theverge--2020-12-18--Shigeru Miyamoto tours Super Nintendo World theme park in new video

Nintendo ’ s Shigeru Miyamoto led a video tour of the company ’ s Mario-themed Super Nintendo World attraction at Universal Studios Japan in Osaka during the company ’ s latest Direct livestream .
The theme park looks to be packed with Mario iconography that will be familiar to Nintendo fans .
Even the entrance Mario-themed : you enter the park by walking through a giant pipe that spits you out in the atrium of Princess Peach ’ s castle that first debuted in Super Mario 64 .
A smart wristband lets you interact with elements of the park Miyamoto @ @ @ @ @ @ @ special smart wristband , called the “ Power-Up Band , ” to interact with different parts of the zone .
In one example , he punched a question mark block with the hand wearing the device , and the block made the classic Mario coin-collecting sound .
In another moment , Miyamoto hit a POW block near a spinning Koopa shell at the right time to make it bounce up and collect a key coin .
The band links to your smartphone so you can track your activities around the park .
Miyamoto @ @ @ @ @ @ @ had oversized elements to create the illusion of being a smaller Mario , a vast cafe with video screens of Toads making food , and Bowser ’ s Castle , which is where the AR Mario Kart-themed roller coaster is located .
As a long-time Mario fan , the park looks delightful , and I hope I can experience it for myself someday .
Super Nintendo World is scheduled to open on February 4th .
The zone was originally set to open before the 2020 Summer Olympics in Tokyo , but the opening @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ( which also pushed back the Olympics ) .
At some point , Universal Studios also plans to open Super Nintendo World zones in Hollywood , California ; Orlando , Florida ; and Singapore .

Nintendo’s Shigeru Miyamoto led a video tour of the company’s Mario-themed Super Nintendo World attraction at Universal Studios Japan in Osaka during the company’s latest Direct livestream.
The theme park looks to be packed with Mario iconography that will be familiar to Nintendo fans. Even the entrance Mario-themed: you enter the park by walking through a giant pipe that spits you out in the atrium of Princess Peach’s castle that first debuted in Super Mario 64.
A smart wristband lets you interact with elements of the park
Miyamoto showed how you can you use a special smart wristband, called the “Power-Up Band,” to interact with different parts of the zone. In one example, he punched a question mark block with the hand wearing the device, and the block made the classic Mario coin-collecting sound. In another moment, Miyamoto hit a POW block near a spinning Koopa shell at the right time to make it bounce up and collect a key coin. The band links to your smartphone so you can track your activities around the park.
Miyamoto also walked through an underground area that had oversized elements to create the illusion of being a smaller Mario, a vast cafe with video screens of Toads making food, and Bowser’s Castle, which is where the AR Mario Kart-themed roller coaster is located.


theverge--2020-12-18--A Facebook bug exposed Instagram users’ personal email addresses and birthdays

When signing up for an Instagram account , the service promises that your email and birthday won ’ t be publicly visible .
A bug discovered by security researcher Saugat Pokharel , however , made it so that an attacker could easily get that private information .
The bug , which was patched after being reported to Facebook , was exploitable by business accounts that were given access to an experimental feature the company was testing .
The attack worked on private accounts , and ones that don ’ t accept public DMs The attack used Facebook ’ s Business @ @ @ @ @ @ @ business account .
The experimental upgrade meant that if a Facebook business account was linked to Instagram and was included in the test group , the Business Suite tool would show additional information about a person alongside any direct message — including their supposedly private email address and birthday .
All business users had to do was send a direct message on Instagram to call up the information .
Pokharel found that the attack worked on accounts that were set to private and accounts that were set to not accept DMs from the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ accept DMs , the user potentially would not receive any notification indicating their profile may have been viewed .
An experienced bug hunter , Pokharel also discovered that Instagram wasn ’ t actually deleting deleted posts back in August .
In a statement provided to The Verge , a Facebook spokesperson said that the bug was only accessible for a short period of time , as the experiment was started in October .
The company doesn ’ t disclose how many users were given access to the feature , but it says that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ” and that an investigation found no evidence of abuse .
The full text of the statement is below .
A researcher reported an issue where , if someone was a part of a small test we ran in October for business accounts , personal information of the person they were messaging could have been revealed .
This issue was resolved quickly , and we discovered no evidence of abuse .
Through our Bug Bounty Program we rewarded this researcher for his help in reporting this issue to us .
According to Pokharel @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a few hours of being notified .
Update December 18 , 6:20 PM ET : Clarified a point in the second paragraph that only accounts that were included in the experiment had access to the information .

When signing up for an Instagram account, the service promises that your email and birthday won’t be publicly visible. A bug discovered by security researcher Saugat Pokharel, however, made it so that an attacker could easily get that private information. The bug, which was patched after being reported to Facebook, was exploitable by business accounts that were given access to an experimental feature the company was testing.
The attack worked on private accounts, and ones that don’t accept public DMs
The attack used Facebook’s Business Suite tool, available to any Facebook business account. The experimental upgrade meant that if a Facebook business account was linked to Instagram and was included in the test group, the Business Suite tool would show additional information about a person alongside any direct message — including their supposedly private email address and birthday. All business users had to do was send a direct message on Instagram to call up the information.
Pokharel found that the attack worked on accounts that were set to private and accounts that were set to not accept DMs from the public. If an account did not accept DMs, the user potentially would not receive any notification indicating their profile may have been viewed.
An experienced bug hunter, Pokharel also discovered that Instagram wasn’t actually deleting deleted posts back in August.
In a statement provided to The Verge, a Facebook spokesperson said that the bug was only accessible for a short period of time, as the experiment was started in October. The company doesn’t disclose how many users were given access to the feature, but it says that it was a “small test,” and that an investigation found no evidence of abuse.
The full text of the statement is below.
A researcher reported an issue where, if someone was a part of a small test we ran in October for business accounts, personal information of the person they were messaging could have been revealed. This issue was resolved quickly, and we discovered no evidence of abuse. Through our Bug Bounty Program we rewarded this researcher for his help in reporting this issue to us.
According to Pokharel, Facebook engineers fixed the issue within a few hours of being notified.


theverge--2020-12-18--The Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra will have six cameras

Today , we have another Galaxy S21 leak , which seems to confirm some of the specs that have been floating around , published by WinFuture .
Information about and images of Samsung ’ s upcoming Galaxy S21-series phones have been landing almost daily in the run-up to Samsung ’ s January event .
With this newest leak , we now have a better idea of what to expect — especially in the camera department .
In short , the hardware appears to be a big part of Samsung ’ s plan to take on the highly capable iPhone 12 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ reportedly offer 3x and 10x telephoto cameras ( 72mm and 240mm equivalent focal lengths , respectively ) , both with optical image stabilization .
That ’ s one additional rear-facing camera compared to the S20 Ultra ’ s three rear sensors .
The S21 ’ s 10x lens will use a folded optic design like that of the S20 ’ s telephoto camera .
We expect that Samsung will once again offer hybrid zoom that reaches much farther than that 10x optical range .
Some other subtle camera updates look to be on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 108-megapixel camera gets a slightly wider 24mm ( versus 26mm ) equivalent lens .
It will also get laser-assisted autofocus : something that the S20 Ultra didn ’ t offer but the Note 20 Ultra later introduced .
And WinFuture says that despite the main camera sensor ’ s on-paper similarities to the last generation , this is a new sensor that should offer better image quality than the last .
Samsung will need every advantage to compete with the iPhone 12 Pro Max , which we think is the best smartphone camera @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Samsung has taken more of a hardware-heavy approach to mobile imaging , increasingly using its own house-made sensors rather than grabbing Sony ’ s off the shelf , and being early to adopt dual- and triple-lens cameras on its devices .
Part of the reason Samsung has leaned so hard into advanced hardware is that its computational photography hasn ’ t kept up with either Apple or Google .
Only recently has it come up to par with features like Night Mode .
But now it ’ s another year , and there @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to catch up to the iPhone 12 Pro Max .
Video may prove to be grounds for Samsung to level the playing field with Apple , too .
It ’ s one area where software can only do so much without the right hardware behind it .
Samsung has usually had big specs to tout when it comes to video — the S21 Ultra will offer 8K recording to the 12 Pro Max ’ s 4K — but the proof will be in the footage .
Samsung says it ’ s committed to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ area .
There are a few notable non-camera-related details in WinFuture ’ s report .
These specs confirm a 6.8-inch display with variable refresh rates from one to 120Hz , a battery-saving move also adopted from the Note 20 Ultra .
There ’ s also S Pen support , which will be sold separately .
Samsung will also follow Apple ’ s lead by shipping the S21 devices without wall chargers in the box .
The company will probably , like Apple , cite the environmental benefits as the motivation for this change @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that it ’ s also beneficial to each company ’ s bottom line .
But the reduction of e-waste is no doubt a good thing , and Samsung ’ s use of USB-C rather than a proprietary connector scores it even more environmental bonus points .
There ’ s no confirmed launch date or pricing yet for the S21 Ultra , though reports point to an announcement on January 14th .

