Apple doesn’t always expunge deleted notes older than 30 days

The iCloud Notes you delete are supposed to be permanently wiped within 30 days. Gone forever, never to be seen again. Russian security firm ElcomSoft has discovered, however, that Apple has been keeping deleted notes in the cloud for far longer. Its security researchers were able to retrieve notes that should’ve vanished weeks and months ago. In some cases, they were even able to recover notes from way back in 2015.

It’s worth noting that ElcomSoft used special tools and software, so nobody will accidentally stumble upon a note you deleted last year. For your old files to resurface, somebody has to be actively targeting you. Still, it’s definitely a security issue that Apple should fix ASAP, and we’ve reached out to Cupertino to ask if it has plans to patch it up in the near future. ElcomSoft seems to be confident that Apple will, since the tech titan quickly fixed the similar Safari and iCloud Photo Library security lapses it found in the past. Since it’s the third time the firm discovered that Apple retains info that’s supposed to be gone, though, it posed some interesting questions that might never get answered:

“Once we made a discovery about deleted photos being kept in iCloud Photo Library for years, Apple was prompt to making those images disappear. Once we discovered that Safari browsing history records are never deleted from the cloud, Apple patched that as well. There is no doubt Apple will fix the current issue. The question is: what other data you don’t want Apple to keep is still retained by the company? And does Apple actually destroy deleted records or simply hides them or moves to a different server? These questions still have no answer.”

Via: Apple Insider

Source: ElcomSoft

Melted permafrost floods doomsday seed vault

The Svalbard Global Seed Vault was designed to be a repository should the worst happen and a disaster decimate crops around the world. But it was recently breached by floodwater from surrounding permafrost that melted after the hottest year on record. No seeds were ruined, but the security of the location is now deeply in question.

The vault was built in a mountain on the Norwegian island of Spitsbergen in the Svalbard archipelago, 800 miles away from the North Pole. The surrounding permafrost and stable tectonics made the location seem ideal when the vault opened in 2008, but less than a decade later, climate change has undermined assumptions that the seeds can remain secure. The island saw temperatures seven degrees Celsius (or 12 degrees Fahrenheit) higher than normal, leading to rain and melted ice when light snow was expected.

“It was not in our plans to think that the permafrost would not be there and that it would experience extreme weather like that,” the Norwegian government’s Hege Njaa Aschim told The Guardian.

The meltwater flooded the entryway but didn’t make it to the vault, sparing the over 800,000 seeds stored inside. To protect it against future water intrusions, the station’s caretakers are waterproofing and removing electronics from the 100-meter tunnel leading into the mountain vault along with digging trenches to channel meltwater and rain away, according to The Guardian. They’ve installed pumps in the seed room should it ever be breached again.

Source: The Guardian

Uber responds to claims it charges what ‘you’re willing to pay’

Uber is in the midst of several lawsuits and has a controversial CEO leading the company. It also has to placate its own growing horde of dissatisfied drivers who complain that their revenue potential is dropping, even while Uber exaggerates how much its drivers earn. Bloomberg reports that Uber may have yet another problem on its hands with its new “upfront pricing” fees. The feature, introduced last year, allows Uber to charge some passengers more for their rides. The problem is that Uber hasn’t changed the way it pays its drivers; they’re still generating money the same basic way, based on time, distance and mileage.

Accusations that upfront pricing benefits Uber rather than drivers are nothing new. Blogger Christian Perea at The Rideshare Guy complained that Uber was secretly overcharging passengers and not paying drivers, and there was a lawsuit filed alleging the same thing this past April.

According to Bloomberg, Uber’s head of product Daniel Graf has said that upfront pricing uses machine-learning to figure out how much riders are willing to pay for a given ride and then charges them accordingly, a feature he called “route based pricing.” Bloomberg interpreted this to mean that riders traveling routes in wealthier areas would be charged more than those in less high-end areas.

