Author: Richard

    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Poll Shows Most Americans Are Concerned That AI Might Ultimately Annihilate Humanity
    Poll Shows Most Americans Are Concerned That AI Might Ultimately Annihilate Humanity

    **The AI Boogeyman**

    In recent years, artificial intelligence (AI) has undergone rapid advancements, becoming a pivotal subject of conversation in both technological and societal realms. The notion of AI as a “boogeyman” has surfaced, driven by both intrigue and trepidation. This article investigates the factors contributing to this viewpoint and examines the potential consequences of AI’s progression.

    **The Rise of AI Concerns**

    AI’s potential has increased dramatically, leading to its incorporation into numerous facets of everyday life. From virtual assistants and recommendation systems to self-driving cars and sophisticated robotics, AI is transforming industries and individual experiences. However, this swift evolution has also raised alarms regarding its possible ramifications.

    A recent poll conducted by Yahoo and YouGov underscores the public’s unease. The survey indicates that a large segment of Americans believes AI could surpass human intellect and might pose a risk to humanity. Specifically, 53% of those surveyed deem it likely that AI could ultimately annihilate humanity. This anxiety stems from the uncertainties surrounding AI’s future capabilities and the moral quandaries it introduces.

    **Understanding the Fear**

    The apprehension surrounding AI as a boogeyman is complex. A significant concern is the potential loss of control. As AI systems gain more autonomy, the uneasiness that they might function independently of human oversight increases. This is exacerbated by the possibility of AI being exploited for malicious purposes, be it through cyberattacks, misinformation efforts, or other harmful acts.

    Additionally, the depiction of AI in mainstream media frequently gravitates toward dystopian themes, where AI systems rebel against their makers. These fictional narratives, albeit often exaggerated, resonate with profound anxieties regarding technology’s strength and unpredictability.

    **The Reality of AI’s Impact**

    In spite of these apprehensions, it’s crucial to acknowledge the favorable prospects of AI. Many specialists contend that AI can serve as a positive force, tackling intricate issues like climate change, healthcare, and resource management. AI’s capacity to analyze extensive data sets swiftly and precisely can lead to significant advancements in these fields, enhancing quality of life and sustainability.

    However, achieving these advantages necessitates a thorough examination of AI’s ethical considerations. Guaranteeing transparency, accountability, and equity in AI systems is vital for cultivating public trust and alleviating concerns. Policymakers, technologists, and ethicists must work together to create frameworks that regulate AI’s evolution and application.

    **Conclusion**

    The concept of AI as a boogeyman encapsulates both the wonder and fear that accompany technological evolution. While anxieties regarding AI’s potential to harm humanity are not without basis, they shouldn’t overshadow the prospects it offers. By confronting ethical issues and promoting responsible AI innovation, society can leverage AI’s capabilities for constructive transformation while minimizing dangers. As we traverse this intricate terrain, open discussions and informed decision-making will be essential in shaping a future where AI acts as a valuable resource rather than a cause for alarm.

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    • Comments Off on “Initial Discount Available on Upcoming Haptic Vest Before Black Friday”
    “Initial Discount Available on Upcoming Haptic Vest Before Black Friday”

    The Woojer Vest 4, an advanced haptic vest, has just been released and is currently being offered at a reduced price of $50 off. Initially set at $349, the vest is now priced at $299 as part of an early Black Friday promotion. This latest model features a lighter, sleeker, and more breathable design when compared to its forerunner, the Woojer Vest 3, which was priced at $499.

    The Woojer Vest 4 amplifies the experience of gaming, music, and movies by delivering full-body haptic feedback. It utilizes Woojer’s patented technology to transform sound into tactile sensations, enabling users to experience the action in games or the rhythm in music without unwanted noise interference. The vest smartly eliminates background sounds like voices and music, concentrating on providing the intended effects.

    To operate the Woojer Vest 4, users can connect it to their devices through a 3.5mm audio cable or Bluetooth. The Woojer app on a smartphone facilitates easy adjustments of volume, haptic intensity, and mode configurations. The vest can be used alongside wired or Bluetooth headphones for a harmonized audio and haptic experience.

