Author: Pedro Domínguez

{ "de-DE": "", "en-US": "Publicist and audiovisual producer in love with social networks. I spend more time thinking about which videogames I will play than playing them.", "es-ES": "Publicista y productor audiovisual enamorado de las redes sociales. Paso más tiempo pensando a qué videojuegos voy a jugar que jugándolos.", "fr-FR": "Publicitaire et producteur audiovisuel passionné par les réseaux sociaux. Je passe plus de temps à penser aux jeux vidéo auxquels je jouerai qu'à y jouer.", "it-IT": "", "ja-JP": "", "nl-NL": "", "pl-PL": "", "pt-BR": "", "social": { "email": "", "facebook": "", "twitter": "", "linkedin": "" } }

Samsung wants to compete with Apple thanks to the "Camera Continuity" in One UI 7

Samsung is currently the only Android manufacturer with an integration similar to the Apple ecosystem, offering a seamless connection between its Galaxy devices. Through tools like Quick Share and the ability to copy and paste text between devices, users enjoy a unified experience. Now, with the arrival of One UI 7, this connection will be deepened thanks to a new “Camera Continuity” feature. One UI 7 will include support for the so-called Camera Continuity, which will allow using the Galaxy phone to take photos or scan documents and use them directly in Samsung Notes or […]

Samsung is currently the only Android manufacturer with an integration similar to the Apple ecosystem, offering a seamless connection between its Galaxy devices. Through tools like Quick Share and the ability to copy and paste text between devices, users enjoy a unified experience. Now, with the arrival of One UI 7, this connection will deepen thanks to a new “Camera Continuity” feature.

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One UI 7 will include support for the so-called Camera Continuity which will allow using the Galaxy phone to take photos or scan documents and use them directly in Samsung Notes or Samsung Internet on another linked device. This feature is similar to Apple’s Continuity Camera, but with an important difference: Apple’s version integrates with any application, while Samsung’s seems limited to its own apps.

Mishaal Rahman, from Android Authority, discovered the Camera Continuity feature in the latest One UI 7 beta, although it is not fully operational yet. For it to work, devices must be connected to the same Wi-Fi network, within Bluetooth range, and with the same Samsung account. Although it would be expected, it is currently unknown if Samsung will extend this new functionality to more apps, as it currently only works with Samsung Notes and Samsung Internet.

The update will also bring other notable features, such as the ability to use the Galaxy mobile camera as a webcam for a Galaxy Book or a tablet. Something similar debuted in One UI 6.1.1 with the Galaxy S24 series, but it will now be extended to more devices with the new version of the system.

Another innovation could be Storage Share, which will allow wireless exploration of phone files from a Galaxy laptop or tablet. With these improvements, Samsung continues to strengthen its ecosystem and offer alternatives to compete directly with Apple.

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It's not Iron-Man, but almost: this impressive exoskeleton allows paraplegic people to walk

A group of South Korean researchers has developed an innovative portable robot that could revolutionize the mobility of paraplegic individuals. The device, called WalkON Suit F1, is a lightweight exoskeleton that attaches to the user to provide assisted mobility, allowing them to walk instead of using a wheelchair. The project comes from the Exoskeleton Laboratory at the Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST). Kim Seung-hwan, a team member and wheelchair user, demonstrated the prototype to Reuters. Weighing 50 kilograms, the suit uses 12 motors that replicate natural movements […]

A group of South Korean researchers has developed an innovative wearable robot that could revolutionize the mobility of paraplegic individuals. The device, called WalkON Suit F1, is a lightweight exoskeleton that attaches to the user to provide assisted mobility, allowing them to walk instead of using a wheelchair.

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The project comes from the Exoskeleton Laboratory at the Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST). Kim Seung-hwan, a team member and wheelchair user, demonstrated the prototype to Reuters. Weighing 50 kilograms, the suit uses 12 motors that replicate the natural joint movements of walking. Additionally, it includes sensors that process more than 1,000 data points per second to anticipate the user’s movements and maintain balance.

