WAYR TODAY

Category: Consumer Tech

  • AT&T Simplifies Smart Home Security with Connected Life Platform

    This article was generated by AI and cites original sources.

    AT&T is expanding its presence in the smart home market with the nationwide launch of its Connected Life platform, as reported by WIRED. This new smart home security offering, developed in collaboration with Google and Abode, aims to streamline the setup process for AT&T customers.

    The Connected Life platform provides customers with the convenience of easily configuring a smart home security system without the hassle of purchasing multiple devices and managing various apps. Customers can choose from two kits: the Starter Kit or the Advanced Kit, both featuring Google Nest smart home products and security sensors. The Advanced Kit includes additional sensors, a security keypad, and a Nest Cam security camera for enhanced security measures.

    Users can set up and manage their smart home devices seamlessly through the Connected Life app and the Google Home app. The platform integrates Google Home’s API, allowing users to control their connected devices from a centralized hub.

    Subscription options like the Essential and Professional tiers offer features such as event video history and intelligent alerts. The Professional plan includes a US-based monitoring service from Abode, providing swift emergency response during critical situations. Notably, the system allows users to pause professional monitoring as needed, offering flexibility without long-term commitments.

    AT&T’s emphasis on the Cellular Backup feature in Connected Life underscores the company’s commitment to ensuring continuous connectivity and security for smart home users.

    Source: WIRED

  • AT&T Unveils Connected Life: A Smart Home Security System Powered by Google Home and Abode

    This article was generated by AI and cites original sources.

    AT&T has introduced Connected Life, a new smart home security solution centered around Google Home that remains operational even during power or internet outages. The system, which can be self-installed, incorporates smart home cameras from Google Nest and security hardware from Abode, along with professional monitoring services.

    This move by AT&T follows Google’s introduction of APIs for its smart home ecosystem, which are also utilized by ADT’s latest security offering, ADT Plus. Connected Life marks AT&T’s entry into the home security sector after the discontinuation of its previous service, Digital Life, a 3G-based home automation and security system launched in 2013.

    Subscribing to Connected Life requires an AT&T wireless or internet service, with plans starting at $10.99 per month. Features include 30 days of video history, smart alerts for various activities, and AT&T cellular backup to ensure system connectivity during outages. The ‘professional plan’ at $21.99 per month includes 24/7 monitoring by Abode in addition to the basic features.

    Two hardware packages are available: a $399 starter kit comprising a Google Nest Doorbell, an Abode security hub with battery backup, an interior motion sensor, and two door/window sensors; and an advanced kit at $699 including extra Abode sensors, a fob, a wall-mounted keypad, and a battery-powered Google Nest camera. Monthly hardware payment options are also offered.

    Source: The Verge

  • INIU Recalls 200,000 Power Banks Sold on Amazon Due to Fire Hazard

    This article was generated by AI and cites original sources.

    INIU, a tech company, has initiated a recall for its BI-B41 10,000mAh power banks sold on Amazon due to safety concerns related to fire hazards. The recall was issued following reports of the lithium-ion batteries in these power banks overheating and causing fires, resulting in property damage and minor injuries.

    The recall affects approximately 210,000 power banks with specific serial numbers, featuring the INIU logo and a distinctive ‘paw-print LED light.’ Consumers who purchased these power banks between August 2021 and April 2022 are advised to check the recall page on INIU’s website to determine if their device is part of the affected batch. Those with affected units can request a full refund through the website and should dispose of the power banks properly to prevent any potential safety risks associated with lithium-ion batteries.

    This incident underscores the importance of product safety and quality control in the tech industry, highlighting the potential risks associated with battery-powered devices. Consumers are urged to remain vigilant about product recalls and follow the necessary steps to ensure their safety.

    Source: The Verge

  • Spotify Empowers Users with AI-Powered Prompted Playlists

    This article was generated by AI and cites original sources.

    Spotify, the popular music streaming service, has introduced a new beta feature called Prompted Playlists, leveraging AI technology to give users greater control over their music preferences. The feature, reminiscent of the Discover Weekly playlist concept, allows users, starting with New Zealand, to input specific preferences using AI prompts.

