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At last, Google Workspace is making this small but vital change to making slides, and I'm so relieved

TechRadar News - Fri, 03/28/2025 - 06:27
  • Google Workspace solves a major slide-building woe
  • Google Slides now lets users select and resize objects together
  • Will also make it easier to select specific items on slides with many overlapping objects

Making sure your presentation slides are as striking as they should be is set to get a lot easier, thanks to a tiny but crucial update from Google Workspace.

The office software suite has upgraded its Slides platform with a tweak that will allow users to resize multiple objects all at once, at the same scale - while also (hopefully) keeping everything clear and visible.

The change should mean an end to the frustration of trying to tweak your slides just how you like them, but finding out that resizing just a single item throws everything off, and you then need to do everything manually.

Google Slides resizing

"This update helps you spend less time getting objects to fit on a slide with proportional scaling," a typically brief and blunt Google Workspace Updates blog post announcing the change noted.

Users will simply need to drag a selection box over the items they want resized, with the ability to select multiple objects or images at once.

"Resizing your selection will now scale everything proportionally and maintain visual clarity," the company says, with fonts, borders, shadows and all other attributes all scaling seamlessly.

Google Workspace is also making it easier to select specific items on slides which may contain many overlapping objects.

Users will now see an outline appear when hovering over an object, making it easier to select objects that are layered.

The new features will only work in edit mode, not while being presented, and object selection can be scaled up and down by the user.

The updates are rolling out now, and are available to all Google Workspace customers, Workspace Individual Subscribers, and users with personal Google accounts.

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Categories: Technology

At last, Google Workspace is making this small but vital change to making slides, and I'm so relieved

TechRadar News - Fri, 03/28/2025 - 06:27
  • Google Workspace solves a major slide-building woe
  • Google Slides now lets users select and resize objects together
  • Will also make it easier to select specific items on slides with many overlapping objects

Making sure your presentation slides are as striking as they should be is set to get a lot easier, thanks to a tiny but crucial update from Google Workspace.

The office software suite has upgraded its Slides platform with a tweak that will allow users to resize multiple objects all at once, at the same scale - while also (hopefully) keeping everything clear and visible.

The change should mean an end to the frustration of trying to tweak your slides just how you like them, but finding out that resizing just a single item throws everything off, and you then need to do everything manually.

Google Slides resizing

"This update helps you spend less time getting objects to fit on a slide with proportional scaling," a typically brief and blunt Google Workspace Updates blog post announcing the change noted.

Users will simply need to drag a selection box over the items they want resized, with the ability to select multiple objects or images at once.

"Resizing your selection will now scale everything proportionally and maintain visual clarity," the company says, with fonts, borders, shadows and all other attributes all scaling seamlessly.

Google Workspace is also making it easier to select specific items on slides which may contain many overlapping objects.

Users will now see an outline appear when hovering over an object, making it easier to select objects that are layered.

The new features will only work in edit mode, not while being presented, and object selection can be scaled up and down by the user.

The updates are rolling out now, and are available to all Google Workspace customers, Workspace Individual Subscribers, and users with personal Google accounts.

You might also like
Categories: Technology

The week's quiz has group chat drama. And don't worry, the answers aren't classified

NPR News Headlines - Fri, 03/28/2025 - 06:24

This week's news coverage featured more Greenland drama than usual. And if you've been paying attention to it all, you'll get at least one question right.

Categories: News

Furious Garmin users revolt over new subscription service – "We need to take a firm stand"

TechRadar News - Fri, 03/28/2025 - 06:23
  • Garmin recently announced a new premium subscription
  • Angry customers have wasted no time expressing their displeasure
  • Thousands have taken to Reddit in support of boycotting the service

Just hours after Garmin announced a brand new Premium subscription service, angry customers in the thousands have taken to Reddit to express their displeasure over the move.

