AllYouCanTech

How to Dispatch Direct Messages on Threads Now That DMs Are Accessible

Days prior to the second anniversary of Meta’s launch of Threads, the social media platform has at last incorporated DMs. On Tuesday, Meta shared on its blog that the eagerly anticipated feature is now accessible in the Threads app. Starting today, Threads users can exchange direct messages with one another, aligning with similar functionalities available on X and Bluesky.

Threads finally introduces DMs

“Threads was designed for sharing viewpoints that foster dynamic, public discussions, but occasionally you may wish to take a conversation deeper, one-on-one,” stated Meta’s team. “Messaging has been among the most frequently requested features, and now, you can seamlessly pursue conversations within the app and strengthen connections with others.”

Privacy and security remain paramount concerns regarding digital communication. To safeguard its users, Threads permits DMs exclusively between Threads followers or mutual followers from Instagram aged 18 and older. Meta also emphasizes that messaging is safeguarded by its privacy policies, account safeguards, and safety framework.

Looking ahead, Threads intends to introduce features such as message controls enabling you to choose who can message you, group messaging with several users, and inbox filters to simplify locating specific messages from other users.

How to send DMs on Threads

When you next launch the Threads app on iOS or Android, you’ll notice a new envelope icon in the toolbar at the bottom of the display. This is where your DMs will be located from now on, and a red dot beneath the icon will indicate if you have any unread messages.

To send a DM on Threads, simply follow these steps:

1. Tap the envelope icon in the toolbar at the base of the Threads app.
2. Tap the pencil icon in the upper-right corner to begin composing your message.
3. Enter the username of the recipient, write your message, and press the send button.

Simple as that! This has been the most evident absent feature on Threads for quite some time, yet the Meta app continues to be the most favored competitor to X (formerly Twitter). It is a basic version of the feature for the moment, but further enhancements are on the horizon.

Netflix Unveils Sequels to Beloved Film Blockbusters This Month

For numerous subscribers, Netflix’s lineup for July is set to appear quite recognizable. Amid the customary assortment of comedies, documentaries, and esteemed television this month, the platform is also capitalizing on the strength of legacy appeal with two prominent movie sequels: The Old Guard 2, which premieres tomorrow (July 2), and Happy Gilmore 2, arriving July 25. One taps into ‘90s nostalgia while the other resurrects a successful streaming phenomenon. Collectively, they demonstrate that Netflix’s summer offerings are not solely focused on fresh concepts — they also celebrate cherished classics with ample tales still to unfold.

Significant Netflix movie sequels arriving this month

Let’s kick off with the most significant attempt, pun intended.

In Happy Gilmore 2, Adam Sandler reprises his role as the hockey-loving golfer who made rage entertaining long before memes existed. The original Happy Gilmore (1996) has only increased in popularity over the years, finding renewed life with every new generation of audience. Now, nearly thirty years later, Netflix is wagering that there’s still fuel in the tank, and Sandler is joined by returning cast members along with some unexpected cameos — for a narrative that reportedly explores the theme of legacy. It essentially sounds like classic Sandler, refreshed for the Netflix era.

Meanwhile, The Old Guard 2 continues from where the 2020 film concluded and follows a group of immortal warriors led by Charlize Theron. The original film was a success for Netflix, attracting sufficient viewers to become one of the platform’s most-viewed titles upon its release. The sequel promises more of what fans cherished, from action-packed adventures around the globe to grand set pieces and an even richer mythology woven into the narrative. There’s also a new director this time around (Victoria Mahoney), which introduces a fresh creative perspective to a franchise I’ve previously described as Netflix’s equivalent to The Avengers.

With the streaming rivalry essentially a continual race these days, it makes perfect sense for Netflix to leverage intellectual properties that already possess a built-in audience. Sequels present a secure gamble, particularly when they feature familiar, bankable stars and the audience’s favorable sentiments tied to the originals. And for viewers inundated with an endless ocean of content, the familiarity of titles like Happy Gilmore or The Old Guard simplifies the decision to hit “play” considerably.

AI-Created Rock Band Surpasses 500,000 Streams on Spotify

**Spotify: AI Band Surpasses 500,000 Listeners at Record Speed**

In an extraordinary accomplishment, an AI-created rock band called The Velvet Sundown has exceeded 500,000 listeners on Spotify in just a matter of weeks. This milestone underscores the increasing impact of artificial intelligence in the music realm, where AI is not only producing text, images, and videos but is also crafting music that resonates with audiences globally.

