Tag: Computers

  • Maximize Android Phone’s Memory By Managing Messaging Apps

    Messaging apps are an essential part of our lives. We use them to stay in touch with friends and family, to collaborate with colleagues, and to communicate with businesses. But messaging apps can also be a major drain on your Android phone’s memory.

    If you’re not careful, messaging apps can quickly fill up your phone’s storage space and slow down its performance. This is because messaging apps tend to store a lot of data on your phone, including messages, photos, videos, and other media files.

    The good news is that there are a number of things you can do to prevent messaging apps from devouring your Android phone’s memory. In this article, we’ll discuss some of the most effective tips and tricks.

    Say Goodbye to Storage Woes: Tips for Optimizing Messaging Apps on Your Android Phone

    Telegram encrypted Messaging app

    1. Disable automatic media downloads

    One of the biggest ways that messaging apps can take up space on your phone is through automatic media downloads. When this feature is enabled, messaging apps will automatically download all photos, videos, and other media files that are sent to you. This can quickly fill up your phone’s storage space, especially if you’re in a lot of group chats.

    To disable automatic media downloads, follow these steps:

    1. Open the messaging app.
    2. Tap the three dots in the top right corner of the screen.
    3. Tap “Settings.”
    4. Tap “Data and Storage Usage.”
    5. Toggle off “Automatic Media Download.”

    2. Clear your chat history

    Another way to free up space on your phone is to clear your chat history. This will delete all of your messages, including any photos, videos, and other media files that are attached to them.

    To clear your chat history, follow these steps:

    1. Open the messaging app.
    2. Tap the three dots in the top right corner of the screen.
    3. Tap “Settings.”
    4. Tap “Chats.”
    5. Tap “Chat History.”
    6. Tap “Clear Chat History.”

    3. Compress media files

    If you want to keep your chat history, but you’re still worried about space, you can try compressing your media files. This will reduce the size of the files without sacrificing too much quality.

    To compress media files, follow these steps:

    1. Open the messaging app.
    2. Tap the three dots in the top right corner of the screen.
    3. Tap “Settings.”
    4. Tap “Data and Storage Usage.”
    5. Tap “Media Quality.”
    6. Select “Compressed.”

    4. Use a cloud storage service

    If you’re still having trouble managing your messaging app storage, you can try using a cloud storage service such as Google Drive or Dropbox. This will allow you to store your messages and media files in the cloud, which will free up space on your phone.

    To use a cloud storage service, follow these steps:

    1. Create an account with a cloud storage service.
    2. Open the messaging app.
    3. Tap the three dots in the top right corner of the screen.
    4. Tap “Settings.”
    5. Tap “Data and Storage Usage.”
    6. Tap “Backup and Restore.”
    7. Select the cloud storage service that you want to use.
    8. Tap “Back Up Now.”

    Additional tips

    Here are a few additional tips for preventing messaging apps from devouring your Android phone’s memory:

    • Limit the number of messaging apps that you use. The more messaging apps you have installed on your phone, the more storage space they’ll take up.
    • Delete unused messages and media files. If you have old messages or media files that you don’t need, delete them.
    • Use a file manager to manage your messaging app files. This will allow you to see what files are taking up the most space and delete them if necessary.
    • Use a lightweight messaging app. There are a number of lightweight messaging apps available that are designed to use less storage space and memory.

    By following the tips above, you can prevent messaging apps from devouring your Android phone’s memory. This will help to improve your phone’s performance and extend its lifespan.

    WhatsApp Chats

    Here are some additional tips that you may find helpful:

    • Use a messaging app that supports ephemeral messages. Ephemeral messages are messages that disappear after a certain amount of time. This can be a great way to save space and prevent your messaging app from getting cluttered.
    • Use a messaging app that offers offline storage. This will allow you to access your messages even when you don’t have an internet connection. However, it’s important to note that offline storage will take up some space on your phone.
    • Use a messaging app that allows you to customize your storage settings. This will give you more control over how your messages and media files are stored on your phone. For example, you may be able to choose which types of media files are downloaded automatically, or how long messages are stored before they’re automatically deleted.

    Here are some examples of messaging apps that offer customizable storage settings:

    • WhatsApp: You can choose which types of media files are downloaded automatically in WhatsApp Settings > Storage and data. You can also choose how long messages are stored before they’re automatically deleted in WhatsApp Settings > Chats > Chat history > Keep messages.
    • Telegram: You can choose which types of media files are downloaded automatically in Telegram Settings > Data and storage. You can also choose how long messages are stored before they’re automatically deleted in Telegram Settings > Privacy and security > Keep messages.
    • Signal: You can choose which types of media files are downloaded automatically in Signal Settings > Storage. You can also choose how long messages are stored before they’re automatically deleted in Signal Settings > Advanced > Storage.

    Use a messaging app that supports high-quality media compression. This will allow you to save space without sacrificing too much quality.

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    Here are some examples of messaging apps that support high-quality media compression:

    • WhatsApp: WhatsApp uses a lossy compression algorithm to compress photos and videos. This means that some quality will be lost, but the files will be much smaller. You can choose the compression level in WhatsApp Settings > Storage and data > Media quality.
    • Telegram: Telegram uses a lossless compression algorithm to compress photos and videos. This means that no quality will be lost, but the files will still be smaller than uncompressed files. You can choose the compression level in Telegram Settings > Data and storage > Media quality.
    • Signal: Signal uses a lossy compression algorithm to compress photos and videos. This means that some quality will be lost, but the files will be much smaller. You can choose the compression level in Signal Settings > Storage > Image quality and Video quality.