As we reported earlier this week, Garmin Connect+ is a new subscription tier for Garmin users. Priced at $6.99 / £6.99 / AU$12 or $69.99 / £69.99 / AU$120 annually, it gives users AI insights into their training, a performance dashboard, a Live Activity feature, expanded LiveTrack, and more.

Garmin stressed to us that "The Garmin Connect app is a free, personalized experience, and that’s not going away," evidently keen to get ahead of user backlash. Sadly, it doesn't seem to have worked.

A post on the Garmin subreddit with over 6,000 upvotes and a plethora of angry comments has taken over the forum, as customers respond to the news.

"To everyone who cares about the future of Garmin customer service: DO NOT SIGN UP," the original poster wrote. "We need to take a firm stand to stop this totally detrimental trend of subscriptions everywhere. We are already paying hundreds for watches that only last a few years because batteries are not replaceable."

The furious post calls on users to "Unite to fight for our customers' right to software as a service for a thousand dollar watch," and to stand up against the change that will "reduce the usability and ownership of our products in the future."

Garmin users unanimous in subscription fury DO NOT sign up for Garmin Connect+. Unite to fight for our customers' right to software as a service for a thousand dollar watch. This is a slippery slope and will reduce the usability and ownership of our products in the future. Profits will increase and more and more will get behind paywalls! from r/Garmin

"Never paying for the subscription," one commenter said, "but it is going to make me rethink my future watch purchases," they continued. "I could justify the Garmin expense when I knew I was getting all the features with the watch, but we all know what happens to a service once a paid tier is introduced."

"Looks like Coros is back on the menu, boys," one disgruntled user said. "Of course I am not paying for that s***," another calmy added.

Other users have encouraged submitting feedback to Garmin via its ideas page. Unanimous is a strong word, but I'm yet to see a single positive comment or reaction to the move.

It's not just the reaction to a general subscription that users seem upset about, but the value of the specific features on offer. "I signed up for the free trial and I don't see any value in it. I was kinda hoping I could get rid of Stava premium but nope," one said.

Garmin must have anticipated some user backlash, announcing a subscription to a previously free software platform is always risky business, but I'm not sure it could have fathomed such a fervent outcry.

The problem, in one sense, is context. Garmin users have endured a mass outage this year that saw devices unusable for 24 hours or more. More recently, Garmin users have raised concerns that expensive and powerful devices are being left behind by a fragmented approach to rolling out software and new features.

We've reached out to the company for comment on the furore around the announcement and will update this story accordingly. Also, stay tuned to TechRadar for an open forum where users can share their thoughts. A total walkback seems unlikely, but Garmin might be pressed to do something given the current situation.

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Categories: Technology

Furious Garmin users revolt over new subscription service – "We need to take a firm stand"

TechRadar News - Fri, 03/28/2025 - 06:23
  • Garmin recently announced a new premium subscription
  • Angry customers have wasted no time expressing their displeasure
  • Thousands have taken to Reddit in support of boycotting the service

Just hours after Garmin announced a brand new Premium subscription service, angry customers in the thousands have taken to Reddit to express their displeasure over the move.

As we reported earlier this week, Garmin Connect+ is a new subscription tier for Garmin users. Priced at $6.99 / £6.99 / AU$12 or $69.99 / £69.99 / AU$120 annually, it gives users AI insights into their training, a performance dashboard, a Live Activity feature, expanded LiveTrack, and more.

Garmin stressed to us that "The Garmin Connect app is a free, personalized experience, and that’s not going away," evidently keen to get ahead of user backlash. Sadly, it doesn't seem to have worked.

A post on the Garmin subreddit with over 6,000 upvotes and a plethora of angry comments has taken over the forum, as customers respond to the news.

"To everyone who cares about the future of Garmin customer service: DO NOT SIGN UP," the original poster wrote. "We need to take a firm stand to stop this totally detrimental trend of subscriptions everywhere. We are already paying hundreds for watches that only last a few years because batteries are not replaceable."

