All posts by : 6ix Network

Apple has announced significant updates to its App Store policies, allowing global developers to submit a single app capable of streaming an entire catalog of games, altering the previous requirement of individual listings for each game. The changes extend to mini-games, mini-apps, chatbots, and plug-ins, enabling them to integrate Apple’s in-app purchase system. This move, driven by compliance with the EU’s Digital Markets Act (DMA), aims to accommodate evolving services like streaming game stores, mini-apps, and AI chatbot platforms.

Streaming Game Services: Developers can now submit a unified app for streaming games, eliminating the need for individual listings. This change aligns with the DMA’s provisions and encourages companies contemplating independent app stores for gaming to leverage Apple’s platform, where the tech giant receives a share of in-app purchases. This shift may impact companies like Netflix, which has expanded into mobile and cloud gaming, and addresses the concerns of Microsoft and Epic Games regarding independent gaming stores.

In-App Purchases for Mini-Apps and AI Chatbots: Apple’s update extends in-app purchase capabilities to mini-games, mini-apps, chatbots, and plug-ins. Notably, this addresses concerns surrounding OpenAI’s GPT Store, establishing that even AI-driven services are subject to Apple’s in-app purchase rules, entailing a 15% to 30% commission. This move ensures Apple’s revenue stream from paid or subscription-based chatbots within larger apps.

App Store Review Guidelines: While permitting these changes, Apple emphasizes that each mini-app, in-app game, or in-app experience must adhere to the App Store Review Guidelines. This includes a review process for AI chatbots, maintaining content adherence, and reflecting appropriate age ratings.

Developer Analytics Enhancement: Apple is introducing over 50 new reports via the App Store Connect API to help developers analyze app performance, covering engagement, commerce, app usage, and frameworks usage. These reports offer detailed insights into user interaction, sales, pre-orders, downloads, crashes, active devices, and more.

Login Options Flexibility: The requirement for developers to include “Sign in with Apple” alongside other login options is being removed. Developers utilizing third-party or social logins now have the flexibility to provide alternative “privacy-focused login services” if preferred.

Apple’s App Store updates showcase the company’s responsiveness to market shifts, regulatory requirements, and the evolving landscape of app services. The changes in streaming games, in-app purchases, and developer analytics aim to enhance the user experience while maintaining Apple’s control over its platform and revenue streams.

Shazam, the music recognition app owned by Apple, has introduced a new feature that allows users to identify music while wearing headphones. This update enables users to seamlessly recognize songs playing around them or within apps like TikTok and YouTube, whether they are using wired or Bluetooth headphones.

How It Works: Users can take advantage of this new functionality by opening the Shazam app and confirming headphone connectivity with the designated icon. Once connected, users can identify music within apps even if they are wearing headphones. For example, while watching a TikTok video with headphones, users can initiate Shazam within the app, and after a brief pause in the music, Shazam will provide details such as the song title and artist.

Expanded Convenience: This update significantly enhances the convenience of music identification for users who prefer or need to wear headphones. Whether at a coffee shop, enjoying content on social media platforms, or immersed in other applications, Shazam now allows users to identify and discover music without the need to remove their headphones.

Previous App Integrations: While Shazam had previously integrated with popular apps like YouTube, Instagram, and TikTok for music identification, the new update specifically addresses the limitation of not being able to identify music while wearing headphones.

Shazam Background: Originally founded in 2002, Shazam gained prominence as a leading music recognition service. Apple acquired Shazam for $400 million in 2017. With over 300 million monthly users globally, Shazam continues to evolve its features to provide an enhanced and seamless music discovery experience.

Conclusion: Shazam’s latest update reflects the app’s commitment to improving user experience and adapting to evolving preferences. Allowing music identification while wearing headphones caters to the diverse scenarios in which users may want to discover and explore new music, reinforcing Shazam’s position as a key player in the music discovery landscape.

Microsoft has initiated a significant workforce reduction, affecting 1,900 employees, equivalent to eight percent of its gaming division staff. The move follows the completion of Microsoft’s acquisition of gaming giant Activision Blizzard, with the restructuring aimed at creating a more streamlined and efficient operation.

