Over 700 people at Apple have recently lost their jobs, according to the latest WARN report posted by the Employment Development Department of California (EDD). Most of the people who were laid off worked at Apple's offices in Santa Clara, with 371 of them coming from the company location that primarily dealt with the company's now-defunct electric vehicle project. Under California law, companies are required to file a report with the EDD for each location affected by layoffs under the Worker Adjustment and Retraining Notification (WARN) program.
Eight Apple locations in Santa Clara were hit by layoffs, including the main car office, though one of them worked on its in-house MicroLED display project that was reportedly scrapped in March due to costs and technical difficulties. The company was hoping to produce its own screens for iPhones, Macs and its smartwatches, but that clearly isn't happening anytime soon.
Apple's original car ambitions were to build a fully autonomous vehicle without pedals and a steering wheel, until it decided to develop an electric vehicle instead. A previous Bloomberg report said Apple canceled the initiative internally called "Project Titan" after investing billions of dollars and a decade into it. The employees who were developing the vehicle were given the chance to transfer to Apple's other divisions, including its teams that are reportedly working on artificial intelligence and home robotics. But based on Apple's WARN report, it wasn't able to re-integrate everyone into the company.
Apple is believed to be in the very early stages of developing personal robotics for people's homes. One of the machines that's currently a work-in-progress is a robot that follows people around, while the other is a table-top device that uses a robot to move a display around, according to another Bloomberg report. The company's work on personal robotics is part of its efforts, which also include the Vision Pro, to find new sources of revenue.
This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/apple-cuts-over-700-jobs-following-its-car-and-display-project-closures-061524777.html?src=rss
Over 700 people at Apple have recently lost their jobs, according to the latest WARN report posted by the Employment Development Department of California (EDD). Most of the people who were laid off worked at Apple's offices in Santa Clara, with 371 of them coming from the company location that primarily dealt with the company's now-defunct electric vehicle project. Under California law, companies are required to file a report with the EDD for each location affected by layoffs under the Worker Adjustment and Retraining Notification (WARN) program.
Eight Apple locations in Santa Clara were hit by layoffs, including the main car office, though one of them worked on its in-house MicroLED display project that was reportedly scrapped in March due to costs and technical difficulties. The company was hoping to produce its own screens for iPhones, Macs and its smartwatches, but that clearly isn't happening anytime soon.
Apple's original car ambitions were to build a fully autonomous vehicle without pedals and a steering wheel, until it decided to develop an electric vehicle instead. A previous Bloomberg report said Apple canceled the initiative internally called "Project Titan" after investing billions of dollars and a decade into it. The employees who were developing the vehicle were given the chance to transfer to Apple's other divisions, including its teams that are reportedly working on artificial intelligence and home robotics. But based on Apple's WARN report, it wasn't able to re-integrate everyone into the company.
Apple is believed to be in the very early stages of developing personal robotics for people's homes. One of the machines that's currently a work-in-progress is a robot that follows people around, while the other is a table-top device that uses a robot to move a display around, according to another Bloomberg report. The company's work on personal robotics is part of its efforts, which also include the Vision Pro, to find new sources of revenue.
This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/apple-cuts-over-700-jobs-following-its-car-and-display-project-closures-061524777.html?src=rss
For those who value a well-maintained lawn but dislike manual labor in the hot summer sun, a solution is in sight. The Mowrator S1 is not just an average mower. This powerful, remote-controlled lawn mower does most of the work for you. It features a full-size blade for efficient cutting, a long-lasting battery, and built-in safety mechanisms to stay cool even in high temperatures. It also has smart sensors for easy navigation. When Autumn arrives with its inevitable blanket of fallen leaves, the Mowrator S1 shines again. An optional attachment transforms it into a powerful leaf vacuum, simplifying what could otherwise be a tedious cleanup task. Let’s explore how this innovative, battery-powered, remote-controlled mower, capable of handling slopes, can be the go-to solution for maintaining the neat look of your residential or commercial outdoor spaces.