The furious post calls on users to "Unite to fight for our customers' right to software as a service for a thousand dollar watch," and to stand up against the change that will "reduce the usability and ownership of our products in the future."

Garmin users unanimous in subscription fury DO NOT sign up for Garmin Connect+. Unite to fight for our customers' right to software as a service for a thousand dollar watch. This is a slippery slope and will reduce the usability and ownership of our products in the future. Profits will increase and more and more will get behind paywalls! from r/Garmin

"Never paying for the subscription," one commenter said, "but it is going to make me rethink my future watch purchases," they continued. "I could justify the Garmin expense when I knew I was getting all the features with the watch, but we all know what happens to a service once a paid tier is introduced."

"Looks like Coros is back on the menu, boys," one disgruntled user said. "Of course I am not paying for that s***," another calmy added.

Other users have encouraged submitting feedback to Garmin via its ideas page. Unanimous is a strong word, but I'm yet to see a single positive comment or reaction to the move.

It's not just the reaction to a general subscription that users seem upset about, but the value of the specific features on offer. "I signed up for the free trial and I don't see any value in it. I was kinda hoping I could get rid of Stava premium but nope," one said.

Garmin must have anticipated some user backlash, announcing a subscription to a previously free software platform is always risky business, but I'm not sure it could have fathomed such a fervent outcry.

The problem, in one sense, is context. Garmin users have endured a mass outage this year that saw devices unusable for 24 hours or more. More recently, Garmin users have raised concerns that expensive and powerful devices are being left behind by a fragmented approach to rolling out software and new features.

We've reached out to the company for comment on the furore around the announcement and will update this story accordingly. Also, stay tuned to TechRadar for an open forum where users can share their thoughts. A total walkback seems unlikely, but Garmin might be pressed to do something given the current situation.

You may also like
Categories: Technology

SanDisk just revealed a new rugged external PS5 SSD and I can't wait to throw it out a window

TechRadar News - Fri, 03/28/2025 - 06:20
  • The SanDisk Extreme Portable SSD for PlayStation 5 has been revealed
  • It's a rugged portable PS5 SSD, with water and drop protection
  • It is available now in 1TB and 2TB capacities

Memory company Sandisk has just announced a new external SSD for PlayStation 5 and it might be one of the coolest officially licensed model yet.

The SanDisk Extreme Portable SSD for PlayStation 5 weighs just 0.15lbs / 69.40g and is super rugged, with an IP65 rating. This means that it's impervious to dust and can even withstand low pressure jets of water, so you don't need to worry about the effects of a light splash of rain if you decide to take it on the go.

Additionally, it's safe from drops of up to three meters meaning that you could theoretically chuck it out a ground floor window without any ill effects - though as a general rule of thumb you should try and avoid doing that with any storage medium to keep the risk of damage to a minimum. Obviously.

Still, I'm intrigued and will certainly be putting the drive through its paces towards the end of my testing process when I get my hands on one for review.

It boasts read speeds of up to 1,000MB/s, allowing for the quick transfer of games between the drive and console. Just bear in mind that, as an external storage device, you won't be able to play PS5 games directly from it.

The drive is available now in one colorway, a fitting PlayStation white and blue, and two different capacities. The 1TB model costs $129.99 / £101.99 while the 2TB version is $199.99 / £150.99.

It's definitely an attractive proposition and the official branding plus added durability could mean that it has a shot at becoming one of the best PS5 external hard drives on the market.

You might also like...
Categories: Technology

SanDisk just revealed a new rugged external PS5 SSD and I can't wait to throw it out a window

TechRadar News - Fri, 03/28/2025 - 06:20
  • The SanDisk Extreme Portable SSD for PlayStation 5 has been revealed
  • It's a rugged portable PS5 SSD, with water and drop protection
  • It is available now in 1TB and 2TB capacities

Memory company Sandisk has just announced a new external SSD for PlayStation 5 and it might be one of the coolest officially licensed model yet.

