2023年1月31日 星期二

Why Are AI-Generated Hands So Messed Up?


It all comes down to the images AI is learning from.


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How to use different keyboards on your smartphone


Our iPhone and Android devices contain all kinds of secret features, and one of the best ones is getting to customize your text message keyboard. Both devices allow you to change your settings to make your messaging experience as fun and specific to you as you wish. Follow these step-by-step instructions to see how you can design your keyboard exactly the way you want it. 

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The iPhone gives you one standard iOS keyboard for you to type your messages, but you can swap some settings around and add features such as typing in other languages, emojis, one-handed typing and more. 

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Certain iPhone models are much larger than others, and it can be difficult to stretch your fingers that far while typing all the time. That's why the iOS15 update introduced the one-handed keyboard option to shrink the size of your keyboard and make it easier to type. Here's how to enable it: 

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There are quite a few keyboard apps that the iOS App Store offers iPhone users. Perhaps the best one is an app called GBoard. This keyboard is the default option that comes on most Android models, but iPhone users can also enjoy its perks by downloading the app.

WHICH APPS ARE DRAINING YOUR PHONE'S BATTERY?

Once enabled, the GBoard will become the default keyboard for apps such as your Email, Notes and Safari apps. However, your iMessaging keyboard will still look the same as before. 

GBoard comes with all kinds of features, and one of its best ones is its Google Search feature. This especially comes in handy when you are sending an email. If you open your Email app on your iPhone and compose a new message, you will notice a G icon on your keyboard. 

By clicking that icon, you can search for all kinds of things from within the email app without having to exit and do a separate Google Search. 

So, for example, let's say you select the "restaurants near me" option and pick out one of the restaurants listed. Once you click it, GBoard will automatically input the name of the restaurant and its location and phone number into the body of your email, as well as a link directly to the restaurant's website. How's that to quickly add info to your emails?

There are lots of other icons featured on the GBoard as well. In the gray bar, you'll notice various different icons. From left to right, these icons allow you to: 

HOW TO CHANGE THE FONT ON YOUR IPHONE

Additionally, if you click on that G icon again, a few more features will appear for you. These include doing a Google search, translating text, inserting YouTube links and sharing locations via the Maps app. Again, all of this can be done within your email without having to exit to other outside apps.  

Most Android models come with the Gboard already pre-installed on them as the default keyboard. The best part about it is that it automatically plugs into Google services, so you don't have to close out of your text message conversations if you want to Google something. All you have to do is select the Google icon and search for what you want. 

GBoard automatically comes with other texting features as well, such as emojis, stickers and GIFs. The options will appear at the bottom of your keyboard, and you can click whichever one you want to use.

And if, for some reason, you do not have Gboard installed already, simply go to the Google Play Store and download the app to begin using.

Settings may vary depending on your Android phone's manufacturer

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You can see what settings come on your Gboard by opening your Settings menu and selecting Keyboard Settings. You will then get a full list of features that you can toggle on and off, such as Glide Typing (where you can glide your finger around the keyboard rather than pressing individual buttons), Emoji suggestions, and Voice input. 

There are various keyboard apps that you can download for Android if you do not wish to use GBoard. Some of the more popular ones are Microsoft SwiftKey, Chrooma and Fleksy. If you choose to download one of these apps to use over GBoard, here's how you would swap out the default keyboard. 

How did this article help you use different keyboards on your smartphone to make things easier for you? We'd love to hear from you. 

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Cheaters Beware: ChatGPT Maker Releases AI Detection Tool for Teachers


The maker of ChatGPT is trying to curb its reputation as a freewheeling cheating machine with a new tool that can help teachers detect if a student or artificial intelligence wrote that homework.

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Cool tech to keep you warm in the cold


Are you ready to weather the freezing temperatures? Have you contacted your local heating, ventilation, and air conditioning company to check your system is in order? Have you got your gloves, hats, and scarves out at the ready? I've got some cool tech to not only help keep you warm, but they also get you through any winter cold spell or frigid outdoor activities.

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Pro Tip: Cold temps zap batteries. Keep your smartphone away from the cold by using an inside pocket to share your body heat.

Great tech-savvy earmuffs with Bluetooth and an upgraded USB chargeable battery. These earmuffs last 8 hours of playing time with only 1-2 hours of charging. Its outside is made of high-quality soft material, and the inner lining is a very soft faux fur. 

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The Bluetooth ear warmers earmuffs are oversized to cover your ears and are perfect for cold winter casual, hiking, biking, skiing, hunting and other outdoor activities. At the time of publishing, this product had over 1,200 global ratings with 64% giving the product 5 stars.

Get Bluetooth Ear Warmer Ear Muffs

Battery-heated gloves heat up your whole hand quickly in seconds, with the far-infrared fiber heating elements covering the entire hand back and all the fingers to fingertips (most other heating gloves only heat the hand back). At the time of publishing, this product had over 2,800 global ratings with 67% giving the product 5 stars.

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Check out these top 8 best winter gloves to work on touchscreens.

Made of high-tech aircraft-grade aluminum and ABS material, thousands of polished exterior materials, smooth and warm, portable and compact as well anti-skid in one hand. Press the switch and instantly release the warmth for you. Rapidly warm-up double sides in seconds. 3 levels of temperatures 95-107 F/104-118 F/118-131 F at your choice. At the time of publishing, this product had over 25,000 global ratings with 76% giving the product 5 stars.

Get Ocoopa Rechargeable Hand Warmers

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Operates up to 10 hours (low), 6 hours (med), 3 hours (high) when used with Venture's included 7.4V 5200 mAh Heated Apparel Power Kit. Four ZONES target back, neck, right and left chest. High, medium, and low settings. Change heat settings with a simple press of a button. Reusable again and again. At the time of publishing, the women's jacket had 449 global ratings with 73% giving it 5 stars, while the men's jacket had 652 global ratings with 72% giving it 5 stars.

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Get Venture Men's Heated Jacket

The double fleece-lined knit Asilovi Bluetooth Beanie pairs with your phone or tablet to combine comfy warmth, fashion, and tech into the smartest head-warming powered beanie that offers around 10 to 12 hours of music playing and talk time.

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With a whopping 100 hours of standby time, it takes about an hour to hour and a half to recharge. The built-in speakers, mic and Bluetooth module separate so that you can wash the beanie. At the time of publishing, this product had over 4,500 global ratings with 74% giving the product 5 stars.

Get Bluetooth Beanie 5.0

Head to the game and be the envy of those surrounding you as they shiver and cheer. This heated stadium seat comes with a USB rechargeable battery. It will warm your tush up to 115 degrees and can be taken camping, fishing or anywhere outdoors during colder times. At 20 inches wide, the memory foam bottom is waterproof to keep you dry, and you'll find thoughtful snack storage on the back and sides plus a cup holder. At the time of publishing, this product had over 1,800 global ratings with 78% giving the product 5 stars.

