Subscribe to Nintendo Life on YouTube789kA new golf game for the Nintendo Switch simply titled Mini Golf Simulator has caught our attention thanks to the bizarre way in which it utilises the Switch's Joy-Con controllers.Out now on the eShop, the Takahiro Miyazawa-developed game requires you to connect the wrist strap attachments in a way that allows one of the Joy-Con controllers to dangle, allowing you to effectively simulate the 'swing' of a golf club.The official website says it "faithfully" recreates the feel of a putter, but we're not entirely convinced... How many putters have you used that connects the grip and the clubhead with a piece of string? Probably not many, we're guessing. Still, it's a fun, novel way to mix up the standard golf formula a bit.Subscribe to Nintendo Life on YouTube789kWatch on YouTube We have to imagine, however, that some poor souls will wind up with some broken Joy-Con with this control method. You can imagine someone not quite tightening the wrist straps enough, swinging the controller with extra gusto, and whoosh. Away it goes. Into the TV. It's the Wii all over again.If you want to give it a shot, mind you, the game's available now for the paltry sum of $5.20 on the US Nintendo eShop, so it's not going to be a major investment or anything. Could be perfect for a night with your mates; crack open the beers and start swinging those Joy-Con. Good times!Images: Takahiro MiyazawaAt the moment, the game isn't available via the UK or European eShop, but we'll let you know if this changes.What are your thoughts on this odd little curio? Let us know if you plan on picking it up with a comment down below.

Social network Bluesky has released a new update to its app that includes a separate mentions tab in notifications, protections against username squatting, and new controls for replies sorting.The company announced that it is adding a new mentions tab with the v1.96 rollout to let you see those posts separately. Until now, all notifications were under one tab.Bluesky is also adding protection against username squatting by reserving your original Bluesky username with (.bsky.social suffix) when you change your username to a custom domain. The platform said it only reserves the most recent Bluesky username, and it doesnt expire.A recent incident has shown that the company has faced problems with impersonation when people buy up domain names and reserve usernames with the names of known people who might not be on the platform yet. People also used to create a separate account while switching to a custom domain to prevent someone from taking their original Bluesky username. Bluesky is also adding a way to display replies under a post. Users can choose between linear and threaded views. They can also sort replies using different filters like hot, oldest, newest, most-liked, and random.Image Credits: BlueskyThe social network, which has crossed 25 million users, is also adding new translation language support for Nepali, Khmer, and Romanian.

Tech Never need an EV charging station again with these rooftop solar power panels A solar charging solution for electric vehicles Published December 20, 2024 6:00am EST close Never need an EV charging station again with these rooftop solar power panels An inventor designed rooftop solar panels for his Tesla Model Y. Have you ever wondered how we could make our cars even greener?Well, meet Omid Sadeghpour, a forward-thinking inventor with a brilliant idea. Hes designed rooftop solar panels specifically for his Tesla Model Y.His project, DartSolar, harnesses solar energy while the car is parked, potentially adding up to 20 extra miles of driving range each day without ever needing to plug in. As he gets ready to roll out the next iteration, Beta2, lets explore what makes this innovation so groundbreaking. Rooftop solar panel system (DartSolar)The concept behind DartSolarElectric vehicles (EVs) often spend significant time parked in open spaces, making them ideal candidates for solar energy collection. Sadeghpour's vision is simple yet effective: why not utilize the sun's energy to charge EVs while they are stationary? This concept forms the foundation of the DartSolar project.DartSolar isnt just about innovation; its also about practicality. Imagine a rooftop solar panel thats aerodynamic, weatherproof, theft-resistant and easy to use. It opens in just 10 seconds with the same effort required to open your car door. These panels are tough, too, built to withstand wind, rain, sand and snow, ensuring reliable performance in all conditions. Rooftop solar panel system (DartSolar)The beta 1 prototypeOmid Sadeghpour's initial prototype, known as Beta 1, was built in collaboration with Jeran Bruce at California's Forged Makerspace. This prototype is designed with nine flexible solar panels, each rated at 175 watts, which can be deployed when the vehicle is parked. The structure is made from wood and features telescoping carbon-fiber tubes that allow for easy expansion and retraction.Weighing in at under 165 pounds, Beta 1 remains within the roof weight capacity of the Tesla Model Y and is designed to fit within a standard U.S. parking space when fully expanded.When fully deployed, Beta 1 can generate approximately 6 kWh of power per day, which translates to about 20 miles of additional driving range. When its time to drive again, the system can be collapsed into a compact rooftop box in under a minute. Rooftop solar panel system (DartSolar)Advancements with beta 2Now, lets talk about the future. Beta 2, the fifth iteration of DartSolar, takes innovation to the next level. This version swaps the wood structure for carbon fiber, cutting its height in half for better aerodynamics. The wattage capacity has also been boosted to a potential 4,000 watts, providing up to 45 miles of range per day under optimal conditions.Heres where things get exciting: Beta 2 introduces dynamic charging capabilities. This means the panels can charge the car while driving or in different configurations, like partially opened for better airflow or fully closed during high-speed travel. With a reduced drag loss of just 1%-2%, its as efficient on the road as it is when parked.WHAT IS ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE (AI)? Rooftop solar panel system (DartSolar)Practical applications and future prospectsThe DartSolar system has the potential to serve multiple practical applications. First, it provides a viable charging solution for those venturing into remote areas where charging stations are scarce. Additionally, it acts as a backup energy source during power outages, allowing electric vehicles to remain operational even when traditional charging methods are unavailable.Although the project is currently a DIY initiative and not yet ready for commercial release, Sadeghpour plans to share blueprints and build files on the DartSolar website. This move aims to encourage others to explore similar innovations in solar technology.GET FOX BUSINESS ON THE GO BY CLICKING HERE Rooftop solar panel system (DartSolar)Kurt's key takeawaysDartSolar isnt just about charging cars. Its about rethinking how we use renewable energy in everyday life. As advancements continue with the Beta 2 prototype, Sadeghpour's work has the potential to revolutionize electric vehicle charging and drive sustainability forward. Whether youre commuting, adventuring off-grid or preparing for the unexpected, DartSolar could be the key to driving into a greener future.CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APPWould a system like DartSolar impact your decision to adopt an electric vehicle? Why or why not? Let us know by writing us at Cyberguy.com/Contact.For more of my tech tips and security alerts, subscribe to my free CyberGuy Report Newsletter by heading to Cyberguy.com/Newsletter.Follow Kurt on his social channels:Answers to the most asked CyberGuy questions:New from Kurt:KURT'S HOLIDAY DEALS:Best gifts for Men | Women | Kids | Teens | Pet loversFor those who love: Cooking | Coffee | Tools | Travel | Wine |Accessories: Car |Kitchen | Laptop | Keyboards | Phone | Travel | Keep It CozyCant go wrong with these: Gift Cards | Money-saving apps | Amazon Black Friday insider tips |Stocking StuffersCopyright 2024 CyberGuy.com.All rights reserved. Kurt "CyberGuy" Knutsson is an award-winning tech journalist who has a deep love of technology, gear and gadgets that make life better with his contributions for Fox News & FOX Business beginning mornings on "FOX & Friends." Got a tech question? Get Kurts free CyberGuy Newsletter, share your voice, a story idea or comment at CyberGuy.com.

