Facebook has paused election reminders in Europe after data watchdog raises transparency concerns

Big tech’s lead privacy regulator in Europe has intervened to flag transparency concerns about a Facebook election reminder feature — asking the tech giant to provide it with information about what data it collects from users who interact with the notification and how their personal data is used, including whether it’s used for targeting them with ads.

Facebook confirmed to TechCrunch it has paused use of the election reminder feature in the European Union while it works on addressing the Irish Data Protection Commission (DPC)’s concerns.

Facebook’s Election Day Reminder (EDR) feature is a notification the platform can display to users on the day of an election — ostensibly to encourage voter participation. However, as ever with the data-driven ad business, there’s a whole wrapper of associated questions about what information Facebook’s platform might be harvesting when it chooses to deploy the nudge — and how the (ad) business is making use of the data.

On an FAQ on its website about the election reminder Facebook writes vaguely that users “may see reminders and posts about elections and voting”.

Facebook does not explain what criteria it uses to determine whether to target (or not to target) a particular user with an election reminder.

Yet a study carried out by Facebook in 2012, working with academics from the University of California at San Diego, found an election day reminder sent via its platform on the day of the 2010 US congressional elections boosted voter turnout by about 340,000 people — which has led to concern that selective deployment of election reminders by Facebook could have the potential to influence poll outcomes.

If, for example, Facebook chose to target an election reminder at certain types of users who it knows via its profiling of them are likely to lean towards voting a particular way. Or if the reminder was targeted at key regions where a poll result could be swung with a small shift in voter turnout. So the lack of transparency around how the tool is deployed by Facebook is also concerning. 

Under EU law, meanwhile, entities processing personal data that reveals political opinions must also meet a higher standard of regulatory compliance for this so-called “special category data” — including around transparency and consent. (If relying on user consent to collect this type of data it would need to be explicit — requiring a clear, purpose-specific statement that the user affirms, for instance.)

In a statement today the DPC writes that it notified Facebook of a number of “data protection concerns” related to the EDR ahead of the recent Irish General Election — which took place February 8 — raising particular concerns about “transparency to users about how personal data is collected when interacting with the feature and subsequently used by Facebook”.

The DPC said it asked Facebook to make some changes to the feature but because these “remedial actions” could not be implemented in advance of the Irish election it says Facebook decided not to activate the EDR during that poll.

We understand the main issue for the regulator centers on the provision of in-context transparency for users on how their personal data would be collected and used when they engaged with the feature — such as the types of data being collected and the purposes the data is used for, including whether it’s used for advertising purposes.

In its statement, the DPC says that following its intervention Facebook has paused use of the EDR across the EU, writing: “Facebook has confirmed that the Election Day Reminder feature will not be activated during any EU elections pending a response to the DPC addressing the concerns raised.”

It’s not clear how long this intervention-triggered pause will last — neither the DPC nor Facebook have given a timeframe for when the transparency problems might be resolved.

We reached out to Facebook with questions on the DPC’s intervention.

The company sent this statement, attributed to a spokesperson:

We are committed to processing people’s information lawfully, fairly, and in a transparent manner. However, following concerns raised by the Irish Data Protection Commission around whether we give users enough information about how the feature works, we have paused this feature in the EU for the time being. We will continue working with the DPC to address their concerns.

“We believe that the Election Day reminder is a positive feature which reminds people to vote and helps them find their polling place,” Facebook added.

Forthcoming elections in Europe include Slovak parliamentary elections this month; North Macedonian and Serbian parliamentary elections, which are due to take place in April; and UK local elections in early May.

The intervention by the Irish DPC against Facebook is the second such public event in around a fortnight — after the regulator also published a statement revealing it had raised concerns about Facebook’s planned launch of a dating feature in the EU.

That launch was also put on ice following its intervention, although Facebook claimed it chose to postpone the rollout to get the launch “right”; while the DPC said it’s waiting for adequate responses and expects the feature won’t be launched before it gets them.

Facebook Dating launch blocked in Europe after it fails to show privacy workings

It looks like public statements of concern could be a new tactic by the regulator to try to address the sticky challenge of reining in big tech.

The DPC is certainly under huge pressure to deliver key decisions to prove that the EU’s flagship General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) is functioning as intended. Critics say it’s taking too long, even as its case load continues to pile up.

No GDPR decisions on major cases involving tech giants including Facebook and Google have yet been handed down in Dublin — despite the GDPR fast approaching its second birthday.

At the same time it’s clear tech giants have no shortage of money, resources and lawyers to inject friction into the regulatory process — with the aim of slowing down any enforcement.

So it’s likely the DPC is looking for avenues to bag some quick wins — by making more of its interventions public and thereby putting pressure on a major player like Facebook to respond to publicity generated by it going public with “concerns”.

Read Full Article

Google Earth Now Works on More Browsers

Google Earth finally works on web browsers other than Chrome. Namely, Firefox, Edge, and Opera. This is thanks to Google switching from Native Client (NaCl) to WebAssembly (Wasm). The upshot being you can now use Google Earth in Firefox, Edge, and Opera.

A Brief History of Google Earth

In 2004, Google acquired a company called Keyhole. One of the company’s products, called Keyhole Viewer, displayed mapping data over a globe. Google launched Google Earth in 2005, and then set about mapping the whole world. Including at street level.

In 2017, Google launched a new version of Google Earth. This was available on Chrome and Android, with a promise to bring it to other web browsers in the future. Now, three years on, Google Earth is finally available for other browsers besides Chrome.

How to Use Google Earth in Your Browser

In a post on Medium, Google announced that Google Earth is now available on Firefox, Edge, and Opera. People using those browsers should now be able to head to the Google Earth website and get the full experience the same as people using Google Chrome.

