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You may remember earlier this year, Google announced a feature called “Ask Photos” during its Google I/O event. We have discovered a Google Photos extension for Gemini that could be related to that very feature.

While digging into the Google app (beta version 15.33.36.29.arm64), we stumbled upon a few interesting lines of code. Specifically, there’s a mention of an “ask photos” extension for Gemini. You can see the lines of code we found below.

<string name="assistant_robin_action_ask_photos_single_image_content_description">Google Photos Image</string>
<string name="assistant_photos_card_a11y_description">Results from Google Photos extension</string>
<string name="assistant_photos_card_title_string">Google Photos</string>
<string name="assistant_photos_icon_content_description">Google Photos icon</string>

Just as a refresher, “robin” is the internal codename for Gemini. Based on the code we found, it seems like the extension could have a lot in common with the Ask Photos feature for the Google Photos app.

As Google explained back in May, this feature would allow you to interact with your photo library through natural language queries. For example, Gemini would search through photos containing car license plates if you were to ask it something like, “What’s my license plate number?” Ask Photos’s functionality was also said to extend past basic search functionality, being capable of tasks like organizing and sharing photos.

It appears this ask photos extension is fairly early in development, so don’t expect it to roll out anytime soon. We’ll have to wait a little longer to get more clues about this feature.

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Google introduced Ultra HDR with the Pixel 8 series, though it has since made its way to a growing range of higher-end Android flagships. Ultra HDR works similarly to a JPEG image but adds an embedded HDR gaming map in the metadata. While Google might have been the first to bring us the feature on Android, Google Photos ironically doesn’t play nice with it. At least, until now.

Previously performing photo edits on an Ultra HDR image would strip it of its Ultra HDR technology, but as first spotted by Artem Russakovskii on X, this is no longer the case for basic edits.

You can now perform actions like cropping and rotating without losing Ultra HDR in the process. Artem notes that he’s rocking a Pixel 8 Pro with version 6.95.0.663027175. A quick look at the comments in his post confirms this is working for others as well.

Google has had more than its fair share of issues with HDR photos in its Google Photo app, not just Ultra HDR. In the past HDR images in Google Photos would strip all brightness data that enabled high dynamic range, which led Google to make a workaround where it would duplicate edited HDR photos as copies instead of overwriting the original. Since then, Google has fixed the problem for HDR though it continues to create duplicates.

For its part, Google has previously said (via Android Police) it is aware that the way it handles HDR and Ultra HDR is far from perfect and it said it was working to improve the problem. With this latest update, it seems Google is starting to make good on this promise.

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Update, August 20, 2024 (07:25 AM ET): Google is finally rolling out the “Show less” option to hide unwanted faces from surfacing Memories without completely blocking them from group photos. Google has a new support page that explains the difference between the Block and Show less options. People who are Blocked will not appear in memories or group photos, while the Show less option will hide them from memories but keep them around in group photos.

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Original article, May 1, 2024 (03:30 AM ET): Google Photos has several neat features that make it one of the best photo storage apps around. The service has an uncanny ability to spot faces, and it gets it right most of the time, even in very challenging situations. These faces are then used for several features, like People Search and Memories. But sometimes, as your life evolves, you’d want to see less of some faces, especially in Memories. Google Photos is preparing to make that happen, giving you more control of which faces you see regularly through the Memories feature.

Android Authority contributor Assemble Debug spotted an upcoming feature in Google Photos v6.81.0.628906483. You will soon be able to use a “Show less” option to have a face not show up in your Memories but still be visible in your group photos. This appears to be a milder version of the “Block face” option, which makes faces completely disappear from Memories and group photos.

The “People & Pets” section in Google Photos, where you name the faces that appear in your photos, will have a new “Hide face from memories” section, as you can see in the first screenshot above. Adding a face to the section will open the dialog box in the second screenshot.

A new settings flow will also be created to accommodate the change. You will be able to access it through Settings > Preferences > Memories > Hide people & pets.

This new feature is not currently live within the app. Google is currently testing the feature within the app, so it may roll out in the future. It’s not clear if and when this rolls out, but considering its utility in keeping some unpleasant memories away, we hope to see it roll out soon.

Would you believe that Disney’s famously copyright-maximalist lawyers have just brought us a nice victory for fair use?

Earlier this year, we wrote about disgraced former Congressman George Santos suing Disney and Jimmy Kimmel after Kimmel used some of Santos’ Cameo videos (that Kimmel had secretly requested) in a, well, somewhat trollish fashion. Santos, who was drummed out of Congress after facing a bunch of charges regarding questionable handling of campaign funds, started promoting that he would record Cameo videos for between $350 and $500 a video.

At one point, he had bragged about how many people had paid him for Cameo videos. This resulted in Kimmel having his staff purchase some Cameo videos, which made Santos look silly. The videos were then played on Kimmel’s ABC late night show. Santos claimed that the videos were purchased under a “personal” use license, which was a lot less expensive than a commercial use license.

The argument was that the videos were used “commercially,” which meant that the license had been violated, and the videos infringed on Santos’ copyright. In my initial write-up of the case, I pointed out that Kimmel had a very strong fair use claim. Some commentators felt that Santos’ argument was a bit stronger than I made out, but it appears the judge in the case, Denise Cote, who has been involved in a number of high-profile copyright cases, agreed with me that it was fair use.

Notably, she granted Disney and Kimmel’s motion to dismiss on fair use grounds. That’s important because some people believe that fair use shouldn’t be decided so early in a case. Either it should go to the summary judgment stage or (much worse) is an issue for a jury to decide.

However, Cote says here that Kimmel’s use was pretty obviously fair use. She notes that the Second Circuit has said that in obvious fair use cases, you can find fair use at the motion to dismiss stage:

The Second Circuit has specifically acknowledged “the possibility of fair use being so clearly established by a complaint as to support dismissal of a copyright infringement claim.”

As in most fair use cases, the court went through the basic four factors test required to determine fair use. The court awarded the first factor (purpose of the use) to Disney/Kimmel because it was clearly about commentary on Santos:

In short, a reasonable observer would understand that JKL showed the Videos to comment on the willingness of Santos — a public figure who had recently been expelled from Congress for allegedly fraudulent activity including enriching himself through a fraudulent contribution scheme — to say absurd things for money. Thus, the Videos were used for political commentary and criticism, purposes that do not supersede the “objects” of the original Videos.

The fact that the use of the videos made Santos look bad doesn’t matter:

Santos’s argument that the defendants should not be able to “seek refuge in the fair use concept of transformation that they themselves manufactured through deceit” finds no support in copyright law. Defendants’ conduct may have been deceptive and unkind, but the Supreme Court in Warhol emphasized that whether a work is transformative turns on neither the “subjective intent of the user,” 598 U.S. at 544, nor the “stated or perceived intent of the artist.” Id. at 545 (citation omitted). A court must instead conduct “an objective inquiry into what use was made, i.e., what the user does with the original work.” Id. Here, the purpose of the defendants’ use was clearly for criticism and commentary of the Videos themselves and their author.

While not always true, the first factor is often the key to winning fair use. The fact that it was found to be favoring Kimmel here basically makes the rest of the analysis less important, but even so, the rest of the factors either favor no one or Kimmel anyway.

On the second factor, the nature of the work, the court says this is mostly neutral, but perhaps favors Kimmel/Disney slightly. The third factor, how much of the work was used, is also deemed to be neutral. It did use the entirety of the work, as other courts have found, but that’s fine if you need to use the entirety of the work for the fair use at hand.

Copying “the entirety of a work is sometimes necessary to make a fair use.” Swatch Group Management Services Ltd. v. Bloomberg L.P., 756 F.3d 73, 90 (2d Cir. 2014). The “ultimate question under this factor is whether the quantity and value of the materials used are reasonable in relation to the purpose of the copying.”….

…. The use of the Videos to criticize and comment on a public figure would have been undermined by showing less than the entirety of the Videos, because the audience would not know whether Santos had indeed said everything in the requests.

Then there’s the fourth factor: the effect on the market. As I had noted in my original piece about the complaint, it would be difficult to argue that Kimmel’s use would harm the market. And, indeed, that’s what the court found as well:

Santos argues that defendants’ use devalued the market for Cameo videos, including Santos’s, by “undermining the integrity” of the Cameo.com platform. Santos does not explain how any impact on the popularity of the Cameo platform — which is entirely speculative — impacts more specifically the public interest in the creative production of new expression. Moreover, the FAC identifies no harm to the potential or existing market for the Videos that Santos created for the defendants, other than the “very use at bar.” Swatch, 756 F.3d at 91 (citation omitted). Thus, this factor weighs in favor of fair use.