Wendy Redshaw, chief digital information officer (CDIO) at NatWest Retail Bank, has had a distinguished career leading technology-led change in some of the worlds biggest financial services organisations. Now, shes using that experience to drive even more innovation.After four years as CIO for collaborative technology solutions with Deutsche Bank, Redshaw says she was eager to work for a UK finance house. In late 2018, she found the perfect home at NatWest as head of technology and digital distribution for the personal bank.The opportunity was interesting because NatWest was ready for digital transformation but wasnt naturally sitting in a leadership position at that time, she says.The role allowed me to land and think about what to do. I found an organisation that was fundamentally focused on its customers and perhaps had less digital experience in-house.After working with her team to deliver technological improvements across the personal bank offline and online, Redshaw moved into the CDIO position in February 2020.It wasnt just because I wanted a longer acronym than most technologists, she jokes.We created the role so we could sew together business and technology because, as with many organisations, technology had historically been something that happened over there, and the business did their thing, and then they would give the technologists something to work on. We wanted better integration.Redshaw says the creation of her CDIO role in 2020 was a public statement that NatWest wanted to create a partnership approach to technology and business: This is a digital bank in the making, and hopefully, with the results that weve seen, weve achieved our aims.The technological transformation in banking services that Redshaw oversees at NatWest today differs greatly from the finance industry she joined as a software engineer in 1987.We didnt call it digital then, she says.I remember the focus was on, How do we use technology to make things quicker, simpler and more secure for our customers? She points to work on a security module for the London Stock Exchange and the beginning of the settlement systems CHAPS and Euroclear.There was a lot of change where technology was being brought in, but it was more for the underpinning services than for the consumer-facing areas, she says, before fast-forwarding to the present-day bank. Over that time, weve seen that digital is now in the hands of our retail customers.Redshaw says the shift in technological focus also helped prompt her switch to the retail side of banking. After a career driving behind-the-scenes IT changes in major firms, such as Lloyds TSB, Barclays Capital and Royal Bank of Scotland, her current role at NatWest is focused on delivering innovative customer services.Thats where the exciting stuff is happening. Yes, of course, we use AI across several areas of the organisation something like 17% of our models are AI-based now, such as for controlling fraud, financial crime and so on, she says.However, in terms of affecting human beings, digital services are at our customers fingertips. If you think about my driver for going into the CDIO role, the customer is where I thought Id have the most impact.As CDIO, Readshaw is directly accountable to the group CIO and retail banking CEO. Responsible for digital operations leadership, she manages 4,500 people across four locations globally and leads the delivery of retail banking technology for Royal Bank of Scotland, NatWest and Ulster Bank North.Redshaws team is digitalising services to make life easier for the groups customers. Their work is supported by a planned investment of 3.5bn from 2023 to 2025, with more than 70% of spending targeted at data and technology.NatWest has 10.9 million digitally active retail and business banking customers and 3.5 million use online banking platforms. The hard work continues apace. In 2024, Redshaw led the launch of a retail banking app on Apples Vision Pro virtual reality headset.One of her proudest achievements is the introduction of generative AI (GenAI) into the banks conversational assistant, Cora. She says the bank made an early move into chatbots. Cora was introduced in 2017. The technology could answer basic questions, but Redshaw wanted it to do more.When I joined in 2018, I realised it was quite a good channel to do something with, she says. I had some grand ambitions for her things like digital avatars having a voice, and all these engaging ways of doing things. I said, Look, I see this particular technology being something we could get moving on.Redshaw saw that, while machine learning technology was progressing at pace, it wasnt quite ready for the giant leap in digital experiences she envisioned. However, the public release of generative AI models in late 2022 helped turn theory into a practical reality. Working with experts from IBMs client engineering team to develop the initial proof of concept, NatWest launched its next-generation assistant, Cora+, in June 2024.Cora+ is a multichannel platform that securely accesses data from multiple sources, including products, services and banking information. The virtual assistant technology is powered by IBMs Watsonx AssistantIt was the perfect example of an interest in technology, an interest in people, and an interest in delivering business value, she says.I feel very excited about how weve taken something that just answered questions and moved into generative AI at scale for millions of customers. And its only the first step. Ive got big ambitions for what I want to do with that technology.Cora+ uses ChatGPT 3.5 alongside an unnamed GPT large language model (LLM). The second model is trained to judge the output of the first model. While the GPT models play an important role in NatWests digital strategy, the organisation is eager to keep an open approach to AI and innovation.Redshaw says the group wants to avoid being locked into a specific LLM. She wants the capability to swap from large to small language models (SLMs). Organisations can use SLMs to derive outputs from constrained amounts of data that require less computing power, which is important for a big business like NatWest that wants to meet sustainability targets.As a result, it was a case of, OK IBM, we like working with you, but we want to be able to switch the language models in and out depending on the business requirement, she says. And they were like, Absolutely. So, thats great. We have the same mindset around using the best of everything to get value for our customers safely.This is a digital bank in the making, and hopefully, with the results that weve seen, weve achieved our aimsWendy Redshaw, NatWest Retail BankIn addition to the work on Cora+, Redshaw and her colleagues are analysing how AI can boost customer experiences in other areas. NatWest has worked with IBM to develop a digital legal assistant powered by GenAI. This tool streamlines contract management and enhances accessibility, especially for neurodivergent users. The tool supports colleagues with compliance checks, producing 20% efficiency gains.More generally, Redshaw is proud her team completes thousands of releases annually. The departments focus on micro-projects is as important as delivering large-scale initiatives and helps NatWest hit tight transformation deadlines. Across all projects, IBM acts as a key technology partner, with Redshaw suggesting the nature of the long-term working relationship with the tech giant is like interacting with people on the internal