PC gaming is a vast market, and it’s only getting bigger. Mobile PC gaming is also catching heat thanks to technological advancements, both hardware and software. Just like full-grown consoles vs handheld consoles, a good gaming PC will outperform a similar-priced mobile gaming solution. Games are becoming increasingly demanding, and to get the most out of your hardware, you might want to overclock your CPU and GPU. The gains come at the cost of more power draw and heat generation.
With the latest generation of hardware, the amount of heat and power draw is more than ever. However, if you’re uncomfortable doing this or don’t want to risk damaging your hardware, you can underclock it instead. This will still give you a performance boost and is more efficient, meaning your hardware will last longer. This is great if you intend to use your PC for many fruitful years with minimum hiccups.
Intel processors – CPU
Intel processors are some of the most popular on the market and some of the easiest to overclock. However, underclocking is just as simple. To underclock an Intel processor, you need to use the Intel Extreme Tuning Utility (XTU). This free download from Intel’s website is compatible with all their latest processors. Once you’ve installed XTU, you can open it up and click on the “Performance” tab. Here, you’ll see a list of all of your installed processors. To underclock one of them, simply click on it and then use the slider to adjust the clock speed.
AMD processors – APU, CPU and GPU
AMD processors are more challenging to overclock than Intel processors but are also more powerful. Underclocking them is a little simpler, but you must still use a tool like AMD OverDrive.AMD OverDrive is a free download from AMD’s website and is compatible with all of their latest processors. Once installed, you can open it and click on the “AMD OverDrive” tab. Here, you’ll see a list of all of your installed processors. To underclock one of them, simply click on it and then use the slider to adjust the clock speed.
Nvidia processors – GPU
Nvidia processors are some of the most popular on the market and some of the easiest to overclock. However, underclocking is just as simple. You need to use the Nvidia Control Panel to underclock an Nvidia processor. This free download from Nvidia’s website is compatible with all their latest processors. Once you’ve installed the Nvidia Control Panel, open it up and click on the “Manage 3D Settings” tab. Here, you’ll see a list of all of your installed processors. To underclock one of them, simply click on it and then use the slider to adjust the clock speed.
Trials and Errors
Like overclocking, underclocking, too, requires some trials and errors. Sometimes the voltages need to be higher for the processor to maximise its full potential. It is advisable to go down a couple of points at a time when underclocking and not more than 5-10 points when overclocking on the under-volt settings. It is advisable to check similar settings on the internet to get the best results as tried and tested by more experienced users. Under-volt and sometimes underclocking with more headroom for boost allows the processor to perform great under increased stress loads, especially when gaming for long. PCs produce heat with vigorous power delivery, and controlling it on some parameters allows us to enjoy the best of PC performance while allowing us to beat the heat.
Being an only child (no more a child) and that too male, I know what a day looks like in a life of a woman. They wake up before the sun and work like a machine, even on the days when they’re sick and don’t have the energy to move. Back in the 20th century, every woman was living with the thought that she was superwoman and men, they were sympathetic and masters in the art of how to avoid household chores by saying, we only get one day to sleep peacefully.
Today, the superwoman generation is getting old, and the young generation believes in equality and knows how to stay ahead of the curve. With the arrival of modern technology, the world has changed for the good, and we have lots of options to make our lives better. Learning technology has become easy, thanks to the internet. So, let’s not waste time and take a look at the top eight smart home appliances that I believe can make any woman’s life easier.
Smart Lighting
What’s the second most asked question by a woman when she’s away from home? “Have you turned off the lights?”, “Did you eat?” still stands the first. Women care a lot about bills, and men always forget to turn the lights off. Installing a smart lighting setup at home allows us to turn the lights on and off using our phone or voice control. We can also dim the lights as per our needs or change their colour to suit our mood. Get it now to save you a** from a bill-concerned WOMAN!
Smart Locks
Tell me you only have one lock at home, and I will take you out for dinner (and text your address to a burglar). Jokes apart, honestly, we all have at least two locks in our homes – a sturdy lock to secure a front door and another one for the main door, along with a side shutter lock. It looks like another task for someone who leaves and gets back to the house frequently.
Instead of a regular lock, get a smart lock, which adds a layer of security to your home. With a smart lock, you can unlock your door using your phone or a code without worrying about carrying a physical key. Women are natural overthinkers, and smart locks are best for them as they arrive with remote locking and unlocking feature, which is very useful when you are away from home.
Smart Doorbells
Have you ever rung a bell and run away? Yeah, we all did and still do, sometimes. However, it would be best if you were careful about the act, as most houses today have smart doorbells that offer an added layer of security to the home. They come with a camera that allows the house owner to see who is at the door, even when they’re away from home. The innovation is best for women who stay at home mostly, as they offer two-way communication through the phone.
