US Congressional staff members can no longer use Microsoft's Copilot on their government-issued devices, according to Axios. The publication said it obtained a memo from House Chief Administrative Officer Catherine Szpindor, telling Congress personnel that the AI chatbot is now officially prohibited. Apparently, the Office of Cybersecurity has deemed Copilot to be a risk "due to the threat of leaking House data to non-House approved cloud services." While there's nothing stopping them from using Copilot on their own phones and laptops, it will now be blocked on all Windows devices owned by the Congress.
Almost a year ago, the Congress also set a strict limit on the use of ChatGPT, which is powered by OpenAI's large language models, just like Copilot. It banned staffers from using the chatbot's free version on House computers, but it allowed them to continue using the paid (ChatGPT Plus) version for research and evaluation due to its tighter privacy controls. More recently, the White House revealed rules federal agencies have to follow when it comes to generative AI, which would ensure that any tool they use "do not endanger the rights and safety" of Americans.
Microsoft told Axios that it does recognize government users' need for higher security requirements. Last year, it announced a roadmap of tools and services meant for government use, including an Azure OpenAI service for classified workloads and a new version of Microsoft 365's Copilot assistant. The company said that all those tools and services will feature higher levels of security that would make it more suitable for handling sensitive data. Szpindor's office, according to Axios, will evaluate the government version Copilot when it becomes available before deciding if it can be used on House devices.
This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/microsoft-copilot-has-reportedly-been-blocked-on-all-congress-owned-devices-034946166.html?src=rss
US Congressional staff members can no longer use Microsoft's Copilot on their government-issued devices, according to Axios. The publication said it obtained a memo from House Chief Administrative Officer Catherine Szpindor, telling Congress personnel that the AI chatbot is now officially prohibited. Apparently, the Office of Cybersecurity has deemed Copilot to be a risk "due to the threat of leaking House data to non-House approved cloud services." While there's nothing stopping them from using Copilot on their own phones and laptops, it will now be blocked on all Windows devices owned by the Congress.
Almost a year ago, the Congress also set a strict limit on the use of ChatGPT, which is powered by OpenAI's large language models, just like Copilot. It banned staffers from using the chatbot's free version on House computers, but it allowed them to continue using the paid (ChatGPT Plus) version for research and evaluation due to its tighter privacy controls. More recently, the White House revealed rules federal agencies have to follow when it comes to generative AI, which would ensure that any tool they use "do not endanger the rights and safety" of Americans.
Microsoft told Axios that it does recognize government users' need for higher security requirements. Last year, it announced a roadmap of tools and services meant for government use, including an Azure OpenAI service for classified workloads and a new version of Microsoft 365's Copilot assistant. The company said that all those tools and services will feature higher levels of security that would make it more suitable for handling sensitive data. Szpindor's office, according to Axios, will evaluate the government version Copilot when it becomes available before deciding if it can be used on House devices.
This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/microsoft-copilot-has-reportedly-been-blocked-on-all-congress-owned-devices-034946166.html?src=rss
Rather aptly named the JOAT, or Jack Of All Trades, this modular multitool holds the unique distinction of being the perfect EDC to have on you for practically any sort of crisis. Whether it’s gear that needs fixing or beer that needs opening, the JOAT’s uniquely equipped to help. Made from titanium and with modular elements that stack together magnetically, the JOAT has its own fold-out scalpel blade, set of hex-wrenches, pry-bar, portable saw, magnetic screw-bit holder, and a bottle opener… all in one thumb-sized form factor that fits around your keychain. The magnetic modules snap apart, making them easy to use individually, and they’re all crafted from titanium, so they’ll practically last a lifetime.
While most multitools try to cram as much functionality into the tiniest form factor (we’re looking at you, Victorinox), the JOAT’s approach is a tad bit different. It uses magnetic modules that let you pull different parts of the EDC apart, giving you individual tools that are easier to use without any of that bulk associated with larger multitools. Need a knife? Just take the knife module out. Need a wrench? You don’t have to worry about any of the other tools while you’re working the wrench.
The scalpel knife is perhaps the JOAT’s most standout feature. Unlike most knives that have fixed edges, the JOAT uses a standard removable/replaceable scalpel blade that you can attach to its folding arm. You can easily attach any standard scalpel blade to the JOAT, removing it during travel (so the multitool is TSA-friendly), or replacing just the blade when its edge wears out. Standard scalpel blades are ridiculously sharp, giving your EDC multitool a great outdoor or tactical advantage. The pointed tip and deadly-sharp edge are perfect for piercing, cutting, slicing, carving, shaving, or doing anything you’d require a portable knife for. That means easily being able to navigate any outdoor situations that require a cutter, or any potential self-defense scenarios where a tactical blade could prove to be handy. The blade’s replaceable design makes maintaining your JOAT easy, allowing you to just swap out old blades for new ones instead of sitting and sharpening your knife like you would with most other multitools.