Today, we have another Galaxy S21 leak, which seems to confirm some of the specs that have been floating around, published by WinFuture. Information about and images of Samsung’s upcoming Galaxy S21-series phones have been landing almost daily in the run-up to Samsung’s January event. With this newest leak, we now have a better idea of what to expect — especially in the camera department. In short, the hardware appears to be a big part of Samsung’s plan to take on the highly capable iPhone 12 Pro Max.
The S21 Ultra will reportedly offer 3x and 10x telephoto cameras (72mm and 240mm equivalent focal lengths, respectively), both with optical image stabilization. That’s one additional rear-facing camera compared to the S20 Ultra’s three rear sensors.
Photo: WinFuture
The S21’s 10x lens will use a folded optic design like that of the S20’s telephoto camera. We expect that Samsung will once again offer hybrid zoom that reaches much farther than that 10x optical range.
Some other subtle camera updates look to be on the way, too. The main 108-megapixel camera gets a slightly wider 24mm (versus 26mm) equivalent lens. It will also get laser-assisted autofocus: something that the S20 Ultra didn’t offer but the Note 20 Ultra later introduced. And WinFuture says that despite the main camera sensor’s on-paper similarities to the last generation, this is a new sensor that should offer better image quality than the last.
Samsung will need every advantage to compete with the iPhone 12 Pro Max, which we think is the best smartphone camera on the market today. Historically, Samsung has taken more of a hardware-heavy approach to mobile imaging, increasingly using its own house-made sensors rather than grabbing Sony’s off the shelf, and being early to adopt dual- and triple-lens cameras on its devices.
Part of the reason Samsung has leaned so hard into advanced hardware is that its computational photography hasn’t kept up with either Apple or Google. Only recently has it come up to par with features like Night Mode. But now it’s another year, and there’s more work to be done to catch up to the iPhone 12 Pro Max.
Video may prove to be grounds for Samsung to level the playing field with Apple, too. It’s one area where software can only do so much without the right hardware behind it. Samsung has usually had big specs to tout when it comes to video — the S21 Ultra will offer 8K recording to the 12 Pro Max’s 4K — but the proof will be in the footage. Samsung says it’s committed to continuing to push its capabilities in this area.
There are a few notable non-camera-related details in WinFuture’s report. These specs confirm a 6.8-inch display with variable refresh rates from one to 120Hz, a battery-saving move also adopted from the Note 20 Ultra. There’s also S Pen support, which will be sold separately.
Samsung will also follow Apple’s lead by shipping the S21 devices without wall chargers in the box. The company will probably, like Apple, cite the environmental benefits as the motivation for this change, though cynics among us will note that it’s also beneficial to each company’s bottom line. But the reduction of e-waste is no doubt a good thing, and Samsung’s use of USB-C rather than a proprietary connector scores it even more environmental bonus points.


theverge--2020-12-18--FAA and Boeing manipulated 737 Max tests during recertification

Boeing and the Federal Aviation Administration ( FAA ) worked together to manipulate 737 Max recertification tests following two fatal crashes in 2018 and 2019 , according to a damning new Senate report .
Boeing “ inappropriately coached ” some FAA test pilots to reach a desired outcome during the recertification tests , and some were even performed on simulators that weren ’ t equipped to re-create the same conditions as the crashes .
In doing this , the Senate report ’ s authors say the “ FAA and Boeing were attempting to cover up important information that may have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The FAA is also accused of retaliating against whistleblowers The FAA is also accused of retaliating against whistleblowers , possibly obstructing the Office of the Inspector General ’ s investigation into the crashes , failing to hold senior managers accountable , and allowing Southwest Airlines to operate dozens of improperly certified planes .
The 102-page report , released Friday , was compiled by the Senate Committee on Commerce , Science , and Transportation and is built on information from 50 whistleblowers , FAA staff interviews , and more than 15,000 pages of documents @ @ @ @ @ @ @ FAA cleared the 737 Max to return to flight , and as airlines around the world start reintroducing the plane into their fleets .
While Boeing ’ s own failures leading up to the 737 Max crashes have been thoroughly probed and well-documented , the new Senate report is one of the most intimate looks at problems inside the regulator that was supposed to keep the company in check .
“ Our findings are troubling , ” Sen. Roger Wicker ( R-MS ) , who chairs the committee , said in a statement @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of significant examples of lapses in aviation safety oversight and failed leadership in the FAA .
It is clear that the agency requires consistent oversight to ensure their work to protect the flying public is executed fully and correctly.
” In a statement , the FAA said it is , “ carefully reviewing the document , which the Committee acknowledges contains a number of unsubstantiated allegations.
” “ Working closely with other international regulators , the FAA conducted a thorough and deliberate review of the 737 MAX , ” the FAA ’ s @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that the safety issues that played a role in the tragic accidents involving Lion Air Flight 610 and Ethiopian Airlines Flight 302 have been addressed through the design changes required and independently approved by the FAA and its partners.
” Boeing said in a prepared statement that it “ take [ s ] seriously the Committee ’ s findings and will continue to review the report in full.
” “ Boeing is committed to improving aviation safety , strengthening our safety culture , and rebuilding trust with our customers , regulators , and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ wrote .
“ We are aware of the Committee report and have utilized many of these past references to improve our practices and oversight , ” a Southwest Airlines spokesperson said in a statement .
“ All applicable aircraft underwent visual inspections , and Southwest completed physical inspections , from nose to tail , on each of the pre-owned aircraft by January 2020 — fully satisfying FAA requests , ” Southwest ’ s statement continued .
“ Our actions did not stem from any suspected Safety concerns with the aircraft but were an @ @ @ @ @ @ @ previous repairs.
” The company has “ no changes ” to its plans to return the 737 Max to service in the first quarter of next year .
The 737 Max was rushed through development so Boeing could keep pace with rival Airbus The 737 Max was rushed through development so Boeing could keep pace with rival Airbus , which had surprise-announced a more fuel-efficient plane in 2011 .
Instead of developing a new plane from the ground up , Boeing modified the 737 NG with bigger , more fuel-efficient engines .
The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ susceptible to stalls in certain takeoff situations , though , so Boeing equipped the plane with a piece of software that would automatically pitch the nose down to prevent this from happening .
Boeing didn ’ t tell regulators or customers about the software , though , in a bid to cut down on costly flight training .
This left the pilots of Lion Air Flight 610 in 2018 and Ethiopian Airlines Flight 302 in 2019 fighting , and ultimately losing out to , a piece of software they didn ’ t know @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , known as Maneuvering Characteristics Augmentation System ( MCAS ) was a big focus of the recertification tests following the two crashes , especially in simulators meant to recreate the crash conditions .
The problem , broadly , that the Commerce Committee found was that this testing process was rife with its own problems .
Some FAA investigators left tests early , while others were performed in simulators that weren ’ t equipped with the same software that doomed the 737 Max flights , meaning the results were meaningless .
In one particular @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , a whistleblower says Boeing officials were present and told the test pilots when to hit the switch that killed MCAS .
When these actions were reported by whistleblowers , they were often ignored or retaliated against , according to the report .
Update December 18th , 8:11PM ET : Added statement and information the FAA .

Boeing and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) worked together to manipulate 737 Max recertification tests following two fatal crashes in 2018 and 2019, according to a damning new Senate report. Boeing “inappropriately coached” some FAA test pilots to reach a desired outcome during the recertification tests, and some were even performed on simulators that weren’t equipped to re-create the same conditions as the crashes.
In doing this, the Senate report’s authors say the “FAA and Boeing were attempting to cover up important information that may have contributed to the 737 MAX tragedies.”
The FAA is also accused of retaliating against whistleblowers
The FAA is also accused of retaliating against whistleblowers, possibly obstructing the Office of the Inspector General’s investigation into the crashes, failing to hold senior managers accountable, and allowing Southwest Airlines to operate dozens of improperly certified planes.
The 102-page report, released Friday, was compiled by the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation and is built on information from 50 whistleblowers, FAA staff interviews, and more than 15,000 pages of documents. It comes one month after the FAA cleared the 737 Max to return to flight, and as airlines around the world start reintroducing the plane into their fleets.
While Boeing’s own failures leading up to the 737 Max crashes have been thoroughly probed and well-documented, the new Senate report is one of the most intimate looks at problems inside the regulator that was supposed to keep the company in check.
“Our findings are troubling,” Sen. Roger Wicker (R-MS), who chairs the committee, said in a statement. “The report details a number of significant examples of lapses in aviation safety oversight and failed leadership in the FAA. It is clear that the agency requires consistent oversight to ensure their work to protect the flying public is executed fully and correctly.”
In a statement, the FAA said it is, “carefully reviewing the document, which the Committee acknowledges contains a number of unsubstantiated allegations.”
“Working closely with other international regulators, the FAA conducted a thorough and deliberate review of the 737 MAX,” the FAA’s statement continued. “We are confident that the safety issues that played a role in the tragic accidents involving Lion Air Flight 610 and Ethiopian Airlines Flight 302 have been addressed through the design changes required and independently approved by the FAA and its partners.”
Boeing said in a prepared statement that it “take[s] seriously the Committee’s findings and will continue to review the report in full.”
“Boeing is committed to improving aviation safety, strengthening our safety culture, and rebuilding trust with our customers, regulators, and the flying public,” the company wrote.
“We are aware of the Committee report and have utilized many of these past references to improve our practices and oversight,” a Southwest Airlines spokesperson said in a statement.
“All applicable aircraft underwent visual inspections, and Southwest completed physical inspections, from nose to tail, on each of the pre-owned aircraft by January 2020 — fully satisfying FAA requests,” Southwest’s statement continued. “Our actions did not stem from any suspected Safety concerns with the aircraft but were an effort to reconcile and validate records and previous repairs.” The company has “no changes” to its plans to return the 737 Max to service in the first quarter of next year.
The 737 Max was rushed through development so Boeing could keep pace with rival Airbus
The 737 Max was rushed through development so Boeing could keep pace with rival Airbus, which had surprise-announced a more fuel-efficient plane in 2011. Instead of developing a new plane from the ground up, Boeing modified the 737 NG with bigger, more fuel-efficient engines.
The placement of those engines made the plane susceptible to stalls in certain takeoff situations, though, so Boeing equipped the plane with a piece of software that would automatically pitch the nose down to prevent this from happening. Boeing didn’t tell regulators or customers about the software, though, in a bid to cut down on costly flight training. This left the pilots of Lion Air Flight 610 in 2018 and Ethiopian Airlines Flight 302 in 2019 fighting, and ultimately losing out to, a piece of software they didn’t know was working against them.
That software, known as Maneuvering Characteristics Augmentation System (MCAS) was a big focus of the recertification tests following the two crashes, especially in simulators meant to recreate the crash conditions.
The problem, broadly, that the Commerce Committee found was that this testing process was rife with its own problems. Some FAA investigators left tests early, while others were performed in simulators that weren’t equipped with the same software that doomed the 737 Max flights, meaning the results were meaningless.
In one particular FAA test performed on the right simulator, a whistleblower says Boeing officials were present and told the test pilots when to hit the switch that killed MCAS.
When these actions were reported by whistleblowers, they were often ignored or retaliated against, according to the report.


theverge--2020-12-18--China-based Zoom employee charged for secretly censoring Tiananmen Square anniversary events

