WannaCry, The Biggest Ransomware Attack Ever?

WannaCry, is it the biggest ransomware hacks ever? Well for one, it shut down some of the biggest employers of people in the world and also has a cheeky lil twist at the end of it. While it also caused whopping at least £6 billion worth of damage worldwide. So, have you ever had any hacks or fraud attempted on you?

Before we crack on we got a lot of info from the national UK audit office for big chunks of interesting facts, bbc.co.uk and acronis.com for a bunch of the detail in this story.

On May 12th 2017 a program called WannaCry, tore across the globe, infecting a quarter million machines in more than 150 countries. it affected NHS, Spain-based Telefonica (owner of O2 here in the uk), America’s FedEx, German railway company Deutsche Bahn, and LATAM Airlines. Making it one of, if not the largest ransomware attacks ever! 

But what is ransomware?

Ransomware is a type of malicious software that infects computer servers, desktops, laptops, tablets and smartphones, often spreading across networks to other devices. Once it compromises a system, it quietly encrypts every data file it finds, then displays a ransom note to the user demanding an online payment of hundreds or thousands of pounds (to be paid in cryptocurrency like Bitcoin) in return for the decryption keys needed to restore the user’s locked files. The demand often includes a series of deadlines for payment.  Each missed deadline leads to a higher ransom demand and often, destroyed files. If the victim doesn’t pay up, the attacker discards the decryption keys, making the data permanently inaccessible.

Now what made Wannacry so dangerous? Well it attacked the NHS which is a big deal. As the NHS is a free healthcare service in the UK which has a LOT of peoples personal & medical data. Losing that data could, worst case scenario end up in death. It ended up costing us the UK £92 million and running up global costs of up to a whopping £6 billion.

Standstill

On Friday 12th May 2017, the NHS, was brought to a standstill for several days due to the WannaCry outbreak, spreading across and affecting hospitals and GP surgeries across England and Scotland.  NHS staff shared screenshots of the WannaCry program, which demanded a payment of $300 (£230) in virtual currency Bitcoin to unlock the files for each computer.

Considering there are hundreds if not, 1000’s of computers across the whole of the NHS, this would prove costly. The attack resulted in the cancellation of thousands of appointments and operations, with one member of the public having his heart surgery cancelled. 

Staff forced to revert to pen and paper and use their own mobiles after the attack affected key systems, including telephones.They also needed to take part in a last minute relocation of emergency patients from stricken emergency centres. 

Why did it hit the NHS so hard though?

On Tuesday, March 14, 2017 a couple months before the attack, Microsoft issued a security bulletin, which detailed a in their systems flaw and announced that updates had been released for all Windows versions that were currently supported at that time. 

The Department of Health was also warned about the risks of cyber-attacks on the NHS a year before WannaCry and although it had work under way it did not formally respond with a written report until July 2017 AFTER THE ATTACKS

Most of the NHS devices infected with the ransomware, were found to have been running, Microsoft Windows 7 operating system that was not up to date, hence the extremities of the cyber-attack. Yes that is right….the powers that be forgot to roll out a windows update. We are grossly oversimplifying the process here but that is what happened.

In fact At the time of the attacks, some computers were running a 17-year-old operating system (Windows XP). The attack happened in 2017 and windows xp was so old at the time windows had stopped updating it….in fact they stopped updating it in 2014. Luckily In an unusual move, Microsoft released a WannaCry patch for Windows XP. but this was after the fact.

Who was behind the attack?

Well it’s not too clear but here are some theories.

The attack used a software vulnerability in Microsoft’s Windows operating system called “Eternalblue”. Ironically, it was allegedly developed as a cyber-attack exploit by the US National Security Agency.  Although they were reported to have known of the tool’s vulnerabilities, the NSA didn’t bring it to Microsoft’s attention until the hacker group called Shadow Brokers leaked EternalBlue to an obscure website.

Further analysis of the attack by companies such as Cyber Security company Symantec  revealed links to a collective called the Lazarus group, who in turn have been linked to North Korea. However the attack does not bear the hallmarks of a nation-state campaign.

What stopped the attack?

A MARCUS DID!

The cyber-attack was stopped by an accidental kill switch discovered by Marcus Hutchins, Marcus was around 22/ 23 at the time did some digging around and found out how to turn it off. Plot twist – he was hailed a hero in the white hat (white hat means good hacker) hacking world!

All praise Marcus….Marcus the great….another in a long line of marcuses!

In august 2017 a few m months after the attack he was celebrating in LA after a hacker conference. Where lets face it…people must of been buying drinks for him all day long! He was arrested by the FBI. This was because a few years back he designed his own naughty bit of programming called Kronos in 2014. Kronos was made to  stealing banking login credentials from people. It was sold for $7,000. He was also accused of being involved in the making of other similar programs as well. Yep the guy that saved the NHS could be responsible for that time your bank got hacked. But an older, wiser, better Marcus made the following statement in april 2019

“I regret these actions and accept full responsibility for my mistakes,” 

“Having grown up, I’ve since been using the same skills that I misused several years ago for constructive purposes. I will continue to devote my time to keeping people safe from malware attacks.”

What happened afterwards?

The WannaCry attack triggered a boost in investment from the government for cyber security in the NHS.  No surprise there…

(Acronis / BBC)

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LifeStraw

We recently went on a staycation in the UK and ventured around the countryside whilst in a Ford Nugget. Whilst there we reviewed a load of cool gadgets. While some were fun, some were practical and have incredible uses! One of the gadgets we used whilst on staycation which was very practical was a LifeStraw! It protects against bacteria, parasites, micro plastics in water. It also reduces sand dirt and cloudiness! Making it safe to drink! They have been independently lab tested, durable and is BPA-Free. It has been described as the ultimate survival tool as it has no shelf life, is easy to clean and store!

LifeStraw

LifeStraw is a personal water filtration device which protects against 99.999999% of bacteria (including E.coli, Salmonella), 99.999% of parasites (including Giardia and Cryptosporidium), 99.999% of microplastics and reduces sand, silt, cloudiness. You can use it to clean up dirty water from places such as lakes, rivers, streams and puddles. It is ideal for the outdoors type that enjoy hiking, camping, hunting, fishing, travelling and general emergency preparedness!

Each LifeStraw has a long-lasting membrane microfilmer which lasts up to 1,000 gallons (or 4,000 litres) of water! Which is more than enough drinking water for an individual for over 5 years! It has an unlimited shelf life and has been vigorously tested all over the globe. So it can face even the most harshest of conditions. Furthermore, your purchase has a real world impact. As each purchase will give one child one year of safe water.

A Range of Products

They do more than just a personal filter too. They have a whole range of products that make use of the filtration technology. Such as a Home Dispenser, which is a device to to be used around the home or in the fridge to dispense clean filtered water. A water pitcher called the LifeStraw Home, LifeStraw Go and LifeStraw Go Strainless Steel. Which are personal drinks dispensers.

LifeStraw Flex and LifeStraw Flex with Gravity Bag. Which are collapsible personal drinks dispensers, while the gravity bag allows users to fill up bottles as it holds more water. LifeStraw Universal which is a filtration system which will fit on to a universal amount of suitable personal water bottles.

LifeStraw Play for the children and LifeStraw Family which is a water purifier designed for the family of adventurers. Tie it to a tree and use it to fill up water bottles for the whole family with clean, purified water!

(LifeStraw)

Purchase a range of LifeStraw items here! (Affiliate link)

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WWDC21 Everything Apple Announced This Week!

WWDC21 and Apple have announced a slew of new features for iOS, MacOS and WatchOS. Lots of features aimed at improving your social side of life, both with connecting with others and reducing the amount of time that you spend on your devices!

iOS15 – WWDC21

Apple showed off updates to FaceTime, a new way to reduce distractions, enhanced on-device intelligence to discover information. Plus there’s also updates to Maps, Weather and Wallet!

Facetime

FaceTime gets an update to help make conversations on screen feel more natural over video calls. Spatial Audio helps to make the voices from who you are talking to sound as if they are coming from where the person is positioned on screen. There are also new microphone modes to separate the voice from the background noise. Portrait mode also comes to FaceTime and is designed specifically for video calls so users can blur their backgrounds and keep themselves in focus. Furthermore in Group FaceTime there is a new grid mode which enables participants to see more faces at the same time.