However, an Uber spokesperson who spoke to Engadget on the phone said that Uber only uses rider demand to inform its upfront pricing structure, not rider apparent wealth. He confirmed that the fare charged to customers in high-demand areas can be higher than the driver’s take, which is typically based on time, distance and traffic. This type of pricing is only in areas that have Uber’s carpooling service, as well.

“We price routes differently based on our understanding of riders’ choices so we can serve more people in more places at fares they can afford,” he said. “Riders will always know the cost of a trip before requesting a ride, and drivers will earn consistently for the work they perform with full transparency into what a rider pays and what Uber makes on every trip.”

In other words, some folks will pay a bit more to get a dedicated UberX car in high-demand areas and others might be willing to wait a bit more for a more affordable UberPool ride. Uber then uses aggregate data from past users’ behavior to set upfront pricing accordingly.

Uber sent the above email to drivers today to communicate this change. Uber’s spokesperson also told us that any extra funds from this kind of differential pricing are going right back into promotions that show drivers where they can make more per ride as well as into funding more Uber drivers on the road to help cover high demand.

The perception of Uber as a company trying to scam its drivers out of extra ride fares is a dangerous one, whether it has a kernel of truth or not. Some might also see it as muddying the waters of Uber’s claim that it’s just a middle-man. Drivers might understandably be upset if they see themselves as independent contractors using an app to facilitate ride-sharing — a claim Uber itself encourages — who are not seeing any benefit from higher per-ride fees. Bringing in more money from riders may help Uber itself, but it could also alienate drivers, who may not understand or believe Uber’s explanations. Transparency about how pricing actually works could go a long way to help Uber’s perception problem.

Via: Bloomberg

Google has a new way to call out poorly made Android apps

Google’s plan to improve the Android experience involves more than just tweaking the operating system. It also requires developers to up the quality of their work, and now Google has a new way to warn app creators whose work isn’t up to snuff. Long story short, if your app ranks in the bottom 25 percent when it comes to certain stability, battery or rendering metrics, you’ll be hearing from the search giant through the developer console.

Those general categories may sound familiar if you’ve been following the news out of I/O. They’re in line with Android O’s “vitals,” areas where Google is focusing efforts to improve overall Android device performance. According to Google project manager Fergus Hurley, the company will find more areas to key in on eventually but these required the most attention. Anyway, Google is specifically concerned with six “vital” metrics now — pardon the brief diversion into highly geeky territory. It’s all about the percentages of users that…

• got the “Application not responding error”
• experienced at least one app crash
• had an app keep their device awake for more than an hour
• experienced an app that woke up their device more than 10 times an hour
• saw the app run at slower than 60 frames per second
• ran into “frozen,” laggy frame rendering

Obviously, technical limitations mean some devices are more prone to those issues than others. Even so, this more explicit line of communication has the potential to up the quality of the Android app ecosystem as a whole. After all, developers who fall short on any of these fronts aren’t just doing screwing over their businesses. They’re muddying up the entire ecosystem. At this point it’s not clear whether habitual re-offenders will see their apps removed from the Play Store, but one thing is clear: developers who can’t hack it will start to see their apps’ rankings changed.

Google announced back at the Game Developers Conference in February that how well an app performed would have an impact on its “promotability” — in other words, an app that falls below the 25 percent threshold in any of those metrics will probably start sinking into obscurity. Sure, it’s just one of many signals Google uses to figure out how apps get ranked — it’s just about time they held app creators to some more stringent standards. Who knows: it just might help them rack up a few billion more users.

For all the latest news and updates from Google I/O 2017, follow along here

Samsung is reportedly developing a Kids Mode for the Gear VR headset

Why it matters to you

Samsung wants to make it easier for kids to jump into the realm of virtual reality. To that end, it is introducing a

Samsung is continuing to pursue its goal of conquering virtual reality, and its latest move to that end could be to introduce more VR products for kids.

