Technology Archives - TheRecentTimes Stay tuned, Stay updated Mon, 13 Jan 2025 07:22:41 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.2.8 https://therecenttimes.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/cropped-TRT-1-32x32.png Technology Archives - TheRecentTimes 32 32 Blue Origin’s New Glenn Rocket Debut: Mission Goals and Cost Breakdown https://therecenttimes.com/news/blue-origins-new-glenn-rocket-debut-mission-goals-and-cost-breakdown https://therecenttimes.com/news/blue-origins-new-glenn-rocket-debut-mission-goals-and-cost-breakdown#respond Mon, 13 Jan 2025 07:22:37 +0000 https://therecenttimes.com/?p=152374 Jeff Bezos-led Blue Origin is set to mark a significant milestone with the maiden orbital...

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Jeff Bezos-led Blue Origin is set to mark a significant milestone with the maiden orbital flight of its New Glenn rocket, scheduled to launch on Monday at 1 AM ET. Taking off from Cape Canaveral, Florida, the mission represents a decade of development and billions of dollars invested to compete with industry leader SpaceX. Here’s a closer look at the objectives, stages, and costs of this groundbreaking mission.

The Mission’s Stages

The New Glenn rocket, standing at an impressive 30 stories tall, will follow a carefully planned sequence during its mission:

  1. Liftoff: Powered by seven BE-4 engines fueled with methane and liquid oxygen, the rocket will ascend into space.
  2. Booster Separation: The first stage booster will detach a few minutes after launch and attempt to land autonomously on a floating platform in the Atlantic Ocean.
  3. Orbital Flight: The second stage will continue toward orbit, carrying its payload. The mission is expected to last approximately six hours.

Key Objectives

The primary goals for the New Glenn mission are ambitious and pivotal for Blue Origin’s future:

  1. Reaching Orbit: Successfully achieving orbit will demonstrate New Glenn’s reliability and readiness for future, more complex missions.
  2. Testing the Blue Ring Pathfinder Payload: This technology will evaluate telemetry, communications, and control systems, laying the groundwork for Blue Origin’s planned multi-mission Blue Ring platform.
  3. Recovering the Booster: A successful booster landing will highlight the rocket’s reusability, a feature crucial for reducing costs in the space industry.
  4. Establishing Industry Credibility: A flawless mission could position Blue Origin as a formidable competitor in the commercial and national security satellite markets.

Costs and Challenges

While Blue Origin hasn’t disclosed the precise cost of this mission, industry estimates suggest it could be around $68 million, based on early mission contracts. The company has faced delays in New Glenn’s development, losing ground to SpaceX’s Falcon 9, the reigning leader in reusable rocket technology.

Blue Origin’s CEO, Dave Limp, has introduced urgency to the project, and Bezos himself acknowledged the risks involved, particularly with the booster landing. “On a first flight, anything can happen,” Bezos noted.

Why This Launch Matters

A successful New Glenn mission would signify Blue Origin’s emergence as a major player in the space industry, capable of competing with SpaceX in launching satellites and supporting national security missions. The inclusion of the Blue Ring payload also signals the company’s intent to innovate beyond rocket launches.

As the clock ticks down to the launch, the world watches eagerly to see if New Glenn will meet its lofty objectives and deliver on its promise to revolutionize space exploration.

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Elon Musk Teases Xmail Launch: Could It Challenge Gmail and Raise Security Concerns? https://therecenttimes.com/news/elon-musk-teases-xmail-launch-could-it-challenge-gmail-and-raise-security-concerns https://therecenttimes.com/news/elon-musk-teases-xmail-launch-could-it-challenge-gmail-and-raise-security-concerns#respond Tue, 17 Dec 2024 07:36:45 +0000 https://therecenttimes.com/?p=151405 Elon Musk has once again stirred the online community after teasing the launch of Xmail,...

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Elon Musk has once again stirred the online community after teasing the launch of Xmail, a potential competitor to Gmail. On December 15, Musk responded to a post on X (formerly Twitter) that suggested, “X Mail would be cool.” Musk’s simple yet attention-grabbing reply, “Yeah. On the list of things to do,” sent the internet into a frenzy, prompting discussions, memes, and debates about what Xmail could bring to the table.

