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Stay connected in the world of technology and media with our weekly wrap-up of the latest headlines from across the web. In this week’s blog, we dive into what’s new from Meta Avatars to Apple AI changes and more! Read on for tech news happening this week.

Meta Introduces Enhanced Body Forms and Upgraded Hair for Avatars

Meta announced on Thursday that it is enhancing its avatars with new body shapes, as well as improved hair and clothing textures. The update includes a wider selection of body shapes, refined existing options, and increased detail for hair and clothing. Although the enhancements aim to help users better represent themselves on Meta’s Horizon Worlds VR social platform, avatars will still lack visible legs. The improvements will be more noticeable in stickers, profile pictures, cover photos, and other non-VR elements.

Google Meet Now Offers 1080p Video Call Support

Google Meet has introduced 1080p video call support for paying subscribers, including select Workspace and Google One users. The high-resolution video calls are only available on the web version of Google Meet and require a compatible webcam and sufficient bandwidth. Users can enable the feature through the video feed settings. This upgrade brings Google Meet in line with competitors like Zoom and Microsoft Teams, which already offer 1080p video call support. Applicable plans include various Workspace, Education, Enterprise Essentials, and Frontline packages, as well as Google One plans with at least 2TB of storage.

Apple Allegedly Developing a Premium AI Health Coach

Apple is reportedly developing a paid AI-driven health coaching service called “Quartz” to help users improve exercise, sleep, and eating habits, according to Bloomberg. The service, set to launch next year, will use data from the Apple Watch to create personalized coaching programs. Other health initiatives include a dedicated Health app for the iPad, an emotion tracker, and features for users with nearsightedness. These efforts expand Apple’s health-focused offerings, such as the Fitness Plus service. The company’s rumored mixed reality headset may also support Fitness Plus and include a meditation app. 

WhatsApp Introduces Multi-Phone Support for Single Account

WhatsApp is extending its multi-device feature to allow users to access their accounts on multiple smartphones. The new feature is set to be available to all users in the coming weeks. To set up a secondary phone, users can install the app, select “link to an existing account,” and scan the QR code. This functionality is compatible with both iOS and Android devices. WhatsApp’s new feature benefits small businesses by allowing multiple employees to use the same business number on different phones. It is also helpful for users with multiple smartphones linked to a single account. 

As April comes to a close, we’re ending the month on a fun note with a bevy of weekend events. Check out what’s happening in your neighborhood from April 28 through April 30!

Los Angeles Weekend Events | April 28 – April 30

Pizza City Fest

When: April 29 – April 30

Where: South Park

What: Celebrate: a two-day extravaganza focused on everything pizza-related is appearing at L.A. Live. Taste offerings from over 35 unique vendors, witness live dough demonstrations and learn from pizza authorities such as Mother Wolf’s Evan Funke and culinary author and pizza creator Karen Palmer. A significant number of Time Out’s top-ranked pizzerias in the city will be present, featuring Pizzana, Quarter Sheets, and Apollonia’s.

Bob Baker Day

When: April 30

Where: Chinatown

What: Honoring the memory of the late Bob Baker, the eponymous puppet theater organizes this yearly event at Los Angeles State Historic Park. This complimentary festival, taking place from 10 am to 5 pm, showcases puppet shows all day long, as well as a diverse array of crafts and activities that typically encompass elements like bubbles, balloons, and music.

Willie Nelson’s 90th

When: April 29 and April 30

Where: Hollywood Bowl

What: Country icon Willie Nelson is turning 90, and a star-studded lineup of predominantly country artists will grace the Hollywood Bowl in celebration. On April 29 and 30, the renowned American songwriter will headline a two-night show featuring a myriad of talents, including Allison Russell, Beck, Kacey Musgraves, Neil Young, and Snoop Dogg, among others. This impressive roster will come together to pay tribute to the legendary Willie Nelson.

Westside & Beach Communities Weekend Events | April 28 – April 30

Renegade Craft Fair

When: April 29 – April 30 

Where: Santa Monica

What: Crafters who genuinely value their skills in cashmere yarn are well aware that Renegade Craft Fair sets the standard for all other fairs. In major urban centers across the nation, Renegade is a community-oriented marketplace featuring creations from hundreds of top-notch independent contemporary craft artists. In addition to the merchandise, Renegade provides many homemade DIY entertainment and activities, such as workshops and demonstrations, complimentary photo booths, and a wide array of delectable food trucks.

Dog Walking Hours at South Coast Botanic Garden

When: April 30

Where: South Coast Botanical Gardens

What: Do you and your furry companion seem inseparable lately? Strengthen that bond further during this pet-friendly event series at Palos Verdes’ South Coast Botanic Garden. On every third Sunday, you and your canine buddy can explore the garden’s 87 acres together. As a human, you’ll need a reservation, while your four-legged friend must stay leashed at all times, even in the parking lot.

