China wants to put a man on the moon by 2036

A senior Chinese official announced yet another ambitious plan for the space-faring nation at a press conference on Saturday. PLA Lt. Gen. Zhang Yulin — who is also deputy commander of the China Manned Space Program — told reporters that China plans to land an astronaut on the Moon by 2036. This announcement eclipses China’s earlier claims that it will explore the dark side of the moon in 2018 and launch two new space stations (one this year, another in 2022). It already sent a rover to the moon in 2013. The country will reportedly use the next “15 to 20 years”, according to Reuters, to build out the necessary infrastructure.

Specifically, China currently lacks a carrier rocket powerful enough to get a crew to the moon. If they don’t build their own, they’d have to do what the US did after retiring the shuttle program — that is, ask the Russians for a lift — or at least get America to spot them a go-round on the SLS. Of course, they’ll also need to invent a lunar module as well as functional spacesuits for the time they’re there.

That may sound like a good deal of work but if America could put a man on the moon back in the ’60s in less than a decade — which might as well have been the stone age by today’s standards — China, the economic and intellectual powerhouse that it is, shouldn’t have much issue getting their program together in the modern era. That said, unlike NASA and the ESA, China’s space program is notoriously secretive, which means we may not know if they’re even capable of doing it until they actually do it.

Via: Popular Mechanics

Source: Reuters

Data mastery awaits in the 9-course Ultimate SQL Bootcamp

No matter your profession, you can sharpen your resumé by learning SQL, the data skill that enables businesses to efficiently manage large amounts of data.

To set you on track for greater success, The Ultimate SQL Bootcamp will guide you through each step of SQL instruction, equipping you with transferrable skills for virtually any industry. Pick it up today for just £33.86 ($49) from Pocket-lint Deals.

The 9-course curriculum in the Ultimate SQL Bootcamp will help you fully master the principles of data management. Tackle complex database systems like MySQL and PostgreSQL, using Microsoft Visual Studio to construct a real dashboard system powered by technologies including SQL, C#, AJAX, and much more.

Learn to effectively design databases as you master configuring your SQL database for scalable growth, and break down the complexities of concepts like joins, aggregate operators and interfacing with databases. You’ll also learn SQL for developers, database replication, data encryption, and much more.

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A SQL Server, ASP.NET, CSS, C# & jQuery Course
SQL Database for Beginners
SQL Tutorial: Learn SQL with MySQL Database
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Learn Beginner PHP & MySQL the Easy Way
An Introduction to MySQL Database Development
SQL for Marketers
SQL Database MasterClass: Go from Pupil to Master
Complete WAMP & MySQL Course

Your newfound SQL skills are certain to boost your career prospects and workplace performance. Take 87 per cent off the listed price of the Ultimate SQL Bootcamp for a limited time, for a final cost of just £33.86 ($49) on Pocket-lint Deals.

Celo VPN: Lifetime subscription offers secure internet, unlocked geo-restrictions

Whether you’re looking to safeguard your activity from hackers, government agencies or a nosy significant other, you don’t need to break the bank to guarantee security.

The highly-rated Celo VPN provides all the essential tools and encryptions in an easy-setup format, keeping your data safe while allowing you to bypass location-based censorship – a great boost for entertainment options! For a limited time, a lifetime subscription to Celo VPN is just £20.42 ($29) from Pocket-lint Deals.

Whether at home or out and about using public Internet services, super fast & reliable connections are at your fingertips with Celo VPN. With 256bit Advanced Encryption Standard (AES) to secure your data as you log into your VPN with up to 5 devices simultaneously, you’re able to the same account whether on your laptop, tablet, mobile or PC.

Your Celo VPN subscription is peer-to-peer friendly, and no logs are kept of your activity, ensuring true anonymous Internet activity. Enjoy high-speed connections as you unlock geo-restricted content from international sources, whether from Netflix, Hulu, HBO or beyond. It’s the best way to access the entertainment you crave, no matter where you’re located–perfect for staying on top of your shows if you’re traveling.

Choose from reliably fast servers all over the world, each with a dedicated 1GB internet link, and enable two-factor authentication for extra security no matter where you are. Take advantage of a great 91 per cent discount and grab a Celo VPN: Lifetime Subscription today for just £20.42 ($29) from Pocket-lint Deals.

