Tag: Source: Bgr.com

As reported by The New York Times, Meta intends to incorporate facial recognition functionalities into its smart glasses, which are available through the company and its collaboration with eyewear manufacturer Ray-Ban. These smart glasses, if you’re not aware, closely resemble prescription eyewear — and can even come with prescription lenses — allowing them to appear unobtrusive when worn. The frames are equipped with cameras capable of streaming video live or recording photos and videos for sharing. By default, they feature a small white light that indicates recording is in progress, alerting those nearby that they are being observed. However, there are ways to disable those lights, making them look like typical glasses.

The facial recognition capability, named “Name Tag,” will enable the users of Meta’s smart glasses to recognize individuals in their vicinity and access information using the integrated artificial intelligence assistant. While wearing the glasses, you can issue various commands to that assistant via voice, such as “Meta, start recording,” or “Meta, tell me what this picture is.” The concern, of course, is that even individuals who have reasonably attempted to protect their privacy and stay away from these systems would still be implicated, indirectly, simply through users scanning or looking into their surroundings.

In light of the recent backlash and upheaval regarding the collaboration between Ring and Flock to monitor and share security footage with law enforcement, questions arise about how Meta intends to utilize or manage data collected by users’ smart devices.

Why facial recognition technology in Meta smart glasses poses issues

In addition to the clear fact that extensive facial recognition technology constitutes a significant invasion of privacy for many, the technology itself raises doubts. Other individuals nearby the wearer of Meta smart glasses wouldn’t have the ability to give consent or opt-out. There are few cases that demonstrate facial recognition’s accuracy; in fact, quite the opposite is true. The New York transportation authority ceased a pilot program that had a 100% error rate with no accurate readings. Furthermore, the technology is biased, can be easily exploited for fraud and identity theft, is not adequately regulated, and may result in false arrests or worse when used by law enforcement. Meta might already be training AI with images from users’ smart glasses without informing anyone, potentially including individuals passing by and background subjects in captured footage who do not wish for their images to be used for such purposes.

Reportedly, Meta plans to launch the functionality in a “dynamic political environment,” and while “many civil society organizations that we would expect to criticize us will have their resources directed toward other issues,” according to internal documents. The original Meta Ray-Ban smart glasses were meant to incorporate similar facial recognition features, but the company ultimately altered its course due to ethical dilemmas, alongside technical obstacles. Meta also had a Face Recognition system in mind for Facebook to tag users’ photos, but abandoned it for similar reasons. This pattern recurs, and this latest initiative appears to be yet another instance of the same. If everything proceeds as intended, the new features will be accessible to Ray-Ban users by the end of 2026.

Meta and Ray-Ban are not the only companies developing smart glasses of this kind. Rokid provides advanced AR smart glasses with a screen, along with several other brands. Meta has also teamed up with Oakley to offer distinctive smart glasses.

Consumer Reports has pinpointed the top models suitable for your laptop. Although these power banks can charge other gadgets, such as your smartphone and tablet, they differ from the typical battery pack you might carry in your bag. The power bank intended for your phone is generally lightweight and can provide at least one complete charge for the device.

However, while it is capable of charging the phone, it won’t suffice for your laptop. You will require slightly larger and heftier devices for notebooks, as they must accumulate more energy than a standard phone power bank. Regrettably, some that CR suggests might already be out of stock with certain retailers, despite Consumer Reports publishing its rankings in September 2025. Nevertheless, the retailers have already introduced newer models that can act as alternatives.

**9 Signs Your Dual Monitors Are Not Configured Correctly**

It may be difficult to believe now, but there was once a period when connecting more than one monitor to your computer simultaneously would have seemed rather absurd. Many PCs only had the capability to operate a single display, much less extend a workspace across two or more. Multi-monitor support was only officially introduced with Windows 98, although Macs have possessed this function since the late 1980s.

Once you’ve had the experience of utilizing two monitors, it becomes clear why many view this as the baseline for optimum multitasking efficiency. Although it is possible to manage with a single monitor by employing methods such as virtual desktops, and utilizing features like window snapping to distribute apps on the same monitor, it doesn’t quite compare to having two dedicated screens.

