JP Web: April 2017

Sunday 30 April 2017

Turkey cuts off Wikipedia amid dissent crackdown - CNET

A court orders a "protection measure" against the online encyclopedia in the midst of efforts to shut down opposition.

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https://www.cnet.com/news/turkey-cuts-off-wikipedia-amid-dissent-crackdown/#ftag=CAD590a51e

Trump tweet-shames Democrats, promises health care nirvana - CNET

Commentary: After avoiding the White House Correspondents' Dinner and leading his own rally, the president is back to tweeting to the people.

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https://www.cnet.com/news/trump-tweet-shames-democrats-promises-healthcare-nirvana/#ftag=CAD590a51e

White House Correspondents rant rapidly ranks on YouTube - CNET

Commentary: Hasan Minhaj of "The Daily Show" offers a cutting diversion at the dinner, and it's suddenly the No. 1 trending video on YouTube.

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https://www.cnet.com/news/white-house-correspondents-monologue-is-youtubes-favorite/#ftag=CAD590a51e

Merriam-Webster uses Apple fans to define 'sheeple' - CNET

Commentary: This won't please everyone who loves their iPhone. Your devotion is officially tied to a derogatory term.

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https://www.cnet.com/news/apple-fans-merriam-webster-sheeple-definition/#ftag=CAD590a51e

How they created that astonishing 'American Gods' sex scene - CNET

A trap door and plenty of effects magic. Actor Yetide Badaki reveals just how complex it was to film that startling sequence in the first episode.

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https://www.cnet.com/news/american-gods-yetide-badaki-sex-scene-first-episode/#ftag=CAD590a51e

Parents coming to visit? This tech can help - CNET

Make family visits smoother and less stressful with a few smart upgrades.

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https://www.cnet.com/news/parents-coming-to-visit-this-tech-can-help/#ftag=CAD590a51e

Saturday 29 April 2017

Game over for Amazon's free apps and games program - CNET

Amazon's Underground Actually Free program, which lets you grab premium apps for nothing, won't be around forever, folks.

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https://www.cnet.com/news/amazon-underground-actually-free/#ftag=CAD590a51e

'Orange Is the New Black' season 5 reportedly leaked by hackers - CNET

A hacking group threatens to target other shows after claiming to put 10 episodes of Netflix's tentpole series online in an apparent ransom attempt.

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https://www.cnet.com/news/orange-is-the-new-black-season-5-reportedly-leaked-by-hackers/#ftag=CAD590a51e

CNET UK podcast 519: Filtering the facts with BBC's QI's chief Elf - CNET

James Harkin, head of research for BBC's QI joins the show to discuss how to filter the world's knowledge and brings a few tech facts to blow our minds.

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https://www.cnet.com/news/cnet-uk-podcast-519-filtering-the-worlds-knowledge-with-bbcs-qis-head-fact-wrangler/#ftag=CAD590a51e

Steve Ballmer takes excitement to new levels of crazy - CNET

Commentary: At Friday night's Game 6 between his Los Angeles Clippers and the Utah Jazz, the former Microsoft CEO offers self-expressions that might frighten some.

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https://www.cnet.com/news/steve-ballmer-takes-excitement-to-new-levels-of-crazy/#ftag=CAD590a51e

Elon Musk shows how his tunnels will help you avoid traffic - CNET

Commentary: A video posted on Musk's new Boring Company website shows how exciting it will be to disappear underground.

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https://www.cnet.com/news/elon-musk-shows-how-his-tunnels-will-help-you-avoid-traffic/#ftag=CAD590a51e

All the Star Trek captains boldly go onto postage stamps - CNET

Canada Post paired each captain with one of his or her greatest enemies -- and Picard's is the best.

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https://www.cnet.com/news/all-the-star-trek-captains-boldly-go-onto-stamps-in-canada/#ftag=CAD590a51e

New footage revealed in Twin Peaks trailer - CNET

Get a glimpse of the Black Lodge, Laura Palmer's house and the Double R Diner, which have a few alterations, in this new Twin Peaks video from Showtime.

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https://www.cnet.com/news/new-footage-revealed-twin-peaks-trailer-showtime-david-lynch-double-r-diner-black-lodge/#ftag=CAD590a51e

Watch a hydraulic press smash sparklers and glow sticks - CNET

See a heated hydraulic press crush lit sparkers and neon-colored glow sticks, creating a messy light show.

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https://www.cnet.com/news/watch-a-hydraulic-press-smash-sparklers-and-glow-sticks/#ftag=CAD590a51e

Best 'Guardians' prop? It's Dave Bautista! - CNET

Actor Chris Pratt explains why fellow actor Bautista is the coolest prop in "Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2."

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https://www.cnet.com/news/marvel-guardians-of-the-galaxy-prop-dave-bautista-chris-pratt/#ftag=CAD590a51e

Black-and-white version of 'Logan' hitting theaters for a night - CNET

Director James Mangold isn't releasing a lot of details, but a black-and-white take on the Wolverine flick will show up in theaters for one evening on May 16.

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https://www.cnet.com/news/logan-in-black-and-white-wolverine-hugh-jackman-marvel-james-mangold/#ftag=CAD590a51e

Our favorite phone apps right now - CNET

Every week we ask a question around the office to see what CNET folks think. This week: What app are you using most on your phone right now?

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https://www.cnet.com/pictures/favorite-smartphone-apps-right-now/#ftag=CAD590a51e

Samsung Galaxy S8 vs. LG G6: Which one's the smarter buy? - CNET

Both the Galaxy S8 and G6 have big screens, water resistance and premium looks. But which one is the better way to go?

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https://www.cnet.com/news/samsung-galaxy-s8-vs-lg-g6/#ftag=CAD590a51e

Who's driving this bus? Nobody - Roadshow

Commentary: Autonomous cars are all well and good. But if you want to make everyone's life better, look to your city's buses.

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https://www.cnet.com/roadshow/news/self-driving-cars-automated-public-transport-bus/#ftag=CAD590a51e

'American Gods' creator Bryan Fuller on life, death and deities - CNET

The showrunner talks about how the series veers from Neil Gaiman's book, and how the themes of myth, magic and migration speak to our divided world.

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https://www.cnet.com/news/american-gods-bryan-fuller-neil-gaiman-life-death-starz-amazon/#ftag=CAD590a51e

Trump's first 100 days: The best and worst tweets - CNET

Here's a look at how the US president has used his favorite mode of communicating to the masses during his #first100days in office.

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https://www.cnet.com/news/donald-trump-twitter-first-100-days-best-worst/#ftag=CAD590a51e

Microsoft gears up to retake the classroom - CNET

The tech giant is planning a renewed push into the classroom, aiming its Windows software and Surface tablets at kids as well as adults.

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https://www.cnet.com/news/microsoft-gears-up-to-retake-the-classroom-surface-windows-school-education/#ftag=CAD590a51e

Friday 28 April 2017

Would you leave your Amazon Echo or Google Home for an Apple smart speaker? (Apple Byte Extra Crunchy Podcast, Ep. 82) - CNET

Apple's working on an Echo-like smart speaker of its own. Apple is testing its autonomous vehicle platform, and it also wants in on peer-to-peer payments with Apple Pay.

