The Power Move: 96Gbps Bandwidth The current HDMI 2.1 standard (found on the PS5 and Xbox Series X) tops out at 48Gbps. HDMI 2.2 introduces "Ultra96" technology, pushing that limit to a massive 96Gbps. This massive data pipe is designed to support:
The "Ultra96" Cable Requirement To hit these speeds, you won't be able to use your old cables. A new Category 4 "Ultra96" cable will be required. The good news? The physical connector remains the same, and the cables will be fully backward compatible with your current TVs and consoles. The HDMI Forum (the governing body for the tech) officially teased the spec at CES 2025 and provided deeper details this month (January 2026). Prototypes of the Ultra96 cables are already being showcased by manufacturers. When can you buy it?While the spec is official, don't expect it on store shelves immediately.
Verdict: For 99% of users, your current HDMI 2.1 setup is still perfect. But for pro gamers and VR enthusiasts, the road to 480Hz starts in 2026. Ep357 Image created by AI
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Why Users are Angry:
Can you go back? Yes. If you find the new AI too intrusive or buggy, you can revert your device by saying, "Alexa, exit Alexa+." The Verdict: Is it real and will it last? It is 100% real. This isn't just a rumor; the rollout is currently live for Prime members in the US. Will it make it to market? It is already in the market, but its survival in this current form is questionable. Amazon clearly views Alexa+ as the future of the smart home, but the "forced beta" approach is alienating their most loyal customers. Expect Amazon to quickly patch missing features (like Kindle support) and tone down the "sarcastic" AI personality to prevent a mass exodus to Google Home or Apple’s ecosystem. Ep356 Image created by AI
A recent Android Canary release (beta), revealed a new Mode feature set to function similarly to the existing Driving Mode. While Android is already smart enough to detect when a user is driving and minimize distractions, it currently lacks a dedicated mode for public transit. Automatic Adjustments for Your Commute The goal of Transiting Mode is to fill this gap. Once triggered by a unique "while transiting" setting, the operating system is set to "optimize your device for a smoother public transit experience" by making "automatic settings adjustments." The detection mechanism will likely leverage onboard motion sensors and Google Play Services, similar to how Driving Mode currently operates. Although the exact customization options haven't been fully detailed, users will likely be able to tailor their on-transit experience by automatically:
Potential Tie-In to Motion Cues Interestingly, the new mode could also be integrated with Google's rumored Motion Cues feature, which is designed to reduce motion sickness in moving vehicles. Automatically enabling Motion Cues when Transiting Mode kicks in would be a logical and highly useful pairing for commuters. As for when commuters can expect this functionality, speculation suggests a possible release as early as the Android 16 QPR3 update, which is anticipated around March of next year. If the rumors prove true, Transiting Mode represents a significant quality-of-life improvement, eliminating a minor, yet frequent, daily frustration for millions of Android users and making the daily commute just a little more seamless. Like most things Google, this may or may not actually happen. Ep354 Image created by AI
🛑 How the Attacks Work
Once inside, attackers can drain funds, make unauthorized purchases, or lock victims out of their accounts entirely. 🎯 Why Now? The holiday season is prime time for cybercriminals. With Black Friday and Cyber Monday sales stretching longer each year, shoppers are more likely to click on deals, respond to urgent messages, or overlook suspicious activity. This creates a perfect storm for fraudsters to exploit. 🔒 What You Can Do Authorities urge consumers to take immediate precautions:
📢 The Bigger Picture Cybersecurity experts note that ATO fraud doesn’t just affect retail accounts—it can spread to email, social media, travel, and banking platforms, amplifying the damage. The FBI stresses that vigilance now could prevent widespread losses later. Bottom line: As holiday shopping ramps up, both Amazon and the FBI are sounding the alarm--don’t let cybercriminals steal your season of giving. Ep353 Image created by AI
