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Lawsuits and Shutdowns Abound - Episode 663 (F5 Live: Refreshing Technology)

This week, Apple and Epic are at it again, Adult Swim is killing off some games, TikTok's clock is ticking, and NYT says it didn't hack ChatGPT.

Maximizing Productivity: Customizing Windows Features - Episode 326 (Piltch Point)

Customizing the right-click menu in Windows can greatly enhance the user experience and productivity. By making a few simple tweaks, users can access a wider range of options and functions directly from the context menu, without the need to navigate through multiple menus or windows.

Customize Windows right-click menu

One of the most common complaints about the right-click menu in Windows 11 is the limited number of options that are displayed by default. Users often have to click on "Show More Options" to access additional functions, which can be time-consuming and frustrating, especially when working on complex tasks.

Fortunately, there is a simple solution to this problem. By editing the Windows registry, users can customize the right-click menu to display all available options without the need for extra clicks. This can be done by creating a new registry key and setting the default value to blank, which will remove the "Show More Options" prompt and display all options directly in the context menu.

    To customize the right-click menu, users can follow these steps:
  1. Launch the registry editor by searching for "regedit" and opening it.
  2. Navigate to HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Classes\CLSID and create a new key with the name "{86CA1AA0-34AA-AE8B-A509-50C905BAE2A2}" if it does not already exist.
  3. Create a new key under that key called "InprocServer32".
  4. Set the default value of "InprocServer32" to blank and close the registry editor.
  5. Sign out and sign back in to see the changes reflected in the right-click menu.

By customizing the right-click menu in Windows, users can access a wide range of options and functions directly from the context menu, making it easier to perform tasks and navigate through the operating system. This simple tweak can greatly improve the user experience and efficiency when using Windows 11 or Windows 10.

Customize right-click menu shortcuts

Avram also discusses various methods for customizing right-click menu shortcuts in Windows, offering tips and tricks to make accessing frequently used programs and functions easier and more convenient. Adding a custom item to the menu is a useful capability, allowing users to quickly launch an app with just a few clicks. This is achieved through the use of the registry editor, where users can create new keys and commands to add custom shortcuts to the menu.

    In order to add your own custom menu item, users can follow these steps:
  1. Launch the registry editor by searching for "regedit" and opening it.
  2. Navigate to HKEY_CLASSES_ROOT\Directory\Background\shell and create a new key with the name you want to show in the menu - in this case "Avram".
  3. Under your new key, create another key called "Command" where capitalization matters.
  4. Under "Command" open the "Default" entry and set the value data to the full path to the application you want to run.
  5. Sign out and sign back in to see the changes reflected in the right-click menu.

Custom search engines for efficiency

Custom search engines are another powerful tool that can greatly enhance efficiency when browsing the internet. By creating custom search engines in browsers like Chrome, users can streamline their search process and quickly access information from their favorite websites.

Avram mentioned two ways to create custom search engines in Chrome. The first method involves installing an extension he created called Search My Site, which allows users to set up specific search parameters for a particular website. By simply typing a designated key followed by a space in the address bar, users can instantly search the specified website without having to navigate to the site first.

The second method involves manually creating a custom search engine in Chrome settings. By assigning a name and a key to the search engine, users can input the search string for the website they want to search. This method allows for more customization, as users can specify additional parameters such as excluding certain domains or filtering search results based on specific criteria.

By creating custom search engines for frequently visited websites, users can save time and effort by eliminating the need to type out the full website address or navigate through search results. This not only speeds up the search process but also ensures that users are accessing the most relevant and up-to-date information from their preferred sources.

Apple hates Epic Games - there is no doubt about that. The company has created policies and procedures to target the popular game studio and publisher specifically. In fact, Apple's heavy-handed approach to their platforms and to Epic Games in particular has led states, countries, and even the EU, to look into their practices and craft new laws around them. In the past few weeks, some of the original actions that spurred the whole battle between titans came back up when Apple banned Epic's developer account for a day, but quickly reversed course.

