Technology - Kalakshar US

TikTok gives parents even more control over what their teens see

TikTok has recently faced scrutiny over child safety issues in the US and elsewhere due to its youth-skewing userbase and reams of inappropriate content on the platform. Now, the company (owned by China’s ByteDance) has announced that it’s is giving parents more control over what their teens can see. It’s adding new content filtering controls to its “Family Pairing” feature, letting parents filter out videos containing specific words or hashtags — while still keeping kids in the loop.

TikTok introduced Family Pairing back in 2020 as a way to let parents link directly to their kids’ accounts then remotely disable direct messages, set screen time limits and enable a “restricted content” mode. And last year, it added a tool that automatically filters out videos with words or hashtags users may not want to see in their For You or Following feeds.

The new controls essentially combine those two features, giving parents the option to remotely filter out videos from their kids accounts in For You or Following with specific words or hashtags. “We’re bringing this [content filtering] tool to Family Pairing to empower caregivers to help reduce the likelihood of their teen viewing content they may uniquely find jarring,” TikTok wrote.

TikTok

At the same time, kids will be alerted to their parents’ selected filters and can choose not to opt-in, the company told Sky News. “By default, teens can view the keywords their caregiver has added and we believe this transparency can also help to prompt conversations about online boundaries and safety,” the company wrote. “We also wanted to make sure we respect young people’s right to participate.”

At the same time, TikTok announced that it will form a global Youth Council later this year. The aim, it said, will be to “listen to the experiences of those who directly use our platform and be better positioned to make changes to create the safest possible experience for our community.”

TikTok has been criticized for exposing children to videos showing self-harm, eating disorders and other inappropriate content, often disguised by slightly altered hashtags designed by bypass moderation. The company is facing new content regulations in UK via the Online Safety Bill, and US lawmakers are working on a Kids Online Safety Act that would force social media companies like TikTok to add online safeguards for children. TikTok was recently banned in Montana, but the company is suing the state on the grounds that the ban violates the First Amendment and other laws.

This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/tiktok-gives-parents-even-more-control-over-what-their-teens-see-093558339.html?src=rss

Congress is reportedly limiting staff use of AI models like ChatGPT

Congress apparently has strict limits on the use of ChatGPT and similar generative AI tools. Axiosclaims to have obtained a memo from House of Representatives administrative chief Catherine Szpindor setting narrow conditions for the use of ChatGPT and similar large language AI models in congressional offices. Staff are only allowed to use the paid ChatGPT Plus service due to its tighter privacy controls, and then only for “research and evaluation,” Szpindor says. They can’t use the technology as part of their everyday work.

House offices are only allowed to use the chatbot with publicly accessible data even when using Plus, Szpindor adds. The privacy features have to be manually enabled to prevent interactions from feeding data into the AI model. ChatGPT’s free tier isn’t currently allowed, as are any other large language models.

We’ve asked the House for comment and will let you know if we hear back. A use policy like this wouldn’t be surprising, though. Institutions and companies have warned against using generative AI due to the potential for accidents and misuse. Republicans drew criticism for using an AI-generated attack ad, for instance, while Samsung staff supposedly leaked sensitive data through ChatGPT while using the bot for work. Schools have banned these systems over cheating concerns. House restrictions theoretically prevent similar problems, such as AI-written legislation and speeches.

The House policy might not face much opposition. Both sides of Congress are attempting to regulate and otherwise govern AI. In the House, Representative Ritchie Torries introduced a bill that would require disclaimers for uses of generative AI, while Representative Yvette Clark wants similar disclosures for political ads. Senators have conducted hearings on AI and put forward a bill to hold AI developers accountable for harmful content produced using their platforms.

This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/congress-is-reportedly-limiting-staff-use-of-ai-models-like-chatgpt-195454777.html?src=rss

Sci-fi thriller ‘Fort Solis’ arrives on PlayStation 5, PC and Mac on August 22nd

If you’re a fan of psychological horror, you should mark August 22nd on your calendar. That’s when an intriguing new game called Fort Solis arrives. Developer Fallen Leaf describes its debut as a psychological sci-fi thriller. The game casts players as Jack Leary, an engineer sent to investigate a remote mining base on Mars. Roger Clark, best known for his role as Arthur Morgan in Red Dead Redemption 2, voices Leary, with Tory Baker (The Last of Us, Death Stranding) and Julia Brown (The Last Kingdom, World on Fire) rounding out the cast.

Watching the trailer for Fort Solis, you might get the sense Fallen Leaf was inspired by Dead Space, but the studio says it was most directly influenced by narrative titles like Firewatch and Until Dawn. Fallen Leaf notes there are no camera cuts or loading screens to break up the game’s story, which “can be binged in one intense session.” If nothing else, Fort Solis should be a technical showcase. Alongside Layers of Fear, it’s one of the first Unreal Engine 5 games to arrive since Epic first teased the tech back in 2020. Fort Solis will be available on PlayStation 5, PC (via Steam and the Epic Games Store) and Mac.