    Monitor your messaging app storage usage. It’s a good idea to monitor your messaging app storage usage regularly to make sure that it’s not taking up too much space. You can do this by going to your phone’s Settings > Apps > [messaging app name] > Storage.

    If you notice that your messaging app is taking up a lot of space, you can try deleting unused messages and media files, or using a cloud storage service to store your messages and media files in the cloud.

    Here is a more detailed analysis of how WhatsApp, Telegram, and other popular messaging apps handle storage management:

    Messaging apps

    WhatsApp

    WhatsApp is a popular messaging app that is known for its ease of use and reliability. However, it can also be a major drain on your Android phone’s memory.

    One of the main reasons for this is that WhatsApp automatically downloads all photos, videos, and other media files that are sent to you. This can quickly fill up your phone’s storage space, especially if you are in a lot of group chats.

    Another reason why WhatsApp can take up a lot of space is that it does not compress media files very well. This means that photos and videos sent over WhatsApp can be much larger than the same files sent over other messaging apps.

    To prevent WhatsApp from devouring your Android phone’s memory, you can follow these tips:

    • Disable automatic media downloads. You can do this by going to WhatsApp Settings > Storage and data > Media auto-download.
    • Clear your chat history regularly. You can do this by going to WhatsApp Settings > Chats > Chat history > Clear chat history.
    • Compress media files before sending them over WhatsApp. You can do this by using a third-party app such as Photo & Picture Resizer or Video Compressor.
    • Use a cloud storage service to store your WhatsApp messages and media files. WhatsApp offers a built-in integration with Google Drive, but you can also use other cloud storage services such as Dropbox or OneDrive.

    Telegram

    Telegram is another popular messaging app that is known for its speed and security. It is also known for its generous storage limits. Telegram allows you to store up to 2GB of data per file, and you can store an unlimited amount of data in the cloud.

    Telegram also compresses media files by default. This means that photos and videos sent over Telegram are typically much smaller than the same files sent over WhatsApp.

    To further prevent Telegram from devouring your Android phone’s memory, you can follow these tips:

    • Delete unused messages and media files regularly. You can do this by selecting the messages or media files that you want to delete and then tapping the trash can icon.
    • Use a cloud storage service to store your Telegram messages and media files. Telegram offers a built-in integration with Telegram Cloud, but you can also use other cloud storage services such as Google Drive or Dropbox.
    • Customize your storage settings. You can do this by going to Telegram Settings > Data and storage. You can choose which types of media files are downloaded automatically and how long messages are stored before they are automatically deleted.

    Other popular messaging apps

    Here is a brief overview of how other popular messaging apps handle storage management:

    • Signal: Signal is a messaging app that is popular for its focus on privacy and security. It does not automatically download media files, and it compresses media files by default. Signal also offers a built-in integration with Signal Private Cloud, which is a cloud storage service that is designed to be secure and private.
    • Facebook Messenger: Facebook Messenger is a messaging app that is known for its integration with Facebook. It automatically downloads media files, and it does not compress media files by default. Facebook Messenger does not offer a built-in cloud storage integration, but you can use a third-party app such as Messenger Cloud to store your Facebook Messenger messages and media files in the cloud.
    • Google Messages: Google Messages is a messaging app that is available on most Android phones. It automatically downloads media files, and it compresses media files by default. Google Messages does not offer a built-in cloud storage integration, but you can use a third-party app such as SMS Backup+ to store your Google Messages messages and media files in the cloud.

    Here is a more detailed analysis of how different messaging apps handle storage management:

    WhatsApp

    • Automatic media downloads: Enabled by default, but you can disable it in Settings > Storage and data.
    • Media compression: Lossy compression by default, but you can change it to lossless in Settings > Storage and data.
    • Storage limit: 100MB per file.
    • Cloud storage integration: Yes, with Google Drive.
    • Customizable storage settings: Limited. Only allows users to disable automatic media downloads and change media compression settings.

    Telegram

    • Automatic media downloads: Disabled by default, but you can turn it on for individual chats or groups in Settings > Data and storage.
    • Media compression: Lossless compression by default.
    • Storage limit: 2GB per file.
    • Cloud storage integration: Yes, with Telegram Cloud.
    • Customizable storage settings: Extensive. Allows users to choose which types of media files are downloaded automatically, how long messages are stored before they are automatically deleted, and whether or not to store media files on the SD card.

    Troubleshooting tips

    If you’re still having trouble preventing messaging apps from devouring your Android phone’s memory, here are a few troubleshooting tips:

    • Clear your messaging app’s cache and data. This will delete all of the temporary files that are stored on your phone by the messaging app. To do this, go to your phone’s Settings > Apps > [messaging app name] > Storage > Clear cache and storage.
    • Restart your phone. This can often fix minor software glitches that may be causing your messaging app to use more storage space than necessary.
    • Update your messaging app. The latest version of your messaging app may include bug fixes and performance improvements that can help to reduce the amount of storage space that the app uses.
    • Uninstall and reinstall your messaging app. This is a more drastic measure, but it can sometimes be necessary to fix problems with a messaging app. To do this, go to your phone’s Settings > Apps > [messaging app name] > Uninstall. Once the app has been uninstalled, you can reinstall it from the Google Play Store.

    If you’re still having trouble after trying all of the above tips, you may need to contact the developer of your messaging app for support.

    Conclusion

    The best way to prevent messaging apps from devouring your Android phone’s memory is to choose a messaging app that offers generous storage limits and compresses media files by default. You should also disable automatic media downloads and delete unused messages and media files regularly. If you need to store a lot of messages and media files, you can use a cloud storage service.



