Month: July 2024
Nebraska could be the first state to revise gambling laws in 2024
The State of Nebraska could be the first U.S. state to revise its stance on gambling rules. No other jurisdiction… Continue reading Nebraska could be the first state to revise gambling laws in 2024
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The State of Nebraska could be the first U.S. state to revise its stance on gambling rules.
No other jurisdiction across 2024 has made any state-wide changes to how gambling operators are permitted to offer their services. New bills tabled by Nebraska legislators, could, however, make the Cornhusker state the first across this year.
Nebraska debates 2024 gambling rules
Nebraska currently has restrictive rules when it comes to the legality of sports betting and daily fantasy markets. This could change as the debate surrounding the new bills (LB13 and LR3CA) is driven by the expensive property taxes that are currently in place in the state.
According to LB13, “The Legislature finds that Nebraska relies more heavily on local property taxes to support public education compared to other states and consistently ranks in the top ten among all states in terms of per capita property tax burden on its citizens.”
Those in favor of the new legislation would, they argue, significantly lessen the stress on the wallets of the state’s residents. This would be possible through a proposed property tax relief program.
The LB13 legislature stresses it’s “important to authorize and impose a tax upon the gross gaming of sports wagering through an online sports wagering platform to create a property tax relief program to reduce the tax liability of property taxes paid to support public education.”
Governor Jim Pillen called the special session to debate the proposed tax relief process through LB13 and LR3CA. According to the Nebraska legislature’s official news source, Senator Eliot Bostar bolstered the support of new gambling taxes.
The update stated, that Senator Bostar proposed the bill to “change the distribution of taxes collected from sports wagering and change requirements relating to proposals for constitutional amendments submitted by the Legislature.”
Nebraskan residents to decide gambling fate
Nebraskans are finding a way to illegally bet inside the confines of the state, however. So this untapped tax figure has legislators worried that they are missing out on a steady stream of income.
This can be seen in the 4.5 million attempts that were shut down by GeoComply from July 2023 through June 2024. The geofence maintained by the company enforces existing legislation that prohibits the betting of online gaming and sports betting.
Regardless of the stances of Governor Pillen and Senator Bostar, the people of Nebraska will decide the fate of gaming and gambling rights. They must be the voice of change if taxes are to change across the state alongside the lessening of existing gambling restrictions.
Image: Ideogram
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Delta CEO Says CrowdStrike-Microsoft Outage Cost the Airline $500 Million
Delta Air Lines CEO Ed Bastian said the massive IT outage earlier this month that stranded thousands of customers will cost it $500 million. From a report: Bastian said the figure is representative of not just the lost revenue, but “the tens of millions of dollars per day in compensation and hotels” over a period of five days. The airline canceled more than 4,000 flights in the wake of the outage, which was caused by a botched CrowdStrike software update and took thousands of Microsoft systems around the world offline. The company had to manually reset 40,000 servers, Bastian said. Further reading: Delta Seeks Damages From CrowdStrike, Microsoft After Outage.
Read more of this story at Slashdot.
Delta Air Lines CEO Ed Bastian said the massive IT outage earlier this month that stranded thousands of customers will cost it $500 million. From a report: Bastian said the figure is representative of not just the lost revenue, but “the tens of millions of dollars per day in compensation and hotels” over a period of five days. The airline canceled more than 4,000 flights in the wake of the outage, which was caused by a botched CrowdStrike software update and took thousands of Microsoft systems around the world offline. The company had to manually reset 40,000 servers, Bastian said. Further reading: Delta Seeks Damages From CrowdStrike, Microsoft After Outage.
Read more of this story at Slashdot.
Microsoft is the most commonly imitated company in phishing scams
Microsoft is the most commonly imitated phishing target in 2024 – here’s what to look out for.
Check Point Research (CPR) has released new research examining the biggest phishing scams in the second quarter of 2024.
CPR’s ranking puts Microsoft as the most frequently imitated, appearing in a staggering 57% of messages, with Apple rising to second place with 10%.
