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TECHSWU #13
Tech Stuff We Use


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The healthcare industry is undergoing a major transformation with the integration of IoT technology. The emergence of "Smart Hospitals" is revolutionizing healthcare delivery by connecting various devices and gadgets to enhance patient care and streamline hospital operations. Some highlights from the article include:
โข The Internet of Things (IoT) in healthcare involves integrating everyday objects, wearables, and medical gadgets with internet-connected sensors and software. ๐
โข IoT enables continuous monitoring of patient vitals, early diagnosis of issues, and prevention of pressure ulcers through smart mattresses. ๐ฅ๐ก
โข IoT sensors improve operational efficiency by monitoring equipment location and status, automating medicine dispensing, and reducing errors. โ๏ธ๐
โข Artificial Intelligence (AI) is transforming medical diagnosis by analyzing medical images with precision, reducing human error, and improving patient outcomes. ๐ค๐ฌ
โข Telemedicine allows remote consultations and continuous tracking of patient health, reducing the need for physical visits to hospitals. ๐๐
โข Blockchain technology ensures secure health data management, protecting patient information and facilitating seamless sharing of medical data among healthcare providers. ๐๐
โข The future of smart hospitals involves creative uses of IoT technology, including predictive maintenance, mobile apps for real-time health information, and personalized treatment plans. ๐๐ฑ
Overall, IoT integration in healthcare has the potential to create a more efficient, patient-centered, and cost-effective environment in hospitals. The possibilities are endless, and we can expect further advancements in the world of smart hospitals in the future. โจ๐ฅ

In this article, Digital Camera World provides a roundup of the best professional cameras in 2024. ๐ท The author highlights that the best professional cameras are those that can do everything well, such as delivering high-quality stills, locked-in autofocus, fast burst modes, and crisp video. ๐ The article includes a list of top picks for different categories, including the best pro beginner camera (Canon EOS R6 II), best pro Canon camera (Canon EOS R5), best pro DSLR (Nikon D850), best pro video camera (Panasonic S5 IIX), best pro Sony camera (Sony A1), and best pro Nikon camera (Nikon Z9). ๐ช The author also provides answers to common FAQs and offers advice on how to choose the right professional camera based on specific needs. ๐ค๐ก

๐ Apple Vision Pro vs Meta Quest Pro: Which is Best? ๐ค
The Apple Vision Pro ๐ and Meta Quest Pro ๐ฎ are both professional-grade mixed reality headsets, but the Vision Pro outperforms the Quest Pro in most categories. ๐ The Vision Pro has a more customized ergonomic design, higher display resolution, more RAM and storage options, and a proprietary operating system. ๐ฒ The Quest Pro, on the other hand, is more affordable and offers access to a wider range of apps through the Meta marketplace. ๐ฐ
When it comes to pricing, the Quest Pro is significantly cheaper than the Vision Pro. However, the Vision Pro offers a more comfortable and customized fit. ๐ In terms of visual fidelity, the Vision Pro has superior resolution and less distortion compared to the Quest Pro. ๐ฅ๏ธ The Vision Pro also excels in spatial audio capabilities and extended reality experiences. ๐ง Additionally, the Vision Pro has advanced hand and eye-tracking functionality, while the Quest Pro requires the use of controllers. ๐ฎ
Overall, the Vision Pro is the better choice for those seeking a state-of-the-art spatial computing experience. ๐ฏ

๐ Phoenix has secured $1.2m in funding for transit-oriented rail development as part of its mission to build a city that works for everyone. The funding will be used to improve access to public transit and affordable housing. This type of grant helps cities plan with the community around major transportation projects.
โข Phoenix has received $1.2m for transit-oriented rail development ๐๐ฐ
โข The funding will be used to improve access to public transit and affordable housing ๐๐๏ธ
โข Grants like this help cities plan with the community around major transportation projects ๐๐ค

๐ฑ Instagram is testing a program called "Creator A.I." that uses artificial intelligence to allow influencers to chat with their fans through direct messages and comments. The program essentially creates a chatbot that mimics the voice of the influencer to respond to fans. Most of the messages sent would be automated and disclose that they are AI-generated. The goal is to help influencers better connect with their fans while reducing the amount of work required to personally respond to a large number of messages and comments. Creators can provide data for Meta to copy their speaking style, including previous Instagram posts, direct messages, comments, and audio from Reels and Instagram Stories. The program is still in testing and it is unclear if it will be widely released. ๐ฌ๐ค