Smart Vacuum Cleaners
Women have an over-riding urge to do chores that men do not, especially keeping the house as tidy and clean as possible. Smart vacuum cleaners offer the convenience of cleaning your home without any effort. With a smart vacuum cleaner, you can schedule cleaning times, set up no-go zones, and even control it using your voice. Invest a little more and get a smart vacuum cleaner with a camera to see where it is cleaning.
Smart Refrigerators
After wardrobes, the next crowded thing in the house is refrigerators, where we keep things and forget them quite often. With smart refrigerators, we can simplify our daily routine. Some smart refrigerators come with cameras that allow us to see what is inside without opening them, really helpful when you are at the grocery store and want to know what you need to buy.
Smart Ovens
What does a smart oven offer? A lot more than you think, including a bit of extra time to shoot a GRWM reel. The smart oven lets you toast, bake, bagel, roast, slow cook, and control to operate using your phone or voice control. The feature can be useful when preparing a meal and adjusting the temperature or cooking time.
Smart Air Purifier
A smart air purifier is a must-have appliance for any woman who values clean air in her home. With a smart air purifier, you can have full control, receive alerts when the filter needs to be changed, and even customise the settings based on the air quality in your home. This has been incredibly helpful, especially during allergy season.
Smart Coffee Maker
A smart coffee maker is a must-have appliance for any woman who loves coffee. With a smart coffee maker, you can schedule when it should brew, control it with your voice, and customise the settings for different types of coffee. It can make your mornings much more convenient, and you can wake up to a fresh cup of coffee without having to do it all yourself.
I am a lifelong learner, constantly seeking new knowledge and experiences to grow and develop. A results-driven and analytical individual, able to make data-informed decisions and execute them effectively. As a huge sports enthusiast, I firmly believe that individual talent honed with teamwork is a prime constituent for aspirations.
Q2. What is the one subject you think aspiring leaders should learn?
I believe it is the ability to adapt to change. It is crucial for a leader to navigate the constantly evolving business landscape, to be able to pivot when needed and identify new opportunities. A leader who can lead and manage change effectively will be able to steer their team and organization through difficult situations and come out stronger on the other side. Another key trait that aspiring leaders should acquire is emotional intelligence. Emotional intelligence is the ability to recognize, understand, and manage one’s own emotions, as well as the emotions of others. A leader with high emotional intelligence can create a positive and productive work environment, build strong relationships, and handle conflicts effectively.
Q3. One thing you believe is essential for sustained growth.
One thing that is essential for the sustained growth of any business is a culture of continuous learning and improvement. This means fostering an environment where employees are encouraged to take risks, experiment, and learn from their mistakes. It also means providing opportunities for professional development and offering feedback that is both constructive and actionable. The leadership of the organization should be open to making changes to succeed in rapidly evolving business environments. This culture of continuous learning and improvement allows organizations to stay competitive, effect change positively, and ultimately achieve sustained growth.
Q4. One book that you love and the one you’ve bookmarked?
I love reading biographies as they give me very real and distinct narratives of individual journeys, I feel this impacts me as a reader differently. One of my personal favourites is ‘Never Give Up’ by Bear Grylls. Moreover, having had the opportunity to meet him at one of AMD’s global events, his impact has multiplied! For the future, I have bookmarked a detailed read on the Upanishads and Vedic Literature as this is something I have been wanting to do for a long time.
Q5. Leadership quotes that inspire you
Though there are many quotes that have left lasting impressions, the one I relate to the most is a famous quote by Mark Twain. “It’s not the size of the dog in the fight, it’s the size of the fight in the dog”. Another philosophy and belief that I strive to implement is based on a very matter-of-fact and profound quote by Ralph Emerson. “Life is a journey and not a destination: so make the most of it while you are on it!”
Q6. What is your unique way of maintaining a work-life balance?
As the Managing Director of Sales in India for one of the world’s largest semiconductor companies, I get this question often, especially in the advent of the pandemic. It’s important to remember that work-life balance looks different for everyone and what works for one person may not work for another. It’s a continuous effort to find the balance that works for you. My own way of maintaining a work-life balance is by setting clear boundaries and priorities. I also prioritize self-care through activities like meditation, exercise and spending time with loved ones. Having specific goals and targets for both your professional and personal life, and regularly reviewing and adjusting them as needed helps immensely.
Q7. Significant learning in the past couple of years?
The pandemic has fundamentally changed the way I think. I have realised it is very important to focus on yourself, be mindful and live in the moment. As you wade through stressful and uncertain situations, ensuring your own mental and emotional well-being, and prioritizing self-care are key.