team.John Duigenan, distinguished engineer and general manager of the global financial services industry at IBM, says shifting to constant innovation, experimentation, and learning is typical of the work his company sees in its most pioneering clients. We got to work with a trusted partner, and we got to learn together, he said, referring to IBMs relationship with NatWest.Its great we co-create approaches to using technology and collaborate on innovation. Our teams blend incredibly well, and we deliver together in new ways. We have an approach that says, We know why this work will matter for all of us because we can measure the impact.Redshaw reflects on achievements during the past few years. While the benefits of the digital transformation shes enacted at NatWest are clear, theres always an opportunity to do more.She says the rapid pace of transformation makes it difficult to predict with any degree of certainty what will happen next: What will the success metrics be in three years? We wont be judged on the same metrics because digital banking is changing quickly.However, she expects to see developments in some key areas.In the AI space, I expect to see more voice, she says. At the moment, Cora listens to our telephony and sends a text, a deep link, or something else thats required. In the future, I think itll probably answer the phone and deal with questions.Redshaw also expects progress in text-based answering. Her banks research suggests people in financial difficulties often prefer having a guilt-free conversation with a bot rather than a human.I would expect something in that financial health and support space that uses natural language, she says.Theres even the potential for advances in unexpected areas. Redshaw says shes keen to add Cora to ATMs, something that she was previously told was impossible.Ive now spoken to some innovation engineers, and theyve said they think it might be possible, she says. So, I suspect we will see something like a digital point of presence.Finally, Redshaw expects the bank to continue honing its approach to mobile. People now have their bank in their pocket, she says.I imagine we will give more richness and engagement through these devices. Even though our mobile strategy is great, I think it will lean towards more engagement and personalisation during the next 24 months.Read more about digital transformation in financial servicesInside Prudentials AI strategy: Prudential is leveraging AI across its operations, from enhancing customer interactions and streamlining internal processes to empowering its workforce through upskilling initiatives.Setting the high bar in digital transformation: Roel Louwhoff, Standard Chartereds chief transformation, technology and operations officer, outlines what it takes for the company to become a client-focused, data-driven bank.Inside Macquarie Banks data transformation journey: Australias Macquarie Bank has moved all its data and analytics to the cloud and is applying machine learning to detect fraud and improve customer experience.

Artificial intelligence (AI) is a powerful tool to help job seekers find roles and make their applications, with ever more people using it. Multiple published surveys have suggested this figure could be as high as 50% of applicants. But while AI is undoubtedly a great support tool, it can create issues if individuals use it to present a misleading impression of themselves and their capabilities. So how can it best be used and what are the dos and donts for job seekers to think about?At the same time, the growing use of AI presents new challenges for employers. In some cases, it is dramatically increasing the number of applications for employers to work through. Figures from the Institute of Student Employers show a 59% rise in the average number of applications being received for graduate jobs (140 per position) with recruiters in higher-paid and growth sectors, such as digital and IT, receiving as many as 205 applications per vacancy and at Harvey Nash, we are seeing as many as 500 in some instances. The Institute says that AI is the driver of these increases. Moreover, can employers trust that applications actually represent candidates faithfully and honestly? In this article, Ill highlight some advice points for them to consider too.There are multiple ways in which AI tools can help job seekers in their efforts to land that dream role. Some of the best-known tools include ChatGPT, Microsoft Copilot, Gemini and Bard with many other more specialised tools available for job searches and application support. Understanding descriptions. Generative AI tools can instantly summarise complex job descriptions, helping candidates quickly understand core responsibilities and requirements, allowing them to tailor their applications effectively. Highlighting relevant experience. By extracting key information from job descriptions, candidates can emphasise relevant skills and experience in their CVs and cover letters. AI-driven CV refinement. Job seekers can use generative AI to enhance their CVs. Tools can suggest improvements, optimise formatting and ensure that critical details stand out. Keyword optimisation. AI can identify relevant keywords for specific roles, improving a CVs chance of passing automated screening tools. Mock interview simulators. AI-powered simulators can help candidates better prepare for interviews. By posing common interview questions and provide feedback, they help to build a candidates confidence and enhance their overall interview performance. AI-powered job search. Many tools can match candidates with suitable roles based on their skills and experience. This streamlines the job search process and helps candidates identify the roles they are most suited for.Using AI tools in this way brings a number of benefits to job seekers, most notably: Efficiency. Generative AI accelerates tasks like summarising job descriptions, refining CVs and preparing for interviews. Productivity boost. AI can act as a work buddy, helping candidates better manage and prepare when applying for multiple vacancies. Improved quality. AI can help candidates better communicate their strengths and present themselves more effectively, increasing their chances of being shortlisted or interviewed. Advanced options. Many AI tools are freely available, but there are also paid-for versions of tools that offer even greater functionality and have a greater ability to learn from previously produced content to reflect an individuals tone of voice or style of language.While these are all compelling benefits, nevertheless the use of AI does present various potential issues. AI tools can have the effect of making everyones applications and the way in which they present information look the same. There is a danger of losing individuality as applications become more vanilla and standardised. Here are some advice points accordingly:Do Use your own words and language as much as possible to keep it authentic and bring out your own character. If using AI to create your CV, stand back from it and ask yourself whether the structure of it is bringing out your unique qualities and experience effectively. Avoid generic phrasing that feels stilted or impersonal otherwise there is a danger of a sea of sameness. Answer interview questions/tasks on your own. You may want to use AI to refine them afterwards, but always start with your own answers. Its your own knowledge and ability that youre being assessed on and you might get caught