FaceTime entertianment

Make FaceTime more entertaining with SharePlay. You can now listen to Apple Music, Watch a TV show or Movie in Sync and even share your screen with them! SharePlay works across iPhone, iPad and Mac. Users are also able to share playback controls so anyone can play, pause or jump ahead. SharePlay can even connect to Apple TV, so users can watch content on the big screen. All while keeping your devices in sync. Disney+, ESPN+, HBO Max, Hulu, MasterClass, Paramount+, Pluto TV, TikTok, Twitch, and many others are integrating SharePlay into their apps.

FaceTime calls can now extend beyond Apple devices with the ability to create a FaceTime link and share it through Messages, Mail or any 3rd Party app. Anyone can join a FaceTime call from their web browser or Android and Windows devices. FaceTime calls on the web remain end to end encrypted so privacy is not compromised.

Focus

Distraction will be a thing of the past in iOS15. Focus is a new feature that filters notifications and apps based on what the user wants to focus on. Users can set their device to help them focus by creating a custom Focus or select a suggested Focus. The device will use on-device intelligence to suggest which apps and people are allowed to notify them. It will be suggested to them based on a users context, like during work hours or while they are winding down for bed. Focus can be set on one device and then extend across all their Apple devices. Home Screen pages can also be created with apps and widgets to moments of focus and only display relevant apps and reduce temptation. When you are restricting incoming notifications, their status is displayed to others in Messages. Letting others know that you are not currently reachable.

Notifications

Notifications have also been redesigned. Contact photos for people and larger icons for apps make them easier to identify. Reducing distraction a new notification summary will collect non-time-critical notifications for delivery at a more opportune time. Such as in the mornings or in the evenings. The on-device intelligence will arrange notifications by priority, with the most relevant notifications rising to the top. All based on a user’s interactions with their apps. Urgent messages will be delivered immediately. While it is easy to temporarily mute any app or messaging thread for the next hour or day.

Cool On-Device Intelligence Tech

Live Text will use on-device intelligence to recognise text in a photo and let users take action on that. For example, users can search for and locate the picture of a handwritten recipe, capture a number from a store front. Then using Apple Neural Engine can either copy and paste the recipe or call the number that was on the store front.

With Visual Look Up, users can learn more popular art and landmarks around the world, plants and flowers found in nature, breeds of pets and even find books. Spotlight will alsu use intelligence to search photos by location, people, scenes and objects using Live Text. It can even find text and handwriting in recent conversations, shared photos and even location if shared through Find My. Photos also has an update to Memories. With a new look, interactive interface and integration with Apple Music.

Safari

Safari gets a cool new redesign making it easier to control and reach with one hand. The tab bar is now compact and lightweight and now has been moved to the bottom of the screen. Therefore making it easier to swipe between tabs. Tab Groups also allows users to save tabs and easily access them at any time on any device. There is now a customisable start page and web extensions on iOS.

Apple Maps

Apple Maps now will be significantly enhanced with new details in cities for neighborhoods, commercial districts, elevation, buildings and new road colors, labels, custom designed landmarks and a new night mode.

While using and navigation with Apple Maps on iPhone or Car Play, Maps will feature a 3D city driving experience. With new road details, therefore making it easier to understand improtant details. Such as when to turn lanes, medians, bike lanes and pedestrian crosswalks. Transit riders can now find nearby stations more easily and pin favorite lines. Maps will automatically follow along a selected transit route, notifying users when it’s nearly time to disembark. Furthermore in iOS15, users can hold up their iPhone and Maps will generate a highly accurate position to deliver walking directions in augmented reality.

New Keys and State ID’s in Apple Wallet

Apple Wallet now has support for additional types of keys! Last year Apple introduced digital car keys, with BMW being the first manufacturer to take advantage of this tech. Digital Car Keys get even better with support for Ultra Wideband Technology, making it easy for users to securely unlock and lock their supported vehicle without having to take their iPhone from a pocket or bag. Futhermore iPhone can also be used to unlock a user’s home, office or hotel room. All with keys stored in the Wallet.

For those in the US, participating states will allow users to add their drivers license or state IDs to Wallet. TSA is working to enable airport security checkpoints to be the first place that customers can use their digital Identity card in wallet. ID cards in Wallet are encrypted and stored safely in the Secure Element. Using the same tech that makes Apple Pay private and secure.

Privacy

iOS15 now has even more privacy controls. On-device speech recognition, audio of Siri requests is now processed entirely on iPhone by default. Mail Privacy Protection stops senders from learning whether an email has been opened and hides IP addresses so senders can’t learn a user’s location and use it to build a profile. App Privacy Report will also offer an overview of how apps use the access that has been granted to location, photos, camera, microphone and contacts in the last 7 days and which other domains have been contacted.

Weather and Notes

Weather gets a nice new facelift and adds graphical displays of weather data, full screen maps and dynamic layouts which change based on conditions. Animated backgrounds more accurately reflect the sun’s position and precipitation and notifications highlight when rain or snow starts and stops.

Notes will add user created tags that make it easy to quickly categorise notes and mentions allow members of shared notes to notify each other of important changes. While an all-new Activity view shows the history of a shared note.

Additional features WWDC21

  • Siri now can announce notifications on Airpods and the ability for users to share what’s on their screen just by asking
  • Shared With You. Will work across Apple Devices to show articles, music, tv shows, photos and more which are shared in Messages and display them conveniently in the appropriate app. Photos in Photos app, TV shows in Apple Tv and Podcasts in Apple Podcasts for example.
  • iCloud+ can now hide your email, expanded HomeKit Secure Video support, new innovative internet privacy service, iCloud Private Relay all at now additional cost.
  • Health App now allows you to share health data with family, caregives, your doctor or a care team. Trends will also give users a way to focus on meaningful personal health metrics.
  • Find My allows uers to locate a device that has been turned off or erased as well as live-streaming locations for family and friends who have turned on sharing their location. Seperation alerts will notify a user of they leave an AirTag, Apple Device or Find My network accessory behind in an unfamiliar location. A new Find My Widget also offers an at-a-glace view directly from the Home Screen.
  • Translate also adds a new Live Translate feature which makes conversation flow naturally across languages. Systemwide translation allows uers to translate text anywhere on iPhone.
  • Apple TV will now feature a row titled “For All of You” which will showcase a collection of movies and TV shows based on everyone’s tasets from within a select group of people or household using the data discovered through each Apple ID.

iPad OS15 WWDC21

iPad gets a new and easier way to multitask, a new home screen design with widgets, the App Library, systemwide note taking with Quick Note, SharePlay and a redesigned Safari Experience and new tools to stay focused.

MultiTasking

iPadOS 15 makes working with multiple apps much easier. There is a new multitasking menu at the top of apps, letting you go into Split View or Slide Over with a simple tap. You can now have quick access to the Home Screen when using Split View, making it easier to get to the right app. Furthermore there is a new Shelf section where you can multitask with apps which have multiple windows such as Safari or Pages. Furthermore there is an experience with external keyboard which allows users to get more done with keyboard shortcuts and a redesigned menu bar. You can quickly set up and switch between Split View and Slide Over with new shortcuts for multitasking right from the keyboard.

Widgets and App Library

Users can now place widgets much like they can on iPhone on Home Screen pages. Providing more information at a glance and offering a more personalised experience. Designed specifically for the larger display of the iPad, there is a new larger Widget size for showcasing videos, music, games and photos. The App Library is also coming to iPad, automatically organising apps into helpful categories, like Productivity, Games, Recently added and more. Allowing users to access all their apps right from the Dock.

Note Taking

Note taking on iPad gets even better with new features which make it easier to capture thoughts and ideas. Notes goes systemwide with Quick Note. A new fast and easy way to take notes anywhere on the system. Whether that is browsing on Safari or finding a restaurant on Yelp. You can bring up the Quick Note feature anywhere and jot down a thought. Even add links and provide an easy way to get back to what you were doing.

Notes will also organise, collaborate and capture information easier and better. Tages make it easy to categorise notes and quickly find them with an all new Tag Browser and tag-based Smart Folders. For those working in Shared Notes, mentions creates a way to notify collaborators and link them back to the note. There is also a new Activity View to show recent updates.

FaceTime

iPadOS 15 gets the same FaceTime update as iOS 15 and makes conversations more natural with spatial audio and share experiences with SharePlay. Share songs on Apple Music, Watch a Tv Show in sync and view apps together with sharing your screen. Also share playback controls and let anyone play, pause or jump forward or rewind.

Safari

Safari gets a new tab design, like the iOS 15 Safari update, you can now see more of the page as you browse. A new tab bar takes the colour of the page that you are browsing. Tabs are now combined with the tool bar and search field into a single compact design. Tab Groups offer a new way to easily save and manage tabs. Great for planning trips or shopping. Tab Groups are also synced across Mac and iPhone and other Apple devices. So users can continue their project from anywhere. Safari on iPad now lets you add web extensions to them available from the App Store.

