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Month: June 2018

  • Tesla Employee Sued Over Alleged Sabotage

    Tesla Employee Sued Over Alleged Sabotage

    Following the recent news that Tesla believed it had been sabotaged, the company has sued former employee Martin Tripp. The lawsuit claims that Tripp, who worked at the company’s factory in Nevada, stole trade secrets and sent them to unknown third parties. If true, this could be a partial explanation for the ongoing struggles to meet Model 3 production numbers. Such corporate espionage gives new perspective on statements from CEO Elon Musk that seemed paranoid earlier this week. 

    Tesla’s Statement 

    Regarding the incident, the electric automaker had this to say.  

    “Tesla has only begun to understand the full scope of Tripp’s illegal activity, but he has thus far admitted to writing software that hacked Tesla’s manufacturing operating system (“MOS”) and to transferring several gigabytes of Tesla data to outside entities. This includes dozens of confidential photographs and a video of Tesla’s manufacturing systems. 

    Beyond the misconduct to which Tripp admitted, he also wrote computer code to periodically export Tesla’s data off its network and into the hands of third parties. His hacking software was operating on three separate computer systems of other individuals at Tesla so that the data would be exported even after he left the company and so that those individuals would be falsely implicated as guilty parties.” 

    Public Image 

    The ambitious car company is likely eager to have this issue brought to the light, as it helps paint them sympathetically. Their recent struggles to meet production goals, coupled with recent fatalities related to Auto Pilot, haven’t helped their public image. However, being portrayed as the victims of corporate sabotage could help the company’s image and garner sympathy. Indeed, if Musk is to be believed, Tripp isn’t the only saboteur. While Musk hasn’t elaborated, he tweeted the following. “There is more, but the actions of a few bad apples will not stop Tesla from reaching its goals. With 40,000 people, the worst 1 in 1000 will have issues. That’s still ~40 people.” 

    While the company’s public struggles are well-documented, the company maintains that they’re on track to have a profitable third quarter. Soon, the company will have to divulge production numbers for the Model 3 for the past few months. Short sellers, people who stand to gain money if Tesla’s stocks drop, have been cautioned by Musk that their position will “explode” soon. We’ll see soon how things shape up for the innovative automaker.  

    Feature Image Credit: CNBC 

     

  • Which Outdoor Speaker Packs the Most Punch?

    Which Outdoor Speaker Packs the Most Punch?

    Summer time is the time to enjoy the outdoors with friends! Whether you’re camping, at the pool, at the beach or at a cookout, you’re going to want your tunes! But which speakers are the best? You’ll want one with tons of power and durability! It helps if they’re water-proof, too. To help you narrow it down, we’ve got some of our favorite outdoor speaker picks for you! Party on! 

    UE Wonderboom 

    The Wonderboom is a compact, loud, waterproof speaker that’s sure to impress. If you want something you can toss in a bag and bust out at the pool, this little wonder is it. The folks at UE outdid themselves with this one! It can bob about in the water, no problem, kicking out huge sound and keeping the party going. If you’re the type that drops electronics in the pool, check out the Wonderboom! You can usually find them for around $70, although they’re often on sale for less. Between the stellar battery life, great Bluetooth connection and loud speaker, the Wonderboom is your best bet for compact speaker. 

    Braven XXL 

    If you want a boombox-style outdoor speaker, look no further. The Braven XXL packs huge sound into its durable frame. This one certainly isn’t small: it’s about the size of your average boombox. The body is shock-proof and water-resistant, so you won’t be worried about rain or dropping it. It also puts out some serious noise. If you’re looking to throw a loud dance party by the pool, this is your best bet. You can even plug in a microphone for a karaoke party! It’s a little pricey, coming in at $300, but it’ll make some serious noise. 

    JBL Charge 3 

    Much like the Wonderboom, the JBL Charge 3 can withstand water like nobody’s business. If you plan on charging up your gadgets by the pool, this is a great option! It boasts a USB port to charge any gadget you care to bring with you. The battery life is also stellar, although charging other gadgets up with it will reduce it. The Charge 3 costs around $150, but you can often find it on sale for less. With loud, punchy sonics and a durable body, this is another great choice! 

