Have you ever wished you had a personal assistant who could follow you around, take care of your chores, entertain you, and keep you updated on the latest news and events? Well, you might be in luck, because Samsung has just unveiled a new version of its AI home companion robot, Ballie, that can do all that and more.

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Ballie the AI home companion robot (Samsung) (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

What is this personal assistant robot?

Ballie is a round, ball-shaped robot that can autonomously roll around your home and interact with other smart devices to provide customized services and act as your personal home assistant. It was first introduced at CES 2020 as a cute and friendly gadget that could monitor your pets, play with your kids, and activate your smart appliances.

Now four years later, Ballie has evolved into a more advanced and versatile device that can project images and videos on walls, floors, and ceilings, control non-connected appliances with its infrared transmitter, and communicate with you via voice and text messages.

Ballie the AI home companion robot (Samsung) (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

MORE: THE NEXT GENERATION OF TESLA’S HUMANOID ROBOT MAKES IT DEBUT

How the personal assistant robot works

Ballie uses a spatial LiDAR sensor and a 1080p projector to navigate your home and display various content on your surroundings. It can also connect to your smartphone, tablet, PC, and TV to access your data and preferences. Ballie learns from your patterns and habits to provide smarter and more personalized services.

Ballie the AI home companion robot (Samsung) (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

MORE: MEET THE WORLD’S FIRST AI MASSAGE ROBOT

8 things the robot can do for you and your pet

1) Greet you when you come home by projecting the word “Welcome” and showing you your schedule, weather, and reminders.

Ballie the AI home companion robot (Samsung) (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

2) Play your favorite music, podcasts, or audiobooks, and adjust the volume and lighting according to your mood.

3) Project workout videos on the wall or floor in an optimal size and track your progress and calories burned.

Ballie the AI home companion robot (Samsung) (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

4) Answer your phone calls and show you who is calling on the wall or ceiling.

5) Send you video updates of your pets or loved ones when you are away from home and let you talk to them via voice or text messages.

6) Project a video of greenery or scenery on the floor for your pet to enjoy and play with or even feed them.

7) Switch on or off your lights, thermostat, security system and other smart devices according to your schedule and preferences.

8) Control your non-connected appliances, such as your coffee maker, toaster, oven, and washing machine, with its infrared transmitter.

MORE: HOW THIS ROBOT HELPS YOU PROTECT AND CONNECT YOUR HOME

When can I get my hands on one of these robots?

Samsung announced that Ballie would be available for sale within the year but did not reveal any details on the pricing or availability. However, it is expected that Ballie will be compatible with Samsung’s SmartThings platform and other third-party devices and services. Samsung also said that Ballie will have various customization options such as colors, skins, and accessories to suit different tastes and personalities. To be honest, part of me is very curious about Ballie, while another part of me wants to kick it across the room. I’m still searching to strike the balance to hang on to my humanity while embracing the future.

Kurt’s key takeaways

Ballie is not the first companion robot of its kind, but it could potentially become a popular and useful gadget for many households. What’s great about Ballie is that it can assist you, entertain you, and connect you with your pets or loved ones. Ballie shows us that the future of smart homes is not only about convenience but also about creativity, personality, and emotion. We are curious to see how Ballie will evolve and improve over time, and how it will interact with other devices and services.

What do you think of Ballie? Would you like to have one in your home? What features or functions would you most use? Let us know by writing us at Cyberguy.com/Contact.

For more of my tech tips & security alerts, subscribe to my free CyberGuy Report Newsletter by heading to Cyberguy.com/Newsletter.

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Answers to the most asked CyberGuy questions:

Copyright 2024 CyberGuy.com. All rights reserved.

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Americans in the nation’s capital told Fox News their biggest concerns about artificial intelligence, with some saying they were afraid the rapidly advancing tech could lead to voter manipulation during the 2024 election cycle or eliminate jobs.

“When things like that have too much control … the power to swing is too far,” Cori, of Washington, D.C., told Fox News. “I do think that its gotten wildly out of control.”

WATCH MORE FOX NEWS DIGITAL ORIGINALS HERE

AI’s rapidly growing tech has consistently raised concerns about its ability to manipulate elections and eliminate jobs. Some 2024 presidential campaigns have already used the tool, including both Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis’ and former President Trump’s.

“I certainly think AI is going to have an impact on the election as people use AI … to attempt to influence communications around the election,” Gene said. “I don’t have any idea what type of impact it will have, but I think you’ll see a lot of bias around specific topics.”

Former President Donald Trump and Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis’ 2024 presidential campaigns have traded blows using AI-generated content.  (AP)

WHAT IS ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE (AI)?

DeSantis’ campaign posted an AI-generated image on social media in June portraying a fake photo of Trump hugging Biden’s former Chief Medical Advisor Dr. Anthony Fauci. The former president’s campaign also used AI to create a mock video of DeSantis’ 2024 presidential announcement showing guests in attendance such as Democratic megadonor George Soros, World Economic Forum Chair Klaus Schwab, former Vice President Dick Cheney, Adolf Hitler, the devil and the FBI.

“AI is very concerning in the sense of using someone else’s identity,” Steve said. “I think it’s going to cause a lot of problems for people who are celebrities and in the know.”

Americans in the nation’s capital shared their biggest concerns about growing artificial intelligence. Some were fearful about how advanced AI could influence the 2024 election and others were concerned about potential job loss.  (Fox News/Jon Michael Raasch)

‘FEAR AT 10’: SENATORS’ CONCERNS SPIKE ON IMPACT OF ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE ‘TO CHANGE VOTES’ IN 2024

Cori said she loves using AI for work, admitting she “couldn’t do her job” without the tech. But she also said its continuous advancement raises serious concerns about job security. 

“My concern is that people will be eliminated from jobs,” she said. “They won’t need us anymore. We’ll just become nothing.”

