Samsung has announced a new step challenge for Samsung Health users in some countries. The Samsung Health Olympic Day Step Challenge celebrates International Olympic Day 2023, which is observed on June 23 every year since 1948. It commemorates the founding of the International Olympic Committee (IOC) on 23 June 1894.
Samsung’s Olympic Day Step Challenge is available in Australia, Brazil, Canada, France, Germany, India, Italy, Japan, Mexico, New Zealand, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, South Korea, Spain, Switzerland, the UK, the US, and the UAE. It encourages Samsung health users in these countries to “log steps, stay active, and enjoy the significant health benefits of daily movement.”
Interested users can participate in this challenge through a banner under the Together tab of the Samsung Health app. The banner is already live. Simply tap on the “Join now” button in the banner and you’re in. The challenge itself begins on June 10 and runs through June 23. The overall target is 100,000 steps. Anything from a joyful dance or a walk to a revitalizing run and taking the stairs at work will count. Samsung Health will encourage participants with a congratulations message at every 20,000-step milestone.
Once the challenge is live, you can visit the Together tab to access the “Challenge Map”. Here, you can see your total step count and ranking in the global chart. If you complete the challenge (100,000 steps), you’ll get a unique “Olympic Day Badge” on your Samsung Health profile. You can check your badges in the My Page tab of the app. If you want to leave the challenge, you can do that from the ellipsis button (three vertical dots) in the top right corner of the challenge page. Samsung plans to organize more such large-scale events for the 64 million Samsung Health users around the world.
This Samsung Health step challenge is part of the IOC’s Let’s Move initiative
Samsung’s new step challenge is part of the IOC’s Let’s Move initiative launched on the occasion of this year’s Olympic Day. The initiative aims to inspire the world to move more every day. “Movement can make us feel amazing. Daily physical activity has multiple health benefits for our bodies, hearts, and minds. That’s why on Olympic Day on 23rd June, we invite the world to join us and celebrate the joy of moving by building physical activity into our daily lives,” the IOC says. Samsung Health will invite participants in this step challenge to join the initiative with every milestone message.
Since Elon Musk took over Twitter, many entrepreneurs and big companies have tried to create a viable alternative for those discontent by the changes imposed by the social network’s new owner. Bluesky and Mastodon feel like the best apps for Twitter users to switch to, although both require some getting used to.WhatsApp couldn’t miss the opportunity and while the app doesn’t pretend to take Twitter’s place, it does borrow one of its major features, the (in)famous feed. Earlier today, WhatsApp announced Channels, a new feature that users can find in a new tab called Updates.
In Channels, WhatsApp users will be able to find Status and channels they choose to follow, separate from their chats. To make it easier for users to find channels to follow and populate their Channels list, WhatsApp has created a searchable directory where they can find their hobbies, sports teams, updates from local officials, and many more.
Additionally, it’s possible to get a channel from invite links sent in chats, email, or even posted online. As an admin of a Channel, your phone number and profile photo won’t be shown to followers, WhatsApp says. Also, if you’re just a channel follower, your phone number will not be revealed to the admin or other followers.
Furthermore, WhatsApp announced that it will only store channel history on its servers for up to 30 days, although it might add ways to make updates disappear faster from follower’s devices. On top of that, admins can block screenshots and forwards from their channel if they think it’s appropriate.
The new Channels feature will first be available in Colombia and Singapore, but they will be rolled out to more countries, along with the ability to create a channel, over the coming months.
The innovative approach, known as “picture in picture,” capitalizes on users’ trust in familiar logos and promotions, making the attacks more convincing and harder to detect.
In a recent phishing campaign, hackers have employed sophisticated obfuscation tactics to deceive unsuspecting users into visiting malicious websites and disclosing sensitive information.
What makes this campaign unique is the technique where threat actors hide malicious links within seemingly innocuous images, particularly targeting customers of renowned brands such as Delta Airlines and Kohl’s.
One such phishing scam (Image credit: Avanan)
The innovative approach, known as “picture in picture,” capitalizes on users’ trust in familiar logos and promotions, making the attacks more convincing and harder to detect.
