Sometimes, these products deliver. But other times, they crash and burn in spectacular fashion. Enter the Rabbit R1, a portable computer that’s become a poster child for how not to launch a product.

The Rabbit R1, a voice-controlled AI device that can handle various tasks such as internet searches, music playback, and ordering services like DoorDash and Uber, is set to receive updates addressing user concerns and feedback.

The Rabbit R1, priced at $199, uses its proprietary Large Action Model (LAM) and has been praised for its responsiveness and the breadth of its functionalities.

Nevertheless, some reviewers have underscored certain limitations, such as its dependency on cloud-based services and restrictions on accessing some features. More on that below.

Early adopters have taken to the internet to express their outrage and disappointment with the device. A post on the Rabbit R1 subreddit titled “This thing is such a piece of crap” sums up the general sentiment nicely.

Users are reporting a laundry list of issues, from slow performance to subpar build quality

“I was expecting a premium device given the price, but this thing feels cheap as hell,” wrote one user. “The plastic is flimsy, the screen is meh…it just doesn’t feel solid in the hand at all.”

Others have noted issues with the software, citing bugs, instability, and a general lack of polish. For an Android-based device, this is inexcusable.

“I’ve had apps force close constantly, and sometimes the touchscreen just stops responding,” said another user. “It’s like they rushed this to market without even beta testing it.”

The R1’s battery life has also been called into question. The company promised all-day usage, but many users are finding the battery drains quickly. “I barely get 4 hours of moderate use,” wrote one frustrated owner. And the charging is painfully slow. This thing is less portable than my laptop.”

In response to the backlash, the company issued an OTA software update to address some of the community’s concerns. However, many users feel this is too little and too late.

“I’ve submitted support tickets and gotten nothing but radio silence,” said one user. “It feels like they’ve just moved on to the next product and don’t care about the people who shelled out money for this thing.”

The lack of communication and failure to address issues in a timely manner have eroded trust in the brand, so much so that many are canceling their preorders.

Threads on the Rabbit R1 subreddit titled “Ready for the trash” have garnered numerous responses, with users citing the negative reviews and lack of meaningful communication from the manufacturer as reasons for their decision.

This level of pre-order cancellation is a stark indictment of how poorly the launch has been handled. It’s clear that the manufacturer has failed to meet expectations and that trust in the product and company has been severely damaged.

The Rabbit R1 is a masterclass in how not to launch a product. In their haste to get this thing on shelves, the manufacturer clearly neglected to do even the most basic quality assurance. Now they’re paying the price, with a reputation in tatters and users fleeing in droves.

But of course, there’s always that one person that’s like:

“To the R1 naysayers, Sorry you are disappointed with R1, but ya’ll are the same techies that watched the same video I did when Jesse first introduced it to the world, one user writes.” “And everyone who watched or read anything about it knew it is still in the development stage but ordered it anyway, knowing that it would take awhile to work the “bugs” out. I don’t find a lot of your criticisms valid. The more you cancel your orders, the sooner I’ll be getting my R1!”

I personally wouldn’t be surprised if this was written by someone who works for the company. But the follow-up response is as classic Reddit as you’ll ever get: “I was you a week ago then I got my r1….”

If they want to salvage anything from this dumpster fire, they need to take a hard look in the mirror and rethink their entire approach. In the cutthroat world of portable computing, you can’t afford to halfass it.

To anyone still eyeing the R1, let this be a warning: don’t fall for the marketing fluff. Dig deep, read the reviews, and talk to people who actually use the thing.

Specs are meaningless if the device is a joyless slog to use. You deserve better than some clunky, buggy brick draining your bank account and your patience.

The Rabbit R1 is a stark reminder that at the end of the day, it’s all about delivering on your promises. And on that front, this thing is an epic fail.

The company has a hell of a hill to climb if they want to win back the trust they’ve so spectacularly squandered. We’ll be watching, but for now, there are far better ways to spend your hard-earned cash.

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

Editors’ Recommendations:

• Turn your phone into a telescope with this cool Kickstarter
• Comcast launches NOW prepaid Internet and mobile brand
• New PlayStation 5 Pro leak shows powerful specs
• Apple unveils new iPad Pro with M4 chip and Apple Pencil Pro

Much like Otherweb, we started with a vision to distill boring 2,000-word articles into concise 200-word summaries that delivered the essence without the fluff.

This resonated because I knew then, and still firmly believe, that around 80% of readers don’t want or have the time for long-form content—they lack attention spans. This insight isn’t based on extensive research or science but a decade of observing and understanding reader behaviors.

The Otherweb app, the brainchild of an Austin-based startup led by my friend Alex Fink, is a unique AI-powered news platform. It’s not just another news app but a transformative tool that promises to reshape how we consume news and offer a ‘better way’ to do it.

Otherweb stands out by pledging no clickbait, bias, or ads. Here’s what makes it unique:

Otherweb, with its AI-powered curation and streamlined experience, is your personal news assistant.

It automatically collects articles from across the web every minute and runs them through specialized AI models to generate metadata like summaries, alternative headlines, and content traits. You can try out a web version of their assistant here.

This real-time filtering and hyper-personalization of your news feed, delivered in a clean, distraction-free environment, respects your time and preferences, relieving you from the overwhelming task of sifting through endless overly sensationalized headlines and news articles.

As Fink explains: “We collect articles once per minute, and as soon as they’re parsed, we run them through all our AI models to generate metadata that includes summaries, alt headlines, and various measured traits.”

