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  • Google’s GenAI is Too Impressive

    Google’s GenAI is Too Impressive

    So, I was scrolling through Instagram the other day and came across some mind-blowing images showing how powerful Google’s Generative AI is on the new Pixel 9. These images were posted by The Verge, and I have to say, they stopped me in my tracks. They made it clear that Google’s Magic Editor is next-level stuff, and I couldn’t wait to dig deeper.

    Take a look at the side-by-side image in the thumbnail. On the left, you’ve got an ordinary, quiet street, nothing exciting. But on the right? It’s been completely transformed into the aftermath of a dramatic car crash, complete with wrecked vehicles and scattered debris. This transformation was done with just a few taps using Google’s Magic Editor on the Pixel 9. It’s crazy how much of a difference this AI-powered tool can make, and it has the potential to change the way we think about editing photos.

    What is Generative AI?

    First things first, let’s quickly break down what Generative AI is. In simple terms, Generative AI is a type of artificial intelligence that can create new content based on patterns it’s learned from existing data. This includes everything from text to art, and of course, photos. In the case of Google’s Pixel 9, it means you can take a regular image and transform it in all sorts of ways, like adding objects, changing the lighting, or, as in the thumbnail, turning an empty street into a scene from a movie. The AI fills in the blanks in a way that looks natural and believable.

    Now if you don’t understand it, let’s put it this way. Imagine you’re drawing, but instead of doing it yourself, you tell an incredibly talented robot what you want, and it just gets it right every time. You ask for a car crash in a peaceful scene? Boom, the robot adds a perfect one, and it looks like it was always there. *chuckles. I’m great at explaining 😉

    Why Google’s Pixel 9 GenAI is a Game-Changer

    I’ve seen and tried my fair share of mobile built-in editing tools over the years, but what Google is doing with the Pixel 9’s Magic Editor takes things to a whole new level. From the examples I found on Instagram, it’s clear that this isn’t just about small tweaks to brightness or filters. Google’s Generative AI can completely reshape your photos, adding new objects or even reimagining entire environments, all in a few quick steps.

    Take the thumbnail again: in the original shot, it’s just a calm, quiet street. But the edited version tells a whole different story, turning that peaceful scene into something intense, the aftermath of a crash. And the most mind-blowing part? It’s not just a quick Photoshop job, the AI understands context. It knew how to position the vehicles and add debris in a way that matches the scene perfectly. You could easily mistake the edited version for a real photo of a car accident.

    Why Google’s Magic Editor is So Impressive

    Here’s a breakdown of what makes Google’s Magic Editor such a banger:

    1. AI-Powered Scene Editing: The Pixel 9’s Generative AI goes beyond just touching up photos. You can change the story of an image, like in the crash scene example. The AI doesn’t just plop objects in your photo, it seamlessly integrates them into the environment, so it feels like they were always there.
    2. Add or Remove Objects with Ease: One of the coolest features is the ability to add or remove objects at will. Let’s say you want to erase a random person from your vacation shot or add something like a rainbow to your landscape pic. Done. And when you remove something, the AI fills in the background so naturally that you’d never know anything was missing.
    3. Quick Edits, Big Changes: Traditional editing software can take forever to get right, especially if you’re not a pro. But with the Magic Editor, it seems like you can make massive changes in a matter of seconds. Just look at the street scene example, what would take hours in Photoshop was done in a few taps with AI.
    4. Super Easy to Use: The best part? You don’t need to be a tech guru to make these changes. From what I’ve seen in the demos and examples, Google’s Magic Editor is intuitive and user-friendly. It’s perfect for people like me who love to edit photos but don’t have the time or skills to mess with complicated software.
    5. Natural, Realistic Results: One thing that stands out is how realistic the edits look. Sometimes, with other tools, you can tell when a photo’s been altered, the lighting’s off, or the objects don’t quite blend in. But Google’s Generative AI gets it right. The crash scene looks believable as if the wrecked car and debris were there.

    The Future of GenAI

    While photo editing is the first thing that comes to mind when you think about Generative AI, its potential goes way beyond that. Google’s Generative AI could soon be applied to video editing, content creation, and even productivity tools. Imagine being able to edit videos, create presentations, or generate marketing visuals all from your phone, without needing to rely on heavy software. The possibilities are huge.

