Home Blog Page 11

Netflix Update Allows Users to Disable Autoplay Function

By
Jude Cavale
-
autoplay

One of the most annoying features of Netflix had been its characteristic autoplay function. When people browsed through videos or when they activated clips and episodes, videos would automatically start to play. All this will be a thing of the past, as Netflix just announced that it will now allow users to disable autoplay videos. One can disable the autoplay function entirely, and browse peacefully without having to reduce the volume in between. 

Here is how one can disable Netflix’s autoplay video function

  • One first needs to login to their Netflix account via a browser
  • Once logged in, one should locate the drop-down menu in the top right corner
  • The next step is to click on the drop-down menu and choose ‘Manage profiles’
  • Choose the profile that you want to disable the autoplay for
  • You will see that there is now a new ‘Autoplay controls’ option
  • This is located just below the language and content settings
  • One can check or uncheck boxes for the  ‘Auto-play next episode in a series on all devices’ and ‘Auto-play previews while browsing on all devices.’
  • Once you either check or uncheck, save the changes so that it is reflected all across your account
  • Autoplay will be disabled on all your connected devices, including browser, iOS/Android applications, etc. 

Netflix’s new update will likely increase its viewership

A number of people had been complaining that Netflix’s interface was not all that great. This has been quite true because Netflix often interfered with the searching behaviour of users. Many just gave up looking for series or movies due to the perceived interference by the autoplay feature. As Netflix has now allowed users to disable the feature, more people are likely to use login often. 

Update helps Netflix to tackle the growing tide of competition

Netflix already has a number of competitors such as Hulu, Amazon Prime, and others. To beat the competitors, the company needs to make its interface superlative. If it does not, then its existing customers have no reason to stay back and use Netflix. Subscription services have grown dramatically and the competition is quite out of the world. Netflix has done the right thing by permitting users to disable the autoplay function. This will give the video giant the impetus that is required stay ahead of competitors. 

Google Maps Update Coming Later Today with New Features

By
Tomer Friedman
-
google maps update

A new Google Maps update is coming later today, and it promises a number of features and a snazzy new redesign. The changes will come to both iOS and Android applications. The update comes exactly after 15 years from the date of the launch of Google Maps beta. With this update, users can expect a slew of new features and design elements that make using the Maps application a joyous experience. 

Here are some of the most important features and changes coming with the Google Maps update:

  • Google Maps now has a four-color icon, that borrows from the elements of the location pin. 
  • At the bottom of the screen, users can find a navigation system with five icons
  • “Saved” tab fetches a list of locations you may have bookmarked, along with other such lists you may also have created
  • “Contribute” tab allows you to add photos and reviews locations you visit often
  • The hamburger menu, which hid many of these icons, is finally gone
  • Google Maps’ list features now more accessible, and many reviewers have noted that this is an advantageous feature for users

Users can easily access crowdsourced information on Google Maps

Google has also made it easier to access information that is entered via the crowdsourcing method. Users can easily check the temperature, security, accessibility and other such details entered by other users. This is very useful while traveling on public transport, as people can plan their journeys well in advance, and make informed decisions. 

Walkers may get better user experience with the new update

The tech giant has also included Live View, which uses augmented reality (AR) to help pedestrians and walkers to plan their journeys. In the initial versions, Live View displayed blue arrows to help users understand where they are walking. Now, a large red pin shows where the destination is, and how far the user us away from it. Users can still access turn-by-turn directions using the blue arrows. 

However, the new Live View feature is perfect for those who want to orient themselves in the direction. Live View feature will be added to another update and may not be available right away. It is important to note that Apple Maps has similarly planned to redesign and unveil new features. Competition makes everyone work hard, and Google is no exception. And that is always a good thing for end-users. 

Facebook Warns Users WhatsApp Desktop Has Security Issues

By
Jude Cavale
-
WhatsApp Desktop

Facebook has warned WhatsApp users that a flaw in the application’s desktop tool allows attackers to read files on macOS and Windows PCs. Attackers can easily launch cross-site scripting attacks by sending cleverly written text messages. These socially crafted messages help attackers to extract files on the computer where WhatsApp Desktop is being used. The security flaw opens up vulnerabilities to a number of Security threats. 

