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Fully Funded Scholarships 2024 for International Students

Blessing Ernest

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December 6, 2023

Fully Funded Scholarships 2024 for International Students

Scholarships include all forms of financial assistance programs that can cover either a portion or the entirety of a student’s expenses during their years of study. These funds can include tuition fees, housing, meals, book allowances, and occasional extra stipends for miscellaneous needs. By alleviating concerns about fees, living costs, and other expenditures, scholarships enable students to fully dedicate themselves to their academic pursuits.

Are fully financed scholarships legit? There are many legitimate all-expense paid scholarship programs, especially for international students.

Fully funded scholarships are typically highly competitive and scarce, while partially funded scholarships may only offset specific costs, such as tuition or housing, depending on the administering organization or individuals. International students are eligible for both fully funded and partially funded scholarships, contingent on the specific criteria of the scholarship program.

Various scholarship programs have distinct eligibility requirements. These prestigious fully funded scholarships on our list covers travel, accommodation, and course fees, providing recipients with the opportunity to live and study abroad for a year. Here are some of the scholarship programs to apply for in 2024.

Eiffel Scholarships in France for International Students

Eiffel Fully Funded Scholarships in France for International Students

Provider: French Government

Application Deadline: January 10, 2024

Study Location: France

Description:

The Eiffel Excellence Scholarship Program, established by the French Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs, aims to attract top international students to pursue master’s and Ph.D. programs in French higher education institutions.

This scholarship targets future decision-makers in both private and public sectors, emphasizing priority study areas. It is open to applicants under 25 years old from developing countries at the master’s level and applicants under 30 years old from both developing and industrialized countries at the Ph.D. level.

Host Institutions: French Universities and Academic Institutions

Study Levels: Master’s degree program, engineering program, or a joint doctoral program (with dual-degree options or joint dissertation supervision) in collaboration with a foreign partner institution.

Fields of Study: The Eiffel scholarships cover two major disciplinary fields for the Master and Doctorate components. Science and Technology, and Humanities and Social Sciences.

Coverage/Duration:

For Master’s level studies, the Eiffel scholarship provides a monthly allowance of €1,181, renewable for 12-36 months. For Ph.D. level studies, the scholarship includes a monthly allowance of €1,700 and is awarded for a maximum of 12 months.

Additionally, the program covers various expenses such as international and national transportation, health insurance, housing searches, and cultural activities. Tuition fees are not covered, but recipients are exempt from tuition charges for programs leading to a national diploma or accredited engineering degree.

Eligibility:

Check the eligibility criteria with the French Higher Education Institution you are applying to.

Application Process:

To be considered, apply to the French Higher Education Institution and meet their requirements. Contact the institution’s international relations office for application details. Applications are not accepted directly from students. French Higher Education Institutions submit applications for EIFFEL scholarships.

For more information, visit the official website: https://www.campusfrance.org/en/france-excellence-eiffel-scholarship-program

ICSP Scholarships

ICSP fully funded Scholarships at the University of Oregon, USA

Provider: University of Oregon Degree Level: Bachelors

Application Deadline: January 15 to February 16, 2024

Study Location: USA

Description:

International students displaying financial need and outstanding merit are eligible to apply for the International Cultural Service Program (ICSP) scholarship at the University of Oregon. This scholarship incorporates a cultural service component, requiring recipients to deliver presentations about their home country to children, community organizations, and members of the UO community.

Host Institution: University of Oregon, USA

Field(s) of Study: Master’s Programme in eligible fields offered by the institution

Scholarship Coverage/Duration:

Partial tuition waiver scholarship. The ICSP scholarship is renewable annually until the completion of a UO degree, contingent on students fulfilling the requirements of the ICSP program.

Eligibility:

Applicants must be fully admitted to the University of Oregon.
New students must apply for admission to the UO for Fall 2024 by January 15, 2024.
Applicants cannot be U.S. citizens, U.S. permanent residents, or eligible for U.S. federal financial assistance.
Demonstrated financial need and a minimum 3.0 cumulative GPA are required.
ICSP students commit to completing 66-80 hours per year of cultural service as mandated by the program.

Application Instructions:

Apply for admission to the University of Oregon before applying for the scholarship. Look for an invitation to enter the UO Scholarship Dashboard within a week of applying for admission. In the UO Scholarship Dashboard, submit the General Application, ISSS Endowed Scholarships Application, and the ICSP Scholarship Application, along with Reference Letters, before 4 pm (PST) on February 16, 2024.

For the application form and detailed instructions, visit the scholarship Website: https://isss.uoregon.edu/icsp/application

The University of Calgary International Entrance Scholarship

The University of Calgary International Entrance fully funded Scholarships

Provider: University of Calgary

Deadline: March 1, 2024

Location: Canada Program Fall 2024

Description:

The University of Calgary International Entrance Scholarship is a prestigious award designed to acknowledge the remarkable achievements of international students embarking on their undergraduate studies at the University during the Fall term. This fully funded scholarships recognizes academic excellence and the accomplishments beyond the traditional classroom setting.

Fields of Study: Bachelor’s degree in any subject

Number of Scholarships: 2

Scholarship Coverage:

The scholarship amounts to $15,000, renewable annually throughout the second, third, and fourth years at the University of Calgary, contingent upon recipients maintaining a GPA of 2.60 or higher, earning over a minimum of 24.00 units in the preceding fall and winter terms. The total sum over the four-year undergraduate program is $60,000.

Eligibility:

Applicants must be international students enrolled full-time in an undergraduate degree program commencing in the Fall term. They must be new students and, to be eligible for the scholarship should typically present a minimum GPA of 3.20. Additionally, they must meet the university’s English Language Proficiency requirement.

Application Instructions:

Applicants can apply for the scholarship concurrently with their admission application. The application deadline for Fall 2024 admission is December 1, 2023 (early admission) and March 1, 2024 (standard admission).

Prospective applicants are encouraged to visit the official website for comprehensive details on how to apply for this scholarship. University of Calgary International Entrance Scholarship

NL Scholarship for Non-EEA International Students

NL fully funded Scholarship for Non-EEA International Students

Provider: Nuffic Netherlands Degree Level: Bachelors/Masters

Application Deadline: May 1, 2024

Study Location: Netherlands

Description:

The NL Scholarship, formerly known as the Holland Scholarship and funded by the Dutch Ministry of Education, Culture, and Science, is designed for international students hailing from outside the European Economic Area (EEA) seeking to pursue a bachelor’s or master’s degree at one of the Dutch research universities or universities of applied sciences in Holland.

Host Institutions:

Participating research universities and universities of applied sciences for the 2024-25 academic year are listed on the official website.

Field(s) of Study:

Bachelor’s or Master’s Programme in eligible fields offered by the participating institutions.

Scholarship Coverage/Duration:

The scholarship provides €5,000 but is not a full-tuition scholarship. It is awarded for one year and is a one-time grant.

Eligibility:

Nationality is non-EEA.
Applying for a full-time bachelor’s or master’s program at one of the participating Dutch higher education institutions.
Meeting the specific requirements of the chosen institution, available on their website.
No prior study experience at an educational institution in the Netherlands.

Application Instructions:

Apply directly to the participating institution of your choice for the NL Scholarship. The application deadline varies by university, falling on either February 1, 2024 or May 1, 2024. Confirm the correct deadline on the website of your chosen institution.

For detailed information on the application procedure and specific deadlines, visit the official website http://www.studyinholland.nl/scholarships/holland-scholarship.

American University Emerging Global Leader Scholarship

Provider: American University Undergraduate Program

Deadline: January 15, 2024

Location: USA August 2024

Description:

The AU Emerging Global Leader Scholarship is designed for high-achieving international students aspiring to pursue a Bachelor’s Degree in the USA, with a strong commitment to fostering positive civic and social change. This scholarship is specifically intended for individuals dedicated to returning to their home countries to uplift under-resourced and underserved communities.

Fields of Study: Any undergraduate program offered at the University

Number of Scholarships: One scholarship is available

Target Audience:

The scholarships are aimed at international students from any country who are not U.S. citizens, U.S. permanent residents, or dual citizens of the U.S. and another country.

Scholarship Coverage/Duration:

The AU EGL scholarship covers all billable AU expenses, including full tuition, room and board. However, it does not cover non-billable expenses such as mandatory health insurance, books, airline tickets, and miscellaneous expenses (approximately U.S. $4,000).

The scholarship is renewable for a total of four years of undergraduate study, contingent upon the student’s continued satisfactory academic performance.

Eligibility:

International students who have overcome various obstacles and challenges, especially those from diverse and underrepresented global and socioeconomic backgrounds. Those with a minimum 3.8 GPA equivalent (or in the top 10% of graduating class) for grades 9th-12th. Individuals demonstrating a commitment to leadership, volunteerism, community service, and advancing the needs of people in their home country.

Students meeting specific language proficiency requirements (TOEFL, IELTS, SAT, ACT, PTE, Duolingo, or Cambridge Assessment English).Prospective students are still enrolled in secondary/high school and expected to graduate by June 2024. Note: Certain educational systems (IB, British A-Levels) have additional criteria that applicants must meet.

Application Instructions:

To apply for the AU Emerging Global Leader Scholarship, applicants must complete the AU EGLS application, Common or Coalition Application, and the international admissions process by December 15, 2023 (priority deadline) or by January 15, 2024, at the latest. AU EGLS applicants must apply for Regular Decision for fall (August) 2023 and should not apply for Early Decision (ED).

Visit the official website American University Emerging Global Leader Scholarship.

The University of Gothenburg Axel Adler Scholarships

Application Deadline: February 2024

Location: Sweden Commencement of Course

Description:

The Axel Adler Scholarship stands as the primary scholarship initiative at the University of Gothenburg, catering to fee-paying students enrolled in eligible Master’s programs offered by the university.

Host Institution(s): University of Gothenburg, Sweden August 2024

Fields of Study:

Open to full-time Master’s programs at the university, including the Bachelor’s program (limited to Software Engineering, International Relations, and Business and Economics).

Number of Scholarships:

One scholarship is awarded for each program, with an additional four for Master’s programs within Fine, Applied and Performing Arts, and programs in Music and Performance. There are also two Axel Adler scholarships for Sustainability 2024 for students pursuing sustainability-focused study programs.

Scholarship Coverage/Inclusions:

The scholarships cover the tuition fee of the admitted program. It is exclusively a tuition fee waiver, with no additional financial support provided for living expenses or travel grants.

Eligibility:

Obligation to pay tuition in Sweden.
Application for an international campus-based program at the University of Gothenburg as the first priority.
Admission to a full-time Master’s or Bachelor’s program (for Bachelor’s, limited to Software Engineering, International Relations, and Business and Economics) at the University of Gothenburg.
Eligibility applies only to the program designated as the priority at the University of Gothenburg by January 15, 2024, in the international admission round at www.universityadmission.se.
Submission of the application for studies, payment of the application fee, and documentation of eligibility for studies by February 1, 2024, through universityadmissions.se.

Application Instructions:

To be considered for the scholarships, applicants must have applied for a Master’s Program via universityadmissions.se by January 15, 2024. Only those with a University of Gothenburg program as their first choice are eligible to apply for a scholarship.

Eligible students will receive an email with application instructions around February 8, 2024. For more information and to access the application form, visit the official website: Gothenburg University – Axel Adler Scholarship

Science@Leuven Scholarships for International Students

Application Deadline: February 15, 2024

Study Location: Belgium

Description:

The Science@Leuven Scholarships cater to ambitious and proficient international students aspiring to engage in an international master’s program within the Faculty of Science at K.U.Leuven.

Host Institution(s): Katholieke Universiteit Leuven in Belgium September 2024

Fields of Study:

Master of Astronomy and Astrophysics
Master of Biophysics, Biochemistry, and Biotechnology
Master of Biology
Master of Chemistry
Master of Geography
Interuniversity Master of Geology (Scholarship applicable only to students pursuing specializations in Geodynamics and Georesources or Surface Processes and Paleoenvironments; other specializations at Ghent University are ineligible for the scholarship.)
Master of Mathematics
Master of Physics
Master of Statistics and Data Science
Master of Sustainable Development (ICP)

Scholarship Coverage/Duration:

The scholarship amount can reach up to 12,000 Euros for one year. It covers tuition fees for the first year, insurance, and basic health coverage. Living expenses may vary.

For two-year Master’s programs, the scholarship for the second year is contingent upon outstanding results in the first year.

Eligibility Criteria:

Applicants must:

Not have studied or worked at the University of Leuven before.
Hold a bachelor’s degree from a foreign university enabling access to the desired master’s program.
Not possess a master’s degree or a Ph.D. already.
Demonstrate excellent academic performance in prior studies.
Exhibit a strong command of English (TOEFL minimum score 94 internet-based or IELTS minimum score 7 overall).
Express a compelling motivation to pursue a master’s program at the Faculty of Science of K.U.Leuven.
Provide two reference letters from internationally recognized professors.
Be willing to act as an ambassador for the program.

Application Instructions:

Applicants must apply for the chosen Master’s program through the KU Leuven application tool. A screenshot confirming the successful submission of the admission application must be uploaded when registering on the scholarship website.

Only applications submitted before February 15, 2024 (with the International Office and registered on the scholarship website) will be considered. Visit the official scholarship website for further details Science@Leuven Scholarship.