The SanDisk Extreme Portable SSD for PlayStation 5 weighs just 0.15lbs / 69.40g and is super rugged, with an IP65 rating. This means that it's impervious to dust and can even withstand low pressure jets of water, so you don't need to worry about the effects of a light splash of rain if you decide to take it on the go.

Additionally, it's safe from drops of up to three meters meaning that you could theoretically chuck it out a ground floor window without any ill effects - though as a general rule of thumb you should try and avoid doing that with any storage medium to keep the risk of damage to a minimum. Obviously.

Still, I'm intrigued and will certainly be putting the drive through its paces towards the end of my testing process when I get my hands on one for review.

It boasts read speeds of up to 1,000MB/s, allowing for the quick transfer of games between the drive and console. Just bear in mind that, as an external storage device, you won't be able to play PS5 games directly from it.

The drive is available now in one colorway, a fitting PlayStation white and blue, and two different capacities. The 1TB model costs $129.99 / £101.99 while the 2TB version is $199.99 / £150.99.

It's definitely an attractive proposition and the official branding plus added durability could mean that it has a shot at becoming one of the best PS5 external hard drives on the market.

You might also like...
Categories: Technology

Solar grids could be hijacked and even potentially disabled by these security flaws

TechRadar News - Fri, 03/28/2025 - 05:50
  • Experts claim solar inverter vulnerabilities could lead to damage to the power grid
  • Devices could be taken over and switched off, increasing grid load
  • 46 vulnerabilities discovered, with some potentially exposing user information

Solar inverters could be hijacked by cybercriminals to disrupt power supplies and damage the electrical grid.

46 vulnerabilities were found by Forescout [PDF] in solar inverters produced by Sungrow, Growatt, and SMA.

Many of the vulnerabilities could lead to remote code execution (RCE), denial of service, device takeover, as well as access to cloud platforms and sensitive information.

Power grid hijacking

For SMA devices, only a single vulnerability was found, CVE-2025-0731, that allows an attacker to use a demo account to upload a .aspx (Active Server Page Extended) file instead of a photovoltaic (PV) system picture, with the file then being executed by the sunnyportal.com web server.

As for Sungrow solar inverters, insecure direct object reference (IDOR) vulnerabilities tracked as CVE-2024-50685, CVE-2024-50686, and CVE-2024-50693 could allow an attacker to harvest communication dongle serial numbers.

CVE-2024-50692 allows an attacker to use hard-coded MQTT credentials to send arbitrary commands to an arbitrary inverter dongle, or commit man-in-the-middle (MitM) attacks against MQTT communications.

The attacker can also use one of several critical stack overflow vulnerabilities (CVE-2024-50694, CVE-2024-50695, CVE-2024-50698) to remotely execute code on server connected dongles. Using this flow of vulnerabilities, an attacker could potentially reduce power generation during peak times to increase the load on the grid.

Growatt inverters can be hijacked via the cloud backend by listing usernames from an exposed Growatt API, and then use these usernames for account-takeover through two IDOR vulnerabilities.

All of the disclosed vulnerabilities have since been patched by the manufacturers.

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Categories: Technology

Solar grids could be hijacked and even potentially disabled by these security flaws

TechRadar News - Fri, 03/28/2025 - 05:50
  • Experts claim solar inverter vulnerabilities could lead to damage to the power grid
  • Devices could be taken over and switched off, increasing grid load
  • 46 vulnerabilities discovered, with some potentially exposing user information

Solar inverters could be hijacked by cybercriminals to disrupt power supplies and damage the electrical grid.

46 vulnerabilities were found by Forescout [PDF] in solar inverters produced by Sungrow, Growatt, and SMA.

Many of the vulnerabilities could lead to remote code execution (RCE), denial of service, device takeover, as well as access to cloud platforms and sensitive information.