    Our Favorite Outdoor Speaker: UE Megaboom 

    We really like UE’s outdoor speakers! The Megaboom, the bigger cousin of the Wonderboom, is a beast. It’s a little expensive at $200, but it really delivers. It sports amazing sound quality and top of the line durability. It’s totally waterproof, of course, so it can survive any dips in the pool. It’s shock-resistant and durable, made for a pool party or camping trip. If you want a great balance of price and quality, the Megaboom is what you’re looking for. 

  • Which Hiking Backpack is the Best for you?

    Which Hiking Backpack is the Best for you?

    It’s time to head outdoors and enjoy the warm weather! If you’re going backpacking, though, you’re going to need a good hiking backpack! When you go backpacking, you have to choose what you carry wisely. You don’t want to be over-encumbered, but you want to make sure you have everything you need. Not to mention, choosing which pack you carry is paramount. Packs that are big, durable, waterproof and comfortable are important! They’re also usually somewhat expensive, so experimenting with different brands isn’t really feasible. With that in mind, we’ve got a roundup of some of our favorite backpacks for your next hike! 

    ARC’TERYX BORA 63 

    The Arc’Teryx Bora 63 is fantastically comfortable. It sports straps and pads that help distribute the weight evenly across your body. The foam pads contour to the body and are quite thick and durable. The pack sports a rock-solid suspension incorporating aluminum stays, so it holds up under pressure. The pack is highly weather-resistant, featuring waterproof zippers and seam seals. While the pack is expensive, running $550, it’s also incredibly high quality. If you’re a serious climber looking for a seriously comfortable backpack, this one is for you. 

    HYPERLITE MOUNTAIN GEAR 3400 SOUTHWEST 

    The Hyperlite Mountain Gear pack makes this list for being so darn light. The trend of ultra-light hiking has blown up recently, and with it, demand for ultra-light packs has too. Hyperlite, thankfully, is here to provide! Weighing in at just 2 pounds, the 3400 pack is made of a material called Dyneema. The pack is completely waterproof and unquestionably durable. Great for hiking, kayaking or camping, the 3400 pushes the boundaries of how durable such a light pack can be. It’s $345, but it’s also quite spartan. This bag has few bells or whistles, but what you’re paying for is the weight and durability. If you’re looking to travel very, very light, this is the right hiking backpack for you. 

    Our Favorite Hiking Backpack Overall: OSPREY ATMOS AG 65 

    If you’re looking for a great overall outdoors bag, the Osprey Atmos won’t disappoint. Featuring a fantastic suspension system to evenly distribute weight, the Osprey was designed to make you forget you were even wearing it.  The bag is pretty light, coming in at 5 pounds, and is as durable as they come. Featuring tons of flaps and pockets, you can make sure you stay organized with this hiking backpack. If you’re looking for a high-quality, all-purpose and weather-resistant bag, you’ll be hard-pressed to find a better deal. The Osprey Atmos AG 65 retails for $270, making it the most affordable bag on this list. It also happens to be the best overall! This one is a no-brainer. 

     

  • Amazon Fire TV Cube Review

    Amazon Fire TV Cube Review

    The Amazon Fire TV Cube is here! Amazon has promised a unique blend of connecting traditional cable TV with Alexa voice control. While the company has dipped its toes in this water with the Fire TV Stick, the TV Cube is a pretty big leap. What is everyone saying about the newest cable box? Is it worth all the hype? Does it really revolutionize the living room? Or is it just a goofy gadget with niche appeal? Well, we’ve got a review roundup for you right here! Let’s talk TV! 

