Apple, the Cupertino-based tech company, has now updated its iCloud web with some new user friendly features and has brought certain improvements along with it. Apart from general updates, iCloud Calendar, iCloud Drive, iCloud Photos, Notes, and Reminders have received some changes and updates too.

Know more about it in detail below.

Apple’s iCloud Web – Updated

For those of you who don’t know, iCloud is a service offered by Apple to its users which helps them in securely storing their passwords, files, photos, notes, and other such data to its cloud. Yes, similar to Google Drive. The data is kept up to date and will be made available across all their devices. Sharing these resources with friends and family is also really easy with the iCloud service. That being said, let us now look into the updates that Apple has brought to its web version.

Firstly, iCloud web will now be able to automatically match with the users’ device settings, and then, display in a dark or light color scheme accordingly. Users will also receive the option to customize the background. They just need to scroll down to the bottom, select ‘Customize Home Page’, and then choose from the different colors given.

The support for Hijri calendar, along with an updated design has been brought to iCloud Calendar. In iCloud Drive, now users will be able to find files that have been shared with them in the ‘Shared View Tab’. Faster navigation, Date/time/location adjustment, and new tile options are the major updates in iCloud Photos.

On iCloud, users will also now be able to pin notes for easy access at the top of the list. Using control click on Mac/right click, users can adjust their pinned notes. They can also choose whether or not to display them directly in the Notes tile on the home page. Creating new reminder lists is also possible with the new update.

In related news, Apple has started rolling out the iOS 18.0.1 update to its iPhone users to resolve few bugs and issues, whereas the iOS 18.1 with Apple Intelligence features is likely to be released on the 28th of October, 2024. Stay tuned for more updates.

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Cloudflare, Inc. (NYSE: NET) has announced the introduction of AI Audit, a set of tools designed to assist websites in analyzing and controlling how artificial intelligence (AI) models use their content. This move comes as AI bots increasingly scan online content, often without the knowledge or consent of content creators.

Key Features of AI Audit

The new toolset offers several features:

1. Automatic AI bot control: Websites can block all AI bots with a single click.
2. Analytics: Site owners can access data on AI model access patterns, including frequency and purpose.
3. Legal protection: Cloudflare will provide model terms of use for content creators to protect their rights.
4. Fair pricing system (in development): A feature to allow content creators to set prices for AI companies to scan their content.

Addressing Content Creator Concerns

Cloudflare’s initiative aims to address several issues faced by content creators:

• Lack of awareness: Many website owners are unaware of AI bots scanning their content.
• Loss of value: Uncontrolled AI scanning may lead to significant value destruction for businesses.
• Lack of compensation: Content creators are often not compensated for the use of their data in AI training.

Availability

Existing Cloudflare customers can access the AI Tab from their dashboard to review analytics and control bots. For the upcoming price-setting feature, interested parties can join a waitlist at Cloudflare’s website.

Industry Impact

This development could potentially reshape the relationship between content creators and AI model providers. It aims to create a more transparent exchange, allowing websites to have greater control over their content while enabling AI model providers to access fresh data sources.

As AI continues to evolve and impact online content, tools like AI Audit may play a crucial role in determining the future landscape of content creation and AI development on the internet.

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News channels are off-air, and Airlines’ ground flights and trains are delayed. Doesn’t it all sound like a horrific apocalypse of any Hollywood movie? This all has been happening because of the Microsoft outage that has left Windows users with a blue screen. As per the reports airlines, railways, stock exchange, news channels and more have been affected because of it.

This issue has mainly affected countries such as the UK, the US, Australia, several European countries, and India. Many airlines have taken the X to post about this issue.

#TravelUpdate: Due to infrastructure issues with our service provider, some of our online services, including booking, check-in and manage booking services will be temporarily unavailable. Currently we are following manual check-in and boarding processes at the airports and hence…

— Akasa Air (@AkasaAir) July 19, 2024

Our systems are currently impacted by a Microsoft outage, which is also affecting other companies. During this time booking, check-in, access to your boarding pass, and some flights may be impacted. We appreciate your patience.

— IndiGo (@IndiGo6E) July 19, 2024

Windows users all across the world are sharing the image of their screen that shows the recovery page displaying the message “It looks like Windows didn’t load correctly. If you’d like to restart and try again, choose Restart my PC below.”