What causes the WhatsApp Desktop security issues?

Researcher Gal Weizman of PerimeterX discovered the flaw, which he claims is a result of the implementation of the Electron software framework. It is important to note that the Electron software framework has created a number of security issues in the recent past. The framework lets developers to write cross-platform apps using a browser and web technologies. Unfortunately, it is not al secure and it depends on developers alone how they deploy their apps. As in this case, they can deploy malware as well. 

How and when did the security issues come to surface?

Weizman discovered the vulnerability in 2017 when he realized that he can easily mess with the metadata of the messages. He also understood that he can write bogus preview banners that can conceal the URL in them. Eventually, he also discovered that he can insert JavaScript code into messages. This allowed him to access files on every computer he gained access to. Finally, he was able to extract the local fuel system with the help of JavaScript Fetch API.

If you are worried that you might be using an old version of the WhatsApp, here is what you need to do:

  • Update your WhatsApp Desktop to the latest version
  • Update your WhatsApp applications on iOS and Android devices
  • Connect afresh so that you sync everything easily

Act now to eliminate threats on WhatsApp Desktop

Only the older versions (before 0.3.9309) of WhatsApp Desktop are vulnerable to this issue. In addition, affected include those who have connected WhatsApp for iPhone with the desktop application, and use 2.20.10. Facebook has already worked on the issue and launched newer versions of the app that addresses this critical vulnerability. Make sure to update all your WhatsApp applications at the same time in order to eliminate any traces of vulnerability. 

Jeff Weiner to Step Down as LinkedIn’s CEO in June

By
Jude Cavale
-
Jeff Weiner

There are going to be some major changes in the executive leadership of LinkedIn in the coming months. The current CEO Jeff Weiner is going to step down on the 1st of June, 2020, and take up the role of executive chairman. Ryan Roslansky, who currently acts as the head of product, will become the new CEO of LinkedIn. Tomer Cohen, who previously worked under Ryan, will become the next head of the product team. 

Jeff Weiner’s departure may not change much at LinkedIn

Microsoft acquired LinkedIn in 2016 for a grand prize of $26.2 billion. Ever since there have been no major changes to either its organizational structure or leadership roles. The upcoming leadership shakeup is the most dramatic change coming to LinkedIn in the last few years. Yet, we need to remember that all the executives are part of LinkedIn, and only the roles are going to change one way or another. As the culture remains the same, users and observers may not notice anything significantly different in the way LinkedIn functions. 

Jeff Weiner explains what his plans are next

Outgoing CEO Jeff Weiner has noted that working at LinkedIn was his dream job and that he is now looking for his next role as executive chairman. However, this may be an indication that he will soon be hired by a different company as a CEO. Jeff has managed Linked In very well and has led it to become what it is today. 

Here are some of his major achievements:

  • There was a marked and steep growth in LinkedIn during his tenure
  • He helped LinkedIn to diversify its revenues into ads, subscriptions, and premium features. 
  • He also oversaw LinkedIn’s mobile policy, which is responsible for the social media tool’s success among professionals. 
  • Jeff made sure that both the website and the mobile apps had great designs, and that they are easy to use. 
  • He helped attract many users who initially were reluctant to use LinkedIn

What will be the future of LinkedIn?

As you can see, Jeff’s leadership was momentous for LinkedIn. Though he will still lurk around as an executive chairman, the lack of his leadership will be felt at LinkedIn. Many observers note that companies are looking at hiring him with a more lucrative package, now that is stepping down as LinkedIn’s CEO. As far as the new CEO is concerned, he will have the tough task of getting more people to sue LinkedIn. He will also need to focus on its engagement appeal. 