    If you want to stay updated on the latest in tech, be sure to subscribe to the Tino Talks Tech newsletter and enable notifications. Here are more examples by The Verge:

  • No More Random Repair Shop Visits? Meet CircuitCure

    No More Random Repair Shop Visits? Meet CircuitCure

    Finding reliable solutions for computer problems can be a challenge, especially if you’re not exactly a tech ‘guru’. Now some of these tech ‘gurus’ might even extort your hard-earned cash from you for simple tasks, one guy recognised the gap and decided to fill it. Meet CircuitCure. CircuitCure steps in as a unique platform aiming to bridge the gap between DIY troubleshooting and professional repair services. And yes, it’s still growing, but it offers some interesting features that make it stand out.

    Key Features

    Device Diagnostics

    CircuitCure’s device diagnostics feature is pretty interesting. Typically, you’d expect a tool like this to automatically scan your system and give you all the necessary details. However, due to international data protection laws, CircuitCure can’t do that. Instead, you have to run your device’s built-in diagnostics tool first. The site then reads the data from that tool, but you’ll still need to manually input some information from the task manager to complete the diagnostic process and give you recommendations afterwards. It’s not as seamless as one might hope, but it’s a necessary compromise to keep your data safe and secure.

    Technician Locator

    For those times when a DIY fix just won’t cut it, CircuitCure offers a Technician Locator. This feature connects you with technicians who have signed up on the site. Right now, the pool of available technicians is relatively small, but it’s a promising feature that could save you a lot of time searching for help when things go wrong.

    Learning Hub

    CircuitCure isn’t just about fixing problems, it’s also about learning. The Learning Hub is a highly resource packed hub with interactive tutorials, quizzes, certifications, and even multimedia content. Whether you’re looking to solve a specific issue or just want to expand your technical knowledge, this hub offers a wealth of information to help you out.

    Simple Solutions for Non-Techies

    One of the best things about CircuitCure is that it doesn’t just cater to tech experts. It also offers simple solutions for common problems, tailored for those who might not be as comfortable around computers. You describe the issue you’re facing, and the platform guides you through potential fixes. This is perfect for anyone who needs a quick and easy solution without getting bogged down in technical details.

    Conclusion

    CircuitCure isn’t perfect yet, it still needs you as a user or as a technician for the circuit to be complete. It’s a practical tool that’s still growing but already shows a lot of potential. So whether you’re looking to fix a problem yourself, find a technician, or learn more about your device, CircuitCure has something to offer.

    P.S. If you found this article helpful, don’t forget to subscribe to the Tino Talks Tech newsletter for more tech tips and updates!

  • The CMF Watch Pro 2: The Best Budget Smartwatch?

    The CMF Watch Pro 2: The Best Budget Smartwatch?

    It’s high time we talked about this watch, in my previous article I just went on and on about the phone, but here we are. You’ve probably heard about the CMF Watch Pro 2, a new contender in the smartwatch arena that’s been making waves, and if you know Nothing that well, you’d know that the watch really made a lot of waves. Now, first things first. I don’t actually have the device in my hands. But that doesn’t mean we can’t look at what makes this smartwatch an intriguing option. Based on research and the specs available, here’s my take on the CMF Watch Pro 2.

    Key Selling Points

    Let’s start with what makes the CMF Watch 2 Pro stand out. First, the design is a real eye-catcher. It comes with interchangeable bezels, which adds a lot of customization potential to the mix. Whether you want a Dark Grey Curved Bezel or an Ash Grey Flat Bezel, this watch has got you covered. Plus, you can swap out the straps, too, with options ranging from liquid silicone to leather, depending on your style.

    Now, if you’re thinking this bezel swapping thing is revolutionary, well. Xiaomi already did this with their S3 watch. That said, Nothing never claimed to be the first or the only one with this feature, it’s just another cool option for those who love a bit of flair in their wearable tech. But it’s worth noting so you don’t get caught up in the hype of this being something entirely new to the smartwatch scene.

    The Display & UI

    On the display front, the CMF Watch Pro 2 sports a 1.32’’ AMOLED Display with a resolution of 466 x 466 pixels at 353 PPI. With 620 nits peak brightness and a smooth 60 fps refresh rate, it generally offers sharp, vibrant colours whether you’re checking notifications or tracking your fitness. Plus, the auto-brightness feature ensures you won’t be squinting at your wrist in broad daylight.