The exoskeleton stands out for its ability to adapt to the environment thanks to a camera vision system, which identifies obstacles and elevation changes. Another particularly innovative feature is that the suit can locate and attach to the user while they remain seated in their wheelchair. This facilitates its use in daily life and reduces the need for external assistance.

During the tests, Kim reached a speed of 3.2 km/h, climbed stairs, and performed complex maneuvers, such as climbing onto a bench sideways. Inspired by the technology of the superhero Iron Man from Marvel, the team led by Park Jeong-su designed the WalkON Suit to easily integrate into the daily routines of people with disabilities.

The success of this design was reflected in the Cybathlon 2024, held from October 25 to 27, where Kim won the gold medal in the exoskeleton category. In this international competition, the Swiss exoskeleton VariLeg Enhanced was also awarded, with a hybrid design that combines a wheelchair and assisted mobility, and the ChiangMaiU EXO 2 from Thailand, which stands out for its lateral movement capability.

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Bluesky introduces Trending Topics in beta and continues to grow despite the bans

Bluesky, the decentralized social platform, has announced a new “Trending Topics” feature as a Christmas gift, currently available only in beta. This tool, similar to its rival Twitter, can be turned on or off in the “Content and Media” section within Settings. Currently, it only works in English, although more languages are planned to be included in the future. In the desktop version, Trending Topics appear in the right sidebar, while in the mobile app they are accessible from the search button. The feature also respects the words muted by users, so that it does not […]

Bluesky, the decentralized social platform, has announced a Christmas gift: a new “Trending Topics” feature, currently available only in beta. This tool, similar to its rival Twitter, can be turned on or off in the “Content and Media” section within Settings. Currently, it only works in English, although more languages are planned to be included in the future.

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In the desktop version, the Trending Topics appear in the right sidebar, while in the mobile app they are accessible from the search button. The feature also respects the words muted by users, so they do not appear in this section unless desired.

Merry Christmas from us to you ??? We launched Trending Topics today, and you can find it by tapping the search icon on the bottom bar of the app or the right sidebar on desktop.

[image or embed]

— Bluesky (@bsky.app) 26 de diciembre de 2024, 2:09

With almost 26 million users, Bluesky is not only working on new features but is also dealing with all kinds of issues, including the increased influx of fake accounts and identity theft. Globally, the social network has been banned by governments such as China and Pakistan, which censored the platform at different times in 2024. Additionally, it has been criticized by politicians and conservative users following the electoral victory of Donald Trump in the U.S. elections.

Despite the challenges it is currently facing, the platform has grown rapidly, attracting millions of users dissatisfied with the current Twitter under Elon Musk.

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Quantum teleportation through Internet cables is possible: this is how it works

A team of engineers from Northwestern University has carried out the first demonstration of quantum teleportation through fiber optic cables that already carry Internet traffic. This breakthrough, published in the journal Optica, opens the door to combining quantum communication with existing fiber optic infrastructures, significantly simplifying future applications of quantum computing and advanced technologies. “Our work shows a path towards next-generation quantum and classical networks sharing a unified infrastructure,” commented Prem Kumar, the study leader. Quantum teleportation allows information to be shared in an ultra-fast and secure manner between users […]

A team of engineers from Northwestern University has conducted the first demonstration of quantum teleportation through fiber optic cables that already carry Internet traffic. This breakthrough, published in the journal Optica, paves the way for combining quantum communication with existing fiber optic infrastructures, significantly simplifying future applications of quantum computing and advanced technologies. “Our work shows a path towards next-generation quantum and classical networks sharing a unified infrastructure,” commented Prem Kumar, leader of the study.

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Quantum teleportation allows sharing information ultra-fast and securely between distant users, without the need to directly transmit the data. This phenomenon takes advantage of quantum entanglement, a technique that connects particles despite the distance between them. As Kumar explained, while classical communications use millions of light particles, quantum information employs individual photons. “Teleportation allows the exchange of information without it having to physically travel long distances,” detailed Jordan Thomas, co-author of the study.