Avanan, a subsidiary of Check Point Software, has been investigating these attacks, shedding light on the methods used by hackers to manipulate users’ perception of legitimacy. By embedding nefarious URLs within promotional images, cybercriminals exploit the limitations of URL filters, making it challenging for security systems to identify the threats.
When users receive an email containing the image, they are enticed to click on it, assuming they are accessing a legitimate offer or loyalty program. However, upon clicking, they are redirected to fake websites aimed at harvesting their credentials.
Jeremy Fuchs, a cybersecurity researcher and analyst at Avanan, explained, “Often, hackers will happily link a file, image, or QR code to something malicious. You can see the true intention by using OCR to convert the images to text or parsing QR codes and decoding them. But many security services don’t or can’t do this.”
The implications of these attacks extend beyond individual consumers, as airline loyalty program communications often reach corporate inboxes. With the rise of remote work, many employees use personal devices for business purposes or access personal services on business-issued laptops, making businesses vulnerable to these phishing attempts.
Another concerning trend observed in phishing attacks is the use of generative artificial intelligence (AI) to create convincing replicas of legitimate emails and promotional materials. As AI technology advances, the ability to produce realistic images and imitate authentic brand communications becomes easier for threat actors. This poses a significant challenge for end-users, as these AI-enabled attacks leave little room for detection.
Android 14 Beta 3 has started rolling out to Pixel smartphones, and it brought some changes to the table, like a new charging indicator that we’re here to talk about. More new features will come to light as they get discovered.
Android 14 Beta 3 brought a new charging indicator to our attention
In any case, once you install this update, you’ll get a new charging indicator on your Pixel phones. It will appear in the top-right corner of your phone. This charging indicator is using the same style Google uses for phone calls.
This is essentially a status indicator that will appear when you place your phone on a charger. Your phone’s current charge status will also be shown as part of the package. You can see the indicator itself in the image below.
Do note that the percentage will appear in there regardless of whether you have it enabled for the status bar or not. It does go away soon after it pops up, though. This is just a quick notification to let you know that the phone is charging, along with a charging status. It hangs around for a couple of seconds and that’s it.
With Android 14 Beta 3, Android 14 reached the platform stability level
As many of you know, Android 13 Beta 3 brought Android 14 to the platform stability level. This is what Google calls it when the Beta 3 comes around, even though the software itself is still not fully stable, technically.
With this update, the Google Pixel 7a has joined the ranks of phones that get access to Android 14 Beta builds. We’re getting closer and closer to the final release of Android 14, aka its stable release.
So, when can we expect a stable build to come around? Well, most likely in August, unless Google changes things up. The first phones that will ship with Android 14 out of the box, however, will be the Pixel 8 series devices in October.
We know that the headphone jack is pretty much extinct in phones, and you’ve most likely moved on to the Bluetooth headphones life. There are a ton of compelling offers out there from so many different sources, so you definitely know that you have your pick. However, what are the best Bluetooth headphones out there?
This is what we are setting out to answer! We have a list of some of the best Bluetooth headphones that you can get your hands on. These will include budget-friendly options along with more lavish and premium options. If you’re looking for more affordable headphones, you can check out our Best Headphones/Earbuds Under $100.
Best Bluetooth headphones you can buy
Below, we have a short summary of the devices on this list. If you just wanted to have a quick glance at what we’re going to feature, you can see them, look at their price, and go to their page. If you want a more in-depth explanation, you can read below the chart.
Most people in the audio industry are familiar with Raycon, it’s a really big consumer brand that offers some great value for its products. The EVERYDAY HEADPHONES, as the name implies, are headphones for your everyday life. They’re capable of producing Hi-Fi audio, so they also create a high-quality listening experience.
These headphones have a set of powerful 40mm drivers delivering a full and immersive sound. If you’re into headphones that have powerful bass, then these will be right for you. They’re not only powerful, but they produce a well-balanced sound.
These headphones have six microphones that they use for top-notch active noise cancellation. Also, you’re guaranteed to have up to 38 hours of battery life on a single charge. These create an all-around great experience for the cost.
If you’re looking for a more affordable set of headphones with some neat features, then Edifier has a pair for you. Edifier is a company that focuses on high-quality audio equipment, and it doesn’t disappoint with its balance of price and performance.