Get Heated Stadium Seat

Have favorite ways to keep you warm? Comment below.

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Do's and Don'ts of charging your phone the right way


We spend so much money on our smartphones, so we want to make sure that we're giving them the best care possible. One of the biggest things you can do to extend your phone's life is to make sure it's being charged properly, and there are a few secrets to doing this that you may not know about.

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Here are all the Do's and Don'ts for charging your smartphone, whether you have an iPhone or Android.

Poorly made knock-off chargers can create more problems than they are worth and often without any protection.

Although you may be able to find a charger on Amazon or someplace else at a lower price, those cheaper chargers can actually damage your phone. The high-quality chargers have specifically designed circuits within them that will keep your phone from overcharging, breaking, or overheating, so quality is an important thing to keep in mind when it comes to buying a charger.

REPLACING YOUR IPHONE'S BATTERY IS ABOUT TO BECOME MORE EXPENSIVE

Chargers that are made by your phone maker are best along with certified chargers your phone maker certifies. Apple has its own certification process called MFi, short for Made For iPhone, iPad, iPod. Look for the MFi badge on non-Apple chargers and accessories that have been certified by Apple. Android phones need chargers that comply with USB-IF certifications for USB-C specifications.

Yes, your smartphone case can affect the way your device is being charged. Most of us use cases to differentiate our devices from others and also to give them extra protection in case it's dropped on the ground accidentally. However, keeping the case on while you're charging it could cause temperature issues for your device. If your phone heats up too much, it affects its performance later on. Pay attention and see if your phone gets very hot while it's plugged in, and if it does, take the case off until it's finished charging.

Using your phone while it is charging is one of the worst things you can do. It increases your phone's temperature significantly, which can put a lot of stress on your battery, screen and processor. You should plug your phone in and leave it alone until it's finished charging.

Portable chargers are super convenient, yet they can also cause damage to your phone if you don't use a quality one. Stay focused on recognizable brands and only products that are certified for safety and compliance. Similar to plug-in chargers, look for compliance from Apple MFi certification for non-Apple accessories. Android devices that plug into USB-C connections require certification from USB-IF.

HOW TO STOP YOUR CELL PHONE FROM DYING SO FAST

It is best to get one that has overcharge protection and comes from a reliable brand. We've made suggestions for some of the best and most reliable portable chargers available, and you can check them out here.

If you have any type of performance app on your phone meant to monitor your battery life, it's doing more damage than you realize. These apps are constantly using up power, and your device would be way better off if you delete them.

WHICH APPS ARE DRAINING YOUR PHONE’S BATTERY?

It's also important to be mindful of spyware, adware, and malware infecting your phone, as these are constantly draining your battery. Find out how to be on the lookout for malware on your iPhone and Android.

What do you think of these Do's and Don'ts? We'd love to hear from you.

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How to avoid the worst seat on the plane


A lot goes into booking a flight, from making sure you get the best price available to keeping your luggage under the airline's weight limit. 

Yet, just as important is where you are seated because that can make or break your flight experience, and you don't want to get stuck on a flight for hours with a terrible seat - especially the dreaded middle seat. 

That's why I'll show you a few helpful tricks you can use to ensure you get the absolute best seat possible. 

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There are helpful apps and websites that you can use to view available seats on a particular flight. People who have previously flown on the plane you're looking at can rate their overall flight experience, including how good or bad their seat was.

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My personal favorites are the website SeatGuru and the app Seat Alerts, which is available for Apple devices. SeatGuru gives you seat reviews to learn which are the worst to avoid. Seat Alerts will notify you when a better seat becomes available on an upcoming flight. Here's how they work. 

Another seat source called Seat Alerts will send you a notification when a better seat becomes available. 

HOW TO RESCUE YOURSELF FROM HOLIDAY TRAVEL NIGHTMARES

When you see a seat on the map with a white X through it, that means the airline is blocking that seat. In many cases, blocked seats that remain unassigned on the day of departure can become accessible for some passengers. It never hurts to ask the gate agent if they are willing to give you that seat if it improves your location on the plane and is still available when you get to the gate. 

HOW GOOGLE MAPS LETS LOVED ONES KNOW YOU'RE SAFE AT ALL TIMES

ExpertFlyer can show how many seat upgrades are available. Often, U.S. domestic carriers hold off releasing complimentary upgrades that come along with status until near departure time. 

When trying for an upgrade, I use ExpertFlyer.com to look at the flight loads and for aircraft with ample room up front at the time I purchase a ticket. I at least stand a better chance at an upgrade knowing there are unsold premium seats.

Either way, enjoy your flight in the best way you can while seated in the best row possible.

For more of my tips, subscribe to my free CyberGuy Report Newsletter by clicking the "Free newsletter" link at the top of my website. 

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2023年1月30日 星期一

Do not fall for this medical equipment scam


Over 60 million fellow Americans rely on Medicare for their healthcare needs, so you need to be aware of this horrible new scam. 

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With Medicare being a multi-billion dollar plan, there are scammers out there who are taking advantage of and abusing the system by tricking those of you who are on Medicare. That’s why the AARP Fraud Watch Network is taking a stand and warning all Medicare patients to watch out for this new scam.

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The most recent scam affecting Medicare beneficiaries relates to "free" medical equipment. Scammers who are disguising themselves as Medicare representatives are making unsolicited calls to people under the guise of Medicare and offering them free medical devices such as back braces.

These scammers are extremely pushy, imploring people to agree to receive the equipment even if they don’t want or need it, all because it’s free. However, to process the benefit, the scammer will ask the caller for their Medicare number, giving them access to all the private medical information that the caller has on record.

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For starters, giving out your Medicare number is extremely dangerous. Not only does it allow scammers access to all your medical information, it also can cause Medicare to pay for fraudulent claims or even allow someone to impersonate you to get free healthcare. It could also put incorrect information on your medical records, which could be detrimental to your health.

Additionally, if you do end up receiving any equipment from these scammers, the equipment will likely be super low-quality and not useful to you.

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If your Medicare number accidentally falls into the wrong hands, here’s what you can do:

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Bad actors and sinister threats from the web are taking over innocent Americans' identities to steal and perpetrate crimes. Lock up your identity and get round-the-clock protection from the leader in the identity security world.

See my #1 pick by heading over to CyberGuy.com and searching "identity theft" by clicking the magnifying glass at the top of my website.

Have you or anyone you know been a victim of this Medicare scam? We'd love to hear from you.

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10 coffee makers to make your mornings better


There's nothing like curling up under a blanket and sipping a hot cup of coffee, especially on a cold winter day. Yet there are so many different coffee makers out there to fit your every need and desire. 

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So how do you narrow it down? Here are 10 of the coolest and most innovative ones we recommend.

