Thursday, June 22, 2023

Best Gaming TV: Low Input Lag and High Picture Quality - CNET

These TVs maximize image quality and minimize the delay between your controller and the action.

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Latest Tech News

Smartwatch brand Amazfit recently launched two wearables specifically designed for runners: the aptly named Cheetah and Cheetah Pro.

What’s unique about them is they both come with a generative AI called Zepp Coach that can create your very own running plan. The workout routine it generates is based on information entered into the Zepp mobile app. It takes into consideration a person’s own characteristics as well as their personal goals. Amazfit states these plans can even help you train for a big race as every week the smartwatches will adjust the training plan to push you further.

It's worth mentioning Huawei has done something similar before as the tech brand added its own AI coach to the Watch GT Runner. But unlike Huawei, the Zepp Coach smartphone app now includes an AI Chat tool to answer any fitness-related questions. The company claims interacting with the chatbot will be like having a personal trainer 24/7. Be aware this tool will only be available “for a short demo period” in select regions before becoming a “subscription-based service.” 

We reached out to Amazfit for more clarifying information on this chatbot, including where it is available, how long will the demo last, and more. This story will be updated if we hear back.

Make your own route

To help with your workouts, both Cheetah wearables are equipped with a highly-accurate GPS technology called MaxTrack which is able to follow runners through environmental obstacles from skyscrapers to tall trees. Using the collected data, users can create their own running route by importing the file from the Zepp app onto the watch if they want to follow the same path at a later time. Additionally, you can overlay the route on the device’s Offline Map to see other potential paths nearby.

Other notable features of the Cheetah line include a heart rate tracker plus the ability to share running routes via third-party apps such as Google Fit. Battery life on the devices can last up to two weeks on a single charge, but it can be drastically lowered depending on how often you use it. For example, under heavy usage, the battery will only last about a week.

Availability

Differences between the two models can be seen in the specifications and a few exclusive features.

The watches have an HD AMOLED display with a peak brightness of 1,000 nits for easy reading even in harsh sunlight. However, the Cheetah Pro comes out on top as its 1.45-inch screen can output a resolution of 480 x 480 pixels. The base model has a smaller 1.39-inch screen with a resolution of 454 x 452 pixels. The Pro watch is also a bit lighter at 43g whereas the regular Cheetah weighs 47g.

As for exclusive tools, the Cheetah Pro supports Bluetooth calling and offline music playback that can be listened to either through a connected pair of headphones or the on-device speaker.

You can purchase the Amazfit Cheetah in Speedster Grey on the company’s website for $229.99/£229.90. For the Cheetah Pro, you can buy it in a slightly different version of the base Cheetah model, sporting a square-shaped watch face.

It'll be interesting to see how Garmin responds to the Cheetah series since two of its rivals have launched wearables with generative AI on board. Perhaps the next Forerunner will have an OpenAI-powered chatbot.

While we have you, be sure to check out TechRadar's list of the best Garmin watches for 2023



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Slow Wi-Fi? Your Internet Provider May Be Throttling Your Speed. Here's How to Tell - CNET

If your speeds are less than you're paying for, your ISP might be to blame.

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Latest Tech News

Having claimed to have achieved its first milestone towards a quantum supercomputer, Microsoft reckons it will take less than a decade for it to have built its own.

Comparing it to the revolutions caused by the Iron Age and the Silicon Age, Redmond reckons quantum computing will have significant impacts on the way we live, enabling the transportation industry to develop more efficient and powerful batteries as we transition to EVs and beyond, the chemistry industry to discovery safer compounds, and the pharmaceutical industry to develop better drugs.

Most importantly, Microsoft hopes that quantum supercomputers, including its own, will help to solve “society’s most pressing challenges,” such as climate change and food insecurity.

Quantum computing coming sooner than you think

Speaking to TechCrunch, Microsoft VP of advanced quantum development, Krysta Svore, said: “We think about our roadmap and the time to the quantum supercomputer in terms of years rather than decades.”