    For those who consider a full vest to be excessive, the Woojer Body Strap 4 presents a more streamlined alternative, delivering a single point of rumble that can be positioned on various parts of the body. The Woojer Vest 4 is perfect for gamers and music lovers eager to elevate their entertainment experiences.

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    • Comments Off on The True Expense of NASA’s Apollo Program to the United States
    The True Expense of NASA’s Apollo Program to the United States

    cost approximately $20.6 billion, encompassing expenses for the spacecraft, launch vehicles, and the development and operations leading up to the actual missions. When factoring in the costs of the ground facilities, employee salaries, and overhead, that total escalates to around $25.8 billion. Adjusted for 2025 inflation, utilizing the current Consumer Price Index (CPI), that amounts to about $189 billion.

    Nevertheless, if you also take into account Project Gemini and the robotic lunar initiative, which preceded Apollo and warrant consideration, the actual cost is closer to $28 billion, adjusted to $280 billion in 2025. That’s a significant sum. It also equals the net worth of Jeff Bezos, one of the wealthiest individuals on Earth — actually more. Aside from envisioning the enormous pile of money, it underscores the extensive investment in the 13-year crewed moon missions, not only in financial terms but in total expenditure. It resulted in six successful lunar landings before the United States ended the program, a achievement that undoubtedly endures through time.

    What were the Apollo missions?

    <source media="(max-width: 428px)" srcset="https://www.bgr.com/img/gallery/how-much-d

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    • Comments Off on The Sandmarc 2x Telephoto Lens Improves iPhone Portrait Photography
    The Sandmarc 2x Telephoto Lens Improves iPhone Portrait Photography

    # The iPhone’s Portrait Mode and the Sandmarc 2x Telephoto Lens: An In-Depth Exploration of Depth of Field

    The iPhone’s Portrait mode utilizes computational photography to replicate the shallow depth of field commonly found in digital SLR or mirrorless cameras with larger sensors. Over time, this feature has transformed from a basic function into a credible choice for portrait photography, though it still falls short of entirely mimicking traditional cameras’ effects.

    ## A Brief Overview of Depth of Field

    Depth of field (DoF) denotes the range of distance in a photograph that appears clearly defined. Photographers frequently adjust DoF to accomplish different artistic effects. For example, a narrow aperture (such as f/16) results in a deep DoF, ensuring that everything from the foreground to the background is in focus. In contrast, a wide aperture (like f/1.4) yields a shallow DoF, where only a limited segment of the image is sharp, while the remainder is out of focus. This effect is highly sought after in portrait photography to separate the subject from the background.

    ## The Shortcomings of Portrait Mode

    The iPhone’s Portrait mode replicates shallow depth of field by detecting the foreground and artificially softening the background. Recent updates have enhanced this feature, providing a more gradual focus transition. Nonetheless, despite these improvements, Portrait mode can occasionally yield artificial results, resembling a green-screen cutout effect. While the photographs may appear appealing on an iPhone display, enlarging them for printing frequently exposes noticeable flaws, making true optical shallow depth of field more desirable.

    ## Authentic Bokeh

    One method to achieve a shallow depth of field is through the use of a longer lens. With the launch of a 5x telephoto lens, iPhone users have started to experience authentic bokeh effects. However, this demands that the photographer maintain a considerable distance from the subject, which restricts the types of portraits that can be effectively captured.

    ## Introducing the Sandmarc 2x Telephoto Lens

    The Sandmarc 2x Telephoto lens overcomes the constraints of the iPhone’s built-in functionalities. This lens can be attached using a provided clip or a specialized iPhone case, crafted for compatibility with MagSafe accessories. The lens converts the iPhone’s primary camera into a 48mm equivalent, closely mirroring the favored 50mm focal length by portrait photographers.

    While the Sandmarc lens may not yield extremely shallow depth of field, it does provide adequate background separation for typical portrait images, even in crowded settings.

