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  • YouTube facing criminal ‘spying’ charges for ad blocker detection

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    YouTube on smartphone stock photo 16

    • A privacy expert is filing a criminal complaint against YouTube for its ad blocker detection scripts.
    • The expert argues that these scripts enable unlawful spying on EU citizens.
    • A civil complaint has also been filed against YouTube with the Irish Data Protection Commission.

    A privacy consultant is in the process of bringing criminal charges against YouTube in Europe for scripts that detect and restrict ad blockers on the platform.

    According to The Register, Alexander Hanff is filing a complaint against the streaming platform under Ireland’s computer abuse law. The privacy expert says he has notified Ireland’s National Police about his intent to give a statement about the criminal complaint. The police have reportedly acknowledged his complaint and asked for additional information.

    Hanff alleges that YouTube runs unlawful tracking scripts to detect ad blockers and that this practice amounts to spying on EU citizens. Hanff has also filed a civil complaint against YouTube’s browser interrogation system that detects ad blockers with the Irish Data Protection Commission. The regulatory authority has sought a response from Google and is waiting for the company to release a statement about Hanff’s claim.

    “I consider YouTube’s script to be spyware — aka surveillance technology, as it is deployed without my knowledge or authorization to my device for the sole purpose of intercepting and monitoring my behavior (whether or not ads load in my browser or are blocked by an ad blocker),” he told The Register.

    “I chose to go down the criminal complaint route because historically, EU regulators have been absolutely terrible at enforcing the ePrivacy Directive — and I mean really bad, I would argue even negligent,” Hanff noted in his statement.

    YouTube recently made global a highly unpopular policy to block ad blockers on the platform. Users who fail to comply have also found themselves locked out of the platform unless they turn off ad blockers or subscribe to YouTube Premium.

    Hanff hopes his criminal complaint sends a strong message to Google that it needs to end its surveillance practices that go against EU law. He argues that under EU law, consent is necessary for running any non-necessary interactions, including the scripts YouTube runs to detect ad blockers.

    “Additionally, the Irish law I am using holds directors, managers, or other officers who willfully cause such an offense to be committed liable of the same offense and are not shielded by the legal entity they work for,” he said.



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    YouTube on smartphone stock photo 16

    • A privacy expert is filing a criminal complaint against YouTube for its ad blocker detection scripts.
    • The expert argues that these scripts enable unlawful spying on EU citizens.
    • A civil complaint has also been filed against YouTube with the Irish Data Protection Commission.

    A privacy consultant is in the process of bringing criminal charges against YouTube in Europe for scripts that detect and restrict ad blockers on the platform.

    According to The Register, Alexander Hanff is filing a complaint against the streaming platform under Ireland’s computer abuse law. The privacy expert says he has notified Ireland’s National Police about his intent to give a statement about the criminal complaint. The police have reportedly acknowledged his complaint and asked for additional information.

    Hanff alleges that YouTube runs unlawful tracking scripts to detect ad blockers and that this practice amounts to spying on EU citizens. Hanff has also filed a civil complaint against YouTube’s browser interrogation system that detects ad blockers with the Irish Data Protection Commission. The regulatory authority has sought a response from Google and is waiting for the company to release a statement about Hanff’s claim.

    “I consider YouTube’s script to be spyware — aka surveillance technology, as it is deployed without my knowledge or authorization to my device for the sole purpose of intercepting and monitoring my behavior (whether or not ads load in my browser or are blocked by an ad blocker),” he told The Register.

    “I chose to go down the criminal complaint route because historically, EU regulators have been absolutely terrible at enforcing the ePrivacy Directive — and I mean really bad, I would argue even negligent,” Hanff noted in his statement.

    YouTube recently made global a highly unpopular policy to block ad blockers on the platform. Users who fail to comply have also found themselves locked out of the platform unless they turn off ad blockers or subscribe to YouTube Premium.

    Hanff hopes his criminal complaint sends a strong message to Google that it needs to end its surveillance practices that go against EU law. He argues that under EU law, consent is necessary for running any non-necessary interactions, including the scripts YouTube runs to detect ad blockers.

    “Additionally, the Irish law I am using holds directors, managers, or other officers who willfully cause such an offense to be committed liable of the same offense and are not shielded by the legal entity they work for,” he said.



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    The Bose NC Headphones 700 hit an all-time low price of just $259

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    The Bose Noise Cancelling Headphones 700 are one of the products we’re always eyeing for deals in the holiday season. As the best Bose headsets you can buy, any price drop is worth a look, so a record discount is not to be missed. The epic cans are at an all-time low price on Amazon right now of just $259.

    Bose Noise Cancelling Headphones 700 for $259 ($120 off)



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    The Bose Noise Cancelling Headphones 700 are one of the products we’re always eyeing for deals in the holiday season. As the best Bose headsets you can buy, any price drop is worth a look, so a record discount is not to be missed. The epic cans are at an all-time low price on Amazon right now of just $259.

    Bose Noise Cancelling Headphones 700 for $259 ($120 off)



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    It’s been almost a decade: Give us more base Google One storage already

    0
    Google One page on smartphone Stock photo
    Credit: Edgar Cervantes / Android Authority
    Opinion post by
    Hadlee Simons

    Google One storage is the default cloud storage service on Android phones globally, and it makes for a pretty seamless backup experience. The service also means quick-fire access to all your data across loads of devices — convenience at its finest.

    There’s one complaint I have about Google One, though. And that’s the fact that Google hasn’t upgraded the base storage in years.



