LinkedIn says hiring is down 20% since 2022, but blames higher interest rates â not AI â for the slowdown.
Hightouch Achieves $100M ARR Driven by AI-Powered Marketing Tools
The startup says it grew its ARR by $70 million in just 20 months after launching an AI agent platform for marketers.
Enhance Your Samsung Camera: Modify These 4 Settings for Better Images
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Samsung’s smartphone cameras and accompanying functionalities are among the finest, particularly if you’re keen on tweaking your images post-capture. However, it is often much more effective, and simpler, to snap a high-quality picture right from the start. No deliberation, no subsequent edits, just a fantastic shot, superb brightness, and stunning visuals. It appears that hidden within the camera settings, there are several adjustments you can make to accomplish exactly that. Whether you’re aiming for a broad shot, seeking to capture at higher megapixels and superior quality, or modifying the exposure on the go, many of these adjustments can be made prior to even hitting the shutter button.
If you’ve already experimented with some camera settings, you may have already come across these features. But if you’re merely opening your device and snapping quick pictures — or double-tapping the power button for the camera shortcut — without making any changes, you might not be utilizing your camera’s full capabilities, especially on the Galaxy S25 or S26 models. If that’s the situation, you’ll certainly want to modify these four camera settings to enhance your phone’s picture quality, even if just to elevate the visual fidelity of your personal collection.
Boost resolution for remarkable imagery
Google Trials New Android Functionality to Tackle Storage Problems
storage being at capacity and cloud storage options being constrained can be quite frustrating, particularly on older devices that are still in use. While the latest iPhone and Android models come with ample storage, beginning at 128 GB or 256 GB of flash memory, older versions may lack that advantage. These users are likely to encounter storage issues, especially those who are less tech-savvy and may not understand how to back up their information to the cloud. Although the iPhone has the capability for local backups, Android lacks a comparable feature that assists users in transferring some of their data to a computer to create more space on their devices. Nevertheless, Android Authority has uncovered that Google is currently piloting a feature that might be accessible to users soon via Quick Share.
Quick Share already enables users to move data between Android devices and computers. The option to back up certain Android data to a computer with available storage would enable users to periodically relocate some of the most critical data, such as photos and videos, to a PC. Media files consume a significant amount of storage on Android devices, particularly longer video clips. Transferring them to a computer would help the user clear up storage on the Android device without depending on a cloud service, like Google Photos, for backups. However, the newly identified local backup feature could be more restricted than what the iPhone provides.
How Google’s PC backup tool may operate
George Takei Characterizes Star Trek Spoof as a ‘Creepily Authentic Documentary’
**George Takei Labeled This Star Trek Parody A ‘Chillingly Authentic Documentary’**
Over the years, Captain Kirk (William Shatner) and his starship team have been targeted with phasers set to fun in numerous ways. “The Big Bang Theory,” sci-fi comedies like “Futurama,” and, most recently, Netflix smash “Black Mirror” have all humorously referenced or made jests at the expense of “Star Trek,” with one particular film standing out more than others.
In 1999, director Dean Parisot brought forth a different style of TV space crew in “Galaxy Quest.” Featuring Tim Allen, Sigourney Weaver, Alan Rickman, Sam Rockwell, and Justin Long, the film followed the original cast of a “Star Trek”-like show, who are reluctantly pulled into a mission to rescue an alien race that mistakenly believes them to be the genuine article.
In addition to being an enjoyable sci-fi flick, “Galaxy Quest” has gained a reputation as a cult classic for its flawless representation of “Star Trek” fandom and the clichés it spawned. Nevertheless, enthusiasts of Gene Roddenberry’s cherished series cherished the film, and even “Trek” icons commended it. One such supporter was George Takei, who made his debut on the legendary Enterprise as Sulu in 1966, and expressed a complex relationship with the film that he found hard to resist. However, another prominent figure in the franchise didn’t appreciate the humorous angle.
**Galaxy Quest demonstrated to George Takei that Star Trek fans will rescue Earth from aliens**
In a conversation with Syfy (via Questerian), George Takei shared his reflections on “Galaxy Quest” and its remarkable precision in portraying what it was like to be a star crew member of “Star Trek” and engage with the fans who admired them. “I think it’s a chillingly authentic documentary [laughs]. The intricacies in it, I recognized every one of them,” he remarked. “It’s a powerful piece of documentary filmmaking. And I truly believe that when we are abducted by aliens, it will be the true ‘Star Trek’ fans who will come to the rescue. I was in stitches.”