Q8. Some productivity apps and technologies you use in your daily life.
The efficiency of smartphones and laptops has never been more critical to the way we work, and we have some truly amazing devices available in the market. I also use a variety of productivity apps and technologies on a daily basis. I’d say Outlook, Gmail, Zoom, MS Teams and Google Docs are apps I rely on while on the go.
Q9. What is your technology detox?
I do feel strongly that this is most required as it does help in recharge and reset. As a habit, I try to take short breaks from work by going on 3-4 day long staycations with family and friends – often to reserves/ hills where the mobile signal itself is elusive (though it is getting stronger with passing time). It helps me and my family to stay closer to nature and get in bouts of fresh air.
Q10. If money was not a bar, what piece of tech and automobile would you own?
In the current era where we see evolution in tech and automobile going hand-in-hand, I aspire to own an Electric SUV as soon as the infrastructure and technology have been cemented across in the country. It’s a perfect blend of the latest technology advancements and automobiles.
If you’re anywhere in the PC gaming scene then you surely know about the Predator gaming laptop series by Acer. The Predator series is known to be one of if not the best gaming laptops around the world and we at Exhibit use a number of Predator machines as our daily driver’s thanks for their dependability. Our extensive testing of the Predator Helios 300 has only left us amazed with its gaming performance.
Being a car enthusiast and frequent traveller, a big chunk of my time I spent with cars, and sadly sitting in a car playing games is a hassle in itself. But what if I told you that a new car on the market allows you to play games right on its screen? That’s right!
The latest EV by Mercedes, the AMG EQS 53 4MATIC+ is a one of its kind luxury offering that widens the horizons of what an electric car can provide its customers.
The Sedan EV has a height of 1515 mm and a width of 1926 mm. The exterior of the car is eye-catching, especially its front, which features a dual light band coupled with the front bonnet that beautifully overlaps the wings. The digital lamps are bright and feature 1.3 million pixels per headlamp which are enough to light up your way effectively.
The brightness of the digital lamps is furthermore enhanced and controlled by the Adaptive high beam assist plus, which features an anti-dazzle continuous high beam. The rear light band features a 3D helix design, and the tailgate opening features that classy Mercedes Star badge. The light game does not end here, as the car also features an illuminated aesthetic door handle that adds to the overall appeal of this sexy-looking car.
When I talked about gaming at the beginning, I told you that a new car in the market allows people to play games on its screen. Well, that’s none other than, the Mercedes AMG EQS 53 4MATIC+ which offers MBUX Hyperscreen where you can play Tetris, Pairs, and Sudoku.
The Mercedes-AMG EQS 53 4MATIC+ offers a battery backup of up to 500 kms in one go, while the Predator Helios 300 offers a battery backup of up to 5 hours and 30 minutes. The interior of the car is designed with a sporty touch. It features an AMG performance steering wheel in crisp Nappa Leather that feels good to hold, it also features AMG sports pedals for your ease. The highlight of the interior is definitely the Hyperscreen, that’s 141 cm wide and has AI capabilities to learn driver behavior. It also features 7 co-driver profiles for content individualisation. Thus, you and your loved ones can all gain an individual experience while driving this car.
Another interesting factor is the profile log-in that can be accessed with fingerprint, face, or voice! It is an OLED screen that is backed by Gorilla Glass protection. Besides, the driver need not get overwhelmed by this screen itself as their attention can always be focused on the road. The Head Up Display allows you to locate all the information about your speed, range, and other important information on the front itself without having to look down at the display; that’s definitely something we’ve seen in sci-fi films!
What we have here is also an option to set your car’s interior lighting as per your mood with active ambient lighting. But it’s not the people in the front seat who have all the fun, as people sitting behind can also retain all the control with the help of the MBUX tablet.
Talking about the performance of this car – It features AMG Dynamic Select driving modes that can be set to Moderate, Comfort, balanced, Sport+, Powerful, Dynamic, and more. That’s enough driving modes to make the kid in you happy. It comes with fully variable AMG Performance 4MATIC+ all-wheel drive which means the system continuously distributes and drives torques between the front and rear axles depending on the driving situation.
The car’s torque is checked 10,000 times per minute and adjusted whenever necessary. It features over 350+ sensors like 12x ultrasonic sensors, moisture sensors, 4x module mode radar, LiDAR, multiple cameras, and much more. We are sure you’ve heard about fast charging on phones, but Mercedes offers it on a car with 30-minute fast charge in DC charging that can take the car from 10 to 80 per cent in just 30 minutes. It can support 200 Kw of max charging with a range of over 500 kms.