The history of the fight

The battle between Epic Games and Apple started when Epic openly violated Apple's rules about allowing in-app purchases through third-party payment systems. Apple has always required developers to use their App Store payment system for a 30% fee. Epic had enough and integrated their own system, offering a discount for those who used it. Apple nearly immediately terminated their developer account and pulled Fortnite from the App Store. Google quickly followed suit.

Epic then went on a rampage that made their name seem tame by comparison. They sued Apple and Google in every jurisdiction they could find cause. The tussle quickly grew well beyond the original scope, bringing in discovery from Google and Apple that revealed a lot of previously undisclosed corporate information. It even went so far as to subpoena data from other unrelated companies, such as Valve.

The results

In the US lawsuit, Apple won against Epic in all but one count, but that one was a big win for Epic. The ruling required that Apple allow developers and publishers to use payment systems that are not owned by Apple. This meant that the action that had originally kicked off this whole battle would now be perfectly allowed and required. Apple worked really hard to profit off of the loss, but Epic is fighting that one, too so that Apple cannot take a 27% cut of payments they are not involved with.

While Epic has not gotten everything they wanted in the lawsuits, they have gotten a lot closer in subsequent legislation. The European Union's Digital Markets Act (DMA) is the biggest win for the company, as the EU now has a legal definition for a "gatekeeper" and has specific rules around their behaviors. In the case of Apple and Google, they were required to allow third-party app stores on their platforms. This would allow Epic to get Fortnite back onto iOS devices more directly and without the need for a Game Pass subscription.

The latest developments

Last week, the DMA finally went into effect and it had some unexpected consequences for Epic. The company's division in Sweden, which falls squarely inside of the EU and therefore within the purview of the DMA, had its Apple Developer Account terminated. Apple claims that it is because Epic Games is "verifiably untrustworthy." In a blog post, Epic Games laid out its case against Apple, saying,

In terminating Epic's developer account, Apple is taking out one of the largest potential competitors to the Apple App Store. They are undermining our ability to be a viable competitor and they are showing other developers what happens when you try to compete with Apple or are critical of their unfair practices.

The DMA was designed to eliminate the very power imbalance that Apple is proving exists today: they claim to have total control to block competing stores and apps. We will continue to fight to bring true competition and choice to iOS devices in Europe and around the world.

In fairly quick response, Apple reinstated the developer account. This move was likely in anticipation of further scrutiny, regulation, and possible fines from the EU. The timing and rationale were certainly suspicious, with Apple admitting that it was, at least partially, a retaliatory act against the company. A reinstated account means that Epic's mobile Games Store ambitions are back in action.

Lighthouse Tech: Vibrational guidance for visually impaired @ CES 2024 (PLUGHITZ Live Presents)

On a normal day, most of us employ all of our senses to navigate through the world. However, for the visually impaired and the blind, that is not possible. The unique experience of navigating without being able to see the complete world around them creates hazards that others do not face. This is the problem that Lighthouse Tech is trying to solve.

Smart eyewear frame for the blind

Lighthouse Tech, a Swiss startup, has developed an innovative smart eyewear frame designed to assist blind and low-vision individuals. The device employs soft vibrations on the temples to alert the wearer of obstacles above the waist area, enabling users to navigate more safely and freely without colliding with low-hanging obstacles. Importantly, the device does not obstruct users' hearing, a critical sense for those with visual impairments.

The smart eyewear frame operates by integrating various sensors embedded in the temples that actively identify objects in the user's vicinity. It alerts users to obstacles, like high tables, that might be overlooked by the traditional white cane. The device is self-contained and comes with a setup app that allows users to adjust vibration intensity and distance settings. It is designed to be user-friendly and requires no learning curve.

Established nearly two and a half years ago, Lighthouse Tech showcased prototypes at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) the previous year. The company is now poised for production and plans to launch in the summer, initially in Europe, followed by the US, Japan, and South Korea. The device is priced at approximately $1,500, but Lighthouse Tech is collaborating with insurance companies and organizations such as the Veterans Association for the Blind to help defray costs for users.