out later on! Use AI as a support tool not to do the whole job for you. It can help you make the process quicker and more efficient, but shouldnt become a substitute for you putting in the appropriate level of effort yourself.Dont Lie or exaggerate to give a false impression, otherwise there is a danger of AI becoming like catfishing for job applications. Checks in the process later on will almost certainly expose any untruths. Use AI to send off reams of untargeted applications on the off-chance you might be successful. This will ultimately waste your own time as well as the employers. Use Americanisms and American spellings (if youre in the UK) which many generative AI tools are programmed with. Adapt what AI produces so that its suitable for the market you are in. Pass off AI-generated answers or content as your own. You need to build relationships with recruitment agencies and prospective employers and will lose their trust if they realise you have been leaning excessively on AI.What does this mean for employers and recruiters?The use of AI by candidates and job seekers is something that employers have become increasingly aware of. There is no problem in principle with a candidate using AI indeed, it shows initiative and with many organisations embedding AI into their own process and systems, it would likely often be seen as a positive. Nevertheless, it is having some impacts that employers need to manage.Firstly, as I have noted, AI is ramping up the number of applications that employers are receiving, almost becoming a barrage in some instances. This creates a workload issue, with teams having to sift through many more applications, cover letters and CVs to produce their shortlist of candidates.Secondly and more seriously AI is making it harder for employers to really know how capable a candidate is, given that applicants may use AI to smarten their CVs, word their covering letters, answer questions on application forms, and assist them with remote/take-home tests and technical exercises like coding challenges.There are several ways that employers can manage the situation, in particular: Review your assessment techniques. Look across the questions and tests you set candidates, and consider whether you should introduce more open-ended questions that are harder for AI tools to answer authentically. Use real-world scenarios and situational questions that require human experience to respond to. Also think about using more on the spot tests that candidates take in your offices or assessment centre rather than remotely. Upskill your teams. Think about providing training for your in-house recruitment team and hiring managers to understand how AI is changing the landscape, and what to look out for. This training could include interview techniques how to effectively probe candidates on information they have given or skills/experience they say they have. Consider the recruitment agency option. Depending on the number of vacancies your business has and the number of applications you receive, a good recruitment agency could be a significant support. Experienced recruiters can take the burden away from already stretched in-house teams. Recruiters should be well-versed in the phenomenon of AI and have the tools to screen and assess applications, CVs and other materials. They should also speak or communicate directly with candidates of potential interest (face-to-face, on the phone or video call, and/or via email) before putting them forward for interview making sure that they are who they say they are and have the skills and capabilities to match.It is fair to say that AI presents the biggest challenges for enterprises running large-scale recruitment activities such as graduate schemes or other high-volume intakes. These are more prone to candidates trying to game the system supported by AI. But it is presenting issues for all employers to be aware of.For all these challenges, there are nevertheless several benefits that AI can bring employers too. AI tools can help prepare candidate information packs (and agency briefs) more easily and quickly. They can score various types of tests automatically. And AI can be used to support the diversity and inclusion agenda - scanning draft job adverts and role descriptions to identify whether they are optimally worded, including considering the needs of specific groups such as people with disabilities or those who are neuro-diverse.Used well, AI can significantly help both sides job seekers and employers alike. One thing is certain: it is here to stay, and indeed can be expected to dramatically grow as tools become more widely available and functionality continues to mature.This just underlines the importance for both individuals and employers to understand the dynamics at play and observe the emerging etiquettes in order to create benefits for everyone while minimising the threat of downsides.Emma Gardiner is Regional Director UK North at Harvey Nash

An HDMI splitter may seem like a simple device, but it's a game-changer for anyone looking to share a single HDMI signal across multiple displays! Imagine connecting an HDMI cable from your media center PC to the splitter's input, then effortlessly linking HDMI cables from the splitter's output ports to your TVs and monitors. This setup is not just for home entertainment systems, it's also a staple in offices, conference centers, and venues that require seamless output distribution to multiple screens or TVs.However, not all HDMI splitters are created equal. Some models come with power capabilities, acting as repeaters that boost the HDMI digital signal. This feature is particularly beneficial when you need to transmit the signal over long distances, ensuring that your video and audio quality remain top-notch.So whether you're setting up a multi-screen gaming experience, enhancing your home theater, or facilitating presentations in a professional setting, an HDMI splitter is your key to a clutter-free and efficient display setup!Also:The best power banks: Expert testedWhat is the best HDMI splitter right now?I've spent years testing tech products and accessories ranging from HDMI splitters to electric screwdrivers to portable power stations. Before we go for the deep dive on HDMI splitters, let me cut to the chase and tell you that for the majority of people who are looking for an HDMI splitter, the Amazon Basics HDMI Splitter is all you'll need. It takes an input and can push that out to two displays. It's simple to use and super reliable.Stay tuned to find out what else makes this the best overall HDMI splitter, and for a bunch of alternatives that can cater to those who need something different. Sort by All The best HDMI splitters of 2024 Show less View now at Amazon If you need to send one source signal to two displays simultaneously -- for example, sending the output from a computer to two monitors, or to a TV and a projector -- this is the splitter for you.It might seem basic, but for a good 90% of those who need a splitter, this is all you'll need. There's no point overspending on an all-singing, all-dancing HDMI splitter if you just need to split a signal into two displays.This splitter also supports up to 4K@60Hz -- again, more than enough for most people's needs. It's a solid, reliable unit, and the reviews on Amazon support this conclusion.Amazon Basics HDMI Splitter tech specs:2-in:1-out | Up to 4K@60Hz | Power: USB-A to microUSB power cable (USB adapter not included) Pros Inexpensive Everything most