John Gordon Ross

A Man for All Reasons

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Geekish

Anyone who works as a freelancer these days has to be at least a bit familiar with techie things. But it isn’t just that. When I was a kid and those vaguely SF puppet shows were on the television and all the other kids wanted to be Greg Gogetem or Steve Savetheuniverse, I wanted to be the guy in a white coat and glasses called Doc or Brains. Here are some technology-related feeds I find useful and/or entertaining.

Mashable » Obama calling a last minute meeting to save Obamacare

Friday 30 December 23:53:11 UTC 2016

Https%3a%2f%2fblueprint-api-production.s3.amazonaws.com%2fuploads%2fcard%2fimage%2f333188%2f0c2e0498-d715-4a38-bdac-7286f5472375Feed-tw Feed-fbJust because 2017 is the year Donald Trump takes over the White House doesn't mean President Barack Obama doesn't get to squeeze as much as possible out of his last few weeks in office. Obama is, in fact, jumping into the new year with a meeting Wednesday with congressional Democrats. The purpose of this gathering? To figure out how to save … [Link]

Slashdot » Smart Electricity Meters Can Be Dangerously Insecure, Warns Expert

Friday 30 December 23:40:00 UTC 2016

An anonymous reader quotes a report from The Guardian: Smart electricity meters, of which there are more than 100 million installed around the world, are frequently "dangerously insecure," a security expert has said. The lack of security in the smart utilities raises the prospect of a single line of malicious code cutting power to a home or even causing a … [Link]

Mashable » California is making it much harder to use your smartphone while driving

Friday 30 December 23:20:18 UTC 2016

Https%3a%2f%2fblueprint-api-production.s3.amazonaws.com%2fuploads%2fcard%2fimage%2f332708%2fa658c8c7-d618-4b57-91fb-e83e13fe15ddFeed-tw Feed-fbIt’s time to use that Amazon gift card for a phone mount for your car — California is cracking down.  Starting Sunday a new law is making it even harder to use your phone in the car. Throughout the state you already can't text, scroll around, click or look at messages on your phone while driving, and we've been long trained … [Link]

Slashdot » Ask Slashdot: Why Are Some Great Games Panned and Some Inferior Games Praised?

Friday 30 December 23:00:00 UTC 2016

dryriver writes: A few years ago I bought a multiplayer war game called Soldner: Secret Wars that I had never heard of before. (The game is entirely community maintained now and free to download and play at www.soldnersecretwars.de.) The professional reviews completely and utterly destroyed Soldner — buggy, bad gameplay, no single-player mode, disappointing graphics, server problems and so on. … [Link]

Mashable » What we do and don't know about Russia's interference in the presidential election

Friday 30 December 22:30:13 UTC 2016

Https%3a%2f%2fblueprint-api-production.s3.amazonaws.com%2fuploads%2fcard%2fimage%2f333104%2f12a86b08-d58b-45be-8f32-9ae4c62ef1ccFeed-tw Feed-fbOn Thursday, the U.S. government formally retaliated against Russia for allegedly interfering with the U.S. presidential election. The Obama administration's actions represent a historically aggressive response to a cyberattack in America (or elsewhere). SEE ALSO: President Obama sanctions Russia for hacking The FBI and Department of Homeland Security issued a joint report formally accusing Russian intelligence operatives of gaining access to … [Link]

Slashdot » Apple To Cut iPhone Production By 10%: Nikkei

Friday 30 December 22:20:00 UTC 2016

A new report from Nikkei Asian Review says that Apple will cut iPhone production by around 10% in the first quarter of 2017. From the report: This comes after the company slashed output in January-March 2016 due to accumulated inventory of the iPhone 6s line at the end of 2015. That experience led Apple to curb production of the iPhone … [Link]

Popular Science » How one notebook could replace all the productivity apps that have failed you

Friday 30 December 22:08:00 UTC 2016

bullet journal DIY A nerd’s guide to bullet journaling A nerd's guide to bullet journaling. Read on. [Link]

Mashable » See the 'Ghostbusters' trap Slimer without any special effects in this homemade remake

Friday 30 December 22:00:00 UTC 2016

Https%3a%2f%2fblueprint-api-production.s3.amazonaws.com%2fuploads%2fstory%2fthumbnail%2f23474%2fhmghostbustersnologojw-thumbFeed-tw Feed-fbWho you gonna call? Watch CineFix's homemade Ghostbusters take down a plastic-bag Slimer with plunger-powered proton packs and only in-camera effectsHomemade Movies ain't afraid of no ghost. Subscribe to CineFix for more videos: https://www.youtube.com/c/cinefix Read more…More about Mashable Video, Ghostbusters 1984 Movie, Ghostbusters, Homemade Movies, and Cinefix [Link]

Mashable » 13 people who had a great 2016 (who you can actually be happy for)

Friday 30 December 21:53:44 UTC 2016

Https%3a%2f%2fblueprint-api-production.s3.amazonaws.com%2fuploads%2fcard%2fimage%2f333063%2f03898e4d-f1ab-4b84-9d72-1f505e2ba083Feed-tw Feed-fbUnless you've been living under a rock, everyone knows that 2016 has been the hottest of absolute hot trash. That said? There've been a handful of people who actually did have a pretty decent 2016—who are not Donald Trump—who collectively, we can genuinely be happy for.  In no particular order, they are:  1. Gucci Mane  The Atlanta rapper and East Atlanta … [Link]

Slashdot » Postal, the Legendarily Violent Video Game by Running With Scissors, Is Now Open Source

Friday 30 December 21:50:00 UTC 2016

An anonymous reader writes: Video game developer Running With Scissors has announced that it is open sourcing the original version of its most popular title-Postal, which was released back in 1997. Even though violence in video games has been a topic of debate for over decades now, Postal has been one of the most criticised games out of the lot. … [Link]