This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/sci-fi-thriller-fort-solis-arrives-on-playstation-5-pc-and-mac-on-august-22nd-191021189.html?src=rss

Google Pixel Fold review: The challenger that Samsung needs

For the past few years, Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold line has been the undisputed champion of big flexible phones. But it holds that title almost by default thanks to a lack of real contenders — especially outside of China. But with the Pixel Fold, Google has created a legitimate challenger with an innovative design that directly addresses some of the weaknesses of Samsung’s heavyweight foldable. So even though its $1,799 price will prevent most people from throwing down on a front-row seat, Google’s first flagship foldable phone is definitely a worthy rival.

Design and displays

Enough with all the boxing metaphors, let’s look at what we’re actually dealing with here. The Google Pixel Fold features a 5.8-inch exterior screen that opens up to reveal a flexible 7.6-inch interior display, both of which are 120hz OLEDs. On paper, that sounds very similar to what Samsung offers on the Z Fold 4, but Google has played around with the phone’s build and dimensions to create what might be the best showcase of the company’s design chops to date.

Instead of something like Samsung’s skinnier baton-like form, Google chose a wider 17.4:9 aspect ratio for the Pixel Fold’s 2,092 x 1,080 exterior display, resulting in a device shaped more like a passport. The benefit is you don’t need to switch to the bigger interior screen as often. And while this might seem like a minor tweak, it makes a huge difference.

The Z Fold 4’s cover display is so skinny that typing feels cramped. It’s really only usable for basic things like looking up directions or checking notifications. But on the Pixel Fold, everything just kind of works. The screen is small enough that even someone with medium-sized hands like me doesn’t have trouble reaching the corners of the screen, yet big enough that apps look and behave normally. And because you don’t need to open the device as often, the battery can actually last a little longer.

Photo by Sam Rutherford/Engadget

Perhaps more importantly, Google has done some nifty things with the Pixel Fold’s hinge and chassis so there’s essentially no gap between the phone’s halves while still being extremely thin. It measures less than 6mm thick and around 12.1mm when closed, so despite being a touch heavier than the Z Fold 4, it feels more balanced. Unless your jeans are painted on, you shouldn’t have much trouble fitting the Pixel Fold in a pocket. And unlike so many other flexible phones, the Pixel Fold has an IPX8 rating for water resistance, so you don’t need to fear an accidental splash or submersion.

One side effect of having a wider screen on the outside is that when you open the Pixel Fold, you get a landscape orientation that’s great for watching videos. After starting a clip on the outside screen, you can just unfold the phone, expand it and voila, no need to rotate. Instead of going for a completely bezel-less design like most traditional phones, Google gave the Pixel Fold slightly larger love handles. This means there’s no need for a low-res under-display selfie camera like on the Z Fold 4. There’s actually room for an 8-megapixel camera in the top right corner. And that extra space around the hinge lets you hold the Pixel Fold like a paperback book, which is very satisfying when you’re using it as an e-reader.

Photo by Sam Rutherford/Engadget

It’s about time I addressed the elephant in the room: Yes, there’s a crease. You can feel it with your fingers and, depending on the angle, you can see it too. But Google has managed to minimize how distracting it is. That said, I’ve been using a foldable phone as my daily driver for the last three years, so I may be more used to it than most.

Durability

While foldables have been around for a few years, now that Google is getting into the game, there are some things that potential first-time flexible phone buyers should be aware of. When you first open the Pixel Fold’s box, there’s a warning that calls attention to the phone’s display. Google notes that “flexible screens are softer than traditional phone screens, so avoid contact with sand, crumbs, fingernails or sharp objects.” Additionally, Google says that the owners should not “remove the pre-installed screen protector,” and that users should “avoid installing third-party screen protectors.” In short: you have to be a little more gentle with foldable phones than your standard glass-and-metal handset.

Photo by Sam Rutherford/Engadget

So far, I haven’t had any issues with the Pixel Fold’s display or its pre-install screen protector. That said, I’ve owned three Galaxy Z Fold phones with similar screen protectors that bubbled up six to eight months after purchase, so it’s possible the Pixel Fold may exhibit similar issues over time. When questioned further about durability and customer support, a Google spokesperson told Engadget “We have rigorously tested the screen protector to stand up to normal wear and tear. If you do encounter an issue, it can be repaired at our service centers for a fee ($29 for preferred care customers or $129 for customers out of warranty).”

Software and apps

We can’t talk about the phone’s interior display without mentioning some of the tweaks Google has made to the apps and UI. Similar to the Z Fold 4, Google created a taskbar for the Pixel Fold, except that this one is a bit more transient. On the home screen, you get your standard row of icons along the bottom. But when you’re in an app, you can swipe up to see the taskbar, and from there you can drag an icon to open it in multi-window mode.

Photo by Sam Rutherford/Engadget

The gesture for summoning the taskbar is like a shorter version of swiping up and holding to see recently used apps. Once you select the apps you want, resizing windows is as easy as dragging the divider left or right. If you’d like your apps to switch sides you can double-tap the middle of the split-screen divider. The idea is for the taskbar to appear when you need it and get out of your way when you don’t. When combined with the App Suggestion feature in Android (which are the apps that have a ring around the icon), it makes for a simple but effective way of multitasking.