Find Focus

Much like on iOS 15, iPad OS 15 delivers powerful tools to keep you focused. Focus is a new feature that filters notifications based on what a user is doing. You are able to set your device to help you be in the moment by creating a custom Focus setting or a suggested on based on their context. Such as during work hours or while your winding down for bed. You can also create Home Screen pages with apps and widgets that apply to moments of focus to only display relevant apps to reduce temptation. A new notification summary will organise a collection of notifications which can be delivered at any time the user chooses. Such as in the morning or after work.

New Photos Experience

iPadOS15 uses the same on device intelligence to recognise text in a photo and let them copy and paste text or call a phone number from a picture. With Visual Look Up, users can identify objects within a photo such as a type of dog or flower. Spotlight can now seatch the Photos app and web images and has all-new rich results for contacts and context like recent conversations, shared photos and location if shared through Find My. Using Live Text, Spotlight can also look up a photo of a public transit map, receipt or a screenshot of a cooking recipe. It can also work with handwritten text, great for searching text on whiteboards or notes.

Translate

Translate app now comes to iPad with new features that make conversations easier and natural. Auto Translate will detect when someone is speaking and in which language, so users can converse naturally without having to tap a microphone button. Face to face view allows people to sit across from each other with iPad inbetween them and see translations of the conversation on their side. Text can now be translated from anywhere on the iPad by slecting it and tapping translate. Handwritten text can also be translated! You can even translate text in photos!

Additional Features WWDC21

  • Universal Control lets users work with a single mouse and keyboard to move between iPad and Mac for a seamless experience, with no setup required. Users can even drag and drop content back and forth between devices — great for sketching a drawing with Apple Pencil on iPad and placing it into a Keynote slide on Mac.
  • Photos gets an update to Memories with integration with Apple Music and a fresh new look.
  • Maps gets the same update as iOS 15 allowing you to navigate more with new road colours, elevation, enhanced details in cities for neighbourhoods, commercial districts, elevation, and buildings, new road colours and labels, custom-designed landmarks, and a new night-time mode with a moonlit glow.
  • Siri now can announce notifications on Airpods and the ability for users to share what’s on their screen just by asking
  • Shared With You. Will work across Apple Devices to show articles, music, tv shows, photos and more which are shared in Messages and display them conveniently in the appropriate app. Photos in Photos app, TV shows in Apple Tv and Podcasts in Apple Podcasts for example.
  • iCloud+ can now hide your email, expanded HomeKit Secure Video support, new innovative internet privacy service, iCloud Private Relay all at now additional cost.
  • Privacy gets an update with Mail Privacy Protection help to stop trackers from snooping on an email, and App Privacy Report provides transparency into how apps are sharing information with other companies

macOS Monterey – WWDC21

Monterey adds new ways to connect with friends and family, work smarter across devices, and stay focused!

Safari

Safari gets a redesign and reimagines the browsing experience with a new tab design, which allows users to see more of the webpage as they scroll. The tab bar gets a facelift and takes on the colour of the webpage that you are on. It also combines tabs, tool bar and search field into one single compact design. Tab Groups offer a new way to easily save and manage tabs. Tab Groups will also sync across all devices.

Shortcuts

Shortcuts is now on Mac. Helping users to automate everyday tasks and achieve peak productivity. Just like shortcuts on iPhone and iPad, Shortcuts on Mac lets users quickly accomplish tasks with the apps which you use the most. There is a rich gallery full of pre-build actions designed just for Mac, users can share files, make animated GIFs and much more. While power users can take things further and use the Shortcuts Editor to match workflows. Shortcuts is intergrated throughout macOS, including the menu bar, Finder, Sportlight and even hands free with Sir. Users of Automator can import their existing workflows into Shortcuts too.

Notes

Notes can help users stay organised, collaboirate and create notes from anywhere. With Quick Note much like on iPadOS15, users can jot down notes from anywhere in any app or website. Making it easy to capture thoughts and ideas whenever. You can even links from an app to a Quick Note to create context or even an address in Maps. Add mentions and see everyone’s edits in Acitivity View and categorise Notes with Tags to quicklt and easily find them in the new Tag Browser and tag-based Smart Folders.

Focus

Focus on Mac can stay in the moment by filtering unwanted notifications unrelated to what they are doing. You can signal your status to let others know when you are focusing and not available. When you are in Focus on one device you are in Focus across all Apple devices. All of this is custom to their current activity too.

FaceTime

Much like FaceTime updates to iPadOS 15 and iOS15, Mac OS Monterey also has the same new upgrades:
  • FaceTime now includes a suite of new audio and video features that make calls feel more natural and lifelike. With spatial audio, voices in a FaceTime call sound like they are coming from where the person is positioned on the screen, while Voice Isolation ensures the user’s voice is crystal clear and uses machine learning to eliminate background noise, and Wide Spectrum allows all the sound in the area to come through so participants can hear everything. Portrait mode taps into the Apple Neural Engine in the M1 chip to blur the user’s background for a stunning video effect, and a new Grid View shows participants in same-sized tiles.
  • SharePlay is a powerful set of system features that enables users to have shared experiences while on a FaceTime call. Users can share their favourite music, TV shows, movies, projects, and more with friends and family in real time — kicking off a shared listening party, watching movies and shows, collaborating in apps through screen sharing, and more. With an API built for easy adoption, third-party developers can bring their own apps right into FaceTime.
  • Shared with You makes it easy to locate and enjoy all the great content that’s shared through Messages, including photos, videos, articles, and more, right from a Shared with You tab within Photos, Safari, Apple Podcasts, Apple News, and the Apple TV app.

Continuity

Universal Control will let users work with a single mouse and keyboard and move between Mac and iPad for a seamless experience, with no setup required! Users can even drag and drop files between each of your devices. You can sketch on iPad and then move it to a Keynote slide on Mac! AirPlay to Mac allows you to play, present and share anything from their iPhone or iPad to their Mac! The Mac can also be used as an AirPlay speaker, so users can play music on their Mac or use their Mac as a secondary speaker for multi-room audio.

Additional New Features of macOS Monterey WWDC21

  • Maps gets the same update as iPadOS15 and iOS15 but it also has a new interactive globe too!
  • LiveText features in iPadOS15 and iOS15 also come to MacOS Monterey
  • iCloud+ also is available
  • Use your Airpods Pro and Airpods Max to deliver a new experience with Spatial Audio with Macs which have the M1 Chip
  • The all new Privacy features from iOS15 and iPadOS15 are also available.

WatchOS 8 – WWDC21

watchOS 8 now offers better access to your Wallet, more capabilities with the Home app, new workout types, and an updated Breathe app.

Wallet

Apple Watch and watchOS8 can now have access to unlicking their car from a distance and start it from the drivers seat with supported vehicles. You can now have access to the keys that are in your Wallet which control the house, office and hotel. While in participating states in the US, you can add your drivers or state ID to Wallet. So watchOS 8 will have access to that too!

Home

Home app in watchOS 8 has even better conenient access to accessories and scenes needed in a particular moment and the ability to control accessories by room. For example, with a HomeKit enabled camera you can view who is at the door directly on your wrist. Also, you can also tap the Intercom to quickly broadcast a message throughout the home or to individual rooms via HomePod, HomePod Mini or other personal devices.

Workout Types

watchOS 8 introduces Tai Chi and Pilates to the workouts app. While, the new workouts are supported by powerful validate custom-built rate and motion algorithms to provide users with accurate metrics.

Mindfulness

Furthermore, the Breathe app has been reimagined as the Mindfulness app and will feature and enhanced Breathe experience and a new experience, Reflect. Reflect will offer a mindful intention to focus on as little as one minute and can be done at any time. Each Reflect session welcomes the user to think with a positive frame of mind. So, for example the app may ask you to “Recall a time when you recently felt a sense of calm. Bring that feeling into this moment”.

Sleep

Apple Watch can help users meet their sleep goals by establishing a pre-bedtime routine and will track metrics like time asleep, heart rate and blood oxygen. watchOS 8 will give users more insight to their sleeping respiratory rate, which is the number of breaths per minute. While, it does this via the in built accelerometer to measure respiratory rate whilst sleeping. It can be viewed along with trends over time on the Health app on iPhone.

Watch Faces

watchOS 8 introduces new ways to engage with your favourite photos. The new Portraits watch face brings to life stunning portrait photos which are shot on iPhone. With an immersive, multi-layered effect. Intelligently recognising faces in photos and cropping in to highlight the subject. The photos app is also redesigned. So, it will offer new ways to view and navigate collections, memories and featured photos which sync to Apple Watch.

