Your next heat source could come from a server, if Nerdalize has its way

Why it matters to you

Your laptop generates plenty of excess heat as it sits on your lap, and now, this Dutch startup wants to take that excess energy and have it heat your home.

The notion of “waste not, want not” has never been quite this high tech.

In an effort to ensure that our future is sustainable, one Dutch company is looking to turn servers into heat sources. Because if you’re running laptop is enough to warm your lap on a cold winter’s day, then shouldn’t servers (which emit a lot more energy in the form of heat) be enough to heat your home? That’s certainly the bet that Nerdalize is making. The startup hopes to “create free heat for everyone and make cloud computing sustainable and affordable.”

Its method? Placing cloud servers in individual homes, and turning them into heating systems. Your house will serve as a data center for companies that depend on cloud computing (which is to say, all companies), and in return, those companies will effectively provide you with heat and hot water.

It’s the 21st-century definition of symbiosis.

Nerdalize estimates that by turning common homes into data centers, homeowners can save up to $340 a year, while companies can forego the cost of expensive server centers, saving about 50 percent of their own operational costs. “This innovative set-up drastically reduces the household’s energy consumption while slashing the energy originally needed for server cooling,” Nerdalize claims. “Adding up all those free hot showers and avoided cooling, we can save up to three tons of CO2 per household per year.”

The plan is to start installing these servers in Dutch homes in August. 42 households will serve as guinea pigs, and if all goes well, they’ll be able to turn corporate data into hot water. Indeed, the company says, demand appears to be quite high for this innovative technology, as more than 3,500 people have signed up and expressed interest in a server heater.

The company has already hit 130 percent of its 250,000-euro ($282,000) funding goal, so if you’re looking for an alternative heat source, you may just want to look toward a server.

Google Photos archiving rolls out with AI-powered suggestions

The new Archive feature recently spotted in Google Photos is now rolling out to all users, but it has an extra trick. While the Archive button lets you push more mundane photos (scans of receipts, screenshots of a random tweet, or maybe particularly personal photograph) out of the main Photos display without deleting it, there’s also a new suggestion in the Assistant tab that will use its machine learning skills to find likely candidates for you. Of course, you can manually archive photos any time you like (they’ll still show up in search or inside albums), but if you already have a significant Photos catalog this should make things easier. Whether you’re using Android, iOS or the website, the new option should be there.

New! See suggestions for photos to archive, so you can move photos you don’t want to see in your main library. See ya later, receipts 👋 pic.twitter.com/RpjBquGN5G

— Google Photos (@googlephotos) June 2, 2017

Source: Google Photos (G+)

Google Home will arrive in Canada on June 26th

Google is finally bringing its Home speaker to Canada. It took a while, but at least the tech titan didn’t wait two years like it did with Android Pay, which just recently made its way to the country. If you’re in Canada, you can now pre-order the smart speaker from the big G’s online store or Best Buy for $179 CAD. Best Buy will throw in a free Chromecast, too, and is slashing $50 off the price of a Philips Hue starter kit if you order it at the same time. The Home comes loaded with Google’s voice-activated Assistant, which will arrive in the region knowing both English and French. All you’ve got to do is start your sentences with “OK, Google” if you want to issue a voice command.

Assistant can use all of Google’s services to conjure up answers to any question you might ask, including ones about weather and traffic conditions or the latest current and sporting events. You can ask it to play music from Google Play Music or Spotify, arrange your schedule and even to control other smart devices in your home. The speaker will land in the True North, strong and free on June 26th. Even if you don’t pre-order, you’ll be able to get one from various retailers aside from Google Store and Best Buy, including Bell, Indigo, London Drugs, Rogers, Staples, The Source, Telus, Visions and Walmart.

Source: Google

Washing away the dusty trail: Tips and tricks for cleaning a backpack

After enough time on the trailhead — or a few simple commutes around town — a backpack naturally gathers plenty of muck. Like all your outdoor gear, your backpack also needs a thorough cleaning every now and again to keep it in tip-top shape and to extend the life of the pack. That said, a simple cleaning every few months ought to do the trick. Here are a few tips for cleaning your backpack.

While some individuals recommend machine washing your bag, we prefer a good old fashioned hand washing to prevent unnecessary wear and tear. You’ll also want to check the tag inside of your bag to determine the manufacturer’s washing instructions. For example, some materials cannot be washed at higher temperatures. If you’re unfamiliar with these strange symbols you can learn more about them here.

A basic spring cleaning

For this task, you’ll need a sponge, soap, and some water. Before you get started, make sure you empty all the pockets to prevent damaging any valuables you may have left inside. Next, unzip each of the pack’s compartments, turn it upside-down, and give it a few shakes to loosen up and expel any debris.