A China-based former Zoom employee is being charged with harassment for allegedly disrupting video calls commemorating the 1989 Tiananmen Square massacre .
Brooklyn federal prosecutors unsealed a case against Xinjiang ( also known as Julien ) Jin today .
The complaint doesn ’ t identify Jin ’ s employer , but Zoom published a blog post acknowledging that it employed him .
According to the complaint , Jin was a liaison between Zoom and Chinese law enforcement and intelligence services .
He allegedly used this position to target dissidents and activists both inside and outside the People ’ s Republic @ @ @ @ @ @ @ disrupting meetings .
“ The allegations in the complaint lay bare the Faustian bargain that the PRC government demands of U.S. technology companies doing business within the PRC ’ s borders , and the insider threat that those companies face from their own employees in the PRC , ” said acting US attorney Seth D. DuCharme .
Jin allegedly got meetings banned by reporting “ disgusting pics ” from fake accounts While serving as a “ security technical leader ” at Zoom , Jin allegedly identified users who discussed “ disfavorable ” political @ @ @ @ @ @ @ other employees to stop these users from participating in calls .
As the 31st anniversary of the protests approached , the complaint says , he asked US-based employees to provide account information about dissidents planning to commemorate the events .
Chinese authorities subsequently detained potential participants inside China and in at least one case , it threatened the family of a participant living abroad .
Most dramatically , Jin reportedly led a conspiracy to get Tiananmen Square-related events and their participants banned for violating Zoom ’ s terms of service .
A group @ @ @ @ @ @ @ false names using profile pictures with terrorism-related or pornographic imagery .
Then they infiltrated Zoom event rooms and reported the meetings for hosting “ disgusting pics , ” “ child abuse , ” and content “ inciting violence ” — based on images from their own fake accounts .
Zoom apologized earlier this year for terminating public commemorative events and the accounts of their hosts .
At that point , it said it shut down the meetings because they had a large number of participants from mainland China , and Chinese authorities had @ @ @ @ @ @ @ forward Zoom will not allow requests from the Chinese government to impact anyone outside of mainland China , ” the company promised .
An update to the post acknowledged that at least one session was terminated due to “ an apparent terms of service violation.
” In a post following the unsealing , Zoom said it had cooperated with the Department of Justice and launched its own internal probe , resulting in Jin being terminated and other unnamed employees placed on leave while the investigation concludes .
Zoom says it appointed Jin after @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and demanded it comply with local censorship laws .
“ The shutdown put Zoom in an unfamiliar and uncomfortable position , ” the post reads .
“ As we worked to resolve the shutdown , China requested that Zoom confirm it would comply with Chinese law , including designating an in-house contact for law enforcement requests.
” Jin is charged with conspiracy to commit interstate harassment and unlawful conspiracy to transfer means of identification , based on his alleged impersonation of Zoom users .
The charges carry a maximum sentence of 10 years @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that Jin has not been taken into custody .

A China-based former Zoom employee is being charged with harassment for allegedly disrupting video calls commemorating the 1989 Tiananmen Square massacre. Brooklyn federal prosecutors unsealed a case against Xinjiang (also known as Julien) Jin today. The complaint doesn’t identify Jin’s employer, but Zoom published a blog post acknowledging that it employed him.
According to the complaint, Jin was a liaison between Zoom and Chinese law enforcement and intelligence services. He allegedly used this position to target dissidents and activists both inside and outside the People’s Republic of China, collecting account information and disrupting meetings. “The allegations in the complaint lay bare the Faustian bargain that the PRC government demands of U.S. technology companies doing business within the PRC’s borders, and the insider threat that those companies face from their own employees in the PRC,” said acting US attorney Seth D. DuCharme.
Jin allegedly got meetings banned by reporting “disgusting pics” from fake accounts
While serving as a “security technical leader” at Zoom, Jin allegedly identified users who discussed “disfavorable” political and religious topics, then worked with other employees to stop these users from participating in calls. As the 31st anniversary of the protests approached, the complaint says, he asked US-based employees to provide account information about dissidents planning to commemorate the events. Chinese authorities subsequently detained potential participants inside China and in at least one case, it threatened the family of a participant living abroad.
Most dramatically, Jin reportedly led a conspiracy to get Tiananmen Square-related events and their participants banned for violating Zoom’s terms of service. A group of employees allegedly set up accounts under false names using profile pictures with terrorism-related or pornographic imagery. Then they infiltrated Zoom event rooms and reported the meetings for hosting “disgusting pics,” “child abuse,” and content “inciting violence” — based on images from their own fake accounts.
Zoom apologized earlier this year for terminating public commemorative events and the accounts of their hosts. At that point, it said it shut down the meetings because they had a large number of participants from mainland China, and Chinese authorities had called the events unlawful. “Going forward Zoom will not allow requests from the Chinese government to impact anyone outside of mainland China,” the company promised. An update to the post acknowledged that at least one session was terminated due to “an apparent terms of service violation.”
In a post following the unsealing, Zoom said it had cooperated with the Department of Justice and launched its own internal probe, resulting in Jin being terminated and other unnamed employees placed on leave while the investigation concludes. Zoom says it appointed Jin after the Chinese government abruptly terminated its service and demanded it comply with local censorship laws. “The shutdown put Zoom in an unfamiliar and uncomfortable position,” the post reads. “As we worked to resolve the shutdown, China requested that Zoom confirm it would comply with Chinese law, including designating an in-house contact for law enforcement requests.”


theverge--2020-12-19--Nature is not healing

Nature is not healing

Dolphins did not return to cleaner canals in Venice , Italy this year .
Nor was the critically endangered Malabar civet spotted on the streets of Kerala , India .
And , contrary to one meme , there definitely were not dinosaurs in Times Square .
Most of the memes that claimed “ nature is healing ” while COVID-19 shut down business around the world were misleading or just a joke to lighten up a heavy year .
The reality is , even if it managed to keep people holed up for parts of the year , the pandemic is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
There were fewer plane trips and car trips this year , which means fewer tailpipe emissions .
But that didn ’ t result in huge environmental gains .
If anything , this year actually showed us how much further we have to go to clean up the giant mess we ’ ve made on our planet .
For starters , assessing air quality in 2020 is complicated .
As early as January , it seemed as if skies had cleared over China — the first country to cope with the novel coronavirus @ @ @ @ @ @ @ levels over China plummeted dramatically in maps released by NASA and ESA .
As the pandemic progressed , similar reports of cleaner skies emerged across the globe .
In November , NASA figured out that the pandemic led to an almost 20 percent drop globally in nitrogen dioxide concentrations .
Nitrogen dioxide is a toxic gas found in tailpipe emissions , so it makes sense that it dropped as people stayed home .
But that ’ s only part of the picture when it comes to air quality .
As nitrogen dioxide pollution @ @ @ @ @ @ @ seemed to stagnate and even rise in some places in the US .
Particulate matter pollution — made up mostly of soot from burning fuels — didn ’ t seem to let up during the peak of pandemic-induced stay-at-home orders in April , a recent study found .
That ’ s especially dangerous during the pandemic because of how much damage particulate pollution can do to people ’ s lungs and hearts — organs that COVID-19 impairs , too .
Pollution certainly made the pandemic worse for some hard-hit communities The pandemic may @ @ @ @ @ @ @ pollution , but pollution certainly made the pandemic worse for some hard-hit communities .
Living with air pollution — especially particulate matter — is linked to an increased risk of dying from COVID-19 , research found this year .
Black and Latino people , who are disproportionately burdened with air pollution in the US , also faced way higher hospitalization and death rates during the pandemic than white Americans .
Researchers have some ideas about why particulate pollution grew and nitrogen dioxide shrank in the US this year .
It might be because @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , which delivered more packages than usual as people shopped from home , but they still need to test this hypothesis .
“ That is the mystery that we ’ re going to try to solve , ” says Cristina Archer , lead author of the study and a professor at the University of Delaware ’ s College of Earth , Ocean and Environment .
Even if some pollution dropped temporarily , that doesn ’ t really do us much good moving forward , Archer cautions .
“ We ’ re going to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ” she says .
Nitrogen dioxide levels already started roaring back toward the middle of the year in cities around the world as COVID-19 restrictions lightened up .
“ Reduction [ in pollution ] that is temporary , but is not actually intentional — I don ’ t think it helps much .
What helps are strategies , and planning , and conscious efforts to reduce air pollution.
” The same goes for greenhouse gases .
The US saw its biggest year-on-year drop in carbon dioxide emissions in 2020 as Americans stayed home @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Worldwide emissions actually dropped to their lowest levels since 2006 in April .
By the end of the year , global CO2 emissions are projected to fall by about 7 percent .
But to stop the world from careening toward catastrophic levels of climate change , we need to keep cutting more than 7 percent of our emissions each year over the next decade — without a pandemic forcing that change upon us .
Without those intentional cuts , the overall amount of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere will continue to rise , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Humanity ’ s waste pile is in the atmosphere and that doesn ’ t go away ” “ Humanity ’ s waste pile is in the atmosphere and that doesn ’ t go away , ” Ralph Keeling , a professor of geochemistry at Scripps Institution of Oceanography at the University of California , San Diego , told The Verge earlier this year .
“ The CO2 is building up in response to not just what we ’ re emitting right now but what we have emitted over the past century.
” Ultimately @ @ @ @ @ @ @ game .
Once we ’ ve unleashed pollutants into our environment , they come back to haunt us .
All that carbon dioxide heating up our planet is making summers hotter and fires more devastating .
Hotter weather boosts the chemical reaction that creates smog , which is one of the reasons why Southern California — one of the most polluted regions in the US — had worse smog this year than it had seen in decades .
Historic wildfires across the Western US in the second half of the year darkened skies @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to breathe and canceled out the reduction in greenhouse gas emissions from the US power sector this year .
As 2020 draws to a close , we ’ re still in the thick of the global health crisis caused by COVID-19 .
Once that danger passes , however , pollution will still pose a threat to people ’ s health and the planet ’ s .
That is , unless we heed the advice of scientists like Archer and make more conscious efforts to do something about it .
If we really want @ @ @ @ @ @ @ we can ’ t rely on a pandemic to do it for us .