Smart glasses with advanced features

The smart glasses developed by Lighthouse Tech are equipped with a range of advanced features, making them an invaluable tool for individuals with visual impairments. They have the ability to make emergency calls, detect falls, and identify when the glasses are damaged or not being worn correctly. These features offer users added safety and security, providing peace of mind as they navigate their surroundings.

Another notable feature of the smart glasses is their long battery life. The rechargeable battery can last for two to three days, allowing users to wear them throughout the day and charge them at night. This ensures that the glasses are always ready for use, eliminating the worry of running out of power.

The design of the smart glasses is also commendable. They are designed to be worn like regular glasses, with customizable lenses to suit individual needs. This design eliminates any social awkwardness associated with wearing bulky assistive devices, enabling users to feel comfortable and confident while using the technology.

Conclusion: Tactile feedback gives safer navigation

Lighthouse Tech has received positive feedback at events such as CES. The significant press coverage and interest from visitors indicate a growing demand for innovative assistive technologies that can enhance the lives of individuals with disabilities.

In summary, Lighthouse Tech's smart eyewear frame offers a unique and innovative solution for blind and low vision individuals, enabling them to navigate their surroundings more safely and independently. The device's ability to detect obstacles and alert users through temple vibrations underscores the potential of assistive technologies to enhance the quality of life for individuals with visual impairments. As technology advances and the focus on assistive tech grows, devices like the smart eyewear frame are leading the way towards a more inclusive and accessible future.

Interview by [livescottertz" class="UpStreamLink">.

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.simstechnology: How technology can protect you from behind @ CES 2024 (PLUGHITZ Live Presents)

Personal safety wearable devices have become increasingly popular in recent years as concerns about personal safety and security have grown. These devices are designed to help individuals protect themselves from potential threats and dangers, especially when they are alone or in vulnerable situations. One such innovative device is a rear-facing camera developed by .simstechnology out of Rhode Island.

Personal safety wearable device innovation

The company's devices are personal safety wearable devices that are designed to detect a human approaching from behind. This innovative technology aims to prevent assaults from behind by alerting the wearer when someone is approaching them. The devices are equipped with cameras and algorithms that can detect the presence of a person at a distance of 45 feet and alert the wearer when the person is within 25 feet. This gives the wearer enough time to assess the situation and determine if there is a potential threat.

The wearable cameras, both V1 and V2, are equipped with high frame rate cameras that continuously capture still frames at 15 frames per second. By analyzing these frames, the device can detect if a person is approaching from behind within a 25-foot radius. Once a potential threat is detected, the device sends an alert to the user's phone or smartwatch, allowing them to take action by pressing an SOS button or notifying their chosen contacts. The device also stores the photos along with GPS coordinates, ensuring that crucial information is available in the event of an emergency.

The .simstechnology devices utilize LIDAR technology to detect and recognize potential threats, such as humans, animals, and objects approaching from behind. This advanced technology allows the device to work effectively in both daylight and complete darkness, providing users with a sense of security at all times. Additionally, the devices can be attached to various items such as backpacks, waistbands, collars, hats, and running harnesses, making it versatile and accessible for different individuals and situations.

One of the key features of these devices is their ability to function even in areas with limited connectivity. While the device may not be able to send all data immediately, it can still alert the user and send a text message indicating a potential threat. Once data connectivity is restored, the device can push all stored information to the cloud, providing a comprehensive account of the situation to the user's contacts.

What sets the devices apart from other personal safety wearable devices is their ability to take into account the speed at which a person is approaching. The devices can differentiate between someone who is simply passing by and someone who is approaching with malicious intent. This feature allows the wearer to react and defend themselves if necessary.

Where did the idea come from?

The development of the devices was inspired by the personal experience of Sean Siembab, who suffered a traumatic brain injury after being assaulted from behind. This experience motivated him to create a solution that could help others avoid similar incidents. Through his company, .simstechnology, Siembab has obtained three utility patents for the devices, ensuring that they are protected and can be brought to market to help save lives.