Mashable » Uber says there will be 'no surprises' with fares on New Year's Eve

Friday 30 December 21:22:48 UTC 2016

Https%3a%2f%2fblueprint-api-production.s3.amazonaws.com%2fuploads%2fcard%2fimage%2f333140%2f77fc3227-2c26-4a80-9541-4d8663cca741Feed-tw Feed-fbMath can be difficult. Just ask Facebook.  That being so, Uber has a gift for you this New Year's Eve. No, it's not free rides. The holiday is one of Uber's busiest, and therefore most-lucrative, nights of the year.  Instead, as part of Uber's annual tip sheet to attempt to ease the onslaught of hate on surge pricing via social media, … [Link]

Slashdot » Microsoft Is No Longer Selling Any Lumia Windows Phones On Its US Store

Friday 30 December 21:20:00 UTC 2016

An anonymous reader quotes a report from Neowin: It seems that Lumia has reached the end of the line, as the Microsoft Store is no longer selling any of the company's Windows Phone 8.1 or Windows 10 Mobile handsets in the U.S. The first signs that the end was approaching for Lumia came back in February, when Microsoft launched the … [Link]

Mashable » Our absurd political reality summed up in one tweet

Friday 30 December 21:09:05 UTC 2016

Https%3a%2f%2fblueprint-api-production.s3.amazonaws.com%2fuploads%2fcard%2fimage%2f333151%2f1145e43f-fdeb-40c9-aa89-28a4f3bc0a01Feed-tw Feed-fbDonald Trump is back to fanning the flames of his love affair with Russian president Vladimir Putin.  In a tweet (with no spelling mistakes!), Trump praised Putin's decision to wait on expelling any U.S. diplomats from Russia in retaliation to President Barack Obama's sanctions announced Thursday. Great move on delay (by V. Putin) – I always knew he was very smart! … [Link]

Mashable » The harrowing tale of Ryan Seacrest getting stuck in a Times Square elevator

Friday 30 December 21:07:03 UTC 2016

Https%3a%2f%2fblueprint-api-production.s3.amazonaws.com%2fuploads%2fstory%2fthumbnail%2f32178%2fe2d4c14b-ee7f-4a68-87fa-cf37c0d83e8eFeed-tw Feed-fbRyan Seacrest, a man who wants nothing more than to make New Year's Eve a little more rockin', was cruelly victimized by the very cruel year he's trying to usher us out of in cloud of confetti.  Yes, 2016, the first unit of time to become sentient and actively plot the destruction of all humanity, trapped Seacrest in an elevator in … [Link]

Mashable » Sikh NYPD officers finally allowed to wear turbans in 'major change' to uniform policy

Friday 30 December 20:52:24 UTC 2016

Https%3a%2f%2fblueprint-api-production.s3.amazonaws.com%2fuploads%2fcard%2fimage%2f333118%2f3f96c969-3b92-427d-958e-ca964ee740afFeed-tw Feed-fbThe New York Police Department is allowing Sikh officers to wear turbans instead of traditional caps, and grow their beards up to half an inch long for religious reasons, Police Commissioner James O'Neill announced Wednesday. Speaking at a graduation ceremony for new recruits at Madison Square Garden, O'Neil said there were some 160 Sikh officers that could benefit from the new … [Link]

Mashable » An Unforgettable Year

Friday 30 December 20:46:13 UTC 2016

Https%3a%2f%2fblueprint-api-production.s3.amazonaws.com%2fuploads%2fstory%2fthumbnail%2f31707%2ff01e6434-5745-4860-b587-4e8f42e21f88Feed-tw Feed-fbWell, 2016 has been a year. From tear gas in parliament to super-human athletic feats, this year had its fair share of big moments, to say nothing of the election of Donald Trump. Here's to seeing 2016 out, and keeping our fingers crossed for 2017. Hillary Clinton speaks at the Black Women's Agenda Symposium Workshop in Washington, DC, USA, 16 September 2016EPA/JIM … [Link]

Slashdot » Sonos Alarms Are Waking Users a Day Early

Friday 30 December 20:40:00 UTC 2016

Waking up to your favorite music is always nice, but it becomes rather annoying when you can'' turn off said alarm. From a report on Engadget: That's exactly what Sonos users are experiencing and one editor on our staff dealt with the headache first hand. In fact, the alarms are also going off a day early, meaning Saturday wake-up calls … [Link]

Mashable » A member of the Mormon Tabernacle Choir just resigned over Trump inauguration gig

Friday 30 December 20:07:23 UTC 2016

Https%3a%2f%2fblueprint-api-production.s3.amazonaws.com%2fuploads%2fcard%2fimage%2f333098%2f34b0fc18-f959-48d4-9963-92f8bd4afe4aFeed-tw Feed-fbFirst Elton Jonn unequivocally said no. Then the Rockettes finally got a hall pass to pull out. Then, as the hunt for talent at Donald Trump's inauguration got more desperate, reports surfaced that bookers were being offered ambassadorships to haul in big names. None were forthcoming. But at least the January event had teenage classical singer Jackie Evancho and the Mormon … [Link]

Mashable » The best and most underrated movies of 2016

Friday 30 December 20:00:00 UTC 2016

Https%3a%2f%2fblueprint-api-production.s3.amazonaws.com%2fuploads%2fstory%2fthumbnail%2f32118%2f17349158-f04d-42fc-83c8-94b722f7fb8dFeed-tw Feed-fbTime to finally say goodbye to 2016! It's been a rough year but here's to the amazing films that made it all worthwhile. Subscribe to CineFix for more videos. Read more…More about Mashable Video, Nocturnal Animals, The Handmaiden, Arrival, and Moonlight [Link]

Slashdot » Bad Year For Piracy: 2016 Was The Year Torrent Giants Fell

Friday 30 December 20:00:00 UTC 2016

From a report on TorrentFreak: 2016 has been a memorable year for torrent users but not in a good way. Over a period of just a few months, several of the largest torrent sites vanished from the scene. From KickassTorrents, through Torrentz to What.cd, several torrent giants have left the scene.Another notable website which vanished is TorrentHound. ThePirateBay is back, … [Link]

Mashable » Majestic lynx casually wanders onto ski slope to check out the action

Friday 30 December 19:37:14 UTC 2016

Https%3a%2f%2fblueprint-api-production.s3.amazonaws.com%2fuploads%2fstory%2fthumbnail%2f32173%2fc0034be6-897a-4b07-a82a-ba42d7607236Feed-tw Feed-fb It's definitely real, dude. A majestic lynx wandered onto the slopes near at the Purgatory Resort in Durango, Colorado, on Wednesday, scaring and mystifying skiers and snowboarders while they hit some powder.  The lynx eventually left without incident, and was probably trying to figure out just what these idiot humans were doing with boards strapped to their feet.  The Colorado … [Link]