Before this discovery, many doubted the viability of quantum teleportation in cables with classical traffic, given that the entangled photons would be lost among millions of light particles. However, Kumar’s team identified less congested wavelengths to place the photons, in addition to adding filters that reduce the noise generated by Internet traffic. “We placed our photons at a strategic point where the scattering mechanism is minimized,” explained Kumar.

Classic infrastructures can be leveraged

To test the method, the researchers used a 30-kilometer fiber optic cable with a photon at each end, simultaneously sent quantum information and high-speed traffic, and confirmed that the quantum information arrived intact at the destination after applying a quantum measurement protocol. “This work demonstrates the coexistence of quantum and classical communications in fiber optics,” highlighted Thomas.

The next steps include extending the experiments to greater distances and testing with cables installed underground. “If we choose the wavelengths well, it will not be necessary to build new infrastructures,” concluded Kumar, showing optimism. “Classical and quantum communications can coexist.”

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Google expands the reach of its Gemini AI and its more advanced versions

Google has begun to expand the use of its Gemini artificial intelligence models to new countries like Vietnam and Thailand, according to Android Police. Among the new features in these regions are Gemini 1.5 with Deep Research and two experimental variants of Gemini 2.0: Flash Experimental and Experimental Advanced. These models promise to meet different needs, from everyday tasks to more complex work. The Deep Research function, exclusive to Gemini 1.5, allows users to conduct advanced research. Simply enter a topic, and the AI evaluates the content of dozens or even hundreds of web pages to generate a detailed report. […]

Google has begun to expand the use of its Gemini artificial intelligence models to new countries such as Vietnam and Thailand, according to Android Police. Among the new features in these regions are Gemini 1.5 with Deep Research and two experimental variants of Gemini 2.0: Flash Experimental and Experimental Advanced. These models promise to meet different needs, from everyday tasks to more complex work.

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The Deep Research function, exclusive to Gemini 1.5, allows users to conduct advanced research. Simply enter a topic, and the AI evaluates the content of dozens or even hundreds of web pages to generate a detailed report. Users can adjust the research plan before the AI executes it, and once the process is completed, the results can be exported directly to Google Docs.

Regarding the new Gemini 2.0 models, Flash Experimental focuses on providing speed for daily tasks, while Experimental Advanced is designed to handle more complex tasks with greater precision.

For now, Deep Research is only available to Gemini Advanced subscribers in several regions, including the United States, and can only be used through the Gemini web application, excluding the mobile versions of iOS and Android.

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Researchers warn about the use of generative AI to evade malware detection

A recent analysis by Unit 42 of Palo Alto Networks has revealed that language models like ChatGPT can be used to modify malware in JavaScript, making it more difficult to detect. Although these models do not generate malware from scratch, cybercriminals can ask them to rewrite or obfuscate existing malicious code. “These transformations are more natural, which complicates the identification of malware,” cybersecurity experts state. This approach could degrade malware classification systems by confusing them into labeling malicious code as harmless. Despite the security restrictions implemented by providers like OpenAI, tools […]

A recent analysis by Unit 42 of Palo Alto Networks has revealed that language models like ChatGPT can be used to modify malware in JavaScript, making it more difficult to detect. Although these models do not generate malware from scratch, cybercriminals can ask them to rewrite or obfuscate existing malicious code. “These transformations are more natural, which complicates the identification of malware,” state cybersecurity experts. This approach could degrade malware classification systems by confusing them into labeling malicious code as harmless.

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Despite the security restrictions implemented by providers like OpenAI, tools like WormGPT are being used to create more convincing phishing emails and new types of malware. In October 2024, OpenAI blocked more than 20 malicious networks seeking to exploit its platform. In tests, Unit 42 managed to generate 10,000 variants of malicious JavaScript, maintaining its functionality but decreasing its detection scores in models like Innocent Until Proven Guilty. Among the techniques used are changes in variable names, insertion of junk code, and complete script rewriting.

Additionally, machine learning algorithms can be tricked into classifying these variants as benign in 88% of cases, according to Unit 42. Even the most popular tools, such as VirusTotal, struggle to detect these codes. Researchers warn that these AI-based rewrites are harder to track than those generated by libraries like obfuscator.io. However, they suggest that these same techniques could improve detection models by generating more robust training data.

