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Welcome to the latest edition of our tech news blog, where we bring you the hottest updates in the technology world. This week, we’re delving into NBCUniversal shows, landing on Amazon’s Freevee, Instagram’s Threads, and more! Stick around for these exciting stories from the world of tech and media.

NBCUniversal Adds New Free Channels to Amazon’s Freevee

NBCUniversal has announced that it will make past seasons of shows such as Saturday Night Live, Keeping Up With the Kardashians, and Top Chef available on new free, ad-supported streaming TV (FAST) channels. The channels will be accessible on platforms like Amazon Freevee and Xumo Play starting this summer. These new channels will not only offer popular shows but also a range of entertainment, news, sports, and Spanish-language content, adding to NBCUniversal’s current offerings like Dateline 24/7 and NBC News Now. The viewing experience on FAST channels differs from traditional on-demand streaming services; for instance, viewers may not be able to start a show from the beginning or pause it. Despite these differences, platforms like Amazon Freevee remain popular for providing free, ad-supported content alongside other subscription-based services.

Oppo Leverages Sports Events such as Wimbledon to Expand into Europe and Globally

Chinese smartphone manufacturer Oppo has strategically utilized high-profile sports events like Wimbledon for brand exposure in the global market, especially in Europe. Despite being relatively unknown outside of China, Oppo has rapidly risen to the ranks of the top five global smartphone makers, demonstrating the increasing capability of Chinese manufacturers to create products with worldwide appeal. Oppo, unlike Apple, primarily drives sales through its affordable entry-level and midrange phones, shipping 27.4 million units in the first quarter of this year alone. However, while its local competitor Huawei grapples with US sanctions, Oppo seeks to evolve its image from a low-cost phone maker to a more upscale brand.

 

Redesign Video Showcases LED Evolution in Nothing Phone 2

The design of the upcoming Nothing Phone 2, due for release in a few weeks, was recently unveiled by YouTuber Marques Brownlee. In his reveal video, Brownlee compares the new design to the original Nothing Phone 1 launched in June 2022, highlighting the similar flat-sided aesthetic and light-up glyph design on the phone’s back. The notable alterations in the Nothing Phone 2 include a change in the rear cover color to gray and a significant evolution in LED design. The new phone features 33 LEDs, compared to the previous model’s 12, with 16 LEDs forming a long arc at the top of the back cover. This LED arc can be programmed to act as a progress bar for functions like volume control and timer, with plans to extend this functionality to third-party notifications.

Threads by Instagram: Updates on the New Rival to Twitter

With Twitter facing challenges under Elon Musk’s leadership, Instagram’s newly launched platform, Threads, is drawing attention as a potential substitute. Released on July 5th for iOS, Android, and the web, Threads emerged ahead of schedule, following months of speculation about Meta’s plans to explore a decentralized text-based social network. Instagram CEO Adam Mosseri spoke with The Verge about the company’s ambition to compete with Twitter, recognizing an opportunity to create a platform open to Instagram’s existing community. Threads, described as Instagram’s text conversation app, fosters community discussions on various topics and is closely integrated with Instagram, allowing users to utilize the same username and easily follow existing Instagram accounts.

Aqara’s Initial Matter Sensor for Doors and Windows Doubles as a Programmable Button

Aqara has released its first Matter-over-Thread sensor, the Door and Window Sensor P2, which is now available for purchase. This sensor, priced at $29.99 / £29.99 / €32.99, can integrate seamlessly into any Matter-enabled smart home without needing an Aqara hub. However, pairing the sensor with Aqara’s upcoming Hub M3 unlocks additional features, such as a built-in programmable button. The Door and Window Sensor P2 use a magnet to detect the opening and closing of doors or windows, contributing to various smart home automation. The sensor, powered by a large-capacity 1,400mAh CR123 battery, is discreet in design and compatible with any Matter-enabled Thread border router, facilitating integration with ecosystems like Amazon, Apple, and Google.

There is one thing Hollywood has no shortage of besides soundstages and that is camera shops. Whether you are experienced in snapping pics or just beginning, there is a camera shop for you in Los Angeles! In this week’s blog, we are sharing our favorite shots for the camera aficionado in you.