Messages

Also, you can now combine the use of Scribble, dictaion and emoji all within the same message. For dictated messages you’ll have the option to edit the presented text. You can now also simply enter a word or phrase and select from loads of GIFs. Contacts app is now available on watchOS8 too! While, allowing you to browse, edit, add and share contacts directly from the app.

Focus

watchOS8 supports Focus which is on iPadOS 15, iOS 15 and Mac OS Monterey. Helping you to reduce distraction, it will filter notifications based on what you are doing. While, Focus will use on-device intelligence to make suggestions based on usage patterns.

Additional watchOS 8 Updates – WWDC21

  • Multiple Timers can now be set and given a label, for example Cooking Timer and Laundry Timer.
  • More Apple Watch Apps support Always-On display such as Maps, Phone, Podcasts, Stop Watch and more.
  • While, Assistive Touch enables one arm usage of Apple Watch by sensing hand gestures to interact without touching the display.
  • Furthermore, Find My is available on Apple Watch allowing users to locate tagged items using the Find My Network. The Find Devices app which is new helps users locate Apple Devices. Which are signed in using the same Apple ID.
  • While, Apple Music App has been redesigned
  • Weather App now supports severe weather notifications, displaying government alerts about certain severe weather events. As well as Next Hour Precipitation alerts and updated complications.
  • Also, later in June, Fitness+ introduces a new series of workouts featuring Jeanette Jenkins. A new Artist Spotlight Series with workouts featuring entire playlists from Lady Gaga, Jennifer Lopez, Keith Urban, and Alicia Keys.
So, what did you think of WWDC21, let us know via our socials! @howtokillanhour across everything!

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DJI FPV

We recently gave the DJI FPV a spin for ourselves and we had TONS of fun using it. It is different way to use drones for filmmaking and it certainly helps to get the shot! Mainly because YOU are the one flying the drone. Confused? Let me explain. With a regular drone you use a smart device such as an iPad or iPhone as your viewfinder. That’s still an amazing way to fly a drone. But with an FPV drone, you are literally sat in the pilots seat. Much like a commercial pilot would fly a plane, or a military personnel would fly a fighter get. You are transported into the drone in a VR type of situation, whereby you are in First Person View whilst flying the drone. This allows you to get more intricate shots that you would if you were using a screen.

Example Footage

DJI FPV

As you can see from both DJI’s official footage and our review you can get some incredible footage whilst using the DJI FPV. This new way of filming with a drone is going to get really really interesting as you can do so much with an FPV Drone!

The DJI FPV features an impressive set of skills:

  • Immersive Flight Experience
  • 4K/60fps Super-Wide FOV
  • 28ms HD Low-Latency Transmission
  • 10km Video Transmission Range
  • 50 Mpbs Bitrate Video Transmission
  • Brand-New S Mode
  • Intuitive Motion Controller (Sold Seperately)
  • Emergency Brake and Hover
  • Rocksteady Stabilisation
  • Distortion Correction

It is also very sleek and aerodynamic with incredible wind resistance and battery life! The DJI FPV is also one of the safest FPV drone available with front LEDs and aircraft arm lights. Which are customisable so the user can make their drone uniquely theirs! DJI’s FPV Goggles V2 has a super wide 150 degree field of view and can transmit HD video at up to 120fps!

Flying

The DJI FPV can be a daunting piece of kit, even for the most experienced of drone pilots. So DJI have incorporated a set of flying modes to help everyone get to grips with the DJI FPV.

S Mode – The S Mode is a hybrid flight mode which combines the freedom of flying manually with the simplified controls of previous DJI drones.
N Mode – This mode is ideal for new users. It offers immersive flight with traditional drone flight controls with DJI Safety features such as obstacle sensing
M Mode – M Mode is fully manual. Brining with it limitless control for the full FPV experience. Customise parameters and enjoy flight and footage with freedom. For example 0-100kph in 2 seconds is unlocked!

Motion Controller

The Motion Controller for the DJI FPV is sold separately and allows you to fly based on natural hand movements. It’s a brand new way to fly and arguably easier than using a traditional stick controller.

DJI FPV Safety

Flying the FPV can be daunting, as we said, even for the experts. So DJI have incorporated an emergency and hover feature. This feature, at the press of a button, whilst flying in any mode, will cause the drone to stop and hover stably, all within a few seconds.

An auxililary bottom light, smart return to home feature, low battery return to home feature and forward and downward obstacle sening the FPV is definitely safety focused. This puts an incredible amount of composure and peace of mind into the pilots whilst using the DJI FPV.

Even better yet, the DJI FPV has an additional layer of safety and peace of mind for pilots. It has an on board Automatic Dependent Surveillance-Broadcast system. It receives flight information from airplanes and helicopters in the area that transmit ADS-B signals. The system would warn you to avoid those aircraft. All well and good for safety for you and the people around you. However, the best way to avoid these issues is to fly in areas that are well away from any airports or flight paths!

DJI Virtual Flight App

One really cool way to learn to fly an FPV drone without flying an FPV drone is with the DJI Virtual Flight App. It will allow you to practice in lifelike, simulated areas before taking off in the real world. Think of it as FPV drone flying in virtual reality. You do this by connecting to the DJI FPV Goggles V2 with the remote controller and you can practise in a risk free environment.

(DJI)

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Samsung Smart Monitor range brings fun and work in one!

Samsung do have some really cool smart monitor tech on their hands! They have recently announced the global availability of a new Smart Monitor. It’s a do-it-all screen that brings together an unprecedented suite of features that helps out all users! Be that those looking for fun and entertainment or those looking to work and learn. All within one simple and easy to use monitor!

The Samsung M7 and Samsung M5 are a part of the Samsung Smart Monitor range and are designed with the worlds needs right now. A lot more people are working from home. Samsung Smart Monitor incorporates both entertainment and work into one amazing package. By incorporating powerful mobile and PC connectivity, remote home office and learning features. While those looking to unwind after a long day working a comprehensive entertainment hub. Which is very similar to the one that is built into Samsung’s Smart TV Platform!

“Around the world, work, education and entertainment have transformed into home-centered activities,” 

“With this new normal, it is no surprise that most indicators show a rise in digital activities and many are rethinking their technology use at home. Our new Smart Monitor is a direct response to that demand. Consumers no longer have to choose between a screen for one or the other as this display brings it all together.”Hyesung Ha, Senior Vice President of Visual Display Business at Samsung Electronics.

Connectivity

The Samsung Smart Monitor provides numerous connectivity options. This is for both PC and smartphone users. While they can use their personal mobile devices connected to the smart monitor with just a single tap with Galaxy Devices running Android 8.1 or higher, with the SmartThings app 5.1 and above. Or they can use App Casting or Apple AirPlay 2. Furthermore for a complete desktop experience using a mobile device you can connect to the monitor using Samsung DeX.

While those looking for home office and learning, the display operates Microsoft 365 apps without a PC connection as it has onboard Wifi. You are also able to remotely access wirelessly and access files from a PC or view content with a laptop. While you can do this either at home or in the office. USB-C can allow for data transfer, display and power, up to 65W, all within a single connection. Therefore keeping the desk area clean! There are multiple USB ports and Bluetooth 4.2 allowing users to connect even more to the display. Samsung Smart Monitor also has a built in 2 channel speaker!

The entertainment hub has all of your favourite streaming services including Netflix, YouTube and HBO for users in the United States! Content can be accessed with the supplied remote control via the hotkeys or controlled via your voice using Bixby.

Samsung Smart Monitor Safety

The Samsung Smart Monitor (M7 or M5) also features tech that is designed to make viewing comfortable. Adaptive Picture optimises picture quality for any viewing environment. As it does this by automatically adjusting brightness and colour temp according to the room conditions. Therefore ensuring the most comfortable viewing experience in any environment and easing up on eye strain. It also has a special eye-saver mode to reduce blue light.

The Samsung Smart Monitor comes in 2 models. The M7 supports Ultra High Definition resolution in 32″. While the M5 suppors Full HD in both 32″ and 27″ options.

The Samsung Smart Monitor will be available from November 16 in United States, Canada and China, and Samsung plans to expand launching markets starting the end of November.