A Generational Upgrade for Every Device This isn't just a minor software update; it's a generational upgrade, and the scope is what’s turning heads. Google has announced that standard Gemini access is rolling out to every single existing Google Home and Nest smart speaker and display. We’re talking about devices all the way back to the original Google Home speaker from 2016—a nearly decade-old piece of tech—all the way up to the newest Nest Audio and Nest Hub models. For millions of users, this means their current hardware is getting a significant infusion of AI power, capable of handling more complex queries and context than the Assistant ever could. The initial rollout is starting now for US users who are part of Google’s Early Access program. The Premium Tier: Introducing Gemini Live While the core Gemini upgrade is free for all compatible devices, Google is segmenting some of the more advanced features. This includes a new, premium feature called Gemini Live. Gemini Live is designed to make your smart home interaction feel much more conversational. You can have a running dialogue with the AI without having to repeat the "Hey Google" wake word every time you speak. However, due to its demanding nature, this feature is only supported on newer models—specifically the Nest Mini, Nest Audio, and the second-generation Nest Hubs. Crucially, access to Gemini Live will require a paid subscription to the new Google Home Premium plan. What This Means for Users This is the biggest shake-up for the smart home market since the devices first launched. Your smart speaker is about to get smarter, capable of summarizing information, drafting emails, or controlling your devices with more natural, complex language. The integration of Gemini across old and new devices is being viewed as a commendable step for longevity, but the introduction of a paid tier for the most seamless conversational experience signals Google’s strategy: AI is the future, and for the most cutting-edge smart home experience, users will be asked to pay a premium. The world of digital assistants is officially getting a new brain, one conversation at a time. We’ll keep you updated on the wider rollout plans. Ep352 Image created by AI
The National Security Concern The push is being driven by multiple US agencies, including the Commerce, Justice, and Defense Departments. Their core concern is TP-Link’s origins. The company was founded in China, and despite a corporate split that established TP-Link Systems in California, officials believe the US entity could still be vulnerable to the influence or jurisdiction of the Chinese government. The fear is direct: that Chinese law could compel the company to push malicious firmware updates to devices in American homes and businesses, creating a massive access point for espionage or sabotage. Officials point to previous incidents where Chinese state-sponsored hackers allegedly exploited router vulnerabilities, including some TP-Link models, to launch attacks on US critical infrastructure. TP-Link, for their part, vigorously rejects these claims. They maintain that the US-based company is fully independent and that their products do not pose a national security risk. They've stated they are willing to work with US authorities to resolve any concerns. What About Australia? So, what does this mean for consumers here in Australia? Currently, there has been no formal announcement or ban by the Australian government on TP-Link devices. Like in the US, TP-Link has a significant presence here, with many people relying on their routers for home and small business networking. While Australian cybersecurity experts are certainly paying attention to the US investigation, any official action taken here would be separate and is currently not on the cards. The primary risk remains the same: a compromised device, regardless of the brand, is a vulnerability. Should You Toss Your Router? If you have a TP-Link router in your home today, the advice from most experts is: No, you do not need to panic and toss it out. The US proposal is aimed at blocking future sales, not forcing a recall of existing products. Your existing device will continue to function. However, the ban attempt is a powerful reminder of good digital hygiene. For any router, regardless of brand, we recommend three essential steps:
The potential ban is currently on hold, reportedly being used as a bargaining chip in US-China trade talks. We will continue to follow this story closely. Stay safe out there. Ep351 Image created by AI
The launch is headlined by the new Xiaomi 15T and 15T Pro smartphones, with sales kicking off on October 10, 2025.
