In this episode of Tech WatchRadio, hosts Jay Harrison and Sam Bushman dive into the surprising world of Chick-fil-A’s new entertainment app, designed to engage families with shows, podcasts, and games for children. They explore the implications of this move for both the brand and consumers, as Chick-fil-A branches beyond its restaurant roots into the digital family entertainment sphere.Next, the duo spotlights GoldWave’s innovative use of Whisper AI for audio transcription. They discuss how this local machine-based tool is revolutionizing audio editing by adding real-time transcription features that make editing simpler and faster for professionals and novices alike. Wrapping up with an insightful discussion on media company valuations, Jay and Sam analyze why Google dominates the list and how companies like TikTok and LinkedIn are making waves. Stay tuned for tips, tools, and thoughtful takes on how tech serves us—not owns us!

Tech WatchRadio keeps you plugged into the ever-evolving world of technology so you don’t have to do the heavy lifting. Hosted by Sam Bushman and Jay Harrison, this episode dives deep into the modern challenges of media monetization, debating the growing trend of digital paywalls. The hosts unpack how services like CNN, New York Times, and even streaming platforms like Hulu and Roku are changing their business models, weighing whether the shift toward subscription and tier-based systems is worth the cost—or simply alienating audiences.The show also tackles practical tech tips, including an in-depth guide on spotting phishing scams using the innovative SECURE method. Learn how to protect yourself and your company by evaluating suspicious emails step-by-step, from checking the subject line to unpacking attachments safely. Whether you're looking to stay ahead in cybersecurity or gain clarity on tech’s impact on everyday life, this episode equips you with valuable insights to navigate the digital age confidently.

In this engaging episode of Tech Watch Radio, Sam Bushman and Jay Harrison dive into the intersection of technology and daily life disruptions. They open with a discussion on the October incident where RentCafe users faced issues paying their rent due to a website crash, highlighting the vulnerability of relying solely on tech solutions for essential tasks. The hosts debate the need for backup payment options, greater grace periods, and improved accountability from tech platforms that handle critical services.The conversation shifts to a larger critique of customer service in big corporations. Sam shares personal anecdotes of his frustrations with companies like Zoom, emphasizing the lack of responsive customer support and the rigidity of contract terms that fail to accommodate client needs. He contrasts this with a shining example of stellar service at Less Annoying CRM, a company that offers straightforward pricing, excellent customer support, and flexibility, exemplifying the standard Sam believes companies should aspire to.Listeners will be intrigued by the lively commentary on the impact of monopolies and automated customer service on user experience. Sam and Jay make a passionate call for companies to value long-term customer loyalty over short-term gains. This episode is a thought-provoking examination of tech dependency and a rallying cry for better customer service in today’s digital landscape.

In this episode of Tech Watch Radio, we dive into the latest on Starlink’s quest to bring high-speed internet to the skies, seas, and remote areas worldwide. Join us as we explore the highs and lows of using Starlink Internet on a cruise ship, where tech enthusiasts’ dreams of seamless connectivity clash with the reality of delays, signal drops, and steep costs. We uncover why Starlink’s service isn’t as flawless as expected, especially when shared with thousands of others onboard, and why its speed is still miles ahead of traditional satellite options.We also look ahead to Starlink's bold plans to transform the digital landscape, from SpaceX’s proposal to lower satellite orbits for faster, gigabit speeds to the potential end of the "digital divide" for underserved communities. However, achieving this vision isn't without obstacles—legacy satellite contracts, regulatory challenges, and pushback from major telecom players like AT&T and Verizon stand in the way.Whether you're curious about the future of internet access on planes, ships, and in rural regions, or want to know how Starlink could reshape global connectivity, this episode is packed with insights on the technology that's bridging us to the next frontier of communication.

On this episode of TechWatch Radio, Sam & Jay answer these questions: How is the U.S. military utilizing video game controllers in high-stakes situations?Why are PlayStation-style controllers becoming essential for modern warfare?What caused Volvo to scale back its electric vehicle plans for 2030?Are consumers losing faith in electric vehicles, and why are car dealers pushing back?How is AI revolutionizing storm prediction and giving weather forecasters a new edge?Can small AI companies out predict big meteorology players when it comes to hurricanes?All this and more, right here on TechWatch Radio!