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The Best Horror Movies 2024

Blessing Ernest

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December 5, 2023

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Adrenaline junkies, we bring you the best horror movies in the first quarter of 2024 to give you a mood boost. The spookiest, creepiest, sickest slasher movies that will haunt you long after the credits roll.

Not everyone enjoys horror movies. Many stay away from the genre as much as possible. But for the rest of us who enjoy exploring the dark side of humanity as a form of therapy, we’re happy to consume every flick. Must all horror films evoke fear?. Well, it can be convincingly contended that the first ingredient to unsettle an audience thoroughly is fear. If a horror film fails to elicit fear, one might question the purpose of its existence in the genre.

Here are the best horror movies released in 2024 to watch this weekend.

The Best Horror Movies of 2024 on Netflix/Amazon Prime Video/Max/Hulu/Peacock

Birth/Rebirth Horror Movie

Laura Moss’ “birth/rebirth” explores the pain and stress of manipulating human bodies through medical experimentation. The film centers on Rose and Celie, two women who, after the death of Celie’s daughter, embark on a twisted journey to reanimate the child’s body. Contrary to expectations, the narrative avoids typical horror tropes, presenting a medical thriller where Celie and Rose, both with hidden motives, collaborate on this bizarre experiment.

Rose, an intense and secretive morgue worker, and Celie, a delivery nurse, unexpectedly join forces. Rather than a conventional conflict, the film unfolds with dark humor as they conduct their experiment while going about their daily lives. The story challenges norms by portraying everyday medical procedures, such as obtaining essential serum from fetus cells, in a gruesome light.

The mood is eerie and mournful, with a muted color palette, hospital settings, and a lack of outdoor scenes. While a few scenes follow expected horror tropes, the entire narrative subverts conventions. The “birth/rebirth” movie is a thought-provoking exploration of medical ethics and the extremes people are willing to go for their goals.

Knock at the Cabin Horror Movie

In M. Night Shyamalan’s latest film, “Knock at the Cabin,” the exploration of human behavior in the face of an impending apocalypse serves as the backdrop for a morality study that gradually loses its depth. The movie begins with the premise of a home-invasion thriller, featuring four armed strangers descending upon a remote cabin, but defies genre expectations by presenting characters who do not conform to stereotypes.

The family renting the cabin is not the conventional one; it consists of a gay couple (Jonathan Groff and Ben Aldridge) with an adopted Chinese-American daughter (Kristen Cui). The intruders, including a second-grade teacher (Dave Bautista), a nurse (Nikki Amuka-Bird), a short-order cook (Abby Quinn), and (Rupert Grint), deviate from typical character archetypes. While the film suggests that these characters represent facets of our existence and experiences, the attempt falls short, creating characters that don’t resemble anyone encountered in real life.

The movie begins with Eric, Andrew, and their daughter Wen attempting to enjoy a family vacation when the outsiders choose their cabin for a break-in. The twist in the plot reveals that the fate of the world rests in the hands of this gay couple, and the family has to sacrifice one of their own to save the world.

Influencer

“Influencer,” the latest thriller from director Kurtis David Harder, follows Madison, a social media influencer, as she grapples with the consequences of her online persona while vacationing in Thailand. The film takes unexpected turns, deviating from the typical social media obsession narrative. Madison’s encounter with CW, a seemingly off-the-grid individual, adds complexity to the story. As the plot unfolds on the picturesque backdrop of Thailand, cinematographer David Schuurman captures the country’s beauty effectively.

Emily Tennant and Cassandra Naud deliver nuanced performances, steering away from stereotypical characterizations. Despite occasional script flaws and puzzling plot elements, the movie remains reasonably entertaining. It surprises viewers with unexpected twists, challenging the typical thriller conventions. While not a cinematic masterpiece, “Influencer” offers a decent watch, especially if you can detach from social media for a 90-minute break.

Evil Dead Rise

Evil Dead Rise” by Lee Cronin pays homage to Sam Raimi’s series, offering plenty of Easter eggs for fans. The narrative shifts from a cabin in the woods to an apartment complex, introducing a young aunt trapped in a high-rise with her sister turned Deadite, driven to harm her children. With a plethora of visceral and gory scenes, Lily Sullivan and Alyssa Sutherland shine as heroic and malevolent sisters, respectively. The film introduces a compelling wraparound tale and a new monster to the “Dead” lore, setting the stage for a potential sixth installment.

Infinity Pool

A tranquil vacation in the fictional country of Li Tolqa takes a dark turn for James (Alexander Skarsgård) and Em (Cleopatra Coleman). Seeking inspiration, James, a struggling writer, faces a bizarre punishment in this conservative nation after a fateful car accident. The penalty involves cloning and witnessing their double’s execution, unleashing a hedonistic group led by Gabi (Mia Goth) who exploits this loophole for twisted games.

While the film briefly touches on existential questions about clones sharing memories, it primarily chronicles James’ descent into madness through surreal scenes of orgies and murder. Despite initial setups about the stark contrast between wealthy tourists and the impoverished locals, these elements are swiftly overshadowed. Infinity Pool doesn’t fully explore its high-concept premise but captivates with Cronenberg’s shocking imagery and standout performances by Skarsgård and Goth.

Skarsgård impeccably embodies the transformation, evolving from a clean-cut individual to a monstrous force driven by power and violence. Mia Goth, a darling in modern horror, delivers a mesmerizing portrayal of Gabi, smoothly transitioning from calm charm to terrifying intensity. While the film may not deeply explore its initial themes, it remains a strange and unsettling exploration of tourists’ descent into debauchery. And it is a compelling watch for those drawn to disturbing and provocative cinema.

Skinamarink

In this contained Canadian production, young children find themselves trapped in their darkened homes. Creating a clever narrative that occasionally brushes nightmarish terrains through a visual aesthetic reminiscent of old-fashioned analog film. The film’s POV shots mimic found footage, adding to its eerie atmosphere. However, Skinamarink falters as it undermines its tension with traditional startles and jump scares. Deviating from its otherwise brilliant path it started on.

Ball, known for his YouTube channel Bitesized Nightmares, infuses his esoteric style into Skinamarink. Merging it with the dark internet horror trend seen in works like We’re All Going to the World’s Fair. Set in 1995, the film follows siblings Kevin and Kaylee. Trapped in their home with their divorced father missing and doors and windows inexplicably gone. Ball skillfully employs dark corners, using digitally recreated film grain to obscure time passage and create a disorienting effect.

The disconcerting ambiance is intensified by oblique angles capturing the children’s feet, mid-20th-century cartoons, and inexplicably moving toys. A mysterious, unseen presence whispers to the children, adding authenticity to the lo-fi horror vibe. Skinamarink effectively distorts childhood memories, turning familiar objects and spaces into eerie images that evoke genuine fear.

The film explores the metaphor of a loveless family and a home devoid of protection, where darkness symbolizes accepted torment. However, conventional horror scares disrupt the film’s thematic cohesion, impacting its overall fabric. Despite its stylistic shortcomings, the film’s $15,000 budget and wide theatrical release are a rarity for such indie production. While Skinamarink may not fully deliver on its potential, it’s a positive development for the horror genre. Offering possibilities for a new wave of imaginative, web-inspired horror indies and contributing to Ball’s future career prospects.

That’s it for the best horror movies of 2024 to keep you on your toes. Stay tuned for the top Christmas movies of 2024!.

Sam Altman Returns as CEO Amid Board Restructuring

Blessing Ernest

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November 22, 2023

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Sam Altman Returns as CEO Amid Board Restructuring

OpenAI, the creator of ChatGPT, has finalized an agreement for the return of Sam Altman as CEO just days after firing him from the board, concluding intense deliberations regarding the future of the startup at the forefront of the artificial intelligence surge.

As part of the resolution, the company has committed to restructuring the board of directors that had previously ousted Altman. Bret Taylor, formerly co-CEO of Salesforce, has been appointed as chair, and Larry Summers, former U.S. Treasury Secretary, joins the board.

Altman expressed his anticipation for returning to OpenAI in a post on X. Following Altman’s abrupt dismissal on Friday, the original board provided limited explanation, citing his lack of transparency and the necessity to safeguard OpenAI’s mission of developing AI for the benefit of humanity.

The reinstatement of Altman signals a potential new phase for the nonprofit startup, which has long grappled with internal concerns about the risks of AI and its potential commercialization.

Is Sam Altman joining Microsoft?

The reshuffling on Tuesday appears to favor Altman and the financial supporter Microsoft (MSFT.O), which is globally deploying OpenAI’s technology for business clients. Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella welcomed the changes in a statement on X, stating, “We believe this is a first essential step on a path to more stable, well-informed, and effective governance.”

Quora CEO Adam D’Angelo will continue on the new “initial board” as outlined by OpenAI. It remains unclear if non-equity-holding directors will retain their seats. Or if investors, including the 49% owner of Microsoft, will secure their first appointments. Reports suggest that some investors are exploring legal options due to the recent events that jeopardized OpenAI’s future, previously estimated to have a valuation exceeding $80 billion.

Susannah Streeter, head of money and markets at Hargreaves Lansdown, commented on the clarity in OpenAI’s path following the recent tumult. Noting that Altman’s leadership will significantly influence the company’s direction under the new board.

Recall that Altman’s departure triggered turmoil at OpenAI, leading to President Greg Brockman’s resignation in protest. Altman’s return was initially expected, but the board surprised by appointing Emmett Shear as interim CEO on Sunday.

In a post on X, Shear detailed the intense efforts undertaken to restore stability and ultimately bring back Altman. Stressing the commitment to all stakeholders. Altman’s reinstatement was facilitated in part by Microsoft. During his absence, Microsoft offered him the opportunity to lead a new research team. Alongside Brockman and other colleagues leaving OpenAI.

By Monday, a significant portion of OpenAI’s 700-plus staff had threatened to join Microsoft unless the board resigned and Altman was reinstated. Leveraging Microsoft’s substantial computing power, a key asset for OpenAI’s technology. Co-founder and President Brockman celebrated the resolution with a staff selfie late Tuesday night. Triumphing over the Thanksgiving holiday deadline and expressing confidence in returning stronger and more unified.

Top 5 Free Online Library Alternatives to Z library

Technology

Blessing Ernest

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November 21, 2023

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Before now, the most popular online library to find any and every resource was Google, however, other digital libraries like Z library with specific resources based on reader interests have been developed. While using Z library as your preferred online library is great, a lot of readers might want to look into alternatives. If you’re an insatiable reader striving to broaden your interests, we’ve curated the top 5 free online libraries similar to Z library in this article.

This will allow you to explore a vast array of book collections from different authors and genres. You can even get a lot of eBooks and audiobooks through these alternatives without spending a fortune. Say goodbye to waiting times and limited availability. These platforms provide you with a wealth of reading options. These platforms are perfect for book lovers to explore various subjects and try out new authors. If you wish to expand your literary horizons today and embark on a new reading adventure, try these top 5 alternatives to Z library.

The Rise Of Z Library As A Go-To Online Library

Z library has earned widespread acclaim and affection from bookworms, primarily attributable to its vast eBook collection and user-friendly interface. This online library caters to diverse tastes by offering an impressive variety of genres and authors, making it a preferred destination for countless readers. The ease of accessing books virtually anywhere and at any hour has solidified its status as a beloved choice among those who relish the convenience of digital reading.

Nonetheless, it’s worthwhile to remain open to exploring other options and venturing into different alternatives. These alternatives may introduce you to new genres, lesser-known authors, or unique features that can enrich your reading experience. A wealth of literary diversity is waiting to be discovered beyond the familiar confines of Z library, offering an opportunity to expand your academic horizons and embark on new reading adventures.

1. Project Gutenberg Of Z Library

Regarding free online libraries, Project Gutenberg is a name of great significance. It serves as one of the first online libraries and is well known for its extensive collection of more than 60,000 free eBooks. It was founded in 1971. This platform’s primary goal is to preserve and maintain cultural assets to ensure that people anywhere may access them. It comprises various literary forms, including novels, poems, non-fiction, and textbooks.

Project Gutenberg is unique in that it is dedicated to granting unlimited access to all of its works, which makes it an absolute gold mine for book lovers. Project Gutenberg now provides audiobooks for individuals who enjoy listening to their treasured stories rather than reading them. The platform goes above and beyond by making these eBooks accessible in numerous formats, enabling device compatibility. This dedication to accessibility and its rich collection of timeless literature solidify Project Gutenberg’s standing as a valuable resource for readers seeking to immerse themselves in the world of books, all free of charge.

2. Open Library

Open Library is a noteworthy destination if you’re searching for a platform with a mission to grant universal access to a wealth of information. Open Library’s primary objective is to establish a dedicated web page for every published book. This initiative sets out to make a comprehensive array of literature accessible to anyone interested. Like a traditional library, you can borrow eBooks for a specific duration.

The lending period typically lasts 14 days, after which the book is automatically returned, ensuring everyone gets a fair chance to read the available titles. Open Library also allows users to contribute to its collection. If a book is unavailable, you can request it or even upload your scanned copy if you own the physical book. This collaborative approach makes Open Library a community-driven platform, constantly expanding its collection through the contributions of its users.