The innovation behind the devices highlights the importance of personal safety and the need for wearable technology that can provide individuals with an added layer of protection. As incidents of assaults and attacks continue to occur, especially against women, the demand for such devices is only expected to grow. The devices represent a significant step forward in personal safety technology and demonstrate how innovation can be driven by personal experiences and a desire to make the world a safer place.

Conclusion: A small way to stay safe outside

In conclusion, the development of personal safety wearable devices like the devices by .simstechnology showcases the power of innovation in addressing real-world problems. These devices have the potential to make a significant impact in improving personal safety and security for individuals, especially those who may be at risk of assaults or attacks. As technology continues to evolve, it is crucial that we continue to explore new ways to leverage it for the greater good and create solutions that can help protect and empower individuals in their daily lives.

Interview by [livescottertz" class="UpStreamLink">.

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Gydtech pioneers customized personal care from selfies @ CES 2024 (PLUGHITZ Live Presents)

Personalized on-demand cosmetic products are a game-changer in the beauty industry, offering consumers a uniquely tailored shopping experience for customized personal care. At CES 2024, Fred Ifergan, CEO of Gydtech, a company specializing in on-demand cosmetic products, discussed how his company provides tailored cosmetic care for shoppers through advanced AI technology.

The Selfie Solution for Personal Care

One such solution for customized personal care is the use of AI technology to analyze skin and hair conditions through a simple selfie and conversation with a chatbot. The process begins with taking a selfie, which is then analyzed by Gydtech's AI algorithms to determine the specific needs of the individual's skin and hair across a multitude of existing products. The chatbot may ask follow-up questions to gather more information and ensure accuracy. Based on this data, the technology filters out products that may not be suitable for the individual, such as those that could aggravate skin conditions like eczema. Then it recommends products that are compatible with the individual's unique characteristics and needs.

This personalized approach to beauty tech not only enhances the shopping experience for consumers but also ensures that they are using products that are truly beneficial for their skin and hair. By matching specific needs with the capabilities of various products, individuals can avoid wasting time and money on products that may not work for them.

AI for the Win for Beautiful Hair and Skin

The decision to develop personalized beauty tech solutions like this was driven by a desire to address the growing demand for individualized products and services in the beauty industry. Consumers are increasingly seeking personal care products that are tailored to their specific needs and preferences. By leveraging AI technology to analyze and match individual needs with product capabilities, companies like Gydtech are able to provide a more personalized and effective shopping experience for consumers. This innovative approach allows consumers to have a one-of-a-kind product that caters specifically to their needs and preferences.

Beyond Cosmetic Care

Gydtech's personalized beauty tech solutions can also be adapted to other industries beyond cosmetics and hair care, such as fashion, pet foods, and dietary supplements, making it a versatile solution for businesses looking to better understand and provide better tailored services to their customers. By licensing or contracting with Gydtech, businesses can create a more satisfying and effective shopping experience for their own customers.

In Conclusion: AI Powered Personal Shopping Heralds New Commerce 3.0

By using AI technology to analyze skin and hair conditions, recommend products, and provide personalized recommendations, companies like Gydtech are revolutionizing the way consumers shop for skincare and cosmetics. This New Commerce 3.0 not only enhances consumer's shopping experience but also ensures that individuals are using products that are truly beneficial for their unique needs.

In addition, Gydtech's technology can be white labeled for a number of other industries, bringing personalized shopping solutions to more companies for their consumers, as well.

You can learn more about Gydtech's personal care shopping solutions at their website.

Interview by [livescottertz" class="UpStreamLink">.

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In today's fast-paced and competitive marketplace, standing out is no longer a luxury, but a necessity. Let's face it, making your products rise above the rest requires hard work and innovative thinking. That's why this blog post is here to guide you through groundbreaking strategies that will transform your products from mediocre to exceptional in no time, turning them into the crème de la crème of the industry!

Adopt a zero-based design philosophy

Imagine hitting the reset button on design thinking that's zero-based design in a nutshell. It's like playing a game of "What If" with your products, where no idea is too wild, and every assumption is tossed out the window. Adopting a zero-based design philosophy means every feature, material, and design element is reevaluated from scratch. Why does this product exist? Who is it for? Could it be lighter, faster, more sustainable? This mindset doesn't just encourage innovation - it demands it.

