Facebook is testing a “satire” tag to help you figure out what’s real and what’s not
Sure, you’re smart enough to know that “New Study Finds Humans Shouldn’t Spend More Than 5 Consecutive Hours Together” is a headline from well-known satirical publication The Onion. But not everyone is, which could lead to some misdirected — and embarrassing — outrage. That could be a thing of the past, however, as Facebook is currently testing a “Satire” tag that’ll distinguish fake news from the real deal. Ars Technica found that if you click through an Onion article, for example, Facebook would then automatically tag related articles with the aforementioned “satire” text in the headline (see screenshot after the break). A Facebook spokesperson confirmed this with the following statement:
“We are running a small test which shows the text ‘[Satire]‘ in front of links to satirical articles in the related articles unit in News Feed. This is because we received feedback that people wanted a clearer way to distinguish satirical articles from others in these units.”
As Ars Technica notes, this doesn’t seem to apply to all parody sites and is only for related article headlines so far. And, honestly, we’re not sure if a “satire” tag is a great idea — maybe you should be made fun of if you actually think stories like these are true. In the mean time, we’re holding out hope for a “Check Snopes before posting” reminder instead.
[Image credit: Steve Rhodes/Flickr, screenshot from Ars Technica]
Filed under: Internet, Facebook
Source: Ars Technica
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The second wave of Oculus’ latest VR headsets start shipping in October
After a few stumbles toward the finish line, the first wave of the latest Oculus Rift prototype shipment has concluded. It’s no small number, either. Oculus’ vice president of product Nate Mitchell tells Road to VR that his company shipped over 20,000 DK2 headsets in this initial push. Crazy, right? Consider this then: there are still over 40,000 orders left to fulfill. If you happened to order later than the first on-sale day, though, you may not be one of those lucky enough to call the second development kit your own. Road to VR has spotted a change to the prototype’s order page, however, that should give you a better idea of when to expect a second shipment. Hopefully your Halloween costume isn’t planned out just yet because once your virtual reality goggles arrive in October, you might not want to take them off. If you need something to keep you busy until then, well, there’s always Google Cardboard.
Filed under: Desktops, Gaming, Home Entertainment, HD
Source: Road to VR, Oculus VR
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Pokémon Trading Card Game Online coming to iPad later this year
Remember that Nikkei report that said Nintendo was eyeballing mobile devices? The one that Nintendo immediately denied? It might be true after all — sort of. The Pokémon Company has confirmed that the Pokémon Trading Card Game Online will be available as an iPad app later this year. The app, a digital update of the 1996 trading card game of the same name, was spotted by Twitter user Josh Wittenkeller at a Play! Pokémon event. Nikkei’s original report suggested that Nintendo was planning to use mini-games on smart devices to lure gamers to its console products, and this definitely seems like a step in that direction.
That said, try not to get too excited: The Pokémon Company may be a wholly owned subsidiary of Nintendo, but its operations pertain exclusively to its namesake product line. Moreover, the iPad app is merely a port of a game already available for free on the Pokémon website — Nintendo is definitely dipping its toe in water, but this doesn’t mean we’re going to see Mario on mobile any time soon. Still, investors have been nagging Nintendo president Satoru Iwata to experiment with mobile apps for some time; if The Pokémon Company’s foray into the space is a success, he could be swayed.
[Image Credit: Josh Wittenkeller]
Filed under: Gaming, Mobile, Nintendo
Source: VentureBeat, Polygon, Twitter
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Hackers target grocery chains for customers’ credit card info
You know why you should always keep a close eye on your credit card activity? Because hackers can target any kind of establishment, whether they’re huge corporations, mom-and-pop shops or, in this case, grocery chains. American chains SuperValu and Albertsons have just revealed that digital brigands recently broke into their computer networks and, worse, were able to access the portions where customers’ credit or debit card details are stored. SuperValu owns Cub Foods, Farm Fresh, Hornbacher’s, Shop ‘n Save, and Shoppers Food and Pharmacy — 180 outlets of which were compromised — while Albertsons is one of its former properties. The security breach happened entirely on SuperValu’s end, though, as it still provides Albertsons with IT services despite selling it back in 2006.