Expressing similar optimism, CEO Satya Nadella said at the Azure Quantum: Accelerating Scientific Discovery virtual event: “Our goal is to compress the next 250 years of chemistry and materials science progress into the next 25.”

Microsoft’s first step, creating quantum systems that run on noisy physical qubits, has already been realized with quantum machines available in the cloud via Azure Quantum.

In its roadmap to quantum supercomputing, Microsoft outlines a further two steps: reliable logical qubits, and engineering with scale. Drilling in with more detail, the journey to the next step will be to engineer hardware-protected or topological qubits, to improve and finesse their quality, and to create a multi-qubit system.

Like its voyage into AI, Microsoft stresses the importance of security, safety, and privacy, which are all set to get equal attention as quantum computing begins to threaten existing IT landscapes.



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Tuesday, June 20, 2023

Best M.2 SSD for PS5 in 2023 - CNET

We tested the best M.2 solid-state drives for the PlayStation 5. Here are our top picks.

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June SSDI Check: Here's When You'll Get Your Money - CNET

Waiting on this month's disability insurance checks to arrive? Here's when you could get yours.

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Latest Tech News

Spotify returns to its roots as the streaming service is redesigning its desktop app to more closely align with the mobile version.

You may read that and immediately think Spotify is ruining the desktop experience. The March redesign of the smartphone app drew a lot of ire from some users. But don’t worry, the desktop redesign is only changing a couple of things to help with organization – no TikTok-style feed anywhere. 

First, Your Library will have a new home on the left-hand side of the desktop window for quick access to “music and podcast collections.” Spotify states the new location will help users save time by making it easier to switch between playlists, plus it offers a “better overview" of said collections. Saved content can be displayed in the standard list view or you can switch to a grid arrangement if you want bigger thumbnails. The desktop app also allows people to create folders where they can store multiple playlists.

On the right side is the revamped Now Playing view which will now display more information beyond pointing out what you’re listening to. It adds listings for upcoming tour dates as well as merch you can purchase from your favorite artists. For some podcasts, Spotify will offer transcripts so people can follow along as they listen. The company doesn’t state which podcasts will have the transcript, although we did ask. This story will be updated if we hear back. 

Availability

Besides the two, Spotify is moving the Friend Activity feed to the friends icon, which sits next to your profile picture in the top-right corner of the main screen. This update is currently making its way to all desktop users across the globe so keep an eye out for the patch once it reaches you. 

With most Spotify stories, we tend to ask, “When will high-fidelity audio launch on the platform?” It’s been two years since the original tease. Well, as it turns out, we may not have to wait very long as a recent Bloomberg report states hi-res audio will be a part of a new subscription tier releasing later this year.

Be sure to check out TechRadar’s coverage on the latest Spotify HiFi news. And while you’re at it, read up on our list of the best headphones for 2023. You may need a new pair for the launch. 



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Monday, June 19, 2023

7 Stargazing Apps for Spotting Constellations and More - CNET

These astronomical maps will help you spot planets, stars and constellations in the night sky.

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Best Solar Companies of June 2023 - CNET

Solar companies offer different solar panels, inverters, batteries, warranties and service. See how they compare and which we crowned the best solar company.

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The Best Indoor Bike Trainers for 2023: Tacx Wahoo Saris and More Compared - CNET

Step up your cycling game without leaving the house. These are the best indoor bike trainers around.

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Latest Tech News

TOPDON, a leading provider of automotive diagnostic solutions, has launched its latest product, TopScan. Designed to meet the needs of both automotive DIYers and professional technicians, TopScan revolutionizes the way car diagnostics are performed. It’s a powerful and versatile diagnostic tool that offers an array of features and benefits for car enthusiasts and technicians alike, and thanks to its user-friendly interface and comprehensive functions, it enables users to diagnose and solve vehicle problems with ease. 