One thing I hate is when I go to use my coffee maker, and it is out of water. I have to then refill it, and it is just a pain. That's where the Spinn coffee maker pro comes in, as it is water supply line compatible, meaning you can connect it directly to your water supply source and never have to refill it. What's more, it comes with an app that allows you to start brewing your coffee from the comfort of your bed. The app even allows you to scan your coffee of choice to brew it to perfection. At the time of publishing, this product had over 100 global ratings with 71% giving the product 5 stars.

Get the SPINN Coffee Maker Pro

The free Atomi app allows you to not only set your coffee maker to brew with your phone anytime, anywhere but even set daily and weekly brewing schedules, so your coffee will always be ready for you when you want it. What's more, it's even programmable with Alexa and Google assist, allowing you to get your coffee brewing without lifting a finger. 

REPLACING YOUR IPHONE'S BATTERY IS ABOUT TO BECOME MORE EXPENSIVE

The eco-friendly 12-cup glass carafe and washable reusable filter are the cherries on top. At the time of publishing, this product had over 600 global ratings with 60% giving the product 5 stars.

Get the Atomi smart WiFi Coffee Maker

In addition to being among the more affordable coffee makers on the market, the durable, user-friendly Black+Decker 12-Cup Programmable Coffee Maker lets you do a lot more than simply program the brewing of your coffee ahead of time. It also automatically shuts off after being inactive for 2 hours, and includes a "sneak a cup feature," allowing those of you who simply can't wait for a morning cup of coffee to temporarily stop the brewing process and pour yourself a cup. 

At the time of publishing, this product had over 32, 961 global ratings with 75% giving the product 5 stars.

Get the Black+Decker 12-Cup Programmable Coffee Maker

Be it for a simple cup of joe, or a cappuccino or latte, the Keurig K-Cafe Single-Serve K-Cup Coffee Maker can make you a warm and revitalizing coffee with only the touch of a button. Its 60 oz. water reservoir allows you to brew 6 cups of coffee before needing to refill, and there will be no need to wait for the water to warm up as it heats and brews simultaneously. 

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And for those of you who always need to drink your coffee on the go, the Keurig K-Cafe Single-Serve K-Cup Coffee Maker can accommodate travel mugs of up to 7.2 inches tall. At the time of publishing, this product had over 20,178 global ratings with 84% giving the product 5 stars.

Get The Keurig K-Cafe Single-Serve K-Cup Coffee Maker

The Nanopresso is a portable, hand-powered espresso machine that is perfect for people on the go. Thanks to a newly patented pumping system, the Nanopresso can easily make you a delicious espresso anywhere you go, without any need for batteries or electricity.

At the time of publishing, this product had over 3,300 global ratings with 74% giving the product 5 stars

Get the WACACO Nanopresso Portable Espresso Machine

For those who love a hot cup of joe in the winter yet a nice cold brew in the summer, the Ninja CP307 Hot and Cold Brewed System is the perfect coffee maker for you. Featuring settings to brew both coffee and tea, hot and cold, to be ready in 15 minutes. 

It also features six brew sizes, as well as five different brew settings for tea and coffee, allowing you to make anything from a single cup to a full carafe. 

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And for those who might prefer a matcha latte or a café au lait, it even comes with a fold-away milk frother for both hot and cold drinks. At the time of publishing, this product had over 12,000 global ratings with 82% giving the product 5 stars.

Get the Ninja CP307 Hot and Cold Brewed System

For those who have a simple taste in coffee yet a keen eye for design, Smeg's 50's Retro Style Aesthetic Drip Filter Coffee Machine might be the perfect addition to your kitchen, available in six different color choices to match your kitchen's aesthetic. 

Fear not, as not only is it visually appealing yet highly practical, as it includes an auto-start mode and a reusable filter. At the time of publishing, this product had over 1,300 global ratings with 74% giving the product 5 stars.

Get the Smeg 50's Retro Style Aesthetic Drip Filter Coffee Machine

No matter the temperature outside, there are those who always prefer their coffee cold. Unfortunately, making a proper batch of cold brew takes anywhere from 12 to 24 hours. Not with the VINCI express cold brew maker, which depending on your strength preferences, can take anywhere from 25 to 5 minutes. 

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All this is made even better by its compact size, making it easy to store and fit in your refrigerator, as well as its self-cleaning setting, promising a fresh-tasting pot of coffee with each brew. At the time of publishing, this product had over 1,400 global ratings with 74% giving the product 5 stars.

Get the VINCI Express Cold Brew Patented Electric Coffee Maker

What can really make a perfect cup of coffee is having freshly ground beans, although having to grind beans for every batch of coffee can prove to be a nuisance. Then too, different brew types might call for different grind consistencies, which can be hard to determine with simple coffee grinders. 

Here is where Gevi's 4-in-1 Smart Pour-over Coffee Maker with Grinder comes in handy, as it comes with a built-in coffee grinder with 51 distinct grind settings. 

The device also comes with an automatic mode, allowing you to grind and brew your perfect cup of coffee by inputting three easy steps. At the time of publishing, this product had over 400 global ratings with 73% giving the product 5 stars.

Get the Gevi 4-in-1 Smart Pour-over Coffee Maker with Grinder

Many people are very particular about their coffee and can tell the difference between pour-over and machine-brewed coffee in a single sip. This can be a struggle for those of you who only want one cup occasionally and do not want to fill an entire carafe. 

Here is where OXO's Brew Single Serve Pour-Over Coffee Maker could solve all your problems, with a water tank featuring a precise hole pattern and clear measuring lines to ensure your coffee will taste to perfection. 

The snug lid will keep your coffee warm and prevent you from spilling once your brewing is complete. At the time of publishing, this product had over 7,400 global ratings with 83% giving the product 5 stars.

Get the OXO Brew Single Serve Pour-Over Coffee Maker

Do you have any other coffee pots you'd love to let others know about? We'd love to hear from you.

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Replacing your iPhone's battery is about to become more expensive


Those with an iPhone should know that Apple will be increasing the prices for battery replacements starting on March 1, 2023. The increase applies only to those who own an iPhone 13 or older. The costs for replacing the battery in any of the iPhone 14 model or higher will remain the same.

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Apple will be jacking up the price of swapping out your iPhone battery by $20 for all iPhone 13 models and older. The current prices for replacing the batteries of these models are as follows:

$69 for a battery repair:

SEE HOW YOUR IPHONE TRACKS YOUR WHEREABOUTS 24/7 – TURN IT OFF

$49 for a battery repair:

On March 1, 2023, all the models that currently cost $69 to repair will go up to $89, and all the models that cost $49 to repair will go up to $69. These prices are still cheaper than what it costs to replace the battery of an iPhone 14 series or higher, which costs $99. 

The iPhone 14 model has only been out for a few months, so no one should have to replace those batteries, which is why Apple is leaving that price as is.

