made a surprising U-turn on its plans to block third-party cookies in its Chrome browser.
Remember the time when you could just visit a website without having to first jump through cookie barrels?
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Well, after years of development and facing mounting pressure from publishers and regulators, Google has abandoned its "Privacy Sandbox" project. This project aimed to replace traditional cookies with a more privacy-focused system for targeted advertising.​

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Instead of blocking cookies entirely, Google now proposes giving users more control over their data. This means users will have the option to choose whether or not to be tracked across the web.

This decision marks a significant shift in Google's approach to online privacy and advertising. While it may appease publishers who rely heavily on cookie-based advertising, it also raises questions about the effectiveness of user choice in a complex digital ecosystem.
It’s all about the money… la di da da.

The new proposal is still subject to regulatory approval, and it remains to be seen how it will impact the advertising industry and user privacy.
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I’ll tell you the impact… more buttons to accept, reject and customise cookie retention as well as adding more confusion to the already confusing cookie business. Sheesh!

Ep207
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Chat GPT Tweaks

24/7/2024

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  1. Custom Instructions - set the stage
  • You are a sales manager for …
  • Respond using bold headings…

  1. Enable Memory
  • click on Manage to change or completely clear Memory.
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0 Comments

Uninstall Some Apps

24/7/2024

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If you’re sitting there on your phone doomscolling, why not use some of that dead time to uninstall some apps? This is good for the phone (or device) and the soul. A clean home and home screen helps to keep you organised and on-track.

Free Up Storage Space: Apps can take up a significant amount of storage space, especially games, photo/video editing apps, and those with large caches. Uninstalling unused apps frees up space for things you actually use.
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Improve Performance: Too many apps running in the background can slow down your device. Uninstalling unused apps reduces the strain on your device's resources, potentially leading to smoother performance.
Extend Battery Life: Certain apps can be battery hogs, constantly running processes or syncing data in the background. Uninstalling these apps can help conserve battery life for tasks you truly need.
Enhance Security: Keeping unused apps can be a security risk. Outdated apps might have vulnerabilities hackers can exploit. Regularly uninstalling unused apps can minimise this risk.
Declutter and Organise: An app-filled home screen can be overwhelming. Uninstalling unused apps creates a cleaner and more organised user experience, making it easier to find the apps you actually need.

In most cases long press and hold then drag to the rubbish bin usually at the top of the screen. Some devices allow you to long press then let go to see the bin options.

I usually run the app once more to see if I really want to blow it away. If I decide to keep it, I put it in a folder and make a plan to revisit it in a month or so.

Remember, you can always reinstall an app if you need it again.

​Ep 206

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No Netflix for Old Sony TVs

24/7/2024

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Netflix Cuts the Cord on Older Sony and Apple TV Devices: Frustration Mounts as Perfectly Functional TVs Lose Streaming Service
Netflix users with certain Sony and Apple TV devices are in for a rude awakening. In a move that has many subscribers up in arms, the streaming giant is pulling the plug on its app for a range of older models. Here's the breakdown:
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​The Affected Devices:
  • Sony BRAVIA TVs (Asia Pacific): 37 models from 2014 will lose Netflix support starting July 24th, 2024. ([List of affected Sony models below])
  • Apple TV Devices: Second and third generation models will no longer be able to stream Netflix after July 31st, 2024.
Why the Cut-Off?
According to Sony, the decision is due to "technical limitations" on these older devices. However, many users are frustrated, especially since their TVs are still in perfectly good working order. Some even point out that their Sony remotes have a dedicated Netflix button, highlighting the “utter cheek” of the move.
Is There a Workaround?
There is a silver lining for affected users. You can still access Netflix through these devices by using a separate streaming device like Google Chromecast or Amazon Fire TV Stick.
User Frustration
Social media is abuzz with complaints from disgruntled Netflix subscribers. Many point out the inconvenience and question the need to abandon functional devices.
The Takeaway:
If you own a Sony BRAVIA TV from 2014 or an older Apple TV device, it's time to consider alternative ways to stream Netflix. While the move is frustrating for some, it's a reminder that technology constantly evolves, and older devices eventually reach their end-of-life support.
Truth is, you’ll have a better experience with a streaming stick 🙂

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Sheep View 360

23/7/2024

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Baa-ing Their Way to Fame: Sheep Help Map the Faroe Islands
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The Faroe Islands, a remote archipelago nestled between Iceland and Norway, are known for their dramatic cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and of course, their sheep. Outnumbering humans two to one, these woolly residents play a vital role in the island's culture and landscape. But did you know they're also contributing to the digital age?

