Ring will no longer offer a customer-facing feature that facilitates video sharing between customers and law enforcement, the company announced in a blog post.

Starting this week, the RFA feature will disappear, but law enforcement officers can still access Ring users’ surveillance footage without a warrant in certain circumstances, such as emergency situations.

Furthermore, public safety agency posts will still be public and will be available to view on the Neighbors app feed. Additionally, officers can directly request footage from users.

Ring takes great first step towards better privacy

The Electronic Frontier Foundation, an NGO that champions user privacy, celebrated the decision.

In a blog post, the EFF states that “this is a victory in a long fight, not just against blanket police surveillance, but also against a culture in which private, for-profit companies build special tools to allow law enforcement to more easily access companies’ users and their data”.

Still, the EFF believes more can be done to protect user privacy, such as enabling end-to-end encryption by default and turning off default audio collection.

So, if you have a Ring camera or video doorbell, the police can still ask you to share your footage with them without a warrant, but they cannot demand it.

If you want to share it with them, that’s your decision and nothing is stopping you, but they can no longer ask for the footage directly from the company without coming up with a warrant unless there’s an emergency situation.

Have any thoughts on this? Drop us a line below in the comments, or carry the discussion to our Twitter or Facebook.

Editors’ Recommendations:

• Does Ring camera work without a subscription?
• Review: Abode Wireless Video Doorbell
• How to enable end-to-end encryption on Ring cameras
• Ring is recalling a bunch of video doorbells after it was found they can catch on fire

The post Ring changes policy to require warrants for footage requests appeared first on KnowTechie.

The feature will allow users to select what they’re interested in by circling, highlighting, scribbling, or tapping, making searching on the go more intuitive and less disruptive. This seems to be another step in Google and Samsung’s collaboration on Android features.

According to Google, Circle to Search offers users the opportunity to quickly identify items in a photo or video.

For instance, while browsing social media, users can circle a picture of Taylor Swift’s most recent outfit at the Chiefs’ game and see where she got her jacket from (or where to get a similar one).

The AI-powered multisearch algorithm does this by sourcing information from across the web, pulling together helpful hints and insights to the user’s demand.

Circle to Search is super easy to use

To activate Circle to Search, Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro users can long-press the home button or navigation bar on their Android device to activate Circle to Search. The Samsung Galaxy S24 series will follow a similar method.

Once activated, users can circle, tap, or scribble to find anything they’re curious about, just like that. With Circle to Search on board, users will be able to uncover the answers to even their most random queries in a playful, intuitive way.

Circle to Search will be a game-changer for many users as it makes searching for information more intuitive, playful, and fun. Rather than disrupting an immersive moment, users can quickly get the information they need with their natural gestures.

With early adopters already excitedly anticipating its arrival on their phones, Circle to Search is sure to be a hit.

Have any thoughts on this? Drop us a line below in the comments, or carry the discussion to our Twitter or Facebook.

Editors’ Recommendations:

• Google Pixel 9 Pro design leaks in new renders with a familiar look
• Google Chrome gets three new experimental AI tools
• Google’s search algorithm sees deepfake porn as helpful content
• Google to settle Chrome Incognito Mode lawsuit — will you get paid?

The post Google is bringing Circle to Search to Pixel 8 users very soon appeared first on KnowTechie.

One of the top complaints about Spotify has been the difficulty in subscribing to and buying things through the app on iPhones.

However, the DMA means that Spotify will finally be able to share details about offers, subscription prices, or even where or how to buy these, giving users an easier experience, the music streaming giant announced.

With the DMA prohibiting the ~30% tax imposed by Apple, Spotify can now communicate directly with users about subscription offerings, product prices, deals, and promotions in the app.

Users can expect clear information on prices for things like Premium subscriptions and audiobooks as well as new products for sale, promotional campaigns, superfan clubs, and upcoming events.

