Bluesky’s Series B closed last April but is being shared now, the week after its CEO stepped down.
Cloudflare CEO Predicts Bot Traffic to Surpass Human Traffic by 2027
AI bots may outnumber humans online by 2027, says Cloudflare CEO Matthew Prince, as generative AI agents dramatically increase web traffic and infrastructure demands.
Google’s Favorable Trials May Streamline the Development of Distinct Queries for Gemini
It makes you think: did sufficient people overlook using it differently?
Essential Information
- A report indicates that Google is experimenting with a minor modification to Gemini’s temporary chats, positioning it prominently for users.
- This adjustment would place it directly in the main Gemini app view, adjacent to your account icon, making the switch seamless.
- Google’s introduction of temporary chats specifies that discussions with Gemini are not “remembered” by the AI for future reference.
Google is said to be conducting a test to enhance the user experience surrounding its temporary chats with Gemini.
This alteration was reportedly noticed early, suggesting it is currently an experiment in progress by the company, according to 9to5Google. It appears that Google is experimenting with a method to simplify initiating temporary chats, while also bringing them to the forefront for users. The report mentions that Google aims to relocate the temporary chat icon to the main Gemini app view, situated right next to your account icon.
From this point, users can tap the icon to start the feature without navigating through the side menu. Furthermore, the publication states that the Gemini app will clearly indicate that you’ve shifted to the temporary chat mode. When tapped, the temporary chat icon will display a light blue background, and the basic Gemini chat details (like its greeting, suggestions, etc.) will disappear.
In their place, Google will provide a brief explanation of how temporary chats operate. Even the text box ready for your query will read “Ask in a temporary chat,” instead of “Ask Gemini.” Currently, there’s no information on when Google may launch this for users, although it may not be a prolonged wait, considering the significance of the update.
It’s merely temporary
Temporary chats have been integrated into the Gemini app for several months now, following Google’s launch of them last year. This functionality was
Lenovo Chromebook Provides Superior Value Compared to MacBook Neo with $100 Reduction at Best Buy
The debut of the MacBook Neo has significantly disrupted the budget laptop market, prompting some sellers to cut prices on various popular Chromebooks.
The Lenovo Chromebook, arguably the top Chromebook available today, has just received a $100 price cut during Best Buy’s TechFest sale, bringing the cost down to $649.
This adaptable laptop has undergone rigorous testing by our team, featuring an exceptionally lightweight design and impressive battery life right out of the box. Historically, discounts on the Lenovo Chromebook Plus have been quite infrequent, making a $100 reduction during Best Buy’s TechFest a pleasantly surprising event.
The Lenovo Plus 14 was the pioneer Chromebook to employ the efficient Kompanio Ultra 910 processor, ensuring swift performance whether you’re gaming, binge-watching your favorite series, or engaging in a video conference. The laptop is also equipped with a stunning 14-inch OLED touchscreen display, 16GB of RAM, and numerous onboard AI capabilities.
The battery life can easily extend up to 17 hours on a single charge, and it offers premium features like a fingerprint scanner and a backlit keyboard. All of this is packed into a laptop that weighs just under three pounds? Count me in.
Now, for the burning question: how does the Lenovo Chromebook Plus stack up against the new MacBook Neo? Well, it’s a nuanced comparison. If, like me, you spend the majority of your day using Google applications, sticking with a Chromebook is a clear choice.
This variant of the Lenovo laptop also comes with more RAM and a larger OLED display than the $599 Neo, not to mention a backlit keyboard and a touchscreen, features that the MacBook doesn’t have. Both laptops fall short in the port category, offering only two USB-C slots.
Naturally, MacBooks are unquestionably excellent devices supported by Apple’s strong reputation, and it’s likely that the Neo will continue to impact the Chromebook market in the coming years. However, when evaluated on a specifications basis, you might be surprised at how well-equipped this Lenovo Chromebook is in comparison. You really can’t go wrong with either choice.
Google’s Approach to Improving Android Security While Allowing Side-Loading in 2023
Google has revealed a notable modification concerning side-loading on Android devices, which is set to be implemented this summer. In contrast to earlier intentions to eliminate side-loading, Google will keep this function but introduce a new “advanced flow” system for advanced users. This adjustment follows user input opposing the removal of side-loading.
To side-load applications, users must activate developer mode and undergo a sequence of confirmations and verifications to confirm the action is deliberate. This procedure involves verifying that the user is not under duress and restarting the device. Google’s objective is to bolster security, as studies indicate a significant prevalence of scams impacting users.
The advanced flow is a one-time configuration, necessitating biometric or PIN authentication, after which users can side-load applications from reliable developers. This change will be accessible in August, together with new developer verification criteria and restricted distribution accounts for students and hobbyists.
