The OPPO Find X7 series will launch on January 8 in China. As we’re waiting for that launch to happen, OPPO just shared some new info. The company shared the OPPO Find X7 Ultra camera samples on Weibo.
OPPO just shared the OPPO Find X7 Ultra camera samples
In that post, OPPO mentioned that the phone will provide a more realistic blur effect, better capturing of shadows, and improved photos of people’s faces, amongst other things.
If you check out the images in the gallery below, you’ll see the camera samples OPPO shared. Do note that these images have been compressed, though. To access them in their full size, click here. Do note these images have been captured with a 3x telephoto camera, not the main sensor.
These images do look great, that’s hard to deny. The blur effect is on point, and they do look like they’ve been shot with a professional camera, more or less. These images have been captured by a professional photographer, though, almost certainly, so… do take that into account.
The OPPO Find X6 Pro is still one of the best camera smartphones on the market. It’s a shame it did not launch globally. We do hope that the OPPO Find X7 Ultra will reach markets outside of China.
OPPO seems to be replacing the ‘Pro’ moniker with the ‘Ultra’ one
Having said that, it seems like the ‘Ultra’ will replace the ‘Pro’ this time around. Only the OPPO Find X7 and OPPO Find X7 Ultra are tipped to arrive. The OPPO Find X7 Pro is nowhere to be found.
That being said, the OPPO Find X7 Ultra will, of course, be a more powerful device. It will also include a better camera setup. OPPO is once again expected to utilize all 50-megapixel cameras on the back.
Unlike the OPPO Find X6 Pro, the OPPO Find X7 Ultra will have four cameras on the back. The phone will include a 50-megapixel main camera, Sony’s new LYT-900 sensor. Two periscope telephoto cameras (both 50MP) are also expected, and they will provide up to 6x optical zoom. The last camera on the back will be a 50-megapixel ultrawide unit.
Soon, the world’s most popular messaging app will replace the green verification badge with a blue checkmark for verified channels and businesses, thus standardizing and aesthetically harmonizing the verification badge color across all Meta apps, as the verification checkmark is blue on both Instagram and Facebook.
Those who are part of WhatsApp’s beta testing program can update their versions to 2.24.1.18 (for Android) and check it out for themselves since the update is only limited to beta users at the moment (via MySmartPrice).
As usual, there’s a detailed report on the latest beta version updates over at WABetaInfo plus a screenshot. Here it is:
As the new screen shows, when business users add verified badges to their channels, their channel name and profile picture will be updated to match the verified business details. These details will be eligible for further editing through their business profile.
There’s something else to be done beforehand, though – to get a verified business badge on their channel, WhatsApp business users will have to be subscribed to Meta Verified.
“This is not so surprising as we already announced that Mark Zuckerberg recently revealed that the ability for businesses on WhatsApp to subscribe to Meta Verified will be available in the future, which would give them a verification badge for their profile and other advantages. It’s important to note that the Meta Verified subscription will be optional and exclusively accessible to businesses”, the WABetaInfo report states.
Additionally, the company has stated that to get Meta Verified, the channel information should be coherent with the corresponding business details to prevent misuse of the verification system and impersonation.
Wireshark is a popular open-source network protocol analyzer that allows users to inspect and capture data on a network in real time.
It enables detailed examination of network traffic for the following purposes:-
Troubleshooting
Analysis
Security purposes
Development
Education
Several key factors make Wireshark one of the leading network packet analyzers available on the internet, and here below, we have mentioned all the key factors:-
Open Source
Cross-Platform Compatibility
Rich Protocol Support
User-Friendly Interface
Active Community and Updates
Extensive Filtering capabilities
Search capabilities
Customizable Output
Powerful Display Filters
Support for Third-Party Extensions
Comprehensive Documentation
DocumentFree Webinar
Compounding the problem are zero-day vulnerabilities like the MOVEit SQLi, Zimbra XSS, and 300+ such vulnerabilities that get discovered each month. Delays in fixing these vulnerabilities lead to compliance issues, these delay can be minimized with a unique feature on AppTrana that helps you to get “Zero vulnerability report” within 72 hours.
However, besides this, Wireshark Foundation recently launched a new version of Wireshark, which is Wireshark 4.2.1, that brings multiple bug and vulnerability fixes.
What’s New?