Elon Musk Teases Xmail

The idea of Xmail stems from Musk’s ongoing efforts to transform X into an “everything app,” a vision he first mentioned back in July 2023. Musk’s ambitious plan involves making X a multifunctional platform that combines social media, messaging, financial transactions, and potentially now, email services. While there has been no official announcement regarding Xmail’s release, Musk’s cryptic responses have fueled curiosity and speculation.

The discussion began after X user @cb_doge posted, “X Mail would be cool,” to which Musk responded positively. This wasn’t the first time Xmail was hinted at. Back in February 2024, Musk responded to a similar question about Xmail’s launch with the words, “It’s coming.”

Memes and Mixed Reactions

As expected, Musk’s hint about launching Xmail sparked a wave of memes and reactions across social media platforms. Some users poked fun at the potential service, while others shared excitement over the prospect of an alternative to Gmail. Here are a few notable reactions:

“Everyone leaving Gmail after Xmail has been announced!!”

“Yahoo Mail laughing because they stayed uncontroversial…”

“I would have my mail delivered by carrier pigeon before I would ever use Xmail. What a joke.”

The mixed reactions reflect both skepticism and intrigue, given Musk’s track record of disrupting various industries.

How Could Xmail Differ From Gmail?

If Musk’s Xmail becomes a reality, it could bring some notable differences compared to Gmail and other email services. Some potential features include:

Enhanced Privacy and Security: Xmail could prioritize user privacy by adopting a subscription-based model instead of relying on targeted ads, which has been a common criticism of Gmail. End-to-end encryption might also become a key feature.

AI Integration: Leveraging advanced AI tools, Xmail could offer smart categorization, predictive replies, and efficient spam detection.

DM-Style Interface: Unlike the traditional email thread format, Xmail might feature a messaging-style interface for a cleaner, chat-like experience.

Integration with X Ecosystem: Musk’s vision of an “everything app” could allow seamless transitions between email, messaging, social media, and financial services, all within the X platform.

Multi-Device Accessibility: With Musk’s experience in technologies like Tesla’s infotainment systems and Starlink satellites, Xmail might offer reliable synchronization across multiple devices, even in areas with poor internet connectivity.

Security Concerns: A Threat to Gmail Users?

Despite the hype, concerns have been raised about Xmail’s potential risks, particularly from a cybersecurity standpoint. According to Forbes, one of the biggest threats could come from phishing attacks. Given Musk’s tendency to integrate AI-driven solutions, there is worry that AI could also be leveraged to generate sophisticated phishing scams targeting unsuspecting users.

Cybersecurity expert Davey Winder highlighted these concerns, emphasizing that introducing a new platform like Xmail could open up vulnerabilities, especially with billions of Gmail users already active. With the current email market dominated by Apple Mail (53.67%) and Gmail (30.70%), any disruption could come with unforeseen risks.

While Elon Musk’s hint about Xmail remains speculative, the idea has already captured the internet’s attention. Whether Xmail will become a serious contender to Gmail or simply remain another unfulfilled concept in Musk’s vast list of ideas is yet to be seen. For now, users can only wait and speculate as memes continue to dominate the discussion around this potential tech shake-up

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T-Mobile Opens Sign-Ups for Starlink Beta Program to Eliminate Dead Zones – Here’s How to Join https://therecenttimes.com/news/t-mobile-opens-sign-ups-for-starlink-beta-program-to-eliminate-dead-zones-heres-how-to-join https://therecenttimes.com/news/t-mobile-opens-sign-ups-for-starlink-beta-program-to-eliminate-dead-zones-heres-how-to-join#respond Tue, 17 Dec 2024 05:39:10 +0000 https://therecenttimes.com/?p=151390 T-Mobile has officially launched sign-ups for its groundbreaking Starlink beta program, an initiative designed to...

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T-Mobile has officially launched sign-ups for its groundbreaking Starlink beta program, an initiative designed to eliminate cellular “dead zones” across the United States. Leveraging Starlink’s low-earth orbit (LEO) satellites, the program aims to provide seamless text messaging in areas without traditional ground-based cellular coverage. Postpaid voice customers with compatible devices can now register to be part of this innovative service, which is set to begin early next year.