3. Librivox

Librivox is a fantastic alternative to Z library for those who enjoy storytelling through audiobooks. It is a non-profit initiative that aims to make all books in the public domain available as free audiobooks. It relies on volunteers worldwide who lend their voices to record these audiobooks. You can listen to classic novels, poetry, plays, and even non-fiction works with Librivox.

The platform offers a wide variety of genres and authors, ensuring there’s something for every listener. Whether commuting, relaxing at home, or walking, Librivox allows you to immerse yourself in captivating stories wherever you are. The volunteer narrators at Librivox put in their hearts and souls to bring these books to life. Their passion for literature shines through their recordings, making it an enriching experience for the listeners. If you’ve never tried audiobooks, Librivox is a great place to start and discover the joy of storytelling through sound.

4. Many books from Z Library

For those who appreciate indie authors and lesser-known literary gems, Manybooks is a platform that demands your attention. This digital library houses over 50,000 free eBooks, mainly focusing on works by independent authors and self-published books. Manybooks takes pride in offering a platform for authors who may have yet to gain mainstream recognition but possess unique perspectives and storytelling talents.

You may explore numerous genres, dig into many categories, and discover undiscovered literary gems on Manybooks that might not be easily accessible on different platforms. User reviews and ratings on the website improve your reading experience by assisting you in selecting the books you want to read.

Personalize your reading experience with Manybooks’ user-friendly e-reader software by changing the font size and adding bookmarks to your preferred pages. This personalized touch enhances the overall enjoyment of the reading process. Manybooks also ensures compatibility with various devices by supporting different file formats, making it an excellent resource for those seeking a rich and diverse selection of literature outside the mainstream.

5. BookBub

BookBub offers a complimentary service designed to cater to your reading preferences by providing personalized book recommendations. This platform collaborates with significant eBook retailers and publishers to deliver exclusive, limited-time deals and discounts on eBooks. When you sign up for BookBub, you’ll gain access to daily email newsletters featuring discounted and even free eBooks tailored to your favorite genres.

What sets BookBub apart is its customization options. You can fine-tune your preferences, select specific genres of interest, and even follow your favorite authors to stay in the loop about their latest releases. BookBub ensures you get all the fantastic deals and new books from the authors you love. Beyond offering discounted books, BookBub provides additional value with author interviews, expert book recommendations, and thoughtfully curated reading lists. This comprehensive approach to connecting readers with authors fosters a vibrant and engaged community of book enthusiasts.

Conclusion: Z Library

As a book lover, exploring new libraries and discovering different authors and genres is always exciting. While Z library has been widespread, several alternatives offer unique features and collections. Expanding your literary horizons and trying out these top 5 free online library alternatives to Z library will open you up to a new world of books and stories. Start your new reading adventure today and dive into the vast collections waiting to be explored.

New PlayStation 5 Slim – PS5 Games Call of Duty: Modern Warfare II

Blessing Ernest

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November 19, 2023

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New PlayStation 5 Slim – PS5 Games Call of Duty: Modern Warfare II

The new PlayStation 5 Slim refines the original model without adopting the “Slim” moniker. Although it maintains the PlayStation 5 name, it is a more compact console featuring increased hard drive space, a new USB-C port, and an upgradeable disc drive bay. Despite these enhancements, the redesigned model retains the same design as the previous model.

Available in two versions; the new PS5 Digital Edition and PS5 with Ultra HD Blu-ray disc drive one with an optical drive and the other without, the disc-based model is selling for $499. It comes as a bundled package at no additional charge, and this bundle includes exciting games—Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3 and Spider-Man 2.

Featuring curved white panels around a black center, with the high collar slightly less prominent, the familiar light strips along the edges of the black center still glow in blue, white, or amber to indicate the console’s status. The only noticeable design difference is the addition of black stripes horizontally running along the white panels.

In the new PS5 Slim, we see a reduction in volume, with the Digital Edition being lighter than the Disc drive model. One design change we couldn’t help but notice is the introduction of four cover panels—two on each side, in contrast to the original PS5’s two panels.

In this Digital Edition, the bottom right cover panel is removable, allowing users to replace it with the new Ultra HD Blu-ray Disc Drive. Although Sony has yet to officially confirm the add-on disc drive will likely include a spare console cover due to the increased width after the drive is added.

While most internal specifications of the new PS5 are still the same, there is an upgrade in the form of a larger 1TB SSD. The console retains its 16GB GDDR6 memory and is powered by a Ryzen Zen 2 CPU from AMD.

PlayStation 5 Slim Features

Below are the detailed specifications for the New PS5 Slim Digital console and the PS5 Slim Disc:

Comparison	New PS5	New PS5 Digital Edition
Price	$499, €550, £480	$449, €450, £390
Processor	Custom AMD Zen 2, 8-core / 16 threads, 3.5GHz	Custom AMD Zen 2, 8-core / 16 threads, 3.5GHz
GPU	AMD RDNA 2, 10.3 teraflops, 2.23 GHz	AMD RDNA 2, 10.3 teraflops, 2.23 GHz
RAM	GDDR6 16GB	GDDR6 16GB
Storage	1TB SSD	1TB SSD
Disc drive	Ultra HD Blu-ray, up to 100GB/disc	Optional add-on
Video out	4K, 120Hz	4K, 120Hz
Ports	1 x USB Type C (front), 2 x USB Type A, 1 x gigabit Ethernet, 1 x HDMI (rear)	1 x USB Type C (front), 2 x USB Type A, 1 x gigabit Ethernet, 1 x HDMI (rear)
Networking	Gigabit Ethernet, Wi-Fi 6	Gigabit Ethernet, Wi-Fi 6

ChatGPT Developer of OpenAI fires CEO Sam Altman

Blessing Ernest

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November 19, 2023

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ChatGPT Developer of OpenAI fires CEO Sam Altman

OpenAI, the creator of ChatGPT, announced on Friday that it has removed its co-founder and CEO, Sam Altman, following a review that revealed a lack of consistent transparency in his communications with the board of directors.

ChatGPT is an AI-driven chatbot employing natural language processing to generate lifelike conversational interactions. This language model is trained to answer queries and craft various written materials, including articles, social media posts, essays, code, and emails. ChatGPT, the brainchild of OpenAI, the research company specializing in artificial intelligence was introduced in November 2022.

Why was OpenAI CEO Sam Altman Fired?

In a statement, the artificial intelligence company expressed a loss of confidence in Altman’s ability to lead OpenAI. Altman had gained global recognition over the past year as a prominent voice in Silicon Valley, discussing both the promises and potential risks associated with artificial intelligence. His abrupt and largely unexplained departure has created uncertainty about the future of the industry.

OpenAI’s Chief Technology Officer, Mira Murati, will assume the role of interim CEO immediately, as the company initiates a search for a permanent replacement. The announcement also mentioned that another co-founder and top executive, Greg Brockman, who serves as the board’s chairman, would step down from that position but remain with the company as president. However, in a post on X (formerly Twitter), Brockman later announced his resignation, stating, “based on today’s news, I quit.”

According to Brockman’s Friday night post, Altman was informed of his termination during a video meeting with the board. Excluding Brockman, where co-founder and Chief Scientist Ilya Sutskever delivered the news. Brockman expressed shock and sadness at the board’s decision. Learning of his own removal from the board in a subsequent call with Sutskever.

The statement from OpenAI did not disclose the specifics of Altman’s alleged lack of candor but emphasized that it impeded the board’s ability to fulfill its responsibilities.

Altman, in a Friday post on X, expressed his love for his time at OpenAI. He described it as transformative and praising the talented individuals he worked with. He promised more details about his future plans. In a Saturday morning post, Altman referred to the situation as a “weird experience” and thanked his followers for the “outpouring of love.”

Altman helped in founding OpenAI as a nonprofit research laboratory in 2015. But it was ChatGPT’s widespread recognition that brought him into the public eye as a figurehead for generative AI. He had engaged with multiple heads of state to discuss the potential and challenges of AI. Participating in a CEO summit at the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation conference just a day before the announcement in San Francisco, where OpenAI is headquartered.

Founded in 2015 by a cadre of entrepreneurs and researchers, including Elon Musk and Sam Altman, OpenAI enjoys support from various investors, like Microsoft. In addition to ChatGPT, OpenAI is the creator of Dall-E, an AI-powered text-to-art generator.

Is Sam Altman going back to open AI? Check our next post “Sam Altman Returns as CEO Amid Board Restructuring“

The Importance of Domain Authority in SEO – How to Check and Improve Yours

EWT News Service

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November 5, 2023

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The Importance of Domain Authority in SEO – How to Check and Improve Yours

A website’s SEO success can be greatly influenced by its domain authority score when it comes to digital marketing. This is particularly valid if it is up against companies with higher DA scores. Regretfully, you cannot raise your DA in a single sitting; it requires consistent effort over time. If you work hard and are patient, you will eventually see results. Here are some of the ways to check domain authority and improve SEO.

Look at Your Competitors’ DA

Over the years, experts at Vazoola in search engine optimization have come to understand what influences domain authority. Certain aspects of web optimization have a direct impact on a website’s domain authority, but other factors have an indirect effect. These factors include the caliber of a website’s content and whether it offers its visitors value. High-quality content increases a website’s domain authority (DA) by obtaining links from high-ranking businesses and other websites in the same field.

To check the domain authority of your competitors, you can enter the website URLs into Moz’s free tool to see their DA scores. Along with these features, it will offer a spam score, keyword ranking, and links to root domains. The tool can point out sections of your website that require work. Only compare your website to those in your direct competitive niche, though.

Check Your Backlinks

One way to determine a website’s position in search engine results pages (SERPs) is through domain authority. This is important to evaluate how successful or not your SEO campaigns are. The higher the domain authority of your site, the more likely it is to rank high in SERPs. When determining domain authority, Moz takes into account a large number of ranking signals to predict the performance of your website.

Removing irrelevant links and strengthening your internal linking structure are two strategies to raise your domain authority. Additionally, you can obtain backlinks from reputable websites in your niche, like official government websites or well-known newspapers and magazines. Increasing your DA takes time and constant work, as well as the optimization of important elements like content and keywords. The more effort you put into these tasks, the better the odds of increasing your domain authority.

Check Your Site’s Speed

How quickly a website loads is another important factor that influences domain authority. Users may find a slow-loading website annoying, and it could hurt search engine optimization. There are several free and paid tools to check website speed. Although it is not a ranking factor, domain authority can be used to know a site’s position for a particular keyword.

Since it is a comparative metric, you should frequently review your website and check the domain authority to see how it stacks up against competitors. A low DA score usually indicates a newer website or a solo blog that has yet to have the opportunity to procure many backlinks. However, these sites can still rank highly if they create high-quality content and are active on social media.

As a dynamic metric, domain authority is constantly changing. This is because Moz’s algorithm considers changes to a website’s backlink profile, so as other websites build new links or lose old ones, their scores can fluctuate. This means tracking your DA weekly or monthly to understand the changes to your site’s performance is essential. This will help you make better decisions regarding how to optimize your site.

Check Your Site’s Content

When attempting to achieve a high SEO ranking, domain authority is a crucial consideration. But keep in mind that there are numerous other factors that search engines consider. If you want to raise your domain authority, create outstanding educational content that resonates with your target audience. You can improve your website’s traffic and search engine ranking by using this strategy.

Do not forget to include internal links in your writing. By doing this, other pages on your website will receive “link juice,” which will raise the domain’s authority. Although increasing domain authority takes time, the effort is worthwhile. Taking the tips in this post into practice will help you outperform competitors with higher DA scores and improve the usability of your website.

Additionally, remember that SEO requires time commitment as it is an ongoing process. If you want to continue being successful, you should keep making improvements to your website’s page speed, backlink profile, and content.

Best Romantic Korean Drama in 2024

Blessing Ernest

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November 4, 2023

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Be warned; you will fall hopelessly, irredeemably in love with the Korean dramas in this review. With the boom in K-pop, and now K-drama, K-beauty, and K-food, the whole world seems to be riding Hallyu or the Korean wave. Many Korean dramas have gone over the top this year with a slew of incredibly entertaining and captivating romance dramas. In 2024 alone, over 100 shows have been released and 60 out of those 100 are binge-watched daily all over the world. This review could also guide couples looking for movies to watch during date nights, to strengthen their bond through shared experiences. Shows that melt hearts with romantic storylines and on-screen chemistry that put smiles on the faces of special Kdrama fans. We have compiled 5 of the Best Romantic Korean Drama on Netflix and other platforms in 2024

Let’s dig into the top-rated K-dramas of the year with the cutest female leads and hottest Korean actors.

King The Land

Gu Won (Lee Jun-ho), a wealthy heir who shies away from human connections and the warmth of smiles meets smiley Cheon Sa-Rang(Lim Yoon-a), a normal girl whose childhood dream was to work in a hotel. Gu Won is often described as bold, with perhaps only one close friend who truly understands him. Yet, beneath his exterior, there’s more to Gu Won than meets the eye. He carries his own scars.

Plot

It is 2015, and a group of ambitious young individuals vie for a coveted one-month internship at the hotel. It’s an in-demand position, with a prerequisite of holding a four-year college degree. Nevertheless, Sa-rang who was one of the applicants throws her hat in the ring. When questioned by Gu Hwa-ran (Kim Seon-young), who oversees the hotel on behalf of her father, King Group chairman Gu Il-hoon (Son Byong-ho), Sa-rang’s responses are sharp and quick-witted.