The whole reason behind people going for EVs is because they’re good for the environment, and Mercedes has hit the ball out of the park with its new offering, as the majority of its elements have been sourced from recycled products ranging from steel to cable ducts and even the floor coverings.
When a brand like Mercedes brings its A-Game to the EV car market, the result is the Mercedes-AMG EQS 53 4MATIC+. The car is designed to cater to both the adult and the kid inside you, which makes it a perfect package for EV enthusiasts.
The car is without a doubt, designed for tech enthusiasts who wish to own a luxury EV that is ahead of its curve. In contrast, the Acer Predator 300 is designed for working professionals who are into gaming on weekends. The car and the laptop bring a style statement to your life by offering features of the best of both worlds!
Hyundai has become a popular brand among automobile lovers. When one thinks of Hyundai, they unanimously agree on an impressive feature list, the absolute unit of value propositions on roads and a reliable customer service network. Let’s not forget the era demands larger, sassier-looking cars that meet not just one’s demand but eventually everyone connected with the one. Adhering to modern automotive demands, Hyundai’s global best-selling product is now available in India – Hyundai Tucson. A question arises, what makes this product an international bestseller? What other way to find out than driving this beauty on a road trip? Where are we headed? We’re heading towards the answers.
Is it the bold, premium and sporty design?
Hyundai designers were briefed to make Tucson an iconic and bold design. Thanks to the brief, Tucson now feels angular, humongous and beautiful. The front fascia feels like a sizeable smiling grille. Kudos to the clever engineering covering the five-point dark chrome parametric DRLs with nickel metal coating. Turn them on, and Tucson gets a distinct identity like no other car on Indian roads. Sharp creases on the body neatly camouflage the enormous length of the Tucson and bring a contemporary design language familiar to supercar manufacturers making a large vehicle. If that was not enough, the tail section is a piece of art with connected LED taillamps finished in mesmerising lit textures and a neatly hidden rear wiper underneath the spoiler. Complementing the design are 18-inch diamond-cut alloy wheels, purpose-built for tackling any road. Overall the new Tucson feels refreshing and eye-pleasing from the outside.
The ivory-clad interior and plush ventilated seats with unique metal accents add a sense of space and splendour, coupled with a voice-enabled panoramic sunroof. The lines inside the cabin flow in a minimalistic design, adding to the definition of opulence. The LWB enables oodles of legroom and headroom with deep recline angles for the rear passengers and a boss mode found in premium sedans a segment or two above Tucson’s asking price. The interior of the Tucson makes it a comfortable, spacious abode with a focus on comfort, the luxury of a serene driving experience and class-leading safety features, including ADAS level 2 aided by front and rear radars with a front camera. This makes Tucson one of the safest cars available in India.
Is it the features, performance, luxury, safety or something else?
Available in multiple engine options – a 2L petrol (156PS and 192Nm) and a 2L diesel (186PS and 415Nm) with an AWD variant featuring multi-terrain modes (snow, mud and sand), the Tucson offers versatility. The transmission options include a 6-speed automatic on the petrol, while the diesel variants have a sleek shifting 8-speed automatic. The engines and transmission options offer linear, smooth power delivery, with the diesel tickling the enthusiast’s senses. The NVH levels are so darn impressive; they’re unlike any Hyundai we’ve experienced. Couple that with the ivory-clad spacious interiors, customisable seat positions on the front row and deep recline angles on the rear along with passenger walk-in mode, amplifying the sense of sumptuousness, unlike most competitors. With 4 disc brakes on all 4 tyres, level 2 ADAS with 19 class-leading features safeguard you, pedestrians, other cars and the precious Tucson from any nuances on the road. The braking performance is also linear despite all discs on all tyres and adds to the overall experience of plushness.
Hyundai Tucson is one of the safest cars on Indian roads. The level 2 ADAS makes it almost impossible to collide the car with anything on the road. There are tonnes of customisations to customise the ADAS aids as per personal preference. Here’s a list of all the advanced driving-assistance system safety features for your reference. Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist (FCA), Car/Pedestrian/Cyclist + Junction Turning, Front collision warning (FCW), Lane Keeping Assist (LKA), Lane Departure Warning (LDW), Blind-Spot Collision-Avoidance Assist (BCA), Blind-Spot Collision Warning (BCW), Blind-Spot View Monitor (BVM), Safe Exit Warning (SEW), Driver Attention Warning (DAW), Smart Cruise Control with Stop & GO (SCC with S&G), Lane Following Assist (LFA), High Beam Assist (HBA), Leading Vehicle Departure Alert (LVDA), Rear Cross-Traffic Collision-Avoidance Assist (RCCA), Rear Cross-Traffic Collision Warning (RCCW) and Surround View Monitor (SVM). The 360-degree cameras offer high resolution and enable dynamic parking assist lines for added convenience. The considerable safety net with numerous features cocooned in luxury makes this car seem much more valuable than its asking price.
