Author: Onur Demirkol

{ "de-DE": "", "en-US": "Onur is a Turkish content writer who has been in the field since 2018 with a background in gaming, esports, and technology. Journalism and Creative Writing are two of his motivations in his work life, combined with technology and gaming, his lifelong passions. Studying abroad gave him a different perspective on life; now, he uses his experiences to influence and inform as many as possible.", "es-ES": "Onur es un redactor de contenidos turco que lleva en el sector desde 2018 con experiencia en gaming, esports y tecnología. El periodismo y la escritura creativa son dos de sus motivaciones en su vida laboral, combinadas con la tecnología y los juegos, sus pasiones de toda la vida. Estudiar en el extranjero le dio una perspectiva diferente de la vida; ahora, utiliza sus experiencias para influir e informar a tantos como sea posible.", "fr-FR": "", "it-IT": "", "ja-JP": "", "nl-NL": "", "pl-PL": "", "pt-BR": "", "social": { "email": "", "facebook": "", "twitter": "", "linkedin": "" } }

Facebook and Instagram follow X’s path on ad-free subscription: All the details

Facebook and Instagram have rolled out a new subscription service in Europe, allowing users to bid farewell to those pesky ads interrupting their scrolling experience. This game-changing development comes from Meta, the parent company of these popular social platforms.

For those in the European Union, European Economic Area, and Switzerland, this new subscription offering marks a significant shift. Imagine browsing through your favorite social feeds without constant ad interruptions. It’s an option that hasn’t been available before and promises a breath of fresh air for users who value an ad-free experience.

Facebook and Instagram’s paid ad-free subscription aims to give users more control and privacy in their online interactions, particularly in response to concerns raised by European Union regulators. Here’s a breakdown of the key details regarding these subscription plans:

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Key aspects of the Facebook and Instagram Ad-Free Subscription

Eligibility

The ad-free service is exclusively available to users in the EU, EEA, and Switzerland. It’s an optional subscription that empowers users to opt out of seeing ads on Facebook and Instagram.

Cost

Users accessing the service via the web will pay €9.99 per month, while those on iOS and Android will be charged €12.99 monthly.

What is covered?

Upon subscription, all associated Facebook and Instagram accounts under a user’s “Accounts Center” will become ad-free, offering a seamless ad-free experience across linked accounts.

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Additional account charges

Starting from March 1, 2024, users will incur additional fees for each extra account linked in their “Accounts Center.” These will amount to €6 per month per additional account on the web and €8 per month per additional account on iOS and Android.

User criteria

The subscription is accessible to users aged 18 and above within the specified European regions.

Privacy & user experience

One of the standout features of this ad-free subscription is the assurance that user data won’t be utilized for ad targeting while enjoying an ad-free experience. This ensures a more personalized, ad-free interaction without user activities being used for ad personalization.

Existing features & choices

For users opting to stick with the free, ad-supported versions of Facebook and Instagram, the existing tools and features for managing ad preferences will remain available. Users can still influence the ads they see and control the data used for ad targeting.

Meeting Regulations and User Preferences

This move by Meta reflects an effort to comply with evolving European regulations, such as the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and the Digital Markets Act (DMA). By introducing this ad-free subscription, Meta aims to meet regulatory demands while catering to user preferences and maintaining a beneficial business advertising landscape.

In summary, Facebook and Instagram’s paid ad-free subscription brings the choice to eliminate ads for a monthly fee to users in the EU, EEA, and Switzerland. The varying costs and additional fees for linked accounts starting in 2024 ensure enhanced privacy while catering to users who prefer the ad-supported experience. This step underlines Meta’s commitment to aligning user choice with evolving regulations while supporting a valuable business advertising ecosystem.

Alan Wake 2: Rock Rock Tree puzzle solution

For players delving into the world of Alan Wake 2, an intriguing challenge awaits—a puzzle embedded within the Cauldron Lake landscape. This puzzle involves interpreting clues hidden among rocks and trees to access a secured stash of vital items. Let’s take a closer look at the Alan Wake 2: Rock Rock Tree puzzle and give you the answer so that you can continue your progress in the game!