There were also several new entries in the top 10 list, with Instagram, WhatsApp, and Adidas accounting for a combined 2.3% of threats.
Growing threats
Tech remains the most impersonated industry, with critical service providers a popular target due to often storing sensitive information such as financial information and personal data.
When impersonating Microsoft, cybercriminals will most commonly fabricate a threat to your device which needs fraud protection software to be downloaded, and ask you to follow a link or attachment. Fraudulent emails also regularly include ‘Message Failure Delivery’ notices, looking to prompt users to follow a link to a website which closely resembles the Outlook login page, tricking users into giving away their login credentials.
Similarly, Apple impersonators will often claim that a user’s Apple ID has been locked or compromised, and will encourage users to follow their own link to log in to a mock login page.
Retail based phishing scams often present as fraudulent purchasing sites resembling the brand, and aim to get users to enter their payment details.
Staying alert
Phishing attacks are designed to panic users into acting quickly to follow their instructions, leading you to a fraudulent site to enter your account details.
“Phishing attacks remain one of the most pervasive cyber threats and are often the entry point for much larger scale campaigns [in] a supply chain,” warned Data Group Manager at Check Point Software, Omer Dembinsky.
Dembinsky advises users to always avoid clicking on unsolicited links, to thoroughly verify email addresses, and to use Multi Factor Authentication. If you believe you have been sent a phishing scam, UK users can forward them to the police at Action Fraud on report@phishing.gov.uk.
Acting quickly is key if you believe you have fallen victim to the scam, contacting your bank and opening an investigation into any suspicious activity.
More from TechRadar Pro
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Olympic surfer Gabriel Medina’s 2024 viral photo was captured with a Nikon Z9 – here’s how
One of four shots taken by French photographer Jerome Brouillet with a Nikon Z9 of the moment surf star Gabriel Medina broke Olympic surfing records will go down in history.
It is already being touted as what will be the best photo of the 2024 Olympic Games: the seconds after surf star Gabriel Medina has ridden the biggest wave of the day in Teahupoo, Tahiti, to secure the largest-ever individual surfing score in Olympic history – a moment immortalized by French photographer Jerome Brouillet.
Yet it’s not the photo of Medina inside the barrel of the wave doing his thing that went viral, but when he exited the wave, celebrating the feat with an eye-catching kick-out, a moment that photographer Brouillet was ready for.
The almost surreal but entirely real photo of Medina nonchalantly floating in the air, aligned perfectly alongside his surfboard, has millions of likes on Medina’s Instagram and will go down not just in Olympic, but in surfing history too. But how did all the elements combine to make this photo, and how did Brouillet capture it?
“Preparation, devotion, timing, and a touch of luck”
In keeping with the sport, the story behind the incredible photo is actually more about feeling than technical elements. However, for the technically minded, we know Brouillet shoots with a Nikon Z9, one of the best cameras for photography.
And despite the speedy Nikon Z9’s ability to shoot at a rate of 20fps in RAW and JPEG format with continuous autofocus and autoexposure, which can be upped to 120fps when shooting cropped JPEGs, the viral image was, in fact, one of only four photos of Medina catapulted into the air.
In humble fashion, Brouillet says that capturing the moment was a matter of “preparation, devotion, timing, some experience and a touch of luck.”
As you can see in a short sequence of images shared by Brouillet on Instagram (above), he had been photographing Medina surfing the gigantic wave. But even when the surfing action had finished, Brouillet knew his job wasn’t done.
Brouillet is an experienced surfing photographer who has done his homework: Medina is known for exciting tricks, like the now infamous superhero-like kick-out, and Brouillet was primed to capture it.
“I and the other photographers on the boat were supposing he [Medina] was going to make a kick-out, and that’s what he did. He is at the back of the wave, and I can’t see him, and then he pops up, and I took four pictures, and one of them was this one. It was not hard to take the picture. It was more about anticipating the moment and where Gabriel will kick off the wave.”
Brouillet was prepared and had the right camera gear, but that doesn’t guarantee success. He couldn’t have imagined how he would freeze Medina in time, perfectly aligned with the surfboard and seemingly relaxed despite the terrifying speed at which he is flying through the air.