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    Google One page on smartphone Stock photo
    Credit: Edgar Cervantes / Android Authority
    Opinion post by
    Hadlee Simons

    Google One storage is the default cloud storage service on Android phones globally, and it makes for a pretty seamless backup experience. The service also means quick-fire access to all your data across loads of devices — convenience at its finest.

    There’s one complaint I have about Google One, though. And that’s the fact that Google hasn’t upgraded the base storage in years.



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    The iPhone is playing catch-up with Android’s photos, but still leads in video

    0
    Apple iPhone 15 Pro with older iPhones in background
    Credit: Robert Triggs / Android Authority
    Opinion post by
    Dhruv Bhutani

    Tim Cook getting up on stage and claiming that Apple’s made the best iPhone ever is almost tradition at this point. Which if you think about it, is a pretty dumb statement to make. You wouldn’t expect any smartphone maker to make a phone worse than their previous one, would you? Every year, Apple adds some cool features on its own then takes a sprinkling of long-standing Android features, rebrands them as revolutionary, and ships them to its users.

    The iPhone 15-series sticks to the script of matching Android photography features, but remains far ahead on a single front — video.

    This year’s iPhone 15 series launch was no different. Pixel-binning, lossless zoom, even a periscope-style zoom lens, all the features we’ve taken for granted on Android made a showing. But for all its Android inspiration, one aspect of the iPhone remains leaps and bounds ahead of the curve, truly “the best.” And it only got better this year. Video.



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    Apple iPhone 15 Pro with older iPhones in background
    Credit: Robert Triggs / Android Authority
    Opinion post by
    Dhruv Bhutani

    Tim Cook getting up on stage and claiming that Apple’s made the best iPhone ever is almost tradition at this point. Which if you think about it, is a pretty dumb statement to make. You wouldn’t expect any smartphone maker to make a phone worse than their previous one, would you? Every year, Apple adds some cool features on its own then takes a sprinkling of long-standing Android features, rebrands them as revolutionary, and ships them to its users.

    The iPhone 15-series sticks to the script of matching Android photography features, but remains far ahead on a single front — video.

    This year’s iPhone 15 series launch was no different. Pixel-binning, lossless zoom, even a periscope-style zoom lens, all the features we’ve taken for granted on Android made a showing. But for all its Android inspiration, one aspect of the iPhone remains leaps and bounds ahead of the curve, truly “the best.” And it only got better this year. Video.



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    Tecno Pova 5 Pro - Full phone specifications

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    Samsung Galaxy S23 FE review: Should you buy it?

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    Should you buy the Samsung Galaxy S23 FE?

    Galaxy S23 FE in hand



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    Should you buy the Samsung Galaxy S23 FE?

    Galaxy S23 FE in hand



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    Steam Deck LCD vs OLED: How do they compare?

    0

    The original Steam Deck was a surprise hit, even for Valve, which up until the handheld’s launch in 2022 had developed a poor track record with first-party hardware — its Index VR headset is the only other device it still has on the market. The Deck has been so successful, in fact, that there’s now a burgeoning industry of handheld gaming PCs.

    To stay relevant, Valve recently announced the Steam Deck OLED, a revision with a number of upgrades. So how does the new model compare against the LCD Steam Deck, which is still on sale at a lower cost? Which one should you actually buy?



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    The original Steam Deck was a surprise hit, even for Valve, which up until the handheld’s launch in 2022 had developed a poor track record with first-party hardware — its Index VR headset is the only other device it still has on the market. The Deck has been so successful, in fact, that there’s now a burgeoning industry of handheld gaming PCs.

    To stay relevant, Valve recently announced the Steam Deck OLED, a revision with a number of upgrades. So how does the new model compare against the LCD Steam Deck, which is still on sale at a lower cost? Which one should you actually buy?



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    Is T-Mobile Go5G really better than Magenta, or just more expensive?

    0
    T-mobile in the background, its official logo
    Credit: Kris Carlon / Android Authority

    When I first learned about the new Go5G plans from T-Mobile I was a little confused by just how little the new plans seemed to offer. One of the things we previously loved about T-Mobile was the simplicity of its plans. It was easy to pick the right plan as the differences between Essentials, Magenta, and Magenta Max were fairly noticeable. That all changed with the introduction of Go5G.

    Although Essentials is the most basic tier, it’s less clear if Go5G sits above Magenta or not. The answer really depends on what you’re looking for. Let’s take a closer look in this quick Go5G vs Magenta comparison.



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    T-mobile in the background, its official logo
    Credit: Kris Carlon / Android Authority

    When I first learned about the new Go5G plans from T-Mobile I was a little confused by just how little the new plans seemed to offer. One of the things we previously loved about T-Mobile was the simplicity of its plans. It was easy to pick the right plan as the differences between Essentials, Magenta, and Magenta Max were fairly noticeable. That all changed with the introduction of Go5G.

    Although Essentials is the most basic tier, it’s less clear if Go5G sits above Magenta or not. The answer really depends on what you’re looking for. Let’s take a closer look in this quick Go5G vs Magenta comparison.



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    OnePlus Watch 2 leak reveals it may have the OS everyone was hoping for

    0
    OnePlus Watch 2 5K1
    Credit: MySmartPrice
    • The original OnePlus Watch ran on an operating system called RTOS.
    • A leak suggests the OnePlus Watch 2 will instead run on Wear OS 4.
    • The more complex OS should give the OnePlus Watch 2 more functionality than its predecessor.