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https://www.cnet.com/news/apple-byte-extra-crunchy-podcast-ep-82/#ftag=CAD590a51e

NSA ditches controversial aspect of its spy program - CNET

US intelligence agency will stop scooping up text and email exchanges between Americans and people overseas that include mention of a foreigner under surveillance.

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https://www.cnet.com/news/nsa-ditches-controversial-aspect-of-its-spy-program/#ftag=CAD590a51e

You can thank KFC for inspiring Mortal Kombat's Reptile - CNET

During NetherRealm Creative Director Ed Boon's Injustice 2 tour, we talk about Easter eggs in his games and the moment he knew it would never be the same.

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https://www.cnet.com/news/you-can-thank-kfc-for-inspiring-mortal-kombats-reptile/#ftag=CAD590a51e

Apple, others want to tweak California's self-driving car rules - CNET

The input, posted online by the DMV, includes suggestions by Lyft, Tesla, Uber, Waymo and dozens of others.

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https://www.cnet.com/news/apple-google-alphabet-waymo-tesla-uber-ford-toyota-californias-self-driving-cars-dmv/#ftag=CAD590a51e

Aliens will take us out in three seconds, says Ridley Scott - CNET

Commentary: The famous director insists that beings out there are a lot smarter than we are.

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https://www.cnet.com/news/aliens-will-take-us-out-in-three-seconds-says-ridley-scott/#ftag=CAD590a51e

Obama reportedly digs at Trump and his Twitter account - CNET

Commentary: In an interview in Manhattan, the president muses that he had his own way of dealing with things, according to the New York Post.

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https://www.cnet.com/news/obama-digs-at-trump-says-he-coped-without-twitter-account/#ftag=CAD590a51e

Elon Musk teases electric Tesla semi truck at TED talk - Roadshow

Musk said previously that its debut is set for September.

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https://www.cnet.com/roadshow/news/elon-musk-teases-electric-tesla-semi-truck-at-ted-talk/#ftag=CAD590a51e

Investigate Uber for phone tracking, consumer group tells FTC - CNET

Consumer Watchdog asks the Federal Trade Commission to check out claims that Uber tracked users' iPhones even after they'd deleted the app.

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https://www.cnet.com/news/uber-privacy-phone-tracking-consumer-watchdog-ftc/#ftag=CAD590a51e

Time travel is 'possible' -- mathematically anyway - CNET

A researcher crunches the numbers on time travel using his own TARDIS. Also, a weird new material could be the real-world version of a flux capacitor.

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https://www.cnet.com/news/time-travel-math-tardis-ben-tippett-exotic-matter-negative-mass/#ftag=CAD590a51e

Apple Music could turn itself into a video streaming giant - CNET

The tech giant is looking to take its music service into new territory and create a unique type of service, says a report.

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https://www.cnet.com/news/apple-music-bringing-a-trapped-in-the-closet-sequel/#ftag=CAD590a51e

11 deleted tweets from President Trump's first 100 days - CNET

The president has tweeted more than 500 times since taking office. Here are the 11 he took back.

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https://www.cnet.com/news/11-deleted-tweets-from-president-trumps-first-100-days/#ftag=CAD590a51e

Elon Musk's boring tunnels don't look boring at all - CNET

The tech visionary's Boring Company, which aims to build tunnels beneath LA, has released a video of what they could look like.

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https://www.cnet.com/news/elon-musks-boring-tunnels-dont-look-boring-at-all/#ftag=CAD590a51e

Audi's moon rover makes its film debut in 'Alien: Covenant' - Roadshow

Yes, Audi built a moon rover.

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https://www.cnet.com/roadshow/news/audis-moon-rover-makes-its-film-debut-in-alien-covenant/#ftag=CAD590a51e

The 404 Show 1698: Shanon Cook from Spotify previews the music of the summer (podcast) - CNET

Shanon Cook returns to the show bringing along candidates for what could be the song of the summer -- but doesn't leave before telling a slightly embarrassing Bono story.

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https://www.cnet.com/news/the-404-show-1698-shanon-cook-from-spotify-previews-the-music-of-the-summer-podcast/#ftag=CAD590a51e

Mitsubishi, West Coast Customs to build a 'new' 1917 Model A - Roadshow

It may look 100 years old, but it will be built atop a brand-new platform.

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https://www.cnet.com/roadshow/news/mitsubishi-west-coast-customs-to-build-a-new-1917-model-a/#ftag=CAD590a51e

Unlimited data plans: Verizon, T-Mobile, AT&T and Sprint, compared - CNET

We compare the unlimited data plans offered by the four major US carriers.

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https://www.cnet.com/news/how-does-verizon-unlimited-plan-stack-up-against-the-others/#ftag=CAD590a51e

AT&T vs. Verizon vs. T-Mobile vs. Sprint: How to save and get the cheapest phone plan - CNET

We help you avoid all the fine print and tedium that comes with choosing a phone plan.

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https://www.cnet.com/news/at-t-vs-verizon-vs-t-mobile-vs-sprint-how-to-save-the-most-and-get-the-cheapest-phone-plan/#ftag=CAD590a51e

Is this the final dashboard design for the Tesla Model 3? - Roadshow

New pictures show the interior of a Tesla Model 3 that looks pretty close to production-ready.

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https://www.cnet.com/roadshow/news/is-this-the-final-dashboard-design-for-the-tesla-model-3/#ftag=CAD590a51e

Apple stops paying Qualcomm's patent royalties - CNET

Qualcomm's financial results will take a hit because of Apple's decision to suspend payments to iPhone contract manufacturers until a court can resolve their dispute.

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https://www.cnet.com/news/qualcomm-apple-iphone-patents-royalties-manufacturers-chips/#ftag=CAD590a51e

The 3:59 extended edition: An early look at the Echo Look - CNET

We discuss Amazon's smart speaker that offers fashion advice. Truly. Plus: Sergey Brin's secret airship.

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https://www.cnet.com/news/the-359-extended-edition-an-early-look-at-the-echo-look/#ftag=CAD590a51e

Worldwide PlayStation 4 shipments reach 60 million - CNET

Shipments are up from last year by about 2.3 million units.

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https://www.cnet.com/news/playstation-4-shipments-60-million/#ftag=CAD590a51e

Mario Kart 8 Deluxe: Join us for 30 minutes of live gameplay - CNET

We're streaming Nintendo Switch's new racer live at 3 p.m. ET/12 p.m. PT.

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https://www.cnet.com/news/mario-kart-8-deluxe-nintendo-switch-30-minutes-of-live-gameplay/#ftag=CAD590a51e

Tech's diversity issues could cost it $16 billion a year - CNET

Unfair treatment at work is a big reason tech workers leave. It affects underrepresented groups and it's costing the industry, a study shows.

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https://www.cnet.com/news/tech-industry-diversity-problem-cost/#ftag=CAD590a51e

Lego launches massive NASA Saturn V Apollo rocket set - CNET

Take your love of plastic bricks all the way to the moon with a towering Saturn V rocket complete with lunar lander and tiny astronauts.