The film’s depiction of passionate fans was one element, but Takei also appreciated “Galaxy Quest” for its former television stars, who were called back into action and learned from his old screen partners in the process. “Tim Allen captured that Shatner-like swagger perfectly. And I laughed out loud when the shirt came off, and Sigourney rolls her eyes and says, ‘There goes that shirt again.’ … How frequently did we hear that on set?”
Yet while the film ticked all the boxes for Takei, it encountered a slightly harsher critic in the form of the man behind Captain Kirk, who didn’t connect well with the crew of “Galaxy Quest.”
**William Shatner found it hard to see Star Trek in Galaxy Quest**
When “Galaxy Quest” first debuted in theaters, critics applauded the sharp-witted sci-fi comedy for its treatment of a specific time in the genre. However, there was a Starfleet legend who couldn’t see himself or others from the original “Star Trek,” even if the rest of the audience could. “I thought it was very humorous, and I believed the audience they depicted was entirely genuine, but the characters they were pretending to be were completely unrecognizable,” Shatner explained, who has frequently voiced his opinions on creative decisions tied to “Star Trek,” including his character’s fate. In the former captain’s perspective, the new leader of these space adventurers was entirely off base.
“Honestly, I have no idea what Tim Allen was doing. He appeared to be at the helm of a group of actors, and I was trying to comprehend who he was mimicking. The only one I recognized was the actress portraying Nichelle Nichols.”
Regardless of Shatner’s critiques, “Galaxy Quest” has continued to be a favorite among fans, becoming almost essential viewing for “Trek” enthusiasts even if it wasn’t a part of that universe. Since its initial release, there have been various attempts to revisit “Galaxy Quest” through a sequel, or more recently, a potential television series (via Deadline). Who knows, though? With each new chapter of “Star Trek,” the Protector from “Galaxy Quest” could hypothetically soar once more.
Google Enforces Actions to Restrict Access to Unsafe Websites
Google Search Update Targets Back Button Hijacking Once and for All
Google is making major advancements in user experience by tackling a persistent problem known as “back button hijacking.” This tactic, frequently used by dubious websites, ensnares users by tampering with browser history, complicating their ability to exit the site. Google has now deemed this action as malicious and is taking steps to effectively counter it.
Essential Information
- Google is intensifying efforts against “back button hijacking,” a ploy that ensnares users on dubious sites.
- This behavior is now classified as malicious by Google and regarded as a serious infraction.
- As of June 15, violating websites face the risk of manual penalties or significant declines in search rankings.
Back button hijacking transpires when websites utilize scripts to modify browser history, resulting in the back button redirecting users to unexpected sites or keeping them stuck on the same page. This can result in irritation and a negative browsing experience, as users struggle to leave the site with ease.
Google’s update to its Search spam regulations seeks to eradicate this behavior. By designating back button hijacking as a malicious act, Google is taking a strong position against sites that utilize such strategies. From June 15 onward, websites found guilty of engaging in this behavior will face serious repercussions, including manual spam actions or drastic drops in search rankings.
Official Malicious Classification
Google’s move to officially label back button hijacking as a malicious practice is a major advancement. This alteration assures users a more fluid and dependable browsing experience, where the back button performs as expected.
Website administrators and SEO experts are encouraged to examine their sites to ensure they aren’t unwittingly employing these tactics. Even if hijacking scripts are integrated within third-party advertisements or code libraries, site owners must eliminate them before the mid-June cutoff to evade penalties.
While the policy comes into effect on June 15, it may require some time for Google’s automated systems and reviewers to pinpoint and exclude offending sites from search results. Nonetheless, this update signifies an important step towards a more user-centric internet.
Android Central’s Perspective
Android Central applauds Google’s initiative against back button hijacking. This tactic has long been a frustration for users, and its removal will improve the overall browsing experience. By emphasizing user satisfaction and addressing misleading tactics, Google is reaffirming its dedication to fostering a safer and more pleasant online environment.
Google’s Gemini AI Enriches Native Experience on Apple’s macOS for Enhanced Sharing and Functionality
Mac Computers Are No Longer Left Behind
Apple enthusiasts are receiving a significant enhancement in their AI functionalities today (Apr 15), courtesy of Google’s software now available on desktop. Google disclosed this morning that it’s introducing the Gemini application to Apple’s macOS devices. The announcement emphasizes this as a “native desktop experience” for Mac. One of the features that Google highlights is the option for users to utilize shortcuts. When you’re engaged in multiple tasks and switching between windows, Google states you can access Gemini using the Option+Space shortcut, noting that this action won’t disrupt your current window.