Tesla has notified customers of a delivery delay for its Cybertruck, disappointing several customers. ๐ The delay is speculated to be due to accelerator lubrication issues that may cause pedal slippage. โ๏ธ The delivery delay is expected to last for seven days. Tesla has apologized to affected customers and canceled their delivery arrangements, informing them that they will be contacted again once the scheduling issues are resolved. Despite the delivery hurdles, Tesla is expanding the Cybertruck's manufacturing at its Austin Gigafactory and aims to produce 900 to 1,000 units per week. ๐ญ In Q1, Tesla delivered 2,803 Cybertrucks. The company is also promoting the Cybertruck through shows in various countries, even though it is not yet available for sale in those markets. Despite some challenges, the electric vehicle industry is projected to continue growing as governments tighten emissions laws and consumers embrace sustainable transportation. โก๏ธ๐

The e-bike industry is maturing and expanding its design ambitions and engineering sophistication. New features and design innovations are inspiring new applications, from cargo hauling to lightweight commuters. Some highlights from the article include:
โข ๐ฐ Prices of e-bikes are dropping, making them more accessible to a wider range of consumers.
โข ๐ Cargo bikes are becoming increasingly popular and are seen as a trend for 2024. They have heavy-duty frames for payload capacity and are designed for hauling gear.
โข ๐ฒ E-bikes are seen as a legitimate alternative to polluting cars, as they help reduce car trips and carbon emissions.
โข ๐ Government incentives, such as tax credits and rebate programs, are encouraging the adoption of e-bikes.
โข ๐ข E-bikes are being used for a variety of purposes, including commuting, grocery shopping, and dropping kids off at school.
โข ๐ The industry still faces challenges, such as navigating complex regulations and addressing concerns about uncertified bikes and batteries.
โข โค๏ธ Overall, e-bikes are gaining popularity due to their convenience, environmental benefits, and improved design features.


WhatsApp users can now utilize Meta AI to generate images or text within their chats. This new feature, integrated into WhatsApp, allows users to access generative AI directly through the app, making it easily accessible to the platform's billions of users worldwide. ๐ Meta AI on WhatsApp can provide real-time information, generate images, and even tell jokes. Users can activate Meta AI by giving prompts of "@MetaAI" during their conversations. The feature is currently being rolled out slowly, and some users have already received the update, while others are still waiting. ๐ Overall, Meta AI is seen as a game-changer in the AI space, allowing users to seamlessly integrate AI technology into their everyday conversations on WhatsApp. ๐ฎ However, it's important to note that conversations tagged with Meta AI are not end-to-end encrypted and may be recorded and used by Meta to train and improve its AI capabilities. ๐

The NAB 2024 show in Las Vegas has showcased several innovative new products in the media and entertainment industry. Some highlights from the show include:
๐ธ AI-infused gadgets such as the OBSBOT TWL Air, an AI-powered streaming camera that helps creators with video streaming.
๐ The DJI VATA 2 FPV Drone, which offers immersive flight experiences and stunning imagery.
๐๏ธ The RรDE Interview PRO, a handheld wireless microphone that captures professional audio in various settings.
๐ท The Marshall CV730-ND3 PTZ camera, which features a 9 million-pixel sensor and 30x optical zoom.
๐ฅ The Tilta Foldable Arca Baseplate, which allows for fast transitions between horizontal and vertical shooting.
These products offer innovative features that can elevate content creation in the media and entertainment industry. Overall, NAB 2024 has showcased cutting-edge technology that can improve workflows and enhance the quality of content. ๐

Volvo is debunking myths about the safety of electric vehicles (EVs) in a crash test. While there is a common misconception that EVs are less safe than gasoline cars, Volvo is proving that this is not true. The company is known for its commitment to safety, and its electric models undergo stringent safety tests to ensure they meet the same safety standards as their gas-powered counterparts. ๐๐ฅ
Highlights from the article include:
โข Volvo's approach to safety involves a range of technologies and strategies aimed at preventing accidents and minimizing their impact. ๐๐ฅ
โข Driver assistance systems, such as sensors and a semi-autonomous driving system, enhance road safety in Volvo's electric models. ๐ฆ๐
โข Volvo focuses on cognitive science research to better understand driver-vehicle-environment interactions and improve safety systems. ๐ง ๐ฌ
โข The company implements user-friendly interfaces to minimize driver distractions and improve accident avoidance. ๐ฑ๐ซ๐
โข Despite preventive measures, accidents can still occur, and Volvo emphasizes the importance of protecting occupants through strategic car structures and high-strength steel. ๐ช๐ก๏ธ
โข Volvo conducts thorough crash tests to ensure the safety of its electric models, using advanced facilities and simulations to replicate real-world collision scenarios. ๐ฅ๐ง
Overall, Volvo's commitment to safety and extensive testing prove that EVs can be just as safe, if not safer, than gas-powered cars. โก๐๐