The news comes from Samsung blog SamMobile, which noted that Samsung could introduce a “kids mode” into its already-launched virtual reality offerings, most notably it Gear VR headset. While we don’t yet know exactly what such a feature would look like, it’s safe to assume that it might curate content specifically built for kids and filter out any content that might be inappropriate. The feature is expected to roll out before the launch of future Samsung flagship devices, including the Galaxy Note 8 and Galaxy S9.

The move makes sense. Kids have always been big customers of gaming platforms, and there’s plenty of virtual reality content that could be educational. The interface of the Gear VR’s kids mode wouldn’t have to be all that different either — just a little more kids-focused in terms of content.

Kids mode would also likely introduce parental controls to let parents set how long their kids can use the Gear VR, see what kind of content the kids have been accessing, and so on.

Samsung has put a focus on kids in the past, and not just in the software realm. The company launched the Samsung Galaxy Tab 3 Kids a few years ago, and the tablet was built to be easier to use and safe for children.

The Samsung Gear VR is the single most popular virtual reality headset currently available — Samsung reportedly sold more Gear VR units than the next three competitors combined. That’s no small feat, and makes Samsung a very important player in the VR space. Samsung isn’t focused only on its hardware — it was recently announced that the Samsung Galaxy S8 would soon support Google Daydream, Google’s virtual reality offering.

Shout drink orders at this robot bartender that is powered by Google Assistant

Why it matters to you

Who doesn’t want an on-call bartender at the end of the day?

Google Assistant can carry out comprehensive images searches, cue up your favorite Netflix shows, read you the news, and … mix you a mean cocktail?

At least, it can if you’re referring to the Google Assistant-powered Mocktails Mixer, developed by Pittsburgh-based creative agency Deeplocal. First shown off at this year’s Google I/O conference, the robotic bartender uses a combination of a Raspberry Pi, an inbuilt microphone, a speaker, an LED Ring,  a peristaltic pump, and some pretty impressive Google-powered AI to blend a range of delicious beverages.

The resulting creation packs eight different containers (so, yes, it can be modified to include the hard stuff for those of drinking age!), which can be mixed together in different ratios according to user preference. Looking for a geeky special attraction for your summer kickoff party? Google has your back.

“It’s programmed to serve up a mixed drink of your choice and chat with you while you wait — whether that means telling you a joke or offering up small talk,” Greg Baltus, Chief Technology Officer at Deeplocal, told Digital Trends. “Our team created the mixer to inspire makers to explore other fun ways to use the new Google Assistant SDK.”

They are not just stopping at “inspiring” makers, either. The team has already shared open source code and instructions for the Mocktails Mixer on GitHub. Since all of the parts are readily accessible or easy to fabricate, anybody can build and customize their own version to be sipping cocktails in no time. With Deeplocal’s prototype costing around $570, it won’t even set you back too much money.

“People use voice assistants when their hands are full, especially in the kitchen,” Baltus continued. “When it comes to kitchen-focused DIY projects, robotic bartenders are becoming more and more popular. We wanted to create a new spin on the robotic bartender that demonstrates the capabilities of the Google Assistant.”

We guess you’re fine so long as you don’t start complaining to the bartender about robots stealing human jobs while you’re waiting for your drink!

Shout drink orders at this robot bartender that is powered by Google Assistant

Why it matters to you

Who doesn’t want an on-call bartender at the end of the day?

Google Assistant can carry out comprehensive images searches, cue up your favorite Netflix shows, read you the news, and … mix you a mean cocktail?

At least, it can if you’re referring to the Google Assistant-powered Mocktails Mixer, developed by Pittsburgh-based creative agency Deeplocal. First shown off at this year’s Google I/O conference, the robotic bartender uses a combination of a Raspberry Pi, an inbuilt microphone, a speaker, an LED Ring,  a peristaltic pump, and some pretty impressive Google-powered AI to blend a range of delicious beverages.