Why is Tucson Hyundai’s global bestseller?
We scouted out with the Tucson, searching for answers to why it is Hyundai’s global bestseller. Tucson’s unaccountable features, extensive safety net with the best-in-class package, and plush feel of the ivory-clad interiors make it a fantastic premium SUV for anyone looking to upgrade their driving experience into grandeur daily drives. Hyundai designers and engineers have hit the ball right out of the park regarding the new Tucson. No wonder this car is a global bestseller featured in blockbuster cinemas and is now available as a blockbuster in our daily drives.
Being well-dressed is the easiest way to show who you are. However, in a world of fast fashion, we often ignore the ever-green track and follow the trails of seasonal trends. We know fashion is fickle and going to stay for a short time, but the urge to have that trendy piece of clothing controls our minds, and we end up overstuffing our wardrobes.
FASHION Vs STYLE
Two broadly used phrases by the young generation even though they are baffled about them. Let’s make it easy, fashion is more about dressing as per the trends, while style is more about being yourself. Being in style and having certain wardrobe essentials will always help you to stay fresh, no matter the time of year.
Essentials no. 1
Pale Blue Oxford Shirt
The button-down long-sleeve Oxford shirt in a pale blue hue is a timeless option. The shirt will serve as a smart casual for any occasion, and it’s the perfect accompaniment to black or white trousers, a navy-blue suit, dark blue jeans, shorts and even a light brown chino.
Essentials no. 2
Pair of Black T-Shirts
Black colour brings confidence and is often associated with intelligence and sexuality. When styling a black t-shirt, only the sky is the limit, as it looks elegant on everyone and everything; it doesn’t matter whether you are heading to work, a party, or a date.
Essentials no. 3
Statement Jewellery
When our country was abundant and prosperous, we had men who liked to wear pieces of jewellery. Even today, we have men who like to wear a modish bracelet and a stylish ring as it adds a statement to their already hyped look.
Essentials no. 4
Grey Jeans
Black colour suits best with grey and when you’re having the heft of black coloured clothes such as shirts, and t-shirts, then you can’t avoid grey coloured jeans. When you wear black and grey together, it brings a soothing vibe to your look.
Essentials no. 5
Chelsea Boots
Many people perceive that Chelsea Boots or any boots are only made to suit cool weather, but it’s not true. One can wear Chelsea Boots on a day-to-day basis, as they’re easy to wear and look good on casual as well as formal outfits.
Essentials no. 6
Denim Shirt or Denim Jacket
When you add layers to your clothes, you automatically look dapper, and denims are best to add layers, be it a denim shirt or denim jacket. They won’t weigh you down, as they are made for all seasons, always in style, and on-trend and add a look you’ve been looking for.
Essentials no. 7
Leather Belt
Now that you have seen most of the wardrobe essentials, it’s time to hold them together with something and what’s better than a leather belt? Wearing a leather belt helps accentuate your figure, style an outfit, or add colour to an entity.
Essentials no. 8
Black or Navy Suit
Don’t underestimate the power of a suit. We often avoid buying a suit as it costs a lot of money, but it is a versatile staple for your collection. You might need a suit on a few occasions as no one really wears it casually, which sums up the value of a suit.
Essentials no. 9
Grey Joggers
You must have seen Hollywood celebrities getting papped in grey joggers. Yes, that’s where they emerge as essential. Grey joggers are easy to style and look classy when paired with mid-top sneakers, bright-coloured hoodies, sweatshirts, or even t-shirts.
Essentials no. 10
Pair of Sweatshirts
Sweatshirts are one of the must-have wardrobes in men’s essentials as they are comfortable to live in. They’re soft, warm, lightweight, and made to be a part of your lazy laundry schedule. The comfortable athletic wear can be paired with denim, shorts and joggers.
Essentials no. 11
Blue and Brown Chinos
Chinos are the preppiest legwear option out there in the market, and whether you agree or not, we all need to get a little formal in life, and chinos are best to have a business casual look. They look best when combined with sneakers or boots.
Essentials no. 12
White Sneakers
Nothing to say about white sneakers, as most of us already own one. The white sneakers trend started back in the 20th century as a street style look, and it landed in the 21st century as a wardrobe classic, and indeed, they’re not going off the trend anytime soon.
Essentials no. 13
Pair of Polo T-Shirts
If you are looking for a middle ground between button-down shirts and t-shirts, then Polos are the best, as they’re professional and offer relaxation at the same time. While shopping for polos, buy only the ones that equip you well.