Samsung Smart Monitor Specifications

Model M7
Display Screen Size (Inch) 32”
Flat / Curved Flat
Aspect Ratio 16:9
Viewing Angle 178°(Horizontal)/178°(Vertical)
Brightness (Typical) 250cd/m2(Typ),
Resolution 3,840 x 2,160 (UHD)
HDR HDR10
Interface HDMI 2.0 2EA
USB-C 1 EA (65W Charging)
Wi-Fi 5 Yes
Bluetooth 4.2 Yes
Speaker 5W x 2EA
USB 2.0 3EA
Smart Feature/ Service OS Tizen 5.5
Voice Assistant(Bixby 2.0) Yes
VOD(Netflix, YouTube, etc)[5] Yes
Mobile Casting/Mirroring Yes
Remote Access Yes

 

Model M5
Display Screen Size (Inch) 27”, 32”
Flat / Curved Flat
Aspect Ratio 16:9
Viewing Angle 178°(Horizontal)/178°(Vertical)
Brightness (Typical) 250cd/m2(Typ),
Resolution 1,920 x 1,080 (FHD)
HDR HDR10
Interface HDMI 2.0 2EA
USB-C N/A
Wi-Fi 5 Yes
Bluetooth 4.2 Yes
Speaker 5W x 2EA
USB 2.0 2EA
Smart Feature/ Service OS Tizen 5.5
Voice Assistant(Bixby 2.0) Yes
VOD(Netflix, YouTube, etc)[6] Yes
Mobile Casting/Mirroring Yes
Remote Access Yes

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Mevo Start 3 Pack

Mevo Start is the all in one camera system for all of your streaming needs. It has just got that much better too with the introduction of a 3 Pack! What’s so good about a the Mevo Start 3 Pack we hear you ask? Well it gives you multi-cam streaming for at a much cheaper rate and in a much easier to use package! Thanks to the Mevo Multicam app!

With the use of the Mevo Start 3 Pack, you are now able to choose from a variety of camera setups to capture the best sound and picture. For your live event, gaming stream of podcasting stream. Also use if for many other options like maybe a live streamed comedy show or skit or sitcom! Furthermore, why not create a cooking show or an unboxing show! Therefore the possibilities are endless to create high quality content right from within your own home! The Mevo Start’s all have a powerful in built microphone too so that means even less equipment to worry about! While you are able to stream to many platforms at once using restream. Or just stream to one platform, all at 1080p! Or create your own private stream and stream via NDI/RTMP at up to 15mps!

Furthermore the Mevo Start is designed with the creator in mind. As you are able to stream or record for up to 6 hours. While if you want to stream or create for longer, you are able to plug in via USB C and power it directly into a power outlet! Better yet you can use the Ethernet power adapter to provide dedicated power and internet in one cable!

Mevo Start 3 Pack Features

  • f2.8, 3.6mm EFL
  • 76 degree horizontal field of view
  • 2.07 Megapixel Sony Sensor
  • Great low-light sensitivity
  • 1080p encoding in HEVC or H.264
  • Frame rate: 30fps
  • High Dynamic Range (HDR) to create a stunning image
  • White Balance Presets
  • Custom Exposure and Auto Exposure
  • 3 MEMS mic with spatial processing
  • High quality processing
  • AAC – 48kHz, 16-bits
  • 3.5MM TRS Input for analog mic or line-level sources and systems
  • USB-C audio input
  • Micro USB
  • Connect Mevo Start to a Wi-Fi network up to 100ft away, uses Wi-Fi internet to stream
  • Mevo as a Wi-Fi hotspot when on the road, uses phone data to stream *
  • Only 3 inches tall and weighs 8 ounces
  • Built-in thread adapter for mic/tripod stand.

Buy a Mevo Start 3 Pack here!

Choose from a variety of camera setups to capture the best sound and picture for your streaming experience.

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Espresso Displays

We recently got to have a go on a really cool piece of tech that allows your Mac to become TOUCHSCREEN! It is just as amazing as it sounds. It’s from a company called Espresso! It’s an award winning portable monitor from the consumer electronics upstart. While their display product line, is a series of ultra-thin monitors to give users more real estate, Espresso Displays!

Espresso Displays are available for £249 and is a real premium touchscreen monitor. So, the design is made of high quality aluminium and makes life much easier for those working away from their desk. Not only do you benefit from a dual display you also benefit from a touch screen! At 5.4mm thickness it is also a really thin monitor. Furthemore, making it a go-to ultra portable solution for those looking to work on the go.  Also it can connect with just a single cable!

“2020 has accelerated the need for products that improve productivity anywhere, not just in the office. We focused on designing a display that is portable enough to be taken anywhere but does not compromise on functionality.”

“We’re designing a way for people to take the best parts about their office with them, to wherever they want. Previously that would be travelling, more recently it is having more flexibility in various locations around the house.” Will Scuderi, Co-Founder of espresso 

Features

Screen size

15.6” and 13.3”

Weight

900g (15.6”) and 700g (13.3”)

Build

Anodised Aluminium and a dual layer glass for touch equals reduces thickness, superior colour range, and smoother touch experience

Brightness

300 nits

Compatibility

PC | Mac | Android 6.0+ | Chrome OS | Linux

Touch

Touch for PC, Mac (customisable with gestures, requires driver installation), Samsung Galaxy S8 and newer

Connector cable

USB-C

Colour range

16.7M | 99% sRGB Colour Range

Thickness

5mm

Available accessories

Case/Stand | Magnetic folding mount enabling portrait/landscape device orientation | Magnetic mount allowing display to ‘snap on’ to a VESA arm |  Active Stylus | Screen Protectors | Backpack | Folio

Reverse Power Passthrough

Allowing an external power source to both power the Display and charge the Displays ‘host device’ for sustained use on-the-go

“Our early customers range from people with hearing impairments, looking for a way to show voice-to-text on a screen larger than their mobile phone, to engineers, designers, data scientists and even various music producers.”

“A versatile product like ours has many applications, being compatible with various laptops, phones, consoles and other devices. We’re excited to be creating products that provide more flexibility with how and where users can comfortably work from. Being without multiple screens becomes frustrating very quickly for many tasks in today’s digital workforce.” Scott McKeon, Co-Founder of espresso

So, Purchase an Espresso Display here!

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Toyota GR SUPRA 2.0 PRO

We recently got our hands on Toyota’s latest Supra, the Toyota GR Supra 2.0 Pro. It is amazing! It was produced by TOYOTA GAZOO Racing, it was developed on giving the driver a feeling an experience at the wheel. While also combining performance and style, it offers quite the high end comfort and driving experience!

  • 18″ Black & Silver Bi-tone Machined-face Alloy wheels (5-double-spoke)
  •  Active Sports Differential
  •  Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS)
  •  Toyota Touch® 2 with Go Navigation

Design

The Toyota GR Supra was inspired by over 50 years of rich heritage. It has a great blend of power, balance and agility. It has a motorsport style of aerodynamics. Yet blends it with a contemporary look with a powerful long bonnet, compact body and wide stance.

The GR Supra has long cemented itself in pop culture and is well known amongst many sports, movie fans and gamers. Over the last 40 years the Supra has become legendary in automotive culture over the last 40 years. It’s heritage can go as far back as the 1960’s with the introduction of the iconic Toyota 2000GT!

Performance

The GR Supra is at home either on the track or at home on the road. It has in-line straight 6-cyclinder engine which will deliver seamless power and an instant response. Coupled with a twin-scroll turbo charger, direct fuel injection and variable valve control, you will have some amazing power whenever you need it.

Interior of the Toyota GR Supra

The interior of the Toyota GR Supra is inspired by the layout of single seater racing cars. It puts you at the center of the action. Located around the responsive three-spoke steering wheel is an amazing HUD and dual dials to give you everything you need at your fingertips when you need it the most.

Power

The Toyota GR Supra is a sports car in its purest form. The short wheelbase and wide track will provide exceptional agility and stability. It will stick to the road like glue and give you an amazing ride!

Technology

The GR Supra 2.0 Pro comes packed with some amazing tech features. Which will provide for a safer, more comfortable driving experience!

Firstly, the Blind Spot Monitor, which uses radar sensors to constantly observe the area within a driver’s blind spot for any vehicles or pedestrians. Will alert the driver if the turn indicator is activated by activating an indicator in the door mirror on the appropriate side of the vehicle that the danger is coming from.

While Lane Departure Alert, which uses two cameras to monitor the vehicle position in relation to the road lane markings. Will alert the driver if the car is drifting out of the lane that it is in. An audible and visual warning will alert the driver to take corrective action.