Put it all together and you have two mostly neutral factors and two that weigh towards fair use, and thus: fair use.

Taking all four factors into consideration, the defense of fair use is clearly established by the FAC and documents integral to it. The defendants’ use of the Videos was transformative; “transformative uses tend to favor a fair use finding because a transformative use is one that communicates something new and different from the original or expands its utility, thus serving copyright’s overall objective of contributing to public knowledge.”

The court also rejects the breach of contract claims, saying that those are basically arguing the same thing as the copyright claims, and are thus pre-empted.

It wouldn’t surprise me if Santos appeals, but this is a good clean, fair use win. Disney’s copyright lawyers aren’t regularly known for arguing on behalf of fair use, but in this case they were right to, and it’s nice to see the court agree.

Update: And, yup, Santos has already told the court that he’s appealing.

Is Drakantos an MMORPG? A co-op OARPG? The answer to that question is the primary subject of Wingeon Game Studios’ June dev blog, which confirms that the title is “an MMORPG at its core,” though it’s also attempting to do things a bit differently from the standard formula of the genre. While Drakantos will have […]

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Google is constantly bringing new features to Google Photos, giving you more tools to edit desired snaps. What if you need to edit a photo you just saw in your Memories? Well, the company is working on an easier way to edit these older snaps.

An Android Authority teardown of the Google Photos app (version 6.93) has revealed that Google could bring an edit button to photos in Memories. That means you can quickly edit an old photo by tapping the Edit icon directly in Memories. That’s much easier than the current solution, which sees you tap the three-dot-menu > View day, scroll to the relevant photo in your timeline, and then tap the Edit icon. Check out the first image below, which shows the newly added Edit icon.

Our video below also gives a better idea of how this editing shortcut works in Memories. More specifically, tapping the icon takes you to the usual editing menu, featuring a host of tools for you to play with.

 

In any event, this would be a great timesaver if you frequently share old photos. It’s also a very convenient addition if you’d like to quickly try out more modern editing features (e.g. Magic Editor) on older images.

This isn’t the only upcoming Google Photos feature we’ve uncovered in recent days. We also discovered that Google is working on an “enhance photo” button in the sharing menu prior to actually sharing a snap. We also uncovered a “Show more” option for faces, allowing you to see more of a specific face.

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Google is constantly bringing new features to Google Photos, giving you more tools to edit desired snaps. What if you need to edit a photo you just saw in your Memories? Well, the company is working on an easier way to edit these older snaps.

An Android Authority teardown of the Google Photos app (version 6.93) has revealed that Google could bring an edit button to photos in Memories. That means you can quickly edit an old photo by tapping the Edit icon directly in Memories. That’s much easier than the current solution, which sees you tap the three-dot-menu > View day, scroll to the relevant photo in your timeline, and then tap the Edit icon. Check out the first image below, which shows the newly added Edit icon.

Our video below also gives a better idea of how this editing shortcut works in Memories. More specifically, tapping the icon takes you to the usual editing menu, featuring a host of tools for you to play with.

 

In any event, this would be a great timesaver if you frequently share old photos. It’s also a very convenient addition if you’d like to quickly try out more modern editing features (e.g. Magic Editor) on older images.

This isn’t the only upcoming Google Photos feature we’ve uncovered in recent days. We also discovered that Google is working on an “enhance photo” button in the sharing menu prior to actually sharing a snap. We also uncovered a “Show more” option for faces, allowing you to see more of a specific face.

When the Mustang Mach-E first hit the streets at the end of 2021, people were so up in arms about its name that it felt like you couldn’t have a serious discussion about the vehicle itself. How dare Ford tarnish the legacy of its iconic pony car with *gasp* a crossover SUV?! And an all-electric one at that. But now that Ford has had a few years to refine the platform, it’s a great time to take another look at what is still the company’s most engaging EV to date.

What’s new for 2024

Ford has made several tweaks and adjustments to the Mach-E over the past few years, like streamlining the UI for its infotainment system, offering a wider range of colors and switching to LFP batteries (lithium ferrophosphate) for the standard range model and NCM (nickel, cobalt, manganese) for extended range trims. But for 2024, there are a few additional updates such as a new rear motor (which Ford says was developed in-house) that deliver a touch more torque and slightly faster charging speeds. The 72kWh standard range model can now go from 10 to 80 percent in 32 minutes or around 36 minutes for specs with the larger 91kWh extended range battery pack. That’s about six minutes faster compared to previous model year vehicles.

The Mach-E GT now also receives Ford’s MagneRide suspension tech as standard. This feature was only available on the top-spec GT Performance Edition, which now exists as a Performance upgrade package (and is what I reviewed here), instead of being a full standalone trim. It offers an extra 100 pound-feet of torque and improved tuning. This year, there are yet more color options headlined by Eruption green and Ford’s optional Bronze appearance pack (which you can see in photos of our loaner vehicle), alongside a brand new Rally model. It features some exclusive design touches including a larger rear spoiler and a bunch of tweaks for better off-road performance and handling.

Finally, earlier this spring, Ford announced that its EVs in the US can use Tesla’s Supercharging network and created a program that provides one free adapter to Mustang Mach-E and Ford 150 Lightning owners. (Envision a giant USB dongle that allows Ford’s CCS charging ports to use Tesla’s NACS plugs. Starting in 2025, new Mach-Es will come with an NACS plug from the factory.)

Design: A family-friendly muscle car for the EV age

Photo by Sam Rutherford/Engadget

One of the biggest issues Mustang die-hards have with the Mach-E is that it represents diametrically opposed objectives. Muscle cars are supposed to be simple, low-slung affairs that are big on power and light on weight (and often practicality). But this thing has two rows of usable seats, a large cargo area and a curb weight of between 4,400 and 5,000 pounds depending on the spec. That’s about 1,000 pounds heavier than an equivalent gas-powered Mustang.

Factor in that the Mach-E has a frunk where the engine ought to be and you’re basically looking at something that sits on the complete other end of the spectrum from where Mustang landed when it first hit the roads back in the 1960s. And often, when a product is being pulled in multiple directions, it ends up stuck in the middle.

But on the Mach-E, Ford has artfully balanced nods to previous Mustangs while embracing a more accommodating crossover EV design. The car’s long hood and vertical taillights give it an unmistakable familial resemblance while the clever use of black panels on its roof, below its doors and elsewhere make the crossover look sleeker than it actually is. (Admittedly, they’re hard to see on a black car like the one I tested, but check out some other colors to see what I mean.) And in an ever growing sea of vaguely teardrop-shaped EV SUVs, the Mach-E stands out as a striking homage to a classic.

Photo by Sam Rutherford/Engadget

Perhaps the most contentious aspect of the Mach-E’s design is its door handles, or lack thereof. Instead, you get a button mounted on the pillar behind each window. In front, there’s also a small tab nearby you can pull to open, while in back, Ford expects you to simply grab the inside of the door when climbing in, because that’s what people tend to do anyway. And Ford is right. Buttons are good and don’t need any explanation. Plus, they’re a lot simpler than handles that have to pop out just so you can yank on them. Even my toddler (who isn’t even three yet) can open the doors by himself. Plus, they still deliver on the original purpose of getting rid of handles to reduce drag. It seems Ferrari agrees, because the Italian supercar maker opted for a similar tabbed design (albeit without the button) for the rear doors on the new Purosangue.

Another nifty feature inspired by the cars of yesteryear is the numeric touch controls on the driver’s side door. Just like the buttons on old Explorers, you can create a PIN that lets you unlock the car with a handful of taps. This lets you hide your keys inside the car if you’re at the beach or going on a hike and don’t want to risk losing them in the wild. It’s a bit of simple tech mixed with basic practicality that I wish more carmakers would support.

Photo by Sam Rutherford/Engadget

That delicate blend between new and old continues inside as well. In the center of the dash is a large 15.5-inch touchscreen that controls most of the vehicle’s functions. But unlike other EV makers (most notably Tesla), Ford stopped short of making everything so streamlined that it's hard to use. At the bottom of the screen, the touch buttons for the heated seats and temperature are frozen in place, so they’re always easy to reach. And then smack in the middle is a big control wheel that adjusts dynamically to handle whatever you need. By default, it handles volume, but if you touch something like the fan button first, you can simply twist the dial to increase or decrease the speed. It’s a wonderful blend between digital and analog controls that means you’re never more than two gestures away from turning something off or setting it to full blast.

It's endearing that Ford is so committed to its transitional philosophy between new and old that in addition to a built-in wireless charger, the Mach-E has USB-A and USB-C jacks positioned side-by-side. Usually, automakers just pick one and stick with it, sometimes resulting in cars saddled with only Type-A slots.