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https://www.cnet.com/news/lego-nasa-saturn-v-apollo-rocket-set-ideas/#ftag=CAD590a51e

Nissan Leaf AT-EV is the electric rally car you never knew you wanted - Roadshow

This is an excellent thing to show someone who thinks the Leaf isn't good for much.

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https://www.cnet.com/roadshow/pictures/nissan-leaf-at-ev-is-the-electric-rally-car-you-never-knew-you-wanted/#ftag=CAD590a51e

Toyota recalls 228,000 new Tacoma pickups for oil leaks - Roadshow

Lose enough oil, and the rear differential might seize up entirely.

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https://www.cnet.com/roadshow/news/toyota-recalls-228000-new-tacoma-pickups-for-oil-leaks/#ftag=CAD590a51e

Einstein vs. The Clash: How I used music to hack my brain - CNET

I get my brainwaves scanned to see whether a concentration app that uses music can help achieve that all-important flow.

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https://www.cnet.com/news/einstein-vs-the-clash-how-i-used-music-to-hack-my-brain/#ftag=CAD590a51e

Here's your first look at the new Volkswagen T-Roc crossover - Roadshow

It'll be unveiled "soon," which isn't overly vague or anything.

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https://www.cnet.com/roadshow/news/heres-your-first-look-at-the-new-volkswagen-t-roc-crossover/#ftag=CAD590a51e

Mazda readies three-row CX-8 crossover for Japan - Roadshow

Mazda already has a CX-9, and it's built in Japan, but it's not offered for sale there.

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https://www.cnet.com/roadshow/news/mazda-readies-three-row-cx-8-crossover-for-japan/#ftag=CAD590a51e

Uber update will make it easier to delete your account - CNET

The ride-hailing company will now allow users to erase their accounts from inside the app.

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https://www.cnet.com/news/ubers-new-update-delete-your-account/#ftag=CAD590a51e

Airbnb agrees to let California watch for racist hosts - CNET

A voluntary agreement between Airbnb and the State of California will bring scrutiny to hosts accused of racial discrimination.

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https://www.cnet.com/news/airbnb-california-racial-discrimination-hosts/#ftag=CAD590a51e

Watch how ice cream is made, in 360 degrees - CNET

Step inside the Three Twins ice cream factory with our virtual tour.

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https://www.cnet.com/news/watch-how-ice-cream-is-made-in-360-degrees/#ftag=CAD590a51e

New Hyundai Kona teaser shows tiny crossover's front end - Roadshow

It looks way sharper than any current Hyundai.

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https://www.cnet.com/roadshow/news/new-hyundai-kona-teaser-shows-tiny-crossover-front-end/#ftag=CAD590a51e

Behold BB-8 droid in Shakespeare-era garb - CNET

The Star Wars parody series continue with "William Shakespeare's The Force Doth Awaken -- Star Wars Part the Seventh" by Ian Doescher.

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https://www.cnet.com/news/star-wars-bb8-droid-shakespeare-era-book-the-force-awakens/#ftag=CAD590a51e

Australian police: We illegally accessed journalist metadata - CNET

Two weeks after Australia's mandatory data-retention plan kicks in, federal police reveal an officer illegally gained access to a journalist's call record.

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https://www.cnet.com/news/australian-federal-police-confirm-journalist-metadata-breach-data-retention/#ftag=CAD590a51e

Adorable 'Alien: Covenant' toys coming from Funko - CNET

Funko makes frightening facehuggers and Xenomorphs look cuddly -- well, almost -- with their new Pop Vinyl collectibles.

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https://www.cnet.com/news/alien-covenant-toys-funko-facehugger-xenomorph/#ftag=CAD590a51e

The other side of the red carpet: A peek inside the madness - CNET

I took my first (and possibly only) dive into red carpet photography at the Tribeca Film Festival's screening of "The Circle," a movie based on Dave Egger's prescient novel. The experience was as weird and fascinating as I suspected.

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https://www.cnet.com/pictures/the-red-carpet-a-peek-inside-the-madness-at-the-circle/#ftag=CAD590a51e

'The Circle': A movie review for the tech literate - CNET

Is Tom Hanks playing Zuck, @jack or Jobs? "The Circle" serves as a cautionary tale for mainstream audiences but probably won't surprise the tech savvy.

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https://www.cnet.com/news/the-circle-review-tom-hanks-emma-watson-tech-dave-eggers/#ftag=CAD590a51e

Human head transplant less than a year away, surgeon says - CNET

Sergio Canavero has revealed that the world's first human head transplant will take place within 10 months, and he's already planning his next project.

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https://www.cnet.com/news/surgeon-claims-first-human-head-transplant-a-year-away/#ftag=CAD590a51e

Weekend Streaming: Hulu's big original 'The Handmaid's Tale' debuts - CNET

Elizabeth Moss stars in an adaptaion of the 1985 novel of the same name. The first three episodes are out now, with more on the way.

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https://www.cnet.com/news/weekend-streaming-hulus-big-original-the-handmaids-tale-debuts/#ftag=CAD590a51e

Mother's Day solved: Save 30 percent on a Nixplay digital photo frame - CNET

It's quite literally the gift that keeps on giving. With the discount, you can get one of these for as little as $70. Plus: a super-cheap web hosting plan.

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https://www.cnet.com/news/mothers-day-solved-save-30-percent-on-a-nixplay-digital-photo-frame/#ftag=CAD590a51e

Nintendo Switch returns to Toys R Us and Best Buy - CNET

The hybrid game console has outsold Nintendo's expectations, which may explain why shoppers are having a tough time finding one.

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https://www.cnet.com/news/nintendo-switch-returns-to-toys-r-us-and-best-buy-today/#ftag=CAD590a51e

Johnny Depp surprises fans on 'Pirates of the Caribbean' ride - CNET

That's no animatronic pirate! Jack Sparrow himself entertained guests on the "Pirates of the Caribbean" ride at Disneyland in California.

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https://www.cnet.com/news/johnny-depp-surprises-fans-on-pirates-of-the-caribbean-ride/#ftag=CAD590a51e

Malaysia may prosecute WhatsApp group admins over fake news - CNET

Malaysia follows India as it looks to WhatsApp to curb fake news.

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https://www.cnet.com/news/malaysia-may-lock-up-whatsapp-group-admins-over-fake-news/#ftag=CAD590a51e

Overwatch hero D.Va will be temporarily removed - CNET

Blizzard's customer support said the character was being deactivated while the company investigates a bug in the massively popular game.

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https://www.cnet.com/news/d-va-is-being-temporarily-removed-from-overwatch/#ftag=CAD590a51e

Heineken just made the ad Pepsi wishes it had - CNET

Commentary: You want to bring people together over the drink you're selling? Watch this. Millions on YouTube already have.

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https://www.cnet.com/news/heineken-just-made-the-ad-pepsi-wishes-it-had-made/#ftag=CAD590a51e

Thursday 27 April 2017

Nintendo unveils 2DS XL, a $150 portable game system - CNET

New handheld will play all Nintendo 3DS, new Nintendo 3DS and Nintendo DS games, but in 2D.