Tackling Dead Zones with Starlink Technology

The Starlink beta program, announced by T-Mobile, targets the 500,000 square miles of U.S. territory where cellular signals are unavailable. Utilizing SpaceX’s Starlink satellites, the service ensures users can send and receive text messages in remote areas where conventional coverage fails.

T-Mobile describes the initiative as a crucial step toward completely eradicating connectivity black spots:
“This is the next step in the quest to completely eradicate dead zones,” the company emphasized.

This technology integrates satellite and terrestrial networks, enabling devices to function smoothly without requiring users to adjust or point their phones toward the sky. Text messages, both incoming and outgoing, will behave just like they would on standard cellular networks.

How to Join T-Mobile’s Starlink Beta Program

The Starlink beta program is currently open to T-Mobile postpaid voice subscribers with eligible devices. Interested participants can sign up via T-Mobile’s dedicated Starlink Satellite website by clicking the “Register now” button. Since spaces in the program are limited, early registration is encouraged.

T-Mobile is prioritizing enrollment for first responders and essential workers, recognizing their critical role in emergencies. This priority ensures that those protecting communities can rely on consistent connectivity during crises, such as natural disasters or remote rescue operations.

A Technological Breakthrough for Connectivity

T-Mobile’s partnership with Starlink marks a significant achievement in communication technology. By combining low-earth orbit satellite capabilities with T-Mobile’s cellular spectrum, the service delivers uninterrupted connectivity in the most isolated regions.

Mike Katz, T-Mobile’s President of Marketing, Strategy, and Products, highlighted the simplicity of the system, explaining that users only need an unobstructed view of the sky for it to work. The seamless integration allows users to stay connected without the need for specialized satellite devices or adjustments.

Tested in Real-World Scenarios

The Starlink service has already been tested under critical conditions during Hurricanes Helene and Milton. While still in beta, it proved invaluable to emergency personnel and affected communities. Individuals were able to receive emergency alerts and maintain essential communications even when traditional cellular and broadband networks were disrupted.

These real-world tests provided T-Mobile with essential data to enhance the satellite-based system and ensure it performs reliably during emergencies and recovery efforts.

The Starlink beta program is a part of T-Mobile’s broader “Experience Coverage Beyond” strategy. The goal is to provide reliable connectivity across the continental U.S., select regions of Alaska, Puerto Rico, and U.S. territorial waters. By bridging the gap between satellite and ground-based cellular technology, T-Mobile aims to set a new standard for dependable communication in the most remote areas.

T-Mobile’s integration of Starlink’s LEO satellites into its network reflects a significant leap forward in the communication industry. Unlike traditional satellite services, this technology operates seamlessly with standard smartphones, ensuring accessibility and ease of use for all customers.

The beta program will not only refine the service but also bring T-Mobile closer to its ambitious goal of eliminating dead zones across the country. For postpaid voice subscribers, this program presents an opportunity to be part of a technological breakthrough that could transform global connectivity.

To secure a spot in the beta program and experience this cutting-edge technology firsthand, eligible T-Mobile customers can register now via the official Starlink Satellite website.

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Tesla Debuts Optimus Humanoid Robot: Elon Musk Claims It Will Revolutionize Everyday Life Tasks, Pricing Revealed https://therecenttimes.com/news/tesla-debuts-optimus-humanoid-robot-elon-musk-claims-it-will-revolutionize-everyday-life-tasks-pricing-revealed https://therecenttimes.com/news/tesla-debuts-optimus-humanoid-robot-elon-musk-claims-it-will-revolutionize-everyday-life-tasks-pricing-revealed#respond Fri, 11 Oct 2024 05:57:23 +0000 https://therecenttimes.com/?p=148645 In a groundbreaking reveal at Tesla’s highly anticipated ‘We, Robot’ event, CEO Elon Musk showcased...

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In a groundbreaking reveal at Tesla’s highly anticipated ‘We, Robot’ event, CEO Elon Musk showcased two of the company’s latest innovations: the Optimus humanoid robot and the futuristic Robovan. Tesla envisions Optimus, their new humanoid robot, as an integral part of everyday life, capable of performing a wide array of human tasks.