The Mowrator S1 features a robust 21-inch blade, ideal for efficiently covering large areas and tackling dense, tall grass like St. Augustine, which can grow over 7 inches. The use of a standard-sized blade, similar to traditional mowers, ensures efficiency and reliability. Unlike many robotic mowers that struggle with tougher grass and even thick bushes of weeds due to smaller blades, the Mowrator S1 maintains consistent, high-quality performance across a range of lawn conditions.
Impressively, the company has tested this mower in some of the most demanding conditions, particularly on dense St. Augustine grass. This demonstrates that the Mowrator S1 can effortlessly manage what other robotic mowers can’t. It’s not just about cutting the usual lawn; even the tallest, driest grass doesn’t stand a chance. That said, the Mowrator S1 is also designed to conquer challenging terrains. From steep inclines to uneven fields dotted with ditches, its four-wheel drive system ensures smooth navigation and conquest – so powerful that it’s capable of pulling a car. No longer will you deal with the frustration of a mower that stumbles on uneven ground.
For anyone who’s ever struggled with the daunting hills and steep slopes of their property, the Mowrator S1 feels like a trusted landscaper, capable of tackling inclines that would make most mowers balk. The real charm lies in its remote control feature, offering a safer, more comfortable alternative to the precarious perches of riding mowers without any compromise on performance. And for someone like me, who battles fierce reactions to dust, pollen, or exhaust fumes, the ability to guide this mower from afar is nothing short of a breath of fresh air, making lawn care a breeze rather than a burden.
While not entirely self-operating, this lawn mower introduces an effortless approach to managing vast expanses of green. A simple button press activates seamless cruise control, propelling the device forward without constant guidance. Embedded within is a sophisticated IMU, ensuring it maintains a straight trajectory across uneven terrains. Another button press effortlessly makes a U-turn, easily laying down those professional-grade lawn stripes. It’s these intuitive, almost human-like touches that make the Mowrator S1 feel like more than just a machine; it’s a reliable tool that you can trust to get the job done right.
On top of everything the Mowrator S1 is capable of, from meticulously manicuring your lawn to bravely battling steep slopes, the real icing on the cake is its transformation into a formidable leaf vacuum. With just an optional add-on, this versatile mower becomes your garden’s guardian, wielding a specialized vacuum blade and a clever windshield design to summon suction power that rivals traditional gas-powered vacuums.
This upgrade enhances its utility and extends its reach to the nooks and crannies of your garden with an extendable vacuum hose, ensuring no leaf is left behind, even in the most delicate flower beds and around bushy areas. And the cherry on top? The Mowrator S1 simplifies your life with its one-button dumping system, allowing you to clear out collected debris effortlessly. This feature makes cleaning your lawn as relaxed as spending an afternoon in the comfort of your backyard.
Wrapping it all up, if tackling your weekend lawn care feels like going into battle with your yard, the Mowrator S1 is equipped and ready, from the front lines to the final retreat in the backyard. At its core lies a rechargeable 18Ah LiFePO4 battery, your secret weapon ensuring every inch of your terrain is covered on a single charge. This battery is built for the long campaign, with a lifespan of up to 1500 cycles, potentially serving you for a decade of weekly three-acre engagements. Its built-in cooling system and protective casing ensure it remains durable and reliable through every season.
The company is seeking TUV safety certification for the Mowrator S1 for enhanced safety. If granted, it will be the first RC Mower with this certification, further solidifying its reputation for innovation and reliability. Winning the lawn battle isn’t only about power. The Mowrator S1 uses advanced ultrasonic sensors to proactively detect obstacles, pets, or family members, temporarily stopping its blades to avoid accidents. And for those moments of unexpected encounters or curiosity, the mower features a quick-stop mechanism that immediately halts the blades if the grass discharge area is accessed, ensuring every surprise is safely managed.