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https://www.cnet.com/news/nintendo-unveils-2ds-xl-a-150-portable-game-system/#ftag=CAD590a51e

A Farsighted look at Iron Man suits, VR and tech worth investing in (Farsighted Podcast, Ep. 7) - CNET

The Farsighted crew is joined by Adam Draper, founder of Boost VC, which invests in startups working on a real hoverboard and other technology straight out of science fiction.

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https://www.cnet.com/news/farsighted-ep-7/#ftag=CAD590a51e

Kickass Torrents to be blocked Australia-wide within weeks - CNET

The Australian Federal Court has ordered the country's ISPs to block Kickass Torrents, but just how many different domains will they have to chase down?

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https://www.cnet.com/news/tpg-telstra-optus-ordered-to-block-kickass-torrents-australia-universal-sony-warner/#ftag=CAD590a51e

Squeezing the juice: Girt by CNET podcast 107 - CNET

This week the Girt team talks Silicon Valley flight and flubs and enormous Lego Death Stars. Not a euphemism.

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https://www.cnet.com/news/squeezing-the-juice-girt-by-cnet-podcast-107/#ftag=CAD590a51e

Facebook targets coordinated campaigns spreading fake news - CNET

Social media giant outlines steps it is taking against organizations using fake news to distort political sentiment.

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https://www.cnet.com/news/facebook-targets-coordinated-campaigns-spreading-fake-news/#ftag=CAD590a51e

'The Simpsons' trolls President Trump with '100 Days' video - CNET

Trump's hair has paw-some powers voters never knew about, and Ivanka is named to the US Supreme Court.

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https://www.cnet.com/news/the-simpsons-donald-trump-first-100-days-video/#ftag=CAD590a51e

YouTube video of Putin singing 'Creep' is beautiful and fake - CNET

Commentary: This is art of an exalted kind. Radiohead sung by a head of state.

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https://www.cnet.com/news/youtube-video-of-putin-singing-creep-is-fake-and-beautiful/#ftag=CAD590a51e

NBA fans can vote online for best dunk, shot of the season - CNET

Fans can take to Facebook, Instagram and Twitter to pick this season's best plays for the NBA Awards show in June.

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https://www.cnet.com/news/nba-fans-can-now-vote-online-for-best-dunk-shot-of-the-season/#ftag=CAD590a51e

Uber's self-driving chief steps aside as Waymo suit heats up - CNET

In a twist to the Waymo vs. Uber legal saga over self-driving cars, Anthony Levandowski recuses himself from all things lidar.

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https://www.cnet.com/news/uber-levandowski-waymo-self-driving-recuse-lawsuit-google-alphabet-lidar/#ftag=CAD590a51e

Microsoft took six months to fix an Office exploit - CNET

More than 1 billion Microsoft Office users were at risk from the exploit that let hackers hide malware in Word files.

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https://www.cnet.com/news/microsoft-office-exploit-six-months-patch/#ftag=CAD590a51e

Stamps change with heat to create total eclipse of the mail - CNET

Stamp out boring mail! This special postage will change from an eclipse photo to a full-moon photo when pressed.

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https://www.cnet.com/news/total-solar-eclipse-forever-stamps-heat-changing-image-full-moon-usps/#ftag=CAD590a51e

Amazon's Alexa just learned to whisper and to bleep your $&@# - CNET

Soon, "speechcons" will make your Amazon Echo or Dot sound a little more human and a little less robot.

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https://www.cnet.com/news/amazons-alexa-just-learned-to-whisper-and-bleep-your-expletives/#ftag=CAD590a51e

Facebook: Law enforcement requests for user data up 9 percent - CNET

The social media company's semiannual report gives a snapshot of how Facebook shares user data with governments around the world.

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https://www.cnet.com/news/facebook-law-enforcement-requests-for-user-data-up-9/#ftag=CAD590a51e

Bask in the track-day glory of the 2018 Porsche 911 GT3 - Roadshow

The GT3 might be a road car, but it's truly at home on the track.

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https://www.cnet.com/roadshow/pictures/2018-porsche-911-gt3-pictures/#ftag=CAD590a51e

Template Review – Which Templates Are Best for Setting Up a Photography Website

It’s amazing how over time, the ability to freeze and capture different moments, feelings, and emotions has become a mundane action. More and more people agree that photography is a form of art, no matter where it is used: wedding photography, travel photography, commercial shoots, food shooting and so on. But only a select few possess the eye and instinct of a true photographer because a keen sense of perspective and spatial awareness is always a necessity.

These qualities also apply to website design. Nowadays, having a website is mandatory for a photographer, as it can offer an unprecedented level of exposure. In an instant, works of art can be shared with the entire world. And this immediate, worldwide connection can only take place online.

However, just by having a few photos posted online is not enough to attract the attention of your targeted audience. The website you use for displaying them and the design of the site is also very important. Even if you are not tech savvy, there are many options out there that can help you set up a stunning portfolio website and show people your work in a tremendous way.

HTML templates offer so many customization choices, allowing you to create a page that will never underwhelm. You will be able to tweak every detail and alter any setting. Without any advanced web development expertise, users can make aesthetic and practical choices. You just have to decide which one is the best option for you.

Squarespace is an all-in-one platform that gives you everything you need to create a beautiful home online and run a successful photography business. The platform also offers more than 45 stunning templates to start with, and numerous options you can use to customize your website.

While all Squarespace templates feature built-in mobile design and contact forms, the templates below combine bold image presentation with a clear structure for a great photography website. This helps you attract clients’ attention with eye-catching images and communicate the values that make you an exceptional photographer. All Squarespace templates are optimized with responsive design, allowing your site to adjust to the format of any mobile device or browser. Some templates have mobile-specific tweaks in their Style Editors for an extra layer of customization.

That being said, let’s take a look at some of the best photography website templates you can find on Squarespace:

Om

Om is a calm, cool template that elevates your content by utilizing a clean layout and a simple, open interface. It uses padding and white space to make images pop, and also makes great use of logos as a site title, making it a fantastic fit for you, if you want to establish a personal brand.

The template can aid to the needs of freelancers, digital studios, creative agencies, photographers, and artists. It offers many innovative portfolios and blog options that boost your chances of showing your work in an amazing way and getting customers. In a hyper-competitive market, Om can be your greatest asset.

Om and Squarespace’s other templates allow you to connect to a wider audience by linking your site to your social media profiles, and pushing content as you publish it. Adding social features like Share and Pin It buttons help visitors share your content too, which further increases your site’s reach. When it comes to website development, you can’t overlook Search Engine Optimization. Your website will be SEO-ready, increasing your online exposure.

Momentum

Momentum is an exceptional template that never fails to impress. It’s modern, responsive, and retina-ready design promises full compatibility with any platform, device, or web browser. It also makes bold statements with big images. Featuring multiple options for gallery design, Momentum is ideal for showing past work in full-bleed galleries, with FAQ and Contact pages in the bottom navigation. With such an inclusive and versatile template, your online presence will surely impress and increase. As a Momentum user, you will be able to choose either a regular or a boxed version. If any issue arises during the installation or customization process, you can always rely on the excellent support system. In addition, a detailed documentation source is available. Also, you have a detailed explanation for every feature.