Utilize predictive analytics for quality control

Who wouldn't want a crystal ball that predicts the future? In manufacturing, predictive analytics is the next best thing! It prophesies which parts of your product might fail and empowers you to proactively prevent problems before they even arise. With predictive analytics, you're not just firefighting issues as they occur; you're anticipating, planning, and often preventing them altogether. It's like having a superpower that transforms your production process from reactive to revolutionary!

Integrate sustainability as a quality metric

Sustainability is the new black, and it's not just about looking good - it's about being good. Making eco-friendly choices, like opting for sustainably sourced materials, doesn't just win you brownie points with the planet. It also tells your customers you're serious about quality, not just on the surface but all the way down to the core.

Empower frontline workers with quality autonomy

The people on the front lines of your production process are the eyes and ears of your operation, often spotting opportunities for improvement that might fly under the radar of higher management. Giving these workers the autonomy to make quality-related decisions on the spot can be a game-changer. Imagine a scenario where a worker notices that switching to ceramic bearings in a machine could significantly reduce wear and tear. By empowering this worker to make the change without jumping through hoops of approvals, the improvement is made swiftly, leading to a noticeable uptick in product quality. It's a win-win situation where innovation is cultivated from the ground up, ensuring that your products are always on the cutting edge of quality.

Leverage augmented reality for precision manufacturing

Augmented reality (AR) is revolutionizing the way we approach precision in manufacturing, transforming complex assembly tasks into a walk in the park. Imagine using a pair of AR goggles and seeing a virtual overlay on your workspace, guiding you through each step of the assembly process with pinpoint accuracy. This isn't just handy; it's like having a GPS for manufacturing, ensuring every component, down to the tiniest element, is placed flawlessly. AR takes the guesswork out of precision tasks, providing real-time feedback and instructions that make it easier for workers to perform intricate assemblies correctly the first time around.

Conclusion

From playing design "What Ifs" to embracing the magic of AR, these strategies are about thinking differently and daringly. And remember, sometimes it's the smallest touches that elevate your products from good to great. So, let's keep pushing the limits, one quirky innovation at a time.

Layoffs, Lies, and Mergers - Episode 662 (F5 Live: Refreshing Technology)

This week, Wendy's wants dynamic prices, gaming studios lay off devs, Wikipedia doesn't trust AI, and Warner Bros. doesn't want Paramount.

This week, a piece from Food & Wine brought to the internet's attention Wendy's future pricing plans. The company stated that they are investing $20 million to install new digital menu boards across the company. These boards would give the company the ability to dynamically change prices throughout the day. The move was immediately compared to the much-maligned Surge pricing from Uber, but the company claims that it has been misrepresented.

What is Surge pricing?

Surge pricing, also known as dynamic pricing, is a pricing strategy that businesses use to adjust the price of their product or service based on market demand. When demand is high, prices increase to balance the high demand with the limited supply. Conversely, when demand is low, prices decrease to encourage more usage. This strategy is commonly used in industries where the supply is somewhat fixed, such as ride-sharing services, hotel rooms, and airline seats.

For example, ride-sharing companies like Uber and Lyft use surge pricing to incentivize more drivers to get on the road during times of high demand. When there are more riders than available drivers, prices go up. This price increase encourages more drivers to work during these busy times, which increases supply and helps to balance out the demand. Similarly, it encourages riders to wait until the demand decreases if they want to pay less. This dynamic pricing model helps to ensure that the service is always available for those who need it and are willing to pay more during peak times.

Dynamic prices at Wendy's

For Wendy's, the concept would be similar. Prices would be higher during peak times, such as the lunch rush and dinner rush, and lower during slow times, such as after midnight. The company plans to use AI to determine, based on past sales histories, weather, and other factors, when these customer surges and slumpsare happening and adjust the prices accordingly. Theoretically, like rideshare apps, fast food restaurants have limited capacity. There is a finite number of people working, a finite amount of cooking space, and a finite amount of space in and around the store.