Samy’s Camera Shop

Samy Kamienowicz is a mainstay in the photo business for nearly 50 years and so is his Fairfax camera shop. Open in 1976, houses four stories of cameras, equipment, and essentials. What’s even better is that the team at Samy’s is well-equipped to answer any questions you may have.

Stray Angel Films

Founded in 2003 by Suren M. Seron, Stray Angel Films is a digital motion picture rental, production, and production services company. The camera shop serves as a completely integrated facility with the ability to provide professional studio services to a wide range of clients and production needs.

Leica Store and Gallery Los Angeles

While the Leica Store only carries one brand of camera, it’s definitely still worth a visit for the right film-capturing fanatic. The store itself is a high-end gallery of Leica’s latest and greatest camera models. Located in West Hollywood, the camera shop brings in patrons from all over the world. 

Wooden Camera

If you are looking for camera shops, and innovative camera accessories, look no further than Burbank’s Wooden Camera. The camera shop manufactures and retails innovative camera accessories aimed at improving the filmmaking experience. Including everything from ARRI to Cano, Wooden Camera offers accessories designed for a number of camera companies. 

Woodland Hills Camera & Telescopes

If you are a Woodland Hills local or happen to be in the area, this is the camera shop for you! The store offers a wide range of cameras, binoculars, telescopes, and related equipment.

As we welcome July and wave goodbye to the first half of the year, it’s a perfect time to pause and take stock of our homes. After all, our homes have been working hard, providing comfort and sanctuary throughout the year, and it’s only fair we show them some tender love and care. This mid-year home maintenance check will help ensure everything is in order, and your home is ready to gracefully transition into the second half of the year.

1. Check Your Air Conditioning

If you haven’t already, now is the time to give your air conditioning unit a thorough check. Clean or replace filters to ensure maximum efficiency, especially during the peak summer months when it’s working overtime. Consider scheduling a professional service if you haven’t had one recently. This proactive maintenance can save you from unexpected breakdowns and hefty repair costs.

2. Clean Out Gutters and Downspouts

Although this is typically a task associated with fall, the summer can also fill your gutters with debris, such as leaves and twigs. Blocked gutters can lead to water damage, which can be particularly problematic in heavy summer thunderstorms. Make sure your gutters are clear and water can flow freely with a mid-year check-up.

3. Inspect Your Roof

While you’re checking the gutters, take some time to inspect your roof. Look for signs of wear and tear, such as missing or loose shingles. Early detection of minor issues can save you from bigger problems, like leaks or water damage, later on.

4. Check Your Windows and Doors

Windows and doors are easy entry points for hot summer air. To keep your home cool and energy costs low, ensure that your windows and doors are well-sealed. Check for any drafts and consider re-caulking or adding weather-stripping where necessary.

5. Test Your Smoke Detectors and Carbon Monoxide Alarms

With the increased use of air conditioning units, grills, and other appliances during the summer months, it’s essential to ensure your smoke detectors and carbon monoxide alarms are working correctly. Test them and replace batteries if needed.

6. Preparing for Back-to-School Organization

If you have kids, July is a great time to start thinking about back-to-school organization. Create a designated area for schoolwork and homework. This could be a good time to declutter and donate items that your kids have outgrown or no longer use. Starting this task now can alleviate some of the rushes that inevitably come toward the end of summer.

Remember, preventive care is always less stressful and often less expensive than emergency repairs. A mid-year check can provide peace of mind, prepare you for the rest of the year, and ensure that your home remains the safe, comfortable haven it was meant to be.

Take a dive into the latest tech news with our weekly round-up of what’s happening across the web. From Vizio Updates GM Expansions and more, we have you covered. Read on for what’s going on in the world of tech and media.

Vizio is undertaking a significant upgrade to the software of its TVs

Vizio has revealed an extensive revamp of the home screen interface for its TVs. The update is set to be rolled out to models as far back as 2016. The company’s new interface presents a sleeker, more modern look than the existing SmartCast OS. The inspiration for the overhaul seems to draw heavily from the aesthetics of a streaming service. The user experience is further enhanced by including small badges on the cover art. In addition, details pages for shows and movies will now include Rotten Tomatoes scores and Common Sense Media parental guidance, as Vizio has announced. A notable feature of the Home Screen is its universal watchlist, capable of aggregating content from various entertainment apps. The improved, cohesive, and intuitive design of the Home Screen is a significant leap forward from the SmartCast OS.