On this episode of TechWatch Radio, Sam & Jay answer these questions: Are remote workers really as productive as they claim to be?What surprising tasks are remote workers doing during work hours?How does working from home compare to office productivity?Why do some companies encourage naps during the workday, and is this effective?What generational differences exist in work habits for remote workers?Are managers and executives multitasking more than regular employees during work calls?How can we measure work productivity without micromanaging employees?All this and more, right here on TechWatch Radio!

We explore two major developments in the tech and retail worlds. Epic Games has made a bold move by launching its own iOS App Store in the European Union, marking a significant challenge to Apple's App Store dominance. This launch, fueled by the EU’s Digital Markets Act, brings games like Fortnite back to iOS after a four-year hiatus. We also dive into Amazon's continued reign as the world's most valuable retail brand, holding the top spot for the ninth consecutive year with a staggering brand value of $308.9 billion. As U.S. retailers dominate the global market, we examine the implications of these shifts for both consumers and competitors.

We delve into the recent turmoil surrounding two major players in the tech world. First, we explore the widespread Microsoft 365 outages that left thousands of users without access to critical tools like email and Teams. Then, we turn our focus to Canva, where a staggering 400%+ price hike for Teams plans has sparked outrage among users. As Canva doubles down on AI, we question whether this aggressive pricing strategy will alienate its core user base. With a broader discussion on the risks of subscription-based models and the potential for these platforms to hold users' work hostage.

McAfee's AI "deepfake detector" to help you spot fake videos? Google has started rolling out its new Essentials app for Windows PCs, promising "streamlined productivity"? However, Windows 11 users beware: the latest update, B5041585, is causing major issues for some PCs, though uninstalling might expose you to security risks. We also discuss the potential future of easier updates with hotpatching and Microsoft's plans to retire the "Control Panel" in Windows.

We delve into the global tech world under siege. A Brazilian judge in trying to block Elon Musk's X (Twitter), banning it in the country. Meanwhile, Mark Zuckerberg reveals Meta was pressured by the Biden administration to censor Covid-related content in 2021. The drama intensifies in France, where Telegram's CEO Pavel Durov has been arrested over accusations of failing to curb criminal activity on his platform, pushing Rumble's CEO, Chris Pavlovski, to flee the country amid growing threats. As tensions mount in the tech sphere, Linux quietly gains ground, nearing a 5% market share.

In this episode, we explore the latest updates in the tech world, starting with Instagram’s new feature that allows users to add a musical touch to their profiles, evoking a nostalgic MySpace vibe. Shifting gears, we tackle the growing trend of businesses adding credit card surcharges and what this might mean for the future of credit card usage, cash transactions; including the recent decision by eBay to drop American Express as a payment option.

In this episode, we dive into the growing threat of phishing links, which are now more dangerous than email attachments, and explore the best strategies for securing your inbox. Sam highlights IronScales, touted as a leader in email security solution, and we weigh the pros and cons of traditional email versus real-time communication tools like Slack and other messaging platforms. Tune in to learn how to keep your digital communications safe and efficient.

In this episode, we delve into Google's historic loss in a landmark antitrust lawsuit over its search dominance, discuss the impact of Cisco's second major round of layoffs this year, and hear from Sam as he explores how Chat GPT 4 Turbo can aid visually impaired individuals using wheelchairs by detecting nearby obstacles with specialized devices. Tune in for a blend of tech industry upheavals and innovative solutions!

In this episode, we explore the fascinating differences between how humans and computers handle multitasking, dive into the implications of actors licensing AI voice clones under a new union deal, and share essential cybersecurity tips from NetworkProvidersInc.com with a Top 10 list to keep your mobile phone secure. Tune in for insights on the intersection of technology and everyday life!