One of the key features of TopScan is its extensive Repair Data Library, which provides a wealth of maintenance knowledge and guidance. For beginners, the OBD2 DTC Repair Guide offers clear explanations of fault codes and step-by-step repair instructions. Additionally, technicians can access original technical service bulletins specific to each vehicle, ensuring accurate and efficient diagnostics. TopScan's unique advantage lies in its ability to cater to a wide range of users. 

For car DIYers, the Lite Version, priced at $59.99, provides an affordable entry point with the option to upgrade to the Pro Version or purchase professional-level features such as IMMO for secure immobilizer features for your vehicle. Professional technicians can benefit from the advanced capabilities of the Pro Version, available at $99. 

TopScan has undergone an extensive testing and optimization phase, involving seven months of rigorous evaluation and feedback from over 1,000 beta testers. This meticulous process ensures that the product has been thoroughly validated and refined to deliver the best performance and user experience. The valuable insights and suggestions provided by the dedicated beta testing community have played a pivotal role in shaping the final version of TopScan. 

"We are excited to introduce the TopScan to car enthusiasts and technicians worldwide," said Mike Zhou, CEO of TOPDON. "Our goal is to make automotive repair easier and more accessible for everyone, and our TopScan tool embodies that vision. Whether you're a DIYer or a professional, TopScan has the abilities you need to diagnose and repair vehicles effectively." 

Additional features

In addition to its comprehensive diagnostic functions, TopScan offers a range of other benefits:

  • Bi-directional Control: Access vehicle-specific subsystems and component parts to analyze and locate faults accurately.
  • 8 Reset Functions: Perform commonly-used reset functions, including Oil Reset, Throttle Adaptation, EPB Reset, Steering Angle Reset, DPF Regeneration, ABS Bleeding, BMS Reset, and Airbag Resets.
  • Full Systems Diagnosis for 60+ Brands: Scan all vehicle systems, including engine, transmission, airbag, ABS, ESP, TPMS, immobilizer, gateway, steering, radio, and air conditioning.
  • Diagnostic Reports: Generate comprehensive diagnostic reports to track repairs and monitor the effectiveness of fault code resolutions.
  • AutoVIN & AutoScan: Streamline the diagnostic process with automatic vehicle identification and system detection.
  • Powerful, yet pocket-sized: Compact and lightweight, TopScan is designed for both home garage projects and professional jobs on the go.
  • Multilingual support: Available in multiple languages, including English, French, German, Spanish, Portuguese, Russian, Japanese, and Italian.
  • Performance test: Conduct vehicle performance tests and record acceleration data accurately.
  • Get All the OBD2 Data: Access crucial information on various vehicles with full OBD2 functionalities.

As part of its commitment to customer satisfaction, TOPDON offers extensive customer support and a user-friendly experience. 

TOPDON is a leading provider of automotive diagnostic solutions dedicated to making automotive repair easier and more enjoyable. With a focus on persistence, passion, and professionalism, Topdon offers a comprehensive range of diagnostic tools and services, supporting clients from problem identification to resolution.

With TopScan, users can expect reliable and accurate diagnostics to enhance their automotive repair journeys. For more information about TopScan and other TOPDON products, visit www.topdon.com.



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Which OTC Hearing Aid Has the Best Value? We Do the Math - CNET

With the many OTC hearing aids now on the market, it can be overwhelming to choose which will suit your needs best.

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Sunday, June 18, 2023

Latest Tech News

It's time for your daily dose of Quordle hints, plus the answers for both the main game and the Daily Sequence spin off. 

Quordle is the only one of the many Wordle clones that I'm still playing now, around 18 months after the daily-word-game craze hit the internet, and with good reason: it's good fun, but also difficult.

What's more, its makers (now the online dictionary Merriam-Webster) are also keeping it fresh in the form of a new variant called the Daily Sequence, which sees you complete four puzzles consecutively, rather than concurrently. 

But Quordle is tough, so if you already find yourself searching for Wordle hints, you'll probably need some for this game too. 

I'm a Quordle and Wordle fanatic who's been playing since December 2021, so I can definitely help you solve Quordle today and improve your game for tomorrow. Read on for my Quordle hints to game #511 and the answers to the main game and Daily Sequence. 

