Technology news

• Apple accused of using conflict minerals

  17-12-2024 23:18 via bbc.com
  
  The tech giant says it "strongly disputes" the claims and it is "deeply committed to responsible sourcing" of minerals.
  
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• This USB-C tester with a digital display is a geeky treat for any user (and it's only $20)

  17-12-2024 22:49 via zdnet.com
  
  Whether you're a seasoned technician or a hobbyist, the ChargerLAB Power-Z AK001 USB-C cable can meet your diagnostic needs, especially with its handy power meter.
  
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• T-Mobile users can try Starlink's satellite service for free - here's how

  17-12-2024 22:06 via zdnet.com
  
  Fed up with service dead zones? The free beta test launches early next year - here's how to join.
  
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• Google's Veo 2 video generator takes on Sora Turbo - how to try it

  17-12-2024 21:40 via zdnet.com
  
  Also now available: An improved version of Google's Imagen 3 image generator and a fun, new experiment.
  
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• Why Google's quantum breakthrough is 'truly remarkable' - and what happens next

  17-12-2024 21:36 via zdnet.com
  
  Being able to scale physical qubits reliably is nice, of course. Now comes the hard part: actual circuits.
  
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• Tech Life: Does the robotaxi have a future?

  17-12-2024 21:30 via bbc.co.uk
  
  How tech is transforming the way the world works, learns and plays
  
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• I built the ultimate home theater setup with these 3 products - here's my buying advice

  17-12-2024 21:16 via zdnet.com
  
  If you're looking for the best projector-speaker combo available, the AWOL Vision package delivers superior imaging without the complications found in other projectors.
  
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• The Netflix feature that lets you share your favorite scenes comes to Android

  17-12-2024 20:57 via zdnet.com
  
  Now users on Android and iOS can easily share TV and film scenes and even bookmark them without having to download the content directly. Here's how.
  
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• If your Windows 10 PC can't be upgraded, you have 5 options before time runs out

  17-12-2024 20:46 via zdnet.com
  
  Microsoft will officially end support for its most popular operating system in less than a year. Here's what you should do with your Windows 10 PCs that fail Microsoft's Windows 11 compatibility tests before that day arrives.
  
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• Amazon's new Nova AI models could be ground-breaking - why we can't know for certain

  17-12-2024 20:05 via zdnet.com
  
  The engineering of threat testing and red-teaming is the most interesting contribution of Amazon's first 'frontier' models.
  
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• OpenAI releases a slew of developer features in a 'Mini Dev Day'

  17-12-2024 19:38 via zdnet.com
  
  For 12 days, the OpenAI daily live stream is unveiling 'new things, big and small.' Here's what's new today.
  
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• How to change your location with a VPN - and why you should

  17-12-2024 19:36 via zdnet.com
  
  Whether you travel, need more privacy, or want access to regional streaming content, any of ZDNET's top-rated VPNs can relocate you.
  
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• Your Meta Ray-Ban smart glasses just got a massive AI upgrade

  17-12-2024 18:54 via zdnet.com
  
  The biggest Ray-Ban update yet is here, and it makes the smart glasses more useful than ever.
  
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• This new Google AI tool lets you easily generate images from other photos - no prompt required

  17-12-2024 18:52 via zdnet.com
  
  It's free to use and lets you avoid the hassle of writing long, detailed prompts.
  
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• Panasonic's latest old-school camera can shoot your next TikTok

  17-12-2024 18:46 via zdnet.com
  
  The newest Lumix mirrorless camera offers a retro-looking design, but it can also shoot vertical video.
  
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• The most reliable mechanical keyboard I've tested is on sale for the holidays

  17-12-2024 18:44 via zdnet.com
  
  The Keychron Q1 Max, one of the best mechanical keyboards on the market, is on sale for $30 off ahead of Christmas.
  
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• YouTube creators can now opt into third-party AI training

  17-12-2024 18:12 via zdnet.com
  
  YouTube has finally addressed creators' frustrations with the lack of autonomy over third-party AI training. Here's how to opt in (or not).
  