people need No controls or buttons Cons Only mirrors output, no switching Power adapter not included If you need to send one source signal to two displays simultaneously -- for example, sending the output from a computer to two monitors, or to a TV and a projector -- this is the splitter for you.It might seem basic, but for a good 90% of those who need a splitter, this is all you'll need. There's no point overspending on an all-singing, all-dancing HDMI splitter if you just need to split a signal into two displays.This splitter also supports up to 4K@60Hz -- again, more than enough for most people's needs. It's a solid, reliable unit, and the reviews on Amazon support this conclusion.Amazon Basics HDMI Splitter tech specs:2-in:1-out | Up to 4K@60Hz | Power: USB-A to microUSB power cable (USB adapter not included) Read More Show Expert Take Show less Show less View now at Amazon We've gone from basic to high-tech. This HDMI splitter takes a single HDMI input and splits it up to four times, but rather than sending the signal along HDMI cables, it sends it over an ethernet cable.If you have a big home, this could very well be the solution you are looking for, but this model has been designed for bigger workloads, such as classrooms, digital signage, churches, meeting rooms, and conference centers.For such a specialist unit, there aren't a huge number of reviews, but what is out there shows this to be a strong product.Vpfet HDMI Extender Splitter tech specs:1-in:4-out | up to 1920x1200@60Hz and 1080p@60Hz | Up to 165 ft range | Power: 12V power adapter Pros High-tech Perfect for long cable hauls Supports Power Over Channel (POC) tech, so receiver units don't need separate power Cons Overkill for most users Pricey We've gone from basic to high-tech. This HDMI splitter takes a single HDMI input and splits it up to four times, but rather than sending the signal along HDMI cables, it sends it over an ethernet cable.If you have a big home, this could very well be the solution you are looking for, but this model has been designed for bigger workloads, such as classrooms, digital signage, churches, meeting rooms, and conference centers.For such a specialist unit, there aren't a huge number of reviews, but what is out there shows this to be a strong product.Vpfet HDMI Extender Splitter tech specs:1-in:4-out | up to 1920x1200@60Hz and 1080p@60Hz | Up to 165 ft range | Power: 12V power adapter Read More Show Expert Take Show less Show less View now at Amazon Not many people will want an HDMI splitter with 8 outputs, but if you are one of those people wanting to drive a lot of displays, this is a perfect solution.This unit looks industrial and much like a network switch. It has LED lights on the front to show which ports are active, and it takes a 5V DC power input.This splitter has decent input and output ranges (33.5 and 66.5 feet, respectively). It supports both copy mode, where the input is protected to all eight outputs, and extended mode, where, when connected to a computer, the output can be a second display. The reviews are very positive, with owners citing excellent quality and reliability, with no lag.Icuixian HDMI splitter tech specs:1-in/8-out | 4Kx2k@30Hz | Power: 5V DC Pros Lots of outputs Good input and output range Supports copy and extended modes Cons Bulky unit LEDs on the front might be annoying in some situations Not many people will want an HDMI splitter with 8 outputs, but if you are one of those people wanting to drive a lot of displays, this is a perfect solution.This unit looks industrial and much like a network switch. It has LED lights on the front to show which ports are active, and it takes a 5V DC power input.This splitter has decent input and output ranges (33.5 and 66.5 feet, respectively). It supports both copy mode, where the input is protected to all eight outputs, and extended mode, where, when connected to a computer, the output can be a second display. The reviews are very positive, with owners citing excellent quality and reliability, with no lag.Icuixian HDMI splitter tech specs:1-in/8-out | 4Kx2k@30Hz | Power: 5V DC Read More Show Expert Take Show less Show less View now at Amazon This is the perfect splitter for modern gaming consoles such as the PS5 and Xbox Series X, as well as high-end gaming PCs and capture cards. Its support for high resolutions and frame rates puts it at a caliber above the rest. It also understands HDCP2.3 copy protection, so there are fewer hassles when it comes to outputting the video stream.EDID (Extended Display Identification Data) switches allow the switch to work with Dolby Vision and Dolby Atmos, and there's also a built-in downscale that allows the splitter to handle resolution changes.This is more than most people need, but it is a worthwhile choice for those wanting to stream games to the web or move high-resolution media to multiple displays.EzcooTech HDMI Splitter tech specs:1-in:2-out | Up to 8K@60Hz and 4K@120Hz | Power: USB-C input Pros Handles high resolutions and frame rates Perfect for capture cards for streaming gaming to the web Built-in Dolby support Cons High resolutions and frame rates demand quality cables Does not work with Sonos This is the perfect splitter for modern gaming consoles such as the PS5 and Xbox Series X, as well as high-end gaming PCs and capture cards. Its support for high resolutions and frame rates puts it at a caliber above the rest. It also understands HDCP2.3 copy protection, so there are fewer hassles when it comes to outputting the video stream.EDID (Extended Display Identification Data) switches allow the switch to work with Dolby Vision and Dolby Atmos, and there's also a built-in downscale that allows the splitter to handle resolution changes.This is more than most people need, but it is a worthwhile choice for those wanting to stream games to the web or move high-resolution media to multiple displays.EzcooTech HDMI Splitter tech specs:1-in:2-out | Up to 8K@60Hz and 4K@120Hz | Power: USB-C input Read More Show Expert Take Show less Show less View now at Amazon This is a simple 1-in/1-out repeater with one simple job -- extending the span of HDMI cabling you can use. The manufacturer claims it can take an input cable of up to 15m/49ft and an output 10m/33ft.It supports a broad range of audio formats, including DTS-HD, Dolby TrueHD, DTS, Dolby-AC3, and DSD.Not many people will need a repeater because their HDMI inputs and outputs will be close together, but if you do, this is a great choice, and it's a product with strong reviews.Bytecc HDMI Repeater tech specs:1-in:1-out | 8K@60Hz | USB-C input 5V/2A Pros Sleek and simple USB-C powered Support for long cable input and output Cons Repeater only, not a splitter This is a simple 1-in/1-out repeater with one simple job -- extending the span of HDMI cabling you can use. The manufacturer claims it can take an input cable of up to 15m/49ft and an output 10m/33ft.It supports a broad range of audio formats, including DTS-HD, Dolby TrueHD, DTS, Dolby-AC3, and DSD.Not many people will need a repeater because their HDMI inputs and outputs will be close together, but if you do, this is a great choice, and it's a product with strong reviews.Bytecc HDMI Repeater tech specs:1-in:1-out | 8K@60Hz | USB-C input 5V/2A Read More Show Expert Take Show less What is the best HDMI splitter? HDMI splitters are one of those things that most people will never need, and most of those who do need one will only need something simple, which is why my top pick is the Amazon