AllYouCanTech

VSCO Unveils AI-Enhanced Tools for Professional Photographers

Following the introduction of [VSCO Canvas](https://www.vsco.co/features/canvas), a tool for visual creators powered by AI that assists in mood board creation, VSCO revealed today AI Lab, “the inaugural photo platform that provides professional-grade AI tools for photographers.” Here’s what this entails.

If you are keeping an eye on the generative AI sector for imaging, you may have come across [Black Forest Labs](https://bfl.ai). This German-American startup was launched by researchers with previous experience at Nvidia and Stable Diffusion. Their generative image models and tools, which are widely considered among the finest available, feature FLUX.1 Kontext, “a collection of generative flow matching models that enable you to create and modify images.”

Today, VSCO revealed plans to integrate Black Forest Lab’s FLUX.1 Kontext model with its own “exclusive, purpose-designed technology” to provide professional-grade AI tools for photographers, beginning with one tool available today and another expected soon:

– **Remove:** utilizes intelligent area detection and seamless blending to create natural, resolution-safe edits that maintain the integrity of the image.
– **Upscale:** debuting soon, will enhance image resolution and clarify details while preserving color fidelity and composition.

VSCO states that [AI Lab](https://www.vsco.co/ai-lab) was crafted for “photographers who seek high-quality edits that appear authentic, not synthetic,” with key features that include:

– Full resolution and natural image detail retained
– Supports editing of high resolution RAW images
– Generates a non-destructive copy, keeping the original image intact
– Intuitive editing with Brush, Tap, or Lasso tools for object selection and removal
– Employs content-aware region detection for precise blending and realistic outcomes

Thorough Guidelines for Turning Off Liquid Glass on Every Apple Device

### Grasping the Liquid Glass User Interface on Apple Devices

The Liquid Glass interface, rolled out by Apple, has received varied feedback from users. While a good number appreciate its elegant design and contemporary look, some view it as less user-friendly or simply prefer an alternative visual theme. Luckily, Apple offers users ample customization, enabling them to adjust their interface experience to match their tastes.

#### Customization Choices

Adam Engst from TidBITS has gathered a detailed guide on how to navigate and modify the Liquid Glass interface. His observations indicate that although the settings are consistent across different Apple devices, their functionalities vary, requiring a specific approach for each device. Engst’s guide contains screenshots that demonstrate the impact of each setting modification, facilitating visualization for users.

For macOS 26, users can select from an array of settings to modify the Liquid Glass effect:

– **Default**: The conventional interface with the Liquid Glass effect active.
– **Reduce Transparency**: Lowers the transparency effects for a more opaque look.
– **Increase Contrast (and Reduce Transparency)**: Boosts contrast while also decreasing transparency for enhanced visibility.
– **Liquid Glass Off**: Fully turns off the Liquid Glass effect.
– **Liquid Glass Off, Reduce Transparency On**: Disables the Liquid Glass effect while keeping the transparency reduced.
– **Liquid Glass Off, Reduce Transparency and Increase Contrast On**: Switches off the Liquid Glass effect while applying both transparency reduction and higher contrast.
– **Liquid Glass Off, Per App**: Lets users deactivate the Liquid Glass effect on a per-application basis.
– **Reduce Motion**: Dials down motion effects for a more stable interface.

These choices provide a solid foundation for users aiming to adjust their interface, ensuring they can cultivate a look and feel that aligns with their individual preferences.

#### Conclusion

For those who are not content with the default Liquid Glass interface, Engst’s guide acts as a crucial resource. It enables users to investigate and implement modifications that improve their experience on Apple devices. Whether one aspires to achieve a more classic aesthetic or enhanced usability, the available customization options make it feasible to establish a personalized interface that caters to unique requirements.

DHS Reports Chinese Criminal Organizations Generated $1 Billion from Text Scams Aiming at US Citizens

**Chinese Criminal Syndicates and the $1 Billion Text Fraud Crisis**

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has disclosed an astonishing $1 billion in earnings amassed by Chinese criminal syndicates via text message fraud aimed at U.S. phone users over the previous three years. These fraudulent activities, which frequently involve deceptive assertions regarding highway toll fees, U.S. Postal Service charges, and penalties for traffic violations, are crafted to extract private credit card data from unwitting victims.

### The Dynamics of the Fraud

Fraudsters utilize an advanced system that links international criminal groups to server farms capable of dispatching bulk text messages. Victims receive texts that urge them to input their credit card information on phishing sites. After obtaining this data, the scammers solicit a one-time passcode from the victim’s bank, which is then employed to incorporate the stolen card into digital wallets such as Apple Wallet or Google Pay.

### The Function of SIM Farms

A crucial element of this scheme involves the utilization of “SIM farms.” These arrangements enable a single operator to transmit the quantity of messages typically necessitating thousands of phone numbers. Adam Parks, an assistant special agent in charge at Homeland Security Investigations, reports that there are at least 200 of these SIM farms functioning within the U.S., frequently remotely manipulated from China. They have been uncovered in various settings, including co-working spaces and even automotive repair facilities.

