Daily Archives

2023-09-20

Netflix One Piece Live-Action Series Gets Special Wallpapers to Celebrate Success

by George Mensah 2023-09-20

written by George Mensah

Netflix’s One Piece live-action series has been a huge success since its release, and the streaming service is celebrating with some special wallpapers!

The wallpapers feature some of the coolest moments from the first season, including Luffy’s fight against Arlong, Zoro’s duel with Mihawk, and the Straw Hats’ escape from Enies Lobby.

You can check out the special wallpapers below:

One Piece live-action series wallpaper 1Opens in a new window

The One Piece live-action series is based on the best-selling manga series in history by Eiichiro Oda. It follows the adventures of Monkey D. Luffy, a young pirate who dreams of becoming the King of the Pirates.

The first season of the series adapted the East Blue saga of the manga, and it was a critical and commercial success. Netflix has already announced that the series will be renewed for a second season.

The One Piece live-action series is a must-watch for fans of the manga and anime series. It is a faithful adaptation of the source material, and it features stunning visuals and exciting action sequences.

If you are looking for a new show to watch, be sure to check out the One Piece live-action series on Netflix.

2023-09-20 0 comment

Social Tech

Why Email Encryption Is Important for You

by George Mensah 2023-09-20

written by George Mensah

Email encryption is the process of scrambling email messages so that only the sender and intended recipient can read them. It is a vital security measure that can protect your personal and sensitive information from unauthorized access.

There are many reasons why you should encrypt your emails, even if you are not a business or government official. Here are a few:

To protect your privacy: Email encryption can prevent hackers, government agencies, and other unauthorized individuals from reading your emails. This is important for protecting your personal information, such as your financial records, medical history, and communications with family and friends.
To prevent identity theft: If your email account is hacked, criminals could use the information in your emails to steal your identity. Email encryption can help to prevent this by making it difficult for hackers to access your personal information.
To comply with regulations: Some industries and organizations are required by law to encrypt their emails. For example, healthcare providers must encrypt emails containing patient health information.

How to encrypt your emails

There are a few different ways to encrypt your emails. One way is to use a dedicated email encryption service, such as ProtonMail or Tutanota. These services encrypt your emails by default, so you don’t have to worry about doing anything special.

Another way to encrypt your emails is to use a third-party encryption plugin or add-on. These plugins and add-ons work with popular email providers, such as Gmail and Outlook, to encrypt your emails.

To encrypt your emails using a third-party plugin or add-on, you will need to generate a public and private encryption key. Your public key is used to encrypt messages that you send, and your private key is used to decrypt messages that you receive.

Once you have generated your encryption keys, you can start encrypting your emails by following the instructions provided by the plugin or add-on that you are using.

Conclusion

Email encryption is a simple and effective way to protect your personal and sensitive information. By encrypting your emails, you can make it difficult for hackers, government agencies, and other unauthorized individuals to read your emails.

If you are concerned about your privacy and security, I encourage you to start encrypting your emails today.

2023-09-20 0 comment

Cars

Why Toyota Ended C-HR Production in the US After 5 Years

by George Mensah 2023-09-20

written by George Mensah

The Toyota C-HR was a bit different from Toyota’s other cars. Most Toyota cars like the Camry or RAV4 have safe and simple designs. But the C-HR was unique and stylish, depending on who you asked. It seemed to be made for younger people who wanted a trendy and fresh car.

Originally, the C-HR was a concept car for Toyota’s brand called Scion. That’s why it has a hyphen in its name and looks very different from Toyota’s regular cars. “C-HR” stands for “Coupe High-Rider,” even though it has four doors. But in 2016, when Scion stopped making cars, Toyota decided to bring the C-HR into its lineup for the 2018 model year. This was a similar story for other Scion cars like the iM (which became the Corolla hatchback) and the FR-S (now called the 86).