Entertainment Services

Toyota Supra Connect Remote Services is an amazing piece of tech that will allow you to connect and control your car via an app! You can:

  • Lock/unlock your vehicle from your smartphone
  • Flash your headlights
  • Send destinations to your navigation system
  • Activate climate control using your smartphone

While with Toyota’s Concierge Service you can:

  • Get directions to a nearby petrol station
  • Add a stop to the bank along the way
  • Find a highly rated restaurant near you and input into your navigation system

While the MyT service will enable you to conveniently schedule a service and book maintenance or repairs. While you are also able to see your car’s full Toyota service history.

The Toyota GR SUPRA  2.0 starts at £46,615.00, so it’s not too bad either!

(Toyota)

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HTC VIVE TAKES BUSINESS TO THE NEXT LEVEL WITH TWO NEW VR HEADSETS

HTC have announced 2 brand new VR headsets, the HTC VIVE Pro 2 and the HTC VIVE Focus 3. Bringing with it a brand new 5K resolution, 120 degree field of view and real RGB sub-pixels in both of the headsets. This is really really exciting for virtual reality fans!

  • HTC VIVE Pro 2: sharp, precise, immersive. PC VR like nothing else
  • HTC VIVE Focus 3: a new era for business VR. Powerful and versatile All-in-One
  • 5K resolution, 120 degree field of view, and real RGB sub-pixels in both headsets
  • HTC VIVE Pro 2 pre-order from 11 May, on sale 4 June. The VIVE Focus 3 on sale 24 June
  • While the VIVE Business is announced: a range of new tools designed specifically for businesses of all sizes

HTC VIVE PRO 2

Firstly let’s let you know about the HTC VIVE PRO 2. It takes PC virtual reality to the next level, with every pixel and polygon updated to make high end gaming that much better.

It does this with a stunning 5K resolution display and delivers 2.5k to each eye. The refresh rate is just as impressive with a beautifully fluid 120Hz refresh rate and a fast switching panel with real RGB sub-pixels for crystal clear and buttery smooth animations. (This is already sounding very impressive and we want to have a go…NOW!)

A users field of view has also been increased to 120 degrees. This is thanks to VIVE Pro 2’s new bespoke dual stacked lens. Therefore allowing for minimal motion blur and the ‘screen door effect’ is basically eliminated giving users and gamers a much more natural and immersive experience.

For the first time in a VR headset there is Display Stream Compression. HTC VIVE worked closely with NVIDIA and AMD to optimise this. Display Stream Compression ensures maximum visual quality and is backwards compatible with DisplayPort 1.2. Therefore even graphics cards which supported VIVE Pro will see a benefit with VIVE Pro 2.

VIVE Pro 2 has fine-adjustable inter-pupillary distance (IPD), evenly distributed weight balance, adjustable head strap, and a quick-adjustable sizing dial. Perfect for finding your personal preferences, and also sharing the experience with others. While VIVE Pro 2 has 3D spatial sound with Hi-Res Audio Certified headphones, and supports third party headphones.

Accessories

For those worrying about accessories, don’t worry too much! As All VIVE Steam VR ecosystem accessories will work with HTC VIVE Pro 2. VIVE Trackers of any generation, the new VIVE Facial Tracker and much more work with HTC VIVE Pro 2. The new powerful VR Headset will also slot extremely well into your existing SteamVR setup. Whether you use Base Station 1.0 or 2.0, older controllers or even controllers and gloves like Valve’s Index ‘knuckle’ controllers.

For those looking to upgrade, VIVE Pro 2 in the headset-only version is available for pre-order from 6pm BST on 11 May. While as a special thank you for loyal users, VIVE is running a special promotion during the pre-order period, offering a discount for those who want to upgrade – making VIVE Pro 2 headset available for £659 / $749 / €739.

The full-kit VIVE Pro 2, which includes Base Station 2.0 and VIVE Controllers, is available from 4 August, for  £1299 / $1399 / €1399Read more about the VIVE Pro 2 here: vive.com/vive-pro2

HTC VIVE Focus 3

That’s not all there is also a new All-In-One VIVE Focus 3. This is the ultimate solution for business VR. By combining outstanding visuals with a smarter ergonomic design, superior audio and improved tracking and controllers.

Much like the HTC Vive Pro 2, the HTC VIVE Focus 3 has a 5K resolution with class-leading dual 2.5k displays, a smooth 90Hz refresh rate and an ultra wide 120-degree field of view. While the headset also has the same tech and has fast-switching display panel which uses real RGB subpixels, again essentially eliminating the screen door effect. Therefore things such as writing and overall fidelity are much clearer allowing for software design and user interaction to be more natural for the user.

Comfort

Furthermore the VIVE Focus 3 delivers superior comfort than its predecessor. It has a brand new strap design, balanced weight distribution, and an intelligently designed curved battery pack which is swappable. Also the VIVE Focus 3’s battery pack can be changed in seconds, allowing you to keep going on a very busy day. While quick charge gives you 50% battery with just 30mins of charging, an L.E.D indicator will let you know how much power you have left.

Also, continuing on for comfort for the user, it is durable and lightweight. The magnesium allow frame of VIVE Focus 3 is 20% lighter and 500% stronger than traditional plastics. It has a wide range and fine adjustable Inter Pupillary Distance range. While it has a quick-release button and easily removable magnetic front and rear face gaskets. Therefore making it quick and easy to change and clean.

Moving on to the sound VIVE Focus 3 has open-back speakers featuring a pair of dual drivers. The speakers are contact free meaning users can maintain environmental awareness whilst using the device. Impressively there is also a special audio privacy setting which reduces the risk of being overheard by people nearby.

Tech

VIVE Focus 3 uses an AI powered inside out tracking algorithm for precise tracking. Whilst remaining with privacy at the forefront of all tracking data. All stored in an encrypted format on the headset. There are also some redesigned controllers which are easy to use, whilst also lasting for 15hours on a single charge. There is also hand tracking support which is said to be released in the future.

VIVE Focus 3 is powered by the premium-quality Qualcomm® Snapdragon™ XR2 Platform which unlocks staggering performance improvements including twice the CPU and GPU performance and 11x the AI processing compared to its predecessor which powers the original VIVE Focus.

Powering VIVE Focus 3 is a specially optimised Qualcomm Snapdragon XR2 platform, combined with a copper heat pipe and cooling fan, so that it’s always stays cool. Featuring the all-new VIVE Reality System 2.0 which delivers a more streamlined and professional environment, VIVE Focus 3 will be on sale 24 June 2021, for £1060 / $1300 / €1180 (includes 24 month VIVE Business Warranty and Services, excludes VAT).  Read more about the VIVE Focus 3 here: vive.com/vive-focus3

VIVE Business

A great companion to the Focus 3, VIVE Business is a complete suite of software and services aimed at business looking to get the best out of XR. VIVE Business is scalable and secure, making life easier for deployment, maintenance, remote support and training needs.

The VIVE Business Management Device platform is a simple and intuitive MDM (Mobile Device Management) and is ISO certified. Therefore allowing IT to quickly and easily see the status of each VIVE Focus 3 on the network. You are also able to remotely install new business apps, update software and more. It is designed to work with Android Enterprise MDM. Therefore making it slot into pre-existing MDM solutions already active in your work environment.

Furthermore the VIVE Business AppStore is a curated collection of apps and tools. Which cover diverse areas like training communication, visualisation, and more.

Furthermore the VIVE Business Training is great for training sessions of any size, a training leader can observe the progress of each trainee via an Android device. While highlighting the next streps and talking to the training through it. VIVE Business Streaming will support connecting to a PC via a cable. There will be new tolls and features added to VIVE Business, such as fully wireless streaming support.

VIVE gives control back to businesses. Organisations can choose to take up VIVE Business services, or they can simply pay a one-off cost for VIVE Focus 3 and integrate it into their existing setup, with no recurring fees and the ability to use their hardware as they choose to.

VIVE Sync

Vive Sync is the way to meet in VR with realistic avatars to host presentations and examine 3D models. Also teach a class! Vive Sync has been in beta since June 2020 and has been used in almost 100 countries around the world. It is launching in Pro and Enterprise versions, offering different new environments, tools and ways to interact. Collaborate on product design, bring every day files into VR with Microsoft PowerPoint through 3D Formats. Vive Sync is perfect for groups of up to 30 or more people.  Read more about VIVE XR Suite here: enterprise.vive.com/solutions/xr-suite

The VIVE Pro 2 is available to pre-order from the 11th May, with an on sale date of the 4th of June. The VIVE Focus 3 has an on sale date of the 24th June.