You can also use the Pixel Fold’s dual displays to do stuff like take selfies using the phone’s high-res rear cameras or show your subjects a live preview of what they look like when you’re taking their photo. But we’ve seen that before on devices like the Z Fold and the new Razr+. Unfortunately, one of the Pixel Fold’s coolest new features — Dual-Screen Interpreter mode — isn’t available yet, as it’s based on features in Android 14, which won’t be out until sometime in the fall.

Photo by Sam Rutherford/Engadget

Google says that over 50 first-party apps have already been optimized for use on devices like the Pixel Fold. Some of the enhancements we’ve gotten a taste of before, like tabletop mode in YouTube. But there are a number of refined examples, including those from third parties like WhatsApp where you can share images from Google Photos just by dragging and dropping. With this much real estate to work with, you really do feel empowered when switching from the outside to the interior display. And after playing games like Asphalt 9 that support adaptive resolutions, I’m really hoping more developers get on board.

Cameras

One of my biggest gripes with the Z Fold 4 is that Samsung wasn’t able to deliver the same level of image quality that you get on the Galaxy S Ultra. But the Pixel Fold doesn’t feel as compromised. It features a 48MP main sensor, a 10.8MP ultrawide and a 10.8MP telephoto with a 5x optical zoom. Combine that with Google’s excellent photo processing and the result is cameras that are just flat-out better.

Photo by Sam Rutherford/Engadget

In daylight, the Pixel Fold’s pics were consistently a touch sharper than Samsung’s while often delivering more detail with better shadows and highlights. Even with Samsung’s food mode activated, the Pixel Fold made my taco dinner look more appetizing too. Google’s Night Sight continues to reign supreme when it comes to capturing clearer and more well-exposed photos in the dark.

Performance and battery life

Powering the Pixel Fold is Google’s Tensor G2 along with 12GB of RAM and up to 512GB of storage. It’s not an overflowing well of speed, and as people have experienced on other Pixel devices, the Fold sometimes runs a little warm. But even when I was multitasking or trying to push it, the phone never felt lethargic, which is all I can really ask for.

Photo by Sam Rutherford/Engadget

Meanwhile, even though Google’s 4,820mAh battery is a tiny bit smaller than on the Z Fold 4, there wasn’t a big difference in overall longevity, which is to say it’s pretty good. I ran our video rundown test on both their external and internal displays. On the former, the Pixel Fold outlasted Samsung’s big foldable, posting a time of 22 hours and 21 minutes versus the latter’s 20:45. Using their larger screens, though, the Z Fold 4 came out ahead with a time of 17:13 compared to the Pixel’s 15:42.

Wrap-up

For Google’s entry into the world of fancy flexible phones, the Pixel Fold feels like a win. Its clever hinge and slim chassis make it easy to use and carry, while its wider body delivers on Google’s promise of making the phone’s exterior screen a lot more usable. Featuring strong water resistance, better cameras and UI tweaks to make multitasking a tiny bit simpler, the Pixel Fold more than holds its own against Samsung’s Z Fold 4. And that’s before considering all the great Pixel-specific features like Call Screener, Recorder and more.

Photo by Sam Rutherford/Engadget

My main gripes (you know, aside from its price) are that it occasionally feels like the phone is never fully open. Sometimes I feel like I have to put more pressure on it than I’d like to make it completely flat. And while it would be nice if the Pixel Fold came with stylus support like the Z Fold 4, I’m happy to wait till Samsung, Google or whoever finds room to store a pen inside the device.

Admittedly, some folks may say that the Pixel Fold isn’t really advancing the overall capabilities of flexible phones, as many of its features like dual-window multitasking are already available on devices like the Z Fold 4. The issue is that until we get a critical mass of big foldables, developers aren’t going to consider tweaking or optimizing their apps. That’s why this phone had to come first. With the Pixel Fold, Google brought its style and rhythm to a title fight and didn’t come up short. But, perhaps most importantly, Google now has a device it can use to shape the future of Android beyond typical glass bricks.

This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/google-pixel-fold-review-the-challenger-that-samsung-needs-specs-price-170003458.html?src=rss

Lithium-ion battery creator John Goodenough dies at 100

One of the most influential scientists in technology has passed away. The University of Texas at Austin has confirmed that Dr. John Goodenough, widely credited as the creator of the lithium-ion battery, has died at the age of 100. While you might not have heard of him, he’s effectively responsible for making cellphones, laptops and electric vehicles practical.

Researchers had been exploring lithium batteries before. Dr. M. Stanley Whittingham, for instance, produced a design combining lithium with titanium disulfide. However, The New York Timesnotes it was Goodenough who achieved a major breakthrough in 1980 while at the University of Oxford. He made a cathode with layers of lithium and cobalt oxide that produced a stronger voltage while greatly improving safety. It had much more capacity than previous batteries, such as lead acid (used in cars) and nickel-cadmium (found in many portable electronics).