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In March 2023, Goldman Sachs predicted AI advancements could diminish or eliminate 300 million jobs globally. The tech was also a large focus during last year’s Hollywood strikes over the fear that AI could easily write scripts and replicate an actors’ image and likeness. 

“I think the unknown and uncontrollable nature of AI is somewhat of a concern for me,” Miles said. “There’s a lot that can’t be controlled, and I think that’s scary.” 

CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APP 

Abu said the difficulties of differentiating real and AI-generated content could be “dangerous” and needs to be federally managed.

“There must be set rules,” Abu said. “It must be regulated.”

Ramiro Vargas contributed to the accompanying video.

If you use X, formerly known as Twitter, you might’ve seen gray or gold-verified accounts promoting cryptocurrencies. 

They often pose as actual cryptocurrencies. While you would think these cryptocurrencies are legitimate — in reality, it’s the work of hackers who hijack X accounts.

These hackers target politicians, companies and other official accounts that you trust in order to trick you into buying into their crypto scam.

Some act as middlemen, selling accounts to malicious actors.

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Example of X verified accounts with gray and gold check marks (X Corp.)

Using trusted accounts for crypto scams

Cybersecurity experts MalwareHunterTeam found accounts belonging to a Canadian senator, a Brazilian politician and a nonprofit all being used to push cryptocurrencies. According to their reports, hackers used the Canadian politician’s account to pose as a legitimate cryptocurrency project, whose actual account isn’t even verified.

FBI’S POST HONORING MLK FLAGGED BY X WITH FACT-CHECKING COMMUNITY NOTE

That attack is two-fold. Not only are hackers trying to trick X users into thinking that they’re an actual cryptocurrency project, they also use that gold or gray check mark to make you think they are trustworthy.

Cybersecurity firm Mandiant also had its X profile taken over. Hackers changed the profile to impersonate the Phantom crypto wallet. They then promised free tokens to users who clicked a link.

Retweet by a hacker (MalwareHunter Team)

The screenshot above shows how the attacker used the official Phantom account to retweet posts that warned users to “never rush into clicking links.” This was probably a tactic to make their future crypto scam posts look more credible.​

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However, a BleepingComputer report found that users who clicked on the link would get redirected to download the real Phantom cryptocurrency wallet. That’s when hackers would attack — draining unsuspecting users’ crypto wallets.

Phantom X account (MalwareHunter Team)

MORE: THE NEW IPHONE SECURITY THREAT THAT ALLOWS HACKERS TO SPY ON YOUR PHONE

How to stay safe on X

Even though these hackers are doing everything they can to trick you into giving them your money, you can take these 10 steps to protect yourself.

1. If it’s too good to be true, then it probably isn’t true

The old adage is usually right. Most hackers hope you don’t see through their schemes and think that you’re getting an incredible deal. However, you have to ask yourself: Why would a company just give out free cryptocurrency? Wouldn’t there be a catch? What’s in it for the company?

2. Do your research

Before investing in cryptocurrency, you should make sure you have thoroughly looked into it. Make sure you know what you’re investing in, and you’ve spent ample time researching it. Just clicking on a social media post and trusting it usually isn’t a great idea and can make you a target for hackers.

3. Use a strong password

Use a strong password that you don’t reuse on other websites. Consider using a password manager to generate and store complex passwords. It will help you to create unique and difficult-to-crack passwords that a hacker could never guess. Second, it also keeps track of all your passwords in one place and fills passwords in for you when you’re logging into an account so that you never have to remember them yourself. The fewer passwords you remember, the less likely you will be to reuse them for your accounts.

4. Use two-factor authentication

Two-factor authentication adds an extra layer of security to your X account. When you log in, you need to enter both a password and a verification code or use a security key. This way, only you can access your account. To enroll, you need to have a verified email address linked to your account. X uses your email address to communicate with you and keep your account secure.

Once you turn on this feature, you need two things to log in to your account: your password and a secondary verification method. You can choose from a code, an app confirmation, or a physical security key.

5. Require email and phone number to request a reset password link or code

Having an up-to-date email address attached to your account is a great way to improve your account security. Also, adding a phone number to your account is a great step to keep your account secure. With a phone number on your account, you’ll be able to enroll in security features like login verification. It will also allow for faster account recovery. If you ever lose access to your account, having a phone number attached can make it easier for you to get back into your X account.

6. Be cautious of suspicious links

Be cautious of suspicious links, and always make sure you’re on twitter.com before you enter your login information.

7. Don’t fall for fake promises

Never give your username and password out to third parties, especially those promising to get you followers, make you money, or verify you.

8. Make sure your software is updated

Make sure your computer software, including your browser, is up to date with the most recent upgrades and antivirus software.

9. Have good antivirus software on all your devices

The best way to protect yourself from having your data breached is to have antivirus protection installed on all your devices. Having good antivirus software actively running on your devices will alert you of any malware in your system, warn you against clicking on any malicious links in phishing emails, and ultimately protect you from being hacked. Get my picks for the best 2024 antivirus protection winners for your Windows, Mac, Android & iOS devices.

10. Check to see if your account has been compromised 

If you really think your X account has been hacked, then you should check to see if your account has been compromised. You can do this by visiting the Security and Login section of your account settings and reviewing the devices and locations where you have logged in. If you see any suspicious activity, such as logins from unknown devices or locations, you should immediately change your password and enable two-factor authentication. You should also report any unauthorized access to X.

If you suspect you’re a victim of a social media scammer

If you suspect you’re a victim of a social media scammer, you need to take urgent action immediately. Here are some immediate steps to take.

Secure your account

Immediately change your password to lock potential hackers out. If you’re locked out of your account, contact X’s support immediately to recover it.

Inform your contacts

Let your friends and family know so that they’re aware. That way, hackers won’t dupe them with messages or requests coming from your compromised account.