Wet the sponge in a soapy mixture and wipe out the interior pockets and compartments. Then, you’ll want to tackle the exterior of the bag. For denser materials, you may need to use a toothbrush rather than a sponge. Once finished, wring out the now grimy sponge and rinse the bag with a cool, wet sponge.

A more thorough wash

If it’s been a while since you last cleaned your backpack — or you’ve just finished an exceptionally messy trip — your bag may require a more rigorous cleaning session. This process starts the same way as the previous method. First, empty the pack and give it a few shakes to loosen and expel debris. This alone may not be enough to sift away embedded materials. We recommend leaning on a basic vacuum and handheld attachment to remove these items.

If your backpack allows you to detach the belt and shoulder straps, do so at this time. Cleaning these parts individually will allow for a better overall cleaning. If your bag has a metal frame, you’ll also need to remove this as well. Now, grab a bucket of lukewarm water (you can use a sink or a bathtub for this step as well) then, using non-detergent soap, submerge your bag and give it a few undulations to ensure the soap covers all surfaces and compartments. Use a sponge and/or brush to wash away stains or dried sediments. Remember to be gentle when scrubbing or brushing more delicate materials.

Now, discard the dirty water and refill the bucket (sink/tub) with clean, cool water and rinse the bag. It may take a few dips to adequately rinse away all of the soap from the previous step. Do not machine dry the bag at this point. Using clothespins or hangers, allow the pack to completely air-dry as stowing the bag prematurely may result in mildew growth and odors.

Everything you need to know about Google’s Chromecast and Chromecast Ultra

Update: Added new updates to the Google Home app, new available live TV streaming apps, and other timely information. 

Google’s first foray into the world of streaming devices, the Chromecast, was a complete knockout when it debuted in 2013. Since then, Google has continued to update its streaming device for the future, including a faster new version of its original dongle and an audio-only version, as well as the Chromecast Ultra for 4K Ultra HD support. Whichever version you use, the small device remains just as convenient as ever, providing you with a simple way to cast your favorite TV shows, music, and movies from a mobile device or computer to the big screen (or speaker) of your choice.

While Chromecast’s popularity has spread far and wide already, those who have yet to be initiated into its world may still have a lot of questions about how Chromecast works and what it can do. We cover all of that below, along with some very handy apps you’ll want in your arsenal, so follow along to get your Chromecast on.

What is Chromecast and how does it work?

Chromecast devices run a simplified version of Google’s Chrome OS, and have limited memory and hardware specs. However, they don’t need to have a ton of power because they aren’t much more than glorified gateways to streaming content. To use a Chromecast, you simply plug it into your TV’s HDMI port and connect to your home’s internet network following the simple instructions provided. The device then acts as a portal for your favorite streaming apps on your mobile device to be “cast” onto your TV.

Google Chromecast

Here’s how casting works: Using apps on your mobile device or computer, you essentially hand off — or cast — content to the Chromecast by tapping the Chromecast symbol (a square with wavy lines in the corner) from within the app. Using the information it receives about what you want to watch, the Chromecast finds the TV show or movie on the web and streams it directly from the service to the TV.

This way, your mobile device’s resources aren’t hogged up by streaming tasks, and battery life doesn’t take a huge hit. Think of your mobile device as a remote control for the Chromecast. One exception to this rule is when the Chromecast mirrors your Chrome browser on your computer. In this case, the Chromecast is depending entirely on your computer as the source for what it displays. The other exception is an app called AllCast, which we dig into a little bit further down.

Introducing the Chromecast family

If you haven’t yet entered the world of 4K Ultra HD TVs, the $35 version of the Chromecast is still your best bet. The device comes in three distinct colors — black, coral, and lemonade — and features three built-in antennas, a malleable HDMI cord, and support for 802.11ac and 5 GHz bands.

Chromecast Ultra

For those looking to step into the future of high-resolution content, the $69 Chromecast Ultra may be a better fit. The Chromecast Ultra brings more than just a higher pixel count to your streaming toolkit — along with 4K Ultra HD support, the device supports the two most popular versions of HDR (including HDR10 and Dolby Vision), to work with virtually any 4K HDR-ready TV. HDR content allows for deeper contrast, brighter highlights, and richer color shading. It is widely regarded as a key element to making 4K shows and movies look more realistic and engaging.

The Chromecast Ultra also adds Ethernet support for a stronger, more stable connection. Google claims the device is “1.8” times faster than its streaming sibling, which checked out in our review. The company has begun adding 4K Ultra HD movies to Google Play, a nice addition that will join Netflix and YouTube as top sources supporting 4K Ultra HD resolution, though Netflix will charge you a bit more to get access to its 4K library.