Google has added support for other browsers by switching from Native Client (NaCl) to WebAssembly (Wasm). Google Earth was built using Native Client, which only works on Chrome. Now, it has been rebuilt using WebAssembly, an open standard for the web.

To celebrate the leap year, we're taking a leap into more browsers. ?? #WebAssembly https://t.co/mUd0VCWoby pic.twitter.com/Z8HFXvS9qk

— Google Earth (@googleearth) February 26, 2020

Despite this coming after six months of public beta testing, Google makes it clear that there is still work to be done. So you may find Google Earth looks and feels a little less polished when accessed on any other web browser apart from Chrome. At least for now.

There’s also one heavyweight browser ominous by its absence, with Google Earth still not accessible on Safari. However, Google has committed to getting Google Earth working on as many browsers as possible, and that includes Apple Safari.

How to Create Virtual Tours in Google Earth

This is a good move by Google. While it made sense to adopt a Chrome-first approach in 2017, people should be able to access Google Earth on their web browser of choice. And thanks to the emergence of new open standards for the web, that’s now possible.

If you haven’t used Google Earth in a while, and this support for more browsers inspires you to take another look, you’ll find that there are plenty of new features to explore. You can even create virtual tours using Google Earth to share with family and friends.

Read the full article: Google Earth Now Works on More Browsers

Read Full Article

What’s an IP Conflict and How Do You Resolve It?

If you’ve ever seen the “Windows has detected an IP address conflict” message, you might wonder what this message means. While IP conflict issues aren’t usually difficult to fix, they are confusing, especially for those new to networking.

Let’s look at what an IP address conflict is, how they happen, and the steps to fix this error when it pops up.

What Is an IP Address Conflict?

An IP address conflict occurs when two or more devices on the same network are assigned the same IP address. To explain why this is a problem, we must take a step back and look at what IP addresses are for.

Like a physical home address for receiving mail, IP addresses act as a way to identify your computer on a network. Your router uses those IP addresses to direct network traffic to the right devices. Check out our full guide to home networking for more details on this.

Because of this system, each IP address cannot be assigned to more than one device. If this happens, the network becomes confused by the duplicate IP addresses and can’t use them correctly. But since two computers cannot have the same IP address, how does the IP error occur?

How Does an IP Address Conflict Happen?

Under most circumstances in modern networks, IP conflicts are rare. This is because of DHCP (Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol), a system that routers use to hand out IP addresses.

With DHCP, when you connect a new device to your network, your router chooses an available IP address from the pool of options. The device uses this IP for some time, until the lease expires and it has to get a new one. Unless your router malfunctions, two devices should never get the same IP address from this system.

More commonly, an IP conflict can occur when you assign static IP addresses on your network. Instead of DHCP automatically choosing an address, you can set up a network device to always use the same IP address that you specify. If you mistakenly assign the same static address to two devices, you’ll run into a duplicate IP error.

Another IP conflict scenario can occur if you have two DHCP servers on your network (which you should avoid). For example, you might have your own wireless router connected to your ISP’s modem/router combo. If both devices are trying to act as a router, they might hand out duplicate IP addresses.

Finally, you can introduce duplicate IPs onto your network when a machine comes back online after being in standby mode. For instance, say you leave your laptop in a hibernated state for two weeks. During that time, your router may recall the laptop’s IP address and assign it to another device, like your phone.

When you turn the laptop back on, it may think it still owns that IP address, which results in an IP conflict. This may also occur if you put your computer in standby on another network that uses the same IP pool as yours.

How to Fix IP Address Conflicts

Like all network troubleshooting, the first step you should take is restarting the affected computer and your networking equipment.

The IP address error could have been a small glitch, which a reboot will resolve. Restarting your router and/or modem will re-assign all IP addresses via DHCP.

Troubleshooting Static IP Addresses on Windows

If restarting everything doesn’t work, the problem is a little deeper. You should next check to see if your computer is using a static IP address. On Windows, open Settings and go to Network & Internet > Status. Click Change adapter options on this menu, then double-click the name of your network connection.

On the resulting screen, click Properties, followed by double-clicking Internet Protocol Version 4. This menu should have Obtain an IP address automatically selected. If it isn’t, select the automatic option instead and hit OK. Repeat these steps for Internet Protocol Version 6 and see if the conflict goes away.

You should also try releasing your computer’s current IP address and obtaining a new one. Restarting also accomplishes this, but it’s still worth a try at this time. To do so, right-click on the Start button and select Command Prompt or Windows PowerShell. Type the following command to give up your current IP, followed by Enter:

ipconfig /release

After this, use the following command to obtain a new IP address from the router:

ipconfig /renew

Troubleshooting Static IP Addresses on macOS

On a Mac, you’ll find IP address options under Apple menu > System Preferences > Network. Select the connection type you’re using from the left side, then click Advanced.

On the resulting page, select the TCP/IP tab. If the Configure IPv4 box is set to Manually, change it to Using DHCP. Check that Configure IPv6 is also set to Automatically, then hit OK.

To refresh your current IP on a Mac, click the Renew DHCP Lease button to the right on this page.

Check Your Router for Conflicting Devices

If the above steps didn’t fix the issue, you should next log into your router’s administration panel and take a look at the connected devices. How you do this will depend on your router model, so we can’t give exact instructions. Have a look our router management intro guide for help understanding the interface.

Typically, you’ll find a list of connected devices under a section titled Attached Devices, Connected Devices, My Network, or similar. Have a look at each device and keep an eye out for duplicate IP addresses. To help narrow this down, you can check the IP address of your computer by typing ipconfig into a Windows Command Prompt or ifconfig into the Mac terminal.