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A Sheepish Solution:
Traditionally, capturing detailed street-level imagery for places like the Faroe Islands has been a challenge. The rugged terrain and sparse population make it difficult for Google's Street View vehicles to navigate. However, in 2017, the Faroe Islands Tourist Board came up with a clever solution – sheep.
Operation Sheep View:
The brainchild of Durita Dahl Andreassen, a Faroese resident, "Sheep View 360" involved attaching lightweight cameras to the backs of sheep. These specially designed cameras captured panoramic images as the sheep grazed the lush hillsides and explored hidden coves. The data was then uploaded to Google Maps, providing a unique perspective of the Faroe Islands' beauty.
A Flock of Benefits:
Sheep View wasn't just a publicity stunt. It proved to be an effective way to map remote areas inaccessible to traditional methods. The sheep, with their natural agility and ability to navigate uneven terrain, provided a comprehensive and charming view of the islands.
More Than Just Wool:
The success of Sheep View highlights the unexpected ways technology can be used. It also showcases the ingenuity of the Faroese people and their deep connection to their environment. These hardy sheep have become more than just livestock – they're digital pioneers, helping to put their stunning island home on the map.
So, the next time you see a panoramic image of a breathtaking Faroese landscape, remember – it might just be thanks to a team of dedicated sheep and a touch of human ingenuity.

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Listener Question: OneDrive is Full - So No Emails

23/7/2024

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Onedrive is a nice cloud backup system by Microsoft for Windows computers. It will backup Desktop, Documents and Photos automatically. Problem is there is only a 5GB limit for free after which you must pay for additional storage. $30pa OneDrive + Outlook (100GB cloud, 50GB mail) or $109pa for (1TB cloud, 50GB mail) all Office apps as well.
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If you don’t need it you can turn it off, but please have another backup strategy in place.

The issue with running out of Cloud Space is if your emails are also stored in the cloud system.
Microsoft accounts like Livem, Hotmail, MSN, outlook, etc.. all use the same cloud space as OneDrive. So if you run out of space you can't send/receive emails.

Google has a similar setup with photos and google drive sharing the same cloud storage although the limit is 15GB.

If your email is not on the same cloud though, it won’t be affected if the cloud storage fills up.

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Robots Getting Under Our Skin

23/7/2024

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Robots Getting Under Our Skin: The Race for Lifelike Synthetic Skin
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Imagine a world where robots seamlessly interact with humans, not just in function, but also in touch. This futuristic vision is inching closer to reality thanks to the development of synthetic skin for robots.​
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Beyond the Metal Shell
Current robots, for all their advancements, lack the delicate and complex sense of touch that humans take for granted - forced to rely on non-contact sensory input. This limits their ability to interact with the world in a nuanced way. Synthetic skin aims to bridge this gap by giving robots a human-like surface that can perceive pressure, temperature, and even texture.
The Science of Feeling
Developing synthetic skin is no easy feat. Researchers are exploring various avenues, including:
  • Pressure Sensors: Tiny sensors embedded in the skin can detect the force of touch, allowing robots to grasp objects with a delicate touch.
  • Temperature Sensors: Mimicking human skin's ability to sense heat and cold, these sensors can help robots navigate environments and interact with objects safely.
  • Conductive Polymers: These materials can mimic the electrical properties of human skin, potentially allowing robots to sense different textures.
University of Tokyo professor Takao Somea has been developing ultra-thin e-skin with ultra-flexible electronics which can be printed on synthetic skins. I dare say that in the not too distant future we will see a range of e-skin for use on both humans and robots… but will this make robots more human-like or humans more robot-like?

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Google Photos My Week

23/7/2024

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​This is cool!