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However, it's important to note that these prices will only apply to those who do not have AppleCare or AppleCare+ plans for their devices. Those with these plans are eligible for a battery replacement at no additional cost.

Yes, Apple will also be increasing the price to swap out the batteries for the MacBook and iPad as of March 1, 2023. MacBook Air battery replacement will increase in price by $30, and MacBook Pro battery replacement will increase by $50. Replacing the battery for iPads will increase by $20.

It is recommended that those of you with an iPhone replace your batteries once they are below 80% battery health. This means that at a full charge, your iPhone is holding less than 80% of the charge that it held when it was new, which could cause various issues in the device's performance. To check if your phone needs a new battery, perform the following steps:

It just depends on if you'd rather have a newer phone model or not. A newer model will certainly have better functionality than your old one. However, it is way more expensive to buy a new phone than to replace the battery of your old one.

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If you like your current phone model, yet the battery is just too old, then replacing it will probably be the best and the cheapest bet for you.

Are you planning to replace your iPhone battery before March 1? Let us know how your device's performance improves once you do so. 

For more of my tips, subscribe to my free CyberGuy Report Newsletter by clicking the "Free newsletter" link at the top of my website.

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2023年1月29日 星期日

Windows Gotchas: How to Avoid the Top 5 Most Common Mistakes


When was the last time you checked your computer’s available storage? Too much clutter slows everything down. Here’s a quick tip to find out how much storage is on your PC.

Next time you install a new program, don't fall for some developers' tricks to sneak in software you don't want or need. Do this one step before installing any programs on your computer.

Whether your computer is brand new or years old, these tips can help you clean things up and stay safer. Read on to see if you’re making these mistakes.

1. You didn’t stop programs from slowing down startup

Most apps don’t need to start up every time you boot your PC. All this does is slow you down. 

You can disable startup apps through your Settings in Windows 10 and 11. Here’s how:

Keyboard smarts: Work faster and smarter with these 7 Windows key shortcuts 

2. You have to sift through bloatware

It’s not just programs you want that can slow you down. Most computers include pre-installed — and unnecessary — apps and programs known as bloatware. 

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Scan through your app list to identify any you never use, and follow these steps to delete them.

Here’s how to remove apps you don’t use from Windows 10:

Here’s how to remove apps from Windows 11:

3. You’re not using the features that make life easier

Accessibility settings can make your gadgets easier to use. Check out these 10 hidden features hiding in your phone’s accessibility settings.

On a Windows PC, you can also find many useful features. There's the magnifier tool and text size, of course. You'll also find options for keyboard shortcuts, color contrast, voice typing, eye control, caption settings, narration, voice recognition, focus, and more.

Windows 10 and 11 have many accessibility features to make them easier to use. 

4. You always skip updates

Yes, it’s annoying that your computer always wants to update when you’re in the middle of something. But trust me when I say it’s worth it.

Microsoft releases regular updates to add new functions or patch vulnerabilities that expose you to hackers and malware.

Automatic updates are turned on by default, but you can manually check for updates at any time by going to Start > Settings > Windows Update, then selecting Check for updates.

App publishers also update their apps to add new features and fix problems. The Microsoft Store can automatically install these updates.

HOW TO DELETE EMBARRASSING AUTOFILL ENTRIES ON YOUR PC AND WINDOWS BROWSERS

Turn on automatic app updates:

5. You’re a malware magnet

No matter what a computer is used for, it’s always vulnerable to attack. 

Sure, you can find "free" antivirus software online or in the various app stores, but can you really trust it? Remember, when something is free, you are the product. At best, these free solutions don’t work very well. At worst, they’re the malicious software you need to worry about.

My pick for computer security is TotalAV. TotalAV covers your laptop, desktop computer, smartphone or tablet and is compatible with Windows, Mac, iOS and Android systems. Go to ProtectWithKim.com to protect five devices for just $19.

PODCAST PICK: Tesla lies, Walmart drone secrets, no more Netflix password sharing

Plus, Amazon's big layoffs spell trouble ahead, four ways to tell if an image is real or Photoshopped, prosecutors reveal murder suspect Brian Walshe's Google searches, the right height for your doorbell cam and how to block annoying scam calls so you don't lose money.

Check out my podcast "Kim Komando Today" on Apple, Google Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast player.

Listen to the podcast here or wherever you get your podcasts. Just search for my last name, "Komando."

Get more tech know-how on The Kim Komando Show, broadcast on 425+ radio stations and available as a podcast. Sign up for Kim’s 5-minute free morning roundup for the latest security breaches and tech news. Need help? Drop your question for Kim here.

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What is a VPN? Can it really protect my online privacy and security?


Privacy has never been in such short supply. There's one technology I've found essential to fighting back against big tech's prying and spying routine. A VPN, or virtual private network, can be a very good idea for you to secure your internet connection, and it can be an effective way for you to protect your online privacy and security.

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There are many VPN choices are available that can be installed on multiple devices, allowing you to use the VPN connection on all of them. Some VPN services also have mobile apps that can be downloaded from the App Store or Google Play, making it easy to use a VPN on your cell phone.

It encrypts your internet connection and masks your IP address, making it more difficult for hackers, advertisers, and other third parties to track your online activity or steal your personal information. It also gives you the following:

MY BROWSER IS SUPER SLOW, HOW DO I FIX IT?

A lot of folks who work remotely have also discovered the advantages of using a VPN to keep their boss from always knowing their exact location. As far as logging into applications and doing regular Zoom calls, a VPN prevents co-workers from knowing you might have jetted off to Europe or are sitting feet away from a tropical beach. If you want to share details of paradise it is up to you – not your computer or smartphone.

Essentially, a VPN makes you all but anonymous or invisible while you are online. However, does it make you anonymous to viruses?

A VPN will not offer protection against malware and viruses. These threats are typically spread through email attachments, software downloads, and other means that do not involve the VPN connection itself. To protect yourself from malware and viruses, it's essential to use a reputable antivirus program and keep it updated, be cautious about opening email attachments from unknown senders, clicking questionable links in text messages, and avoid downloading software from untrusted sources.

NEW 'HOOK' MALWARE ALLOWS HIJACKING, REAL-TIME SPYING ON ANDROID DEVICES

For best antivirus software, see my expert review of the best antivirus protection for your Windows, Mac, Android & iOS devices by searching ‘Best Antivirus’ at CyberGuy.com by clicking the magnifying glass icon at the top of my website.

Related: Free antivirus: should you use it?

To invest or not in a VPN?

Whether or not a VPN is a worthwhile investment depends on your specific needs and level of concern for online security and privacy. In general, a VPN can be a useful tool for protecting your personal information and browsing activity from prying eyes.

For best VPN software, see my expert review of the best VPNs for browsing the web privately on your Windows, Mac, Android & iOS devices by searching ‘Best VPN’ at CyberGuy.com by clicking the magnifying glass icon at the top of my website.