What’s striking is that Brouillet, with virtually no time to react, was able to shoot only four images despite toting a pro sports camera, one of which has gone viral. That’s the slice of luck, and we’re the lucky ones that fortune was with him that day.
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iPad Pro’s Tandem OLED Display Tech Could Extend to Future Vision Pro
LG and Samsung have prototyped micro-OLED displays with tandem OLED technology, according to Korean publication Sisa Journal, paving the way for a future model of Apple’s Vision Pro mixed-reality headset to potentially adopt the technology.
The report said it is unclear if or when LG and Samsung will begin mass production of tandem micro-OLED displays, but with a second-generation Vision Pro not expected to be released until late 2026 at the earliest, there is still time for the two companies to commercialize the technology for potential inclusion in the next model.
Earlier this year, Apple released new iPad Pro models with tandem OLED displays, which have two organic light-emitting layers stacked together for increased brightness, improved power efficiency, and longer longevity compared to single-layer OLED displays. These same benefits would extend to a future Vision Pro that adopts the technology.
The current Vision Pro is equipped with two 4K micro-OLED displays supplied by Sony.
Here is how Apple described the Vision Pro’s display system in its press release announcing the mixed-reality headset last year:Featuring a breakthrough ultra-high-resolution display system built on top of an Apple silicon chip, Vision Pro uses micro-OLED technology to pack 23 million pixels into two displays, each the size of a postage stamp, with wide colour and high dynamic range. This technological breakthrough, combined with custom catadioptric lenses that enable incredible sharpness and clarity, delivers jaw-dropping experiences.All in all, the technology now exists for the next-generation Vision Pro to feature even brighter and more power efficient displays in a few years from now.Related Roundup: Apple Vision ProBuyer’s Guide: Vision Pro (Buy Now)Related Forum: Apple Vision ProThis article, “iPad Pro’s Tandem OLED Display Tech Could Extend to Future Vision Pro” first appeared on MacRumors.comDiscuss this article in our forums
LG and Samsung have prototyped micro-OLED displays with tandem OLED technology, according to Korean publication Sisa Journal, paving the way for a future model of Apple’s Vision Pro mixed-reality headset to potentially adopt the technology.
The report said it is unclear if or when LG and Samsung will begin mass production of tandem micro-OLED displays, but with a second-generation Vision Pro not expected to be released until late 2026 at the earliest, there is still time for the two companies to commercialize the technology for potential inclusion in the next model.
Earlier this year, Apple released new iPad Pro models with tandem OLED displays, which have two organic light-emitting layers stacked together for increased brightness, improved power efficiency, and longer longevity compared to single-layer OLED displays. These same benefits would extend to a future Vision Pro that adopts the technology.
The current Vision Pro is equipped with two 4K micro-OLED displays supplied by Sony.
Here is how Apple described the Vision Pro’s display system in its press release announcing the mixed-reality headset last year:Featuring a breakthrough ultra-high-resolution display system built on top of an Apple silicon chip, Vision Pro uses micro-OLED technology to pack 23 million pixels into two displays, each the size of a postage stamp, with wide colour and high dynamic range. This technological breakthrough, combined with custom catadioptric lenses that enable incredible sharpness and clarity, delivers jaw-dropping experiences.All in all, the technology now exists for the next-generation Vision Pro to feature even brighter and more power efficient displays in a few years from now.
This article, “iPad Pro’s Tandem OLED Display Tech Could Extend to Future Vision Pro” first appeared on MacRumors.com
Discuss this article in our forums
Microsoft is dropping ads from Skype
Skype is going ad-free, as indicated in a blog post by Microsoft. The latest update removes all ads from the entire platform, including Skype channels and the main chat interface. Microsoft said this move was a response to feedback and an attempt to make the “Skype experience cleaner and more user-friendly.” This is certainly welcome news, considering every other company seems newly obsessed with ads.