Slashdot » Foxconn Boosting Automated Production in China

Friday 30 December 19:20:00 UTC 2016

Foxconn Electronics is automating production at its factories in China in three phases, aiming to fully automate entire factories eventually, according to general manager Dai Jia-peng for Foxconn's Automation Technology Development Committee. From a report on DigiTimes: In the first phase, Foxconn aims to set up individual automated workstations for work that workers are unwilling to do or is dangerous, … [Link]

Mashable » 2016 sucked but these movies got us through it all

Friday 30 December 19:00:00 UTC 2016

Https%3a%2f%2fblueprint-api-production.s3.amazonaws.com%2fuploads%2fstory%2fthumbnail%2f32141%2f7dc73950-1df5-4c97-b304-7c6b9c493d0aFeed-tw Feed-fb What a rough year! Thankfully we had these movies to get us through it allFor a more detailed list, see the 16 best movies of 2016.  Subscribe to CineFix for more videos. Https%3a%2f%2fblueprint-api-production.s3.amazonaws.com%2fuploads%2fstory%2fthumbnail%2f32173%2fc0034be6-897a-4b07-a82a-ba42d7607236Majestic lynx casually wanders onto ski slope to check out the action Https%3a%2f%2fblueprint-api-production.s3.amazonaws.com%2fuploads%2fstory%2fthumbnail%2f32162%2f755c45e1-070a-4d88-a953-bbf15b52eabaFirefighters rescue dog that slipped through the ice on Lake Michigan Https%3a%2f%2fblueprint-api-production.s3.amazonaws.com%2fuploads%2fstory%2fthumbnail%2f32157%2f07ac697e-c29b-48d8-8cb4-e7e069d40ee8Amazon Alexa helpfully tries to give porn to … [Link]

Mashable » This mug brews a cup of coffee while on the go

Friday 30 December 19:00:00 UTC 2016

Https%3a%2f%2fblueprint-api-production.s3.amazonaws.com%2fuploads%2fstory%2fthumbnail%2f31636%2f69f7b21f-b842-48cd-b775-575952339a33Feed-tw Feed-fbCoffee addicts are going to love this one.  Read more…More about Mashable Video, Coffee Addict, Coffee, Real Time Video, and Real Time [Link]

Slashdot » Consumer Reports Stands By Its Verdict, Won't Recommend Apple's MacBook Pro

Friday 30 December 18:40:00 UTC 2016

Consumer Reports took many by surprise last week — certainly Apple — when it said it doesn't recommend the company's new MacBook Pro models. The American magazine, which has garnered credibility over 80 years of its existence, said battery life on Apple's new laptops was all over the place — hitting 19 hours in a test, but less than four … [Link]

Mashable » Conspiracy theorists think an injured NBA player is another victim of Pizzagate

Friday 30 December 18:35:01 UTC 2016

Https%3a%2f%2fblueprint-api-production.s3.amazonaws.com%2fuploads%2fcard%2fimage%2f333043%2fe1d7aae9-1857-45bc-817f-7552d95a3879Feed-tw Feed-fbOne of the top posts on a subreddit for Donald Trump supporters is purporting that Dallas Mavericks center Andrew Bogut is being benched due to his opinions on Pizzagate. Bogut, who has tweeted about Pizzagate in the past, was injured in a December 5 game and expected to miss between 10 days and a month. SEE ALSO: 'Pizzagate' — The deranged … [Link]

Mashable » Some lucky duck got a £5 note 'worth £50,000' in a Christmas card

Friday 30 December 18:25:39 UTC 2016

Https%3a%2f%2fblueprint-api-production.s3.amazonaws.com%2fuploads%2fcard%2fimage%2f333054%2f18b9c914-a605-49a1-8c11-f91da6f603b9Feed-tw Feed-fbYes, I know Christmas is almost over and we'll soon be singing "Auld Lang Syne", but I've still got "All I want for Christmas" by Mariah Carey in my head. The reason? Because all I want for Christmas is a fiver. Not just any old fiver. One of those ultra-rare £5 notes worth £50,000. You know the ones with the special … [Link]

Mashable » 7 steps to a more productive morning

Friday 30 December 18:23:44 UTC 2016

Https%3a%2f%2fblueprint-api-production.s3.amazonaws.com%2fuploads%2fcard%2fimage%2f333065%2f73ee61ae-43b8-42f3-b814-cd386ac0f107Feed-tw Feed-fbWhen you hear someone talk about mornings, what comes to mind? Do you picture peace and serenity with a warm cup of coffee in one hand and a computer mouse in the other – fervently getting a head start on the day’s tasks? Or do you imagine hitting the snooze button, rolling out of bed, and hastily grabbing a breakfast bar … [Link]

Mashable » Twitter creates New Year's Eve stickers that look a lot like Snapchat filters

Friday 30 December 18:03:16 UTC 2016

Https%3a%2f%2fblueprint-api-production.s3.amazonaws.com%2fuploads%2fcard%2fimage%2f333096%2f07b294d4-912d-48ef-a5c9-d634618234beFeed-tw Feed-fb2016 was rough for many reasons. For Twitter, the year included a languishing of its stock price, many exits of top leaders, struggle to combat abuse and a failed attempt to be acquired.  SEE ALSO: Twitter's Periscope launches 360 video But Twitter is ringing in the new year with as much joy as it can via its platform. It is introducing … [Link]

Slashdot » Has the Internet Killed Curly Quotes?

