Italy has launched its contact tracing app called Immuni. It uses Apple and Google’s exposure notification API. Find it on the App Store here.
‘Hybri’ Can Create a Virtual Companion Based on Real People
A company called Hybri is creating virtual AI companions that live in augmented and virtual reality. But a feature that may prove to be controversial is letting users scan a photo of a real person to superimpose on the avatars.
But the creepiest feature of Hybri is its Photoscan, which allows you to add a real person’s face to the avatar. That means your unrequited love or celebrity crush could soon become your virtual partner — whether they want to or not.
It sounds like a cool idea to me, but it probably won’t pass the App Store review team.
Mid-2012 MacBook Pro to Become 'Obsolete'
The mid-2012 MacBook Pro is to become “obsolete” at the end of June, according to a memo seen by MacRumors. It means the 15″ device, the first MacBook Pro with a Retina Display, will no longer be eligible for hardware services from Apple.
In an internal memo today, obtained by MacRumors, Apple has indicated that this particular MacBook Pro model will be marked as “obsolete” worldwide on June 30, 2020, just over eight years after its release. In a support document, Apple notes that obsolete products are no longer eligible for hardware service, with “no exceptions.” Apple already classified the 2012 MacBook Pro as “vintage” in 2018, but it has still continued to service the notebook as part of a pilot program, subject to parts availability. With the 2012 MacBook Pro transitioning to “obsolete” status at the end of this month, it would appear that the notebook will no longer be eligible for any official repairs.
iOS 13.5.1 is Out Today With Security Patches
Today Apple released a 13.5.1 OS update for iPhones and iPads. It contains important security patches although details aren’t yet known about what was patched.
The 2020 Social Media Marketing Bootcamp Certification Bundle: $29.99
We have a deal on the 2020 Social Media Marketing Bootcamp Certification Bundle, a 7-course training program covering social media in general, as well as FaceBook, Instagram, Twitter, and LinkedIn. It includes 34 hours of content and hundreds of lessons, and it’s $29.99 through our deal.
Patched Sign In with Apple Zero Day Netted Hacker $100,000
Security researcher Bhavuk Jain found a zero day vulnerability with Sign In with Apple in April. Apple has already patched it.
New Zane Lowe Interview Series on Apple Podcasts
“The Zane Lowe Interview Series” is a new podcast where the Apple Music host interviews artists like Lady Gaga, Hayley Williams, and others.
Apple Card Customers Allowed to Defer June Payment Due to COVID-19 Outbreak
Apple Card customers can defer payments set for June, 9to5Mac reported. That will be the third month in which Apple and Goldman Sachs have allowed such a deferral, due to the COVID-19 outbreak.
In response to the continued coronavirus outbreak, Apple and Goldman Sachs are allowing customers to skip their Apple Card payments without incurring interest charges. Apple Card holders should receive an email announcing this “Customer Assistance Program”… Apple and Goldman Sachs have once again announced an extension of the Apple Card Customer Assistance Program, allowing users to skip their June payments without penalty. Learn how to join the Customer Assistance Program here. |We understand that the COVID-19 situation poses unique challenges for everyone and some customers may have difficulty making their monthly payments. Should you need assistance, please click here to be connected to Apple Card Support via Messages and enroll in our Customer Assistance Program, which will allow you to skip your June payment without incurring interest charges. If you previously enrolled in the Customer Assistance Program, you will need to enroll again.
Apple Donating to Equal Justice Initiative and Other Non-Profits Folllowing George Floyd Death
Apple is donating to the Equal Justice Initiative and other non-profits in the wake of the death of George Floyd.
Backtick is Zoomalicious (in Preview) – Mac Geek Gab 817
Who knew one key could do THAT? Plus, you can take iPhone pics right from your Mac desktop. Lots of quick tips.
And then a quick discussion about tech support in the time of social distancing. We’ve heard from a few consultants who help John and Dave suss that out.
Wi-Fi is always popular, and this week marks a return to some in-depth discussions about various configurations, including expanding your Wi-Fi… and that of your friends and family members. Plus we’ve got Cool Stuff Found and more. Press play and enjoy learning at least five new things with your two favorite geeks!