You can check out a mockup of the clean interface and summarized article format below:

Otherweb Concierge feature uses advanced language models to compose personalized briefings tailored to users’ unique interests. I recommend new users spend 5-10 minutes customizing their settings to get relevant content.

Otherweb actively encourages user input by letting folks vote on articles and provide feedback — shaping the news in a way that genuinely values user voices.

How does Otherweb generate revenue?

While squarely focused on quality content for users, Otherweb plans to monetize through paid tools and services for journalists and publications powered by the same proven AI models. Potential offerings include assisted research, automated draft summarization, and predictive analytics.

Fink tells me Otherweb’s user base skews older, more educated, and represents a healthy mix of political leanings. This means that the app caters to diverse users, from tech-savvy professionals to news enthusiasts. 

User feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, resonating with heavy news consumers and those who had previously tuned out due to the negativity of traditional media. 

On Google Play, the app has earned a 4.0-star rating based on 16 reviews, with users highlighting how Otherweb AI-powered filters help them cut through the noise and protect them from the pervasive clickbait and low-quality content found on many other platforms.

They appreciate how the app allows them to focus on the essential news and insights, without the distractions that often accompany traditional news consumption.

Despite the generally positive reception, Otherweb has faced some criticism. Emerging Tech Brew points out that the app could become overly curated, limiting users’ exposure to diverse viewpoints.

Others have expressed concerns about Otherweb business model’s sustainability, given its commitment to prioritizing information quality over profits (god forbid, right?).

What excites me most is how Otherweb mission aligns perfectly with KnowTechie’s founding goal of simplifying tech news into digestible summaries.

As they continue evolving, their AI-driven, transparent approach is restoring public trust in an industry that desperately needs it. This is the future of how we’ll all consume news efficiently.

Otherweb is available on the App Store, Google Play, and on the web at Otherweb.com

What’s your take on the news these days? Do you plan on using Otherweb for your daily news needs? Drop us a line below in the comments, or carry the discussion to our Twitter or Facebook.

Editors’ Recommendations:

• WhatsApp is adding two new features focused on communities
• Notion’s latest updates unlock a new level of productivity
• iOS 18 to bring improved task management to iPhone
• Safari to get new AI features with iOS 18 and macOS 15

The NOW offerings promise “no contract” options at “affordable” prices, but a closer look raises questions about the company’s true motives and how much consumers will really benefit.

According to Bill Connors, President of Connectivity and Platforms at Comcast, “NOW is a simple, reliable, and low-cost way for people to get Internet and Mobile service on their own terms.”

However, the timing of this launch, just as government subsidy programs like the Affordable Connectivity Program are set to expire, suggests Comcast may be more focused on capturing customers losing benefits than genuinely expanding affordable access.

Under the NOW brand, Comcast offers prepaid Internet plans starting at $30 per month for 100 Mbps speeds and $45 for 200 Mbps.

On the mobile side, NOW Mobile offers unlimited plans for a flat rate of $25 per line, regardless of whether a customer has Xfinity Internet or NOW Internet.

According to a company spokesperson, customers need one of those services to access NOW Mobile. If they discontinue Xfinity or NOW Internet, the price per line remains $25.

It’s also worth pointing out that this is the price with taxes and fees included. So, what exactly are subscribers getting for that price?

• Unlimited talk, text, and data
• Nationwide 5G
• Access to over 20 million Xfinity WiFi hotspots
• Flexibility to pause and resume your service

As government subsidies wind down, consumers seeking budget connectivity choices will have to decide if Comcast’s NOW is really the answer or just more of the status quo wrapped in slick new marketing.

Those interested can find more details at Xfinity stores and online.

Editor’s note: An earlier version of this article misstated the pricing for Comcast’s NOW Mobile service; it has now been updated to reflect the correct $25/line flat rate pricing.

Does a plan like this make sense to you? Have any thoughts on this? Drop us a line below in the comments, or carry the discussion to our Twitter or Facebook.

Editors’ Recommendations:

• Comcast’s Peacock is raising subscription prices by $2 again
• Comcast hit by huge data breach: everything you need to know
• Get a 3-month Mint Mobile Unlimited plan for just $15 per month
• Review: Mint Mobile Prepaid Wireless plan

Billed as “the world’s lightest super telephoto camera,” this device pairs with your smartphone to get crystal clear images with up to 36x optical magnification. With flagship smartphone sensors topping out at 5x or 10x optical zoom, you can see why that’s a big deal.

What’s more, it has swappable optics, with options for the 400mm, 36x lens and a smaller, 40mm with 3.6x magnification. With both lenses being smaller than a soda can, you can always have the right lens with you.

Let’s dive into the viewfinder and see what else is going on.

Excope DT1

From $219

The Excope DT1 turns your smartphone into a telescope with your choice of 40mm or 400mm focal length lenses. That's up to 36x of optical magnification, with a 48-megapixel sensor for high quality images.

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.

The Excope DT1 is the long range lens your phone is missing

While the Excope DT1 has a mount for your smartphone, you can use it wirelessly if you prefer. That means you can set up the perfect angle, then kick back and relax until the perfect shot presents itself.

That’s great for nighttime photography, especially if you’re trying to capture celestial objects. And that’s helped by the 1/1.8″ CMOS sensor that captures more light and creates up to 48MP images.

With a $219 price tag for the 400mm lens kit, this is a cost-effective way to get into long-range photography and video if the claims of Beaverlab bear out in the finished product.

Even clip-on lenses for smartphones can cost $100, so to have a fully-featured, interchangeable lens system for just over double that is pretty impressive on its own.

