Author: sparta

    • sparta
    • Comments Off on Apple Faces Exit of Another Prominent Product Designer After Jonny Ive’s Departure
    Apple Faces Exit of Another Prominent Product Designer After Jonny Ive’s Departure

    Bloomberg. Chowdhury’s exit is viewed as particularly significant due to his “increasing visibility within the design team.” Apple’s industrial design group, which was previously led by Jony Ive, is among the most esteemed and vital teams in the organization. The team, by its very nature, is limited in size. Therefore, the departure of even one designer can lead to a substantial effect.

    Chowdhury first came on board at Apple as an industrial designer in January 2019. Throughout his nearly six years with the company, he likely contributed to the design of many Apple products. Bloomberg reports that he was instrumental in the creation of the iPhone Air. Importantly, reports of disappointing sales had no bearing on Chowdhury’s choice to leave the company. It is also noteworthy that the iPhone Air, from a design standpoint, ranks among the most remarkable products we’ve seen from Apple in quite a while.

    Apple’s design department has experienced numerous exits in recent years

    <img class="gallery-image " src="https://www.bgr.com/img/gallery/apple-loses-another-top-product-designer/apples-design-group-has-seen-numerous-departures-in-recent-years-176

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    • Comments Off on Cloudflare Service Interruption Affects X, ChatGPT, and Various Other Platforms
    Cloudflare Service Interruption Affects X, ChatGPT, and Various Other Platforms

    Cloudflare Outage Demonstrates How a Single Point Can Disrupt the Modern Internet

    What you should know:
    – Cloudflare—a critical internet infrastructure provider—has experienced a severe outage, disrupting a significant portion of the global web.
    – The situation was identified as a worldwide issue involving “extensive 500 errors” and an “internal server error.”
    – The breakdown rapidly incapacitated major services, including X, OpenAI’s ChatGPT, creative platform Canva, and favored online games like League of Legends.

    Typically, the internet is chaotic, but today, November 18, 2025, it ceased to function as a utility and transformed into a high-stakes, worldwide comedy of errors.

    Around 6:00 am ET, a substantial section of the internet went offline. The culprit was Cloudflare, a firm that provides essential network infrastructure for numerous websites. Thus, when it fails, the digital realm struggles to recover.

    Users attempting to access everything from X to the film review site Letterboxd encountered the universally dreaded “internal server error on Cloudflare’s network.”

    Cloudflare acknowledged this as a worldwide problem with “extensive 500 errors.” To complicate matters, the company’s own diagnostic tools and API also became nonfunctional, leaving the team addressing the issue without their usual support.

    The list of affected services was extensive, highlighting how integral Cloudflare is to our daily activities. Not only did social media platforms go offline, but AI applications like OpenAI’s ChatGPT also became unavailable. Creative workers couldn’t access Canva, and famous online games like League of Legends were similarly down.

    One of the most ironic aspects of this outage was that services designed to monitor internet issues, such as Downdetector, were also impacted. When the site intended to report outages is also down, it indicates the severity of the predicament.

    Cloudflare conceded that the situation was serious, stating it was “investigating an issue that affects multiple customers.” The company did not provide a specific explanation, but it is notable that Cloudflare had scheduled maintenance at its Santiago (SCL) data center that same day, from 12:00 to 15:00 UTC.

    This outage mirrors previous major disruptions, like the infamous Amazon Web Services (AWS) failures. It underscores how heavily the modern internet relies on a few central infrastructure providers. Initial reports indicated some improvement in locations like the UK, but US users soon encountered additional error notifications.

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    • Comments Off on Lumia 2 Earrings Released with Enhanced Tracking Capabilities Exceeding Smartwatches
    Lumia 2 Earrings Released with Enhanced Tracking Capabilities Exceeding Smartwatches

    Step aside, intelligent rings.

    (Image credit: Lumia)

    Key information to consider

    • Lumia 2 introduces the first global smart earrings designed to monitor health indicators such as blood flow and sleep patterns.
    • These customizable earrings come in various styles and finishes, suited for different types of earrings utilizing cutting-edge ‘SwitchBack’ technology.
    • The earrings deliver comprehensive insights regarding hydration, nutrition, and posture, aiding personal health choices for a price of just $249.

    This represents the type of fashionable technology that I support. Fitness gadgets that effortlessly integrate with your style, resembling earrings, and the unique aspect is their customizability. Today (Nov. 17), Lumia unveiled the Lumia 2, the world’s inaugural smart earrings that monitor blood flow to your head.

