May 01

Pinterest will now tell you when you’re looking at AI-generated content

Posted in: Today's Chili

Pinterest is fighting back against the onslaught of AI slop that is increasingly clogging up its platform following complaints from users. From now on, you’ll be able to see when image Pins that appear in your feed have been either generated or modified using AI. When users click on an image Pin in close-up they’ll see an “AI modified” label in the bottom left-hand corner.

In a blog post published this week, Pinterest says it has been testing the new feature for several months, which involves analysing the metadata of an image to assess its source. It says it’s also developing classifiers that can automatically detect the whiff of generative AI even when metadata markers are absent. How successful it is in doing so will become clear as the new features roll out globally, and creators who suspect their content has been mislabelled will be able to appeal.

Such mislabelling has been an ongoing issue for Meta, which was forced to adjust the wording of the AI labels it applied to uploaded photos on Facebook and Instagram after photographers complained they were being added to images that hadn’t been created using AI. Apparently, even minimal use of the generative fill tool in Photoshop was enough to trigger a label. That’s something that Pinterest will likely want to look out for as it hones this new algorithm.

In addition to the new labels, Pinterest says it’s experimenting with a feature that would allow users to filter out categories where AI modification or generation is particularly prevalent, such as beauty and art. By letting its users have more control over what appears on their feed, Pinterest is clearly hoping it can win back the growing number of disgruntled members in its community.

This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/ai/pinterest-will-now-tell-you-when-youre-looking-at-ai-generated-content-163008812.html?src=rss

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May 01

Apple ordered to pay $502 million to Optis by UK courts

Posted in: Today's Chili

Apple has been ordered to pay a $502 million lump sum payment by UK courts for infringing on patents owned by Optis Cellular Technology LLC, based out of Texas. This particular company is not an aggrieved innovator, but instead what is referred to as a “patent troll.” That’s a company that buys up niche patents with the specific intent to seek damages for infringement from lucrative defendants like Apple, and it’s not their first time being awarded damages from the Cupertino giant.

This lawsuit was originally filed through London courts in 2019 over patents governing cellular technology, including 4G, that Optis says was improperly used in iPads and iPhones. In 2023, London’s High Court ruled in Optis’ favor and ordered Apple to pay just over $56 million plus interest to settle the dispute, inclusive of past and future sales that featured the offending tech. Optis successfully argued that this was far too low a sum, leading to the half-a-billion-dollars in damages ordered today.

The iPhone maker has found itself in court over patent infringements time and time again in the past — not only with patent trolls, but also fellow industry stalwarts. The ability for enormous tech companies to (allegedly) infringe on design or utility patents and pay pennies on the dollar for the damage done years later seems to be a feature, not a bug.

Apple has unsurprisingly responded by promising to appeal the court’s decision, to which Optis insisted it will fight to defend its intellectual property.

This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/big-tech/apple-ordered-to-pay-502-million-to-optis-by-uk-courts-153053338.html?src=rss

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May 01

Apple sends spyware warnings to iPhone users in 100 countries

Posted in: Today's Chili

Apple has been warning possible victims of spyware attacks, according to several alleged recipients of the messages. At the time of writing there appears to be at least two people who have confirmed they’ve been notified by Apple, and that the warning itself says that users in 100 countries have received similar alerts. The company does not offer any specifics as to how many people may have been targeted, or where the attacks are coming from

As reported by TechCrunch, one recipient of the warning message is the Italian journalist Ciro Pellegrino, who works for an online news outlet called Fanpage in his native country. The other (as far as we know right now) is Dutch right-wing commentator Eva Vlaardingerbroek, who posted screenshots and a video of the alleged warning message on X.

According to Vlaardingerbroek, Apple informed her that it had detected a targeted mercenary spyware attack against her iPhone. The message she says she received said: “This attack is likely targeting you specifically because of who you are and what you do. Although it’s never possible to achieve absolute certainty when detecting such attacks, Apple has high confidence in this warning — please take it seriously.”

The warning does not say where the alleged spyware attack originated, but Vlaardingerbroek claims that Apple used the Israeli cyber-arms company NSO Group’s Pegasus software as an example. She goes on to say that the attack, if genuine, is likely an attempt to intimidate and silence her.