Any good multitool needs to have a bit-driver, and the JOAT takes its name and reputation seriously. Really a jack of all trades, the multitool packs a bit driver and holder in one of its three modules, allowing you to store as many as two standard 1/4″ hex bits of your choice. Although most people recommend having an Allen-bit and a flathead bit handy at all times, the JOAT lets you choose exactly which bits you want to carry along with you, letting you either stick to traditional picks or go super obscure if you’re fixing things like tech or any special gear. When in need, just take the bit you want and dock it into its holder and you have a makeshift screwdriver for any sudden emergencies when your regular toolkit isn’t around.
Got some nuts and bolts that need tightening, the JOAT packs an entire bunch of hex wrenches in its third module, along with a bottle-opener for good measure. Ranging from an M2 wrench to an M6 wrench, the standalone module is grippy and easy to maneuver, allowing you to quickly tighten or loosen bolts. The fact that the JOAT’s modules are detachable and independently usable means you can potentially use the hex wrench and the screwdriver as separate tools, allowing you to hold and tighten with the same multitool.
Finally, the JOAT’s base platform comes with its own pry tool, along with a blunt serrated edge that doubles as a nail file or even a primitive saw for buffing/filing down wood, plastic, or even soft metals. That titanium build proves rather handy here, given its status as the strongest metal known to humankind.
At just 80mm (a little above 3 inches) in length, the JOAT’s exceptionally pocket-friendly. It weighs 1.8 ounces (51.5 grams) and comes with its own loop that lets you secure it to a carabiner or even to your keychain. The all-titanium multitool starts at $69, and for another $7 you could get yourself the leather strap and titanium machined keyring to go with your EDC (shown above). If the idea of a nude metal multitool doesn’t appeal to you, there’s even an option to get a PVD black version of the JOAT for an extra $11. The all-in-one EDC multitool ships globally, and although it doesn’t come with an explicit warranty, the fact that it’s machined from grade 5 titanium should speak volumes for its durability. Let’s just say, this might be the last EDC you’ll ever need to buy…
LinkedIn is testing a new feed of TikTok-like vertical videos. The feature hasn’t been publicly announced but it’s been spotted by users in recent days and the company confirmed the tests to TechCrunch.
According to a screenshot shared by Instagram employee Jenny Eishingdrelo and a video posted to LinkedIn by influencer marketing exec Austin Null, the new feed will appear in a separate “video” tab in the LinkedIn app. Users will be able to scroll vertically to move between clips, much like TikTok or Instagram Reels.
It’s not the first time the company has hopped on a trendy format. LinkedIn previously experimented with a Stories feature for disappearing posts. That feature lasted less than a year, though the professional network hinted at the time that it wasn’t done with its video experiments, saying it was working “to evolve the Stories format into a reimagined video experience across LinkedIn.”
Presumably, LinkedIn is hoping the feed will showcase content from its ranks of professional creators and thought leaders, many of whom are already posting video to their feeds. However, it’s not clear how many of the site’s users are interested in a dedicated video feed for workplace-related content.
This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/linkedin-is-testing-a-tiktok-like-feed-for-vertical-video-233454044.html?src=rss
LinkedIn is testing a new feed of TikTok-like vertical videos. The feature hasn’t been publicly announced but it’s been spotted by users in recent days and the company confirmed the tests to TechCrunch.
According to a screenshot shared by Instagram employee Jenny Eishingdrelo and a video posted to LinkedIn by influencer marketing exec Austin Null, the new feed will appear in a separate “video” tab in the LinkedIn app. Users will be able to scroll vertically to move between clips, much like TikTok or Instagram Reels.
It’s not the first time the company has hopped on a trendy format. LinkedIn previously experimented with a Stories feature for disappearing posts. That feature lasted less than a year, though the professional network hinted at the time that it wasn’t done with its video experiments, saying it was working “to evolve the Stories format into a reimagined video experience across LinkedIn.”
Presumably, LinkedIn is hoping the feed will showcase content from its ranks of professional creators and thought leaders, many of whom are already posting video to their feeds. However, it’s not clear how many of the site’s users are interested in a dedicated video feed for workplace-related content.
This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/linkedin-is-testing-a-tiktok-like-feed-for-vertical-video-233454044.html?src=rss
LEGO has spread its wings in almost every genre and arena. And if you’re a movie lover, then this list is for you! Some of your favorite movies have been immortalized in LEGO form! And, we’ve curated a collection of immaculate and precise LEGO builds inspired by and based on your favorite movies. From a Godzilla in LEGO form to a LEGO build of Kung Fu Panda – LEGO has managed to incorporate your favorite movies in LEGO format. Which LEGO build would you want to try at home?!