The technology didn’t flourish until Dr. Akira Yoshino scrapped raw lithium in favor of safer lithium ions. The scientist produced a practical design for Asahi Kasei Corporation, and Sony delivered the first consumer-friendly rechargeable lithium-ion battery in 1991. You know what happened next — the improved performance enabled mobile devices that were either more portable or simply hadn’t been an option before. Cellphones and laptops could become sleeker, faster and longer-lasting, while electric cars were finally viable.

Goodenough was responsible for much more, however. During his stint at MIT in the 1950s and 1960s, he helped pioneer the technology that would eventually become the random access memory (RAM) you see in many computing products. He routinely shared patents with colleagues. He was also an active researcher into his 90s, and until a few years ago was developing next-generation battery tech that promised breakthrough performance for renewable energy and EVs.

While relatively unknown in public circles, Goodenough did receive recognition for his work. He received the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 2019 and the US National Medal of science in 2011, among other accolades.

Industries are slowly moving on from lithium-ion batteries. Automakers are planning EVs with solid-state batteries that deliver higher densities, faster charging and lower costs. However, it’s safe to say the modern tech landscape wouldn’t be what it is without Goodenough’s efforts, and his legacy will likely be felt for years to come.

This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/lithium-ion-battery-creator-john-goodenough-dies-at-100-171553322.html?src=rss

Qualcomm introduces new Snapdragon 4 Gen 2 chipsets for budget-friendly phones

Qualcomm just revealed its new budget-friendly mobile chipset, Snapdragon 4 Gen 2. This refresh brings plenty of improvements that will kick lower-tier smartphones up a notch. The platform is designed for excellent battery life, with the company promising “all-day use.” Qualcomm also promises fast CPU speeds, 5G connectivity and the potential for upgraded visuals via integrated cameras.

The chips feature the proprietary Qualcomm Kryo CPU, with peak speeds up to 2.2 GHz, which is a slight increase over the previous generation. Qualcomm’s latest and greatest also boasts quick-charging technology, with the company stating that you get a 50 percent charge in just 15 minutes at the plug.

The platform offers support for modern FHD+ displays with frame rates up to 120fps. Snapdragon 4 Gen 2 also allows for some serious camera upgrades, like electronic image stabilization, faster autofocus, enhanced blur reduction and more. The chipset even provides multi camera temporal filtering (MCTF) for drastic reduction in noise when making videos.

Of course, this is a modern product announced in the year 2023, so there’s gonna be a focus on AI. This comes in the form of more camera upgrades, with AI-based lighting adjustments for snapping photos in dim environments and an AI-enhanced background noise removal tool.

As for connectivity, there’s the proprietary X61 5GB Modern-RF system that promises “blazing-fast speeds” with increased network and frequency support. These chips aren’t in budget-friendly smartphones yet, but they’ll start showing up later in the year. OEM brands like Redmi and vivo have already pledged to begin adding the chipset to their lineups.

This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/qualcomm-introduces-new-snapdragon-4-gen-2-chipsets-for-budget-friendly-phones-150023133.html?src=rss

Meta’s Quest+ subscription offers two VR titles per month

Meta is getting into the games subscription business. CEO Mark Zuckerberg has announced Meta Quest+, a plan that grants users access to “the best titles on the platform” for $8 per month or $60 per year. The subscription is available starting today on Quest 2 and Quest Pro. It’s also coming to Quest 3 when that headset arrives this fall. Those who sign up to Meta Quest+ by the end of July will only pay $1 for their first month.

You’ll get access to two curated titles on the first day of each month. The first two are the hit first-person shooter Pistol Whip and Pixel Ripped 1995. August’s titles are Walkabout Mini Golf and Mothergunship: Forge. As with services like PlayStation Plus Essential, you’ll retain access to the games as long as you remain a member. If you cancel Meta Quest+ and sign up again later, you’ll once again have access to the games from your original membership period.

Meta has been embracing subscription models as of late. Along with Meta Quest+, the company this year introduced Meta Verified, which is a verification service for Facebook and Instagram. In addition to a checkmark, the subscription includes extra protection against impersonation and “direct access to customer support.”

This isn’t the only subscription service for a VR headset, however. HTC has offered access to hundreds of VR games, apps and videos through its Viveport Infinity service since 2019.

This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/metas-quest-subscription-offers-two-vr-titles-per-month-153724017.html?src=rss

Urtopia’s Chord e-bike is a little overkill for a city ride and that’s okay

Urtopia may be a relatively new name in the e-bike world, but it makes a strong first impression. With its 4G, GPS, mmWave sensors and even light projection turn indicators, the Carbon 1 felt like the Inspector Gadget of two-wheeled travel, but its exotic design and road-bike leanings meant it wasn’t for everyone. The company’s second bike, the Chord ($1,799), has a much less divisive aesthetic and – unlike its sibling – practicalities like gears and a more upright (and city-friendly) ride. Importantly, the Chord contains all the wireless connectivity of the Carbon 1 at a cheaper price, possibly making it a more compelling package overall.

