Category: Tech

The Current’s tech news keeps you upto date with news of new gadgets, tech updates, information about tech startups and technology reviews.

  • Twitter plans to launch a TikTok-like video feature

    Twitter plans to launch a TikTok-like video feature

    The video scrolling feature seen on TikTok will be quite similar to a new feature that Twitter is currently working on. This format for videos already exists on platforms like Instagram and YouTube, and it appears that Twitter is the most recent to follow suit.

    On its most recent application release, the social media behemoth is now testing the new functionality. With just one click, viewers may play videos in full screen mode, providing a simple and engaging viewing experience. You only need to launch the Twitter app and press on the search button at the bottom if you want to try it out. From here, you can scroll down to see the section labelled ‘Videos For You’.

    When you choose this, a full-screen Immersive Video mode will open, allowing you to scroll up and down to see videos one after the other. Based on your followers as well as those you might not follow, videos will be shown to you. However, the decision will probably be made based on the material you’ve lately viewed. This functionality is now only available to Android users, but it should soon be available to iOS users as well.

    The content that is displayed in the “Videos For You” section will also indicate how many views each video has received. Additionally, the tweets will display Tweets and trends that users may find interesting. The new video option is currently only accessible in a few countries where Twitter is used in English.

  • How to identify and protect your mobile from cyber attacks

    How to identify and protect your mobile from cyber attacks

    Smartphones are ideal targets for hackers as they contain so much personal information all in one place, from email and phone contacts to banking and social media details. This information can be used by hackers to steal identities, sell them on the dark web, and perform a variety of other cybercrimes.

    Cybercriminals are always refining their methods, making their attacks increasingly difficult to spot. We have heard of the phone and call tapping but recently there has been a debate that if WhatsApp calls can be tapped.

    Can WhatsApp audio or video call be hacked?

    Bugging can occur at all kinds of levels from political worthies to average people with no technological wisdom. A cyber security expert claims that since nothing is impossible and no code is perfect, WhatsApp’s end-to-end encryption makes it safer.

    However, WhatsApp employs some of the best coders around, and the business has invested heavily in the security of its messenger. Therefore, for not-so-pro hackers, it is ‘almost impossible’ to hack WhatsApp.

    All WhatsApp conversations—video or audio—are encrypted from beginning to end. Although the implementation of that encryption can’t be examined for security because the app is closed-source.

    However, let’s presume it’s solid. Any video or audio data sent during your video chats that are end-to-end encrypted can only be decoded on the device you’re using to make the call. So even if anyone were to intercept the data, they couldn’t decrypt it, it’d be useless. Not ‘leakable’ in that manner.

    Unless you exploit your smartphone by doing these and have it compromised by:

    • Installing third-party apps or particularly APKs (not from the play store) which are modified by developers
    • Allowing hackers to install malware on your phone so they can access anything by clicking on a link
    • Installing fake WhatsApp, such as WhatsApp PLUS or GB WHATSAPP

    Man-in-the-middle (MITM) attacks or even data sniffing can be used to collect video processing from your device. However, a hacker must first get access, which it does by utilising social engineering to trick you into clicking links or downloading files.

    By simply copying the WhatsApp database file and encryption key from your phone by using some software, anyone may read your message.

    Each WiFi network adapter smartphone has a 12-character MAC address, a unique identification number that can be falsified. Hackers can use the MAC address of your phone to replicate your WhatsApp on their system.

    How to protect your WhatsApp account

    • Never give your phone to someone you don’t trust.
    • Keep your messages locked down with a different key so that no one else can see your messages.
    • Go to your WhatsApp settings and select “log-out from all browsers” or a comparable option if you are signed into numerous devices using your number to access WhatsApp Web.

    How to enable two-step verification

    To enable two-step verification, open WhatsApp > Settings > Account > Two-step verification > Enable.

    You will be prompted to create a password at this step, which will stop someone else from using your phone number for WhatsApp verification.

    Additionally, according to the experts, hackers won’t be able to track the user’s whereabouts if they don’t get access to any vital information.

    Phantom Calls

    A call is deemed Phantom if there is no one chatting from the other side. They all come from various numbers, and you won’t be able to hear any of them. You should report PTA if you frequently receive phantom calls. Most likely, a hacker is attempting to access your mobile device if you receive excessive random calls.

    Random messages

    We must have gotten several texts from unknown sources. Just checking a text message will not cause your phone to be hacked. You should use caution when clicking on links or using coupon coupons in communications, though. Consider whether the link looks authentic before clicking it to ensure that your personal information won’t be disclosed.