The resulting creation packs eight different containers (so, yes, it can be modified to include the hard stuff for those of drinking age!), which can be mixed together in different ratios according to user preference. Looking for a geeky special attraction for your summer kickoff party? Google has your back.

“It’s programmed to serve up a mixed drink of your choice and chat with you while you wait — whether that means telling you a joke or offering up small talk,” Greg Baltus, Chief Technology Officer at Deeplocal, told Digital Trends. “Our team created the mixer to inspire makers to explore other fun ways to use the new Google Assistant SDK.”

They are not just stopping at “inspiring” makers, either. The team has already shared open source code and instructions for the Mocktails Mixer on GitHub. Since all of the parts are readily accessible or easy to fabricate, anybody can build and customize their own version to be sipping cocktails in no time. With Deeplocal’s prototype costing around $570, it won’t even set you back too much money.

“People use voice assistants when their hands are full, especially in the kitchen,” Baltus continued. “When it comes to kitchen-focused DIY projects, robotic bartenders are becoming more and more popular. We wanted to create a new spin on the robotic bartender that demonstrates the capabilities of the Google Assistant.”

We guess you’re fine so long as you don’t start complaining to the bartender about robots stealing human jobs while you’re waiting for your drink!

Can technology help make the American Flag Football League a hit?

Why it matters to you

The American Flag Football League will use a host of new technology to pull viewers into a game by making it faster, easier to follow, and, hopefully, more fun too.

Later this summer the new American Flag Football League will make its debut with a pair of test-run games to be held at Avaya Stadium in San Jose, California. The plan is to show sports fans that football can still be exciting, even without the bone-crunching tackles. The league made headlines earlier this week when it was announced that former NFL players Michael Vick and Justin Forsett will participate in the scrimmages, which are scheduled to take place on July 26 and 27. But AFFL founder Jeff Lewis knows that if his fledgling league is going to take off, he needs more than just a few former pro players to garner support from fans. Instead, he is betting heavily on technology to help lure in viewers in the digital age.

When planning for the launch of the new league, Lewis enlisted SMT — the sports tech company behind the yellow first down marker used in NFL broadcasts — to help create innovative technology that could potentially set the AFFL apart from other leagues. One of the first things that the company came up with was the “e-flag” system, which can accurately track the on-field position of a player’s flag and alert officials when it is pulled. Reportedly, the system is accurate to within four inches and uses a special app to let referees know exactly where to place the ball. This should help speed up play and achieve one of Lewis’ goals of finishing games in under two hours.

SMT also helped the league create custom onscreen graphics for use when streaming games online or through the Kiswe video app (iOS/Android). For instance, AFFL rules prevent defensive players from rushing the quarterback for two seconds after the snap of the ball, and viewers will see a visual indicator to let them know when that time limit has expired. Similarly, the QB has just four seconds to throw the ball or run past the line of scrimmage, and a similar graphic will appear beneath his feet. Naturally, first down markers will be displayed as well, and broadcasters calling the game will have an assortment of tools, such as the ability to show passing routes. Fans watching the game live in the stadium will get visual cues using the location’s lighting system too.

The first AFFL game on July 26 will actually be played in an empty stadium, giving players, coaches, refs, and announcers the chance to do a live walkthrough before fans arrive the following day. Then, on July 27, they will play a regular game in front of an audience for the very first time. Tickets are available for $10, with all proceeds being donated to the Positive Coaching Alliance.

Find out more at AmericanFlag.football.

Scoot around town on the Kiwano K01 electric scooter — or have it follow you

Why it matters to you

Self-balancing scooters are some of the coolest ways to ride around town. When it is time to walk, riders can hop off and the Kiwano will follow along.

Since the reveal of the original Segway, self-balancing transportation has taken off in a variety of styles and methods. Joining the market is the Kiwano K01 electric scooter.