Dolphins did not return to cleaner canals in Venice, Italy this year. Nor was the critically endangered Malabar civet spotted on the streets of Kerala, India. And, contrary to one meme, there definitely were not dinosaurs in Times Square. Most of the memes that claimed “nature is healing” while COVID-19 shut down business around the world were misleading or just a joke to lighten up a heavy year. The reality is, even if it managed to keep people holed up for parts of the year, the pandemic is not leaving us with a healthier planet.
There were fewer plane trips and car trips this year, which means fewer tailpipe emissions. But that didn’t result in huge environmental gains. If anything, this year actually showed us how much further we have to go to clean up the giant mess we’ve made on our planet.
Assessing air quality in 2020 is complicated
For starters, assessing air quality in 2020 is complicated. As early as January, it seemed as if skies had cleared over China — the first country to cope with the novel coronavirus and its economic fallout. Nitrogen dioxide levels over China plummeted dramatically in maps released by NASA and ESA. As the pandemic progressed, similar reports of cleaner skies emerged across the globe. In November, NASA figured out that the pandemic led to an almost 20 percent drop globally in nitrogen dioxide concentrations. Nitrogen dioxide is a toxic gas found in tailpipe emissions, so it makes sense that it dropped as people stayed home. But that’s only part of the picture when it comes to air quality.
As nitrogen dioxide pollution fell, another dangerous type of pollution seemed to stagnate and even rise in some places in the US. Particulate matter pollution — made up mostly of soot from burning fuels — didn’t seem to let up during the peak of pandemic-induced stay-at-home orders in April, a recent study found. That’s especially dangerous during the pandemic because of how much damage particulate pollution can do to people’s lungs and hearts — organs that COVID-19 impairs, too.
Pollution certainly made the pandemic worse for some hard-hit communities
Researchers have some ideas about why particulate pollution grew and nitrogen dioxide shrank in the US this year. It might be because more particulate matter comes from diesel-burning trucks, which delivered more packages than usual as people shopped from home, but they still need to test this hypothesis. “That is the mystery that we’re going to try to solve,” says Cristina Archer, lead author of the study and a professor at the University of Delaware’s College of Earth, Ocean and Environment.
Even if some pollution dropped temporarily, that doesn’t really do us much good moving forward, Archer cautions. “We’re going to go back eventually to normal life,” she says. Nitrogen dioxide levels already started roaring back toward the middle of the year in cities around the world as COVID-19 restrictions lightened up. “Reduction [in pollution] that is temporary, but is not actually intentional — I don’t think it helps much. What helps are strategies, and planning, and conscious efforts to reduce air pollution.”
The same goes for greenhouse gases. The US saw its biggest year-on-year drop in carbon dioxide emissions in 2020 as Americans stayed home to stop the spread of COVID-19. Worldwide emissions actually dropped to their lowest levels since 2006 in April. By the end of the year, global CO2 emissions are projected to fall by about 7 percent. But to stop the world from careening toward catastrophic levels of climate change, we need to keep cutting more than 7 percent of our emissions each year over the next decade — without a pandemic forcing that change upon us. Without those intentional cuts, the overall amount of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere will continue to rise, as it did this year.
“Humanity’s waste pile is in the atmosphere and that doesn’t go away”
“Humanity’s waste pile is in the atmosphere and that doesn’t go away,” Ralph Keeling, a professor of geochemistry at Scripps Institution of Oceanography at the University of California, San Diego, told The Verge earlier this year. “The CO2 is building up in response to not just what we’re emitting right now but what we have emitted over the past century.”
Ultimately, this isn’t a numbers game. Once we’ve unleashed pollutants into our environment, they come back to haunt us. All that carbon dioxide heating up our planet is making summers hotter and fires more devastating. Hotter weather boosts the chemical reaction that creates smog, which is one of the reasons why Southern California — one of the most polluted regions in the US — had worse smog this year than it had seen in decades. Historic wildfires across the Western US in the second half of the year darkened skies. The smoke simultaneously made it harder to breathe and canceled out the reduction in greenhouse gas emissions from the US power sector this year.


theverge--2020-12-19--The Verge’s 17 favorite podcasts of 2020

Many of us were not commuting as usual during 2020 , so our podcast listening time may have been somewhat lessened .
However , podcasts are still popular .
They ’ re great to listen to while driving , cleaning your home , exercising , or just hanging out .
There are podcasts to suit every taste , including topics like politics , history , music , and comedy .
In fact , there are so many out there that it may be difficult to choose where to start .
We asked the staff at The Verge what their current @ @ @ @ @ @ @ — try them out and see what you think .
We ’ ve rounded up our favorite and most-used games , apps , and entertainment .
Check out our app picks for iPhones , Android phones , PCs , and M1-equipped Macs ; our favorite mobile games from Apple Arcade and Google Play Pass ; and our top choices for gaming PCs , the PS5 , Xbox One and Series X / S , Nintendo Switch , and VR .
We ’ ve also listed our favorite streaming shows on Disney Plus , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ some great sci-fi books ; and exciting new podcasts .
( Note : pricing was accurate at the time of publishing but may change . )
Last year , this podcast told about music ’ s untold stories .
This season focuses on the year 1980 as an opening to , as described on the website , “ a monumental decade in popular music , ” hosted by poet and cultural critic Hanif Abdurraqib .
Among the musicians covered are Grace Jones , South African artists Hugh Masekela and Miriam Makeba , and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ by Kevin Nguyen and Andrew Marino .
Those of us who have never been in prison get a lot of our information about it from TV dramas and the occasional news articles .
Ear Hustle tells listeners about the realities of the prison experience from the point of view of those who are ( or were ) incarcerated .
The first three seasons were produced inside San Quentin State Prison in California , 2019 ’ s season 4 added coverage of post-prison life , and 2020 also deals with how prisons are handling @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Russell Brandon and Kaitlin Hatton .
Trump , Inc. takes a long , hard , and not completely objective look at the businessman who is ( at least , until January 20th , 2021 ) president of the US .
But his business dealings ( along with those of his family ) remain elusive .
Episodes in the third year of this series cover subjects that range from how well the 2017 tax overhaul actually worked to coverage of Trump ’ s increasingly desperate legal campaign against the 2020 election results .
From @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Amelia Holowaty Krales .
If you ’ re a news junkie , you probably visit The New York Times .
The Daily is the Times ’ 20-minute look at the current news , available five days a week .
Recent topics include President Trump ’ s preemptive pardons , President-elect Biden ’ s cabinet picks , and the social life of forests .
( Well , not everything has to be political , does it ? )
From The New York Times .
Suggested by Amelia Holowaty Krales .
NPR tackles the often @ @ @ @ @ @ @ podcast that examines issues of racial , ethnic , and cultural identity .
Hosted by journalists Shereen Marisol Meraji and Gene Demby , Code Switch looks at how our country has changed in 2020 , how it hasn ’ t , and how race was at the center of the presidential campaign .
They also dedicate an entire episode simply to answering listeners ’ questions about food , friendship , and more .
From NPR .
Suggested by Amelia Holowaty Krales .
The Catch and Kill Podcast is a nine-episode series from Ronan @ @ @ @ @ @ @ centers on the Harvey Weinstein trials for the first seven episodes , then segues into President Trump ’ s dealings with the National Enquirer .
A final added episode analyzes the February 2020 guilty verdict .
From Pineapple Street Studios .
Suggested by Esther Cohen .
The Verge ’ s Kaitlin Hatton writes : “ Over the Road is a series about life as a trucker both now and in the past .
The eight-part series is hosted by ‘ Long Haul Paul ’ Marhoefer , who is described as a musician , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ years .
His soothing voice highlights the lives of drivers on the road and how trucking has changed from a lawless rush of freedom to a more regulated and less lucrative career path.
” From Overdrive Magazine and Radiotopia .
Suggested by Kaitlin Hatton .
Kaitlin Hatton writes : “ This podcast is a great listen for any true crime fanatics out there .
Hosted by two comedians , James Pietragallo and Jimmie Whisman , these two-hour-plus episodes are a perfect blend of comedy and tragedy , making fun of all the blunders @ @ @ @ @ @ @ investigations.
” From James Pietragallo and Jimmie Whisman .
Suggested by Kaitlin Hatton .
Kaitlin Hatton writes : “ It ’ s no secret that queer people have been overlooked throughout history .
This lighthearted podcast is set on uncovering the stories of LGBTQ people and bringing light to a rich history that has gone unappreciated for decades.
” From History is Gay .
Suggested by Kaitlin Hatton .
The Verge ’ s Monica Chin writes : “ It ’ s hard to describe what makes this podcast great because it ’ s @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ Brien of Last Week Tonight with John Oliver and Soren Bowie of American Dad !
— updating each other on their lives ( and often mundane aspects of those lives , such as songs they ’ re listening to , or whether their children believe in Santa ) .
But they are — I ’ m not exaggerating — two of the funniest people I have ever heard speak , and they manage to make those topics the most interesting and humorous discussions I hear each week.
” From Soren Bowie and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Monica Chin .
The Verge ’ s Andrew Marino writes : “ Actor Stephen Tobolowsky ’ s podcast is basically an audiobook of true stories about life , love , and the entertainment industry , brilliantly written and read by Mr. Tobolowsky himself .
That ’ s all you really need to know .
It ’ s a good driving podcast.
” From Stephen Tobolowsky .
Suggested by Andrew Marino .
Whatever Happened to Pizza At McDonald ’ s ?
Andrew Marino writes : “ Whatever Happened to Pizza At McDonald ’ s @ @ @ @ @ @ @ excited to listen to each time it publishes .
Host Brian Thompson in character guides the audience through his satirical quest to discover why fast-food chain McDonald 's stopped serving pizza in the 1990s .
I mostly consider this show a lesson in bureaucracy and red tape , where Thompson is constantly being put on hold or transferred to another department when on the phone asking questions related to his investigation .
“ I am envious of the clever yet ridiculous episode from this year called ‘ Choose your Own Investigation : The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ host instructs the listener to fast forward to specific parts of the podcast to pick certain decision points of the story , akin to a ‘ Choose Your Own Adventure ’ storybook.
” From Brian Thompson .
Suggested by Andrew Marino .
In this podcast , Slate ’ s television critic Willa Paskin “ takes a cultural question , object , or habit ; examines its history ; and tries to figure out what it means and why it matters.
” She takes on a variety of topics , including the rise of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ mullet , and why unicorn poop is considered cute .
From Slate .
Suggested by Andrew Marino .
The Verge ’ s Ian Carlos Campbell writes : “ For a game hosted by game developers interviewing their peers , this pod is remarkably approachable , even when it gets into the nitty-gritty details .
It also has a killer theme song which is an under-discussed aspect of good podcasts , in my opinion.
” From Eggplant : The Secret Lives of Games .
Suggested by Ian Carlos Campbell .
Andrew Marino writes : @ @ @ @ @ @ @ than entertainment .
NPR Politics have been publishing episodes daily this year to cover both the pandemic and the election .
News has changed so often in 2020 that they have to put a disclaimer that things may have changed by the time you listen to it .
“ Not only is this must-listen news podcast needed to understand what ’ s happening in the country , but coming back to the same cast of political reporters every day this year is a comforting consistency.
” From NPR .
Suggested by Andrew Marino @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Phase is a new pod that just started in October .
They debunk lots of harmful myths propagated by the health and diet industry .
Essential listening for anyone who wants to deconstruct health culture.
” It is hosted by Michael Hobbes ( co-host of You ’ re Wrong About ) and Aubrey Gordon ( writer on her website Your Fat Friend ) .
From Maintenance Phase .
Suggested by Kait Sanchez .
Andrew Marino writes : “ This podcast covers some forgotten names in music history , focusing on early punk and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ by Max Easton , what makes this show stick out is its clever use of sound design and editing — making the narration , music , sound effects , and other tape fit together in a way that is consistent to the overall look and feel of the show .
Listening to an episode feels like reading a music zine you picked up an underground bookstore.
” From Jason L ’ Ecuyer and Output Media .
Suggested by Andrew Marino .