World of Barbie

When: Until June 30

Where: Downtown Santa Monica

What: For those not living in a pink-and-purple Santa Monica beach house, the World of Barbie-themed pop-up at Santa Monica Place offers a chance to experience the Barbie dream. This traveling 20,000-square-foot exhibit features rooms and photo opportunities inspired by the Mattel icon, such as a life-size Barbie Dreamhouse, a full-size Camper Van, a salon, a fashion studio, a TV studio, and a movie theater.

 

San Fernando Valley Weekend Events | April 28 – April 30

Montrose Craft Beer Fest-2023

When: April 30

Where: 2200 Honolulu Ave | Glendale

What: In celebration, the Montrose~Verdugo City Chamber of Commerce is proud to present its 8th Annual Montrose Craft Beer Fest Sunday, April 30th. Showcasing local brewers and breweries around the greater LA Area, you won’t want to miss this! Attendees will get to taste-test some of the best local Brewers and the essential characteristics that define and differentiate their craft.

San Fernando Valley Food and Wine Festival

When: April 29

Where: Los Angeles Mission College

What: Join this gourmet journey through the Los Angeles street food scene. Bites will be prepared by the chefs and students from LAMC’s award-winning Culinary Arts Institute and paired with a thoughtful selection of wines by Vinos Unidos Wine Club. Vegan options will be available.

The 10th Annual Special Needs Resource Fair

When: April 10

Where: The Help Group’s Autism Center | Sherman Oaks

What: Don’t miss the 10th Annual Special Needs Resource Fair. This is an opportunity for parents and professionals to discover the wonderful resources that Los Angeles has to offer its special needs community.

 

Conejo Valley Weekend Events | April 28 – April 30

Santa Barbara Fair & Expo

When: Thursday, Apr 27, 2023

Where: Earl Warren Showgrounds, Santa Barbara

What: The 2023 Annual Santa Barbara Fair and Expo will take place from April 26 to 30 at the Earl Warren Showgrounds in Santa Barbara. This exciting event offers carnival rides, farm animals, fair food, live entertainment, over 30 rides and attractions, a petting zoo, a kids’ carnival, an expo showcasing local foods, arts and crafts, and interactive exhibits.

Living History Day 

When: Sat, April 29, 12pm – 4pm

Where: 720 Las Posas Rd, Camarillo

What: The Pleasant Valley Historical Society and Museum will have a Living History Day on Saturday, April 29 from noon to 4:00 pm at Community Center Park on the corner of Carmen and Burnley Streets in Camarillo. There will be a variety of activities for children and adults.

 

Autism Society of Ventura County Aut2Run Charity Race

When: Sun, April 30, 7am – 11am

Where: California State University Channel Islands, Camarillo

What: The Autism Society of Ventura County presents its 11th Annual “Aut2Run!” charity race at California State University Channel Islands on April 30, 2023. The event includes a variety of races, such as a 10K trail run, 5K Run/Walk, 15K “Hero Run”, 1-mile walk/run, and a Fun-K, catering to competitive runners, casual walkers, families, and the community. Proceeds support the Autism Society of Ventura County, a non-profit organization dedicated to improving the lives of those affected by autism.

Spring is the perfect time to roll up your sleeves and get your hands dirty as you venture into the world of gardening. Whether you have a small balcony, a modest backyard, or a sprawling plot of land, you can start your own spring garden with a little planning, preparation, and patience. In this blog post, we’ll cover the basics of gardening for beginners and provide you with the essential tips and tricks to help your spring garden flourish.

Choose the right location

Before you start planting, it’s essential to choose the right location for your garden. Most plants need at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight per day to thrive. Look for a spot that has well-draining soil, and consider placing your garden near a water source for easy access when watering.

Plan your garden layout

Once you’ve picked the perfect spot, start planning your garden layout. Consider factors like plant size, growth habits, and companion planting to make the most of your available space. Sketch out your plan on paper or use a garden planning app to help you visualize your future garden.

Prepare the soil

Healthy soil is the foundation of any successful garden. Start by clearing your garden area of weeds, rocks, and debris. Then, test your soil’s pH level and nutrient content with a soil testing kit. Based on the results, amend your soil with organic matter like compost, manure, or peat moss to improve its fertility and structure.

Select the right plants

When choosing plants for your spring garden, consider your region’s climate, the amount of sunlight your garden receives, and the plants’ mature size. Opt for a mix of annuals, perennials, and edibles to create a visually appealing and functional garden. Check your local nursery or garden center for recommended varieties that grow well in your area.