Vulnerability Fixes
Here below, we have mentioned all the vulnerability fixes:-
Bug Fixes
Here below we have mentioned all the bug fixes:-
Capture filters not saved to a recently used list. Issue 12918.
CFM dissector does not handle Sender ID TLV correctly when Chassis ID Length is zero. Issue 13720.
OSS-Fuzz 64290: wireshark:fuzzshark_ip: Global-buffer-overflow in dissect_zcl_read_attr_struct. Issue 19490.
Overriding capture options set by preference by command line arguments (like -S) doesn’t work. Issue 14549.
Segfault when enabling monitor mode on wireless card that falsely claims to support it. Issue 16693.
The documented format of the temporary file name is out of date in the Wireshark User’s Guide. Issue 18464.
Selection highlight is lost when the interface list is sorted. Issue 19133.
In the intricate world of transcription, precision isn’t just a preference; it’s a necessity. Every syllable, pause, and nuance matters, making the choice of tools a critical decision for both seasoned transcribers and those stepping into the realm of transcription for the first time. Among these tools, the importance of headphones cannot be overstated. They are the bridge between spoken words and written text, making the selection of the right pair a vital aspect of ensuring accuracy and efficiency in transcription work. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the key factors to consider when choosing headphones for precision transcription work and how the right pair can elevate your productivity and accuracy to new heights.
Understanding the Transcriber’s Needs
Transcription is a nuanced craft that demands a unique set of skills, focus, and an acute ability to decipher spoken words, even in challenging audio environments. The first step in selecting the right headphones is to understand the distinctive needs of transcribers, who often find themselves working with a variety of audio sources, from interviews and dictations to recordings of meetings. Here are some key considerations:
1. Noise Isolation vs. Noise Cancellation:
– Noise Isolation: Headphones with noise isolation capabilities are designed to physically block out ambient sounds. This can be particularly useful if you work in a noisy environment or need to transcribe recordings with background noise. Look for headphones with over-ear or in-ear designs that provide a snug fit to minimize external sounds.
– Noise Cancellation: While noise isolation deals with physical barriers, noise cancellation relies on advanced technology to actively eliminate external sounds. This can be beneficial if you’re working in a busy office or other loud environments. However, keep in mind that noise cancellation might affect audio quality and could be less effective against certain types of noise.
2. Comfort for Extended Sessions:
– Transcription work often involves long hours of listening and typing. Opt for headphones that prioritize comfort. Look for adjustable headbands, cushioned ear cups, and a lightweight design to prevent discomfort during extended sessions.
3. Wired vs. Wireless:
– Wired: Traditional wired headphones are known for delivering consistent audio quality without concerns about battery life. However, the cable can sometimes be restrictive, and there’s always the risk of tangling.
– Wireless: Wireless headphones offer more freedom of movement, which can be convenient during transcription work. Ensure that the wireless headphones you choose have a reliable connection and sufficient battery life for your needs.
The Best Headphones for Transcription
Now that we’ve explored the general considerations for transcription headphones, let’s delve into specific recommendations from Gotranscript, a leading transcription service. Gotranscript recognizes the importance of accurate transcription and recommends headphones that align with the needs of professional transcribers.
1. Sennheiser HD 280 PRO:
– Noise Isolation: These over-ear headphones provide excellent noise isolation, allowing transcribers to focus on the audio without interference from external sounds.
– Comfort: The Sennheiser HD 280 PRO is designed for comfort during prolonged use, featuring padded ear cups and an adjustable headband.
– Durability: Built with durability in mind, these headphones can withstand the rigors of daily use, making them a reliable choice for transcription professionals.
2. Audio-Technica ATH-M50x:
– Sound Quality: Renowned for their exceptional sound quality, the ATH-M50x headphones deliver clear and detailed audio, ensuring accurate transcription.
– Portability: The swiveling ear cups and foldable design make these headphones easy to transport, ideal for transcribers who are on the move.
– Detachable Cable: The ATH-M50x comes with a detachable cable, providing flexibility and convenience for users.
3. Sony WH-1000XM4:
– Noise Cancellation: For transcribers working in noisy environments, the WH-1000XM4’s advanced noise-canceling technology can be a game-changer.
– Wireless Convenience: With wireless connectivity and a long battery life, these headphones offer the freedom to move without being tethered to a device.