    Earlier today, new renders of the OnePlus 2 leaked, showing us the design of the upcoming smartwatch. A new leak now tells us that next-generation device may run on Wear OS.

    Back in October, tipster Max Jambor gave us details about a potential 2024 launch window for the OnePlus Watch 2. Now Jambor is back with a new leak that claims the second OnePlus Watch will use Wear OS 4.



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    OnePlus Watch 2 5K1
    Credit: MySmartPrice
    • The original OnePlus Watch ran on an operating system called RTOS.
    • A leak suggests the OnePlus Watch 2 will instead run on Wear OS 4.
    • The more complex OS should give the OnePlus Watch 2 more functionality than its predecessor.

    Earlier today, new renders of the OnePlus 2 leaked, showing us the design of the upcoming smartwatch. A new leak now tells us that next-generation device may run on Wear OS.

    Back in October, tipster Max Jambor gave us details about a potential 2024 launch window for the OnePlus Watch 2. Now Jambor is back with a new leak that claims the second OnePlus Watch will use Wear OS 4.



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    Amazon may drop Android and build its own next-gen smart home OS

    0
    ces 2023 amazon logo
    Credit: Ryan Haines / Android Authority
    • Amazon may be working on an in-house operating system called Vega.
    • Sources say Amazon plans to eventually step away completely from Android and implement Vega across all of its products.
    • Amazon could start shipping Fire TVs with Vega sometime next year.

    Amazon tends to rely on a forked version of Android for its smart displays, TVs, and other smart home products. But the corporation could soon ditch Google’s OS in favor of its own. And the switch to Amazon’s new OS may start as soon as next year.

    According to Janko Roettgers of Lowpass, Amazon is working on an alternative to Android for its hardware. Internally known as Vega, the OS has reportedly been tested on Fire TV streaming adapters, and Amazon has told partners about its plan to transition to the new OS. Sources close to the matter claim Amazon could start shipping Fire TV’s with Vega sometime in 2024.



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    ces 2023 amazon logo
    Credit: Ryan Haines / Android Authority
    • Amazon may be working on an in-house operating system called Vega.
    • Sources say Amazon plans to eventually step away completely from Android and implement Vega across all of its products.
    • Amazon could start shipping Fire TVs with Vega sometime next year.

    Amazon tends to rely on a forked version of Android for its smart displays, TVs, and other smart home products. But the corporation could soon ditch Google’s OS in favor of its own. And the switch to Amazon’s new OS may start as soon as next year.

    According to Janko Roettgers of Lowpass, Amazon is working on an alternative to Android for its hardware. Internally known as Vega, the OS has reportedly been tested on Fire TV streaming adapters, and Amazon has told partners about its plan to transition to the new OS. Sources close to the matter claim Amazon could start shipping Fire TV’s with Vega sometime in 2024.



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    The best new streaming movies this week on Netflix, Hulu, Prime, and more

    0
    Chromecast with Google TV HD with remote and box 2
    Credit: Edgar Cervantes / Android Authority

    There is a lot to watch on various streaming services — sometimes, it almost feels like too much. It’s not always easy to choose among the walls of options, jumping from one app to the other and looking for the perfect TV show or movie night selection, including some great original streaming movies. To simplify things for you, we’ve compiled some of the best new streaming movies to watch this week. 

    Check out our top picks from major streamers like Netflix, Hulu, Prime Video, and more, including free streamers like Plex, Tubi, and Amazon’s Freevee, as well as more niche services like Mubi and Shudder. The titles below were added to these services in the last month, and we aim to include a mix of streaming originals, new releases, older classics, and more. Read on for a list of the best new movies to stream this week. 



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    Chromecast with Google TV HD with remote and box 2
    Credit: Edgar Cervantes / Android Authority

    There is a lot to watch on various streaming services — sometimes, it almost feels like too much. It’s not always easy to choose among the walls of options, jumping from one app to the other and looking for the perfect TV show or movie night selection, including some great original streaming movies. To simplify things for you, we’ve compiled some of the best new streaming movies to watch this week. 

    Check out our top picks from major streamers like Netflix, Hulu, Prime Video, and more, including free streamers like Plex, Tubi, and Amazon’s Freevee, as well as more niche services like Mubi and Shudder. The titles below were added to these services in the last month, and we aim to include a mix of streaming originals, new releases, older classics, and more. Read on for a list of the best new movies to stream this week. 



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    How to get Netflix for free with T-Mobile

    0
    T Mobile logo angled MWC 2022
    Credit: Eric Zeman / Android Authority

    There are some pretty great unlimited phone plans available in the United States these days. You can get good coverage and solid prices almost anywhere, so it comes down to perks to set them apart. If you’re eyeing up T-Mobile’s plans, you might be wondering what else your plan can get you. The answer, of course, is that you can get Netflix for free just by signing up. Here’s how to get yourself set up for some free movies and TV shows.

    If you’re just looking for any way to get Netflix for free, we still have you covered.



    from Android Authority https://ift.tt/nKZDa9U
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    T Mobile logo angled MWC 2022
    Credit: Eric Zeman / Android Authority

    There are some pretty great unlimited phone plans available in the United States these days. You can get good coverage and solid prices almost anywhere, so it comes down to perks to set them apart. If you’re eyeing up T-Mobile’s plans, you might be wondering what else your plan can get you. The answer, of course, is that you can get Netflix for free just by signing up. Here’s how to get yourself set up for some free movies and TV shows.

    If you’re just looking for any way to get Netflix for free, we still have you covered.