This issue is said to be caused by the CrowdStrike security update. The company has acknowledged the issue and has said “We are aware of the widespread issue causing BSOD errors on Windows machines across various sensor versions”. One side where people are frustrated by this issue some employees are celebrating this as the early weekend when they will not have to work as it’s not them who don’t want to work this time. Several experts and firms are coming forth to suggest a solution for this major issue Kaspersky wrote in an X post ” To resolve the issue, it is necessary to delete the affected driver (csagent.sys or C-00000291*.sys) using Safe Mode. However, many corporate users lack the required access rights to perform this action, meaning that corporate administrators may need to intervene manually at a company-wide level”.

CrowdStrike Update Crashes Windows Systems

A widespread outage affecting numerous Windows systems worldwide, both servers and workstations, is attributed to a flawed update of drivers associated with CrowdStrike EDR solutions. The affected systems display the 'blue screen of… pic.twitter.com/4g5ApEeZqK

— Kaspersky (@kaspersky) July 19, 2024

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Surprised to read the above headline? Well, Google’s announcement did come as a shock for many Chrome users. According to the official blog post, from November 1, Google will be blocking CA certificates (SSL) issued by Entrust and AffirmTrust (acquired by Entrust in 2016) on the grounds of prioritizing the security and privacy of Chrome users.

Reason Behind This Decision By Google

As per Google’s statement, “Chrome Root Program Policy states that CA certificates included in the Chrome Root Store must provide value to Chrome end users that exceed the risk of their continued inclusion.” Also if things don’t go right, Google expects CA Owners to commit to meaningful and demonstrable change resulting in evidenced continuous improvement.

Google mentioned that over several years, there were publicly disclosed incident reports that highlighted a pattern of concerning behaviors by Entrust that fall short of above expectations and have eroded confidence in their competence, reliability, and integrity as a publicly trusted CA owner. In response to these concerns and to preserve the integrity of the Web PKI ecosystem, Chrome is taking the action of blocking the certificates issued by Entrust.

On June 21 in a Certification Authority Browser Forum post, Bhagwat Swaroop, Entrust president of digital security solutions, stated, “As a global CA we must walk a tightrope in balancing the requirements of the root programs and subscriber needs, especially for critical infrastructure. In some cases, we did not strike the right balance.” He also mentioned that Entrust is committed to making lasting changes both organizational and cultural, to begin to regain the trust of the root programs and the community.

Though Google now seems to have taken its decision regarding this issue. Hence, Entrust and AffirmTrust TLS server authentication certificates that were signed on or before 31 October will be unaffected by this change but the certificates dates after 31 October 2024 will no longer be trusted by default. The blocking action will occur in versions of Chrome 127 and greater on Windows, macOS, ChromeOS, Android, and Linux.

Google has advised the affected website operators to transition to a new publicly trusted CA Owner as soon as reasonably possible. While website operators could delay the impact of blocking action by choosing to collect and install a new TLS certificate issued from Entrust before Chrome’s blocking action begins on November 1, 2024, website operators will inevitably need to collect and install a new TLS certificate from one of the many other CAs included in the Chrome Root Store.

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HMD, the maker of Nokia devices, has brought an innovation that enables users of two of its 2023 feature phones to access cloud based apps and content. This feature will be introduced to newer models, and existing users will receive it via a software update.

Here’s more about it.

Nokia’s 106 4G & 110 4G – Cloud Based App Support

The Nokia 106 4G (2023) and Nokia 110 4G (2023) are considered to be two of the best-selling feature phones from the brand, and in the Indian market, the two are priced at INR 2,199 and INR 2,399 respectively. The latest innovation has been brought to these two best sellers.

The cloud app innovation by HMD brings applications such as YouTube Shorts and a suite of eight other applications like BBC Hindi, Sokoban, 2048 Game, Tetris, and many more to these devices. News, weather updates, cricket scores, as well as fun games, can be enjoyed by users. Also to add, since all these apps are cloud based, it won’t lead to slowdowns or any sorts of issues, thereby users won’t face annoying lags or freezes. Moreover, with Google account sign-in, personalized contents can also be viewed.

Now coming to the existing Nokia 106 4G and Nokia 110 4G models and its users, Nokia plans on rolling out a software update that will help in allowing the current users of the two feature phones to have the benefits of the brand’s cloud apps innovation. As of now, both the models support UPI scan and pay facilities too.

“We’re stepping into a fresh era of user experience with the introduction of Cloud Apps such as YouTube Shorts on our Nokia 106 4G and Nokia 110 4G feature phones. This advancement signifies a major achievement in our ongoing dedication to delivering state-of-the-art solutions. Following the successful integration of the UPI payment feature, the addition of YouTube Shorts on feature phones further demonstrates HMD’s steadfast commitment to providing an unmatched mobile experience. Moreover, existing users can anticipate the software update to be implemented within the next two weeks.” Said HMD VP (India & APAC), Ravi Kunwar.