Many of us were not commuting as usual during 2020, so our podcast listening time may have been somewhat lessened. However, podcasts are still popular. They’re great to listen to while driving, cleaning your home, exercising, or just hanging out. There are podcasts to suit every taste, including topics like politics, history, music, and comedy. In fact, there are so many out there that it may be difficult to choose where to start. We asked the staff at The Verge what their current favorite podcasts were. Here they are — try them out and see what you think.
Lost Notes 1980
Lost Notes 1980 Photo: David Corio / KCRW
Last year, this podcast told about music’s untold stories. This season focuses on the year 1980 as an opening to, as described on the website, “a monumental decade in popular music,” hosted by poet and cultural critic Hanif Abdurraqib. Among the musicians covered are Grace Jones, South African artists Hugh Masekela and Miriam Makeba, and Sugarhill Gang. From KCRW. Suggested by Kevin Nguyen and Andrew Marino.
Ear Hustle
Ear Hustle Image: Ear Hustle
Those of us who have never been in prison get a lot of our information about it from TV dramas and the occasional news articles. Ear Hustle tells listeners about the realities of the prison experience from the point of view of those who are (or were) incarcerated. The first three seasons were produced inside San Quentin State Prison in California, 2019’s season 4 added coverage of post-prison life, and 2020 also deals with how prisons are handling COVID-19. From Radiotopia. Suggested by Russell Brandon and Kaitlin Hatton.
Trump Inc.
Trump Inc. Image: WNYC Studios / ProPublica
Trump, Inc. takes a long, hard, and not completely objective look at the businessman who is (at least, until January 20th, 2021) president of the US. But his business dealings (along with those of his family) remain elusive. Episodes in the third year of this series cover subjects that range from how well the 2017 tax overhaul actually worked to coverage of Trump’s increasingly desperate legal campaign against the 2020 election results. From WNYC. Suggested by Barbara Krasnoff and Amelia Holowaty Krales.
The Daily
The Daily Image: The New York Times
If you’re a news junkie, you probably visit The New York Times. The Daily is the Times’ 20-minute look at the current news, available five days a week. Recent topics include President Trump’s preemptive pardons, President-elect Biden’s cabinet picks, and the social life of forests. (Well, not everything has to be political, does it?) From The New York Times. Suggested by Amelia Holowaty Krales.
Code Switch
Code Switch Image: NPR
NPR tackles the often tricky subject of race head-on in this podcast that examines issues of racial, ethnic, and cultural identity. Hosted by journalists Shereen Marisol Meraji and Gene Demby, Code Switch looks at how our country has changed in 2020, how it hasn’t, and how race was at the center of the presidential campaign. They also dedicate an entire episode simply to answering listeners’ questions about food, friendship, and more. From NPR. Suggested by Amelia Holowaty Krales.
The Catch and Kill Podcast
The Catch and Kill Podcast is a nine-episode series from Ronan Farrow that ran in early 2020 and centers on the Harvey Weinstein trials for the first seven episodes, then segues into President Trump’s dealings with the National Enquirer. A final added episode analyzes the February 2020 guilty verdict. From Pineapple Street Studios. Suggested by Esther Cohen.
Over The Road
Over the Road Image: Overdrive Magazine and Radiotopia
The Verge’s Kaitlin Hatton writes: “Over the Road is a series about life as a trucker both now and in the past. The eight-part series is hosted by ‘Long Haul Paul’ Marhoefer, who is described as a musician, storyteller, and trucker for nearly 40 years. His soothing voice highlights the lives of drivers on the road and how trucking has changed from a lawless rush of freedom to a more regulated and less lucrative career path.” From Overdrive Magazine and Radiotopia. Suggested by Kaitlin Hatton.
Small Town Murder
Small Town Murder Image: James Pietragallo and Jimmie Whisman
Kaitlin Hatton writes: “This podcast is a great listen for any true crime fanatics out there. Hosted by two comedians, James Pietragallo and Jimmie Whisman, these two-hour-plus episodes are a perfect blend of comedy and tragedy, making fun of all the blunders that happen in small towns surrounding murder investigations.” From James Pietragallo and Jimmie Whisman. Suggested by Kaitlin Hatton.
History is Gay
History is Gay Image: History is Gay
Kaitlin Hatton writes: “It’s no secret that queer people have been overlooked throughout history. This lighthearted podcast is set on uncovering the stories of LGBTQ people and bringing light to a rich history that has gone unappreciated for decades.” From History is Gay. Suggested by Kaitlin Hatton.
Quick Question with Soren and Daniel
Quick Question with Soren and Daniel Image: Soren Bowie and Daniel O’Brien
The Verge’s Monica Chin writes: “It’s hard to describe what makes this podcast great because it’s just two comedy writers — Daniel O’Brien of Last Week Tonight with John Oliver and Soren Bowie of American Dad! — updating each other on their lives (and often mundane aspects of those lives, such as songs they’re listening to, or whether their children believe in Santa). But they are — I’m not exaggerating — two of the funniest people I have ever heard speak, and they manage to make those topics the most interesting and humorous discussions I hear each week.” From Soren Bowie and Daniel O’Brien. Suggested by Monica Chin.
The Tobolowsky Files
The Tobolowsky Files Image: Andrew Tobolowsky
The Verge’s Andrew Marino writes: “Actor Stephen Tobolowsky’s podcast is basically an audiobook of true stories about life, love, and the entertainment industry, brilliantly written and read by Mr. Tobolowsky himself. That’s all you really need to know. It’s a good driving podcast.” From Stephen Tobolowsky. Suggested by Andrew Marino.
Whatever Happened to Pizza At McDonald’s?
Whatever Happened to Pizza At McDonald’s? Image: Brian Thompson
Andrew Marino writes: “Whatever Happened to Pizza At McDonald’s? is the show I am always excited to listen to each time it publishes. Host Brian Thompson in character guides the audience through his satirical quest to discover why fast-food chain McDonald's stopped serving pizza in the 1990s. I mostly consider this show a lesson in bureaucracy and red tape, where Thompson is constantly being put on hold or transferred to another department when on the phone asking questions related to his investigation.
“I am envious of the clever yet ridiculous episode from this year called ‘Choose your Own Investigation: The Mysterious Pizza,’ in which the host instructs the listener to fast forward to specific parts of the podcast to pick certain decision points of the story, akin to a ‘Choose Your Own Adventure’ storybook.” From Brian Thompson. Suggested by Andrew Marino.
Decoder Ring
Decoder Ring Image: Slate
In this podcast, Slate’s television critic Willa Paskin “takes a cultural question, object, or habit; examines its history; and tries to figure out what it means and why it matters.” She takes on a variety of topics, including the rise of the Karen, the history of the mullet, and why unicorn poop is considered cute. From Slate. Suggested by Andrew Marino.
Eggplant: The Secret Lives of Games
Eggplant: The Secret Lives of Games Image: Eggplant: The Secret Lives of Games
The Verge’s Ian Carlos Campbell writes: “For a game hosted by game developers interviewing their peers, this pod is remarkably approachable, even when it gets into the nitty-gritty details. It also has a killer theme song which is an under-discussed aspect of good podcasts, in my opinion.” From Eggplant: The Secret Lives of Games. Suggested by Ian Carlos Campbell.
NPR Politics Podcast
The NPR Politics Podcast Image: NPR
Andrew Marino writes: “This is more of a necessity than entertainment. NPR Politics have been publishing episodes daily this year to cover both the pandemic and the election. News has changed so often in 2020 that they have to put a disclaimer that things may have changed by the time you listen to it.
“Not only is this must-listen news podcast needed to understand what’s happening in the country, but coming back to the same cast of political reporters every day this year is a comforting consistency.” From NPR. Suggested by Andrew Marino.
Maintenance Phase
Maintenance Phase Image: Maintenance Phase
Kait Sanchez writes: “Maintenance Phase is a new pod that just started in October. They debunk lots of harmful myths propagated by the health and diet industry. Essential listening for anyone who wants to deconstruct health culture.” It is hosted by Michael Hobbes (co-host of You’re Wrong About) and Aubrey Gordon (writer on her website Your Fat Friend). From Maintenance Phase. Suggested by Kait Sanchez.
Barely Human
Barely Human Image: Jason L’Ecuyer and Output Media


theverge--2020-12-19--The best last-minute digital gifts from Target, Amazon, Walmart, and more