Ishimoto

A one-of-a-kind template, with a one-of-a-kind name. Ishimoto is a portfolio template with an innovative, horizontal slide gallery, that makes it preferred among photographers, artists, and restaurants. For sure, Ishimoto is the best option for those who love bold and vibrant pictures, displayed in a carousel format. Although you may be tempted to include as many features as possible, it is best to maximize performance while featuring a clean, intuitive interface. Ishimoto is a photography website template that understands the needs of ambitious, online business people. It offers a retina-ready design that is compatible with high-resolution retina displays, and it is capable of accommodating any customer.

Taking into consideration that Ishimoto is fully-responsive, you will be able to administer the site while you are on the move if you prefer hand-held devices. You can display content on the screens on desktop computers, laptops, smartphones and tablets. The code is well-written, streamlined and optimized. This enhances your site’s performance and allows for easy modifications.

Just as well, Ishimoto is very user-friendly. Even with a basic understanding of web development, you will be able to navigate its options and features. The website also includes awesome font icons, along with a Contact form. If you have any issues, Squarespace’s top-notch support system is there to help you. Besides, if you want to view this product or any other templates before buying it, a live preview has been made available.

Flatiron

Flatiron is an unconventional template that is high quality and pays such close attention to detail, that other templates could only hope to match. With a portfolio experience that supports multiple portfolio projects side by side, Flatiron is popular with art directors, illustrators, and photographers. This template empowers you to share your work with the world. With a flexible grid Index Page, Flatiron presents an overview of your projects, enticing visitors to explore individual pieces in greater depth.

By using Flatiron as a template for your website design, you will be sure that your projects become a reality, as it promotes and displays your content. The Index Page creates a grid of thumbnail images, each one linking to a separate page, giving people a snapshot of your work while encouraging them to dig deeper. Taking into consideration the multiple options you have for personalizing it, Flatiron is a modern template that never fails to impress. It also features a streamlined and well-written code that can maximize your page’s capabilities with any web browser. In addition, you will have an aesthetically pleasing portfolio website. Because this template aims to maximize client convenience, page customization is accessible for all users. And best of all, you don’t need to be tech savvy.

If you want to learn more about Flatiron, be sure to access the detailed documentation source. It contains information regarding every feature. The template is also fully responsive, and has cross-browser compatibility.

Forte

“Less is more” definitely applies to this website template and, Forte is for sure the best option for those who love simplicity and minimalism. Forte is a bold, yet minimal template that features full-screen images and precise typography. Its landing page pulls visitors into your portfolio, displaying the range of projects in beautiful, high-resolution images. Forte can be also used for general, corporate, spa, hotel, restaurants, and event agency websites.

The layout is entirely responsive, and it can display your content on any platform, web browser, or device. As a special feature for this template, each page in the Index displays as a full-bleed background image with a content overlay, and you open it by clicking the page title. Forte has a color auto-detect feature that determines how light or dark your background is and sets the color of the site title, tagline, navigation, and social icons to black or white. Every relevant tool will be at your disposal, and you will not have to rely on 3rd party add-ons. From start to finish, you can design a fully-functional website in a matter of minutes.

Avenue

A classic template with a timeless look, Avenue’s clean, straight lines and adaptive grid-based layout are especially popular with photographers, illustrators, and designers. The template comes with an intuitively designed interface, carefully crafted to ease the display of your unforgettable photos. As a special feature, the Index Page organizes multiple pages or galleries into a single grid collection by using thumbnail images.

Whether you shoot landscapes, people, food, weddings, or you want to keep a journal with your vision and thoughts, Avenue works just for you! For a captivating visual experience, Avenue boasts lively and spirited page transitions in many unexpected, yet perfectly natural ways embodied in a minimal and beautiful design language that allows the photos to take center stage.

In order to make it easy for your mobile users to discover your site, Avenue is mobile ready and fully responsive and can be integrated with social networks.

Conclusion

We personally love every template. No matter which one you use, you can’t go wrong! Let us know in the comments below which one is your favorite, or what other ones we should cover in the future.

Try Squarespace free today for 14-days! No credit card required. When you’re ready to subscribe be sure to use coupon ‘WDL’ for 10% off your first purchase.

Thanks for reading, and happy web-designing!

from
https://webdesignledger.com/template-review-templates-best-setting-photography-website/

Google and Facebook were scammed out of $100M - CNET

The tech giants wired the bucks to an Eastern European man said to be posing as an Asian supplier.

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https://www.cnet.com/news/google-and-facebook-were-scammed-out-of-100m/#ftag=CAD590a51e

Amid YouTube ad woes, Alphabet beats expectations - CNET

The video site is battling a firestorm over ads and hateful content. It's sure to be top of mind for the company, even though the money is still rolling in.

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https://www.cnet.com/news/alphabet-google-youtube-earnings-first-quarter-2017/#ftag=CAD590a51e

Mark Zuckerberg might have built your next Ford F-150 - Roadshow

It's very unlikely that you'll get his billions if the part he installed fails, though.

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https://www.cnet.com/roadshow/news/mark-zuckerberg-might-have-built-your-next-ford-f-150/#ftag=CAD590a51e

Nissan to add more Nismo vehicles to lineup - Roadshow

New division will crank up development of more performance-oriented Nissan models.

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https://www.cnet.com/roadshow/news/nissan-to-add-more-nismo-vehicles-to-lineup/#ftag=CAD590a51e

Will Amazon's Prime Video spending binge pay off? - CNET

Even if it doesn't, Thursday's first quarter results show Amazon keeping up its huge growth.

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https://www.cnet.com/news/will-amazons-prime-video-spending-binge-pay-off/#ftag=CAD590a51e

Reebok's Alien Stomper sneakers are equal-opportunity this year - CNET

Last year, the movie-tie-in shoes were erroneously listed as coming only in men's sizes.

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https://www.cnet.com/news/reeboks-alien-stomper-sneakers-ellen-ripley-sigourney-weaver-ridley-scott/#ftag=CAD590a51e

All the new laptops, tablets, VR headsets and more from Acer's global press conference - CNET

Acer showed off a ton of new gear, including gaming laptops, new 2-in-1 hybrids, a smartwatch, and even its long-promised VR headset.

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https://www.cnet.com/pictures/all-the-new-laptops-tablets-vr-headsets-and-more-from-acers-global-press-conference/#ftag=CAD590a51e

Waymo vs. Uber lawsuit: 10 things you need to know - CNET

Get the highlights before it's decided whether this high-stakes case will play out in private arbitration or public court.

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https://www.cnet.com/news/waymo-vs-uber-lawsuit-10-things-you-need-to-know/#ftag=CAD590a51e

Elon Musk's 'boring' machine actually looks pretty interesting - CNET

What does the serial entrepreneur's tunnel-boring machine look like? Well, maybe like this.

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https://www.cnet.com/news/elon-musk-boring-company-machine-instagram/#ftag=CAD590a51e

Apple Music could turn itself into a video streaming giant - CNET

This rare metal is hot, and that could hurt electric cars - CNET

A 70 percent jump in the price of cobalt could raise problems for companies like Tesla and Apple.