Plant at the right time

Timing is crucial when planting your spring garden. Research the best time to plant your chosen varieties based on your region’s last frost date. Start seeds indoors or purchase seedlings from a local nursery to get a head start on the growing season.

Water and fertilize wisely

Proper watering and fertilization are essential for a thriving garden. Water your plants early in the morning or late in the afternoon to minimize evaporation. Be sure to water deeply and consistently, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings. Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer or organic compost to provide the necessary nutrients for healthy growth.

Practice proper plant care

Regular maintenance is key to a successful spring garden. Prune and deadhead your plants to promote new growth, and keep an eye out for pests and diseases. Remove any infected or infested plants promptly to prevent the spread of issues throughout your garden.

Enjoy the fruits of your labor

As your garden grows, take time to appreciate and enjoy your efforts. Harvest your edible plants when they’re ripe, and use them in fresh, homemade recipes. Don’t forget to stop and smell the flowers along the way – gardening is a labor of love, and you deserve to relish in its rewards.

Starting a spring garden can be an incredibly rewarding experience for beginners and experienced gardeners alike. With these tips and a little dedication, you’ll be well on your way to creating a beautiful, bountiful garden that will bring joy and sustenance throughout the season. Happy gardening!

From luxury EV news to Apple’s VR headset and more, we’re diving into this week’s tech news. Stay connected with our bite-size version of the latest headlines in the world of technology. Read on for what you want to know in the world of tech!

Google Fi Rebrands and Enhances Connectivity Options for Smartwatches

Google Fi is rebranding itself as Google Fi Wireless and introducing new features to enhance its offerings. The updated name provides clearer identification of Google’s lesser-known wireless carrier, while additional benefits are being introduced for subscribers. One significant change involves smartwatches; Google Fi Wireless now supports Samsung’s Watch 5 and the Pixel Watch, extending smartwatch support to the Simply Unlimited plan. Previously, this was only available on the Unlimited Plus and Flexible plans. All three plans now include smartwatch connections at no extra cost, enabling devices to remain connected without a phone. Although device options are still limited, with no Apple Watch support, Google Fi Wireless sets itself apart by not charging additional fees for smartwatch connectivity, unlike its competitors.

The Latest on Apple’s Potential VR Headset

For nearly a decade, people have speculated about Apple’s potential entry into the virtual and augmented reality headset market, and 2023 might finally be the year for its debut. The company is expected to announce the VR headset at its Worldwide Developers Conference in June. Although never officially confirmed, various reports suggest the device may be called “Reality Pro,” a mixed-reality device offering both virtual and augmented reality experiences. Users can reportedly switch between AR and VR through a digital crown-style dial, with features such as eye and hand tracking, an xrOS operating system supporting FaceTime calls, Apple Books, gaming, and an external battery pack. The rumored price point for the Reality Pro is around $3,000.

Elon Musk Reveals Tesla Cybertruck Launch Event for Q3 2023

Tesla’s highly anticipated Cybertruck delivery event is set for the third quarter of 2023. With production slated to begin this summer, over three years since its initial reveal, Musk highlighted that volume production will only commence next year due to the truck’s radical design and manufacturing process. Specifics regarding range and unique features will be disclosed during the hand-off event, but Musk confidently asserts that the Cybertruck is an “incredible product” and a “Hall of Famer.” One major cause for delay stems from the decision to use stainless steel, which is costlier and requires special welding techniques. Additionally, even seemingly minor components, such as windshield wipers, demand custom fabrication due to the vehicle’s distinctive design.

Snapchat Unveils Free Access to AI Chatbot for All Users

Snap is making its OpenAI-powered “My AI” chatbot freely available to all 750 million monthly Snapchat users. This follows the initial release to over 3 million paid subscribers. The chatbot allows users to add it to group chats using the @ symbol, customize its appearance with a Bitmoji avatar, and receive AR filters and location recommendations. Soon, users will be able to send visual messages to My AI and receive generated responses. Snap CEO Evan Spiegel views technology as a powerful creative tool. Currently, My AI facilitates more than 2 million daily chats.

Range Rover Set to Launch Midsize All-Electric SUV in 2025

Jaguar Land Rover (JLR) plans to invest £15 billion ($18.7 billion) in electric and autonomous vehicle technology. The intention of the project is to become an “electric first, modern luxury carmaker” by 2030. As part of this strategy, the company will release its first midsize all-electric Range Rover in 2025. Built on JLR’s electrified modular architecture (EMA), the vehicle marks a significant step for the Tata Motors-owned automaker. To date, JLR’s only fully electric vehicle is the Jaguar I-Pace SUV. Starting in 2024, Jaguar will introduce a new lineup of EVs, to be assembled at its Solihull factory.