The Comunicano Sunday Edition for October 6th 2024
Sunday. Sunday. Sunday.
It’s Sunday, so get ready to watch football, baseball, and even hockey….but before all that, let’s get on with today’s Comunicano…. Ah, Apple. Just when you thought your watch couldn’t nag you anymore about closing those rings, they’re introducing Apple Intelligence. Because apparently, your devices weren’t judgy enough. Now, thanks to iOS 18.1, it can help you rephrase that passive-aggressive email to your boss—so, you know, you don't get fired for saying, “Best regards” like you mean, "I hope your stapler runs out of staples for all eternity." And AI? Oh, they’re throwing it everywhere! Photo editing, voicemail transcriptions, email summaries! Which, let’s be honest, is great—because who reads all their emails? My inbox is like the Bermuda Triangle. Stuff goes in, and well, I just hope nobody finds out that I didn’t RSVP to my cousin’s dog’s birthday party.
But wait—Apple’s not alone! Google’s like, “Hold my algorithm!” They've got NotebookLM's Deep Dive feature, turning your dullest documents into a podcast. Yes, that’s right, folks. You’ll be stuck in a thrilling debate between the history of shoelaces and the importance of paper clips. Get ready for Season 1 of “Binder Clips: The Silent Office Hero.” Now, if you're feeling too “productive dude” hop over to the Robot Block Party in Boston, where robots are shaking hands and kissing babies—well, if babies were screws and bolts. The future is here, folks, and it’s a lot more "Wall-E" than "Terminator." We’ve got robots that do healthcare, manufacturing, and entertainment. So basically, they'll fix your body, make your car, and then beat you in Mario Kart—all before lunch
And in case your robot didn't show up to fix the WiFi, don’t worry—Cloudflare just fended off the largest DDoS attack in history. 3.8 Tbps, which in non-nerd terms is like trying to stop a fire hose with a tea cup. But hey, they did it. Somewhere, there's a hacker furiously Googling, "How to outsmart a nerd with a better nerd."
Meanwhile, Google isn't just stopping thieves from hacking—they’re stopping thieves. New Android theft protection features will lock down your phone faster than a Karen can ask to speak to a manager. Imagine you're holding your phone, and BAM! It’s like Fort Knox in your hand. Unless, of course, you drop it—then it's just a very expensive paperweight.
And speaking of breaking things, over in the Sports section... FIFA's in trouble! The European court basically told them, “Hey, remember that time you fined that guy for leaving Russia? Yeah, that’s not how contracts work here, bud.” He just wanted out of his job—relatable—and now FIFA’s player rules are looking shakier than a toddler’s first steps.
Meanwhile, flying cars are officially a thing. Meet George Jetson, folks! Except... wait a second, did they just skip the part where we all got hoverboards first? I mean, come on, Back to the Future promised us that by 2015! These flying cars better come with auto-pilot, ‘cause I can barely parallel park on the ground, let alone 10,000 feet in the air.
Now, one more for all you Los Angeles sports fans—there’s a bar called Last Call at the Clippers’ new arena. Because what says “celebrating final shots” better than literally drinking to the last-second buzzer-beater? Nothing like combining basketball with binge drinking! If you make the shot, great—if you miss it, hey, maybe it’s time for another round.
And finally, California is banning "sell-by" dates to fight food waste. Because, let’s be real, nobody knew what those dates even meant anyway. "Best By"? "Use By"? I don't know—I've got milk in the fridge from last week that’s giving me side-eye every time I open the door. Now we’ll just have "Best If Used By"...whatever feels right. It’s like living dangerously but with yogurt.
So, whether your phone's locking itself up, your robot’s getting your groceries, or you’re sipping a beer as flying cars zoom by... welcome to the future, folks. It's wild out here, and that and more are all here today, only in “The Comunicano.”
Andy Abramson
The Comunicano Deep Dive
Apple Watch
Hold On. It’s Coming—Apple Intelligence is set to launch soon, bringing advanced AI and machine learning features to Apple devices. These updates, including tools for writing, image clean-up, and voice transcription, are part of iOS 18.1 and macOS Sequoia 15.1. The enhancements are expected to have a significant impact on productivity, creativity, and how users interact with their devices. Apple's approach to AI, integrated directly into its ecosystem, positions it as a major leap forward in user experience.