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Alan Wake 2: Rock Rock Tree puzzle: Answered

The key to cracking the math puzzle lock in Alan Wake 2 revolves around a cryptic message, “Are you bright enough?” embedded within two rocks and a single tree. To solve the puzzle, players must find the specific rocks and trees holding the clues to unlock the hidden cache.

Clues are strategically placed near the locked box. One rock bears the “3 + 3” marking, almost inconspicuous beside the lock. Nearby, a tree with “6 + 2” marked in yellow tape presents the second clue. Not far off, another rock displays “7 – 2,” serving as the third and final hint essential for unlocking the box.

These clues translate into basic mathematical problems, showcasing numbers 6, 8, and 5—crucial elements of the locked box code. The sequence begins with the two rocks, where the first two digits must represent either 5 or 6, concluding with the final number, 8. Thus, the code to unlock the cache and reveal its contents is 658.

Entering this code into the lock grants access to the secured box, unveiling an assortment of essential items: flares, a propane tank, and a first aid kit. Although these contents don’t feature exclusive upgrades, they offer vital supplies crucial for surviving the game’s challenges.

Importance of the cache

While the items within the Alan Wake 2 puzzle don’t offer exclusive upgrades, they play a significant role in navigating the uncertainties of the game. Flares provide light and defense against encroaching darkness, the propane tank serves as a potent weapon, and the first aid kit offers essential healing capabilities, preparing players to tackle the game’s challenges.

Mastering this enigmatic Alan Wake 2: Rock Rock tree puzzle not only unlocks necessary items but also showcases players’ skill and determination in decoding the mysteries within Alan Wake 2.

The adventure continues, with more secrets waiting to be unraveled and challenges to overcome in the captivating world of Alan Wake 2. Stay sharp and vigilant, as every rock and tree might hold the key to the next exciting puzzle. Happy gaming!

Remember, the world of Alan Wake 2 is brimming with surprises, urging players to explore for hidden revelations and thrilling discoveries.

Image Credits: Alan Wake

You have to switch to Passkeys after this Android 14 update

Exciting news for Android users! Google recently announced a game-changing feature that’s about to shake up how apps work on Android devices. This feature, called “Credential Manager,” is all set to launch on November 1st, bringing a big update to Android 14. Credential Manager, after being tested by developers for some time, is a new tool designed to gather passkeys, usernames, and passwords all in one place through a special system made just for Android.

With the release of Credential Manager right around the corner, big changes are coming to how apps protect you and how you get into your accounts. This new system will let apps use things like your face or fingerprint to let you in, instead of making you type in a password every time. It’s like having a VIP pass to all your accounts, making things super easy and safe.

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Huge “W” for app developers

This isn’t just good news for users; developers are getting a major break too. They won’t need to juggle different login methods anymore. By using the Credential Manager, they can simplify the login process for users, making it smoother and safer.

Here’s the cool part: the Credential Manager lets you have different sign-in methods for various accounts within the same app. For example, you can use a passkey for your personal account and a traditional password for your family account. When you want to sign in, a pop-up lets you choose which account you want to use – making life much easier.

And there’s more good news: the Credential Manager plays nice with other password managers, like 1Password and Enpass. It can even work with multiple password managers simultaneously. This means your saved credentials from these platforms will pop up, making your login experience smooth and familiar.

For developers interested in jumping on this train, Google’s got you covered with detailed info on their blog. They’re showing the way on how to smoothly integrate the Credential Manager with existing login systems, ‘Sign In with Google,’ and how to switch from FIDO2 to the Credential Manager API.

With Android 14’s impending release, the Credential Manager promises to simplify how we interact with our apps, giving us a safer, easier, and more convenient login experience. It’s a game-changer that’s set to benefit both users and developers, marking a new chapter in how we log in and access our favorite apps.

Tesla’s Q3 numbers may worry Musk: Huge loss

Tesla, the electric vehicle (EV) trailblazer led by Elon Musk, has hit a bump in the road. The company’s latest quarterly earnings report is causing quite a stir in the tech and auto sectors. This article delves into the numbers and their implications for Tesla and the broader EV market, providing a straightforward analysis.