Google Photos is testing a new feature called My Week, allowing you to share a curated album of your weekly highlights with select friends and family.  My Week offers a glimpse into a future where Google Photos becomes more social. It lets you share your week's adventures with loved ones in a private and controlled way.
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What it Does:
  • Create a private, weekly photo album showcasing your best moments.
  • Share the album with select contacts through a unique link.
  • Invitees can view and comment on your photos (optional).
How it Works (if you get invited):
  1. Get Invited: You'll need an invite link to access My Week. This feature is currently in limited beta testing.
  2. Introducing My Week: Look for a tile with this name in the Photos menu.
  3. Curate Your Week: Choose the photos you want to share from the past week (automatic date grouping).
  4. Add Captions (Optional): Personalise your photos with captions.
  5. Save and Share: Save the album and invite specific contacts through a shareable link.
Managing My Week:
  • Comments & Likes (Optional): Control if viewers can leave comments and likes on your album.
0 Comments

Global Tech Outage Caused by Faulty Software Update

23/7/2024

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Common Update Gone Wrong: CrowdStrike Blames "Logic Error" for Massive Microsoft Outage

The finger-pointing has begun in the wake of Friday's global IT meltdown, with cybersecurity firm CrowdStrike taking responsibility for the outage but raising questions about how a seemingly routine update led to such widespread disruption.
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What Went Wrong?
According to CrowdStrike, the culprit was a "logic error" triggered during a regular update for their Falcon sensor, a security program installed on millions of Microsoft Windows systems. These updates are supposed to happen several times a day and are crucial for maintaining protection against evolving cyber threats.

Logic Error, Big Problems
However, this particular update contained a programming flaw that backfired spectacularly. The error caused a "blue screen of death" (BSOD) on impacted systems, essentially crashing them and leaving them unusable. This triggered a domino effect, crippling everything from air travel and healthcare to banking and beyond. Experts are calling it the largest IT outage ever recorded.

CrowdStrike Pledges Investigation
CrowdStrike, understandably apologetic, has vowed to conduct a thorough investigation to understand how such a basic error slipped through the cracks. Logic errors, while not uncommon, typically don't cause such catastrophic consequences.

The Path to Recovery
While a fix has been deployed, CrowdStrike warns that a full recovery could take some time. Businesses and organisations are left scrambling to restore functionality and assess the damage.

Key Takeaways:
  • A logic error in a routine CrowdStrike update triggered a global IT outage.
  • The outage impacted millions of Microsoft Windows systems and disrupted essential services worldwide.
  • CrowdStrike is investigating the cause of the error and working on a full recovery.
  • This event highlights the importance of rigorous testing for software updates, especially those related to critical systems.

Ep 204
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Free Uni Courses in Oz - EdX

19/7/2024

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Level Up Your Skills with edX: From Harvard to Your Home

Remember when the best education was locked away in the universities? edX is changing that. Founded by Harvard and MIT, edX is an online learning platform that brings the knowledge of world-class institutions to your fingertips.


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More Than Just Textbooks:
edX isn't just about lectures and exams. They offer thousands of job-relevant programs across a vast array of fields, from cutting-edge subjects like AI and robotics to practical skills in sustainability and public health. Partnering with leading universities and organisations, edX provides a dynamic learning experience that prepares you for real-world success.

86 Million Learners Strong:
With over 86 million users worldwide, edX is a global community of ambitious learners. Whether you're looking to launch a new career, upskill in your current field, or simply expand your knowledge, edX has a path for you… and they have stuff for FREE!

Jump on https://www.edx.org and search from FREE.

1381 results for "free"

There are many disciplines:
Architecture
Art & Culture
Biology & Life Sciences
Business & Management
Chemistry
Communication
Computer Science
Data Analysis & Statistics
Design
Economics & Finance
Education & Teacher Training
Electronics
Energy & Earth Sciences
Engineering
Environmental Studies
Ethics
Food & Nutrition
Health & Safety
History
Humanities
Language
Law
Literature
Maths
Medicine
Music
Philanthropy
Philosophy & Ethics
Physics
Science
Social Sciences

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0 Comments

Japan’s take on AI and Cyber Security

19/7/2024

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AI Adoption Lagging in Japan
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This is interesting…


A new survey reveals a surprising split in Japanese corporate culture with technology adoption showing a cautious approach.