Subsequently, we witness a figure in impeccable attire parachute out of an aircraft, landing gracefully on a neighboring building’s rooftop. We later learn he was meant to touch down at the King Hotel nearby. This individual is Gu Won (Lee Jun-ho), commencing his own internship within the hotel’s offices, all while concealing his true identity as the chairman’s son. He steps in to defend his fellow intern, Noh Sang-sik (Ahn Se-ha), during a scolding from their boss over a malfunctioning toner cartridge. In the process, he criticizes both the boss and the company, promptly leading to his dismissal. until his true status is discovered.

Naturally, Won’s father, Il-hoon, is dissatisfied. He had hoped for Won to grasp the business from the ground up, envisioning a future where he and Hwa-ran would contend to succeed him. Privately, Hwa-ran would prefer her brother to return to the UK, where he resided previously, and pave the way for her.

The story alternates between a past and present timeline and explores how Sa-rang’s tight-knit friends/roommates who also work at King Group navigates life and love. The trio Oh Pyung-hwa (Go Won-hee) a flight attendant, Gang Da-eul (Kim Ga-eun) a duty-free shop clerk, and Sa-rang who works at the hotel.

Fueled by her passion, she joins King Hotel as an intern and over seven years, becomes the hotel’s most outstanding employee. It’s almost second nature for her to wear a smile, even in the face of challenges—a byproduct of her dedication to her job. Sa-rang is coached to maintain her radiant 100-watt smile at all times. Despite her stern supervisors deeming the smile futile, Sa-rang persists in flashing her pearly whites. She crosses paths with Won, mistakenly identifying him as the man who sent her a room key and a proposition. She also engages with Hwa-ran, who promotes her to the lobby with a year-long contract.

Won returns to London, accompanied by his now-assistant Sang-sik. Eight years pass; Sa-rang ascends to the role of concierge, training others, earning accolades, and finally securing a salaried position. Upon receiving a package containing the resume of a woman named Han Mi-so (Nam Gi-ae)—who from the storyline we presume is his lost mother—Won returns to Korea with a determination to not let his sister take control of the company. After his father appoints him as the hotel’s general manager, he repeatedly encounters Sa-rang in the most unexpected of places and they must change the narrative of the love story that pushed Gu Won’s mother away to begin with. Undoubtedly one of the best romantic Korean drama on Netflix, this story was created by Cheon Sung-il and written by Choi Rom.

See You in My 19th Life

We’re not surprised this show is the most-watched and best Korean drama on Netflix because it deserves it and more. See You In My 19th Life is written by Choi Young-lim and based on the webtoon of the same name featuring supernatural themes.

Plot

Meet Ban Ji-eum, played by Shin Hye-sun, who discovered she was on her 19th recollection in life when a flood of memories from her past lives hit her at just 9 years old. One particular memory—her 18th life as Yoon Ju-won, portrayed by Kim Si-a, where she promised never to leave Mun Seo-ha (Jung Hyeon-jun). Now, she’s determined to find out if he’s still alive.

However, Ji-eum’s current reality is far from idyllic. She’s stuck in a life of poverty with an abusive, gambling-addicted father. To make ends meet, she showcases her vast knowledge acquired over her previous lives, including talents like flamenco dancing and Japanese history, on TV talent shows. Though she earns appearance fees, her father always takes the money.

In a desperate escape, Ji-eum stumbles upon Kim Ae-kyung (Cha Chung-hwa), a restaurant owner. She convinces Ae-kyung that she’s her long-lost Uncle Kim Jung-ho (Lee Jae-kyoon) and that she holds vivid memories of her past lives. From there, Ji-eum begins to unfold her extraordinary tale.

Her encounter with Seo-ha in 1997, when she was a 12-year-old Ju-won, was a turning point. He was the most captivating person she’d met in a century. Ju-won had recollected memories from her previous 17 lives and no longer acted like a child. Her mother even told Seo-ha’s mother, Lee Sang-a (Lee Bo-young), that the other kids at school treated Ju-won like a teacher.

Their bond deepened, and Ju-won’s affection for Seo-ha grew. Unfortunately, Sang-a’s health began to deteriorate. At the mansion’s pool, where Seo-ha resided (his mother being the CEO of a hotel chain), he shared a whimsical belief – he claimed to have been a turtle in a past life, inspired by the ones he observed in a hotel fish tank. Ju-won assured him she’d always be by his side.

Tragically, their story took a grim turn. A violent car accident claimed Sang-a’s life and left Seo-ha with damaged hearing, while Ju-won succumbed to her injuries. In her final moments, she silently prayed for a 19th life, determined to reunite with Seo-ha. Previously, she’d always prayed for an end to her cycle of reincarnation.

Now reborn as Ji-eum, she’s resolute in her quest to find Seo-ha. In 2007, she locates him on his way to high school and continues to shadow him, only to discover he’s left the country. Over the years, Ju-won excels academically and strategically joins the company owned by Seo-ha’s family, working in its automotive division. She learns that Seo-ha, now in his 30s, is stationed in Germany, prompting her to seek a transfer.

Before she can make it happen, Seo-ha returns to Korea, determined to restore the hotel his mother once managed to its former glory. Naturally, Ji-eum applies for a transfer to work at the hotel.

Love to Hate You

Netflix’s newest release and perhaps one of the most addictive Korean dramas in 2023 if you ask us. The narrative of the show centers around Nam Kang-ho, an actor harboring a strong aversion towards women. His discomfort in their presence is palpable.

Enter the eccentric Lee Mi-ran, a lawyer with an equal disdain for men. Mi-ran’s exceptional combat skills prove invaluable when Kang-ho, known for his romantic comedy roles, must transform into a street fighter for an upcoming film.

Plot

Chaos ensues as the two polar opposites collide. Mi-ran soon realizes Kang-ho isn’t the villain she initially perceived, while Kang-ho discovers there’s more to Mi-ran than her combat prowess. The show wastes no time diving headfirst into the tumult, endearing viewers to the characters instantly.

Kang-ho, affable in his own right, is eclipsed by the irresistible force that is Mi-ran and her unapologetic demeanor. While the plot may share similarities with past K-dramas, Kang-ho’s aversion to women infuses “Love To Hate You” with a unique and enjoyable twist.

The central characters’ evolution, as they confront their reservations about the opposite sex, is skillfully portrayed. Supporting roles, like Soo-jin, an actress navigating post-divorce turmoil, and Na-eun, burdened by the consequences of her romantic choices, add depth to the narrative. Won-jun, the CEO of an entertainment company, abstains from relationships due to a perceived professional inadequacy, rounding out the ensemble.

With a deeper look into Kang-ho’s emotional scars and Mi-ran’s propensity for overthinking, it becomes clear why they harbor such strong aversions towards the opposite sex. Kang-ho’s heartbreak at the hands of a materialistic woman has colored his perception of all women with a similar brush. When he encounters Mi-ran, a woman who bucks the trend and dislikes a soft girl lifestyle Kang-ho finds it hard to contain his emotions.

On the other hand, Mi-ran’s history with men has been riddled with disappointment, leading her to prioritize financial independence and personal enjoyment. Anyone who obstructs her path quickly learns the importance of not crossing her.

From start to finish, the show was insanely sweet and ticked all of our boxes. While the circumstances that brought Kang-ho and Mi-ran together in “Love To Hate You” may seem rather unnatural, the charisma of Kim Ok-vin in the role of Mi-ran changes the whole narrative and makes it even more cute.

Crash Course In Romance

Crash Course in Romance is a whirlwind of a show and one of the best Korean dramas. A classic enemies-to-lovers tale, where the unavoidable union of the lead couple is a foregone conclusion. This charming and light-hearted comedy is about a celebrity math tutor Choi Chi-Yeol (Jung Kyung-Ho) who falls for a single mother Nam Haeng-Seon (Jeon Do-Yeon). Yet, the narrative of a haunted man pursuing stressed-out students somewhat disrupts the harmony.

Plot

Our central character is Haeng-seon, a retired national athlete who now runs her own side dish store. She goes above and beyond for her niece Hae-e, whom she’s taken in as her own daughter. As she endeavors to get Hae-e enrolled in a prestigious academy, Haeng-seon inevitably crosses paths with the charismatic and highly sought-after math tutor, Choi Chi-yeol.

The duo strikes up a friendship, with subtle hints of romance lingering in the air. However, various forces conspire against them, including meddling mothers at the school, societal expectations within the education field, and a mysterious threat known as the metal ball killer.

The initial encounters, banter, and misunderstandings between the couple are a breeze, especially since they are refreshing characters in their early forties. With stellar performances from Do-Yeon and Kyung-Ho, there’s never a dip in energy, and it almost feels like a friendly competition between the actors. When they hit the right notes in emotional scenes, the chemistry between them is palpable and delightful.

However, as mentioned earlier, their romance isn’t the sole focal point of the K-Drama. Competitive mothers, the pressure of high school academics, envious classmates, parental trauma, conniving professional rivals, a barrage of scandals, AND a menacing psychopath on the loose all jockey for attention. Not all of these elements seamlessly come together. Haeng-seon’s shop is situated in an academic hub, surrounded by tutoring academies that high school students and their parents flock to in droves.

It’s a world where mothers queue up in front of The Pride Academy not only to register their kids for Chi-Yeol’s math classes but also to secure them a spot at the front of the class. Writer Yang Hee-Seung adeptly establishes this world for the audience, vividly portraying the extent of academic pressure and the system that students teetering on the edge of university admission, along with their parents, are trying to navigate.

The mothers, in particular, have risen to the challenge, often resorting to their most deplorable tactics in this cutthroat battle for college entrance exams. Jang Seo-Jin, a workaholic attorney (Jang Young-Nam), who drove her first son to an academic pressure-induced breakdown, is now solely focused on ensuring her second son Lee Sun-Jae (Lee Chae-Min) doesn’t falter. Then there’s Su-Hee (Kim Sun-Young), a social media influencer in the realm of high school academics, obsessed with her daughter’s studies and seemingly oblivious to her struggles with mental health, as well as her cheating husband.

Haeng-Seon soon realizes that she needs to rise to the occasion for her niece, Nam He-Yi (Roh Yoon-Seo), and grapples with fitting into this world of competition and intrigue.

Doona!

Drawing inspiration from Min Song-Ah’s webtoon, this show is the latest adaptation of Doona for Netflix Korea and Studio Dragon. Directed by Lee Jung-hyo, the nine-episode series is a journey into a poignant coming-of-age romance between Lee Doo-na (Bae Suzy) and Lee Won-joon (Yang Se-Jong).

Plot

The story is about a flashy ex-superstar, Doona, once part of the Dream Sweet group until a stage collapse led her to sever ties. Battling the aftermath of performance-induced stress, a demanding mother, and an unreciprocated infatuation manipulated by her manager, Doona grapples with inner demons. She languishes in sorrow, her suffering concealed and ignored, relegated to being the enigmatic girl downstairs. Though she shares a house for convenience, it’s not a sanctuary; instead, it becomes a sinkhole of self-loathing.

Won-joon’s migration from the countryside to Seoul for college thrusts him into a sharehouse inhabited by a motley crew, challenging his preconceptions about life. His abode is a room in a sprawling, eccentric household, with Lee Doona at its nucleus. She propels him beyond his comfort zone, steering him away from a past infatuation and propelling them both on a transformative journey.

While melodramatic moments arise, they don’t steer the narrative. Rather, it’s the intricate, convoluted backstories and futures of each character that lend depth to the series’ romance. Lee Doona bears the scars of her idol days, her self-worth at rock bottom, yearning for attention without understanding why.

She’s ensnared by chain-smoking, neglecting self-care, leaving viewers to ponder if she’s resigned to fading away. Won-joon, on the other hand, grapples with naivete and innocence, hampering his grasp of morality and nuanced responses to situations. His reticent nature clashes with Doona’s persona. While Won-joon undergoes personal growth upon relinquishing his childhood crush, Lee Doona’s identity remains entangled with her former manager, resulting in forced interventions that occasionally miss the mark.

What is SIEM, and What Are the Key Benefits of Implementing SIEM System?

Technology

EWT News Service

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November 1, 2023

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What is SIEM, and What Are the Key Benefits of Implementing SIEM System?

Security Information and Event Management, popularly known as SIEM system, is critical to any cybersecurity strategy. It helps protect against threats and provides visibility into your entire IT environment.

SIEM is a security control system that integrates the two components of security event management (SEM) and security information management (SIM). This technology gathers event logs from a range of sources. By identifying activity that deviates from the norm with real-time analysis, and takes appropriate action.

How Does SIEM work?

SIEM software is used to gather and examine massive volumes of data from users, servers, and devices within an organization in real-time. Enabling security teams to promptly detect and stop threats. SIEM tools operate according to already established procedures to facilitate the way security teams define threats and send out alerts.

What are the Benefit of SIEM?

SIEM can be a complex solution that requires experienced staff to implement and fine-tune. Before investing, it’s essential to understand its key benefits.