Apple Intelligence Explained—Apple Intelligence will initially introduce 10 AI-driven features in iOS 18.1 and macOS Sequoia 15.1, enhancing productivity and user experience. Key features include Writing Tools for rephrasing and summarizing text, Image Clean Up for photo editing, natural language photo search, and automated memory movies. AI-powered summaries in emails and messages simplify information, while transcriptions for calls and Focus mode for reducing interruptions improve daily workflows. These updates set the stage for a smarter Siri and more integrated AI across Apple devices.
From The Grave—Steve Jobs famously said, "Being the richest man in the cemetery doesn’t matter to me." This sentiment reflected his belief that true fulfillment came from creating innovative products that made a difference. His legacy at Apple, Pixar, and beyond shows that success was never just about wealth, but about enriching people's lives. His return to Apple after founding NeXT sparked a renaissance for the company, resulting in iconic products like the iMac, iPhone, and iPad, cementing his influence on technology, design, and user experience for decades to come.
NotebookLM Watch
A Deep Dive on Deep Diver—Google's experimental AI podcast feature, Deep Dive, turns any document into an engaging conversation. Created through NotebookLM, this AI-generated audio tool can transform anything from Wikipedia entries to personal notes into podcast-style dialogues with human-like banter. Launched by Google Labs, it's praised for its ease of use and ability to make mundane topics interesting. Though still imperfect, its potential for AI-driven media creation is vast. Some users, including AI experts, are hooked on its capabilities. This marks a significant step forward for AI in media and knowledge dissemination. Check out this funny Deep Dive.
ChatGPT Watch
Forget The Rest. Use The Best—MakeUseOf compares ChatGPT to specialist AI chatbots, arguing that ChatGPT's versatility often makes it more effective. While specialist bots may excel in specific fields, ChatGPT’s ability to handle a broad range of topics, generate creative solutions, and engage in complex conversations gives it an edge in many cases. Its adaptability makes it a strong choice for general-purpose tasks, even when specialized tools are available.Robot Watch
The Robots Are Coming—The 7th Annual Robot Block Party in Boston showcased cutting-edge robotics for both youth and industry professionals. Organized by MassRobotics, the event featured hands-on activities and demonstrations aimed at inspiring the next generation of engineers and innovators. Highlights included exhibits from companies developing robots for healthcare, manufacturing, and entertainment. The event emphasized robotics' growing role in everyday life and the importance of STEM education in shaping the future.
Help for Wounded Warriors—Hyundai Motor Group released a video titled "10M March," highlighting how robotics are aiding the rehabilitation of soldiers. The video showcases the use of advanced robotics technology to assist injured military personnel in regaining mobility and improving their quality of life. Hyundai's robotics developments play a crucial role in the medical and rehabilitation fields, emphasizing the company's commitment to innovation and social impact through technology.
WordPress Watch
Matt Fires Back—The recent internal crisis at Automattic involving a lawsuit filed by WP Engine led to some employees being upset. In response, Automattic offered a buy-out package called the "Alignment Offer" to employees, allowing those who disagreed with the company's actions to resign with a generous severance. The offer led to the departure of 159 employees, or 8.4% of the company, with a significant impact on the WordPress ecosystem teams. The post reflects the emotional toll and future optimism following this decision. Read more at The Verge.
Android Watch
Stop Thief—Google has introduced new theft protection features for Android devices to enhance user security. These include the Theft Detection Lock, which automatically locks a device when it's taken abruptly; Offline Device Lock, which safeguards stolen phones even when the internet is off; and Remote Lock, which allows users to quickly lock their stolen devices via a website. Initially tested in Brazil, these features are gradually rolling out to Android 10+ users worldwide.
Sports Watch
Fifa Gets Kicked —Europe’s top court ruled that aspects of FIFA's transfer rules violate EU law, specifically penalties for players breaking contracts. The case involved Lassana Diarra, fined for leaving a Russian club in a pay dispute. This decision could reshape the global player trading market, affecting clubs' business models, particularly those relying on transfer fees. While FIFA downplayed the impact, others, like FIFPro and lawyer Jean Louis-Dupont, view it as a major shift. The ruling may increase player power, challenge FIFA's control, and disrupt smaller clubs' financial models.
