With so much buzz in the world of technology, it can be tough to keep up. Luckily we have you covered with this week’s round-up of the top headlines happening in tech and media from around the world. From MAX to Mario Bros and more, read on and stay connected!
Google Makes National Park-Going Easier with Latest Update
Going to the National Parks just got easier. Google has recently updated its Maps app to make national park visits easier to navigate for users. The update includes accurate trail information, restroom locations, and accessibility features for over 100 US national parks. By partnering with the National Park Service, Google aims to enhance the outdoor experience for visitors and encourage more people to explore nature. This new update is part of Google’s ongoing commitment to making Maps more helpful and inclusive for everyone, regardless of their abilities or interests.
Snapchat Lenses Land on Microsoft Teams
Microsoft Teams is introducing a new feature that allows users to access Snapchat lenses during video calls, adding an element of fun and creativity to virtual meetings. The integration is a result of a partnership between Microsoft and Snap, enabling the use of Snap Camera to apply various filters and lenses. The feature aims to make online meetings more engaging and interactive, allowing users to express themselves in different ways. Microsoft’s integration of Snapchat lenses is a step towards making the virtual meeting experience more entertaining while maintaining a professional environment.
Google TV Adds Over 800 Free Channels to Live Guide
Google TV is set to receive a significant update that will introduce a new Live Guide feature, allowing users to easily access live TV channels from free streaming services like Tubi, Plex, and Redbox. This update aims to streamline the browsing experience, making it simpler for users to find and watch live content without switching between multiple apps. The Live Guide will display a traditional grid-like TV guide interface, showcasing the available channels and currently playing shows. Google’s move to integrate live content from various sources into a single, unified interface highlights its efforts to improve user experience and attract more viewers to its platform.
Warner Bros. Discovery Debut’s MAX – The New Title for HBO Max
A new name has been announced for HBO Max. Warner Bros. Discovery will aim to offer a more extensive content library. Likewise, this will include a wider range of genres under MAX, the rebranded version of HBO Max. The rebranded platform will include titles from both Warner Bros. and Discovery’s vast collection. Of course, subscribers will have access to hit shows, movies, and documentaries under one roof. The merger between the two media giants is intended to create a more competitive streaming service in the face of rivals such as Netflix and Disney+. By consolidating its content libraries, Warner Bros. Discovery hopes to attract a larger audience and enhance the overall viewing experience for subscribers.
“It’s Mario”! – In the Library of Congress
The iconic Super Mario Bros. theme music has been added to the US Library of Congress. Likewise, the honor underscores the game’s cultural significance and impact on the gaming industry. Composed by Koji Kondo, the memorable tune is among 25 other recordings inducted into the National Recording Registry. The registry is a collection that preserves recordings with historical, cultural, or aesthetic importance. The Super Mario theme music has had a lasting influence on video game music composition and design. Its addition to the registry highlights the recognition of video games as a prominent part of modern culture and entertainment.
With New Employer Badges LinkedIn Gives Users the Verified Treatment
LinkedIn is introducing a new verification badge system. The verification system is designed to help users easily identify and verify the authenticity of profiles on the platform. This system aims to prevent impersonation and ensure that users are connecting with legitimate professionals. Unlike other social media platforms obtaining verification on LinkedIn will not require payment. Users can verify their workplace simply by using a company-issued email address or through Microsoft Entra. To verify personal identity, LinkedIn has collaborated with CLEAR. Likewise, By utilizing CLEAR and providing a US government-issued ID and US phone number, users can showcase their verified status on their LinkedIn profile. LinkedIn hopes to enhance trust and safety on the platform with this new feature.