On another front, researchers from the North Carolina State University discovered an attack called TPUXtract, which allows stealing AI models run on Google‘s Edge TPUs through electromagnetic signals. However, although the technique is notable for its precision, it requires physical access to the device and specialized equipment, which fortunately limits its scope.

Additionally, Morphisec has demonstrated that the Exploit Prediction Scoring System (EPSS), used to assess vulnerabilities, can be manipulated with fake social media posts and empty repositories on GitHub. According to Ido Ikar, this technique allows “inflating indicators” and deceiving organizations by altering cyber risk management priorities.

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Ray-Ban Meta glasses: the future of mixed reality is getting closer and closer

Meta plans to incorporate screens into Ray-Ban Meta smart glasses starting next year, according to the Financial Times. This new advancement reinforces its goal of creating lightweight devices that can replace smartphones as the main computing tool. In collaboration with EssilorLuxottica, Meta will add screens to the $300 glasses, which will go on sale in the second half of 2025. These screens will display notifications and responses from its virtual assistant. Meta’s interest in wearable devices, a market where rivals like Apple and Google are also positioning themselves, has been growing over time […]

Meta plans to incorporate screens into the Ray-Ban Meta smart glasses starting next year, according to Financial Times. This new advancement reinforces its goal of creating lightweight devices that can replace smartphones as the main computing tool. In collaboration with EssilorLuxottica, Meta will add screens to the $300 glasses, which will go on sale in the second half of 2025. These screens will display notifications and responses from its virtual assistant.

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Meta’s interest in wearable devices, a market where rivals like Apple and Google are also positioning themselves, has been growing over time. In September, Meta introduced the prototype of its augmented reality glasses Orion, a project that has advanced rapidly thanks to the enthusiasm of its early testers. These glasses stand out for their compact design and their ability to overlay 3D content onto the real world.

The Orion glasses, controlled through neural interfaces and bracelets that interpret body signals, are not without problems. One of them is the mass production of silicon carbide lenses, a material that improves image quality but increases production costs. Michael Miller, from Niantic, suggests that reducing the field of view or using conventional glass could be an alternative to lower production costs without losing quality.

Beyond these difficulties, the current Ray-Ban Meta glasses have been well received since their launch in 2023, standing out for their integrated speakers, cameras, and microphones that allow everything from listening to music to interacting with artificial intelligence. According to EssilorLuxottica, recent sales surpassed those of previous models in two years within months, reflecting a 73% growth in the wearable glasses market in 2024.

The success of these devices positions Meta at the convergence between artificial intelligence and mixed reality. Luke Alvarez, from Hiro Capital, believes that this strategy could establish Meta as a leader in the next generation of operating systems, a clear goal for Mark Zuckerberg.

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Adobe releases emergency patches for ColdFusion due to a serious vulnerability

Adobe has released several security updates to address a critical vulnerability in ColdFusion that already has a proof-of-concept (PoC) code for its exploitation. This vulnerability, identified as CVE-2024-53961, allows attackers to read arbitrary files on compromised servers. It has been confirmed that the security flaw affects the 2023 and 2021 versions of ColdFusion. In a statement issued on Monday, Adobe noted that the vulnerability has a high risk of being used in real cyberattacks. “Adobe is aware that CVE-2024-53961 has a proof-of-concept code that […]

Adobe has released several security updates to address a critical vulnerability in ColdFusion that already has a proof-of-concept (PoC) code for its exploitation. This vulnerability, identified as CVE-2024-53961, allows attackers to read arbitrary files on compromised servers. It has been confirmed that the security flaw affects the 2023 and 2021 versions of ColdFusion.

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In a statement issued on Monday, Adobe noted that the vulnerability has a high risk of being used in real cyber attacks. “Adobe is aware that CVE-2024-53961 has a proof-of-concept code that could lead to arbitrary file system reading,” the company warned. Additionally, it rated the vulnerability with a severity priority “1”, indicating a higher risk of active attacks on specific products and platforms.