Nintendo pulls a 3DS game to fight another homebrew exploit

Nintendo’s cat-and-mouse game with homebrew exploits isn’t over yet. The gaming giant recently pulled Terry Cavanagh’s retro platformer VVVVVV from the 3DS eShop after Shiny Quagsire discovered a way to use the game to run your own code. It’s not a direct method, as you need another exploit for this to work (such as in the browser or another game), but that apparently doesn’t matter to Nintendo.

We’ve asked Nintendo for its take on the situation, including the likelihood that VVVVVV will come back in the near future. Whatever happens, this isn’t entirely shocking. Nintendo has long worried the potential for using homebrew exploits to enable piracy, whether or not they’re technically capable of supporting bootlegs. The problem is that developers and would-be players get caught in the crossfire — they miss out on revenue and gameplay thanks to a software trick that they couldn’t have anticipated.

Via: Polygon, Nintendo Life

Source: Shiny Quagsire (Twitter), Wololo.net, Doyouevenknow.us

Android Central Mother’s Day gift guide 2016

Not sure what to get Mom this year? Look no further than these great Mother’s Day gift ideas.

Mother’s Day can be a stressful time for sons and daughters all over the world. If you haven’t yet found something for Mom, that is. Use this gift guide to help you through the process of buying for her in a way that will leave her speechless this Sunday.

• Nextbit Robin
• Ring Video Doorbell
• Ring Stick Up Cam
• Moto 360 for Women
• Bose Quiet Comfort 25
• Samsung Galaxy Tab S2
• Google Chromecast
• Huawei smartwatch

Nextbit Robin

If Mom loves taking pictures with her phone, the Nextbit Robin might be the ideal choice. Featuring a 13MP camera and dual-tone flash, this phone will have no problem capturing clear, vibrant images. The 32GB onboard storage is merged with 100GB of online storage, meaning she can take a picture a minute for about 75 days without running out of space. Expect a thorough catalog of children’s and grandchildren’s special moments.

The 100GB online storage can also archive things you’re not using, meaning Mom can download more games and apps without having to delete old ones. This phone runs apps smoothly with 3GB of RAM and a Snapdragon 808 processor.

Let’s talk about style. Users everywhere claim the same thing: this phone turns heads. Available now in mint color (think of a robin’s egg) or a darker midnight, this phone has rounded edges while maintaining a rectangular shape that rests firmly in your hand. Mom will love this unique device that does it all at a fraction of the price of other flagship phones.

ON SALE MAY 4-10: And just in time for Mother’s Day, the Robin will be reduced to just $299!

See at Amazon

Ring Video Doorbell

This is a perfect gift for mothers concerned with security. (Or you staying out too late.) The Ring Doorbell captures video the moment the bell is rung or when motion is detected. The camera has built-in night vision so that there is no lapse in security. The Ring app (available for Android and iOS, and with desktop versions for Mac and PC) displays alerts and video over Wi-Fi, and even lets you speak with whomever is at the door.

The best part really is that you never have to actually go to the door to see who’s on the other side.

The Ring Doorbell is easy to install. It can be wired directly to existing doorbell wires, or it can be powered with the built-in rechargeable battery. There are four color options to choose from — antique brass, polished brass, satin nickel, or venetian bronze — meaning there is a stylish option for any house. And a new option lets you see things in 1080p.

See at Amazon

Ring Stick Up Cam

The Ring Stick Up Cam can be mounted anywhere and can be rotated to capture whatever angle you desire. The camera is designed to monitor your property but has many other uses. Because it features two-way talk, it can be used to keep an eye and ear on the kids when you’re not in the room and, with night vision and forthcoming on-demand video, you will be able to make sure the baby is sleeping soundly without leaving bed.

Video footage can be saved to Ring’s cloud service for playback later, and you can check footage any time you want from anywhere in the world. If you’re strictly local, the camera can also save footage to a computer.

This camera is powered by a lithium-ion battery that can be charged with solar energy. Since it is generally installed outside and in sunlight, you will not be wasting power while the camera monitors every movement. The Stick Up Cam is a great addition to the Ring Video Doorbell, creating multiple layers of security for Mom’s property.

See at Amazon

Moto 360 for Women

Motorola combines tech and style with this watch (a staple Mother’s Day gift!) designed exclusively for women. There are three options to choose from to best suit her style: a gold face with gold metal strap, silver face with silver metal strap, and rose gold face with blush leather strap. Moto 360 straps can be swapped out in seconds thanks to a quick-release mechanism, allowing simple customization. The display is fully customizable, and there are many Android Wear apps to augment your experience, including Spotify and Shazam.