What the bosses say:

“At VIVECON we redefined premium VR for both businesses and consumers, with stunning 5K resolution and 120 degree field of view setting a new benchmark for PC VR and All-in-One headsets. VIVE Pro 2 delivers an amazing immersive experience, with beautifully fluid visuals, comfort, and precise tracking, for when every pixel and polygon counts,” 

“VIVE Focus 3 heralds a new era of business VR – crafted for stunning visuals while also being durable and lightweight, with superior comfort and ease of use. Our new VIVE Business solutions make it easier than ever for an organisation to use VR, so whether it’s a small start-up or a multinational, everyone can benefit from the transformative potential of VR.”

Graham Wheeler, HTC VIVE EMEA General Manager

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New iMac announced and more at Apple’s 4/20 event

So Apple have announced a ton of new products at it’s April Event this year. Most notably a colourful new iMac! Alongside the iMac, Apple announced some new software changes alongside their Tile competitor, AirTags, a small upgrade to Apple TV 4K and an M1 Powered iPad Pro! Check out our run down of them below:

New Colourful iMac

There is a brand new iMac on the market, it features a much more compact and ridiculously thin design. All enabled by the M1 chip. At 11.5mm thin, it is practically invisible side on. Also much like legacy Macs they are available in a variety of colours. iMac has a 24 inch 4.5K Retina display, with 11.3 million pixels, 500 nits of brightness and over a billion colours!

iMac has a new 1080p FaceTime HD camera, studio quality mics and a six speaker surround sound speaker. The best camera and audio ever in a mac. TouchID comes to iMac too, making it easier to securely log in and make purchases with Apple Pay. Launch apps with incredible speed and everyday tasks are fluid and fast. Demanding workloads and editing 4K video is faster than ever. The M1 chip is onboard joining the Mac Mini, Macbook Air and 13inch Macbook Pro in the M1 family. iMac is available to purchase on April 30th and delivering 2nd half of May.

“M1 is a gigantic leap forward for the Mac, and today we’re excited to introduce the all-new iMac, the first Mac designed around the breakthrough M1 chip,”

“With its striking design in seven stunning colours, its immersive 4.5K Retina display, the best camera, mics, and speakers ever in a Mac, and Touch ID, combined with the amazing performance of M1 and the power of macOS Big Sur, the new iMac takes everything people love about iMac to an entirely new level.” Greg Joswiak, Apple’s senior vice president of Worldwide Marketing.

iMac Design

The iMac is now thinner and more compact than ever and is enabled by the M1 architecture as the logic board and fans are vastly reduced. The design is now 50% smaller allowing it to take up less space and fit easily in even more places. It is available in green, yellow, orange, pink, purple, blue and silver. iMac also features softer colours and thinner white borders on the front to allow users to focus on their content. The back pops in bold saturated colour. The iMac comes with a power connector that attaches magnetically in a woven 2M long colour matched cable.

iMac has a great 24inch 4.5K Retina display with narrower borders and 11.3M pixels. It has a P3 wide colour gamut and over 1 billion colours, 500nits of brightness and images are vivid and vibrant. The display also features TrueTone technology and anti-reflective coating for better comfort and readability.

The powerful 8-core CPU in M1 features the fastest CPU core in low-power silicon. While the 8-core GPU features the fastest integrated graphics in a personal computer. Combined with the unified memory architecture, the 16 core Apple Neural Engine, the new iMac delivers powerful performance when compared to the previous 21.5inch Mac:

  • Up to 85 percent faster CPU performance, so users can export their favourite video project in iMovie faster than ever, easily work with massive 100-megapixel photos in Lightroom, and compile new apps in Xcode in a fraction of the time.
  • Up to 2x faster GPU performance for certain apps like Affinity Photo and Photoshop, and up to 50 percent faster than the most powerful discrete graphics in the fastest 21.5-inch iMac, allowing users to render edits in real time or add complex filters to their photos in a snap.
  • The ability to edit up to five streams of 4K footage, or one stream of 8K footage,5 without dropping a frame in Final Cut Pro.
  • Up to 3x faster machine learning in apps that leverage the 16-core Neural Engine in M1.

iMac features a 1080p Facetime HD camera which delivers amazing quality even in low light. The M1 Chip and Neural Engine also allows for better noise reduction, greater dynamic range and improved auto exposure and white balance. Furthermore the iMac features a studio quality 3 microphone array for clearer calls and voice recordings. The mics are positioned to reduce feedback from the rest of the system, whilst directional beam forming allows for better ignorance of background noise.

The soundsystem on the iMac is also improved, it has 2 pairs of force cancelling woofers placed side by side for an impressive bass response. While each pair is balanced with a high performance tweeter. The result is an impressive sound stage with articulate bass and crystal clear mids and highs. These speaker innovations with advanced algorithms allows the iMac to support spacial audio when playing music and video with Dolby Atmos.

The magic keyboard comes in three models, all of which are colour matched to the iMac. TouchID comes to the iMac for the first time and implemented wirelessly on the Magic Keyboard. Allowing for use on Apple Pay, logging in and even switching users.

Each iMac features 2 Thunderbolt ports for superfast data transfers giving customers high-performance options to connect to more devices. Including support for the Apple Pro Display XDR, Wifi 6 delivers even faster wireless performance. While the 8-core iMac will offer 2 additional USB C ports and a 1Gbps Ethernet Port on the power adapter.

M1 Powered iPad Pro

Another big surprise from Apple’s April event was an M1 powered iPad Pro, touted as the most powerful and advanced iPad Pro! The 12.9inch iPad Pro has a Liquid Retina XDR display that brings extreme dynamic range to iPad Pro. Offering a stunning visual experience with more true to life details on the most demanding of HDR Workflows. Cellular offerings come in flavours of 5G, delivering super fast 5G speeds on the move and the iPad Pro now includes support for Thunderbolt. There is also a brand new Ultra Wide front camera for Center Stage. The new iPad Pro will be available from April 30th and start shipping in the 2nd half of May.

“The revolutionary M1 chip has been a breakthrough for the Mac, and we’re incredibly excited to bring it to iPad Pro,”

“With M1’s huge jump in performance, a groundbreaking extreme dynamic range experience on the 12.9-inch Liquid Retina XDR display, up to 2TB of high-speed storage, Thunderbolt expansion, a four-speaker audio system, pro cameras with LiDAR Scanner, blazing-fast 5G connectivity, an amazing video-calling experience with Centre Stage — combined with the advanced features of iPadOS and a powerful pro app ecosystem all in a device users can hold in one hand — there’s nothing else like iPad Pro.” Greg Joswiak, Apple’s senior vice president of Worldwide Marketing.

The M1 chip that is on the powerful Mac Mini, Macbook Air, Macbook Pro and now iMac bring a new level of performance to the iPad Pro. The 8-Core CPU design features the world’s fasted CPU cores in low-power silicon delivering up to 50% faster CPU performance than A12Z Bionic. While the 8-core GPU is in a class of it’s own delivering up yo 40% faster GPU performance. The combination of the two widens the lead of the iPad Pro as the fastest device of its kind.

The iPad Pro is even more capable than ever before with a 16-core Apple Neural Engine, an advanced image signal processor (ISP), a unified, high-bandwidth memory architecture with up to 16GB of memory, 2x faster storage, and up to 2TB capacity. Furthermore the M1 enables an all day battery life in the thin and light iPad Pro. iPadOS takes full advantage and makes it able to handle everything! From everyday navigation to the most demanding of workflows.

The display has a Liquid Retina XDR brings the stunning Pro Display XDR performance to the 12.9inch iPad Pro. It has new cutting edge mini-LED design that uses over 10,000 LEDs across the entire back of the display and has up to 1000 nits of full screen brightness and 1600 nits of peak brightness. It also has 1M to 1 contrast ratio. The result is a stunning visual experience that reflects what can be seen in real life. Bringing the brightest highlights and most subtle details in even the darkest images. Creatives are going to see great benefits, such as photographers, videographers and filmmakers. They can view and edit true-to-life HDR content, with other tech such as ProMotion, TrueTone and P3 wide colour support, which is also on the 11inch version. The Liquid Retina XDR is only on the larger 12.9inch version.

The iPad Pro now has support for Thunderbolt and USB 4 support, making the USB-C port the fastest most reliable port ever on an iPad. It now has 4x more bandwidth for wired connections than on previous iPad Pros, up to 40Gbps. Thunderbolt supports 10Gbps Ethernet and opens up a plethora of accessories for the iPad Pro. Such as faster external storage, high resolution displays such as the Pro Display XDR at full 6K resolution.