Monitor account activities

Keep an eye on your active sessions, messages sent, and any changes made to your account. You should try to report and reverse any unfamiliar activity.

Seek expert help

If you believe your personal information, such as financial data or other sensitive details, has been compromised, consider reaching out to cybersecurity professionals or services. They can guide you on further recovery and protection steps.

Use identity theft protection 

If you want a service that will walk you through every step of the reporting and recovery process, one of the best things you can do to protect yourself from this type of fraud is to subscribe to an identity theft service.

Theft protection companies can monitor personal information like your home title, Social Security number, phone number, and email address. They can also alert you if it is on sale on the dark web or if someone is using it to open an account. They can also assist you in freezing your bank and credit card accounts to prevent further unauthorized use by criminals. See my tips and best picks on how to protect yourself from identity theft.

MORE: HOW TO OUTSMART CRIMINAL HACKERS BY LOCKING THEM OUT OF YOUR DIGITAL ACCOUNTS

Kurt’s key takeaways

These hackers are trying to take advantage of your trust and hope you let your guard down. That’s why it’s so important to be vigilant. While they are trying to fool you with official-looking accounts, try to verify them using the person or organization’s website or other social media accounts. While X’s gray and gold verification marks are usually legitimate, they’re not 100% foolproof.

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What do you think X or other social media platforms should do to prevent or stop crypto scams? Let us know by writing us at Cyberguy.com/Contact.

For more of my tech tips & security alerts, subscribe to my free CyberGuy Report Newsletter by heading to Cyberguy.com/Newsletter.

Ask Kurt a question or let us know what stories you’d like us to cover.

 Answers to the most asked CyberGuy questions:

Copyright 2024 CyberGuy.com. All rights reserved.

If you have difficulty seeing or hearing what’s on your iPhone, you might think that you need to buy a special device or download a complicated app to make it easier for you. 

But guess what? You don’t have to do any of that. 

Your iPhone already has a built-in feature that can help you adjust your settings according to your needs. It’s called the iPhone Accessibility Assistant, and it’s super easy to use.

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Accessibility assistant on an iPhone (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

What is the iPhone Accessibility Assistant?

The iPhone Accessibility Assistant is a shortcut that you can add to your Shortcuts app. It asks you a series of questions about your preferences and challenges and then suggests customized settings based on your answers. For example, it can help you:

• Increase the font size or contrast of your text
• Turn on captions or subtitles for videos
• Use voice control or dictation instead of typing
• Adjust the volume or balance of your audio
• Enable flash alerts or vibration for notifications
• And much more

The best part is that you can change your settings anytime you want, and you can also create different profiles for different situations. For example, you can have one profile for when you’re at home and another one for when you’re outside.

MORE: HOW TO CREATE YOUR OWN TEXT SHORTCUTS ON YOUR PHONE

How to Use the iPhone Accessibility Assistant

Using the iPhone Accessibility Assistant is very simple. Just follow these steps:

• Swipe down on the top of your phone screen and search Shortcuts
• Open the Shortcuts app, and navigate to your Gallery in the bottom right of your screen
• Search “Accessibility” and tap “iPhone and iPad Accessibility” to add it to your Shortcuts
• Then tap Add Shortcut

Using iPhone’s Accessibility Assistant (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

• Navigate to your Shortcuts by tapping the Shortcuts icon in the bottom left of your screen, and select “iPhone and iPad Accessibility”

SCREEN TIME FOR KIDS UNDER AGE 2 IS LINKED TO SENSORY DIFFERENCES IN TODDLERHOOD, NEW STUDY FINDS

• Answer the prompts, and choose a condition that applies to you. For example, you can choose “Vision,” “Hearing,” “Mobility” or “Cognitive”
• Then choose Finished

Steps to access iPhone’s Accessibility Assistant (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

Your iPhone will then create a note in the Notes app with recommendations for how to customize your iPhone and make it more user-friendly to your specifications. You can follow the instructions in the note.

DIGITAL EYE STRAIN IS A GROWING ISSUE AS THE MUSCLES OF THE EYES WORK OVERTIME, WARN VISION EXPERTS

Accessibility Assistant shortcut (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

MORE: 5 TECH SHORTCUTS THAT ARE SURE TO MAKE YOUR LIFE EASIER

Kurt’s key takeaways

If you’re curious about how the iPhone Accessibility Assistant can help you, why not give it a try yourself? It only takes a few minutes, and you might be surprised by how much it can improve your iPhone experience. Just remember to swipe down, search for “Shortcuts,” add the shortcut, and answer the prompts. It’s that easy.

CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APP

What are some of the features or improvements that you would like to see in the iPhone Accessibility Assistant? How would they benefit you or others? Let us know by writing us at Cyberguy.com/Contact.

For more of my tech tips & security alerts, subscribe to my free CyberGuy Report Newsletter by heading to Cyberguy.com/Newsletter.

Ask Kurt a question or let us know what stories you’d like us to cover.

Answers to the most asked CyberGuy questions:

Copyright 2024 CyberGuy.com. All rights reserved.

Taylor Swift stayed warm in the chilly New York weather Tuesday night as she turned 34. (Getty Images)

Welcome to Fox News’ Artificial Intelligence newsletter with the latest AI technology advancements. Subscribe now to get the Fox News Artificial Intelligence Newsletter in your inbox.