    ## Practical Use

    The Sandmarc 2x Telephoto lens amplifies the iPhone’s photographic capabilities, particularly in difficult conditions. For instance, in a cluttered scenario, the lens can establish enough separation between the subject and the background, facilitating more visually appealing photos. It also allows for tighter framing without sacrificing the overall composition.

    ## Example Shots

    The effectiveness of the Sandmarc lens is evident in various example shots. In a bustling environment, the lens creates sufficient separation to accentuate the subject against a chaotic background. When positioned with a more distant backdrop, the outcomes can be especially striking, highlighting the lens’s capacity to produce a delightful bokeh effect.

    ## Cost and Final Thoughts

    The Sandmarc Telephoto 2x Lens Edition is available for $159.99. While this may appear high for an iPhone accessory, it represents a valuable investment for dedicated iPhone photographers and videographers who depend on their devices as primary cameras. Furthermore, it acts as a useful tool for those employing an iPhone as a supplementary camera in DSLR setups.

    Parents who often capture images of their children might also find this lens advantageous, especially if they print or showcase their photos in larger sizes, where the limitations of Portrait mode are more noticeable. For casual users who mainly view images on their devices, Portrait mode may be adequate.

    In summary, the Sandmarc Telephoto 2x Lens Edition substantially increases the iPhone’s photographic versatility, making it a worthy addition for anyone looking to enhance their portrait photography. The lens can be purchased on the Sandmarc website.

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    • Comments Off on Transform a USB Port into an Ethernet Connection with a $15 Adapter
    Transform a USB Port into an Ethernet Connection with a $15 Adapter

    While wireless internet connections and Wi-Fi offer the convenience of mobility, such as when you’re seeking to work in another space distant from the modem and router, they can also lead to issues concerning speed and reliability. This is particularly true in the realm of online gaming, where high latency and connection problems can be a hindrance, especially in competitive scenarios. Enhancing reliability can be achieved by implementing a Wi-Fi mesh network or using range extenders. However, to completely eradicate these concerns, wired Ethernet is the optimal choice, providing options such as 40GbE and 100GbE, with speeds reaching up to 100 gigabits per second (Gbps). The challenge arises when your device lacks an Ethernet port. Fortunately, a small $15 device available on Amazon from Ugreen can convert your USB port into an Ethernet or LAN port.

    By connecting the adapter to an open USB port on your device, you effectively transform it into an Ethernet port capable of gigabit speeds. It is compatible with laptops, tablets, Mac Mini, TV boxes, and even the Nintendo Switch (both regular and OLED models). Its plug-and-play functionality is compatible with most devices, allowing you to connect and utilize it effortlessly without the need for driver installation. Numerous users have indicated in reviews that it is reasonably priced, dependable, and performs as promised, offering a welcome speed increase over wireless connections.

    What are the reasons for needing a USB to Ethernet adapter?

    There are primarily two reasons for wanting a device like this. The first is to take advantage of the enhanced wired connectivity compared to wireless when your device lacks an Ethernet or LAN port: higher speeds, improved reliability, and reduced latency. The second reason is that if your device is older and adheres to a slower LAN standard, it may not support gigabit LAN speeds. The former scenario is likely the more frequent situation, as faster gigabit speeds became standard around 2010.

    In essence, this USB-to-Ethernet adapter allows you to gain better internet connectivity on devices that typically do not support LAN connections. Spending $15 is a minor investment to gain access to that capability. The Nintendo Switch exemplifies a device that would benefit from this adapter, along with laptops and tablets that solely feature USB-C or USB-A ports. This enables you to utilize the quicker connection for streaming movies and media, gaming, or browsing modern websites with greater reliability. Overall, USB to Ethernet adapters receive positive feedback from their users. Moreover, you can set up a wired network connection in your home with reliability without the hassle of installing or running Ethernet cables.

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Google Play Launches ‘Where to Watch’ Tool to Enhance Streaming Search
    Google Play Launches ‘Where to Watch’ Tool to Enhance Streaming Search

    The Google Play Store has rolled out a new functionality that makes it easier to locate where a movie or TV show is available for streaming. This enhancement features a “Where to watch” card that appears when users search for a specific title. The card displays the applications and services where the content can be streamed, rented, or purchased, along with prompts for installing any required apps.