    But let’s talk about the user interface. The CMF Watch runs on a proprietary OS(just like the previous gen), which is a bit of a bummer if you’re hoping for the flexibility of something like Wear OS. However, at the price point this watch is targeting, it’s a trade-off that makes sense. You get a streamlined experience, with over 100+ signature watch faces, including dynamic and interactive options, and an array of smart features that should meet most users’ needs.

    Fitness & Health Tracking

    For the fitness buffs out there, the CMF Watch Two Pro comes equipped with a Smart Movement Algorithm and supports 120 sports modes with 5 smart recognition activities. You can set training goals, monitor your heart rate, and even track your menstrual cycle. The Active Score feature and 24-hour heart rate/SpO₂ monitoring are also on board, making it a solid companion for keeping tabs on your health.

    One standout feature is the battery life. With a 305 mAh battery, the watch claims to offer 11 days of typical use and up to 45.8 days in power-saving mode. That’s impressive, especially for those who don’t want to be tethered to a charger every night.

    Final Thoughts

    As for pricing, the CMF Watch Pro 2 is positioned as a budget-friendly option in the smartwatch market for only £69 here in the UK, which makes its feature set even more appealing.

    To wrap it up, while I can’t give you a hands-on verdict, the CMF Watch Pro 2 seems to be a solid contender in the budget smartwatch category. It’s got the looks, the features, and the price tag that could make it a popular choice for those not wanting to break the bank. And hey, if you’re into customizing your watch’s appearance, the bezel-swapping capability is just the cherry on top.

  • What Happened to Tino Talks Tech?

    What Happened to Tino Talks Tech?

    The title feels more like a thirst trap, but anyways, if you’ve been wondering where I’ve been lately, you’re not alone, I’ve also been wondering the same. So you might have noticed a bit of silence from my end over the past week or weeks. And no, I didn’t fall into a black hole, and no, I wasn’t abducted by aliens (although that would make a great excuse, wouldn’t it?).

    So let’s get one thing straight I have no valid reason for not posting, and I decided to write a whole article about it, haha. I’d love to tell you that I’ve been busy scaling Mount Everest or coding the next big social media platform. The reality? Well to be honest, content is there, I got the ideas, but maybe I’ve just been too lazy to write them. Yep, you heard it right—sometimes the biggest challenge is getting myself to stop playing games and actually get some writing done. Who knew?

    The Long-Term Inconsistency

    Now, let’s address the elephant in the room: my inconsistency with posting. Trust me, I get it. I used to blurt out articles faster than a high-speed internet connection, but things have changed. You see, I’m not just working on Tino Talks Tech only anymore. I now write on another blog called IBZim, and if that wasn’t enough, I’m also in the middle of planning a podcast called ZimTechTalk. So, yeah, my plate is pretty full right now and that’s not even counting my personal life, hobbies, and school.

    Let’s just say my day could start with good intentions of writing an article, but before I know it, I’m knee-deep in a gaming session that somehow takes priority over everything else. Time management? Still working on it.

    But here’s the thing I’m now committed to this blog, and I’m committed to you, my readers. While I can’t promise to write more than five articles a week like I used to, but I can guarantee that I’ll be writing four articles on this blog every week. That’s a promise. It might not be as much as before, but it’s all about quality over quantity, right?

    Bye bye AI Blog

    Now, for some bittersweet news: I’m taking down my AI blog. I launched it back in April, only to take it down during a web hosting shuffle, and then got it back up again in July. But the fact is, I couldn’t find enough time to dedicate to it amidst all my other commitments. As much as I love discovering what AI can do, it’s just not feasible right now. But our AI journey doesn’t end here. I’ll still be covering AI-related topics right here on Tino Talks Tech.

    Thank you for sticking with me throughout, and I promise that while my schedule might be packed, my passion for tech and for sharing it with you remains as strong as ever.

    P.S. Don’t forget to allow notifications or subscribe to the newsletter so you never miss an update. Trust me, you’ll want to be in the loop!

  • Google’s Gemini Approach is Wild

    Google’s Gemini Approach is Wild

    Google’s Gemini AI has recently rolled out some impressive updates at the Made by Google event yesterday, and they’re hard to ignore. One of the mainstream features is Gemini Live, a version designed to provide natural, hands-free conversations with your device, it’s nothing new though. It’s meant to make your digital interactions feel more like talking to a friend, with multiple voice options, just like the assistant. This new AI is also more deeply integrated into Android, offering smarter, context aware assistance and faster response times across various Google apps like Tasks, Keep and YouTube Music.