SCAM LIKELY: Taylor Swift AI-generated ad dupes fans. Continue reading…

AI SHOPPING: Walmart, Sam’s Club leveraging generative artificial intelligence. Continue reading…

‘GOOD CONVERSATION’: Speaker Johnson has ‘very good’ meeting with OpenAI CEO Sam Altman. Continue reading… 

House Speaker Mike Johnson, left, and OpenAI CEO Sam Altman (Craig Hudson/Bloomberg via Getty Images / Dustin Chambers/Bloomberg via Getty Images)

BAD ACTORS: Reputation risks posed by AI loom for companies amid heated election year. Continue reading…

IRREPLACEABLE ‘GENIUS’: Comedian George Carlin’s daughter calls out AI-generated recreation. Continue reading…

FILE – Photo of George Carlin performing on stage at the River Rock Show Theatre. (Kevin Statham/Redferns)

‘GARBAGE’: Video game voice actors fume over union’s AI licensing deal. Continue reading… 

‘ONLY GOD KNOWS’: JPMorgan Chase CEO Jamie Dimon explains why AI is ‘crucial’ to most businesses. Continue reading…

HOME ROBOT: Giant tennis ball-looking AI machine doubles as home helper, projector. Continue reading…

Ballie the AI home companion robot (Samsung) (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

‘OUT OF CONTROL’: DC resident rips new tech as others cite fears over election interference, job loss. Continue reading…

‘REALLY SCARY’: Scammers use sophisticated new tech to terrorize California family. Continue reading…

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Stay up to date on the latest AI technology advancements and learn about the challenges and opportunities AI presents now and for the future with Fox News here.

Drones used to be fancy gadgets for hobbyists or secret weapons for the military. But now they have a new job: delivering drugs. Yes, you heard that right. 

While El Pollo Loco is using drones to bring you chicken dinners, some bad guys are using them to smuggle drugs across borders.

Drug lords, cartels and other deviant organizations have been maximizing the benefits of drones to carry out their illegal drug runs. 

With many borders of hot zones being heavily watched and reinforced, drones are accomplishing what their human counterparts no longer can. Drones have essentially become the new drug mule.

CLICK TO GET KURT’S FREE CYBERGUY NEWSLETTER WITH SECURITY ALERTS, QUICK VIDEO TIPS, TECH REVIEWS, AND EASY HOW-TO’S TO MAKE YOU SMARTER

Police capture and carry drugs with a drone (BSF Punjab Frontier)

The rise of drug-carrying drones

Drug smuggling is a lucrative and risky business. Smugglers have to evade border patrols, customs agents, police officers, and rival gangs. That’s why some smugglers have turned to drones as a new way of moving drugs.

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Drones are cheap, easy to acquire, and hard to detect. They can fly over fences, walls, and checkpoints, and drop drugs at precise locations. They can also avoid human contact, reducing the chances of being caught or betrayed.

A drone carrying drugs (BSF Punjab Frontier)

Drones are being used to smuggle drugs in various regions of the world, such as:

North America: Drones sent by Mexican cartels carrying drugs such as cocaine, meth, and heroin regularly cross the U.S. border. The DEA also warned that drones could be used to deliver fentanyl, a synthetic opioid that is 50 times more potent than heroin and can be lethal in small doses.

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South Asia: Recently, border officials in the Punjab region of India revealed they intercepted 107 drug-carrying drones sent by smuggling gangs over the border from Pakistan, the highest number on record. Most were carrying heroin from Pakistan to be dropped and received by collaborators in the Punjab, notorious for having India’s worst levels of opioid addiction.

Middle East: The Jordanian air force shot down a drug-laden drone carrying crystal meth coming from Syria. Drug smugglers from Syria, the world’s largest producer of the black market amphetamine pill, Captagon, often use Jordan as a transit point to the wider Gulf Arab kingdoms and the global market. Syrian smugglers have increased the use of drones to smuggle Captagon and meth due to a security clampdown at the Jordanian border, which has made trafficking by land harder.

Drugs from a drone that was shot down (Jordan Armed Forces)

MORE: COULD THESE CREEPY DEAD STUFFED BIRDS BE USED AS DRONES FOR THE MILITARY?

Why drones are being utilized by the drug trade

There are many reasons why drones are being utilized by drug dealers. Here are the top seven contributors:

• Cheaper
• Easy to acquire
• Dependable — No snitching to authorities by drones if they are intercepted
• Less interference from law enforcement officials than delivering on land or air (as in, by hand or foot)
• Easier than trying to get drugs past borders that are often heavily surveillance
• Great for scoping out enemies or business opportunities
• Lowers risk because drug smugglers do not have to be physically present at the drop-off

Drugs from a drone that was shot down (Jordan Armed Forces)

MORE: 5 DRONES EXPERT REVIEWED

How drones are being used to transport contraband into prisons

Not only are drones being utilized for transporting illegal drugs, but drones are also being used to smuggle contraband items such as cell phones into prisons, too. The number of drone-related illegal activities has skyrocketed. 75% of intercepted illegal goods to prisons in Canada were delivered by drones. In the U.K., the government began to enforce a no-fly zone around all their prisons in October 2023 due to an exponential increase in contrabands by drones.

Drone flying over field (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

Law enforcement turns to drones to help stop crime

Globally, local law enforcement officials have begun to employ drones themselves. Officials in the U.K. have used heat-seeking drones to locate cannabis farms. This technology has proven to be effective in detecting illegal activities and reducing crime rates in the country.

Drone in the sky (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

Legitimate businesses employ drones to deliver prescriptions

It isn’t just nefarious entities that are innovating with the use of drones. Legitimate businesses such as drugstores and pharmacies are aiming to deliver prescriptions by drone in the U.S. and possibly the U.K. It looks like El Pollo Loco was ahead of the game.

MORE: WHAT’S NEXT FOR TECH IN 2024

Kurt’s key takeaways

As drones become more advanced and widespread, the challenges and opportunities of drone drug smuggling will also evolve and require constant adaptation and innovation from law enforcement. Drug smuggling is now in the air, and we need to tackle it head-on by developing effective counter-drone strategies and technologies.

CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APP

How do you think governments and law enforcement agencies should respond to the growing threat of drug-carrying drones? Let us know by writing us at Cyberguy.com/Contact.