In this episode, we explore the future of in-home robotics and major tech industry shifts. Elon Musk announces Tesla's Optimus humanoid robot, set to hit the market in 2026, potentially becoming the first of its kind available to consumers. Apple Maps takes on Google Maps with a new public beta accessible directly from your browser, aiming to expand its user base. Meanwhile, Kaspersky exits the U.S. market, laying off dozens of employees following a government ban on its software due to security concerns. Tune in as we delve into these groundbreaking stories and their implications.

In this episode, we dive into the tech world's latest shake-ups and innovations. Intel announces a significant restructuring, with plans to lay off 15,000 employees amid a challenging market. Meanwhile, Cloudflare introduces a new speed test tool, promising users even faster and more accurate internet performance metrics. In a bold move to challenge Google's dominance, OpenAI is set to release SearchGPT, a new search engine leveraging advanced AI to redefine how we explore the web. Join us as we unpack these developments and their potential impact on the industry.

In this episode, we delve into "The Silent Epidemic Eating Away American Minds", exploring the alarming rise of screen addiction and its profound impact on mental health, particularly in children and teens. Through the story of Billy, a young boy whose behavior improved after a screen fast, we illustrate the dangers of excessive screen time, including increased rates of depression, anxiety, ADHD, and autism-like symptoms. We discuss how over-stimulating cartoons contribute to attention deficits and anxiety, and ponder the curious absence of phones in our dreams. Tune in as we also touch on Sam's experience with air pods and more!

Explore the latest in tech and space in our new episode, where we discuss Google's decision to roll back its AI search feature to reduce errors, and dive into the challenges of regulating audio deepfakes with insights from ElevenLabs' CEO. We also uncover the significance of digital audio watermarking in combating AI misuse. Plus, get the scoop on NASA's $843 million mission with SpaceX to decommission the ISS by 2030 and learn about the new Starlink Mini, designed to bring high-speed internet to the most remote locations. Tune in for these stories and more!

We explore a groundbreaking study by Dr. Robert Epstein and the American Institute for Behavioral Research and Technology, revealing how tech companies can influence undecided voters through search suggestions, potentially shifting election outcomes without detection. We also examine the live chat software market's growth, expected to reach $1.7 billion by 2030, driven by its benefits over traditional customer support and increased adoption during the COVID-19 pandemic. Lastly, we discuss the rise of passwordless authentication, a market projected to hit $54.27 billion by 2031, thanks to advancements in biometrics, AI, and machine learning, promising a future with enhanced security and user experience.

In this episode we delve into the upcoming changes to Venmo's transaction fees, effective July 1, 2024, and how they will impact users receiving payments for goods and services. We also discuss Surgeon General Vivek Murthy's urgent call for warning labels on social media apps to protect children, and the latest push by US lawmakers to ban TikTok. Stay informed on these critical updates in the digital world!

A.I. Systems Mark a New Era for Smartphones: Join us as we explore the radical changes Apple and Google are bringing to their smartphones with artificial intelligence. We share insights on the upcoming iOS 18 and Android updates. Discover the new AI-driven features like an enhanced Siri, image generation, web article summaries, and smart responses to messages and emails. We'll also discuss the significant upgrade in text messaging standards that will improve communication between iPhone and Android users.SpaceX's Starlink Revolution: SpaceX continues to push the boundaries of space technology with the launch of 20 Starlink satellites, including 13 equipped with Direct to Cell capabilities. we report on how these satellites will provide seamless access to text, voice, and data for LTE phones worldwide. We'll delve into the details of this launch and what it means for global connectivity.

In this exciting episode, we dive into the revolutionary impact of artificial intelligence on music creation. Discover how AI is transforming the music industry, from composing underscores to generating hit songs. Later in the episode, join us for a hilarious and innovative brainstorming session as Sam unveils his quirky new idea on an Alarm clock with a surprise!

We explore the rapidly changing landscape of ad-free streaming. Once a haven from commercials, streaming services like Netflix, Disney+, and Amazon Prime Video have begun integrating ads, making it harder than ever to avoid interruptions. We'll delve into how this shift impacts viewer experience and subscription costs. Additionally, we'll discuss the explosive growth of the connected cars market, projected to soar from $63.03 billion in 2019 to $225.16 billion by 2027. Finally, we'll touch on groundbreaking advancements in touchscreen technology from Northwestern University, where engineers have developed screens that allow users to feel textures, transforming how we interact with our devices. Join us for a deep dive into these pivotal tech trends shaping our future.