Have you invested in a VPN? If so, let us know which one you purchased and your experience with that product.

PAYPAL HACKER ATTACK EXPOSES CUSTOMER NAMES AND SOCIAL SECURITY NUMBERS

For more of my privacy and security tips, head over to CyberGuy.com and be sure to subscribe to my free CyberGuy Report Newsletter by clicking the "Free newsletter" link at the top of my website.

Copyright 2023 CyberGuy.com. All rights reserved. CyberGuy.com articles and content may contain affiliate links that earn a commission when purchases are made.



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2023年1月28日 星期六

Virtual employees on the rise in China, should Americans be worried?


Technology has been taking over the world, especially within the last decade with the advent of the gig economy. Now, more and more companies are figuring out how to make themselves more efficient by becoming more tech friendly. 

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However, China is taking this to the next extreme with the growing popularity of virtual people. Some of the largest Chinese tech companies are hopping on this bandwagon, and many are wondering if this will affect American jobs. 

AIR FORCE GENERAL PREDICTS WAR WITH CHINA 2025: ‘I HOPE I AM WRONG’

Virtual people are simulations of human beings on computers, also known as virtual characters or avatars. They combine animation, sound tech, and machine learning that create digitized human beings who can interact with people virtually. 

These virtual employees can perform various tasks, such as customer service, data entry, and content creation. They can also be used in video games, virtual worlds, simulations, and be programmed to interact with people in various ways, such as on social media, digital marketing, and other forms of online communication. 

China uses 2D and 3D virtual people to help grow their tech companies. Some have even appeared in American internet spaces, especially as social media influencers. 

Part of the reason why these virtual people have grown so much in popularity over the years is that they cost so little to make. The price range spans from as little as $2,800 to as much as $14,300 to use per year. 

Costs are continuing to go down, as the price tag has already dropped 80% since last year. Some experts believe that due to these low costs, virtual people will continue to grow in popularity and that the industry could potentially grow up to 50% annually through 2025. 

Beijing city even announced a plan back in August of 2022 to continue growing their use of virtual people for companies with the hope to have the industry valued at over 50 billion yen by 2025. 

Tech companies are first to embrace virtual people, yet their presence among other industries is growing fast. China already has a plan to get more virtual people to work in broadcasting and manufacturing. 

They also have them currently working in various financial services, local tourism boards, and state media. Many brands are especially looking for virtual people to represent them and help sell their content with the growing presence of cancel culture and many celebrities generating negative press over the years. 

If more brands use virtual people, they won't have to worry about getting involved in personnel or criminal scandals like a human being could since everything about them is programmed. 

SCHIFF USES TIKTOK APP THAT BIDEN BANNED TO COMPLAIN ABOUT GETTING KICKED OFF HOUSE INTELLIGENCE COMMITTEE

The rapid growth of virtual people has certainly hit other areas of the world quicker than here in the U.S. As I mentioned, the presence of virtual social media influencers is undoubtedly growing on the internet.

Other than that, some companies have just used virtual reality to help regularly train their frontline employees. Some of these companies include JetBlue, Walmart, and MGM Resorts. Many of them have found it helpful as their companies deal with serving the public in some capacity. 

Regarding virtual people taking over for actual humans, America is not quite at that point just yet. With the advent of ChatGPT that uses artificial intelligence to mimic human thinking, virtual employees could ultimately result in job losses for Americans as some businesses choose to automate specific tasks or outsource them to virtual workers.

Proponents argue that it is also possible the growth of virtual employees could lead to the creation of new human jobs, such as those related to the development and management of virtual workers. 

While the use of virtual employees can bring cost savings and increased efficiency to companies, it's important to consider the potential negative impacts. Aside from the obvious human job loss which could be colossal, virtual workers could bring about new privacy, misinformation, and accountability concerns.

Overall, the effect of virtual employees on the job market is likely to be complex and multifaceted. It's tough to make definitive predictions about how it will affect American workers. One thing is for sure, you know I will stay on this very important topic and bring you the latest developments as I see how virtual employees unfold and how it will affect you and your family. 

What do you think about virtual people? Does it concern you? Let us know. We'd like to hear from you. 

For more of my tips, subscribe to my free CyberGuy Report Newsletter by clicking the "Free newsletter" link at the top of my website. 



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My browser is super slow, how do I fix it?


You've probably had it happen to you before - you're trying to watch your favorite streaming show, and it won't load, or you're scrolling through Facebook, and none of your friends' posts are coming up.

This is likely because your browser is too slow, and there are multiple reasons why this could be happening. The good news is there are ways for you to fix the issue. 

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There are many reasons why your browser is running extra slow, and it could be any of the following: 

Malware: your computer could potentially have a virus that you're unaware of. See my expert review of the best antivirus protection for your Windows, Mac, Android & iOS devices by searching ‘Best Antivirus’ at CyberGuy.com by clicking the magnifying glass icon at the top of my website. Related: Free antivirus: should you use it? 

Cookies and cache: you may have to clear out your cookies and cache to speed your browser up 

BEST EXPERT-REVIEWED PASSWORD MANAGERS OF 2023

Too many open tabs: having multiple tabs open automatically slows your connection down. Try closing some out to see if it helps your browser speed 

Pending updates: you may have to go to Settings on your computer and see if there's a new update for it 

Too many extensions: many people use browser extensions, and they could be the culprit of a slow browser 

Internet issues: if you have a poor WiFi connection, your browser's internet speed will slow down immediately 

You may want to check if you're having internet issues before you go messing around with your browser settings to fix your slow connection. Here are a few ways for you to check your connection: 

Run an internet speed test - use a website such as speedtest.net or fast.com. These sites allow you to test your internet speed by measuring the time it takes to download and upload data from their servers. 

Power cycle your modem and router - unplug your modem and router. Wait at least 30 seconds before plugging back in to power. Allow time for both to restart and check your internet connection speed again.

Move your router to a better location or move your device closer to your router - make sure the router is in a central and open area. If you move your modem closer to the router, make sure it is within range.

Contact your internet provider to see if it's an issue on their end - they will be able to diagnose and troubleshoot any problems with your internet connection and help you determine if the problem is with your equipment or with the service they are providing. Additionally, they can check for any outages or maintenance that may be affecting your connection. 

If you've tried these options and none of them seem to work, then it may be time to investigate your browser settings to identify the problem.

Here are a few different ways to speed up your browser, whether you use Google Chrome, Firefox, Microsoft Edge, or Safari. 

SECURITY TIP: ARE YOU MAKING THIS HUGE WI-FI MISTAKE?

There are multiple ways for you to speed up your Chrome browser. Try these options and see how they work for you. 