Essentials no. 14
Socks and Innerwears
We often ignore the reality that socks and underwear are as crucial as outer clothing and don’t invest much time and money in them. One should own at least three pairs of socks and inner wears and should not go on with the same after 6 months.
Essentials no. 15
Bomber Jacket
Bomber jackets were initially designed as flight jackets for pilots to wear during World War II, but over the years, they earned a spot in the wardrobe essentials of men. They are warm, versatile and can be worn across the year.
Essentials no. 16
Shorts
Shorts are one of the most favoured outfits of the year as they offer the comfort you want. As a tropical country citizen, comfort and airflow are more important than the protection of the legs, and that’s where shorts get the spot in our wardrobe.
Essentials no. 17
Suede Loafers
Suede Loafers are your solution to smart-casual footwear problems, as they are comfortable and a wiser choice than sneakers as they are simple to get on and off. Suede Loafers keep your feet comfortable all day long and look stylish with both casuals and formals.
Hey, social media fanatics, welcome to our channel. Let’s discuss the Social Media Fiasco. What’s happening to the most consumed form of media across the globe? It’s 2023, and social media is more ingrained in our daily lives than ever! Instagram, YouTube, Facebook, Twitter, Snapchat, WhatsApp, etc., if you are familiar with any of these social media platforms, you are at the right place. As it’s popularly known – The first step toward change is awareness. The second step is acceptance. Social media has become an integral part of our daily lives. It has changed how we communicate, shares information, and consume news. The role of social media in society is both positive and negative.
On the positive side, social media has allowed individuals to connect with people worldwide. It has also made it easier for people to stay in touch with friends and family living far away. Social media has also played a crucial role in the spread of information, particularly during times of crisis. For example, social media has been used during natural disasters to disseminate important information to affected communities.
However, there are also negative aspects of social media. The constant use of social media has been linked to increased feelings of anxiety, depression, and loneliness. Additionally, the spread of misinformation on social media can have serious consequences. For example, false information about COVID-19 has led to confusion and mistrust among government officials and health experts. Another concern is the impact of social media on privacy. Many social media platforms collect user data, which could be sold to third parties for advertising or other purposes. This has raised concerns about protecting personal information and the potential for data misuse.
The impact of social media on society is complex and multifaceted. While it has brought many benefits, it has also created new challenges. It is essential for individuals to be aware of the potential risks and to use social media responsibly. Society must be critical of social media’s role in their lives and ensure they know the potential negative impacts. It’s also important to use the platform responsibly and to be mindful of the potential risks, such as spreading misinformation and protecting personal information. But as we scroll through our feeds, we’re increasingly confronted with a dark side to these social media platforms. From the misuse of user data to the proliferation of misinformation, nudity and inappropriate social influence, a series of scandals question the role of social media in our society.
Let’s start with Instagram, the once-photo-sharing platform owned by Facebook, which has been at the centre of several controversies. Humans are getting better at tricking AI. There’s borderline nudity when you scroll and wide-spread video categories for people of different interests to flood something that matches their psychological and emotional consciousness. Researchers have found that this is, in fact, the most commonly used drug-like service which gives you short doses of dopamine. Mind you, we do not have an unlimited source of dopamine in our brains. Think of it like your energy. Every on your screen that makes you smile or feel something good or disastrously wrong consumes your daily power. Result – The more you scroll, the more you crave. The more you scroll, the more you are depleted from your brain’s happy hormones. This is a significant concern in viewers of all age categories resulting in widespread anxiety, depression and loneliness. AI algorithms are well-defined to be user-specific while also being addictive. Instagram has also been criticised for its role in promoting unrealistic and harmful beauty standards. The platform has been accused of promoting a culture of perfectionism, which can lead to feelings of inadequacy and negative body image.
The most common form of addiction is repetition. Did you find yourself getting bored, instantly reaching out to your phone for some information, and then noticing minutes passed as you scrolled your favourite channels or random videos? In recent years, the platform has been criticised for not doing enough to combat nudity, hate speech and online harassment. Many users have reported feeling unsafe and unwelcome on the platform, and there have been calls for Instagram to do more to combat this addiction. Additionally, Instagram has been scrutinised for not doing enough to protect the well-being of its younger users, who risk developing mental health issues due to the pressure of maintaining a perfect online persona. Twitter, another popular social media platform, has faced its fair share of controversies. The platform has been criticised for not doing enough to combat misinformation. The CEO has a funny bone and particularly in the USA’s Presidential elections blunder. False and misleading information was spread through Twitter, which led to confusion and mistrust among the electorate.