A brief Q&A session, assistance with document drafts, or AI-created images and videos are all achievable through this shortcut for Gemini.
Nevertheless, in cases where you need Gemini to “see” precisely what you’re referring to, Google directs macOS users to the “Share Window” function. After installing the Gemini app on your computer, Google claims you can “share anything displayed on your screen with Gemini to receive assistance with exactly what you’re viewing, including local files.” Sharing your window’s content can be supplemented by a prompt (or query) for Gemini to understand exactly what you’re seeking.
The Gemini app for macOS users is accessible today (Apr 15) for devices running v15 and above. Google mentions this is being rolled out for computers worldwide, with the download now available.
Integrated, Just as Intended
This announcement of a “native” experience for macOS devices follows a few months after Google and Apple revealed a multi-year partnership. The partnership focused on the two companies collaborating to incorporate Gemini into Apple’s future devices to allow for “enhanced AI features.” It was indicated that Gemini would enhance Apple’s Siri while also unifying AI for Android and iOS. Apple also noted that it would “preserve user privacy” while utilizing Google’s AI technology.
Apple’s iPhones officially received the Gemini app a couple of years back. Its launch came alongside Imagen 3, but it also introduced Gemini Live, which proved beneficial for students aiming to study. Its functionalities were virtually the same as what Android users experienced, but for those who were previously without it.
Android Central’s Perspective
Since Apple’s iPhone already has the application, it stands to reason that macOS would acquire it as well. It took some time, likely due to the integrations Google wanted to implement. I’m certain Mac users will find this advantageous. Considering the alternative would be accessing Gemini through the web, having the AI readily available at your fingertips offers a significant advantage.
The Nothing Phone 4a Pro: Sturdy Build Compromised by One Defect
Nothing’s new metal smartphone, the Phone 4a Pro, is surprisingly resilient, but a single incorrect poke could spoil it. The device performs admirably in durability assessments, particularly during the bend test, owing to its aluminum unibody. However, while the metal frame exhibits strength, the camera plateau is composed of plastic. A poorly positioned microphone hole is its most significant drawback, making it easy to unintentionally damage the water-resistant mesh with a SIM tool.
The Phone 4a Pro, which retails for $499, underwent thorough evaluations by the JerryRigEverything YouTube channel, encompassing scratches, flames, and bend assessments. The CNC-milled aluminum unibody is reminiscent of the classic HTC One or original Pixel, offering a robust construction. Yet, the metal back precludes wireless charging, though the phone remains intact during bend trials.
In spite of its advantages, the teardown unveiled a design issue. If a SIM tool inadvertently jabs into the microphone hole, it can compromise the water-resistant mesh. Although a secondary moisture barrier is present, the initial layer is susceptible.
The 6.8-inch AMOLED display uses Gorilla Glass 7i, showing scratches beginning at level 6 on the Mohs scale. The primary camera lenses are made of glass, but the area surrounding them is plastic, which is vulnerable to scratches. Internally, a sizable vapor chamber facilitates cooling, with distinct battery sizes for the Indian and US models.
All in all, the Nothing Phone 4a Pro serves as a sturdy choice for those weary of fragile glass smartphones, but the plastic camera casing and fragile microphone mesh raise concerns.
Netgear Gains Authorization to Market New Wireless Routers in the US Despite Ambiguity Regarding the Choice
**The Recent Ban on Wireless Routers and Netgear’s Conditional Acceptance**
In the previous month, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) implemented an unexpected prohibition on nearly all new wireless routers designed for home use throughout the United States. This decision identifies routers produced abroad as a national security threat, causing considerable unease within the technology sector and among consumers.
### The Wireless Router Prohibition
The FCC’s prohibition, announced in late March, claims that nearly all new wireless routers manufactured outside the U.S. present “unacceptable risks to the national security of the United States or the safety and security of United States individuals.” This extensive action has caused many manufacturers to rush to comply with the new regulations. The FCC noted that router producers could seek exemptions by proving that their devices satisfy safety norms, with a major focus on relocating manufacturing to the U.S. as a vital criterion for approval.