During the presentation, a group of Optimus robots appeared on stage, highlighting Tesla’s ambitious push to integrate robotics into households and businesses. According to Musk, the Optimus robot is designed to handle various tasks such as carrying packages, walking pets, babysitting, and even bartending. He also mentioned that Tesla expects the long-term price of Optimus to be between $20,000 and $30,000.

“The Optimus will walk amongst you,” Musk said, emphasizing the robot’s versatile nature, stating it could “do anything.” A video demonstration provided a glimpse of Optimus’s future capabilities, showing the robot retrieving a package from a porch. While the presentation aimed to impress, the robots themselves performed relatively simple tasks onstage, including waving, holding cups, and handing out small gift bags. At one point, one of the robots engaged with the audience in a game of rock-paper-scissors, while others danced inside a gazebo in a choreographed display.

Despite the modest showcase, Musk made bold predictions about Optimus’s potential, claiming it could become “the biggest product ever created.” He projected that millions of units would eventually be manufactured, with widespread adoption driving economic growth by “two orders of magnitude” and helping usher in “a future where there is no poverty.”

Tesla’s Optimus Robot: A Fast-Evolving Project

The Optimus project, originally introduced by Tesla in 2021, has progressed rapidly. What began as a performer in a robot suit has since evolved into a legitimate effort to create a fully functional humanoid robot. A rudimentary prototype was introduced in 2022, but Musk promised Optimus would be able to perform practical tasks by the end of 2023, with full commercial availability projected for late 2024.

One of the most significant moments in Optimus’s development occurred earlier this year, when Musk posted a video on X (formerly Twitter) showcasing the robot folding shirts. In the video, Optimus demonstrated its ability to pick up and neatly fold a shirt—an impressive step toward mastering more complex tasks. This was followed by another video showing Optimus walking with a human-like gait, a development that sparked both excitement and some unease.

The latest version of Optimus, dubbed Gen 2, was revealed in December 2023 and included several notable upgrades. Unlike its predecessor, the Gen 2 model can walk faster, has improved hand movements, and features tactile sensors on its fingers, making it more adept at performing intricate tasks. Musk describes this version of Optimus as having “virtually limitless” capabilities, from walking your dog and mowing the lawn to serving drinks at parties.

Tesla’s vision for Optimus reflects the company’s broader ambitions in artificial intelligence and robotics. Musk believes that robots like Optimus could have a profound societal impact, not only by improving efficiency in homes and workplaces but also by boosting the economy and addressing poverty on a global scale. “I believe everyone on Earth will want an Optimus buddy,” Musk boldly claimed.

At the ‘We, Robot’ event, Musk also reintroduced the Tesla Cybercab, a fully autonomous vehicle without traditional controls like steering wheels and pedals. The Cybercab, he predicted, would revolutionize transportation by being more affordable than public transit, with production expected to start by 2026.

As Tesla pushes forward with its vision of a robotic future, the Optimus humanoid represents a crucial piece of Musk’s plan to transform the way we live and work. Although it’s still in development, Optimus’s unveiling has sparked widespread interest and excitement, making it clear that Tesla intends to lead the charge in shaping the future of robotics.

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U.S. Considering Ban on Chinese and Russian Tech in Cars Over Security Concerns https://therecenttimes.com/news/u-s-considering-ban-on-chinese-and-russian-tech-in-cars-over-security-concerns https://therecenttimes.com/news/u-s-considering-ban-on-chinese-and-russian-tech-in-cars-over-security-concerns#respond Tue, 24 Sep 2024 03:35:33 +0000 https://therecenttimes.com/?p=147925 The U.S. government is reportedly planning to impose new restrictions on the use of Chinese...

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The U.S. government is reportedly planning to impose new restrictions on the use of Chinese and Russian hardware and software in vehicles, citing national security risks. The move aims to protect against potential threats that foreign adversaries could exploit through the advanced technologies used in autonomous driving and connected vehicles.

Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo described the proposed ban as a “targeted, proactive” measure, stressing the potential risks posed by modern cars, which are increasingly equipped with internet-connected features like cameras, microphones, and GPS tracking systems. According to Raimondo, these features could be manipulated by foreign powers with access to sensitive data, creating serious risks to both national security and the privacy of U.S. citizens.