If you find two devices with the same address, remove any static IP address settings or refresh their IPs in your router to resolve the conflict.

Update Your Router Firmware

A faulty router can cause IP conflicts to occur frequently and without warning. If you continue to have IP address errors even after performing the above troubleshooting, you should update your router’s firmware.

The exact steps to this also depend on the router you have. Usually, you’ll find a Firmware Update option when you log into your router’s admin panel. This may be under an Advanced or Tools menu.

While some routers let you update the firmware automatically through the panel, others require you to download a file from the manufacturer and upload it to your router. Check your router maker’s website for more help.

Resolve IP Address Conflicts Peacefully

Now you know what an IP address conflict is, how two devices could get the same IP address, and how to fix IP conflicts. Most of the time, a conflict won’t occur on the average home network. And if it does, you can often resolve it with a few quick reboots.

For more help with IP problems, have a look at how to fix the “Wi-Fi doesn’t have a valid IP configuration” error.

Read the full article: What’s an IP Conflict and How Do You Resolve It?

Read Full Article

The 15 Best Games for the Apple Watch

The Apple Watch might not sound like the most likely gaming platform, but many game developers have used it to great effect. From interactive fiction to brainteasers, RPGs, and arcade classics, it’s amazing how much fun you can have staring at your wrist.

Unlock the free "iPhone and iPad Shortcuts" cheat sheet now!

This will sign you up to our newsletter

Enter your Email

Read our privacy policy

It should come as no surprise that these games are primarily aimed at short bursts of gameplay. Some of them require an Apple Watch, while you can play others on both the wearable and iPhone. Let’s take a look at the best games for Apple Watch.

1. Pocket Bandit

Pocket Bandit is a solid time-waster that makes excellent use of the Digital Crown. In it, you take on the role of a safe-cracking thief. The game uses haptic feedback to let you know when you’re close to cracking the code, at which point you tap on the screen and do it all over again.

You’ll have to work quickly against the clock if you don’t want to get caught. As you move from level to level, you’ll encounter difficulty spikes. If you’re caught you’ll lose some of your ill-gotten gains, so stay out of trouble if you want to set a new high score.

Download: Pocket Bandit ($0.99)

2. Trivia Crack

Trivia Crack needs no introduction. Just like Trivial Pursuit, the game fires questions at you from a range of categories, which you must answer using multiple-choice answers. Trivia Crack for Apple Watch simply puts the action on your wrist, so you can play anywhere at any time.

Spin the wheel, read the question, and answer directly on your Apple Watch.

Download: Trivia Crack (Free, in-app purchases available)

3. Elevate

Elevate is a brain training program for iPhone, with an Apple Watch companion app. It feels right at home on the Watch whenever you want to pass a few minutes and test your wits.

It features over 35 different brain teasers designed to tax your focus, memory, number skills, comprehension, and more. If you fall in love with Elevate, you can subscribe to the premium plan for $5 per month, or grab a year’s subscription for $40.

Download: Elevate (Free, subscription available)

4. Runeblade

An entire RPG on your wrist may sound unlikely, but that’s exactly what Runeblade goes for. The free-to-play fantasy adventure was tailor-made for Apple’s wearable by developer Everywear Games.

Gameplay starts out simple, but develops more depth over the 2,000 or so included levels. You’ll use spells, runes, and magical artifacts on your quest. It’s a casual role-playing experience with the optional in-app purchases we’ve come to expect from similar freemium titles.

Download: Runeblade (Free, in-app purchases available)

5. Twisty Color

Twisty Color introduces another interesting way of putting the Digital Crown to use. The game requires you to collect as many balls as possible by turning the Twister to match the corresponding color.

If it sounds straightforward, that’s because it is. It’s proof that you don’t need a complex concept to create a fun and addictive game. This is the sort of title that’s perfect for a five-minute blast while waiting for your train.

Download: Twisty Color ($0.99)

6. Wordie

If you like word games based on pictures, check out Wordie for Apple Watch. You’ll see four photos on the screen. Below the photos are slots showing the number of letters in the word, which you must guess based on the photos.

Enter the letters from the choices you’re given and see if your guess is correct. It’s fun, it’s free—it’s Wordie on your wrist!

Download: Wordie (Free, in-app purchases available)

7. KOMRAD

KOMRAD isn’t just an Apple Watch game, since you can also play it on your iPhone. Fortunately, this example of interactive fiction works particularly well on the Apple Watch. It provides not only a good example of Apple Watch gaming, but also one of the best text adventure experiences on iOS.

The game has you talking to a Soviet AI from 1985, which hasn’t been informed that the Cold War is over. The computer has been training in the dark for 30 years, and may be connected to deadly nuclear missiles. You’ll decide the fate of the world by responding to KOMRAD from your wrist.

Download: KOMRAD ($0.99)

8. Tiny Armies

Tiny Armies is both an Apple Watch and iPhone game. The wearable version lets you undertake epic (if simplified) battles from the comfort of your wrist, as you swipe the screen to conquer enemies, navigate lakes, and traverse mountains and forests.

You can play solo or jump on iMessage to challenge your friends. It’s a tactical game that’s perfect for short bursts of gameplay, and comes at a bargain price.

Download: Tiny Armies ($0.99)

9. A Tiny Game of Pong

Who doesn’t want to play Pong on their wrist? Turn the Digital Crown into a precise paddle controller with this wrist-sized version of the original arcade and console classic.

There’s really not much else to say here: it’s Pong, on your wrist. Play as a standalone game on the Apple Watch or with your paired iPhone additional functionality.