    This functionality aims to improve the user experience by offering a fast and straightforward way to uncover streaming options directly from the Google Play search. While it emphasizes the platforms providing the title, it does not include information on pricing or ratings, which could have been advantageous for users. Despite these gaps, the feature acts as a handy tool for users seeking to refine their search for entertainment options.

    Google’s enhancement is viewed as a strategy to boost app discovery within the Play Store, presenting an alternative to platforms such as JustWatch or Letterboxd. While the feature is in the process of being deployed, it may not be instantly accessible on all devices. Nevertheless, with Google’s formal announcement, it is anticipated to become broadly available soon.

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    • Comments Off on 12 Errors to Prevent When Buying a New Television
    12 Errors to Prevent When Buying a New Television

    A couple shopping for a TV at an electronics store

    Gorodenkoff/Shutterstock

    Choosing a new television ought to be thrilling. After all, it will become the focal point of your living space, your soft companion for late-night films, or the premier display for your gaming experiences. Nevertheless, this adventure can be daunting. With tech language such as OLED and QLED, various size choices, endless smart features, and HDR specifications, it’s straightforward to feel swamped and make an expensive error. You risk investing in annoying features while neglecting essential ones that truly count. To secure the ideal TV tailored to your home and lifestyle, it’s crucial to understand what to avoid.

    We have outlined 12 frequent blunders that individuals commit when purchasing a new television. Furthermore, we’ve provided some helpful recommendations to assist you in selecting a TV that is genuinely worth the cost. Before you click the Buy Now button or finalize your purchase in-store, ensure that you’re not falling into these traps.

    1. Choosing an incorrect size

    <img class="gallery-image" src="https://allyoucantech.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/12-errors-to-prevent-when-buying-a-new-television-2.jpg" data-slide-url="https://www.bgr.com/2021561/common-mistakes-buying-new-tv-2025/" data-post-id="2021561" data-slide-num="1" data-slide-title="12 Common Mistakes People Make When Buying A New TV: 1. Choosing an incorrect size" width="780" height="438" alt="A cozy

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    • Comments Off on 2026 iPad Launch Timeline: Expected Release Dates for Future Models
    2026 iPad Launch Timeline: Expected Release Dates for Future Models

    Apple has recently revealed the latest M5 iPad Pro, signaling the debut of its newest iPad series. While the M5 iPad Pro does not present any revolutionary upgrades, it provides a glimpse into anticipated advancements for the iPad range, together with various rumors that are presently making the rounds.

    ### M4 iPad Air

    The next significant iPad release expected in 2026 is the upcoming iPad Air version, anticipated to incorporate the M4 chip. This enhancement is expected to yield a performance increase of 10-20% in relation to the M3 chip. Furthermore, with the launch of the N1 chip and C1X modem in the M5 iPad Pro, it is probable that the forthcoming iPad Air will similarly embrace Apple’s proprietary modem and networking chips, optimizing cellular connectivity and facilitating support for Wi-Fi 7.

    Though there are no verified upgrades for the M4 iPad Air, possible improvements may include a 600 nit display (currently present only on the 13-inch variant) and fresh color choices. A refresh rate of 90 or 120Hz would also be a welcomed feature. While discussions regarding OLED technology for the iPad Air have emerged, its introduction is not anticipated until 2027 or beyond.

    ### A18 iPad

    After the iPad Air, the economical iPad, which is typically priced at $349 but frequently available for $299, is speculated to receive the A18 chip. This enhancement is notable as it will bring Apple Intelligence features to the budget iPad for the first time. Similar to the iPad Air, the budget model is also expected to include Apple’s proprietary N1 chip and C1X modems.

    A sought-after addition would be a suitable keyboard for the budget iPad, resembling the Magic Keyboard for the iPad Air and iPad Pro. At present, the budget iPad is confined to the Magic Keyboard Folio, which necessitates a table for use due to its kickstand design. The A18 chip is expected to debut in the first half of 2026.