“It doesn’t take much imagination to understand how a foreign adversary with access to this information could pose a serious risk to our national security,” Raimondo said in a statement.

Although Chinese and Russian software currently play a minimal role in the U.S. automotive supply chain, the proposed restrictions are seen as a preemptive step to safeguard against future risks. If implemented, these bans would prevent Chinese and Russian technology from being used in American cars, trucks, and buses starting with the 2027 model year for software and 2030 for hardware. This timeline allows automakers time to adjust their supply chains.

The proposal is part of a broader strategy by the U.S. government to reduce Chinese influence in critical industries like automotive manufacturing. In recent years, the U.S. has raised tariffs on electric vehicles, batteries, and other products tied to Chinese manufacturing. Additionally, the White House has taken similar measures, including banning the import of Chinese-made cargo cranes over cybersecurity concerns.

John Bozzella, president and CEO of the Alliance for Automotive Innovation, acknowledged that there is currently very little Chinese or Russian technology in the U.S. automotive industry. However, he cautioned that the proposed rules could require some manufacturers to find new suppliers, which might be a complex and time-consuming process. “You can’t just flip a switch and change the world’s most complex supply chain overnight,” Bozzella said, adding that while some companies may have enough time to adapt, others might struggle with the transition.

In response to the proposed ban, Chinese officials criticized the U.S. for unfairly targeting Chinese firms under the guise of national security. Lin Jian, a spokesperson for China’s Foreign Ministry, urged the U.S. to respect global market principles and maintain a fair and transparent business environment for foreign companies. “China opposes the U.S.’s broadening of the concept of national security and the discriminatory actions taken against Chinese companies and products,” Jian stated.

The proposal will now enter a public comment period, during which stakeholders and industry representatives can voice their concerns or support for the rule. This measure follows a U.S. investigation launched earlier in 2024 that examined the cybersecurity risks associated with connected cars.

As the U.S. government continues to tighten restrictions on Chinese technology, automakers will face the challenge of restructuring their supply chains to comply with these new regulations. The outcome of the public comment period and further negotiations will determine the final form of the rules, but it is clear that the U.S. is determined to limit foreign influence on its automotive technology for the foreseeable future.

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Instagram Introduces Public Comments on Stories, Adding a New Layer of Engagement https://therecenttimes.com/news/instagram-introduces-public-comments-on-stories-adding-a-new-layer-of-engagement https://therecenttimes.com/news/instagram-introduces-public-comments-on-stories-adding-a-new-layer-of-engagement#respond Thu, 05 Sep 2024 04:45:01 +0000 https://therecenttimes.com/?p=147154 Instagram is set to introduce a significant update by adding the ability to leave comments...

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Instagram is set to introduce a significant update by adding the ability to leave comments on Instagram Stories. This change comes as Stories have become one of the platform’s most popular features, with many users preferring them over traditional posts. Until now, interactions with Stories were limited to direct messages (DMs), which were private and only visible to the user who posted the Story. With this update, viewers can publicly comment on Stories, creating a more interactive experience.

The new feature will allow followers to leave comments visible to anyone who can view the Story. However, commenting on Stories comes with some restrictions. For private accounts, only followers who the user follows back can leave comments. For public accounts, comments are limited to people the poster follows. Instagram aims to ensure a safer, more personal interaction space by making mutual follows a requirement for commenting.

Like Stories, comments are temporary and disappear after 24 hours. If a Story is saved as a highlight, however, the comments will be preserved, allowing the conversation to continue even after the Story’s original lifespan. This gives users more flexibility in how they manage their interactions, especially when sharing memorable or significant content.

In a conversation with The Verge, Instagram spokesperson Emily Norfolk highlighted the flexibility of this new feature, explaining that users will have control over whether comments are enabled for each Story. This means that if someone doesn’t want public feedback on a particular Story, they can simply turn off the comments for that post. Norfolk also emphasized that this feature adds another dimension to how people engage on Instagram, beyond the limitations of private DMs.