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    Pixel Watch app could finally get a feature it should’ve launched with

    0
    Google Pixel Watch 2 charging
    Credit: Kaitlyn Cimino / Android Authority
    • The latest version of the Pixel Watch app is hiding a new feature.
    • The feature sends a notification to your phone telling you when your Pixel Watch is finished charging.
    • The feature is currently a flag that needs to be enabled.

    When the Pixel Watch companion app launched in 2022, it had most of the stuff you expected it to have, like configuration options, settings, and more. However, it was missing a feature that most people would have considered to be pretty obvious — a full charge notification. But it looks like Google could finally be ready to introduce the feature soon.

    As discovered by the Google News Telegram channel, the latest version of the Pixel Watch app has a behind-the-scenes option. Hidden behind a server-side flag, there appears to be a notification feature. Once enabled, your Pixel Watch will send a notification to your phone letting you know when it has reached full charge.



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    Google Pixel Watch 2 charging
    Credit: Kaitlyn Cimino / Android Authority
    • The latest version of the Pixel Watch app is hiding a new feature.
    • The feature sends a notification to your phone telling you when your Pixel Watch is finished charging.
    • The feature is currently a flag that needs to be enabled.

    When the Pixel Watch companion app launched in 2022, it had most of the stuff you expected it to have, like configuration options, settings, and more. However, it was missing a feature that most people would have considered to be pretty obvious — a full charge notification. But it looks like Google could finally be ready to introduce the feature soon.

    As discovered by the Google News Telegram channel, the latest version of the Pixel Watch app has a behind-the-scenes option. Hidden behind a server-side flag, there appears to be a notification feature. Once enabled, your Pixel Watch will send a notification to your phone letting you know when it has reached full charge.



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    Google’s generative AI search feature is now available in over 120 countries

    0
    google search generative experience sge stock
    Credit: Calvin Wankhede / Android Authority
    • Google’s Search Generative Experience (SGE) is getting its biggest expansion yet.
    • The AI-powered feature is now available in over 120 countries.
    • SGE is also getting support for four new languages.

    It’s been about six months since Search Generative Experience (SGE) launched for Google Search. Since its launch, the AI-powered search feature has gradually rolled out to more and more countries. Now Google is expanding the availability of SGE to 120 additional countries while adding some new functions.

    Initially, SGE was only available in the US for those who signed up for Search Labs. It eventually landed in India and Japan, while adding Hindi to its supported languages. Today’s announcement reveals the feature is rolling out globally to Mexico, Brazil, South Korea, Indonesia, Nigeria, and more. The company has also increased the number of supported languages, adding Spanish, Portuguese, Korean, and Indonesian.



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    google search generative experience sge stock
    Credit: Calvin Wankhede / Android Authority
    • Google’s Search Generative Experience (SGE) is getting its biggest expansion yet.
    • The AI-powered feature is now available in over 120 countries.
    • SGE is also getting support for four new languages.

    It’s been about six months since Search Generative Experience (SGE) launched for Google Search. Since its launch, the AI-powered search feature has gradually rolled out to more and more countries. Now Google is expanding the availability of SGE to 120 additional countries while adding some new functions.

    Initially, SGE was only available in the US for those who signed up for Search Labs. It eventually landed in India and Japan, while adding Hindi to its supported languages. Today’s announcement reveals the feature is rolling out globally to Mexico, Brazil, South Korea, Indonesia, Nigeria, and more. The company has also increased the number of supported languages, adding Spanish, Portuguese, Korean, and Indonesian.



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    CMF by Nothing expands product availability to the US and 14 other countries

    0
    CMF by Nothing First Products 2023
    Credit: Nothing
    • CMF by Nothing’s products were initially launched only in the UK.
    • The Nothing sub-brand is now expanding product availability to 15 countries, including the US.
    • The products include earbuds, a smartwatch, and a 65W GaN charger.

    CMF — a sub-brand from the makers of the Nothing Phone 2 — held the launch of its inaugural product lineup back in September. The lineup was initially only available in one region, but the company is now expanding availability to 15 additional countries, with more to come down the line.

    CMF has announced that its products are now available in 15 more countries, including the US, Germany, Japan, Malaysia, Australia, and more. This product collection includes the Buds Pro, Watch Pro, and Power 65W GaN. The company says it has plans to come to 26 more markets before the end of the year.



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    CMF by Nothing First Products 2023
    Credit: Nothing
    • CMF by Nothing’s products were initially launched only in the UK.
    • The Nothing sub-brand is now expanding product availability to 15 countries, including the US.
    • The products include earbuds, a smartwatch, and a 65W GaN charger.

    CMF — a sub-brand from the makers of the Nothing Phone 2 — held the launch of its inaugural product lineup back in September. The lineup was initially only available in one region, but the company is now expanding availability to 15 additional countries, with more to come down the line.

    CMF has announced that its products are now available in 15 more countries, including the US, Germany, Japan, Malaysia, Australia, and more. This product collection includes the Buds Pro, Watch Pro, and Power 65W GaN. The company says it has plans to come to 26 more markets before the end of the year.



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    Resident Evil 4 Remake on iPhone 15 Pro gets release date, pre-orders open

    0
    Resident Evil 4
    • Capcom has revealed the launch date for Resident Evil 4 Remake on iPhone and iPad.
    • The game will launch next month on December 20.
    • A demo will also be available for download.

    During Apple’s iPhone event, Capcom producer Tsuyoshi Kanda revealed two Resident Evil games would be coming to the iPhone 15 Pro and iPad. Resident Evil Village hit the Apple Store about a week ago, and now Capcom has given us the release date for Resident Evil 4 Remake.