Details of the Layoffs: In a memo addressed to the employees, Phil Spencer, the head of Microsoft’s gaming division, highlighted that the decision was driven by the identification of synergies between Microsoft and Activision. The overarching goal is to establish a sustainable cost structure to foster growth within the gaming business. The gaming division, inclusive of the Xbox unit, currently employs 22,000 people.

Spencer reassured employees that the restructuring process involved collaborative efforts between Microsoft and Activision. The companies have outlined priorities, identified areas of overlap, and are collectively focused on maximizing growth opportunities.

Leadership Changes: Concurrent with the layoffs, Blizzard president Mike Ybarra announced his departure from the company. In a statement on X (formerly Twitter), Ybarra acknowledged the challenging circumstances and pledged his support to those impacted by the workforce reduction.

Background on Microsoft’s Activision Blizzard Acquisition: Microsoft’s acquisition of Activision Blizzard, a colossal move in the gaming industry, was finalized in January 2022. This strategic maneuver propelled Microsoft to become the world’s third-largest gaming company by revenue. The acquisition underwent thorough regulatory scrutiny, including challenges in the United States. Initially blocked by the UK regulator over concerns of potential competition damage in the cloud gaming sector, the deal ultimately secured approval.

Industry-Wide Staff Reduction Trend: The layoffs at Microsoft’s gaming division align with an industry-wide trend of major tech companies implementing significant staff cuts. This wave of workforce reductions commenced in late 2022 and has persisted into early 2024, impacting various leading technology firms.

Microsoft’s decision to reduce its gaming division workforce underscores the dynamic nature of the tech industry, where mergers and acquisitions often lead to organizational restructuring. As the company aims for a more efficient and growth-oriented structure, the impact on affected employees and the broader gaming landscape will be closely monitored.

Whether you’re working remotely, streaming your favorite shows, or dominating in online gaming, a blazing-fast internet connection is a must. Even with high-speed fiber, achieving optimal Wi-Fi performance within your home requires some strategic tweaks. Here are seven effective ways to troubleshoot and enhance your Wi-Fi experience, both indoors and outdoors.

1. Move Your Router for Maximum Reach:

Don’t hide your router in a closet! Physical placement matters—walls and cupboards can dampen signals. Move the router to a central, prominent location. Consider the aesthetics, too; a router you find appealing is more likely to stay visible. Avoid electromagnetic interference from devices like baby monitors. Prioritize proximity for high-bandwidth devices like consoles and laptops.

2. Harness the Power of Ethernet:

Remember wires? They still exist! For devices needing top-tier speed—gaming consoles, desktop PCs, or streaming boxes—an Ethernet connection beats Wi-Fi. It’s faster, stable, and unaffected by other devices. Embrace cable management for a neat setup.

3. Optimize Wi-Fi Channels and Bands:

Channels matter! If neighbors share your Wi-Fi channel, congestion looms. Switch channels—1, 6, and 11 are interference-friendly. Explore dual-band technology; prioritize the 5-GHz band for faster internet (though shorter range). Keep both frequencies enabled for compatibility with older devices.

4. Upgrade Your Router for Better Performance:

Router functionality varies. For dead zones, opt for routers compatible with “repeaters” for extended coverage. Choose a system that suits your home size—larger spaces benefit from routers paired with repeaters.

5. Decoding Wi-Fi Versions: Wi-Fi 6, 6E, and Wi-Fi 7:

Navigate the alphabet soup of Wi-Fi versions. Wi-Fi 7, the latest, promises faster connections for more devices, enhancing overall internet speed. Consider an upgrade for improved video quality, seamless cloud gaming, and better support for AR and VR applications.

6. Extend Wi-Fi Coverage with a Wi-Fi Extender:

For an effortless solution, invest in a Wi-Fi extender or repeater. Plug into a wall socket, connect to your router, and banish Wi-Fi dead zones. Ideal for low-bandwidth devices, position extenders strategically for optimal coverage.

7. Prioritize Devices and Cut Off Unused Connections:

Too many devices tapping into Wi-Fi can hinder performance. Utilize Ethernet connections where possible, unplug unnecessary devices, and prioritize essential services through router controls. Ensure a seamless gaming experience by avoiding interruptions from other streaming activities.