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Elon Musk, known for his financial rollercoaster ride, has recently experienced a significant blow. His net worth plummeted by nearly $28 billion, which can be traced back to Tesla’s latest financial report. The company’s quarterly earnings per share hit a two-year low, falling 10 percent below analysts’ predicted. This downward spiral had immediate repercussions, causing Tesla’s stock to drop more than 17 percent. Consequently, the company’s market value shrank by $138 billion in just over two days. You can check Tesla’s Q3 financial reports here.

Slower growth in EV sales

Electric vehicle sales, while still increasing, are doing so at a slower pace. In the first half of 2023, EV sales grew by 49 percent compared to the previous year, a significant slowdown from the 63 percent increase seen in the prior year. This deceleration is raising eyebrows and sparking discussions about the broader state of the EV market.

Transitioning to electric vehicles is expensive, and it’s not just the price tag on the vehicles. EVs represent a new technology that requires a fundamental shift in how people relate to their cars, a relationship that hasn’t changed much for decades. The expectation that this transition would be seamless and affordable is unrealistic. We’re in a period where the shift to EVs comes at a cost, affecting consumers and manufacturers.

Once seen as a beacon of profitability and environmental progress, the EV industry is now under scrutiny. Traditional automakers like Toyota have taken the opportunity to express their doubts. Akio Toyoda, Toyota’s Chairman and former CEO, has consistently criticized the hype around EVs and is now saying, “I told you so.” His skepticism centers around the belief that electric vehicles are not the only way for the auto industry to achieve carbon neutrality. Toyoda believes there are multiple paths to this goal, says First Post.

Google Maps got “smarter” with new AI features

Google Maps is getting a major facelift thanks to a host of fresh AI-powered features that aim to simplify our navigation and exploration. This transformation is all set to blur the line between Google Maps and Google Search, promising a more intuitive and user-friendly experience.

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Introducing “Immersive View” on Google Maps

One of the headline features of this update is “Immersive View.” Although not entirely new, it’s expanding its coverage to include more cities. This feature elevates your navigation experience by offering vivid, lifelike visuals that make it easier to find your way around. Think of it as a step closer to physically being at your destination. It’s all about making the exploration more immersive and enjoyable.

If you’ve ever found yourself puzzled by complicated directions on Google Maps, this release’s updated and improved directions will come as a breath of fresh air. Whether navigating a bustling city or embarking on a scenic journey, these clear and uncomplicated directions ensure you reach your destination hassle-free. It’s like having a trusted guide right alongside you.

The latest version of Google Maps brings more detailed imagery to the table, with lifelike building representations and improved guidance for highway lane changes, particularly during complex exits. It also provides information about HOV (High-Occupancy Vehicle) lanes and displays speed limits straightforwardly. Moreover, Google Maps is gearing up to utilize AI to compile lists of activities based on an extensive library of photos. For example, if you’re planning things to do in Tokyo, it can categorize activities like anime events or museum exhibitions, making trip planning a breeze.

EV Drivers get the green light

There’s good news for electric vehicle (EV) drivers, too. Google Maps is all set to offer detailed information about charging stations, including compatibility with your car and the station’s usage history, ensuring you can confidently make informed choices.

These Google Maps AI updates are paving the way for the future of navigation and exploration. With AI at the helm, it promises to make our journeys more enjoyable, our directions more straightforward, and our discoveries more exciting. Get ready for the next chapter of Google Maps, rolling out this week and bringing a world of possibilities to your fingertips. For more information, you can also check out the official announcement page.

Google Image Search gets a new feature to prevent misinformation

To tackle the uncontrolled spread of misinformation and help users get to the truth, Google Search has rolled out a powerful new feature called “About this image.” This tool is designed to give users a deeper understanding of the images they encounter in Google Search, shedding light on their origins and context. Although it was initially introduced earlier this year, Google is now making it available to a wider audience, with English language users across the globe getting access.

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How “About this image” works

When you spot an image in Google Search or Google Images, you’ll see a three-dot menu perched at the top of the image. A simple click on this menu unveils the option “About this image.” Click on it, and voila! You’re now privy to crucial information about the image, empowering you with valuable insights into its source and background.