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• Leaving Windows 10 for Linux? 5 security differences to consider first

  17-12-2024 17:32 via zdnet.com
  
  With Windows 10 nearing the end of its life, you might be thinking about switching to Linux. Here are a few things you should know about security.
  
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• I finally found a fast-charging power bank that looks good and is multifunctional

  17-12-2024 17:17 via zdnet.com
  
  The EcoFlow Rapid is a nostalgic-looking magnetic power bank with Qi2 wireless charging, a kickstand, and compatibility with iPhone and Android devices.
  
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• Programmers, do you get window-switch whiplash? Google's new Code Assist aims to help

  17-12-2024 17:00 via zdnet.com
  
  Discover why Google calls Gemini Code Assist a paradigm shift in coding, with AI-driven integrations that bring tools like GitLab and Synk directly into your development environment.
  
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• Just installed iOS 18.2? Change these 4 iPhone settings for the best experience

  17-12-2024 16:53 via zdnet.com
  
  Overshadowed by the shiny AI features, the latest iPhone update brought multiple QOL improvements, such as the new Home Screen controls.
  
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• I switched from a Wacom Cintiq 16 to the Movink, and it's an impressive upgrade even for photographers

  17-12-2024 16:37 via zdnet.com
  
  Wacom continues to lead in tablet and pen display technology with the latest Movink model, which is geared toward creators on the go.
  
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• Echo Pop vs Echo Dot: Both Alexa speakers are on sale, but which should you choose?

  17-12-2024 16:35 via zdnet.com
  
  Amazon's most affordable smart speakers share many similarities, including the Alexa virtual assistant, but what are the biggest differences between these two models?
  
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• Get this awesome Windows 11 Pro Mini PC for $198 on Amazon

  17-12-2024 16:20 via zdnet.com
  
  It's a tiny PC with lots of power and tons of possibilities - and it's not a Raspberry Pi.
  
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• I'm a Linux power user, and I recommend this distro to newbies and experts alike

  17-12-2024 16:01 via zdnet.com
  
  If you're looking for a sensible operating system that takes a practical approach to the desktop, OpenMandriva is worth a look.
  
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• Why I travel with these Google Pixel earbuds instead of over-ear headphones now - and can't go back

  17-12-2024 15:59 via zdnet.com
  
  My audio product of the year has helped me save space when traveling while delivering exceptional sound and ANC performance for the size.
  
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• Apple Pencil Pro vs. Apple Pencil 2: Which model you should buy for your iPad

  17-12-2024 15:45 via zdnet.com
  
  How does the current Apple Pencil Pro stack up against the previous Apple Pencil (2nd Gen)? Here are all the reasons you should consider as you make your buying decision.
  
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• It's no Rode or DJI, but I still recommend this wireless microphone to creative professionals

  17-12-2024 15:40 via zdnet.com
  
  I spent time with the Saramonic Ultra wireless lav mics and was pleasantly surprised by the quality of sound.
  
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• Will the future of transportation be robotaxis – or your own self-driving car?

  17-12-2024 15:39 via theguardian.com
  
  GM is shutting down its robotaxi business, Tesla is creating one of its own – what does the future hold for self-driving?Want TechScape delivered to your inbox? Sign up hereWelcome back. This week in tech: General Motors says goodbye to robotaxis but not self-driving cars; one woman’s fight to keep AI out of applications for housing; Salt Typhoon; and tech’s donations to Donald Trump. Thank you for joining me.Tenant-screening systems like SafeRent are often used in place of hum
  
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• Mouthwashing review – 2024’s most difficult game, but not in the way you might expect

  17-12-2024 15:39 via theguardian.com
  
  PC; Creative Reflex/Wrong Organ
  The word ‘challenge’ has an accepted meaning in the world of video games, but in this engrossing sci-fi horror it’s the subject matter that’s confrontingIt is perhaps poetic that throughout this year, the 30th anniversary of the PlayStation, developers have found such a rich vein of horror in early 3D visuals. Crow Country, Fear the Spotlight and now Mouthwashing all make terrifying use of low-poly characters, smeared textures and muted col
  
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• This $8 smart home accessory is the best stocking stuffer that you're not thinking of

  17-12-2024 15:21 via zdnet.com
  
  The Kasa Smart Plug Ultra Mini delivers the convenience of automation to your Christmas tree or indoor lights. And it's on sale!
  