This significant launch positions Xiaomi as a major new competitor in the Australian tech landscape, promising high-spec products at value-driven prices. Checkout mi.com/au Ep350 Image Source: https://www.mi.com/au/product/xiaomi-15t/
Google has rolled out a major Material 3 redesign to its Phone app, making the core calling experience significantly cleaner and integrating powerful new AI features.  The main change is a switch to the Material 3 Expressive design. This new look is clearer and less cluttered:
The new design and AI features are specifically built to make the phone more proactive and less intimidating:
The new app’s goal is to make the technology fade into the background, so you can focus on the conversation, not the controls. Google phones 9+ have this, Samsung are looking to incorporate similar functionality. Ep349 Image Source: https://m3.material.io/
Enhanced Content Discovery: Gemini can help you find content in new ways, such as asking for a recap of a show's previous season, or describing a show you can't remember the name of (e.g., "What's that new hospital drama everyone's talking about?"). Beyond Entertainment: The new AI assistant isn't just for TV and movies. It can answer general knowledge questions, help with homework, find recipes, and even show related YouTube videos to help you learn a new skill. Hands-Free Interaction: Some new TVs with built-in far-field microphones and sensors can allow you to interact with Gemini without a remote, similar to a smart speaker. So if you have a Google TV Streamer Box or maybe a TCL TV 🙂 you are in the box seat for some AI help in the entertainment space. Ep348 Image created by AI
Here's a breakdown of the key changes: New and Upgraded Speed Tiers NBN is accelerating the speeds of its three highest residential wholesale speed tiers and introducing a new, even faster option. The specific changes for eligible plans are:
Eligibility and Connection Types The speed upgrades are not available for all NBN connections. To be eligible, you must have one of the following connection types:
If you are on an eligible plan and have an FTTP or HFC connection, the speed upgrade will likely happen automatically and at no extra cost. Retail service providers (RSPs) will be rolling out the changes from mid-September 2025. What if I'm not eligible? If you are on a different connection type, such as Fibre to the Node (FTTN) or Fibre to the Curb (FTTC), your speeds will not be automatically upgraded. However, NBN is running a free "Fibre Connect" program that allows many FTTN and FTTC customers to upgrade to an FTTP connection at no standard installation cost. To get the upgrade, you will need to order a plan with a speed tier of 100 Mbps or higher from a participating provider. Other Important Considerations
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Remember that game you downloaded for five minutes in 2017? Or that third-party photo editor you used once for a single profile picture? While you may have long since deleted them from your phone, there's a good chance they still have access to your Google account data. This silent app invasion is a pervasive digital threat, and it's a security risk many people aren't even aware of. When you sign in to a third-party app or service using your Google account, you're granting it a specific set of permissions. These permissions can range from viewing your basic profile information to accessing your Gmail, Google Drive, or Calendar data. The problem is, even after you delete the app, that access often remains active in your Google account settings, leaving a digital back door open for potential security breaches. This isn't about malicious hacking, but rather a simple oversight in our digital lives. As we download and discard apps, we create a growing list of services with active access to our most private information. This list is a goldmine for data brokers and a significant point of vulnerability if one of these services were ever compromised. How to Reclaim Your Digital Privacy The good news is that taking back control of your data is a straightforward process, you just need to know where to look.
This quick audit is a vital step in maintaining your online security. Regularly reviewing and revoking permissions for old and unused apps can significantly reduce your digital footprint and protect your personal information from falling into the wrong hands. It's a small task that offers a huge return on your digital peace of mind.  Ep346 Image Source: Screenshot taken by MITE Radio
You can't manually force the update, so you'll need to wait until the ESU wizard appears on your PC. The deadline to sign up for this extended support is October 13, 2025, so there's still plenty of time. While Microsoft is slowly rolling out the option to extend support, it has been more aggressive with full-screen reminders urging users to upgrade to Windows 11. End of Free Windows 10 Support: After October 2025, Windows 10 will no longer receive free security updates. Options for Extended Support: Microsoft offers three options, two of which are free, to extend security updates for another year. The ESU Wizard: Users must wait for the "Enroll now (ESU)" wizard to appear in their Windows Update settings to choose one of these options. Slow Rollout: The ESU wizard has been available since late July 2025 but is being rolled out gradually, and many users still don't have it. Lack of User Control: Users cannot manually force the update and must wait for Microsoft to release the wizard to their PC. Ample Time to Enroll: The registration deadline for extended support is October 13, 2025, providing plenty of time. Aggressive Upgrade Reminders: Microsoft is actively showing full-screen notifications to Windows 10 users, urging them to upgrade to Windows 11. Deceptive Messaging: These full-screen reminders often make the "Upgrade to Windows 11" button prominent while making the "Keep Windows 10" option small and difficult to find. Ep345 Image created by AI