Google Chromecast Audio

Jeffrey Van Camp/Digital Trends

Finally, Google’s Chromecast Audio offers a simple way to turn virtually any powered speaker into an audio streaming device. Similar to its video-streaming family members, the Chromecast Audio “casts” audio from streaming services like Spotify, Pandora, and many others. However, instead of an HDMI connection, the Chromecast Audio connects via 3.5mm audio jack, or via a digital Optical input (though you’ll need an additional mini-Toslink adapter or cable to do so). For this guide, we’ll be talking about the video-ready Chromecast devices, but you can find out more about Chromecast Audio here.

Which devices work with Chromecast?

Google’s Chromecast devices are supported by Android tablets and smartphones, iPads and iPhones, and Chrome for Windows and Mac OS X.

Google Chromecast is available at:

Best Buy B&H Walmart

Everything you need to know about Google’s Chromecast and Chromecast Ultra

Update: Added new updates to the Google Home app, new available live TV streaming apps, and other timely information. 

Google’s first foray into the world of streaming devices, the Chromecast, was a complete knockout when it debuted in 2013. Since then, Google has continued to update its streaming device for the future, including a faster new version of its original dongle and an audio-only version, as well as the Chromecast Ultra for 4K Ultra HD support. Whichever version you use, the small device remains just as convenient as ever, providing you with a simple way to cast your favorite TV shows, music, and movies from a mobile device or computer to the big screen (or speaker) of your choice.

While Chromecast’s popularity has spread far and wide already, those who have yet to be initiated into its world may still have a lot of questions about how Chromecast works and what it can do. We cover all of that below, along with some very handy apps you’ll want in your arsenal, so follow along to get your Chromecast on.

What is Chromecast and how does it work?

Chromecast devices run a simplified version of Google’s Chrome OS, and have limited memory and hardware specs. However, they don’t need to have a ton of power because they aren’t much more than glorified gateways to streaming content. To use a Chromecast, you simply plug it into your TV’s HDMI port and connect to your home’s internet network following the simple instructions provided. The device then acts as a portal for your favorite streaming apps on your mobile device to be “cast” onto your TV.

Google Chromecast

Here’s how casting works: Using apps on your mobile device or computer, you essentially hand off — or cast — content to the Chromecast by tapping the Chromecast symbol (a square with wavy lines in the corner) from within the app. Using the information it receives about what you want to watch, the Chromecast finds the TV show or movie on the web and streams it directly from the service to the TV.

This way, your mobile device’s resources aren’t hogged up by streaming tasks, and battery life doesn’t take a huge hit. Think of your mobile device as a remote control for the Chromecast. One exception to this rule is when the Chromecast mirrors your Chrome browser on your computer. In this case, the Chromecast is depending entirely on your computer as the source for what it displays. The other exception is an app called AllCast, which we dig into a little bit further down.

Introducing the Chromecast family

If you haven’t yet entered the world of 4K Ultra HD TVs, the $35 version of the Chromecast is still your best bet. The device comes in three distinct colors — black, coral, and lemonade — and features three built-in antennas, a malleable HDMI cord, and support for 802.11ac and 5 GHz bands.

Chromecast Ultra

For those looking to step into the future of high-resolution content, the $69 Chromecast Ultra may be a better fit. The Chromecast Ultra brings more than just a higher pixel count to your streaming toolkit — along with 4K Ultra HD support, the device supports the two most popular versions of HDR (including HDR10 and Dolby Vision), to work with virtually any 4K HDR-ready TV. HDR content allows for deeper contrast, brighter highlights, and richer color shading. It is widely regarded as a key element to making 4K shows and movies look more realistic and engaging.

The Chromecast Ultra also adds Ethernet support for a stronger, more stable connection. Google claims the device is “1.8” times faster than its streaming sibling, which checked out in our review. The company has begun adding 4K Ultra HD movies to Google Play, a nice addition that will join Netflix and YouTube as top sources supporting 4K Ultra HD resolution, though Netflix will charge you a bit more to get access to its 4K library.

Google Chromecast Audio

Jeffrey Van Camp/Digital Trends

Finally, Google’s Chromecast Audio offers a simple way to turn virtually any powered speaker into an audio streaming device. Similar to its video-streaming family members, the Chromecast Audio “casts” audio from streaming services like Spotify, Pandora, and many others. However, instead of an HDMI connection, the Chromecast Audio connects via 3.5mm audio jack, or via a digital Optical input (though you’ll need an additional mini-Toslink adapter or cable to do so). For this guide, we’ll be talking about the video-ready Chromecast devices, but you can find out more about Chromecast Audio here.

Which devices work with Chromecast?

Google’s Chromecast devices are supported by Android tablets and smartphones, iPads and iPhones, and Chrome for Windows and Mac OS X.