In this episode, we dive into T-Mobile's recent $4.4 billion acquisition of US Cellular's wireless operations and spectrum assets, a strategic move that brings in an additional 4 million customers and strengthens T-Mobile's market position. We'll explore the details of the deal, including the new master license agreement for over 2,000 towers and the extended lease terms for around 600 existing towers. Additionally, we'll discuss the evolving role of leadership in the age of AI, featuring insights from David Streitfeld and Vinay Menon of Korn Ferry. Menon emphasizes that while AI can enhance efficiency and reduce costs, the need for strong leadership remains crucial. Join us for a comprehensive analysis of these significant developments in the tech and business world.

Apple is set to revolutionize Siri, its iconic virtual assistant, with an ambitious generative A.I. upgrade, marking the most significant restructuring the tech giant has undertaken in over a decade. This decision was spurred by Apple's top software executives, Craig Federighi and John Giannandrea, who, after experiencing the capabilities of OpenAI's ChatGPT, recognized Siri's limitations in comparison. ChatGPT's ability to handle continuous conversations and complex tasks highlighted Siri's outdated one-question-at-a-time format, which often led to misunderstandings. This realization prompted a major shift towards integrating generative A.I., positioning Apple to maintain its competitive edge in the evolving tech landscape. The upcoming developers conference on June 10 is expected to showcase an enhanced Siri that can engage in more dynamic and versatile conversations, backed by a generative A.I. system designed to be private and efficient by processing data directly on iPhones.Amidst rising competition and the potential threat of A.I. technology supplanting traditional operating systems, Apple is focusing not only on upgrading Siri but also on broader A.I. applications across its suite of products. This includes enhancing iPhone memory capabilities and possibly incorporating A.I. models from other tech giants to bolster Siri’s functionality. Apple's approach aims to keep the user experience seamless and private, avoiding the cloud-based processing costs that competitors face. However, this strategy comes with its own set of challenges, such as the risk of increased errors in smaller, device-based A.I. systems. Despite these hurdles, Apple's shift reflects a critical pivot in its long-term strategy, moving from hardware-centric innovations to sophisticated A.I. integrations, hoping to redefine user interaction with technology.

   This episode of our podcast delves into the urgent joint cybersecurity advisory issued by the FBI, alongside the U.S. Department of State and the National Security Agency, highlighting a serious threat posed by North Korean-backed hackers. Known as Kimsuky, these hackers are impersonating trusted individuals and organizations through sophisticated email spoofing to gain geopolitical insights and influence. We explore their tactics, the implications for national security, and the protective measures recommended for email users. Additionally, the episode shifts focus to personal cybersecurity with essential tips for safe online shopping, especially relevant with Mother’s Day approaching. We discuss how to avoid common scams, the safest payment methods to protect your financial information, and best practices to ensure a secure online shopping experience. This blend of national security concerns and personal cybersecurity guidance provides a comprehensive look at the current digital threat landscape and practical steps to safeguard against it.

   In this episode, we delve into Microsoft's groundbreaking move into smaller AI systems, challenging the industry's obsession with size. From the Phi-3 series to the impact on accessibility and affordability, we explore how these innovations are reshaping AI applications across industries. Additionally, we discuss the alarming FBI report on the $3.4 billion lost to scams by Americans over 60 in 2023, and how AI could combat such threats. Stay tuned for insights on top note-taking apps and a recommendation for LessAnnoyingCRM.com.

   Join us on [Podcast Name] as we delve into the latest developments in the electric vehicle (EV) landscape. From surprising legislative mandates to tech glitches and crash rate concerns, we've got you covered.   We discuss the push to include AM radios in cars, Apple's efforts to fix glitchy iPhone alarms, and the higher crash rates of EVs, particularly Teslas, and the factors contributing to this trend. Discover the complexities of the EV revolution and gain valuable insights for navigating its challenges. Tune in now to stay informed.