The Velvet Sundown, a band that does not exist in a conventional way, has successfully enchanted listeners with its distinctive sound, described as a blend of 1970s psychedelic elements, cinematic alt-pop, and ethereal analog soul. The band’s music, marked by rich reverb, whirling organs, and tremolo-laden guitar riffs, has been streamed widely, even though many listeners are unaware of its AI origins.

The band’s swift ascent to fame has incited conversations regarding the role of AI in music creation. While some welcome this innovation, others voice concerns about transparency and the potential replacement of human musicians. The Velvet Sundown’s presence on Spotify, noted by a “Verified Artist” badge, has sparked discussions about the necessity for clear labeling of AI-created content.

As AI continues to advance, its influence on the music industry is unmistakable. The Velvet Sundown’s success narrative is a testament to AI’s capability to forge engaging music experiences, challenging conventional understandings of artistry and creativity. However, it also prompts critical inquiries about the future of music and the ethical implications surrounding AI-generated art.

Possible iPhone Chip-Driven MacBook Might Result in Tough Choices for Apple

Over the weekend, analyst Ming-Chi Kuo disclosed that Apple is developing a new MacBook model, likely intended as a successor to the contentious 12-inch variant introduced many years ago. Following this revelation, MacRumors uncovered internal references to this device, as it appears Apple is indeed working on a computer utilizing the A18 Pro chip.

By combining these two narratives, it seems plausible that Apple is committed to launching this new MacBook as soon as next year. With mass production anticipated in the final quarter of 2025, the device could make its debut at a March event in conjunction with the new iPhone 17e and other lighter Apple offerings.

However, there’s a challenge with this budget-friendly MacBook, the same one that affected the previous 12-inch model: all entry-level options are starting to resemble one another.

Analyzing entry-level MacBook options

Apple presently markets two laptops featuring the M4 chip: an Air and a Pro variant. The distinction lies in additional ports, a superior display, and a cooling fan. But if Apple introduces a MacBook with an iPhone chip, what really distinguishes it from a MacBook Air? A lone USB-C port and a less powerful chip?

Wouldn’t that render the Air unnecessary, or worse? It might retain the Air name, but if it’s not lighter or slimmer than the new model, especially in light of the former 12-inch version, what’s the incentive? Just as the iPad Pro is thinner, lighter, and more capable, what reason would one have to select an Air?

In the case of the MacBook, users would receive a better value with a thinner and lighter machine, which is precisely what most individuals desire. Unless Apple manages to make the A18 Pro perform like an outdated Intel Celeron, casual users likely won’t perceive any difference between an M4 device and one equipped with the A18 Pro.

That being said, now that Apple has successfully positioned the MacBook Air, is it truly set to release an even more affordable computer that’s thinner, lighter, and sufficiently capable for the majority of the Air’s intended users?

The answer: One MacBook must go

When Apple provides too many comparable products, the optimal strategy is to eliminate one. If consumers cannot clearly understand why they should spend more, they will simply opt for the least expensive option, and Apple probably doesn’t favor that outcome.

Contrasting Privacy Safeguards: ChatGPT, Gemini, and Various AI Alternatives

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Marshall Unveils Middleton II Speaker Delivering Robust Sound in a Compact Design

Over a month following the introduction of the Kilburn III, Marshall has unveiled a new speaker: the Middleton II. This product enhances the well-received Middleton speaker released a few years back, now providing extended listening time, improved audio quality, and additional features.

With this introduction, Marshall is presenting one of its most impressive summer collections to date, further blending its portable speaker lineup by distinguishing products based on battery life and sound quality.

The Middleton II boasts over 30 hours of playback. The company claims that a quick 20-minute charge is sufficient to “get the show back on the road.” This speaker offers deeper bass and enhanced performance at peak volume. Additionally, it incorporates 360º True Stereophonic sound designed to envelop the listener irrespective of their location.

Highly portable, the Middleton II fits snugly in one hand. It is rated IP67 for dust and water resistance, meaning a splash of water or a bit of grime won’t pose an issue.

“Enhancing portable playtime is a focus we’ve concentrated on at Marshall, and the Middleton II is a prime example with its 30+ hours. Pair that with upgraded features like a built-in microphone for effortless speakerphone calls and a fresh design that not only looks superior but also improves usability with a better user experience. With support for LE Audio, users can enjoy a more efficient and enriched listening experience,” stated Ebba Gouverneur Regnström, product manager at Marshall Speaker.