    What the Fire TV Cube Does 

    The Fire TV Cube is an Alexa-powered entertainment device designed to let you use voice commands to control your TV hands-free. Basic functions, like turning the TV and cable receiver on and changing channels is all handled through voice commands. This is actually quite awesome: walking in from a long day and getting your entertainment with just your voice feels really luxurious. While you’ll still have to use a remote control for more advanced functions, this is a huge step in the right direction!  

    Amazon has been leading the pack in smart home technology since they first launched the Amazon Echo. Their Alexa personal assistant has grown more responsive and intelligent with each update. New technology like the TV Cube are natural extensions of the ongoing smart home revolution. The TV Cube has excellent voice recognition, hearing users over speakers even in loud rooms. The Cube then mutes the sound until the command is completed.  

    The best part, though, is that setting the device up is easy and simple. While some smart home technology has quite a learning curve, this one can be set up in a few minutes. Once you’re hooked up, it’s easy to start channel surfing with just your voice. 

    What’s the Catch? 

    The Fire TV Cube isn’t perfect, though. Some devices are simply beyond the technology and can’t be voice controlled. For instance, game consoles and Roku devices aren’t able to be controlled via voice. In order to use those devices, you’ll need their controllers on hand. This means the TV Cube doesn’t live up to its promise of removing all remotes from your coffee table. 

    Another odd design choice, the remote that comes with the TV Cube has no volume or mute buttons. This is underscored by the remote’s inability to control any other devices. It begs the question of what, exactly, the device has a remote for, given that it’s entirely voice controlled on its own.  

    Is it Worth it? 

    For more complicated set-ups, Amazon’s newest device isn’t a replacement for a standard universal remote. However, for simpler home entertainment set-ups, it’s a great alternative. If you’ve already invested in a smart home suite with Alexa, the TV Cube is a no-brainer.  

    If you’re still on the fence about Alexa, the TV Cube might just be what pushes you to check the technology out. Amazon’s new cable box retails for $120, and it’s a solid purchase. If you’re looking to channel surf with voice controls, this is a great buy. However, if voice commands don’t excite you, skip this one. 

  • Instagram TV

    Instagram TV

    Instagram is primed and placed to make the next big social media step forward and dethrone Youtube. At a fancy event in San Francisco, the company announced it will begin allowing users to upload videos up to 1 hour in length, up from the previous 1 minute limit. Instagram TV plans to  house the new longer-form videos from star content creators, Instagram is launching IGTV. All this potentially game changing content will be available from a button atop the Instagram home screen, IGTV will spotlight popular videos from Instagram celebrities.

    What is getting most excited about this is the logo. It has the classic Mtv’s TV lettering attache to the IG logo. This indicated all I need to know about this. It says we don’t know what this, where it will go or what we will see but its gonna be cool. This could open the door for really interesting and creative content that isnt set out to make a profit or sell ads but for real creative expression.

    “It’s time for video to move forward, and evolve” said Instagram CEO Kevin Systrom on stage at the event. “IGTV is for watching long-from videos from your favorite creators.” This could mean no waiting for shows to go through market research or producers to get green lit, just shoot and show. Its gonna be fun.

    IGTV will let anyone be a creator, not just big name celebrities. People will be able to upload vertical videos through Instagram’s app or the web.

    In the IGTV hub, viewers will be able to swipe through a variety of longer-form videos. Or a quick swipe up to visit a Browse tab of personally recommend videos, popular videos, creators they’re following. It will also feature the option to continue watching previously started videos. Users will also get callouts from the IGTV button alerting them to new content.

    The Final Thought

    Instagram TV videos will include link-out options allowing creators to drive traffic to their own websites and stories. The details on monetization are yet to be confirmed. It is clear that this sort of platform would be a direct competitor to sites like youtube. Users might be able to explore the hub later today. Take note, The entertainment and social media world just changed.

  • Which Cloud Storage Service is Right for You?

    Which Cloud Storage Service is Right for You?

    There a ton of great options when it comes to cloud storage! Many of them are free, but some offer some interesting paid features. If you have a lot of storage needs, whether it be for business or personal use, consider these great options for cloud storage!