For more of my tech tips & security alerts, subscribe to my free CyberGuy Report Newsletter by heading to Cyberguy.com/Newsletter.

Ask Kurt a question or let us know what stories you’d like us to cover.

Answers to the most asked CyberGuy questions:

Copyright 2024 CyberGuy.com. All rights reserved.

Technology is integral to our everyday lives, and for individuals who require assistance with vision or hearing, smartphones like the iPhone can be incredibly beneficial. We’ve compiled useful tips for those with vision challenges or who could use enhanced hearing support.

Before we dive in, if you’re an Android user, find out how to increase the font size on your Android here and learn how to unlock clearer sound here.

CLICK TO GET KURT’S FREE CYBERGUY NEWSLETTER WITH SECURITY ALERTS, QUICK VIDEO TIPS, TECH REVIEWS, AND EASY HOW-TO’S TO MAKE YOU SMARTER 

Woman navigating vision feature on iPhone (Apple) (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

How the iPhone 14 and 15 can improve your reading experience with accessibility features

If you are looking for a phone that has features specifically designed to help those with poor eyesight, you may want to consider using the accessibility features available on both the iPhone 14 and Apple’s latest iPhone 15 hardware. Both phones offer features such as adjusting the text size, color intensity, and tint to make reading easier, using VoiceOver to navigate by listening and performing gestures and using Magnifier to zoom in on objects near you.

Make text easier to read on your iPhone

Here are some simple ways to make your iPhone more accessible for those of you with low vision or blindness. Here is how to increase and bold text.

• On your iPhone, go to Settings
• Tap Accessibility
• Click Display & Text Size 
• Enable Bold Text and Larger Text to make the on-screen text more readable

Steps to make Bold Text and Larger Text on iPhone (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

• When you click on Larger Text, you will want to toggle on Larger Accessibility Sizes to access even bigger font sizes. This will affect the text size in apps that support Dynamic Type
• You are able to adjust the text size slider at the bottom of the screen to make the text larger or smaller

Step to adjust text size on iPhone (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

How to increase the contrast on your iPhone

• On your iPhone, go to Settings
• Tap Accessibility
• Click Display & Text Size
• Turn on Increase Contrast to enhance visibility and make screen elements easier to distinguish.

Steps to increase the contrast on your iPhone (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

MORE: NEVER MISS A CALL AGAIN, EVEN WHEN YOUR PHONE’S IN ANOTHER ROOM

Zoom in on the iPhone screen

Many apps let you adjust the size of specific items on the screen. For instance, you can use two fingers to make things bigger or smaller in Photos or Safari. You can also use the Zoom feature to enlarge the whole screen or just a portion of it. You can choose between Full Screen Zoom and Window Zoom modes. Here’s how to set up Zoom to make content more accessible for those of you with low vision.

• Go to Settings 
• Tap Accessibility
• Click Zoom
• Toggle on Zoom
  Double-tap three fingers to zoom
  Drag three fingers to move around the screen
  Double-tap three fingers and drag to change zoom
• Double-tap three fingers to zoom
• Drag three fingers to move around the screen
• Double-tap three fingers and drag to change zoom

Steps to zoom in on the iPhone screen (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

On the same screen, you can also adjust any of the following:

• Follow Focus: Track your selections, the text insertion point, and your typing
• Smart Typing: Switch to Window Zoom when a keyboard appears
• Keyboard Shortcuts: Control Zoom using shortcuts on an external keyboard
• Zoom Controller: Turn the controller on, set controller actions, and adjust the color and opacity
• Zoom Region: Choose Full-Screen Zoom or Window Zoom
• Zoom Filter: Choose None, Inverted, Grayscale, Grayscale Inverted, or Low Light
• Maximum Zoom Level: Drag the slider to adjust the level

Zoom-in accessibility features on iPhone (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

Turn on Magnifier on iPhone

This feature helps you zoom in on small text or objects, making them more accessible. 

• You can open the Magnifier app either by using Siri and saying something like “Siri, Open Magnifier” or by tapping on the app itself, which looks like a magnifying glass with a plus inside it. Also, on iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max, you can assign the Action button to open Magnifier.
• To adjust the zoom, drag the slider left or right.

How to turn on Magnifier app on iPhone (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

You can also use the Magnifier app to point and speak. All you have to do is just point your iPhone at anything and let it speak what it sees. Click here to find out more about that amazing feature.

Turn on VoiceOver on iPhone

VoiceOver is a screen reader that lets you use your iPhone with voice feedback. It tells you what’s on your screen, such as the battery level, the caller ID, and the app you’re using. You can change the voice speed and tone to your liking. When you touch the screen or drag your finger over it, VoiceOver speaks the name of the item your finger is on, including icons and text. Here’s how to set up VoiceOver on your iPhone. It’s important to note that VoiceOver changes the gestures you use to control your iPhone. When VoiceOver is on, you must use VoiceOver gestures to operate the iPhone. Here’s how to set it up.

• Go to Settings 
• Tap Accessibility
• Click VoiceOver
• Then toggle it ON
• A pop-up window will appear asking you to confirm your decision. Click OK

Steps to turn on Voiceover on iPhone (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

• You can also use Siri to turn on this feature by saying something like “Siri, Turn on VoiceOver.”
• Siri knows when VoiceOver is on and often reads more information back to you than appears on the screen. You can also use VoiceOver to read what Siri shows on the screen.

Listen to articles on your iPhone with Speak Screen

This is a feature that lets you have any text on your screen spoken aloud by Siri. Here’s how to enable it.

• Go to Settings
• Tap Accessibility
• Click Spoken Content 
• Then toggle ON Speak Screen
• Now you can use Siri to hear your iPhone speak the screen you want to listen to by going to the page you want it to read and saying something like: “Siri, Speak screen.”