Marshall asserts that it has removed “unnecessary complexity” by streamlining the controls. A simple twist or press allows users to play, pause, skip tracks, adjust volume, and more. True to most of Marshall’s offerings, the Middleton II showcases the classic amp-inspired design that contributed to the brand’s iconic status.

With the enhanced battery capacity, the Middleton II can also function as a power bank for your smartphone. It is equipped with Bluetooth and LE Audio support, thus ready for the latest advancements in wireless audio technology.

The speaker retails for $329.99 on Marshall’s website, with availability at retailers starting July 15th.

Apple TV+ Subscribers Get 50% Off on MLS Season Pass

Beginning today, Apple TV+ is reducing the seasonal pricing for the MLS Season Pass. Supporters can subscribe for $49 to experience the remainder of the 2025 season, which represents a 50% discount from the original price of $99. Even more appealing, Apple TV+ subscribers can acquire the MLS Season Pass for only $39.

Major League Soccer is currently commemorating its 30th season. Fans can witness stars such as Lionel Messi, Diego Luna, Hany Mukhtar, Benja Cremaschi, Denis Bouanga, and Cavan Sullivan prior to the MLS All-Star game, the third annual Leagues Cup tournament against Liga MX, and the autumn playoffs.

As always, matches are available in both English and Spanish. To enhance the experience for soccer enthusiasts, they can tune into MLS 360, dubbed by Apple as the “match day whip-around show.” It’s offered in both English and Spanish and includes live look-ins and highlights from throughout the league, as well as pre-match coverage, post-match analysis, highlights, player profiles, interviews, club content, match replays, and more.

One of the advantages of the MLS Season Pass is Sunday Night Soccer. These matches come with improved production and specialized studio programming, and they’re available for streaming by Apple TV+ subscribers following MLS Countdown and MLS La Previa. This weekend’s game showcases the Seattle Sounders versus the Columbus Crew.

Supporters can access the MLS Season Pass via the Apple TV app on Apple devices, smart TVs, streaming devices, set-top boxes, game consoles, or on the internet. Recently, Apple introduced the Apple TV app on Google Play, allowing millions of Android users to also benefit from this MLS Season Pass offer.

Apple Vision Pro users can enjoy the games alongside other applications in their physical environment, utilize Environments with a screen that appears 100 feet wide, and experience Spatial Audio for a more immersive viewing adventure.

Nintendo Switch 2 Anticipated to Experience Price Hike

When Nintendo finally revealed the Nintendo Switch 2 in early April, gamers were astonished to find the next-gen handheld console priced higher than anticipated. Most leaks and analysts indicated that $399 was the ideal price point, but Nintendo set the price $50 above that. A bundle including the Mario Kart World game was priced at $499.99. Switch 2 exclusives would also come at a higher cost than previously.

Then came the real surprise: Trump’s new tariffs. Nintendo promptly halted preorders for the North American market to evaluate the effects of the new tariffs. A few weeks later, the company declared a new preorder date for the US, maintaining the original prices for the Switch 2. However, certain accessories did see price increases.

Fast-forward to late June, and Nintendo reported a price rise for all Nintendo Switch 1 models sold in Canada. The brief statement mentioned that the Switch 2 price will remain unchanged for the time being. Nonetheless, fans globally have valid reasons to be concerned about potential future increases.

New Switch 1 prices

Nintendo released a statement regarding the impending price changes for Switch 1 products on August 1 in Canada:

Pricing for the original Nintendo Switch family of systems and products in Canada will be adjusted based on market conditions. This includes the Nintendo Switch – OLED Model, Nintendo Switch, Nintendo Switch Lite, physical and digital Nintendo Switch games, and Nintendo Switch accessories. Other Nintendo products, such as amiibo and Nintendo Switch Online memberships, will also see price adjustments.

The company did not specify any new prices for Canada, so we will have to wait for another announcement in the upcoming weeks. Nintendo did mention that the Switch 2 system, accessories, and software would remain unaffected.

As Engadget highlights, prices for the Switch 1 models are already nearing those of the Switch 2:

– Nintendo Switch – CA$400,
– Nintendo Switch OLED – CA$450
– Nintendo Switch Lite – CA$269
– Nintendo Switch 2 – CA$630

Any price rise would make the Switch 1 less appealing compared to the newer Switch 2. On the other hand, acquiring the new console is challenging, with inventory depleting faster than Nintendo can restock.

Will the Switch 2 price increase?