Meanwhile, over on the driver’s side, Ford skews a bit more traditional, where controls for the blinkers and wipers are just stalks. It’s a tried and true setup that makes the Mach-E feel immediately familiar, which is not something all EVs can claim. There’s even an on/off button for the car, which almost feels quaint in a time when so many electric cars let you just walk up, put your foot on the brake and go. But as I said before, buttons are good, so unless you really feel like tapping one is a drag, I don’t see an issue with Ford’s approach.

Photo by Sam Rutherford/Engadget

As for the rest of the interior, it’s easy to tell that the Mach-E was built with expertise. There’s a nice mix of premium textures (with very little piano black trim to call attention to fingerprints) and no cracks or loose ends to speak of. The cabin is also very quiet, with not even a hint of an EV’s usual faint electric motor whine (unless you’re really gunning it). Compared to the Hyundai Ioniq 5, the Mach-E has a slightly higher seating position (as befits a proper SUV) and larger cargo area (29.7 cubic feet versus 27.2), with the trade-off being slightly less rear-seat legroom for passengers in the second row. That said, I’m six feet tall and there’s still plenty of room in the back for me. However, if you want to really maximize storage, Tesla’s Model Y beats out both with large cubby spaces throughout.

The one thing I wish Ford offered — even if it had been strictly an optional extra — is ventilated seats. It’s something you can get on other similarly priced rivals or even the F-150 Lightning. And as I was testing this during the peak of a heatwave, it would have been the cherry on top of an otherwise already solid interior.

Tech and infotainment: A big screen with a much-appreciated analog touch

Photo by Sam Rutherford/Engadget

The Mach-E’s infotainment is powered by Ford’s Sync 4A system which is generally fine. You have all the basics for adjusting car settings, navigation and more. But most people are probably going to augment that with support for both wired and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, which makes the whole setup feel much more complete. Pairing was a cinch and connecting was fast enough that generally by the time I got into the car and put my seatbelt on, Android Auto was ready to go. From the main screen, you get a big window for mapping and some smaller panes for music and recent apps. In the settings, you can adjust things like the propulsion sounds or one-pedal driving, the latter of which I think is tuned perfectly for the Mach-E. It offers plenty of deceleration when you lift off but not so much that your head jerks around if you let it slow all the way to a full stop.

Meanwhile, thanks to the FordPass app, you get some additional controls on your phone, though things are a bit spartan compared to rivals like Tesla. All the basics are there like being able to lock the car, roll down the windows and activate the climate control remotely. But there are a lot of little things it can’t do too.

Photo by Sam Rutherford/Engadget

There’s no option to see the view from the Mach-E’s cameras on your phone like on a Model Y, and you can’t even adjust individual climate settings. You can either let the car pick a temperature or let it default to whatever it was the last time you were driving. However, one thing the Mach-E offers that a Model Y doesn’t is a top-down 360-degree camera. That thing is a lifesaver when you need to squeeze into a tight space while parallel parking and should be a standard feature on every new car. I just wish Ford’s execution was a touch more polished, as it applies little black outlines around the car that add the tiniest bit of guesswork.

You can also use your phone as a key, which is great for anyone who doesn’t want to carry Ford’s egg-shaped fob around. But I wish Ford would steal another page out of Tesla’s playbook and let you use the car’s sensors as a built-in dash cam. All the necessary equipment is already in place and there are plenty of USB ports for anyone who wants to plug in an external storage drive.

Unfortunately, there are still a few infotainment menus like the one for Sirius XM radio that take too long to appear. In 2024, I simply do not understand how a minimum $40,000 car has a screen that’s occasionally slower than a smartphone. And while Sync and Android Auto/CarPlay are usually quite responsive, there are a handful of situations where the display can’t keep up.

Performance: Pony power

Photo by Sam Rutherford/Engadget

Mustang or not, with a 0 to 60 time of just 3.3 seconds for a GT with the Performance upgrade pack, the Mach-E is seriously quick. And even if you opt for a more affordable Premium model with dual motors and AWD, you’re still hitting 60 in 5.2 seconds, which is more than respectable.

However, the real star of the GT’s kit is its MagneRide damping system. It makes the car feel more confident and planted in the corners. The downside is that it makes the ride even firmer, which is great when you want to really push the pace while maintaining control. But around me, where the roads exist in a superposition of being either freshly paved or filled with so many potholes you might as well be driving on the moon, you will feel every bump just a bit more. Regardless, compared to the bouncier feel from the standard suspension in Mach-Es with Select and Premium trims, I’ll take that extra bit of sporty rigidity every time.

Photo by Sam Rutherford/Engadget

The Mach-E also offers a few different performance modes: Whisper, Engaged and Unbridled, which roughly translates to relaxed, sport and full power. In Whisper, which I used the most for driving around town, the car is relatively chilled out. There’s still a lot of performance to tap into, you just have to be a little more deliberate with your foot before it arrives. But that’s just fine when you're out getting groceries and don’t want to crack all your eggs before you get home. Engaged offers a good balance between speed and comfort, and Unbridled doesn’t need much explanation. At this point, most people know that EVs can deliver peak torque at all times unlike cars powered by internal combustion. So while classic Mustang fans might not like to admit it, in the real world, the Mach-E is every bit as quick as its gas-powered predecessors. There’s a sense that there’s always excess power waiting to be unleashed and it's absolutely exhilarating.

Photo by Sam Rutherford/Engadget

On the flip side, when you don’t feel like driving, Ford’s BlueCruise hands-free driving tech is among the best in the business. Granted, it’s a bit more restricted than something like Tesla’s Enhanced Autopilot as its only available on approved highways. But according to Ford, that covers over 130,000 miles of roads across North America, so it wasn’t hard to find somewhere I could use it. And when it’s activated, you can just sit back and let the car do the work, which is a true stress reliever when you’re stuck in highway traffic.

BlueCruise neatly stayed in the middle of the lane without needing to bounce between the lines. When you want to change lanes, you can simply flick the blinker stalk in the proper direction and let BlueCruise do the rest. I also appreciate that when it’s on, the entire screen on the driver’s side display turns blue, so there’s no confusion about what’s going on. Meanwhile, the small sensor bank behind the wheels monitors your eyes to ensure you’re still paying attention. And when BlueCruise needs to revert back to good ‘ole adaptive cruise control, that’s really obvious too.

Range and charging: Underpromise but over-deliver

Photo by Sam Rutherford/Engadget

The Mach-E offers between 250 and 320 miles of range depending on the spec, with the GT falling in the middle with 280 miles of juice. (Note: all GTs come standard with AWD and Ford’s extended range battery pack). Those figures are more than solid and pretty much the same as a Tesla Model Y (Ford’s long-range RWD model can hit 320 miles per charge, while the Model Y Performance delivers 279 miles).

However, I noticed that Ford’s in-car range estimates are on the more conservative side, but in a good way. It feels like the Mach-E engineers were living by the mantra of underpromising and over-delivering. That’s because unlike every Tesla I’ve driven — which often served up overly optimistic calculations before updating to more realistic estimates halfway through the trip — what you see on the Mach-E’s display is pretty much what you get. And especially for first-time EV buyers who might be suffering from range anxiety, this predictability makes for more confidence on longer journeys.

Photo by Sam Rutherford/Engadget

On the other hand, perhaps the Mach-E’s biggest weakness is its charging time, which lags behind almost all of its rivals even with the six-minute decrease for 2024 models. This is because it maxes out with 150kW DC fast charging compared to 250kW for a Model Y or 350kW on a Hyundai Ioniq 5. Granted, if you have the luxury of being able to install a charger in your garage, that difference might not be a big deal. But for those who regularly need to charge mid-trip, you’re looking at between 10 and 15 minutes of extra time spent plugged in compared to its rivals. So while it’s not a deal breaker, faster DC charging would be the biggest upgrade Ford could add to the Mach-E.

Still, even for me, who lives in the city and can’t charge in my building or the lot I rent when testing cars, it’s not that bad. There are at least six public chargers within a five-block radius, all of which are significantly closer than the nearest gas station. This makes it easy to recharge the car when needed, which probably won’t be very often unless you have a major commute thanks to the Mach-E’s above-average range.

Wrap-up

Photo by Sam Rutherford/Engadget

So is the Mach-E a real Mustang? Ford certainly believes so because almost every badge on the outside of the car is a Mustang logo instead of the classic blue oval. However, methinks the lady doth protest too much. I suspect Ford will never admit to attaching the Mustang name to the Mach-E in hopes of attracting buyers to its first mainstream EV. (I’m not counting the electric Ranger from the 90s.) But you know what? The Mach-E is a great name for a car in its own right and it represents an incredibly thoughtful marriage of Ford’s legacy with forward-thinking design. (Though if we’re borrowing inspiration from the past, I kind of wish Ford had revived the Thunderbird name instead).

