Here's what's making news today in tech — picked from the 10 sources I trust, translated for normal humans.
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3 things your streaming box can do besides playing movies and TV shows
Streaming boxes like Roku or Fire TV can also mirror your phone screen, run video calls, and display family photos on your TV. Most people never explore past the movie apps, but these features are already built in and free to use. For Portage County: If you have a streaming box gathering dust between shows, ask Bill to walk you through the extras at your next visit.
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MacBook Neo Helps Apple Outpace Rivals as Market Declines
Apple sold more Mac computers than expected this quarter even as the overall PC market slowed down, with the new MacBook Neo getting credit for the bump. Apple's share of worldwide PC sales grew from 8.7% to 9.8%, though total Mac shipments still dropped 11% from last year. For Portage County: If you are shopping for a new computer, Macs are holding their value and reliability better than many rivals right now.
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You thought your ChatGPT conversations were private. The courts disagree.
A federal court has ruled that your ChatGPT conversations are not automatically protected as private, meaning they could be accessed through legal proceedings. This is a reminder that anything you type into an AI chatbot may not stay between you and the screen. For Portage County: Avoid typing personal details, Social Security numbers, or medical information into ChatGPT or similar tools.
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Researchers Demonstrate Node2Shell RCE Exploit on Node.js Build Using Crafted Brotli Data
A security flaw was found in Node.js, a widely used piece of software that runs behind the scenes on many websites and apps. Researchers showed that an attacker could use a specially crafted file to take control of a system running the software. For Portage County: This one is for website owners and IT folks, but if Bill manages any tech for your small business, mention it so he can check your setup.
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iPhone Duo Demand Reportedly Exceeds Apple's Expectations
Apple's new folding iPhone Duo received more pre-orders than the company expected in several major markets. Suppliers say the strong demand could encourage other phone makers to invest more in foldable phones. For Portage County: The iPhone Duo is new and pricey, so there is no rush, but if you are curious whether it is worth it, Bill can show you one and help you decide.
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PHP2Shell Exploit Attempts Hit Millions as Attackers Try to Deploy Mirai Malware
Attackers are trying to use two newly discovered software flaws to hijack internet-connected devices and pull them into a botnet that can be used for large-scale attacks. The good news is that exploiting these flaws is proving harder than the attackers expected, so most attempts are failing. For Portage County: Make sure your home router and any smart devices like Ring cameras or Nest thermostats are set to update automatically.
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Greg Joswiak talks iPhone Duo in-store availability and demand ahead of launch
Apple's marketing chief confirmed that iPhone Duo stock will be available in Apple Stores on launch day, though quantities are limited after a rough pre-order rollout. Demand has been high, so walk-in availability will vary by location. For Portage County: If you are set on buying one in person, call ahead before making the drive to an Apple Store.
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Happy 25th Anniversary, iPod
Apple's iPod turns 25 this year. Steve Jobs introduced it on October 23, 2001, promising 1,000 songs in your pocket on a device with a 5GB hard drive and a scroll wheel, priced at $399. For Portage County: If you still have an old iPod in a drawer, it may be worth more than you think as a collector's item.
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WhatsApp starts testing long-awaited scheduled messages on iPhone
WhatsApp is testing a new feature that lets iPhone users write a message now and schedule it to send later, at a time they choose. The feature is currently available only to select beta testers but is expected to roll out more broadly soon. For Portage County: If you use WhatsApp to stay in touch with family, this will make it easier to send birthday or holiday messages right on time.
This digest is auto-generated daily at 6 AM ET from leading tech news sources.
Notice something off? Reply or text Bill at (330) 200-8042.
— Bill's Home Tech, Atwater, OH