Improved Detection

By the way, what is SIEM? A SIEM is a powerful tool that can alert you to potential environmental threats. It can also help you meet various compliance requirements, including PCI, NERC, PII, and HIPAA. The best way to get the most out of an SIEM is to properly tune it to your network and environment.

Tuning your SIEM involves establishing the appropriate rules and thresholds to differentiate normal and abnormal network activity. This can be accomplished through simple rules that correlate one event with another or more complex correlations of different events, such as a compromised login, a large file transfer, and a location change.

These models can significantly improve visibility into your network and detect various threats, even ones outside of the perimeter, like remote user access to SaaS applications and devices or attacks carried out from the cloud. This lets your security team focus on the most dangerous incidents and prioritize the threats threatening your business. This helps you get the most value out of your SIEM and reduces the time you spend dealing with unnecessary alarms.

Reduced False Positives

SIEM can churn out too many false positive alerts unless it is configured correctly and tuned to the security needs of your organization. This can bog down analysts, creating a productivity drain that reduces their ability to detect real threats and mitigate them quickly.

This is especially true if the system has to use configuration management data to solve the problem. You can first try to understand the typical activity in your environment and then identify deviations from that baseline. UEBA or user and entity behavior analytics can help remove these annoying false positives.

This is possible if you configure the rules correctly, which takes time to set up properly (so the solution knows what is typical for your environment). If you configure these rules right, it will be possible for the software to distinguish between legitimate security events and false positives so that it will trigger too many alerts. It’s also essential to enable only the rules necessary in your environment, as leaving every default rule allowed can cause alert fatigue. This is a common mistake.

Better Compliance

With a SIEM program, you can monitor all devices and applications—including those of remote employees—from one central location. This active monitoring can help you identify and correct cyberattacks in far less time than if you were manually monitoring each device.

SIEM also enables you to create custom rules, alerts, and dashboards tailored to your security needs. This helps your analysts get the needed information without being overwhelmed by too many false positives.

A good SIEM program uses models rather than correlation rules, making it more likely to recognize real threats. Which can prevent attackers from taking advantage of the system. Models require multiple events to occur, like a user logging in from a different location or carrying out a large file transfer, to trigger an alert.

The benefits of SIEM solutions are numerous, but implementing and maintaining one requires more work. It also requires the talent of experienced IT environments and security teams. Managed SIEM services eliminate the stress of deploying, managing, and monitoring an SIEM platform—and they can also save your organization money by eliminating the need for you to invest in software and hardware.

Enhanced Visibility

With the SIEM system, security teams can get a real-time bird’s-eye view of what is happening on their network. This visibility eliminates blind spots, making detecting and responding to attacks much easier.

With the rise of remote workforces, organizations need to be able to mitigate risks wherever digital assets are accessed. A SIEM solution can help to do this by providing visibility into all network activity – regardless of the device, application, or service the activity is associated with.

The other benefit of SIEM visibility is reducing the time it takes to identify threats and take action. This is crucial as the longer an attack goes unnoticed, the more damage it can cause.

Alongside correlation rules, some next-gen SIEM solutions include user and entity behavior analytics (UEBA) that automatically detect suspicious behavior patterns and alert the security team. This can be extremely useful for detecting DDoS attacks and file integrity breaches that could indicate an attacker at work.

Increased Security

When correctly configured and tuned to fit your environment, an SIEM solution can surface indicators of a threat that could lead to a breach. This is made possible through correlation and analysis, allowing security staff to identify malicious activity promptly.

The History of Security Information and Event Management?

SIEM solutions have been around for decades, with varying degrees of functionality based on which product or vendor you choose.

Gartner analysts Mark Nicolett and Amrit Williams coined the term SIEM in 2005. First-generation SIEM focused mainly on traditional log collection. The next generation of SIEM platforms focused on security events based on triggers from tools such as antivirus, firewalls, and intrusion detection systems (IDS).

Many SIEM systems now incorporate the capabilities of user and entity behavior analytics and security orchestration, automation, and response. Which makes them full-fledged tools to help protect your organization against cyberattacks. Combined with powerful event correlation and advanced analytics, these solutions can significantly improve the mean time to detect and the mean time to respond for IT security teams. By offloading manual workflows, they free up the time and resources needed to address the most severe threats.

Effect of Wage Garnishment on Finances

Finance

EWT News Service

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October 30, 2023

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When you owe a debt, wage garnishment is what allows a court to order your employer to withhold part of your paycheck. It can affect your budget and credit score, but there are ways to handle it. The amount garnished is based on your disposable income. Depending on the type of debt, you may have some options to avoid wage garnishment or reduce its impact.

What is Wage Garnishment?

A wage garnishment is an official notice or a court order that directs an employer to withhold the earnings of an employee to fulfill certain financial obligations or debts, such as child support, student loans, tax levy, etc. It is a legal procedure in which a law enforcement agency requires your employer to withhold a certain amount of your earnings to settle a financial obligation. This is done by deducting money from your paychecks.

Common Situations for Wage Garnishment

The following are some of the most common situations in which the garnishment of wages is ordered:

Debt
Taxes
Credit Score
Insurance

Debts

When a debt becomes seriously overdue, the creditor may opt to involve a third-party debt collection agency. This agency can handle various types of debt, ranging from installment loans and credit card balances to child support and outstanding income taxes. Debt collection is done in various ways; including sending late notices and charging you interest on missed payments. It is typically one of the final steps in the debt collection process, and there are measures to prevent it from reaching that stage.

The debt collectors are not permitted to garnish your wages immediately upon taking on your credit account. They can only initiate wage garnishment after they have taken legal action by suing you for non-payment. They do this by getting a court order to garnish your wages or salary until you pay what you owe. Wage garnishment is the most aggressive method of debt collection, and it can impact your finances.

Following this, the collector will make repeated attempts to contact you, reminding you of the total debt owed. They may apply late fees, raise interest rates, and engage in persistent phone calls to get your attention. If the debt remains unpaid, these companies may proceed with a lawsuit against you. Only if the court judgment favors the creditor can the collector move forward with wage garnishment. Even then, most federal laws establish limitations on wage garnishment to ensure that the rights of the borrower are safeguarded.

The amount of your paycheck that can be garnished is based on “disposable income,” which is left over from your regular salary after legally required deductions are taken. Voluntary wage assignment deductions, health or life insurance, and purchases of savings bonds are not included and cannot be garnished.

Taxes

Wage garnishment takes a significant chunk of your paycheck each pay period. And since wages are taxable, it affects your tax bill as well. It can make it even more difficult to pay your tax debts.

Your disposable earnings—the money left over after legally mandated deductions from each paycheck. This is what determines how much of your income is subject to garnishment. Federal, state, and local taxes, as well as employee contributions to Medicare and Social Security, are included in these deductions.

It’s possible to challenge a court ruling that orders a garnishment by filing an exemption claim with the court. In order to prove that the levy is causing undue hardship or that the tax debt was assessed incorrectly, you must present thorough financial documentation. By agreeing to an offer in compromise, which enables you to pay less for your tax debt than is owed, you can also bargain with the IRS to stop or lessen a levy.

Credit Score

Wage garnishment happens when a creditor obtains a court order that allows them to withhold a portion of disposable income from your paycheck. The creditor could be a private loan originator, your employer, or the government (for unpaid taxes, debts, and court-ordered child or spousal support). Usually, you’re given several opportunities to work out a repayment plan with a creditor before wage garnishment is enacted. If those attempts fail, filing an objection can stop the process.

Fortunately, garnishment information doesn’t show up directly on your credit report. However, credit agencies are free to add any information related to your garnishment that they find in public records. As a result, lenders may see this information and decline to lend you money or approve credit cards.

The best way to avoid wage garnishment is to stay on top of your debt payments and seek financial advice. If you are in a situation where wage garnishment is imminent, try to work with collection agents to set up a payment plan and pay down the debt. If it doesn’t work, filing for bankruptcy is one last resort that can help you repair your credit. But remember, it can also hurt your credit even further, so this should only be considered if it’s necessary and you’ve exhausted all other options.

Insurance

Creditors have the legal right to garnish wages or bank accounts for debt repayment. According to federal and state laws, there are restrictions on the amount of your income that can be withheld. It does not matter if you make money or help others. Wage garnishment generally does not apply to Social Security benefits.

When you owe money for student loans, child support, or back taxes, for example, a creditor may file a lawsuit against you and obtain a judgment against you before garnishing your wages. After that, the creditor will ask the court to set aside a specific portion of your paycheck, and this withholding will go on until the debt is settled, along with any interest and court costs.

Your finances and credit score may be impacted by wage garnishment, and the harm may not go away even if the debt is settled. For that reason, it’s important to prevent debt from reaching default. And to as well take proactive steps to improve your credit report and score, such as by paying bills on time and reducing outstanding debt balances.

Dyson Black Friday Deals for Hair 2023

Blessing Ernest

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October 28, 2023

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Excited for jaw-dropping Dyson Black Friday deals ahead of the official sales kick-off? You’re in the right place. For those unfamiliar with the brand, here’s a quick rundown. Dyson crafts some of the most cherished home and beauty products, rarely ever seeing price drops. This year’s black Friday sales, Dyson vacuums, Dyson air purifiers, and even hair care tools, will be on sale. In terms of Black Friday deals, it’s hard to beat Dyson discounts which are mostly available on their website or through retailers like Amazon.

From what we know, the yearly reductions on various gifts like kitchen gadgets, TVs, tech gizmos, vacuums, headphones, and gaming consoles make Black Friday a highly anticipated event. This includes discounts that are even better than Amazon’s much-hyped Prime Day deals or even Cyber Monday. Here’s a heads-up on Black Friday 2023. Trust us, items genuinely become more affordable on Black Friday, and this year will be no different. Black Friday falls on November 24 this year, but we foresee many stores granting early access to subscribers amid their ongoing holiday sales in the upcoming weeks. Expect a plethora of items to be on sale at significant markdowns in the lead-up to Black Friday.

While Dyson hasn’t unveiled any official Black Friday deals just yet, it doesn’t hurt to make some guesses, does it?. If you presume we’re getting ahead of ourselves, think again. Remember, the most awaited shopping days of the year are swiftly approaching, so it’s time to get into the shopping spirit. And in the spirit of holiday shopping, we’ve curated a selection of our preferred Dyson products that we suggest tossing into your cart just in case they see a price drop.

Dyson Airwrap Complete Long

Dyson upgraded the original Airwrap Styler and introduced the updated Airwrap Complete sold at $599.99. This hot air multi-styler comes with specialized attachments for drying and smoothing hair. If you already own the older version, the new features may not justify the upgrade cost. Using the Dyson Airwrap Complete is still similar to the original Airwrap Styler. With basically the same key features and benefits. It just uses Coanda effect technology for simultaneous drying and styling, creating a spinning vortex of air for improved results. Heat regulation safeguards against hair damage.

Features

New and Improved Attachments: The Airwrap Complete has six attachments, plus a separately purchasable wide-tooth comb compatible with the old Airwrap Styler. While not all attachments are entirely new, they’ve undergone re-engineering. These include:
- Smoothing Dryer: This dual-function tool dries and smooths flyaways, transforming from a blow dryer to a flat iron for a polished look.
- Two Curling Barrels: These now have a nozzle allowing for easy switching between clockwise and anticlockwise curls without changing barrels. The length has been extended for longer styles.
- Soft and Firm Smoothing Brushes: Made for fine and thick hair respectively, these brushes have been enhanced for better tension and airflow guidance.
- Round Volumizing Brush: The coating has been upgraded for smoother usage.
- Wide-Tooth Comb: Designed with curved tips for effortless use during drying, adding volume and length to curls.
Improved Airflow: Dyson increased the airflow from 13 to 13.5 liters per second to speed up drying.
Bonus Accessories: Optional additions include a display stand for the base unit and eight attachments and a heat-resistant velvet travel pouch for the base unit and three attachments.
Cool-Shot Button: This addition helps seal the hair’s cuticle for a longer-lasting hold and added shine.
New shades are available in nickel/copper and topaz.

Dyson Supersonic Hair Dryer

If you’ve been eyeing Dyson’s Supersonic hair dryer but haven’t quite taken the plunge, your patience might have paid off. The brand recently introduced a sleeker model of the popular original, aptly named the Dyson Supersonic Origin, now available at a slightly lower price of $400 (compared to the regular version retailing at $430).

Features

Now, you might be wondering, what’s the catch? Well, it boils down to fewer styling options. Instead of having five fancy attachments (the Diffuser, Wide-Tooth Comb, Flyaway Attachment, Styling Concentrator, and Gentle Air Attachment), the new version keeps things uncomplicated, featuring just the hair dryer and the highly popular Styling Concentrator.

The fresh Dyson Supersonic Origin hair dryer also comes with fewer attachments for easy styling. It’s basically for those who still want a gentler, safer, and quicker hair-drying routine, all thanks to Dyson’s renowned heat-safe technology.

The good news is that customers have the option to customize their devices and purchase only the attachments most essential to them. This hair dryer has a great V9 digital motor to propel air through the brand’s patented Air Multiplier technology. This results in a high-speed jet of air for remarkably swift drying. Additionally, it has precise heat control. Throughout the drying process, the temperature of the airflow is monitored 40 times per second to shield your hair from potential heat damage. And those attachments? They’re magnetic and effortlessly snap onto the device, making them a breeze to utilize and interchange as needed.