In a significant move to safeguard consumer privacy, the Information Commissioner's Office (ICO) has released new guidance for manufacturers of smart home appliances, aiming to rein in what some describe as "disproportionate surveillance" by everyday gadgets. The guidance comes after an investigation by consumer champion Which? uncovered alarming data collection practices by certain smart devices, including air fryers, smart TVs, and smartwatches. With an estimated four out of five people in the UK owning at least one smart appliance, the new rules are designed to protect a vast segment of the population from potentially intrusive data collection. The Which? investigation highlighted several concerning instances. Three air fryers, manufactured in China were found to record audio on owners' phones without a specified reason and some were observed sending personal data to Chinese servers, although this was noted in their respective privacy notices. The new guidance mandates that manufacturers and developers adopt a "data protection by design and default" approach. Smartwatches and fitness trackers are also explicitly covered by the new guidance, with the ICO advising extra caution for "special category data" like a user's BMI or fertility information. The Which? study found that the Huawei Ultimate smartwatch requested nine "risky" phone permissions, more than any other device in the investigation. These risky permissions typically include access to precise location, audio recording capabilities, stored files, or the ability to view all other installed apps. Huawei has stated that all requested permissions have a justified need, and there is no suggestion of illegal behavior by any of the companies mentioned in the study. Australian Context: A Similar Path Towards Stronger Protections The UK's proactive stance on smart device privacy resonates strongly in Australia, where similar concerns about data collection and security have been growing. While Australia does not have an identical regulatory body to the ICO, the Office of the Australian Information Commissioner (OAIC) plays a key role in upholding privacy rights under the Privacy Act 1988 (Cth). Significantly, Australia has recently introduced its own legislative measures to address these issues. The Cyber Security Act 2024 (Cth), which received Royal Assent in November 2024, is a landmark piece of legislation that includes provisions for mandatory minimum cyber security standards for smart devices. These "Cyber Security (security standards for smart devices) Rules 2025" are set to come into effect on March 4, 2026. These Australian rules will require manufacturers and suppliers of internet-connectable products intended for consumer use to comply with specified security standards. Key requirements include:
The OAIC has also been actively engaged in promoting "privacy by design" for all digital products, including AI systems, and has issued guidance emphasizing transparency, accuracy, and the need for informed consent, particularly for sensitive personal information collected by IoT devices. Ep344 Image created by AI
The coordinated sting resulted in the arrest of 32 individuals globally. Authorities also seized significant data, including over 100 GB of information, and took down more than 20,000 malicious IP addresses and domains linked to infostealer activities. Furthermore, 41 servers supporting these illicit operations were confiscated. "Operation Secure" has been instrumental in protecting countless individuals from financial fraud and identity theft. As a direct result of the operation, 216,000 victims have been notified that their data was compromised, enabling them to take protective measures. Infostealer malware poses a significant threat, covertly infiltrating systems to siphon off sensitive information such as banking credentials, passwords, browser history, and even cryptocurrency wallet information. This global threat has a tangible impact in regions like Australia, where recent reports indicate over 30,000 Australian banking passwords were harvested by infostealers between 2021 and 2025, affecting customers of major banks and even superannuation funds. Cybersecurity experts note that these modern infostealers are increasingly capable of bypassing multi-factor authentication (MFA) by stealing session cookies, presenting a critical challenge for both individuals and organisations. The Australian Signals Directorate (ASD) has repeatedly warned of this "silent heist" accelerating into 2024, emphasizing its role as a precursor to more significant cyber incidents. The success of "Operation Secure" highlights the critical importance of international cooperation in combating cybercrime and safeguarding digital security on a global scale. Perhaps we can breathe a tad easier now… at least for a little while. Ep342 Image created by AI
Launched in 2022, ANZ Plus has already onboarded over one million customers, steadily building out new features and products. A key upcoming innovation for the platform is the rollout of fully password-less web banking, promising a more secure and streamlined online experience. The ambitious long-term goal is to run the entire retail bank on Plus by 2029, a move that will encompass not only the six million existing ANZ customers but also the 1.2 million customers recently acquired from Suncorp Bank. For existing ANZ customers, the migration to the Plus platform will be a gradual process over the coming years, though a precise timeline for individual customers has not yet been provided. However, ANZ has reassured customers that vital details such as existing BSB and account numbers, credit card numbers, and direct debits will be retained, aiming for an experience akin to a seamless app upgrade. ANZ Plus offers a suite of modern banking tools designed to help customers manage their finances more effectively. These include smart saving features like "roundups" (where spare change from transactions is saved) and predictions for upcoming bills, moving towards a more proactive and digitally-driven banking experience. So if you’re an ANZ customer, be ready for the change. Ep341 Image created by AI