Apple’s official guidelines about threat notifications match the screenshots on Vlaardingerbroek’s video, where it also explains that “mercenary spyware attacks cost millions of dollars and often have a short shelf life, making them much harder to detect and prevent. The vast majority of users will never be targeted by such attacks.” The same guidelines state that targeted users will be notified with an alert at the top of the page when signing into their Apple account, as well as by email and iMessage using the email addresses and phone numbers associated with that account.

Last year, Apple device users in as many as 92 countries were sent spyware attack warnings of a similar nature, and since 2021, individuals in over 150 countries have been contacted. But Apple hasn’t given more details on how many people are targeted in such attacks, only the number of countries where it contacted affected users.

This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/cybersecurity/apple-sends-spyware-warnings-to-iphone-users-in-100-countries-142547474.html?src=rss

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May 01

Flappy Bird Is Back! After 10 Years, It Brings A New Game Experience

Posted in: Today's Chili

What better way of enjoying your free time than having fun with silly games, like Flappy Bird, which is making a comeback on Android over ten years after its original release and subsequent removal.

This revival is being handled by the Epic Games Store, which will distribute the game on Google’s mobile platform. A short preview trailer was released, offering glimpses of new features coming with this version.

The trailer, just over 30 seconds long, reintroduces the iconic bird escaping a cage and flying through obstacle-filled environments, showcasing the same addictive gameplay that captivated millions a decade ago. Notably, the new version introduces additional stages, providing fresh challenges for returning and new players alike.

Visual updates are also evident, with redesigned elements enhancing the game’s look. Alongside the traditional Classic mode, a new Quest mode has been added, offering a variation in gameplay and objectives. Importantly, the developers have clarified that this release has no relation to cryptocurrency mining—an issue associated with some apps in recent years.

According to a press statement from the development team, monetization in this version follows standard mobile game practices, including ads and in-app purchases such as cosmetic skins. It’s worth mentioning that Dong Nguyen, the original creator of Flappy Bird, is not involved in this new iteration.

Originally launched over a decade ago, Flappy Bird became a viral hit due to its simple yet difficult gameplay. At its peak, it reportedly generated $50,000 per day through ad revenue. However, in February 2014, Nguyen removed the game from app stores, citing overwhelming stress and saying he “couldn’t take it anymore.”

Since its removal, the game has been cloned extensively, and even included as an Easter egg in Android 5.0 Lollipop. Now, Flappy Bird returns with updates designed to appeal to both nostalgic fans and new players in today’s mobile gaming landscape.

Flappy Bird Is Back! After 10 Years, It Brings A New Game Experience

, original content from Ubergizmo. Read our Copyrights and terms of use.

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May 01

Microsoft is raising prices on the Xbox Series S and Series X

Posted in: Today's Chili

Microsoft is dramatically increasing the price of the Xbox Series X and Series S, as well as new games and accessories. As of today, the Series S will start at $380, up from $300, while the Series X will begin at $550, a $100 increase from its previous price. As for the 1TB Series S, it now costs $430, up from $350. Meanwhile, if you want the Series X with disc drive, it will now set you back $600. Lastly, the 2TB Galaxy Black Special Edition now costs an eye-watering $730. 

Additionally, Microsoft says beginning this holiday season “some” new first-party games will release at $80. At the same time, the company is increasing the price of nearly all of its first-party and peripherals. Most notably, a core controller will now set you back $65. 

“We understand that these changes are challenging, and they were made with careful consideration given market conditions and the rising cost of development,” the company said. “Looking ahead, we continue to focus on offering more ways to play more games across any screen and ensuring value for Xbox players.”

Developing… 

This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/gaming/microsoft-is-raising-prices-on-the-xbox-series-s-and-series-x-132004594.html?src=rss

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May 01

Flappy Bird Is Back! After 10 Years, It Brings A New Game Experience

Posted in: Today's Chili

What better way of enjoying your free time than having fun with silly games, like Flappy Bird, which is making a comeback on Android over ten years after its original release and subsequent removal.

This revival is being handled by the Epic Games Store, which will distribute the game on Google’s mobile platform. A short preview trailer was released, offering glimpses of new features coming with this version.

The trailer, just over 30 seconds long, reintroduces the iconic bird escaping a cage and flying through obstacle-filled environments, showcasing the same addictive gameplay that captivated millions a decade ago. Notably, the new version introduces additional stages, providing fresh challenges for returning and new players alike.