Google’s choice demonstrates a compromise between sustaining Android’s accessibility and improving user safety. While this adjustment may raise apprehensions among side-loading advocates, it mainly targets power users and does not impact those who exclusively use the Play Store.
Microsoft’s go-to Xbox controller is selling at its lowest price of the year
Microsoftâs Xbox console strategy needs work, but its Bluetooth-ready controller that shipped alongside the Xbox Series X and Series S is fantastic. We think itâs one of the best Xbox controllers out there, thanks to its comfortable design, multiplatform compatibility (it works great on the Steam Deck and PC, too), and its textured grips and […]
Rogue AI Causes Major Security Breach at Meta
For almost two hours last week, Meta employees had unauthorized access to company and user data thanks to an AI agent that gave an employee inaccurate technical advice, as previously reported by The Information. Meta spokesperson Tracy Clayton said in a statement to The Verge that “no user data was mishandled” during the incident. A […]
Five Science Fiction Remakes That Outperformed the Original Movies
Except, perhaps, “The Crazies.”
The Thing (1982)
AirPods Pro Unveil Over 10 New Concealed Controls in iOS 26: Comprehensive List Accessible
### AirPods Pro: Concealed Touch Controls and Gestures
AirPods have progressed considerably since their original launch, especially with the release of the AirPods Pro. Following the latest updates in iOS 26, users can now explore a range of touch controls and gestures that elevate their audio experience. Here’s an extensive summary of the concealed features available through physical interactions with AirPods Pro.
#### New Features in iOS 26
The launch of iOS 26 introduced numerous enhancements to AirPods Pro, especially those that make use of the touch-sensitive stems of the earbuds. Key additions include Live Translation and Camera Remote features, which broaden the methods by which users can connect with their devices without needing to grab their phones.
#### Touch Controls and Gestures
AirPods Pro users can utilize more than 10 distinct touch controls and gestures. Here’s the full list:
1. **Play & Pause Audio**: Press the stem.
2. **Play Next Track**: Double-press the stem.
3. **Play Previous Track**: Triple-press the stem.
4. **Answer Call**: Press the stem when a call comes in.
5. **Mute & Unmute Call**: Press the stem during an active call.
6. **End Call**: Double-press the stem.
7. **Adjust Volume**: Lightly swipe up or down on the stem.
8. **Toggle Active Noise Cancellation, Transparency, and Adaptive Audio**: Set either AirPod to execute this action when pressing and holding the stem.
9. **Live Translation**: Press and hold the stem on both AirPods at the same time.
10. **Activate Siri**: Set either AirPod to execute this action when pressing and holding the stem.
11. **Camera Remote**: Press or long-press the stem while the Camera app is running.
12. **Head Gestures**: Nod or shake your head to engage with Siri.
#### Personalization and Settings
Many of these features can be tailored through the Settings app under AirPods, enabling users to further customize their experience. Some features might necessitate manual activation to operate as expected.
For more in-depth information, Apple offers an official support document detailing the controls and gestures for various AirPods models, including the original AirPods from 2016.
#### Conclusion
With ongoing updates and improvements, AirPods Pro provide a comprehensive array of touch controls and gestures that enhance usability and convenience. Whether you’re enjoying music, answering calls, or using Siri, these features make the AirPods Pro a multifunctional accessory for any Apple enthusiast.
Apple Urges Users to Upgrade iOS to Protect iPhones from Internet Threats
Apple has released a new support document encouraging users to upgrade to the latest iOS versions to protect their iPhones from online threats. The document points out that security experts have discovered vulnerabilities in older iOS versions that can be targeted via harmful web content.
The support document notes, “For instance, if you’re operating an earlier version of iOS and happen to click on a malicious link or access an infected website, your iPhone’s data could be at risk of theft.” Apple stresses that it has fully investigated these security concerns and has quickly provided software updates for the latest operating system versions to resolve these vulnerabilities and lessen the chance of attacks.
Earlier this month, Apple issued security updates for older iPhones and iPads using iOS 15 and iOS 16. The company recommends that devices on iOS 13 and iOS 14 should transition to iOS 15 to obtain vital protections. Users of these previous versions will soon receive a notification to install a Critical Security Update.
Currently, iOS 26.3.1 is the latest public release, with continuous updates for iOS 18, including the recent launch of iOS 18.7.6. Devices unable to support iOS 18 or later should be upgraded to iOS 15.8.7 or iOS 16.7.15 to ensure they benefit from the latest security improvements.
Moreover, Apple has implemented the inaugural Background Security Improvement for various devices, further showcasing its dedication to user safety.