Sure, it’s not quite as techy as a Model Y and I hope Ford will incorporate some of Tesla’s more advanced features into future vehicles (a UWB-based car key would be really nice too). But at the same time, the Mach-E is welcoming to all sorts of drivers, including folks who may have never driven an EV, while also delivering tight handling and spirited performance. And unlike an old-fashioned Mustang, its size and two full rows of seats means the whole family can enjoy it.

This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/2024-ford-mustang-mach-e-gt-review-a-thrilling-mix-of-pedigree-and-electricity-170015532.html?src=rss

© Photo by Sam Rutherford/Engadget

Baten Kaitos 1 & 2 HD Remaster is now available on Steam, following its release on Switch last year.

A 'Month-1' edition is available until 17th July, which includes concept art, character designs, and development documents. After this, the standard version will be available.

The remastered collection includes first game Baten Kaitos: Eternal Wings and the Lost Ocean, as well as its prequel Baten Kaitos Origins.

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Edwin backstory fragment #345: the greatest usage to which I have ever put my failing grasp of mathematics is determining how many different RPGs I could buy using the "same" money, by dint of trading them in promptly at Gamestation for carefully calculated diminishing returns. I'd save up to buy one of the premium headliners, attempt to get my money's worth inside a week, then swap it for a respected double-A and perhaps a sub-£8 oddity with the manual missing - nesting one purchase within the other like a series of Matryoshka dolls.

This was my Big Short, my Moneyball. But it had a drawback: often, I was so eager to leapfrog to another game before the trade-in price changed that I skimmed RPGs that are now considered classics. The big one was Suikoden 2, which I spent only an evening with before gambling that I'd eke more FunValue out of a game with a less traditional battle system. I can't remember what I traded that for, which says it all. Another was Baten Kaitos on Gamecube, which - yes, we are finally getting to the point here - has just been rereleased on Steam in the shape of a Baten Kaitos I & II HD Remaster. I can't remember what I traded Baten Kaitos for either, which again, says it all. Please, gentle reader - be better.

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Edwin backstory fragment #345: the greatest usage to which I have ever put my failing grasp of mathematics is determining how many different RPGs I could buy using the "same" money, by dint of trading them in promptly at Gamestation for carefully calculated diminishing returns. I'd save up to buy one of the premium headliners, attempt to get my money's worth inside a week, then swap it for a respected double-A and perhaps a sub-£8 oddity with the manual missing - nesting one purchase within the other like a series of Matryoshka dolls.

This was my Big Short, my Moneyball. But it had a drawback: often, I was so eager to leapfrog to another game before the trade-in price changed that I skimmed RPGs that are now considered classics. The big one was Suikoden 2, which I spent only an evening with before gambling that I'd eke more FunValue out of a game with a less traditional battle system. I can't remember what I traded that for, which says it all. Another was Baten Kaitos on Gamecube, which - yes, we are finally getting to the point here - has just been rereleased on Steam in the shape of a Baten Kaitos I & II HD Remaster. I can't remember what I traded Baten Kaitos for either, which again, says it all. Please, gentle reader - be better.

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PostmarketOS is a Linux-based operating that got its start as a project to breathe new life into old phones by offering software that would continue to be updated long after phone makers end support for their devices. But the latest release isn’t just for smartphones. It also supports a number of tablets and single-board computers, […]

The post postmarketOS 24.06 released: Linux-based OS supports dozens of phones, tablets, laptops and now just about any PC with an x86_64 processor appeared first on Liliputing.

Thanks to cross-platform availability, handy editing tools, seamless sharing, and AI add-ons, Google Photos is the best app to manage your ever-growing media library. While Google Photos is free to download and use, the backup storage isn't. You get 15GB of free space, which is spread across Gmail, Google Drive, and device backups. While it's sufficient to get started with Google's services, you will run out of space soon if you snap and back up a lot of pictures and videos using one of the best camera phones.

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Google Photos is still the king of photo backup services, and the company is constantly bringing new features and editing tools to the platform. Now, it looks like Google is planning a significant revamp of the sharing page.

Tesla is no stranger to safety issue recalls, and now there's another to add to its list. The company is recalling 125,227 vehicles due to a problem with the seat belt warning system, Reuters reports. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the driver could be unbuckled, and the warning light and chime still might not activate. This malfunction violates federal safety requirements and could increase a person's injury risk. 

The affected models span the last decade, comprising some of the 2012-2024 Model S, 2015-2024 Model X, 2017-2023 Model 3, and 2020-2023 Model Y vehicles. To fix the issue, Tesla will change the sensor from depending on seat weight to whether the buckle is plugged in and the car is turned on. An over-the-air update should begin in June. 

Tesla notably recalled over two million vehicles in December following Autopilot safety issues and a two-year NHTSA investigation. More recalls followed earlier this year: In January, Tesla recalled 200,000 Model S, X and Y vehicles from 2023 due to a software issue that prevented the backup camera from working when the car is in reverse (so the exact time it's needed). The included vehicles comprised over 10 percent of the company's 2023 output. Tesla also recalled 3,878 Cybertrucks in April after discovering that an accelerator pad could get loose. 

This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/tesla-recalls-over-125000-vehicles-to-fix-seat-belt-issues-121546942.html?src=rss

© JHVEPhoto via Getty Images

PlayStation revealed a new Astro Bot game at the end of its May State of Play showcase, and it looks just as delightful as its predecessor. Astro’s Playroom was a wonderful platformer pack-in for the PS5, but it also was full of references to PlayStation’s history. It features robot versions of characters from every…

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One of the best surprises from Sony’s State of Play presentation today was the announcement of a new Astro Bot game. Astro’s Playroom, the pack-in game installed on PlayStation 5s in 2020, was a delightful platformer that paid tribute to PlayStation’s history, showed off the tech of the DualSense controller, and was a…

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During today’s State of Play presentation, Sony announced another of its first-party games is coming to PC. God of War Ragnarök and its excellent (free) DLC Valhalla will be available on Steam later this year.

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Capturing and saving memories is easier now than it's ever been before. Most modern smartphones have very capable cameras, and they're small enough to fit into a pocket. But as good as these cameras are, there's always something you might want to tweak, crop, or change entirely, and photo editing apps let you do just that. While there are apps for editing on smartphones, computers still offer more capable experiences most of the time, and we've rounded up some of the best apps you can use for photo editing on Windows.

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Google Photos has several neat features that make it one of the best photo storage apps around where you can upload all your photos. Many people also use it as their primary photo management app (aka the default Gallery app), but there’s room for improvement here. And then there are people who use Google Photos as both, for storage and for viewing all their photos. If you fall in the second category, then there’s an important new feature that is coming soon to Google Photos that will let you back up photos from other apps while still keeping your primary Photos feed clean of unnecessary clutter.

To understand the change, one must understand the current behavior. Google Photos’ primary Photos view displays all your photos present and backed up in the DCIM folder. If you want to view photos that are present outside of the DCIM folder, i.e., media generated by other apps, then you can view those at Library > Photos on device, arranged by the respective device folders.

If you want to back up any of these folders, you can manually turn on the backup, with the caveat that these photos and images will now also show up in the primary Photos view. So if you turn on backup for the WhatsApp or Office Lens folders, for example, the images (including GIFs, user-generated stickers, scanned documents etc) present will show up alongside your camera photos in the DCIM folder.

Android Authority contributor Assemble Debug spotted an upcoming feature in Google Photos v6.813.

In the future, Photos settings will have a dedicated “Photos view” section, which will house settings for photo stacking, photos from other apps, and layout. The Photos from other apps section is new, and as the name implies, you will soon be able to customize whether backed-up images from other apps show up in your primary Photos feed.

Photos from other apps will give you four options: Show all, Hide clutter, Show none, and Custom. Show all will show all backed-up images in your primary Photos view. Hide clutter will hide lower-priority content like GIFs and memes from the Photos view. Show none will show no backed-up images from other apps (while those images continue to be backed up).

The Custom option lets you individually set the preference for specific third-party apps. This setting is available for WhatsApp for now, but it’s fair to presume that support for other apps will be available in the future.

The benefit of these changes is that you can back up media from other apps while still retaining visibility control for your primary Photos view. All backed-up content remains searchable within Photos, so there are other ways to access the images.

Backed-up images from other apps will bear the relevant tag, so you can view those details on secondary devices and hide those photos there, too. We presume that a similar setting will be available on Google Photos on the web too.