    But before you get too excited like I did when I was watching the keynote, here’s a bit of a reality check: to enjoy Gemini Live, you’ll need to subscribe to Gemini Advanced, the paid version of Gemini. For those of us who’ve been enjoying the Google Assistant for free, this feels a bit like being told that the air we breathe is now subscription-based. Oh and during the live demo, Gemini failed twice before they had to switch devices and btw they were using Galaxy 24 Ultras, so this doesn’t look good for both Google and Samsung.

    So, Google, here’s the deal if you keep putting basic features behind a paywall, I might just switch to the other side.

    P.S. Subscribe to the Tino Talks Tech newsletter for more tech talk especially if you want to see whether I actually leap to the other side, I’m not tho! 😅

  • NVIDIA’s GeForce Now: Is it All We Need Now?

    NVIDIA’s GeForce Now: Is it All We Need Now?

    Today, I’m looking at NVIDIA’s GeForce Now, a cloud gaming service that aims to reshape how we play games and yes, it’s similar to that from Xbox. In my article about Xbox Cloud Gaming, I highlighted how it’s revolutionizing gaming for those without consoles or high-end PCs. Now, let’s see how GeForce Now compares.

    What is NVIDIA’s GeForce Now?

    NVIDIA’s GeForce Now is a cloud gaming platform that allows you to stream games you own from various digital storefronts, which are Steam, Epic Games Store, Ubisoft Connect, and Xbox. Unlike traditional gaming setups that require high end hardware, GeForce Now uses NVIDIA’s powerful servers to deliver high quality gaming experiences directly to your device. Whether you’re using a Windows PC, Mac, smartphone, or tablet, as long as you have a stable internet connection, you’re ready to game. I hate to take us back a little but the Xbox Cloud Gaming is now available on Amazon Fire sticks, crazy right? Anyways back to our main topic.

    Game Selection and Flexibility

    One of the standout features of the GeForce Now is its extensive game library. Unlike Xbox Cloud Gaming, which offers a curated selection of Xbox titles, GeForce Now allows you to access your existing game libraries from multiple platforms. This means you can play the games you already own without any additional purchases. The flexibility to connect various accounts and play your existing games in one place is a massive W.

    In my Xbox Cloud Gaming article, I mentioned how Xbox’s service offers console-quality gaming without needing the actual hardware. Similarly, GeForce Now provides high-quality gaming without powerful local hardware, allowing seamless gameplay across devices.

    Pricing and Accessibility

    NVIDIA’s GeForce Now offers both free and paid membership options. The free tier allows you to play games with some limitations, such as shorter session lengths and access to standard servers, oh and you also watch ads while you’re in queue to play your game, but hey, it’s nothing too bad. The paid membership, GeForce Now Priority (there’s also Ultimate but we won’t talk about it for now), provides extended session lengths, priority access to premium servers, and support for RTX graphics features, which enhance the gaming experience with ray tracing and AI-powered DLSS technology. This tiered approach makes GeForce Now accessible to a broader audience, allowing gamers to choose the plan that best fits their needs and budget, and the GeForce Now Priority costs £9.99 and it’s 50% off when you purchase for the first time.

    Play Anywhere, Anytime

    In my Xbox Cloud Gaming article, I gave great emphasis on the flexibility of playing on various devices, from smartphones to smart TVs and now the fire stick. GeForce Now’s cloud-based nature means you can also play your favourite games anywhere, anytime, without the need for powerful local hardware. Plus, the service supports various controllers, making it easy to find a setup that works for you.

    Pros and Cons

    Pros:

    • Extensive Game Library: Access to a wide range of games from various platforms without additional purchases.
    • Free and Paid Options: Flexibility to choose between a free tier or a premium experience.
    • Cross-Platform Access: Play games across multiple devices, from PCs to smartphones.
    • Powerful Graphics: Support for RTX graphics with ray tracing and DLSS for enhanced visuals (with paid memberships).
    • Account Integration: Connect multiple accounts and have all your games in one place.