Last Call—Steve Ballmer and California Governor Gavin Newsom recently opened the "Last Call" bar at the Clippers’ new Intuit Dome in Los Angeles. The bar celebrates the final shots of games, incorporating basketball culture into the venue. It symbolizes Ballmer's vision for a high-tech, fan-focused experience at the new stadium, which is set to be the Clippers' home. This partnership reflects the blending of sports, technology, and entertainment, with Ballmer and Newsom both praising the project for its economic and community impact.
Education Watch
In College and They Can’t Read—Elite college students are increasingly struggling to read entire books, preferring to rely on summaries or digital shortcuts. The trend reflects deeper issues with attention spans, the pressure for academic efficiency, and the impact of technology on reading habits. This shift raises concerns about students' ability to engage deeply with complex texts and the broader implications for critical thinking and intellectual development.
Legal Watch
Apple Wins—Apple has won a lawsuit related to its Secure Enclave technology, which protects sensitive data like passwords and biometrics on iPhones. The lawsuit claimed that Apple had infringed patents owned by a company called Firstface. However, a federal judge ruled in Apple's favor, stating that there was insufficient evidence of patent infringement. This decision is another legal victory for Apple, which has faced numerous intellectual property challenges over its security technologies.
X Loses—X (formerly Twitter) lost a court case after arguing that Twitter no longer exists as a legal entity after rebranding. The lawsuit, filed by a group of ex-employees over unpaid severance and benefits, saw X claim that Twitter had "ceased to exist." However, the court rejected this defense, ruling that the company is still responsible for prior legal commitments despite the name change.
Tesla Watch
It’s The Software’s Fault—Uber and Lyft drivers have started using Tesla vehicles as makeshift robotaxis, leveraging the cars' advanced driver-assistance features. This practice is raising safety concerns since Tesla’s Full Self-Driving (FSD) software is not yet approved for fully autonomous operation. Critics argue that using these cars for ride-hailing without active driver engagement could pose significant risks, as the technology remains controversial and prone to errors.
EV Watch
Meet George Jetson—Flying cars have officially arrived, with several models now in private ownership. These futuristic vehicles are capable of both driving on roads and taking flight, marking a new era in transportation. While the technology is still in its early stages, advancements are making flying cars more accessible, with several manufacturers leading the charge. Owners have already begun using these vehicles, signaling a shift in personal transport and travel.
Charge Without Worry—A new battery breakthrough could significantly reduce the risk of dangerous fires in electric vehicles (EVs). This innovation focuses on enhancing the stability and safety of EV batteries by addressing issues related to thermal runaway, a leading cause of battery fires. The new technology can improve safety standards and be a game-changer in the EV industry, making electric vehicles safer and more reliable.
Security Watch
Block That Bot—Cloudflare successfully mitigated a record-breaking 3.8 Tbps DDoS attack using its automated systems. This attack targeted one of their customers and is the largest volumetric attack ever recorded. Cloudflare's system automatically detected and neutralized the threat without human intervention, demonstrating the robustness of their security infrastructure. The incident highlights the increasing scale of DDoS attacks and the importance of advanced mitigation tools in defending against these evolving threats. Read more over at Bleeping Computer.
Food Watch
The Dates Are Wrong—California has become the first state to ban the use of "sell-by" dates on food labels to reduce food waste. Starting July 2026, products must use standardized terms like "Best if Used By" for quality and "Use By" for safety, except for items like infant formula and beer. This change aims to reduce confusion, save consumers money, and lessen food waste's environmental impact, contributing significantly to methane emissions from landfills.
Music Watch
Dance To The Music—There are vibrant and interconnected underground dance scenes in various Asian cities like Seoul, Manila, Tokyo, and Bangkok. These scenes have developed their own unique sounds, influenced by local cultures and traditions, creating a bottom-up pan-Asian movement. Collaboration across borders and genres, such as trot in Korea and budgets in the Philippines, reflects a shift in the global music landscape. Artists increasingly look to their Asian neighbors for inspiration rather than the West, sparking innovation across the region.