Friday 30 December 18:00:00 UTC 2016

Glenn Fleishman, writing for The Atlantic: Many aspects of website design have improved to the point that nuances and flourishes formerly reserved for the printed page are feasible and pleasing. But there's a seemingly contrary motion afoot with quotation marks: At an increasing number of publications, they've been ironed straight. This may stem from a lack of awareness on the … [Link]

Mashable » Facebook is incredibly thirsty for your eyeballs this New Year's Eve

Friday 30 December 17:36:59 UTC 2016

Https%3a%2f%2fblueprint-api-production.s3.amazonaws.com%2fuploads%2fcard%2fimage%2f332966%2fcb42bfe1-5156-4d6a-8768-f52bd9ec6dd2Feed-tw Feed-fbApp notifications—they're bad! But app notifications that are basically advertisements? Actually the worst! Facebook doesn't care. It's urging users of Messenger, one of the social network's Snapchat clones, to open the app and enjoy a variety of "festive frames and stickers" this New Year's Eve. SEE ALSO: Facebook Messenger's latest attempt to hijack your social life The notification—which you might've received … [Link]

Mashable » These are the top 16 movies of 2016

Friday 30 December 17:20:43 UTC 2016

Https%3a%2f%2fblueprint-api-production.s3.amazonaws.com%2fuploads%2fcard%2fimage%2f333013%2fb5b4d2af-6179-4dcd-9b94-7650998bea79Feed-tw Feed-fbControversial opinion: 2016 has been a great year. For movies. SEE ALSO: 10 movies we can't wait to see in 2017 After I bah-humbugged 2014 and declared 2015 a dud for prestige films, 2016 – for all the suffering and heartbreak it hath wrought outside the cinema – brought forth so many great films that a Top 10 list just wasn't … [Link]

Slashdot » Checking Email as Soon as You Wake up Could be Ruining Your Day

Friday 30 December 17:20:00 UTC 2016

From a CNBC report: If you're like most people, you wake up to an alarm ringing on your smartphone. Then you probably roll over and check your work email. That's a dangerous way to start the day, according to a woman who studies happiness for a living. Reading just one negative email could lead you to report having a bad … [Link]

Popular Science » How the government is making way for self-driving cars

Friday 30 December 17:16:15 UTC 2016

Outgoing Secretary of Transportation Anthony Foxx Cars Outgoing Secretary of Transportation Anthony Foxx on our robotic future During his time as Secretary of Transportation, Anthony Foxx, who leaves his post at the end of January, penned laws to keep us safe on changing roads with driverless… [Link]

Mashable » Why 2016 was the year of time travel

Friday 30 December 17:06:15 UTC 2016

Https%3a%2f%2fblueprint-api-production.s3.amazonaws.com%2fuploads%2fcard%2fimage%2f331803%2f1a4ca333-91f2-4040-a0f3-eea84da6d21dFeed-tw Feed-fbConsider this more than a coincidence: a year that clearly overstayed its welcome, 2016, was also a year in which time travel could be found everywhere in popular culture.  From the year's most popular book and play, Harry Potter and the Cursed Child, to the hit movie Arrival, to a plethora of books and TV shows, mainstream entertainment seemed to decide … [Link]

Mashable » HBO moves up premiere of Carrie Fisher and Debbie Reynolds documentary to Jan. 7

Friday 30 December 16:44:28 UTC 2016

Https%3a%2f%2fblueprint-api-production.s3.amazonaws.com%2fuploads%2fcard%2fimage%2f333008%2fec23ba01-425c-41d3-a6a7-1e826b1093e2Feed-tw Feed-fbCarrie Fisher and Debbie Reynolds will be making us laugh agains sooner than we thought.  Following the tragic deaths of the two Hollywood icons, HBO has moved up the premiere of Bright Lights, a documentary about the mother and daughter. It will now air Jan. 7 at 8 p.m. EST. SEE ALSO: Fans mourn Debbie Reynolds and Carrie Fisher with touching … [Link]

Slashdot » Seattle Region Home To 10 of Nation's 30 Most Competitive Neighborhoods For House Hunters

Friday 30 December 16:40:00 UTC 2016

After a recent report revealed Seattle had the nation's hottest housing market for the second month running, it should come as no surprise that many of the most competitive neighborhoods in the country are clustered around the Seattle region. From a report on GeekWire: Redfin, a Seattle-based real estate and technology company, crunched the numbers on the most competitive neighborhoods … [Link]

Popular Science » Just how far away are the exoplanets we've found?

Friday 30 December 16:30:00 UTC 2016

exoplanets by distance Space Humankind's greatest adventure lies beyond the sun The galaxy brims with billions of planets, but whoa—they’re so far away! [Link]

Mashable » Firefighters rescue dog that slipped through the ice on Lake Michigan

Friday 30 December 16:17:35 UTC 2016

Https%3a%2f%2fblueprint-api-production.s3.amazonaws.com%2fuploads%2fstory%2fthumbnail%2f32162%2f755c45e1-070a-4d88-a953-bbf15b52eabaFeed-tw Feed-fb Rescue workers from the White Lake Fire Authority responded to a call on Wednesday after a family dog fell through the ice on Lake Michigan. Using a safety rope, the rescuers were able to walk to the dog's location on the ice, which was approximately 100 yards from the shore. A rescue worker then climb into the ice himself to … [Link]

Mashable » 10 tips for new writers from a self-published success

Friday 30 December 16:01:01 UTC 2016

Https%3a%2f%2fblueprint-api-production.s3.amazonaws.com%2fuploads%2fcard%2fimage%2f332908%2fe0197c05-2fb8-477a-8140-c4d75d973268Feed-tw Feed-fbIt’s that time when many people look to the year ahead as an opportunity to reassess their goals. If you're one of those who has always aspired to become a writer but don't even know where to begin, then this list by the best-selling self-published author Mark Dawson is a good place to start. Mark's initial venture down the traditional publishing … [Link]

Slashdot » Firefox 52 Borrows One More Privacy Feature From the Tor Browser

Friday 30 December 16:00:00 UTC 2016

An anonymous reader writes: Mozilla engineers have added a mechanism to Firefox 52 that prevents websites from fingerprinting users using system fonts. The user privacy protection system was borrowed from the Tor Browser, where a similar mechanism blocks websites from identifying users based on the fonts installed on their computers, only returning a list of "default fonts" per each OS. … [Link]