Nowadays, the use of multiple monitors is taken for granted. Setting it up is straightforward across all desktop operating systems. Even mobile devices like smartphones and tablets may support multi-monitor setups, making it truly mainstream. Nevertheless, it remains surprisingly easy to misconfigure your dual-monitor arrangement or encounter frustrating issues with no obvious solutions. We have compiled a list of 10 typical signs that something is amiss with multi-monitor configuration, along with solutions for each issue.

**Only one monitor is functioning**

Having just one monitor operational is the most frequent obstacle and tends to occur right at the moment you’re supposed to present to a class, board of directors, or some other inconvenient scenario. Fortunately, it’s usually the simplest issue to resolve, provided you approach it methodically. A smart first step is to confirm whether you’ve mistakenly connected the second monitor to the motherboard’s HDMI port. This is a common error when setting up a computer. You should connect the monitor to an available port on the dedicated graphics card instead, since the integrated GPU (Graphics Processing Unit) is typically disabled when a dedicated GPU is present.

If you are connecting a display using a USB-C adapter rather than HDMI, which is particularly common with laptops, you should be mindful that not all USB ports support this capability. For example, a USB-C port needs to support DisplayPort “Alt” mode for it to function as a monitor output. Occasionally, compatible ports will feature a small icon resembling a monitor next to them. Otherwise, you’ll need to consult that computer’s documentation to ascertain which ports support monitors. Of course, trial and error can also help you identify a working port, assuming at least one exists.

Certain computers will fail to detect the second monitor unless it’s rebooted with the monitor connected. On Windows, it may also be necessary to use the Win+P shortcut to ensure that “extend” or “mirror” is chosen, rather than “PC screen only.”

**Your display arrangement does not align with reality**

In most instances, your computer is unaware of how your displays are organized in the physical world. In specific cases, such as utilizing an iPad with universal control on a Mac, the computer can make an educated guess. However, in most situations, it’s likely to misinterpret the arrangement completely.

If your computer perceives the monitor on the left as being on the right, dragging a window from one screen to the next quickly becomes perplexing. This confusion is compounded when you mix monitors with differing native resolutions and aspect ratios.

This is why Windows, macOS, and the majority of desktop Linux versions include an icon in their respective display settings that allows you to adjust what your physical layout resembles. Simply drag the monitor icon to its correct position, and everything should function smoothly. However, ensure that all your monitors are configured to the resolution you wish to use, as this influences their relative dimensions in the virtual space, as illustrated above, with a 4K and FHD screen side-by-side.

**Some monitors seem sluggish**

We don’t always have the opportunity to use identical monitors in a dual-monitor configuration. Connecting a monitor to a laptop or acquiring a second monitor subsequently for your desktop typically results in two quite different display devices alongside each other. This can cause one monitor to appear sluggish in comparison to the other, which can be bothersome for many users. Fortunately, there are several ways to address this issue.

The most probable cause of this phenomenon is refresh rate discrepancies between your monitors. The refresh rate measures how frequently the screen updates the displayed image. A higher refresh rate means a smoother and more responsive screen experience. You don’t need a high refresh rate monitor for an enjoyable experience, but if one monitor can operate at 120Hz while the other can only manage half that rate, the difference will be jarring.

If this is something you cannot adapt to, the most straightforward solution is to set the refresh rate of both monitors to the highest rate that is supported by both. This way, you’ll achieve a consistent experience when transitioning between them.

still available today and are selling like hot cakes at Costco.

If you wish to view the scene, regrettably, “Back to the Future Part II” isn’t available for free streaming on any platforms currently, but you can rent or purchase it through services like Apple TV and Prime Video.

the iPhone Fold and M6 MacBook Pro models that are expected to showcase OLED displays and touchscreen capabilities might lead some individuals to believe that purchasing an iPad is unnecessary. Alternatively, other consumers who still appreciate the functionality of tablets may find Apple’s pricing for their desired model to be unappealing. Those buyers can always opt for a pre-owned iPad from Apple, an electronics store, or a former owner to discover a more reasonable price.