Nintendo’s press release was succinct, but it made it clear that the Switch 2 would not be included in this wave of price increases. That being said, the price could potentially go up in the future, depending on how “market conditions” evolve.

“Squid Game’s Last Season Emphasizes Algorithm-Based Choices Instead of Creative Integrity”

A recognizable TV conversation is emerging online at the moment, one that I suspect will feel strikingly similar to you if you recall how *Game of Thrones* faltered in its eighth and concluding season. Essentially, it’s now *Squid Game’s* moment.

Netflix’s Korean powerhouse, once a worldwide sensation and creative spark, just released its third and final season over the weekend — a season, to clarify, that nobody really wished for, and one that seems to leave many viewers regretting their decision to watch.

*Squid Game* Season 3 is, without a doubt, currently the #1 show in the US on the streaming service. However, that top position, impressive as it may appear, doesn’t convey the entire picture of the show’s situation. According to data from Samba TV, for instance, 1.6 million US households tuned in for the premiere in the first three days. That’s a significant figure — yet it still represents a 17% decline from the Season 2 launch. Some of this may be due to timing: Season 2 premiered the day after Christmas, when many people are at home thanks to holiday time off from work.

That being said, it’s somewhat more telling how drastically *Squid Game* has fallen in audience perception. The Rotten Tomatoes data certainly narrates a tale of reducing returns:

– Season 1: 95% critics’ score / 84% audience score
– Season 2: 83% critics’ score / 63% audience score
– Season 3: 80% critics’ score / 50% audience score

In terms of audience response, that’s a nosedive. Consequently, the online feedback from fans has been rather harsh. “This ending was terrible and felt like a cash grab for an American *Squid Game*,” one viewer commented on X. Another added: “There was no reason to divide this into a third series … actually, there’s no reason to create another series after the first.” Many voiced similar concerns — that Season 3 seemed overstuffed, poorly crafted, and motivated more by corporate interests than artistic vision.

Here’s the reality: *Squid Game* never required a second season, let alone a third. It’s ironic to me that a series about the perils of ruthless capitalism has effectively … well, to be precise, it has *definitely* fallen victim to that very capitalism the show criticized in Season 1. *Squid Game’s* final season was rife with contrived scenarios and puzzling character decisions that, in my view, caused the entire emotional framework of the show to crumble (“456 went through all that just to not speak to his daughter again?” one Rotten Tomatoes audience reviewer questioned. “Seriously?”).

For Netflix, the statistics may validate the choice. For the rest of us, this serves as another reminder that the television landscape wasn’t shaped by individuals who understand how to leave well enough alone. Similarly, streaming television is not an arena where nuance or knowing when to quit ever seems to take precedence. If you choose to take the plunge and watch Season 3, don’t be taken aback if, when it concludes, you find yourself yearning for the games to have wrapped up long ago.

NASA Partners with Netflix to Broadcast Live Rocket Launches and Spacewalks

**NASA is Bringing Live Rocket Launches and Spacewalks to Netflix**

Beginning this summer, Netflix subscribers will have the exclusive chance to enjoy live broadcasts from NASA+, featuring rocket launches, spacewalks, and stunning views from the International Space Station (ISS). This partnership between NASA and Netflix represents a major advancement in making space exploration more available to the public.

NASA+, which launched as an ad-free streaming platform in November 2023, is broadening its audience by joining forces with Netflix. This initiative enables a wider viewership to experience the marvels of space exploration from the convenience of their homes. The live programming will consist of mission coverage and real-time views of Earth from the ISS, delivering an engaging experience for viewers.

Rebecca Sirmons, general manager of NASA+, highlighted the agency’s dedication to motivating new generations through innovative and accessible content. This collaboration with Netflix is in line with NASA’s objective to involve the public in its continuous exploration and discovery missions.

Although NASA+ remains free to stream across multiple platforms, including iOS, Android devices, Roku, Apple TV, Fire TV, and web browsers, the introduction of live content on Netflix presents an exciting new avenue for audiences to engage with space exploration.

This project is part of Netflix’s larger strategy to include live programming within its offerings. Prior live events featured on the platform have showcased a boxing match between Jake Paul and Mike Tyson, weekly WWE Raw broadcasts, and the 31st Annual Screen Actors Guild Awards. Upcoming live programming on Netflix includes Taylor vs. Serrano 3 and two NFL games on Christmas Day 2025.

As Netflix continues to delve into live content, the inclusion of NASA+ material offers a distinctive and enlightening viewing experience, further reinforcing Netflix’s standing as a premier streaming service.