We should also mention that backing any crowdfunding campaign is not without risks, as you’re backing the potential of a product, and reality might disappoint. You could receive something that misses the mark, or in some cases, no product at all.

Beaverlab does have a track record of successfully completing its campaign rewards on previous devices, so perhaps the risk is lower. Just be aware that the image quality might not match up to the marketing.

Excope DT1

From $219

The Excope DT1 turns your smartphone into a telescope with your choice of 40mm or 400mm focal length lenses. That's up to 36x of optical magnification, with a 48-megapixel sensor for high quality images.

What We Like:

• Choice of lens options (40mm and 400mm)
• Electronically stabilized lenses
• Capture night vision photos and videos
• Works with iOS, Android, and Windows

What We Didn't Like:

• No optical image stabilization

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.

Do you love the idea of using your phone as a telescope? What would you point it at first? Drop us a line below in the comments, or carry the discussion to our Twitter or Facebook.

Editors’ Recommendations:

• New PlayStation 5 Pro leak shows powerful specs
• Apple unveils new iPad Pro with M4 chip and Apple Pencil Pro
• YouTube Premium launches ‘Jump Ahead’ AI to skip dull content
• Baltimore high school rocked by AI voice impersonation scandal

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.

We’ve suspected a new iteration of the PlayStation 5 was in the works for some time now, but for the first time, we’re finally starting to see some solid information about the upcoming console.

The PS5 Pro won’t be a successor but will serve as a mid-generation refresh, providing improved performance and visuals over the standard PS5 and PS5 Slim.

So what’s new?

While we don’t know much about how the upcoming PS5 Pro will look, we do, however, have an idea of what to expect from the specs; of course, this depends on the accuracy of the recent leaks.

• 576GBs system memory (28% boost in performance)
• 3.5GHz CPU clock speed (10% clock speed boost)
• Improved audio
• Improved ray tracing
• 33.5 teraflops of GPU power
• 8K resolution support

Rumor also suggests that the PS5 Pro might take advantage of AI and include a new form of upscaling called PlayStation Spectral Super Resolution Upscaling (or PSSR) to help boost FPS in games.

With such impressive improvements, we can expect developers to start taking advantage of the raw power of the upcoming PS5 Pro, creating visually stunning games with improved audio.

When can we expect to see the PS5 Pro launch?

If the leak is accurate, we can expect the PS5 Pro release within the second half of 2024, with the rumor hinting at an October 2024 release window.

Beyond the rumored release window, there’s not been any way to get a precise release date, but it does seem likely to drop later this year.

The leak could not offer any information about the price of the PS5 Pro, but considering Sony was willing to take a risk regarding the cost of the PSVR2, it might be worth saving up now if you’re planning to invest in the PS5 Pro.

Will you be upgrading to the PS5 Pro? Is this the time you buy your first PlayStation console? Drop us a line in the comments below, or carry the discussion to our Twitter or Facebook.

Editors’ Recommendations:

• Nintendo confirms Switch 2 announcement before April 2025
• Apple unveils new iPad Pro with M4 chip and Apple Pencil Pro
• TikTok fights potential app store ban by suing U.S. government
• OpenAI rumored to launch ChatGPT search engine this week

In a complaint filed in federal court on Wednesday, ByteDance said it could not simply hand over TikTok to an American company and warned that the service would effectively have to shut down in the U.S. by next January because of the law.

“For the first time in history, Congress has enacted a law that subjects a single, named speech platform to a permanent, nationwide ban, and bars every American from participating in a unique online community with more than 1 billion people worldwide,” attorneys for ByteDance argued in their complaint.

Is TikTok a security risk?

President Biden signed the so-called “TikTok ban” into law last month after the measure was rolled into an appropriations bill to direct funding to military aid initiatives in Ukraine and Israel.

The fast-tracked bill was the latest attempt by federal lawmakers to target TikTok and ByteDance over perceived security issues involving how the app collects, stores, and shares data from American users with foreign officials, including the Chinese government. ByteDance is based in China. 

ByteDance argues that U.S. officials haven’t shown any proof that TikTok’s data collection poses a security risk

“Even the statements by individual Members of Congress and a congressional committee report merely indicate concern about the hypothetical possibility that TikTok could be misused in the future, without citing specific evidence,” the lawsuit reads, noting that TikTok has operated in the U.S. since 2017.

That doesn’t mean TikTok has escaped scrutiny on all matters: In late 2022, Forbes published a report that alleged employees at TikTok had surveilled American journalists to learn the sources of leaked information about the company.

ByteDance later affirmed that some of its employees had surveilled reporters but characterized the situation as a one-off and a violation of its policy. ByteDance said the responsible individuals were fired.

The surveillance of American journalists added fodder to complaints from lawmakers and government officials that TikTok threatened homeland security.

The Pentagon and other agencies banned TikTok from being installed on government devices, and the state of Montana moved forward with its own TikTok law that would ban the app from being made available to residents and businesses in the state.

(Montana’s TikTok ban was blocked by a judge late last year while a legal challenge moves its way through the court.)

ByteDance: TikTok ban violates First Amendment

ByteDance says legislative efforts to ban TikTok in the U.S. are an infringement of First Amendment protections concerning speech, expression and association, and that shutting off TikTok in the U.S. would prevent Americans from interacting with 1 billion users around the world.

Lawmakers say the trade-offs are justified on national security grounds.

