PolyCapture: Merging Recording Files Now Possible The recommended Mac application PolyCapture from software developer Martin Lexow has received an update. With the newly released version 1.10, the developer responds to a frequently expressed user request and now offers the possibility to merge separate recording files. PolyCapture was originally introduced in September and is aimed primarily at creatives and educators. The software enables simultaneous recording of audio and video content from multiple sources, including webcams, microphones, iOS devices, and screen sections. The new update allows for merging separately recorded audio and video sources into a single file, with automatic synchronization of tracks. This feature is available to all users at no additional cost. PolyCapture is optimized for Macs with Apple processors, emphasizing data privacy by securing all data locally. It can…

The best live TV streaming services to cut cable in 2025 Date: Sun, 22 Dec 2024 With the rising prices of streaming services similar to cable, YouTube TV, Hulu+ Live TV, and FuboTV have all increased their monthly prices to the $80 range. Despite the price increases, these services provide a cheaper alternative to cable in many markets, without contracts or special equipment. Streaming platforms are also beginning to offer live programming, blending the distinctions between broadcast, cable, and streaming services. Various services were tested for their content, user experience, and affordability. Both paid and free services are compared in offerings such as live sports and news, DVR capabilities, and premium add-ons. Free ad-supported streaming services include Plex and PlutoTV. Read more DOC finalizes semiconductor awards totaling nearly $7 billion…

Hundred 99-Cent Rental Films on Prime: Top 10 by IMDb Ratings Taking a break from Christmas festivities? Amazon Prime offers over 100 rental films for just 99 cents this weekend for Prime members, featuring a mix of new releases and classics. Movies can be rented at a discount only this weekend, with 30 days to start and 48 hours to finish watching. The top 10 IMDb-rated films are highlighted, requiring an active Amazon Prime membership to view discounted prices. Hidden Feature in Apple’s Calculator App: Currency and Unit Conversion Apple's Calculator app now available on iPads includes a built-in converter for over a hundred units and currencies across 15 categories. By selecting the "Convert" mode, users can input values for conversion, which works alongside Apple's mathematical notes feature. Currency conversion…

Medienpädagogik Apps: Following "iPi Sound" is "Sound Garden" A new app called "Sound Garden" is now available in the App Store for around 3 euros. Developed by Christian Streinz from Hesse, it targets children and educational institutions. The app allows children to create small 3D worlds in voxel-art style and enrich them with audio recordings, aiming to introduce children to digital media through creative and constructive play. "Sound Garden" is designed for use in media education projects such as storytelling and creating sound puzzles. Meta as a Negative Example: Why Apple Rejects Interoperability The EU demands that Apple make its operating systems more accessible to third-party providers under the Digital Markets Act (DMA). Apple, however, argues that expanding interoperability poses privacy and security risks, pointing to companies like Meta with…

News Summary - December 17, 2024 Insta360 Connect: New AI Videobar for Hybrid Meetings Publication Date: December 17, 2024 Insta360, known for its action and 360° cameras, has unveiled the "Insta360 Connect," a new videobar designed for hybrid meetings in small to medium conference rooms. The device features two 4K cameras, a 14-microphone array, and AI-based image and sound processing. Available now for €2,399, it offers automatic AI-framing, a gallery mode, and tracks speaking individuals using sound location and recognition technology. Read more Powerfox Avoids Bankruptcy by Restructuring Publication Date: December 17, 2024 The company behind Powerfox, power42 GmbH, has overcome financial hardships and has its operations now managed by Powerfox Energy GmbH. Existing customers need to confirm data transfer via email, failing which their data will be deleted by…

News Summary from December 16, 2024 Baseus: USB-C Cable with 90°, Digital Display, Rewind and Magnets Source: ifun.de Baseus introduces a diverse array of USB-C cables, notable for their quality and functional designs. Options include robust textile cables, versions with digital displays, right-angled configurations for gamers, self-retracting cables, and fully magnetic cables. Error in macOS 15.2 Complicates System Backups Source: ifun.de A fault in macOS 15.2 disrupts seamless operating system backups, leaving users reliant on Apple's update for resolution. Backup creators recommend alternative backup strategies for the time being. Double Pages to Single Pages: Freeware Briss Handles PDF Cropping Source: ifun.de The Java app Briss provides an efficient solution for cropping PDF documents. Designed to streamline PDF adjustments, it's ideal for converting double pages into single pages across various platforms.…

News Summary News Summary HDMI 2.2 could make its debut at CES next month Publication Date: Sat, 14 Dec 2024 23:36:27 +0000 The HDMI Forum has announced that a new HDMI standard, HDMI 2.2, will be unveiled on January 6, 2025, in Las Vegas, ahead of CES 2025. This new specification promises higher resolutions, refresh rates, and will require a new HDMI Cable. The technology is expected to surpass HDMI 2.1b's support for 48Gbps bandwidth and resolutions up to 10K. Trump’s team reportedly wants to end NHTSA reporting requirement for car crashes involving automated systems Publication Date: Sat, 14 Dec 2024 21:37:20 +0000 A report suggests President-elect Donald Trump’s transition team is aiming to abolish a rule by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). This rule mandates automakers to…

These Innovations from macOS 15.2 You Must Try macOS Sequoia 15.2 introduces two notable features for Apple computers: an option to display weather in the menu bar and improvements to AirPlay screen sharing, allowing users to share either the entire screen or selected windows. These updates enhance usability by providing quick access to weather details and simplifying screen sharing during presentations. New on Netflix: What's Coming in January 2025 Netflix is set to release an exciting lineup of new content in January 2025. Highlights include a new movie featuring "Wallace & Gromit," the action film "Back in Action," and the latest season of the thriller series "The Night Agent." Additionally, Netflix will add classic films like the "Back to the Future" trilogy and "Jurassic Park" series to its library, available…

News Summary News Summary Zattoo integrates "ARD Krimi" and "ARD Lindenstraße" as FAST channels Date: Fri, 13 Dec 2024 Video service Zattoo expands its program with two additional FAST channels, "ARD Plus Krimi" and "ARD Plus Lindenstraße," available from December 17. FAST stands for "Free-Ad-Supported-Streaming-TV," meaning access to channels is free but ad-supported. The channels offer diverse crime formats and all episodes of the German series "Lindenstraße." The additions continue Zattoo's expansion beyond 50 such channels, and offer HD quality streaming with flexible viewing options. macOS Sequoia allows simpler Alt key shortcuts again Date: Fri, 13 Dec 2024 Apple reverses the requirement to use Command or Control keys with the Alt key for global shortcuts. With macOS Sequoia 15.2, users can again use simple key combinations involving Alt or Alt+Shift.…

News Summary from December 11, 2024 New Workspace: ChatGPT Canvas Now Available for All Users The new Canvas workspace for ChatGPT, initially introduced in October, is now available to all users. Canvas enhances collaboration for writing and programming projects with AI and includes features like version restoration and automatic changes. OpenAI plans to continuously develop Canvas based on user feedback. January Releases on Paramount+ Paramount+ has revealed its January lineup, highlighting new seasons of "Yellowjackets" and "1923" to be released in February. The lineup includes shows like "Baby Shark's Big Show" and new classic additions like "Forrest Gump" and "The Truman Show". Postage Increase Approved by Federal Network Agency The Federal Network Agency has approved new postage rates at Deutsche Post, effective from January 1, 2025. Standard letters will increase…