Download: A Tiny Game of Pong ($1.99, in-app purchase available)

10. Lateres

Lateres is Breakout for your Apple Watch. Just like Pong, Lateres allows you to use the Digital Crown to control the paddle for precise brick-breaking action. Lateres also works on your iPhone, which gives you two ways to play.

The game is a nice little value, providing 20 levels for a dollar.

Download: Lateres ($0.99)

11. Lifeline 2

What started as one journey has turned into another with Lifeline 2. This type of narrative game depends on the choices that you make. Start on your iPhone, continue on your Apple Watch, and jump back again.

In Lifeline 2, you play as a young woman on a mission to rescue her long-lost brother. You must stay alive against fatal forces that put all of humanity in danger. Will you make the right decisions? The fast of the world depends on it.

If you enjoyed the original Lifeline, you’ll like this one too. And be sure to check out some of the others in the series, like Lifeline: Whiteout and Lifeline: Silent Night.

Download: Lifeline 2 ($1.99)

12. Rules!

All you have to do is follow the rules to win in this brainy puzzler. You’ll test your memory, perception, and even your reflexes as you play through the challenging levels.

After you solve one puzzle, move onto the next level with the rule from the previous puzzle in mind. Do your best to keep the rules straight in this fast-paced brain test. The game offers three modes; beginner, expert, and timeless.

Rules! is a fun challenge to explore on your Apple Watch for your next break between classes or in the office.

Download: Rules! ($2.99)

13. Bubblegum Hero

Go back to the days of being a kid and blowing the biggest bubble you can in Bubblegum Hero. In this simple game, you tap the screen to start blowing a bubble with your big wad of gum. Release your finger from the screen while the bubble is within the dotted lines.

See how many successful bubbles you can make before splattering the sticky gum on your face. And do your best to make the perfect bubble. For a cute game on Apple Watch that’s ideal for a quick fix, this is worth checking out.

Download: Bubblegum Hero (Free, in-app purchases available)

14. Vegas Bowling Lite Watch

What game list would be complete without a sports challenge? It’s not baseball or football—it’s bowling in Vegas Bowling Lite Watch.

Slide on the screen left or right to aim, then pull back to toss that bowling ball down to the pins. This lite version gives you a three-frame game, making it perfect for those times when you’re standing in line at the store.

If you’ve got skills, you can upgrade the app for 10-frame games and really have some fun. When you can’t make it to the local bowling alley, take Vegas Bowling Lite for a spin on your Apple Watch.

Download: Vegas Bowling Lite Watch (Free) | Vegas Bowling Watch ($4.99)

15. Brainess

For another cool brain challenge on your wrist, take a look at Brainess. You’ll be tested on your memory, math skills, and matching abilities.

There are seven different games to pick from including Dice, Signs, Numbers, and Colors. Stimulate your brain on the train while on your way to work to start your day sharp with Brainess.

Download: Brainess ($0.99)

Enjoy Fun Apple Watch Games

With all these unique experiences available for Apple’s wearable, you’d be forgiven for forgetting that it’s also a timepiece.

If you’ve had your fill of wrist-based gaming for now, don’t forget to check our full list of must-have Apple Watch apps or these music streaming apps for the Apple Watch.

Read the full article: The 15 Best Games for the Apple Watch

Read Full Article

TangoTab is a Cheap Android Tablet with a Plethora of Ports

Our verdict of the Simbans TangoTab:
If you don't want to spend much on a tablet and your phone is always dying, this is a solution to both of your problems. For everyone else, there are better options.510

Android tablets haven’t really taken off the way that it once seemed they might. Yes, Amazon’s Fire tablets do quite well, but most Android enthusiasts and even casual tech users don’t really think of those as Android devices.

But you shouldn’t rule out Android tablets entirely. While Apple’s iPads might get the lion’s share of attention in the tablet world, they’re prohibitively expensive for most people. Affordable Android tablets like the Simbans TangoTab are plentiful. The problem is, most of them aren’t very good. What makes the TangoTab different?

What’s in The Box?

The first thing you’ll see when you open the box is, appropriately, the tablet itself. Everything else is packed either beneath the tablet or off to the side. Underneath, you’ll the included faux-leather case as well as the manual.

Open up the box on the side and you’ll find the power supply, as well as adapters to plug it into different countries’ power outlets. Two cables are included: one for powering the tablet and another for using the tablet to charge other devices.

Specifications

You’ll find a number of affordable tablets that share roughly the same hardware specifications as the TangoTab. Since the overall quality and power of parts has been rising over the years, this isn’t as much of an instant negative as it would have been at one time.

• CPU: 1.5GHz Quad-Core MTK8163
• RAM: 3GB DDR3
• Screen: 10.1-inch at 1200×800 pixels (roughly 142 ppi.)
• Storage: 64GB, expandable with micro SD card
• Battery: 6,000 mAh
• Operating System: Android 9.0 Pie
• Camera: 5.0 Megapixel front-facing, 2.0 Megapixel rear
• Connectivity: Dual-band 802.11ac Wi-Fi, Bluetooth

Normally, the various ports would be listed above, but there are so many that in this case, we’ve expanded them to their own section.

Build & Design

There are a few things you know not to expect in a tablet at this price point, one of which is any sort of metal or glass in the build. The Simbans TangoTab is plastic, front to back. This has benefits—making the tablet lighter in weight, for example—but it also means you’ll need to be careful with it.

The plastic on the back of the tablet is rubberized, giving it a slightly soft, grippy feel. This makes the tablet feel better in your hands as you’re using it, and certainly helps to prevent the cheap plastic feel you get in many tablets. Sadly, the screen is also plastic, so it’s easily scratched.