YouTube is one of the world’s most popular social media platforms, with over 2 billion monthly active users. However, the platform has been plagued by several controversies in recent years, leading many to question whether it is a viable and safe place for users. One of the most significant issues with YouTube is the proliferation of fake news and conspiracy theories on the platform. A report from the New York Times found that YouTube’s algorithm tends to promote sensational or controversial videos, regardless of their accuracy. This has led to spreading misinformation on the platform, particularly regarding the COVID-19 pandemic. Limiting 4K content and thousands of ads, sometimes larger than the actual video, do Youtube a fantastic free service with its idiosyncratic elements. The platform has been criticised for not doing enough to remove hate speech and harmful content. YouTube’s advertising problem is also worth mentioning. The platform has been criticised for allowing ads to run on videos that contain hate speech or other offensive content. This has led to several major brands pulling their advertising from the platform, causing a significant loss of revenue for YouTube. In addition to these issues, YouTube has also been criticised for handling children’s content on the forum. The company has faced several legal challenges over collecting data on children and the inappropriate content found on the platform.
In conclusion, YouTube is a social media platform plagued by many controversies in recent years. From spreading fake news and conspiracy theories to hosting hate speech and harassment, the platform has faced several challenges that have led many to question its viability and safety for users. While YouTube and others have made some efforts to address these issues, it remains to be seen whether these changes will be enough to regain the trust of its users. Other social media platforms like TikTok, Snapchat, and LinkedIn have also faced similar controversies. Misusing user data, spreading misinformation, artificial idols, nudity and the proliferation of hate speech in many forms, like personal attacks, are issues that affect all social media platforms.
Hope is a waking dream
The good news is that many social media companies are starting to take these issues more seriously. Instagram, Twitter, YouTube, and other platforms have begun to invest in new technologies and tools to combat misinformation, and many have pledged to improve transparency and user privacy. However, more needs to be done. Social media has the power to connect us, inform us, and bring us together. But it can also be used to divide us, deceive us, and harm us. It’s time for social media companies to take responsibility for their impact on our society, for people to be more aware and for governments to step in with more robust regulations.
In conclusion, social media has become an integral part of society, but it is essential to be aware of the potential negative impacts and use it responsibly. It has the power to connect people and share information, but it’s important to be mindful of the potential risks and use it to benefit society as a whole. Ultimately, it’s up to us, the users, to be more critical and selective about the information we consume and share on social media and to push for more accountability from the companies that control these powerful platforms. We must use these platforms with caution and consciousness and demand that these companies take more responsibility for their platforms’ impact on our society. Use social media responsibly. Conscious choices will safeguard many unconscious life decisions.
Is blood glucose monitoring the newest craze among athletes? Customers can purchase intrusive sensors from Ultrahuman to be implanted into their arms, where they will use a smart app to continuously check their blood glucose levels. The ultimate result is real-time advice on how to improve one’s lifestyle, together with a vast ecosystem of knowledge relating to metabolic health. After testing the Ultrahuman M1 for two weeks, we’d like to talk about how our lives have changed.
Ultrahuman uses Abbott’s Freestyle Libre 2, which has been on the market since 2019, as its glucose sensor. Additionally, many diabetics use it to keep an eye on their blood glucose levels. There is nothing to worry about because the technology is tried and true, right? However, I find it unsettling to imagine a thin, flexible filament in my skin.
It goes without saying that I had mixed emotions before to the cyborg experiment, especially since I had already looked at too many images of the sensor. I’ll leave it up to you to decide if that’s fortunate or not.
So I worked up the confidence to insert the chip into my arm after putting the sensor in the applicator. Just how did I feel? Absolutely nothing! I was a little concerned about the needle being trapped somewhere during the first two days, especially at night. But in daily life, neither when exercising nor while sleeping, I was unaware of the 0.4-millimetre thin filament in my skin. I only ever got caught on the couch once, giving me a brief feeling of being bitten by an insect. Overall, my fears were unjustified, and Ultrahuman also provides strong plasters to protect the sensor.
By tapping my new sticker with the phone, the sensor and app were first paired. The app cautioned me that the readings could be erroneous for the first 24 hours, but it held me in suspense for another two hours while waiting for the sensor to be fully calibrated. I encountered zero connectivity issues with the sensor and smartphone throughout the review period.
Using a chocolate bar in between meals to circumvent the calorie counter app is more difficult with Ultrahuman. Any food with a significant amount of sugar, even a few grapes or two figs, will cause the Ultrahuman app to send a push notification: “Your blood sugar is currently increasing. What did you consume?”
Now, the software assigns a score to each food item depending on how it affects blood sugar levels. The software uses your personal top lists of the greatest and worst foods to create the best food lists for you. The intriguing aspect of this is how various foods cause varied reactions in various bodies. For one person, what is healthy may induce blood sugar spikes and crashes in another.