The holiday season has arrived — but don ’ t panic .
If you forgot to buy a gift for someone , you can ’ t decide what to give your loved one , or the item you wanted to give can ’ t be delivered on time , it ’ s not a problem .
Digital gifts are the most convenient and easiest gifts .
And with so many digital gifts to choose from — like a subscription to a popular streaming service , some extra cash for iTunes or a new game , or a gift card from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ list of a few quick gift ideas .
With the pandemic continuing to keep most of us inside , there ’ s never been a better time to subscribe to one ( or multiple ) streaming services and indulge in great shows and movies .
There are so many streaming services to choose from now , such as Disney Plus , Netflix , and many others .
• Disney Plus , Hulu , and ESPN Plus bundle • Netflix gift card from Amazon , Target , Best Buy , or Walmart • Hulu @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , or Walmart • Sling TV gift card from Best Buy , Target , or Walmart Whether you prefer Spotify , Apple Music , or YouTube Music , a music gift card is not a bad gift for someone who enjoys tuning out all of the noise and jamming to some funky tunes .
• Spotify gift card from Amazon , Best Buy , Target , and Walmart • Apple Gift Card ( which can be used for purchases for anything Apple , including products , Apple Arcade games , and iTunes or @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at Amazon , Best Buy , Target , and Walmart .
There are a lot of options when it comes to buying games online or gifting a subscription .
Whether your giftee could use some extra cash to buy games from a digital storefront or to renew their membership for a video game console , there ’ s a slew of options to choose from for the gamer in your life .
• Xbox Game Pass Ultimate subscription , which includes Xbox Live Gold , plus access to Xbox Game Pass for console @ @ @ @ @ @ @ xCloud game service .
Also available at Amazon , Best Buy , GameStop , Newegg , Target , and Walmart .
• Xbox Game Pass for consoles subscription .
Also available at Amazon , Best Buy , GameStop , and Target .
• Xbox Game Pass for PC subscription .
Also available at Amazon , Best Buy , GameStop , Target , and Walmart .
• Xbox Live Gold subscription .
Also available at Amazon , Best Buy , GameStop , Newegg , Target , and Walmart .
• Xbox gift card .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ , GameStop , Newegg , Target , and Walmart .
• PlayStation Store gift card .
Also available at Amazon , Best Buy , GameStop , Newegg , Target , and Walmart .
• PlayStation Plus subscription .
Also available at Amazon , Best Buy , GameStop , Newegg , Target , and Walmart .
• PlayStation Now is Sony ’ s cloud gaming service , similar to Microsoft ’ s xCloud .
A subscription is also available at Amazon , Best Buy , GameStop , Newegg , and Walmart .
• Nintendo @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , Best Buy , GameStop , Target , and Walmart • Nintendo Switch Online 12-month family membership at Amazon , Best Buy , and Walmart • Nintendo eShop Gift Card available at Amazon , Best Buy , GameStop , Target , and Walmart • Steam gift card available at Best Buy , GameStop , Target , and Walmart • Battle.net ( Blizzard Entertainment ) gift card available at Amazon , Best Buy , GameStop , Newegg , and Walmart • Google Play gift card available at Amazon , Best Buy , and Target @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and GameStop While I would not advise traveling right now if you do not need to , Uber , Lyft , and Airbnb offer digital gift cards , which are great for someone who likes to travel or doesn ’ t like taking public transport .
This way , when it is safer to travel again , you can treat them to a nice car ride or even a vacation .
• Uber gift card .
Also available at Amazon , Best Buy , Target , and Walmart .
• Lyft gift card @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Buy , Target , and Walmart .
• Airbnb gift card available at Amazon and Target • Southwest Airlines gift card available at Amazon , Best Buy , Target , and Walmart Most food-ordering apps have online gift cards available for purchase .
This is convenient if your loved one is feeling too lazy to cook dinner one night , doesn ’ t feel like going grocery shopping , or needs to stay indoors .
Here are a few gift cards for the food-lover in your life : • DoorDash gift cards are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Target , and Walmart • UberEats gift cards are available at Amazon , Target , and Walmart • Grubhub gift cards are available at Amazon and Target • Whole Foods gift cards are available at Amazon For everything else If you ’ re not sure what to get someone or you want to give them more leverage on what they want to buy , a general gift card might be the best option .
From app stores to department stores , here are some gift cards for everyone : • Google Play Store @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Best Buy , Amazon , and Walmart • Best Buy gift card , also available at Amazon

The holiday season has arrived — but don’t panic. If you forgot to buy a gift for someone, you can’t decide what to give your loved one, or the item you wanted to give can’t be delivered on time, it’s not a problem. Digital gifts are the most convenient and easiest gifts. And with so many digital gifts to choose from — like a subscription to a popular streaming service, some extra cash for iTunes or a new game, or a gift card from your favorite retailer — we made a list of a few quick gift ideas.
A streaming service like Disney Plus could be the perfect gift for a stay-at-home friend or relative. Image: Disney
For movie / TV show streamers
With the pandemic continuing to keep most of us inside, there’s never been a better time to subscribe to one (or multiple) streaming services and indulge in great shows and movies. There are so many streaming services to choose from now, such as Disney Plus, Netflix, and many others.
Consider a Spotify gift card for the music lover in your life. Photo by Amelia Holowaty Krales / The Verge
For music-lovers
Whether you prefer Spotify, Apple Music, or YouTube Music, a music gift card is not a bad gift for someone who enjoys tuning out all of the noise and jamming to some funky tunes.
For Switch owners, Nintendo eShop or Switch Online memberships are good digital gift options. Photo by Amelia Holowaty Krales / The Verge
For gamers
There are a lot of options when it comes to buying games online or gifting a subscription. Whether your giftee could use some extra cash to buy games from a digital storefront or to renew their membership for a video game console, there’s a slew of options to choose from for the gamer in your life.
Uber is a great gift for the traveler in your life. Photo by Amelia Holowaty Krales / The Verge
For travelers
While I would not advise traveling right now if you do not need to, Uber, Lyft, and Airbnb offer digital gift cards, which are great for someone who likes to travel or doesn’t like taking public transport. This way, when it is safer to travel again, you can treat them to a nice car ride or even a vacation.
Get the foodie in your life a gift card to DoorDash or UberEats. Image: Uber
For foodies
Most food-ordering apps have online gift cards available for purchase. This is convenient if your loved one is feeling too lazy to cook dinner one night, doesn’t feel like going grocery shopping, or needs to stay indoors. Here are a few gift cards for the food-lover in your life:
For everything else
If you’re not sure what to get someone or you want to give them more leverage on what they want to buy, a general gift card might be the best option. From app stores to department stores, here are some gift cards for everyone:


theverge--2020-12-19--How the pandemic inspired creative uses of technology in 2020

The year that brought us the coronavirus pandemic , murder hornets , and the deaths of Ruth Bader Ginsburg and Alex Trebek is probably one most people won ’ t be sad to bid adieu .
Parents and kids were stuck together during lockdowns , trying to manage remote school and work , and everyone ’ s feeling good and frayed at this point .
At the start of the pandemic , media was abuzz with the notion that this pandemic and the resulting lockdowns would be a boon for the creative process .
Suffering and isolation , the logic @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and literature : just look at Shakespeare , who apparently cranked out Macbeth , King Lear , and Antony and Cleopatra while quarantined during an outbreak of bubonic plague .
While we may not yet know if another Shakespeare found their muse during the current pandemic , plenty of people found their creative spark thanks to technology , with librarians , artists , and even epidemiologists using the tools at hand not just to distract from the tedium of lockdown , but to put forth new approaches to how we learn and connect @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of Google Forms allowed librarians and teachers to create problem-solving exercises for students designed as digital versions of escape rooms .
In addition to solving the puzzle of the game , the escape rooms let kids hone their geography , math , and reading comprehension skills , and are built around fun themes that included Star Wars , Harry Potter , Jurassic World , and Marvel superheroes .
Not only did they take away some of the tedium and chaos of online teaching and learning , but the virtual escape rooms were tools @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Brooke Windsor , a librarian in Ontario , put it this way : “ We still want to sneak in that learning , broccoli-in-the-brownie style.
” As big weddings were ( mostly ) canceled and postponed in 2020 , UK wedding photographer Tim Dunk decided he needed another project to keep his creative juices flowing .
“ I had to deal with the shock and financial implications of [ the coronavirus ] like any other photographer .
It also threw up another challenge : how do we as creatives stay creative ?
” @ @ @ @ @ @ @ photo shoots .
The photo subject and Dunk connect on FaceTime , and he determines where the light in their house is best for a portrait .
Then , using the Live Photo button on the iPhone ( sorry , Android users ) that lets you take photos during a FaceTime call , he snaps the pictures , then edits them in Lightroom .
And £10 from every shoot — he charges £50 for a set of 10 to 15 photos — goes to the Trussell Trust , a UK-based charitable organization that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ also created photo books of some of the portraits taken during the project , and he penned a how-to for other photographers .
Okay , so not all of the movies in Gad ’ s Reunited Apart YouTube series are from the 1980s , but the casts of Ferris Bueller ’ s Day Off , Ghostbusters , Splash , The Goonies , and Back to the Future meeting on Zoom brought back the faces of some cultural touchstones of the American Gen-X childhood .
Each episode benefits a different charitable organization and garners @ @ @ @ @ @ @ millions of views .
The One Zoom to Rule Them All episode featuring the cast of the Lord of the Rings drew 5.7 million views and benefited nonprofit organization No Kid Hungry .
“ Everybody is going through the same craziness , trying to operate in a world that ’ s still very new and complicated , where our sole connection is through the internet , ” Gad told The Guardian .
If any app is having a moment in 2020 , it ’ s the ubiquitous TikTok — fighting the Trump administration @ @ @ @ @ @ @ becoming the most-downloaded app in the world over the summer .
Jacksonville , Florida science teacher Nancy Bullard created a Mrs. B TV on TikTok , dressing like everything from an astronaut to a chicken in the name of science .
Bullard guides students through science experiments they can do without parental supervision , so parents working from home can have a bit of a reprieve .
The response from students has been overwhelmingly positive , Bullard said .
“ Whether it is the latest dance trend or Fortnite , we have to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ re comfortable with.
” During the coronavirus pandemic , National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases ( NIAID ) director Anthony Fauci has become one of its most recognizable faces — and it ’ s an extremely expressive face that usually conveys what he ’ s thinking .
Epidemiologist Karen Sautter Errichetti needed a way to check in with how her students were coping with ... everything ... and created an unscientific chart based on the five-part Likert scale , using photos of Fauci on a one to five scale ( later @ @ @ @ @ @ @ students could choose their mood for that day .
Photos of the NIAID director smiling were the most difficult to find , Errichetti noted .
Word is that Fauci himself has seen the scale , which is not quite the introduction Errichetti envisioned ; she and her colleagues consider him a rock star of sorts .
“ Creating your own memes , ” Errichetti told me , “ that ’ s a little bit of your own kind of medicine .
”