The Kiwano electric scooter uses a sleek design to provide a stable, intuitive mode of transportation. Like other self-balancing scooters on the market, the Kiwano features responsive body control. What truly sets it apart is its ability to control wirelessly. Users can get off, press a button, and the Kiwano will follow along.

Using a lightweight structure of carbon fiber and zinc alloy, the Kiwano electric scooter is able to pack a punch even with its slim design. The powerful wheel hub motor can push riders up to 20 miles per hour. Even riders in hilly areas like San Francisco can get around on inclines of up to 35 percent. If the scooter feels too fast or powerful, riders can easily switch between modes for a more comfortable riding experience.

Electricity stores in individual LC battery cells located in the central neck of the scooter. With all the issues around exploding phones and hoverboards, a fireproof safety shield encases the batteries to prevent this from happening. Charging the batteries takes only an hour for up to 20 miles of range.

Other features of the Kiwano allow for some fun. A shock suspension system not only creates a smooth ride in bumpy areas, it also allows riders to perform jumps like on a pogo stick. The scooter has also been IP54 certified. What this means is that the body protects against dust and splashing water. Riders should have no problem driving through puddles and dirt patches. For sharing the excitement, the Kiwano also features a free mount for a GoPro camera to attach above the wheel.

Using the companion app, owners gain extra features such as wireless control. Here the scooter can either be controlled at the press of a button or set to follow along as riders walk. Additionally, owners can calibrate their desired launch positioning depending on how much they would like to lean forward. Other features of the app include checking the speed, battery, distance, and route map. Regular firmware updates to the battery and motor processors will also ensure that the scooter is at its best.

For safety, the foldable footpegs feature anti-slip grip to keep the rider on board. Head and tail lights also keep the rider visible even during low-light conditions. To keep track of the essential data like battery level and speed, a small LCD display sits at the top of the central neck. When the ride is done, a discreet kickstand folds out for easily storing the scooter anywhere.

The Kiwano K01 is available for pre-order for a discounted price of $800. Consumers can choose between road or all-terrain tires, fender and grip color and other accessories like a helmet and rapid charger. Shipments go out in July.

Drone users no longer have to register with the FAA, but that may change

Why it matters to you

For the time being, if you’re planning on buying a drone, you won’t have to go through any pesky registration process for it.

Drone hobbyists are no longer required to register with the Federal Aviation Administration thanks to a Washington, D.C. Court of Appeals ruling delivered on Friday. The ruling affirms a lower court ruling in 2016 that found the policy in violation of a preexisting law banning regulation of model aircraft.

That law, passed in 2012 and called the FAA Modernization and Reform Act, restricted the agency from passing any law that placed restrictions on how model aircraft are operated. Despite the law, the FAA moved in late 2015 to set up a system to register drones and more than 820,000 hobbyists registered to fly them.

Friday’s ruling saw surprising opposition — with some in the industry actually supporting the FAA’s efforts. “The FAA’s innovative approach to drone registration was very reasonable, and registration provides for accountability and education to drone pilots,” DJI’s policy head Brendan Schulman told Recode earlier on Friday. It is not immediately clear whether the FAA plans to appeal the ruling.

Even without an appeal, it is likely that drone hobbyists will only see a brief reprieve from the registration process. South Dakota Republican Senator John Thune is expected to address the issue with current law in the coming weeks, including the technicality which allowed the current system to be shut down.

This new regulation could go even further, mandating that manufacturers develop some kind of identification system so that law enforcement can identify who is flying drone aircraft even when the pilot is not visible. The FAA is reportedly looking into methods to make this feasible.

Friday’s ruling does not prevent the FAA from doing so, as it only addresses the contradictions with current law. The FAA said it is currently reviewing the ruling and is weighing future options.

“The FAA put registration and operational regulations in place to ensure that drones are operated in a way that is safe and does not pose security and privacy threats,” it said in a statement Friday afternoon.