Lighting plays a pivotal role in shaping the ambiance and character of a space. The Helix Lamp, a creation by innovative minds, redefines the concept of illumination with its striking 3D-printed coil design. Beyond mere functionality, this lamp serves as a statement piece, infusing spaces with a touch of whimsy and charm.
At first glance, the Helix Lamp captivates with its mesmerizing coil structure. Its appeal extends far beyond aesthetics. The genius lies in its remarkable adaptability. The central feature of the lamp is its inner light orb, suspended within the intricate coil. What sets it apart is the ability to adjust the height of the orb simply by rotating the coil. Imagining them moving, reminds me of the retro charm of lava lamps, this modern iteration brings a fresh twist to contemporary interiors. This interactive feature not only adds a playful element but also allows users to customize their lighting experience effortlessly.
One of the most intriguing aspects of the lamp is its versatility in lighting options. Users have the freedom to personalize their illumination by adding or removing orbs, thereby modulating brightness levels according to preference. Whether you seek a soft, ambient glow for relaxation or a brighter light for task-oriented activities, the Helix Lamp adapts seamlessly to meet your needs.
The lamp finds its perfect niche in vibrant, dynamic environments craving a touch of quirkiness. Ideal for kids’ rooms, play areas, or any space with a lively atmosphere, it injects personality and character effortlessly. Its ability to evoke nostalgia while embodying modern design sensibilities makes it a standout piece that sparks conversation and admiration.
From bedside tables to cozy corners beside a couch, the lamp effortlessly integrates into various settings, enhancing the visual appeal of any room. Its diffused outer layer ensures a soft, gentle glow that bathes the surroundings in warmth and comfort. The well-rounded shapes of the orbs further contribute to the overall softness of the lighting, creating a serene ambiance that invites relaxation and tranquility.
With an aesthetic reminiscent of Arya Stark’s sword, the needle, in Game Of Thrones, the CRKT Flat Out is best described as ‘functional art’. It’s small, and deceptively thin, yet packs an absolute punch with how sharp and spry it is. In short, it’s the kind of knife you underestimate the first time, and trust blindly every time after that.
Designed by veteran blade artisan Matthew Lerch, the Flat Out has a silhouette that feels instantly iconic. While most knives are made to be fairly broad (because nobody wants a flimsy blade), the Flat Out is exceptionally thin. Sure, vertically, the knife has a 4.42-inch handle with a sizeable 3.57-inch blade… but horizontally, it’s just about as thin as your finger, which makes it feel slim, and weigh less than most, at about 3.6 ounces or 102 grams.
The slimness, however, is just the first thing you notice with the Flat Out. It still sports a wonderfully ergonomic stainless steel handle, letting you firmly and reliably hold the knife during use, and an 8Cr13MoV steel drop-point blade that feels almost like a needle-point with how slim it is. The blade’s 3.57-inch edge puts it well in the ‘mid-size’ knife category, while still looking and feeling small… and is sharp enough to get any job done, whether it’s cutting, slicing, shearing, or carving. That pointed tip makes it absolutely lethal for piercing too, turning the EDC into a worthy opponent against everything from delivery boxes and envelopes to even wood and leather.
Trained initially as a jewelry designer, Matthew Lerch found himself with a penchant for knife design rather soon in life. Working extensively with CRKT, the Wisconsin-based designer has been honored with some prestigious awards for some of his EDC designs. Slim yet hard-working, understated yet powerful, Lerch’s Flat Out knife for CRKT is a beautifully badass paradox.
The Flat Out is slim yet grippy, giving you a long handle to hold comfortably onto. The assisted flip knife sports a frame lock that holds the blade in place, and some rather beautiful-looking jimping (serrated texture) on top of the blade to comfortably rest your thumb while using the knife for a perfectly dependable grip while cutting and maneuvering. Fold the knife shut and it easily slides into your pocket, with a clip that securely holds the EDC in place for you to easily retrieve whenever you need… whether it’s for cutting open boxes, slicing branches in the outdoors, defending yourself, or just admiring from time to time.