Combating misinformation

The timing of “About this image” couldn’t be better. With the proliferation of misinformation, especially during significant events like the current conflict in the world, unrelated images often circulate without proper context. This not only muddles the waters for users but also fuels the spread of false information. “About this image” steps in to offer clarity.

Further enhancements

But Google’s commitment to truth doesn’t end there. In addition to “About this image,” Google is making strides in improving its Fact Check Explorer. Although it’s still in beta since its summer launch, this tool allows you to search for image fact-checks by uploading an image or entering its URL. The Verge reported that Google is actively working on a new API to facilitate the seamless integration of Fact Check Explorer into the workflows of fact-checkers and journalists.

Moreover, Google is venturing into generative AI to offer more insights into online sources through its AI-powered Search Generative Experience. These AI-generated descriptions will be visible in the “About this result” tool when established sources like Wikipedia or the Google Knowledge Graph lack information about a smaller website. This novel approach promises to provide users with a more comprehensive and dependable online experience as they seek credible information.

Almost 200 people were impacted by the latest Okta breach

In a world where passwords are our keys to the digital kingdom, it’s reassuring to have password managers to keep things organized. But even these guardians of our digital lives aren’t invincible. A recent data breach involving Okta, a cybersecurity heavyweight, has spotlighted the potential risks lurking even in password management. Almost 200 individuals have caught up in this digital storm, prompting swift action from several tech giants.

Okta, a crucial company ensuring secure user authentication, delivered a jolt to the tech world on October 20. They revealed that their support systems had been breached. This wasn’t just any ordinary tech hiccup; Okta is a major cybersecurity player entrusted with keeping our digital identities safe. When a company of this stature announces a breach, it’s time to sit up and take notice.

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1Password’s response

When the alarm bells rang, 1Password, a well-known password management service, wasted no time. They rely on Okta for their operations, and the news of the breach understandably had them on high alert. On October 23, a report from ArsTechnica highlighted that 1Password had detected suspicious activity in their employee-facing applications. Pedro Canahuati, the Chief Technology Officer (CTO) of 1Password, led the charge to investigate the matter. Fortunately, their swift action confirmed that user data remained unscathed.

1Password’s quick response is a shining example of taking proactive steps to safeguard user information. They didn’t sit on the information; they promptly alerted Okta about the suspicious activity on September 29. In today’s digital age, where data breaches can have far-reaching consequences, such swift and decisive action is welcome.

The Okta breach is a reminder that companies providing vital digital services are prime targets for cyberattacks. These companies are like one-stop shops for hackers looking to compromise multiple organizations, making them attractive targets. Even tech giants like Microsoft have had to weather the storm of breaches. The Okta breach is particularly concerning because it shares similarities with a security incident Okta faced in 2022, where attackers compromised a subprocessor trusted for customer support work.

Jake Williams, an experienced cybersecurity expert and a faculty member at the Institute for Applied Network Security, emphasizes that the Okta incident is not just a one-off problem, said WIRED. It’s part of a larger issue where big and small companies grapple with software supply chain attacks and an ever-increasing volume of hacking attempts. Often, service providers underestimate their involvement in incidents until undeniable evidence emerges.

In a world where technology is integral to our lives, we must remain vigilant and work together to protect our digital existence. The Okta breach serves as a wake-up call, prompting us to bolster our cybersecurity measures and safeguard user data from those who exploit vulnerabilities in our interconnected digital world.

Meet the new Among Us map, “The Fungle”

The latest Among Us patch, also known as”v2023.10.24,” has finally brought what every fan has been waiting for, a new map! The latest map was published back in 2021 and it was time for a new one. It finally went live!

Innersloth has unleashed an exciting new update that’s sure to captivate both seasoned players, who have been playing on the same maps for two years now, and newcomers. “The Fungle” map is the latest addition to the hit game, ushering players into a vibrant jungle environment. This release has sparked considerable interest, as gamers prepare to step into this untamed territory and navigate the treacherous waters of identifying the imposters hidden amidst the lush surroundings.