Android TV Introduces a Tab for Movie Rentals and Purchases, Catering to Those Who Still Prefer This Method

As the streaming landscape grows, Android TV enhances its interface to accommodate users who still enjoy renting or purchasing movies. The platform is introducing a ‘Shop’ tab, which allows users to rent or buy movies on their Android TV directly. The new tab, which will also host a consolidated library of previously purchased content, aims to simplify the user experience in an increasingly fragmented streaming environment. This move by Google, which manages all purchases and rentals, raises questions about the future of its support for the Movies Anywhere service.

TikTok May Debut an E-commerce Platform Next Month

According to a report from Semafor, TikTok is preparing to launch an online store for its U.S. customers. This store would be integrated within the TikTok app, under an e-commerce tab, and would showcase a selection of curated items, as well as products listed through its current in-app shopping feature, TikTok Shop. The new feature could be launched as early as next month. TikTok’s strategy appears to be changing; instead of solely facilitating brands to sell products on the app, the company plans to purchase its own merchandise, such as toys and kitchen items, and handle the logistics and customer service itself. This move aligns with job listings spotted last year, suggesting TikTok’s ambition to establish a network of fulfillment centers in the U.S. to compete with companies like Amazon.

1Password Now Enables User Account Management within Its Apps

1Password has introduced in-app family account management, eliminating the previous need to manage user accounts exclusively through the web. As of Tuesday, “Family Organizers” can now administer user accounts associated with a 1Password Family membership directly from the macOS, Windows, Linux, and Android apps, as stated in a company blog post, with iOS support expected later this week. Within the app, administrators can now invite new members or guests to a 1Password Family account via the Manage Accounts section and keep track of the status of these invitations. Additionally, the app now displays information about connected user accounts’ statuses, including their access levels, recovery statuses, and the trusted devices and browsers linked to the family account, enhancing security monitoring capabilities.

GM Expands Its Portfolio with Home Energy Products to Complement Its EVs

GM Energy, a subsidiary of GM that specializes in selling batteries, charging equipment, solar panels, and software, has just unveiled its first range of energy management products under its residential business unit, Ultium Home. At launch, customers will have the option of three distinct product bundles, two of which leverage the bidirectional charging capabilities of some GM EVs, while the third is independent of owning an electric GM vehicle. The bidirectional V2H (vehicle-to-home) charging technology allows homeowners to use their parked GM EV as an emergency energy source for their homes during power outages. To this end, there are two Ultium Home kits: the V2H Bundle and Energy System Bundle. The Home Energy Storage Bundle caters to those looking to install stationary batteries without requiring an EV. This bundle includes GM’s PowerShift Charger, a V2H Enablement Kit, and GM’s PowerBank.

DoorDash Introduces Hourly Rates and Location Sharing Features for Couriers

DoorDash is revolutionizing its payment model for couriers by introducing the option to earn an hourly rate in addition to tips. This represents a significant change from the current model, which calculates base pay based on factors such as time, distance, and desirability of an order. However, not all orders will offer the hourly rate option. Moreover, DoorDash is implementing a location-sharing feature, allowing couriers to share their real-time location with up to five contacts. This feature enhances couriers’ safety by enabling their close ones to track their whereabouts and potentially provide emergency assistance if necessary. The company is also introducing a “Dash Along the Way” feature, allowing couriers to pick up orders en route to a specific destination, and a post-checkout tipping option for customers to add or increase tips, incentivizing better tipping practices.

We’ve scoured the best destinations and activities, ensuring that your 4th of July weekend is filled with fun, fireworks, and fantastic memories. Whether you’re looking for parades, festivals, concerts, or fireworks displays, we’ve got you covered with the most exciting events happening near you. Get ready to paint the town red, white, and blue with these thrilling weekend suggestions for an epic Independence Day celebration.

Los Angeles Weekend Events | 4th of July Edition

Boat Cinema

When: Until September 9

Where: Lake Castaic | Los Angeles

What: Experience the unique Boat Cinema this summer at Castaic Lake, where movie screenings occur directly on the water every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. Whether you choose to rent an electric mini boat for up to five people or enjoy the movie from the shore, you can look forward to watching classic films like The Sandlot and Armageddon over the holiday weekend. Don’t miss this one-of-a-kind cinematic experience surrounded by the scenic beauty of Castaic Lake.