Google Chromecast is available at:

Best Buy B&H Walmart

Spigen has a trademark beef with Andy Rubin’s Essential Products

We’re still about a month away from the first Essential Phone hitting the market, but there may be a problem. According to documents provided to Android Police, well-known mobile accessory maker Spigen has trademarked the Essential name for certain accessories it builds (battery packs, chargers and Bluetooth headphones), and is worried that Andy Rubin’s new outfit could cause confusion.

Spigen claims the new company has had its trademark attempt rejected twice, and because Essential Products is moving forward anyway, Spigen sent a cease-and-desist letter. The response from a spokesperson? “Essential believes they are without merit and will respond appropriately.” Essential is hardly a unique designation, but the close quarters of the products are interesting, even if the newcomer seems unbothered.

Source: Android Police

Samsung made a Pirates of the Caribbean-themed Galaxy S8

Samsung never misses a prime marketing opportunity.

The company has announced you can get a Pirates of the Caribbean-themed version of the Galaxy S8. This isn’t the first time Samsung has teamed up with Hollywood to recreate special-edition versions of its smartphones. In past years it did the same for Iron Man and Injustice: Gods Among Us, for instance. It’s obviously trying to target die-hard movie fans with these decorated handsets.

However, unlike previous special editions launched by Samsung, the Pirates of the Caribbean model looks just like the regular Galaxy S8. It’s only been loaded with a Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Men Tell No Tales theme. It’s also packed in a retail box styled to look like a treasure box and features the Pirates of the Caribbean logo (inside, there’s a ring fob and a case with the same logo.)

• Samsung Notebook 9 Pro: Flip screened laptop with built-in S Pen
• What is Samsung Connect Home and how does it work?

The phone, which costs about $880/£680, is plain black and comes with the standard 4GB of RAM and 64GB memory. As far as other specs and features, they’re the same as the regular Samsung Galaxy S8. If you’re interested in this device, or more specifically, its Pirates of the Caribbean-themed booty, you’ll have to head over to China, where it remains an exclusive for a limited time.

It’s also available now on the Chinese retailer JD.com.

Alphabet’s Waymo moves on from cars, now testing self-driving trucks

Waymo is getting into trucks now.

Waymo is a self-driving car company that Alphabet spun off from Google. You can read all about Waymo in our in-depth guide here. The company has been building on software and sensor technology originally developed in Google’s secret labs since 2009 and is currently refining that technology through billion of miles of simulated tests, which, apparently, will soon include trucks.

Waymo is testing its own autonomous truck technology, according to BuzzFeed News, which saw the autonomous truck in a photo and then confirmed the project with Waymo. A Waymo spokesperson said it’s taken eight years of building self-driving hardware and software to get to this point. Waymo’s conducting a “technical exploration” into how its technology can integrate into a truck.

The spokesperson explained that Waymo aims to reduce the “thousands of trucking-related deaths each year.” Keep in mind Uber, which purchased trucking startup Otto last year, is already testing shipment deliveries with its own self-driving freights, whereas Waymo has only just begun testing one vehicle. It’s even still manually driving it on a public road in order to collect data.

• Volvo and Audi will use Android as the base OS of its upcoming cars
• Honda Clarity Fuel Cell preview: Driving the future of hydrogen?
• Nissan put a phone signal blocker in this car so you can’t text and drive

Google has long said that is it interested in tackling self-driving technology in an effort to stem the loss of lives attributed to car accidents. Over 1.2 million people die on roadways. In the US alone, traffic collisions kill over 35,000 people a year. Ninety-four percent of those crashes involve human error or choice, but self-driving tech could make transportation easy and safe for all.

In October 2015, Waymo completed the world’s first fully self-driving ride on public roads. You can watch a video of that here.

Sprint and Rogers connect for iMessage-like RCS texting

Nearly every major tech company has come up with their own messaging services with enhanced features and SMS is starting to look long in the tooth. But there’s hope for text messaging. A newish standard (it was released in 2012) RCS (Rich Communication Services (RCS) with its improved media sending and improved group chat support is making its way onto Android phones and being support by carriers and according to Google’s VP of communications products, Nick Fox. It looks like Sprint and Rogers are letting customers send RCS messages between their services.

First ever cross-carrier RCS interconnect in N Amer is live! Now Sprint and Rogers users can message each other over RCS. Many more to come!

— Nick Fox (@RealNickFox) June 1, 2017

RCS became standard on all Android phones this year which is good news for Sprint customers since the carrier supports the standard. But for the service to really take off it needs support from all the major carriers so that texts sent between services work just as well as those sent on the same network. Today’s news is the first time two North American carriers are interconnected.

Source: Nick Fox