The year that brought us the coronavirus pandemic, murder hornets, and the deaths of Ruth Bader Ginsburg and Alex Trebek is probably one most people won’t be sad to bid adieu. Parents and kids were stuck together during lockdowns, trying to manage remote school and work, and everyone’s feeling good and frayed at this point.
At the start of the pandemic, media was abuzz with the notion that this pandemic and the resulting lockdowns would be a boon for the creative process. Suffering and isolation, the logic goes, beget great works of art and literature: just look at Shakespeare, who apparently cranked out Macbeth, King Lear, and Antony and Cleopatra while quarantined during an outbreak of bubonic plague.
While we may not yet know if another Shakespeare found their muse during the current pandemic, plenty of people found their creative spark thanks to technology, with librarians, artists, and even epidemiologists using the tools at hand not just to distract from the tedium of lockdown, but to put forth new approaches to how we learn and connect with each other.
A Harry Potter escape room starts off by telling players where in the Wizarding World they are.
The easy-to-use format of Google Forms allowed librarians and teachers to create problem-solving exercises for students designed as digital versions of escape rooms. In addition to solving the puzzle of the game, the escape rooms let kids hone their geography, math, and reading comprehension skills, and are built around fun themes that included Star Wars, Harry Potter, Jurassic World, and Marvel superheroes. Not only did they take away some of the tedium and chaos of online teaching and learning, but the virtual escape rooms were tools for staff development and community building. Brooke Windsor, a librarian in Ontario, put it this way: “We still want to sneak in that learning, broccoli-in-the-brownie style.”
Photographer Tim Dunk helped users create professional-quality photos via iPhone. Image: Tim Dunk
As big weddings were (mostly) canceled and postponed in 2020, UK wedding photographer Tim Dunk decided he needed another project to keep his creative juices flowing. “I had to deal with the shock and financial implications of [the coronavirus] like any other photographer. It also threw up another challenge: how do we as creatives stay creative?” Dunk wrote.
His solution: FaceTime photo shoots. The photo subject and Dunk connect on FaceTime, and he determines where the light in their house is best for a portrait. Then, using the Live Photo button on the iPhone (sorry, Android users) that lets you take photos during a FaceTime call, he snaps the pictures, then edits them in Lightroom. And £10 from every shoot — he charges £50 for a set of 10 to 15 photos — goes to the Trussell Trust, a UK-based charitable organization that supports food banks. He’s also created photo books of some of the portraits taken during the project, and he penned a how-to for other photographers.
Okay, so not all of the movies in Gad’s Reunited Apart YouTube series are from the 1980s, but the casts of Ferris Bueller’s Day Off, Ghostbusters, Splash, The Goonies, and Back to the Future meeting on Zoom brought back the faces of some cultural touchstones of the American Gen-X childhood. Each episode benefits a different charitable organization and garners thousands, and in some cases, millions of views. The One Zoom to Rule Them All episode featuring the cast of the Lord of the Rings drew 5.7 million views and benefited nonprofit organization No Kid Hungry. “Everybody is going through the same craziness, trying to operate in a world that’s still very new and complicated, where our sole connection is through the internet,” Gad told The Guardian.
If any app is having a moment in 2020, it’s the ubiquitous TikTok — fighting the Trump administration in court and at the same time becoming the most-downloaded app in the world over the summer. Jacksonville, Florida science teacher Nancy Bullard created a Mrs. B TV on TikTok, dressing like everything from an astronaut to a chicken in the name of science. Bullard guides students through science experiments they can do without parental supervision, so parents working from home can have a bit of a reprieve. The response from students has been overwhelmingly positive, Bullard said. “Whether it is the latest dance trend or Fortnite, we have to find our kids on the platforms they’re comfortable with.”
Dr. Fauci’s facial expressions say it all. Image: Karen Errichetti
During the coronavirus pandemic, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID) director Anthony Fauci has become one of its most recognizable faces — and it’s an extremely expressive face that usually conveys what he’s thinking. Epidemiologist Karen Sautter Errichetti needed a way to check in with how her students were coping with... everything... and created an unscientific chart based on the five-part Likert scale, using photos of Fauci on a one to five scale (later expanded to a nine-photo scale) so students could choose their mood for that day. Photos of the NIAID director smiling were the most difficult to find, Errichetti noted.


theverge--2020-12-18--DJI says people can still buy and use its drones in US after export ban

DJI says people in the US will still be able to buy and use its drones and other products despite being named to the Commerce Department ’ s Entity List .
The Chinese drone giant was named to the blacklist on Friday for “ enabl [ ing ] wide-scale human rights abuses within China through abusive genetic collection and analysis or high-technology surveillance ” — most likely a reference to how DJI provided drones and other technology to the Chinese government to be used in its Muslim detention camps in the Xinjiang province .
“ DJI is disappointed in the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Customers in America can continue to buy and use DJI products normally , ” the company said in a statement to The Verge .
“ DJI remains committed to developing the industry ’ s most innovative products that define our company and benefit the world.
” The company declined to provide any more information about what it thinks will happen as a result of being named to the Entity List .
Being on the list typically means US companies are banned from exporting technology to blacklisted companies .
DJI not only sells @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is far and away the market leader , its technology is used by all sorts of companies that need drones or handheld cameras .
This is not the first time that access to Chinese drones has been targeted by the US government , usually due to security concerns .
The Department of Justice banned the buying of foreign-made drones with agency funds in October , and the Department of the Interior said it would ground its drone fleet while it looks into claims of spying and cyberattacks .
DJI has pushed back against @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of national security transgressions are unfounded .

DJI says people in the US will still be able to buy and use its drones and other products despite being named to the Commerce Department’s Entity List. The Chinese drone giant was named to the blacklist on Friday for “enabl[ing] wide-scale human rights abuses within China through abusive genetic collection and analysis or high-technology surveillance” — most likely a reference to how DJI provided drones and other technology to the Chinese government to be used in its Muslim detention camps in the Xinjiang province.
“DJI is disappointed in the U.S. Department of Commerce’s decision. Customers in America can continue to buy and use DJI products normally,” the company said in a statement to The Verge. “DJI remains committed to developing the industry’s most innovative products that define our company and benefit the world.”
The company declined to provide any more information about what it thinks will happen as a result of being named to the Entity List. Being on the list typically means US companies are banned from exporting technology to blacklisted companies. DJI not only sells products to consumers, but since it is far and away the market leader, its technology is used by all sorts of companies that need drones or handheld cameras.


theverge--2020-12-19--Starting Sunday, cable companies can no longer ‘rent’ you the router you already own

Is your internet service provider charging you every month for the cable modem or router that you purchased with your own money ?
Or , perhaps , have you never bothered to buy those items because you couldn ’ t escape the fee ?
That fee will be illegal starting Sunday , December 20th , and you should tell your ISP that you ’ ll no longer tolerate it , threaten to sue , and/or take advantage of any binding arbitration clause it may have with you .
Last year , Congress passed a law that should have fixed this @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 2020 — and though the FCC managed to extend the deadline six months by spinning up some bullshit about how cable companies didn ’ t have the resources to stop charging you money , the law should take full effect tomorrow .
Do note that the actual text of the law still allows some BS to occur .
If your ISP sends you a router , you ’ ll need to return it to avoid charges .
“ Whether you use it or not ” Frontier in particular has been notorious for charging @ @ @ @ @ @ @ equipment “ whether you use it or not ” — the company ’ s words , not mine — but Frontier is clearly aware it won ’ t be able to do that anymore .
Starting this month , the company ’ s equipment page has changed to remove the part where it talks about the mandatory fee .
Here ’ s an archived copy of the site from last month if you want to compare .
If you can purchase your own cable modem , I suggest you do .
Modems will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a year , and the all-in-one router boxes that ISPs typically provide typically offer worse Wi-Fi coverage than you could easily add to a house yourself , particularly now that mesh Wi-Fi systems are better , cheaper , and easier to use than ever before .
It also doesn ’ t help that in the US , we pay roughly eight to 17 times more to rent a modem on average that Asia and Europe do , respectively .
That ’ s just one of the ways America ’ s internet needs to @ @ @ @ @

Is your internet service provider charging you every month for the cable modem or router that you purchased with your own money? Or, perhaps, have you never bothered to buy those items because you couldn’t escape the fee? That fee is illegal starting Sunday, December 20th, and you should tell your ISP that you’ll no longer tolerate it.
Last year, Congress passed a law that should have fixed this ridiculous loophole as of June 20th, 2020 — and though the FCC managed to extend the deadline six months by spinning up some bullshit about how cable companies didn’t have the resources to stop charging you money, the law should take full effect tomorrow.
Do note that the actual text of the law still allows some BS to occur. If your ISP sends you a router, you’ll need to return it to avoid charges.
“Whether you use it or not”
Frontier in particular has been notorious for charging customers $10 a month for their equipment “whether you use it or not” — the company’s words, not mine — but Frontier is clearly aware it won’t be able to do that anymore. Starting this month, the company’s equipment page has changed to remove the part where it talks about the mandatory fee. Here’s an archived copy of the site from last month if you want to compare.
If you can purchase your own cable modem, I suggest you do. Modems will generally pay for themselves in less than a year, and the all-in-one router boxes that ISPs typically provide typically offer worse Wi-Fi coverage than you could easily add to a house yourself, particularly now that mesh Wi-Fi systems are better, cheaper, and easier to use than ever before.


theverge--2020-12-19--Here’s the never-before-seen Simpsons video game dreamt up for Sega Dreamcast

As a lowly Wired Magazine intern , one of my first assignments was reviewing 2007 ’ s The Simpsons Game : a groundbreaking self-referential parody of the entire gaming industry that , sadly , suffered from as nearly as many tropes as it lampooned .
But it turns out Fox had been interested in a three-dimensional Simpsons game long before that — one that could have appeared on the Sega Dreamcast if things had worked out .
Today , the DreamcasticChannel on YouTube ( via Kotaku ) is showcasing an unreleased tech demo from the year 2000 for a title @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Squad !
” It ’ s from the long-defunct Red Lemon Studios , and it ’ s remarkable how much the game ’ s cel-shaded graphics look like the show .
Apparently , a Dreamcast-Talk forum user by the name of sreak found this demo just sitting on a broken Dreamcast dev kit ’ s hard drive , and with a bit of help , the forum figured out how to make it playable .
Less understandable is the whole Bug Squad thing .
Were you really going to play a bug ?
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ compromised of ?
Hopefully , some of the original developers ( or Fox executives ) will come forward so we can find out .