    Malicious links

    You can accidentally tap a malicious link and wind up installing spyware on your phone, that may transmit private information to hackers, if you are unable to identify this fake message. Or else, you can be taken to phishing websites that request information from your private accounts.

    Therefore, if you receive a text message advertising a great offer that requires you to click on a link in order to activate it, wait before doing so. As these links will direct you to a trap. This can considerably decrease the risk of someone hacking into your phone using messages.

    By avoiding suspicious links and only downloading apps from Apple and Google stores, we can reduce the risk of being hacked.

  • Pakistan’s big cities likely to get 5G coverage in 2023

    Pakistan’s big cities likely to get 5G coverage in 2023

    In 2023, Pakistan intends to launch 5G service in three of its major cities.

    The government has predicted that by 2025, 4 per cent of Pakistan’s internet users will be able to use 5G technology, while 65 per cent of the connections will be enabled on 4G technology, according to an official document of the Ministry of Information and Telecommunication (MOITT), a copy of which is available with WealthPK.

    According to The Nation, the Global System of Mobile Communications (GSMA) predicted that by the end of 2022, more than 50 per cent of consumers in Pakistan would have a 4G connection. Although accurate, these predictions are still three years behind the trend of the global average.

    Although Pakistan’s percentage of 4G connections is substantially lower than that of the rest of the area when compared to the global average, it is predicted to increase more quickly. The adoption of 5G is expected to increase starting in 2023, although it will still only represent a relatively small part of connections in the years that follow.

    Although mobile broadband in Pakistan is constantly expanding, there is still much space for improvement. Mobile penetration and subscription rates are rising steadily. Total mobile and mobile broadband (MBB) customers was at 195 million as of August 2022 and 123 million as of that same month.

    The penetration of mobile and MBB has reached 84 per cent and 51 per cent, respectively. Over the previous few years, MBB users have become a larger percentage of all mobile subscribers.

  • Best gaming laptops to buy in 2022

    Best gaming laptops to buy in 2022

    In the past, it was challenging to find the finest gaming laptop because the search required making concessions. You could purchase a thin, underpowered laptop or a powerful one that pushed the limits of what can be considered a laptop.

    However, gaming laptops have significantly improved in recent years, largely as a result of Nvidia and AMD GPUs that are more powerful and durable.

    Here are some of the best gaming laptops:

    ASUS ROG Strix G15 Gaming Laptop

    Concentrated firepower optimises and improves the ROG Strix G15 with Windows 11 Home’s fundamental gaming experience. A GeForce RTX GPU and an AMD RyzenTM CPU operating at their top speeds make everything, including gaming and multitasking, quick and fluid.

    Esports competition displays should run at 300Hz/3ms for increased speed. Due to Adaptive-Sync, gameplay is incredibly fluid, and clever thermal improvements keep you composed under pressure. No matter what game you are playing, you can get the best gameplay.

    Acer Nitro 5 AN515-57-79TD Gaming Laptop

    Acer gaming laptops offer cutting-edge performance to all gamers. The Nitro line of gaming PCs and accessories is ideal for casual gamers that are prepared to improve. A gorgeous 15.6-inch FHD display on the Acer Nitro 5 AN515-57 can help you visualise success.

    In addition to Microsoft DirectX 12 Ultimate, DLSS, resizable BARs, second-generation Ray Tracing cores, and third-generation Tensor cores, the most recent NVIDIA GeForce RTX 30 series GPU offers a wide range of additional features. Matchmaking is quicker and match disconnection is no longer a concern with DoubleShot Pro with Killer Wi-Fi 6.

    The Acer Nitro 5 11th Gen Intel Core i7’s processing capability delivers outstanding performance when you challenge your buddies to combat or concentrate on a new hobby. This Acer Nitro laptop has 8 GB of RAM and 512 GB of solid-state storage, both of which may be upgraded as needed. To get the most out of USB, connect a display using the HDMI 2.1 port, take advantage of USB power-off charging, and use the USB-Type-C port.

    Alienware m15 R4 RTX 3070 Gaming Laptop

    The Alienware m15 R4, a stylish and useful gaming laptop, is powered by a superb Nvidia GeForce RTX 3070 GPU. Although the cost of this device can easily surpass $2,500, you will get a thin, light computer with an RGB keyboard and a stylish white chassis in exchange. Thanks to its quick CPU, large hard drive, and surprisingly comfortable touchpad, the m15 R4 is a flexible device that can be used for both work and play.