The “today” section of Skype will remain, along with the pre-existing newsfeed. There just won’t be any ads to accompany that feed. Users can also delete the newsfeed tab by heading to the settings menu.
This update also includes a little something for all of the AI-heads out there. Skype will offer a revamped AI image creation system on the desktop app. This lets people access the image creator from the chat window or the top bar. There’s a “more intuitive and visually appealing” interface and pictures now expand when clicked on. Otherwise, it’s just your standard image creator.
Microsoft
Finally, the latest update brings integration with the authenticator OneAuth to the iOS app. This already existed on Android. OneAuth replaces the old sign-in system, so users will login automatically if they’re already signed into other Microsoft apps like Teams. It’s pretty handy because there are already way too many passwords floating around our craniums. Who among us can remember exactly how many numbers or exclamation marks to put after the same word we’ve been using as a password since 2002?
The update is available to everyone enrolled in the Skype Insider Program, so sign up if you aren’t. It begins rolling out today but will take a few days to reach every user. Microsoft urges consumers to keep checking if it doesn’t show up right away.This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/microsoft-is-dropping-ads-from-skype-143155507.html?src=rss
Skype is going ad-free, as indicated in a blog post by Microsoft. The latest update removes all ads from the entire platform, including Skype channels and the main chat interface. Microsoft said this move was a response to feedback and an attempt to make the “Skype experience cleaner and more user-friendly.” This is certainly welcome news, considering every other company seems newly obsessed with ads.
The “today” section of Skype will remain, along with the pre-existing newsfeed. There just won’t be any ads to accompany that feed. Users can also delete the newsfeed tab by heading to the settings menu.
This update also includes a little something for all of the AI-heads out there. Skype will offer a revamped AI image creation system on the desktop app. This lets people access the image creator from the chat window or the top bar. There’s a “more intuitive and visually appealing” interface and pictures now expand when clicked on. Otherwise, it’s just your standard image creator.
Finally, the latest update brings integration with the authenticator OneAuth to the iOS app. This already existed on Android. OneAuth replaces the old sign-in system, so users will login automatically if they’re already signed into other Microsoft apps like Teams. It’s pretty handy because there are already way too many passwords floating around our craniums. Who among us can remember exactly how many numbers or exclamation marks to put after the same word we’ve been using as a password since 2002?
The update is available to everyone enrolled in the Skype Insider Program, so sign up if you aren’t. It begins rolling out today but will take a few days to reach every user. Microsoft urges consumers to keep checking if it doesn’t show up right away.
This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/microsoft-is-dropping-ads-from-skype-143155507.html?src=rss
Harry Potter: Quidditch Champions system requirements: Can your PC run it?
Harry Potter: Quidditch Champions lets you live out most Witches and Wizard’s dream of flying around the arena, catching the… Continue reading Harry Potter: Quidditch Champions system requirements: Can your PC run it?
The post Harry Potter: Quidditch Champions system requirements: Can your PC run it? appeared first on ReadWrite.
Harry Potter: Quidditch Champions lets you live out most Witches and Wizard’s dream of flying around the arena, catching the Golden Snitch, and going all the way to the World Cup.
However, to play the game, you’ll need to ensure that your PC has enough power to run it.
Therefore, knowing the Harry Potter: Quidditch Champions system requirements need to be at the top of your priority list.
Here, we’ll reveal all we know about the specs needed for Harry Potter: Quidditch Champions so you can get on that broom and score some points.
Harry Potter: Quidditch Champions system requirements
From the trailers, Quidditch Champions doesn’t exactly look like the most graphically intensive title but it’s always nice to know how far it’ll push your PC.
Here is everything you need to know on the minimum and recommended system requirements.
Harry Potter: Quidditch Champions minimum system requirements
OS: Windows 10
CPU: Intel Core i7-4790 or AMD Ryzen 5 1600X
RAM: 8 GB
GPU: NVIDIA GeForce GTX 960 4 GB or AMD Radeon HD 7950 3 GB or Intel Arc A380 6 GB
DirectX: Version 12
Storage: 15 GB available space
As a side note, these requirements are based on playing the game at 1080p on low settings so if you’re wanting to play at an even lower resolution, you may be able to raise them graphical settings up a bit.