    With Prompted Playlists, users can now articulate precisely what they want to listen to, offering detailed or minimal instructions. Spotify’s AI then customizes a playlist based on these inputs and the user’s listening history, effectively enabling users to curate their own algorithmically generated playlists.

    Moreover, users have the option to set Prompted Playlists for automatic refreshes with new songs based on the same initial prompt, essentially enabling the creation of a personalized Discover Weekly playlist with user-controlled algorithms. While Spotify had previously introduced genre prioritization options in Discover Weekly playlists, users can now directly influence the playlist algorithm through Prompted Playlists.

    This feature aligns with Spotify’s broader objective of empowering users with more autonomy within the platform. Earlier this year, Spotify’s AI DJ feature received an update allowing users to interact with it using voice commands. This trend of user-controlled algorithms is also evident on other platforms, such as Instagram, which recently introduced a feature enabling users to guide the platform’s algorithm based on their interests.

    Source: The Verge

  • Spotify Empowers Users with AI-Driven ‘Prompted Playlists’

    This article was generated by AI and cites original sources.

    Spotify is introducing a new feature called ‘Prompted Playlists’ that allows Premium subscribers in New Zealand to create personalized playlists based on their entire listening history. This tool enables users to craft more specific instructions, such as requesting music from particular time frames or activities, by incorporating written prompts.

    The ‘Prompted Playlists’ feature builds upon Spotify’s existing AI-powered playlist option, offering a deeper level of personalization. It leverages Spotify’s understanding of user preferences and listening habits to curate music experiences tailored to individual needs. For example, users can request music for a workout session, with a seamless transition from high-energy tracks to relaxing tunes for cooldown.

    This innovative approach marks a significant shift in how users interact with streaming platforms, empowering them to curate their music experiences based on their unique preferences and histories. As Spotify continues to refine this feature, it highlights the potential for AI to enhance user engagement and satisfaction in the music streaming realm.

    Source: TechCrunch

  • YouTube TV Unveils Genre-Specific Subscription Plans for 2026

    This article was generated by AI and cites original sources.

    YouTube TV, a Google-owned platform, is set to introduce over 10 genre-specific channel packages in early 2026. This strategic move aims to provide users with increased flexibility in choosing the content they want to access, moving away from the traditional cable-like channel bundle.

    The upcoming lineup includes packages dedicated to sports, news, family, and entertainment, catering to diverse viewing preferences. By offering genre-based subscription plans, YouTube TV seeks to address consumer demands for more customized content options while potentially mitigating subscription fatigue caused by continuous price increases.

    While current base plans are priced at $82.99 per month, these new tailored bundles are expected to offer cost savings for users seeking specific programming. Key features such as unlimited DVR, multiview, key plays, and fantasy view will remain accessible across all genre-specific packages, ensuring a seamless viewing experience.

    Source: TechCrunch

  • Doma Home Unveils Cutting-Edge Smart Door Technology

    This article was generated by AI and cites original sources.

    Doma Home, founded by the creators of the August smart lock, has announced its latest innovation: the Doma Intelligent Door. This motorized smart door is equipped with advanced features, including automatic opening upon approach and closing after entry. The Doma door integrates sensors, a video doorbell, a keypad, a smart lock, and a smart home control panel, offering a comprehensive solution for modern homeowners.

    Utilizing cutting-edge technology, the Doma door incorporates ultra-wideband (UWB) and stereoscopic IR facial recognition to enhance security and convenience. With an integrated open/close mechanism driven by sensors, the door ensures seamless access control for authorized individuals. Moreover, embedded mmWave sensors track movement accurately, preventing untimely door closures and enhancing safety for occupants and pets.

    The external touchscreen of the Doma door features facial recognition capabilities, a 4K video doorbell, and an LED status light. This interface also serves as a keypad for the integrated lock, offering flexibility in authentication methods. Internally, a larger touchscreen provides additional control and monitoring functionalities, enhancing the overall user experience.

    Doma Home offers the technology platform for integration into various door models provided by manufacturing partners, allowing for customization and user-centric design. The company’s commitment to quality and innovation is evident in the thoughtful features and security mechanisms embedded in the Doma Intelligent Door.