Basics HDMI Splitter 1-in/2-out splitter. It's cheap and cheerful, and does what more than 90% of those who will want an HDMI splitter will ever need.HDMI SplitterPriceInputsOutputsMax ResolutionAmazon Basics HDMI Splitter $141 2 4K@60Hz Vpfet HDMI Extender Splitter$130 1 4 1920x1200@60Hz Icuixian HDMI Splitter $321 8 4K@30Hz EzcooTech HDMI Splitter $30 1 2 8K@60Hz Bytecc HDMI Repeater $24 1 1 8K@60Hz Show more Which is the right HDMI splitter for you? Choose thisHDMI splitterIf you wantAmazon Basics HDMI SplitterA simple, inexpensive HDMI splitter. Most people will want to split one input into two outputs, and this does that.Vpfet HDMI Extender SplitterA professional splitter that pushes the signal to receiver units over network cable. This is great for more complicated home setups.Icuixian HDMI SplitterTo push and output to a lot of displays. This is less of the home and more for classrooms, conference rooms, and such.EzcooTech HDMI SplitterSupport for high resolutions and framerates. This is perfect for those who want to use capture cards and run high-end PCs and game consoles.Bytecc HDMI RepeaterA simple HDMI repeater. Perfect for pushing audio and video across long cable lengths. Show more Factors to consider when choosing the best HDMI splitter When choosing an HDMI splitter, there are several factors to consider to ensure you select the right one for your needs. Here are some key factors to keep in mind:Number of outputs: How many displays do you want to connect to the splitter? HDMI splitters are available with different numbers of outputs, ranging from two to eight or more.Resolution and refresh rate: You will need to make sure that the HDMI splitter you choose supports the resolution and refresh rate of your source device and displays.Audio format: Are you using audio formats such as Dolby Digital or DTS? If so, you need to make sure that the HDMI splitter supports the audio format you want to use.Signal boosting: If you need to transmit the HDMI signal over long distances, consider a powered HDMI splitter. These act as repeaters and boost the digital HDMI signal, allowing you to surpass the normal length limitations of the format.Budget: Consider your budget when choosing an HDMI splitter. Prices can vary depending on the brand, number of ports, and additional features. The more features you want, the more it will cost you. Show more How did we choose these HDMI splitters? Most people never need an HDMI splitter. They hook up their media output to a single TV or monitor and they're done. But there are those who want to make things more complicated, taking a single output and pushing that to multiple displays. Throw in audio formats such as those from Dolby and things can get more complicated.Fortunately, there is an HDMI splitter to suit your needs, from simple to complicated.I have year of reviewing a variety of tech products and accessories ranging from large power stations to tiny thermal cameras for phones. To filter down the whole of the HDMI splitter market to a handful of choices, I've relied heavily on user reviews. There are so many different input and output devices and setups that the crowdsourcing nature of user reviews was the best approach to selecting the best HDMI splitters. Show more What is an HDMI splitter? As the name suggests, an HDMI splitter takes an HDMI input signal from a source device (such as a games console or media box) and splits it into multiple output signals, allowing you to connect multiple displays to a single source device. Show more How long can an HDMI cable be before you need a powered splitter? While there is no maximum length for an HDMI cable specified in the specs, signal attenuation (think leakage) and cable quality normally limits it (with the best quality cables and components, the limit is about 15 meters/49 feet). Show more Can an HDMI splitter be used to connect multiple source devices to a single display? No, a splitter splits the input into multiple outputs. If you want to connect multiple sources to a single display, you need an HDMI switch such as the Anker HDMI Switch that allows two inputs to be switched between on a single display.If you want to get even more fancy and take multiple inputs and mix them, adding things like transitions and even picture-in-picture, you need an HDMI mixer, such as the RGBlink Mini Video Mixer Switcher, which can take four HDMI inputs, along with an audio input, and mix those into one output. Show more Are there alternative HDMI splitters worth considering? Here are a few alternative HDMI splitters for your consideration. While these didn't make it onto the main listing, don't let that put you off because they are very capable units. Show more Further ZDNET Tech Coverage Smartphones Smartwatches Tablets Laptops TVs Other Tech Resources ZDNET Recommends

Middle age woman in deep thoughtgettyExperiencing issues like forgetting names, misplacing keys, or missing turns while driving can understandably provoke anxiety about potential serious neurological problems. Its essential to address these concerns proactively and seek professional guidance when needed.Patients frequently raise concerns about memory loss with their healthcare providers, fearing it may indicate dementia. It's important to remember that we're all human, and a certain level of forgetfulness is completely normal. But sometimes it can be difficult to differentiate what is normal from abnormal, especially when you are the one going through it.The Basics Of MemoryTo effectively remember information, it's essential to first engage with it actively. This means focusing your attention fully on what you are learning. In our fast-paced world, many people tend to multitask, which can make it challenging to absorb important information. To enhance your memory, begin by concentrating on one task at a time. During meetings, for instance, focus entirely on the speaker. To minimize distractions, consider silencing your mobile phone or other devices.If you struggle with attention due to an underlying condition like attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, its beneficial to seek support from a qualified medical professional. You might be offered a behavioral intervention or medication to help with your attention.MORE FOR YOUBy making these intentional changes, you can significantly improve your ability to remember important information.Ensure you are getting a good night's sleep, as sleep plays a crucial role in your memory. When you don't sleep well and feel drowsy or unfocused during the day, it can be challenging to pay attention and retain new information. Additionally, if you are trying to remember long-term information, a good night's sleep is vital to reinforce learning. Research indicates sufficient sleep facilitates learning new information effectively.This can pose a challenge for individuals with sleep disorders, like insomnia and sleep apnea, as well as those who have long commutes. People with long commutes should try to be more efficient at home, look into the possibility of a flexible work schedule, or even do some work from home if permissible.Experienced female doctor fitting Intra-The-Ear hearing aid into patient's ear while consultation in ... [+] audiology clinic. ITE and ITC hearing aidsgettyIf you are experiencing hearing loss, its important to get evaluated by an expert and do not delay getting a hearing aid. If you already have one, make sure to wear it. Some individuals avoid wearing hearing aids because