SPOILER WARNING: Information about Quordle today is below, so don't read on if you don't want to know the answers.

Quordle today (game #511) - hint #1 - Vowels

How many different vowels are in Quordle today?

The number of different vowels in Quordle today is 3*.

* Note that by vowel we mean the five standard vowels (A, E, I, O, U), not Y (which is sometimes counted as a vowel too). 

Quordle today (game #511) - hint #2 - total vowels

What is the total number of vowels in Quordle today?

The total number of vowels across today's Quordle answers is 8.

Quordle today (game #511) - hint #3 - repeated letters

Do any of today's Quordle answers contain repeated letters?

The number of Quordle answers containing a repeated letter today is 0.

Quordle today (game #511) - hint #4 - total letters

How many different letters are used in Quordle today?

The total number of different letters used in Quordle today is 12.

Quordle today (game #511) - hint #5 - uncommon letters

Do the letters Q, Z, X or J appear in Quordle today?

• No. None of Q, Z, X or J appear among today's Quordle answers.

Quordle today (game #511) - hint #6 - starting letters (1)

Do any of today's Quordle puzzles start with the same letter?

The number of today's Quordle answers starting with the same letter is 0.

If you just want to know the answers at this stage, simply scroll down. If you're not ready yet then here's one more clue to make things a lot easier:

Quordle today (game #511) - hint #7 - starting letters (2)

What letters do today's Quordle answers start with?

• H

• L

• G

• P

Right, the answers are below, so DO NOT SCROLL ANY FURTHER IF YOU DON'T WANT TO SEE THEM.

Quordle today (game #511) - the answers

Quordle answers for game 511 on a yellow background

(Image credit: Merriam-Webster)

The answers to today's Quordle, game #511, are…

  • HORDE
  • LOSER
  • GUSTO
  • PRONE

How did you do today? Send me an email and let me know.


Daily Sequence today (game #511) - the answers

Quordle Daily Sequence answers for game 511 on a yellow background

(Image credit: Merriam-Webster)

The answers to today's Quordle Daily Sequence, game #511, are…

  • OCEAN
  • LOWER
  • PAPER
  • GAUDY

Quordle answers: The past 20

  • Quordle #510, Sunday 18 June: SHORN, FRIAR, THREE, UNTIE
  • Quordle #509, Saturday 17 June: JUROR, BUSED, SAPPY, VYING
  • Quordle #508, Friday 16 June: PASTA, RABID, UNFIT, CURLY
  • Quordle #507, Thursday 15 June: COBRA, CORNY, MINCE, CHILI
  • Quordle #506, Wednesday 14 June: LIBEL, SAVVY, VAULT, TROLL
  • Quordle #505, Tuesday 13 June: LOWLY, CORAL, PLANK, AMISS
  • Quordle #504, Monday 12 June: STAMP, BONEY, TRACE, CLOVE
  • Quordle #503, Sunday 11 June: QUACK, SCALP, DRIER, FOLLY
  • Quordle #502, Saturday 10 June: WRUNG, TROLL, TAKER, ELATE
  • Quordle #501, Friday 9 June: HAZEL, REACT, SPOKE, CHART
  • Quordle #500, Thursday 8 June: TRAWL, CRUDE, BRAVE, FURRY
  • Quordle #499, Wednesday 7 June: QUELL, GUISE, UNDUE, PALER
  • Quordle #498, Tuesday 6 June: BRICK, TIGHT, SHOWY, ARDOR
  • Quordle #497, Monday 5 June: STUNG, SHAPE, QUAIL, BLURT
  • Quordle #496, Sunday 4 June: GUILT, BIRTH, QUOTH, EVADE
  • Quordle #495, Saturday 3 June: BOOZE, ASKEW, REUSE, PAYEE
  • Quordle #494, Friday 2 June: FLYER, CHIME, VALID, LUMEN
  • Quordle #493, Thursday 1 June: BLAST, SKULL, VAUNT, LIEGE
  • Quordle #492, Wednesday 31 May: APRON, UNDER, ALIKE, FRUIT
  • Quordle #491, Tuesday 30 May: CADET, RIPEN, BREAD, CREED
  • Quordle #490, Monday 29 May: ANNOY, ELECT, STALE, TURBO
  • Quordle #489, Sunday 28 May: GULLY, RISEN, CHAFE, CHEAT

Quordle FAQs: Everything you need to know

What is Quordle?