1. LEGO Godzilla
LEGO builder Matthew Esposito decided to make a LEGO version of Godzilla since we almost have ten or more movies, but not a single LEGO Godzilla! It is a small-scale version of the city-smashing reptile, and it is modeled after the ‘King of Monsters’ Godzilla’ (from the 2019 movie). It stands only a few inches tall, but it is amped with a hefty body and, a super long tail, and can blow blue flames in any direction, burning down entire cities in minutes!
2. The Sorting Hat
If we’re talking about LEGO builds from our favorite movies, then we obviously need to include something from Harry Potter! The LEGO Group finally launched the Sorting Hat! It is a dedicated LEGO version with a concealed sound box that will let out loud and randomized phrases in English, which we’ve all heard before. It stands at 9.5 inches tall and is 7.5 diameters in length, and can be displayed proudly on a stand that features Gryffindor, Slytherin, Hufflepuff, and Ravenclaw house symbols.
3. LEGO Kung Fu Panda
This submission to the LEGO Ideas Forum features a LEGO Kung Fu Panda from the first movie in the franchise! The adorable Po is armed with a dragon scroll, and a bowl of noodles, and he can even perform the epic Wixu Finger Hold. The brick character has a completely positionable body with movable hands, legs, head, fingers, and even eyebrows. In fact, Po even has a jiggling belly that bounces if you touch it!
4. Seven Dwarf’s Cottage
LEGO has brought the Seven Dwarf’s Cottage from the iconic Disney animation The Snow White movie to life! The lavish and intricate build is made using 2228 pieces and features 10 mini figurines. The cottage has been detailed with a lot of care and precision, creating an intriguing little structure that reminds us of all the interesting and memorable bits of the tale. The LEGO house is also equipped with Snow White’s glass coffin, the Evil Queen with the forbidden red apple, the Prince, and of course the Seven Dwarfs.
5. LEGO Captain America Shield
This life-size LEGO Captain America shield is built using 3000 pieces and measures almost 18.5 inches in diameter. The shield is also accompanied by a tiny Captain America Minifigure! The shield isn’t made from vibranium, of course, but it really does look and feel like the real deal, and if you’ve ever accidentally stepped on a LEGO brick, you know it is as tough as vibranium when you take the shooting pain that courses through your body in consideration.
6. LEGO Dobby
LEGO immortalized another beloved character from the Harry Potter world! Dobby the House Elf got his own little LEGO kit. It is built using only 403 bricks, making it one of the easier LEGO builds. It features a few heartwarming and distinct design details, such as moving limbs, a rotating head, adjustable ears, and repositionable fingers that let Dobby snap fingers, point at things, look around, or even grip little items like the sock that freed Dobby.
7. The LEGO® Jurassic World Dinosaur Fossils: T. rex Skull
The LEGO® Jurassic World Dinosaur Fossils: T. rex Skull (76964) is a fantastic LEGO set intended for museum-like display. In fact, it is one of the first Jurassic World sets designed for such a style of display. It includes 577 pieces and contains a T. Rex skull with an opening jaw and a stand to present and display it. It includes an info plaque, an amber piece at the back, as well as an intriguing fossilized footprint.
8. The LEGO Avengers Set
The LEGO Avengers set is 35.5 inches tall and was designed as a part of the 60th anniversary of the Avengers. It is meant to be one of the tallest sets when it is put together. If you look closer, you will notice the Quinjet, Leviathan, and two Chitauri flyers from the 2012 Avengers Assemble. The interior showcases scenes from the Infinity Saga, Age of Ultron party, and Endgame.
9. LEGO Quidditch Trunk
The LEGO Quidditch Trunk may not be the most complex or difficult Harry Potter build, but it is quite interactive and entertaining! It involves 599 bricks and features a comprehensive Quidditch setup that includes various brooms, players, hoops, and a launcher that allows you to shoot disc-shaped qauffles through the hoops.
10. LEGO Miller’s Planet Scene
Designed by LEGO builder Minibrick Productions, the iconic Miller’s Planet scene from the Interstellar movie has been immortalized in this little LEGO-based build and showcases the ranger aircraft, astronauts Cooper and Brad, and the shapeshifting robots TARS and CASE. The two robots feature repositionable arms that let them walk like humans, while Hathaway and McConaughey wear their space suits.
In the heart of the rock music scene lies a unique fusion of style, passion, and timeless appeal. Capturing this essence in a household item requires a delicate balance of design and functionality. The Marshall Wall Clock – a concept clock that pays homage to the iconic brand’s legacy while catering to the discerning tastes of music enthusiasts, especially those rooted in the rock genre.
Designed with a keen focus on individuals immersed in the world of music, particularly rock enthusiasts, the Marshall Wall Clock targets a diverse audience. From artists to music producers and genuine fans, this timepiece aims to resonate with anyone who finds comfort and inspiration in the rhythm of rock.