“Congress and the Executive Branch have concluded, based on both publicly available and classified information, that TikTok poses a grave risk to national security and the American people,” Rep. John Moolenaar, the Chairperson of the House Select Committee on China, said in a statement this week.

“It is telling that TikTok would rather spend its time, money, and effort fighting in court than solving the problem by breaking up with the (Chinese Communist Party). I’m confident that our legislation will be upheld.”

Editors’ Recommendations:

• President Biden has signed the TikTok ban — now what?
• Federal judge blocks Montana’s potential TikTok ban
• Facebook hits ‘copy-paste’ on TikTok’s vertical video format
• See more coverage of TikTok on KnowTechie

Apple iPad Pro (2024 Model)

11-inch: - $999 13-inch: $1,299

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

Apple just welcomed a new iPad Pro to its growing family. The new iPad, equipped with the revolutionary M4 chip and the new Apple Pencil Pro, is set to change how we look at tablets, or not. It’s the same line every year. Will it be any different this year?

The new iPad Pro continues Apple’s tradition of rolling out devices that suspiciously resemble their predecessors in sleekness and thinness. The design ethos appears to be, “If it’s not broken, just make it thinner and call it new.” 

Available in 11-inch and 13-inch models, these tablets feature an Ultra Retina XDR display. With its OLED technology, the iPad Pro delivers vivid colors, deep blacks, and incredible contrast, offering an unparalleled visual experience.

Under the hood, the M4 chip claims to transform the iPad Pro into a powerhouse. This latest iteration of Apple’s processor pledges improved performance, and better battery life—a combination Apple suggests makes the iPad Pro an indispensable tool for professionals and creatives.

Whether you’re editing high-res photos, running complex simulations, or multitasking between apps, logging onto Forbes.com, the M4 chip ensures seamless operation.

The Apple Pencil Pro got a notable update worth writing home about. The pen features a little sensor that allows intuitive control of line weight, color selection, and tool switching, keeping you in the creative flow.

The iPad Pro’s enhanced camera system promises stunning detail in low light conditions, making it a versatile tool for both professional projects and personal memories. It supports Thunderbolt 3 and USB 4 for high-speed data transfer and connectivity to external displays and accessories.

On paper, this iPad Pro looks pretty impressive. But so did all the others I bought that now live in some desk draw I completely forgot about.

Whether you’re an Apple user or considering becoming one, the new iPad Pro is a game-changer that will redefine your expectations for what a tablet can do.

The new iPad Pro comes in 11-inch and 13-inch sizes, with options for Wi-Fi and Wi-Fi + Cellular models.

The 11-inch model starts at $999, and the 13-inch model starts at $1,299. Apple says the iPad Pro is available for order now and will be available in-store starting May 15.

Apple iPad Pro (2024 Model)

The 2024 iPad Pro features improved performance with its M4 chip and an advanced Ultra Retina XDR display, offering robust processing capabilities and a striking visual experience in a sleek, portable design.

What We Like:

• Enhanced Performance: M4 chip boosts speed for demanding apps.
• Superior Display: Ultra Retina XDR offers vivid colors and contrasts.
• Portability: Sleek, lightweight design for easy mobility.
• Battery Efficiency: Longer life for extended productivity.

11-inch: - $999 13-inch: $1,299

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

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

Editors’ Recommendations:

• Experience 5K magic: Apple Studio Display is $300 off
• Apple Watch Ultra 3 said to be on track for September launch
• Get a 4-pack of Apple AirTags at their lowest price ever, now $79.99
• Apple Pencil 3 may get haptic feedback and new gestures

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.

UPDATE 5/10/2024: Open AI officially announced an event for Monday, May 13, 2024. Sam Altman teased a demo event on X (formerly Twitter) for Monday, 13, 2024 and claims “it feels like magic.”

ChatGPT is rumored to be rolling out a search engine this week, and truthfully, the timing couldn’t have been any better. More on that later.

Speculations are circulating after a new domain, “search.chatgpt.com,” appeared in the wild, generating enthusiasm and curiosity among AI fans.

Fueling the fire, AI influencer Pete Huang’s cryptic tweet “Search (dot) ChatGPT (dot) com May 9th” has set tongues wagging and fingers typing across Rumorville.

The rumors surrounding the potential ChatGPT search engine product seem to have originated from a post on Y Combinator’s Hacker News community.

This post highlighted the creation of a domain name and security certificate for “search.chatgpt.com,” stirring up speculation about what OpenAI might have in store.

Additionally, Huang’s tweet mentioning the same domain added more fuel to the growing rumor mill.

Is this rumor legit?

Short Answer: Probably not. If there’s any truth to it, there is probably a good reason why.

One logical alternative perspective could be that Pete Huang’s tweet about “search.chatgpt.com” may not necessarily indicate the development of a new ChatGPT search engine product.

It could be possible that the domain registration and security certificate are part of routine maintenance or future planning by OpenAI, rather than a direct indication of a new product launch.

Furthermore, speculations based solely on a domain name and a tweet may not always accurately reflect a company’s actual plans or developments.

OpenAI dropping a search engine out of the blue like this is going a ton of folks happy. very happy

But hey, if OpenAI were to drop a search product this week, oof, it would be a direct call to arms for Google.

Remember, this is the same company that made Google rush out two utterly trash chat-like products. They were so bad that Google shut one down and then rolled out Gemini, which was called something else and something else before that.

As for an OpenAI search engine, We’ll keep an ear to the ground, but again, don’t hold your breath.