Mashable » Facebook Live wants users at any cost—even porn, piracy, and polling

Friday 30 December 15:29:02 UTC 2016

Https%3a%2f%2fblueprint-api-production.s3.amazonaws.com%2fuploads%2fcard%2fimage%2f329454%2f2815b05f-ebc3-46eb-9fe5-3937c17a65c1Feed-tw Feed-fbFacebook really, really, really wants you to love live video.  Facebook has started nudging people to not only create live videos, but consume them too. An update automatically pushes more live video to your smartphone screen. A bunch of people have been seeing a message pop up on their mobile News Feed: "Feeling the winter vibes? Go Live and winter it … [Link]

Mashable » Drake and Jennifer Lopez had their own prom and totally kissed

Friday 30 December 15:28:39 UTC 2016

Https%3a%2f%2fblueprint-api-production.s3.amazonaws.com%2fuploads%2fstory%2fthumbnail%2f32158%2f498b9982-5cf9-4e08-8bb6-90c6885b8bf2Feed-tw Feed-fbDrake and Jennifer Lopez sure know how to make one dance count.  The apparent couple, who recently orchestrated what appeared to be an Instagram confirmation of their rumored romance that set keyboards ablaze, have more than one upped themselves.  At Winter Wonderland Prom, they were crowned king and queen, danced, kissed and even premiered their rumored collaboration. It's a lot to … [Link]

Mashable » Trump sings about his presidency in the ultimate parody remix

Friday 30 December 15:21:28 UTC 2016

Https%3a%2f%2fblueprint-api-production.s3.amazonaws.com%2fuploads%2fcard%2fimage%2f332928%2f954cab51-8598-4dff-b508-6efc036542ceFeed-tw Feed-fbIt’s the end of the year and Cassetteboy, the king of UK political remixes, has turned his witty, catchy eye to the US.  SEE ALSO: This musical remix of the UK news in 2016 is hilariously brutal Aired during Charlie Brooker’s 2016 Wipe — the eagerly anticipated look back at the events of the past year by the creator of Black … [Link]

Slashdot » Governments Shut Down the Internet More Than 50 Times in 2016

Friday 30 December 15:20:00 UTC 2016

An anonymous reader writes: Governments around the world shut down the internet more than 50 times in 2016 — suppressing elections, slowing economies and limiting free speech. In the worst cases internet shutdowns have been associated with human rights violations, Deji Olukotun, senior global advocacy manager at digital rights organisation Access Now told IPS. "What we have found is that … [Link]

Mashable » Artist creates heartwarming pins congratulating the victories that go unnoticed

Friday 30 December 15:10:46 UTC 2016

Https%3a%2f%2fblueprint-api-production.s3.amazonaws.com%2fuploads%2fstory%2fthumbnail%2f32086%2f0d5982fc-f624-472e-bf9e-28c1465a21f8Feed-tw Feed-fbWouldn’t it be nice if every victory earned a congratulations? Artist Emily McDowell thinks so. She created one part hilarious, one part heartwarming enamel pins to recognize personal accomplishments and "everyday bravery." "I realized that we don't actually tend to celebrate or recognize the things that are actually our biggest challenges," the artist told Mashable.  SEE ALSO: Artist constructs massive playground … [Link]

Mashable » The top 9 shows to watch in 2017

Friday 30 December 15:00:04 UTC 2016

Https%3a%2f%2fblueprint-api-production.s3.amazonaws.com%2fuploads%2fstory%2fthumbnail%2f32144%2f6e02e30b-1437-4020-bc11-e33aae14cd51Feed-tw Feed-fbThere’s an insane amount of good television coming to a TV screen near you in 2017.  Read more…More about Mashable Video, 2017, Tv, Tv Shows, and Netflix [Link]

Slashdot » China's Cash-Strapped LeEco in Talks To Gain $1.4 Billion From Investor

Friday 30 December 14:40:00 UTC 2016

China's cash-strapped LeEco said it is in talks to secure 10 billion yuan ($1.4 billion) from an unidentified strategic investor, but the announcement was seen as insufficient to dispel concern over the high-tech conglomerate's financial health. From a report on Reuters: Led by tycoon Jia Yueting, LeEco expanded aggressively into electric and driverless cars and smartphones after making its name … [Link]

Mashable » This revolutionary device could save gunshot victims from bleeding out

Friday 30 December 14:35:53 UTC 2016

Https%3a%2f%2fblueprint-api-production.s3.amazonaws.com%2fuploads%2fstory%2fthumbnail%2f32155%2f6ab8167e-4540-4e7a-8a68-59f47ce5c1d2Feed-tw Feed-fb‘XSTAT 30’ is a sponge-filled syringe that is designed to stop blood flowing out of a wound.  The tiny sponges are released inside the open wound and expand when in contact with blood. The dressing lasts around four hours and each syringe can soak up around a pint of blood. Read more…More about Syringe, Innovations, Medical, Viral Videos, and Mashable Video … [Link]

Mashable » Amazon Alexa helpfully tries to give porn to a child

Friday 30 December 14:30:18 UTC 2016

Https%3a%2f%2fblueprint-api-production.s3.amazonaws.com%2fuploads%2fstory%2fthumbnail%2f32157%2f07ac697e-c29b-48d8-8cb4-e7e069d40ee8Feed-tw Feed-fb We're not exactly sure what this child is asking for when he says, "Alexa, play 'Digger digger,'" but we're almost positive it's not porn. Regardless, Amazon's personal assistant reached back through her algorithmic server banks, scanned the child's budding language and, through the miracle of technology, determines that this child really wants to hear some porn.  It only takes a … [Link]

ProgrammableWeb.com » ProgrammableWeb's Most Interesting APIs in 2016: Entertainment, Lifestyle, and Education

Friday 30 December 14:30:01 UTC 2016

We continue our look at some of 2016's most interesting APIs by looking at those from Music, Movies, Sports, TV, Games, Education, Astronomy, Food, and other Entertainment and Learning subjects. [Link]

Mashable » No, California has not legalized child prostitution

Friday 30 December 14:29:54 UTC 2016

Https%3a%2f%2fblueprint-api-production.s3.amazonaws.com%2fuploads%2fcard%2fimage%2f332909%2f771f8207-3dcd-44c5-8e56-6a10447bd992Feed-tw Feed-fbA rumour that prostitution by minors will be legal in California from January has caused quite a stir on right-wing Twitter.  SEE ALSO: New campaign matches Tinder users with sex trafficking victims However the rumour relies on a shaky understanding of a law approved back in September by California (Dem.) Governor Jerry Brown.  The outrage started after the Washington Examiner published … [Link]