The Chord feels like Urtopia’s attempt at a stylish city bike in the vague style of Cowboy or VanMoof. The Chord is apparently inspired by pianos, with its black and white colorway and the melodic notes that play when you cycle through the power modes. At 46 pounds (21 kilograms), it’s noticeably heavier than the Carbon 1 (33 pounds/15 kg), but it’s on par with other models in the same category.

The motor is a pretty straightforward 350W hub powered by a removable 360Wh battery. Top assisted speed is 20MPH over four modes: Eco, Comfort, Sport and Turbo. The maximum range is an estimated 75 miles, but that will obviously depend on how much assistance you use. As a Class 1 ebike, there’s no throttle mode here; instead, there’s a Turbo mode with barely any need to pedal to get you up to that maximum speed. As mentioned, the Chord comes with an 8-speed Shimano gear system which, combined with the assistance modes, make for a flexible ride in terms of speed and effort.

Photo by James Trew / Engadget

The more interesting features with Urtopia bikes come from its connectivity: WiFi, Bluetooth, GPS and 4G. Combined with an accelerometer and a gyroscope the Chord has a surprising amount of situational awareness, which I’ll get to later. Oh, you can also speak to the bike to change settings and use it as a Bluetooth speaker as you ride while receiving visual directions on the dot-matrix screen contained in the “smart box” bike computer. Did I mention there’s a comprehensive app with ride tracking, navigation and deeper settings, too?

Taking the Chord out for the first time, it was hard to ignore the extra weight compared to the aforementioned Carbon 1, but also the similarly pitched Tenways. It’s not chonky in the same way something like the 63-pound (28-kilogram) Velotric Discover 1 is but those extra pounds were noticeable the first time I tried hustling it (upright) into the elevator in my apartment block. Thankfully, it’s not something you’ll notice so much while pedaling.

The riding position is naturally more upright and it makes for a comfortable cruise around town. It’s not designed for off-road, but if you find yourself on uneven pavement or even a short stint on a dirt trail it does a decent job considering. The motor uses a torque sensor to decide when to kick in; it’s a very common system right now and does a good job of delivering power just as you need it.

Now, about that power. In the scheme of things, a 350W motor is a pretty standard entry-level option; it’s not about to pull your wrists out of their sockets when it kicks in, but it’s gets you to that 20MPH max speed in good time, as long as you’re willing to do the your part on the pedals. The three power modes are spaced adequately for whether you just want a little help or just wanna surprise that weekend warrior as you pass them barely pedaling. Turbo mode will reach max power without you really trying too hard – it’s a good option for if you’re feeling really pooped, and it doesn’t feel like the bike is pulling away from you, which can sometimes be the case with similar modes on higher-powered bikes.

Photo by James Trew / Engadget

Utopia’s heavy-tech approach made the Carbon 1 stand out, but it also felt a little unpolished, at least in the first iteration of the app. The built-in GPS and 4G are meant to automatically record your rides and serve them up in the app with a map and statistics. Initially this felt a bit hit-and-miss. The fingerprint reader in the Carbon 1 was a nice touch, too, and it even doubled as an electric bell, but unfortunately it would often sound about half a second after I needed it. With the newer Chord, the software feels more finished from the get-go.

For starters, the bell is still digital (you can even change the sound), but it’s triggered by a much clickier button that’s much more responsive. More importantly, the app feels more refined now and I haven’t seen any rides go missing during my time with it. In fact, they appear almost instantly once I finish.

Of course, automatically mapping rides is cool, but it’s not the primary purpose of the 4G/GPS. That would be the ability to track your bike if someone steals it. As long as the Chord’s within cell coverage, you’ll be able to see its last known location via the app. You can also set it so you receive notification the moment the bike moves – potentially giving you a heads up before a thief can ride off with it. Of course, if the battery runs out or the GPS can’t see the sky it won’t update the app, but the cell lasts for a good amount of time in standby and it only fully turns off if you remove the battery, which requires a key (or bike-breaking brute force).

A quick note on the battery: Its placement under the top tube is a cunning way to semi-hide it, but also provides a little more protection from the elements. On the flip side, there’s no way to fully turn the bike off, so the 4G connection will gently drain the power between rides unless you remove it. In my testing, I also found that the estimated max range of 75 miles feels a little optimistic. It might be possible under optimal conditions, but even on shorter rides of 11 miles, with mixed use of modes and terrain, I had used up a claimed 25 percent of the cell. So if very long rides are your thing, take note.

If, upon hearing about all this 4G data you’ll be using, your first question was how much that’ll cost, the answer is nothing for the first year and then $29 annually after that. While it feels like everything has a subscription attached to it these days, this feels reasonable for the functionality you get out of it – especially if your bike does go missing and this helps you find it.