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

Editors’ Recommendations:

• OpenAI makes ChatGPT’s free version available without login
• OpenAI replaces ChatGPT plugins with more advanced GPTs
• Apple needs this OpenAI deal, or else it’s toast
• OpenAI is reportedly gearing GPT-5 for a 2024 summer release

The feature has been tested since March and is now widely available on the YouTube Android app for English-language videos.

It uses machine learning to analyze viewer behavior and identify the parts of videos that people typically skip. Premium subscribers can then tap a button to fast-forward to these key sections.

How to access YouTube Premium’s Jump Ahead feature

To use YouTube Premium’s new “Jump ahead” feature, simply double-tap to fast-forward in a video. A pill-shaped “Jump ahead” button will appear briefly in the bottom-right corner. Tap it to skip to the section most viewers typically fast-forward to.

You can access this and other experimental features on the YouTube mobile app through Settings > Try experimental new features.

“Jump Ahead” aims to save users time by cutting out the less engaging content. But will it change the way we watch videos on YouTube? And will it make its way to other platforms?

To answer the first question, probably not. At least not yet. People are still getting used to the idea of YouTube Premium. If YouTube keeps this feature locked behind a paywall, it might take a while for it to catch on.

As for other platforms copying this, well, you can bet on it. Tech companies love to copy each other’s good ideas. If YouTube’s AI-powered skipping works well, you’ll see similar features popping up everywhere.

For now, Premium Android subscribers in the US can test this feature themselves. No word yet when this comes to iPhone.

So, if you’re a YouTube Premium subscriber in the US with an Android device, watch for the “Jump Ahead” button. It might just be the time-saving tool you never knew you needed.

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

Editors’ Recommendations:

• YouTube is aggressively cracking down on ad-blockers
• YouTube is punishing ad-block users with longer load times
• You can now export your Google Podcasts shows to YouTube Music
• Teens are tuned in to TikTok and YouTube ‘almost constantly’

A former gym teacher at a Baltimore high school supposedly created a voice clone of his boss, Principal Eric Eiswert, using newly developed AI voice tools.

His mission? To flood social media with racist and anti-Semitic nonsense, all cleverly disgorged in the principal’s own voice.

Think about that: AI that can mimic your voice to spew hate speech? Yeah, we’re living in that era. What’s even scarier is that dozens of these companies are out there already. Most notably, Eleven Labs.

Why the high-tech backstabbing, you ask? Honestly, who knows the real reason? According to sources, the rogue PE teacher wasn’t too pleased about his fading job prospects and alleged questions about handling of school funds.

The result? Absolute chaos. The voice clone was convincing enough to push Principal Eiswert to a temporary resignation because who wants to stick around when their digitized doppelgänger is a bigot?

Enter the cavalry

Forensic analysts from the FBI and the University of California offered a helping hand and traced the voice shenanigans back to our not-so-innocent teacher. Cue the arrests and a new level of debate about the power and peril of AI.

Baltimore County’s school board calls this ordeal a “deeply concerning frontier” in tech abuse. And honestly? It’s hard to disagree.

This isn’t just about one rogue teacher; it’s a stark reminder of the Pandora’s box we’ve flung open with all the recent AI advances popping up everywhere. So it’s probably safe to say, we’re going to see a lot of this moving forward.

Doesn’t this scare the living pants off you? Let us know what you’re thinking by dropping a comment below.

Editors’ Recommendations:

• This website lets you clone anyone’s voice in under 30 seconds
• Your voice can be cloned by anyone with an internet connection
• Samsung’s AI can now clone your voice for text-to-speech responses
• Can ElevenLabs create custom voices?

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 platform recently introduced the Passkey feature for its iOS version, and now, the latest WhatsApp update has introduced two new features.

According to the company’s blog post, these new features are dedicated to bringing communities closer together.

WhatsApp will keep rolling out new features over the next few months

WhatsApp further explains the new features trolling out are for WhatsApp Communities. One of the features is event planning, and the other is replies in Announcement Groups.

The first feature, Events, will initially be available to groups in Communities and accessible from the group’s information page.

The feature will allow users to plan events directly from the app, including birthdays, dinner parties, or virtual meets. 

The post further explains that anyone from the group can set up an event, and others can RSVP, letting everyone else know who will attend. Attendees will be notified when the event is near.

The second feature is to organize replies properly in announcement groups. 

As the name suggests, the point of this feature is to stop clogging up the feed with replies, and users will be able to respond from Admins. 

According to the post, the platform will keep rolling out new features for communities and groups in the coming months to help people organize their lives on WhatsApp.

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

Editors’ Recommendations:

• WhatsApp users will be able to share files without internet
• WhatsApp search bar may get Meta AI integration soon
• WhatsApp may let you pin more chats
• You can now search WhatsApp conversations by date on Android

Except for the Xperia 1 VI render leak, which disclosed the new boxy design language, the company has done an excellent job keeping all the secrets until now, as a fresh new report has appeared, painting a complete picture of what to expect from the Xperia 1 VI.

The report comes from the folks at MSPoweruser, who somehow got their hands on exclusive Xperia 1 VI details. While they haven’t mentioned a source, the report unveils everything from the unreleased handset’s design to the hardware. 

Xperia 1 VI design & display

Starting right off the bat with the Xperia 1 VI design. While Sony is keeping its slab-like design, the Xperia 1 VI is getting slightly shorter and wider than its predecessors. 

However, the new report mentions frosted textured glass on the back. 

Besides these changes, the same horizontal grooves will be present on the side of the handset, like in previous generations. 