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Data underpins every decision in a modern-day business. From discovering new opportunities to measuring the progress of a campaign, data impacts absolutely every process we see on a day-to-day basis. Part of the evolution of data over the past decade due to its necessity has been a certain movement to on-demand analytics.

Real-time data is now everywhere we look, with live dashboards and embedded analytical tools providing a time advantage that translates to a revenue uplift. In fact, 80% of companies that incorporate real-time data analytics into their processes report a revenue increase due to the agility of these analytics.

Yet, despite their centrality to effective modern business practices, many organizations commonly confuse real-time data and streaming data. While both of these sources evoke a sense of live or near-live data, they are not the same thing.

In this article, we’ll live into the core differences that set real-time data and streaming data apart, demonstrating how each works and why they’re important in analytics environments.

Let’s dive right in.

What is real-time data?

For most organizations, the main point of contact we have with real-time data is digital dashboards. These could be CRM dashboards, customer analytics pages, or website traffic monitors. Behind each of these is a system that delivers real-time data, rapidly updating with incredibly low latency to give us a snapshot of the data in that very second.

The core thing to remember when it comes to real-time data is that what ‘real-time’ means will vary from company to company. In this analytics system, real-time refers to a time threshold for data to be delivered to a company. For one business, this threshold to qualify as real-time could be in milliseconds, while in others, it could be in minutes.

Real-time data always refers to how quickly you can process data. If a business has a certain defined threshold for what qualifies as real-time data and the processing time does not meet that requirement, it can no longer be called real-time.

With that in mind, real-time data could actually have a vastly different meaning in different organizations. But, most of the time, it refers to the processing and delivery of data analytics in time segments of under a second.

Businesses that need access to real-time data, such as financial or healthcare institutions, will invest in cloud data warehouse architecture that supports real-time capabilities.

What is streaming data?

Streaming data is a form of data generation and processing that is defined by its ability to continually produce. While real-time data suggests a start and end process, often in under a second, streaming data is simply the continual movement of data into a business, through data pipelines, and into an analytics product.

Streaming data will continuously generate data from different sources, processing it as quickly as possible and then outputting it for a business. This method of interacting with and processing data is the direct opposite of batch data processing. Batch processing is where companies ingest data in smaller batches, typically occurring at regular intervals.

For example, if a business processes new data every 10 minutes, then this would count as batch data processing. However, if they were constantly processing new data without a start and end, this would qualify as streaming data. That considered, streaming data often contributes to real-time data architectural capabilities. However, as streaming data doesn’t need to process data under a certain latency, it wouldn’t technically count as a form of real-time data.

What are the core differences between real-time data and streaming data?

Part of the difficulty of telling these two forms of interacting with data apart for many businesses is that they both offer a range of similarities. Both deal with the delivery of data to organizations and result in a high degree of agility when it comes to analytics environments.

Yet, there are a number of differences that clearly mark these two as different. Here are the core distinctions you should look out for.

Method of generation

Real-time data processing makes data available as quickly as possible. However, even though the latency requirement is extremely low, this doesn’t mean that a business has to continuously process data. Real-time data could actually use a very fast latency of batch processing to meet the requirements defined by the system. Due to this, streaming data isn’t always used or needed in real-time sources of data processing.

Streaming data, by nature, is a continuous process. Businesses collect and generate data from several connected sources concurrently, evoking a continual flow of new information that the business can use. This tendency to always want new information has made many businesses jump directly onto the streaming bandwagon.

However, unless a business has a direct use case that needs real-time data, then constructing streaming pipelines to enable the rapid ingestion of data may be an expensive cost for little return.

Use Cases

Real-time data is useful when you want to provide a seamless user experience that relies on updating information. For example, when a user calls an Uber, the application instantly begins to connect them with a driver, with any updates to who is driving them, their route, or available cars in the area instantly logging to the user’s phone.

Alternatively, real-time data is useful in predictive analytics platforms, allowing businesses to update risk factors and keep their workforce safe. When combined with risk analysis platforms, real-time data can prevent accidents, notify managers when changes are needed, and keep things running smoothly. Real-time data is vital here as the lowest possible latency will ensure that businesses have as much time as possible to respond to errors, mistakes, or critical situations.