However, the C-HR didn’t really fit in even with Toyota. It was like Toyota made the opposite of what people wanted. It looked like an SUV but didn’t have the features people usually want in an SUV. It didn’t have all-wheel drive, which is common for SUVs, and it never offered it during its production. It had slightly better fuel economy than the RAV4, with 29 miles per gallon on average, while the RAV4 got 25 miles per gallon with all-wheel drive. But compared to the smaller Camry, it fell short, as the Camry got 34 miles per gallon.

So, it wasn’t very fuel-efficient, lacked common features for a crossover, and wasn’t particularly fast. A test by Car and Driver found that it took a slow 11 seconds for a 2018 C-HR to go from 0 to 60 miles per hour.

Also, it wasn’t a great deal. The new RAV4, introduced in 2018 for the 2019 model year, had more to offer. A 2019 C-HR started at $22,265, while the base model RAV4 started at $25,500. If you wanted all-wheel drive for the RAV4, it went up to $26,900. The RAV4 also had better fuel economy, with the 2019 AWD RAV4 getting 28 miles per gallon on average.

So, it wasn’t much cheaper than a car with more options, and the small fuel efficiency advantage it had over the RAV4 didn’t matter much in the end.

All these factors made the C-HR a tough sell for Toyota. In 2019, Toyota sold 48,930 C-HRs, which might sound okay, but the RAV4 sold a massive 448,071 units that same year. In 2020, the C-HR didn’t do any better, selling 42,936 units while the RAV4 sold 430,387. It’s impressive that Toyota sold ten times as many RAV4s.

In the end, the C-HR couldn’t compete with other cars Toyota had. It wasn’t fast, efficient, cheap, or popular. Any one of these reasons would be enough for Toyota to stop making the C-HR, but all four together made it clear it was time to say goodbye. In 2022, Toyota discontinued the C-HR.

2023-09-20 0 comment

Gadgets

Starlink: A Controversial Innovation

by George Mensah 2023-09-20

written by George Mensah

Starlink is an innovative internet service developed by SpaceX, the spacecraft manufacturer helmed by Elon Musk. It uses low-orbit satellite technology to provide internet access to people in isolated regions of the world. Starlink currently has over 4,000 satellites in orbit, with plans to launch more in the coming years.

A new service called Find Starlink allows people to view the locations of Starlink satellites overhead as they pass by. Starlink satellites are not solo but rather come in what are called megaconstellations, a string or web of numerous interconnected satellites orbiting the Earth. Unlike traditional satellites that orbit Earth at around 35,786 km, some Starlink satellites orbit at around 550 km.

Under the right weather conditions and circumstances, these megaconstellations are actually viewable with the naked eye. The ability to view Starlink satellites as they pass by overhead, coupled with the Find Starlink tool, enables people around the world to catch a glimpse of this interesting space phenomenon.

Find Starlink lets users track satellites in real time

While the Starlink map has always been available to the public, it was mostly used to see if there was coverage in certain areas. Find Starlink now enables users to view the Starlink satellites in real time — and if conditions are right, they can be viewed from the ground without the aid of a telescope. Because the satellites are grouped up, they often appear like a string of lights going across the sky rather than one light.

Find Starlink also includes a useful tool where users can input their locations or coordinates to see the satellites’ visibility, the optimum time to view the Starlink satellites, and associated brightness values. However, just because a satellite appears to be overhead doesn’t mean you’ll be able to view it. According to Find Starlink, the satellites move 300 miles per minute, making missing a satellite cluster quite easy. So, don’t be surprised or disappointed if you feel you timed it perfectly but couldn’t see it.

The Find Starlink tool is not associated with SpaceX or Starlink in any official capacity, but uses coordinates to track the paths that the megaconstellations take while orbiting the Earth.

Starlink satellites have drawn scrutiny

Though the Find Starlink tool is a neat way to catch the satellites orbiting overhead, the service is not without its controversy. Notably, leading astronomers and members of the scientific community at large have raised serious concerns about the satellites. Some fear that the satellites could interfere with observation of space, especially as SpaceX plans to launch more in the coming years. This could hinder the ability of scientists to study the cosmos.