Simbans has tried to address this, as the TangoTab comes with a pre-applied screen protector. Since it is applied at the factory, this alleviates many of the problems with screen protectors like bubbles and not being properly aligned. Of course, as with any screen protector, you’ll have to replace it eventually if you want to keep your screen safe.

As another way of keeping the tablet protected, Simbans also includes a folio-style case. Like the tablet, this is plastic, though it has a faux-leather appearance, which looks nicer than if they had simply left the plastic as-is. The case is bulky, which helps to protect the tablet, but does make it on the unwieldy side to handle.

This isn’t the only way that Simbans sells the TangoTab. A kids version comes with an extra bulky case, while a version with an included folio keyboard is available for those looking to use it more as a work accessory.

Ports, Ports, and More Ports

So far, aside from the included case, the Simbans TangoTab hasn’t been all that different from any number of cheaper tablets. Where it does differ is in the ports included. While your average tablet has a charging port and maybe a micro SD card slot, the TangoTab as a selection of ports that would be right at home on a laptop.

One thing to note is that the TangoTab charges through a DC charging port, not over micro USB or USB-C as you might expect. The charging cable itself plugs into a standard USB adaptor, but where it meets the tablet is a DC socket. This leaves the micro USB port free, even when charging, which is nice as it can function as a USB OTG host.

That’s far from the only port you’ll find, though. A mini-HDMI port lets you plug the TangoTab into an external display or TV, while the micro SD card allows you to expand storage. Then you can plug in headphones or external speakers to the 3.5mm audio port, too.

We’re not finished yet: there’s also a full-size USB-A port, which is rare on a tablet. You can use this for additional connectivity (though don’t expect any miracles—devices that don’t work over micro USB likely still won’t work here) but that’s not all. The full-size USB port means you can charge other devices using the TangoTab. Yes, this will drain your battery faster, but considering the 6,000 mAh capacity, you can essentially use the TangoTab as a battery pack that also happens to be a tablet.

Operating System and User Interface

The Simbans TangoTab runs Android 9.0 Pie, the last dessert-themed version of the OS. The user interface is mostly stock, in the same way that most manufacturer’s interfaces are largely representative of base Android.

The good news is that, unlike a Fire HD 10 for example, you have access to the Google Play Store, which means you can install any launcher you prefer. If you’re not happy with the overall look and feel of the user interface, you can change it as much as you’d like.

Display and Sound

The TangoTab features a 10.1-inch diagonal, 16:9 screen, with a resolution of 1200×800. That’s less than HD, so you’re not looking at the sharpest screen around. Most smartphones have resolutions greater than the TangoTab, so it’s not going to look great in comparison.

On the other hand, the colors are vivid, which isn’t always a given with cheap tablets. I’ve seen plenty of tablets with higher price tags suffering from washed-out colors, so it’s nice that this isn’t the case with the Simbans TangoTab.

Sound is as you’d expect. You hear the sounds you need to hear, but nothing sounds particularly large or impressive. The speakers are tinny and thin-sounding, but that’s par for the course with most tablets, let alone those selling for below $200. That said, this doesn’t sound nearly as good or look nearly as sharp as the Amazon Fire HD 10, which only costs slightly more.

Performance

To benchmark the Simbans TangoTab, I reached for AnTuTu, which has long been the de facto standard benchmarking tool for Android. The TangoTab received an overall score of 56551, with a CPU score of 24421, a memory score of 18682, and a user interface score of 13448. That’s not especially impressive, but it does beat the ultra budget Vankyo Matrixpad we reviewed in 2019.

Geekbench numbers were on the low side as well. The single-core score was 124, while the multi-core score was just 383. This was running Geekbench 5.1.0.

Using the Simbans TangoTab

Performance numbers are one thing, but the actual user experience is another and arguably more important. I can’t think of a tablet I’ve tried, no matter the operating system, that was slower to wake up than the TangoTab. On numerous occasions, I thought that I’d either turned the TangoTab off or it had run out of battery because I tapped the power button but the display didn’t turn on.

A second or two later, it would finally turn on. This may not sound like much, but in practice, it felt sluggish. I’d encounter the same thing launching apps, searching the Google Play Store, or clicking links on a web page. Everything worked, eventually–it just took a while to get there.

That sounds bad, and it is, but it’s not all doom and gloom. I found streaming movies and TV shows from Netflix and other apps worked fine. Yes, the display and audio issues I mentioned above are still present, and you’re not going to forget you’re not in a movie theater, but if you’re just looking for something to watch Netflix on the go, this will get the job done.

If you’re looking for a tablet for games, image editing, or other work that’s going to push the CPU, you might want to opt for something else.

Should You Buy the Simbans TangoTab?

You shouldn’t buy the TangoTab expecting it to be as handy for work as an iPad. You shouldn’t really expect that of any Android tablet. Really, that speaks to the lack of emphasis on tablet user interfaces from Android developers, not the quality of the tablets themselves.

A more realistic comparison would be the Amazon Fire HD 10, which we called the best value tablet around when we reviewed it. Compared to that, the TangoTab is cheaper, less locked down, and even includes a handy case. And all those lovely ports. But the screen isn’t as sharp and performance isn’t quite as good.

If you’re looking for an affordable tablet with a multitude of connectivity options, the Simbans TangoTab is worth a look, just know what you’re buying.

Enter the Competition!

Simbans TangoTab Giveaway

Read the full article: TangoTab is a Cheap Android Tablet with a Plethora of Ports

Read Full Article

A Newbie’s Guide to Uber’s Different Ride Types and Options

Uber is one of the world’s largest ride-hailing apps, but it wasn’t always this way. When it first started, the company only offered a single type of ride. As it has grown, so, too, has the Uber offering.