This new feature is not currently live within the app. Google is currently testing it within the app, so it may roll out in the future. It’s not clear if and when this will roll out, but considering its utility in keeping your Photos view organized, we hope to see it roll out soon.

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Your phone’s gallery has a lot of personal and sensitive content that you probably don’t want random people to have access to. Unfortunately, a lot of apps request access to your entire media gallery even though they might only need access to one or two items to do their job. Google created the Photo Picker API in Android 13 to solve this problem. The Photo Picker lets users choose exactly which media items to share with an app, making it more private by design. However, many developers have chosen to not use Android’s Photo Picker for various reasons.

One reason that many developers eschewed the Photo Picker is that it’s missing a lot of features compared to the older system file picker it’s replacing. One of those features — cloud media support — was finally added not too long ago, meaning users can finally select media from their Google Photos libraries. But there’s still one more issue with the Photo Picker that cloud media integration only exacerbated: the lack of search.

Currently, the Photo Picker has two tabs: “Photos” and “Albums”. The Photos tab shows your photos and videos in reverse chronological order, while the Albums tab shows what’s in your Camera, Videos, Screenshots, Downloads, and Favorites albums. Unless you store tens of thousands of images locally, you probably won’t have trouble finding the exact photo or video you want to share using the Photo Picker. If you have a massive cloud media library like I do, though, then you’ll either need to be really organized with albums or hope you can quickly find the item you’re looking for while scrolling through your entire library.

It’s a huge bummer the Photo Picker doesn’t just let you search through your local and cloud libraries, especially since, well, it’s made by Google of all companies. Fortunately, Google will rectify this problem in an upcoming update to the Photo Picker. During the second day of Google I/O 2024, the company confirmed that the Photo Picker will support both local and cloud search. This is coming “later this year” apparently, but we don’t know exactly when.

When search support does roll out, it’ll hopefully be made available on all OS versions where the Photo Picker is available. The Photo Picker is available natively on all devices running Android 11 and newer through a Project Mainline module, but it’s also available on devices running Android 4.4 and newer thanks to Google Play Services. Hopefully the search bar in the Photo Picker will be as smart as the new AI-powered “Ask Photos” feature that Google unveiled the other day, but it’s unlikely that’ll be the case.

Google kicked off its annual Google I/O developer conference today with a two hour keynote where pretty much the only thing the company talked about was AI. But there were a lot of AI features to talk about. In the short term, the Circle to Search feature that’s now available on 100 million Android devices now helps […]

The post Lilbits: Google I/O Day one is all about AI, Netflix apps for Windows to disable downloads appeared first on Liliputing.

UPDATE 6pm UK: Netease has apologised for "inappropriate and misleading terms" in its content creator contract.

In a statement posted in Discord shortly after the contract began to make headlines, the Marvel Rivals Content Creator Team said it "sincerely apologised" for the "miscommunication and your unpleasant experiences".

"We are aware that there are inappropriate and misleading terms in the commitment regarding sharing non-disparagement content," the full statement said. "We sincerely apology [sic] for the miscommunication and your unpleasant experiences!

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When using the Google Photos app, you can choose whether you want to back up a folder or not. The problem is, however, this has to be done manually for each folder you want to be saved in the cloud. But if you wish this could be done automatically, you may soon get your wish.

Android Authority discovered that the latest version of the Google Photos app (v6.81.0.628906483) appears to introduce a new “Back up new folders” feature. The feature appears as an on/off toggle and is accompanied by a description that reads “Automatically turn on backup when a new folder is added.”

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Google Photos has several neat features that make it one of the best photo storage apps around. The service has an uncanny ability to spot faces, and it gets it right most of the time, even in very challenging situations. These faces are then used for several features, like People Search and Memories. But sometimes, as your life evolves, you’d want to see less of some faces, especially in Memories. Google Photos is preparing to make that happen, giving you more control of which faces you see regularly through the Memories feature.

Android Authority contributor Assemble Debug spotted an upcoming feature in Google Photos v6.81.0.628906483. You will soon be able to use a “Show less” option to have a face not show up in your Memories but still be visible in your group photos. This appears to be a milder version of the “Block face” option, which makes faces completely disappear from Memories and group photos.

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Google Photos is preparing to add a new video editing feature that will allow you to enhance your videos by tapping a single button. Android Authority contributor Assemble Debug spotted the feature in the Google Photos app version 6.81.0.628906483. It’s not currently available to everyone, but the tipster managed to make it work with some clever workarounds.

💾

Magic Editor, Photo Unblur, Magic Eraser and more enhanced editing features are coming to all Google Photos users — no subscription required.

What was launched as a Pixel exclusive, then extended into paid Google One territory, will soon be free for every Google Photos user starting May 15th.

You can now unblur photos, relight, move objects, magic erase an ex or a photo bomber, add portrait lighting, and probably a host of other features not listed.

Additionally non-Pixel owners get 10 saves a month from the Magic Editor (more if you have a Pixel or Google One subscription). Here you can reposition people, change the environment, and otherwise do neat stuff.

While I’m quite happy all of this is free now, it does go to show that all that Tensor-AI chip marketing was probably for show as this appears to be entirely server side editing (I’ve often wondered if the Tensor chip has done anything other than made Google Keyboard astonishingly quick at mishearing what I say).

Glad to see Google doing this, but now wonder what they’re going to Pixel exclusive for their next phone.

45 days or so from now… kind of a long time for an announcement from Google for a freebie.

[Google Blog]

AI tools peeps bought Pixels for soon available to all Google Photos users free by Paul E King first appeared on Pocketables.

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The Library tab in the Google Photos app is where you can go to look at your albums, check your on-device folders for images, and access shortcuts (Favorites, Utilities, Archive, and Trash). But it looks like the Library tab could undergo a big shift that will change the tab’s name and its UI.

In an APK teardown of the Photos app, conducted by 9to5Google, it was discovered that Google may be working on a redesign for the Library tab. The outlet was able to enable the redesign, which appears to relabel the Library tab to Collections.

In addition to the name change, the page itself has gone through some changes as well. While all four shortcuts are still available and present at the top of the page, they appear more rounded and ovular than before. There are also three additional shortcuts that are located at the bottom of the page which include “Screenshots,” “Videos,” and “Recently Added.”

The biggest change, however, is the absence of the on-device carousel that was located right under the shortcuts. Instead, the Collections tab turns the on-device carousel into a card that’s joined by four others including “People,” “Albums,” “Documents,” and “Places.” Each card shows a preview of the items they contain.

According to the publication, some of these cards offer the same experience as you get when you navigate to the Search tab. However, some do offer a significantly different experience. It seems the goal of this redesign was to clean up some of the clutter that clogging up the tab.

Speaking of clutter, it was also discovered today in a report from PiunikaWeb that there are strings of code for a “hide clutter” option. This option would hide backed-up photos like screenshots, GIFs, and memes from your main Photos tabs.

The first model for the original Star Trek (1966-1969) spaceship, the Enterprise, had been missing since 1979, but recently appeared on an eBay listing. Fans and experts immediately noticed, and once it was authenticated as genuine, was returned to the son of the Gene Roddenberry, the show's creator. — Read the rest

The post The original model for Star Trek's U.S.S. Enterprise emerges after being lost for over 40 years appeared first on Boing Boing.

Magic Editor, Photo Unblur, Magic Eraser and more enhanced editing features are coming to all Google Photos users — no subscription required.

What was launched as a Pixel exclusive, then extended into paid Google One territory, will soon be free for every Google Photos user starting May 15th.

You can now unblur photos, relight, move objects, magic erase an ex or a photo bomber, add portrait lighting, and probably a host of other features not listed.

Additionally non-Pixel owners get 10 saves a month from the Magic Editor (more if you have a Pixel or Google One subscription). Here you can reposition people, change the environment, and otherwise do neat stuff.

While I’m quite happy all of this is free now, it does go to show that all that Tensor-AI chip marketing was probably for show as this appears to be entirely server side editing (I’ve often wondered if the Tensor chip has done anything other than made Google Keyboard astonishingly quick at mishearing what I say).

Glad to see Google doing this, but now wonder what they’re going to Pixel exclusive for their next phone.

45 days or so from now… kind of a long time for an announcement from Google for a freebie.

[Google Blog]

AI tools peeps bought Pixels for soon available to all Google Photos users free by Paul E King first appeared on Pocketables.

---

The Library tab in the Google Photos app is where you can go to look at your albums, check your on-device folders for images, and access shortcuts (Favorites, Utilities, Archive, and Trash). But it looks like the Library tab could undergo a big shift that will change the tab’s name and its UI.