Beyond knowing where the bike is, the Chord can also guide you to your destination via built-in navigation. To be clear, it’s handled by the app, but when your phone is connected to the bike, the directions will appear on the dot-matrix style display. This also means you can keep your handset safely in your pocket or bag – unlike some bikes that make your phone the bike’s computer, forcing it to remain exposed to the elements.

Photo by James Trew / Engadget

With the Carbon 1, I thought the option to play music through the built-in speaker was a novelty at best. The Chord hasn’t changed my mind either. Your music is going to sound pretty bad, but it’s a fun party trick nonetheless. Perhaps it’s more useful for podcasts and audiobooks? Just know that it’s something you can do (but not necessarily something you should). The voice control is a little more practical, but I rarely find a moment where I’d rather lean into the bike and talk to it instead of using the app’s controls.

Another interesting change from the Carbon 1 is that the smart box (formerly, smartbar) is no longer built into the bike. On the Chord it’s a separate unit that you attach manually, opening the door for some level of modularity. Urtopia hints at this in its press materials, suggesting that in the future you could upgrade to a different smart box with a better display, or new features which is an interesting concept if nothing else.

With just its second bike, Urtopia is showing a promising mix of consistency and growth (where needed). The Chord is a pretty enough bike that, if it’s to your taste, would serve as a good general purpose city e-bike. It’s not the most powerful, nor the most longevous in terms of range at this price point. But it’s possibly one of the most tech-laden and featureful if that’s what you’re looking for. Sometime’s it feels like there’s a little too much focus on the tech features and less on the ride itself. The fact that the door for feature upgrades further down the line, via the modular smart box, though, shows some welcome initiative on the company’s part. For the price, though, it’s an easy recommendation if you love a quantified ride and rarely go off-road.

This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/urtopia-chord-e-bike-151547121.html?src=rss

The Biden administration’s $42 billion broadband program is finally getting underway

President Joe Biden will today announce the details of how $42 billion in funding to bolster broadband internet access will be allocated. The investment, which was funded by the 2021 Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, aims to give all Americans access to high-speed internet by 2030.

Last year, the White House announced an initiative that would allocate at least $100 million to participating states through the Broadband Equity, Access and Deployment (BEAD) Program. The remainder of the funding was on hold until the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) drew up a more detailed coverage map showing which homes and businesses lacked high-speed internet access. The funding will be allocated based on the map.

The FCC released its first draft of the overhauled map, which incorporates more granular data, in November. Still, politicians on both sides of the aisle were concerned it left out millions of businesses and homes and urged the White House to delay the broadband funding efforts until issues were resolved.

After taking feedback from the public and states, the FCC unveiled an updated version in May. According to The Washington Post, the updated map addressed around 4 million mistakes, resulting in approximately half a million more homes, businesses and other locations without any internet access being identified. In all, the FCC determined that more than 8.3 million homes and businesses lack access to high-speed internet.

States will first focus on bringing broadband to locations that have no access at all. If they have any funding left over, they can use it to improve internet access for those with slow speeds.

It could take up to two years for the government to dole out all the funding. States will submit their initial plans later this year and that will open up a fifth of the funding, according to Reuters. The rest of the $42 billion will be unlocked after states finalize plans for investing the funds.

Many of the locations that lack broadband access are in rural areas. By and large, major providers have shied away from rolling out broadband in these locales due to their smaller populations and the high cost of installing infrastructure.

This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/the-biden-administrations-42-billion-broadband-program-is-finally-getting-underway-143625721.html?src=rss

The best work-from-home and office essentials for graduates

After they’re done celebrating their academic accomplishments, your grad might already have a new job or internship lined up, or they may be very close to a new opportunity. If so, they’ll want a few essentials that will ease them into the working world, whether they’re dealing with a daily commute or logging on from home. Here are a few gift ideas that they’ll appreciate regardless of where they find themselves doing most of their work.

LumeCube Edge Desk Light

Even if your graduate already has an upgraded webcam, bad lighting can prevent them from putting their best face forward when speaking with colleagues on video calls. The LumeCube Edge Desk Light can fix that with its multiple brightness and warm-light settings, plus a bendable neck that makes it easy to adjust the light’s position. Since it’s quite flexible, they can use it for other things, too, including note-taking and live streaming. And we know they’ll appreciate its built-in USB-C and USB-A charging ports, which will let them conveniently power up their phone, earbuds and more while getting all of their work done. — Nicole Lee, Commerce Writer

Logitech MX Anywhere 3

Today’s office life is more on-the-go than ever, with workers switching between home, office and maybe the occasional coffee shop in between. But being mobile doesn’t mean having to settle for an unresponsive trackpad. The MX Anywhere 3 is a comfy mouse that can easily slip into a bag, though not as easily as it connects via the included receiver or Bluetooth. And no need for a mouse pad as it really does work anywhere — including on glass surfaces. — Kris Naudus, Commerce Writer