Power grid hijacking

For SMA devices, only a single vulnerability was found, CVE-2025-0731, that allows an attacker to use a demo account to upload a .aspx (Active Server Page Extended) file instead of a photovoltaic (PV) system picture, with the file then being executed by the sunnyportal.com web server.

As for Sungrow solar inverters, insecure direct object reference (IDOR) vulnerabilities tracked as CVE-2024-50685, CVE-2024-50686, and CVE-2024-50693 could allow an attacker to harvest communication dongle serial numbers.

CVE-2024-50692 allows an attacker to use hard-coded MQTT credentials to send arbitrary commands to an arbitrary inverter dongle, or commit man-in-the-middle (MitM) attacks against MQTT communications.

The attacker can also use one of several critical stack overflow vulnerabilities (CVE-2024-50694, CVE-2024-50695, CVE-2024-50698) to remotely execute code on server connected dongles. Using this flow of vulnerabilities, an attacker could potentially reduce power generation during peak times to increase the load on the grid.

Growatt inverters can be hijacked via the cloud backend by listing usernames from an exposed Growatt API, and then use these usernames for account-takeover through two IDOR vulnerabilities.

All of the disclosed vulnerabilities have since been patched by the manufacturers.

You might also like
Categories: Technology

Microsoft Stream classic domain hijacked, causing spam across SharePoint

TechRadar News - Fri, 03/28/2025 - 05:49
  • An old Microsoft Stream domain was recently hijacked
  • Many SharePoint sites with embedded videos displayed the malicious content
  • Microsoft quickly addressed the issue, so users should update now

A retired Microsoft domain was hijacked and used in a spam campaign, experts have warned.

Microsoft used to have an enterprise video-sharing platform called Stream, where organizations could securely upload, manage, and share video content. In April 2024, it was retired and replaced by Microsoft Stream on SharePoint.

The key difference is that the videos were no longer stored separately in the Stream platform, but rather on OneDrive and SharePoint, to make them more accessible through Microsoft 365 tools such as Teams, Yammer, or PowerPoint.

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"Appropriate action"

Today, almost a year after the migration, news came out that the legacy domain - microsoftstream.com - was hijacked and used to display a fake Amazon site advertising a Thai casino.

The biggest issue with this attack is that all SharePoint sites with old embedded videos were displaying the spam on their premises.

BleepingComputer found a number of users complaining about the takeover on Reddit:

"This afternoon, a user reported a suspicious website on our intranet, that is using microsoftstream.com. After some analysis, it turns out the domain is currently redirecting to a sketchy website signed by 'Ibiza99'," one user said. "Here's an interesting one for you all. I just got a call that our SharePoint site was showing spam instead of embedded videos. Interesting, I thought. I wonder how that could happen," another one added.

No further information about the attack was shared, but Microsoft was soon notified about the change and it moved quickly to remedy the problem, stating, “We are aware of these reports and have taken appropriate action to further prevent access to impacted domains".

Apparently, the old domain could have been in more sinister campaigns, distributing malware through fake software updates, for example. However, good news is that the attackers opted for the least harmful thing - a spam campaign.

You might also like
Categories: Technology

Microsoft Stream classic domain hijacked, causing spam across SharePoint

TechRadar News - Fri, 03/28/2025 - 05:49
  • An old Microsoft Stream domain was recently hijacked
  • Many SharePoint sites with embedded videos displayed the malicious content
  • Microsoft quickly addressed the issue, so users should update now

A retired Microsoft domain was hijacked and used in a spam campaign, experts have warned.

Microsoft used to have an enterprise video-sharing platform called Stream, where organizations could securely upload, manage, and share video content. In April 2024, it was retired and replaced by Microsoft Stream on SharePoint.

The key difference is that the videos were no longer stored separately in the Stream platform, but rather on OneDrive and SharePoint, to make them more accessible through Microsoft 365 tools such as Teams, Yammer, or PowerPoint.