Music Video of the Day
Movie Trailer of the Day
App Review of the Day
Taskade
Taskade is a versatile and collaborative productivity app designed to streamline your workflow and enhance team collaboration. It combines task management, project planning, real-time collaboration, and note-taking into one unified platform, making it a powerful tool for teams and individuals alike. The app is available on iOS, Android, Mac, Windows, and via the web, allowing users to access their projects across multiple devices seamlessly.
Key Features
1. Task Management
At its core, Taskade excels at managing tasks. You can create tasks, subtasks, and lists, breaking down your projects into more manageable steps. Each task can include a variety of details such as due dates, tags, priorities, and assignees, allowing you to keep track of what needs to be done and who is responsible.
2. Collaborative Editing in Real Time
What really sets Taskade apart is its focus on collaboration. Teams can work together on the same task lists, mind maps, and outlines in real time. This allows for instant updates and fosters smoother communication, eliminating the back-and-forth usually associated with project management. You can see your team's changes as they happen, making Taskade a perfect fit for remote teams or distributed workflows.
3. Multiple Views (Task List, Board, Action Plan, Mind Map)
One of Taskade's standout features is the ability to visualize your tasks in different formats:
- Task List: A traditional list view, great for to-do lists and quick task management.
- Kanban Board: Ideal for teams that need to visualize work in progress.
- Action Plan: A checklist format for step-by-step action plans.
- Mind Map: For brainstorming sessions, this view allows you to organize thoughts and tasks in a more creative and free-form layout.
4. Templates and Customization
Taskade provides an array of customizable templates, including project plans, meeting notes, content calendars, and more. These templates can be tweaked to fit the unique needs of any project, which makes onboarding new team members or starting a new project easier.
5. Cross-Platform Sync
Whether you’re on your desktop or mobile, Taskade syncs your data in real-time across all devices. This ensures that you can switch between platforms without missing any updates, which is great for those who need to work on the go.
6. Video and Chat Integration
Collaboration doesn’t stop at just task sharing. Taskade also integrates video conferencing and chat features directly into the workspace, allowing teams to hold discussions while working on tasks. This cuts down on the need for external communication apps, making Taskade a one-stop hub for project management and communication.
7. Focus Mode
For those who like a minimalist approach when working solo, Taskade offers a focus mode. This strips away distractions, giving you a clean, simple interface to work in, which is helpful for getting deep into your tasks.
Best Use Cases
- Remote Teams: With its real-time collaboration tools, Taskade is perfect for teams working in different locations. Everyone can contribute simultaneously, streamlining the workflow.
- Project Planning: Whether you're planning a marketing campaign, software launch, or personal project, Taskade’s multiple views (like Kanban and mind maps) offer flexible ways to visualize and manage your plan.
- Meeting Notes and Agendas: Taskade is highly effective for creating and sharing meeting agendas, notes, and action items, all in real-time during a meeting.
- Personal Productivity: Even individuals can benefit from Taskade’s robust task management and focus mode to keep themselves organized and efficient.
Comparisons with Other Apps
Taskade shares similarities with apps like Trello, Notion, and Asana, but its emphasis on real-time collaboration, built-in video conferencing, and multiple task views gives it an edge, especially for remote teams or those who need dynamic brainstorming tools. Unlike Notion, Taskade’s interface feels simpler and more geared towards immediate collaboration and task execution, whereas Notion tends to be more feature-heavy with a learning curve.
Pricing
Taskade offers a free plan that supports basic task management and collaboration for smaller teams or individuals. For more advanced features like project templates, workspace customization, and integrations, there is a paid Pro plan, which is competitively priced, making it affordable for startups and growing businesses.
Where to Find Taskade
Taskade is available across multiple platforms:
- iOS and Android: Downloadable via the App Store and Google Play.
- Desktop (Mac and Windows): Native apps are available for both platforms.
- Web: You can access Taskade directly through any browser at taskade.com.
Taskade is an excellent productivity and collaboration tool for individuals and teams looking for a flexible, all-in-one solution. Its blend of task management, real-time collaboration, and multiple views make it highly adaptable, while its cross-platform nature ensures you can stay productive wherever you are. If you’re looking for an alternative to more established apps like Trello or Asana, Taskade’s streamlined interface and focus on team collaboration are worth considering.