The most noticeable change for many will be the personalised homepage, tailoring content to individual user preferences and habits. Complementing this, the Store's search function has become far more intelligent and intent-aware, leveraging signals like app updates and ratings to deliver more relevant results and better address language-specific nuances. For users in the United States, (and soon to be released everywhere) a standout addition is the integration of Copilot, now accessible directly from product pages to answer questions as you browse. Discovery is also getting a major uplift. A new “Discover More” section on product pages will surface related content, helping users find complementary apps and games. Furthermore, new product page badges will clearly indicate apps boasting AI features and those specifically optimized for the new generation of Copilot+ PCs, making it easier to identify cutting-edge software. Beyond new features, Microsoft has made substantial strides in performance and reliability. The Store now launches an impressive two times faster than it did just six months ago, and installation reliability and speed have seen significant improvements. Gamers will particularly appreciate the new ability to install individual components for games, offering greater control over downloads. Everyday conveniences include faster in-app rating dialogs and a new field on product pages indicating when an app or game was last updated, providing crucial transparency for users. Perhaps one of the most streamlined features is the ability to install apps directly from Windows Search. Users can now search for an app or game from the Windows search bar, and if available in the Store, quickly initiate the installation without needing to fully open the Store application. These comprehensive updates underscore Microsoft's ongoing commitment to refining the Windows experience, making the Microsoft Store a faster, more intuitive, and more secure hub for digital content. Ep340 Image created by AI
While schools commonly deploy robust firewalls and content filters to block social media, chat apps, and unauthorized websites, the integrated collaboration tools within popular productivity suites like Microsoft 365 often slip through the cracks. These features, designed for legitimate co-editing and project work, allow users to chat in real-time within a shared document or spreadsheet. "We first noticed it when a teacher caught two students giggling while 'working' on a shared history project," explained one school IT administrator, who requested anonymity due to the sensitive nature of the discovery. "On closer inspection, their 'edits' were minimal, but the chat pane was filled with rapid-fire messages discussing everything from weekend plans to exam answers. Our usual filters don't flag internal chat within a Word document as 'social media' traffic." The technique is simple yet ingenious. Students create a new, often meaningless, Word document or Excel spreadsheet, then share it with their intended recipient(s) within the school's network. Once the document is open, they use the built-in chat function (often found in the top right corner, usually with a speech bubble icon) to exchange messages. Because the communication is embedded within a Microsoft application and routed through the school's legitimate network traffic for Microsoft 365 services, it largely goes undetected by standard web filters looking for external chat applications. The messages are typically ephemeral, as the chat history might only persist as long as the document is open or within a recent activity log. However, for quick, real-time exchanges during class, it proves to be a surprisingly effective loophole. Ep339 Image created by AI
This service leverages the advanced "direct to cell" capabilities of new SpaceX Starlink satellites. While only 25-30 percent of Australia currently boasts traditional mobile coverage, Telstra's new offering aims to bridge this vast communication gap. How do you turn it on?..."As long as your phone has a direct line of sight to the sky, your phone will show 'Telstra SpaceX' as the mobile network, with a Satellite icon in the signal strength area" This seamless connection allows Telstra customers on an upfront plan to send text messages to any Australian mobile number, regardless of their location, from the remotest outback to the most isolated coastal stretches. The service's initial rollout is exclusively for the latest Samsung Galaxy S25 with the newest software update. However, hints from testing in the USA suggest broader device compatibility is on the horizon, with older Samsung phones, recent iPhones (from the last 3-4 years), Google devices, and Motorola's foldable Razr potentially gaining access via future software updates and Telstra network validation. Telstra's move places it ahead in the satellite-to-phone race in Australia. While Optus had an earlier deal with SpaceX, certification delays allowed Telstra to swiftly capitalize on the technology. Vodafone is also reportedly testing similar capabilities with an alternative satellite provider (I think Lynk Global and AST SpaceMobile) While the service is currently limited to SMS, making it unsuitable for Triple Zero emergency calls, its implications for safety and connectivity are immense. Users can now communicate with friends and family from previously unreachable areas, offering peace of mind for adventurers, remote workers, and residents alike. Looking ahead, Telstra plans to introduce voice calling capabilities in 2026, with slow data access for messaging applications also on the roadmap. For a nation defined by its vast and often uninhabited landscapes, Telstra Satellite Messaging represents a revolutionary leap forward, fundamentally altering how Australians connect in the bush, on remote roads, and in any location far from traditional mobile towers. Ep338 Image created by AI