Dyson Corrale Hair Straightener

The Dyson Corrale Hair Straightener is a premium investment, priced at over $400/£300. When it comes to first impressions, Dyson doesn’t disappoint. Opening the box feels like unwrapping a Christmas present, with a luxurious faux velvet lining. The packaging’s color varies depending on the model, offering options like blue and rose gold, pink and silver, copper and silver, grey and pink, or red and silver. Inside, you’ll find the straightener, a magnetic charging cable, and a charging dock.

Features

The Corrale breaks away from the typical straightener design. Instead of a gap from top to hinge, there’s only space between the plates. This area houses the power button, temperature controls, lock hinge, and an OLED screen displaying battery level, temperature, and charging status. The Corrale is weightier than standard straighteners, showcasing its technological prowess.

One of the excellent features is its cordless function. A 70-minute charge yields 30 minutes of cord-free styling, sufficient for most hair types. For longer sessions, you can use it with the charging cable or dock, both attaching magnetically. The Corrale’s unique copper plates are designed to flex with the hair, reducing damage and preventing split ends.

Temperature settings are adjustable between 165°C, 185°C, and 210°C. While the coolest setting may be insufficient for thick, curly hair, the hottest setting feels gentle compared to other straighteners. Integrated sensors maintain specific temperature control, ensuring it never exceeds the desired setting.

Safety features are a highlight. The tool includes a flight-safe mode, disabling the lithium-ion battery during travel. It also automatically shuts off after 10 minutes of inactivity and can be locked for easy storage.

Performance varies based on hair type. It excels in smoothing and straightening, but the time required may vary. It’s efficient for creating waves and curls, providing a sleek finish akin to a blow-dry. However, the battery life, while sufficient for most, can be limiting for extensive styling sessions. The plates may produce a crackling sound, though this is a normal part of their operation.

Rolls-Royce Cuts 2,500 Jobs Globally

Blessing Ernest

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October 17, 2023

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This year, a further decline in aviation revenues due to COVID-19-induced impact has prompted Rolls-Royce to execute yet another round of layoffs in less than a decade. Cutting a chunk(6%) of its original headcount(50,000). On the sidelines, Microsoft’s professional social media platform Linkedin this Monday revealed its plans to lay off 668 of its workforce in engineering, product development, talent acquisition, and finance departments. This follows a previous booting of 716 staff in May, along with the closure of its job application in China. Let’s find out why Rolls-Royce is cutting 2,500 jobs.

Derby-based Rolls-Royce on the other hand is set to trim its workforce by up to 2,500 positions in a thorough global restructuring initiative by its new CEO Tufan Erginbilgic. Who claims that axing a considerable number of its workforce is to simplify operations and improve profitability. Rolls-Royce Holdings PLC, a prominent British name specializing in the production of aircraft engines, military vehicles, marine propulsion systems, and power-generation systems, is a UK enterprise creating and providing power and propulsion solutions for crucial safety applications. The company is an engine supplier for Airbus A350 and Boeing 787 aircraft.

What is happening with Rolls-Royce?

Over the past decade, Rolls-Royce has undergone numerous restructurings under successive leadership. A prior overhaul, conducted under former CEO Warren East in response to the severe impact of the Covid pandemic on Rolls-Royce’s civil aerospace division aimed to shed 9,000 frontline jobs.

However, this time around, Rolls-Royce booting the jobs of over 2,000 people will predominantly affect the non-engineering segments of the workforce. McKinsey, the consulting firm, was enlisted this year to provide counsel on Rolls-Royce’s restructuring efforts. Roughly half of Rolls-Royce’s employees are based in the UK, with 10,800 in Germany and 5,400 in the US.

In May, Rolls-Royce was in the news for potential staff redundancies, but the company firmly debunked rumors of layoffs. According to a spokesperson from Rolls-Royce, the British engine manufacturer has not yet made any decisions regarding alterations to its workforce. Officially stating that a reduction of approximately 3,000 non-manufacturing positions was baseless and merely speculative.

Erginbilgic has moved swiftly to leave his imprint on the 117-year-old corporation, characterizing it as a critical juncture in an address to the staff in January. He has also been highly critical of the management of Rolls-Royce’s power systems division, responsible for producing diesel and gas engines for ships and trains.

What’s different this time with Rolls-Royce Jobs Layoff?

The impending job cuts will touch across the global operations of the engine manufacturer. With a significant impact anticipated on a substantial number of UK-based personnel. As part of the cost-reduction initiative, Rolls-Royce aims to merge its engineering technology and safety divisions. This restructuring will also instigate significant transformations in the company’s procurement and supply chain management processes.

Since taking over as CEO of Rolls-Royce in January, Tufan Erginbilgic has been vocal about the company’s imperative to enhance cash flow, reduce debt, and invest in its future. In line with this vision, Erginbilgic initiated a comprehensive strategic review. The outcomes of this will be revealed in the latter part of 2023. Under him, Rolls-Royce has witnessed a robust recovery. Erginbilgic has consistently emphasized the vigilant management of the firm’s cost structure to counterbalance inflationary pressures.

Mr. Erginbilgic communicated these plans to investors. He lauded the talent and dedication within the organization. And expressed confidence that these adjustments would bolster capabilities in areas critical to the company’s enduring triumph. He characterized this maneuver as yet another milestone in the company’s multi-year endeavor to forge a competitive, and expanding Rolls-Royce. These new modifications come on the heels of two prior turnaround strategies enacted under Mr. Erginbilgic’s predecessor, Warren East. The initial plan was in 2020; with the chief objective of weathering the repercussions of the pandemic. Ultimately resulting in the shedding of 9,000 jobs. The second initiative, executed in 2018, led to 4,600 redundancies.

Black Friday 2023: Date, Deals, What to Expect

Event

Blessing Ernest

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October 17, 2023

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Black Friday 2023: Date, Deals, What to Expect

Black Friday, the post-Thanksgiving celebration will forever remain an important day for shoppers shopping day. One way to describe Black Friday is a “yearly shopping extravaganza.” It occurs on the day after Thanksgiving. For all we know, the annual slashes on many gift items like kitchen accessories, TVs, tech devices, vacuums, headphones, and gaming consoles make Black Friday a day to look forward to.

And yes, this includes discounts that are even better than Amazon’s much-anticipated Prime Day offerings. Here’s what you should know about Black Friday 2023 in advance. Take it from us, items are genuinely more affordable on Black Friday and this year’s event will not be an exception.

When does Black Friday Start?

Black Friday 2023 Credit:pexels.com — **Black Friday 2023** Credit:pexels.com

Black Friday falls on Friday, November 24 this year, but we anticipate numerous stores to give exclusive early access to their customers who subscribe amidst their ongoing holiday sales in the coming weeks. Many items will go on sale at steep discounts in the weeks leading up to Black Friday.

Price-tracking websites and coupon-finding browser extensions can do much of the legwork for you. Check out CamelCamelCamel, Honey, SlickDeals, Keepa, etc, and keep an eye out for dedicated Black Friday landing pages on retailers’ websites like Amazon, Walmart, Best Buy, and Target. We will also be monitoring the best Black Friday deals right here on this page once they start.

Black Friday vs Cyber Monday

Both Black Friday and Cyber Monday simultaneously denote blowout sales and binge shopping. However lately, the Black Friday and Cyber Monday deals have started to blur together. But one of the disparities between the two largest shopping days is that Cyber Monday is solely online. The day after Thanksgiving which is Friday is Black Friday while three days after Thanksgiving which is Monday is Cyber Monday.

Shoppers who were unable to score some great deals on Black Friday can avail themselves of the opportunity to purchase high-end gadgets and other seasonal frills on Monday. Black Friday was initially for retailing top-of-the-line merchandise, but the dawn of Cyber Monday has presented tech-savvy consumers the opportunity to also shop smart devices at closeouts. As well as other quality home electronics and accessories.

The Best Black Friday Deals 2023

In essence, nearly every conceivable product and brand will feature some form of promotion or discount during the shopping season. The majority of these discounts most likely apply to high-value items that don’t typically see major price cuts. Here’s a brief rundown of the most important deals to look forward to in Black Friday 2023.

Gaming Consoles

The demand for current-gen gaming accessories and consoles like Nintendo, PlayStation, and Xbox consoles has surged over the past two years, a trend set to peak during Black Friday. While we can’t assure the availability of the coveted Switch, PS5, or Xbox Series X/S this holiday season due to soaring demand, not every console may be in stock this year.

The Switch OLED, while not enhancing gameplay, boasts a 7-inch OLED display, expanded storage (64GB), strong kickstand, and an updated dock with an Ethernet port. Sony’s PlayStation 5, in circulation for two years, sees limited discounts. Although more accessible, the stock remains fleeting. Retailers employ invite systems to thwart scalpers, while bundles, like the one with God of War: Ragnarok, present an option. Walmart intermittently stocks bundles.

The PS5 Digital Edition is typically scarcer than its standard counterpart. The PS5, while benefiting from more exclusive titles, delivers a substantial upgrade for PS4 holdouts. Microsoft’s Xbox Series X, more available than the PS5, sees scant discounts. It often experiences third-party retailer stockouts, and Black Friday offers are currently lacking. Amazon and Walmart utilize invite systems for purchases.

Tablets and E-Readers

Tablets remain among the most sought-after tech products on the market. The finest iPads are now capable of running full-fledged video games. And can also double as work laptops, smart home devices, or an additional monitor. While a top-tier tablet can function as an E-Reader, you can also secure devices dedicated solely to this purpose for a much lower cost. There’s invariably a multitude of exceptional Kindle deals available during the shopping spree season, allowing you to acquire a reading tablet for under $100.

TVs

While TV prices have seen a considerable decline in recent years, this shopping event remains the best time to purchase a new television. Top online retailers consistently roll out significant price reductions on both 2023 models and previous iterations from major brands. You’ll find discounts on Samsung, LG, Sony, TCL, and Vizio TVs across the board, with prices dipping well below $300 for some exceptional 4K models. If you’re on the hunt for the best TV deals on OLED or LED, the day after Thanksgiving is your best bet.

Phones and PCs

If you’re looking to snag a new phone at a bargain, the holiday season presents the prime opportunity. With fall releases like the iPhone 15 Pro, various mobile carriers have begun offering promotions tied to new phone plans. These typically take the form of Buy One, Get One offers upon switching carriers. Or diverse trade-in deals for those seeking an upgrade. Additionally, unlocked phones usually receive direct discounts from retailers like Amazon, Walmart, and Best Buy. It’s an excellent time to secure an older iPhone at an affordable price if having the latest model isn’t a priority.

Headphones and Earbuds

Even some of the most budget-friendly earbuds can carry a hefty price tag. And if you’re in the market for a quality pair of noise-canceling headphones, you might end up making a substantial investment. This makes the shopping event one of the prime events of the year to procure headphones, earbuds, or headsets. Deals on AirPods, Sony, Beats, and Samsung headset are virtually guaranteed. Additionally, expect to come across phone bundles that throw in branded earbuds as a complimentary bonus with your purchase. So keep an eye out for those as well.

Chromebooks to Buy in 2023

Blessing Ernest

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October 14, 2023

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A Chromebook, powered by ChromeOS—Google’s specialized operating system—is quite different from the conventional Windows or MacOS laptops. While they share the same physical appearance, laptops are much more powerful and perform better than Chromebooks. Chromebooks often feature fragile hardware attributable to cloud-based services instead of locally installed software.

This translates to lower-powered processors, diminished RAM, and reduced local storage compared to laptops. Notably, select high-end Chromebooks outperform typical laptop specifications. The distinction boils down to the operating system’s access to software and services, with laptops favoring locally installed applications and Chromebooks relying on web-based applications.

How to download Chrome on Mac. Chromebooks can perform common laptop functions with ease. Tasks like browsing, social media, video streaming, video chat, productivity apps, and basic editing of videos or photos are well within its capabilities. However, for niche tasks, laptops have a better edge over Chromebooks. Ideal for students, office workers, and those operating predominantly online, Chromebooks are best suited for users who don’t need resource-heavy apps.

While Chromebooks ideally require internet connectivity for their full functionality, select tasks are achievable offline. Given their reliance on cloud-based services, lacking a connection may impede access to vital files and software. It’s crucial to note that Chromebooks require consistent internet access, as their optimal performance relies on an active connection.

Additionally, using a Chromebook necessitates a Google account, as it facilitates the synchronization of all settings and application data with your Google account.

Lenovo Flex 5i Chromebooks (13″)

For those seeking an economical Chromebook, the options are abundant. The Lenovo Flex 5i Chromebook despite its unassuming design and budget-friendly price, surprises with its impressive versatility. The 13-inch 2-in-1 Chromebook outperforms the most budget-friendly systems.

In terms of specifications and features, the Lenovo Chromebook Flex 5 13ITL5 shares similarities with the most basic model found on Lenovo’s own web store but upgrades the processor to an Intel Pentium Gold dual-core, with two cores, four threads, and a maximum clock speed of 3.5GHz.