Mashable » This electric scooter is making scooters cool again

Friday 30 December 14:00:00 UTC 2016

Https%3a%2f%2fblueprint-api-production.s3.amazonaws.com%2fuploads%2fstory%2fthumbnail%2f31369%2f56f0f42c-d661-4f3e-b329-6140d9ce22b0Feed-tw Feed-fbPortable, sleek and electric…scooters are looking a lot cooler thanks to this new modelTo learn more check out their Kickstarter. Read more…More about Mashable Video, Real Time Video, Real Time, Scooters, and Us World [Link]

Slashdot » Microsoft Foresees AR Tracking Your Keys, Milk, Entire Life

Friday 30 December 14:00:00 UTC 2016

Want a virtual assistant that means you won't lose anything ever again? A patent application filed by Microsoft hints at that future. From a report on CNET: The technology described in the patent filing, published Thursday, would bring sophisticated, automatic object tracking to augmented reality. A cousin of VR, which creates an entirely digital experience, augmented (or mixed) reality blends … [Link]

Mashable » The 9 most cringeworthy brand fails of 2016

Friday 30 December 13:49:50 UTC 2016

Https%3a%2f%2fblueprint-api-production.s3.amazonaws.com%2fuploads%2fcard%2fimage%2f331759%2fa420a0e2-78d8-4950-a1d2-a75f752fd2a1Feed-tw Feed-fbFrom a steady stream of celebrity deaths to an election that lent itself better to screaming matches than corny jokes, 2016 gave brands plenty of opportunity to make everyone groan on Twitter. Mourning the death of a beloved musical icon? So are the good people at Crocs! Watching an accused sex predator defend himself as he vies for the most powerful … [Link]

Popular Science » Can I use moss to navigate?

Friday 30 December 13:19:56 UTC 2016

Science Short answer: In principal, yes Common wisdom says that moss grows only on the north side of trees, which means you can use it to find your bearings if you’re lost in the woods. This is generally true,… [Link]

Popular Science » Have we invented a long-distance jetpack yet?

Friday 30 December 13:15:18 UTC 2016

Aviation Turning your daily commute into a joyride Martin Aircraft in New Zealand built the prototype that’s closest to allowing you to jet to work. [Link]

Slashdot » FBI and Homeland Security Detail Russian Hacking Campaign In New Report

Friday 30 December 13:00:00 UTC 2016

An anonymous reader quotes a report from The Guardian: The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and FBI have released an analysis of the allegedly Russian government-sponsored hacking groups blamed for breaching several different parts of the Democratic party during the 2016 elections. The 13-page document, released on Thursday and meant for information technology professionals, came as Barack Obama announced … [Link]

New Scientist – News » Ants craft tiny sponges to dip into honey and carry it home

Friday 30 December 12:30:40 UTC 2016

Non-expandable stomachs mean these ants need to use absorbent tools to transport tasty liquids to their nests – and they figure out the best objects for the job [Link]

Mashable » In an instant messaging world, a delayed response is anxiety inducing

Friday 30 December 12:10:23 UTC 2016

Https%3a%2f%2fblueprint-api-production.s3.amazonaws.com%2fuploads%2fcard%2fimage%2f319842%2f23ed1dc9-1650-486f-99bc-c3c84b0ce5c7Feed-tw Feed-fbLONDON — "Step away from the phone," I said to myself as my eyes bore down at my iMessages. I felt heavy with the burden of anticipation; my heart racing as my foot tapped in a frenzied motion. A feeling of intense malaise came upon me, and I glared at the screen longing for a grey bubble to appear on my … [Link]

Mashable » BHIM app will replace all cash transactions in India: PM Modi

Friday 30 December 11:45:38 UTC 2016

Https%3a%2f%2fblueprint-api-production.s3.amazonaws.com%2fuploads%2fcard%2fimage%2f332875%2f638fea67-a711-4298-9585-0687bd55cb40Feed-tw Feed-fbIndia’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi today announced a new app to encourage more Indians to pay online in the aftermath of invalidation of most circulated cash last month.  Called Bharat Interface for Money (BHIM), the app works on top of the country's UPI mobile banking platform and uses a mobile number as the payment address. The app, which has the simplest … [Link]

O'Reilly News and Commentary » #Ebook Deal/Day: Learning Swift 3 – $16.99 (Save 50%) Use code DEAL

Friday 30 December 11:27:21 UTC 2016

Get "Learning Swift 3" today using code DEAL and save 50%!This sale ends at 2:00 AM 2017-01-02 (PDT, GMT-8:00). [Link]

Mashable » People fell for a fake BBC Twitter account saying the Queen was dead

Friday 30 December 10:33:22 UTC 2016

Https%3a%2f%2fblueprint-api-production.s3.amazonaws.com%2fuploads%2fcard%2fimage%2f332858%2fc4cfc7fc-0e5b-4622-adc5-aabb5740bd32Feed-tw Feed-fbA hoax BBC News account sent Twitter into meltdown after it announced that Queen Elizabeth II had died.  SEE ALSO: The Queen got an official portrait because her birthday celebrations were ending The @BBCNewsUKI account, which is not verified on Twitter and uses letters in mixed case to spell "UK" in its bio, has since been suspended. However, the false tweet … [Link]

Mashable » This is how India went to the movies in 2016

Friday 30 December 10:09:41 UTC 2016

Https%3a%2f%2fblueprint-api-production.s3.amazonaws.com%2fuploads%2fcard%2fimage%2f332856%2faa2ac1dd-545a-4801-bb7b-eb0353d7a96aFeed-tw Feed-fbIndians love watching films. Unsurprising, because they are exposed to the world's most prolific movie-making industry, bigger than even Hollywood. So many productions in so many languages hit theaters every year and audiences are always spoiled for choice.  SEE ALSO: 7 films that show how Bollywood came of age in 2016 2016 saw some fascinating patterns emerge in movie-viewing habits of … [Link]