    The company claims that the Lumia 2 is crafted from platinum and titanium and can be styled in multiple formats, including Huggie Hoops, Cuffs, and Ball Studs. They are offered in six finishes, notably Gold, Silver, and Clear. Moreover, they can attach to any push-back earring through their ‘SwitchBack’ technology, although this functionality is currently pending patent approval.

    Initially, these smart earrings were mainly aimed at assisting those with chronic ailments such as POTS (Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome) and Long COVID, but Lumia has now declared that these earrings will be accessible to the general public.

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    • Comments Off on WhatsApp Security Flaw Exposes 3.5 Billion Phone Numbers, Possibly Including Yours
    WhatsApp Security Flaw Exposes 3.5 Billion Phone Numbers, Possibly Including Yours

    ### WhatsApp Security Vulnerability Exposes Billions of Phone Numbers

    A major security flaw in WhatsApp has been uncovered, indicating that the phone numbers of nearly all users worldwide were compromised. This issue, initially reported to parent company Meta in 2017, went unresolved for years, leading to a potential data exposure of unparalleled magnitude.

    #### The Nature of the Exploit

    Security experts discovered a simple exploit that permitted them to extract around 3.5 billion phone numbers from the messaging service. The experts observed that had malicious actors taken advantage of this same technique, it could have resulted in “the largest data breach in history.” The exploit leverages WhatsApp’s feature that enables users to verify if a phone number is registered on the platform, which unintentionally aids in the large-scale collection of user information.

    #### Historical Context and Oversight

    The vulnerability was first highlighted by another security researcher in 2017, who noted that WhatsApp did not set any restrictions on the number of phone number checks that could be executed. Despite this early alert, Meta did not implement necessary safeguards over the years. Recently, researchers from the University of Vienna managed to exploit the same vulnerability, successfully compiling the phone numbers of nearly all WhatsApp users in a brief period.

    #### The Scale of the Exposure

    The researchers reported that they were able to capture the first 30 million US phone numbers in just thirty minutes, continuing their efforts to amass data on a grand scale. Aljosha Judmayer, one of the researchers involved, remarked, “To the best of our knowledge, this signifies the most extensive exposure of phone numbers and associated user information ever recorded.”

    #### Responsible Disclosure and Response

    Upon discovering the breach, the researchers responsibly deleted the database of phone numbers and alerted Meta. Nonetheless, Meta took around six months to enforce a rate-limiting measure intended to curb such widespread exploitation in the future. WhatsApp has asserted that it was in the process of developing a solution and stated there is no record of malicious exploitation of the vulnerability before the researchers’ intervention.

    #### Conclusion

    This event highlights the critical necessity for prompt actions in response to security vulnerabilities, particularly in popular platforms like WhatsApp. The exposure of billions of phone numbers not only raises concerns about privacy but also emphasizes the need for strong security protocols to safeguard user information. As the digital environment continues to change, companies must emphasize user security to avert similar occurrences in the future.

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    • Comments Off on Roblox Introduces Video Selfie Mandate for Age Confirmation of 9-Year-Old Players
    Roblox Introduces Video Selfie Mandate for Age Confirmation of 9-Year-Old Players

    ### Roblox Age Verification: A Fresh Chapter for Online Security

    Roblox, a leading app for children worldwide, has introduced a novel age verification system necessitating that users as young as nine provide a video selfie. This initiative follows criticism concerning the platform’s capability to safeguard young users from possible online threats, especially regarding their communication with adults.

    #### The Importance of Age Verification

    The age verification program of Roblox seeks to boost safety by curbing adult-child interactions in chat functionalities. The firm intends to leverage a mix of facial age estimation technology, ID validation, and parental approval to guarantee a more precise evaluation of a user’s age compared to conventional methods that depend on self-reported data during account setup. This strategy aims to foster a more secure atmosphere for children by limiting their ability to engage with users who are outside their age range.

    Reportedly, this policy is presently being introduced in Australia, New Zealand, and the Netherlands, with aspirations for a worldwide rollout by early next year. Most children are unlikely to possess government-issued photo identification, which will lead many to depend on the video selfie option for age verification.

    #### Age Group Classifications and Communication Limitations

    After a user’s age has been validated or estimated, they will be sorted into one of six age brackets, ranging from under 9 to 21 and older. This categorization will determine their capacity to interact with others in the game, ensuring that minors have restricted communication with users who are outside their assigned age group.

    #### The Responsibility of Tech Giants in Age Verification

    The increasing trend of age verification in applications raises inquiries about who should be accountable for this procedure. At present, the responsibility rests on individual developers, which could result in privacy issues as numerous companies access sensitive data like photo IDs and video selfies. Observers suggest it would be more effective and secure for major tech firms such as Apple and Google to manage age verification centrally.