Harry Potter: Quidditch Champions recommended system requirements
OS: Windows 10
CPU: Intel Core i5-8400 or AMD Ryzen 5 2600X
RAM: 8 GB
GPU: NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1060 3 GB or AMD Radeon R9 290X 4 GB or Intel Arc A750 8 GB
DirectX: Version 12
Storage: 15 GB available space
Again, similar to that of the minimum requirements, the recommended ones are based on playing Quidditch Champions at 1080p on high settings. Therefore, you may be able to push it to 1440p if you lower the graphics a tad.
Is Harry Potter: Quidditch Champions on Steam Deck?
While not officially confirmed via Valve, we believe that Harry Potter: Quidditch Champions will be playable on Steam Deck.
This is due to the relatively low system requirements listed above coupled with the fact that it will have full controller support on launch.
When we do receive word that the game will be Steam Deck Verified, we’ll update this section with any new info.
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The post Harry Potter: Quidditch Champions system requirements: Can your PC run it? appeared first on ReadWrite.
Microsoft’s new Xbox controller is more translucent than ever before
Image: Microsoft
I’m fairly confident Microsoft has created more Xbox controllers than I’ve eaten hot dinners at this point, but I’m always happy to see another translucent option. This time, it’s the new “Sky Cipher Special Edition” controller, which includes a translucent blue design that lets you see the inner workings of the Xbox controller.
Microsoft has created white, black, and even pink translucent controllers in the past, but only the top half of those featured the effect. This new blue model is now mostly translucent, apart from the rear, grips, and buttons. It matches the special 20th edition model that was released in 2021. Microsoft has opted for two-tone thumbsticks, a matching D-pad, and blue metallic triggers.
Image: Microsoft
The translucent effect doesn’t fade away on this model.
Apart from the translucent effect, this is the same Xbox Series S / X controller that’s been available for years now. It includes a 3.5mm audio jack, USB-C connectivity, and up to 40 hours of battery life.
The Sky Cipher is the first to ship with new environmentally friendly Xbox controller packaging, though. “Single-use plastics have been removed from the packaging and the traditional paper manual has been replaced with a QR code for a digital quick start guide,” says Daniel Ruiz, senior marketing manager for Xbox accessories. “Additionally, the packaging is now 22 percent smaller and 21 percent lighter, further reducing its environmental footprint (previously 177mm x 175.4mm x 72mm and 152.3g).”
The Sky Cipher Xbox controller is available to preorder today, priced at $69.99.
Image: Microsoft
I’m fairly confident Microsoft has created more Xbox controllers than I’ve eaten hot dinners at this point, but I’m always happy to see another translucent option. This time, it’s the new “Sky Cipher Special Edition” controller, which includes a translucent blue design that lets you see the inner workings of the Xbox controller.
Microsoft has created white, black, and even pink translucent controllers in the past, but only the top half of those featured the effect. This new blue model is now mostly translucent, apart from the rear, grips, and buttons. It matches the special 20th edition model that was released in 2021. Microsoft has opted for two-tone thumbsticks, a matching D-pad, and blue metallic triggers.
Image: Microsoft
The translucent effect doesn’t fade away on this model.
Apart from the translucent effect, this is the same Xbox Series S / X controller that’s been available for years now. It includes a 3.5mm audio jack, USB-C connectivity, and up to 40 hours of battery life.
The Sky Cipher is the first to ship with new environmentally friendly Xbox controller packaging, though. “Single-use plastics have been removed from the packaging and the traditional paper manual has been replaced with a QR code for a digital quick start guide,” says Daniel Ruiz, senior marketing manager for Xbox accessories. “Additionally, the packaging is now 22 percent smaller and 21 percent lighter, further reducing its environmental footprint (previously 177mm x 175.4mm x 72mm and 152.3g).”
The Sky Cipher Xbox controller is available to preorder today, priced at $69.99.