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  • Super Mario Bros. Wonder’s Talking Flower becomes the menace of the Super Smash Bros. house in funny motion comics











    The Talking Flowers added as a new feature to Super Mario Bros. Wonder have received a somewhat mixed reaction from fans who find them cute and funny and those who think they’re more annoying.






    But what would happen with these talkative plants if they moved in with the Super Smash Bros. cast?









    Well that’s what the recent motion comics from GabaLeth explore in a funny fashion based on the comics from Abel Hagen and Wooden Plank Studios.


    The little flower can’t help but provide “hints” to Banjo playing Battleship or immediately blurt out to Mythra who it was who stole the cookies from the cookie jar.


    Or comment on Ike’s sword in the shower, and tell Isabelle what the others really think of her.


    If you’re in need of a quick laugh, then check out the voiced motion comics below, and we also recently delved into why Elephant Mario should be in the next Smash game and how he could work.










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  • Sony executive respond to PS Plus membership price increase

    Sony Interactive Entertainment recently announced a price increase for its PlayStation Plus subscription service. This announcement has been met with criticism from some gamers. In response, Sony executives have defended the price hike and explained their reasoning behind it. This article will explore Sony’s response to the PS Plus price increase, including its justifications and plans for the future.

    PlayStation Plus

    PlayStation Senior Vice President Eric Lempel said in an interview with Barron that, due to “market conditions” and the company’s vision to improve service value, the PS Plus membership price increase is necessary. He also said that “like almost everything else in the world, we have to think about our pricing and adjust based on market conditions.”

    Lempel acknowledged the negative impact of the price increase and assured users that Sony is committed to making the PS Plus better. He also highlights the introduction of a tier system and the recognition of the service’s value by many consumers.

    “This price adjustment will allow us to continue to bring high-quality games and value-added benefits to your PlayStation Plus subscription service,” said Lempel. “With our reboot last year and the introduction of the tier system, many consumers have already recognized the PlayStation Plus as a great value.”

    When explaining the reasons behind the price increase, Lempel emphasized that Sony has not raised the price of the PS Plus for 85% of global users for many years.

    Sony Tier System

    First-grade PlayStation Plus Essential

    • 1 month: 54 Hong Kong dollars (about $6.90). The previous price was 48 Hong Kong dollars (about $6.14)
    • 3 months: 135 Hong Kong dollars (about $17.26). The previous price was 128 Hong Kong dollars (about $16.37)
    • 12 months: 425 Hong Kong dollars (about $54.34). The previous price was 308 Hong Kong dollars (about $39.38)

    Second-level PlayStation Plus Extra

    • 1 month: 80 Hong Kong dollars (about $10.23). The previous price was 75 Hong Kong dollars (about $9.59)
    • 3 months: 220 Hong Kong dollars (about $28.13). The previous price was 215 Hong Kong dollars (about $27.49)
    • 12 months: 705 Hong Kong dollars (about $90.14). The previous price was 515 Hong Kong dollars (about $65.85)

    Three levels of PlayStation Plus Premium

    • 1 month: 95 Hong Kong dollars (about $12.15). The previous price was 85 Hong Kong dollars (about $10.87)
    • 3 months: 250 Hong Kong dollars (about $31.97). The previous price was 239 Hong Kong dollars (about $30.56)
    • 12 months: 820 Hong Kong dollars (about $104.85). The previous price was 599 Hong Kong dollars (about $76.59)

    Gizchina News of the week


     

    Market Conditions and Value Proposition

    In a recent interview with IGN, Eric Lempel cited market conditions as the driving force behind the price increase. He explained that the cost of providing the service has gone up and that Sony is committed to providing a high-quality service to its customers. Lempel also emphasized that the value proposition of PS Plus remains strong, with benefits such as free monthly games, online multiplayer, and exclusive discounts.

    Lempel’s comments were echoed in an interview with PlayStation Lifestyle, where he stated that the price increase was necessary to maintain the quality of the service. He also acknowledged that some gamers may be unhappy with the price hike. However, he claims that the company will not stop providing a great experience for its users.

    No Day One Releases on PS Plus

    One of the criticisms of the PS Plus price increase has been that it does not include the day-one release of new games. In an interview with GameSpot, Lempel explained that this is because Sony wants to maintain the value of its first-party titles. He stated that releasing games on PS Plus on day one would devalue the games and undermine the company’s efforts to create high-quality, exclusive content.

    Lempel’s comments were reiterated in an interview with IGN India, where he stated that Sony is committed to providing a great experience for its customers. He also claims that releasing games on PS Plus on day one would not be in the best interests of the company or its users.

    Future Plans for PS Plus

    Despite the criticism of the PS Plus price increase, Sony remains committed to providing a high-quality service to its customers. In an interview with COGconnected, Lempel stated that Sony is always looking for ways to improve its service and that the company is committed to providing a great experience for its customers.

    Lempel’s comments were echoed in an interview with GamersExtra. He stated that Sony is constantly striving to improve its service. He also claims that the company is committed to providing a great experience for its customers.

    Conclusion

    In response to the backlash from users, Sony Interactive Entertainment business chief Eric Lempel defended the price hike in a recent interview. Lempel argues that Sony had no choice but to raise the price of the PS Plus. He says it’s needed to continue bringing high-quality games and value-added benefits to the subscription service. He also claims that the company had not previously raised prices for 85% of the world in many years. This is a contrast to other subscription services that regularly raise prices. Lempel further explained that a third of the Plus user base opts for the upper two tiers. This is more than the expectation of the company, he adds.