     

    Google Drive: Google Drive is part of Google’s office suite, and it’s surprisingly competitive with Microsoft’s offerings. For having a Google account, you get 15GB of storage for free. For documents and pictures, 15GB is a good bit of storage! Google also offers a few packages for higher amounts of storage. For 100GB, 1TB and 10TB, you pay $2, $10 or $100 per month, respectively. Given the free Google Office suite that comes welded to this service, many offices are opting to use it.  

    Google Drive has Android, iPhone and Windows apps, too! This makes it easy to sync files across multiple devices. Google Drive is ideal if you have a Chromebook, but it’s a great choice for eveeryday use too. You can’t go wrong with this one! 

    Amazon Drive: Amazon Drive is a great service if you already have Amazon Prime. Annual pricing is pretty reasonable for the cloud storage, but Prime members get unlimited photo storage as part of their membership! Those who just want to store stuff get 5GB for free and can upgrade to 100GB for $12 per year. If you really need more than that, they also offer 1TB of storage for $60 per year. If you need to store every film ever released, a 30TB option is available for $1,800 per year.  

    Amazon Drive uses a “delta sync,” like DropBox. This means, when you upload a file and then upload a changed version of the same file, it only saves the changes. This means it just makes alterations to the file rather than redownloading the whole thing. This saves time and bandwidth! You can also elect to throttle upload speed if you need to balance what’s using bandwidth. Bottom line, if you’re already using Amazon Prime, this is a great choice. Otherwise, there are better options. 

    NextCloud: If you don’t like the idea of Google or Microsoft or someone having access to your files, try NextCloud. You set up your own cloud storage through NextCloud, using your own server. While this might sound daunting to some, for tech-savvy users this is a great option. If you really want to exert total control over your cloud storage and backups, this is the way to go. The code is all open-source, so savvy users can run it all themseves. The service also offers private web messaging and conferences through NextCloud Talk and NextCloud Groupware. If you want to run a business and control everything from your own servers, this is the way to do it! 

    OneDrive: Microsoft’s answer to cloud storage is a great platform. Windows users have access to it as just another computer directory! It’s quite easy to access and offers 5GB of storage free to anyone. Just like Google Drive works closely with Google Office Suite, OneDrive works with Microsoft Office. If you commonly use Microsoft Word, PowerPoint and the like, OneDrive is a great option for you.  

    If you have an Office 365 subscription, you get an extra terabyte of storage for OneDrive too! For businesses, there’s also OneDrive for Business that grants access to both storage and Microsoft Office. It’s just under $9 per person per month, which is actually a pretty good rate!  If you already use a lot of Microsoft’s Office Suite, OneDrive is for you! 

    Most Generally Useful Cloud Storage: DropBox

    DropBox is a very well-known cloud storage platform for good reason. It can be accessed from pretty much any platform and is quite easy to use. You get 2GB of free storage, as well as a few extra GB for syncing your phone to your DropBox. By recommending friends you can get extra storage, too. You can spend $10 per month for an extra TB of storage, or you can get it for $100 per year.  

    The bottom line is that DropBox is easy and system-agnostic. It’s not married to any particular operating system or company. If you need a solid, dependable cloud storage platform that works on every device, DropBox is for you. 


  • Glamping Basics for Those Looking to Camp in Style

    Glamping Basics for Those Looking to Camp in Style

    Everyone loves the great outdoors, right? Well, not everything about the outside world is that awesome. For those who want to enjoy the world of camping but don’t like leaving behind the comforts of everyday life, glamping exists! Glamping is a portmanteau of glamour and camping, and it’s pretty popular right now! If you’re looking to go on a glamourous camping trip of your own, check out these glamping basics to get you started! 

    Handpresso Wild Hybrid Coffee Machine 

    Coffee addicts know one of the roughest aspects of camping is missing out on good coffee. Thankfully, Handpresso is here to alleviate your need for a good espresso. For $80, you get a coffee press that can make espresso with just some hot water and coffee grounds. It’s easy, portable and light, and a real life saver for caffeine addicts. It’s much easier to face the great outdoors when you’ve had your morning coffee! 