But, the company says that they don't plan to implement dynamic pricing in the same way that companies like Uber have done it. In fact, they say they have been misrepresented in news reports since the announcement was made. According to a spokesperson speaking to Reuters,

We said these menuboards would give us more flexibility to change the display of featured items. This was misconstrued in some media reports as an intent to raise prices when demand is highest. We have no plans to do that.

The spokesperson added that the company "would not raise prices when our customers are visiting us most" but instead would use the technology to lower prices during slower times. The problem with this explanation, of course, is that once the system lowers the prices dynamically, they will inevitably raise once again - even if it is just to normal pricing. So, the avoid the appearance of Uber-style Surge pricing, the regular menu prices could just be raised permanently with dynamic pricing keeping the prices lower during most of the day.

A very negative reaction

The company's response claiming that they had been misrepresented came because of backlash online. Customers absolutely hate Uber's Surge pricing, so it was no surprise when the reactions online to this announcement were negative. Well, it was no surprise to anyone except the team at Wendy's, who seemed shocked that customers were unhappy about the pitch.

Social media was awash with comments on articles about how they were going to stop going to Wendy's all together. Similar statements were made when Uber made its announcement, but with limited competition, and Lyft's announcement that they would implement something similar, there were a lot of hollow threats. However, in fast food, there is a lot of choice, so these threats might become a reality if Wendy's doesn't backtrack entirely on this plan.

Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon Gen 12 - Episode 325 (Piltch Point)

The ThinkPad X1 Carbon Gen 12 is an impressive ultra-portable laptop that is Lenovo's flagship model. Designed for business use, it is also suitable for anyone who needs a lightweight and durable device for work or school. The X1 Carbon is known for its durability, having undergone mil-spec testing and other durability tests to ensure its reliability.

The technical details

In terms of hardware, the X1 Carbon 12th gen boasts a full array of ports, including two USB Type-A ports, two Thunderbolt 4 ports, and a full-size HDMI out. The inclusion of these ports ensures that users have plenty of options for connecting peripherals and accessories, making it a versatile option for a wide range of users.

The X1 Carbon 12th gen also features a Meteor Lake processor, which offers superior graphics performance and local AI processing capabilities. This combination of hardware allows for smooth and efficient multitasking, as well as the ability to handle demanding tasks such as image generation and speech-to-text processing.

In terms of battery life, the X1 Carbon 12th gen offers a respectable nine-and-a-half hours of continuous use on a single charge. While this may not be the longest battery life on the market, it is still sufficient for most users' needs and can easily get through a full day of work or school without needing to be recharged.

Retaining the best of the past

The X1 Carbon retains the classic ThinkPad features, such as the track point, a small red nub that allows for precise cursor control without lifting your hands off the keyboard. Additionally, the laptop features a large glass trackpad for those who prefer a more traditional input method.

For the design, the X1 Carbon is made of carbon fiber and other materials, giving it a sleek and modern look. The addition of a communication bar, which houses the webcam and IR sensor for facial login, adds a new element to the laptop's design and functionality. The 1080p webcam provides high-quality video conferencing capabilities, improving the overall user experience.

New and improved features

One of the new features introduced in the X1 Carbon is the special quick menu for the track point. By double-tapping on the track point, users can access a quick menu for easy navigation and multitasking. This feature enhances productivity and efficiency, making it easier to switch between tasks and applications.

One of the standout features of the 12th Generation ThinkPad X1 Carbon is its compact and lightweight design. Despite being a 14-inch screen laptop, Lenovo has managed to pack it into a smaller chassis, making it more portable and easier to carry around. The laptop weighs just 2.42 pounds, making it easy to transport and use on the go.

Conclusion: An impressive upgrade for a very specific market

Overall, the ThinkPad X1 Carbon is an impressive laptop that combines durability, portability, and performance in a sleek and lightweight package. With its compact design, high-quality webcam, and innovative features, the X1 Carbon is a top choice for professionals and students alike who need a reliable and efficient laptop for work or school.

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