Steps to turn on Speak Screen on iPhone (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

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Enhancing accessibility for hearing impairments

Here are some 7 tips and features to enhance the accessibility of your iPhone for hearing impairments, such as using hearing aids, Live Listen, visual alerts, RTT calls, FaceTime, video subtitles, headphone accommodation, and hearing aid apps.

Individuals using sign language (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

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1) Made for iPhone hearing aids: These are devices that are designed to work seamlessly with your iPhone. They can stream audio from your iOS device directly to your hearing aids and let you adjust the volume and settings of your hearing aids from your device. You can also use your iOS device as a microphone to pick up sounds around you and send them to your hearing aids. To check compatibility with your Apple devices or for how to use them click here.

2) Live Listen: Turn your iPhone into a remote microphone that streams sound to your hearing aids or AirPods using Live Listen. This can be useful in situations where you want to hear someone more clearly, such as in a noisy environment or when they are far away from you.

To use Live Listen, follow these steps:

• Make sure your hearing aids or AirPods are paired and connected to your iPhone.
• Go to Settings
• Tap Accessibility
• Click Hearing Devices or AirPods and turn on Live Listen.
• Swipe down from the top right corner of your screen to open the Control Center.
• Tap the ear icon, then click Live Listen.
• Place your iPhone in front of the person you want to hear and adjust the volume as needed on your iPhone.

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3) Visual alerts: Enable visual alerts on your iPhone by having the LED flash blink when you receive notifications. To enable visual alerts on your iPhone, you need to follow these steps:

• Go to Settings
• Tap on Accessibility
• Tap on Audio/Visual under the Hearing section.
• Turn on the switch for LED Flash for Alerts.
• You can also turn on the switch for Flash on Silent Mode if you want the LED flash to blink even when your phone is on silent mode, or you can toggle on Flash While Unlocked.

Steps to turn on Visual Alerts on iPhone (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

Now, whenever you receive a notification, such as a call, message, or email, your iPhone’s LED flash will blink to alert you.

4) RTT calls: Real-time text (RTT) calls offer instant message transmission, useful for those with hearing impairments. The Real-time text (RTT) feature allows people with hearing or speech disabilities to communicate in real-time with text during a phone call. RTT calls are aided by real-time text, which is transmitted instantly and in real-time as it is typed, usually without clicking the send button. To use RTT, you can turn on the RTT feature in your phone’s settings.

• Go to Settings
• Tap Accessibility
• Click RTT/TTY
• Toggle on Software RTT/TTY

Steps to turn on RTT calls on iPhone (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

• If you want to see the text messages on the call screen, turn on Show Notifications. If you want to see them in the Phone app, turn off Show Notifications.
• To make an RTT call, tap the RTT button when you dial a number or receive a call. You can also add RTT to your favorites or contacts by tapping the + button and choosing RTT.
• To send a text message during an RTT call, type your message and tap return. You can also use dictation or Siri to enter text. To read a text message, look at the call screen or the Phone app. You can also use VoiceOver or Speak Screen to read the text aloud.

Once enabled, you can place a call with RTT or switch from voice to RTT during a call. During an RTT call, the text that you enter appears to the other person in real-time, unlike with chat messaging. RTT calls use call minutes, just like a voice call. It’s important to note that RTT is not available when roaming abroad.

5) Video subtitles: Video content with closed captions (CC) or subtitles also works well on both the iPhone 14 & 15 for those who are deaf and or hard of hearing (SDH). Here’s how to set it up on your iPhone.

• Go to Settings
• Tap on Accessibility
• Tap on Subtitles & Captioning under the Hearing section.
• Turn on the switch for Closed Captions + SDH.
• You can also customize the appearance of the subtitles by tapping on Style and choosing from the presets or creating your own.

Steps to turn on Visual Subtitles on iPhone (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

• To watch video content with subtitles, make sure the video has a CC icon on the corner. Tap on the icon and select the language of the subtitles you want to see.

6) Headphone accommodation: Customize headphone audio settings to amplify soft sounds and adjust frequencies for your hearing needs. To make the most of this feature, you may want to consider downloading the TruHearing App. 

TruHearing App: The TruHearing App is a free app available on the Apple App Store that allows you to manage TruHearing brand hearing aids only. You can use the app to stay in touch with your hearing care professional, even when you can’t visit in person. The app lets you tailor your personal preferences right on your smartphone. The app also lets you easily contact your hearing care professional via text message, voice call, or video call.

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Kurt’s key takeaways 

Technology has the power to break down barriers and create a more inclusive world for individuals with vision and hearing impairments. Fortunately, the iPhone 14 and 15 offer a range of accessibility features, from text adjustments to voice feedback and real-time text calls, making them valuable tools for improving the digital experience for those of you with visual and hearing difficulties. We hope these tips and features empower you to navigate and interact with your iPhone more effectively so it enhances your overall quality of life.

What accessibility features are most important to you? Are there any that you would like to see added in the future? Let us know by writing us at Cyberguy.com/Contact.

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If you are a fan of Elvis Presley, you are in for a treat. 

A new immersive show called “Elvis Evolution” is coming soon, and it will let you see, hear and feel the legend like never before. 

The special tribute is pulled off all thanks to some amazing technology.

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Elvis Presley performs. (Elvis Presley Enterprises)

How technology brings Elvis to life onstage

“Elvis Evolution” uses a mix of live actors, intricate theatrical sets and cutting-edge technology, such as AI, holograms, virtual/mixed reality and projection mapping, to bring a life-size Elvis back to life onstage. You will witness his amazing career, from his humble beginnings to his global fame, and experience his unforgettable songs and performances.

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But that’s not all. You will also get to explore Elvis’ personal life, thanks to a deal with Authentic Brands Group, which owns the rights to Elvis’ image. You will have access to thousands of his photos and videos, some of which have never been seen before. You will get to know the man behind the music, his passions, his struggles and his legacy.