Developer Brace Yourself Games says Hatsune Miku is one of the more challenging characters in the game. She can move in all eight directions and takes out foes by boogying her way through groups of enemies. The developer’s press release explains, “She doesn’t have a shovel like most characters, so she must use her dance-like dash attack to break through walls instead.” Hell yeah.
She has a “Sing!” ability — entirely new to the game — that charms nearby enemies. When one of these charmed foes strikes Miku, she heals instead of losing her health. Brace Yourself Games says it even reskinned all of the game’s armors as official Miku outfits, so you can put on new threads as you shimmy and groove your way through legions of ghosts and skeletons.
Photo by Mat Smith / Engadget
If you aren’t familiar, Hatsune Miku is one of the world’s biggest virtual pop stars. She’s a perpetual 16-year-old because she’s the personification of a “Vocaloid,” software that synthesizes pre-recorded vocals to simulate human singing. The avatar has sold out 14,000-seat arenas, collaborated with Pharrell Williams and opened for Lady Gaga. She wasn’t the first digital celebrity, but she may be the most famous.
The Hatsune Miku DLC for Crypt of the Necrodancer is available now for $1.99 on the PlayStation Store and PC via Steam. The content arrives a little later on Switch — on April 13. Check out her moves in the trailer below.
This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/hatsune-miku-in-crypt-of-the-necrodancer-feels-like-the-perfect-crossover-203138973.html?src=rss
Developer Brace Yourself Games says Hatsune Miku is one of the more challenging characters in the game. She can move in all eight directions and takes out foes by boogying her way through groups of enemies. The developer’s press release explains, “She doesn’t have a shovel like most characters, so she must use her dance-like dash attack to break through walls instead.” Hell yeah.
She has a “Sing!” ability — entirely new to the game — that charms nearby enemies. When one of these charmed foes strikes Miku, she heals instead of losing her health. Brace Yourself Games says it even reskinned all of the game’s armors as official Miku outfits, so you can put on new threads as you shimmy and groove your way through legions of ghosts and skeletons.
Photo by Mat Smith / Engadget
If you aren’t familiar, Hatsune Miku is one of the world’s biggest virtual pop stars. She’s a perpetual 16-year-old because she’s the personification of a “Vocaloid,” software that synthesizes pre-recorded vocals to simulate human singing. The avatar has sold out 14,000-seat arenas, collaborated with Pharrell Williams and opened for Lady Gaga. She wasn’t the first digital celebrity, but she may be the most famous.
The Hatsune Miku DLC for Crypt of the Necrodancer is available now for $1.99 on the PlayStation Store and PC via Steam. The content arrives a little later on Switch — on April 13. Check out her moves in the trailer below.
This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/hatsune-miku-in-crypt-of-the-necrodancer-feels-like-the-perfect-crossover-203138973.html?src=rss
For growing kids having a brand new pair of shoes can be a nightmare in just a year as their feet grow. Sure, they can get a new pair even though the last one is fairly good to use, but there are environmental impacts to this if that concerns you. A pair can generate up to 30 pounds of CO2 emissions which is something you’d want to avoid at all cost.
The 4Steps 3D-Printed sneakers concept by Michele Di Carlo wants to get over the issue of growing kids and piles of shoes that end up in landfills every year. In works ever since 2017, the project wants to help address the problem of eco-sustainability in the footwear industry. The use of a 3D printer to make a pair further lessens the environmental impact.
The target audience for this resizable pair of sneakers weighing 123 grams is kids aged between 6 and 14 who can use the same shoe for almost five years (that’s if they use them with care) before needing a new one. Each separate part of the shoe can be replaced for easy recycling and repair if needed. The use of molded parts having a honeycomb structure adds to the lightweight aesthetics of the pair. Michele has created a prototype of the sneakers using Filafex filament, a type of thermoplastic polyurethane known for its softness and durability.