The usual Black and Platinum color schemes are coming back for another try. The Xperia 1 V was launched in a Khaki Green color scheme. However, we are unsure if the 1 VI will get the same option. 

Sony is making the Xperia 1 VI slightly shorter and wider, affecting the display’s aspect ratio. A previous leak mentioned a 19.5:9 aspect ratio; today’s report corroborates it. 

However, today’s report also adds the Xperia 1 VI will sport an OLED panel with variable refresh rates ranging from 1Hz to 120Hz.

It also means the 1 VI could lose its 4K display, another piece of info revealed by the older leak. However, it seems Sony is ready to compensate for the lack of a 4K panel by making the display 1.5 times brighter, Bravia HDR remaster tech, and a boost feature for better outdoor visibility. 

Xperia 1 VI hardware & performance

In addition to a new design and a slightly lackluster display, the Xperia 1 VI could sport Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 SoC, which isn’t surprising; the previous generation ran the Gen 2 SoC. 

The report also mentions an improved heat dissipation due to using a vapor chamber.

A 5,000 mAh battery will power the handset with wireless and reverse wireless charging support. The report further says to expect the battery health technology.

The leak further claims the Xperia 1 VI will sport a new high-performance audio chip and circuit improvements to enhance sound in addition to Hi-Res Audio, 360 Reality Audio, LDAC, and DSEE Ultimate.

And the 3.5mm audio jack is coming for another year. 

Xperia 1 VI cameras & features

The next Xperia 1 will sport three cameras on its back in a vertical setup. There will be a 16mm ultrawide-angle lens, a 24mm wide-angle lens(48mm with 2x optical zoom), and an 85-170mm telephoto zoom lens(up to 7x zoom).

The leak also says the photo snapped with the new 24mm lens will rival the full-size cameras. 

Sony’s camera app is also changing. Instead of a single app, Sony has divided it into Photography Pro, Videography Pro, and Cinema Pro.

In addition, Sony is also taking smartphone gaming seriously. The Xperia 1 VI will reportedly sport a 240Hz touch scanning rate, adjustable white balance, low gamma raiser, and an FPS optimizer. There’s also something for the movie addicts. 

Finally, the latest leak doesn’t include a price. However, a few days ago, an older leak from Smartphone Digest revealed a price tag of around $1,233. But we can’t confirm the leak’s validity.

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

Editors’ Recommendations:

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Priced at $399.00, this premium speaker caters to a select group of music enthusiasts who value superior sound quality and premium features in a compact, travel-friendly design.

At the heart of the SoundLink Max is Bose’s proprietary technology, delivering “epic stereo sound” and “deep, powerful bass.” 

Bose SoundLink Max Portable Bluetooth Speaker

The Bose SoundLink Max Portable Bluetooth Speaker boasts epic stereo sound and deep bass, ideal for music enthusiasts seeking superior audio quality on the go. With up to 20 hours of battery life and an IP67 rating for water and dust resistance, it's perfect for outdoor adventures.

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The SoundLink Max is designed to captivate your senses with its dynamic performance capabilities, filling any room with rich, immersive audio.

Whether hosting a small gathering or enjoying your favorite tunes solo, the SoundLink Max ensures an uncompromised acoustic experience that will transport you to the heart of the music.

Designed for the modern music lover

The SoundLink Max showcases a sleek, minimalist design that aligns with today’s aesthetic sensibilities. The removable rope handle enhances portability without compromising the overall style.

Whether you’re a fashion-forward individual or prefer a more understocked look, the SoundLink Max blends seamlessly into any lifestyle.

Bose has fortified the Max with an IP67 rating, guaranteeing its resilience to both water and dust. This robustness makes it a trusted companion for outdoor adventures, parties, and more.

The SoundLink Max’s sturdy construction and dependable performance make it a secure investment for those who demand the best in a portable speaker.

The SoundLink Max’s standout feature is its incredible battery life. Up to 20 hours of continuous playback is possible, ensuring you’ll never miss a beat.

Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or a day-long event, the Max’s power capabilities guarantee uninterrupted audio enjoyment.

The Bose difference

With the SoundLink Max, you’re not just purchasing a speaker – you’re experiencing the legendary Bose sound quality and design philosophy.

Known for their commitment to audio excellence, Bose has crafted the Max to deliver an unparalleled listening experience.

Whether you’re a longtime Bose enthusiast or new to their products, the SoundLink Max promises to exceed your expectations.

If you’re a music lover who demands the best in portable audio, the Bose SoundLink Max is worth every penny. Its superior sound quality, durable design, and convenient features make it a top contender in the high-end speaker market.

To learn more and experience the Bose difference for yourself, visit the Bose website or your nearest authorized Bose retailer.

Bose SoundLink Max Portable Bluetooth Speaker

The Bose SoundLink Max Portable Bluetooth Speaker boasts epic stereo sound and deep bass, ideal for music enthusiasts seeking superior audio quality on the go. With up to 20 hours of battery life and an IP67 rating for water and dust resistance, it's perfect for outdoor adventures.

What We Like:

• Epic stereo sound and deep bass for superior audio quality
• Up to 20 hours of battery life for uninterrupted music enjoyment
• IP67 rating for water and dust resistance, perfect for outdoor use
• Sleek, minimalist design that blends seamlessly into any lifestyle

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.

What do you think of Bose’s new portable speaker? Drop us a line below in the comments, or carry the discussion to our Twitter or Facebook.

Editors’ Recommendations:

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At the heart of the update is the “Edit Message” feature. Users can correct embarrassing typos or awkward autocorrect fails within five minutes of sending a message, as long as the recipient hasn’t read the. message.

