Eliana Willis

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    in Information Technology

    Updating to Android 16 gives you 2 useful security features – but you need to enable them

    Jack Wallen / Elyse Betters Picaro / ZDNETGoogle released Android 16 a bit earlier than expected, and although it was missing some crucial features, there are key additions to the platform that go a long way to improve security.This was an important step forward, as the need for improved security grows every year. Without companies like Google, Apple, and others upping the ante on security, the mobile space would wind up the wild west of the technological landscape, with ne’er-do-wells popping up all over the place, stealing data at will. Also: How to turn on Android’s Private DNS mode — and why it’s an absolute must for securityWell, Google has taken a pretty big step forward with Android 16 in the form of two key features, which I’m going to explain here. 1. Identity Check This feature was actually added back in 2024, but it wasn’t until the release of Android 16 that it started receiving much attention. What is Identity Check? Let’s say you’re away from home (which you’ve designated as a trusted location; more on that in a bit). While you’re gone, someone gains access to your phone and either goes to make changes to critical security settings or attempts to access saved passwords or other sensitive information. Because the phone is away from your trusted location, when that person tries to make those changes, biometric authentication will prevent them from accessing those features or data. Also: 7 simple things I always do on Android to protect my privacy – and why you should tooHere’s the thing about Identity Check: it’s not easy to find. The best way to locate the feature is to open the Settings app and search for “identity check.” Once on the Identity Check page, you can enable the feature (it should be enabled by default) and add a trusted location. Once you’ve added a trusted location, biometrics won’t be required for that particular place. More

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    in Information Technology

    These battery-powered 4K security cameras give Ring and Blink a run for their money

    TP-Link Tapo TP-Link just announced a new lineup of Tapo security cameras that rival the best on the market. The cameras feature high-resolution recording, AI-powered capabilities, and local storage options. The news also includes the launch of the Tapo Smart HomeBase H500, a central hub that offers local storage to bypass subscription fees.  The seven […] More

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    in Robotics

    Verizon will give you an iPhone 16 Plus (or 4) with no trade-in – here’s how

    Kerry Wan/ZDNETI remember the times in my childhood when my brothers and I would come home begging to have a cellphone and sincerely hoping it was a swanky new iPhone. My mom cringed at the long receipt she would have to pay out. Luckily, Verizon is running a deal to set up your family or anyone needing a new phone and service plan. Also: T-Mobile will give you an iPhone 16 Pro on them, no trade-in required – here’s howWhen you open a line or multiple lines through myPlan at Verizon online, you can get up to four iPhone 16 Pros More

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    in Robotics

    How to use your iPhone as a digital driver’s license – but only in these states

    What states currently support digital ID in Apple Wallet? As of June 2025, the following US states and territories support adding digital IDs in Apple Wallet: ArizonaCaliforniaColoradoGeorgiaHawaiiIowaMarylandNew MexicoOhioPuerto Rico Where can you use digital ID? According to Apple, you can use your iPhone or Apple Watch to present your digital ID at “select Transportation Security Administration (TSA) checkpoints, businesses, and venues.” You can also share your identity information in “participating apps.”The TSA says over 250 domestic checkpoints accept digital IDs. Can I add my passport to Apple Wallet? When iOS 26 arrives later this year, Apple plans to let you scan a physical US passport into Apple Wallet to create a digital passport. It will work for domestic TSA checkpoints, but you’ll still need your paper passport for international travel. How to add your license to Apple Watch To add your license or ID to your Apple Watch, open the Apple Watch app on your iPhone, go to My Watch > Wallet & Apple Pay, tap Add next to your license under Other Cards on Your Phone, and follow the prompts. Also: Your Apple Watch is getting a big upgrade for free – 8 features I can’t wait to use on watchOS 26 Can you transfer your digital ID to a new iPhone? Yes. If you’re upgrading your iPhone, during Setup Assistant on your new device, make sure you add your existing digital ID. Choose Wallet when prompted.Select your existing digital ID.Follow the prompts and tap Continue to confirm you’re moving your license over.Also: 6 settings I recommend changing ASAP on iOS 18.5 (and how they make a difference)Your digital ID will be removed from the old device automatically once the transfer is complete. Get the morning’s top stories in your inbox each day with our Tech Today newsletter. More

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    Human-centric AI delivered at scale is the NiCE approach to CX

    matdesign24/Getty Images Last week, I attended NiCE Interactions 2025, a customer experience industry event bringing together nearly 3,000 CX, contact center, operations, and IT leaders from around the world. As NiCE is a leading provider of CX and contact center solutions, the event focused on how business leaders are modernizing their customer care and engagement […] More