Monitor your credit score with TransUnion starting at $29.95/month

TransUnion is a credit monitoring service that helps you stay on top of your financial health. With real-time alerts, credit score tracking, and identity theft protection, it ensures you never miss important changes. You'll benefit from a customizable online interface with clear insights into your credit profile. Businesses also benefit from TransUnion’s advanced risk assessment tools.

Preferred partner (What does this mean?)View Deal

"Appropriate action"

Today, almost a year after the migration, news came out that the legacy domain - microsoftstream.com - was hijacked and used to display a fake Amazon site advertising a Thai casino.

The biggest issue with this attack is that all SharePoint sites with old embedded videos were displaying the spam on their premises.

BleepingComputer found a number of users complaining about the takeover on Reddit:

"This afternoon, a user reported a suspicious website on our intranet, that is using microsoftstream.com. After some analysis, it turns out the domain is currently redirecting to a sketchy website signed by 'Ibiza99'," one user said. "Here's an interesting one for you all. I just got a call that our SharePoint site was showing spam instead of embedded videos. Interesting, I thought. I wonder how that could happen," another one added.

No further information about the attack was shared, but Microsoft was soon notified about the change and it moved quickly to remedy the problem, stating, “We are aware of these reports and have taken appropriate action to further prevent access to impacted domains".

Apparently, the old domain could have been in more sinister campaigns, distributing malware through fake software updates, for example. However, good news is that the attackers opted for the least harmful thing - a spam campaign.

You might also like
Categories: Technology

U.S. revokes hundreds of visas to repress student activism. And, HHS cuts jobs

NPR News Headlines - Fri, 03/28/2025 - 05:47

Secretary of State Marco Rubio says hundreds of visas have been revoked in an effort to repress student activism. And, the Trump administration plans to cut 20,000 jobs from health agencies.

(Image credit: EVELYN HOCKSTEIN)

Categories: News

Obsbot Tiny SE review: a conference room camera king

TechRadar Reviews - Fri, 03/28/2025 - 05:04
Obsbot Tiny SE webcam: Two-minute review

The Obsbot Tiny SE is an entry-level pan-tilt-and-zoom gimbal webcam with AI features that punches well above its weight. At a remarkably affordable price point of $99 / £109 / AU$199, it offers a compelling blend of features and performance that makes it a strong contender, but only if you need a camera that can follow you around a room.

Watching the Tiny SE swivel and tilt to follow your movement is oddly adorable. (Image credit: Future)

The low price point is probably down to the Obsbot Tiny SE maxing out at 1080p resolution. If you’re a stickler for 4K, check out the Obsbot Tiny 2, but for most users, 1080p strikes an excellent balance between quality and practicality. What's more important is that this webcam will go up to 100 frames per second, if you’re moving around a room, gesturing, or being rather animated in general having smooth motion is going to be important.

The webcam utilizes a 1/2.8-inch CMOS sensor with an f/1.8 aperture, resulting in decent low-light performance with minimal noise and grain. This is a significant advantage for home offices with terrible lighting; gamers who prefer a moody, backlit setup will also appreciate how well this webcam performs.

Here is a side-by-side image comparison against the budget webcam king, the Logitech C920. As you can see, the lines are sharper, the details are clearer, and the color balance is better.

Granted, the Logitech C920 has been around for a while now, but at the same 1080p resolution the Tiny SE is notably sharper. (Image credit: Future)

The Tiny SE is, as the name suggests, tiny. Especially for a camera that includes motors able to follow you around a room. There is something undeniably cute about something so small following you around a room. Its compact design ensures it doesn’t hog space on your desk or screen. Here is a picture with it next to an SD card to give you an idea of how small it really is:

The Tiny SE certainly lives up to its name. (Image credit: Future)

The webcam comes with a standard monitor mount, making it easy to clip onto your laptop or desktop display. For added versatility, it also includes a 1/4-inch thread for mounting on tripods or other camera accessories.