### Netgear’s Conditional Acceptance
In a significant turn of events, Netgear has lately obtained conditional acceptance from the FCC for a broad array of its products, including its well-known Nighthawk and Orbi router series, along with cable gateways and modems. This approval distinguishes Netgear as the first retail consumer router company to be recognized by the FCC as a reliable manufacturer.
Netgear conveyed its contentment with the acceptance, underscoring its dedication to security and the crucial role of the FCC’s actions in protecting consumer devices. The company mentioned, “This aligns with our security-first approach, and we believe the steps the FCC is taking will help guarantee the security of your digital front door and home networking products.”
### Vague Reasons for Acceptance
Despite the positive result for Netgear, the rationale behind the FCC’s choice remains unclear. Neither the FCC nor Netgear has offered a transparent explanation for why Netgear received an exemption, especially since the company’s devices are largely produced in China and Taiwan, akin to its rivals.
The FCC has only referenced that the Pentagon made a “specific determination” that Netgear’s products do not pose threats to U.S. national security. This is perplexing, considering that the initial reasoning for the wireless router ban was that foreign routers inherently pose a security risk. Furthermore, the FCC’s Conditional Acceptance procedure necessitates manufacturers to present a thorough plan to establish or enhance U.S. manufacturing, yet Netgear has not publicly committed to such a shift.
### Conclusion
The recent FCC decision and Netgear’s conditional acceptance have spurred numerous inquiries regarding national security, manufacturing practices, and the future of wireless technology in the U.S. As the situation progresses, it will be essential to observe how other manufacturers react to the ban and whether they can successfully navigate the approval process. The ramifications of this ruling could significantly impact the wireless networking environment in the United States.
Adobe Unveils Firefly AI Helper for Overseeing Multi-Step Processes in Creative Cloud Apps
**Adobe Firefly AI Assistant: Transforming Creative Processes**
Adobe has revealed the forthcoming public beta of its Firefly AI Assistant, an innovative tool aimed at optimizing workflows within its Creative Cloud applications. This cutting-edge assistant will enable users to perform multi-step tasks effortlessly from a unified interface, boosting productivity and creativity.
### AI-Enhanced Workflows Across Creative Cloud Applications
Firefly AI Assistant seeks to ease the user journey by allowing creators to engage with a variety of Adobe applications—such as Photoshop, Premiere, Express, Lightroom, and Illustrator—without the need for extensive expertise in each platform. Users can simply issue prompts, and the assistant will coordinate the required actions across these applications to achieve the target result.
During the public beta, users will gain access to a repository of pre-configured Creative Skills, such as touching up portrait images or creating content for social media. Furthermore, users can develop personalized skills crafted to their individual workflows. The assistant is built to adapt to personal preferences over time, learning aesthetic inclinations and preferred tools to provide more customized outcomes.
Firefly AI Assistant will additionally present contextual suggestions and inquiries based on user commands, facilitating immediate adjustments and modifications. For example, if a user edits a product photograph situated in a forest, the assistant might offer a slider to modify the surrounding greenery, streamlining intricate edits.
In addition, the integration with Frame.io will allow users to arrange materials for presentations, collaborate with team members, and automate the application of feedback, improving teamwork.
### New Video and Image Editing Features
Along with the announcement of Firefly AI Assistant, Adobe unveiled new functionalities in its video and image editing tools that creators can start using right away.
**Firefly Video Editor Improvements:**
– **Audio Enhancements:** The “Enhance Speech” feature, which refines dialogue, is now accessible in Firefly Video Editor, alongside tools designed to minimize noise and balance audio components.
– **Color Tweaks:** Creators can adjust visual features such as exposure and saturation using user-friendly sliders and one-click presets for rapid modifications.
– **Adobe Stock Integration:** Access to over 800 million licensed assets straight within the Firefly Video Editor workflow.
**Image Editing Toolset Enhancements:**
– **Precision Flow:** This function allows creators to produce multiple image variations from a single prompt, facilitating swift exploration of diverse results.
– **AI Markup:** Users can execute edits directly on images through various tools, providing precise manipulation of object positioning and lighting modifications.
### Conclusion
Adobe Firefly AI Assistant signifies a major leap in creative technology, vowing to boost the efficiency and effectiveness of creative workflows. With its capability to learn user inclinations and offer contextual support, it is poised to revolutionize the way creators engage with Adobe’s suite of applications. As the public beta draws near, additional details and demonstrations will be presented at the forthcoming Adobe Summit in April.