This new commenting system follows a broader trend on Instagram, where the platform is focusing on making key surfaces like Stories and Reels more interactive. Earlier this year, Instagram introduced disappearing “Notes” on grid posts and Reels—comments that expire after three days and are meant to make user engagement more visible. These notes are part of a larger push to encourage interaction among friends and followers, and the addition of public comments on Stories aligns with this strategy.

Additionally, Instagram has been rolling out various other features aimed at increasing engagement. New text fonts, effects, and animations for Reels and Stories, as well as a more advanced in-app text editor, have been introduced to enhance the creative potential of users. The platform also allows users to post carousels of up to 20 images and videos and has added the option to include a song on their profile bio, further personalizing the user experience.

Reactions to the new comment feature have been mixed, with some users expressing excitement while others are more apprehensive. On X (formerly Twitter), users voiced their opinions on the update. One user humorously commented, “I don’t want my friends to see how bad my stories get roasted 😳🤣😭,” while another joked, “Bro I don’t need to see how down bad everyone is with a million ‘🔥’ comments on every story 💀.” Not everyone was against the change, though. “That’s a cool update! It’ll make stories even more interactive. Can’t wait to try it out!” wrote one enthusiastic user.

For those concerned about privacy and unwanted comments, Instagram has also introduced the ability to disable comments on a per-post basis, allowing users to maintain control over their content. This is particularly important for users who want to share content without the potential for public criticism or trolling.

The addition of comments on Stories marks another step in Instagram’s evolution towards making its platform more engaging and interactive. As users become more accustomed to interacting with Stories, this new feature could transform how people share and respond to content, bringing a new level of connection to the platform’s most popular features.

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Instagram Revives Myspace Nostalgia with New Music Profile Feature https://therecenttimes.com/technology/instagram-revives-myspace-nostalgia-with-new-music-profile-feature https://therecenttimes.com/technology/instagram-revives-myspace-nostalgia-with-new-music-profile-feature#respond Fri, 23 Aug 2024 05:11:42 +0000 https://therecenttimes.com/?p=146597 Instagram Introduces New Feature Allowing Users to Add Songs to Their Profiles. Instagram is taking...

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Instagram Introduces New Feature Allowing Users to Add Songs to Their Profiles.

Instagram is taking a step back into the early days of social media by introducing a nostalgic new feature—one that will allow users to add a song to their profiles, similar to the classic Myspace days of the early 2000s. Announced on Thursday, August 22, 2024, the feature offers Instagram users another way to express themselves by showcasing their favorite tracks in their bio section.

The new music feature allows users to select a song from Instagram’s vast library of licensed music, which is also available for Reels and posts. Unlike Myspace, where the chosen song would automatically play when someone visited a profile, Instagram’s take on this feature puts control in the hands of the viewer. Users who visit a profile with a song will have the option to play or pause the track at their convenience.

To add a song to their profile, users can simply navigate to the “edit profile” page, where they will find a new “Music” option. After selecting the option, they can search for an artist or song, choose a 30-second clip from the track, and set it to appear beneath their bio. This process is similar to how users select songs for Reels or Stories. Once the song is added, a small widget will appear under the bio area of the profile, displaying the song title and artist, along with a play/pause button.

Meta, Instagram’s parent company, launched this feature in collaboration with pop star Sabrina Carpenter, whose hit song “Espresso” has been trending throughout the summer. As part of the collaboration, Carpenter’s official Instagram profile will offer fans an exclusive teaser of her upcoming single, “Taste,” ahead of the full album release of Short n’ Sweet on Friday, August 23. Currently, this profile music feature is the only way for fans to listen to the unreleased track before it drops.

In addition to the music widget, Instagram has introduced several hidden Easter eggs inspired by Carpenter’s new album. For instance, typing specific keywords like “Sabrina” or using the coffee cup emoji in Instagram’s temporary Notes feature will trigger a light blue theme. There’s also a Carpenter-branded chat theme that includes playful lipstick kiss designs, further tying in with the album’s aesthetics.

While the feature is currently limited to the Instagram mobile app, it offers users a new layer of personalization that hasn’t been seen on the platform before. For now, songs won’t automatically play when someone visits a profile, avoiding the autoplay feature that some found intrusive on Myspace. Instead, Instagram has designed the music widget to be an optional interaction, keeping the browsing experience smooth while still allowing users to add a touch of musical flair to their profiles.