To be clear, only those who’ve shopped at affected outlets from June 22nd to July 17th are at risk, and SuperValu claims it isn’t even 100 percent sure if any data was stolen at all. The company says it’s only “making this announcement out of an abundance of caution” and that the intrusion has already been contained. Still, it may be wise to look up your details every once in a while, just to be sure they’re not being offered up for sale in shady forums.
Want to know which outlets suffered a security breach, exactly? Part of Albertsons’ statement reads:
Based on information we have at this time, Albertsons stores in Arizona, Arkansas, Colorado, Florida, Louisiana, New Mexico, Texas and our two Super Saver Foods Stores in Northern Utah were not impacted by this incident. However, Albertsons stores in Southern California, Idaho, Montana, North Dakota, Nevada, Oregon, Washington, Wyoming and Southern Utah were impacted. In addition, ACME Markets in Pennsylvania, Maryland, Delaware and New Jersey; Jewel-Osco stores in Iowa, Illinois and Indiana; and Shaw’s and Star Markets stores in Maine, Massachusetts, Vermont, New Hampshire and Rhode Island were all impacted by this incident.
For those who’ve visited SuperValu properties within the aforementioned timespan, make sure to check this PDF store list to know if you need to keep an eye out for any suspicious activity.
Filed under: Misc
Via: Ars Technica
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Apparent Photo of 5.5-Inch iPhone 6 Battery Reveals 2,915 mAh Capacity
A purported photo of the 5.5-inch iPhone 6′s battery on Chinese site Apple Daily [Google Translate] (via Macotakara) alleges that the larger new iPhone could have a capacity of 2,915 mAH. The photo shows the battery carrying an Apple part number of 616-0675 and that it runs at 4.35 volts, although no model number is shown.
While it’s difficult to confirm the authenticity of the battery, it does appear to have markings similar to other Apple batteries and looks to have the necessary proportions to fit the 5.5-inch iPhone.
Reports have claimed that the final battery capacity for the 4.7-inch model would be 2,100 mAh, so a battery capacity of 2,915 mAh would make sense for a phone less than an inch bigger. It would also put the 5.5-inch iPhone 6′s battery closer to the specs of the 5.1-inch Samsung Galaxy S5′s 2,800 mAh battery.
Apple will unveil the iPhone 6 at an event on Tuesday, September 9, with the 4.7-inch model likely launching soon after introduction. The event may also introduce the 5.5-inch iPhone 6, but the model could only be released months later as Apple is having some production issues with the device.
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The Pokemon Trading Card Game is Coming to iPad [iOS Blog]
Some attendees of the Pokemon World Championships, which is slated to begin this weekend in Washington, D.C. are being shown a version of the trading card game that will be released on iPad, according to Polygon. Video personality Josh Wittenkeller took a photo of the game running on an iPad.
The Pokemon Company confirmed Polygon that the game is real, but it does not yet have a timetable for release. The Pokemon Company has already released many apps for iOS, including the Pokedex for iOS app, however this would be the first full game the company will release for iOS.
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Leaked photos show side-by-side comparison of the Moto X+1 and Moto X
It looks like there’s a new leak regarding the Moto X+1 every day. Motorola‘s follow-up to last year’s surprising, but under-appreciated, flagship smartphone, the Moto X, is set for a release sometime next month, so it’s unsurprising to see an increasing number of leaks of the device. The last leak comes from HelloMotoHK who has acquired photos which show a comparison of the Moto X+1 and Moto X as they sit side-by-side. As you can see from the photo above, the Moto X+1 (left) is noticeably taller than the Moto X (right) and its screen is just about the right size for a 5.2-inch panel as suggested in the more recent rumours.
Perhaps interestingly, the front of the device appears to bear two speaker grilles, at the top and bottom, much like the HTC One design. This lines up with previous rumours about the device and the absence of a speaker grille on the back cover, though this latest leak appears to show a device much closer to production quality. It also appears like the infrared sensor has since been shifted to under the top speaker grille, a position not often travelled, but we’ll see how that pans out.