The Edifier W820NB are a pair of headphones that give you a nice experience for the price. These headphones come with a pair of lightweight comfortable cups that fully encompass the ear. You’ll be able to listen to music for extended amounts of time using these. Also adding to that is the impressive 49-hour battery life you can get on one charge.
What really puts these over the top is the incredible noise cancellation. These may be inexpensive headphones, but the noise cancellation is what you’d find on much more expensive headphones. They really clear out the noise and isolate the sound.
Sony is a major player in the audio space, and the company has a fair amount of headphones. Some of its headphones are very expensive, but the WHC8720N headphones are more affordable. They cost $149.99, but you get a very high-quality experience using these headphones.
These headphones come with a pair of 30mm drivers to deliver the sound, and they have a frequency response between 7Hz and 20kHz. They’re also noise-canceling headphones, and using Sony’s powerful noise-cancellation technology, you’ll be able to shut out the world.
These headphones have an impressive 35-hour battery life on a single charge. This can more than get you through the day, however, if you need a quick top-up, a mere 3-minute charge will get you an hour of playback.
Bose is a big name in the audio space, and the 700 series headphones do well to live up to the brand’s name. These headphones come in either silver or black, and they both look amazing. What’s also neat about them is that you can use these headphones to summon digital assistants like Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, and Siri.
With a 20-hour battery life, you will be able to use these headphones to get you through the day. Also, they come with very large and comfortable ear cups so that you can listen to them for extended periods of time without getting tired. These are definitely for people who want to take their audio game to the next level.
People were waiting for Apple to bring its own brand of over-the-ear headphones to the market, and the AirPods Max is what we got. The company continues its long line of high-quality devices with these headphones. They come in three different colors: silver, red, and green.
As you can expect from an Apple product, they’re very high quality. You have two large drivers capable of producing a lush and high-quality sound. Also, you’ll find some of the best noise cancellation around with these headphones. As you can guess, they work seamlessly with all of your Apple products, so you don’t have to worry about connectivity issues.
They give you an impressive 20-hour battery life on one charge, and they can be charged using your lightning cable. Also, you’re able to use these headphones with Siri if you need a voice assistant.
No list of the best headphones will be complete without an entry from Sennheiser. While the company is known for making rather lavish and expensive products, those more price-conscious would like to check out the HD 560S. While these are more affordable, they still give you a high-quality audio experience.
These headphones come with a set of high-quality Sennheiser drivers that give you a flawless high-fidelity sound. They’re meant for people in a more professional field, as they are open-back headphones. Since they’re open back, they give you a much more open sound. So, if you are recording in the studio or just relaxing at home, these will be superb to try out. They’re great for use with Bluetooth, however, there’s also the option to use a 3.5mm aux cord.
If you’re looking for a more premium pair of Edifier headphones, then you may want to look into the Edifier STAX S3. These are for people who are very serious about their music. They come with a very powerful set of high-quality drivers, and they’re capable of producing 24-bit/96kHz lossless audio. Not only that, but these headphones leverage the powerful Snapdragon sound technology. They can produce a wide range of frequencies from 10Hz to 40kHz.
Using the built-in EQ in the Edifier Connect app, you’re able to tune the audio specifically to your liking. Also, they have Edifier’s top-tier noise-cancellation technology. You would love to listen to these for an extended amount of time because of the audio quality. Also, you have an 80-hour battery life on a single charge. Just a 10-minute charge can get you up to 11 hours of playback Time.
These headphones are for people who really want an audiophile experience. The sleek Sony WH1000XM4 headphones have a beautiful design with accented microphones. They’re also made from high-quality materials, as you can expect from Sony products.
They offer great audio quality and they’re compatible with the LDAC audio codec. These headphones can play audio with a 96kHz sampling rate, so you’ll be able to listen to high-quality audio with these headphones. They have an impressive 30 hours of battery with the noise cancellation on and 38 hours with it off. That’s great if you are planning on using these for a full day of work. These are a great pair of headphones to have if you are a Sony fan and an audiophile.
Google Meet is getting a minor update today, but if you’re using the app on a regular basis, it’s probably going to streamline your experience. Basically, the current admitting or denying join requests feature has been replaced with a new one that’s less disruptive.