– Touch Controls: The touch-sensitive controls on the ear cups provide a seamless and intuitive user experience.
Making Your Decision: Additional Factors to Consider
When delving into the crucial decision-making process of selecting the perfect headphones for precision transcription work, there are additional factors that demand careful consideration. Let’s explore these aspects in detail to ensure that your choice aligns seamlessly with the demands of your transcription endeavors.
1. Frequency Response: A Symphony of Nuances
– Transcription is an art that requires the faithful reproduction of audio frequencies. To truly capture the subtleties of speech, transcribers should seek headphones with a wide frequency response. This parameter ensures that the headphones can faithfully reproduce both the low and high frequencies inherent in spoken language. The result? A richer, more nuanced listening experience that allows transcribers to discern every inflection, tone, and cadence with unparalleled clarity.
2. Open-Back vs. Closed-Back Design
– Open-Back Design: Picture a pair of headphones as a window into the auditory world. Open-back headphones, with their unique design, allow some sound to escape. This intentional ventilation creates a more natural and spacious sound, akin to the experience of listening to speakers in a room. However, it’s crucial to note that while this design enhances the acoustic experience, it may not be the best choice in environments filled with ambient noise. If your transcription space is serene and controlled, open-back headphones could offer an immersive listening experience.
– Closed-Back Design: On the other side of the acoustic spectrum, closed-back headphones present a different proposition. These headphones, with their sealed ear cups, offer superior noise isolation. This design is particularly beneficial for transcribers working in shared offices or environments with external disturbances. The closed-back design ensures that you can focus on the task at hand without external sounds interfering with your concentration.
Compatibility: Ensuring Seamless Integration
– Transcription work often involves a combination of devices, from computers to transcription foot pedals. To avoid any hiccups in your workflow, it’s paramount to ensure that the headphones you choose are compatible with the devices you’ll be using. This includes checking for compatibility with various computer systems and verifying connectivity with transcription foot pedals if they are part of your transcription toolkit.
Conclusion
In the world of precision transcription, the right headphones are indispensable. Gotranscript, recognizing the pivotal role of headphones in transcription work, recommends models that strike a balance between comfort, audio quality, and features tailored for the needs of professional transcribers.
As you embark on your journey to find the perfect transcription headphones, consider the specific demands of your work environment. Whether you prioritize noise isolation, comfort for long hours, or the convenience of wireless connectivity, there’s a pair of headphones that aligns with your needs.
Ukraine’s biggest mobile network operator has suffered a cyber attack connected to its ongoing conflict with Russia. Kyivstar, which has more than half of Ukraine’s population as mobile subscribers, said earlier this week that it had been targeted by a “powerful hacker attack” that knocked internet access and mobile communications and damaged IT infrastructure. It also disrupted air raid alert systems in parts of Kyiv.
The company’s CEO Oleksandr Komarov said the attack was a result of the war with Russia, reported Reuters. “War is also happening in cyber space. Unfortunately, we have been hit as a result of this war,” he told national television. “(The attack) significantly damaged (our) infrastructure, limited access, we could not counter it at the virtual level, so we shut down Kyivstar physically to limit the enemy’s access.”
Russian hacktivist group Killnet claimed responsibility for the attack via a statement on the Telegram messaging app, but did not provide evidence to support its claims.
Personal data of subscribers not compromised
In a Facebook post, Kyivstar said it was investigating the issue with law enforcement agencies and was “working to eliminate the consequences and restore communications” as soon as possible. The incident has been reported to Ukrainian state services, it added.
“The most important thing is that, as of now, the personal data of subscribers has not been compromised. Our team will definitely compensate those subscribers who had no connection or could not use our services,” the firm said. “Yes, our enemies are cunning. But we are ready to face any challenges, overcome them and continue working for Ukrainians.”
In a post on X (formerly Twitter), internet monitoring company NetBlocks wrote: “The cyber attack on Ukraine’s Kyivstar telecoms operator has impacted all regions of the country with high impact to the capital, metrics show, with knock-on impacts reported to air raid alert network and banking sector as work continues to restore connectivity.”