    This transition could simplify the user experience, enabling individuals to confirm their age once instead of repeatedly for different applications. Moreover, with new laws in various U.S. states advocating for stricter age verification standards, it might become more imperative for app store proprietors to assume this responsibility.

    #### Conclusion

    Roblox’s updated age verification policy marks a crucial advancement in improving online safety for children. Nonetheless, it also underscores the wider implications of privacy and security in the digital era. As discussions on age verification progress, the possibility of tech giants assuming a more proactive role in protecting young users becomes increasingly pertinent.

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    • Comments Off on Suggested Budget-Friendly Electronics to Purchase at Costco
    Suggested Budget-Friendly Electronics to Purchase at Costco

    Amazon generally features a wide array of products that simplify life, but Costco equally offers a selection of electronics that are definitely worth considering. Renowned for its bulk food items and home necessities, Costco is an excellent spot for discovering budget-friendly electronics as well.

    Although you’ll consistently find larger items like laptops, TVs, and more, there are several budget-friendly electronics priced under $40 that will appeal to almost everyone. These may be minor acquisitions, yet they deliver significant functionality and are all supported by genuine user endorsements. Given that reviews are often quite sparse on the Costco website, we’ve also taken into account ratings from other e-commerce sites to ensure we select gadgets that will genuinely enhance your life. Take a look at them below and add them to your Costco shopping list.

    Berkshire Life Heated Throw

    Costco offers a fall must-have that will keep you warm during the chilly months: a heated blanket. This heated throw from Berkshire Life has amassed over 4,000 user reviews with an impressive score of 4.7 stars. Customers have acknowledged the soft, plush material that feels luxurious, as well as the even heat distribution, ideal for unwinding on the couch or getting additional warmth during the night. It features four heat settings, letting you customize the temperature to suit your liking. For safety, it automatically powers down after four hours of use.

    Furthermore, this blanket is reversible, with one side being soft and “fuzzy” while the opposite side is smooth and velvety. This provides you with two different textures to choose from and makes for an adaptable gift. Additionally, since it’s machine washable, maintaining its cleanliness is a breeze. One Costco reviewer mentioned that all they had to do was detach the cord, toss it in the washing machine, and tumble dry without heat, and it performed flawlessly just two minutes later.

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    • Comments Off on Samsung Unveils November 2025 Security Update for Two Generations of Galaxy Z Flip and Fold
    Samsung Unveils November 2025 Security Update for Two Generations of Galaxy Z Flip and Fold

    The Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 6, Flip 7, alongside the Galaxy Z Fold 6 and Fold 7, are being updated with a new security patch.

    (Image credit: Brady Snyder / Android Central)

    Essential information

    • Samsung is dispatching the November 2025 security update for its foldable devices from 2024 and 2025.
    • This update features nearly 40 repairs for identified security issues and has a size range of 350MB to 450MB.
    • The update has also been issued to the Galaxy S25, S24, S23 models today, along with the Galaxy Tab S11.

    Notice

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    • Comments Off on Survey Data Shows Notable Enhancements in Wi-Fi Speed on iPhone 17 Attributable to Apple N1 Chip
    Survey Data Shows Notable Enhancements in Wi-Fi Speed on iPhone 17 Attributable to Apple N1 Chip

    ### Wi-Fi Performance of iPhone 17: An Advancement with the N1 Chip

    Recent insights from Ookla, the parent company of Speedtest.net, indicate notable enhancements in Wi-Fi performance for iPhone 17 users, attributed to the newly designed Apple N1 chip. This analysis shows that the latest iPhone models, which encompass the iPhone 17, iPhone 17 Pro, and iPhone Air, reach significantly quicker download and upload speeds than the earlier iPhone 16.

    #### Key Insights

    Per Ookla’s examination, the typical download and upload speeds on iPhones using the N1 chip are around 40% greater than those of the iPhone 16. For instance, in North America, the iPhone 16 registers average download speeds of 323 Mbps, whereas the iPhone 17 showcases an impressive average of 416 Mbps.

    #### Performance Variations by Region

    The performance enhancements provided by the N1 chip are evident across different regions, though the degree of improvement may differ. Particularly, the iPhone 17 shows enhanced performance in locations with poor signal reception, surpassing older models that employed Qualcomm modems. This suggests that the new chip is especially efficient in demanding environments, offering users a more dependable connection.

    #### Support for Wi-Fi 7 and Real-World Consequences

    The N1 chip accommodates the new Wi-Fi 7 standard, although some users have expressed concerns regarding the iPhone 17’s constraint to the 160 MHz frequency instead of the broader 320 MHz band. Nonetheless, Ookla’s results imply that this limitation does not markedly affect real-world speeds. While other brands may claim compatibility with 320 MHz connections, the iPhone 17 has established itself as a frontrunner in Wi-Fi performance among premium smartphones in North America.