Nintendo’s Animal Crossing-themed Switch to Arrive Soon

By
Netta Siach Lindenfeld
-
Animal Crossing-themed Switch

If you are a fan of Animal Crossing, you will be delighted to learn that Nintendo is going to launch a Switch inspired by this famous social simulation game. The Animal Crossing-themed Switch will be available on the 13th of March and gamers can soon pre-order it at select stores.

This full size-size switch functions as a handheld, but can also be fixed to a TV dock. Thanks to detachable Joy-Con controllers, playing games couldn’t get easier than this. Fans need to note that the console is inspired by Animal Crossing, but it does not come with the game as well. You will need to purchase Animal Crossing separately. 

Here are some of the unique features of the Animal Crossing-themed Switch

Animal Crossing-themed Switch
  • The embossed look on the back of the Switch makes it look premium and luxurious. 
  • The Switch comes in different attractive colors and is definitely eye-catching and glamorous
  • Nintendo also plans to launch an Animal Crossing-themed carrying case. This will be sold separately and will be available simultaneously. 
  • The portable console is perfect for playing games indoors and outdoors

Pre-order the Animal Crossing-themed Switch in time

Animal Crossing-themed Switch

Fans have long awaited the launch of the Animal Crossing: New Horizons. Nintendo had announced it way back during the E3 2019. The game will be available on the 20th of March. If you get the Switch on the 13th, you will probably be all prepared to play the game on the 20th of March. If you truly want to have the console ready by the time the game is available too, make sure to pre-order the Switch well in advance, to eliminate shipping delays. 

Why is Nintendo releasing video game-inspired Switches?

Animal Crossing-themed Switch

The Switch is a hybrid device that acts like a handheld device, and also as a console. Its wireless Joy-Con controllers come with standard buttons and can perceive tactile feedback. Nintendo unveiled it’s way back in March 2017, and there have been many reiterations after that. 

As the device is immensely popular, Nintendo seems to have made the decision to launch a Switch inspired by certain popular games as well. Currently, only the Animal Crossing-themed Switch is available. One can only hope and wish that Nintendo launches many more versions of the Switch, inspired by other popular games.

Sony’s Official PS5 Website Is Now Live in the UK and Germany

By
Ehud Riven
-
Playstation 5 is coming soon
Playstation website

After weeks of waiting in anticipation, the official PS5 website is now live in some countries. This means, there might be an announcement anytime soon, and Sony is using curiosity to its benefit. For a while now, industry pundits have expected Sony to announce the PS5 in February. Now that the release date is fast approaching, Sony is trying to build up a media frenzy before it officially announces the PS5. It is still not clear when the console will be announced exactly. 

Users can leave the email addresses on the official PS5 website to be notified when it is available

Sony makes it quite clear that the new console will come with some outstanding features. However, it adds that it is currently not able to unveil the PS5 immediately. Consequently, on the official website, it requests users to share their email addresses so that it can communicate to them when the console is ready to be announced. It also assures visitors that it will soon share price-related details, along with the upcoming roster of launch games. 

No information about pricing yet

Sony had announced just a while ago that it has still not reached a consensus about pricing. It admitted that it’s waiting for Microsoft to launch the Xbox Series X in order to get a better idea of how it can play the market. Yet, one can only wonder why Sony decided to make the official PS5 website go live so soon. The company probably has its own reasons to do so, and speculating its intentions may not be very relevant.  

The most anticipated console of recent months is finally going to be announced

PS5 is one of the most anticipated consoles this year. Fans have long waited for the successor of PS4, and now is the moment of revelation. As the website indicates, the release is might happen anytime this month. Currently, the UK and the German websites of the console are up, and so is the logo, which the company announced just a few days ago. One needs to directly visit the website, and it does not appear on PlayStation’s homepage. 

As it is, Sony has been closely following Apple’s footsteps when it comes to marketing, choosing a premium-style of marketing. When the console does arrive in the market, both Nintendo and Microsoft will have some tough competition to fight.

Facebook Messenger Kids Gets an Important Update

By
Tal Siach
-
Facebook Messenger Kids

Facebook Messenger Kids now has a fresh update and comes with many new features to curate children’s experiences better. Parents will have better control over the messenger app and kids will get to interact and communicate on a more user-friendly interface. Facebook Messenger will get this update in every country where it is available. 

