Facebook shuts down facial recognition, bad news for Chromecast and Android, all about Audible Plus, and more

November 3, 2021

Years ago, Facebook (now Meta, sigh) rolled out a new feature, and at the time, it seemed controversial for “creepy” reasons. By default, the service would learn what you look like and automatically tagged you in any photos, even when a friend posted them. You can opt out, but of course, that’s buried in Facebook’s confusing settings page.

But time marches on, and facial recognition has moved from beyond merely a “creepy” factor to one with underlying societal questions and fears. Who has access to facial recognition? What entities can use it to identify you without permission? And what can all that data be used for? Well now, “for the good of society,” Facebook wants to do something about it. And while we question the company’s motives, the outcome is a good one. Check the top story for more details.

Other Highlights:

• Have you ever been curious about Audible Plus and if the audiobook subscription service is worth the money? Danny dug into the details for you.
• If you use Chromecast, don’t, I repeat DON’T, update your phone to Android 12.
• Interested in Wyze’s smartwatch but don’t like the plain black look? Good news, the company now has more color options!
• Razer has a new mechanical keyboard, and not only does it look pretty great, but it also won’t damage your hearing!
• …and more! Down there 👇👇👇

-Josh

This isn’t the Metaverse; it’s Bizzaro World. Just one week after changing its name to Meta, the company formerly known as Facebook says it will no longer run facial recognition software on its social media platform. This decision is part of a “company-wide move” to limit the use of facial recognition in products and services, according to Jerome Pesenti, Meta’s VP of Artificial Intelligence. Read More »

Audible Plus is a great way to finally read those books you’ve been meaning to get around to for years. But is it worth the expense of taking on yet another monthly subscription service? Let’s find out. Read More »

Tons of streaming sticks and smart TVs support Google’s Chromecast protocol. You know, the thing that lets you beam a movie from your phone to the big screen. But because of a “legal dispute,” Google has disabled one of Chromecast’s key features in Android 12—the ability to adjust your smart TV or streaming stick’s volume from your phone. Read More »

When someone says that they’re enjoying a new Razer keyboard, you probably imagine them clacking away at a noisy, colorful little monster. But there’s a good chance that they’re using some of the latest products in Razer’s Productivity Suite, a collection of keyboards and mice that are silent, handsome, and ergonomic. Read More »

This week, in its quest to dominate the EV market, Tesla released an affordable new home charger that works with all electric vehicles in North America, not just Teslas. The new 2nd generation J1772 plug is designed to meet the specifications for any EV sold throughout the region. Read More »

If you like your clothes to look neat and wrinkle-free, having a reliable clothing steamer can make all the difference. This lightweight handheld steamer from Hilife boasts an impressive 240ML tank capacity and lasts for up to 15 continuous minutes of steaming. The 700W steamer produces soft, long-lasting steam that’s perfect for tackling heavy-duty wrinkles; plus, with its nine-foot cord, you’ll have plenty of room to move around while you steam. It’s also small enough to throw in your suitcase for wrinkle-free clothing on your next vacation.

Get it at Amazon →

It’s been about seven months since Wyze released two very different smartwatches, confusing the hell out of its customers in the process. But Wyze is now relaunching the better of its two smartwatches under a new name—Wyze Watch 47c. Read More »

The memories feature in Google Photos is a fan favorite, and today it’s getting even better as Google just released several new widget styles for your home screen. These new memory widgets first arrived in August, but now we’re getting several new styles and shapes. Read More »

You don’t have to live with your smart TV’s slow and crappy interface. Dedicated streaming sticks have all the speed you need, and during today’s Amazon sale, you can get a 4K-capable Roku stick for just $20. Read More »

You know for a fact that the person you’re buying a gift for absolutely loves tech. They live and breathe it, but they already have everything. So, what do you buy them? We can help! Read More »

The shift from Daylight Savings Time to Standard Time (and vice versa) tends to throw a lot of us off. Here’s how to avoid DST messing with your routine and your mood. Read More »

Did your kid bring home enough Halloween candy for five little monsters? Or, did you just not have enough ghouls and beasties to treat with all the sweets you bought? If you’ve got leftover candy woes, you can still give it away! Read More »

If you, a friend, or a family member are a beauty lover, there’s a good chance you’ve heard of the brand Dyson. No, it’s not because of the vacuums. The Dyson Airwrap has become a must-have wishlist item during the holidays, but with a hefty price tag, you might want to check out some alternatives. Read More »