    If you choose to purchase this laptop, be warned that the battery life is insufficient for continuous productivity or gaming, and the fan can become very loud. The only drawbacks are these. This computer can play the newest games at high settings and has cutting-edge hardware, so it will survive for a long time.

    Dell G15 5511 Gaming Laptop

    The new Dell G15 gaming laptop is made to improve gaming. It comes with a 4 GB GDDR6 graphics card, 8 GB RAM, 512 GB SSD, and an 11th-generation Intel i5 processor. The laptop maintains its coolness even over extended sessions of gaming thanks to Alienware’s inventive thermal design that enhances ventilation. The G15 has a new tough finish and comes in the gorgeous Dark Shadow Grey colour. Play around with the orange backlit keyboard and 15.6-inch FHD screen.

    All of these laptops offer what you’re searching for in the best gaming laptop, including the capacity to run the most demanding games of today without having to make compromises on settings.

  • Here are old models that Samsung will update soon

    Here are old models that Samsung will update soon

    Samsung is fixing several outdated Galaxy models through a performance and bug-fix update patch. Some models that were discontinued almost 7 years ago will also benefit from this update.  

    The update has been seen on Galaxy S6 and S6 edge devices purchased from various network operators in a number of regions.

    These old Samsung models are expected to receive a software update soon:

    • Samsung Galaxy S6
    • Samsung Galaxy S6 Edge
    • Samsung Galaxy S6 Edge plus
    • Samsung Galaxy S7
    • Samsung Galaxy S7 Edge
    • Samsung Galaxy S8
    • Samsung Galaxy S8 Plus
    • Samsung Galaxy S9
    • Samsung Galaxy S9 Plus
    • Samsung Galaxy Note 8
    • Samsung Note 9

    All S6 models, including carrier and unlocked models as well as international models, are anticipated to be included in the next update. You can manually search for updates if you don’t see any notifications.

    The update may not mention a GPS repair as it did with the Galaxy S8. The only performance enhancements and bug fixes are mentioned in the change log.

    In comparison to the S8’s 420MB upgrade, it is also a lot smaller update, weighing in at about 13MB. It goes without saying that neither a new Android version nor a new security patch is included.

    The Samsung Galaxy A40 is significantly more current, having only been released in 2019, but its four years of guaranteed security fixes are already about to expire.

    The A40 was using the July patch and is now updating with a 280MB update to the September 1.

    The phone is currently updated every three months, thus the gap is to be expected. However, it might switch to a biannual schedule when it reaches 4 in March 2019.

  • YouTube introduces Creator Music, a music store for content creators

    YouTube introduces Creator Music, a music store for content creators

    YouTube will now enable the monetization of licensed music for content producers. The company unveiled a platform called Creator Music earlier this week, allowing YouTubers to use a library of well-known songs in their videos without risking demonetization.

    With the rules of the music rights laid out plainly so that producers may understand the charges, this new location will offer a sizable collection of songs that they can browse through, search, and buy. Additionally, they will be able to select tracks that feature a new revenue-sharing option, which allows both content producers and owners of music rights to profit from their work.

    The modifications were unveiled at today’s Made on YouTube live event, where the company outlined its strategies for retaining the community of video creators in the face of TikTok’s mounting threat. Here, it made a number of announcements with the main goal of assisting creators in increasing their earnings.

    However, YouTube is also making it easier for producers to locate musical accompaniment for their videos using Creator Music.

    “Creators have told us, time and time again, that finding the right song isn’t the hard part. It’s actually figuring out how to license it,” said Amjad Hanif, VP of Creator Products at YouTube.

    The music license holder receives all ad money when a creative utilises a tune they don’t own, as was revealed at the event. Because of this, YouTube videos frequently do not use commercial music, which the company’s new service intends to address.

    The tracks on Creator Music can either be bought directly or through a rev-share agreement, which keeps the money in-house instead of going to the rights holder. In the first case, the creator is purchasing a license with clearly stated terms and fees.

    In the latter scenario, creators won’t have to pay anything up front to get access to the songs; instead, they will divide a portion of their earnings with the musicians.

    Creators can utilise this new resource to look for the songs they have in mind or to look for songs within the budget they have established for the project. Instead of being restricted to stock music or having no music at all, as is frequently the case, especially with smaller makers who cannot afford the costs associated with using music in their films, the service allows them a method to access a bigger repertoire of contemporary music.