July 4th Fireworks Spectacular at the Hollywood Bowl

When: July 2 – July 4

Where: The Hollywood Bowl

What: Join the summer extravaganza at the Hollywood Bowl, where the iconic Beach Boys will take the stage for a dazzling fireworks-filled event. Grab your favorite bottle of wine and enjoy the show from your seat (starting at $29) or opt for a spot further back and stay for the stunning post-concert pyrotechnics that will take place after all three dates. Experience the perfect blend of music and pyro in this unforgettable celebration.

Fourth of July Block Party

When: July 4

Where: Downtown LA

What: Celebrate Independence Day with an affordable and vibrant experience at Grand Park in Downtown L.A. Instead of traditional fireworks, the park will amaze spectators with a mesmerizing drone show. Enjoy the free festivities, including a lively block party with delectable food truck offerings and live music performances on two stages, creating an unforgettable Fourth of July celebration.

Westside & Beach Communities Weekend Events | 4th of July Edition

July 4th Fireworks in Marina del Rey

When: July 4

Where: Burton Chace Park, Fisherman’s Village, or Mother’s Beach

What: Immerse yourself in the enchanting tradition of fireworks over the ocean at Marina del Rey. As the vibrant explosions light up the sky above the marina channel, spectators gather in anticipation at various locations, including Burton Chace Park, Fisherman’s Village, Marina “Mother’s” Beach, waterfront hotels, restaurants, and even from boats. Be sure to arrive early and secure a spot in the area’s county lots to fully enjoy the approximately 20-minute fireworks display, starting at 9pm.

Pacific Palisades Fourth of July Parade

When: July 4 

Where: Pacific Palisades

What: Head over to the picturesque Palisades for a spectacular beach-themed Independence Day celebration. The festivities commence with a thrilling WWII fighter plane flyover at 2pm, marking the start of a lively parade featuring baton twirlers and marching trombonists along Sunset Boulevard. Don’t miss the early evening concert, followed by a breathtaking fireworks display at Palisades Charter High School at 9pm (tickets required) to make this Fourth of July an unforgettable experience.

Huntington Beach Fourth of July Celebration

When: June 30 – July 4

Where: Huntington Beach

What: Turn your Fourth of July into an unforgettable day of celebration at the iconic and time-honored festival held at Huntington Beach Pier. Start with a thrilling 5K run and fitness expo, then join the parade to the beach, where the four-day Pier Plaza Festival awaits. Enjoy live entertainment, engaging family activities, and a wide array of delicious all-American food options. Secure a prime spot or indulge in a VIP seat to witness the spectacular fireworks display at 9 pm, culminating in a breathtaking 500-round finale.

 

San Fernando Valley Weekend Events | 4th of July Edition

Universal Studios Hollywood 4th of July Celebration 

When: July 4

Where: Universal Studios | Universal City

What: Experience an awe-inspiring Fourth of July celebration at Universal Studios, where a magnificent pyrotechnic display takes center stage. Be mesmerized as the fireworks light up the sky, perfectly synchronized with a captivating mix of Universal-themed music and patriotic favorites. While exact details for 2023 are forthcoming, previous years have included festive decorations and the delightful addition of a fife and drum band. To catch the best views, make your way to Universal Plaza in the upper lot or near the Transformers ride in the lower lot, as visibility from CityWalk is likely to be limited or non-existent.

L.A. Galaxy vs. LAFC (Rose Bowl Fireworks)

When: July 4th

Where: The Rose Bowl

What: Celebrate Independence Day with an exciting MLS match between L.A. Galaxy and LAFC, relocated to the iconic Rose Bowl in Pasadena. Despite the cancellation of AmericaFest, the match promises to be a thrilling substitute, followed by a spectacular fireworks display launched from the nearby Brookside Golf Course, providing a memorable evening of sports and entertainment on July 4th.