    Source: The Verge

  • Amazon Empowers Authors with DRM-Free EPUB and PDF Options for Kindle Direct Publishing

    This article was generated by AI and cites original sources.

    Amazon has announced a significant change in how copyright protection is applied to ebooks self-published through its platform, Kindle Direct Publishing. The company will now allow authors to offer their DRM-free ebooks in EPUB and PDF formats starting January 20, 2026. This move empowers authors to choose the level of copyright protection for their works, with DRM settings being established by the authors themselves during the publishing process.

    While existing titles remain unaffected by this change, authors can opt to update their older works by adjusting the DRM settings via the Kindle Direct Publishing author portal. The option to make this adjustment is detailed on Amazon’s KDP support site. This alteration may prompt authors to reconsider applying DRM to their ebooks, as it influences how readers access and consume their content.

    Amazon’s introduction of EPUB and PDF formats aims to enhance the reader experience, although authors must proactively enable this feature to grant broader access to their previous publications. By not applying DRM, authors acknowledge that customers can download their books in PDF or EPUB file types.

    Furthermore, this shift underscores Amazon’s efforts to provide more flexibility in digital rights management protocols for Kindle ebooks. While the move offers increased flexibility for authors and readers, it also raises questions about the evolving landscape of copyright protection in the digital publishing realm.

    Source: TechCrunch

  • Amazon Expands Same-Day Grocery Delivery to Over 2,300 US Cities

    This article was generated by AI and cites original sources.

    Amazon has expanded its Same-Day Delivery service for perishable groceries to customers in more than 2,300 cities and towns across the United States. The e-commerce giant plans to further extend this offering to additional locations in 2026.

    The introduction of fresh grocery delivery through Same-Day Delivery marks Amazon’s strategic move to enhance its competitiveness in the fast-commerce sector against rivals like Instacart and Walmart+.

    Customers can now conveniently order a variety of perishable items such as fruits, vegetables, dairy, meat, seafood, baked goods, and frozen foods alongside other everyday essentials and electronics through Amazon’s platform.

    Amazon ensures the quality and freshness of perishable groceries with its specialized temperature-controlled fulfillment network and a rigorous six-point quality check before delivery. Temperature-sensitive products are dispatched in insulated bags to maintain optimal conditions.

    According to Amazon, fresh groceries have become some of the most frequently ordered items for rapid delivery, with top bestsellers including bananas, avocados, strawberries, and apples.

    Perishable grocery sales have surged significantly this year, with a 30-fold increase reported since January. Customers who include fresh groceries in their Same-Day Delivery orders tend to shop twice as often as those who do not.

    Prime members can enjoy complimentary same-day delivery for orders exceeding $25, while non-Prime users have access to the service for a flat fee of $12.99, irrespective of order value.

    Amazon has expanded its assortment of perishable items available for Same-Day Delivery by over 30% since the initial launch, incorporating thousands of popular products from Whole Foods Market.

    Source: TechCrunch

  • Google Enhances Pixel Watch 4 with New Gesture Controls and Improved Smart Replies

    This article was generated by AI and cites original sources.

    Google has recently introduced an update for the Pixel Watch 4, enhancing its functionality with new one-handed gesture controls and improved smart replies. The update, WearOS 6.1, is now available for Pixel Watch 2, 3, and 4 models, with exclusive features for the Pixel Watch 4.

    The Pixel Watch 4 now supports double-pinch gestures, allowing users to navigate through alerts, snooze alarms, send smart replies, control music playback, and capture photos with a simple double tap of the index finger and thumb. Users can also soon answer and end calls using this gesture, adding more convenience to the wearable experience.

    Additionally, a new wrist-turn gesture has been introduced, enabling users to silence incoming calls or dismiss notifications by quickly turning their wrist away and back. To aid users in learning these gestures, WearOS displays on-screen hints at the appropriate times.

    The smart replies feature has also been upgraded with a custom on-device language model based on Google’s Gemma. This model generates contextually relevant responses without requiring a phone connection, making the process twice as fast and significantly more memory-efficient. The quality of suggested replies has also been enhanced, providing users with a more efficient way to respond to messages.