The level of customization is not just restricted to size, the kids can choose to replace the style of uppers and sides, and also change the color or personalize them with logos or characters. Changing the size or replacing new customizable sections is as easy as taking them apart and assembling the pair again. The adjustable sneakers come with retractable heels to fit the new shoe size and all the pieces can be stringed back easily under the supervision of an adult.
4Steps sneakers are held together with the elastic strings and the adjustments can be made by unclipping and then clipping these strings back. For the summertime, the shoes have a breathable mesh while for the winter season, a layer of insulation can be put. For now, the cool sneakers are in the concept and prototyping phase, and we hope to see them as a real product soon.
Disney just pulled a fast one. Star Wars movies and shows are typically announced years before being released, but the company just revealed a new TV program that premieres next month. Tales of the Empire is an animated show produced by Dave Filoni, the man who cut his teeth on cartoons like Star Wars: The Clone Wars and Star Wars Rebels before moving onto live action stuff like Ahsoka.
As the name suggests, this is something of a companion piece to 2022’s Tales of the Jedi. It’s an anthology series that spotlights different characters within the empire as they, uh, heroically try to defeat the nefarious rebels and bring order to the galaxy. You can expect appearances by many of your dark side faves, including Grand Admiral Thrawn, General Grievous and the Grand Inquisitor.
Just like how Tales of the Jedi put the spotlight on two characters, Ahsoka and Count Dooku, this new series will have its own duo to follow. There’s Morgan Elsbeth, a primary antagonist in Ahsoka and one episode of The Mandalorian, with the trailer indicating that Tales of the Empire will reveal how Thrawn and Elsbeth became besties. The show will also focus on Barriss Offee, a former Jedi Knight who fell to the dark side during the Clone Wars.
Despite being animated, the characters will be played by their live action actors. Lars Mikkelsen returns as Thrawn and Matthew Wood is once again portraying Grievous, the evil cyborg who is in dire need of some cough syrup. Diana Lee Inosanto is back as Elsbeth and Meredith Salenger is voicing Offee.
The show premieres on everyone’s favorite corporate-sponsored pseudo-holiday, May the Fourth, also known as May 4. All six episodes will be available to stream on Disney+ upon the release date. The live action Star Wars: Acolyte follows this with a premiere on June 4.
This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/a-new-series-of-star-wars-shorts-premieres-on-disney-next-month-190007395.html?src=rss
Disney just pulled a fast one. Star Wars movies and shows are typically announced years before being released, but the company just revealed a new TV program that premieres next month. Tales of the Empire is an animated show produced by Dave Filoni, the man who cut his teeth on cartoons like Star Wars: The Clone Wars and Star Wars Rebels before moving onto live action stuff like Ahsoka.
As the name suggests, this is something of a companion piece to 2022’s Tales of the Jedi. It’s an anthology series that spotlights different characters within the empire as they, uh, heroically try to defeat the nefarious rebels and bring order to the galaxy. You can expect appearances by many of your dark side faves, including Grand Admiral Thrawn, General Grievous and the Grand Inquisitor.
Just like how Tales of the Jedi put the spotlight on two characters, Ahsoka and Count Dooku, this new series will have its own duo to follow. There’s Morgan Elsbeth, a primary antagonist in Ahsoka and one episode of The Mandalorian, with the trailer indicating that Tales of the Empire will reveal how Thrawn and Elsbeth became besties. The show will also focus on Barriss Offee, a former Jedi Knight who fell to the dark side during the Clone Wars.
Despite being animated, the characters will be played by their live action actors. Lars Mikkelsen returns as Thrawn and Matthew Wood is once again portraying Grievous, the evil cyborg who is in dire need of some cough syrup. Diana Lee Inosanto is back as Elsbeth and Meredith Salenger is voicing Offee.
The show premieres on everyone’s favorite corporate-sponsored pseudo-holiday, May the Fourth, also known as May 4. All six episodes will be available to stream on Disney+ upon the release date. The live action Star Wars: Acolyte follows this with a premiere on June 4.
This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/a-new-series-of-star-wars-shorts-premieres-on-disney-next-month-190007395.html?src=rss