   In this episode the TWR Team delves into the serious repercussions of the February cyberattack on UnitedHealth's subsidiary, Change Healthcare. An alarming amount of personal and health data from a significant portion of Americans was compromised. UnitedHealth has disclosed paying a ransom to protect this sensitive data, although the exact amount remains undisclosed. The episode also features a discussion on "juice-jacking," a decade-old security threat involving public phone charging stations that hackers exploit to install malware or steal data. We discuss some essential tips on how to avoid malware, emphasizing the use of power outlets over USB ports, and the benefits of wireless charging and charge-only cables to ensure security while traveling.

   In this episode of the podcast, we delve into two significant topics. First, we explore how Canva.com becomes an indispensable tool for on-the-road emergencies, as Sam demonstrates the swift process of sharing and editing designs through Canva's user-friendly platform. We cover the steps to grant edit access via a collaboration link, allowing anyone with the link to modify the design without needing a Canva account, particularly handy for mobile users who will need to log in. Secondly, we discuss a major development in digital policy as Cecilia Kang reports on the FCC's decision to reinstate Net Neutrality rules. The commissioners voted along party lines to treat broadband as a utility-like service, echoing regulations previously set under Obama and later dismantled under Trump. This episode provides insights into both collaborative digital tools and significant regulatory changes in telecommunications.

   In this podcast we explore the surprising intersections of technology and daily life. Join us as we uncover the stories behind the statistics and meet the individuals whose quiet contributions keep our digital and real-world landscapes thriving. Whether it's a deep dive into the realm of sports fans or a thrilling recount of a cybersecurity save that almost went unnoticed, this podcast connects the dots in a world wired with endless complexities.

   In this episode, we delve into Tesla's recent recall of nearly 4,000 Cybertrucks, stemming from an accelerator pedal issue where a lubricant (soap) used during assembly may cause the pedal to stick, risking entrapment above the pedal. This problem affects all Model Year 2024 Cybertrucks manufactured between November 13, 2023, and April 4, 2024, and notably, cannot be corrected with Tesla's typical over-the-air updates, requiring physical servicing instead. Alongside this, we explore the rapid advancements in AI, highlighting a new report that positions AI as surpassing human performance in most benchmarks, suggesting the need for new ways to measure AI capabilities as it continues to evolve at an astonishing pace.

  We delve into the realm of cybersecurity through the lens of penetration testing, a critical and intriguing field that addresses the security vulnerabilities of computer systems by simulating cyberattacks. Penetration testing, often referred to as "pen testing," involves skilled professionals known as penetration testers or ethical hackers, who use their expertise in hacking tools and techniques not to cause harm, but to identify and rectify security weaknesses. Companies engage these specialists to perform simulated attacks on their networks, applications, and other digital assets, enabling them to discover and mitigate potential security risks effectively. This practice not only helps in safeguarding against actual cyber threats but also significantly enhances a company's overall security posture. Additionally, the podcast will touch on the broader field of ethical hacking, which encompasses various services beyond penetration testing, such as malware analysis and risk assessment, highlighting the essential role these activities play in strengthening network security.  We also explore the significant consumer dissatisfaction surrounding Tesla's Cybertruck. Owners have reported a range of issues from basic operational failures like the vehicle not turning on or charging, to more alarming concerns about visibility problems that pose safety risks. Critics, including those found on platforms such as Jalopnik, point to rushed production and cost-cutting measures as potential causes for these defects. The complaints have been so severe that some have been removed from forums only to resurface elsewhere due to their critical nature. 

Explore the essential protections of Cyber Insurance in this episode of NPI Tech Guys / TechWatch Radio. As cyber threats like ransomware and DDoS attacks grow more sophisticated, understanding and securing the right insurance is crucial for any business. We'll discuss what cyber insurance covers, its necessity in the face of increasing digital risks, and how it should complement robust cybersecurity measures. Learn about the role of personalized coverage options and the importance of a strong cybersecurity posture in securing effective insurance. Join us as we navigate the complexities of cyber risk insurance to safeguard your business assets.