    On X (formerly Twitter), Resident Evil developer and publisher Capcom revealed that Resident Evil 4 Remake will come to the iPhone 15 Pro, Pro Max, and all iPads with an M1 chip or later on December 20, 2023. The company says that pre-orders start today and that a demo will also be available for download. You can see screenshots of how the game will look down below.



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    Resident Evil 4
    • Capcom has revealed the launch date for Resident Evil 4 Remake on iPhone and iPad.
    • The game will launch next month on December 20.
    • A demo will also be available for download.

    During Apple’s iPhone event, Capcom producer Tsuyoshi Kanda revealed two Resident Evil games would be coming to the iPhone 15 Pro and iPad. Resident Evil Village hit the Apple Store about a week ago, and now Capcom has given us the release date for Resident Evil 4 Remake.

    On X (formerly Twitter), Resident Evil developer and publisher Capcom revealed that Resident Evil 4 Remake will come to the iPhone 15 Pro, Pro Max, and all iPads with an M1 chip or later on December 20, 2023. The company says that pre-orders start today and that a demo will also be available for download. You can see screenshots of how the game will look down below.



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    Instagram will now let you ghost conversations in peace

    0
    Instagram on Nothing Phone 2 showing Android Authority account
    Credit: Damien Wilde / Android Authority
    • If you wanted to read Instagram messages without letting anyone know, you previously had to use a workaround.
    • Meta’s CEO has confirmed that users now have the ability to turn off read receipts.

    When you send a direct message on the popular iOS and Android app Instagram, a read receipt will generate, informing you if the recipient saw your message. While this can be helpful for the sender, it can be annoying for the person who wants to read their messages privately. If you’re one of those people who wants to ignore conversations in peace, the app will soon let you disable read receipts.

    There are a variety of reasons why someone might want to turn off read receipts. For example, you may want to read a message without feeling pressured to respond right away. Or you may feel that read receipts are an invasion of your privacy.



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    Instagram on Nothing Phone 2 showing Android Authority account
    Credit: Damien Wilde / Android Authority
    • If you wanted to read Instagram messages without letting anyone know, you previously had to use a workaround.
    • Meta’s CEO has confirmed that users now have the ability to turn off read receipts.

    When you send a direct message on the popular iOS and Android app Instagram, a read receipt will generate, informing you if the recipient saw your message. While this can be helpful for the sender, it can be annoying for the person who wants to read their messages privately. If you’re one of those people who wants to ignore conversations in peace, the app will soon let you disable read receipts.

    There are a variety of reasons why someone might want to turn off read receipts. For example, you may want to read a message without feeling pressured to respond right away. Or you may feel that read receipts are an invasion of your privacy.



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    We know fake AirPods suck, but now we can actually see why

    0
    Airpod vs fake
    Credit: Lumafield
    • A firm specializing in CT scanning has put Apple’s AirPods Pro (2nd gen) and a couple of fakes under the X-ray.
    • The scans show that Apple’s product is far more complex than any counterfeit version.

    When a company makes a popular, high-quality product — like the AirPods Pro — ripoffs are sure to come out of the woodwork. These days, counterfeits have become sophisticated enough that they look a lot like the devices they are based on. However, that exterior is the only thing that comes close to the real version, and now we know why, thanks to some new X-ray scans.

    Lumafield, the firm that showed us the difference between $5 and $130 USB-C cables, has now done the same with Apple’s AirPods Pro (2nd gen) vs its imposters. The 3D scans do an incredible job of showing how much more complex the real deal is compared to its imitators.



    from Android Authority https://ift.tt/1LcsgfI
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    Airpod vs fake
    Credit: Lumafield
    • A firm specializing in CT scanning has put Apple’s AirPods Pro (2nd gen) and a couple of fakes under the X-ray.
    • The scans show that Apple’s product is far more complex than any counterfeit version.

    When a company makes a popular, high-quality product — like the AirPods Pro — ripoffs are sure to come out of the woodwork. These days, counterfeits have become sophisticated enough that they look a lot like the devices they are based on. However, that exterior is the only thing that comes close to the real version, and now we know why, thanks to some new X-ray scans.

    Lumafield, the firm that showed us the difference between $5 and $130 USB-C cables, has now done the same with Apple’s AirPods Pro (2nd gen) vs its imposters. The 3D scans do an incredible job of showing how much more complex the real deal is compared to its imitators.



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    The first Google Pixel 8 series update is out now

    0

    Google Pixel 8 homescreen in hand

    Credit: Robert Triggs / Android Authority
    • The Pixel 8 phones are receiving their first firmware update.
    • This update is part of Google’s November 2023 software update for Pixel phones.
    • It fixes a ‘screen jerkiness’ issue on the Pixel 8 range, among other tweaks.

    The Google Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro launched just over a month ago, bringing a host of upgrades and software additions to the table. Now, the new phones have received their first update as part of the Pixel line’s November 2023 updates.



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    Google Pixel 8 homescreen in hand

    Credit: Robert Triggs / Android Authority
    • The Pixel 8 phones are receiving their first firmware update.
    • This update is part of Google’s November 2023 software update for Pixel phones.
    • It fixes a ‘screen jerkiness’ issue on the Pixel 8 range, among other tweaks.

    The Google Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro launched just over a month ago, bringing a host of upgrades and software additions to the table. Now, the new phones have received their first update as part of the Pixel line’s November 2023 updates.



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    Can you change your Spotify username?