Streaming data, on the other hand, is used when businesses will continue to need an updating form of data long into the future. It’s less about having access to real-time data and more about always having a source of new data to inform decision-making. A wonderful example of this is in stock trading, where multiple sources converge to give traders a more holistic picture of the present price of stocks and shares.

Final Thoughts

While it is true that real-time data and streaming data are more similar than different, the core differences in how they operate, deliver information, and function over time are important to remember. However, by understanding the differences between real-time data and streaming data, we can use more precise language when discussing data infrastructure.

Over the next few years, we’re likely going to see even more developments in the realm of live-data analytics, with these two methods of interacting with data leading the way.

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As technology has advanced, more and more people are using cloud services to store their personal data. While cloud storage offers many benefits, such as convenience and accessibility, it also poses certain risks to the security of personal information. This makes it important for individuals to know whether their personal information is stored on the cloud and take appropriate steps to ensure its protection. In this article, we will discuss how you can find out if your personal information is stored on the cloud and offer tips on how to secure it. We will also touch on the role of background checks in protecting personal data stored on the cloud.

What is the Cloud?

The cloud refers to the use of remote servers to store, manage, and process data instead of using local servers or personal computers. It enables users to access data and services from anywhere with an internet connection. The cloud operates on a system of interconnected servers, which enables it to provide services such as data storage, backup and recovery, software hosting, and web-based email. These servers are managed and maintained by cloud service providers, who handle the complex technology and infrastructure required to provide cloud-based services.

There are many cloud storage providers available, including big names like Google Drive, Dropbox, iCloud, and Microsoft OneDrive. These cloud storage providers enable users to store, access, and share data and files from any device with an internet connection. They offer different plans and features, including free and paid options, and they can be used for personal or business purposes. While these services can be convenient and efficient, they also raise concerns about data privacy and security. Users must be aware of the risks and take measures to protect their personal information on the cloud.

The Role of Background Checks

Background checks are important in protecting personal information that may be stored on the cloud. Many people may not be aware of what information is stored on the cloud or which providers have access to their data. Conducting a background check can provide a comprehensive view of what information may be available on the cloud, whether it is through a past employer or other sources.

When looking for a reputable background check service, there are a few key factors to consider. Background check services can be an effective tool for protecting personal information, as they can reveal details about a person’s criminal history, education, employment and what they may have to hide. To determine what personal information about you is available, it’s essential to find a background check service that is reputable, experienced in conducting comprehensive checks, and has appropriate certifications. It is also important to ensure that the service you choose offers comprehensive checks that cover criminal history, education and employment verification, and reference checks. In addition, consider the level of detail and accuracy provided in the reports, and the ability to provide ongoing updates.

There are many background check services available, each with its own unique features and areas of expertise. Some popular options include Intelius, GoodHire, and Sterling Talent Solutions. Each of these services offers a wide range of background check options, including criminal history checks, employment and education verification, and reference checks. It is important to evaluate each service based on your specific needs and requirements to ensure that you select the best fit for your situation.

Risks of Storing and Determining Personal Information on the Cloud

The use of cloud storage for personal information presents a number of security concerns and privacy risks. While cloud providers invest heavily in security measures, the potential for data breaches, unauthorized access, and exposure of sensitive information remain. Users should take care to choose reputable providers and implement additional security measures to reduce their risks.

Data breaches and hacking are among the most significant risks associated with cloud storage. Cyber criminals may attempt to infiltrate cloud storage services to steal sensitive data or personal information. In the event of a breach, this information may be exposed to the public or sold on the black market, leaving users vulnerable to identity theft and other types of fraud.

Reviewing account settings for cloud storage services can help users determine if their personal information is being stored in the cloud. This includes reviewing privacy settings, security measures, and any third-party apps or services that may have access to the account.

Checking device backup settings can also help users determine if their personal information is being stored on the cloud. This includes checking settings for devices such as smartphones and tablets, as well as desktop and laptop computers. Many devices automatically backup data to the cloud, and users may not be aware of this unless they review their settings.

Best Practices for Securing Personal Information

It is important to choose a strong and unique password for each account you have, especially if it’s stored on the cloud. This means using a combination of upper and lowercase letters, numbers, and special characters, and avoiding common words or phrases. Additionally, enabling two-factor authentication adds an extra layer of security by requiring a second form of identification, such as a code sent to your phone or email. This can prevent unauthorized access even if someone manages to obtain your password.

Regularly updating the software and operating systems on your devices can help ensure that any security vulnerabilities are patched and that your device remains protected. Many software updates include security enhancements and bug fixes that can help prevent cyberattacks.