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https://www.cnet.com/news/tesla-electric-cars-expensive-cobalt-high-demand/#ftag=CAD590a51e

David Fincher might direct 'World War Z' sequel - CNET

Zombie Fight Club? The director could be teaming up again with frequent co-worker Brad Pitt -- but will Trent Reznor get involved?

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https://www.cnet.com/news/david-fincher-world-war-z-sequel-brad-pitt-zombie-movie-trent-reznor/#ftag=CAD590a51e

BMW will expand US diesel offerings with oil-burning 5 Series - Roadshow

Volkswagen made it more difficult, but not impossible, to get diesel cars certified in the US.

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https://www.cnet.com/roadshow/news/bmw-will-expand-us-diesel-offerings-with-oil-burning-5-series/#ftag=CAD590a51e

Wearable warns when you and your lover are about to fight - CNET

Commentary: Researchers at the University of Southern California believe they've developed technology that predicts lovers' tiffs 86 percent of the time.

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https://www.cnet.com/news/wearable-warns-you-when-you-and-your-lover-are-about-to-fight/#ftag=CAD590a51e

Giving sci-fi tech a Farsighted 'boost' to become reality - CNET

CNET's "Farsighted" crew interviews Boost VC founder Adam Draper about building the future and also reports back from Silicon Valley Comic Con.

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https://www.cnet.com/news/giving-sci-fi-tech-a-farsighted-boost-to-become-reality/#ftag=CAD590a51e

AT&T vs. Verizon vs. T-Mobile vs. Sprint: How to save and get the cheapest phone plan - CNET

Smartphone sales are up, but not because of the phones you think - CNET

Samsung has reclaimed the top spot, but it's Huawei, Oppo and Vivo that have really spurred growth.

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https://www.cnet.com/news/samsung-top-oem-smartphone-sales-q1-2017-idc/#ftag=CAD590a51e

Apple's competitor to Venmo could be on the way - CNET

A new peer-to-peer payment service may be coming later this year.

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https://www.cnet.com/news/apples-venmo-competitor-could-be-on-the-way/#ftag=CAD590a51e

Twitter's @jack talks Trump, NFL and curbing abuse - CNET

In a rare Q&A, Twitter CEO Jack Dorsey shares his thoughts about the president, preventing harassment and the company's future.

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https://www.cnet.com/news/twitter-jack-dorsey-donald-trump-nfl-and-curbing-abuse/#ftag=CAD590a51e

SiriusXM buys Automatic Labs to expand connected-car offerings - Roadshow

What SiriusXM has planned for Automatic Labs is still anyone's guess, other than "print more money."

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https://www.cnet.com/roadshow/news/siriusxm-buys-automatic-labs-to-expand-connected-car-offerings/#ftag=CAD590a51e

Unlimited data plans: Verizon, T-Mobile, AT&T and Sprint, compared - CNET

We compare the unlimited data plans offered by the four major US carriers.

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https://www.cnet.com/news/how-does-verizon-unlimited-plan-stack-up-against-the-others/#ftag=CAD590a51e

Amazon's voice assistant is getting a face (The 3:59, Ep. 218) - CNET

Also on the podcast, we talk about how expensive ransomware has gotten and Facebook Live's gruesome problems.

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https://www.cnet.com/news/amazons-voice-assistant-is-getting-a-face-the-359-ep-218/#ftag=CAD590a51e

Wednesday 26 April 2017

I broke up with bike sharing after one horrible crash - CNET

Commentary: My love affair with bike sharing was an emotional roller coaster ride that crashed.

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https://www.cnet.com/news/i-broke-up-with-bike-sharing-after-one-horrible-crash/#ftag=CAD590a51e

Galaxy S8 gets mercilessly flamed by Stephen Colbert - CNET

Commentary: The fire jokes won't die, as the late-night host presents a parody ad.

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https://www.cnet.com/news/samsung-galaxy-s8-gets-flamed-by-stephen-colbert/#ftag=CAD590a51e

Samsung sees Galaxy S8 boost but warns of competition ahead - CNET

Company benefited from components sales in the first quarter and expects mobile to rebound with the Galaxy S8. But it's worried about the next iPhone.

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https://www.cnet.com/news/samsung-galaxy-s8-plus-apple-iphone-note-first-quarter-profit-revenue-memory-chips-displays/#ftag=CAD590a51e

Unroll.me hit with privacy suit over alleged sale of user data - CNET

The inbox cleanup service has been accused of violating federal privacy laws by allegedly harvesting user data.

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https://www.cnet.com/news/unroll-me-hit-with-privacy-suit-over-alleged-sale-of-user-data/#ftag=CAD590a51e

Hasselhoff-bot stars in AI-scripted film - CNET

Self-learning algorithms provide the dialogue in this surreal short science-fiction film, starring David Hasselhoff as the Hoffbot.

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https://www.cnet.com/news/ai-scripts-a-short-film-starring-david-hasselhoff-its-no-game/#ftag=CAD590a51e

These trending videos are no 'happy accident' - CNET

That's what Bob Ross would say anyway. But who is he? And why are sloths so slow? Get these answers and more from this week's trending YouTube videos.

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https://www.cnet.com/news/the-mysterious-bob-ross-and-why-sloths-are-slow-youtube-trending/#ftag=CAD590a51e

Why your 4K TV is probably the only 4K converter you need - CNET

If you have a 4K TV, you don't need to use an upconverting Blu-ray player or receiver. Here's why.

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https://www.cnet.com/news/why-your-4k-tv-is-probably-the-only-upconverter-you-need/#ftag=CAD590a51e

Unroll.me co-founder calls users naive - CNET

Commentary: In a passionate and some might say slightly elitist screed, the co-founder of the company that sold Lyft receipts to Uber tries to defend the practice.

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https://www.cnet.com/news/unroll-me-co-founder-calls-users-naive/#ftag=CAD590a51e

The Galaxy Note 7 is reportedly coming back in June, to Korea - CNET

Word is that refurbished models -- with a few important changes -- may appear in Samsung's home base.

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https://www.cnet.com/news/samsung-galaxy-note-7-refurbished-reportedly-coming-to-korea-june/#ftag=CAD590a51e

FCC chairman begins assault on net neutrality rules - CNET

Ajit Pai introduces a proposal that would eliminate the legal foundation of the FCC's controversial net neutrality rules, but still try to preserve some openness.

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https://www.cnet.com/news/fcc-chairman-begins-assault-on-net-neutrality-rules/#ftag=CAD590a51e

Watch Acer's annual global press conference, Thursday at 11 a.m. ET / 8 a.m. PT - CNET

Watch the live stream, plus updates on new laptops, gaming PCs and more.

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https://www.cnet.com/news/watch-acers-annual-global-press-conference/#ftag=CAD590a51e

'Alien: Covenant' prologue short resurrects some old friends - CNET

The chilling two-minute video nicely connects the end of 2012's "Prometheus" with the upcoming film.