AI: Friend or Foe?
The survey, conducted by Reuters and Nikkei Research, found that only ¼ of Japanese companies have embraced Artificial Intelligence (AI) in their businesses with a  significant portion of around  41%, having no plans to use AI at all. 
This hesitance comes despite potential benefits like addressing worker shortages (cited by 60% of AI adopters) and streamlining operations (labour cost reduction was a goal for 53%). Concerns about employee displacement due to automation, a lack of technical expertise, and the cost of implementation are cited as hurdles to AI adoption.
Cybersecurity Concerns
The survey also highlights cybersecurity worries in Japanese corporations. 15% of respondents reported experiencing cyberattacks in the past year, raising concerns about data security and business continuity. Interestingly, nearly half (47%) of companies outsource their cybersecurity needs, while only 38% have in-house specialists… presumably the remainder do nothing.

​Ep 203
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Listener Question: Upgrading iCloud Plan

18/7/2024

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Listener Question: Hi Tony. Please help. I have a message from iCloud that I need to upgrade to iCloud with 50 GB for $1.49 per month or reduce the amount of storage I have.

​Answer:
Apple gives you 5GB  iCloud storage for free, after which you pay. You likely have lots of photos on your phone which count up to that limit.  

Your phone stores the photos locally and also copies them to the icloud as a backup. All this means is that your backup is limited to only 5GB. Nothing gets deleted from your phone so it's not that big of a deal. 

The risk is that if you lose or break your phone, you will only be able to recover the photos that are stored in the cloud, so it's up to you if you want to upgrade your iCloud storage.

If you are doing some travelling, it;s a good idea to keep your photos backed up as you go (using WiFi) just in case anything happens. $20 pa is not that much for peace of mind.

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Unsubscribe From Emails

18/7/2024

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Is your inbox overflowing with promotional emails you never signed up for (or maybe even forgot about)? Are you drowning in discount codes and sale notifications? Fear not! We’ll go through some ways to quickly and easily unsubscribe from unwanted emails on Gmail, Outlook, and other platforms.
Unsubscribe Like a Boss: The Universal Method
No matter which email service you use, there's a basic way to unsubscribe from any mailing list:
  1. Eagle Eye Activated: Open the email and scroll all the way down to the fine print (usually at the bottom). Look for a link or text that says "Unsubscribe." It might be disguised amongst other small text, but it's there by law.
  2. Confirmation Station: Clicking "Unsubscribe" might take you to a confirmation page. You might need to re-enter your email or choose which types of emails you want to opt out of. In the best-case scenario, clicking "Unsubscribe" automatically removes you from the list.
Gmail: Unsubscribe Like a Jedi Master
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Gmail's "Promotions" tab is your friend. It automatically sorts marketing emails away from your important messages. But what if you still want to unsubscribe from something in Promotions?
  • The Shortcut You Never Knew Existed: Open the promotional email. Look at the top near the sender's address. See that magical "Unsubscribe" button? Click it! Confirm you want to unsubscribe, and voila! No more emails from that sender.
Outlook: Unsubscribe Ninja
Outlook has a hidden weapon in its arsenal: the Subscriptions tab (but only for personal accounts, not work ones).
  • Unearth the Hidden Power: Click the gear icon in the top right corner. Select "View all Outlook settings" at the bottom. Navigate to Mail > Subscriptions. Here you'll see a list of all your marketing subscriptions. Click "Unsubscribe" next to any sender you want to ditch.
Remember: Unsubscribing might take a few days to fully take effect. But with these tips, you'll be well on your way to a cleaner, more manageable inbox. So go forth and conquer your email clutter! Your sanity will thank you.

For more information visit the WA Digital inclusion Project
Ep 202
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Pin your folders on a Mac

18/7/2024

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While macOS doesn't have an exact equivalent of "pinning" folders like Windows, there are a couple of ways to achieve similar quick access functionality:
  1. Adding Folders to the Dock: Drag the desired folder from Finder to the Dock (the bar at the bottom of your screen) on the right side, past the applications. This creates a shortcut for easy access.
  2. Adding Folders to the Finder Sidebar: Open Finder and navigate to the folder. Drag it to the "Favourites" section on the left sidebar. This keeps the folder readily available within Finder.
These methods provide a similar benefit to pinning folders in Windows, allowing you to access frequently used folders with a single click.

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