We're officially living in the future.No, there aren't any flying cars (yet). And sorry, we still can't easily travel the stars either. But one promise of the future, computers that can help blind people see, is starting to arrive.The latest example is Microsoft's Seeing AI, a free iPhone app released Wednesday that "narrates the world around you." Point it at a park, and it'll tell you what the scene looks like. Point it at a person, and it'll tell you if they're smiling. Point it at a dollar bill, and it'll tell you how much. It'll even tell you about a product when you scan it."Just hold up your phone and hear information about the world around you," Microsoft promises.It seems almost magical when you first hear about it. But the even better news is that Microsoft is far from alone in tackling this problem. Apple, Google, Facebook and Amazon are working on similar projects. Facebook, for example, discussed in February how it's been using AI to describe what's in photos on … [Read more...] about Seeing AI, Microsoft’s newest app, narrates the world it sees for blind people
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Want to stay in the know without having to navigate to our site? CNET is available on all major platforms, both phones an TV's. If you're a true fan, CNET's world class tech reviews and reporting can be right there with you. Download our apps today! CNET -- Immerse yourself in Tech: Tech Today -- The Best of Tech, at a Tap: … [Read more...] about CNET’s Apps
Neato Botvac Connected Robot Vacuum review: Neato’s app-enabled robot vacuum wins Editors’ Choice
Before smartphones, before the cloud, before the Internet of Things was a thing, there was the robot vacuum. It's a smart-home product that predates the app-centric Gordian Knot of platforms and standards that is the modern connected home. A robot vacuum's definition of "smart" is simply to clean the cat hair off of your rugs without tumbling down the stairs in the process.At least, it was. Now, a new crop of app-enabled "smart" robot vacuums is navigating into the picture, including the Wi-Fi-equipped Neato Botvac Connected. Pair it with its app on your Android or iOS device, and you'll be able to start, schedule, and even steer it right from your phone -- a welcome addition for a brand that, across all of its models to date, has yet to offer a remote control with any of its cleaners.At $700 (or £549 in the UK), the Botvac Connected is Neato's most expensive robot vacuum yet, costing $200 more than its unconnected predecessors in the Botvac D Series. However, it's also $200 … [Read more...] about Neato Botvac Connected Robot Vacuum review: Neato’s app-enabled robot vacuum wins Editors’ Choice
Apple updates iPhones, Macs and more to fix app-crashing bug
Apple released security updates for its operating systems on Monday to address a bug that causes apps to crash when a certain Indian symbol is displayed. The bug, discovered last week, allows the Indian character in the Telugu language to shut down iOS apps and prevent them from opening back up. It affects any app that can display characters, including Twitter, Facebook, Instagram and Messages. Updates issued Monday included iOS 11.2.6 for the iPhone and iPad, TVOS 11.2.6 for the Apple TV, WatchOS 4.2.3 for all Apple Watch models and MacOS 10.13.3 for the Mac. Now Playing: Watch this: Apple, fix these HomePod issues ASAP (CNET Top 5) 3:38 The release notes for iOS 11.2.6 say the update "fixes an issue where using certain character sequences could cause apps to crash" and "fixes an issue where some third-party apps could fail to connect to external accessories." The problem was first spotted last week by Mobile World, which noted that it's even worse if the character pops up … [Read more...] about Apple updates iPhones, Macs and more to fix app-crashing bug
The 7 best apps for finding brilliant food on the go
You’re out with friends or family in an unfamiliar place, and there’s a terrible noise: it’s your stomach, demanding food.The problem? You’ve got no idea where to find a decent eatery that will please everyone. You could stalk the streets, scanning for the nearest recognisable fast food joint, or get a bit fancy and type ‘restaurant’ into Google Maps. Unfortunately, neither option gives you the inside scoop on where’s good to eat – but help is at hand, in the shape of myriad dedicated on-the-go eating apps. But which one is best? App stores are packed with restaurant and street food guides, but – much like the eateries themselves – it’s hard to know which to go for. Which one will really find you somewhere good that serves what you want, when you want it and for the price you want to pay?1. YelpPrice: Free iOS / AndroidBest for: Local knowledgeYelp’s contents aren’t focused solely on … [Read more...] about The 7 best apps for finding brilliant food on the go