In an APK teardown of the Photos app, conducted by 9to5Google, it was discovered that Google may be working on a redesign for the Library tab. The outlet was able to enable the redesign, which appears to relabel the Library tab to Collections.

In addition to the name change, the page itself has gone through some changes as well. While all four shortcuts are still available and present at the top of the page, they appear more rounded and ovular than before. There are also three additional shortcuts that are located at the bottom of the page which include “Screenshots,” “Videos,” and “Recently Added.”

The biggest change, however, is the absence of the on-device carousel that was located right under the shortcuts. Instead, the Collections tab turns the on-device carousel into a card that’s joined by four others including “People,” “Albums,” “Documents,” and “Places.” Each card shows a preview of the items they contain.

According to the publication, some of these cards offer the same experience as you get when you navigate to the Search tab. However, some do offer a significantly different experience. It seems the goal of this redesign was to clean up some of the clutter that clogging up the tab.

Speaking of clutter, it was also discovered today in a report from PiunikaWeb that there are strings of code for a “hide clutter” option. This option would hide backed-up photos like screenshots, GIFs, and memes from your main Photos tabs.

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Google Photos allows you to back up photos and videos shot on your phone, but it also lets you back up other folders such as screenshots, memes, and more. This can lead to a rather messy view in the main Photos tab, but it sounds like Google has a solution up its sleeve.

PiunikaWeb reports that version 6.79.0.624777117 of Google Photos contains strings for a “hide clutter” option. So what does that actually mean?

“Backed-up photos like screenshots, GIFs, and memes are hidden,” reads another string.

In other words, this option should go a long way to cleaning up your main Photos tab if you’ve got a ton of saved screenshots, images from chats, and memes. But you’ll still be able to find these images in their respective folders.

This isn’t the only tweak coming to Google Photos, as the outlet reports that the Memories page is getting a redesign (seen above, right image). Furthermore, US users can apparently toggle AI-powered title suggestions for memories.

Either way, the combination of this “hide clutter” option and the previously launched Photo Stacks feature means you’ve got two solid ways to clean up your Google Photos feed.

Read 7 remaining paragraphs | Comments

Magic Editor, Photo Unblur, Magic Eraser and more enhanced editing features are coming to all Google Photos users — no subscription required.

What was launched as a Pixel exclusive, then extended into paid Google One territory, will soon be free for every Google Photos user starting May 15th.

You can now unblur photos, relight, move objects, magic erase an ex or a photo bomber, add portrait lighting, and probably a host of other features not listed.

Additionally non-Pixel owners get 10 saves a month from the Magic Editor (more if you have a Pixel or Google One subscription). Here you can reposition people, change the environment, and otherwise do neat stuff.

While I’m quite happy all of this is free now, it does go to show that all that Tensor-AI chip marketing was probably for show as this appears to be entirely server side editing (I’ve often wondered if the Tensor chip has done anything other than made Google Keyboard astonishingly quick at mishearing what I say).

Glad to see Google doing this, but now wonder what they’re going to Pixel exclusive for their next phone.

45 days or so from now… kind of a long time for an announcement from Google for a freebie.

[Google Blog]

AI tools peeps bought Pixels for soon available to all Google Photos users free by Paul E King first appeared on Pocketables.

Streaming services have taken over as one of the best ways to catch the latest movies. Whether they're making a stop in theaters before rolling out digital rentals or they launch as first-run originals from the likes of Netflix, Apple TV, or HBO; we're rounding up the best titles so you're not left in the dark — until it's time to start the film, that is. Check back each week (usually on Friday) to see the latest additions for movies that are now available to stream, the latest theatrical releases, and movies coming next week.

Rivian officially revealed the R2 electric SUV during a livestream held Thursday afternoon. We knew the followup to the well-regarded R1 was coming, and we even got some leaked specs earlier this week, but now we’ve heard it from the electric horse’s mouth. The company also surprised view R3 and R3X, however, came as a complete surprise, harkening back to Steve Jobs and his famous "one more thing" conference enders. 

As previously suspected, the R2 is a compact SUV that looks quite fetching. All versions of the five-seat electric vehicle get at least 300 miles per charge, thanks to newly-designed 4695 cell and a much larger battery pack that makes up a large portion of the bottom floor. Owners will also get plenty of refueling options. It comes with a NACS chargeport, so it'll work with Tesla Superchargers. The company's also building its own charging network, called the Rivian Adventure Network, with plans for 600 locations within a few years.

Rivian

The R2 has plenty of get up and go, with three motor layouts to choose from. There's a standard single-motor rear-wheel drive model, a dual-motor all-wheel model with motors in both the front and back and the beastly tri-motor version, which features two motors in back and one in front. That last model can go from zero to 60 in three seconds, though the metric likely shrinks when considering the other two versions. 

There’s a robust infotainment center up front, though the layout of these digital elements are subject to change as we get closer to launch. Also up front? The R2 sports two gloveboxes, whereas the R1 line lacked even one. There's also two scroll wheels on the steering wheel, complete with dynamic haptic feedback. The car's self-driving features have gotten a major boost here, thanks to 11 cameras throughout and five radars, including a long-range front-facing radar. 

Rivian

Prices start at $45,000 for the standard single-motor version, which is in line with what company CFO Claire McDonough has been promising. Though slightly smaller than the R1, the R2 is still pretty roomy. As previously stated, it fits five people and boasts an open-air design with quarter windows that pop out and a rear glass window that drops and opens. Seats on both rows fold flat, so owners should be able to transport longer-than-average gear like surfboards. Just like the R1 line, there's a roomy front truck, otherwise called a frunk, for additional storage. The R2 is available for preorders now, with deliveries starting in 2026.

Rivian

The R3, on the other hand, looks to be even more compact than its newly-announced sibling. It features a shorter wheelbase than the R2 and an overall tighter design. It'll also be available in three models, including single-motor, dual-motor and tri-motor versions. There's no range data available, but it does feature the same battery pack as the R2. 

The R3 also includes some of the same open-air design features as the R2, with an automatic rear lift and a rear-facing glass window that pops open for storage. This window can adjust to multiple heights to accommodate oddly-shaped items. There's a pair of gloveboxes up front and an interior design that prioritizes sustainable materials. 

Finally, there's the dune buggy-esque R3X. This is a high-performance vehicle, with only a tri-motor design available. It boasts a wider stance and more ground clearance than the R3. As a matter of fact, it doesn't really look like the R3 at all, with its "rugged and playful" interior made from cork and anodized metal, among other materials. 

Rivian

Rivian hasn't announced any pricing or availability information on the R3 or R3X. It did, however, tease some forthcoming accessories for the company's entire fleet of vehicles. These include a tent that fastens to the roof, bike racks and additional rear storage options. 

Now, the bad news. Rivian itself has been experiencing some issues. The company announced back in February that it would be laying off 10 percent of its salaried employees and job cuts have already started. The EV maker laid off around 100 employees at its Normal, IL factory this week.

This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/rivian-reveals-the-45000-r2-electric-suv-and-its-siblings-the-r3-and-r3x-185640727.html?src=rss

© Rivian

The consumer electronics industry has changed radically over the past two decades. AR/VR devices have come and gone and come again, smartphones have grown from filling our pockets to dominating our lives, and the tendrils of connected services now touch everything we touch.

Yet, for me, the most exciting to watch has been the development of technology that moves us. I mean that literally: cars and scooters and e-bikes and all the other wild and wonderful modes of transportation that have grown wings or wheels over the past few decades.

A love for all that stuff has always been at my core. Many moons ago, before my time as editor-in-chief of this site, I served as automotive editor. In the late 2000s, that mainly meant pondering what was happening in the world of Ford Sync or writing about flying car concepts that, today, are still very decidedly grounded.

An excellent perk was getting to drive many early EVs, though it didn’t always end well. In 2012, I made an aborted attempt to get from Portland to Seattle for an emissions-free Engadget Show episode. The poor Mitsubishi i-MiEV we’d borrowed wasn’t up to the task.

But then along came the Tesla Model S. At the time, I knew it would be significant. Everyone in the industry knew it would be significant, but it’s only in looking back more than a decade later that we can truly appreciate just how significant it was. In the rear view mirror, we can also see what a shame it is Tesla has barely moved the needle since.

A preview in Fremont

In the (long) lead-up to that car’s eventual late-2012 release, Tesla invited me out to a supposed grand reopening of its Fremont factory. The place was unbelievably massive and virtually empty. Tesla officials were proud to show off the numerous giant presses that would stamp out Model S components.

Other Tesla employees were dutifully feeding into those presses metal sheets, which came out the other end as flat as they went in. The presses were there and they were a-pressing, but the dies that formed the parts were absent. This event, like the many Tesla events to come, was somewhat lacking in substance.