The first line of defense for your email, social media, and other online accounts is often woefully inadequate as we are generally not implementing good password hygiene. Make them long and strong… and… if there’s a MFA option, use it! Two-factor authentication adds an extra layer of security beyond just your password. When you log in, in addition to entering your password, you'll need to provide a second piece of verification, such as a code sent to your phone via text message. This dramatically increases security, as even if a criminal manages to guess or steal your password, they still can't access your account without that second factor. 2FA works by providing a critical second layer of security before someone can access an account. This can be done through an authenticator app, SMS message, hardware security key or biometric verification (using facial scans, eye scans or fingerprints). These verification factors are often time-sensitive, ensuring they cannot be reused. By reducing reliance on passwords alone, 2FA effectively protects against phishing and other common cyber threats, making it a simple yet powerful tool for enhancing online security. How to Set Up 2FA Securely Most online platforms, including email and social media, offer the option to set up 2FA. Look for it in your account's "Settings," "Security," or "Privacy" sections. You can typically choose between receiving codes via email, SMS, or using a dedicated authenticator app. Pick an option that is easily accessible for you. When you attempt to log in, you'll either receive a text or email with a 2FA code, or an alert from your authenticator app requiring you to enter a code. This crucial step locks out attackers, even if they have access to your email, and significantly deters automated or mass attacks. Can You Still Be Hacked with 2FA? While 2FA makes it significantly harder for cybercriminals to breach your accounts, it's not entirely foolproof. Not all 2FA methods offer the same level of security. Text message codes, for instance, are considered less secure than other methods because criminals can sometimes intercept these codes or even trick phone network employees into creating a SIM card with your number. "While 2FA offers an important layer of protection against credential theft and breaches, not all 2FA methods are equally secure – SMS-based codes can be intercepted by bad actors, so authentication apps offer stronger protection," Using two-factor authentication makes it more difficult for hackers to get into your account. It’s still worth ensuring that all passwords are strong, secure and unique – particularly for your email account, as criminals can use this to reset other passwords. Use a password manager app to store passwords, making it easier to use unique passwords for each account. And even if you use 2FA, stay alert, "2FA alerts on a smartphone can serve as a critical warning sign that your account’s credentials have been compromised, providing an opportunity to update your password before the account is breached." Ep336 Image created by AI
Many antivirus programs are doing a lot of work scanning everything you open and access, this can cause your PC to slow down while it does all thai work. Smart App Control’s job is to do the preliminaries and determine if a file is safe without needing to engage with the AV software to check the file. This should reduce a significant amount of system overhead and your PC should run smoother as a result. The added advantage of Smart App Control is that malware files can be pro-actively intercepted before they are executed. Antivirus programs on the other hand often don’t respond until after a threat has been detected. The upshot: This could be good, but keep your existing AV software for the time being. The catch: You may need to do a fresh install of Windows 11 to activate this new feature. Ep333 Image created by AI
If you have a Pixel 6 series or newer, including the Pixel Tablet and Pixel Fold, there’s a comprehensive suite of UI changes across various core elements of the Android system. If you are eager for a first look, you can enroll your compatible devices in the Android Beta Program. Dubbed the "Material 3 Expressive" update, this is far more than just a cosmetic tweak. It brings a holistic approach to Android's visual language, emphasizing fluidity, personalization, and a more intuitive interaction model. Key highlights include:
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The Bad News: Underdark.ai's follow-up report indicated that a sample of the purported data for sale included recent 2025 2FA SMS logs. This leaked information seemingly contained one-time access codes sent to users, along with message content, delivery status, metadata, routing costs, and crucially, phone numbers. The potential exposure of even this limited data understandably caused alarm among Steam users. The Good News: Valve, the company behind Steam, has stepped forward to address these concerns, and their statement offers a significant sigh of relief. According to Valve, none of the leaked data was ever linked to Steam accounts. Their investigation revealed that the exposed information consisted of older text messages containing one-time codes, which are only valid for a brief 15-minute window, along with the associated phone numbers. Crucially, Valve explicitly stated that the leaked data did not include any association between these phone numbers and Steam accounts, passwords, payment information, or other personal data. Furthermore, Valve reassured users that these old text messages cannot be exploited to compromise Steam accounts. They also highlighted the existing security measures in place, such as email and Steam secure message confirmations for any SMS-based email or password changes. The Bottom Line: While the news of any data leak is unsettling, Valve's swift response and clarification offer a considerable silver lining. Steam users can take comfort in knowing that their sensitive account information appears to be safe. However, this incident serves as a potent reminder to remain vigilant about online security. Valve strongly recommends that all Steam users who haven't already done so set up the Steam Mobile Authenticator, providing an even more secure method for account protection and communication about account safety. It's also crucial to treat any unsolicited account security messages with suspicion. So, while a potential crisis was averted, the importance of proactive security measures remains paramount for all Steam users. Ep331 Image created by AI