    0
    Your Spotify username is the key to many features on Spotify. It is one of the ways to log in to Spotify. It’s for you and your friends to find and follow each other, to listen to something together. However, is it something you can alter? Just like how you can change your profile picture, can you change your Spotify username?

    THE SHORT ANSWER

    You cannot change your Spotify username. However, you can change your Spotify display name, which replaces your username on your user profile. To change your display name, go to your profile > Edit profile > Enter your desired name > Save.



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    Your Spotify username is the key to many features on Spotify. It is one of the ways to log in to Spotify. It’s for you and your friends to find and follow each other, to listen to something together. However, is it something you can alter? Just like how you can change your profile picture, can you change your Spotify username?

    THE SHORT ANSWER

    You cannot change your Spotify username. However, you can change your Spotify display name, which replaces your username on your user profile. To change your display name, go to your profile > Edit profile > Enter your desired name > Save.



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    ChatGPT can now be customized into your own unique chatbot

    0
    ChatGPT stock photo 73
    Credit: Calvin Wankhede / Android Authority
    • OpenAI has introduced customizable versions of ChatGPT called GPTs.
    • If you are a ChatGPT Plus or Enterprise user, you can start trying out example GPTs today.
    • OpenAI plans on launching a GPT store later this month.

    Today, OpenAI held its developer conference, where it made several ChatGPT announcements. Among those announcements, it revealed it’s rolling out customizable versions of its chatbot called GPTs.

    According to OpenAI, GPTs are a way for users to create their own tailored versions of the popular chatbot. The company says there’s no need for coding; they’ve made GPTs so they can be built by anyone. People can also share the GPTs they create with others.



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    ChatGPT stock photo 73
    Credit: Calvin Wankhede / Android Authority
    • OpenAI has introduced customizable versions of ChatGPT called GPTs.
    • If you are a ChatGPT Plus or Enterprise user, you can start trying out example GPTs today.
    • OpenAI plans on launching a GPT store later this month.

    Today, OpenAI held its developer conference, where it made several ChatGPT announcements. Among those announcements, it revealed it’s rolling out customizable versions of its chatbot called GPTs.

    According to OpenAI, GPTs are a way for users to create their own tailored versions of the popular chatbot. The company says there’s no need for coding; they’ve made GPTs so they can be built by anyone. People can also share the GPTs they create with others.



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    Google could make the Pixel Watch 3 buttonless

    0
    A user takes a Google Pixel Watch 2 screenshot by pressing the back button and Digital Crown simultaneously.
    Credit: Kaitlyn Cimino / Android Authority
    • Google has filed a patent for potential smartwatch sensors.
    • The patent suggests the next Pixel Watch could have new gesture recognition sensors.
    • It appears Google is looking for ways to control the smartwatch without obscuring the already limited screen space.

    When you look at the Pixel Watch and the Pixel Watch 2, the design is almost identical. Although Google mostly avoided making any changes to the design for this year’s model, a new patent may hint at a design change for the Pixel Watch 3.

    First spotted by Wearable, Google has filed a new smartwatch-related patent. It discusses the possibility of having sensors inside the next Pixel Watch that can detect gestures like presses, taps, squeezes, and swipes.



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    A user takes a Google Pixel Watch 2 screenshot by pressing the back button and Digital Crown simultaneously.
    Credit: Kaitlyn Cimino / Android Authority
    • Google has filed a patent for potential smartwatch sensors.
    • The patent suggests the next Pixel Watch could have new gesture recognition sensors.
    • It appears Google is looking for ways to control the smartwatch without obscuring the already limited screen space.

    When you look at the Pixel Watch and the Pixel Watch 2, the design is almost identical. Although Google mostly avoided making any changes to the design for this year’s model, a new patent may hint at a design change for the Pixel Watch 3.

    First spotted by Wearable, Google has filed a new smartwatch-related patent. It discusses the possibility of having sensors inside the next Pixel Watch that can detect gestures like presses, taps, squeezes, and swipes.



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    Musk’s ChatGPT rival ‘Grok’ can humor your requests for drug recipes

    0

    Grok xAI XAI logo

    Credit: xAI
    • Elon Musk’s AI venture xAI has unveiled its new conversational chatbot called Grok.
    • The company says it is modeled after The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy and has “a rebellious streak.”
    • The AI is available to select verified X users who sign up for the early access program.

    Elon Musk’s AI venture xAI has released a new chatbot named Grok to rival the likes of ChatGPT and Google Bard. According to the company, Grok is modeled after Douglas Adams’ sci-fi franchise “The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy.” The chatbot is also said to have “a bit of a wit” and “a rebellious streak.”



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    Grok xAI XAI logo

    Credit: xAI
    • Elon Musk’s AI venture xAI has unveiled its new conversational chatbot called Grok.
    • The company says it is modeled after The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy and has “a rebellious streak.”
    • The AI is available to select verified X users who sign up for the early access program.

    Elon Musk’s AI venture xAI has released a new chatbot named Grok to rival the likes of ChatGPT and Google Bard. According to the company, Grok is modeled after Douglas Adams’ sci-fi franchise “The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy.” The chatbot is also said to have “a bit of a wit” and “a rebellious streak.”



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    What does the star mean on Apple Music?

    0

    If you are a subscriber to Apple Music, then you may have noticed something during browsing for music to play. Some tracks have a single star next to them. If you mouse over it, that star changes to a heart icon in case you want to “love” the track. But what does the star mean on Apple Music, and why is it there?