    Source: The Verge

  • Instagram Empowers Users with ‘Your Algorithm’ Feature for Personalized Reels Experience

    This article was generated by AI and cites original sources.

    Instagram, a subsidiary of Meta, has unveiled a new feature called ‘Your Algorithm’ that allows users to have more control over the content they see on their Reels feed. This move aims to address the growing demand for transparency and customization in social media platforms.

    With ‘Your Algorithm,’ Instagram users can now view a list of their top recent interests influencing the Reels content and actively choose the topics they want to see more or less of. This level of user empowerment in shaping their content recommendations sets Instagram apart in the social media landscape.

    The introduction of this feature comes amid the intensifying competition between Instagram and TikTok for user attention, particularly among younger demographics. As younger users seek more personalized and tailored content experiences, Instagram’s focus on algorithmic transparency and customization could prove pivotal in retaining and attracting users.

    Furthermore, this development coincides with regulatory scrutiny, with the European Commission pressuring Meta to provide users more control over personalized ad targeting. The evolving data privacy landscape underscores the importance of user choice and consent in data utilization for advertising purposes.

    As Instagram rolls out ‘Your Algorithm’ to users in the US initially, followed by a global expansion for English-speaking audiences, the platform is poised to offer a more personalized and engaging Reels experience, catering to the evolving preferences of its diverse user base.

    Source: WIRED

  • Meta Refocuses Facebook on Marketplace and Gen Z Engagement

    This article was generated by AI and cites original sources.

    Meta, formerly known as Facebook, has unveiled a significant redesign of its flagship app, with a focus on enhancing connections among friends, refreshing profiles, and emphasizing the popular Facebook Marketplace. The revamp comes as Meta shifts away from extensive metaverse projects towards reinforcing its core platform to attract younger users.

    While Meta previously explored ambitious metaverse initiatives, the company is now focusing on improving the user experience within its existing ecosystem. Despite facing stagnant growth in key markets like the U.S., Facebook continues to serve a vast user base, particularly among older demographics.

    To engage younger audiences, Meta is striving to rejuvenate Facebook’s appeal to Gen Z users. Notably, the Facebook Marketplace has emerged as a standout feature among younger cohorts, with over half of Gen Z users in the U.S. utilizing the platform. To capitalize on this trend, Meta plans to elevate Marketplace’s visibility within the app by integrating it into the primary navigation bar alongside other prominent features like Reels and Friends.

    This strategic redesign underscores Meta’s commitment to adapting to evolving user preferences and market dynamics, positioning Facebook as a versatile platform catering to diverse audience segments.

    Source: TechCrunch

  • NASA and USPS Discontinue Canoo EV Usage Despite CEO’s Pledged Support

    This article was generated by AI and cites original sources.

    In a surprising turn of events, NASA and the United States Postal Service (USPS) have decided to discontinue the use of electric vans manufactured by Canoo, a now-bankrupt EV startup, despite the pledged support from Canoo’s former CEO.

    Canoo’s CEO, Tony Aquila, who acquired the company’s assets after its bankruptcy, expressed his commitment to supporting programs involving Canoo’s electric vehicles. However, both NASA and USPS have chosen to halt their utilization of these EVs.

    NASA had procured three Canoo EVs in 2023 for transporting astronauts to the launchpad during its Artemis missions. Unfortunately, Canoo failed to meet NASA’s mission requirements, leading the space agency to opt for an Airstream-built ‘Astrovan’ from Boeing instead.

    Similarly, the USPS, after purchasing six Canoo vehicles for evaluation in 2024, concluded that these vehicles are no longer operational following the completion of the assessment. The postal service has no plans for further investments in this regard.

    Despite Aquila’s intentions to honor Canoo’s commitments, including providing service and support for government programs, neither NASA nor USPS confirmed any engagement from Aquila regarding the continued use of the EVs. Both agencies remained tight-lipped on the matter.

    Canoo’s bankruptcy in early 2025 marked the culmination of its financial struggles and inability to establish a market for its electric vans. Aquila’s acquisition of Canoo’s assets aimed to preserve the company’s obligations to government programs, a goal that now seems unfulfilled with the cessation of Canoo EV operations by key agencies.