    Lempel also addressed the fact that Sony does not put new games on PS Plus at launch. He stated that he could not comment on what the competition is doing. However, he believes Sony is offering a great, curated catalog of games as well as other features and services. What do you think about Sony’s defense? Do you think the company has a good reason for the price increase? Let us know your thoughts in the comment section below



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  • This cosplayer turns himself into the spitting image of Jin Kazama from the Tekken series











    With Heihachi Mishma now dead at the end of Tekken 7’s main single player mode, it seems that Tekken’s story will now be focused on Kazuya Mishima and Jin Kazama. With Jun Kazama, Jin’s mother and Kazuya’s lover, returning in Tekken 8, things have seemingly taken an interesting turn.






    Jin first made his debut appearance in Tekken 3 when it was released in the arcades in 1997 and the PlayStation in 1998. His story revolved around him seeking revenge against Ogre as he was believed to be responsible for his mother’s disappearance. Up until Jun’s reveal as a playable fighter in Tekken 8, it was believed that Jun was killed by Ogre shortly before the events of Tekken 3.









    A cosplayer on TikTok, Taryn Cosplay has pulled off a remarkable depiction of Tekken fighter. Indeed, Taryn Cosplay looks like the spitting image of Jin.


    As seen in the clips, Taryn Cosplay assumes the appropriate fighting stance. Following this, he then pulls off a few familiar attacks to really emphasize the fact that he’s now Jin Kazama.


    One of Jin’s previous win quotes had him saying that “power is everything.” With Tekken 8, we’ll get the opportunity to see just how much Jin has grown with his latest win quote saying that “power isn’t everything.”


    Check out Taryn Cosplay’s depiction of the Tekken character below:



    @taryncosplay 来い! Jin Kazama (TEKKEN 8 ver.) enter the battle #tekken8 #tekken #jinkazama #bandainamco #鉄拳 #tekkencosplay #taryncosplay ♬ original sound – Taryn Cosplay



    @taryncosplay Tekken Fan since T3 I became my Fav character #TEKKEN #JinKazama #taryncosplay #鉄拳 #風間仁 #bandainamco #tekken8 #tekken8hype ♬ original sound – Taryn Cosplay



    @taryncosplay JIN KAZAMA #tekken8 get ready for the next Battle! #TEKKEN #tekken8hype #jinkazama #bandainamco #tekken8cnt #jinkazamacosplay #taryncosplay #鉄拳8 #鉄拳 ♬ original sound – Taryn Cosplay











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  • Microsoft tests Xbox app for Windows handheld consoles

    Microsoft has started testing new updates to its Xbox app on Windows 11 that improve the experience on handheld devices and smaller screens. The recent release of an Xbox test app includes a new compact mode that significantly reduces the sidebar on the left-hand side, designed to make it easier to navigate the app on smaller screens. It’s a relatively minor UI change, but one that works really well on a handheld device with a 7-inch display like the ROG Ally. The version number for the new update in testing is 2311.1000.41.0. The new features that come with the update include

    • Refresh the UI in the installation queue
    • Updated buttons, fonts and game channel styles
    • Improved notification UI, including an option to only show unread ones
    • Compact mode for apps improves experience on handheld devices and small screens
    • Improved controller navigation throughout the application

    Xbox app

    Xbox app for Windows handheld consoles

    The Xbox app for Windows handheld consoles is designed to allow gamers play their favorite Xbox games on the go. With the recent updates to the app, Microsoft is making it easier for gamers to navigate the app on smaller screens. The new compact mode reduces the sidebar on the left-hand side, making it easier to find the games and features you want to use.

    Gizchina News of the week


    Compact mode

    The new compact mode is a significant improvement to the Xbox app for Windows handheld consoles. It reduces the sidebar on the left-hand side, making it easier to navigate the app on smaller screens. This is a useful feature for gamers who love to play on the go. It makes it easier to find the games and features that gamers need.

    Xbox Remote Play

    Xbox Remote Play is another feature of the Xbox app for Windows handheld consoles. It allows gamers to play games installed on their Xbox console on any compatible PC, Android, or iOS device. This means that gamers can play their favorite Xbox games on the go, without having to carry their console with them.

    Xbox

     

    Conclusion

    Microsoft is improving its Xbox app for Windows handheld consoles with new updates. The update makes it easier to navigate the app on smaller screens. The new compact mode reduces the sidebar on the left-hand side. This makes it easier to find the games and features you want to use. Xbox Remote Play is another feature of the Xbox app for Windows handheld consoles. It allows gamers to play games installed on their Xbox console on any compatible PC, Android, or iOS device.



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  • JP player saves on meter to end round stylishly during tournament set











    The Capcom Pro Tour 2023 Europe North/East is one of the notable online Street Fighter 6 tournaments happening this weekend. One of the players participating in this event is a JP user known as Lord Venom, and he ended up facing off against KS|Rikemansbarnet’s Juri.






    In the first round of the second match, Lord Venom was proving to be difficult to stop. Unfortunately for Rikemansbarnet, every decision made was to the benefit of Lord Venom, leading into a perfect for JP. However, what might be even more demoralizing was how the round ended.









    Towards the end of the round, Rikemansbarnet’s situation couldn’t be worse. He was in burnout, didn’t have enough super gauge for Super Art 1, and was trapped in the corner.


    Lord Venom would begin a combo against Juri that had the potential to KO, if he was willing to spend a bar of gauge. However, it seems that Lord Venom was thinking a few steps ahead.


    Instead of spending his meter, Lord Venom instead opted to perform a basic block string into a Drive Impact against Rikemansbarnet while cornered. Without any Drive Gauge or super meter, Rikemansbarnet had zero chance of escaping.