    Cons:

    • Internet Dependency: Requires a fast and stable internet connection for optimal performance just like the Xbox Cloud Gaming.
    • Limited Free Tier: Free membership comes with limitations such as shorter session lengths.
    • Game Availability: Not all games are supported on GeForce Now.
    • Occasional Wait Times: Free users might experience wait times during peak hours.

    Conclusion

    NVIDIA’s GeForce Now is an excellent option for gamers looking for flexibility and access to their existing game libraries across multiple devices. Its ability to integrate games from various platforms, paired with powerful streaming technology, makes it a compelling choice for many. However, the reliance on a stable internet connection and the cost of premium features might be a consideration for some.

    What do you think? Share your thoughts in the comments below. And don’t forget to subscribe to the Tino Talks Tech newsletter for more tech insights. Enable notifications to stay updated with the latest posts from Tino Talks Tech!

  • IP Ratings Explained

    IP Ratings Explained

    As our devices become more advanced, they are also being used in environments that pose risks to their operation, such as exposure to dust, water, and other environmental factors. Now to address these challenges, manufacturers often provide an IP rating, which stands for Ingress Protection or International Protection. This rating gives consumers and professionals an idea of how well-protected a device is against the intrusion of solid objects and liquids. Now, what do these Ingress Protection thingys mean? Let’s find out.

    What Does IP Rating Mean?

    An IP rating consists of the letters “IP” followed by two digits. Each digit represents a level of protection against solid objects and liquids, respectively. The standard used to define these ratings is the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) 60529 standard. Here’s how to decode an IP rating:

    • First Digit (Solids Protection): This digit ranges from 0 to 6 and indicates the level of protection against solid particles like dust, sand, and dirt.
    • Second Digit (Liquids Protection): This digit ranges from 0 to 9 and indicates the level of protection against moisture and liquids, such as water.

    For example, a device with an IP68 rating is protected against the ingress of dust (6) and can withstand immersion in water beyond 1 meter (8).

    Breakdown of IP Ratings

    First Digit: Protection Against Solids

    1. IP0X: No protection against contact and ingress of objects.
    2. IP1X: Protection against objects larger than 50mm (e.g., accidental touch by hands).
    3. IP2X: Protection against objects larger than 12.5mm (e.g., fingers).
    4. IP3X: Protection against objects larger than 2.5mm (e.g., tools, thick wires).
    5. IP4X: Protection against objects larger than 1mm (e.g., wires, screws).
    6. IP5X: Dust-protected; limited ingress of dust permitted, but not enough to interfere with equipment operation.
    7. IP6X: Dust-tight; complete protection against dust ingress.

    Second Digit: Protection Against Liquids

    1. IPX0: No protection against water.
    2. IPX1: Protection against vertically dripping water (e.g., condensation).
    3. IPX2: Protection against vertically dripping water when the device is tilted up to 15°.
    4. IPX3: Protection against spraying water at an angle up to 60° from the vertical.
    5. IPX4: Protection against splashing water from any direction.
    6. IPX5: Protection against water jets from any direction.
    7. IPX6: Protection against powerful water jets from any direction.
    8. IPX7: Protection against temporary immersion in water (up to 1 meter for 30 minutes).
    9. IPX8: Protection against continuous immersion in water (beyond 1 meter, conditions specified by the manufacturer).
    10. IPX9: Protection against high-pressure, high-temperature water jets (e.g., steam cleaning).

    Special Cases and Variations

    Sometimes, an “X” is used in place of a digit to indicate that the product has not been tested for that protection level. For instance, IPX4 means the device is protected against splashing water, but no specific testing for dust protection was conducted.

    Additionally, certain products might feature supplementary letters, such as:

    • K: Protection against high-pressure and high-temperature water jets.
    • F: Oil-resistant.
    • H: high-voltage equipment.
    • Motion during water test.

    Explanation for 5 year olds

    IP ratings help you know how well a device can resist dust and water. The first number after “IP” tells you about protection from solids (like dust), and the second number tells you about liquids (like water). For example, IP68 means dust can’t get in at all, and it can handle being submerged in water.

    • IP68: Dustproof and waterproof, suitable for underwater use.
    • IP55: Some dust protection and safety from water jets.
    • IPX4: No dust testing, but safe from splashing water.

    This guide ensures you pick gadgets that can withstand the environment they’ll be in.