Burbank 4th of July Fireworks Display

When: July 4

Where: Starlight Bowl | Burbank

What: Get ready for an incredible Fourth of July celebration at Burbank’s Starlight Bowl, featuring thrilling performances by tribute bands honoring Bruce Springsteen and U2. The evening culminates with breathtaking fireworks show around 9pm. If you prefer alternative programming but still want to enjoy the pyrotechnics, head over to Castaway, located just across the canyon, which typically offers designated seating for fireworks viewing and stunning views of the Valley.

 

Conejo Valley Weekend Events | 4th of July Edition

Celebrate America’s Birthday at the Stagecoach Inn Museum 

When: July 1, 1pm – 4pm

Where: Stagecoach Inn Museum | Newbury Park

What: Join in the festive celebration of America’s 246th birthday at the Stagecoach Inn. Experience a delightful event filled with old-time children’s games, crafts, live music, and exciting prizes, commemorating both Independence Day and the historical opening of the Grand Union Hotel (also known as Stagecoach Inn) in July 1876. Explore the museum complex indoors and outdoors while enjoying complimentary ice cream (available while supplies last) and engaging in craft-making activities.

Independence Parade in Carpinteria

When: July 1, 3:30pm – 4:30pm

Where: Linden Avenue, Linden Ave, Carpinteria

What: The 26th Annual Rods & Roses Car Show is planned for 10 am to 2 pm. It will take place on Saturday, July 1, 2023, in downtown Carpinteria. Following the car show is the annual Carpinteria Independence Parade at 3:30 pm.

City of Thousand Oaks 4th of July Home Run Derby

When: July 4, 8:30am – 10:30am

Where: Borchard Park

What: Don’t miss the impressive 4th of July Fireworks Spectacular, presented by the Conejo Recreation and Park District, The City of Thousand Oaks, and local sponsors. Witness the breathtaking fireworks display at 9 p.m. Enjoy with optimal viewing spots available at Janss Marketplace, The Oaks Mall parking lots, and the surrounding areas. Enjoy the patriotic music synchronized with the show, simulcast by KHAY 100.7 FM, for an immersive and memorable experience.

Welcome to our tech news blog! In this edition, we bring you exciting updates from Spotify and the latest Meta Quest 2 news. Stay tuned for all the highlights from this week’s leading tech news.

Meta Enhances the Performance of its Quest 2 and Pro Headsets

Meta announced an update that will enhance the performance of its Quest 2 and Pro VR headsets. The Quest 3 is set for release in September. The new Quest 2 v55 update, which Meta is currently rolling out, increases the GPU speed by 19% for Quest 2 and 11% for Quest Pro while also providing up to a 26% performance boost in CPU power for both headsets. As a result, users should experience smoother game performance on the Quest 2, more responsive system UI, and Dynamic Resolution Scaling for improved pixel density at consistent frame rates. Developers can update their games and apps to harness these performance gains, as demonstrated by a sample video from “The Walking Dead: Saints and Sinners” shared in Meta’s blog post.

Opera Unveils Revamped Browser Featuring an AI Assistant

Opera has introduced Opera One, a revamped version of its browser featuring an AI-powered chatbot named Aria. Much like Microsoft Edge’s Bing chatbot, Aria is integrated into Opera’s sidebar, allowing users to generate text, code, and brainstorm ideas, among other things. Powered by Opera’s Composer AI engine and OpenAI’s GPT model, Aria can be accessed by simply clicking its icon on the screen after creating an Opera account. Despite its capabilities, Aria lacks the conversation style selection and one-click options for tone, format, and length found in the Edge assistant.

Discord Intends to Enable Creators to Sell Downloadable Goods

Discord is planning to introduce a new monetization avenue for creators through the sale of digital products, known as “Downloadables,” such as ebooks, gaming guides, and digital wallpapers. These products will be purchasable from a Server Shop, which is currently under testing. This move, expected to roll out in the coming months, adds to Discord’s existing server subscription methods for creator monetization. Alongside this, Discord is enhancing its server subscriptions by introducing tier templates to simplify the decision-making process regarding subscription offerings. Furthermore, Discord has launched a new type of channel, ‘Media Channels’. The channel focuses on videos, photos, and files, making the platform increasingly attractive for community building.