Are you looking to get the Motorola Moto X+1 when it is released? What do you think about the comparison of the Moto X+1 and Moto X? Let us know your thoughts.
Source: HelloMotoHK via TalkAndroid
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The Sony SmartWatch 3 may not have Android Wear, likely announced at IFA 2014
We’re expecting Sony to announce its annual smartwatch release, presumably called the Sony SmartWatch 3, however while other manufacturers have scrambled to get out hardware that is running the new Android Wear operating system, there is a rumour that the Sony SmartWatch 3 may not have Android Wear at all, instead opting for it’s homebrewed Android system which will now be in its third iteration. That of course isn’t to say that Sony is shunning Android Wear or would not consider it for future device, it’s likely that Sony had already developed a follow-up and doesn’t want to change it for this year. It’s expected that Sony will announce the SmartWatch 3 at IFA 2014 next month.
That certainly puts the SmartWatch 3 at somewhat of a disadvantage, even if it is a purely superficial disadvantage, however it will be packing some neat functionality. Digi-wo is reporting that the Smartwatch 3 will have a transflective display (for more optimal viewing in sunlight), can be wirelessly charged, and may even have its own Wi-Fi module. What this may do to the battery life isn’t known, but the outgoing SmartWatch 2 had a battery life of 3-4 days, so that’s already better than most of the Android Wear devices. Of course, like most of Sony’s other devices, the SmartWatch 3 is also expected to be waterproof.
What do you think about Sony not adopting Android Wear for the SmartWatch 3? Let us know your opinion in the comments.
Source: Digi-wo via Phone Arena
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The Om Audio OM/ONE is “the world’s first levitating bluetooth speaker”
I seem to be getting excited a lot lately. Today, my excitement is centred around the Om Audio OM/ONE, what Om Audio is calling “the world’s first levitating bluetooth speaker”. That seems pretty self explanatory, but seeing it in practice gives me the same feeling as when I played with LEGO for the first time: sheer, utter awe. The OM/ONE can act as a stationed bluetooth speaker, can be detached from its base and used on-the-run and even have a mic allowing it to be used as a speakerphone too. Check out Om Audio’s short video talking about the development of the device:
The science of it is pretty cool too, as the average speaker will suffer distortion from whatever surface it is sitting on; the OM/ONE avoids this thanks to its levitating driver. For true stereo sound, you can even hook two OM/ONE’s together via Bluetooth 4.0 for even more audio bliss. Om Audio is currently in a crowdfunding phase and has far exceeded its target of $100,000 – as of publishing this post, it is currently sitting on $353,073. There are still 46 days left to contribute, and OM/ONE’s are available from a minimum of $179 (+shipping) which should be shipped in time for the Holiday season, so visit www.omone.com/om-one to check it out if you’re interested. Now excuse me while I retrieve my jaw from the ground.
What do you think about the Om Audio OM/ONE? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below.
Press Release
OM/ONE – World’s First Levitating Bluetooth Speaker Creates Gravity-Defying Listening Experience
OM/ONE Combines Excellent Sound Quality, Elegant Design and Levitating Driver Technology to Pioneer New Personal Audio Design
OAKLAND, CA. – August 12, 2014 – OM Audio, developers of advanced audio products enabling consumers to enjoy and connect with music like never before, today announced OM/ONE, which is the world’s first levitating Bluetooth speaker. To get one delivered before the Holiday season visit www.omone.com.
As practical as it is eye-catching, the OM/ONE has exceptional sound quality and easily connects wirelessly to all major smartphones, tablets and computers. When detached, the hovering orb acts as a portable speaker that can be taken on the go. The built-in microphone transforms the OM/ONE into a conference room phone of unparalleled styling and fidelity.
“In a world full of speakers that look and sound the same, the OM/ONE stands out from all the rest,” said David DeVillez, Founder and CEO at OM Audio. “Prior to our crowd-funding campaign we traveled Silicon Valley getting feedback from some prominent entrepreneurs and musicians and we’ve been very humbled by the praise we’ve received. We’re looking forward to getting these in the hands of consumers this holiday season.”