    It’s crucial to recognize that the availability of Wi-Fi 7 routers that can exploit the 320 MHz band is still scarce. Additionally, the advantages of a wider spectrum lessen with increased distance from the access point, emphasizing the iPhone 17’s performance benefits in practical scenarios.

    #### Conclusion

    The rollout of the N1 chip signifies a major leap in Wi-Fi capabilities for the iPhone series. As an inaugural in-house chip, its performance and efficiency denote a notable accomplishment for Apple’s silicon development teams. The N1 chip not only bolsters Wi-Fi connectivity but also coordinates integrated Bluetooth and Thread radios, enhancing overall device performance.

    In conclusion, the Ookla report highlights the exceptional Wi-Fi performance of the iPhone 17, reinforcing Apple’s dedication to innovation and user satisfaction in mobile technology.

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    • Comments Off on Assessing the Advantages of Wireless Headphones Versus Wired Alternatives
    Assessing the Advantages of Wireless Headphones Versus Wired Alternatives

    Blue headphones placed flat on a yellow background

    Dani Vg/Getty Images

    If you’re considering purchasing headphones, you might be curious if the widely popular true-wireless earbuds are the optimal choice. But how do the classic wired headphones from earlier times compare? Are those a better selection? The concise answer is: Yes, though this hinges on how you define “better.” While the specifications of headphones can be measured quantitatively, much of the experience relies on your personal perception of the audio quality in your music.

    A wired set of headphones or earbuds conveys sound through a cable, usually connected via a 3.5-millimeter or quarter-inch connector. This allows the audio signal to be delivered almost instantaneously and in full. In contrast, wireless headphones generally transmit a signal using various radio frequency (RF) technologies, such as Bluetooth or Wi-Fi, which can sometimes introduce disturbances or risks of losing the connection in certain scenarios.

    Wireless music transmission is intricate

    Hands comparing wireless and wired earbuds side by side

    Ivan Kyryk/Getty Images

    <div class="columns-holder"

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    • Comments Off on Apple @ Work Podcast: A Summary of the Present Condition of Passkeys
    Apple @ Work Podcast: A Summary of the Present Condition of Passkeys

    ### The Significance of Password Management in Today’s Digital World

    In a time when digital security is vital, the handling of passwords has become an essential part of protecting personal and organizational information. As cyber threats become more advanced, it is crucial to grasp the tools and methods available for effective password management.

    #### The Growth of Password Management Tools

    With the increase of online accounts, the typical individual now oversees countless passwords. This complexity frequently results in poor password behaviors, such as reusing passwords over various sites or choosing easily guessable passwords. To address these challenges, password management tools have surfaced as indispensable resources. These applications securely keep and encrypt passwords, enabling users to create strong, unique passwords for every account without the hassle of remembering them.

    #### Dashlane’s Perspectives on Password Security

    In a recent segment of Apple @ Work, Rew Islam from Dashlane talked about the company’s latest publication titled “The 2025 Dashlane Passkey Power 20.” This report underscores the changing landscape of password management and the growing acceptance of passkeys as a safer substitute for conventional passwords. Passkeys eliminate the requirement for passwords by utilizing cryptographic keys stored on devices, significantly diminishing the risk of phishing schemes and credential theft.

    #### The Advantages of Utilizing Passkeys

    1. **Improved Security**: Passkeys provide greater security than standard passwords because they are not vulnerable to typical attacks like brute force or phishing.

    2. **User Ease**: With passkeys, users can validate their identity without the burden of recalling complex passwords, resulting in a more seamless user experience.

    3. **Lowered Risk of Data Leaks**: By removing passwords, organizations can greatly reduce the likelihood of data leaks resulting from compromised credentials.

    #### The Responsibility of Organizations in Password Management

    Organizations have a vital role in encouraging secure password practices among their employees. Adopting password management solutions and informing staff about the significance of strong, unique passwords can assist in minimizing security risks. Additionally, organizations should contemplate implementing passkey technology as part of their cybersecurity plan to stay ahead of possible threats.

    #### Conclusion

    As the digital environment continues to advance, our strategies for password management must adapt as well. Tools like Dashlane are leading the charge towards a more secure future, where reliance on conventional passwords decreases in favor of innovative technologies like passkeys. By emphasizing password security, both individuals and organizations can enhance the protection of their sensitive information in an increasingly interconnected environment.

    For more insights and to keep informed on the latest developments in password management, consider tuning into previous episodes of the Apple @ Work podcast and examining the resources offered by industry pioneers such as Dashlane and Mosyle.

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