Unseen Fitness Features Reportedly Exist for Apple’s Vision Pro

Apple’s Vision Pro headset has not yet revealed its potential fitness applications. A report by The Information indicates that Apple has been contemplating workout apps for the mixed reality headset. The features were not ready at the time of its June launch. The company reportedly considered partnerships with Nike for creating Vision Pro workouts. In addition, they explored ideas for interactive stationary bike content and face cushions designed for high-intensity workouts. Unveiled wellness apps include a meditation app and rumored yoga and tai chi apps. 

Patreon to Introduce Free Membership Tier and Enable Purchases for Fans

Patreon is set to introduce a free subscription option. The option would enable creators to offer fans a taste of their content without an upfront payment. This move is in response to platforms like TikTok and Instagram, which increasingly incorporate paywalls and subscription features. According to Julian Gutman, Patreon’s chief product officer, reducing initial barriers can lead to increased conversion rates. This free subscription tier could help creators reach a broader audience. Likewise, offering them the option to share public content and gain access to Patreon’s suite of tools. Furthermore, creators can also sell one-off digital products. The products include videos, podcasts, and other downloadable files.

Spotify Revamps the Design of its Desktop Application

Spotify has unveiled a redesigned desktop app aimed at providing easier access to song and podcast details. In addition, they have also improved playlist organization. The revamp, described as one of Spotify’s most significant overhauls, is being rolled out to all desktop users globally. The Your Library sidebar has undergone a major change. The library now features colorful icons and displays recently played artists and albums alongside playlists. Users can customize the sidebar layout and filter their library. Additionally, Spotify has introduced a Now Playing view on the right side of the screen. The update showcases additional information, such as tour dates, merchandise, episode descriptions, and transcripts.

Los Angeles, known worldwide as a mecca of the entertainment industry, is also a treasure trove of world-class museums and galleries that house stunning collections of art, history, and culture. Whether you are a passionate art enthusiast or simply a curious traveler, Los Angeles offers a variety of venues where you can witness humanity’s creative brilliance. In this blog post, we’ll take you on a cultural journey through some of the must-visit museums and galleries in Los Angeles.

1. The Getty Center

No list of LA’s museums would be complete without mentioning the iconic Getty Center. Set atop a hill in Brentwood, it offers spectacular views of the city and the ocean. The museum boasts an extensive collection of European paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts. Don’t forget to take a stroll in the magnificent Central Garden, an artwork in itself.

2. Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA)

As the largest art museum in the western United States, LACMA’s collection includes over 150,000 works spanning the history of art from ancient times to the present. From the monolithic “Urban Light” installation at the museum’s entrance to the comprehensive collections of Latin American and Asian art, LACMA offers a diverse and inclusive experience.

3. The Broad

The Broad is a contemporary art museum in Downtown LA, home to nearly 2,000 works of postwar and contemporary art. With its striking honeycomb-like exterior, it showcases the personal collection of philanthropists Eli and Edythe Broad. The museum provides free general admission, making art accessible to all.

4. Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA)

Located near the Broad, MOCA is another must-visit for contemporary art lovers. It houses one of the most compelling collections of contemporary art in the world, featuring works from the 1940s through today. The museum has three distinct venues: MOCA Grand Avenue, The Geffen Contemporary at MOCA, and MOCA Pacific Design Center.

5. Hammer Museum

Affiliated with UCLA, the Hammer Museum offers a dynamic, multidisciplinary look at art and culture. With a focus on artists who challenge the status quo, the museum hosts exhibitions, lectures, screenings, and performances that explore the depth and diversity of artistic expression.

6. Norton Simon Museum

Located in Pasadena, the Norton Simon Museum is home to a remarkable private art collection. Works range from European paintings to Asian sculptures, including pieces from masters like Picasso, Rembrandt, and Degas. The museum also features a beautiful sculpture garden.

7. The Annenberg Space for Photography

This unique space in Century City focuses solely on photography. The Annenberg Space for Photography features both digital and print works, providing a platform for photographers to showcase their creativity and technique. Its exhibits rotate several times a year, so there’s always something new to see.

With its rich diversity and cultural offerings, Los Angeles is undoubtedly a haven for art lovers. The city’s museums and galleries promote understanding and appreciation for various cultures and histories. Whether you’re an art aficionado or simply someone looking for an enriching experience, Los Angeles’ art scene is sure to leave you inspired and enlightened.