In this thrilling episode, we're venturing into the future where Earth time meets Moon time, as the White House tasks NASA with developing a unified lunar standard to streamline future celestial missions. Imagine the complexity of coordinating operations and communications between two celestial bodies without syncing clocks! Meanwhile, back on Earth, Microsoft responds to years of critique and regulatory scrutiny by separating Teams from its Office 365 suite, a move sparking debates on its impact on the tech giant's trajectory. Tune in as we explore these pivotal moments in space exploration and tech industry dynamics.

This podcast episode delves into the critical issue of cybersecurity, emphasizing that 81% of breaches last year involved weak or stolen passwords, and provides guidelines for creating strong passwords to enhance security. Additionally, the episode explores the technological advancements and setbacks of Amazon's 'Just Walk Out' checkout technology. Initially heralded as a futuristic shopping solution, Amazon is scaling back on this approach due to its high operational costs and inefficiencies, opting instead for Dash Carts and self-checkout counters in its Fresh stores, while retaining the original technology in smaller outlets.

* Google Podcasts is shutting down soon, users urged to move to YouTube Music - Sarah Perez.* I Stopped Using Passwords. It's Great—and a Total Mess.* Bitwarden’s Passkey Feature for Businesses.* Robinhood’s new credit card goes after Apple Card with ability to invest cash-back perks - TechCrunch.comEight months after acquiring credit card startup X1 for $95 million, Robinhood announced today the launch of its new Gold Card, with a list of features that could even give Apple Card users envy.Robinhood, better known for its brokerage app aimed at the everyday investor, is touting all sorts of benefits with its new card in an attempt to attract users. The card has no annual or foreign transaction fees. However, it will only be available for Robinhood Gold members, which costs $5 a month, or $50 annually. (Gold is a program that offers other benefits like 5% APY on an account’s uninvested brokerage cash.) Gold Card users can earn 3% cash back on all categories, including restaurants and groceries, and 5% cash bank when booking travel at Robinhood’s new travel portal. That cash back can be transferred to brokerage accounts, which can go toward making investments like stock purchases, the company says. The ability to invest using cash back is the big innovation that X1 developed prior to getting acquired.Another interesting feature of the Gold Card includes the ability to provide cards for family members. This is the first time that Robinhood has introduced a family-oriented financial product, Robinhood Money General Manager Deepak Rao told TechCrunch. Rao was the founder and CEO of X1 before joining Robinhood in the acquisition. Users will have the ability to add up to five family members as cardholders to their account with every cardholder receiving their own card. Additional cardholders can be any age, giving parents a way to help teens build credit and monitor spending. The ability to provide cards to family members will extend even to those visiting from other countries.“A user can provide cards to parents, children or caregivers and set the right kind of controls and protection, while also helping them build their credit,” Rao said. “They don’t have to provide any other information than their name and date of birth and Social Security number if they have one. If you’re worried about spending limits, you can put a dollar amount limit and also a child-safe mode for kids.”The Card also allows users to create and delete virtual cards for one-time purchases and will have an APR of 20.24% – 29.99%, which Robinhood said will vary with the market based on the Prime Rate.