    Sea to Summit Ultralight Hammock 

    The problem with most hammocks is that they’re heavy and cumbersome. Sea to Summit has a great solution for prospective glampers: an ultralight hammock that can fit in a purse. If you’re looking to kick back and enjoy the breeze, this is for you. The hammock is durable and can withstand 300 pounds, but it folds down to an impressive 8 inches by 3.5 inches when folded up. It runs for $90, but it’s a great addition to any glamping trip. What’s better than kicking back and enjoying the fresh air in the comfort of a hammock? 

    Craghoppers NosiLife Insect-Repelling Apparel 

    The worst part about the outside world is the bugs. Seriously, if you’ve ever been camping in an area with mosquitoes, you know what I’m talking about. This insect-repelling apparel is exactly what you need to enjoy the outdoors without getting your blood drained by those little monsters. Carghoppers offer a range of different clothes that repel bugs, from jackets to dresses. The best way to camp in style and not spend your time swatting bugs! 

    The Best Glamping Starter: Stout Bell Tent 

    The best way to camp glamorously is in a big, luxurious tent. Stout’s Bell Tent fits that bill perfectly! Coming in at $950, it’s not cheap, but it’s loaded with great features. The tent is covered in bug-resistant mesh vents and made from water-resistant material. It has a huge, spacious interior that can fit a king-sized bed and a very tall ceiling. It comes in 13- and 16-foot diameters and 8- and 10-foot ceiling heights, depending on what you need. Springing for this huge, luxurious tent is perfect for high-level glamping! 

  • Major Phone Providers to Stop Selling Your Location

    Major Phone Providers to Stop Selling Your Location

    Data brokers have been accessing phone location services for as long as cell phones have had location tracking. However, in the our modern, breach-sensitive era, such actions make customers understandably upset. Recently, a company called Securus was revealed to be offering a service to law enforcement that allowed them to track the live location of cellphone users. Securus depends upon information from LocationSmart, a data aggregator. Securus actions fell under scrutiny from Senator Ron Wyden from Oregon, who called on the major phone providers to cut LocationSmart off. 

    Responses from Phone Providers 

    Verizon, AT&T, Sprint and T-Mobile have all made statements of varying intensity that they planned to cut off data brokers like LocationSmart. As the FCC investigates the Securus situation, the major phone providers are looking to distance themselves from the situation. Securus, notably, requires nothing more than a vague “court order” (that they don’t check) to access their database. As such, the legality of the service is dubious at best. Law enforcement agencies could easily look up individuals based on their phone and track them without a warrant. This situation is clearly a problem, and the major networks’ attempts to stymie Securus are a step in the right direction. 

    Further complicating matters, a recent “bug” in LocationSmart’s system allowed people to access the location of all phones in their database. Senator Wyden called on the major networks to cut these data brokers off and protect their customers. For their part, they have all made moves to do so.  

    Verizon has confirmed it is terminating contracts with LocationSmart and ZumiGo, another location broker. AT&T, Sprint and T-Mobile have all also promised that they will stop providing this data to aggregators. Originally, the location services were meant to be used for things like roadside assistance and fraud prevention. However, Securus accessing user locations without customer consent is a major breach of user privacy.  

    How Soon Will These Changes Go Into Effect?

    The major providers have stated that they won’t be cutting off the location services immediately. According to them, those services offer some positive benefits that they don’t want to interrupt. However, if the cost for small conveniences is the loss of privacy, perhaps those conveniences are unimportant. In any event, Senator Wyden’s actions seem to have brought about a change for the better. The large telecom companies likely either didn’t know or care about this data misuse. Wyden’s public challenge that they should tighten consumer protections moved them to actions, though, and that’s commendable. 

  • Fitness Tech Roundup: Get in Shape this Summer!

    Fitness Tech Roundup: Get in Shape this Summer!