Score and Metabolic Vectors
The Ultrahuman app assigns a score between 1 and 100 to each day based on measured data, tracked activities, and diet. Of course, the crucial factor in this situation is the percentage of the day that you spend within the desirable blood glucose range of 70 to 110 mg/dL. However, it’s also crucial to prevent peaks and valleys in the level; a smooth uphill and downward gradient is optimal.
How can this be done? The software continuously explains everything while in use and offers fresh suggestions. For instance, if there is a surge, the app suggests taking a walk after eating or taking a tablespoon of apple cider vinegar first.
The programme also contains metabolic vectors in addition to the daily score. This depiction of your performance in the three categories of focus, longevity, and athleticism. The less your blood sugar fluctuates, the more focused you are. Your longevity increases with the number of peaks and the amount of time your blood sugar is at its ideal level. And it’s obvious that consistent exercise and healthy blood sugar levels are beneficial for your athletic score.
Additionally, you’ll receive an estimate of your daily HbA1c level, which can help determine if you have diabetes, prediabetes, or neither. The app provides daily tests as well as long-term averages and a summary of your metabolic fitness.
Conclusion
Two weeks spent living as a cyborg
The sensor stopped functioning as expected and stopped producing results exactly two weeks later. I feel like I’ve been robbed of a sense since this shelf life is restricted for hygiene reasons. My body served as a laboratory for two weeks, and the results motivated me more than wearing any other fitness tracker before to be disciplined about exercise and especially food.
I consider the Ultrahuman M1 to be one of the most exciting technological advancements of the last 15 years, and I’m really interested in how blood glucose monitors will become more widely used and advance our understanding of nutrition and fitness in the next years. The utility of fitness wearables will advance dramatically at the latest when blood glucose testing operates with adequate optical precision and hence becomes slightly more accessible to the general public.
Smartphone launches have been a never-ending epidemic for the past few years. Smartphones have become so good that most phones, irrespective of their price tag, are sufficient for most users. The number of smartphone users is still astounding in China at 865.04M. India is the second largest smartphone market in the world, with 606.57M active users. This makes smartphone manufacturers value our shores more than ever. Here is a list of all recommended smartphones under each price category.
Under INR 10K
Redmi A1
Performance
Quad Core, 2 GHzMediaTek Helio A22 2 GB RAM
Display
6.52 inches (16.56 cm)269 PPI, IPS LCD
Camera
8 MP Primary CameraDual LED Flash5 MP Front Camera
Audio is an essential part of our experience, apologies to those unable to listen to the beauties of art by humans and nature. Our home entertainment setup is complete with a set of good-quality audio solutions. As much as most of us desire the best of the best, with amplifiers, mixers, and optical audio cable mess to enjoy the creator’s audio source to the best of our human ability, most of us love the cleaner, simpler solutions. Would that be a compromise?
Thanks to development in technology over the years, the compromises are definitely reduced with better-quality audio solutions. Audio quality becomes a subject of desire the moment you listen to audio solutions like speakers, headphones or earphones better than anything you have ever experienced. Simple audio solutions keep the cable mess at bay and are great additions to many homes, available in multiple shades, shapes and sizes.
Desire a minimalist home theatre solution?
The craze for 5.1 and 7.1 audio speaker solutions seems immortal. Thanks to most of our OTT services and amazing television technology supporting the best of Dolby Atmos, DTS-X and more audio solutions, it makes sense to invest in a full-blown theatrics audio experience when consuming media on your comfortable sofa. Something like a sound bar with three audio channels, two wireless surround sound satellites and wireless sub-thumping lows add to the overall experience; audio solutions can be minimalistic. Add to the fact that most of these are nowadays available in white, and a soundbar and sub-based solutions amplify the audio experience a home needs.
What’s the best minimalistic audio solution?
Sometimes, you listen to and enjoy music, don’t you? We all do. While many speakers around the room offer a great movie and series-watching experience, music is best enjoyed on quality bookshelf speakers. It may sound weird that how can a pair of speakers be better than multiple speakers spread across the room? Powered bookshelf speakers have had a technological leap by the time you read this line. Not only are they relatively minor in size, defying their size versus audio quality and volume, but they also are great minimalistic audio solutions for every room in your house. They are not limited to the main entertainment area around your largest television. Stereo speakers with good audio quality are sometimes the most optimal, minimalistic audio nirvana required to uplift your home entertainment.
Invest in quality audio solutions. And remember, there is always the best in your budget, but sometimes, just like your television, audio solutions are once in many years investment. An investment in quality home audio entertainment with multiple audio source connectivity, wireless connectivity and, most importantly, excellent audio quality is a must-experience.