What is Facebook Messenger Kids?

Facebook Messenger Kids it’s announced to be back in December 2017 as an alternative to the main Messenger app. In fact, the idea was to help parents and guardians review with whom their children connect. As there have been increasing instances of children being contacted by unsavory individuals, Facebook felt it was necessary to come up with an application that was child-friendly. Moreover, the app complies with Children’s Online Privacy and Protection Act (COPPA) and is available on both iOS and Android. 

Facebook Messenger Kids comes with a number of useful features. Some of them include:

  • Augmented reality (AR) filters to screen individuals that connect with them 
  • Games and education content that keep kids engaged 
  • Hide phone numbers and accounts from Facebook searches
  • Use first and last names to register, bypassing the need to enter a mobile number
  • Accounts will not be migrated to regular Facebook when children attain the age of 13, which is a minimum for someone to create an account on Facebook.

The new update comes with the following features:

  • View with whom the child is chatting
  • Review videos and images that a child exchanges, and report inappropriate content
  • View the blocked and reported lists, along with the reasons for doing so
  • Request a copy of the messages, videos and images sent and received 
  • A parent dashboard on both iOS and Android platforms, from where parents can control the app
  • Educational and entertainment content that is child-friendly 

The child-friendly update is welcome

As you can see, the new update comes with a number of useful features. In addition, it eliminates security risks and vulnerabilities that a child might have to encounter if they used Facebook without supervision. As there have been many cases of online stalking harassment, and bullying, these measures are welcome. Facebook Messenger App is doing a commendable job when it comes to protecting the rights of children, and helping parents to review their wards’ social media activity.

Simon Weckert Proves Technology Is Imperfect in Google Maps Experiment

By
Jude Cavale
-

Update, February 3, 2020 (5:15 PM ET) Google just responded to the experiment saying whether car, cart or camel, they’d welcome anything that makes Google Maps better.

Simon Weckert
Simon Weckert website

Artist Simon Weckert wanted to show that technology is not perfect and relying on it completely can have unintended consequences. To do so, he conducted the Google Maps experiment and created virtual traffic jams on Berlin streets. The experiment has already attracted a lot of attention from diverse groups and raised many philosophical questions. 

What was Simon Weckert’s Google Map experiment all about?

The experiment was very simple. Simon Weckert put 99 smartphones into a card and turned Google Maps on the devices all at the same time. To make things more ironic he even wheeled the cart outside Google’s office. As a number of smartphones have Google Maps turned on at the same time at the same location, Google Maps servers were tricked into thinking that they were actual traffic jams on the streets. 

As Simon loaded the smartphones onto a cart, Google Maps erroneously also believed that the traffic was slow-moving. Consequently, Google Maps started to display streets flooded in red. This misled people into thinking that they were actual traffic jams on the streets of Berlin. 

Vulnerabilities in different technologies can result in unsavory situations

Simon Weckert

As Google Maps uses user-generated data, the smartphones in the cart caused the technology to make incorrect decisions. Simon Weckert’s experiment is proof of technology being imperfect even when it did exactly what it was supposed to do. Naïvely believing that technology is immaculate or that it’s invincible can have disastrous consequences in real life. 

It is more of a philosophical question to wonder if technology can ever be perfect. As man creates every technology, all of them are prone to human errors. They’re also prone to human mischief and malevolence. In a world that is increasingly volatile, this can result in dangerous situations. 

Questioning the infallibility of technology

As artificial intelligence is becoming popular, people are increasingly questioning technology’s infallibility. Even Blockchain has known errors and people have indulged in mischief. With this being the case, Simon Weckert’s experiment stands as testimony to how quickly things can go wrong if someone who wants to trick the system actually starts to do so. 

Simon Weckert’s Google Maps experiment makes us all wonder about our own beliefs about technology. This artistic endeavor comes at the right time, and one can only hope that people stop naively believing that technology is always perfect. 