Up until now, you would get a dialog window when someone wanted to join the meet, and since the box would take up much of the screen space, it would definitely make people feel pressure to accept or deny join requests faster to dismiss the notification window.
Sometimes, people don’t even read who wants to join the meeting and admit or deny join requests just to get rid of the dialog box. Thanks to the new update, the admitting and denying join requests experience has been improved.
The latest version of Google Meet will allow users to accept or deny join requests from the people panel. It’s a more appropriate place to have the feature positioned since it allows users to take more time to review join requests without disrupting the overall meeting experience. On top of that, since join requests has been moved to the people panel, it will be unlikely that it will block functionality of other meeting features.
According to Google, the new feature is now being rolled out globally and it should take about one week to reach everyone. The latest Google Meet update is available to all Google Workspace customers and users with personal Google Accounts.
PortSwigger released a brand-new version of Burp Suite 2023.6 that is intended for both Professional and Community users.
BChecks, a new type of custom scan check, are introduced in this release. Additionally, it includes GraphQL scan checks, enhancements to Burp Scanner’s live crawl path views, and many other enhancements and bug fixes.
Its tools integrate smoothly to assist the whole testing process, from initial mapping and analysis of an application’s attack surface to detecting and exploiting security vulnerabilities.
Professional / Community 2023.6 release to the Early Adopter channel. Introduces BChecks, which are custom scan checks. Also introduces a number of GraphQL scan checks as well as other improvements and bug fixes.https://t.co/5edC40I8OP
BChecks, which are importable and createable scan checks, are introduced in this release. These checks are performed in addition to the built-in scanning process by Burp Scanner. This enables you to optimize your scans and increase the effectiveness of your testing operation.
Its custom-defining language allows you to quickly create BChecks. Burp comes with many starter templates.
Improvements to Burp Scanner’s live crawl paths view:
From a certain point on the crawl path, you may now see specifics of every navigation step the crawler was able to perform.
Go to the Crawl paths > Outlinks tab of the scan task details window to see these details.
At any crawl location, you may now see a screenshot of Burp’s browser.
Navigate to the Crawl paths tab of the scan task information window and select Show screenshot.
When you reopen a project file, the smallest crawl path tree is now kept.
GraphQL scan checks:
The new scan checks enable you to:
Identify and maintain a list of any GraphQL endpoints discovered during the crawl.
Identify if introspection queries are enabled.
Find out if GraphQL suggestions are enabled.
Test for CSRF vulnerabilities in all discovered GraphQL endpoints
Other Improvements
The Montoya API update from PortSwigger allows users to create extensions that provide expanded functionality.
Using the shortcut Ctrl + Shift + O, you can now easily switch to the Organiser tab.
You may now filter issues by target scope in the Dashboard’s Issue activity table.
The method by which Burp’s browser is launched has been modified.
It now works with accounts for sites that use the DevTools listener to detect their presence, such as Google accounts.
Bug Fixes
The Organiser table functionality has been significantly improved; changing the highlight no longer deselects the current row.
In addition, Burp Suite Community Edition now seamlessly integrates filters with precision as a result of an intruder attack.
Browser Upgrade
The integrated browser in Burp has been updated to version 114.0.5735.110 for Windows and 114.0.5735.106 for Mac and Linux.
“We have upgraded Burp’s built-in browser to 114.0.5735.110 for Windows and 114.0.5735.106 for Mac and Linux. This update contains multiple security fixes”, reads the release notification.
It seems like HONOR is doing extremely well overseas. This China-based company marked a 400% growth in Europe, 700% growth in Latin America, and 500% growth in the Middle East & Africa.
HONOR marked a huge growth in Europe, Latin America, Middle East & Africa
This information comes from Counterpoint Research, by the way. The site reports that 2022 has been the worst year for smartphone shipments since 2013, but that didn’t stop HONOR from growing considerably.
HONOR’s shipments outside of its homeland, as a whole, grew almost four-fold in Q1 2023, compared to the same period last year. HONOR is the only smartphone OEM, aside from HMD, that marked growth in the same period.
HONOR did especially well in the regions mentioned in the first paragraph, Europe, Latin America (LATAM), and Middle East & Africa (MEA).