The CPU is an Intel Pentium Gold 7505 clocked at 2GHz, complemented by 4GB of DDR4 memory. Graphics are handled by Intel UHD. The device has a 13.3-inch 1080p IPS touchscreen, offers 32GB of eMMC storage, and features a 720p webcam. Connectivity includes 2x USB-C with DisplayPort, 1x USB-A, and a 3.5mm audio jack. It supports Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5 but lacks biometric features. The battery capacity is 51 watt-hours, and the device measures 0.67 x 8.43 x 12.2 inches, weighing in at 2.97 pounds.

Moving on to design and build quality, the Lenovo Chromebook Flex 5 has appealing aesthetics. Thanks to the metal display lid and textured plastic on the lower half, it’s a bit sturdy. The display lid, especially, is impressively rigid for a budget laptop. Given its 2-in-1 design, you can rotate the display 360 degrees to convert the laptop into a tablet.

The speakers are positioned upward along each side of the keyboard and are far better than many budget laptops with clear sound with a hint of bass. In contrast, the webcam and microphone leave room for improvement. One drawback of many 2-in-1 Chromebooks, including the Flex 5, is the placement of power and volume buttons on the right side.

Acer Chromebook Spin 714 (2023)

Acer’s latest Chromebook Spin 714 sets a high standard with 13th Gen Intel Core CPUs, a refined 2K webcam, and its enduringly adaptable build. While it’s on the pricier side(between $500 to $700), it’s a choice that involves very few compromises. Featuring a 14-inch touchscreen with FHD+ resolution, it has a durable and versatile convertible design.

Building upon the success of the Spin 713, the new Spin 714 model maintains a familiar blueprint while introducing amazing enhancements. It comes with improved speakers and upgraded internals, affording it commendable speed and Wi-Fi 6E capabilities. However, it falls short in terms of display quality and battery longevity compared to its predecessor.

This model features a 12th-generation Intel Core i5-1235U CPU, 8GB of LPDDR4 RAM, and a 256GB SSD. In terms of design, the Spin 714 maintains a consistent aesthetic with its predecessors. Measuring 12.3 x 8.8 x 0.7 inches and weighing just over 3 pounds. One of the changes in the Spin 714 is the display, which has a 1920 x 1200 resolution IPS panel and a 16:10 aspect ratio.

The speakers have been equally improved and are currently located above the keyboard for more consistent audio output. The keyboard, touchpad, and included stylus contribute to making the Chromebook special. Battery life is commendable, with the 3-cell battery providing over 10 hours of usage.

HP Dragonfly Pro Chromebook

HP Dragonfly Pro Chromebook is a high-powered Intel laptop designed for the modern era of hybrid work and leisure. This Chromebook is one of the most ambitious models to date. It comes in dimensions of 12.4 x 8.7 x 0.7 inches and weighs 3.33 pounds. The 14-inch LCD display impressively offers 1,200 nits brightness.

Under the hood, it runs on a 12th Gen Intel Core i5-1235U processor, with 256GB storage and 16GB RAM (LPDDR5). The battery promises up to 11.5 hours of usage. Additionally, it features an 8MP user-facing camera, and connectivity options include 4x Thunderbolt 4 USB-C ports, Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.3, with 5G support slated for the summer. The Dragonfly Pro Chromebook is available in Ceramic White and Sparkling Black.

Also, this model introduces several standout features. Firstly, it showcases an RGB keyboard with a haptic trackpad, providing a unique typing experience. The backlighting options, including Rainbow and wallpaper mode, offer a personalized touch. The laptop also boasts a remarkable 14-inch touchscreen display with up to 1,200 nits brightness, ideal for outdoor usage. The 8MP user-facing camera, co-engineered with Google, offers impressive video quality.

Despite these strengths, areas for improvement include battery life, fan noise, and weight. Enhancements in these aspects, along with the addition of an HDMI port or USB-A, could elevate the Dragonfly Pro Chromebook’s rating. Regardless of the drawbacks its stunning display and overall performance make it a compelling option.

Asus Chromebook CM34 Flip

The Asus Chromebook CM34 Flip is a recent release, featuring AMD’s Ryzen 7000 mobile CPUs for excellent performance and long battery life. With a convertible build and a 14-inch touch display with FHD+ resolution, it offers a versatile computing experience. Despite lacking Thunderbolt due to the AMD platform, it remains a strong contender.

The CM34 Flip impresses with its AMD hardware, touch-enabled display with slim bezels, 360-degree hinge, and remarkable battery life. Equipped with an AMD Ryzen 3 7320C CPU, AMD Radeon graphics, 16GB RAM, and a 128GB PCIe SSD, this laptop is tailored for everyday use.

The keyboard, with 1.4mm travel, is commendable, offering a backlit full-sized layout. The touchpad is a standout, registering taps and swipes flawlessly. The 16:10 aspect ratio display with ultra-slim bezels provides ample screen space, although it’s highly reflective outdoors. The Harman Kardon-certified speakers deliver clear, punchy sound and the 1080p webcam enhances video calls, a boon for remote work.

In terms of connectivity, the Flip offers a diverse range of ports, eliminating the need for adapters. Performance-wise, it’s powered by AMD’s Chromebook-specific CPU, handling multitasking adeptly, though it’s not the most potent option. The battery life of the CM34 Flip is an astounding 19 hours on a single charge.

FAQs About Chromebooks

What does a Chromebook do?

Tasks like browsing, social media, video streaming, video chat, productivity apps, and basic editing of videos or photos are well within its capabilities

What is the difference between a Laptop and a Chromebook?

While they share the same physical appearance, laptops are much more powerful and perform better than Chromebooks. Chromebooks often feature fragile hardware attributable to cloud-based services instead of locally installed software.

Which is better for students laptop or Chromebook?

Ideal for students, office workers, and those operating predominantly online, Chromebooks are best suited for users who don’t need resource-heavy apps.

How to Download Chrome on Mac

Blessing Ernest

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October 8, 2023

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Why do people download Chrome on Mac? Why do people prefer Google Chrome over Safari?. And why do people download Chrome, to begin with? The answer is simple; Chrome is faster than Safari—Apple’s web browser.

Today, web browsing has become indispensable, whether for shopping, streaming, or reading. However, choosing the right browser for your Mac might not be as simple as you imagined. In terms of user interface, Chrome offers a clean design, fast data syncing, and a vast library of extensions.

While Safari, Apple’s native browser, offers an excellent browsing experience, it may not always meet the diverse needs of users, particularly when it comes to extensions and cross-platform functionality. As a result, many users opt to download Chrome on Mac rather than use Apple’s Safari browser.

Steps to Download Chrome on Mac

Since Chrome doesn’t come pre-installed on a Mac, a manual installation is in order.

Launch Safari by clicking on its icon in the Dock (a blue compass with a red needle).
Visit the Google Chrome page in your browser and initiate the download by clicking “Download Chrome.”
If the download doesn’t commence, locate and click “Download Chrome” in the upper-right corner.
Once the download completes, you’ll find the file in your Mac’s download folder. Click on the Downloads icon, then double-click on googlechrome.dmg. A Downloads icon will also appear at the top-right corner of the Safari window, click on it to access the downloaded file. This action opens up a disk image.
Drag and drop the Google Chrome icon into your Applications folder.
To open Google Chrome, either select the icon from Launchpad or type “Chrome” into Spotlight (Command + Space).
When launching Chrome for the first time, a security prompt will appear, indicating that it was downloaded from the internet. Click “Open” to proceed to sign in to your Google account. Opt to make Chrome your default browser and you’re good to go.

Check out our previous article on how to install Google Chrome on Ubuntu in 2023.

How to Unlock iPhone Without Passcode

Blessing Ernest

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October 8, 2023

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Unlocking your iPhone is usually a breeze with a passcode, Face ID, or Touch ID. Yet, there are situations where you might find yourself locked out. Either because of a forgotten passcode, a disabled iPhone, or a second-hand-bought phone with a lock. Getting locked out of your phone can be incredibly frustrating. There are easy ways to regain access and we’ll show you how to unlock iPhone without passcode or computer.

There are various misconceptions about unlocking an iPhone without a passcode, but using a Calculator or Camera isn’t one of them.

How to Unlock iPhone Without Passcode Using a Computer

One of the ways to unlock iPhone without passcode is by using a computer and entering Recovery Mode. This way, you can restore your iPhone and set up a new passcode, Touch ID, and even Face ID. But first, you must have a compatible Mac or Windows computer(Windows 10 or a later version) and ensure iTunes is installed. You’ll equally need the original cable that came with your iPhone or a compatible alternative to connect it to the computer.

If your iPhone is currently connected to the computer, unplug it. Next, power down your iPhone. Depending on the model, press and hold both the side button and the volume down button until the power off slider appears. Connect your iPhone to your Mac or Windows PC while simultaneously holding the button. Continue holding the button until the recovery mode screen appears on your iPhone, then release.

Locate your iPhone either in the Finder or iTunes on the connected computer. A prompt will appear with the option to Restore or Update, choose Restore. Immediately you do this, the computer will download the necessary software for your iPhone and initiate the recovery process. The download will take up to 15 minutes and after the process is complete, your device will restart and display a setup screen. Then disconnect the iPhone from the computer and set it up.

Unlock iPhone Using iCloud

If you find yourself in a situation where you need to access your iPhone without its passcode, consider using iCloud as an alternative solution to unlock it. It’s important to note that this method will completely wipe everything off your iPhone. Navigate to iCloud.com, sign in using your Apple ID credentials, and locate the “Find iPhone” option. Always ensure that the “Find My” feature is activated before following the next step.

Within the list of devices linked to your iCloud account, select the corresponding model of your iPhone. Then initiate the process by clicking on the “Erase iPhone” option.

How to Unlock iPhone without Password or Computer

Unlocking an iPhone without a passcode becomes necessary when using a computer isn’t feasible. One option is to utilize the Erase iPhone feature, available for iPhones running version 15.2 or later. Just like we mentioned above for iCloud, this feature wipes the data from your iPhone to grant you access.

Enter the passcodes you remember until you’re locked out of the iPhone. If the Erase iPhone button hasn’t yet appeared, persist with entering more passcodes. Once it appears, input your Apple ID password to confirm the erasure. Alternatively, Siri can be used to unlock your iPhone without the need for a computer or password. However, this method mostly works for older iOS versions like 8 to 10.

Start by asking Siri about the current time. Following this, add a new clock and long-press the clock text. Opt to share the text to messages. Then use this action to navigate to the new contact screen and add a new photo to the contact before making your way to the photo library. You can now return to the home screen.

For those who have pre-set Voice Control, it can serve as a way to unlock your iPhone without a passcode. Start by navigating to Settings, then Accessibility, and Voice Control. Enable Voice Control and select Customize Commands to establish a personalized command. This custom command should mirror your lock screen passcode.

iOS 17 Passcode Reset

Should you find yourself unable to input your new passcode for any reason, iOS 17 introduces a handy feature known as Passcode Reset that allows users to use their previous passcode for a period of 72 hours.

If you’ve installed the iOS 17 Beta on your iPhone after five unsuccessful attempts at entering the correct passcode simply tap on “Forgot Passcode.” Then select “Enter Previous Passcode” to input your old passcode, and proceed to set up a new one. With these steps completed, you have successfully reset your iPhone passcode and regained access to your device.

Best Home Security Systems 2023

Blessing Ernest

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October 2, 2023

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Security systems serve as powerful deterrents to burglars. Opportunistic criminals steer clear of homes likely to draw attention. When they spot security cameras, the risk of identification and capture by law enforcement rises. Aside from the immediate safety, a security system offers peace of mind even when you’re away. It provides an extra layer of protection, promptly alerting you or the authorities to any suspicious activity. All the Home Security Systems on our list have been designed to provide excellent protection against burglars.

Choosing the right home security system isn’t a simple task. We’ve gone through this process many times; it involves extensive research, equipment selection, placement decisions, and choosing a monitoring plan.

While some systems may be objectively better, there’s no one-size-fits-all solution. The ideal security system depends on your preferred living situation, security requirements, and home layout. Fortunately, we’ve invested countless hours researching; we’ve compiled a list of the top home security systems for 2023 to help you narrow down your options.

Top Home Security Systems to Buy

Wyze

Wyze offers high-quality, affordable monitoring services, specializing in low-cost home security systems. Their indoor and outdoor cameras are reliable and user-friendly. Since 2017, Wyze has provided a variety of smart devices like leak and climate sensors. There are no contracts, and a free starter kit is available to those on the annual plan. While their security cameras are sold separately, they offer video cloud storage and a 10-hour battery backup. However, app access is somewhat limited, plus there’s no cellular backup. Additionally, it doesn’t integrate with all smart home devices or support voice compatibility with Apple HomeKit, Alexa, Google Assistant, or IFTTT.

Vivint

Vivint Home Security is a high-end, professionally installed home security system with smart home and alarm tech. While it’s the top surveillance choice for many, the cost may deter some. It doesn’t require any contracts, but it’s expensive.

SimpliSafe

Most people prefer the SimpliSafe home security system for their offers cost-effectiveness, but there are other amazing perks of using this home security system. Such as easy installation, no binding contracts, customization, and dependable protection. SimpliSafe offers a range of add-ons like cameras, glass break detectors, panic buttons, and environmental sensors for comprehensive security.