Say goodbye to Wi-Fi woes with these seven proven strategies. Whether relocating your router, embracing wired connections, or upgrading your equipment, these steps will elevate your internet speed. Enjoy a smoother online experience, whether you’re working, streaming, or gaming.

Implement one or more of these tips today to experience an immediate improvement in your Wi-Fi performance

Tesla, the trailblazer in electric vehicles (EVs), is gearing up to revolutionize the market with its latest announcement. In mid-2025, the company plans to commence production of a new mass-market electric vehicle named “Redwood,” described as a compact crossover. This move signals Tesla’s commitment to affordable EVs, positioning itself to compete with gasoline-powered cars and the influx of low-cost electric vehicles from competitors.

Tesla’s Bid for Affordability

Elon Musk, Tesla’s visionary CEO, has long captivated investors and enthusiasts with the promise of low-cost electric cars and self-driving robotaxis. The upcoming models, including an entry-level $25,000 car, aim to make Tesla competitive in the ever-growing market of affordable EVs. This strategic move is in response to the surge in popularity of economical electric vehicles, exemplified by China’s BYD surpassing Tesla as the world’s top EV maker in the final quarter of 2023.

The Vision of “Redwood”

While Musk initially pledged a $25,000 car in 2020—a plan that faced twists and turns—Tesla’s cheapest offering, the Model 3 sedan, currently starts at $38,990 in the United States. The eagerly anticipated “Redwood” model is expected to pave the way for Tesla’s expansion into the mass market, catering to consumers seeking an affordable yet high-quality electric driving experience.

Production Plans and Challenges

Tesla has initiated the production process for “Redwood,” having sent out invitations for bids to suppliers. The company anticipates a weekly production volume of 10,000 vehicles, with production slated to commence in June 2025. However, the timing of the next-generation compact vehicles has become a focal point for investors, raising questions about Tesla’s projections in its upcoming quarterly results.

As Tesla strives to make electric mobility accessible to a broader audience, the introduction of the “Redwood” model in mid-2025 marks a significant leap toward achieving this goal. With the promise of affordability and innovation, Tesla continues to shape the future of electric vehicles, setting the stage for a transformative era in the automotive industry.

Stay tuned for updates on Tesla’s groundbreaking “Redwood” and witness the evolution of affordable electric vehicles. Explore the future of sustainable transportation with Tesla’s visionary approach.

In the realm of gaming, mobile platforms have emerged victorious, claiming the throne as the industry leader. The 2023 Gaming Spotlight Review by data.ai reveals that global consumer spending on mobile gaming has soared to an impressive $108 billion, surpassing both home consoles and PCs combined. This meteoric rise, however, is not without challenges, as the report predicts a staggering 3.8 billion gamers worldwide by 2030, necessitating ongoing innovation and competitiveness.

The Evolution of Mobile Gaming

Known for its adaptability, the mobile gaming market has evolved from early classics like ‘Snake’ to today’s sophisticated games. Technological milestones, from Wireless Application Protocol (WAP) to app stores, have empowered developers to sell games directly to users. The integration of mobile gaming with social media has further boosted user engagement, especially during the pandemic, fostering a dynamic and evolving landscape.

The Rise of the Mobile Gamer

The accessibility of budget smartphones has transformed gaming, making it inclusive for all demographics. Mobile games are now easily playable by individuals of all ages, democratizing gaming unlike PC or console alternatives. This shift presents significant growth potential for companies that understand the diverse needs of this expanding group of gamers.

A New Era, with New Challenges

Despite its success, the mobile gaming industry faces challenges such as regulatory hurdles and a predicted 2% year-on-year spending decline, particularly in China. Standing out in a crowded market becomes crucial, requiring developers and publishers to stay ahead of trends and navigate obstacles creatively.

The Future of Smartphone Gaming

In 2023, the gaming landscape witnessed the success of simulation games, team battle RPGs, and core games. Cloud Stream Gaming (CSG) gained traction, with the Asia Pacific region driving growth. The emergence of gaming-focused smartphones promises enhanced gameplay experiences, with the Infinix HOT 40 Series leading the way through strategic collaborations, such as the Free Fire Limited Edition.

As mobile gaming and smartphones synergize, they pave the way for an era of aligned design, shared goals, and impactful business partnerships. This transformative journey promises innovative monetization strategies, ensuring developers remain at the forefront of the ever-evolving entertainment landscape.