    Seeing that his opponent was stunned from the exchange, Lord Venom decided to tack on some psychological damage. He spent the last of his Drive Gauge to use Overdrive Departure, placing two void tears in the corner.


    From here, Lord Venom committed to JP’s taunt animation as the Overdrive special was enough to deplete the remainder of Juri’s life bar. Check it out below:









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  • Adam Mosseri says Threads API is under development

    Adam Mosseri, the head of Instagram, has announced that a Threads API is currently under development. This API will allow developers to create different apps and experiences around Threads, which could open the door to third-party apps in the future.

    Instagram

    Mosseri expressed concern about publishers releasing a lot of content, thus overshadowing creator content. He said, “We’re working on it. My concern is that it’s going to mean more publisher content, not more creator content, but that still seems to be something we need to get done.”

    News publications have been relying on third-party tools and integration with different social networks to automatically publish content on platforms such as Twitter, LinkedIn, and Facebook. Due to the lack of APIs available on new platforms like Threads, publishers must manually publish content. This is not ideal for news organizations that publish large numbers of articles every day.

    While Mosseri is concerned about publishers pushing large amounts of content through API integrations, creators also need different tools to publish content in various formats. If there is API integration, it will be easier for developers to develop features that are suitable for the platform. Zuckerberg previously said on the quarterly earnings call that Threads still has nearly 100 million monthly active users. He reiterated Meta’s goal to build Threads into a “public conversation application with 1 billion users.”

    What is the Threads API?

    The Threads API is a set of tools and protocols that allow developers to create apps and services that interact with Threads. This API will provide developers with access to Threads’ data and functionality, allowing them to build new features and experiences on top of the platform. With the Threads API, developers will be able to create apps that can post, read, and interact with Threads content, as well as access user data and analytics.

    Threads

    Why is the Threads API important?

    The Threads API is important for several reasons. First, it will allow developers to create new and innovative experiences on top of Threads. This could include new ways to share and interact with content, as well as new tools for managing and analyzing Threads data. Second, the Threads API will help to grow the Threads ecosystem by enabling third-party developers to build on top of the platform. This could lead to a more diverse and vibrant community of developers and users on Threads. Finally, the Threads API will help to ensure that Threads remains competitive with other social media platforms that already have robust APIs, such as Twitter and Facebook.

    Gizchina News of the week


    What does the Threads API mean for developers and users?

    The Threads API is expected to have a huge impact on the Instagram ecosystem. Here are some of the ways it could affect the platform:

    For Developers

    • The Threads API will provide developers with access to a new platform with a large and growing user base. It will also give them a new option for innovation and monetization.
    • Developers will be able to create new and innovative experiences on top of Threads. This could include new ways to share and interact with content, as well as new tools for managing and analyzing Threads data.
    • The Threads API could facilitate a healthy app ecosystem. This will allow developers to create features suited to the platform and integrate Threads with the Fediverse.
    • The API will provide developers with access to a wealth of data and analytics. This could help them to better understand their users and improve their apps over time.

    For Users

    • The Threads API will provide access to a wider range of apps and services that can interact with Threads. This will lead to new and innovative ways to share and interact with content.
    • Users will have access to a wider range of features and tools, which could improve their experience on the platform.
    • The Threads API could help to ensure that Threads remains competitive with other social media platforms. This is because it will allow third-party developers to build on top of the platform.
    • This could lead to new and innovative ways to share and interact with content. It will also offer new tools for managing and analyzing Threads data.

    Concerns

    • Adam Mosseri has expressed concerns about the potential for publishers to overshadow creator content with the Threads API.
    • There are potential threats to Threads, such as contamination with fake news, fake content, and polarization, as well as regulation.
    Threads
    Image source: Appleinsider

    Overall, the Threads API has the potential to transform the way users interact with the platform and each other, offering a more diverse array of applications and experiences around Threads. It could also foster a thriving ecosystem of applications, much like those seen on other social networks such as Twitter and Reddit. However, there are concerns about the potential for publishers to overshadow creator content, as well as potential threats to the platform.

    Final Words

    The development of the Threads API is an exciting development for both developers and users. It will provide developers with access to a new platform with a large and growing user base. It will also offer new opportunities for innovation and monetization. For users, the Threads API will provide access to a wider range of apps and services that can interact with Threads. This will lead to new and innovative ways to share and interact with content. Overall, the Threads API has the potential to be a game-changer for the Threads ecosystem, and we look forward to seeing what developers will create with it in the future.



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  • Global Smartphone Shipments Decline Slightly in Q3 2023

    The smartphone market is one of the most dynamic and competitive industries in the world. With new technologies and features emerging all the time, it is important for smartphone vendors to stay ahead of the curve in order to remain competitive.

    In this article, we will analyze the key smartphone market trends in Q3 2023 and beyond. We will discuss the factors that are driving and inhibiting growth in the market, as well as the implications for smartphone vendors.

    Global Smartphone Shipments declined slightly in Q3 2023

    According to the International Data Corporation (IDC), worldwide smartphone shipments experienced a marginal 0.1% decline in the third quarter of 2023, totaling 302.8 million units. This decline is likely due to a number of factors, including ongoing economic uncertainties, soft demand, inflation, and geopolitical tensions.