Logitech Brio 500

There’s a good chance your grad will have to take regular video conference calls at their new job, even if they go into the office from time to time. Sure, they could use their laptop’s built-in basic camera, but a webcam like the Logitech Brio 500 can help them put their best face forward on every call they take. The Brio 500 shoots 1080p video and they can customize aspects of their feed, including brightness, contrast and additive filters, by using the free Logi Tune software. But most of the time, the cam will do the hard work for them: it has remarkably good auto-light correction, which will help them look better in dark environments, noise-reducing dual microphones and auto-framing with RightSight. If the latter is enabled, your grad can shift in their chair and move around and the Brio 500 will adjust automatically to keep them in the center of the frame. And when they’re not on a call, there’s a handy shutter that covers the camera lens for extra privacy. — Valentina Palladino, Senior Commerce Editor

Sony WH-1000XM5

Blocking out the world in an attempt to focus isn’t something that only new graduates do — but they, too, can benefit from having a little help in that area. Whether they’re going to work on a loud train or trying to finish prepping a presentation at home, a pair of ANC headphones like Sony’s WH-1000XM5 is one of the best gifts to help them stay in the zone. The XM5 are Sony’s latest flagship model and the best wireless headphones you can get right now by our standards. Sony packs so much into these cans: improved noise cancellation, excellent sound quality, handy touch controls and a 30-hour battery life, just to name a few things. Their redesigned design makes them even more comfortable to wear for hours on end, and their ability to connect to two devices at once means your giftee can easily switch from taking a call on their phone to listening to music on their laptop. — V.P.

Keychron K10

Laptop keyboards are fine when you’re working on the go, but having a separate keyboard at work or in your home office will make long stretches of typing much more comfortable. There are tons of options out there, but Keychron’s K10 would be a good pick for almost anyone. It’s a full-sized mechanical keyboard with Gateron switches that’s neither too loud or too subtle. Keyboards like this are far and away more fun to type on than standard laptop built-ins, and the K10 shouldn’t be too noisy to annoy a cubicle neighbor or a roommate. We like that you can pair it with up to three devices simultaneously and it can be used wired or wirelessly. It also has more than 15 different styles of RBG backlighting, so you can switch between something more subdued and an all-out light show with a few presses of a button. — V.P.

Sonos Era 100

Laptop speakers are fine for playing music while you work, but to do lofi chill hop beats justice, your grad may appreciate a quality speaker. We’re big fans of Sonos’ latest, the Era 100. Deputy editor Nate Ingraham gave it an 88 in his review, praising its loud, room-filling sound that combines heavy bass with a defined higher end. It looks great on a shelf thanks to its clean, compact design and it comes in white or black, so you can match it to your home’s aesthetic. It has a line-in port for turntable or other auxiliary connections, and is one of Sonos’ first plug-in models that includes Bluetooth connectivity. However, most people will likely use Wi-Fi connectivity and Sonos’ app to control their streaming services of choice. — Amy Skorheim, Commerce Writer

BenQ ScreenBar

The BenQ Screenbar put the finishing touch on our weekend editor Igor Bonifacic’s WFH setup – he even said the soft glow helps dispel the gloom of a Canadian winter. The lighting fixture mounts at the top of a monitor, making it ideal for small setups where a desk lamp wouldn’t fit. A sensor automatically dims and adjusts color temperature according to the room’s ambient light, or you can change it yourself with the buttons on top. The one drawback is that the ScreenBar takes up the same real estate on a monitor as a webcam would. If you think your grad will be on a lot of Zoom calls, this might not be the best fit. – A.S.

Bellroy Transit Workpack

If your grad’s first gig is hybrid, freelance or in-office, there’s a good chance they’ll be on the move a lot. Daypacks and laptop bags specifically designed for work are easy to carry like a standard backpack, but include enough pockets and pouches to organize the necessities of a modern work day. We like Bellroy’s Transit Workpack because it has dedicated spaces for a laptop, headphones, wallet, tech organizers and even a change of clothes. If you go for the larger 28-liter size, a pair of shoes will fit too. We also appreciate that the sleek profile hides the water bottle pocket on the side so the bag looks like something meant for the office rather than a hike. – A.S.

Mophie Powerstation Pro XL

Mophie’s Powerstation Pro XL is the best battery pack for powering a mobile command center I’ve tested. Grads who plan to travel or are trying their hand at the digital nomad lifestyle will appreciate the multiple hours of juice the Powerstation can deliver to their phone, laptop and peripherals. It can give an Apple iPhone 14 more than three charges and has a trio of USB-C ports to refill multiple devices at once. Best of all for someone entering the workforce, it comes in a fabric-covered case that looks professional. – A.S.

Elevation Lab Go Stand

Some advice if you end up buying the Go Stand for your grad: snag one for yourself, too. This clever folding stand holds a phone or tablet at an adjustable angle, so the screen is easy to read, sans an awkward balancing act. I use one daily to keep my phone visible on my desk and I find it works better than any stand built into a phone or tablet case. It folds to a tiny flat wedge that fits in a pocket when not in use, and it has a nice rubberized, non-skid texture. I ended up buying a second one when my family kept stealing mine. – A.S.