Most recently, a report published in Astronomy & Astrophysics observed 68 satellites belonging to a SpaceX Starlink constellation with a LOFAR radio telescope. These scientists reported unintended electromagnetic radiation emanating from the satellites, which in turn interfered with radio astronomy research.

According to Benjamin Winkel from the Max Planck Institute for Radio Astronomy in Germany, “Our simulations show that the larger the constellation, the more important this effect becomes as the radiation from all the satellites adds up.” Winkel adds, “This makes us worried not only about the existing constellations but even more about the planned ones.” While the full effects that Starlink satellites will have on scientific research have yet to be seen, it is something to keep in mind when using the Find Starlink tool to view the phenomenon in the night sky.

Conclusion

Starlink is a revolutionary new internet service that has the potential to connect people in remote areas to the world. However, it is important to be aware of the potential drawbacks of this technology, such as its potential impact on scientific research.

If you are interested in viewing Starlink satellites, the Find Starlink tool is a great way to do so. Just be sure to be patient and persistent, as the satellites move quickly and can be difficult to see.

2023-09-20 0 comment

Uncategorized

How To Set Up A Macbook Pro

by George Mensah 2023-09-20

written by George Mensah

Welcome to the enchanting realm of Mac, where your entrée is marked by the acquisition of the splendid MacBook Pro. This remarkable piece of technological craftsmanship stands as a testament to Apple’s commitment to innovation, blending an exquisite design, formidable performance, and an instinctive operating system that beckons to professionals, scholars, and creative souls alike. Whether you find yourself newly initiated into the Mac ecosystem or transitioning from a different digital realm, the commencement of your MacBook Pro setup heralds an exhilarating voyage into the zenith of Apple’s offerings.

Within the ambit of this compendium, we shall meticulously escort you through the pivotal stages of MacBook Pro initiation and tailoring, thus facilitating a bespoke experience that caters to your unique needs and aspirations. From the ceremonial unboxing of your pristine acquisition to the fine-tuning of personal preferences and the orchestration of software deployments, every facet of this initiation process shall be unveiled for your enlightenment.

The initialization of your MacBook Pro constitutes a straightforward yet pivotal procedure that unfurls a gateway to the myriad features and capabilities of your cherished device. This intricate ritual encompasses an array of activities such as the customization of device settings, the establishment of a symbiotic Wi-Fi communion, the initiation of the Apple ID login, and the seamless migration of data from your antecedent device. It is through these intricate steps that you will craft an optimized Mac experience, culminating in the harnessing of the full potential of your newfound MacBook Pro.

Without further ado, let us embark on this journey and commence the inaugural rite – the unboxing of your coveted MacBook Pro.

Step 1: The Art of Unboxing

Congratulations are in order for the acquisition of your brand-new MacBook Pro! The commencement of your MacBook Pro voyage commences with the delicate choreography of unboxing. Apple’s commitment to delivering a premium unboxing experience is evident in the meticulous packaging.

Upon taking possession of your MacBook Pro, you shall be greeted by a resplendent and robust box. Exercise care as you delicately strip away the protective plastic wrap and gracefully slide the box from its elegant sleeve. As the box unfolds akin to a treasured tome, the MacBook Pro shall reveal itself, nestled serenely within. Gently lift this technological marvel from its sanctuary and place it upon a pristine, level surface.

Beneath the MacBook Pro, you shall discover a diminutive box that houses essential accessories – the power adapter and charging cable. Elevate this petite coffer and carefully extract these indispensable tools. Amongst the various documents and guides accompanying your MacBook Pro, take a moment to peruse them, for they hold invaluable insights into the device’s features and the setup chronicle.

Take a measured look at your MacBook Pro, scrutinizing it for any visible scars or blemishes sustained during its journey to your abode. While the odds are low, any discernible dents, scratches, or anomalies warrant immediate contact with Apple Support for requisite redress.