– Open Google Chrome

– On the main page, click on the 3 vertical dots at the top right of your screen

– In the menu given, select Help at the bottom

Click About Google Chrome 

The next page will let you know if there is an update available for your browser. Click Install if there's one available to you.

– Open Google Chrome

– On the main page, click on the 3 vertical dots at the top right of your screen

– Select More Tools

– Click Extensions

– Remove any browser extensions you don't need by clicking Remove

– Open Google Chrome

– On the main page, click on the 3 vertical dots at the top right of your screen

– Select More Tools

– Click Clear browsing data

– Make sure the Time Range menu at the top is set to All time

– Check off Cookies and other site data and Cached images and files 

– Click Clear data

– Open Google Chrome

HOW TO DICTATE TEXT TO YOUR PHONE AND COMPUTER THE EASY WAY

On the main page, click on the 3 vertical dots at the top right of your screen 

– Click Settings

– Click the Reset Settings button on the dropdown menu to the left of your screen

– Select Restore settings to their original defaults

– Select Reset Settings in the popup box to confirm

There are multiple ways for you to speed up your Firefox browser. Try these options and see how they work for you. 

– Open your Firefox browser 

– Click the 3 horizontal lines in the top right of your screen

– Click Help in the dropdown menu

– Select About Firefox

The next page will let you know if there is an update available for your browser. Click Install if there's one available to you

BIG TECH IS LISTENING AND TRACKING YOUR VOICE RECORDINGS. HOW TO MAKE IT STOP!

– Open your Firefox browser 

– Click the 3 horizontal lines in the top right of your screen

– Click Add-ons and themes

– Select Extensions 

– Click the 3 vertical dots icon next to the Privacy Badger and select Remove 

– Open your Firefox browser 

– Click the 3 horizontal lines in the top right of your screen

– Select Settings

– Click on Privacy & Security

– Go to Cookies and Site Data and select Clear Data

– Check off Cookies and Site Data and Cached Web Content, then click Clear to confirm

– Open your Firefox browser 

– Click the 3 horizontal lines in the top right of your screen

– Select Help

– Click More troubleshooting information

– Click Refresh Firefox, then Refresh Firefox again to confirm

– Click Finish when done

There are multiple ways for you to speed up your Microsoft Edge browser. Try these options and see how they work for you. 

– Open your Microsoft Edge browser 

– Click the 3 horizontal dots in the top right of your screen

– Select Settings

– Click About Microsoft Edge at the bottom of the menu on the left. If an update is available, your browser will automatically update

– Press Restart when finished

– Open your Microsoft Edge browser 

– Click the 3 horizontal dots in the top right of your screen

– Click Extensions

– Individually remove extensions you are not using by clicking the corresponding Remove button

– Open your Microsoft Edge browser 

– Click the 3 horizontal dots in the top right of your screen

– Select Settings

– Click Privacy, Search, and Services on the left menu

– Under Clear browsing data, click the Choose What to Clear button

– Make sure the time frame menu says All time and check off Cookies and other site data and Cached images and files 

– Select Clear Now to confirm

Reset your Microsoft Edge browser

– Click the 3 horizontal dots in the top right of your screen 

– Select Settings 

– Click Reset Settings

– Click Reset settings to their default values 

– Select Reset to confirm 

– There are multiple ways for you to speed up your Safari browser. 

– Click the Apple icon in the top left corner of your screen

Select System Settings 

– Click General in the menu on the left

GOOGLE TOLD ME TO CHANGE MY PASSWORD, SHOULD BE WORRIED?

– Select Software Update  

– The next page will let you know if there is an update available for your browser. Click Update Now if there's one available to you

– Open your Safari browser

– Click Safari in the top left of your screen next to the Apple icon

– Click Settings

– Select Extensions in the popup menu 

– Untick the box on specific extensions to turn them off, or click on them and click the Uninstall button to remove them

– Open your Safari browser

– Click Safari in the top left of your screen next to the Apple icon

– Click Settings 

– Select Privacy

– Click Manage Website Data and choose what to remove, or press Remove All to remove everything

– Press Done when finished

Safari can only be reset manually by clearing your browsing history, clearing your cookies and cache, and removing extensions. Follow the directions above to clear cookies and cache and to remove extensions. To clear your Safari browsing history: 

– Open your Safari browser 

– Click Safari in the top left of your screen next to the Apple icon

– Select Clear History

– Select All History in the dropdown menu and press Clear History to confirm

Was this helpful? Let us know how your browser speed is working after following these steps. 

For more of my tips, subscribe to my free CyberGuy Report Newsletter by clicking the "Free newsletter" link at the top of my website.



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Army picks four companies to build tactical truck prototypes


The U.S. Army announced Friday that it had selected four companies to build tactical truck prototypes. 

In a release, the branch awarded Mack Defense, Navistar Defense, Oshkosh Defense and the American Rheinmetall Vehicles/GM Defense team deals worth a combined total of $24.25 million.

The contractors will provide three prototypes of each variant for the Common Tactical Truck (CTT) Family of Vehicles. 

Each team will build three prototypes of each variant, including the M915 Line Haul Tractor and M1088 Medium Tractor, the Palletized Load System (PLS) and the Heavy Expanded Mobility Tactical Truck (HEMTT).

US AIR FORCE'S NEW F-15EX BREAKS KEY RECORD AS THREATS AGAINST AMERICA GROW

The Army noted that vendors will also be required to provide digital designs of all variants and a design study for a wrecker. 

The goal of the rapid prototyping phase is to inform the Army of whether commercially based variants can meet military requirements, and the release noted that the CTT program aims to mitigate current gaps in driver safety systems, autonomy, fuel consumption and predictive maintenance.

"The CTT effort brings an increased level of standardization to the Army’s Tactical Truck fleet. This effort is reminiscent of the original Liberty Truck, a heavy-duty truck produced by the United States Army during World War I," Program Executive Officer Combat Support & Combat Service Support (PEO CS&CSS) Brig. Gen. Samuel Peterson said. 

SERVICE MEMBERS FORCED TO PAY BACK SIGNING BONUSES AFTER BEING FIRED OVER COVID VAX: ‘KICK IN THE FACE’

"It was designed by the Quartermaster Corps with help from the Society of Automotive Engineers in 1917 to help standardize the immense parts catalogue and multiple types of vehicles then in use by the U.S. military. It was the first official standardized motor vehicle adopted and produced by the U.S. military," he continued. "The CTT program can be viewed as the Liberty Truck of the 21st century, as it will similarly seek to streamline the Army’s supply, maintenance and training requirements."

"This approach allows the Army to modernize at the pace of industry, integrating new technologies as they are developed. Additionally, commonality in the CTT Family of Vehicles will enable open modular designs and interchangeable repair parts across the fleet, resulting in streamlined supply chains and reduced total lifecycle costs," said Wolfgang Petermann, the Army's Program Executive Office for Combat Support & Combat Support's transportation project manager.