Encryption is the process of encoding information so that it can only be read by someone with the proper decryption key. If you are storing sensitive data on the cloud, it is important to use encryption to protect that data from unauthorized access. Most cloud storage services offer encryption as a feature, and it is important to enable it if you are storing sensitive information. Additionally, if you are sharing files with others, be sure to encrypt them before sending them over the internet.

To Sum it Up

It’s important to be aware of the risks of storing personal information on the cloud and to take steps to secure your data. By following best practices like choosing strong passwords, enabling two-factor authentication, keeping your software and devices updated, and using encryption for sensitive data, you can help protect your information from security breaches and unauthorized access. Additionally, conducting regular background checks can provide you with valuable information about the security practices of companies and organizations that may be storing your personal data. By being proactive and vigilant about your personal information, you can help ensure that your data is secure and protected in the cloud.

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VMware has come forth to bring updated Fusion virtualization software. The fusion 13 launch has been announced by VMware. So if you don’t know about Fusion it is basically designed for Mac users that lets them operate non-MacOS operating systems like Windows 11.

As far as compatibility is concerned it can work with Intel Macs and Apple Silicon Macs equipped with M series chips. Intel and Apple silicon mac users would be able to operate Windows 11 virtual machines. Let’s come on to the access part.

Fusion 13 players are free for personal use but for commercial purposes licensing is available at a 30 percent discount which is a launch discount. VMware Fusion 13 Player is priced at $104.30 and VMware Fusion Pro is priced at $139.30. If you want to upgrade to previous versions, that is also available at a discounted price.

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Google tech giant that provides a dimension of service to its users all across the world has come up with something very new. Some of you might have observed a notification on your Google Drive or Google doc that you need to buy storage.

Earlier Google used to provide 15 GB of storage to each user and further extensions had some charge attached to them. Charges are still there but the minimum amount of storage that you can use for free has been extended by Google. Now users can use 1TB of storage without any cost.

Cloud computing storage is one of the necessary things for startups and organizations to thrive and this move by Google will allow them to thrive better and grow faster than ever. You don’t need to do anything. Google will automatically upgrade the storage cloud data limit on every Google workspace account from 15 GB to 1TB.

Currently, Google offers a 3-month plan of 100 GB storage for Rs 130  per month, and 200 GB storage for Rs 210 per month. So if you were annoyed by Google’s notification of ‘buy the storage’ now you need not.

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In November 2019, Google launched Stadia, a cloud gaming service. After being life for 3 years, Google announced on a BlogSpot about shutting down the stadia services in January 2023.

Now Google has come up with another platform for cloud gaming in the form of Chromebook. For the manufacturing of Chromebooks, Google has collaborated with various manufacturers like Lenovo, Asus, and Acer.

Google has also contacted Corsair, HyperX, and SteelSeries to make “Works with Chromebook” certified fringe for these devices. Google has also partnered with cloud gaming services like Nvidia GeForce Now, Microsoft Xbox Cloud Gaming, and Amazon Luna to bring some amazing blockbusters games to the market.

Hardware –

Acer, Asus, and Lenovo are the manufacturers of the first set of Chromebooks. This set contains gaming features like a high-resolution display and refresh rate of at least 120 Hz, Wi-Fi 6 or 6E compatibility.

For a better gaming experience, these Chromebooks have high-quality audio and RGB keyboards that support anti-ghosting.

Anti-Ghosting is a feature that helps the laptop in registering all the keys accurately even when multiple keys are pressed together at the same time.

To avoid failure like Stadia, Google has decided to price these Chromebook laptops in a range of $399 and $799.

According to the price range, these laptops will have intel core i3 – intel core i7 processors.

Here are some key features of the first set of Chromebooks.

Lenovo IdeaPad Gaming Chromebook –
This laptop comes with a display of 16-inch WQXGA screen (2560 x 1500) with a 120Hz of refresh rate.
A 12th Gen intel core i3/i5 as the processor, and an 8GB of RAM.

Acer Chromebook 516 GE –
This laptop also offers a display of 16-inch WQXGA screen (2560 x 1500) with a 120Hz refresh rate.
The processor used in this laptop is 12th Gen intel core i3/i5 and it comes with a RAM of 8GB.

Asus Chromebook Vibe CX55 Flip –
It has a 15.6-inch of FullHD (1920 x 1080) IPS touchscreen display and a 144Hz refresh rate.
Asus offers an 11th Gen intel core i3/i5/i7 processor and a RAM of 8GB/16GB.

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