they don't like the way they look, while others may feel overwhelmed by background noise coming in through the hearing aid. Some people simply cannot afford hearing aids, they are expensive. If you are a veteran of the US armed forces, consider visiting the VA to see if you can obtain hearing aids for free.Numerous studies have shown a link between not wearing hearing aids and the progression of dementia in people with hearing loss. While causation has not been definitively established, it is believed that difficulty hearing can lead to increased social withdrawal, as individuals may struggle to engage fully in conversations. If you cannot hear what is being said, you will not be able to remember it.Tips to Avoid DementiaHere are some key tips to help care for your brain and potentially delay the onset of dementia:1. Embrace a Healthy Diet: A nutritious diet is vital for your overall health and well-being. Adopting the MIND or Mediterranean diet can reduce the presence of plaque and tangles in the brainkey findings in Alzheimers disease. The Mediterranean diet is rich in vegetables, fruits, and encourages eating fish three or more times a week. Meanwhile, the MIND diet focuses on green leafy vegetables like spinach, kale, and collard greens, as well as other vegetables. It also favors berries over other fruits and recommends at least one serving of fish weekly. If you're unsure about how to incorporate these foods into your meals, remember youre not alone. Consider connecting with a nutritionist or dietitian for personalized guidance and support. Many physicians can also steer you toward healthier dietary choices. Prioritizing your diet today can have lasting benefits for your brain health tomorrow!2. Exercise Regularly: Regular exercise is beneficial for both physical and cognitive health. It should include a mix of weight training and aerobic activities. Simple exercises, such as walking or riding a stationary bike, can have a positive impact. For those who may find it challenging to walk or bike safely, using a pedal device like a stride cycle is an excellent alternative. This device allows you to pedal while sitting in a chair, making it easier to stay active while prioritizing safety and preventing falls.3. Get a Good Night's Sleep: Quality sleep is essential not only for feeling rested but also for removing toxins that may contribute to dementia. These toxins are eliminated from the brain during deeper stages of sleep. Chronic sleep deprivation can lead to the unhealthy accumulation of these toxins.4. Limit or Eliminate Alcohol Use: Its important to understand that alcohol can negatively affect memory in various ways. It disrupts sleep, making it harder to learn new things, and it can also harm the brain cells that are essential for memory retention.5. Socialize: Embrace social interaction as a powerful tool for enhancing brain health. Spend time with family and friends, engage in uplifting conversations, and offer support to others. Each moment you invest in stimulating your brain is invaluable. Seize the opportunity to connect with those around you. The connections you forge will strengthen your support system on your journey toward better brain health, while also cultivating resilience.6. Music and the Arts: Listening to music and engaging in the arts stimulates various brain centers simultaneously and can be highly activating. Music and the arts strengthen connections between brain areas and can enhance your memory.7. Address Medical Conditions: Issues like depression and anxiety can significantly affect your memory. Mindfulness can help with addressing some of the depression and anxiety and may also help limit the negative impact of your various psychosocial stressors. Additionally, if you have been diagnosed with high blood pressure, it is crucial to maintain it within the recommended range. Failure to control your blood pressure can adversely impact your brain health. It is important to tackle these concerns for overall brain wellness. If you are having difficulty taking your prescribed medications, talk to your healthcare provider. They may be able to suggest alternative treatments, including different medications. Skipping your medication can lead to a worsening of your underlying medical condition, which may further impair your memory.While following these guidelines may not fully prevent dementia, they can work wonders in improving your overall brain and physical health. It is important to follow closely with medical professionals who will have a better understanding of your personal situation. They may provide more detailed guidance on what you can do to preserve your cognition as you age. Boosting memory is a reasonable goal and following some of the simple science-backed approaches like exercise, mindfulness and dietary adjustments can help keep your brain sharp in the years to come.

Scientists from New York State Museum and SUNY Orange excavate a full mastodon jawbone in a New York ... [+] backyard.New York State Museum While tending to their garden this fall, homeowners in upstate New York spotted what appeared to be two giant teeth protruding from the soil, partially concealed by plant fronds. A bit more digging revealed two more massive chompers just below the earth's surface, convincing the couple theyd chanced upon something significant. So, they called in the experts.In October, a team from New York State Museum and SUNY Orange came to excavate the site and confirmed the pairs hunch. There, in their backyard about 70 miles northwest of New York City, the homeowners had uncovered a full mastodon jaw, remarkably well preserved. The researchers also found a toe bone and rib fragments belonging to the prehistoric animal, an extinct relative of modern elephants that predates another of its cousins, the wooly mammoth.That a mastodon jaw popped up at a residence near the hamlet of Scotchtown doesnt surprise Ross MacPhee, senior curator in residence of mammalogy and vertebrate zoology at the American Museum of Natural History in New York. More than 150 mastodon fossils have been found across New York State, about a third in Orange County, Scotchtowns home, though its been 11 years since the last complete jaw surfaced.Each of these artifacts is a single tooth from a distant relative of the modern elephant that went ... [+] extinct in North America 10,500 years ago.New York State Museum This is not an insignificant find, despite the fact that it is one of many, MacPhee, who was not part of the team that found the jaw, said in an interview. Every specimen of a long vanished species, he said, helps fill in the picture of its history and habitat. Its all fossil by fossil and site by site, he said. This is a very aggregational kind of discipline.MORE FOR YOUAmerican mastodon (Mammut americanum) fossils have been found throughout North and Central America, revealing that the massive creatures stood nearly 10 feet tall at their highest point with tusks that curved upward. Their teeth have high, pointed crowns that functioned well for chewing on leaves and twigs.What most excites MacPhee about finds like the latest in New York is their potential to shed light on the mysterious disappearance of mammoths, mastodons, giant beavers and dozens of other species in a geological blink around 11,000 to 12,000 years ago.Its a weird thing to think that they all died out at once, the paleontologist said. They just all disappeared. Theories explaining the mass extinction range from climate