Where Wordle challenges you to guess a new five-letter word each day, Quordle presents you with four puzzles to solve. And rather than complete them in turn, you do so simultaneously. You get nine guesses, rather than the six for Wordle, but the rules are otherwise very similar. 

It's played online via the Quordle website and you can also get to it via the Merriam-Webster site, after the dictionary purchased Quordle last year

As with Wordle, the answers are the same for every player each day, meaning that you're competing against the rest of the world. And also as with Wordle, the puzzle resets at midnight so you have a fresh challenge each day.

The website also includes a practice mode - which I definitely recommend using before attempting the game proper! - and there are daily stats including a streak count. You also get Quordle Achievements - specific badges for winning a game in a certain number of turns, playing lots of times, or guessing particularly hard words.

Oh, and it's difficult. Really difficult.

What are the Quordle rules?

The rules of Quordle are almost identical to those of Wordle.

1. Letters that are in the answer and in the right place turn green.

2. Letters that are in the answer but in the wrong place turn yellow. 

3. Letters that are not in the answer turn gray…

4. …BUT the word you guess appears in all quadrants of the puzzle at the same time, so an A could turn green in one square, yellow in another and gray in the final two. 

5. Answers are never plural.

6. Letters can appear more than once. So if your guess includes two of one letter, they may both turn yellow, both turn green, or one could be yellow and the other green.

7. Each guess must be a valid word in Quordle's dictionary. You can't guess ABCDE, for instance.

8. You do not have to include correct letters in subsequent guesses and there is no equivalent of Wordle's Hard mode.

9. You have nine guesses to find the Quordle answers.

10. You must complete the daily Quordle before midnight in your timezone.

What is a good Quordle strategy?

Quordle needs to be approached in a different way to Wordle. With four puzzles to solve in nine guesses, you can't blindly throw letters at it and expect to win - you'll stand a far better chance if you think strategically.

That's the case in Wordle too, of course, but it's even more important in Quordle.

There are two key things to remember. 

1. Use several starting words

Firstly, you won't want just a single starting word, but almost certainly two or three starting words. 

The first of these should probably be one of the best Wordle starting words, because the same things that make them work well will apply here too. But after that, you should select another word or possibly two that use up lots more of the most common consonants and that include any remaining vowels.

For instance, I currently use STARE > DOILY > PUNCH. Between them, these three words use 15 of the 26 letters in the alphabet including all five vowels, Y, and nine of the most common consonants (S, T, R, D, L, P, N, C and H). There are plenty of other options - you might want to get an M, B, F or G in there instead of the H, maybe - but something like that should do the trick.

If all goes well, that will give you a good lead on what one or sometimes two of the answers might be. If not, well good luck!

2. Narrow things down

Secondly, if you're faced with a word where the answer might easily be one of several options - for instance -ATCH, where it could be MATCH, BATCH, LATCH, CATCH, WATCH, HATCH or PATCH - you'll definitely want to guess a word that would narrow down those options. 

In Wordle, you can instead try several of those in succession and hope one is right, assuming you have enough guesses left. It's risky, but will sometimes work. Plus, it's the only option in Hard mode. But in Quordle, this will almost certainly result in a failure - you simply don't have enough guesses.

In the scenario above, CLAMP would be a great guess, as it could point the way to four of the seven words in one go.



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Heat Domes and Surging Grid Demand Threaten US Power Grids with Blackouts

A new report shows a sharp increase in peak electricity demand, leading to blackout concerns in multiple states. Here's how experts say ...