    Source: TechCrunch

  • Ford and Renault Collaborate to Introduce Affordable Electric Vehicles in Europe by 2028

    This article was generated by AI and cites original sources.

    Ford, recognizing the intense competition in the European market, has joined forces with Renault to launch two cost-effective Ford-branded electric vehicles in Europe by 2028. The collaboration aims to enhance Ford’s competitiveness against rivals and strengthen its position in the region.

    The partnership entails Ford taking the lead in design while Renault will handle assembly at its facility in northern France. The electric vehicles will be constructed on Renault’s Ampere technology platform, showcasing a strategic blend of expertise between the two automakers.

    Additionally, the companies are considering joint ventures in producing light commercial vehicles, indicating a deeper level of cooperation beyond the initial EV project.

    Jim Farley, CEO of Ford, emphasized the significance of Europe in shaping the future of the automotive industry. He highlighted the need for rapid innovation, strategic partnerships, and efficient operations to secure a thriving future in the region.

    This collaboration marks a pivotal step in Ford’s European transformation strategy, aligning with its objective to streamline operations and enhance cost-effectiveness amidst a competitive market.

    Source: TechCrunch

  • Truecaller Introduces Family Protection to Shield Households from Scam Calls

    This article was generated by AI and cites original sources.

    Truecaller, known for its caller ID service, has unveiled a new feature called Family Protection to combat the growing threat of scam calls targeting households. This feature allows up to five individuals to form a family group, with one member serving as the administrator responsible for managing scam-blocking settings for the entire group.

    The Family Protection feature, currently in a pilot phase for Android and iOS users in select countries such as Sweden, Chile, Malaysia, and Kenya, aims to empower tech-savvy users within a household to shield their less digitally adept family members from potential scams. Truecaller CEO Rishit Jhunjhunwala highlighted the alarming trend of scammers transitioning from individual targets to entire households, employing various tactics like calls, messages, missed-call triggers, and impersonation schemes. Family Protection intends to counteract such strategies and is expected to expand to regions like India by the first quarter of 2026.

    The family administrator can receive alerts for suspicious calls, monitor basic device status, and terminate fraudulent calls remotely on Android devices. With scam activities surging globally, especially in markets with growing online populations, Truecaller’s Family Protection emerges as a timely solution to safeguard families against evolving fraud techniques.

    Source: TechCrunch

  • Google Brings Back Wearable Gesture Controls on Pixel Watch 4

    This article was generated by AI and cites original sources.

    Google is reintroducing hands-free navigation gestures to its Pixel Watch 4, reviving this technology in the wearable space. The update will enable users to perform actions such as answering calls, pausing timers, and dismissing notifications with simple gestures, similar to Apple Watch functionalities.

    Unlike previous Google-powered watches that utilized wrist turn gestures for scrolling, the Pixel Watch 4 will adopt a new system where motions like double pinching will dismiss on-screen content. This update aims to enhance user interaction and streamline the wearable experience.

    While Pixel Watch 3 users will not receive gesture support with this update, the underlying technology compatibility suggests that it could potentially be extended to older models in the future. The Pixel Watch 4 also features a redesigned case for improved repairability, a feature absent in its predecessor.

    Source: Ars Technica

  • Amazon Expands Alexa Plus Shopping Features for Automated Price-Driven Purchases

    This article was generated by AI and cites original sources.

    Amazon has introduced new shopping features for its Alexa Plus assistant, enhancing the ability to track orders and capitalize on price drops. The AI-powered Alexa Plus, similar to Amazon’s Rufus chatbot, can actively monitor products and alert users when prices hit specified thresholds, automatically executing purchases when they drop below the set price. This shopping experience is accessible on the Echo Show 15 and 21, enabling users to efficiently manage their purchases.

    The price-tracking functionality, initially announced in February and gradually released to Alexa Plus users from June, allows monitoring of items in the Amazon basket or wish list, as well as tracking specific products upon request. For instance, users can instruct Alexa to notify them when a Dyson Supersonic hair dryer reaches a price below $300. Additionally, users can authorize the assistant to purchase items automatically once they reach the desired price, utilizing default shipping and payment details for a seamless transaction.