As a lowly Wired Magazine intern, one of my first assignments was reviewing 2007’s The Simpsons Game: a groundbreaking self-referential parody of the entire gaming industry that, sadly, suffered from as nearly as many tropes as it lampooned. But it turns out Fox had been interested in a three-dimensional Simpsons game long before that — one that could have appeared on the Sega Dreamcast if things had worked out.


theverge--2020-12-19--Queen Elizabeth will deliver her Christmas Day message via Alexa this year, if you ask

“ Alexa , play the Queen ’ s Christmas Day message ” will soon be a thing — even if you don ’ t live in the UK .
Starting December 25th at 3PM GMT ( or 10AM ET , 7AM PT ) , that phrase will deliver the Queen ’ s traditional Christmas Day broadcast , according to The Guardian .
If you ’ re curious what the Queen ’ s message might contain , you can check out transcripts of all her previous Christmas Broadcasts ( going back to 1952 ! )
at The Royal Household ’ s @ @ @ @ @ @ @ spend some time on the COVID-19 pandemic , whose latest variant is currently forcing London to impose its harshest lockdown yet , but perhaps it ’ ll be a bit of an escape from the harsh reality , too .
Amazon seems to think it might be : “ After a challenging year , millions of people from across the Commonwealth will be eagerly awaiting Her Majesty the Queen ’ s message on Christmas Day .
By creating this world-first innovation , just as we did in 2012 with the release of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , we hope that even more people will be able to enjoy the uplifting words of Her Majesty , ” reads a statement from Eric King , director of Amazon Alexa Europe .

“Alexa, play the Queen’s Christmas Day message” will soon be a thing — even if you don’t live in the UK. Starting December 25th at 3PM GMT (or 10AM ET, 7AM PT), that phrase will deliver the Queen’s traditional Christmas Day broadcast, according to The Guardian.
If you’re curious what the Queen’s message might contain, you can check out transcripts of all her previous Christmas Broadcasts (going back to 1952!) at The Royal Household’s website. No doubt this one will spend some time on the COVID-19 pandemic, whose latest variant is currently forcing London to impose its harshest lockdown yet, but perhaps it’ll be a bit of an escape from the harsh reality, too.


theverge--2020-12-19--Apple just temporarily closed all 53 stores in California and over a dozen in London

9to5Mac ’ s Michael Steeber noticed a interesting coincidence today : the company has temporarily closed every single retail store in California , many more across the US , both stores in Mexico , both stores in Brazil , and is about to close 16 additional stores across the UK .
As Steeber points out , that ’ s nearly 100 stores if we include ones it closed in Germany and the Netherlands last week , leaving nearly a fifth of the company ’ s locations now closed worldwide .
I checked Apple ’ s complete list of stores to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ California store , all four in Tennessee , all three in Utah , all four in Minnesota , two in Oklahoma , and the stores in Portland , Oregon ; Anchorage , Alaska ; Omaha , Nebraska ; and Albuquerque , New Mexico are all closed this upcoming week — as well as the 16 additional stores in the UK , Mexico and Brazil starting tomorrow , December 20th .
It ’ s not hard to guess why the stores are reclosing , particularly in California where COVID-19 saw its four deadliest days @ @ @ @ @ @ @ part of an ongoing surge , and in London where Prime Minister Boris Johnson has just put the city in emergency lockdown starting midnight .
Apple confirmed the gist of it in a statement : “ Due to current Covid-19 conditions in some of the communities we serve , we are temporarily closing stores in these areas , ” the company told Bloomberg .
Yesterday , California activated its emergency alert system in the SF Bay Area for the first time since the pandemic began , sending a message directly to every phone @ @ @ @ @ @ @ order is now in effect .

9to5Mac’s Michael Steeber noticed a interesting coincidence today: the company has temporarily closed every single retail store in California, many more across the US, both stores in Mexico, both stores in Brazil, and is about to close 16 additional stores across the UK. As Steeber points out, that’s nearly 100 stores if we include ones it closed in Germany and the Netherlands last week, leaving nearly a fifth of the company’s locations now closed worldwide.
I checked Apple’s complete list of stores to confirm, and sure enough: every California store, all four in Tennessee, all three in Utah, all four in Minnesota, two in Oklahoma, and the stores in Portland, Oregon; Anchorage, Alaska; Omaha, Nebraska; and Albuquerque, New Mexico are all closed this upcoming week — as well as the 16 additional stores in the UK, Mexico and Brazil starting tomorrow, December 20th.
Stay home, wear a mask
It’s not hard to guess why the stores are reclosing, particularly in California where COVID-19 saw its four deadliest days yet in a row last week as part of an ongoing surge, and in London where Prime Minister Boris Johnson has just put the city in emergency lockdown starting midnight. Apple confirmed the gist of it in a statement: “Due to current Covid-19 conditions in some of the communities we serve, we are temporarily closing stores in these areas,” the company told Bloomberg.


theverge--2020-12-19--Twitter is publicly declaring Joe Biden the winner of the US election — on Trump’s own tweets

If you read my previous post , you might have noticed a brand-new Twitter label on Trump ’ s latest wildly misleading tweet : “ Election officials have certified Joe Biden as the winner of the U.S. Presidential election.
” Yes , Twitter is now calling the election for Joe Biden on Trump ’ s own tweets .
Twitter tells us it ’ s simply an update to its existing label , designed to “ reflect the latest information.
” But there ’ s a staggering difference between this label and Twitter ’ s previous one , which simply said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ” That left room for doubt .
Now that the Electoral College has voted , Twitter not only accepting the result , but using it to visibly challenge the president ’ s ongoing lie that he won the election .
You can see the first new example below .
Will this keep Trump from repeatedly tweeting “ I won ” ?
Doubtful , but I wouldn ’ t be surprised if his tweets get a little more creative , if he vents more anger at Twitter , or both .
Here ’ s @ @ @ @ @ @ @ look on Facebook today , for comparison .

If you read my previous post, you might have noticed a brand-new Twitter label on Trump’s latest wildly misleading tweet: “Election officials have certified Joe Biden as the winner of the U.S. Presidential election.” Yes, Twitter is now calling the election for Joe Biden on Trump’s own tweets.
Twitter tells us it’s simply an update to its existing label, designed to “reflect the latest information.”
But there’s a staggering difference between this label and Twitter’s previous one, which simply said “Multiple sources called this election differently.” That left room for doubt. Now that the Electoral College has voted, Twitter not only accepting the result, but using it to visibly challenge the president’s ongoing lie that he won the election.
You can see the first new example below.
Will this keep Trump from repeatedly tweeting “I won”? Doubtful, but I wouldn’t be surprised if his tweets get a little more creative, if he vents more anger at Twitter, or both.


theverge--2020-12-19--Nothing makes me worry more about the SolarWinds hack than Trump now saying it’s ‘under control’

“ We have it totally under control .
It ’ s one person coming in from China .
We have it under control .
It ’ s going to be just fine.
” — President Donald Trump on COVID-19 , January 22nd , 2020 .
“ The Coronavirus is very much under control in the USA.
” — Trump on COVID-19 , February 24th .
“ It ’ s incredible .
But it ’ s something that we have tremendous control over.
” — Trump on COVID-19 , March 15th .
Here ’ s Trump today , on the massive @ @ @ @ @ @ @ could have exposed 425 of the companies on the Fortune 500 : “ I have been fully briefed and everything is well under control.
” Here are a few perspectives on the SolarWinds hack from entities that do not currently have negative credibility : • The US government ’ s leading security agencies : “ The FBI , CISA , and ODNI have formed a Cyber Unified Coordination Group ( UCG ) to coordinate a whole-of-government response to this significant cyber incident ” • CISA in particular : “ CISA has determined that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Federal Government and state , local , tribal , and territorial governments as well as critical infrastructure entities and other private sector organizations ” • Trump ’ s own Secretary of State Mike Pompeo : “ we can say pretty clearly that it was the Russians that engaged in this activity ” • Former Trump DHS advisor Thomas Bossert : “ The magnitude of this ongoing attack is hard to overstate .
The Russians have had access to a considerable number of important and sensitive networks for six to nine months ” @ @ @ @ @ @ @ who was fired by Trump for calling out his lies about election fraud : • Sen. Mark Warner ( D-VA ) , vice chair of the Senate Intelligence Committee : “ The SolarWinds hack is a devastating breach of U.S. networks and once again shows that the President and the White House are not taking this issue seriously enough.
” Here ’ s hoping the SolarWinds hack turns out to be a big nothing !
Certainly doesn ’ t seem like it , though .

“We have it totally under control. It’s one person coming in from China. We have it under control. It’s going to be just fine.” — President Donald Trump on COVID-19, January 22nd, 2020.
“The Coronavirus is very much under control in the USA.” — Trump on COVID-19, February 24th.
“It’s incredible. But it’s something that we have tremendous control over.” — Trump on COVID-19, March 15th.
You don’t say.
Here are a few perspectives on the SolarWinds hack from entities that do not currently have negative credibility:
Sen. Mark Warner (D-VA), vice chair of the Senate Intelligence Committee: “The SolarWinds hack is a devastating breach of U.S. networks and once again shows that the President and the White House are not taking this issue seriously enough.”