Still, the time I spent chatting with Peter Rawlinson had a huge impact on me. Formerly of Lotus and Jaguar, Rawlinson was the chief engineer at Tesla at the time. He and I talked for ages about the advantages of low-slung battery packs and the torque behavior of electric motors. It’s all standard stuff these days, but back then, it was a fantastic opportunity for me to learn. (You can enjoy some of his insight in a series of videos here.)

Early Tesla EVs had two-speed transmissions. I asked Rawlinson whether there was a third gear for handling reverse.

“No,” he said. “We just spin the motor backward.”

That seems like such a simple concept now, but that moment caused a small-yield explosion between my ears. I spent the remainder of the day pondering the myriad other unforeseen implications of this switch to electrification. Nothing else happening in the industry was nearly as exciting as this.

My review

I got a quick go in a Model S at that Fremont event, a lap or two around Tesla’s test track, but I’d have to wait until early 2013 before I could take one for my first proper review of the Model S. It was a Performance edition, with an 85kWh battery pack and a $101,600 sticker price.

I picked it up in New York City and drove it home to Albany, NY. Along the way, I got a preview of what would become another unfortunate Tesla theme: an uncomfortable relationship with the media.

Before I’d made it far, I got a warning light on the dash. I called Tesla PR to ask what to do.

“Oh, don’t worry, we’re watching you,” they said. “It’s fine.”

I didn’t feel fine. I’ve been reviewing devices for decades, and I always assume some degree of logging is involved, but this seemed a little more ominous.

(Over the years, it only got more so. In a later review of a Model 3, I complained the auto high-beams were terrible on country roads. Tesla PR asked me when this occurred so their engineers could pull up the footage from my drive.)

Warning light extinguished, Big Brother now visible in the back seat, I got back to enjoying the car. After having reviewed the Tesla Roadster two years before, a beautiful mess of a slapped-together machine, the Model S was something entirely different. It was calm, it was composed and it wasn’t nearly so drafty. I made the 165-mile drive home with 23 percent to spare, this in January on a 24-degree day.

That is pretty poor by today’s standards, but remember, the most common EV of the day was the Nissan Leaf. In 2013, the Leaf’s range was EPA rated at 75 miles. The Model S was on another level.

But it wasn’t perfect. I was not a fan of many of the interior materials and design choices in 2013, and I would have been so disappointed to know things really haven’t improved since.

I also found the handling underwhelming, but my biggest complaint was the lack of advanced driver assistance systems. That Model S didn’t even have adaptive cruise. Autopilot was still years away, and the ongoing debacle of Full Self Driving much further afield.

And yet I still gave it a glowing review, and it deserved it. I was suitably impressed, as were plenty of others. I recently spoke with several buyers of these early sedans, and most were totally enamored with their cars, despite many teething issues. (So many broken door handles...)

However, it probably goes without saying that many of the folks I spoke with are less enamored of Tesla’s CEO than they were back then. Between that, the racially abusive work environments, and the constant anti-worker behavior, cheering for Tesla is a lot more complicated than it used to be. That is a true shame.

The evolving landscape

The seismic forces generated when the Model S dropped still echo through the industry. You can feel them in virtually every premium EV on the market today.

And yet it’s in those other EVs that the bulk of EV innovation is happening. If you look at what Peter Rawlinson did with the Lucid Air, a sedan that goes over 500 miles on a charge, it’s easy to imagine what could have been had he not parted ways with Tesla. The on-road performance of the Porsche Taycan, the off-road prowess of the Rivian R1T and the minimalist cool of the Volvo EX30 are raising the bar.

Tesla has been more successful than any other manufacturer at getting more EVs into more driveways and at getting more chargers into more places. Tesla made EVs viable and desirable. You have to respect it for that. Lately, though, the company’s greatest achievements have all focused on cutting costs and minimizing complexity, often at the expense of quality and, indeed, safety.

Look at today’s Model S and you still see the car that was released in 2012. It’s quicker and has more range, sure, but it is the same platform and basic design I reviewed over a decade ago. Pondering the time wasted on vanity projects, like the Model X, and vaporware, like the new Roadster, it’s hard to not feel the ache of missed potential.

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To celebrate Engadget's 20th anniversary, we're taking a look back at the products and services that have changed the industry since March 2, 2004.

This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/the-tesla-model-s-shook-the-industry-but-its-echo-is-fading-160010877.html?src=rss

© Koren Shadmi for Engadget

Details about the Google Pixel 8a have been leaking for months, but launch day could be coming soon, as WinFuture has found product listings at some retail websites… including some references to the price tag, which indicate that Google’s next mid-range phone will be pricier than its last. In other recent tech news from around […]

The post Lilbits: Pixel 8a could cost more than the Pixel 7a, and Surface Pro 10 could have an OLED display appeared first on Liliputing.

Fisker has announced its future plans alongside preliminary 2023 and Q4 earnings, and it's not looking great for the EV manufacturer. The company plans to lay off 15 percent of its workforce — nearly 200 people — as it shifts from a direct-to-consumer to a Dealer Partner model. The company is halting all investments in upcoming models and will resume only if in partnership with another automaker.

The company's fourth-quarter revenue increased to $200.1 million from $128.3 million in Q3. However, its gross margin was negative 35 percent, and it lost $1.23 per share. Its sole EV on the market, the Ocean SUV, also had 10,193 units produced but 4,929 vehicles delivered.

The automaker first introduced its pivot to a Dealer Partner Model in January and claims it has received interest from 250 dealers across North America and Europe, along with 13 signed agreements. "We are aware that the industry has entered a turbulent, and unpredictable period," Henrik Fisker, chairman and CEO of Fisker, said in a statement. "With that understanding and taking the lessons learned from 2023, we have put a plan in place to streamline the company as we prepare for another difficult year. We have adjusted our outlook for 2024 to be much more conservative than in 2023." The company plans to deliver between 20,000 and 22,000 Ocean models across the world. 

Fisker is currently negotiating with "a large automaker" for an investment and joint production of future EVs. This means that previously announced vehicle production, such as the Alaska EV pickup with humungous cup holders and a designated cowboy hat space, will be on hold indefinitely. Fisker originally planned to start production on the Alaska EV pickup in early 2025. 

This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/fisker-halts-work-on-new-ev-models-until-it-finds-more-money-140050091.html?src=rss

© Fisker Inc.

After years of buildup, Fisker has finally started building its ambitious electric Ocean SUV in Austria. The company pledged to start production by the end of 2022, so it has met that target with around six weeks to spare.

If you didn't lock in a pre-order for the EV swiftly, you may still be in for quite a wait before you get your hands on the Ocean. Fisker will ramp up production gradually. It plans to build more than 300 units in the first quarter of 2023, increasing to more than 8,000 the following quarter. For Q3, the aim is to make more than 15,000 units. All told, Fisker expects to assemble around 42,400 units in 2023.

Two of the Ocean trims have sold out in the US for 2023 and the company has received more than 63,000 reservations in total. The limited-edition Ocean One trim, which is based on the high-end Ocean Extreme, required a $5,000 deposit and sold out within 30 days earlier this year. Fisker will crank out 5,000 units of the Ocean One before moving on to other variants.

Peter Reiter Photography

The Ocean Extreme, which starts at $68,999, is capable of traveling 350 miles on a single charge, according to Fisker. The SUV boasts what the company claims is the first digital radar system as a safety feature. The Ocean Extreme has dual-motor, all-wheel-drive with 550 horsepower, which can accelerate the vehicle from 0 to 60 mph in 3.6 seconds. It also includes three driving modes, a 17.1-inch rotating screen you can play games on and a solar roof.

The base-level Ocean Sport is selling for $37,499, while the mid-tier Ocean Ultra will set you back $49,999. The Sport has one 275 hp engine that can take the car from 0 to 60 mph in 6.6 seconds. The dual-motor Ultra has 540 horsepower and a 0 to 60 mph time of 3.9 seconds.

Fisker claims the Ocean is the planet's "most sustainable vehicle." The SUV is being assembled in a carbon-neutral factory. The vehicle also includes more than 50 kg (110 pounds) of recycled, biodegradable and overall eco-conscious materials.

This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/fisker-electric-ocean-suv-production-starts-173013409.html?src=rss

© Fisker Inc.

Ford EVs will gain access to Tesla's Superchargers across the US and Canada starting today, becoming the first non-Tesla vehicles to do so, Ford announced. The companies cemented the fast charging pact last year and numerous other automakers followed suit later on. The expanded network will be a big benefit for the Ford and its customers amid news that sales of its EVs have heavily sagged.