    Factors Driving Growth in the Smartphone Market

    Despite the overall decline in shipments in Q3 2023, there are a number of factors that are driving growth in the smartphone market. These factors include:

    • The rising demand for smartphones in emerging markets. Emerging markets such as India, Africa, and Latin America are seeing strong growth in smartphone demand. This is due to a number of factors, including the growing middle class, increasing urbanization, and the expanding availability of affordable smartphones.
    • The rapid pace of technological innovation. Smartphone vendors are constantly innovating and introducing new technologies and features to their devices. This innovation is helping to drive demand for smartphones, as consumers are eager to upgrade to the latest and greatest devices.
    • The growing popularity of mobile gaming and streaming. Mobile gaming and streaming are two of the most popular activities among smartphone users. This is driving demand for smartphones with powerful processors, large displays, and long battery life.

    “We are seeing a strong ramp up of shipments in emerging markets by vendors like Xiaomi and Transsion,” said Nabila Popal, research director with IDC’s Mobility and Consumer Device Trackers. “While this is a good sign of approaching recovery, vendors must keep a close eye on sell-through to avoid falling into excess inventory again, as demand is still weak in many regions. Meanwhile, on the other end of the spectrum, we see Apple growing in all regions except China, where it’s facing renewed competition from Huawei as well as heightened macroeconomic uncertainties that are causing consumers who once used to rush for the latest iPhones to pause and think more carefully about their purchases.”

    Factors Inhibiting Growth in the Smartphone Market

    There are also a number of factors that are inhibiting growth in the smartphone market. These factors include:

    • The global economic slowdown. The global economy is currently experiencing a slowdown, which is impacting consumer spending. This is likely to lead to a decline in smartphone demand in some markets.
    • The increasing saturation of the smartphone market. The smartphone market is becoming increasingly saturated, with a large number of vendors competing for market share. This is making it difficult for vendors to differentiate their products and drive growth.
    • The high cost of premium smartphones. Premium smartphones are becoming increasingly expensive. This is pricing out some consumers and limiting growth in the high-end segment of the market.

    “The continued growth in the high-end market feels counterintuitive considering the economic challenges we are seeing across the globe,” said Anthony Scarsella, research director, Mobile Phones at IDC. “Yet the high-end continues to flourish due to generous trade-in and financing options in many developed markets. However, as consumers choose premium models, the refresh cycle will continue to extend. Superior build quality, increased storage, premium features, and longer support cycles drive buyers towards the high-end as these devices last well beyond most affordable models.”

    Implications for Smartphone Vendors

    The smartphone market trends in Q3 2023 and beyond have a number of implications for smartphone vendors. These implications include:

    • Vendors should focus on emerging markets. Emerging markets are the key growth drivers for the smartphone market. Vendors should focus on developing and marketing smartphones that are tailored to the needs of consumers in these markets.
    • Vendors should invest in technological innovation. Technological innovation is essential for remaining competitive in the smartphone market. Vendors should invest in research and development to bring new technologies and features to their devices.
    • Vendors should differentiate their products. The smartphone market is becoming increasingly saturated, so it is important for vendors to differentiate their products. This can be done by focusing on unique features, design, and branding.
    • Vendors should make premium smartphones more affordable. Premium smartphones are becoming increasingly expensive. Vendors should make these devices more affordable in order to reach a wider range of consumers.

    The global smartphone market is facing a number of challenges, but there are still opportunities for growth. Smartphone vendors should adjust their strategies to capitalize on these opportunities, such as the rising demand for smartphones in emerging markets and the sustained growth of the high-end smartphone market.

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    smartphone vendors

    Additional Insights and Analysis

    In addition to the key trends discussed above, there are a number of other trends that are worth noting. These trends include:

    • The growing popularity of foldable smartphones. Foldable smartphones are a new and emerging category of smartphones. These devices are still expensive and have a number of limitations, but they are becoming increasingly popular among consumers who are looking for a unique and innovative smartphone experience.
    • The rise of 5G smartphones. 5G smartphones are becoming increasingly affordable and available. This is driving demand for 5G smartphones, as consumers want to take advantage of the faster speeds and lower latency that 5G offers.
    • The increasing importance of sustainability in the smartphone market. Smartphone vendors are becoming more focused on sustainability. This is due to a number of factors, including increasing consumer demand for sustainable products and the growing environmental impact of the smartphone industry.

    These trends are likely to have a significant impact on the smartphone market in the coming years.

    Smartphone Vendors Should Embrace Sustainability

    Sustainability is becoming increasingly important to consumers. In fact, a recent study by Nielsen found that 66% of global consumers are willing to pay more for sustainable products.

    Smartphone vendors should embrace sustainability in order to meet the growing demand for sustainable products and to reduce their environmental impact. There are a number of ways that smartphone vendors can become more sustainable, such as:

    • Using recycled and renewable materials in their devices.
    • Designing devices that are more durable and repairable.
    • Offering extended software support for their devices.
    • Working with suppliers to reduce the environmental impact of the smartphone supply chain.

    By embracing sustainability, smartphone vendors can differentiate themselves from their competitors and appeal to consumers who are looking for sustainable products.

    Smartphone Vendors Should Invest in New Technologies

    Smartphone vendors should also invest in new technologies in order to remain competitive and drive growth. Some of the key technologies that smartphone vendors should focus on include:

    • Artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML). AI and ML can be used to improve the performance and functionality of smartphones in a number of ways. For example, AI can be used to improve battery life, camera performance, and security.
    • Augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR). AR and VR are two emerging technologies that have the potential to revolutionize the way we use smartphones. Smartphone vendors should invest in developing AR and VR applications and content for their devices.
    • Next-generation displays. Smartphone displays are becoming increasingly important, as they are the primary way that users interact with their devices. Smartphone vendors should invest in developing next-generation displays with higher resolutions, refresh rates, and brightness levels.

    By investing in new technologies, smartphone vendors can develop innovative and differentiated products that will appeal to consumers.

