Uncategorized

Google collects Android users’ location data even when disabled

Many people realize that smartphones track their locations. But what if you actively turn off location services, haven’t used any apps, and haven’t even inserted a carrier SIM card?

Even if you take all of those precautions, phones running Android software gather data about your location and send it back to Google when they’re connected to the internet, a Quartz investigation has revealed.

Damn, Google.

iPhone X vs. Pixel 2: Portrait selfies

Apple’s TrueDepth camera features multiple sensors to create a depth map in real time on the iPhone X. Google’s solution relies entirely on machine learning and an impressive single camera to accomplish the same effect on the Pixel 2. Here’s a look at how these two methods compare!

There is no doubt how important selfies are to smartphone owners these days.

Recreating the Apple Watch breathe animation in CSS

The Apple Watch comes with a stock app called Breathe that reminds you to, um, breathe. There’s actually more to it than that, but the thought of needing a reminder to breathe makes me giggle. The point is, the app has this kinda awesome interface with a nice animation.

Very nice.

Apple removes Skype from China App Store

Apple Inc said on Tuesday it has removed several apps including Skype, Microsoft Corp’s internet phone call and messaging service, from its app store in China after the country’s government pointed to violations of local laws.

Apple has to abide by the laws of the countries it operates in.

11 posters worth gifting this holiday season

As we get older, it gets harder and harder to find unique, interesting gifts for friends and family. Some of these posters might be just the ticket. I especially love the retro patent ones.

Apple Park AR demonstration

A really cool demonstration of AR in action. I’d love to get to the new Visitor Center to see it for myself.

AC/DC’s Malcolm Young dies

Today it is with deep heartfelt sadness that AC/DC has to announce the passing of Malcolm Young.

I’m just so sad about Malcolm. He was the greatest rhythm guitarist of all time and wrote some of the most recognizable riffs in Rock. You will be missed, Malcolm.

Apple’s new Visitor Center opens

It looks great but it’s a shame the great unwashed masses are restricted from getting anywhere near the new building.

Apple delays release of HomePod until early 2018

An Apple spokesperson:

“We can’t wait for people to experience HomePod, Apple’s breakthrough wireless speaker for the home, but we need a little more time before it’s ready for our customers. We’ll start shipping in the US, UK and Australia in early 2018.”

I’m disappointed that HomePod won’t be released, but if it’s not ready, Apple is making the right decision. I would rather wait for a couple of months than have a product that’s not working properly.

Prevent click track bleeding when recording

We have all, at some point, recorded the perfect vocal, acoustic guitar or drum track only to discover an audible click has split into the microphone from the performer’s headphones.

This is one of the most annoying things ever when recording. There are a few decent tips here to help solve the problem.

Airbnb acquires Accomable

Airbnb said on Thursday it acquired London startup Accomable to expand home-renting opportunities for people with disabilities, the latest expansion as Airbnb grows its global travel business.

With Airbnb’s money, they should be able to build out the Accomable business.

Apple explains on-device face detection

Apple started using deep learning for face detection in iOS 10. With the release of the Vision framework, developers can now use this technology and many other computer vision algorithms in their apps. We faced significant challenges in developing the framework so that we could preserve user privacy and run efficiently on-device. This article discusses these challenges and describes the face detection algorithm.

The newest post from Apple’s Machine Learning Journal.