### The Consequences for Victims

The scams disproportionately impact at-risk populations, particularly seniors. Victims frequently fall prey to schemes that prompt them to provide their credit card details and then a one-time password, mistakenly believing they are authenticating a legitimate transaction. The purloined information is subsequently utilized to acquire easily resalable items, such as iPhones and gift cards, with local intermediaries executing the purchases for a commission.

### Prevention and Enlightenment

In reaction to the escalating threat, entities like the National Cybersecurity Alliance have established resources aimed at informing the public on how to thwart these scams. Awareness and diligence are vital in countering this intricate criminal network.

The concerning magnitude of these scams underscores the necessity for ongoing initiatives in cybersecurity and public awareness to safeguard individuals from falling prey to such deceptive schemes.

Speculations Regarding Next Year’s MacBook Pro Indicate New M5 Version May Not Happen

# Apple M6 MacBook Pro: Expected Features and Enhancements

Apple has recently introduced its latest M5 MacBook Pro, which, despite its more powerful chip, has brought about only slight modifications when compared to the earlier M4 version. For individuals thinking about an upgrade, the forthcoming M6 MacBook Pro, set to be released next year, is expected to offer considerable improvements that might warrant the wait.

## Anticipated Features of the M6 MacBook Pro

The M5 MacBook Pro is seen as a slight upgrade, but the M6 iteration is rumored to feature a complete redesign along with several thrilling new characteristics:

– **Slimmer, Lighter Build**: The M6 MacBook Pro is forecasted to showcase a more streamlined and lighter industrial design, departing from the heftier look of past models.

– **M6 Chip**: A major enhancement is anticipated with the arrival of the M6 chip, fabricated on an advanced 2-nanometer process. This innovation is likely to boost both performance and efficiency.

– **OLED Screen**: The transition to an OLED screen is highly awaited, promising more vibrant colors and deeper blacks in comparison to the existing LCD technology.

– **No Notch**: The elimination of the display notch could create a more immersive viewing environment and a sleeker design aesthetic.

– **Touch Functionality**: The inclusion of touch capabilities would represent a significant transformation in user interaction, bringing the MacBook Pro closer to other Apple devices.

– **C2 Cellular Modem**: There are speculations that the M6 MacBook Pro may integrate a next-gen C2 cellular modem, enabling mobile data connectivity.

These improvements indicate that the M6 MacBook Pro might stand out as one of the most significant upgrades in the history of the Mac lineup.

## Design and Performance Outlook

The redesign of the MacBook Pro is especially remarkable as it has preserved a comparable appearance since the launch of the “apology model” in 2021. The developments in Apple silicon are anticipated to support a sleeker profile without sacrificing performance or user-friendliness.

The M6 chip is expected to offer a considerable rise in processing capabilities, due to inventive packaging methods and a reduced manufacturing process. This could enable enhanced performance in resource-intensive applications, making the M6 MacBook Pro an appealing option for professionals and creatives.

## Display Enhancements

While the current MacBook Pro display is praiseworthy, the anticipated switch to OLED technology, coupled with touch functionality and the removal of the notch, could lead to an outstanding visual experience. Users can anticipate improved clarity, vibrancy, and interactive features.

## Conclusion

For those who do not require an immediate upgrade, the M6 MacBook Pro seems to be a promising alternative worth the wait. With an array of expected features and notable design transformations, it could reshape the MacBook Pro experience.

Are you thinking about getting the M5 MacBook Pro, or will you wait for the M6 version?

Meta Ends Messenger Mac Application Without Offering Explanations

**Messenger for Mac Shutdown: Essential Information**

Meta has formally declared the shutdown of its Messenger application for Mac, granting users just 60 days to switch to other messaging alternatives. This move is part of a wider strategy to steer users toward utilizing the Facebook website for their messaging activities.

### Important Aspects of the Shutdown

1. **Schedule**: Current users of the Messenger app for Mac will benefit from a 60-day grace period before the application becomes inoperable. Post this timeframe, users will be automatically redirected to the Facebook website for messaging purposes.

2. **New Users**: The application will cease to be available for download, effectively terminating access for new users to the Messenger app on Mac.

3. **User Alerts**: Existing users will get in-app notifications regarding the discontinuation process, making sure they are informed of the upcoming changes.

4. **Chat History**: For individuals worried about losing their messaging history, Meta recommends users activate secure storage and create a PIN through the desktop application prior to the change. This action is vital for safeguarding chat history while transitioning to the web version.

### Justifications for the Transformation

Although Meta has not disclosed explicit reasons for the cessation of the Messenger app for Mac, the choice meshes with a movement towards consolidating services and directing users to web-based platforms. This transition may simplify operations and lower the necessity of maintaining various app versions across multiple devices.

### User Feedback

User reactions to the shutdown have varied. Some may find value in the ease of using the web version, while others might be displeased by the absence of a dedicated application. Community feedback indicates a need for more transparency regarding the rationale behind this decision and possible alternatives.

### Summary

As the Messenger app for Mac nears its termination, users are urged to get ready for the shift to the Facebook website for messaging. Ensuring the security of message history and getting accustomed to the web interface will be crucial steps in adapting to this transition.