ADT Home Security System

Unlike some of the security systems out there, ADT’s home security plans’ cost is dependent on equipment type, monitoring availability, and installation fees. The company ensures professional installation, customizable packages, a six-month refund guarantee, 24/7 monitoring, and up to $500 theft protection.

The ADT plans range from $40 to $60 monthly, varying with equipment and monitoring services. All packages include a digital control panel, door and window alarms, motion detector, etc. Additional smart devices are available to alert homeowners of intrusions, smoke, or gas leaks. ADT has 12 monitoring centers and offers immediate response to emergencies.

Ring

Ring offers a variety of home security equipment, from doorbells to motion-activated cameras. Their monitoring plans vary too. From single-camera self-monitoring to full-service professional monitoring, all with recording and replay features. Monthly plans start at $3.99 for Basic, $10 for Plus, and $20 for Pro, and Ring’s no-contract policy allows easy plan changes.

They also offer different compatible add-ons and extra products, along with video storage options. Ring integrates well with smart devices like Amazon products. They also have a mobile app that enables playback, alerts, and device activation.

Amazon Echo Show 8: Users will be Charged for Digital Photo Frame

Blessing Ernest

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September 30, 2023

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Amazon Echo Show 8: Users will be Charged for Digital Photo Frame

Over the years, Amazon has introduced a range of smart speakers and Alexa-enabled devices. Among the top favorite Alexa devices is the Amazon Echo Show 8. For those unfamiliar with Alexa products, the Echo Show series includes smart displays integrated with Alexa’s capabilities. Despite being Amazon’s second smallest smart display, the Echo Show 8 boasts an impressive eight-inch touchscreen, and unlike the Echo Show 10 and 15, it is compact and very portable.

What is the Amazon Echo Show 8 used for?

The Echo Show 8 has quite a lot of uses; from live streaming videos to playing music, checking weather updates, connecting to home security cameras and other smart home devices, and even making video calls. The third generation of the Echo Show 8 which is yet to hit the market (possibly late October 2023) will be sold for $150. A slight increase from its predecessor—the Amazon Echo Show 8(2021 version), which was initially sold for $129.99.

Amazon Echo Show 8 Subscription

Amazon is introducing a new feature for its Echo Show 8. However, this added functionality comes at an extra cost. The Echo Show 8 Photos Edition, unveiled at the recent fall hardware event, carries a $10 premium over the standard model.

This premium allows you to set your photos as the “primary home screen content.” Priced at $159.99, the Show 8 Photos Edition boasts all the same features as the third-gen Echo Show 8. The additional $10 grants you a complimentary six-month subscription to Amazon’s latest service, PhotosPlus, enabling the enhanced photo mode. PhotosPlus introduces Photo Mode, which prioritizes personal memories and images shared by your loved ones on the Echo Show 8 Photos Edition’s home screen.

The New Echo Show 8 Features (third generation)

It also boasts a 30-second slideshow rotation for a more impactful display around your home, along with 25 GB of storage for photos and videos from Amazon Photos. Prime members receive unlimited photo storage and an additional 5 GB for videos. Despite sharing the same hardware, the standard Show 8 does not support the new Photo Mode, which is exclusive to the Echo Show 8 Photos Edition.

A persistent critique of Echo Show devices has been the absence of a dedicated photo frame feature, especially in comparison to Google’s Nest Hub devices, which excel in this regard. Currently, activating photo frame mode on Echo Show displays lasts only three hours before reverting to a rotating display often featuring ads and promotions, unless you navigate menus to disable it. The third-gen Echo Show 8 is available in two variants: standard and Photos Edition.

Subscription

Photo Mode revolutionizes the display on existing Show screens, ensuring photos take center stage indefinitely, Ramirez assures. The user interface foregrounds your photos, while information like weather and time recedes into the background.

Subscribing to a digital photo frame service isn’t a novel concept; certain frames require payment for uploads or offer supplementary features at a cost. For instance, the Skylight Calendar offers a digital calendar with an optional $39 annual fee for a photo frame feature. They also provide a Skylight Frame with no upload fee but offer additional features like cloud backup and albums for $39 per year.

Beyond the initial six months, maintaining Photo Mode requires a monthly fee of $1.99. Although cancellation is an option at any time, discontinuing the subscription reverts your Echo Show 8 Photos Edition to its standard configuration.

Likewise, the popular Aura Frame comes without a fee and is $10 cheaper than Amazon’s new photo-centric Show. However, it lacks other smart display features such as Alexa voice assistance, smart home controls, and streaming capabilities.

Microsoft Copilot: Features, Availability, Pricing

Blessing Ernest

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September 28, 2023

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Microsoft Copilot: Features, Availability, Pricing

Microsoft, the multinational technology company bridging the interaction between humans and technology has consolidated this with the introduction of Microsoft Copilot, an AI assistant. Microsoft claims Copilot is capable of assimilating insights from the web. Including data, and PC activities, all the while protecting user privacy and security. Integrated into Windows 11, Microsoft 365, Edge, and Bing, the first rollout of the AI assistant will be accessible as an application with a free update to Windows 11.

This launch is on the sidelines of some amazing new products designed to amplify productivity and creativity. As well as help people and businesses realize their full potential. Bing and Edge are transforming; introducing the latest DALL.E 3 model from OpenAI to provide customized responses based on user search history and an AI-driven shopping experience. In addition to the product updates, Microsoft announced the launch of new Surface devices.

Windows 11 Update 2023

Microsoft Copilot AI Features Windows 11 update — Windows 11 Update Credit: Windows Latest

Updated on September 26 with over 150 new features, the new Windows 11 update brings the capabilities of Microsoft AI Copilot. Including File Explorer, widgets boards, paint, backup, etc. Paint has also received an upgrade with AI-driven features such as background removal and layers. Along with a preview of Cocreator. Another feature that benefits from Microsoft’s AI enhancements is Photos. Additions like Background Blur, and improved search capabilities to make locating photos stored in OneDrive a breeze.

The Windows Snipping Tool now offers expanded content capture options, allowing for specific text extraction from images and providing tools for sensitive information redaction. Sound capturing via audio and microphone support has also been integrated, simplifying the creation of compelling videos and content.

Clipchamp now boasts an auto-compose functionality, suggesting scenes, edits, and narratives based on your images and footage. In addition to empowering users to create professional-quality videos for sharing. Notepad now automatically saves your session state, allowing for seamless transitions without interruptions, ensuring you pick up right where you left off.

The new Outlook for Windows offers simplified account management, merging several accounts in one app. Intelligent tools assist in crafting clear, concise emails, and help to easily attach important documents and photos from OneDrive. A modernized File Explorer interface for enhanced accessibility and a new Gallery feature for quick access to photo collections. Additionally, New text authoring experiences, voice access, and natural voices in Narrator are among the upgrades making Windows 11 the most accessible version yet. With Windows Backup, it’s very easy to move files, and applications to a new Windows 11 PC.

Microsoft Copilot AI Features

Bing and Edge

Bing and Edge now present features powered by the latest AI language models for a more advanced user experience. There are personalized answers from chat history that provide specific results based on preferences. Shopping via Bing or Edge not only feature customized buying guides, but also summarized reviews, and price match. Making it easier than ever to find what you’re looking for online.

To improve image generation with greater detail and accuracy, the text-to-image AI model DALL.E 3 has been integrated into Bing Image Creator. Content Credentials for cryptographic markers to AI-generated images have also been added. With Bing Chat Enterprise receiving updates that extend to the Microsoft Edge mobile app.

Microsoft Designer App

Designer, the latest addition to our Microsoft 365 consumer apps, leverages AI to facilitate the creation of visually stunning content. Microsoft Designer is a design application that allows users to craft an amazing collection of visuals. From graphics, illustrations, and various other creative elements. This includes features powered by OpenAI’s Dall.E 3. Enabling tasks like generative to expand, fill, as well as erase for a more dynamic visual experience. Designer’s integration into Microsoft 365 Copilot for consumers, starting with Word, augments your document’s visuals with contextual suggestions. This creative tool revolutionizes content creation, providing immediate visual drafts with minimal prompts.

Latest Surface Devices

Microsoft also unveiled the latest Surface laptops to deliver exceptional AI experiences across Microsoft products and third-party platforms. It includes a Surface Pro 9 that comes with 5G and Windows Studio Effects. A Surface Laptop Go 3; the lightest and most portable Surface Laptop yet, featuring a responsive touchscreen display. The Surface Go 4 with unparalleled portability in a 2-in-1 form factor. And the 50″ Surface Hub 3 with innovative features like Portrait mode, Smart Rotation, and Smart AV. Opening up new dimensions for co-creation.

FAQs

What is Microsoft Copilot?

Microsoft Copilot is Microsoft’s AI companion integrated into Microsoft 365, Windows 11, Edge, and Bing to streamline operations across them. With Copilot, users gain access to AI-powered assistance across various facets of their workflows within these applications.

Is Microsoft Copilot Free?

Starting November 1, enterprise customers can access Microsoft 365 Copilot at a rate of $30 per user per month. Although, the cost of Microsoft Copilot hinges on the application into which it is integrated.

What is Microsoft 365 Chat?

Microsoft 365 Chat is a chat interface with access to user data across various Microsoft work applications. This grants it the capability to respond to queries and assist with tasks. It can keep you up-to-date on meetings, locate documents, and provide answers based on the content within your documents, meetings, chats, and more.

Is Microsoft Copilot Available Now?

As of September 26, Microsoft Copilot is accessible on Windows 11.

Can I use Copilot in Windows 10?

Copilot can be used on Windows 10

Elon Musk says all Twitter X Users will Pay a Monthly Subscription Fee

Blessing Ernest

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September 19, 2023

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Elon Musk says all Twitter X Users will Pay a Monthly Subscription Fee

Elon Musk has proposed a potential shift in the business model of X, formerly known as Twitter. A Move that will potentially sound the death knell of one of the world’s most-used platforms.

During a live-streamed discussion with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Musk hinted at the implementation of a nominal monthly fee for utilizing the X platform. He emphasized that this alteration was imperative in addressing the prevalent issue of bots on the network.

Why Musk is Charging Every User for X

Musk elucidated, “It’s the only way I can think of to combat vast armies of bots. Because a bot costs a fraction of a penny. Call it a tenth of a penny. But even if it has to pay a few dollars or something, the effective cost of bots is very high.” Going further to state that bot creators would need to set up new payment methods for each subsequent bot. Adding an additional deterrent. While Musk refrained from specifying the exact subscription fee, he characterized it as a modest sum.

In the course of the conversation, Elon Musk divulged updated statistics for X. Disclosing a user base of 550 million individuals who collectively generate between 100 to 200 million posts daily. It is however unclear if these numbers include automated accounts. Both legitimate and spammy bots.

These metrics, however, do not permit a direct comparison with Twitter’s user base prior to Musk’s stewardship. Twitter employed a specific metric known as the “average monetizable daily active user” (mDAU). This older metric suggested users potentially monetizable through ad views, with Q1 2022 figures showing 229 million mDAUs. Musk refrained from providing additional details regarding the proposed charges or the timeline for their implementation.

The broader discussion between Musk and Netanyahu centered on artificial intelligence technology. And its regulatory framework, with a brief foray into the issue of hate speech on the X platform. Musk asserted his stance against antisemitism and any form of content that fuels animosity and discord. However, Musk recently engaged in a dispute involving the threat of a defamation lawsuit against the Anti-Defamation League. Which had accused both Elon Musk and X of exhibiting antisemitic tendencies.

Elon Musk Should Rethink His X Monetization Strategies

Following the acquisition of Twitter in October 2022, Elon Musk wasted no time in enacting a series of substantial alterations. The first order of business was the renaming of the platform as “X.” Shortly thereafter, in March, Musk did away with the traditional blue verification badges, bringing in the Twitter Blue subscription program.

Since last year, the company has been encouraging users to subscribe to its premium service X Premium. Which is priced at $8 per month or $84 annually. This subscription offers a range of features including post editing. There’s reduced ad exposure, enhanced search and conversation rankings, extended post lengths, and more.

These sweeping changes form the basis of Musk’s overarching plan to steer the platform toward profitability. In a candid admission in July, he acknowledged the financial hurdles facing the company. “We’re still negative cash flow, due to a 50% drop in advertising revenue plus a heavy debt load. Need to reach positive cash flow before we have the luxury of anything else.”

Afterward, the Starlink CEO launched an initiative to extend the creator monetization program. Now, a share of the advertising revenue generated from ads displayed in response to creators’ posts is allocated to eligible individuals. The company has affirmed that this measure is part of its broader endeavor to empower users to better monetize their presence on the platform.

Eligibility extends to subscribers of Twitter Blue, as well as verified organizations. Creators with over 5 million monthly tweet impressions for the past three months are included. Together with those who successfully pass the human review for Creator Monetization Standards.

Twitter X Memorabilia Auction

Elon Musk recently announced an online auction of X(Twitter)-related memorabilia. At a price point of $25, which is to be held next month. This move, while strategically directed at fighting bots, introduces a paywall that impinges on the platform’s original purpose of serving as an open space for all.

Nevertheless, this strategy is in line with Musk’s vision of generating revenue directly from the user base. It’s undeniable that the introduction of a paywall will have reverberations across social media. Users disinclined to pay for platform access may move to other X alternative apps/competitors.

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