Slashdot » Satellite Spots Massive Object Hidden Under the Frozen Wastes of Antarctica

Friday 30 December 10:00:00 UTC 2016

schwit1 quotes a report from The Sun: Scientists believe a massive object which could change our understanding of history is hidden beneath the Antarctic ice. The huge and mysterious "anomaly" is thought to be lurking beneath the frozen wastes of an area called Wilkes Land. It stretches for a distance of 151 miles across and has a maximum depth of … [Link]

Mashable » Consumer Reports stands by its verdict, won't recommend Apple's MacBook Pro

Friday 30 December 9:27:00 UTC 2016

Https%3a%2f%2fblueprint-api-production.s3.amazonaws.com%2fuploads%2fcard%2fimage%2f332803%2f98e0f248-2f17-42ec-9a9a-9a3f4d531bebFeed-tw Feed-fbApple may end up selling millions of its new MacBook Pro laptops, but it doesn’t seem it will be able to win Consumer Reports’ approval.  SEE ALSO: Shots fired: Microsoft calls the new MacBook Pro a 'disappointment' The nonprofit organization is standing by its initial verdict in which it did not give the MacBook Pro (2016) its "recommended" rating. The organization … [Link]

Mashable » India's first transgender college principal resigns as colleagues fail to get over her sexual identity

Friday 30 December 8:15:35 UTC 2016

Https%3a%2f%2fblueprint-api-production.s3.amazonaws.com%2fuploads%2fcard%2fimage%2f332793%2f2823a77d-bd65-4c7f-8d4b-5bf4dbd59667Feed-tw Feed-fbStruggling to find acceptance from some, India’s first transgender college principal has quit from her job. SEE ALSO: Transgender artist bravely chronicles her transition in simple comics Dr. Manabi Bandopadhyay, who served as the principal (headmistress) of Krishnagar Women's College, has submitted her resignation, District Magistrate Sumit Gupta said.  Bandopadhyay cited "non-cooperation" from a section of teachers and students for her … [Link]

Slashdot » Paintings Reveal Signs of Alzheimer's and Parkinson's In Famous Artists

Friday 30 December 7:00:00 UTC 2016

Researchers from the University of Liverpool believe it is possible to detect cognitive decline in the paintings of famous artists by analyzing subtle changes in their brush strokes over time. The technique may one day be used to flag Alzheimer's and Parkinson's in artists before they're diagnosed. Gizmodo reports: A new study published in Neuropsychology shows that a mathematical technique … [Link]

Mashable » Apple could start manufacturing iPhones in India by April 2017

Friday 30 December 6:37:11 UTC 2016

Https%3a%2f%2fblueprint-api-production.s3.amazonaws.com%2fuploads%2fcard%2fimage%2f332789%2fb08fd5ef-1c80-4508-bf4d-9b766869ecc6Feed-tw Feed-fbApple could very soon begin manufacturing iPhones in the world's fastest growing smartphone market.  SEE ALSO: Apple bets on Reliance Jio as iPhone sales in India increase 50% After months of back and fourth with the local government, Apple is ready to assemble its smartphones in India as soon as April 2017, reports TOI.  The company has partnered with Taiwanese smartphone … [Link]

The Joy of Tech » An updated abridged history of tech communication.

Friday 30 December 6:03:28 UTC 2016

JoT thumbIt’s getting better all the time… ? [Link]

Mashable » India will dance to its Prime Minister's tunes on New Year's Eve

Friday 30 December 5:36:31 UTC 2016

Https%3a%2f%2fblueprint-api-production.s3.amazonaws.com%2fuploads%2fcard%2fimage%2f332787%2f78653e5d-4e16-47d3-b05c-ea1129714532Feed-tw Feed-fbIndia seems to be gearing up for a rather unusual New Year's Eve — one that will feature political speeches alongside live music and cocktails.  In a rare kind of party prep, clubs and bars in the national capital of Delhi are reportedly stocking their spaces with television screens and projectors for customers arriving on Dec. 31, when PM Narendra Modi … [Link]

Mashable » The hidden, floating sanctuary built by artists

Friday 30 December 4:54:23 UTC 2016

Https%3a%2f%2fblueprint-api-production.s3.amazonaws.com%2fuploads%2fstory%2fthumbnail%2f32132%2f60bef743-9d18-486a-802b-b11b982f74c7Feed-tw Feed-fbWhen I need to escape for a few days, the first place that comes to mind is a tiny outpost called Freedom Cove.Freedom Cove is a hidden treasure tucked away off the west coast of Vancouver Island. After a six-hour drive hugging mountainsides and winding through temperate rainforests along the way, I meet Alistair Horne at his docks on a wet, … [Link]

Mashable » NBA player gets waaay too overconfident and quickly becomes a meme

Friday 30 December 4:19:41 UTC 2016

Https%3a%2f%2fblueprint-api-production.s3.amazonaws.com%2fuploads%2fcard%2fimage%2f332752%2f775d7b84-0bf0-4de9-8f09-88da7729a09fFeed-tw Feed-fbPoor Kemba Walker. He was on top of the world, launching a three-pointer as his Charlotte Hornets beat the Miami Heat on Thursday night, when he celebrated a little too soon.  Move over Swaggy P, Swaggy K is the captain now #shaqtin A video posted by Bleacher Report (@bleacherreport) on Dec 29, 2016 at 6:38pm PST Yep, that's a Steph Curry-style … [Link]

Slashdot » Facebook Buys Data From Third-Party Brokers To Fill In User Profiles

Friday 30 December 3:30:00 UTC 2016

An anonymous reader quotes a report from International Business Times: According to a report from ProPublica, the world's largest social network knows far more about its users than just what they do online. What Facebook can't glean from a user's activity, it's getting from third-party data brokers. ProPublica found the social network is purchasing additional information including personal income, where … [Link]

Slashdot » Wisconsin's Department of Natural Resources Site No Longer Says Humans Cause Climate Change