Cyber attacks are often geopolitical
“Cyber attacks are geopolitical, there is no doubt about it. When thinking about the theatre of war, communications are always a critical target,” commented Bobby Cornwell, threat detection expert at cyber security company SonicWall. “If an attacker can confuse different parties, it will eventually stir up chaos. Cutting off the cellular phones which are used in the battlefield due to lack of other types of communications, can cause troops to be misinformed/misguided, or vulnerable.”
There’s an overlooked aspect that often escapes many people’s thoughts – access to the telecom infrastructure, he said. “While hacking can dismantle communication networks, what if the hacker’s aim isn’t to disrupt but to camouflage their true goal? Imagine a scenario where a threat actor infiltrates a telecom company’s computer systems with a trojan horse, gaining access to phone telemetry.” Threat actors could exploit compromised phones to pinpoint their location and launch targeted attacks, he added. “This is not far-fetched, it’s an unfortunate reality of an ever-evolving cyber threat landscape.”
Russia’s winter cyber offensive
Russia is upping its cyber offensive, shifting its tactics to target western critical national infrastructure (CNI) and increasing its use of hacktivism, according to new research from cyber security firm Cyjax. The Cyber Winter of Discontent report analyzes the conflict in Ukraine and predicts how Russia may conduct cyber military activity over the coming winter.
It found that Russia is facing a crisis of resources and manpower and, with Ukraine receiving a steady supply of defensive weapons and technology from the West, Russia may struggle to effectively deploy malware against its CNI at scale. As such, analysts believe that Russia may turn its attention to more cost-effective tactics outside of the region in an effort to disrupt supply chains and deter the West from supplying its ally.
Cyjax has observed several hacktivist groups increasing in activity including UserSec, SiergedSec, NoName057, Anonymous Sudan, AnonymousRussia and Killnet. The firm has also detected many pro-Kremlin hacktivist collectives switching their targeting away from Ukraine to attacks on organizations based in Israel and those countries supporting it.
“The West’s support to Ukraine’s cyber defenses has stagnated Russian attacks, putting Russia in a difficult position as it struggles to find resources for a cyber and kinetic attack,” said Roman Faithfull, cyber intelligence Lead at Cyjax. “Thus far, Russia’s cyber warfare against Ukraine CNI hasn’t paid off which is why it makes sense that it would turn its attention to western CNI to induce war fatigue and disrupt supply chains.”
This week, the UK’s Joint Committee on the National Security Strategy warned of the catastrophic ransomware risk faced by UK CNI, with the lack of planning for such an incident meaning that the entire country is essentially being held “hostage to fortune.” Earlier this month, an international cyber security advisory from multiple governments accused the Russian FSB of carrying out a spear-phishing campaign against the UK, US and allies.
SpinOk malware has been found in multiple Android apps that have been downloaded more than 30 million times.
The malware-riddled apps were found on the Google Play store, following an investigation by cyber security company CloudSEK. Following their investigation, the research team found that 193 apps on the Google Play store were infected with malware, 43 of which were active within the last week.
SpinOk malware was first discovered by cyber security software company Dr Web in May 2023. Distributed as an advertisement software development kit (SDK), the Trojan malware actually acts as spyware. Dr Web found in May that the malware was present in apps that had been downloaded more than 421 million times.
SpinOk malware is particularly malicious as it poses as a legitimate SDK for minigames with daily rewards. This entices both developers to download and use the kit on their apps and victims to download and run the malware frequently.
Once on a device, SpinOk malware is able to steal private data including images, files and videos on the device and send it to a private server. It can also hijack payments to cryptocurrency wallets and steal payment card details and login credentials. This can have a devastating impact on victims, as hackers may have access to personal or private images, documents and may steal their identities or money.
SpinOk malware was able to infect so many apps as it was distributed via a SDK-based supply chain attack. Software developers likely downloaded the SDK without knowing about the Trojan malicious software held within it.
The Google Play store has said it is taking “appropriate action on apps that violate [its] policies”.
We’ve already compared the best of Google with the best of Apple. In this article, we’ll mix things up a bit. We’ll compare the Google Pixel 8 Pro vs Apple iPhone 15 Plus. In other words, the best of Google is going against… well, one of the devices Apple announced alongside its flagships. The iPhone 15 Plus is not quite a flagship, but it’s rather close to the Pixel 8 Pro’s price tag, and it’s also quite powerful.