The company urges system administrators to urgently install the security updates (ColdFusion 2021 Update 18 and ColdFusion 2023 Update 12), recommending doing so within a maximum period of 72 hours. Additionally, it has suggested implementing the security configurations described in the ColdFusion 2021 and 2023 lockdown guides to mitigate potential risks.

Although Adobe has not confirmed whether this vulnerability has been actively exploited, it has indicated that customers should review the updated documentation on serialization filters to protect against unsafe Wddx deserialization attacks. According to the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) of the United States, this type of vulnerabilities are especially dangerous, as they can be used to access sensitive data, such as credentials, which in turn could allow unauthorized access to systems.

CISA already alerted in 2023 about several critical vulnerabilities in ColdFusion, forcing U.S. federal agencies to patch servers against attacks. Additionally, it revealed in March of the same year that hackers exploit similar flaws in outdated government servers.

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Instagram tests a new way to highlight content from your friends that you haven't seen

Instagram, the popular social network by Meta, is testing a feature aimed at helping users not miss updates from their friends. According to the company, as reported to TechCrunch, the platform has started showing unseen Highlighted Stories from mutual friends at the end of the Stories tray, at the top of the feed. “We are always looking for new ways to connect people through Stories, and we are testing this feature with a small group of users,” a Meta spokesperson noted. The change was first detected by the expert in […]

Instagram, the popular social network from Meta, is testing a feature aimed at helping users not miss updates from their friends. According to the company, as reported by TechCrunch, the platform has started showing unseen Story highlights from mutual friends at the end of the Story tray, at the top of the feed.

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“We are always looking for new ways to connect people through Stories, and we are testing this feature with a small group of users,” said a Meta spokesperson. The change was first detected by social media expert Ahmed Ghanem.

The idea arises in response to the growing volume of Reels and sponsored posts that can cause you to miss updates from your friends. With this test, Instagram aims to give more visibility to Highlighted Stories, those selected posts that users save on their profiles and that do not disappear in 24 hours like regular Stories.

The Featured Stories will only appear if the user has viewed all the current Stories in their tray. Additionally, only the unseen ones from the last week will be shown, ensuring that content you have already seen is not repeated.

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Google Gemini will know that you are reading a PDF

Google is driving the integration of its Gemini chatbot into its family of applications, and its latest update has now reached the Google Files app. Now, users who open PDF documents in this application will be able to enjoy Gemini’s analysis directly. This new feature allows interaction with the documents through questions, thanks to an integration that promises to simplify access to the information contained in the files. The feature, discovered by a user from the Reddit community r/Android, is available on devices with Android 15, such as the Pixel 9. Upon opening a PDF in the app […]

Google is driving the integration of its chatbot Gemini into its family of applications, and its latest update has now reached the Google Files app. Now, users who open PDF documents in this application can enjoy Gemini’s analysis directly. This new feature allows interaction with documents through questions, thanks to an integration that promises to simplify access to the information contained in the files.

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The feature, discovered by a user from the Reddit community r/Android, is available on devices with Android 15, such as the Pixel 9. When opening a PDF in the Files app, the message “Ask about this PDF” appears in the Gemini chatbot interface. With a simple tap, the document is processed and ready to answer questions in natural language.

The tool is even capable of analyzing complex documents, such as scientific research articles, showing impeccable performance. This approach eliminates the need to import PDFs into standalone applications, streamlining the workflow. Although the feature is not yet available in all versions of Files, users can use the Gemini mobile app to perform similar tasks; simply attach a PDF from local storage or Google Drive for Gemini to analyze it.

Gemini stands out for its ability to understand both text and multimedia content stored on the device. However, this advanced functionality is limited to devices with Android 15 and accounts with paid access to Gemini Advanced, which could be a drawback for those looking for free alternatives.

For those who do not wish to pay, Google offers NotebookLM, a powerful free tool that allows you to analyze information not only from files, but also from URLs and YouTube videos. Although Gemini remains an innovative solution, alternatives like NotebookLM stand out for their versatility and accessibility for various types of audiences.

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