Spotify users in the EU can also look forward to hassle-free in-app payments. They will be able to buy a Premium subscription or an audiobook, as well as upgrade from an individual to a Duo or Family plan to save money with a couple of easy clicks.

With the new rules, Spotify can now give artists and authors increased exposure to new audiences and help them build a fandom of listeners and audiobook fans.

This is one of the first moves that will put a stop to Apple’s overcontrolling tendencies when it comes to apps installed on its devices.

Spotify decided to stop using Apple’s in-app payment system after a 30% fee was introduced for all purchases, which led to Apple introducing regulations about what commercial information can and cannot be shared within apps.

The European Union will be enforcing its Digital Markets Act starting March 7th, 2024, preventing large digital platforms from abusing market power.

As the date approaches, it seems that Apple is planning to split its App Store to comply with the DMA.

Unfortunately, Spotify users who live in other areas have more waiting to do since similar legislation is only in the works in a handful of countries.

If you’re not in the EU and want an alternative to Spotify, we’ve got you covered with a comprehensive list of the best music streaming services.

Have any thoughts on this? Drop us a line below in the comments, or carry the discussion to our Twitter or Facebook.

Editors’ Recommendations:

• Netflix hints at future price increases in shareholder letter
• The Prox PRD is the perfect solution for forgetful phone users
• New Tesla update promises a human-like driving experience
• Elon Musk just gave Twitter Blue subscribers the option to call you

The post Spotify to bring back in-app payments for iOS users in the EU appeared first on KnowTechie.

The phone offers great battery life, a large 6.82-inch, 1440p resolution display, and a triple-camera setup with a main 50-megapixel sensor, a 48-megapixel ultrawide, and a 64-megapixel telephoto with a 3x optical zoom.

Notably, the OnePlus 12 also includes wireless charging support, an improvement on its predecessor, the OnePlus 11. The smartphone is built around a Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 with a Trinity Engine software and a vapor chamber-based cooling system.

OnePlus 12R becomes first R-series model to go global

Additionally, OnePlus launched the lower-end OnePlus 12R alongside the OnePlus 12, marking the first time that the R-series device has been released outside of China and India.

The 12R features a Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 processor, IP64-rated dust and water resistance, and a 5,500mAh battery, among other features.

The phone has a slightly lower-specification camera configuration, consisting of a 50-megapixel main and eight-megapixel ultrawide, and a two-megapixel macro camera. The phone comes in blue and gray color options and will start at $499.99 in the US, as stated in the company’s press release.

OnePlus is also launching its third-generation true wireless earbuds, the OnePlus Buds 3, with an open sale on February 5th in the US. The earbuds include active noise cancellation, which will adjust to the wearer’s ear canal, and multipoint support for use with multiple devices.

They also feature sweat resistance and an IP55 rating, with a battery life of up to 6.5 hours with ANC on or up to 10 hours with it turned off, rising to 28 and 44 hours, respectively, when combined with the earbud case. The earbuds will cost $99.99 in the US.

Have any thoughts on this? Drop us a line below in the comments, or carry the discussion to our Twitter or Facebook.

Editors’ Recommendations:

• Review: OnePlus Open
• OnePlus 12 to get a wood finish back like the first OnePlus phone
• Google Pixel 9 Pro design leaks in new renders with a familiar look
• Galaxy S24 series gets a seven-year Android update promise

The post OnePlus 12 and 12R make global debut; to hit US stores in February appeared first on KnowTechie.

According to the newly-leaked renders, the upcoming smartphone by the search engine giant will feature a circa 6.5-inch flat display with a centered punch-hole cutout for the front-facing camera.

The renders also confirm that Google Pixel 9 Pro will flaunt thin bezels on all four sides of the display, making for a sleek and modern design.

Google going the Apple and Samsung way with Pixel 9 Pro

OnLeaks suggests that the flagship smartphone will sport a flat frame with the power button and volume rockers on the right side of the device. The overall design is similar to what we’ve seen on the iPhone, and more recently, the Samsung Galaxy S24 series.