As per usual, we’ll first list their specifications, and will then move to compare them across other categories. We’ll compare their designs, displays, performance, battery life, cameras, and audio performance. These two phones don’t exactly have much in common, per se, which should make things comparison that much more interesting. Having said that, let’s get down to it, shall we?
Specs
Google Pixel 8 Pro vs Apple iPhone 15 Plus, respectively
Google Pixel 8 Pro vs Apple iPhone 15 Plus: Design
You’ll immediately notice how different these two phones are, the moment you look at them. They are both made out of metal and glass, and they both have flat displays. That’s basically where similarities end, though. The Pixel 8 Pro has a centered display camera hole. The iPhone 15 Plus, on the flip side, has a pill-shaped camera hole on the front… which is also centered. Both of them have very thin bezels, though, all around.
The Pixel 8 Pro does not have flat sides, unlike the iPhone 15 Plus. Even the sides on Apple’s phone have rounded edges, for comfort’s sake. If we flip the two phones around, you’ll notice even more differences. The Pixel 8 Pro has a camera visor on the back, which connects to the left and right sides of its frame. That camera visor is covered by metal, and it includes three cameras. The iPhone 15 Plus has two cameras on the back, both of which are a part of the camera island placed in the top-left corner.
They have the same display sizes, but slightly different display aspect ratios. The Pixel 8 Pro is a bit taller because of that, but also a bit narrower at the same time. It’s also thicker than the iPhone 15 Plus. The Pixel 8 Pro does weigh 12 grams more than the iPhone 15 Plus, which is not a big difference, but it’s noticeable when you hold them at the same time. Both devices feel quite premium, and they both offer IP68 certification for water and dust resistance.
Google Pixel 8 Pro vs Apple iPhone 15 Plus: Display
The Pixel 8 Pro features a 6.7-inch LTPO OLED display with a resolution of 2992 x 1344. That panel is flat, and it supports a 120Hz refresh rate. The refresh rate is adaptive, it goes from 1 to 120Hz. HDR10+ content is also supported, and this panel goes up to 2,400 nits of brightness. The display aspect ratio on Google’s flagship is 20:9, while the panel is protected by the Gorilla Glass Victus 2.
The iPhone 15 Plus, on the other hand, includes a 6.7-inch panel with a resolution of 2796 x 1290. This is a Super Retina XDR OLED panel, and it’s also flat. It supports HDR10 content, and Dolby Vision, but it’s unfortunately stuck at 60Hz. The peak brightness on this panel is 2,000 nits. The display aspect ratio we’re looking at is 19.5:9, and the display is protected by the Ceramic Shield glass.
The bottom line is that both of these displays are really good, but the Pixel 8 Pro’s panel is newer, and has one major advantage. It supports a 120Hz refresh rate, while the iPhone 15 Plus is stuck at 60Hz. Most of you will notice the difference while scrolling, and even gaming in some cases. Both displays do look very good, and are very sharp, though. They offer vivid colors, great viewing angles, and deep blacks. They are also well protected.
Google Pixel 8 Pro vs Apple iPhone 15 Plus: Performance
Google’s flagship is fueled by the Google Tensor G3 processor. That is Google’s latest chip, a 4nm processor. Google also included 12GB of LPDDR5X RAM here, and UFS 3.1 flash storage. The iPhone 15 Plus is fueled by the Apple A16 Bionic chip. That’s also a 4nm processor, and it’s not the latest and greatest from Apple, but it’s still great. Google’s chip is technically inferior in terms of sheer power, but it’s tuned to work with Pixels, and has great AI features. The iPhone 15 Plus also includes 6GB of RAM and NVMe storage.
As far as regular everyday performance is concerned, they both do a great job. Opening apps, multitasking, consuming multimedia, browsing… anything you can think of, these two phones can handle with ease. Chances are it will stay that way for quite some time, so there’s nothing to worry about. Even when it comes to gaming, both phones do a great job, but the iPhone 15 Plus does have an edge when it comes to the most demanding titles out there. Both phones do get warm while gaming, but not too warm. All in all, chances are you’ll be happy with the performance of both devices.