Current Ford EVs use CCS type chargers, so current customers must order the Fast Charging Adapter (NACS) compatible with Tesla's Superchargers (below). That will be available at no charge to new and existing clients in the BlueOval charge network until June 30, 2024. After that, it will cost $230 including estimated taxes and shipping. Starting in 2025, Ford EVs will come standard with the NACS charging system. 

Ford

Customers can use the FordPass App to locate the new Tesla Superchargers, just as they would when looking for BlueOval chargers. Tesla Superchargers will also be coming to Apple Maps EV routing, Google Maps EV routing, and the Ford Connected built-in navigation BlueOval charge network.

As for payment, you'll be able to handle that through the FordPass app and Charge Assist app in the vehicle's touchscreen. "This means customers simply have to plug in and charging will automatically start with [costs] managed through FordPass." BlueOval charge network membership is required, and if you're not yet enrolled, you'll be prompted to do so when order the NACS adapter (check's Ford's website for more details).

Tesla's 15,000+ strong Supercharger network will more than double Ford EV owners' access to fast DC chargers. With that, it will have 28,000 fast chargers and 126,000 chargers total. The company notes that a lack of charging stations is the second largest barrier after price for customers potentially selecting EVs instead of ICE or PHEV vehicles. 

The news is good for Ford and other automakers who will get a big boost in the number of fast charging spots. However, Tesla owners will see a lot more Supercharger competition. Last year, the US government opened $2.5 billion in funding for community EV chargers

With declining EV sales, Ford was recently forced to lower Mach E prices by $3,100 to $8,100, it recently said in a financial statement. The company also cut production of that model and the F-150 Lightning pickup truck due to the slowdown.

This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/ford-ev-owners-can-now-use-tesla-superchargers-in-the-us-and-canada-130053549.html?src=rss

© Ford

Why do goths take photographs of themselves up trees? Goths Up Trees collects the best examples. The latest entry confirms that the phenomenon has been going on for decades.

Some nice goth type whose name I can't locate submitted this photo with the comment "It was Scotland circa 1988.

— Read the rest

The post Photos of goths up trees appeared first on Boing Boing.

Fraudster George Santos is suing Jimmy Kimmel and the Walt Disney Company for fraud, demanding $750,000 in damages. The disgraced ex-Congressman is upset that Kimmel ordered Cameo videos from Santos using ridiculous scripts that Santos fell for and broadcast them on TV. — Read the rest

The post "I am currently embroiled in what may be the most preposterous lawsuit of all time" — Jimmy Kimmel teases George Santos for suing him (video) appeared first on Boing Boing.

Messaging is one of the most used forms of communication in the world. In the US, texting through your carrier is the most used form of messaging. Since texting is used for so much communication, you may need to print some text messages from a pleasant conversation you want to remember or if you need to use text messages as evidence in a court case. There isn't a built-in feature to print text messages on your affordable Android phone, but you can use a workaround to print images of your texts.

Managing and handling data has become a significant concern in today’s technology-driven world. Nowadays, we use smart devices for a lot of things from capturing ...

The post How to Transfer Photos From Google Photos to Gallery And Free Up Space appeared first on Gizchina.com.

Former Rep. George Santos, kicked out of Congress last year for being an irredeemable liar, has spent his time since expulsion pulling in the big bucks making videos on Cameo for anywhere between $350 and $500 a pop.

Last year, Senator John Fetterman made news when he got Santos to record a Cameo video trolling disgraced, indicted colleague Senator Bob Menendez who refuses to resign. That video had Santos urging “Bobby” to “hang in there.” Earlier this month, Santos admitted that he’d surpassed 1,200 videos in the last few months, bringing in a few hundred thousand dollars.

Apparently, a little over a dozen of those came from talk show host Jimmy Kimmel, who started a segment in December called “Will Santos Say It.” Kimmel submitted wacky Cameo requests and played some on the show. Back in December, Santos complained about this — mainly that he wasn’t getting paid enough for the videos.

Over the weekend, Santos actually sued Kimmel, along with ABC/Disney, claiming copyright infringement. Because, I’m sure, Disney doesn’t employ any copyright lawyers who will eat Santos and his lawyer for lunch and spit out the remains into bowls made out of Mickey Mouse.

The lawsuit is not good. The crux is that Kimmel (1) misrepresented himself and (2) purchased videos under a “personal” license instead of a “commercial” one, and therefore this is both fraud and copyright infringement.

It is likely neither.

On the copyright side, Kimmel has a strong fair use claim. He used them for commentary and criticism without harming the market for Santos’ Cameos (in fact, they likely increased it). The fraud part is just nonsense. Santos didn’t lose money out of this, he made money.

The lawsuit undermines its copyright claims by inserting Kimmel’s commentary, which helps to show how this is fair use (and amusing):

KIMMEL: Yeah so now this Cameo thing, according to George, is really paying off. He claims he’s made more money in seven days than he did in Congress for a year. And part of that money came from me. I sent him a bunch of crazy video requests because I wanted to see what he would read and what he wouldn’t read, and I showed some of them on the air on Thursday, um, and now he’s demanding […] to be paid a commercial rate. Could you imagine if I get sued by George Santos for a fraud? I mean how good would that be? It would be like a dream come true. So since I started buying his videos his rates went way up to $500 a piece. He should be thanking me for buying these videos. But I have a big stockpile you want to see one? Again George had no idea these requests were from me, I just wrote them and sent them in. So “Will Santos say it?” Here we go […] [CAMEOS #4 and #5 were then published]

The lawsuit also includes the five prompts that Kimmel (under made-up names) submitted to Santos that were later aired. Kimmel says he submitted more, and it’s unclear what happened with the others, if Santos’ legal threat made them go away or if he even made them.

Still, for your enjoyment, here are the prompts:

a. On or about December 6, 2023, at approximately 4:46 p.m. Kimmel, misrepresenting himself as “Chris Cates” made the following fraudulent representation to Santos: “George please congratulate my friend Gary Fortuna for winning the Clearwater Florida Beef Eating Contest. He ate almost 6 pounds of loose ground beef in under 30 minutes – which was a new record! He’s not feeling great right now but the doctor thinks he will be released from the hospital soon. Please wish him a speedy recovery!” (“Fake Request 1”)

b. On or about December 6, 2023 at approximately 4:55 p.m. Kimmel, misrepresenting himself as “Jane” made the following fraudulent representation to Santos: “George please congratulate my mom Brenda on the successful cloning of her beloved schnauzer Adolf. She and Doctor Haunschnaffer went through a lot of dogs in the trial runs but they finally got it to stick. Tell her to give Adolf a big belly rub for me!” (“Fake Request 2”)

c. On or about December 7, 2023, at approximately 12:18 p.m. Kimmel, misrepresenting himself as “Ron” made the following fraudulent representation to Santos: “My name is Ron. Please tell my wife to call me George. Not George my name is Ron. You are George. Just tell her to call me George. But again Ron. I haven’t seen Swoosie or the kids since my disco birthday and it’s not fair. She says I burned down the shed shooting off fireworks but I was trying to scare a bear away. It isn’t fair. I love my Swoosie and I just want our family together on Christmas or if not that Valentimes Day or Flag. Watch out for bears.” (“Fake Request 3”)

d. On or about December 7, 2023, at approximately 12:32 p.m. Kimmel, misrepresenting himself as “Uncle Joe” made the following fraudulent representation to Santos: “George can you please congratulate my legally blind niece Julia on passing her driving test. They said she couldn’t do it – even shouldn’t, but she’s taught herself to be able to drive safely using her other sense. She’s not a quitter! That said, the day after she got her license, she got in a really bad car accident so if you could also wish her a speedy recovery that would be amazing. She’s in a bodycast and is a very bummed out – but with help from Jesus and President Trump, soon she will be back on the road!” (“Fake Request 4”)

e. On or about December 7, 2023, at approximately 12:26 p.m. Kimmel, misrepresenting himself as “Christian” made the following fraudulent representation to Santos:: “Hey George. My friend Heath just came out as a Furry and I’d love for you to tell him that his friends and family all accept him. His “fursona” is a platypus mixed with a beaver. He calls it a Beav-apus. Can you say we all love you Beav-a-pus? He also just got the go ahead from Arby’s corporate to go to work in the outfit so we’re all so happy for him to be himself at work and at home. Could you also do a loud “Yiff yiff yiff!”? That’s the sound Beav-a-pus makes as Beav-a-pus. Thank you so much.” (“Fake Request 5”)

The presence of a recently disgraced Congressman makes some of those videos seem newsworthy on its own, adding to the fair use argument.

As noted above, Disney has a few lawyers who understand copyright. It seems likely that Santos is going to get ripped to shreds in court.