This watch also features a built-in fitness tracker that monitors heart rate, counts steps, and tracks calories. Keep in mind that while this watch is smart, it cannot make or take calls — Motorola advertises “Updates, not interruptions.” Not a bad idea for the mother who can’t find enough time in the day to get it all done.

See at Amazon

Bose QuietComfort 25

Featuring Bose’s incredible sound and noise-canceling technology, the QC25 headphones are a great idea for the music lover. Choose from two color options — white and gold or black — to fit Mom’s style. The headphones are large enough to fit over the ear while maintaining a lightweight design, and the suede-like material on the headband rests lightly for extra comfort.

While these headphones are advertised as Apple-compatible, they are also compatible with most Android devices. You’ll be able to listen to music on any device, but double-check compatibility before making calls or controlling music playback.

Whether Mom flies a lot or simply yearns to listen to music without interruption, she will love these noise-canceling headphones.

See at Amazon

Samsung Galaxy Tab S2

No matter the role Mom plays, she will love Samsung’s Tab S2. Her professional side will enjoy Microsoft Office Tools, including Word, Excel, and PowerPoint. The Tab’s Multi Window capability allows easy multi-tasking; edit documents while simultaneously sharing photos with grandparents.

If Mom enjoys gaming, she will be pleased with the Tab’s vibrant AMOLED display that is available in 8- and 9.7-inch sizes. The tablet comes stock with 32GB flash memory and is expandable using a microSD card, ideal since Mom will take a lot of pictures with the 8MP camera.

This tablet is light, mobile, and will complete the tasks Mom throws at it. If she is upgrading from another tablet, Samsung’s Smart Switch makes transferring data a breeze.

See at Amazon

Google Chromecast

Chromecast is a small, unobtrusive device that plugs into the back of your TV or speakers and allows streaming content from your laptop or smartphone. Mom will love how easy Chromecast is to set up, and will love how soon she can take a well-deserved break with her favorite TV show or movie. Although Chromecast works best with Android devices, it is also compatible with Mac products.

Chromecast also has hundreds of compatible apps, including Netflix, HBO GO, and Hulu Plus. Keep in mind that some of these services require an extra subscription — not a bad idea for an add-on gift.

Mom is also able to turn her TV into a talking piece using Chromecast’s customization options. Create personalized slideshows with your own pictures that turn your TV into a backdrop for the day’s activities, from entertaining guests to giving a professional presentation. Overall this is a very versatile gift with an attractive price tag.

See at Best Buy

Huawei smartwatch

Watches are a common gift for Mom on her special day. If you feel like changing things up a bit this year, Huawei’s brand new smartwatch does stuff your standard watch does not do. Not to mention she’ll be one of the first rocking this fancy accessory.

The 1.4 inch AMOLED display shows notifications and alerts when paired with your phone (compatible with Android and iOS). Help Mom keep up with text messages and apps; she can even answer or make calls through the watch. This is a great idea for the mother in perpetual motion. Add a fitness tracker and heart-rate monitor to the equation and you have a top competitor for smartwatch supremacy.

Having mentioned function, let’s now discuss style. This smartwatch is designed with luxury in mind. Featuring a stainless steel body colored with gold and a white genuine leather wristband, this watch attempts to make a statement. Not satisfied with the watch’s strap? Check out these other options. Huawei’s smartwatch is a strong option if Mom is looking for something suitable for any occasion or with any outfit.

See at Amazon

Have your say

Did you give Mom something extra special last year? Did you already purchase something for her this year? Let us know in the comments section below.

What Launcher do you use on your phone?

When it comes to customizing the look of your phone, we can’t ignore launchers.

Whether you use a third-party launcher to make gorgeous themes to show off, or you’re just trying to get the app drawer back that the LG G5 lacks, they are the best way to do it. With so many launchers out in the Google Play Store, it can be hard to decide which one will work best for you.

That of course, brings us to this week’s poll! We want to know what launcher you use on your phone. We’ve given you 7 choices in this week’s poll: “I use the default launcher on my phone”, “Action Launcher 3”, “Nova Launcher”, “Google Now Launcher”, “GO Launcher EX”, “Apex Launcher” and “I switch between launchers depending on my theme.”

What launcher do you use on your phone?