Upon concluding this preliminary inspection, turn your attention towards the MacBook Pro’s power button, which typically resides in the upper-right quadrant of the keyboard. Bestow a gentle, protracted press upon this button for a few seconds. In response, a mellifluous startup chime shall serenade your ears, and the illustrious Apple insignia shall grace your screen. Congratulations are once again in order, for you have completed the inaugural step of unboxing and powered on your newfound MacBook Pro. The subsequent stage shall usher us into the labyrinth of the initial setup process, ensuring that your MacBook Pro stands poised for utility.

Step 2: Awakening the MacBook Pro

Having triumphed in the unboxing ceremony, the time has now arrived to invoke the life force within your MacBook Pro. The venerated power button, positioned with regal prominence in the upper right corner of the keyboard, shall serve as the conduit for this grand commencement.

In the grand theatrical performance of awakening your MacBook Pro, the key to its activation is, quite literally, the power button. Gently press and clasp this button for several seconds, and in response, the auditory overture of a startup chime shall resound, accompanied by the visual spectacle of the Apple logo alighting upon your screen. This mesmerizing diorama signifies the awakening of your MacBook Pro, as it begins its intricate ballet to initialize and prepare for the forthcoming setup.

Upon the conclusion of this initial performance, the curtain shall rise to reveal the macOS Welcome screen, the stage upon which the overture of your MacBook Pro’s digital existence shall unfold. Here, you shall be invited to select your preferred linguistic dialect, a foundational choice that shall echo throughout your Mac journey. With unwavering resolve, click upon the “Continue” button to progress to the next tableau.

It is worth noting, as a subtle encore, that those who are fortunate enough to bear a heritage from an older MacBook or possess an iOS sibling in close proximity may opt for the Quick Start feature, a performance-enhancing maneuver that expedites the setup. Should this be your circumstance, bring forth your iOS compatriot or the elder MacBook, and as if by the hand of a digital sorcerer, a Quick Start prompt shall materialize upon your screen. Follow the ethereal on-screen instructions, and witness as your settings, files, and predilections traverse the digital expanse to adorn your new MacBook Pro in a symphony of continuity.

For those who elect to forgo the Quick Start overture or those whose devices dwell beyond the veil of iOS, the ardent manual setup beckons. Following your linguistic choice, the stage shall shift to the selection of a nation or region, a decision that imparts the unique cadence of keyboard layouts, time zones, and regional etiquette upon your MacBook Pro. Once the auspicious choice is made, click upon the “Continue” button, and the tapestry of your digital existence shall unfold further.

Our odyssey continues with the third step – the intricate dance of configuring language and regional preferences on your MacBook Pro.

2023-09-20 0 comment

News

Amazon to Use Generative AI to Power Improved Alexa Experiences

by George Mensah 2023-09-20

written by George Mensah

At a press event on September 20, 2023, Amazon announced that it will soon use a new generative AI model to power improved experiences across its Echo family of devices.

The new model, which Amazon has not yet named, is specifically optimized for voice and the things that customers love, such as having access to real-time information, efficiently controlling their smart home, and getting the most out of their home entertainment.

Amazon says that the new model will enable a number of new capabilities, including:

More conversational experiences that take into account body language, eye contact, and gestures.

The ability to interact with APIs to enable new smart home capabilities, such as inferring the meaning of descriptions like “spooky” lighting.

A bigger and more opinionated personality for Alexa.
The ability to surface personal reminders, such as recently played music or recipe recommendations based on grocery purchases.

The ability to adjust its tone and response to express things like affirmation, excitement, laughter, and surprise.
The ability to adapt to a person’s natural pauses and hesitation to deliver a more free-flowing conversation.

During a demo, Amazon SVP of devices and services Dave Limp asked an Alexa device connected to the new generative AI model “What’s your favorite sports team?” After a brief hiccup with the event Wi-Fi, Alexa responded to that and follow-up questions about Seahawks stats and game times, even after Limp paused to address the audience and then returned to the conversation with Alexa.