    Recently extended to the Rufus AI chatbot, these auto-buy capabilities are now accessible on the Amazon Shopping app. However, users are advised to exercise caution, as the feature could potentially spoil surprises during gift-giving occasions within the household.

    The new Shopping Essentials center on the Echo Show 15 and 21 consolidates various features into a single command hub, displaying recent orders, live delivery updates, shopping lists, saved items, and recommending household essentials for repurchase. By uttering commands like “Alexa, where’s my stuff?” or “Open Shopping Essentials,” users can access this feature seamlessly.

    Source: The Verge

  • Core Devices Unveils Affordable Smart Ring for Voice Notes

    This article was generated by AI and cites original sources.

    Core Devices, the company behind Pebble, has introduced the Index 01, a smart ring focused on capturing voice notes efficiently. Unlike traditional smart rings that offer health tracking and smartphone integrations, the Index 01 simplifies its functionality to recording audio notes. Priced at $75 during the preorder phase and $99 thereafter, the ring features a Bluetooth radio, microphone, hearing aid battery, and a single button for recording. Core Devices emphasizes the ring’s long-lasting battery life, which can run for years on a single charge.

    The Index 01 is designed to be worn on the index finger for easy access. Its straightforward operation requires users to press the button to start recording and release it when done, ensuring a seamless user experience. With a focus on a single task, the ring aims to provide reliable and efficient voice memo capture. This minimalist approach sets the Index 01 apart from other complex smart rings in the market, offering a budget-friendly and user-friendly alternative for individuals who prioritize simplicity and functionality.

    Source: Ars Technica

  • Spotify Expands Music Video Offering to US and Canada Premium Subscribers

    This article was generated by AI and cites original sources.

    Spotify, the popular music streaming service, has expanded its music videos feature to Premium subscribers in the US and Canada, following its earlier release in other regions. Premium users can now enjoy music videos by artists like Ariana Grande, Olivia Dean, and others within the Spotify app on iOS, Android, desktop, and TV platforms. By selecting ‘Switch to video,’ users can seamlessly transition from audio to video content and vice versa, enhancing the overall music streaming experience.

    The addition of a ‘Related Music Videos’ section further enriches the user experience by offering curated artist-created content, resembling platforms like YouTube and TikTok. This update aims to provide a more immersive and engaging environment for music enthusiasts, allowing them to enjoy their favorite songs in a visual format.

    This move by Spotify demonstrates the platform’s commitment to diversifying content offerings and catering to the evolving preferences of music consumers. By integrating music videos directly into the streaming experience, Spotify aims to differentiate itself in the competitive music streaming landscape.

    Source: The Verge

  • Lucid Motors Faces Lawsuit from Former Chief Engineer Alleging Wrongful Termination and Discrimination

    This article was generated by AI and cites original sources.

    Lucid Motors, a prominent player in the electric vehicle market, is facing legal action as its former chief engineer, Eric Bach, has filed a lawsuit against the company. Bach’s lawsuit alleges wrongful termination, discrimination, and retaliation, with claims that a senior HR executive at Lucid Motors referred to him as a ‘German Nazi.’ The legal battle, unfolding in the Northern District of California, highlights internal turmoil within the company.

    Bach asserts that he was unfairly stripped of his duties overseeing the powertrain division following an HR investigation into the company’s workplace culture. The lawsuit suggests that Bach, of German heritage, was targeted based on his background. Lucid Motors, in response, has dismissed Bach’s claims as ‘absurd’ and expressed confidence in their position.

    The controversy escalated when Bach learned of the disparaging comment made about him and subsequently raised the issue internally. Allegations of racist behavior against other Lucid Motors executives further underscore the toxic work environment Bach claims to have experienced.

    As Lucid Motors navigates this legal challenge, the company faces financial pressures amid efforts to scale production of its Gravity SUV and expand its vehicle lineup to include more affordable models. The outcome of this lawsuit could have implications for Lucid Motors’ reputation and internal practices moving forward.

    Source: TechCrunch