Google Pixel 8 Pro vs Apple iPhone 15 Plus: Battery
Google’s flagship includes a 5,050mAh battery, while the iPhone 15 Plus packs in a 4,383mAh unit. Apple’s handsets usually have smaller battery packs, and it’s due to how iOS works. That doesn’t necessarily mean that it has worse battery life, and it’s certainly not the case here. The iPhone 15 Plus actually offers outstanding battery life, one of the best ones we’ve experienced in the last year or so.
Getting over the 9-hour screen-on-time mark with the iPhone 15 Plus is easily doable, actually, even going over the 10-hour screen-on-time mark. This smartphone is a great choice if you need great battery life, without a doubt. The Pixel 8 Pro cannot really reach those heights, but its battery life is not bad, not at all. Once the battery settled, we managed to get over the 7-hour screen-on-time mark on a regular basis, even reaching the 8-hour mark at times.
Both smartphones offer support for wired and wireless charging. The Pixel 8 Pro supports 30W wired, 23W wireless, and 5W reverse wireless charging. The Apple iPhone 15 Plus supports 20W wired, 15W MagSafe and Qi2 wireless, 7.5W Qi wireless, and 4.5W reverse wired charging. One thing to note is that neither of the smartphones ships with a charger in the box, though.
Google Pixel 8 Pro vs Apple iPhone 15 Plus: Cameras
The Pixel 8 Pro includes three cameras on the back, while the iPhone 15 Plus is equipped with two. A 50-megapixel main camera is backed by a 48-megapixel ultrawide unit (126-degree FoV), and a 48-megapixel telephoto camera (5x optical zoom). The iPhone 15 Plus has a 48-megapixel main camera, and a 12-megapixel ultrawide unit (120-degree FoV).
The main cameras on both smartphones are really good. That goes for both day and night. The Pixel 8 Pro does do a better job when it comes to HDR situations, though, and the end results are quite different. The Pixel 8 Pro images do pop more and do seem processed, in a good way. The iPhone 15 Plus is trying to keep things closer to real life, which results in different images. Ultrawide cameras do a really good job in good lighting, keeping a similar color balance to the main cameras. The Pixel 8 Pro is a clear telephoto winner, though.
In low light, the Pixel 8 Pro tends to brighten up the scenes a bit more, while the iPhone 15 Plus once again tries to keep things closer to real life. Both do a great job and manage to retain a lot of detail from the shadows. Their ultrawide cameras are also up to the task, while the Pixel 8 Pro easily wins the telephoto category in low light too. The iPhone 15 Plus still has the upper hand in the video department, and that goes for both day and night.
Audio
There are stereo speakers included on both of these devices. Their output is really good, it’s well-balanced. The Pixel 8 Pro’s speakers are a bit louder, but chances are that not many of you will notice that.
Neither phone has an audio jack, but they are both equipped with Type-C ports. So, you can use those to connect your headphones via a wire. If you prefer to go wireless, Bluetooth 5.3 is included on both devices.
It’s been more than two years since Microsoft released Windows 11. However, data shows that Windows 10, which was released to the public in 2015, still continues to outshine its successor, Windows 11, in 2024. According to Statcounter, Windows operating systems accounted for 73% of desktop OS used in 2023, with Windows 10 occupying 67%, significantly surpassing Windows 11’s 27% share. Despite Microsoft’s efforts to convince users to upgrade to Windows 11, its predecessor’s popularity remains robust.
At the beginning of 2023, 11% of users were still on Windows 7, but concerted efforts saw this number reduced to 3% by the end of the year, reports TechRadar. However, when it comes to upgrading to Windows 11, things don’t go the same way. Microsoft will continue to support Windows 10 throughout 2024 and even after that, users will have the option to opt for the paid Extended Security Update for a few extra years. The company also introduced Copilot to its predecessor in November last year.
It might be a good option for devices that will require a hardware upgrade before they can install the latest Windows version. A significant proportion of the users with Windows 10 may very well stick to it in 2024 and probably beyond that as well, which prevents a unified Windows user base.
Microsoft urges businesses to upgrade from Windows 10 to maintain a unified user base
Concerned about this, Jason Leznek, Windows Servicing & Delivery Principal Product Manager, urged businesses to consider upgrading to Windows 11. Emphasizing the AI advancements in Windows 11, Leznek touted a 250% Return on Investment (ROI) for the platform. The company presented various upgrade options to entice users. It includes a straightforward OS upgrade, complete hardware upgrades for unsupported devices, and the use of virtual machines like Windows 365.