Elvis Presley playing the guitar. (Elvis Presley Enterprises)

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How you can interact with Elvis and his music

“Elvis Evolution” promises to be more than just a show. It’s an experience. You will not just watch Elvis, but interact with him. You will be able to walk in his shoes, touch his costumes, play his instruments and even sing along with him. You will feel like you are part of his story.

The show is created by Layered Reality, a leading immersive entertainment specialist. The company’s founder and CEO, Andrew McGuinness, says:

“Elvis Evolution is a next generation tribute to the musical legend that is Elvis Presley. Elvis maintains superstar status globally, and people around the world no longer want to sit there and passively receive entertainment — they want to be a part of it. It’ll be a memory-making experience that will be a bucket list item for Elvis fans and admirers around the world; people can step into the world of Elvis, walk in his shoes and celebrate his extraordinary musical legacy.”

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Elvis Presley singing. (Elvis Presley Enterprises)

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Where you can experience AI Elvis 

The show will launch in Central London this November, and there are plans for it to travel to other cities, such as Las Vegas, Tokyo and Berlin. If you want to experience “Elvis Evolution,” you can sign up now at layeredreality.com/elvis. You will get early access to the tickets before they go on sale to everyone else, and you will also receive the latest news about the show.

Elvis Presley singing. (Elvis Presley Enterprises)

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Kurt’s key takeaways

“Elvis Evolution” promises to be a unique and innovative show that celebrates the life and legacy of one of the most influential pop culture figures of the 20th century thanks to tech breakthroughs in AI. It is a show that will appeal to Elvis fans of all ages and backgrounds, as well as music lovers who want to discover the origins of rock ‘n’ roll. It is a show that will make you feel closer to Elvis than ever before and make you appreciate his talent, charisma and impact on the world. “Elvis Evolution” will be a show that will have you saying, “Thank you, thank you very much.”

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You love your Apple devices, right? They are sleek, powerful and easy to use.

But what if something goes wrong with them? In that case, understanding warranty coverage can be a game-changer.

Apple guarantees that your devices will work as intended for a certain period of time. How long, you ask?

Well, that depends on the type of device and the service option you choose. Let me break it down for you.

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Apple Watch and iPhone 15 (Apple)

Duration of Apple’s standard warranty

Apple, known for its commitment to quality, offers a warranty for its devices to ensure customer satisfaction. Here’s what you need to know about the duration:

• iPhone: The iPhone comes with a standard one-year limited warranty. This warranty covers manufacturing defects and hardware issues, giving you peace of mind during the initial year of ownership.
• Apple Watch: Just like the iPhone, the Apple Watch also enjoys a one-year limited warranty. This warranty provides coverage against manufacturing defects, ensuring your smartwatch functions flawlessly during its first year.
• AirPods: Apple’s popular wireless earbuds are also covered by a one-year limited warranty. This warranty safeguards your AirPods from manufacturing defects and hardware issues for the first year of use.

The iPhone 15, Apple Watch and AirPods  (Apple)

How to check warranty status

To determine if your warranty is currently active for your Apple devices, Apple provides a straightforward and convenient way to check by logging onto https://checkcoverage.apple.com/.

AppleCare & Warranty page (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

By checking your coverage, you can quickly and easily determine if your warranty is still active for your specific Apple product category. This information can be invaluable in understanding your device’s coverage and whether it’s time to consider extending your protection with AppleCare+ for that added peace of mind.

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How to see what your coverage includes

• Go to mysupport.apple.com.
• Sign in with your Apple ID.
• Choose your device. You can see details about the support that you’re eligible for, including technical support and hardware repairs.

Check when your coverage expires

• Go to mysupport.apple.com.
• Sign in with your Apple ID.
• Choose your device. The expiration date is listed along with other details about your device coverage.

Common issues not covered under warranty:

While Apple devices are known for their quality and reliability, there are still some common issues that may occur with these devices that are typically not covered under warranty. It’s essential to be aware of these potential issues and understand that they might require out-of-pocket expenses for repair or replacement if you don’t have extended coverage. Here are 8 common problems that may not be covered under warranty:

1) Accidental damage: Accidents happen, and unfortunately, most warranties, including Apple’s standard warranty, do not cover accidental damage. This includes situations like dropping your iPhone or Apple Watch, spilling liquid on your device, or physically damaging your AirPods.

2) Screen damage: Cracked or shattered screens are a frequent issue with iPhones and Apple Watches. While the standard warranty covers manufacturing defects, it generally does not cover physical damage to the screen, unless you have AppleCare+ or a separate insurance plan that specifically includes screen damage coverage.

3) Battery wear and tear: Over time, the battery in your iPhone or Apple Watch may degrade, leading to reduced battery life and performance. Normal battery wear and tear are not typically covered by a warranty, especially after the initial one-year period. However, if your battery experiences an issue unrelated to normal wear, it may still be covered.

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4) Software issues: Software-related problems, such as app crashes, glitches, or slow performance, are generally not covered under warranty. These issues can often be resolved through software updates, troubleshooting, or by visiting an Apple Store for assistance.

5) Out-of-warranty repairs: If your device experiences a non-covered issue after the warranty has expired, you may need to pay for the repair or replacement. These costs can vary depending on the specific problem and the model of your device.

6) Unauthorized modifications: If you’ve modified your device in ways not authorized by Apple, such as jailbreaking your iPhone or using non-Apple components for repairs, your warranty may be voided, and Apple may refuse service for any issues that arise.

7) Lost or stolen devices: Warranties do not cover lost or stolen devices. If your Apple device goes missing, you will likely need to replace it at your own expense. If your Apple device does go missing, you may want to use the Find My app to locate it.

8) Cosmetic damage: Minor cosmetic issues, like scratches or dents, are generally not covered by a warranty unless they are directly related to a manufacturing defect.