The left side of the device will remain clean, except for the antenna markings. The bottom of the device will feature a USB Type-C port, speaker grille, and SIM card tray.

In terms of measurements, the Google Pixel 9 Pro will reportedly measure 162.7 x 76.6 x 8.5 mm. The camera bump will push that area’s thickness to 12mm. The smartphone will also have an mmWave antenna cover and a microphone on top.

While both the Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro have a microphone on the top area, only the Verizon-version of the Pixel 8 Pro has the mmWave antenna.

But what caught our attention the most was the rumored refreshing design upgrade for the rear cameras. The leaked renders indicate that Google might introduce a new triple-camera setup that will feature a telephoto sensor, along with the standard wide-angle camera sensor.

The large camera island suggests that the smartphone might support variable aperture, making it one of the most sought-after smartphones for photography enthusiasts.

As of now, nothing is official because we still have many months to go before the release of the new Pixel 9 line. However, with the recent leaks and rumors, we can undoubtedly say that the Google Pixel 9 Pro is one of the most eagerly awaited flagship smartphones of the year.

Until then, however, we’re still hoping to get the Google Pixel 8A this spring.

Have any thoughts on this? Drop us a line below in the comments, or carry the discussion to our Twitter or Facebook.

Editors’ Recommendations:

• New Google Pixel 8A render gives us the best look at the phone yet
• Google Pixel 8A dummy unit gives a close look at the phone’s design
• Galaxy S24 series gets a seven-year Android update promise
• Wi-Fi, RAM, and modem upgrades rumored for iPhone 16 series

The post Google Pixel 9 Pro design leaks in new renders with a familiar look appeared first on KnowTechie.

Three new features will be introduced, including a tab organizer that suggests ways to group open tabs by topic, a text editor that can help draft text for reviews and social media posts and customizable themes generated by AI.

All of these features are experimental and must be enabled through the settings menu by turning on the “Experimental AI” toggle, Google notes in a blog post.

What new features is Google Chrome getting?

The Tab Organizer feature is designed to make managing multitasking simple. Chrome will suggest and create tab groups based on open tabs, which can be particularly helpful when working on several things at the same time.

For instance, when planning a trip, researching and shopping. Let’s be honest, here – we all have too many tabs open at any given moment.

The AI theme creator aims to make browser customization effortless. Users can generate custom themes based on a chosen subject, mood, visual style, and color.

Finally, the AI writing assistant uses machine learning power to help users write with more confidence on the web. The tool will help users craft well-written reviews, RSVPs, or inquiries about specific topics.

To try out these new features, follow these steps:

1. Sign into Chrome.
2. Click on the three-dot menu and navigate to Settings.
3. Go to the Experimental AI page.
4. Test out the new features.

In the future, Google intends to integrate its Gemini model, other AI tools, as well as its Bard assistant into Chrome. It’s going to be interesting to see how this will change the browser and how users will learn to interact with AI.

If successful, these AI-powered features could improve users’ web experiences. On one hand, the text editor, for instance, can be helpful for people to find their words better, but AI-generated content is far from perfect or error-free.

Have any thoughts on this? Drop us a line below in the comments, or carry the discussion to our Twitter or Facebook.

Editors’ Recommendations:

• You can now create AI images directly from Google’s search bar
• How to access Google Bard
• Google Assistant with Bard may first come to Pixel 8, Galaxy S24
• Google Podcasts is going lights out – all hail YouTube Music

The post Google Chrome gets three new experimental AI tools appeared first on KnowTechie.

The multi-year deal also includes WWE’s other highly-rated shows, SmackDown and NXT, as well as its Premium Live Events. The streaming service is gearing up to face the competition in live sports, with competitors like Apple TV Plus already in the arena.

This long-term partnership further expands the reach of WWE’s shows and events, bringing weekly live appointment viewing to Netflix’s global audience. The WWE library is currently available on Peacock.