Now, when you open the app, you’re presented with several different ride options. So, let’s look at the different Uber rides available for the next time you open the app.

Note: Uber operates in cities around the world, and not all rides are available in each destination. To see the Uber options available in your area, open the app, and enter a destination.

Economy Rides

Uber’s standard offering is usually more affordable than other local services. Although, there are no fixed prices for Uber rides, so your fare will vary. That said, Uber offers a range of economy rides, so you should find something to suit your budget here.

UberX

UberX is the company’s most common Uber ride option. It is available in most destinations globally and is what many people picture when they consider calling an Uber. The service most closely resembles a standard taxi; you call the ride, and the driver will take you and your party of up to three others to your chosen destination. If each passenger has a different port of call, you can add multiple stops to your Uber ride, too.

UberXL

While the UberX service can only accommodate four people, UberXL allows you to transport up to six passengers. To fit the additional riders, the car is slightly larger—usually an SUV or people carrier—and will also cost marginally more, too. However, if splitting the fare between passengers, it often works out to a similar per-rider cost.

Uber Select

If you’re after a little more comfort from your Uber ride, then Uber Select may be the right choice for you. The service, also known as Uber Plus in some locations, offers cars that are a step up from UberX options. With this ride, expect to be picked up in an Audi, BMW, Mercedes, or similar class of vehicle, with support for up to four riders. Select is more expensive than UberX, but still more affordable than the company’s premium offerings.

Uber Pool

Uber Pool is the among the most affordable type of Uber ride. It combines the ease and door-to-door service of UberX, but you share the car with up to three other riders. Uber Pool sits somewhere between a taxi and a bus, giving you a direct route to your destination, but at a lower cost than a typical Uber journey.

Uber Express Pool

In select US destinations, Uber has rolled out the Express Pool service. This is similar to Uber Pool—you share the ride with up to three others—but you have to make your way to a specified pick-up point. You also won’t be transported to your destination directly, with only select drop-off points available. As such, the service is significantly cheaper than other Uber rides and makes choosing an Uber Express Pool ride just like taking a bus.

Uber Comfort

Most states in the US require that UberX cars be no more than 10 years old. However, if you’d like to guarantee a newer vehicle with additional legroom, and don’t mind spending a little extra, then you should select Uber Comfort. This ride type can support up to four passengers.

Premium Rides

As the company has expanded, it has also bolstered its luxury options, too. If you want to take your ride in comfort, with the same sense of privacy and service of a professional chauffeur, then Uber’s premium options will suit you best.

Uber Black

Traditionally, there have been two types of ride; jumping in a taxi or hiring a chauffeur. If UberX is the app-based equivalent of a cab, then Uber Black is the company’s answer to a professional driver. If you book this service, you can expect all the comforts of having your own driver, as well as a more luxurious car. Of course, Uber Black adds an additional premium to your fare, too.

Uber Black SUV

Just as UberX can be upgraded to UberXL for additional passengers, so, too, can Uber Black. If you choose to book an Uber Black SUV, you can expect the same level of comfort and service, but with enough space to accommodate up to six riders. Both Uber Black services afford you additional options like Quiet Mode, Temperature Control, and Help With Luggage.

Additional Uber Ride Types

Many of your journeys just require a car to take you from one place to another, and Uber has many options available for those rides. However, sometimes you’ll need a little extra support or other amenities, and this is where Uber’s additional ride types come in handy.

UberWAV

If you use a wheelchair, you’ll know that transport options around the world are not only limited but very rarely set up to accommodate your needs. Most Uber cars are not suitable for wheelchairs or mobility scooters. So, if you need to take a ride with your wheelchair, then UberWAV is your best bet. According to Uber, all UberWAV drivers are certified by a third-party for driving and assisting those with disabilities.

Uber Car Seat

Traveling with a young one can be a stressful experience, not least because you’ll likely need to strap them into a car seat. Most Uber ride types don’t offer car seats, and their vehicles may not even support attaching one, either. If you find yourself in need of a safe ride with your child, then one of your best options is Uber Car Seat.

Uber Ski

As anyone who’s been skiing can confirm, skis are awkward to transport. Most buses and public transport at ski resorts even have specialized storage for your skis or snowboard. If you need to hail a ride, but also want to take your skis with you, Uber Ski is your best option.

Uber Pet

As the name suggests, Uber Pet is the most suitable Uber ride type for those with pets. Although you could call a standard UberX, most drivers would refuse your pet entry to their vehicle, and they aren’t obligated to allow you to ride with them. So, for a reliable, hassle-free journey with your beloved pet, select the Uber Pet option where available.

The Best Types of Uber Ride for Your Journey

Although the Uber app is a relatively straightforward affair, the company doesn’t offer much guidance to the different Uber rides available to you. Each available service is shown, but without the information to help you decide which type of Uber is right for your journey.

As there are no fixed fees for Uber rides, the cost may vary significantly depending on where you are and what time of day it is. If you’re after another option, consider whether Uber or Lyft is cheaper for your journey.

Read the full article: A Newbie’s Guide to Uber’s Different Ride Types and Options

Read Full Article

6 Ways to Build Your Own DIY HDTV Antenna for Cheap

You’ve heard it’s possible to build your own HDTV antenna to receive digital terrestrial (DVB-T) signals. It sounds like a good idea, and a big saving. You’re planning on cutting the cord, and this sounds ideal. But is it possible?

Yes, it is! Here are six ways you can build your own HDTV antenna using household items.