Counterpoint Research reports that it took HONOR a bit of time to gain ground in Europe since separating from Huawei at the end of 2020. The company returned in full force in early 2022, and its results in Europe speak for itself.
The company’s mid-range smartphones were the most popular, but its flagship offerings are gaining traction
The company partnered up with some of the largest operators across a number of countries and gained considerable traction. The HONOR 50 and 50 Lite were the company’s main sellers in Q1 2022, while the HONOR 70 took that role in Q1 2023.
The HONOR Magic4 Pro did especially well in France, Germany, and the UK, while the budget X series also found its markets in Italy and Eastern Europe. In Q1 2023, the mid-range smartphones were the most popular (49%), followed by the X series (28%), and then the flagship Magic series (23%). In Europe.
The company’s Magic flagship series is growing, and HONOR even released its foldable offering in Europe this year, the Magic Vs. That is a very compelling foldable smartphone that we’ve reviewed earlier in the year, in case you’re interested.
Counterpoint Research expects HONOR to “gradually grow its overseas market position, gaining share from rivals as it achieves increasing distribution across both operator and retail channels, its product portfolio expands and its brand gains awareness”.
Well-known technology brand KIESLECT is proud to announce the upcoming launch of its innovative product KIESLECT Ks Pro smartwatch. Specifically designed to meet the needs of elites and young professionals, this cutting-edge device combines superior functionality, advanced technology and sleek design to deliver an unrivaled user experience. To commemorate the 8th anniversary of the brand, KIESLECT Ks Pro will be released on June 12th with an exciting promotional offer, use the exclusive code: KIESKSPRO ($10), the price is only $95 for a limited time. The promotion period is from June 12th to June 18th PST.
Introducing the Ks Pro: A revolution in smartwatches
KIESLECT Ks Pro sets a new standard for smart watches with a large 2.01″ AMOLED screen. The vibrant color screen with 410×520 pixel resolution allows users to easily view data and metrics. Whether viewing health reports, monitoring heart rate or admiring elegant design, Ks Pro brings immersion visual experience.
KIESLECT Ks Pro is equipped with the innovative KIES OS 2.0, which provides a faster and smoother user interface. The operating system integrates seamlessly with the app, allowing users to easily enter personal data and access vital health information such as heart rate, respiration, stress levels and sleep analysis. Keep track of your health status and track your health progress.
Your Health, Your Priorities: Abnormal Heart Rate Alerts
KIESLECT Ks Pro is equipped with accurate heart rate monitoring function, focusing on cardiovascular health. Set a personalized heart rate threshold, and Ks Pro will remind you in time when it detects an abnormal situation. Be informed and take proactive steps to reduce the risk of potential complications such as atrial fibrillation.
Perfect Companion for Active Lifestyle: 100 Sports Modes and IP68 Waterproof
KIESLECT Ks Pro is the perfect companion for sports lovers and active people. It has built-in 100 sports modes, including running, cycling, swimming and yoga, etc., to help you track and record data of various sports activities. Whether you are exercising in the gym or exploring outdoors, Ks Pro can accurately record your exercise time, calories burned and heart rate changes to help you evaluate and improve your training effect.
Additionally, the Ks Pro is designed to meet the demands of an active lifestyle. With an IP68 waterproof rating, it is resistant to hand washing, raindrops and sweat. Whether you’re pushing your limits during an intense workout or embracing the elements on an outdoor adventure, the Ks Pro is durable and reliable, ensuring it keeps up with your every move.
Seamless connection: stable and clear BT5.2 calls
Communication is key, even when you’re on the go. KIESLECT Ks Pro enables crystal clear and uninterrupted calls with its stable BT5.2 connection. Whether you’re running, driving, or busy in the kitchen, you can easily answer, reject, and place calls effortlessly. Stay connected without compromising sound quality or worrying about dropped calls.
Stylish Design and Personalized Style: Interchangeable Straps and Great Looks
KIESLECT Ks Pro uses a well-crafted stainless steel case with a wear-resistant sapphire glass mirror, showing a noble and elegant appearance. In addition, Ks Pro also provides two kinds of interchangeable watch straps, allowing you to mix and match according to different occasions and personal preferences.