Netflix enters live sports streaming with a 10-year deal

Variety reports that the streaming service will pay $500 million per year for rights to Monday Night Raw, bringing the total up to $5 billion for the next 10 years. We’re hopeful this won’t mean another price hike for Netflix subscribers, but that seems unlikely.

“We are excited to have WWE Raw, with its passionate multigenerational fan base, on Netflix,” said Bela Bajaria, Chief Content Officer of the streaming service, in a press release. “By combining our reach and fandom with WWE, we’ll be able to deliver more joy and value for their audiences and our members.”

The show, which is currently the number one show on the USA Network, brings in 17.5 million unique viewers annually across its 52-week run. Raw has launched many iconic careers in sports entertainment, including John Cena and Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson.

Mark Shapiro, TKO President and COO, said in a statement:

This deal is transformative. It marries the can’t-miss WWE product with Netflix’s extraordinary global reach and locks in significant and predictable economics for many years. Our partnership fundamentally alters and strengthens the media landscape, dramatically expands the reach of WWE, and brings weekly live appointment viewing to Netflix.

Raw has been on linear television for over 31 years, making it a significant shift for the company that has been a staple for sports entertainment.

Have any thoughts on this? Drop us a line below in the comments, or carry the discussion to our Twitter or Facebook.

Editors’ Recommendations:

• T-Mobile demotes free “Netflix on Us” perk to the ad-supported tier
• Prime Video & Netflix neck-and-neck in latest streaming report
• Netflix expands its gaming library with the Grand Theft Auto Trilogy
• Netflix offers downloads to its ad-tier subscribers

The post Netflix signs $5 billion streaming deal for WWE Raw appeared first on KnowTechie.

The third-generation Echo Show 8 launched with a price tag of $149.99, but today’s deal offers it at an incredibly low price of $89.99.

That makes the Echo Show 8 a solid 40% cheaper than it was last week, which is something we can only celebrate. As cool as Echo products are, we’re all waiting to get them on sale, right?

All-New Echo Show 8 (3rd Gen)

$149.99 $89.99

The new Echo Show 8 has better audio playback, a centered camera for better video calls, and adaptive content that senses if someone is nearby and changes the display contents to suit.

What We Like:

• Great speaker that adjusts audio output based on room acoustics
• Smart Home compatibility
• Fast processor and responsive screen

Check Availability

KnowTechie is supported by its audience, so if you buy something through our links, we may get a small share of the sale.

01/25/2024 11:46 am GMT

The 2023 model of the Echo Show 8 still has the same compact design, but it’s greatly improved over the previous model.

For starters, this one has a faster processor, which means that it’s going to respond faster to any commands you send its way. Even the display is more responsive when you scroll through menus or use apps.

That same processor will also help your new Echo Show 8 (because you’re getting one, right?) process your voice commands better and control your smart home devices more quickly and reliably. So when you say “Alexa, ask Jeeves to start vacuuming,” your robovac will actually leave the station and start a cleaning job.

If you have any smart security cameras or a video doorbell that are compatible with Alexa, you can also set them up so you can check out the footage straight on the Echo Show 8 screen, something that can be super convenient.

All-New Echo Show 8 (3rd Gen)

$149.99 $89.99

The new Echo Show 8 has better audio playback, a centered camera for better video calls, and adaptive content that senses if someone is nearby and changes the display contents to suit.

Check Availability

KnowTechie is supported by its audience, so if you buy something through our links, we may get a small share of the sale.

01/25/2024 11:46 am GMT

Editors’ Recommendations:

Get an Apple Watch SE (2nd gen) under $200 with this stellar deal

Target is hosting a massive Super Bowl sale on 4K TVs

This fantastic Bose Smart Soundbar 600 is $100 off right now

Just a heads up, if you buy something through our links, we may get a small share of the sale. It’s one of the ways we keep the lights on here. Click here for more.

The post The new Echo Show 8 is now $90, lowest price yet appeared first on KnowTechie.