Reasons to Build a DIY HDTV Antenna

So, why might you opt for a DIY antenna for your digital TV reception? Couldn’t you just buy one of the best TV antennas? Use cable or satellite instead?

Well, several reasons spring to mind:

• Over the air TV is cheaper than cable, and you want to cut the cord (but first consider these cord-cutting pitfalls).
• You can’t afford a factory-built antenna.
• Your antenna has blown down in a storm and you need a replacement fast.
• You just like making your own gear.

Whatever is motivating you to build your own HDTV antenna, you have several options. Each of these follows a slightly different design, and they can all be constructed using household items.

It doesn’t matter how low your budget is. If you want to receive digital TV signals over the air, these four antenna builds are ideal.

Once you’re done, you should be able to receive the usual OTA TV channels. If you’re “cutting the cord” you should pair these free TV channels up with a low-cost media streamer, such as an Amazon Fire TV Stick or a Raspberry Pi running Kodi.

1. A Homemade TV Antenna From a Paperclip

Amazingly, it’s possible to receive pictures over the air with just a paperclip as a DIY TV antenna!

This will depend on signal strength, distance to the transmitter, and weather conditions, but

With favorable signal strength, transmitter distance, and weather conditions, you could be watching TV using a piece of common stationery!

As explained in the video, all that you need to do is unfold the paperclip into an L shape. Plug the shorter end into a coaxial cable, which is then connected to your TV.

Admittedly, that’s the easy bit. For this to work, you need a long cable to achieve roof-height elevation. In the video, YouTuber LaneVids hangs his cable in the attic, and takes the viewer down to his main TV. The picture is clear, if occasionally jerky—but this homemade TV antenna is only a few inches long!

It’s worth adding here that in some (albeit rare) cases, the paperclip may not even be required. Again, this depends on weather conditions, but some users have reported digital TV signals being received with only a cable.

While it must be pointed in the right direction, this might be all you need to receive a HDTV signal.

2. Card and Foil DIY TV Antenna

A slightly more elaborate option, this version of the DIY HDTV antenna should set you back less than $5. With over a million views, we reckon quite a few people are using this DIY TV antenna.

This build requires:

• 4 x pieces of cardboard or foamcore board (two at 8 x 11 inches, two at 8 x 8 inches)
• 1 x sheet of aluminum foil
• This printable template

You’ll also need some PVA glue, a stapler, and some hot glue.

When you’re done, you should have a lightweight, box-like antenna ready to receive TV shows.

(While the $5 total is probably the bare minimum. If you already have most of the materials, you shouldn’t need to spend more than $10.)

3. “Fractal” Homemade Antenna

A visually stunning antenna for HDTV reception, this DIY build is probably the most aesthetically pleasing version of this project.

It requires:

• Sheet of aluminum foil
• 1 x balun converter
• 2 x short wires
• 1 x sheet of clear, flexible plastic

The build requires two printed copies of the template, each glued to a sheet of foil and cut out. In turn these should be glued to each side of the plastic sheet, making sure to line them up.

With the wires stapled or glued to the “legs” of the fractal design, connect the balun to the antenna. and your usual coaxial cable plugged in.

Head to Hackaday to get the template and full steps for this build.

4. The Coat Hanger DIY TV Antenna

Finally, here’s one of our own HDTV antenna projects. Although bigger and uglier than the other projects, this DIY antenna is also the most durable. I built this in 2015 and it still works.

The key components of this build are:

• A short length of 3×1 wood
• 8 x metal coat hangers
• 2 x disposable barbecue grills
• 18 x screws and 18 x matching washers
• Some wire

It’s worth noting that this version of the antenna is more complicated than the others.

As befits a project that is bigger and sturdier, this will take longer to put together than the other builds. However, once tested and mounted, you will be able to receive reliable over the air digital TV.

In the video above, I’m testing it downstairs and the signal is good enough. However, since moving it to the roof space, the results are perfect.

Read our HDTV antenna tutorial for the full instructions.

5. Big Bertha: DIY Antenna for Long Distance Reception

Built back in 2009, as of 2018 this homemade digital TV antenna remained in use. Hardy and constructed for longevity, “Big Bertha” is also huge.

The reason for this is that it is designed to receive HDTV signals broadcast over longer distances. While the other builds on this list are ideal for city and suburban use, Big Bertha is for the countryside.

Essentially, Big Bertha is the coat hanger TV antenna, doubled up, and mounted on an aluminum post. The finished build is huge, while the results are impressive.

Learn hoe to make this homemade TV antenna by following the detailed Instructables guide.

6. DIY Super Long Range TV Antenna

If Big Bertha isn’t enough for you to watch TV in remote rural areas, try this.

Described as a “Super Long Range Axial/Helical “Rural” Antenna,” it is genuinely huge. Via the video above you can check the concept and evolution of this DIY TV antenna project. Although a longer video, the highlights are compiled at the beginning.

A long piece of wood, plenty of wire, and a round BBQ grille come in very useful for this project.

While detailed plans for this remarkable build are not available, you can gather enough information from the video to build your own.

DIY HDTV Antennas Made Easy and Cheap

Although we’ve listed them here in order of difficulty, each of these homemade antenna projects is a comparatively simple build. Once made, you’ll need to spend some time fine-tuning; make sure you know where the nearest transmitter is.

As long as the antenna is correctly lined up (and at the best elevation), good TV pictures should be received.

We’ve shown you how to build six DIY antenna projects:

1. An antenna using just a paperclip
2. The card and foil antenna
3. A fractal antenna
4. The coat hanger antenna
5. Big Bertha
6. A super long-range DIY TV antenna

Remember, these antennas are designed for use with digital television. If you’re aiming to receive analog signals, you’ll need a different solution.