Explore the dynamic world of mobile gaming and stay ahead of the curve. Discover the latest innovations and collaborations shaping the future of gaming. Join the gaming revolution today!

The Consumer Electronics Show (CES) 2023 in Las Vegas showcased groundbreaking health innovations, signaling a surge in remote healthcare trends. From pillows silencing snores to smart toilets analyzing urine and surgical digital twins, the event unveiled a spectrum of futuristic health gadgets. Avi Greengart from Techsponential predicts a wave of intriguing devices aimed at monitoring and improving well-being.

Snore-Silencing Pillow

South Korea’s 10Minds presented a snore-silencing pillow equipped with a built-in microphone. The pillow detects snoring and adjusts using soundless airbags to gently position the sleeper for quiet breathing. Synced with a smartphone app, it collects data to refine responses over time, even distinguishing between various snoring sources.

Toilet Turned Lab

Withings introduced the U-Scan, transforming toilets into health labs. Hang a disk inside the bowl with changeable cartridges for monitoring menstruation cycles and nutritional indicators. The device syncs wirelessly to a smartphone app, offering personalized recommendations for workouts, diet, and hydration optimization. Withings plans to launch in Europe, pending FDA approval for the U.S. market.

Digital Twin for Surgery

France-based Abys showcased technology enabling surgeons to create “digital twins” using patient data from X-rays. Surgeons can plan operations precisely, reducing time and risks. In the operating room, Microsoft HoloLens headsets provide access to a patient’s holographic twin and critical data during surgery. The innovation received approval from U.S. regulators last week.

Armchair Masseuse

Bodyfriend from South Korea addresses neck and back aches caused by screen time. Their medical massage chair kneads muscles, applies heat, and uses electromagnetic waves to alleviate discomfort. Changjoo Kim, Bodyfriend North America manager, emphasizes the technology’s role in solving problems arising from modern lifestyles.

CES 2023 unveiled a future where health meets technology seamlessly. From personalized snore solutions to smart toilets, surgical planning with digital twins, and innovative massage chairs, these health gadgets promise a holistic approach to well-being. As technology advances, our understanding and management of health take a giant leap forward.

Explore the future of health tech and stay informed about the latest innovations reshaping well-being. Follow our updates for more insights into cutting-edge technologies improving lives.

The Consumer Electronics Show (CES) 2024 in Las Vegas unveiled a wave of groundbreaking wearable technologies that defy imagination. From earbuds interpreting facial expressions to glasses projecting movie screens into thin air, here are the highlights showcasing the evolution of wearable tech.

Naqi Neural Earbuds: Nod and Wink Your Way Through Devices

The Naqi Neural Earbuds, equipped with “biosensors,” redefine wearable tech interaction. These earbuds detect electrical impulses from facial expressions, allowing users to control a myriad of connected devices with nods, winks, and subtle gestures. Initially developed to assist paralyzed individuals in gaming, the technology opens new possibilities for seamless device control.

XREAL’s Augmented Reality Glasses: A Cinematic Experience in Thin Air

XREAL’s augmented reality (AR) glasses offer a cinematic experience in a compact form. Only slightly bulkier than conventional eyewear, these glasses project a movie theater-sized screen into the air. Ideal for flights, car rides, or train journeys, the glasses create a virtual 3D application space and track hand movements, providing an immersive entertainment experience.

Skyted Silent Mask: Muting Masks for Private Calls

The Skyted silent mask introduces a new dimension to private communication in public spaces. Designed like a surgical mask, it ensures that the user’s voice stays private, and external noise remains out. Connecting to phones or computers, this sound-absorbing mask enables users to make confidential calls in noisy environments, reflecting the changing perceptions of mask usage post-COVID-19.

Simstechnology’s Backward Alert System: ‘Eyes’ in the Back of Your Head

In response to personal safety concerns, Simstechnology introduces a wearable accessory that acts as a set of ‘eyes’ in the back of the user’s head. Triggered by an attack from behind, this device warns users of approaching individuals and records the interaction through a tiny camera. With an SOS feature, users can send distress signals from their devices in critical situations.