    It’s that time again! Hitting the beach, swimming in the pool or going out on the bike? Why not try out some of these great summer fitness tech picks to up your game? Summer is a great time to get in shape and try out some cool new fitness products. We’ve got a round-up of some of our favorite picks for this summer. Let’s get some sun and burn some calories! 

    Okaley Polarized Sunglasses 

    If you’re outdoors running, cycling or swimming, you want to make sure you wear UV-protecting shafes! Not to mention, you gotta look cool when you’re working out. Oakley in particular makes great shades for athletic pursuits, as they’re durable and well-made and won’t break easily. They’re also pretty stylish, so tha’s a big plus. Their various choices come in different price ranges but average about $200, but a good pair will last you for years. These are a solid investment if you plan to work out outdoors a lot! 

    Lumo Running Coach 

    If you find you have trouble staying motivated, this running coach gadget could be for you. On top of helping coach your running technique and style, this coach also helps you keep a good routine. The Lumo app tracks your running and analyzes what you’re doing right and what you can fix. The advanced sensors can even let you run without your phone after you’ve given the app a trial run to base your performance on. While it usually costs around $100, you can often find Lumo on sale for around $80! If you’re looking to seriously up your run this summer, check this nifty gadget out! 

    Our Favorite Piece of Fitness Tech This Summer: Suunto 3 Fitness Tracker 

    If you’re looking for a more all-around fitness tracker than a running coach, the Suunto 3 is a great pick. Retailing for $230, this fitness tracker is sleek and stylish with a watch-like appearance and bright display. It can track your calories burned and miles walked or run, as well as many other metrics. Sleep monitoring, fitness suggestions and more are all available. For those who are so inclined, the tracker even offers personalized fitness routines that fit your lifestyle. If you take your fitness very seriously and want to track your workouts, this is a great option. It helps that it looks great on your wrist while you’re at it! 

  • Slate of New Star Trek Shows on the Way

    Slate of New Star Trek Shows on the Way

    If you’ve been digging Discovery, we have some good news for you. Rumor has it that several new Star Trek series are on the way! Current Star Trek: Discovery showrunner Alex Kurtzman has been attached to the rumored shows. According to sources that spoke to Variety, the shows are planned to follow a few scenarios that have been popular with fans for years. While details are still scarce, this is great news for Trekkies. 

    New Star Trek Shows Planned 

    According to the Variety report, the following information was gleaned from some anonymous sources.  

    “A series set at Starfleet Academy from creators Stephanie Savage and Josh Schwartz. The duo most recently developed the CW’s reboot of Dynasty and previously created shows like Gossip Girl and Hulu and Marvel’s Runaways. 

    A limited series whose plot details are being kept under wraps. 

    A limited series based around the Wrath of Khan story. Khan’s full name is Khan Noonien Singh. He was famously portrayed by Ricardo Montalbán in both the original series episode “Space Seed” and again in the film Star Trek II: Wrath of Khan. Benedict Cumberbatch then played the character in the 2013 film Star Trek into Darkness. 

    An animated series whose plot details are being kept under wraps.” 

    To Boldly Go 

    These plans shouldn’t shock longtime Trekkies. Talks of a show set in Starfleet Academy have been going on for decades and would make an excellent coming-of-age tale. Khan, for his part, is a fascinating character and could easily carry his own limited series. Finally, the promise of a new animated series is a familiar one. It makes sense, too, as characters who might not be able to appear in live action are possible via animation. For instance, Brent Spiner could reprise his role as Data via voice acting wihtout appearing visibly older.  

    Following the final episode of Enterprise, many fans were disappointed to find that there would be no Star Trek on TV. This ended a nearly twenty-year stretch of the show being on the air in some capacity. The show’s revival via the popular movie franchise and Discovery has led to a renaissance, though, and fans couldn’t be happier.  

    In 2018, it’s cool to be a nerd. And man, does it feel good. With three new series on the horizon, it feels like the stars are the limit.