Immersing themselves in the ambiance of recording studios, artists’ homes, and musical product stores, the designers embarked on a journey to understand the nuances of the rock environment. Through meticulous investigation, they identified key elements such as leather, wood, gloss, and metallic details that define the aesthetic essence of this realm. Drawing inspiration from the legendary Marshall brand, known for its golden details, premium quality, and vintage identity, the redesign journey began.
To capture the essence of Marshall’s ethos, a comprehensive mood board was created. Golden details symbolize the brand’s legacy and prestige, while premium quality reflects its commitment to excellence. Textures and reliefs add depth and character, reminiscent of the rich tapestry of rock music’s history. Vintage identity pays homage to the roots from which Marshall emerged, embodying a timeless allure that transcends generations.
Starting with a base clock characterized by neutrality, the designers embarked on a transformative journey. Retaining the essence of simplicity while infusing it with the soul of rock, the Marshall Wall Clock emerged as a testament to innovation. Through meticulous craftsmanship and attention to detail, the once mundane timepiece was reborn with a bold identity that commands attention.
In the symphony of life, time is the conductor, and the Marshall Wall Clock stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of rock music. By seamlessly blending design elements inspired by the iconic Marshall brand with the rebellious spirit of rock, this clock transcends its function to become a statement piece in any space. Whether adorning the walls of recording studios, artists’ sanctuaries, or music enthusiasts’ homes, the Marshall Wall Clock embodies the rhythm of rock, keeping time with style and sophistication.
The Marshall Clock is a fan-made concept. Any use of the Marshall logo or brand is purely representational.
Based on the Toyota Land Cruiser chassis, the Infanta 4×4 Inkunzi camper is a South African camper cruiser designed for off-grid living with an impressive design to showcase. It looks like a random ride on the unbeaten paths when closed, but the moment you open its wings (slides and pullouts) you have a camper most delightful to see and use.
For the love of adventurers at the park or campsite, the Inkunzi, which translates to bull in Zolo, is fitted with an electric pop-up roof and has big windows in canvas covers to keep the interior both airy and fresh. The roof lifts at the push of a button, while the passenger side of the camper has five hatches, one of which houses the kitchen and the other the bed.
The Infanta 4×4 Inkunzi camper cruiser is designed to share the “same personality traits of a bull,” from where it gets its name. “Stubborn, strong-willed” in equal measures; the camper, molded from composite aerospace pre-impregnated fiber, weighs 644 kg when packed with all the accessories, and has a body measuring 9.8-foot-long. With all the versatile sliding and folding antics, the Inkunzi is effortless to setup, and takes only two minutes
The space within the camper is more focused on space utilization while all the things like the shower, kitchen and even the bedroom are designed to open outwards. The bed is placed in the front bedroom cabin that slides out from the main body and is provided with a headboard and storage cubies. Infanta uses the standing height space on the entry for dressing, while its slide-out kitchen on the passenger side spans almost the entire length of the camper.
Situated directly behind the cabin area, the fold-down kitchen has a two-stove burner, dishware, cookware, and utensils. Other kitchen compartments feature a 90-L fridge, shelves for storage, a collapsible basin, and a second worktop. An outdoor shower enclosed by drop-down curtains draws water from an onboard 120-L water tank connected to a 220V water heater.
Since the stout Inkunzi is made for off-roading, it comes with a 105-Ah battery, Victron charger and battery monitor, and an option to include an inverter and solar panels. The camper starts at R524 000, roughly $28,000 (without the truck), and has the option to add a 270-degree awning for additional usable outdoor space.
An oddball new app called Palmsy lets you post to a social media network full of adoring followers who only exist in your imagination. Whether used as a journaling app with a fresh twist or a nicotine patch equivalent for social media addiction, Palmsy prevents the real world from ever seeing your “posts,” storing them on-device, offline and private.
Palmsy’s App Store description says it “lets you make little posts for yourself.” And, at its core, that’s all you’re doing. As for why you’d want to do such a thing, people who have trouble with typical journaling or mind-mapping apps may find it a more inspiring framework. Or, if your social posting habit has gotten out of hand (or you want a break from it for any other reason), it could serve as a way to wean yourself off and give you the dopamine hit without sharing anything publicly.
One clever wrinkle from developer Pat Nakajima is that the app imports your contacts to generate fake likes from them. As pointed out by TechCrunch, Nakajima wrote on Threads that nothing leaves your device or is posted to your contacts, the app’s servers or anywhere else. “It’s just pretend,” he clarified.
If seeing fake likes from real contacts feels a bit too weird, a recent update added the ability to limit the number of faux likes your posts get. You can also set caps on how long you receive them, ranging from a few seconds to a few days.
The app is free and iOS-only, including iPhone and iPad variants.
This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/journaling-app-palmsy-offers-fake-likes-from-real-friends-194059136.html?src=rss