  • Apple to fix iPhone 14 Pro camera issues next week

    Apple to fix iPhone 14 Pro camera issues next week

    Apple says a software update for the iPhone 14 Pro will fix the camera wobble issue that occurs while using some third-party apps, like Snapchat and TikTok.

    “We’re aware of the issue and a fix will be released next week,” an Apple spokesperson told CNET in an email. 

    The optical image stabilisation hardware is malfunctioning, which also results in rattling noises.

    Since the September 16 debut of the iPhone 14 models, Apple had to release several updates. Last week, Apple released iOS 16.0.1 to fix a few bugs with the new iPhones, including activation issues and soft-looking photographs when zooming in on the iPhone 14 Pro Max.

    For the impending software upgrade, Apple has not given a version number, although it is most likely iOS 16.0.2. An Apple representative earlier today confirmed that the update will resolve a problem that makes some iPhone 14 Pro models’ rear cameras jiggle and tremble.

    With the release of iOS 16, a new privacy feature was added that prevents apps from accessing the iPhone’s clipboard without the user’s consent in order to paste text from other apps. However, some users have reported that the question appears excessively. This issue is also expected to be fixed in the upcoming iOS update.

  • Videos shared by iPhone 14 Pro users expose a major camera fault that is not so ‘Pro’

    Videos shared by iPhone 14 Pro users expose a major camera fault that is not so ‘Pro’

    The new camera technology on the iPhone 14 Pro seems to have caught many well-known third-party apps off guard. Some owners of the iPhone 14 Pro report being unable to take photos and videos using third-party applications like Snapchat, TikTok, and Instagram. The “Pro” camera in latest iPhones is having issues, which include shaking, rattling, and sometimes producing loud noises.

    Users of the iPhone 14 Pro who are troubled by these problems have posted on Twitter and Reddit.

    According to a commenter on Reddit:

    “I’ve been experiencing my camera shaking uncontrollably whenever I open Snapchat or use the camera for Instagram. However, I don’t run into any issues when I use the regular camera app.”

    Other users have also complained about the annoying noise the iPhone’s camera makes when they try to run third-party apps on their glitzy and expensive iPhone 14 Pro.

    Another Reddit user wrote, “My iPhone 14 Pro just arrived and when I launched Snapchat, the camera was shaking a lot and produced a really odd mechanical noise.”

    In response, several users said that they had experienced identical issues with TikTok, Instagram, and Snapchat. There are also a few videos online that demonstrate this issue. In the videos, the physical camera module of the iPhone 14 Pro is also audibly making some type of grinding or rattling noise, and you can see the iPhone 14 Pro’s camera wobbling in the third-party apps.

    Read more: Want to earn money working online? Here are 10 highly demanded skills you must learn

    How a tech behemoth like Apple could be so irresponsible as to ignore checking the first batch of units sold seems weird. This is unquestionably a significant mistake that will make iPhone buyers regret their decision of buying the new iPhone 14 Pro or iPhone 14 Pro Max.

    Apple is expected to deliver the finest and most dependable products, therefore this is a big letdown for Apple fans.

  • Google accidentally transfers $249,000 to self-proclaimed hacker’s bank account

    Google accidentally transfers $249,000 to self-proclaimed hacker’s bank account

    A blogger and security engineer who received a quarter-million dollars by mistake from Google claims he waited nearly a month for a response.

    On Wednesday, Sam Curry, who also describes himself as a hacker shared a screenshot along with the statement that the tech giant had “randomly” transferred him $249,999.

    Curry added in the tweet, “It’s OK if you don’t want it back,” adding that it had been more than three weeks since he had gotten the money and that he had been issued a support ticket when he contacted Google.

    Curry claimed that instead of spending the money, he saved it for the inevitable request for repayment from the corporation. He told NPR that in order to avoid paying tax on the money, he might need to transfer it to another account.

    The security engineer told NPR that he performs “bug bounty hunting” work for corporations like Google. He is paid to look for flaws in businesses’ software.

    He did not, however, see how the transfer related to his work at Google. As of Thursday, he still had the money.

    “Our team recently made a payment to the wrong party as the result of human error,” a Google spokesperson told NPR in a statement. “We appreciate that it was quickly communicated to us by the impacted partner, and we are working to correct it.”

    A Google spokesperson also disclosed to NPR that the company intended to recover the funds.

    A similar occurrence occurred last month when the cryptocurrency exchange Crypto.com unintentionally sent a woman over $10 million instead of $100. She spent or transferred significant amounts of money by the time the corporation realised the blunder, which was seven months later.