    ### A19 iPad Mini

    The iPad mini is ready for its initial refresh since 2024, likely incorporating the A19 Pro chip and a substantial upgrade to OLED technology. This transition is projected to take place later in the year, with Apple reportedly aiming to position the iPad mini as its next principal product to utilize OLED, following its debut in the iPad Pro in early 2024.

    In addition to the OLED display and A19 Pro chip, the next iPad mini is rumored to feature a more water-resistant construction. The iPad mini has not received a redesign since 2021, and these expected enhancements indicate that Apple has major plans in store for its five-year anniversary since the last significant update.

    ### Wrap Up

    In summary, the forthcoming year for the iPad lineup seems relatively quiet, with the exception of the iPad mini, which is set for considerable upgrades. Looking forward, Apple is anticipated to unveil a vapor chamber cooling system in the M6 iPad Pro, expected to hit the market in early 2027.

    For those who may not find these updates particularly exciting, early Black Friday savings of $50-100 are currently on offer for all existing iPad models, including the iPad, iPad mini, iPad Air, and iPad Pro.

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    • Comments Off on Reasons for Netflix’s Termination of the League of Legends Series Arcane
    Reasons for Netflix’s Termination of the League of Legends Series Arcane

    originally intended to have a five-season storyline.

    In a perplexing statement, Riot Games co-founder Marc Merrill publicly announced that season 3 of the series was scrapped so the team could “explore other universes” without abandoning entertainment altogether. Merrill later clarified in a Reddit message that “Arcane” was always intended to have two seasons, and that “there was a financial discussion” regarding approval for up to five. Merrill mentions that they were “allocating a considerable amount of funds for extensive development,” which he claims is “not relevant” to the seasons of “Arcane.”

    Nonetheless, “Arcane” indeed incurred substantial costs. Reports suggest that Riot Games, the developer of the game it was derived from, “League of Legends,” invested $60 million of its own funds to market the first season. Furthermore, Variety indicated that it required $250 million for the production and marketing of the 18-episode two-season stretch of the series. This positions it as one of the priciest animated series ever created. Merrill highlights in his remarks that the cost-per-minute of “Arcane” is one-third to one-fourth of what Illumination and Disney’s Pixar movies require. The key takeaway is that “Arcane” was remarkably costly. Additionally, some stakeholders, such as Netflix, might never disclose specifics regarding the show’s apparently abrupt conclusion.

    Was Arcane truly cancelled?

    The reality behind the conclusion of “Arcane” may never be completely revealed. For

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    • Comments Off on How to Utilize OpenAI’s Sora 2 on Your iPhone
    How to Utilize OpenAI’s Sora 2 on Your iPhone

    launched Sora 2 in September, its most recent video generator model alongside the similarly named TikTok-like Sora mobile application that allows users to create and share AI-generated videos. Initially, Sora was exclusive to iOS devices and required an invitation, but OpenAI has recently lifted the waitlist in certain regions, including the U.S., Canada, and Japan. If you reside in a supported region for the AI application, this presents a great opportunity to try Sora without needing to hunt for or wait on an invite code. It’s advisable to download the app now before the waitlist is reinstated, as the company mentioned in its post on X that the removal of the invite-code stipulation is “limited time only.”

    Sora soared to the top of Apple’s App Store rankings in the U.S. despite being invite-only, with OpenAI reporting that the app was downloaded more than a million times in under five days; surpassing ChatGPT in speed. If you have an iPhone running iOS 18.0 or later, open the App Store on your device, look for the official Sora app, and get it downloaded.

    After installation, log in using the same account tied to your ChatGPT, confirm your age, and commence creating and sharing videos on the app. Currently, Sora is free to use, albeit with some restrictions; however, ChatGPT Pro users will also have access to an “experimental high-quality Sora 2 Pro model” on the web version, which will soon be introduced in the app as well.

    Key features and how the app works

    <picture id="pd51021eaf5686b08547a1857

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