Apple Onsite Repair Service Coming to Select US Cities

By
Netta Siach Lindenfeld
-

Apple has just announced that it will now start offering onsite repair services for customers in certain cities. This will prove to be hugely beneficial for customers who want their devices repaired but cannot actually go to an authorized service center or an Apple Store. The onsite repair service assures quality repairs at home or office. 

More details about the Apple onsite repair service

All one needs to do is to go to the Apple support site, and initiate a repair. When scheduling a repair, one can choose the onsite option. However onsite repairs are only available in certain cities such as Dallas, Houston, Los Angeles, San Francisco, Chicago, and New York. 

The onsite repair service at home or office will be offered by Apple-authorized service provider Go Tech Services. Go Tech Services usually ranks at the top in most cities where it’s available. When users select this option a warning will be displayed that an on-site visit fee will be charged along with the regular repair cost. 

How much does the onsite service visit cost?

Apple support site does not clarify how much this on-site visit fee will be. Clicking the option to book on-site service will direct customers to Go Tech Services’ website. Once on the website, customers can schedule an appointment. They can choose the time and date, and in places like San Francisco, one can make same-day appointments as well. Even on the Go Tech Services website, there is no information related to the on-site visit fees. 

Apple onsite repair service option will help Apple to enhance customer satisfaction

The on-site service option is hugely useful for people who aren’t able to take their device to an authorized Apple service center. As the technicians will repair the device at the clients’ location, there is also an added layer of transparency and convenience. This will surely benefit Apple and will help to increase its CSAT scores. 

Currently, very few tech companies offer on-site customer service and repairs. This will benefit Apple to regain confidence among investors and also enhance customer satisfaction. In addition, Apple can deliver impeccable tech support via superior service partners such as Go Tech Services. 

Freedom Wing Adapter Turns Joystick on a Power Wheelchair into an Xbox One Controller

By
Jude Cavale
-
AbleGamers, YouTube

If you rely on power wheelchairs to get around, you can now use their joystick to play games as well. AbleGamers Charity just announced the Freedom Wing Adapter which transforms the joystick on a power wheelchair into an Xbox One Controller. 

Wheelchair-bound people can input commands into the joystick. This is then translated by an adapter board and an Adafruit Feather M4 into commands that the Adaptive Controller can comprehend. 

A manual is on its way

While there are many solutions available for people to play games right on their wheelchairs, they are often not very impressive. Freedom Wing allows gamers to even play Rocket League, which is considerably complex. 

The project has received many grants, and AbleGamers has begun to work with its partner A.T. Makers to create a manual so that users can build one themselves. 

With a little effort, most people can build their Freedom Wing Adapter

Those who wish to build a Freedom Wing Adapter can do so within $35. The cost of the Adaptive Controller will be separate, of course. Disabled people often experience boredom due to limited choices available to them in terms of gameplay. Many of the newer controllers and games are not disabled-friendly. There needs to be a lot of improvement on that front. 

However, at least for now, the Freedom Wing Adapter comes as a solution that we all can look forward to. With just a little effort, wheelchair-bound people can start playing complex Xbox games right from their wheelchairs. Most importantly, they can do so on an interface that they are already familiar with. 

Commercial development of the adapter is necessary

The contraption looks quite cumbersome to put together. However, one needs to remember that this is an improvised solution for something that hardly attracted any professional attention. Hopefully, this project will attract the attention of big corporations, and the adapters will be manufactured on a large scale. This will help disabled people all over the world to use their wheelchairs as a gaming accessory. 

It is important to note that putting this controller and adapter together requires at least some basic skills. Many people may not have any such skills. This is one of the reasons why the commercial development of this adapter may be necessary for the future. 

1...101112...1,574Page 11 of 1,574

Trending Posts

Tech News & Cool Gadgets
Disclosure: Walyou is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com
Walyou.com - Discover the latest Technology news and cool gadgets
Follow us on Social Media:
Copyright © 2026 Walyou. All Rights Reserved.