Amazon did not cover it during the demo, but the new generative AI model can also adjust its tone and response to express things like affirmation, excitement, laughter, and surprise. It can also adapt to a person’s natural pauses and hesitation to deliver a more free-flowing conversation.

Soon, customers in the U.S. will get access to these new capabilities through a free preview on Echo devices they already own.

Additional information:

Generative AI models are a type of artificial intelligence that can generate new text, translate languages, write different kinds of creative content, and answer your questions in an informative way. They are trained on massive datasets of text and code, and they can learn to perform many kinds of tasks.

Amazon’s new generative AI model is specifically optimized for voice and the things that customers love. This means that it will be able to deliver more conversational experiences, understand and respond to complex requests, and generate creative and informative responses.

Amazon’s decision to use generative AI to power Alexa is a significant step forward for the voice assistant market. Generative AI has the potential to make Alexa more intelligent, more versatile, and more engaging for users.

It will be interesting to see how Amazon’s new generative AI model performs in the real world. Once the free preview is available, we will be able to test its capabilities and see how it compares to other voice assistants, such as Google Assistant and Siri.

2023-09-20 0 comment

Gadgets

Apple Watch Ultra 2: Incremental Upgrade or Worthy Purchase?

by George Mensah 2023-09-20

written by George Mensah

The Apple Watch Ultra 2 is a solid upgrade over the original Ultra, but it’s not a must-have for everyone. The most significant changes are a brighter display, a faster S9 chip, and Double Tap support.

The brighter display is a welcome addition, especially for those who use their watch outdoors in bright sunlight. The S9 chip is also a nice boost to performance, but it’s not something that most users will notice on a daily basis.

Apple Watch Ultra 2

Double Tap is a new feature that allows you to interact with your watch using a single hand. This can be useful for athletes or anyone else who needs to use their watch while their hands are full.

However, the Ultra 2 is still a very expensive watch, and the new features may not be worth the upgrade for everyone. If you’re happy with your current Apple Watch, there’s no need to rush out and buy the Ultra 2.

Here are some things to consider when deciding whether or not to upgrade to the Apple Watch Ultra 2:

Do you need a brighter display? If you use your watch outdoors in bright sunlight, the brighter display on the Ultra 2 is a nice upgrade. However, if you mostly use your watch indoors, the difference in brightness is not as noticeable.
Do you need a faster processor? The S9 chip in the Ultra 2 is faster than the S8 chip in the original Ultra, but most users will not notice a significant difference in performance.
Do you need Double Tap support? Double Tap is a new feature that allows you to interact with your watch using a single hand. This can be useful for athletes or anyone else who needs to use their watch while their hands are full. However, if you don’t need this feature, it’s not enough of a reason to upgrade.
Are you willing to pay the price? The Apple Watch Ultra 2 is a very expensive watch. If you’re happy with your current Apple Watch, there’s no need to rush out and buy the Ultra 2.

Overall, the Apple Watch Ultra 2 is a solid upgrade over the original Ultra, but it’s not a must-have for everyone. If you’re not sure whether or not to upgrade, it’s worth waiting for some reviews to come out to see if the new features are worth the extra cost.

2023-09-20 0 comment

2023-09-20

Netflix One Piece Live-Action Series Gets Special Wallpapers to Celebrate Success

You can check out the special wallpapers below:

Why Email Encryption Is Important for You

How to encrypt your emails

Conclusion

Why Toyota Ended C-HR Production in the US After 5 Years

Starlink: A Controversial Innovation

Find Starlink lets users track satellites in real time

Starlink satellites have drawn scrutiny

Conclusion

How To Set Up A Macbook Pro

Step 1: The Art of Unboxing

Step 2: Awakening the MacBook Pro

Amazon to Use Generative AI to Power Improved Alexa Experiences

Amazon says that the new model will enable a number of new capabilities, including:

Additional information:

Apple Watch Ultra 2: Incremental Upgrade or Worthy Purchase?

Apple Watch Ultra 2

Subscribe To Our Weekly Newsletter