The introduction of this music feature is another step in Instagram’s ongoing effort to diversify the ways users can engage with the platform and express themselves creatively. With music playing such a key role in personal identity and culture, Instagram’s music widget provides users a nostalgic nod to the past while keeping the feature updated for modern sensibilities.

To change or remove a song, users can easily head back to their “edit profile” page or tap the music widget on their profile. A menu will pop up, allowing them to modify or delete their current song selection.

As Instagram continues to evolve, this new addition may just be the first of many features designed to bring back the early social media vibes, while catering to the diverse preferences of today’s digital audiences. For now, music lovers on Instagram have a new way to share their personalities, one song at a time.

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SpaceX’ Starship Test Flight: Successful Launch but Loss on Return to Earth https://therecenttimes.com/news/spacex-starship-test-flight-successful-launch-but-loss-on-return-to-earth https://therecenttimes.com/news/spacex-starship-test-flight-successful-launch-but-loss-on-return-to-earth#respond Fri, 15 Mar 2024 05:28:59 +0000 https://therecenttimes.com/?p=139940 SpaceX achieved a significant milestone in its partnership with NASA’s Artemis program as it launched...

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SpaceX achieved a significant milestone in its partnership with NASA’s Artemis program as it launched the third integrated flight test of its Super Heavy booster and Starship upper stage. The successful launch on March 14 marked a crucial step toward providing NASA with a Starship human landing system (HLS) for future Artemis missions, aiming to return humans to the Moon.

Powered by 33 Raptor engines fueled by super-cooled liquid methane and liquid oxygen, the Super Heavy booster lifted off with the Starship from SpaceX’s Starbase orbital launch pad at 8:25 a.m. CDT. The Starship, propelled by six Raptor engines, separated from the Super Heavy booster approximately three minutes into the flight. This test flight, aimed at increasingly ambitious objectives, aimed to gather crucial data for the continued development of the Starship HLS.

One of the significant achievements of the test flight was the successful completion of the full-duration ascent burn, demonstrating Starship’s capability to reach its expected orbit. Additionally, the spacecraft accomplished the transfer of thousands of pounds of cryogenic propellant between internal tanks during the coast phase, as part of NASA’s Space Technology Missions Directorate 2020 Tipping Point awards.

However, despite the successful orbit insertion, SpaceX encountered a setback during the return to Earth. The Starship spacecraft was lost while re-entering Earth’s atmosphere, falling short of the planned splashdown in the Indian Ocean. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) announced an investigation into the mishap involving the Starship vehicle and the Super Heavy first-stage booster.

SpaceX acknowledged the incident but hailed the test flight as a “phenomenal day.” While Super Heavy did not accomplish a final burn, causing a hard splashdown in the Gulf of Mexico, SpaceX aims to analyze post-flight data to assess the completion of other objectives, including propellant transfer and payload door operations.

Despite the setback, the test flight demonstrated critical technologies and techniques essential for future missions to deploy satellites and support NASA’s Artemis program. Starship’s selection by NASA for the Artemis III mission highlights its potential to carry astronauts to the lunar surface, underscoring its role in advancing space exploration and paving the way for future human expeditions to the Moon and Mars.

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Elon Musk’s Neuralink Hits Milestone: First Human Receives Brain Implant, Igniting a Mix of Excitement and Concern https://therecenttimes.com/news/elon-musks-neuralink-hits-milestone-first-human-receives-brain-implant-igniting-a-mix-of-excitement-and-concern https://therecenttimes.com/news/elon-musks-neuralink-hits-milestone-first-human-receives-brain-implant-igniting-a-mix-of-excitement-and-concern#respond Tue, 30 Jan 2024 04:19:01 +0000 https://therecenttimes.com/?p=137045 Netizens React to Elon Musk’s Neuralink Milestone: First Human Receives Implant Amid Excitement and Concerns...

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Netizens React to Elon Musk’s Neuralink Milestone: First Human Receives Implant Amid Excitement and Concerns

On January 29, Elon Musk revealed on X that the first human recipient of the Neuralink implant is recovering from the surgery. The FDA’s approval for human trials last year paved the way for this groundbreaking experiment, but not without sparking diverse reactions from netizens.