Evaluation of the initial delivered prototypes is scheduled for the beginning of 2024. 



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2023年1月27日 星期五

Perfect photo, yet someone blinked? No problem with this amazing trick


Have you ever taken a photo with a bunch of people where one or two of you are blinking? Here's the perfect solution I always use on my iPhone (and on Google photos for those with Androids) to make sure there are always options and you take the perfect photos.

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The first thing to get the perfect shot is to know about this iPhone camera trick called Live Photo. You may have seen it before by long-pressing a thumbnail in your photos.

Live Photo takes 1.5 seconds of video before and after you take a picture. This gives you a chance to capture the moment when it actually happens. Consider it a tool to go back in time around your photo taking. 

Later, you can go back and select the best-looking frame from inside of a live photo. This must be what they call picture perfect in Hollywood.

HOW TO TURN LIVE PHOTOS ON AND OFF ON IPHONE

 This will activate the "live photo" option.

HOW TO STOP YOUR CELL PHONE FROM DYING SO FAST

By setting the perfect frame by the steps above, you are, in essence, creating a cover photo for this quick video file. That said, one word of warning ... because Live Photo records 1.5 seconds before and after your shot, be careful of the file you send. Even though you've just established the cover shot of this "live photo," remember the file is really a short quick video, and anyone who receives this file and presses down on the photo can see the entirety of the quick shot. 

How to create a still image from a Live Photo 

To create a still image from the updated live shot you just updated, follow these steps: 

Unfortunately, there isn't functionality built into the Android system like live photos on iPhones. Yet there's a workaround using Google Photos.

HOW TO REMOVE YOUR LOCATION FROM PHOTOS

As Google Photos comes built into all Android devices, go ahead and open your app. If you're going to take a photo with many people in it, go ahead and try to take a video instead of a photo. Once that video is recorded, you can select a single perfect frame. Here's how: 

How did you use this trick to salvage some of your photos where someone blinked in the picture? We'd love to hear from you. 

For more Apple tips, head over to CyberGuy.com and search "Apple" by clicking the magnifying glass at the top of my website. And be sure to subscribe to my free CyberGuy Report Newsletter by clicking the "Free newsletter" link at the top of my website. 

Copyright 2023 CyberGuy.com. All rights reserved. CyberGuy.com articles and content may contain affiliate links that earn a commission when purchases are made. 



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5 best portable phone chargers of 2023


It happens to me more often than I want to admit. My phone and I are on the go, and I watch the battery drain faster than expected, and my day runs longer than I had planned. 

You, too, right? You're out and about the entire day, and your phone just prompted you to go into "low battery mode." For these times, I always carry a portable battery with me wherever I go. It is one of my favorite accessories for my mobile phone and gets more use than a plug-in charger. 

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There are a number of great backup battery chargers to throw in your go bag. Here are the best picks that I know work. 

This MagSafe magnetic extra battery for all iPhone 12 models and later can be used with or without a case and wirelessly charges an iPhone on the go. Plug it in when home, or lay it on a wireless Qi charger, and it recharges both the battery pack and your iPhone 12 or later. 

WHICH APPS ARE DRAINING YOUR PHONE’S BATTERY?

It keeps kids from losing chargers and cables since none are needed while away from home. Now we just need to make sure they don’t lose the new battery pack. 

Amazon reports that it is seeing an 86% rise in people equipping themselves with cases for consumer electronics as more and more Americans are returning to a more active life away from home. At the time of publishing, this product had over 9,600 global ratings with 69% giving the product five stars.

Get Apple iPhone Battery Pack

At this price and at this moment, it’s no wonder this portable extra battery to charge your phone has become a bestseller on the top ten list online. 

Say hello to the Anker Portable Charger. This PowerCore Slim 10,000mAh Battery Pack will do high-speed PowerIQ charging for iPhone, Android, Samsung Galaxy and tablets. 

When I see 77,000+ positive reviews, I take notice and look to see why this is getting so much engagement online. What I found is a very well-made, .57-inch slim extra battery to take on the go that gives my iPhone two-and-a-quarter charges, 1.6 charges on the Galaxy S20, and 1.2 charges on average for the iPad Mini. 

HOW TO STOP YOUR CELL PHONE FROM DYING SO FAST

I love this extra portable battery that has earned the PSE safety certification seal in Japan. I have started buying the $35 USB-C version that delivers 20W power in black, blue, and green colors. At the time of publishing, this product had over 77,000 global ratings with 76% giving the product five stars.

Get the Anker Portable Charger for iPhone, Android & Samsung 

A nearly half the price of Apple’s MagSafe Battery Pack, this Anker Magnetic Wireless Charger gives you 5,000mHh power with a USB-C cable. 

What I love is the snap-and-go technology that offers the most convenient wireless charging. On the performance side of things, its 5W charging rate works great with all versions of iPhone 12 and later that have MagSafe charging. 

With an 18-month warranty, it's hard to resist this great accessory for anyone who has any version of the iPhone 12 or later model phones. 

ARE YOUR OWN DEVICES INADVERTENTLY SPYING ON YOU?

At the time of publishing, this product had over 9,600 global ratings with 69% giving the product five stars. 

Get Apple iPhone Magnetic Wireless Charger from Anker 

This could be one of the highest-rated options for both Android and iPhone with its USB-C porta, slim and ultra-lightweight design. If your iPhone charging cable is the smaller USB-C version instead of the older fat USB-A, then this is a great option to plug in for a charge on the go. Android connects easily too. INIU offers an impressive 3-year warranty. I really like the triple 3 amp highspeed charging capability and the fact that INIU is sold in a two-pack so that I can keep one in the car and the other in my backpack or pocket.

At the time of publishing, this product had over 11,000 global ratings with 82% giving the product five stars.

Get INIU Portable USB-C Charger 2-pack 

My iPad takes the smaller USB-C plug, the iPhone takes a lightning plug, and everything else takes the micro USB plug. That means I need to cart around three different cables, right? Not anymore with the Spigen DuraSync 3-in-1 universal cable. Someone got smart and made one end compatible with everything mobile. I love that it's MFI certified to work with Apple devices, and the cable length is spot on at 4.9 feet, designed with a durable braided cable meant to last. At the time of publishing, this product had over 2,700 global ratings, with 65% giving the product five stars. 

Get the Universal 3-in-1 charger cable 

For more of my tips, subscribe to my free CyberGuy Report Newsletter by clicking the "Free newsletter" link at the top of my website. 

Copyright 2023 CyberGuy.com. All rights reserved. CyberGuy.com articles and content may contain affiliate links that earn a commission when purchases are made. 



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NASA successfully tests new engine for deep space exploration


NASA announced that its engineers have developed and tested the agency's first full-scale rotating detonation rocket engine (RDRE).