change and overhunting by humans to inbreeding, infectious diseases and cosmic events. Something very complicated ecologically was going on and we really have tried to come to grips with this for well over a century, MacPhee said.The scientists studying the Scotchtown mastodon say the remains belonged to an adult animal. They plan to conduct further analyses using methods like carbon dating to determine how old the mastodon was when it died and determine more about its diet and habitat.While the jaw is the star of the show, the additional toe and rib fragments offer valuable context and the potential for additional research, Cory Harris, chair of SUNY Oranges behavioral sciences department, said in a statement. We are also hoping to further explore the immediate area to see if there are any additional bones that were preserved.Where Mastodon Fossils Still RoamMastodon bones have turned up in New Yorks Orange County since the beginning of the 19th century, when early farmers plowing soil once at the bottom of large lakes produced by melting glaciers began digging up bones. The fossil record, MacPhee said, shows that mastodons favored roaming near water, drawn by the abundance of plant species they liked to dine on.Fossils are resources that provide remarkable snapshots of the past, allowing us to not only reconstruct ancient ecosystems but also provide us with better context and understanding of the current world around us, Robert Feranec, director of research and collections and curator of Ice Age animals at the New York State Museum, said in a statement.The couple whose garden yielded the fascinating fossils prefers to remain anonymous out of concern publicity will draw unwanted crowds. Through the New York State Museum, however, they said theyre thrilled their property can play a role in scientific inquiry.The excavation site for the ancient jawbone found by homeowners beneath the grass in their New York ... [+] backyard.New York State Museum

What just happened? OpenAI is trying to make access to its artificial intelligence as inclusive as possible. By extending ChatGPT's reach to landlines and popular messaging platforms, the company is paving the way for broader adoption of its generative AI tool. In a move acknowledging that not everyone has or wants a smartphone, OpenAI has announced the expansion of ChatGPT's accessibility to landline phones.As of Wednesday afternoon, anyone in the United States can now engage with ChatGPT by dialing 1-800-242-8478 (1-800-CHATGPT), allowing users to interact with the AI assistant through voice conversations. The service offers a 15-minute free calling period, after which the call automatically terminates.You can now talk to ChatGPT by calling 1-800-ChatGPT (1-800-242-8478) in the U.S. or by sending a WhatsApp message to the same number available in all locations where ChatGPT is accessible.Comparisons between ChatGPT's new availability on landlines and its Advanced Voice Mode are not as direct as they might initially seem. While both features involve voice interactions with ChatGPT, they are separate implementations with some key differences. // Related StoriesAdvanced Voice Mode is a feature available to ChatGPT Plus, Pro, and Team subscribers through the ChatGPT mobile app and web interface. It uses more sophisticated technology, including GPT-4o, a natively multimodal model that can directly process and generate audio, allowing for more natural, real-time conversations.By contrast, the landline service focuses on basic functionality like answering questions and translating sentences. Absent are the advanced features of Advanced Voice Mode such as emotion recognition or multimodal capabilities.Simultaneously, OpenAI has added ChatGPT integration with WhatsApp, catering to users who prefer text-based interactions. Here too, this version offers a more basic experience compared to the official ChatGPT app. But as with the landline accessibility, it provides a way for WhatsApp users to access the AI assistant without needing to create a separate account.The WhatsApp integration comes with certain limitations, including a daily usage cap. Users will receive notifications as they approach this limit, at which point they can continue their interactions by downloading the ChatGPT app or using the desktop version.One significant constraint is the absence of group chat support, meaning ChatGPT cannot be added to WhatsApp group conversations.OpenAI has hinted at upcoming enhancements for the WhatsApp integration in a livestream announcing the two products, including image analysis and web search capabilities, though no specific timeline has been provided for these features.Interestingly, this expansion originated from a hack week project, according to OpenAI chief product officer Kevin Weil."The team built this just a few weeks ago, and we loved it, and they hustled really hard to ship it, and it's awesome to see it here," he said.

Something to look forward to: Valve confirmed plans to bring its SteamOS Linux distro to devices other than the Steam Deck over a year ago, but exactly when that will happen remains unclear. A recent announcement from Lenovo supports recent leaks indicating that the company will soon become the first OEM to back what has become a strong alternative to Windows for PC gaming. The Verge reports that Lenovo is inviting CES attendees to a handheld gaming showcase in cooperation with Valve. The press release has added fuel to speculation that Lenovo will soon reveal a successor to the Legion Go featuring the Steam Deck's operating system, signaling a potential move away from Windows for handheld gaming PCs.Lenovo will host a January 7 event called "Lenovo Legion x AMD: The Future of Gaming Handhelds," featuring Valve's Pierre-Loup Griffais, a key figure in the development of SteamOS and the Steam Deck. Lenovo is expected to unveil three rumored Legion Go revisions, one of which was recently pictured featuring a button with a Steam logo.While the button's precise function is unknown, the leak coincides with increasingly frequent signs that Valve will soon outline its plans to bring SteamOS to devices from other manufacturers. Last year, the company confirmed its aim to make the Linux distro available on various handheld gaming PCs before progressing to general availability.Recent branding guide updates indicate that Valve is preparing to support numerous devices running on SteamOS. Furthermore, leakers recently reported that the company could resume its attempts to sell console-style PCs.In contrast to Windows, which most portable PCs use, SteamOS enables users to manage games and system parameters with a relatively simple console-like interface. Valve's quality-of-life features also solve common PC gaming annoyances like driver updates and shader compilation. // Related StoriesJason Ronald, the VP of Xbox Gaming Devices and Ecosystem, who Lenovo calls Microsoft's "VP of Next Generation," will also attend Lenovo's event. Microsoft's presence is intriguing in light of the company's ongoing development of a handheld; however, Microsoft admits that the device's launch is years away.Lenovo's upcoming Legion Go variants are expected to feature AMD's Ryzen Z2 APU platform, which includes a Zen 4 CPU, a GenAI-capable NPU, and an RDNA 3.5 integrated GPU. The fastest member of the lineup, the Z2 Extreme, could provide substantial performance boosts compared to recently released handheld PCs.Image credit: Windows Central, Evan Blass, via The Verge