Elon Musk Unveils Neuralink’s First Product – Telepathy

The Neuralink implant, designed to interface directly with electronics, including smartphones and computers, is expected to revolutionize technology. Musk introduced the first product from Neuralink, called “Telepathy,” which enables users to control devices through mere thoughts. Initially targeting those without limb function, Musk cited Stephen Hawking as an example of the potential communication speed achieved through this technology.

Debates Surrounding Neuralink

The futuristic chip has been a subject of intense debate, with some hailing it as a major technological advancement and others expressing concerns about its safety. Past rumors, fueled by reports of adverse effects in animal trials, added fuel to the controversy. However, it’s crucial to note that the FDA officially approved human trials for the Neuralink implant in May 2023.

Elon Musk’s Neuralink Igniting a Mix of Excitement and Concern

Elon Musk’s announcement prompted a spectrum of reactions on X. While some praised the achievement as a monumental moment in history, others voiced apprehension and fear. The divided response reflects the ongoing debate surrounding the potential impact and risks associated with brain-machine interface technology.

Joey Mannarino expressed apprehension in response to Musk’s announcement, describing the prospect as scary. He also pondered on the yet-unknown use cases for the Neuralink implant, adding an element of curiosity and skepticism.

In conclusion, Elon Musk’s Neuralink experiment, marking a significant step forward in merging technology with the human brain, continues to stir a mix of excitement, curiosity, and skepticism among netizens. The success of the first human trial sparks discussions on the potential implications and ethical considerations surrounding the evolving field of neural interface technology.

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Disney Imagineer Introduces HoloTile Floor, a Game-Changing Omnidirectional Treadmill Surface for Virtual Reality https://therecenttimes.com/gaming/disney-imagineer-introduces-holotile-floor-a-game-changing-omnidirectional-treadmill-surface-for-virtual-reality https://therecenttimes.com/gaming/disney-imagineer-introduces-holotile-floor-a-game-changing-omnidirectional-treadmill-surface-for-virtual-reality#respond Tue, 23 Jan 2024 07:11:15 +0000 https://therecenttimes.com/?p=136602 Disney engineer and inventor Lanny Smoot has introduced an innovative project from Disney’s Research and...

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Disney engineer and inventor Lanny Smoot has introduced an innovative project from Disney’s Research and Development department known as HoloTile. Described as “the world’s first multi-person, omnidirectional, modular, expandable, treadmill floor,” HoloTile is set to transform the way users experience virtual reality.

What is Disney’s HoloTile Floor?

In a YouTube video, Smoot demonstrated the capabilities of HoloTile, allowing users to walk in any direction without physically moving from the spot or colliding with the real world. This groundbreaking technology promises a multi-person experience where individuals can walk independently, opening up new possibilities for collaborative virtual environments.

The Technology Behind HoloTile

While the video showcased the impressive functionalities of HoloTile, Disney has not disclosed specific details about how the technology operates. Smoot, the inventor behind the project, highlighted its automatic adjustments to ensure users stay on the floor. The system supports multiple users, enabling them to navigate virtual spaces simultaneously.

Disney’s HoloTile Floor: Potential Use Cases

Smoot expressed excitement about the myriad applications for HoloTile. He envisioned scenarios where people in a room could collaboratively experience a different location, making it ideal for activities like sightseeing. The technology could also find applications in theatrical stages, enhancing performances with dancers executing intricate moves. The versatility of HoloTile opens up possibilities, and its full range of applications is yet to be explored.

Challenges in VR Locomotion

The invention addresses a significant challenge in virtual reality – locomotion. Physical movement in VR can lead to collisions with obstacles, while artificial movement may cause discomfort or motion sickness. HoloTile offers a unique solution, providing users with the freedom to walk in any direction without the constraints of physical space.

While HoloTile appears to be a complex technological feat and may not be an immediate consumer solution, it represents a promising advancement in virtual reality experiences. The sleek design and support for multiple users make it an intriguing development in the quest for immersive VR environments. As Disney’s Imagineers continue to push boundaries, HoloTile could pave the way for transformative applications in various industries.

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