    Smartphone Vendors Should Focus on the Customer Experience

    In a competitive market, it is important for smartphone vendors to focus on the customer experience. This means providing customers with a positive experience from the moment they purchase a device to the moment they stop using it.

    Smartphone vendors can improve the customer experience by:

    • Offering excellent customer support.
    • Providing timely software updates.
    • Making it easy for customers to repair or replace their devices.
    • Listening to customer feedback and using it to improve products and services.

    By focusing on the customer experience, smartphone vendors can build loyal customers who are more likely to recommend their products to others.

    Conclusion

    The global smartphone market is facing a number of challenges, but there are still opportunities for growth. Smartphone vendors should adjust their strategies to capitalize on these opportunities, such as the rising demand for smartphones in emerging markets and the sustained growth of the high-end smartphone market.

    In addition, smartphone vendors should embrace sustainability, invest in new technologies, and focus on the customer experience. By doing so, smartphone vendors can remain competitive and drive growth in the coming years.



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  • Street Fighter 6 match up chart for all characters including A.K.I. created based on thousands of games from top ranked players











    Last month, Cat Cammy created a match up chart using thousands of games between Master ranked players. The matches recorded as data for this match up chart had the stipulation that both players were Master ranked with 1,750 or more MR. Indeed, only games from the best players in the world counted.






    Cat Cammy has recently elected to update this match up chart. Since it’s also been over a month since A.K.I. was released as a DLC combatant in Street Fighter 6, she’s been included in this match up chart.









    Many players have been vocalizing a common opinion that A.K.I. is a particularly weak character in Street Fighter 6’s current meta. However, this data seems to suggest that she actually has a few winning match ups.


    According to the chart, A.K.I. has over a 50% win rate against Chun-Li, Zangief, Dhalsim, Ken, Lily, Blanka, Juri, Marisa, and Jamie. It’s also indicated that A.K.I.’s best match up is against Chun-Li with a 54.6% win rate.


    A.K.I.’s overall win rate sits at 49.2% as she does technically have losing match up spreads against 10 other characters. Of course, it’s important to keep in mind that these numbers can change with a larger sample size or with different variables.


    Though it’s often said that A.K.I.’s anti-projectile options make her a good choice against JP, this match up chart seems to indicate the opposite. As it turns out, A.K.I.’s worst match up is said to be against JP with the ratio sitting at 45.61%.


    Last time, the recorded data suggested that Jamie was the weakest character in Street Fighter 6 as he had the lowest win rate. However, this time it seems that Ryu is the worst performing character.


    While Jamie has a win rate of 48.44% this time, Ryu has a win rate of 48.34%. It’s suggested that Ryu only has winning match ups against Dhalsim, A.K.I., Juri, and E. Honda.


    Zangief has the worst recorded match up as he only has a 34.89% win rate against Dhalsim, though keep in mind that this is only with 321 games recorded between the two. Lily has the second worst match up at 36.59%, also against Dhalsim. As it turns out, Dhalsim is pretty good against grapplers.


    Due to match ups like these, Dhalsim has the overall best match up spread in Street Fighter 6 right now. He’s listed as having a 51.2% win rate with 13,421 games recorded.


    Check it all out below:




    SF6 MU Table with A.K.I. image #1

    SF6 MU Table with A.K.I. image #2

    Click images for larger versions












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  • Don’t Lose Your Passwords When Changing Phones: Simple Steps

    The initial step is to activate the synchronization of account data and passwords on your smartphone from the settings menu. By doing so, when you transition to your new phone, your passwords will seamlessly and securely transfer via Google’s cloud.

    Follow these steps on your current mobile:

    • Go to the Settings or Settings menu
    • Go to the section called Google
    • Select the “Autocomplete” option, then “Autocomplete with Google”
    • Finally, toggle on the “Use autocomplete with Google” option

    Within the same section, you can also access the “Password manager” section. Simply tap the settings icon, which typically resembles a gear, depending on your phone. From this section, activate the options “Suggest that passwords be saved” and “Access automatically.”

    Additionally, you’ll have the option to export your passwords for use on another device. When setting up your new mobile device, you can access the same menu and import the passwords. However, this step may not be necessary. With the previous instructions, your passwords should readily transfer to your new smartphone using Google.

    Once you log in with your Google account on your new Android phone, all your passwords will be readily accessible.

    An important consideration to keep in mind is that certain manufacturers have their proprietary security systems for password protection, as is the case with Samsung, for instance. In such situations, some of your passwords may not be stored within Google but in the manufacturer’s own system. For example, in the case of Samsung, they are stored in the Samsung Pass app. If you are moving from one Samsung smartphone to another, you’ll simply need to log in with your Samsung account on the new device to access your passwords seamlessly.

    However, if you are transitioning to a different brand of smartphone, you may need to export your passwords as a file from the Samsung Pass app and then import them into the new device to ensure a smooth transition.

    Using a password manager

    Password manager apps like LastPass and 1Password offer excellent solutions not only for managing your passwords across various devices, be it a mobile phone, tablet, or computer but also for enhancing your overall security. They can assist in generating complex passwords when you create new accounts on different services or websites.

    Typically, these apps follow a subscription-based model. For example, 1Password offers an individual plan priced at around €32 (plus VAT) per year, enabling you to use the service on all your devices and even providing 1 GB of secure file storage. In the case of LastPass, there’s a free version with limited features, which includes a password vault and a password generator. LastPass also offers a premium plan with additional advantages, such as password sharing and 1GB of encrypted file storage.

