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    in Robotics

    I’ve used my AirPods Pro 2 since their 2022 release. Are they still worth it in 2024?

    Jada Jones/ZDNETDuring its annual hardware event, Apple announced the iPhone 16 lineup, new AirPods, and a new Apple Watch. Although the event’s primary focus is always on new iPhones, I like to tune in to catch a glimpse of the latest AirPods. I was happy to see the AirPods 4 model with noise cancellation and upgraded software features, but I secretly hoped for the AirPods Pro 3.Also: Your AirPods Pro 2 are getting a free audio upgrade, and it’s the most important one yetUnfortunately, a new AirPods Pro model didn’t make an appearance. Still, Apple announced auditory health features and valuable software upgrades coming to the existing AirPods Pro 2 earbuds when iOS 18 arrives later this month.The holidays are approaching, and you may wonder if buying the AirPods Pro 2 More

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    in Robotics

    Should you upgrade to iPhone 16? Here are ZDNET editors’ top reasons for and against

    Kerry Wan/ZDNETICYMI: Apple launched the new iPhone 16 lineup on Monday, along with several other new products and software developments, including AirPods 4, the Apple Watch Series 10, and new upgrades to the AirPods Pro 2 model to create clinical-grade hearing aids. And while you’re probably expecting ZDNET’s team of tech experts to say that we’re all hopping on the iPhone 16 bandwagon thanks to flashy promises of Apple Intelligence, a new camera control button, and an upgraded design, you’d be wrong. Despite many of us extensively covering the development of flagship tech (especially smartphones) over the years with a fervent passion and interest, outside of our work, we’re probably a lot like you. Also: 4 ways I reuse my old iPhones instead of trading them in – including with robotsWe’re always looking for deals on top products, weighing the pros and cons before upgrading or buying new ones, and looking for the best long-term value in our tech. So maybe you’re surprised to learn that despite covering the latest phone launches, from the iPhone 16 to the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6, some of us are still comfortably using our iPhone 12s, 13s, and 14s — and aren’t necessarily all in on buying a new model. Here are the top reasons why we are (or aren’t) upgrading to the iPhone 16 in the coming months, including considerations of Apple Intelligence, camera features, and preorder or trade-in offers that are just too good to pass up. Here’s why ZDNET editors will be upgrading to the iPhone 16  More

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    in Information Technology

    Google Chrome adds 3 new security features to boost your online safety and privacy

    Lance Whitney/ZDNETOnline threats and privacy concerns seem to be ever more salient as users are becoming more and more aware of the lack of safeguards online. Now, Google is rolling out three new and improved features to Chrome aimed at beefing up your safety and security. Also: Was your Social Security number leaked to the dark web? Here’s how to find outIn a blog post published Thursday, Chrome product manager Andrew Kamau described the new features and explained how they’re designed to better protect you from online threats.1. New and improved Safety CheckFirst up, getting a tune-up is Chrome’s Safety Check. Designed to uncover malicious downloads, compromised passwords, unsupported extensions, and other hazards, this new and improved version will automatically run in the background to scan for more types of threats.Safety Check will be able to revoke permissions from sites you no longer use, alert you to potentially unwanted website notifications, and remind you of any security or privacy issues that need your attention. It will also keep you abreast of the actions it takes so you’re not caught off guard.Also: What is DuckDuckGo? If you’re into online privacy, try this popular Google alternativeFurther, Safety Check will try to protect you against abusive notifications by automatically revoking permissions from sites considered deceptive by Google’s Safe Browsing service. With Chrome on a computer, Safety Check will also alert you to any extensions that might be a security risk and take you to the extensions page where you can remove them.2. Remove website notificationsUnwanted website notifications can not only be annoying but potentially hazardous, and Chrome will now make it easier to opt out of them. Now on Pixel phones and coming soon to other Android devices, a new “Unsubscribe” button will appear in the notifications drawer so you can quickly turn off notifications for a particular site.3. Grant one-time website permissionsLastly, Chrome on Android devices and computers will now let you grant one-time permissions to specific websites. You’ll be able to allow certain permissions, such as access to the camera or microphone, for one time only. After you exit the site, those permissions are revoked and must be granted again the next time you browse to that site. More

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    in Robotics

    Only two multitool brands are worth your money – here’s the one I carry

    A good multitool can be a reliable companion for decades (as long as you don’t lose it!). Adrian Kingsley-Hughes/ZDNETI like having a good multitool close at hand. While they can’t replace a proper toolkit, I don’t fancy carrying a full toolkit with me when I’m out and about. Many of my readers are like me, often finding themselves doing random and unplanned DIY tasks throughout the day, so having a portable toolkit that can handle the basics is essential.View at Amazon More

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    in Robotics

    How digital twins of Earth are spinning up safer decisions for the planet

    Nvidia/Adobe Stock Typhoon Chanthu lashed East Asia in 2021. At one point, winds reached 170 mph, making it one of the strongest storms of the season. It wreaked havoc on the region, triggering evacuations and disrupting travel.  During a storm like Chanthu, meteorologists and government leaders want to figure out what’s coming next. The future […] More