* AT&T Says Data From 73 Million Current and Former Account Holders Leaked on Dark Web - Tom Ozimek.Data from roughly 7.6 million current account holders and 65.4 million former account holders were released on the dark web, AT&T said.AT&T said it had reset passcodes for 7.6 million current account holders affected by the leak.“We will be reaching out to individuals with compromised sensitive personal information separately and offering complimentary identity theft and credit monitoring services,” the company said in a statement.AT&T said it hasn’t found any evidence of unauthorized access to its systems that resulted in data being stolen and that it has launched a “robust” investigation into the incident with the help of outside cybersecurity experts.* 37 million T-Mobile customers were hacked | CNN Business - Jan 19, 2023.* Twitter’s Data Leak Exposes Over 5.4 Million Users.* Earlier this year, Twitter confirmed that an API vulnerability had caused a massive data leak containing non-public information for over 5.4 million Twitter users - Used with permission from Article Aggregator.Twitter denied claims that hackers had leaked the private information priorly. However, Pompompurin, the owner of the hacking forum Breached, stated they were responsible for exploiting the API bug and platforming the data after another hacker shared the vulnerability with them.The stolen data includes public information like Twitter IDs, account names, logins, locations, and verified status. In addition, private information like phone numbers and email addresses have also been exposed. Fraudulent activities such as phishing could be carried out using this information.In addition to the breach of the 5.4 million active accounts, private information for roughly 1.4 million suspended Twitter profiles were also shared using the same API bug. While the extent of the data breach is not fully known, security expert Chad Loder stated that information for "tens of millions" of Twitter users might have been collected using the same API bug.To keep yourself safe, disregard emails claiming to be from Twitter that state your account is suspended. In addition, be skeptical of emails about issues logging in or the account is about to lose its verified status. These emails are probably attempting to phish for your private information to use in fraudulent activities.* HaveIBeenPwned.com* Hackers Behind the Change Healthcare Ransomware Attack Just Received a $22 Million Payment!The transaction, visible on Bitcoin's blockchain, suggests the victim of one of the worst ransomware attacks in years may have paid a very large ransom.On March 1, a Bitcoin address connected to AlphV received 350 bitcoins in a single transaction, or close to $22 million based on exchange rates at the time.

* Instagram is working on a feature that would allow you to let others put a ‘Spin’ on your Reel - Aisha Malik.* Instagram is working on a “Spins” feature for Reels, its short-form video TikTok clone, the company confirmed to TechCrunch.* Suspect Your Computer Has Been Hacked? Do These 5 Things Now!

* The Apple iPhone antitrust lawsuit from the DOJ - TechCrunch.com* The DOJ’s case against Apple adds to a growing pile of antitrust problems for Cupertino.* DOJ’s Apple antitrust case neatly aligns with EU on one key point: NFC and mobile payments.* Bitcoin hits new high!* Is A TikTok ban looking more and more like reality?

* Elon Musk: AI will run out of electricity and transformers in 2025 - NewAtlas.com* Gemini, a Merger of a Chatbot and an Assistant, Enters the Arena - Cade Metz.When will the standard digital assistant such as Seri and Alexa ETC. be replaced by the next gen chatbot?* Brave’s Leo AI assistant is now available to Android users - Aisha Malik.* Robocalls Created by AI Outlawed.The move by the agency follows a phony call last month that was made to sound like President Biden telling New Hampshire voters to stay home.

* The FBI's takedown of the LockBit ransomware group last week came as LockBit was preparing to release sensitive data stolen from government computer systems in Fulton County, Ga - KrebsonSecurity.com* SpaceX will de-orbit 100 Starlink satellites with unidentified flaw - Devin Coldewey, TechCrunch.comThe descents will be triggered “in the coming weeks and months,” but these satellites aren’t capable of big moves, so this is more of a nudge in the downward direction. The de-orbit process will actually take about six months, during which they will also “take maneuver responsibility for any high-risk conjunctions,” meaning if they happen to cross paths with other satellites, the Starlink ones will politely move out of the way.They will fall one by one, not all together, so don’t bother watching the skies.Users of Starlink need not fear, however, since there are still thousands of functioning satellites up there. Nearly 6,000 have been launched to date, and 406 have been de-orbited, and others may not be operational, but there are more than enough of them to serve customers.* Range Woes Dim Luster Of F-150 EVSome buyers said the electric Lightning did not meet expectations, and Ford has slashed its production plans for the pickup because sales are lagging.Still, the industry is forging ahead. Analysts estimate that 1.5 million electric vehicles will be sold this year, up from almost 1.2 million in 2023. The Biden administration is expected to complete new emissions rules next month. Its proposal would, in effect, require battery-powered cars to make up two-thirds of all light-vehicle sales by 2032.

* Walmart announced it will purchase smart television maker Vizio and its operating system for $2.3B.* Unfortunately, most people think they know cyber security but then find out the hard way they don’t - We don’t want that to be you!People overlook #10, but it’s arguably one of the most important.* Massive Ransomware Attack Takes Over 100 Hospitals In Romania Offline.* Reddit Agrees To $60M Deal That Allows Google To Train AI Models On Its Posts.