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Want to try The Fungle? Update your game ASAP

This new map is only accessible to players using Among Us version 2023.10.24 or later. If you haven’t updated your game yet, it’s time to hit that update button. Missing out on The Fungle’s action isn’t an option for any Among Us enthusiast.

Now, let’s take a closer look at The Fungle itself. This map introduces a range of distinct environments, with sandy beaches, mushroom-filled jungles, and towering cliffs waiting to be explored. Although these settings exude a serene vibe, players need to stay vigilant, as imposters are lurking in the shadows. The beach area, reminiscent of previous maps, contains numerous rooms and isolated zones, providing plenty of opportunities for imposters to strike and sow chaos.

Fresh Challenges and Tasks in The Fungle

As a crewmate, you’ll find yourself engaging in activities like frisbee, fishing, marshmallow roasting, and even pumping some iron in the gym. These tasks not only keep you engaged but also serve as an excellent way to collaborate with your fellow crewmates as you attempt to unmask any imposters lurking within your ranks.

Imposters, on the other hand, can’t resist the allure of The Mushroom Mixup. When activated, this twist in the game swaps everyone’s colors, injecting a new layer of complexity and intrigue into the gameplay. This feature challenges both imposters and crewmates to adapt to the ever-changing dynamics of the game.

Official patch notes for v2023.10.24

  • Chat box will be selected when opening it in Free Chat – no more needing to click and then type!
  • Tweaks to audio files which should reduce load times on lower end devices
  • The Airship and The Fungle will take an extra 5 seconds to load so lower end devices can get all needed assets
  • Pets of dead players will no longer sit idle – they’ll go back to being heartbroken that you’re dead
  • Guardian Angels can no longer protect Crewmates during Comms Sabotage
  • When creating or finding a game, Impostor count no longer defaults to 3
  • [Mobile] – Players will no longer be kicked for hacking while venting as an Engineer
  • [Fungle] – The sound effects for the zipline may play continuously if a meeting is called while a player is on the zipline.
  • [Fungle] – The campfire sound effect may play during a game’s intro sequence.
  • [Fungle] – Invisible collision may block player movement around the Labs.
  • [Fungle] – The map label for the dock may not be correctly displayed at times.
  • [Fungle] – The orange fish may be caught at a much higher rate than the others during the fishing task.
  • [Fungle] [Android] – Controls may become unresponsive if the game device goes to sleep while the critter is hatching.
  • [Fungle] – Hats may float behind the player while using the zipline under certain conditions.
  • [Fungle] – A Crewmate may hang too far below the zipline during the travel animation.
  • [Fungle] – Using the zipline during a Mushroom Mix Up may display the wrong hand color.
  • [Fungle] – An incorrect task explanation may be displayed while completing the Roast Marshmallow task.
  • [Practice Mode] – A dummy in the kitchen may spawn that cannot be killed.
  • [All Maps] – Quick Chat may incorrectly list certain terms as sabotages.
  • [All Maps] [PC/Console Platforms] – Shapeshifters may lose functionality if the shapeshift time runs out while completing the Reactor Handprint Reader and Door sabotages

Featured image credit: Innersloth

Latest MK1 update brings the Halloween spirit

For die-hard fans of Mortal Kombat 1, a fresh wave of excitement is here as NetherRealm Studios drops the latest MK1 update, version 1.001, just in time for Halloween. Released on October 23, this update promises to enhance your gaming experience with exciting changes. Let’s walk you through the highlights.

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MK1 Update October 2023: A Sneak Peek

Before we get into the details of this update, it’s important to note that NetherRealm Studios hasn’t released the full patch notes yet. They’ve hinted at sharing those details soon.

Although the full patch notes have yet to be released, a few character changes have caused a stir in the MK1 community. Specifically, Cyrax’s Kameo move, the horizontal helicopter spin, now uses a whole Kameo bar. This development has gotten much attention, probably due to events like the East Coast Throwdown 2023.

Baraka is now moving more slowly, and there is a larger gap in his 2,1 string. Raiden aficionados will notice a decrease in his damage output as well. There are adjustments to his low hat and spin Kameo attacks for Kung Lao fans.