Roost laptop stand

Hunching to stare at a desk-level laptop is hard on anyone’s back and neck. You can help protect your grad’s posture, and possibly alleviate back pain, with a Roost laptop stand that raises nearly any laptop to eye level. I’ve used a previous generation Roost for about four years running and it still works like it did when it was brand new. It folds down to a skinny stick and fits in any pack that can hold a laptop. Once unfurled, it can accommodate nearly any notebook, including larger ones like a 16-inch MacBook Pro. One thing to note is that your grad won’t be able to use their computer’s trackpad or keys when the stand is in use, so they’ll need an external keyboard and mouse. – A.S.

Uplift standing desk

There are endless brands selling standing desks now, and Uplift makes some of the best ones. The V2 model I bought has made my workdays far more comfortable. After two and a half years, it still raises up and lowers down multiple times a day, all week long without complaint. If your grad will be working from home, a standing desk will make a difference since experts advise incorporating some movement throughout the day. That said, this is no small investment and the amount of customization Uplift offers verges on overwhelming. If you don’t know exactly what your grad might want, you may be better off skipping the surprise and ordering the unit with them. If that’s not possible, the company does offer gift certificates. – A.S.

ErgoFoam Adjustable Foot Rest

A dedicated footrest can help your legs feel more comfortable during those long stretches of sitting in your desk chair. The ErgoFoam Adjustable Foot Rest is a good example: It strikes the right balance between cushy and firm, and its velvety, gently arched frame encourages your legs to rest at an angle that feels natural. This model has a removable, two-inch base that you can take off if you find the standard height uncomfortable. It can also be flipped over and used as a foot rocker if you want to move your feet around while working. None of this is a substitute for periodically getting up and moving over the course of the day, but when that’s not feasible, it can help. — Jeff Dunn, Senior Commerce Writer

Nekteck 107W USB-C Desktop Charger

In the eternal struggle to keep all our devices charged, it’s easy to see the convenience of a desktop charging station that puts multiple ports within arm’s reach throughout the workday. If you don’t already own one of these, Nekteck’s 107W USB-C Desktop Charger should do the job. It packs four ports in a relatively compact frame: two USB-C, plus two USB-A for lower-power gadgets. The two USB-C ports top out at 65W and 30W, respectively. The former isn’t powerful enough to charge some heavy-duty laptops like a MacBook Pro at full speed, but it’s still usable, and both can refill many phones, tablets and smaller notebooks quickly. We’ve found Nekteck chargers to be reliable and this device is certified by the USB-IF, so it shouldn’t present any safety concerns over time. Best of all, it’s a good deal at $40, and it comes with a six-foot USB-C to USB-C cable in the box. — J.D.

Sorbus 3-Tier Bamboo Desk Organizer

As you accumulate more papers, accessories and random tchotchkes at your desk, it’s easy for your workspace to become cluttered. Stuffing some of that mess into a dedicated organizer is a simple way to save space and make your environment feel less chaotic. The Sorbus Bamboo Desk Organizer should help here: It’s about a foot wide and offers three drawers for tucking away smaller accessories like notepads, jewelry or charging cables, plus a top shelf space for more essential items you want to keep in view. The light wood finish shouldn’t look out of place on most desktops, either. — J.D.

Ergotron LX Desk Monitor Arm

If you plan to work in front of a monitor for most of the work week, you should make sure it’s positioned around eye level to avoid excess strain on your neck and back. The stand that comes with your monitor might be flexible enough as it is, but if not, consider a monitor arm. It’ll give your display a wider range of motion, and it can save desk space to boot.

Ergotron’s LX Desk Monitor is a well-regarded take on this idea. Its aluminum frame lets you comfortably move a VESA-compatible monitor in any direction and supports panels up to 34 inches and 25 pounds. When it’s hooked up, the arm can lift your screen up to 17.3 inches above a desk surface, pull it forward about 25 inches, tilt it 75 degrees and rotate or pan it a full 360 degrees. It’s fairly simple to set up, too, plus it comes with a 10-year warranty. Just note that if you’re a little over six feet tall, you should get the “Tall Pole” model instead. — J.D.

Audioengine A1

A set of desktop speakers will make listening to music or podcasts, playing video games and watching movies in your home office much more pleasurable than using the tinny speakers built into most monitors and laptops. Audioengine’s A1s deliver a nice mixture of sound quality and aesthetic appeal for just under $200 without taking up too much space. Because they’re on the smaller side at six inches tall, they don’t have the deepest bass response, but they still sound accurate and pleasingly balanced. The black and gray exposed driver look is stylish, and they can pair over Bluetooth in addition to traditional cables. If you do take the plunge, though, you should also look into buying a pair of speaker stands that angle the sound directly toward your ears.

Note that Audioengine sells a different version of the A1 that trades Bluetooth for WiFi, though it costs $30 extra. Another set, the A2+, goes for $269 but comes in more colors and offers more connection options like RCA and USB. And if money is less of an object, the HD3 and A5+ offer progressively richer sound as you go up the price ladder. — J.D.

This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/best-work-from-home-office-gifts-for-graduates-123015003.html?src=rss