Damaged iPhone (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

It’s essential to read the terms and conditions of your warranty, whether it’s the standard warranty, to understand the extent of coverage and any limitations. Additionally, consider purchasing insurance or protection plans like AppleCare + if you want coverage for accidental damage or other issues not covered under the standard warranty, like theft and loss.

Extending your coverage with AppleCare+

Apple offers an additional layer of protection through AppleCare+. For a fee, you can extend your warranty coverage, adding valuable benefits:

• Extended coverage: AppleCare+ extends the warranty for your iPhone, Apple Watch, or AirPods, providing peace of mind beyond the initial year.
• Accidental damage protection: With AppleCare+, accidental damage is also covered. This includes incidents like dropping your iPhone, submerging your Apple Watch or damaging your AirPods.
• Renewal options: Another valuable feature of AppleCare+ is the ability to renew coverage. Even after your initial one-year warranty expires, you can renew your AppleCare+ plan annually as long as your devices remain eligible, ensuring ongoing protection and support.
• 24/7 technical support: In addition to warranty coverage, AppleCare+ also offers access to 24/7 technical support, providing expert assistance whenever you encounter issues with your devices.

You can purchase AppleCare+ when you buy your Apple device or within a specific time frame after the initial purchase. At the time of publishing, these are the costs of AppleCare+

• iPhone: from $3.99 monthly or $79 for 2 years
• Apple Watch:from $2.49 monthly or $49 for 2 years
• AirPods: $29 for 2 years

Understanding your Apple Warranty and AppleCare+ options can help you make informed decisions to protect your beloved Apple devices. So, whether you’re a devoted iPhone user, an Apple Watch enthusiast, or a fan of AirPods, rest assured that Apple has your back with a warranty that covers, extends, and renews, ensuring your tech remains a trusted companion on your digital journey.

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Additional coverage options

You also have the option to purchase additional coverage through third-party insurance plans, which include:

These plans offer various levels of coverage and may also protect against accidental damage, theft and loss.

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Kurt’s key takeaways

The iPhone, Apple Watch and AirPods all come with a standard warranty for one year. This warranty covers any problems with the hardware or the manufacturing of your device. But what if you drop your iPhone and crack the screen, or spill coffee on your AirPods?

That’s where AppleCare+ comes in handy. It’s an extra protection plan that gives you more coverage for accidental damage, a longer warranty period, and faster technical support. Of course, you can also choose other insurance plans that suit your needs and budget. Both options provide valuable protection beyond what the standard warranty covers. The important thing is to be aware of your options and protect your Apple devices from any unexpected issues.

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How do you feel about Apple’s warranty policy? Do you think it’s fair and sufficient, or do you think it should be more comprehensive and flexible? Let us know by writing us at Cyberguy.com/Contact.

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What if I told you that a robot can make you a cup of coffee just by watching a video of a human doing it? 

It’s almost hard to believe, but it actually happened. 

Thanks to a breakthrough in artificial intelligence, humanoid robots can now watch and learn from humans, just like we do.

Humanoid Figure-01 robot (Figure)

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The company behind the coffee-making robot

The company behind this innovation is Figure, which has developed a full-body humanoid robot called Figure-01. This AI robot can walk, talk, and interact with its surroundings, and it can also learn new skills by watching videos.

Humanoid Figure-01 robot (Figure)

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How the robot was able to make a cup of coffee

Figure recently demonstrated how Figure-01 can make coffee using a Keurig machine. The demonstration took place at Figure’s headquarters in San Francisco, where a human asked Figure-01 to make him a coffee. The robot responded with a cheerful “Sure, I can do that!” and proceeded to the Keurig machine.

Humanoid Figure-01 robot making coffee (Figure)

The robot had previously watched a video of a human making coffee using the same machine, and it had learned how to mimic the human’s actions. It used its vision system to recognize the machine and its parts, and its motion planning system to coordinate its movements.

It opened the hatch, inserted the pod, closed the hatch, and pressed the button, all by itself. It then waited for the coffee to be ready, and let the human grab the full cup out of the machine himself.

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Humanoid Figure-01 robot making coffee (Figure)

The whole process took less than a minute, and the robot did not need any human assistance or guidance. It was able to perform the task autonomously, using only the video as a reference. This is an example of end-to-end AI, where the neural networks take video in and trajectories out.

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Humanoid Figure-01 robot making coffee (Figure)

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What this means for AI and robotics

The demonstration was not only impressive but also significant and impactful. It showed that Figure-01 has added a new autonomous action to its library, which can be transferred to any other Figure robot running on the same system via swarm learning.

This means that if one robot learns something new, all the other robots can learn it, too, without having to watch the video themselves. This makes the learning process faster and more efficient and enables the robots to share their knowledge and skills with each other.

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Humanoid Figure-01 robot making coffee (Figure)

The demonstration also showed that this learning process could be used across a broad range of different tasks and that Figure-01 can learn to do anything from peeling bananas to using power tools to making art, all by watching videos. The robot can also learn not only what to do but also why and how to do it and how to adapt to different situations and contexts.

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What’s next for Figure-01 and video learning?

The demonstration was just the beginning. Figure says that 01 can learn to do anything by watching videos and that it is constantly improving its capabilities and performance. The company has big plans for the future, and it wants to make its robot more versatile, creative, and collaborative.

Humanoid Figure-01 robot (Figure)

Kurt’s key takeaways

Imagine if Figure-01 could soon go find a cup in the kitchen, check that the Keurig’s plugged in and has plenty of water in it, make the press-button coffee, and bring it to your desk without spilling it, all by watching videos and using its walking and language capabilities. These are some of the possibilities and applications of video learning for robots, and they are not far from reality. 

Does this sound like progress or simply terrifying where this may lead? What would you like to teach a robot by showing it a video? Let us know by writing us at Cyberguy.com/Contact.

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