    QUICK ANSWER



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    If you are a subscriber to Apple Music, then you may have noticed something during browsing for music to play. Some tracks have a single star next to them. If you mouse over it, that star changes to a heart icon in case you want to “love” the track. But what does the star mean on Apple Music, and why is it there?

    QUICK ANSWER



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    The best Google Pixel Watch 2 bands

    0

    Google’s latest Pixel Watch 2 features the same seamless band attachment style as its predecessor, resulting in a minimalist impression on users’ wrists. To personalize the sleek look of your device, shop our round-up of the best Pixel Watch 2 bands available.

    Buying the right Google Pixel Watch 2 band for your needs

    The Pixel Watch 2 is a powerful device you’ll want to keep on your arm. That means pairing the watch with a comfortable band that fits your needs. We found the device’s included sport band plenty comfortable during our Google Pixel Watch 2 review. Still, there are many more options in additional colors and materials, including picks from third-party retailers.



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    Google’s latest Pixel Watch 2 features the same seamless band attachment style as its predecessor, resulting in a minimalist impression on users’ wrists. To personalize the sleek look of your device, shop our round-up of the best Pixel Watch 2 bands available.

    Buying the right Google Pixel Watch 2 band for your needs

    The Pixel Watch 2 is a powerful device you’ll want to keep on your arm. That means pairing the watch with a comfortable band that fits your needs. We found the device’s included sport band plenty comfortable during our Google Pixel Watch 2 review. Still, there are many more options in additional colors and materials, including picks from third-party retailers.



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    Monochrome themes aren’t boring. The Nothing Phone 2 convinced me of that.

    0
    nothing phone 2 lockscreen monochrome 2
    Credit: Rita El Khoury / Android Authority
    Opinion post by
    Rita El Khoury

    Colors are beautiful. I love a pop of color, be it in my life, my furniture, my clothes, and yes, even my Android phones. I choose a colored phone and case when I can, I often pick colorful wallpapers, and I stick with the default icons instead of applying Google’s Material You unicolored icons (because I just want to find the app I’m looking for in the least amount of time). So you can imagine that the Nothing Phone 2’s black-and-white monochrome theme goes against every single one of those preferences.

    And to be fair, I was convinced that it wasn’t up my alley at all. In every product picture and hands-on video I saw, I disliked the dot-matrix font, the 60s-throwback theme, and the lack of color. I thought it looked dull and boring. Well, that is until I got a Nothing Phone 2 in my hand and, well, I realized I had judged it too harshly. I was wrong.



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    nothing phone 2 lockscreen monochrome 2
    Credit: Rita El Khoury / Android Authority
    Opinion post by
    Rita El Khoury

    Colors are beautiful. I love a pop of color, be it in my life, my furniture, my clothes, and yes, even my Android phones. I choose a colored phone and case when I can, I often pick colorful wallpapers, and I stick with the default icons instead of applying Google’s Material You unicolored icons (because I just want to find the app I’m looking for in the least amount of time). So you can imagine that the Nothing Phone 2’s black-and-white monochrome theme goes against every single one of those preferences.

    And to be fair, I was convinced that it wasn’t up my alley at all. In every product picture and hands-on video I saw, I disliked the dot-matrix font, the 60s-throwback theme, and the lack of color. I thought it looked dull and boring. Well, that is until I got a Nothing Phone 2 in my hand and, well, I realized I had judged it too harshly. I was wrong.



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    The Pixel Watch 2 finally got me to take off my original Fitbit Sense

    0
    google pixel watch 2 bay blue watch face 4
    Credit: Rita El Khoury / Android Authority
    Opinion post by
    C. Scott Brown

    If you’ve been reading Android Authority over the past few years, you may have seen some articles I’ve written about the original Fitbit Sense. In a word, I love the Sense. I’ve published thousands of words here talking about it since it first launched in 2020. Even with the sequel landing in 2022 and countless other amazing smartwatches launching, the Sense has been on my wrist all day, every day, for three years straight. That is, until now.

    I got a Google Pixel Watch 2 for free with my Pixel 8 Pro and decided to give it a shot. Although I’ve had to change some habits, the Pixel Watch 2 is finally an adequate replacement for my years-old Fitbit. It’s nice to have something fresh!



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    google pixel watch 2 bay blue watch face 4
    Credit: Rita El Khoury / Android Authority
    Opinion post by
    C. Scott Brown

    If you’ve been reading Android Authority over the past few years, you may have seen some articles I’ve written about the original Fitbit Sense. In a word, I love the Sense. I’ve published thousands of words here talking about it since it first launched in 2020. Even with the sequel landing in 2022 and countless other amazing smartwatches launching, the Sense has been on my wrist all day, every day, for three years straight. That is, until now.

    I got a Google Pixel Watch 2 for free with my Pixel 8 Pro and decided to give it a shot. Although I’ve had to change some habits, the Pixel Watch 2 is finally an adequate replacement for my years-old Fitbit. It’s nice to have something fresh!



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    Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 vs Snapdragon 8 Gen 2: What’s new and should you upgrade?

    0
    Qualcomm Snapdragon logo CPU
    Credit: Robert Triggs / Android Authority

    Chipmaker Qualcomm has announced the latest SoC in its high-end Snapdragon 8 family, the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3. The chip will power most of the flagship Android phones released through the end of 2023 and throughout most of 2024. A wide range of brands have committed to adopting this chip, and some, like Xiaomi, have already announced devices powered by it. But what upgrades does the new Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 bring to the table, and how does it compare to Qualcomm’s former best, the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2? Let’s break it down.

    Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 vs Snapdragon 8 Gen 2: Specs

    With its latest Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chip, Qualcomm is promising a big performance and efficiency improvement. Here’s a spec table that showcases what the company has changed between the two chip generations.



    from Android Authority https://ift.tt/cMswnxd
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    Qualcomm Snapdragon logo CPU
    Credit: Robert Triggs / Android Authority

    Chipmaker Qualcomm has announced the latest SoC in its high-end Snapdragon 8 family, the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3. The chip will power most of the flagship Android phones released through the end of 2023 and throughout most of 2024. A wide range of brands have committed to adopting this chip, and some, like Xiaomi, have already announced devices powered by it. But what upgrades does the new Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 bring to the table, and how does it compare to Qualcomm’s former best, the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2? Let’s break it down.

    Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 vs Snapdragon 8 Gen 2: Specs

    With its latest Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chip, Qualcomm is promising a big performance and efficiency improvement. Here’s a spec table that showcases what the company has changed between the two chip generations.



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    Jazzcash Se Paise Kaise Kamaye | How to Earn Money from Jazzcash App

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    Microsoft Surface Laptop 6 rumors: Expected release date and what we want to see

    0
    surface laptop 4 on chair
    Credit: Calvin Wankhede / Android Authority

    Update, November 3, 2023 (5:40 PM ET): We have updated our Microsoft Surface Laptop 6 rumor hub to include new information about firmware support.


    Original article: When it comes to the Surface Laptop, Microsoft doesn’t like to get too crazy with the build. You’ll usually see an improvement here and there, but from one generation to the next, these laptops are largely iterative. Despite Microsoft’s iterative design philosophy, the Surface Laptop line is still one of the best laptops you can buy. Will Microsoft try and do something innovative with the next model in the line? We won’t know for sure until the Redmond tech giant officially announces its next-generation laptop, but here’s everything we know about the Microsoft Surface Laptop 6.



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    surface laptop 4 on chair
    Credit: Calvin Wankhede / Android Authority

    Update, November 3, 2023 (5:40 PM ET): We have updated our Microsoft Surface Laptop 6 rumor hub to include new information about firmware support.


    Original article: When it comes to the Surface Laptop, Microsoft doesn’t like to get too crazy with the build. You’ll usually see an improvement here and there, but from one generation to the next, these laptops are largely iterative. Despite Microsoft’s iterative design philosophy, the Surface Laptop line is still one of the best laptops you can buy. Will Microsoft try and do something innovative with the next model in the line? We won’t know for sure until the Redmond tech giant officially announces its next-generation laptop, but here’s everything we know about the Microsoft Surface Laptop 6.



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    Blizzard launches Warcraft Rumble with new release trailer

    0
    Warcraft Rumble
    Credit: Blizzard Entertainment
    • Blizzard has published a launch trailer for its newly released mobile game Warcraft Rumble.
    • Warcraft Rumble is a tower defense-like game based on the Worlds of Warcraft universe.
    • The game was introduced last year as Warcraft Arclight Rumble.

    If you’re a mobile game connoisseur, you may have been keeping an eye on Warcraft Rumble. The game went live today and its publisher Blizzard has released a new launch trailer.

    Last year, Blizzard revealed a new game coming to Android and iOS called Warcraft Arclight Rumble. The developer later dropped Arclight from the name, but the concept of the gameplay remained the same.



    from Android Authority https://ift.tt/ie0NrPw
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    Warcraft Rumble
    Credit: Blizzard Entertainment
    • Blizzard has published a launch trailer for its newly released mobile game Warcraft Rumble.
    • Warcraft Rumble is a tower defense-like game based on the Worlds of Warcraft universe.
    • The game was introduced last year as Warcraft Arclight Rumble.

    If you’re a mobile game connoisseur, you may have been keeping an eye on Warcraft Rumble. The game went live today and its publisher Blizzard has released a new launch trailer.

    Last year, Blizzard revealed a new game coming to Android and iOS called Warcraft Arclight Rumble. The developer later dropped Arclight from the name, but the concept of the gameplay remained the same.



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    Microsoft gives new and older Surface devices two more years of support

    0
    Microsoft Surface Go 2 review kickstand
    Credit: Robert Triggs / Android Authority
    • Surface devices are getting an extra two years of firmware updates.
    • Microsoft previously guaranteed only four years of support.
    • The extended support will come to all Surface PCs released after January 1, 2021.

    In an unexpected move, Microsoft has quietly updated its Surface device support page. The company now states that its Surface laptops are getting an additional two years of firmware support.

    First spotted by Windows Central, Microsoft has changed its Surface device support page to announce that any Surface device released after January 1, 2021, will get six years of firmware updates. Previously, Microsoft only offered up to four years of support. It also mentions that an updated end-of-service date will be published for devices released before 2021 but have support for longer than four years.



    from Android Authority https://ift.tt/46PA2vo
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    Microsoft Surface Go 2 review kickstand
    Credit: Robert Triggs / Android Authority
    • Surface devices are getting an extra two years of firmware updates.
    • Microsoft previously guaranteed only four years of support.
    • The extended support will come to all Surface PCs released after January 1, 2021.

    In an unexpected move, Microsoft has quietly updated its Surface device support page. The company now states that its Surface laptops are getting an additional two years of firmware support.

    First spotted by Windows Central, Microsoft has changed its Surface device support page to announce that any Surface device released after January 1, 2021, will get six years of firmware updates. Previously, Microsoft only offered up to four years of support. It also mentions that an updated end-of-service date will be published for devices released before 2021 but have support for longer than four years.



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