Shift Robotics’ Moonwalkers X: Speed-Walking Shoes for Enhanced Productivity

Shift Robotics presents the Moonwalkers X, electric wheeled devices that attach to shoes, offering a faster alternative to walking. Faster and lighter than their predecessors, these devices find applications in environments like warehouses, where employees can potentially save significant time and enhance productivity. IKEA, in a pilot program, estimates substantial time savings for its employees using Moonwalkers.

CES 2024 demonstrates the remarkable trajectory of wearable technology, where innovation knows no bounds. From controlling devices with gestures to creating virtual cinema experiences and enhancing personal safety, these wearables redefine the way we interact with the world. As technology continues to evolve, the future promises even more astonishing developments in the realm of wearables.

Stay tuned for updates on these revolutionary wearables and share your thoughts on how wearable technology is shaping the future. Explore the possibilities and consider how these innovations could impact your daily life.

In a significant turn of events, a federal appeals court has directed Apple to cease the US sale of specific smartwatch models amidst an ongoing patent dispute with health company Masimo. This article delves into the details of the court’s order, the nature of the patent feud, and Apple’s strategic response as it awaits the crucial appeal decision.

Federal Appeals Court’s Order:

The latest chapter in the legal battle between Apple and Masimo unfolded as a federal appeals court issued a decisive order to halt the US sale of certain Apple smartwatch models. The move, effective immediately, comes as the tech giant is instructed to await the outcome of its appeal against a previous ban.

Masimo’s Patent Dispute:

Masimo, a health company based in southern California, initiated the dispute by filing a complaint with the US International Trade Commission (ITC). In October, the ITC decided to halt imports of Apple Watch models due to a patented technology related to blood-oxygen level detection. Although the ban was temporarily lifted last month, the recent court order reinstates it, amplifying the tension in the patent feud.

Apple’s Response:

Facing the ban, Apple is reportedly planning to remove the contentious technology from the smartwatches in question, specifically the Series 9 and Ultra 2. This strategic move is seen as an attempt to address the patent concerns raised by Masimo. The health company alleges that it invented the technology and accuses Apple of acquiring the know-how through the poaching of key employees.

As the legal battle unfolds, Apple navigates a challenging landscape with its smartwatches caught in the crossfire of a patent dispute. The decision to remove the technology temporarily reflects the company’s commitment to resolving the conflict. The tech world watches closely as the appeal process unfolds, anticipating the outcome that could shape the future of smartwatch technology.

Stay informed about the developments in the Apple-Masimo patent feud and its potential implications for the tech industry. Share your insights and thoughts on the intersection of intellectual property and innovation.

Samsung’s latest Galaxy smartphone, the S24 Ultra, is making waves with its advanced artificial intelligence features. In a bid to reclaim the title of the world’s biggest phone seller from Apple, Samsung has integrated AI functionalities that promise to redefine the smartphone experience.

AI Revolution Unveiled:

Unveiled at a grand event in San Jose, California, the S24 Ultra boasts remarkable AI capabilities that set it apart. The phone introduces a groundbreaking translation feature, allowing users to translate foreign language phone calls and texts simultaneously. This on-device function, available in 13 languages, is powered by Samsung’s proprietary AI technology.

Cutting-Edge Translation Capabilities:

Samsung’s collaboration with Google, the maker of the smartphone’s Android operating system, further enhances the S24’s capabilities. The translation feature is complemented by an unprecedented search function. Utilizing AI, users can now simply circle a phrase or image they want to search, eliminating the need for cumbersome cut-and-paste actions between apps.

Seamless Search with a Circle:

The innovative AI-driven search function not only simplifies the user experience but also streamlines the process by removing the need for switching between applications. This feature is expected to make searches more intuitive and efficient, marking a significant leap in smartphone usability.

As Samsung’s Galaxy S24 series enters the market, equipped with powerful AI features, the competition with Apple intensifies. With a titanium frame for enhanced durability and a range of AI-powered functions, the S24 aims to recapture the smartphone throne. The battle for dominance continues in the dynamic world of smartphones, where innovation and user-centric features take center stage.

Stay tuned for updates on Samsung’s Galaxy S24 series and explore how AI is reshaping the smartphone landscape. Share your thoughts on the integration of AI in smartphones and its impact on the overall user experience.