Halloween-Themed Additions

In line with the Halloween spirit, the Premium Store offers a spine-chilling addition to elevate your gaming experience.

Streamlined Access to Your Favorite Moves

You can now pin your favorite moves on the HUD, eliminating the need to navigate menus. It’s a convenient feature that makes accessing your go-to moves a breeze.

Improved Online Play

Online gaming just got smoother with enhancements that include a ping/connection indicator. This addition ensures a more seamless online gaming experience.

MK1 Welcomes Nitara

The game’s roster expands with the addition of Nitara, who not only looks like Megan Fox but also has her voice.

Voice Chat Control

A new feature lets you easily mute voice chat and your microphone from the main menu or during an online match, so you can stay focused on the fight.

Clearer Notifications

Say goodbye to those persistent yellow notifications for new items. The issue has been resolved, ensuring that they clear properly.

Gameplay Bug Fixes

To enhance your overall gaming experience, the update includes general bug fixes.

Character-Specific Changes in October 2023 Update

Thanks to Twitter user Mitsuownes, we’ve received insights into character-specific changes that have come with this update:

  • Mileena’s 1,2 combo no longer misses Baraka.
  • Cyrax’s Horizontal Helicopter move now requires a full Kameo bar, affecting his agility.
  • Baraka’s damage has been reduced.
  • Raiden, a beloved character, has seen a decrease in his damage output.
  • Scorpion’s air 1,2 combo now produces different results, offering new tactics.
  • Sub-Zero’s enhanced Ice Clone has been toned down, affecting his freezing abilities.
  • Kung Lao enthusiasts should be aware of an increased cooldown on his Kameo low hat.

What is next?

As we’ve seen, the most recent MK1 update introduces interesting new features to the game. However, there will be many more in the near future. NetherRealm Studios is preparing to release the full patch notes soon. Players may expect new challenges and experiences as the universe of Mortal Kombat 1 expands. Keep an eye out for the newest developments in the MK1 world!

Spider-Man 2 is the “best” PlayStation game, numbers say

Marvel’s Spider-Man 2 has swung into the record books, selling a staggering 2.5 million copies within 24 hours of its release. This remarkable achievement marks Spider-Man 2 as Sony’s PlayStation Studios’ fastest-selling game. It outpaced the first-day sales of beloved titles like God of War, Uncharted, and The Last of Us, which left them all in the dust. Even its predecessor, Spider-Man 1, couldn’t keep up with this rapid milestone. This extraordinary success includes pre-orders and units bundled with the PlayStation 5.

Spider-Man 2 is a record breaker

Spider-Man 2 was released last Friday by Insomniac Games in collaboration with PlayStation Studios and Marvel Games. This third installment, which follows Marvel’s Spider-Man in 2018 and Spider-Man: Miles Morales in 2020, takes the gaming experience to new heights. Players may now take on the roles of Peter Parker from the first game and Miles Morales from the sequel, providing an engaging dual-hero scenario. “Web Wings,” an intriguing new feature, allows players to explore an expanded version of Marvel’s New York City.

Reflecting on Spider-Man’s gaming journey

In the gaming industry, speed is everything, and Spider-Man 2 has set an outstanding pace. Its predecessor, the original Spider-Man, debuted in 2018 with a bang, selling 3.3 million units in only three days. This figure exceeded God of War’s previous record of 3.1 million units sold in the same time period. God of War Ragnarok, on the other hand, recaptured the record of fastest-selling PlayStation Studios game with 5.1 million sales in its first week. With Spider-Man 2’s incredible 24-hour sales record, it’s positioned for a better performance in the coming days.

Sony’s ambitious goal of selling 25 million PS5 units this fiscal year relies on the success of titles like Spider-Man 2, which is exclusive to the “next-gen” console. Despite strong competition from other outstanding games, Spider-Man 2’s exclusivity is expected to boost sales during the holiday season. Additionally, the release of a new “slim” model in November, albeit at a higher price for the all-digital version, will likely contribute to PlayStation’s growth. With Spider-Man 2’s record-breaking success, the future appears bright for PlayStation and its dedicated fan base.

Featured image credit: Spider-Man 2