Commuting can be a grueling experience, but with the right tech accessories, the journey can become a little easier. ๐๐ผ๐ฑ In this article, the author, who has a lengthy daily commute, shares their favorite tech products that have made their commute more bearable. Some highlights include:
โข Casely Power Pod: A compact and ergonomic battery pack that provides a quick boost of power for your phone during long commutes. ๐๐ช
โข Casetify Snappy Cardholder + Stand: A MagSafe wallet that allows quick access to a transit card while providing a secure place to store it. ๐ณ๐ผ๐ฑ
โข Birdie Personal Safety Alarm: A personal safety alarm that can be handy for solo commuters, offering peace of mind in case of emergency. ๐จ๐
โข AirPods Pro (2nd Gen): Noise-cancelling earbuds that provide a quality audio experience during long-distance commutes. ๐ง๐ต
The author recommends these accessories based on their personal experience and thorough testing. These products have proven to be reliable and useful for their daily commute. Additionally, the author shares a list of basic essentials for commuting, including a comfortable bag, a portable charger, noise-cancelling headphones, a transit card wallet, and a water bottle. ๐โก๐ง๐ผ๐ฐ

As spring arrives and the weather improves โ๏ธ, more people are getting active and venturing outdoors. To stay fit and make the most of your workouts, outdoor fitness trackers can be a great tool. Here are some highlights from the article:
โข Xiaomi Smart Band 8 Pro ๐โโ๏ธ: This tracker stands out with its large OLED display, precise heart rate measurement โค๏ธ, sleep monitoring ๐ด, and variety of sports modes ๐๏ธโโ๏ธ. It also has a long battery life of up to 14 days โก๏ธ and is waterproof up to 50 meters ๐โโ๏ธ.
โข Fitbit Charge 6 โ๏ธ: The latest model from Fitbit offers a slim design, high-resolution color display ๐, and strong integration with Google services ๐. It includes a pedometer, calorie counter ๐, sleep tracker, and an integrated heart rate monitor โค๏ธ. It can also show notifications from your smartphone ๐ฑ and has the ability to write a single-channel ECG โ๏ธ.
โข Huawei Band 8 ๐ผ: This affordable fitness tracker features a compact design, 1.47-inch AMOLED display, optical heart rate sensor โค๏ธ, and measures heart rate, blood oxygen saturation, and sleep quality ๐ด. It has a battery life of up to 9 days ๐ and offers a wide range of sports modes ๐๏ธโโ๏ธ.
โข Samsung Galaxy Fit 3 โ๏ธ: Samsung's latest fitness tracker comes in a slim and lightweight design with a 1.36-inch AMOLED display. It includes a continuous heart rate monitor โค๏ธ, sleep monitoring ๐ด, pedometer, and activity tracker. It has a battery life of up to 7 days โก๏ธ and is waterproof ๐.
Overall, these fitness trackers offer a range of functions to help you track and improve your fitness and health. They are a perfect fit for those looking for comprehensive monitoring and self-optimization. ๐๐ช

Limitless, an artificial intelligence (AI) company, has developed an AI-assisted wearable device called the Limitless Pendant. This small, circular device is designed to record and process conversations, acting as a "memory assistant" that helps users remember and access information. The device is attached to a shirt collar or lapel and sends audio recordings to a cloud-based, encrypted AI storage system. Users can search through and summarize these recordings to find important information or create draft emails. The device has been designed to blend in with clothing and stand out at the same time. It includes a subtle LED light to indicate it is recording. The Limitless Pendant is priced at $99 and is expected to ship in August. โจ๐ก

Penn State engineers have developed AI wearable sensors that can safeguard infant health by detecting neuromotor issues with 99.9% accuracy. ๐ถ๐ก
The sensors, created by the Larry Cheng group at Penn State University, are designed to monitor the motor functions of infants and identify signs of developmental disorders such as cerebral palsy and autism spectrum disorder. ๐ฒ๐ฌ
Key highlights from the article include:
โข The AI sensors use soft wireless inertial measurement units (IMUs) that are attached to the infant's forehead, wrists, and ankles. ๐ถ๐ช๐ค
โข The sensors have mechanical properties similar to human skin, making them gentle and non-intrusive. ๐ถ๐๐งช
โข The data collected by the sensors is processed by a machine learning algorithm to identify movement patterns as either normal, high risk, or abnormal. ๐๐คโ๏ธ
โข The technology improves the accuracy of diagnoses and reduces costs and materials required for diagnosis compared to traditional methods. ๐ฏ๐ฐ๐ฌ
โข The researchers plan to conduct large-scale studies to validate the results and collaborate with medical professionals to further refine the technology. ๐๐ฌ๐ฅ
โข The AI wearable sensors have the potential to revolutionize early detection and care for infant neuromotor conditions and improve outcomes for at-risk newborns. ๐๐๐ถ๐