The agency said that the design could significantly change how future propulsion systems are built. The supersonic rocket engine uses detonation, with the design producing more power while using less fuel than today's propulsion systems.

It has the potential to power both human landers and interplanetary vehicles to deep space destinations, like the moon or Mars

NASA AND DARPA TO DEVELOP NUCLEAR THERMAL ROCKET ENGINE THAT MAY PUT HUMANS ON MARS: REPORT

The engine was fired over a dozen times during testing conducted at the Alabama-based Marshall Space Flight Center's East Test Area

NASA said that the engine achieved its primary objective by demonstrating that its hardware could function for long periods of time while also withstanding the extreme heat and pressure environments generated by detonations. At full throttle, the RDRE produced more than 4,000 pounds of thrust for nearly a minute at an average chamber pressure of 622 pounds per square inch. That's the highest pressure rating for this design on record.

NASA'S ARTEMIS I LAUNCH TO BRING US STEP CLOSER TO ‘SUSTAINABLE HUMAN FOOTPRINT ON THE MOON’

Notably, there was also the successful performance of both deep throttling and internal ignition. 

"This successful demonstration brings the technology closer to being used with future flight vehicles, enabling NASA and commercial space to move more payload and mass to deep space destinations, an essential component to making space exploration more sustainable," NASA said. 

Due to this recent success, additional work is being conducted by engineers to develop a fully reusable 10,000-pound class RDRE to identify performance benefits over traditional liquid rocket engines.



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2023年1月26日 星期四

Big Tech is listening and tracking your voice recordings. How to make it stop!


Most of what you type, say, search and buy is being tracked in one way or another. Big Tech gives us great free products to use, and the price is our privacy. 

Even your TV habits are packaged up and sold to advertisers. Here’s how to stop your TV from spying on you. 

Some snooping is even more invasive. Worried someone is spying on your phone? Check this list of red flags

You can fight back You can buy a mic blocker for around $10. It slides into your headphone port to stop recording. For an even cheaper DIY option, buy the most inexpensive pair of headphones you can find and snip them off. 

Here’s how to limit what you’re handing over to Big Tech. 

Whenever I write that your Echo device is always listening, Amazon assures me it’s only listening for the "wake word." I don’t see the difference here. Either way, if you have an Echo, there’s not much point in keeping it around if you turn off the microphone. 

The real issue is Amazon employees listening to your recordings. Here’s how to stop that: 

You can turn the Echo's mic off for extra privacy in certain situations. Press the microphone's off/on button at the top of the device. Whenever this button is red, the mic is off. To reactivate it, press the button again, and it will turn blue. 

Ugh, come on, Alexa. Read our list of the most annoying Echo issues solved

Do you rely on Siri to get things done for you? You might not realize how much is being sent back to Apple’s servers. 

Since you can’t really pick and choose what is shipped off and stored, your best bet is shutting down Siri if you’re not comfortable with Apple having your recordings. 

WHY A GREEN AND ORANGE DOT ON YOUR PHONE CAN INDICATE SOMEONE LISTENING AND WATCHING

Use an Android? Here’s how to turn off the "OK Google" wake phrase: 

Your apps might be listening, too. Go here for steps to see which apps and snooping and how to stop them. 

Are you worried about someone spying on you through your webcam? That’s easy: : Grab one of these cheap covers or put a Post-It over the lens if you don't use it much. 

Unfortunately, you do have to root around your computer a bit to turn off mics. 

For PCs running Windows 10: 

IPHONE HACK LETS YOU SEND SECRET TEXTS TO FRIENDS

On a Mac: 

The internet is a dangerous place – Signup for my free tech email newsletter. 

PODCAST PICK: Tesla lies, Walmart drone secrets, no more Netflix password sharing 

Plus, Amazon's big layoffs spell trouble ahead, four ways to tell if an image is real or Photoshopped, prosecutors reveal murder suspect Brian Walshe's Google searches, the right height for your doorbell cam and how to block annoying scam calls so you don't lose money. 

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A Startup CEO Explained Why He Abandoned A Controversial Plan To Use An AI-Powered “Robot Lawyer” In Traffic Court


“I don’t want to go to jail over an experiment,” DoNotPay’s Joshua Browder told BuzzFeed News.


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Apple users with certain old iPhone, iPad devices should install this security update


Apple users with certain older generations of iPhones, iPads and an iPod are being urged to install a new security update. 

In a Jan. 23 notice, Apple highlighted the impact of a recently discovered vulnerability picked up by Google's Threat Analysis Group.

The tech giant said that processing "maliciously crafted web content may lead to arbitrary code execution."

"Apple is aware of a report that this issue may have been actively exploited against versions of iOS released before iOS 15.1," it said. 

IPHONE HACK LETS YOU SEND SECRET TEXTS TO FRIENDS

Now, the iOS 12.5.7 update is available for affected devices. 

Those devices include the iPhone 5s, iPhone 6, iPhone 6 Plus, iPad Air, iPad mini 2, iPad mini 3, and the sixth-generation iPod touch.

GOT AN IPAD? APPLE JUST GAVE IT AN AMAZING NEW TRICK

Two updates were announced in December: iOS 15.7.2 and iPadOS 15.7.2. 

Apple previously said that those updates to address the issue were available for all iPhone 6 models, all iPhone 7 models, the first generation iPhone SE, all models of the iPad Pro, the iPad Air 2 and later, iPad 5th generation and later and the seventh generation iPod Touch. 

To install the update on an iPhone, go to Settings, click General and then select Software Update.



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How to recycle your old electronics into Amazon gift cards


A new year means you are probably enjoying new gadgets like smartphones, laptops and tablets. You’re also likely wondering about the best way to get rid of your old ones. Well, Amazon has you covered with their trade-in program that allows you to turn your unwanted tech into Amazon gift cards. 

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Amazon's Trade-In Program is a quick and easy way for you to earn something from your old and unused electronics. Most older electronics decrease in value as time goes on, so it's not likely that you'll be able to earn a ton of money by selling them.

Sure, you could always give your old item to a friend or family member if it's still in good shape. However, if they are going to want to use something newer as well, then this is the perfect way for you to recycle your items and earn money back at the same time. 

Amazon has an entire webpage specifically for its Trade-In Program. On this page, you'll find multiple categories of items you can trade, including kindles, tablets, streaming media players and more.

There is also an "Other Trade-In Categories" section that applies to cell phones and gaming devices.

Follow these steps to trade in one of your old items: 

One of the terms of the Trade-In Program is that it is limited to a $1,800 value. You can still trade in items that are valued higher than that. However, you must make multiple trade-ins to do so. Items must also be shipped only from the United States, and you must have a physical address located in the United States. Also, remember that you will only receive the gift card deposit into your Amazon account once Amazon has received the item you are trading in. 

Have you used Amazon's Trade-In Program? We'd love to hear about your experience. 

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