This feature will initially be exclusive to Snapchat Plus subscribers, mirroring the paywall strategy seen on X Premium (everyone still calls it Twitter Blue.)

But Snapchat isn’t stopping there. The app also introduces emojis and map reactions, allowing users to express their feelings or share their location.

New features are also coming to Snapchat’s My AI chatbot. You can now ask My AI to help you remember important deadlines by setting up a countdown for you.

For those who love customizing their Bitmoji, Snapchat is rolling out a new AI tool that lets you design your own clothes.

And if you’re feeling creative, you can use AI Lenses to create a retro ’90s version of yourself, complete with a Polaroid-style filter, by simply uploading a selfie.

The new Snapchat features are available now, but editable messages for Plus subscribers are still to come.

It’s about time Snapchat introduced some new features like this, right? Drop us a line below in the comments, or carry the discussion to our Twitter or Facebook.

Editors’ Recommendations:

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This year’s Galaxy Watch 7 lineup will be different from its predecessors. While we are unsure of all the details or even how many smartwatches will be in the lineup, the latest report suggests that at least one premium smartwatch will be in the collection. 

Samsung recently announced its financial results and said it is looking to “new premium models” in the smartwatch category in the second half of the year.

Unfortunately, that’s all Samsung has said about the matter. However, the statement could be read as something the company plans to do in the future to boost its sales by introducing new products. 

SamMobile sees it as a hint that the previously rumored Samsung Galaxy Watch 7 Ultra is indeed in the works. 

Galaxy Watch 7 Ultra: The Phantom third model in the series

A third Galaxy Watch 7 model has been rumored for a while, but no concrete details have emerged to calm the matter. 

Even before this evidence came to light, Android Headlines spotted a firmware build for a smartwatch model that the outlet believed to be the Galaxy Watch 7 Ultra. 

Although, some speculate it is the Galaxy Watch 7 Pro. 

Either way, the Galaxy Watch 7 will likely consist of three models: the Watch 7, the Watch 7 Classic, and the Watch 7 Ultra. 

However, this is all just speculation and rumors. For the official confirmation, we need to wait until June 10, when Samsung will unveil the Galaxy Watch 7, Galaxy Z Fold 6, Galaxy Z Flip 6, the Galaxy Ring, and more.

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

Editors’ Recommendations:

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However, a fresh report suggests the Apple Watch Ultra 3 is on track for a September release, but it will be more like a minor upgrade. 

Apparently, renowned Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo told MacRumors that the upcoming Apple Watch Ultra 3 would only get minor upgrades over its predecessor, the Apple Watch Ultra 2. 

It’s disappointing that the analyst didn’t share any more details, but it follows a trend that recently made a microLED Apple Watch Ultra unlikely. 

Underwhelming upgrades for the Apple Watch Ultra 3

While last year’s Apple Watch Ultra 2 was a minor upgrade from the original Ultra Apple Watch, it was still considered the best Apple Watch with a phenomenal display.

But doing the same for another year, Apple is pushing its luck a bit. 

Of course, Apple could surprise us with new watchOS features, as we are unsure what the company has planned for the upcoming watchOS 11. 

In addition, Apple could launch the Apple Watch Ultra 3 with the new S10 chip, which will be the rebranded S9 chip with minor tweaks. 

Although it’s disappointing news, it’s not a complete disaster, especially considering that last year, Kuo revealed that the next Apple Watch Ultra may not land in 2024. 

At least we are getting a new Apple Watch Ultra. 

However, the biggest hurdle for the Cupertino firm would be if one of its competitors releases an “Ultra” smartwatch. 

Samsung is likely the first in line, as the possibility of a Galaxy Watch Ultra has been hinted at for the next Galaxy Unpacked event, set for June 10. 

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

Editors’ Recommendations:

• iOS 18 to bring improved task management to iPhone
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Even though the company has yet to confirm anything, we know a fair bit of details about the iOS 18 update and what modifications it may bring to Apple’s renowned mobile platform, and the new leak suggests a giant leap for the Calendar app. 

iOS 18 was already rumored to bring AI-powered features to Apple’s mobile platform, Home Screen changes are on the way, and four apps (Notes, Mail, Photos, and Fitness) are getting revamped.

According to the latest report by AppleInsider, the Calendar app is also getting modifications courtesy of the iOS 18 update. 

A promising update for the Calendar app with iOS 18

According to the report, Apple is ready to bring task support to the Calendar app by closely integrating it with the existing Reminders app. There will be no need to launch the Reminders app separately. 

As usual, the publication cites people familiar with the pre-release version of iOS 18 for this info and claims the same change is coming with macOS 15.

Tapping or right-clicking an area within the Day, Week, or Month views in pre-release versions of the new Calendar app will reveal an option that prompts the user to either set a reminder or schedule an event,” the report explains. “Both can be scheduled from the same UI element, allowing for greater convenience.

The report also confirms that users will have to add a title and note or tag to set a reminder through the Calendar app.

However, we still need to consider this is just a leaked report and not an official confirmation from Apple. So, in the end, the plan could change. 

Either way, the WWDC is just over a month away, and we don’t have to wait long for the official preview. Unfortunately, if the company sticks to its usual schedule, the public release will not come until September, alongside the iPhone 16 series. 

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

Editors’ Recommendations:

• Apple Pencil 3 may get haptic feedback and new gestures
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• Apple needs this OpenAI deal, or else it’s toast
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The apparent reason? The company posted terrible quarterly results last week, with deliveries shrinking by 8.5 percent and net profit down a staggering 55 percent year-over-year.

