Eliana Willis

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    in Information Technology

    The Matter 1.4.2 update has the smart home upgrades you didn’t know you needed

    Maria Diaz/ZDNETZDNET’s key takeawaysMatter 1.4.2 enhances experiences by focusing on security and efficiency.Improvements cover Wi-Fi-only commissioning and scene management.The update sets the stage for the Matter 1.5 release this fall.The smart home world is gearing up for the Matter 1.5 release this fall, but the CSA just announced a 1.4.2 update as a precursor to prepare the field. Matter 1.4.2 makes devices more secure and efficient, enhancing the user experience, likely without you realizing that major changes have been made. That’s the beauty of Matter: we’re watching the connectivity protocol grow and blossom into a fully fledged and future-proof smart home wonder.The Matter 1.4.2 update includes Wi-Fi-only commissioning, improved scene management, quieter network reporting, standardized robot vacuum behaviors, and multiple security changes to protect Matter users further.Also: 7 common household devices to unplug to save money on your electricity billAs Matter continues to grow into a fully fledged smart home connectivity standard, the CSA periodically releases updates to make the protocol secure and easier to use. Everything from adding a new smart home device to its compatibility list to giving users more control options via Matter comes in the form of an update.  More

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    in Robotics

    Don’t fall for AI-powered disinformation attacks online – here’s how to stay sharp

    JuSun/Getty Images ZDNET’s key takeaways AI-powered narrative attacks, or misinformation campaigns, are on the rise.  These can create real business, brand, personal, and financial harm.  Here are expert tips on how to spot and protect yourself against them.  Last month, an old friend forwarded me a video that made my stomach drop. In it, what […] More

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    in Robotics

    Is Instagram Map showing your location? How to check and turn it off

    How do I find Instagram Map? There a couple of ways you can access Instagram Map: DM Inbox: Tap the Map icon at the top of your Direct Messages tab to launch the interactive map. Story or post: Tap the location tag in a Story or Post, and then Instagram will open the Map view for that place.Also: Best data removal services: Delete yourself from the internet Is Instagram Map’s location sharing on by default? No. You have to opt in before anyone can see your precise, last-active location in Instagram Map.  Can strangers see my real-time location? Not unless you share it. Map only shares your precise, last-active location with friends you’ve approved. You can set it to “No one.” How often does Instagram Map update my shared location? Instagram has said your location updates every time you open the app, and it disappears after 24 hours if you haven’t been active. Why am I seeing people on my Map who haven’t opted in? According to Instagram head Adam Mosseri, people are seeing location-tagged posts and Reels on Map and assuming that means their live location is being tracked. “Your last reel is showing up on the map, not your current location. Your live location is not being shared, and it will never be unless you decide to share it,” Mosseri wrote on Threads.So, if you tag a location in content, it will appear on the map for 24 hours — but this does not share your precise, last-active location (which is what Mosseri calls “live location”).  If I tag a location in a post, will it show up on the Map? Yes, if your account is public, then tagged posts and Stories can appear on the Map. Can I hide certain locations or places from some people? Yes, you have the option to choose up to three places to set as hidden. When you’re at a hidden place, no one will see you on the map. You can also choose specific people to hide your location from. Open Instagram and tap the Messages icon in the top right of your feed.Tap Map at the top of your inbox. Tap the Settings icon in the top right and then Options.Add a hidden place: Tap Add, drag a pin to the map, click next, and done. You can then go back to Options, tap, “Hide from…,” and choose accounts to hide your location. More

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    in Information Technology

    How Apple may revamp Siri to a voice assistant I’d actually use (and ditch Gemini for)

    Kerry Wan/ZDNETZDNET’s key takeaways:An upgraded version of App Intents could make Siri the true hands-free iPhone companion.Apple is currently testing these Siri App Intents with a handful of third-party apps.The revamped Siri could ship in the spring of 2026, reports Bloomberg.When Apple first announced an upgraded and more capable Siri, every one of its users was reasonably excited. Unfortunately, that promise never happened, and the new Siri continues to be delayed. However, ahead of the upcoming Apple event, new details have emerged that may make antsy users a little more patient. And if the rumors are true, I’m anticipating the big Siri rollout to finally get me to switch from Gemini to Apple’s voice assistant.Also: This iOS 26 update ruined the iPhone camera app for me – then Apple saved the dayAccording to a report from Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, App Intents could “finally make Siri the true hands-free controller of your iPhone.” He explains, “App Intents will mean: With nothing but your voice, you’ll be able to tell Siri to find a specific photo, edit it, and send it off. Or comment on an Instagram post…. Siri could operate your apps like you would — with precision, inside their own interfaces.” More