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• Your Roku TV is getting a major smart home upgrade today - for free

  17-12-2024 15:17 via zdnet.com
  
  Roku's new integration features include a Camera Carousel, Smart Home Web View, and more notifications coming to your TV.
  
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• The 3 most Windows-like Linux distros you can try because change is hard

  17-12-2024 14:54 via zdnet.com
  
  If you're still using Windows 10, you know the end is nigh. If you want to keep your machine running smoothly and feeling familiar, check out these Linux distros.
  
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• UK proposes letting tech firms use copyrighted work to train AI

  17-12-2024 14:48 via theguardian.com
  
  Consultation suggests opt-out scheme for creatives who don’t want their work used by Google, OpenAI and othersCampaigners for the protection of the rights of creatives have criticised a UK government proposal to let artificial intelligence companies train their algorithms on their works under a new copyright exemption.Book publishers said the proposal put out for consultation on Tuesday was “entirely untested and unevidenced” while Beeban Kidron, a crossbench peer campaigning t
  
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• Amazon-hosted AI tool for UK military recruitment ‘carries risk of data breach’

  17-12-2024 14:47 via theguardian.com
  
  Ministry of Defence says risk is low and ‘robust safeguards’ have been put in place by suppliersAn artificial intelligence tool hosted by Amazon and designed to boost UK Ministry of Defence recruitment puts defence personnel at risk of being identified publicly, according to a government assessment.Data used in the automated system to improve the drafting of defence job adverts and attract more diverse candidates by improving the inclusiveness language, includes names, roles and emai
  
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• We're not ready to support autonomous AI agents, survey suggests

  17-12-2024 14:34 via zdnet.com
  
  Most executives and professionals say they will overhaul their tech stacks to prepare for AI agents, but widespread data integration challenges may hamper deployments.
  
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• This EcoFlow power station is strong enough to power my entire home, and it's $1,300 off

  17-12-2024 14:23 via zdnet.com
  
  The EcoFlow Delta Pro Ultra is one of the most capable battery stations on the market. After putting it through months of testing (and several storms), here are my thoughts.
  
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• Ofcom apologises for 'ill-judged' porn joke job ad

  17-12-2024 14:14 via bbc.com
  
  Campaigners say the post, by a senior manager at the regulator, treats porn as a job perk.
  
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• Trump meets TikTok CEO as ban deadline looms

  17-12-2024 11:50 via bbc.com
  
  The social media giant is currently seeking to delay a law that would see it banned or sold in early 2025.
  
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• The Magic Mouse's fatal flaw is finally being fixed

  17-12-2024 10:38 via zdnet.com
  
  In addition to tackling the Magic Mouse's problematic charging port, Apple also has plans for a better AirTag and a foldable device.
  
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• Potential payouts for up to 300,000 Australian Facebook users in Cambridge Analytica settlement

  17-12-2024 05:07 via theguardian.com
  
  Office of the Australian Information Commissioner announces deal with Meta over scandal that may have affected 300,000 usersFollow our Australia news live blog for latest updatesGet our breaking news email, free app or daily news podcastPotentially hundreds of thousands of people who had their Facebook data harvested as part of the Cambridge Analytica scandal could be compensated, after Meta agreed to an A$50m settlement with Australia’s privacy regulator.The settlement, announced by the O
  
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• TikTok turns to US supreme court in last-ditch bid to avert divest-or-ban law

  17-12-2024 01:18 via theguardian.com
  
  Firm and parent company ByteDance file request for injunction to halt ban of app used by 170 million AmericansTikTok made a last-ditch effort on Monday to continue operating in the United States, asking the US supreme court to temporarily block a law intended to force ByteDance, its China-based parent company, to divest the short-video app by 19 January or face a ban.TikTok and ByteDance filed an emergency request to the justices for an injunction to halt the looming ban on the social media app
  
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• Could AI help prevent diabetes-related sight loss?

  17-12-2024 01:02 via bbc.com
  
  Artificial intelligence has been trained to examine eye scans for a condition that can cause blindness.
  
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