Also, if your TV doesn’t have a digital decoder built in, you’ll need to get hold of one. The coaxial cable from the antenna should be connected to this.

If you’re new to DIY technology hacks, try some basic DIY fixes first to prepare yourself before proceeding.

Read the full article: 6 Ways to Build Your Own DIY HDTV Antenna for Cheap

Read Full Article

10 Games Like Tetris You Can Play Online for Free

Many people consider Tetris to be the perfect video game. A version of the game is available for nearly every games console, handheld, and operating system in existence, plus other devices like calculators.

There are also plenty of other games like Tetris, with developers taking the successful formula and attempting to make it their own. And a lot of these Tetris games can be played online in your web browser.

So, here are the best games like Tetris you can play for free online…

1. Tetris.com

What better place to start than the official online home of Tetris? This version, hosted by The Tetris Company, offers a clean and simple version of Tetris. You can control it using a keyboard or mouse, and the game offers customizable controls and a few options to personalize your experience.

It’s nothing fancy, but it’s nice to know you’re playing the genuine version instead of a Tetris knockoff.

2. Tetris Gems

The official Tetris site also has a variant on the classic game available. In Tetris Gems, you start with a few layers of rock at the bottom of the board. When you clear a line, instead of the entire row disappearing at once, it turns into 10 individual blocks and drops down.

These pieces can clear more lines below, creating huge combos. As you clear through the rock, you’ll unearth gems that provide you with useful bonuses. It’s just different enough to give Tetris fans something fresh to enjoy without killing the spirit of the original.

3. Tetris N-BLOX

This version offers a similar experience to the official Tetris site, with a few small differences. It doesn’t support mouse controls, you can’t hold a piece, and you can only see one upcoming tetromino instead of three.

In addition, piece “lockdown” occurs almost instantly, so you can’t juggle a block when it reaches the stack. All of these differences make it more akin to classic Tetris, such the NES version, than more modern variants.

4. First-Person Tetris

So far, we’ve looked at relatively normal Tetris games, but this Tetris-like game adds an additional layer of challenge. It puts your view in front of a TV playing Tetris, but the twist is that when you rotate a block, the entire screen rotates with it.

It’s tough to keep track of where you block will end up with your view spinning around. If you want to make it even more challenge, enable Light Out on the menu to make everything but the blocks dark. In Crisis will zoom in on your block, making it hard to see anything else.

5. Tetris 3D

Another Tetris-like puzzle game, Tetris 3D changes up the rules a little. Instead of a 2D board, you’ll need to navigate pieces around a circle. Once you fill a complete line of 15 blocks, it will disappear just like in regular Tetris. Unlike most Tetris games, this also starts you with some blocks already on the field.

You can choose from Classic, Time Track, and Leveller modes. While it’s not much to look at, you’ll definitely have some fun here.

6. Mario Tetris

If Super Mario Bros. was turned into a Tetris-type game, this would be the result. In it, you switch between controlling Mario in standard platformer fashion and using Lakitu to drop blocks in a Tetris-like setup.

You’ll need to use blocks wisely, both to clear walls from Mario’s path and create platforms for him to use. Be aware, though, because enemies can still hit Mario when you’re playing Tetris!

Unfortunately, Mario Tetris is a Flash game. Since Flash is disappearing, you should learn how to download Flash games to play offline. Allowing you to keep titles such as this one around after it has gone.

7. TenTrix

If you like the idea of Tetris but prefer something slower-paced, this off-brand Tetris offering is for you. Instead of pieces dropping automatically, you must drag blocks that appear in groups of three onto a 10×10 board.

A complete row will disappear once filled, but if you can’t place a block anywhere then it’s game over. TenTrix features some pieces that are different from the standard tetrominoes, so you’ll need to work wisely to avoid boxing yourself out.

8. Jstris

This site has a lot to offer for Tetris fans. In particular, it’s one of the best ways to play multiplayer Tetris online for free. When you first visit the site, it throws you into a live game with other players. Since there’s no ranking system, you could be up against beginners or hardcore experts.

This multiplayer match allows you to send garbage to your opponents by clearing multiple lines at once. If you want to play a different mode, Jstris has lots to offer in both single-player and multiplayer flavors. Have a look at the Jstris Guide for an explanation of what’s on offer here.

9. Blockout

Blockout is a classic game like Tetris that plays in three dimensions. You’ll need to direct pieces and rotate them along all three axes as they drop from the top of the screen. A layer will disappear when completely filled in.

If you feel you’ve mastered regular Tetris and want to add another dimension, this is a great way to challenge yourself. The DOS version is available to emulate online, as well as an authorized remake titled Blockout II that’s free to download.

10. Worldwide Combos

Looking for a more competitive Tetris experience? This Tetris clone tasks you with going on-on-one against an opponent. Your goal is to knock out your opponent (by stacking their blocks to the top) more times than they do to you.

It’s newer than Jstris so there aren’t as many players, but it also features a ranking system to ensure you play against people who are close to your skill level. You’ll need to create a free account to make the most of it, but it’s worth it if you’re looking to improve at Tetris.

What’s Your Favorite Tetris Game?

In this article we’ve looked at several free online versions of Tetris, some traditional and some quite different. Unfortunately, the once-popular Tetris Friends is no longer around, and many Tetris-type games require Flash, which is on its way out. However, these games like Tetris should keep fans of the classic puzzler happy.

For more like this, check out our list of the best puzzle games to play in your browser.

Read the full article: 10 Games Like Tetris You Can Play Online for Free

Read Full Article