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https://www.cnet.com/news/alien-covenant-prologue-short-prometheus-ridley-scott-noomi-rapace-michael-fassbender/#ftag=CAD590a51e

Astronaut snaps unreal sunset spacecraft photo - CNET

A cargo ship on approach to the space station stars in a gorgeous sunset image that looks like a sci-fi movie still.

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https://www.cnet.com/news/esa-nasa-international-space-station-cygnus-iss-pesquet-sunset/#ftag=CAD590a51e

Google Trips travels farther into Features Land - CNET

The travel logistics app, which pulls from your Gmail inbox to help organize your vacay, adds a few more bells and whistles.

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https://www.cnet.com/news/google-trips-new-features/#ftag=CAD590a51e

Adam Savage cosplays as Chewbacca with C-3PO in tow - CNET

Watch the former "MythBusters" co-host secretly invade Silicon Valley Comic Con while dressed as the famous Star Wars Wookiee.

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https://www.cnet.com/news/mythbusters-adam-savage-cosplays-chewbacca-wookiee-c3po-star-wars-silicon-valley-comic-con/#ftag=CAD590a51e

Chrysler offers new, fancier Pacifica trim to leather seat haters - Roadshow

The Touring Plus trim is now the highest trim you can purchase without leather seats.

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https://www.cnet.com/roadshow/news/chrysler-2017-pacifica-touring-plus-trim-new-features/#ftag=CAD590a51e

Samsung wants its new app to make you a better driver - CNET

The In-Traffic Reply app is an attempt to stop drivers from reaching for their phone while on the road.

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https://www.cnet.com/news/samsung-in-traffic-reply-app-distracted-driving/#ftag=CAD590a51e

Can you cook a pizza in a forge made for melting metal? - CNET

Your kitchen oven has some competition from a raging hot forge usually used for metalworking.

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https://www.cnet.com/news/pizza-forge-cook-youtube-video-essential-craftsman/#ftag=CAD590a51e

BMW built a diesel wagon with FOUR turbochargers - Roadshow

It's available as a sedan, too, but don't expect either to come to the US.

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https://www.cnet.com/roadshow/news/bmw-built-a-diesel-wagon-with-four-turbochargers/#ftag=CAD590a51e

Serena Williams Snapchat pregnancy post was accidental - CNET

The tennis superstar demonstrates how easy it is to fault on social media.

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https://www.cnet.com/news/serena-williams-snapchat-pregnant/#ftag=CAD590a51e

Tiny hands and toppling heads show off 'SNL' visual effects - CNET

This fun video-effects compilation features heads and limbs flying, a creepy girl crawling out of a TV set, and yes, the president gets a hand.

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https://www.cnet.com/news/snl-saturday-night-live-donald-trump-tiny-hands-behind-the-scenes-video/#ftag=CAD590a51e

Cheating driver gets a YouTube shaming - CNET

Commentary: Some people think they can skip traffic lines. Until someone teaches them a lesson.

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https://www.cnet.com/news/youtube-shaming-cheating-driver/#ftag=CAD590a51e

Giant bunny dies on United, and Twitter hops right to the jokes - CNET

If there were ever an airline that didn't need another public-relations disaster, every bunny knows which one it is.

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https://www.cnet.com/news/united-airlines-giant-bunny-rabbit-dies-twitter-jokes-memes/#ftag=CAD590a51e

Solid gold Darth Vader helmet only costs $1.4 million - CNET

More like Darth Bling. A gaudy gold version of Darth Vader's headgear goes on sale in Japan, but it will put you back a lot of credits.

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https://www.cnet.com/news/gold-darth-vader-mask-star-wars-tanaka-kikinzoku-group/#ftag=CAD590a51e

Onkyo unveils universal streaming speaker - CNET

Onkyo's NCP-302 benchtop speaker will be one of the first products to support both Play-Fi and Google Cast streaming standards.

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https://www.cnet.com/news/onkyo-unveils-universal-streaming-speaker/#ftag=CAD590a51e

My Journey Of Learning Programming Through Flatiron School #21

My name is Mason Ellwood, and I’m currently working on Flatiron School’s Online Full Stack Web Development Program. Each week, I’ll be writing about my experience, what I’m learning, and tips on learning to code.

In the lessons covered this week, we dived into basic SQL queries. A query in the simplest terms refers to something that answers a question. If you think of queries in this sense, then they become very simple. A query in a SQL statement retrieves data from your database.

Simple examples of queries have been used in the previous post, so I will move on to a little more complex examples.

In this post please follow along. In your terminal navigate to a newly created folder that will hold your new SQLite database.

Once that has been completed create your database using the prompt below.

Once you have completed this, now we will add values to our newly formed columns.

Now we will format our values to make them look a little more pleasing and easier to read.

.header on: This outputs the name of each column

.mode column: This enables column mode

Remember if you would like to check the status of your columns at any time run (SELECT * FROM cats)

On your own, add some more cats so we have some data to work with.

First we will use the ORDER BY modifier. This allows us to order the table rows and return by a certain SELECT statement.

As a default, ORDER BY is by ascending order. If we want to specify which order it returns by you can use ASC “ascending” or DESC “descending”, which is shown above.

Using the LIMIT modifier determines the number of records you want from a database.

In the above example, this should return just the first, oldest cat from the list.

In the next post we will build on the example above and modify it even further. SQL is a great way to modify existing data that is given to the user or programmer. So bear with me if this begins to get confusing, in the next post we will get into aggregate functions.

from
https://webdesignledger.com/my-journey-of-learning-programming-through-flatiron-school-21/

Awesome Tools for Better UX-UI Design

While User Interface (UI) and User Experience (UX) are sometimes confused with one another, they are separate entities. To be successful in website design, the similarities and differences between the two must be understood. Just like the entities themselves, UI design and UX design are two different beasts.

Once you understand how they relate to the user, you’ll be better able to address them differently as you proceed with your design.

UI focuses on a website’s look and feel. It is the website’s visual presentation. UI design is a digital task. It generally does not require coding, depending on the tools used, and whether the distinction between design and development is blurred.

UX is what the website does. What gives it life. UX design does not involve coding or any other digital techniques. UX is more akin to market research. Its focus is on customer satisfaction and usability.

InVision

InVision is an end-to-end platform for collaborative digital product design. Create and sketch with Freehand, a digital whiteboard for exploring with your creative team. Create high-fidelity prototypes to rapidly share your team and stakeholders for a faster feedback loop. Commenting and user testing features are there help your team validate your UI decisions with real users.

With automatic syncing and live updating across all your prototypes, you’ll create a single source of truth for your entire team—from design to development to executive stakeholders.

The world’s leading design-forward companies rely on InVision to design better digital products faster. InVision powers collaborative design and unparalleled digital customer experiences at brands from Airbnb to IBM, Starbucks to NASA. Sign up for a free trial and learn more.

Proto.io

Used by more than 400,000 users from the world’s hottest startups, Proto.io has changed the world of mobile and web prototyping; going beyond wireframes and mockups. With interactions, transitions, and animations it helps bring any static design to life.

UX and UI designers can create visual interactive prototypes of mobile and web apps that work and feel exactly like the final apps; without any code skills required. Designers can either design directly within Proto.io, or import their designs from Sketch or Photoshop and magically view them as screens and assets.