TrueDepth on the iPad Pro now features a new 12MP Ultra Wide front camera, designed for iPad Pro. It enables Centre Stage, a new experience for video calls. Center Stage uses a larger field of view and the machine learning capabilities of the m! is able to recognise and keep users centered in the frame. As users move around, Center Stage will automatically pan to keep them in shot. When others join in the camera will detect them too and zoom out to fit everyone in!

Upgraded Apple TV 4K

Apple have announced an upgraded Apple TV 4K, with high frame rate HDR and Dolby Vision. The new Apple TV 4K has an A12 Bionic Chip providing a boost in graphics performance, video decoding and audio processing. The new Siri Remote has had a nice redesign with intuitive navigation controls.

“Apple TV 4K is in a category of its own, leveraging a deep integration of Apple hardware, software, and services that delivers a massive upgrade to any TV for the very best cinematic experience,”

“With the A12 Bionic and the all-new Siri Remote, Apple TV 4K lets customers enjoy their favourite shows, movies, and more in the highest quality, with simple and intuitive controls. And of course, Apple TV 4K offers easy access to Apple services, along with thousands of apps on the App Store for even more entertainment options.” Bob Borchers, Apple’s vice president of Worldwide Product Marketing

A12 Bionic on the new Apple TV 4K now supports high frame rate HDR and Dolby Vision Video allowing for fast moving 60fps to play smooth and more life like content. Apple is working with leading video providers around the world. Such as FOX Sports, NBCUniversal, Paramount+, Red Bull TV, and Canal+. As they begin to stream in high frame rate HDR. Videos shot on iPhone 12 Pro will be displayed in full 60fps Dolby Vision on the new Apple TV 4K too.

Now with Apple TV and iPhone an innovative colour balance is capable. Apple TV will use the light sensor in the iPhone to compare the colour balance to the industry standard specifications used by cinematographers worldwide. Apple TV will then automatically tailor its video output to deliver more accurate colours and improved contrast. Without adjusting the TV!

New Siri Remote features an innovative clickpad which offers five way navigation for better accuracy. It is also touch enabled for fast directional swipes. The outer ring of the clickpad supports an intuitive circular gesture which turns into a jog control. The power button also controls the TV power and another button controls mute. Siri can also be used to search for specific shows or movies, control smart home accessories, check sport scores, the weather and more!

AirTags

Apple unveiled their Tile competitor, AirTag. It’s a small and elegant accessory that helps you keep track of things that mean the most to you. You are able to locate and find these products via the Find My App on your iPhone. Attach them to your keys, your wallet, your handback, backpack, anything at all! AirTags uses the global Find My Network and can help locate a lost item. While keeping data safe, private and anonymous with end to end encryption. They ar available for £29 for 1 or £99 for 4 and are available 30th April.

“We’re excited to bring this incredible new capability to iPhone users with the introduction of AirTag, leveraging the vast Find My network, to help them keep track of and find the important items in their lives,”

“With its design, unparalleled finding experience, and built-in privacy and security features, AirTag will provide customers with another way to leverage the power of the Apple ecosystem and enhance the versatility of iPhone.” Kaiann Drance, Apple’s vice president of Worldwide iPhone Product Marketing.

Each AirTag is small and lightweight, features precision etched polished stainless steel and is IP67 water and dust resistant. There is a small speaker built in top help you locate an AirTag. While there is also a removeable cover to make it easy for users to replace the battery. Simply bring the AirTag close to an iPhone to connect it. You can attach a name to the AirTag to help you assign the tag to a cherished item of yours. Personalise the AirTag with free engraving including text and 31 different emoji’s if you so choose at checkout on Apple’s website. You can either place an AirTag into a bag or pocket or use a wide range of Apple-designed AirTag accessories. Such as the Polyurethane Loop, Leather Loop or Leather Key Ring.

Find My

Once the AirTag is set up it will appear in the items tab from within the Find My App. this will show the items current or last known location. If you lose the item and it is within Bluetooth range you can use the Find My App to make the AirTag emit a sound. While you can also use Siri to help locate the item. So the AirTag will play a sound if it is nearby.

Each AirTag has a U1 chip which uses Ultra Wideband Technology. Therefore allowing it to have Precision Finding for iPhone 11 and iPhone 12 users. By using this tech you are able to more accurately locate the AirTag when it is in range. When a user is moving around trying to locate an item, Precision Finding fuses input from the camera, ARKit, accelerometer and gyroscope to guide them to their AirTag. Using a combination of sound, haptics and visual feedback.

Furthermore and what’s really impressive is if an AirTag is separated from it’s user outside of Bluetooth range. The Find My Network will help to track it down. Find My Network is approaching a billion Apple Devices and can detect bluetooth signals from a lost AirTag and relay that information back down to it’s owner, all in the background. While remaining anonymous.

While, users can place an AirTag into Lost Mode and be notified when it is in range. Furthermore when it has been located by the Find My Network. What’s even better is if an AirTag is found by someone they can tap it using their iPhone or any NFC-capable device and be taken to a website which will display a contact phone number for the owner if they have provided one. That is so cool!

Furthermore AirTag also has support for the blind or low vision users. Precision Finding can use VoiceOVer and direct users who are blind or low vision to AirTag with directions like ‘AirTag is 9 feet away on your left’
Privacy

No data location or location history is kept inside the AirTag. Communication with the Find My Network is end to end encrypted. So only the owner of the device has access to it’s location data. As not even Apple knows the identity or location of any device that helped find it either.

AirTag also has a set of proactive features which help to discourage unwanted tracking. Bluetooth signal identifiers are transmitted by AirTag. Which rotate frequently to prevent unwanted location tracking. iOS devices can also detect that an AirTag isn’t with its owner. It will notify the user if an unknown AirTag is known to be travelling with them from place to place. If users don’t have an iOS device, an AirTag separated from its owner for an extended period of time. Also, it will play a sound when moved to draw attention to it. If a user detects an unknown AirTag on them, they can tap it with their iPhone or NFC-capable device. It will then give instructions to guide them to disable it.

Apple and Hermès are also creating AirTag Hermès accessories. Such as a Bag Charm, Key Ring, Travel Tag, and Luggage Tag. While Hermès accessories will also be sold with a custom-engraved AirTag based on the brand’s iconic Clou de Selle signature.

Apple Podcast Subscriptions

So, Apple announced a Apple Podcasts Subscriptions at the April event. A place for listeners to discover premium subscriptions offered by creators. Alongside many of the millions of free shows already available on Apple Podcasts.

Starting this May, listeners in more than 170 countries can sign up for premium subscriptions. Which include a variety of benefits. Such as ad-free listening, access to additional content and early or exclusive access to new series. This is available to independent creators or premier studios such as The Athletic, NPR, Sony Music Entertainment and many more. For creators offering this service is £17.99 per year. It will allow them to offer Free, Fremium and Premium content to their audiences.

“Fifteen years ago, Apple took podcasts mainstream, offering creators a premier, open platform to inform, entertain, and inspire hundreds of millions of listeners around the world,”

“Today, Apple Podcasts is the best place for listeners to discover and enjoy millions of great shows, and we are proud to lead the next chapter of podcasting with Apple Podcasts Subscriptions. We’re excited to introduce this powerful new platform to creators around the world, and we can’t wait to hear what they make with it.” Eddy Cue, Apple’s senior vice president of Internet Software and Services.

Furthermore listeners will be able to discover a new offering from creators, channels. Channels are a group of shows that are curated by creators with unique titles, descriptions and artwork. Just like that can with shows, listeners are able to browse free channels. Making it easier to find more shows from their favourite creators. While there will be paid channels and channels which provide benefits for those subscribers.

In OS 14.5, listeners will have access to a redesigned Apple Podcasts app. Which features enhanced search with quick access to Top Charts and categories. Apple Podcasts also features beautiful new pages for every show. While this is designed to make it easier to follow listen and share.

While, for the creators, a brand new Apple Podcasts for Creators website is launching. Helping them learn more about podcasting, staying informed about the latest news and features. While also offering them in depth guides and best practices for podcasting. Creators can access an updated Apple Podcasts Connect dashboard which has features which help it them to edit metadata, schedule, manage show availability, organise shows into channels and manage multiple users and roles. So, they will also be able to learn how listeners are engaging with their shows. Through performance metrics and visualisation tools. From here they are also able to enrol in the new Apple Podcasters Program. Which provides access to all the tools needed to build and distribute premium subscriptions on Apple Podcasts.

To finish off the iMac event, the iPhone 12/12 Mini now available in Purple….

Lastly Apple announced at the top of the show. The iPhone 12 and iPhone 12 Pro will now come in a brand new Purple colour!

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