OM/ONE creator and audio engineer DeVillez was the former Director of Operations, R&D and Engineering at Velodyne Acoustics. One of his design breakthroughs is the OM/ONE levitating driver for hearing every high and low with no external distortion.
Listeners can enjoy the OM/ONE by itself or pair it with another OM/ONE for true stereo sound. It can power on/off, pair/dis-pair and answer call/hang-up with the push of a single button.
Early Reactions from Tech Entrepreneurs and World-Class Musicians
“As a music lover, I’ve tried out a lot of speakers and the OM/ONE stands up to the best personal speaker technology and sound out there…and it floats…in the air! Pretty cool. I bought two of them already, one for the office and one for personal use,” said J Sider, Founder and CEO of BandPage.com.
“I didn’t believe it until I saw it – there’s something weird about walking toward a beat, only to realize that it’s coming out of a rotating orb, floating in mid air. That’s some cool shit. This will make a great gift,” said Jack Conte, multi-instrumentalist/songwriter for the band Pomplamoose and Founder and CEO of Patreon.
“The OM/ONE is one of the coolest products I’ve seen on Tilt. Not only is it a Bluetooth speaker with amazing sound quality, but it levitates! Beautiful design with great sound – I can’t wait for mine to arrive,” said James Beshara, Co-Founder and CEO of Tilt.com.
Key Features
· World-class audio fidelity
· Pair two OM/ONEs for true stereo sound
· Bluetooth 4.0
· Conference calling with built-in Type 1 Microphone
· Orb is portable for music on the go
· On/Off Touch Sensor
· Up to 15 hours of continuous play
· Charging cable & stand
Pricing and Availability
OM/ONE introductory MSRP is $179. To receive an OM/ONE by Holiday visit www.omone.com to purchase the levitating speaker.
A portion of the proceeds from the crowd-funding campaign will go to Immunity Project, a non-profit initiative dedicated to developing a free HIV vaccine.
About OM Audio
OM Audio designs and creates unique personal audio products. Its proprietary processes enables users to customize their OM Audio device to create the most personalized experience possible. For more information, please visit OM Audio.
Like us on Facebook
https://www.facebook.com/OMAUDIO1
Follow us on Twitter
https://twitter.com/omaudio1
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Google snags Instagram-scanning city guide startup Jetpac
Google’s summer of startup acquisitions rolls on, ladies and gentlemen. In today’s installment, the search giant snapped up a San Francisco-based travel startup called Jetpac for (you guessed it!) an undisclosed lump of money. As is the case with plenty of new ventures, Jetpac has gone through a few phases — in its current form, the team offered up travel guides for cities that culled sentiments from people’s Instagram photos. No, seriously.
You see, Jetpac would algorithmically scan people’s Instagram photos for smiling faces of all genders to automagically craft guides like “10 Outdoor Adventures in Hong Kong”. If we’re being totally honest, those guides weren’t all that illuminating — tapping into one wouldn’t give you much more than a stream of Instagram photos and location/contact information for each hotspot. Still, you could drill down based on the types of people (Intellectuals, Skaters, Business Travelers) who frequented each spot, and the broad strokes could be helpful for people getting a sense of their surroundings.
Alas, we won’t be able to argue over how useful the app is for much longer because Jetpac will put its apps out to pasture very shortly. Now the only weighty question remaining (besides, you know, how much Google paid for it) is what will become of Jetpac’s tech and team after Mountain View assimilates it. Google declined to comment on the deal, but it’s not hard to see the company slowly bolstering its reputation as a travel titan. After all, between Google snapping up Zagat and launching Google Flights after acquiring ITA Software, there’s a whole lot of data meant to get you up and moseying around the real world. Then there’s the fact that the Jetpac team cooked up a way to scan images for sentiment information — those sorts of smarts could feasibly get baked bake into Google+ someday too.
Source: Jetpac
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AIVAnet 
