February's Tech Love Letter: AI Scams, TikTok Trends, & CES Wonders!
Keep up to date on curated AI, security, tips, tricks and more with The Digital Life!
It’s the time of the month we look forward to, when we get to share a bit of the existing world of technology with our trusted readers! And since it’s the month of love, let’s get right to sharing it! 😉🥰
In this issue:
Deepfake Dangers on YouTube: Discover how AI-generated scams are targeting seniors.
Privacy Alert: Uncover how everyday apps could be part of a vast surveillance network.
TikTok Takes Over: Learn why kids are choosing TikTok over YouTube.
First Aid on YouTube: YouTube's new partnership aims to boost public health knowledge.
CES 2024's Quirkiest Tech: From AI binoculars to music-matching car tech, we've got the scoop.
ORo - A Pal for Your Pooch: Explore how this smart pet companion keeps your furry friend happy.
And…..a bonus musical instrument you’ve never seen before! 🙂 Stay curious, stay informed, and keep embracing the marvels of modern tech with Lökwest.
Lastly, share it forward! If you enjoy this newsletter, why not pass it on? Just hit forward to share with a friend!
In the news
The number of videos uploaded on YouTube is staggering. Watch out for the latest deepfake scams, especially targeting seniors! YouTube has removed over 1,000 fraudulent advertisement videos employing deepfake technology to falsely depict celebrities like Taylor Swift, Steve Harvey, and Joe Rogan endorsing Medicare scams. This move by Google, YouTube's owner, underscores the platform's cat-and-mouse game to combat the misuse of AI in generating deceptive content.
Heads up, Lökwest readers! A recent 404 Media investigation has discovered that apps we use daily, like 9gag and Kik, might be doubling as tools in a vast surveillance network. This network, tapping into ad data, can snoop on everything from where you hang out to what you're into. Even Google's stepping back from some shady connections unearthed in this scheme. Too bad privacy has been an option, not the default since they turned on ads in 2009. 😲
What are the kids doing? We’ll give you one guess. TikTok now surpasses YouTube in total user minutes among kids aged 2-18, with a study revealing children are dedicating 60% more time to TikTok. The research by Qustodio shows that kids spent an average of 112 minutes daily on TikTok in 2023, highlighting the platform's growing dominance in short-form video content and its impact on youth media consumption habits.
Just in case you were going to drink the bleach…..😂 YouTube is partnering with Mass General Hospital and the Mexican Red Cross to launch a series of first-aid explainer videos that will appear at the top of searches. This initiative aims to provide easy-to-access, reliable emergency care information worldwide, addressing the gap in public knowledge about basic first aid procedures.
Your CES highlights
The Superbowl of electronics, CES 2024, showcased the quirkiest tech innovations, including AI-powered birding binoculars by Swarovski and an app that charges for bathroom access, Flush. Highlights also featured a BlackBerry-style iPhone keyboard, Will.i.am's music-matching car tech (see below), and an LG AI agent for smart homes. Get all the deets here!
Now the way your car “purrs” can shape your commuting soundtrack. Cool idea. Will.i.am's new startup, Sound Drive, aims to revolutionize in-car entertainment by syncing music with driving patterns, launching in Mercedes-Benz electric EQ models. The system creates a dynamic soundscape, altering music based on vehicle data like speed and location, promising a unique listening experience on every drive.
You’ll want to keep an eye out for Bluetooth Auracast in your next device. It’s a new feature of Bluetooth LE Audio introduced with Bluetooth 5.2, and it enables you to broadcast audio to connected devices in public and private settings. It allows for the creation of personal audio channels from devices, offering innovative uses such as hearing airport announcements through personal headphones or earbuds (or DJing to your buds 🎧🎶)
The Rabbit R1, co-designed by Teenage Engineering (maker of super sleek audio gear), is a pocket-sized AI assistant that's all charm and smart functionality. This device aims to replace app clutter with conversational ease, featuring a unique design that includes a touchscreen, analog controls, and a privacy-focused rotating camera. Would you try it out for $199 (plus a wireless plan)? You’ll have to wait and see, as the first batch is already sold out.
One for the pooch
A new friend for your furry pal? ORo is a smart pet companion designed to enhance your dog's well-being through features like automatic feeding, activity recording, and interactive play. It ensures safety and health monitoring, offering a modern solution for pet care with advanced technology.
That’s Interesting
We talked music, we talked gadgets. Sometimes, it’s nice to go Old Skool and mix up the two. Trust me, you’ll be mesmerized by the marble machine! And, if you have more time to spare and want to watch good stuff, no ads, visit Watch Something Wonderful for a random hit of dopamine!