This move effectively signals the gradual sunsetting of Google Assistant, with Gemini poised to become the default assistant experience for Android users across their various devices. The integration of Gemini promises a more natural and less robotic interaction, leveraging the power of AI to understand and respond to a broader array of user requests. For Wear OS users, Gemini's arrival, announced alongside Wear OS 6, will see it take over the assistant functionalities. This integration will allow users to perform tasks directly from their wrist, such as setting reminders, saving important information like gym locker numbers, and retrieving details about restaurants mentioned in emails – all without needing to reach for their phones. The AI-powered assistant is expected to offer more intuitive voice interactions and a greater capacity to understand complex commands. The automotive experience via Android Auto is also set for a significant upgrade with the introduction of Gemini. Beyond standard assistant features, Gemini in the car will be capable of finding charging stations along a route for electric vehicle users. Notably, it will also integrate with messaging apps to summarize incoming messages and even translate replies before they are sent, a particularly useful feature for drivers who need to communicate safely while on the road. Furthermore, the "Gemini Live" feature will offer a more conversational AI companion for longer commutes, allowing users to engage in more natural dialogue. Gemini on Android Auto will also provide personalized news summaries, with the option to exclude specific topics like sports, and even offer synopses of books. …And, Google TV will also benefit from Gemini's integration, serving as a more intelligent assistant for content discovery. Users will be able to ask for ultra-specific recommendations for shows and movies across various streaming services. While Google TV already functions as a smart home hub, it remains unclear whether the initial Gemini integration will extend to controlling smart home devices. Google's strategy appears to be tailoring the Gemini experience to each specific device category. While the mobile app offers a full chatbot experience, the Wear OS and Google TV versions seem to focus more on traditional assistant functionalities with AI enhancements and app integration. Android Auto, on the other hand, will feature the comprehensive Gemini Live support for more interactive in-car assistance. The rollout of Gemini across these platforms is expected to occur over the coming months, marking a significant step in Google's ambition to make AI a more integrated and seamless part of the user experience across the entire Android ecosystem. This transition signifies the end of the road for Google Assistant as the primary AI helper on these devices, paving the way for the more advanced and versatile capabilities of Gemini. Ep330 Image created by AI
While the company assured customers that usable payment or card details and account passwords were not compromised, the theft of contact information and order history still poses a risk of identity fraud. M&S Chief Executive Stuart Machin stated in a letter to customers that "unfortunately, some personal customer information has been taken," but added that "Importantly, there is no evidence that the information has been shared." However, security experts warn that the hackers responsible could still share or sell the stolen data as part of their attempts to extort M&S. The retailer has not disclosed the number of customers affected but confirmed that all website users have been informed via email. The incident has also been reported to the relevant authorities, and M&S is working with cyber security specialists to monitor for any potential misuse of the stolen data. The ongoing disruption is reportedly costing M&S a significant £43 million per week in lost sales, according to analysis from Bank of America Global Research. Online orders on the M&S website and app have been suspended since April 25th, and the company has yet to provide a timeline for when normal service will resume. In response to the data breach, M&S will be prompting customers to reset their account passwords "for extra peace of mind." The retailer has also urged customers to be vigilant against potential phishing attempts, warning that they "might receive emails, calls or texts claiming to be from M&S when they are not." M&S emphasized that they will never contact customers asking for personal account information like usernames or passwords. The impact of the cyber attack is also being felt by investors, with shares in M&S reportedly down by around 12% over the past month. As the retailer continues to work on restoring its online operations and managing the fallout from the data theft, customers are advised to remain vigilant and follow the guidance provided by M&S to protect themselves from potential scams. Ep329 Image created by AI
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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