    Conclusion

    IP ratings act as a shield for electronic devices, protecting them from dust and water. Whether you need a phone that can withstand a rainstorm or equipment that can handle tough conditions, understanding these ratings will help you choose the perfect product for your needs. One thing your devices won’t be safe from is fire though, we’d have to wait for the third digit to get that 🙂

    Stay updated on the latest in technology by subscribing to the Tino Talks Tech newsletter. Don’t forget to allow notifications for more insights into tech topics!

  • Google Makes You Choose Between Assistant and Gemini

    Google Makes You Choose Between Assistant and Gemini

    So once again we have Google introducing something new, something shiny and it’s called Gemini. But there’s a cap, instead of rolling this out as an upgrade to our beloved Google Assistant, they’ve decided to make it a separate thing. Now, we’ve got a choice to make, and frankly, it’s a hard decision to make.

    Google’s Split Decision

    I’ve been using Google Assistant since birth, well maybe not but you get the point. It wakes me up, tells me the weather, and even handles the odd Google search or two. It’s even built into my headphones. It’s like the reliable friend who’s always there when you need them. Now we have Gemini, the new kid on the block promising smarter conversations and a bit more pizzazz with handling complex tasks.

    Here’s my situation:

    • Google Assistant: It’s like an old friend. Reliable, predictable, and deeply woven into all the Google stuff I use every day. It’s comfy and familiar.
    • Gemini: This one’s meant to be cutting-edge with better chat abilities. Cool, yes, but also a tad intimidating? Oh and there are lots of compromises to make here, don’t get me started with those.

    Why Not Just One Super Assistant?

    Honestly, I can’t help but wonder why Google didn’t just merge Gemini into Google Assistant. Wouldn’t it be smoother to have one super assistant that gets better over time rather than choosing between old reliable and the new experiment? Here’s why this split feels a bit off:

    1. No More Juggling: Seriously, who wants to switch between two assistants? I’d love one assistant that just gets all the new updates and keeps getting smarter.
    2. Learning Curve: Learning how to use a new assistant sounds like a chore. I’ve got enough on my plate already without adding “figure out Gemini” to the list.
    3. Efficiency: Combining the cool new features of Gemini with the established reliability of Google Assistant seems like the smarter move. Why reinvent the wheel?

    I’m Sticking With What Works… For Now

    For now, I’m sticking with Google Assistant. It does everything I need, and well, I’m used to it. Unless Gemini blows my socks off or they decide to merge it with Assistant (please do!), I don’t see a reason to switch.

    Conclusion: Keep It Simple, Google

    This whole scenario feels like Google might be complicating things unnecessarily. We don’t need two assistants; we need one that’s always evolving and adapting. Maybe it’s time for Google to consider not just what’s technologically possible, but also what’s genuinely useful for us, the users.

  • Microsoft Pays You to Use Bing: Why Else Would You?

    Microsoft Pays You to Use Bing: Why Else Would You?

    Google reigns supreme, that’s nothing new. It’s the beloved first choice for billions around the globe. But wait, there’s another contender trying its hardest to woo you over—Microsoft’s Bing. Yes, Bing, the one you forgot existed.

    Microsoft Rewards: The Desperate Bribe You’ve Been Waiting For

    Microsoft Rewards is the brilliant strategy Microsoft devised to make you want to use Bing. It’s a loyalty program that showers you with points for using Bing instead of Google. These points can be redeemed for gift cards, sweepstakes entries, and even donations to charity. Because nothing says, “We believe in our product,” quite like paying people to use it, right?

    Why Does Microsoft Have to Pay People to Use Bing?

    Here are a few reasons why Microsoft thought bribery was the best way forward:

    1. The Monopoly of Google:

    Let’s face it, when you think of searching for anything, your brain automatically types Google.com and for most of us, Google is our default search engine. It’s become a reflex, like breathing. Microsoft knew that to break this habit, they had to offer a little more.

    1. Bing’s Lack of Appeal:

      Despite Microsoft’s best efforts, Bing hasn’t captured the hearts and minds of internet users. Maybe it’s the uninspired logo or the not-quite-Google results that keep people away. Whatever it is, Microsoft decided that the only way to lure you in was through your wallet.