Supporting all mobile touch gestures, prototypes can run on the actual mobile device thus making the experience as realistic as possible. Want to test your prototypes and share with potential users? No problem, Proto.io’s usability testing capabilities go far beyond, as it’s integration with popular user testing platforms allow you to see and hear what users are saying while trying out your prototype.

Sketch

Sketch was created specifically for designing websites, icons, interfaces, and whatever else you may be storing away in your head. Sketches vector-based workflow allows you to create complex shapes without a lot of trial and error, or painful tweaking.

The shapes you create easily adapt to changing sizes, styles, and layouts; and everything you create is editable. Sketch was built for the modern designer, and you’ll see it everywhere you look.

Notism

Notism combines real-time design collaboration and task management features into a single platform. This UI/UX tool transforms static designs into interactive web prototypes, or iOS or Android mobile prototypes. It enables its users to share these prototypes and other project information for review, feedback, and sign-off. You can communicate in video timelines, or directly on the content.

Notism also gives you rock-solid task management support to help your team get organized, and ensure they stay organized. Prototypes and other presentation information are always kept under strict version control. Version history is always available to measure project and task progress.

Great Simple Studio

For high-quality UI and wireframe kits or core elements check out Great Simple‘s shop. All their products are built with a wonderful attention to detail and they are compatible with both Photoshop and Sketch. iOS Design Kit and Material Design Kit are two of their bestsellers and they are highly recommended to anyone interested in designing great apps. Their free GUI Kits for iOS and Android have been downloaded by more than 70.000 designers.

Try Great Simple’s products. They will make your design process faster and better.

Tips for Making a Better User Interface

As they have become more experienced working with digitals display, users have at the same time come to expect better experiences than in years past. Businesses need to take heed, and carefully consider the quality they put into user interfaces; but, what does that entail?

Keep it Simple

Great user interfaces are invisible, or nearly so. They are not flashy, overly decorated, or loaded with unnecessary elements. They contain only the essential elements; presented logically, and concisely. Don’t add items to try to be clever, or feed your ego.

The purpose of your user interface isn’t to show off your design skills. If fashioned correctly, however, it will; but in a very subtle way. Its purpose is to help users interact with your system. If they have trouble doing so, they’re quite apt to go elsewhere.

Clear, concise labels for buttons and actions is the key. You need to keep your message simple. The easier a page is to follow, the easier it is for the user to know what to do next.

Make the Interactions Efficient

Make it easy for users to complete a task smoothly and efficiently, and never lose track or where they are, or lose work they have accomplished. Designing powerful software can be a good thing, as long as you keep things simple and functional. Hiding options that are not critical to everyday use will benefit the user.

Be Consistent in Your Design

Since users quickly develop usage patterns, it’s important to maintain consistency throughout the user experience. Consistent interfaces allow your users to find, and stay in, their comfort zone throughout a session. People crave consistency. Give them the opportunity to be proven correct when they rely on it.

Use Familiar Design Patterns

We like seeing things that are familiar and easy to fathom. Yet, some designers insist on making everything they design an example of artistic creation. It’s nice when your app is memorable, but only when it is for the right reason. Don’t make your UI a brain-twister.

Understand How UI Plays into UX

While an ideal UI should be both simple and intuitive, designing one is not without some challenges. One of them is to gather and rely on information from the perspective of the user.

This information, which is gathered from the UX realm, helps determine the nature of the user flow, as well as determining key product and hierarchical information. This information should be gathered before mockup or prototyping efforts are initiated.

Implement a Visual Hierarchy

Make it a point to highlight the most important interface elements to help users find and focus on them. There are many different design approaches that will enable you to make this happen. A simple example would be to make a key button larger or brightly colored to make it stand out.

Conclusion

Often confused with one another, UI and UX are two distinct entities. UI and UX design practices differ as well. For the former, you need tools that will enable you to create your website’s presentation, and its look and feel. For the UX aspect, the ability to user test your creation to ensure user satisfaction is key.

from
https://webdesignledger.com/awesome-tools-better-ux-ui-design/

CNET got a first look at the Guardians Mission Breakout ride, seeing what happens when Marvel and Walt Disney Imagineering join forces.

from
https://www.cnet.com/news/guardians-of-the-galaxy-mission-breakout-disney-adventure-park-california/#ftag=CAD590a51e

Cool it, Alexa: GE gives Amazon's assistant new air conditioner controls - CNET

GE's Geneva skill already lets Alexa control your smart appliances. Now, just in time for summer, it'll put her in control of your window AC unit, too.

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https://www.cnet.com/news/cool-it-alexa-ge-gives-amazons-assistant-new-air-conditioner-controls/#ftag=CAD590a51e

Get a Portal mesh router for $148.02 - CNET

There are some caveats connected with this, but if you're looking to improve the Wi-Fi in your home, apartment or other urban/congested environment, this might do the trick. Plus: three killer bonus deals!

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https://www.cnet.com/news/get-a-portal-mesh-router-for-148-02/#ftag=CAD590a51e

Marvel's intergalactic adventure is bursting with fun. Here are the five things you should keep your eyes peeled for. Caution: minor spoilers.

from
https://www.cnet.com/news/five-things-to-look-out-for-in-the-guardians-of-the-galaxy-vol-2/#ftag=CAD590a51e

Are phone cameras going the way of shaving razors? - CNET

Commentary: Dual-cameras on smartphones are officially a thing. But will phone makers stop at just two?

from
https://www.cnet.com/news/so-just-how-many-cameras-will-future-phones-have/#ftag=CAD590a51e

Delhi University proposes a course on Facebook posts - CNET

A newly proposed English module at India's Delhi University will seek to help its students master the craft of writing engaging Facebook posts.

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https://www.cnet.com/news/students-at-delhi-university-could-get-new-facebook-course/#ftag=CAD590a51e

Google's Sergey Brin secretly building blimp at NASA, say reports - CNET

Why do billionaires have all the coolest side projects?

from
https://www.cnet.com/news/google-sergey-brin-secretly-building-airship-nasa-mountain-view-reports/#ftag=CAD590a51e

Cassini probe gives its swan song with final Saturn mission - CNET

The spacecraft that gave us so much information about Saturn has started its final dives -- in between Saturn's rings.

from
https://www.cnet.com/news/cassinis-swan-song-saturn-probe-starts-final-dive/#ftag=CAD590a51e

MTV is looking for trolls and their victims to meet face-to-face in what should prove to be a drama-driven series called "Beyond the Keyboard." But what's its real purpose?

from
https://www.cnet.com/news/mtv-meet-your-internet-trolls-online-harassment-gamergate/#ftag=CAD590a51e

The final installment in the sequel trilogy originally envisioned by George Lucas will reportedly make its way into theaters a little earlier than you might have guessed.

from
https://www.cnet.com/news/star-wars-episode-ix-2019-release/#ftag=CAD590a51e

The social network's co-founder may not be running for president, but his manifesto was inspired in part by talking to one.

from
https://www.cnet.com/news/zuckerberg-talked-to-obama-while-writing-his-facebook-manifesto-president-trump/#ftag=CAD590a51e