    To migrate your passwords using one of these apps, please follow these steps:

    1. Sign in to Chrome on your computer.
    2. Click the three-dot button located in the top right corner, then select “Google e Password Manager.”
    3. In the left sidebar, navigate to “Settings,” and choose “Download File” under the “Export Passwords” option.
    4. After your passwords have been exported, visit the website of your preferred password manager, such as LastPass or 1Password, and create an account.
    5. Click on your name in the top right corner and select “Import,” then choose “Chrome.” You will be prompted to select the file you downloaded earlier.
    6. Finally, download the password manager app on your new Android phone and log in using your account details.

    This process will ensure a smooth transition of your passwords to your new device while maintaining security.

    Transferring Passwords from iPhone to Android

    If you’ve made the switch from an iPhone to an Android device and your passwords are stored in iCloud, you can indeed migrate them to your new Android device, but this process requires the use of a Mac.

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    The process is quite straightforward:

    1. On a Mac associated with your iCloud account, open System Settings.
    2. Select the “Passwords” option and provide your Mac’s password for security.
    3. In the top right corner, locate a button with three ellipsis and click it. Choose “Export All Passwords.”
    4. Open the Chrome browser and visit passwords.google.com.
    5. Click on the gear icon and select “Import Passwords.” Now, import the file you downloaded earlier.
    6. That’s it! Once the passwords you stored in iCloud are imported into your Google account, you can access them on your new Android phone. It’s a quick and easy process.

    Here are some tips and tricks on how to transfer passwords from one phone to another

    • Use a password manager. This is the most secure and convenient way to transfer your passwords to a new device. Password managers store your passwords in an encrypted vault, and you can access them on any device with the password manager app installed.
    • Use Google or Chrome to sync your passwords. If you use Google Chrome as your default web browser and have your passwords saved to your Google account, you can easily sync them to your new device by signing in with your Google account.
    • Export your passwords from your old device and import them to your new device. This is a good option if you’re not using a password manager or if you’re switching to a different brand of phone. Be sure to export your passwords in a secure format, such as CSV or XML.

    Here are some additional tips:

    • Make sure you have a strong password for your password manager or Google account. This will help protect your passwords from unauthorized access.
    • Use two-factor authentication (2FA) whenever possible. 2FA adds an extra layer of security to your accounts by requiring you to enter a code from your phone in addition to your password.
    • Change your passwords regularly, especially for important accounts like your email and bank accounts.

    Specific tips for transferring passwords from iPhone to Android:

    • If your passwords are stored in iCloud, you can export them to a CSV file on a Mac. Then, you can import the CSV file into your password manager or Google account.
    • If you’re using a third-party password manager, such as LastPass or 1Password, you can simply download the password manager app on your new Android phone and sign in with your account details. Your passwords will be automatically synced to your new device.
    • Be careful about using public Wi-Fi networks to transfer your passwords. If you must use public Wi-Fi, be sure to use a VPN to encrypt your traffic.
    • If you’re exporting your passwords to a file, be sure to store the file in a secure location. You may want to encrypt the file before storing it.
    • When you’re importing your passwords to your new device, be sure to do so over a secure connection. Avoid importing your passwords over public Wi-Fi.
    • If you’re using a password manager, be sure to update the app to the latest version on both your old and new devices. This will help ensure that your passwords are protected by the latest security features.

    Here are some additional tips for using a password manager:

    • Choose a strong master password for your password manager. This is the password you’ll use to access all of your other passwords.
    • Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) for your password manager. This will add an extra layer of security to your account.
    • Use a unique password for each of your online accounts. This will help prevent hackers from gaining access to multiple accounts if one of your passwords is compromised.
    • Regularly review your passwords and delete any accounts that you no longer use. This will help reduce the number of passwords you need to manage and make it easier to keep your passwords secure.

    Additional tips for transferring passwords from one phone to another:

    • If you’re transferring your passwords from an iPhone to an Android phone, you can use the Google Smart Lock for Passwords feature. This feature allows you to sync your passwords between your iPhone and Android phone. To use Smart Lock for Passwords, you’ll need to install the Google Chrome app on your iPhone and turn on the feature in the Chrome settings. Then, you’ll need to install the Chrome app on your Android phone and sign in with the same Google account that you used on your iPhone. Your passwords will then be automatically synced to your Android phone.
    • If you’re transferring your passwords from an Android phone to an iPhone, you can use the iCloud Keychain feature. This feature allows you to sync your passwords between your Android phone and iPhone. To use iCloud Keychain, you’ll need to install the iCloud app on your Android phone and turn on the iCloud Keychain feature in the iCloud settings. Then, you’ll need to install the iCloud app on your iPhone and sign in with the same Apple ID that you used on your Android phone. Your passwords will then be automatically synced to your iPhone.
    • If you’re transferring your passwords to a new phone of the same brand, you may be able to use the manufacturer’s proprietary security systems for password protection. For example, if you’re transferring passwords from a Samsung phone to another Samsung phone, you can use the Samsung Pass app to sync your passwords between the two devices. To do this, you’ll need to install the Samsung Pass app on both devices and sign in with the same Samsung account. Your passwords will then be automatically synced between the two devices.

    Here are some additional tips for using a password manager:

    • Use a password manager that offers multiple authentication options. This will give you more flexibility in how you access your passwords. For example, some password managers support biometric authentication, such as fingerprint scanning and facial recognition.
    • Use a password manager that offers a password generator. This will help you create strong and unique passwords for all of your online accounts.
    • Use a password manager that offers a dark mode. This will make it easier to use your password manager in low-light conditions.
    • Use a password manager that offers a cross-platform app. This will allow you to access your passwords from any device, including your phone, computer, and tablet.



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