* Lucid Motors plans to build just 9,000 electric vehicles in 2024, only 500 to 1,000 more than it made in 2023, as it struggles with demand for its luxury sedans. If it sticks to that number, that means Lucid will wind up building around 10% of the 90,000 EVs it predicted it could make - TechCrunch.com* Mercedes-Benz on Thursday walked back plans to have an all-electric line-up by 2030 as consumers decline to adopt electric vehicles (EV) at the rate automakers expected.The company has changed its expectations to have only 50% of its sales be EVs by 2030, announcing that it will be updating its current line-up featuring the internal combustion engine into the next decade, according to Mercedes-Benz in its fourth quarter report.* A slowdown in the growth of electric vehicle (EV) demand has led to entire mines being shut down as the supply of rare earth minerals essential for EV components exceeds demand, according to The Wall Street Journal.* Car insurance prices soar even as inflation eases. Which states have the highest rates? - USA Today.

How good is your computer use policy?What constitutes a good computer use policy for your business?How often should a compliance policy be reviewed and updated?What role does employee training play in maintaining compliance?Can technology automate compliance policy enforcement?What are the common pitfalls in compliance policies that businesses should avoid?How can businesses ensure their compliance policies are aligned with international standards?What happens if I just trust the employees?Identity theft at work who is liable?How do I get a truly compliant computer use policy?

Compliance: Could You Pass an Audit Today?* Sam and Neuman CSO of Network Providers, Inc. Discuss Company Wide Security.NPI offers a free consult and plan for IT Compliance.What is a table top discussionCan you explain the basics of compliance and why it's critical for businesses?What is the compliance that I am looking for in my line of businessWhat are the most common compliance standards that businesses need to be aware of?How can a company determine if it's currently compliant with relevant regulations?What steps should a company take to prepare for a compliance audit?What Are the types of things you see in an auditCan you share a success story of a business that improved its compliance processes?What are the risks of non-compliance for businesses in today's digital landscape?How can MSPs assist businesses in staying compliant?It seems overwhelming but line up on line, along with guidance from the right people around you, makes all the difference.What types of administraters are there?

* Even Retailers Are Fed Up With Self-Checkout Automated kiosks double theft rates, among other issues - Gina Carey.Self-checkout machines aren't only annoying customers, Quartz reports, as a growing number of large retailers have begun rethinking the costly tech.Last year, companies like Target, Walmart, Dollar General, and British grocer Booths have pared down (and in some cases eliminated) how the automated systems work in their chains, largely due to theft.Shoppers are 21 times more likely to slip purchases past scanners than they are human cashiers, doubling theft rates in stores.* Tipping Etiquette: When You Must Tip, When Its OK Not to Tip?* Have you installed the December 2023 Windows 11 update? You should know about how the Windows 11 update breaks Wi-Fi networks.The Windows 11 update breaks Wi-Fi networks by affecting your adapter's ability to connect with the network. The connectivity issues in the Windows 11 update aren't always consistent across all networks. While you might easily connect to your home network, your adapter might struggle to connect to others.You'll most likely experience problems if you use an enterprise, education, or public Wi-Fi network using 802.1x authentication to connect to an enterprise, public, or education Wi-Fi network.You can fix in two ways:Disabling 802.11r.You can solve the problem by using the Known Issues Rollback feature. Microsoft developed this feature to deal with non-security bugs that occur from updates.

* Apple Vision Pro available in the U.S. on February 2.* Apple Vision Pro: 7 Things to Know Before You Buy - Will Greenwald, PCMag.com* ICANN proposes creating .INTERNAL domain to do the same job as 192.168.x.x! - The plan is to keep the world at bay by never recording it in the DNS root – like many already do with a subdomain for an intranet - Simon Sharwood.ICANN's board still has to sign off the creation of .INTERNAL. But if you want to get ahead of the pack, there's nothing stopping you. Indeed, some outfits already use ad hoc TLDs. Open source Wi-Fi firmware project WRT has used .LAN, and networking vendor D-Link has employed .dlink. There's nothing stopping you doing likewise.