      Conclusion

      Microsoft Rewards is an amusing yet desperate attempt to get you to use Bing. But hey, if you don’t mind clicking through an unfamiliar interface for some extra pocket change, then why not give it a shot? After all, who doesn’t love getting paid to do something they weren’t going to do anyway? Oh and they also pay you to use other services from them not just Bing, I had almost forgotten that, silly me…

      So go ahead, give Bing a try. Maybe you’ll find it’s not so bad after all—or maybe you’ll just enjoy the rewards while going back to Googling. Either way, it’s nice to know that Microsoft is willing to pay for your loyalty, even if it’s only temporary.

    1. SoundID: The Audio App You Didn’t Know You Needed

      SoundID: The Audio App You Didn’t Know You Needed

      We’ve seen countless ways to tweak and refine your listening experience, that’s not something new, and if you’re someone who values crisp, clear, and customized sound, you’re probably familiar with equalizers. You may even rely on the built-in EQ settings of your headphones or your phone’s built-in EQ, but there’s an app that takes sound personalisation to a whole new level: SoundID.

      P.S: This isn’t a sponsored article; I’m just genuinely excited about this app because it has changed the way I listen to music. Let me tell you why SoundID is a game-changer.

      What is SoundID?

      SoundID is an app developed by Sonarworks, a company known for its professional-grade audio calibration software used in music studios worldwide. SoundID takes that professional expertise and puts it in the palm of your hand, offering a personalized audio experience tailored specifically to your hearing profile and preferences. The app works with a wide range of headphones, enhancing your audio experience regardless of the brand.

      How Does SoundID Work?

      SoundID uses cutting-edge tech(well so they say) to create a unique sound profile based on your hearing abilities and personal taste. Here’s how it works:

      1. Personalized Sound Profile: When you first set up SoundID, the app guides you through a series of listening tests. It plays various tones and asks you to choose the ones that sound best to you. This process helps the app understand your unique hearing capabilities.
      2. Sound Customization: Once the app has all this information, it creates a personalized sound profile that adapts the audio output to suit your preferences and hearing profile. You can further fine-tune the sound using the app’s intuitive interface, making adjustments until it’s perfect for your ears.
      3. Compatibility: One of the best features of SoundID is its compatibility. You can use it across a wide range of headphones.

      Features That Set SoundID Apart

      SoundID packs a punch with its impressive array of features that cater to both audiophiles and casual listeners alike. Here are some standout features:

      1. Smart Presets

      SoundID offers smart presets for various music genres and listening environments. Whether you’re listening to rock, jazz, or hip-hop, or if you’re in a quiet room or a noisy café, the app adjusts the sound to suit the situation perfectly.

      2. A/B Testing

      A unique feature of SoundID is its A/B testing capability. This allows you to compare the original sound with the personalized version in real time. It’s a fun way to truly hear the difference the app makes and refine your preferences further.

      3. Intuitive Interface

      The user interface is sleek and straightforward, making it easy for anyone to navigate. Whether you’re a tech-savvy audiophile or a casual listener, you’ll find the app user-friendly and easy to set up.

      4. Regular Updates

      SoundID is constantly updated with new features and improvements. The developers at Sonarworks listen to user feedback and continuously refine the app to offer the best possible audio experience.

      Why SoundID Beats Built-in EQ

      Now, let’s talk about why SoundID is a step above the built-in EQ settings. I have JBL headphones so they come with their own EQ within the app. Now don’t get me wrong, JBL makes fantastic headphones with solid EQ options. However, SoundID takes audio customization to another level with its focus on individual hearing profiles and preferences. Here are a few reasons why I prefer SoundID over JBL’s built-in EQ:

      1. Personalization: While JBL EQ settings offer a range of preset sound profiles, they are still generic. SoundID’s approach is entirely personal, creating a sound profile that’s as unique as your fingerprint.
      2. Flexibility: SoundID’s ability to work across different headphones means you’re not tied to a single brand. You can enjoy your personalized sound whether you’re using JBL, Sony, Bose, or any other headphones.
      3. Continuous Improvement: With regular updates and enhancements, SoundID stays ahead of the curve, adapting to new technologies and user feedback, whereas traditional EQ settings might remain static.

      Final Thoughts

      SoundID is a fantastic app for anyone who values high-quality audio. It offers an unprecedented level of customization and adaptability that enhances your listening experience far beyond what standard EQ settings can provide.

      Remember, this is not a sponsored recommendation. I’m genuinely impressed with how much this app has elevated my audio experience, and I believe it can do the same for you.

      So, why settle for average sound when you can have audio that’s uniquely yours? Download SoundID now!

      Download on the App Store