Author: Richard

### Spotify Unveiling Video Controls for All Users

Spotify has lately introduced a fresh feature designed to improve the listening experience by reducing distractions from video content. This update presents a universal toggle that permits users to disable nearly all video functionalities within the app, concentrating exclusively on audio.

#### The Demand for Fewer Distractions

Acknowledging that numerous users favor a more audio-focused experience, Spotify has established controls that permit the deactivation of various types of video. This feature was first offered as a parental control option for younger audiences but is now being made available to all users worldwide.

#### New Video and Canvas Features

The new controls allow users to switch off:

1. **Music Videos**: This feature not only deactivates standard music videos but also transforms live performances into audio-only streams.

2. **Canvas**: Users can disable the brief, looping visuals that accompany tracks, facilitating a more immersive audio experience devoid of visual interruptions.

3. **All Other Videos**: This category encompasses vertical videos, creator content, and video podcasts, which will play as audio-only upon being toggled off.

#### Family Plan Oversight

For those subscribed to Spotify’s Family Plan, managers will have the authority to adjust video content settings for all plan participants via their subscription settings. This ensures that families can customize the audio experience for each member according to individual preferences.

#### Worldwide Rollout and Availability

The new video controls are scheduled to launch globally, commencing this month, and will be accessible to all Premium and Basic users, including those on Individual, Duo, Family, or Student plans, as well as those using the free service. The settings can be found within Spotify’s app under Settings > Content and display > Videos and Canvas.

#### Effect on Advertisements

It is crucial to understand that while users have the option to disable video content, this toggle will not influence video advertisements. Some ads may still feature Canvas-like moving visuals, preserving a level of engagement for promotional content.

This update highlights Spotify’s dedication to enhancing user experience by affording more control over content consumption, enabling users to personalize their listening environment to their tastes.

### DIY Enhancement for MacBook Neo: Attaining 1TB SSD Capacity

If you’ve been pondering the MacBook Neo but deemed the maximum storage of 512GB to be inadequate, a recent DIY enhancement by a YouTuber presents encouraging information. The enhancement involves replacing the original SSD with a 1TB SSD, which not only boosts storage space but also improves speed.

#### MacBook Neo Storage Alternatives

Apple presently offers the MacBook Neo in two setups:
– **256GB SSD** available for **$599**
– **512GB SSD** featuring Touch ID, priced at **$699**

In contrast to the MacBook Air and MacBook Pro, the MacBook Neo does not allow for additional configuration options.

#### The Enhancement Procedure

The YouTuber, Dosdude1, found that the MacBook Neo utilizes the same processor as the iPhone 16, making it compatible with the 1TB NAND storage chip from the iPhone 16 Pro. This chip, identified as model K8A5, is priced around **$210**. The overall expense for a DIY upgraded MacBook Neo would amount to about **$800** without Touch ID and slightly over **$900** with it.

In his video, Dosdude1 explains the procedure for upgrading the storage:
> “In this video, I carry out a soldered storage upgrade on an Apple MacBook Neo, boosting it from its base specification of 256GB all the way to 1TB, which is an option not even available from Apple for this device.”

#### Difficulties of the Upgrade

As highlighted by Macworld, the enhancement is not simple. It necessitates:
– Disassembling the MacBook Neo
– Preparing the new SSD for soldering
– Extracting the current drive
– Soldering the new SSD into position
– Conducting integrity tests

Moreover, the RAM is soldered into the A18 Pro System on Chip, indicating it cannot be upgraded.

#### Final Thoughts

For those who find the 1TB variant attractive and have the required soldering expertise, this DIY enhancement may be a feasible route. For a visual reference, Dosdude1’s video tutorial is accessible online, offering detailed, step-by-step guidance for the upgrade process.

### The Advancement of AI Wearables: An In-Depth Examination of the Button

In recent times, the notion of AI hardware devices has attracted considerable interest, with numerous specialists drawing comparisons between these advancements and the progression of portable music players. Two former Apple engineers, Chris Nolet and Ryan Burgoyne, have launched a novel AI wearable named “Button,” which closely resembles the iPod Shuffle. This article delves into the ramifications of this innovative device, its design, and the wider context of AI wearables.

#### The Idea of AI Wearables

AI wearables have encountered doubt since their beginnings. Earlier endeavors, like the Humane AI pin and the Rabbit R1, received predominantly negative feedback, with critics deeming them as impractical and badly designed. Marques Brownlee, a well-known tech reviewer, referred to the Humane AI pin as the worst product he had ever assessed, summarizing the prevailing opinion surrounding these gadgets.

The central argument against specific AI hardware is that most users already possess powerful smartphones capable of running AI applications. The comparison to the iPod is fitting; while the iPod was groundbreaking in its era, the rise of smartphones made it unnecessary for many users. The same reasoning pertains to AI wearables today—if smartphones were nonexistent, these devices might be intriguing, but their necessity is doubtful in a realm where robust apps are easily accessible.

#### Presenting the Button

The Button, created by Nolet and Burgoyne, is a small device designed to enable interactions with a generative AI chatbot. The gadget is deliberately crafted to look like the iPod Shuffle, featuring a straightforward button interface. Users can press the button to engage the chatbot, which can listen, respond to queries, and perform commands. The device can deliver audio replies or connect to earbuds and smart glasses via Bluetooth, addressing some privacy issues linked with always-on devices.

In spite of its innovative stance on privacy, the Button prompts an essential question: why is it necessary as an independent device instead of an application on current smartphones? Nolet contends that while AI can be accessed on computers and phones, the Button presents a unique interaction that is “better.” However, he does not clarify what distinguishes the Button from current smartphone applications.

#### The Prospects of AI Wearables

As the Button makes its entry into the market, it signifies a larger trend in the tech sector towards dedicated AI hardware. While the device seeks to tackle privacy challenges and deliver a distinct user experience, it must surmount the doubt surrounding AI wearables. The hurdle lies in persuading consumers that a dedicated device is a worthwhile investment when powerful alternatives are available on their smartphones.

In summary, the Button illustrates the ongoing investigation of AI wearables and their potential impact on our lives. As technology continues to advance, the success of such devices will hinge on their capability to provide unique benefits over current solutions. The discussion surrounding AI hardware is far from concluded, and the Button might just mark the start of a new era in wearable technology.