Visual updates are also evident, with redesigned elements enhancing the game’s look. Alongside the traditional Classic mode, a new Quest mode has been added, offering a variation in gameplay and objectives. Importantly, the developers have clarified that this release has no relation to cryptocurrency mining—an issue associated with some apps in recent years.

According to a press statement from the development team, monetization in this version follows standard mobile game practices, including ads and in-app purchases such as cosmetic skins. It’s worth mentioning that Dong Nguyen, the original creator of Flappy Bird, is not involved in this new iteration.

Originally launched over a decade ago, Flappy Bird became a viral hit due to its simple yet difficult gameplay. At its peak, it reportedly generated $50,000 per day through ad revenue. However, in February 2014, Nguyen removed the game from app stores, citing overwhelming stress and saying he “couldn’t take it anymore.”

Since its removal, the game has been cloned extensively, and even included as an Easter egg in Android 5.0 Lollipop. Now, Flappy Bird returns with updates designed to appeal to both nostalgic fans and new players in today’s mobile gaming landscape.

Flappy Bird Is Back! After 10 Years, It Brings A New Game Experience

, original content from Ubergizmo. Read our Copyrights and terms of use.

No Comments
May 01

Flappy Bird Is Back! After 10 Years, It Brings A New Game Experience

Posted in: Today's Chili

What better way of enjoying your free time than having fun with silly games, like Flappy Bird, which is making a comeback on Android over ten years after its original release and subsequent removal.

This revival is being handled by the Epic Games Store, which will distribute the game on Google’s mobile platform. A short preview trailer was released, offering glimpses of new features coming with this version.

The trailer, just over 30 seconds long, reintroduces the iconic bird escaping a cage and flying through obstacle-filled environments, showcasing the same addictive gameplay that captivated millions a decade ago. Notably, the new version introduces additional stages, providing fresh challenges for returning and new players alike.

Visual updates are also evident, with redesigned elements enhancing the game’s look. Alongside the traditional Classic mode, a new Quest mode has been added, offering a variation in gameplay and objectives. Importantly, the developers have clarified that this release has no relation to cryptocurrency mining—an issue associated with some apps in recent years.

According to a press statement from the development team, monetization in this version follows standard mobile game practices, including ads and in-app purchases such as cosmetic skins. It’s worth mentioning that Dong Nguyen, the original creator of Flappy Bird, is not involved in this new iteration.

Originally launched over a decade ago, Flappy Bird became a viral hit due to its simple yet difficult gameplay. At its peak, it reportedly generated $50,000 per day through ad revenue. However, in February 2014, Nguyen removed the game from app stores, citing overwhelming stress and saying he “couldn’t take it anymore.”

Since its removal, the game has been cloned extensively, and even included as an Easter egg in Android 5.0 Lollipop. Now, Flappy Bird returns with updates designed to appeal to both nostalgic fans and new players in today’s mobile gaming landscape.

Flappy Bird Is Back! After 10 Years, It Brings A New Game Experience

, original content from Ubergizmo. Read our Copyrights and terms of use.

No Comments
May 01

Flappy Bird Is Back! After 10 Years, It Brings A New Game Experience

Posted in: Today's Chili

What better way of enjoying your free time than having fun with silly games, like Flappy Bird, which is making a comeback on Android over ten years after its original release and subsequent removal.

This revival is being handled by the Epic Games Store, which will distribute the game on Google’s mobile platform. A short preview trailer was released, offering glimpses of new features coming with this version.

The trailer, just over 30 seconds long, reintroduces the iconic bird escaping a cage and flying through obstacle-filled environments, showcasing the same addictive gameplay that captivated millions a decade ago. Notably, the new version introduces additional stages, providing fresh challenges for returning and new players alike.

Visual updates are also evident, with redesigned elements enhancing the game’s look. Alongside the traditional Classic mode, a new Quest mode has been added, offering a variation in gameplay and objectives. Importantly, the developers have clarified that this release has no relation to cryptocurrency mining—an issue associated with some apps in recent years.

According to a press statement from the development team, monetization in this version follows standard mobile game practices, including ads and in-app purchases such as cosmetic skins. It’s worth mentioning that Dong Nguyen, the original creator of Flappy Bird, is not involved in this new iteration.

Originally launched over a decade ago, Flappy Bird became a viral hit due to its simple yet difficult gameplay. At its peak, it reportedly generated $50,000 per day through ad revenue. However, in February 2014, Nguyen removed the game from app stores, citing overwhelming stress and saying he “couldn’t take it anymore.”