With a Bluetooth connection to your phone, you can easily receive incoming calls, text messages, and social media notifications without missing any important information. Ks Pro also supports personalized interface settings, allowing you to adjust the display of themes, backgrounds and widgets according to your preferences, showing your unique personality style.
KIESLECT Ks Pro comes equipped with a range of practical features to help users maximize their productivity and enjoyment. These features include split screen functionality for efficient multitasking, the “Find My” feature to locate lost devices, built-in games for on-the-go entertainment, voice-assisted message reply to save time, and smart notifications that can be customized to deliver only the most important updates.
A new era of smartwatches: KIESLECT Ks Pro
KIESLECT Ks Pro smartwatch is ideal for elites and young professionals. It combines advanced technology with stylish design to provide excellent functionality and user experience. Whether you’re looking for a healthy, active lifestyle, or fashion and individual style, Ks Pro can meet your needs.
On the occasion of the 8th anniversary of the KIESLECT brand, KIESLECT Ks Pro will be released on June 12, using the exclusive Code: KIESKSPRO ($10), and the price is only $95 for a limited time. The sale will run from June 12th to June 18th, PST. Grab this opportunity and experience a new era of smartwatches with KIESLECT Ks Pro.
About KIESLECT
Founded in 2015, KIESLECT is an innovative brand redefining the smartwatch industry. KIESLECT focuses on creativity, authenticity and advanced wireless technology to provide high-quality and stylish smartwatches. Guided by our brand philosophy of perseverance and never giving up, we celebrate stories of passion, determination and fearlessness. Through our products and initiatives, we strive to inspire individuals to take on challenges, push boundaries and shape a better world.
Microsoft is counting the cost of privacy violations, with $20m in fines related to illegal data collection from children’s Xbox accounts.
Microsoft is counting the cost of privacy violations, with $20m in fines related to illegal data collection from children’s Xbox accounts. The Xbox manufacturer has reached a settlement with the Federal Trade Commision (FTC), a result which promises to have other console developers looking closely at their privacy policies.
Microsoft will pay $20 million to settle Federal Trade Commission charges that it violated the Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA) by collecting personal information from children who signed up to its Xbox gaming system without notifying their parents or obtaining their parents’ consent, and by illegally retaining children’s personal information.
The primary issue outlined above, which Microsoft blames on a data retention glitch, is now fixed and Microsoft is taking action to bolster child safety on its gaming platform. Until recently, the creation of a child’s account required a specific amount of personal information to be entered before an adult was needed to assist and grant various permissions. Going back to the FTC release:
To access and play games on an Xbox console or use any of the other Xbox Live features, users must create an account, which requires users to provide personal information including their first and last name, email address and their date of birth. Even when a user indicated that they were under 13, they were also asked, until late 2021, to provide additional personal information including a phone number and to agree to Microsoft’s service agreement and advertising policy, which until 2019 included a pre-checked box allowing Microsoft to send promotional messages and to share user data with advertisers, according to the complaint.
Microsoft was holding on to that data even in situations where the account didn’t complete the registration process. From 2015 to 2020 Microsoft retained this data for years. COPPA prohibits the retention of children’s personal information for longer than is “reasonably necessary” to fulfil the purpose for which it was originally collected.
In this case, it’s hard to argue that the data in question needed to be retained. Indeed, an Xbox representative explained that their policy is actually to save the data for 14 days only. From the Xbox portal:
Our engineering team took immediate action: we fixed the glitch, deleted the data, and implemented practices to prevent the error from recurring. The data was never used, shared, or monetized.
There are now several areas where Xbox attempts to do a better job of explaining how data is used and retained. The Microsoft Privacy Statement now includes a dedicated section regarding the processing of user data, and the Xbox home screen now includes a “clearly labelled link” to the statement. A new system will be maintained to delete personal data after two weeks if there’s an absence of parental consent. Finally, console owners can visit a privacy dashboard which explains what data is collected and used.
Games consoles are typically very good for granular privacy controls once the system is logged in. You can make profiles private, restrict who communicates with you in game, shield your owned titles from view and much more besides. This is a good example of how things can go wrong even before the system is fully up and running. A costly glitch for Microsoft, but an incremental improvement for children’s privacy.
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