The Information reports that Elon Musk sent an email to executives about the latest round of layoffs. In it, he said, “We need to be absolutely hard-core about headcount and cost reduction,” adding that he didn’t feel most of the executive team were “taking this seriously.”

Tesla’s Supercharger team is no more

Perhaps to underscore this point, Musk laid off Rebecca Tinucci, Tesla’s Senior Director of EV charging, and almost the entire 500-person team that reported to her.

That’s the person responsible for the Supercharger network and her team. With charging being one of Tesla’s strengths, we can only wonder at Musk’s actions here.

But he didn’t stop there. Daniel Ho, Director of Vehicle Programs and New Product Introduction, and his entire team are also out.

It doesn’t seem like the low-cost Tesla Model 2 is coming out any time soon now that the team responsible for creating it is no longer.

The growing list of executives on the outs with Musk includes another two key personnel fired last month.

Drew Baglino, former VP of Powertrain and Energy Engineering (aka Tesla batteries), left, as did Rohan Patel, Head of Policy and Business Development. The entire brand-new 40-person ad team was also dismissed (via Electrek).

So, the person in charge of charging is gone, as are those responsible for new batteries and vehicles. Oh, and the person in charge of policy, who was crucial in this environment of rapidly changing legislation around EV technology.

At this point, Tesla is a shell of its former glory, run in an ever-increasing culture of fear of layoffs.

At one point, the company was the future, with promises of a greener future and vehicles that drove themselves into the sunset. Now, the company’s future is in doubt, and the remaining executive team must be wondering, “Am I next?”

Wonder what Musk is thinking? Can Tesla Self-Drive itself into the future? Drop us a line in the comments below, or carry the discussion to our Twitter or Facebook.

Editors’ Recommendations:

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Only a single piece of Pixel 8A information was left out—the price, and finally, that had also come to light two weeks before the launch. 

A report from Smartprix has revealed the pricing for the Google Pixel 8A. The 128 GB variant will apparently cost $499 in the United States. 

The 256GB variant, on the other hand, will cost extra at $559.

However, we can’t say that we are surprised. While multiple hinted at an increased price for the Pixel 8A, we were skeptical.

Even though 8A is coming with moderate upgrades, they don’t justify a price bump for two consecutive years. 

Last year, Google launched the Pixel 7A at $499, though the phone is frequently available at lower prices, courtesy of multiple sales and discounts.

Pixel 8A is getting a new 256GB variant

The most interesting part about the latest Pixel 8A leak is not its price; it’s the addition of a new 256GB variant. 

In the past, Google launched the Pixel A series devices, including the Pixel 6A and 7A, with a single 128GB storage option. 

However, this is a good decision on Google’s part, as another storage option may help attract more customers, especially those who consider 128GB too little for their needs. 

The leak also includes several Pixel 8A marketing images. While the photos look good, they reveal nothing exciting or new. 

One of the images shows the Circle to Search feature and makes it a highlight of the Pixel 8A.

Google Pixel 8A is rumored to feature the Tensor G3 SoC, the same cameras as the Pixel 7A, and a slightly larger battery with 27W wired charging support. If today’s report is accurate, there won’t be a price hike. 

However, we still suggest taking the information with a grain of salt. Even though the report is from a reputable publication, at the end of the day, it’s still a leak, not an official announcement. 

Nothing’s set in stone until Google announces the Pixel 8A on May 14 at the Google I/O 2024. 

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

Editors’ Recommendations:

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iOS 18 is set to be announced and previewed during WWDC 2024, and rumors say it will be one of the landmark iOS updates in recent years, with numerous changes and making Apple’s beginning with AI. 

In the recent edition of Mark Gurman’s Power On newsletter, the renowned journalist has said the same but with additional details. 

According to the journalist, the next version of iOS will indeed be a big one, but it won’t be on the same level as iOS 7.

The journalist further claims that Apple plans to overhaul several of its popular applications, including the Mail, Photos, Fitness, and Notes apps. 

New changes are coming to the iPhone Home Screen, too

A recent leak already hinted at Apple’s famed Notes app’s new Voice Notes and Math Notes features. 

However, Gurman claims that in addition to the Notes app, the Mail, Photos, and Fitness apps are set to get cool new features, which seems more promising. 

Gurman doesn’t stop here. He further states that big new changes are coming to the iPhone Home Screen. 

Users will be able to pin app icons anywhere they’d like, even outside of the normal grid,” he writes. Gurman further notes iOS 18 “will also include design tweaks that make it more modular (easier to update and customize).

Let’s not forget the rumored Apple AI inclusion with the iOS 18 update. Previous rumors suggested Apple is planning to boost at least a few apps with AI; the obvious expected candidate is Siri. 

Besides Siri, AI integration was set for the Messages app, Xcode, Apple Music, Pages, and Keynote app. And now, add the Mail, Photos, Notes, and Fitness apps to the mix. 

Even though Gurman states the overhaul won’t be as significant as iOS 7, it still sounds like an iOS update worth waiting for. 

However, we have to wait a bit for the preview. It’s not coming until June 10, and the public release is way later in September, alongside the new iPhone 16 series, unless Apple deviates from its tradition. 

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

Editors’ Recommendations:

• Apple Pencil 3 may get haptic feedback and new gestures
• Apple using the best OLED panels for new iPad Pro, says report
• Apple needs this OpenAI deal, or else it’s toast
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