When considering the acquisition of a pre-owned iPad, it’s essential to recognize that there are several drawbacks that may not be immediately obvious. You’ll likely save some funds, as the most affordable iPad from Apple, the 128GB 11-inch iPad (A16), starts at $349 (Wi-Fi) or $499 (Wi-Fi + Cellular), while pricier alternatives, such as the 256GB 13-inch iPad Pro (M5), commence at a remarkable $1,299 (Wi-Fi) or $1,499 (Wi-Fi + Cellular). Additionally, if you require more than the 128GB or 256GB of storage, you’ll end up paying more, and you’ll need to invest in a Pro model for anything above 8GB of RAM (the 256GB and 512GB configurations have 12GB of RAM, while the 1TB and 2TB versions offer 16GB of RAM.) Including cellular capability (which adds a premium of $150 to $200 on top of the standard price), and a new iPad swiftly turns into a costly purchase, so how does it stack up against a pre-owned model?

exhibited by smart TV and display producers, providing consumers with insight into future directions. Altogether, these producers are moving away from specific practices or opportunities that have become unprofitable in favor of methods and applications that yield better returns. This is essentially what is transpiring with conventional IPS TV panels.

While they remain fairly affordable, entry-level IPS panels have drawbacks regarding contrast ratios, particularly with genuine blacks and darker shades, and despite improvements in response times, they still do not match other technologies. Premium IPS technologies that tackle some of these challenges either fail to deliver sufficient benefits to warrant the price, or there are superior alternatives, like Mini LED or OLED.

Additionally, what IPS excels at, such as providing outstanding color precision or wide viewing angles, other technologies replicate equally well, if not more effectively. OLED, for example, stands out as a prime option for rich and colorful imagery in gaming, films, and contemporary entertainment—OLED screens also enhance motion performance and offer improved contrast. It’s not that television manufacturers have entirely abandoned IPS technologies, but they have primarily redirected their attention to more advantageous choices.

**5 Awesome 3D Printing Projects to Try This Weekend**

3D printing has transformed how we produce and engage with objects, seamlessly converting digital files into physical items. Whether you’re an experienced 3D printing fan or a curious newcomer, numerous projects are available online for you to tackle over a weekend. Here are five thrilling 3D printing projects to explore:

**1. Bluey Cookie Cutter and Stamp**
Make delightful, themed treats with the Bluey Cookie Cutter and Stamp. This dual-design features a stamp for detailing and a cutter for cookie shapes. It’s a straightforward project that utilizes standard PLA filament and requires no supports. Ideal for a family baking outing, you can find this design on Thingiverse.

**2. Useful Prints for Storage and Organization**
Improve your home organization with a 3D printed bedside shelf. This practical shelf attaches directly to a bed frame, offering a reliable space for essentials such as phones and books. The design is robust and can be created with PLA filament. For additional storage enhancements, check out wall-mounted caddies and gadget holders on Thingiverse.

**3. A Rhino with Realistic Movement**
For toy lovers, the Jointed Rhino presents an enjoyable project. This movable toy prints in individual pieces and snaps together for fluid motion. Consider a resin 3D printer for a polished finish. Discover more toy designs like the Jointed Gorilla on Cults3D for further creative possibilities.

**4. Dummy 13: A Modular Action Figure**
Dummy 13 is a movable action figure that earned the title of 2024 3D Model of the Year. Its straightforward design is easy to print and can be customized with various filaments or paints. Scale it up for a larger figure and browse different accessories and remixes on Printables to personalize your Dummy 13.

**5. Create Collectibles Not Available in Stores**
Produce one-of-a-kind collectibles like the Hylian Shield and Master Sword from “The Legend of Zelda.” These intricate designs are great for displaying or cosplay purposes. Ensure supports are activated when printing, and take weight into account when enlarging. Discover these designs on Thingiverse for a fun weekend project.

**Print, Paint, Collect Pokémon and More**
For Pokémon and Studio Ghibli enthusiasts, check out detailed character models by “Patrickart” on Thingiverse. Resin 3D printers are perfect for capturing intricate details. Once printed, painting these models can be an enjoyable family activity. Use reputable paint brands like Games Workshop and Valejo for optimal results.

These projects highlight the creativity and flexibility that 3D printing provides. Whether crafting practical items or collectibles, there’s something for everyone to appreciate. Immerse yourself in the realm of 3D printing and bring your ideas to life this weekend!

Ionic Ear in Season 1 raised concerns among the judges. Although the agreement did not finalize during the post-show due diligence phase, Spare continues to operate a business website to advance its objectives.