Friday 30 December 2:10:00 UTC 2016

The website of Wisconsin's Department of Natural Resources has been updated with new language and no longer says that humans and greenhouse emissions cause climate change. Instead, the site says that the causes of global warming "are being debated and researched by academic entities." The problem is that almost all climate scientists agree that human-made greenhouse gases are responsible for … [Link]

Mashable » Police point out robber's major fail in humorous Facebook post

Friday 30 December 2:08:12 UTC 2016

Https%3a%2f%2fblueprint-api-production.s3.amazonaws.com%2fuploads%2fcard%2fimage%2f332678%2ffb3e1849-db3d-4a2c-8b57-7b321c98031fFeed-tw Feed-fbPolice officers in Georgia are annoyed with how easy one thief made it to solve a recent crime. The Marietta, Georgia Police Department posted a brief note on Facebook Monday addressed to the "gentleman who shoplifted from one of our local pawn shops today." "When you make it this easy it takes all the fun out of chasing bad guys!" they … [Link]

Slashdot » Toshiba Is 'Burning Cash At An Alarming Rate'

Friday 30 December 1:30:00 UTC 2016

bsharma quotes a report from Reuters: Faced with the prospect of a multibillion-dollar write-down that could wipe out its shareholders' equity, Japan's Toshiba is running out of fixes: It is burning cash, cannot issue shares, and has few easy assets left to sell. The Tokyo-based conglomerate, which is still recovering from a $1.3 billion accounting scandal in 2015, dismayed investors … [Link]

Mashable » How Amazon and Jet.com spent their ad dollars this holiday season

Friday 30 December 1:22:16 UTC 2016

Https%3a%2f%2fblueprint-api-production.s3.amazonaws.com%2fuploads%2fcard%2fimage%2f332559%2f7c553511-7e62-43b8-8a78-32a1f5755a80Feed-tw Feed-fbAfter a huge TV advertising blitz that lasted through much of the past year, Jet.com removed itself almost entirely from the airwaves this holiday season as it turned its full attention to the digital space. According to estimates from advertising tracking firm MediaRadar, the retail site cut out virtually all TV spending in the months following its sale to Walmart in … [Link]

Mashable » 8 ways you can be a kinder human in 2017

Friday 30 December 1:00:00 UTC 2016

Https%3a%2f%2fblueprint-api-production.s3.amazonaws.com%2fuploads%2fcard%2fimage%2f325865%2f1e05d1ac-4b3e-4fa8-9dbc-844d5048dfe9Feed-tw Feed-fbFor many of us, 2017 is going to be rough. Getting through it will require peak kindness. If you're looking to treat others better in 2017 (uh, we hope that is the case), start with a few simple changes. Bonus: This is a New Year's resolution that does not include unrealistic exercise goals. Here are a few steps you can take … [Link]

Mashable » Apple might depend on a rival for the next iPhone's display

Friday 30 December 0:50:07 UTC 2016

Https%3a%2f%2fblueprint-api-production.s3.amazonaws.com%2fuploads%2fcard%2fimage%2f332620%2f0eef2732-fce8-489d-994f-ea5ae28e39fdFeed-tw Feed-fbThere are still a few days left in 2016, but iPhone fans have been living in 2017 for some time now.  Rumors of the next version of Apple's flagship have captured our attention since the release of the iPhone 7 in September (and in some cases even before), and by now there's an established set of features most prognosticators expect will … [Link]

Slashdot » Seattle Man Accused of Using Social Media To Set Up Fake Porn Agency

Friday 30 December 0:50:00 UTC 2016

The Washington State Attorney General's Office has charged a Seattle man for setting up a fake talent agency for adult entertainers in order to trick women into posing nude and having sex with him. NBC News reports: Michael-Jon Matthew Hickey is accused of creating a fictitious business and using deceptive ads with bogus employment offers to find his victims. The … [Link]

Mashable » Emma Watson singing in 'Beauty and the Beast' leaked by Belle doll

Friday 30 December 0:37:44 UTC 2016

Https%3a%2f%2fblueprint-api-production.s3.amazonaws.com%2fuploads%2fcard%2fimage%2f332666%2f73f16796-03da-4ac0-9ab7-483ce3617664Feed-tw Feed-fbEmma Watson's singing voice — even when grainy — is seemingly chah-ming.   A short audio clip of of the actress, who stars as Belle in the upcoming live action Beauty and the Beast, singing "Something There" leaked on the web on Thursday. The video was taken by a fan who recorded a Hasbro Belle doll after spotting it at a … [Link]

Mashable » 2016 was even worse than you thought because we lost these 14 great minds

Friday 30 December 0:22:39 UTC 2016

Https%3a%2f%2fblueprint-api-production.s3.amazonaws.com%2fuploads%2fcard%2fimage%2f332628%2f7277ceac-9cb3-431f-b15d-e4d54ab180c8Feed-tw Feed-fbIt’s no secret that 2016 has been a rough year, as we lost many cultural giants, from David Bowie to Prince to Gwen Ifill to John Glenn to … well, it's a hell of a list. But what makes 2016 sting all the more was how deep the losses were. While we mourned the deaths of greats who lived life in … [Link]

Mashable » LeBron James meets his match and it's not an NBA player at all

Friday 30 December 0:18:59 UTC 2016

Https%3a%2f%2fblueprint-api-production.s3.amazonaws.com%2fuploads%2fcard%2fimage%2f332655%2fd6f99bcf-8341-4ae9-b440-9c0fe5e263cbFeed-tw Feed-fbThere are few things that can conquer LeBron James, the NBA superstar with four MVP awards, three NBA championships and 12 All-Star nods. But King James appears to have met his match. Though it wasn't any player or NBA team that crippled James, no. On the contrary, it was a piece of garlic.  SEE ALSO: This is what it sounded like … [Link]

Slashdot » Mining Companies Are Using Autonomous Trucks, Drills and Trains To Boost Efficiency, Reduce Employees

Friday 30 December 0:10:00 UTC 2016

schwit1 quotes a report from MIT Technology Review: Mining companies are rolling out autonomous trucks, drills, and trains, which will boost efficiency but also reduce the need for human employees. Rio Tinto uses driverless trucks provided by Japan's Komatsu. They find their way around using precision GPS and look out for obstacles using radar and laser sensors. The company's driverless … [Link]

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