Microsoft’s strategy involves not only nudging users away from Windows 10 but also enhancing the appeal of Windows 11 as we navigate through 2024. The latest major update, 23H2, introduced Copilot directly into the OS, featuring generative AI technology akin to ChatGPT.
Despite Microsoft’s efforts, Windows 11’s growth remained stagnant throughout the summer and into the final months of 2023. The challenge lies in convincing businesses to make the transition to Windows 11. With Windows 10’s continued stability and support until 2025, enterprises seem reluctant to abandon a familiar and reliable platform
Get ready for a smarter, more versatile Google Assistant. A deep dive into the app’s code reveals exciting details about “Assistant with Bard,” the merger of the classic assistant and Google’s powerful AI, Bard, that was announced back at the Made by Google event earlier this year.
While Google has yet to announce a firm launch date for its AI-enhanced Assistant with Bard, which is expected to fully replace the existing Assistant experience on supported Android devices, a code deep dive performed by 9to5Google has found that work might just be nearly complete on this project. The findings reveal that the Google app has been updated with some new designs, including a look at its popup window and tab switcher. The company is also tweaking its recently launched stocks and finance widget.
The APK teardown also revealed that the Assistant with Bard experience will be prominently placed on the Discover page of the Google Search app. The new button is reminiscent of a physical slider switch and sits at the top of the page, above the Google logo, rather than as part of the existing bottom bar. It is not clear whether this is intended to be a permanent fixture of the Discover tab or a temporary reminder to check out Assistant with Bard if you haven’t already.
9to5Google also managed to enable the actual popup window that you’ll use to submit new prompts/questions to Assistant with Bard. Using the three buttons along the bottom, you can type or speak a message and/or share a photo with the Assistant. This design was first seen in Google’s initial previews of its AI tool at the Pixel 8 event in October.
Credit: 9to5Google
Google Search is also preparing a more prominent message encouraging you to upgrade your Assistant to include Bard AI features. Appearing above the typical Assistant sheet, a new popup suggests a few ways that Assistant with Bard can help you.
Credit: 9to5Google
Assistant with Bard is designed to be accessed in the same ways as the existing Assistant, such as by long-pressing the Power button or saying “Hey Google.” It will be interesting to see the final product and how it will mesh with the rest of the Android Operating System or even the Pixel Launcher once it goes live.
TikTok user Jess, or @cozylifewithbless, recently shared a video explaining why she had decided to get rid of their Amazon Alexa device after some creepy late-night talks began unprompted. The smart home appliance has been reported doing “creepy things” in the past, and Jess was apparently having none of it.
As current AI models take over the automation industry, products like Amazon’s Alexa and Google Assistant have become outdated and archaic. These products have very limited intelligence and understanding. Thus, these early iterations of smart home products were never as good at their jobs as users wanted them to be.
Alexa started conversing at 1 AM
Jess explains in her video how, when she was out of town, Alexa “kept going off”. The device kept talking to Jess’s husband at one in the morning when he was playing video games. What really rubbed the couple the wrong way was that Alexa was talking without being spoken to. Tools like Alexa and Google Assistant generally do not speak unless prompted to do so directly by a user.
Jess’s husband described the experience as “super, super weird”. During the video, Jess also mentioned how she had been creeped out by Alexa in the past. She talked about how Alexa could recognize her voice when given commands. This, admittedly, is a very common feature of digital assistants. This recent encounter prompted Jess and her husband to get rid of Alexa entirely.
Jess revealed she had replaced Alexa with a kitchen timer, as that was about the only thing the couple used Alexa for. She went on to ask viewers about their opinions on Google Assistant, and if they had experienced anything weird with that.
Creepy Alexa talks often and spooks users
This is by no means the first time something like this has been reported. Back in 2018, there was a period where Alexa devices across multiple households were laughing randomly. This led to many users unplugging their Alexa devices, and many complaints were raised. Only two months ago a user on Reddit posted about their Alexa doing some weird things. Saying Alexa refused to let the lights stay on, and then started singing goodbye. When the owner checked the logs, there were recordings of unidentified people from her own devices.
Instances like this make for some fun and spooky stories but are ultimately just simple glitches. Consumers who have an Amazon Alexa device at home don’t need to worry about an AI uprising just yet.