Since its removal, the game has been cloned extensively, and even included as an Easter egg in Android 5.0 Lollipop. Now, Flappy Bird returns with updates designed to appeal to both nostalgic fans and new players in today’s mobile gaming landscape.

Flappy Bird Is Back! After 10 Years, It Brings A New Game Experience

, original content from Ubergizmo. Read our Copyrights and terms of use.

No Comments
May 01

Borderlands 4 will have individual difficulty settings for co-op players

Posted in: Today's Chili

Earlier this week, 2K announced that it will release Borderlands 4 on September 12 — 11 days earlier than planned. Now, we’re getting another look at the latest in Gearbox’s series, including new features and a full-length gameplay trailer.  

One of the most interesting tidbits announced is that Borderlands 4 will offer individual difficulty settings in co-op multiplayer. So, one person could play on easy and another on hard while still maintaining fluid gameplay. It’s a cool option if you want to play with great gamers but not face the same intense challenges. 

Along with the new trailer, you can also watch a 20-minute deep dive into the game, if you so please. The State of Play presentation from creative director Graeme Timmins and senior project producer Anthony Nicholson shows “the nitty-gritty details of how you’ll wreak havoc across Kairos and take down the Timekeeper.” 

This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/gaming/playstation/borderlands-4-will-have-individual-difficulty-settings-for-co-op-players-121626097.html?src=rss

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May 01

The BBC used AI (and an actor) to bring Agatha Christie to life for its writing masterclass series

Posted in: Today's Chili

The BBC announced a new addition to its Maestro series of masterclasses, featuring its first posthumous teacher, Agatha Christie, presenting her writing tips in 4K video. The best-selling author of literature in human history teaches an 11-lesson course on writing mysteries, and the BBC seems very aware of the issues circling AI, which provokes a mix of intrigue and, honestly, wariness.

Christie, who died in 1976, has had her likeness composited through a blend of licensed images, limited footage and past audio recordings. That data has been blended with actor Vivien Keene, who ‘performs’ the words of Christie on video. This is a more cautious approach. During a Q&A event at the course’s launch in London, Keene stated outright that this was a performance. It seems a particularly risky choice, too: a lot of writers, editors, and authors are facing AI tools that reduce job opportunities or absorb their writing (and IP) without permission to train AI models.

BBC Maestro Agatha Christie course launch
Image by Mat Smith for Engadget

The BBC says all the writing advice comes directly from her writings, author’s notes and archival interviews, curated by leading Christie experts and scholars, including Dr Mark Aldridge, Michelle Kazmer, Gray Robert Brown and Jamie Bernthal-Hooker. One of the stipulations from the Christie estate was that all the writing tips and guidance come directly from her. The makers claim that AI hasn’t filled in the gaps or made guesses about her writing style, or what advice she might give.

The BBC’s Maestro series is part of the company’s business arm, offering over 40 courses in the style of Masterclass but with, obviously a lot more Brits, priced at $10 per month. (Don’t let the fact that the Diary of a CEO guy is there put you off – the Billy Connolly course is excellent.) 

However, for this course, the team ballooned to over 100 people, factoring AI rendering experts, sound engineers and more, to deliver a convincing portrayal of the author of Murder on the Orient Express, Mousetrap and, well, all the others.

BBC Maestro Agatha Christie course launch
Image by Mat Smith for Engadget

During the Q&A (at the glamorous Claridges hotel, of course), Dr. Mark Aldridge explained that in A Murder’s Announced, Christie had a different murderer in mind when she first began writing that book – something vital if you’re trying to convey her writing process. This could then be folded into the course guidance and content.

At the launch event – with almost enough champagne to fill the Nile – I got to delve into the lessons. I’m not ready to pen a 50,000-word page-turner, it’s a convincing facsimile. There’s still a glint of uncanny valley, of course, (I think it’s something to do with the eyes?), but even BBC Maestro CEO Michael Levine noted that since the project’s inception a few years ago, the technology had evolved so quickly that the team was able to do even more than it first thought.

Levine joked that the only books that rivaled sales of Christie’s body of work by sheer volume are the works of Shakespeare and The Bible. There are no plans yet to add further ‘resurrected’ experts to the Maestro lineup.

This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/ai/agatha-christie-ai-bbc-maestro-masterclass-writing-course-hands-on-120010944.html?src=rss

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