Do you basically just avoid launchers? Did we miss your favorite launcher? Be sure to jump into the comments below and let us know about it!

Next Apple Pencil could have swappable tips and even Touch ID

Apple could make the next version of Pencil really, really cool.

The Apple Pencil is a stylus pen that debuted alongside the iPad Pro in November. It’s a pretty basic input device even though it can detect angles, pressure sensitivity, and force, allowing you to apply dark or light strokes depending on how hard you press. While using Apple Pencil with the iPad Pro, you can also simultaneously use your fingers. It basically makes electronic drawing on the iPad Pro more feasible. 

But there’s only so many ways you can update a stylus. So, how much different could a second-generation Apple Pencil be from the original? Apple will likely introduce a new model either this winter or in the coming years, and if a 2012 patent spotted by Apple Insider is put to use, we can expect that Apple Pencil to be much more versatile. It might even have interchangeable nibs.

According to the patent, Apple detailed a stylus that uses swappable tips. These tips can be standard ones like a felt-tip pen, or they can be fancy ones such as a force-sensing bristle brush tip, motion-tracking camera, and a flashlight. Fingerprint recognition – similar to Touch ID – is further mentioned for authentication. If your fingerprint is not recognised, the stylus won’t work.

It’s important to remember that patents don’t always come to fruition. However, it’s still interesting to learn about what Apple do with certain products – like Apple Pencil – in the future. 

A simple tweak to Spotify’s iOS app makes navigation a lot easier

Spotify is the leading streaming music service — despite the fact that its app design has always left something to be desired. Things have improved in the last year or two, but by and large its apps are not easy to navigate. However, a seemingly simple UI update that rolled out to the iOS app today actually makes things a lot easier. The app’s main navigation buttons — home, browse, search, radio and library — have all been moved from a slide-out menu on the left to the bottom of the app’s interface. It now resembles Apple Music and a host of other iOS apps.

The best part about this change is that before, it was overly difficult to get back to those main navigation buttons if you had started digging into albums or playlists. The menu that slide out from the left was buried away, inaccessible unless you hit the “back” button to retrace your steps. It was frustrating that the side menu wasn’t universally accessible, but this update changes all of that.

That doesn’t mean Spotify isn’t still a rather confusing app — “home,” “browse” and “discover” all have plenty of duplicate content, for example — but this makes things a bit cleaner for sure. And a complicated user experience is just about par for the course these days. Just ask anyone who’s spent time with Apple Music.

McLaren uses 20-year-old laptops to maintain its first supercar

You’ve no doubt heard of organizations clinging to ancient technology to keep their businesses running, but probably nothing like this. A Jalopnik tour has shown that McLaren relies on a roughly 20-year-old laptop, a variant of Compaq’s LTE 5280, to maintain its classic F1 supercar. Simply put, the automaker made the mistake of chaining itself to very specific technology: it needs a custom card in the computer to interface with the F1 and find out what’s wrong. That’s crucial to buyers who may have spent millions and would rather not see their vehicular pride and joy become a giant paperweight.

The good news is that McLaren won’t have to search auction sites and garage sales for decades-old tech. It’s working on an updated interface that will work with PCs released this century, so you should see F1s on the roads for years to come. Let’s just hope that the company’s newer rides are a little more future-proof — you don’t want a beast like the P1 to have a limited shelf life because of its diagnostic tools.

Via: Road and Track

Source: Jalopnik

GoPro’s new video editing suite is very familiar

It didn’t take long for GoPro to make use of those mobile video editing apps it acquired back in February. The action camera maker has launched a “mobile creative suite” that, in its initial form, repurposes Quik and Splice as tools for editing your sports footage. Quik, now completely free on Android and iOS, automatically edits any video (whether or not it’s from your GoPro cam) to give you ready-to-share clips. Splice, meanwhile gives iOS users deeper manual editing that includes everything from transitions to graphic overlays.

Technically, there’s no big shift here — this is more of a rebranding, which isn’t surprising when GoPro has owned Quik and Splice for less than three months. It may take some time before the apps are obviously tailored toward action cameras. All the same, it’s still a big deal. GoPro now has friendlier official editing tools to offer to newcomers, many of whom won’t relish the thought of spending hours turning a raw bike ride video into something Facebook-worthy. That’s crucial for a company that’s both facing sales slumps and trying to rebuild itself around connected, convenient camera tech.

Source: GoPro