The USB-C connection ensures compatibility with modern devices, and the included USB-C to USB-A adapter covers legacy ports. This thoughtful inclusion makes it adaptable without forcing you to rummage through your drawer of forgotten dongles and adapters.

The built-in AI tracking is a showstopper. Whether you’re pacing during a presentation or showcasing a product for your audience, the webcam keeps you perfectly framed. You can choose between different framing like upper-body tracking, or close-up shots.

The tracking works pretty well, keeping subjects in focus even when they move around the frame. Paired with the smooth 100 FPS recording, the result is buttery-smooth footage that doesn’t feel like a typical static webcam shot.

When not in use, the Tiny SE 'goes to sleep' by rotating the camera downward. (Image credit: Future)

Gesture controls are a fun addition that I personally found annoying but I could see being useful for someone who is presenting. Need to zoom in? Flash an “L” with your hand. Want it to follow your movements? Raise your hand, and it locks onto you. Sometimes however it interprets hand gestures incorrectly and will zoom into a random area or follow you when you don’t want it to. Try it out for yourself to see if it's useful, but personally, I turned it off.

When testing the built-in microphones for the Tiny SE in a quiet room, my voice is clear with good range for webcam use, although a small amount of room echo and noise are present. The mic isn’t exceptional but then I was never expecting it to be and it does struggle a little in a crowded office. You'll always sound better with a dedicated headset or microphone but for a webcam, the Tiny SE offers acceptable audio quality.

The flip-out mount makes attaching the Tiny SE to a monitor or tripod a breeze. (Image credit: Future)

In terms of usability, the setup process is straightforward. Plug it in and you’re good to go. The Obsbot Center software does take this webcam to the next level and while it is annoying installing an app for a webcam, it really is worth it to get the most out of the Tiny SE. Its intuitive interface makes adjusting settings a breeze, whether you’re tweaking the tracking mode or fine-tuning image quality. You can adjust ISO, shutter speed, white balance, and refresh rate, as well as play with its AI features. The software also supports integration with tools like the Elgato Stream Deck, letting you set up presets for different angles or zoom levels at the push of a button.

While the AI-driven tracking around a room is almost flawless, the autofocus leaves something to be desired. While it technically works, it isn’t as snappy or accurate as autofocus found in higher-end and more expensive models. There’s noticeable focus hunting and occasional warping, which can be distracting when trying to present or walking around. It’s one of the few compromises they clearly made to keep the price so low.

Obsbot Tiny SE webcam: Price & availability
  • How much does it cost? $99 / £109 / AU$199
  • When is it available? Available now
  • Where can you get it? The US, UK, and Australia

Here’s where the Obsbot Tiny SE hits it out of the park: the price. At $99 / £109 / AU$199, this webcam is fighting way above its weight class. Comparable models with similar features and gimbal tracking often cost significantly more. The Tiny SE provides a budget-friendly option for those who want tracking without the premium price tag.

Obsbot Tiny SE webcam: Specs Should you buy the Obsbot Tiny SE webcam?

It's not included in the box, but you can also buy Obsbot's standalone Tiny Smart Remote 2 for controlling the webcam. (Image credit: Future) Buy it if...

You're upgrading a conference room setup
This is a "no-brainer" for businesses looking to upgrade conference calls. Its ability to track speakers and provide a more dynamic meeting experience while also being affordable and easy to use makes is easy to recommend.

You need AI tracking on a budget
The Tiny SE offers smooth, reliable AI tracking. If you move around during presentations, demonstrations, or online teaching, this camera will keep you framed effectively.

Don't buy it if...

You don't need pan, tilt, and zoom
The AI tracking and PTZ features are the Tiny SE's main selling points. If you primarily sit stationary in front of your computer, a less expensive, static webcam will likely suffice and save you money like the cute Obsbot Meet SE.

You need 4K video quality
If you're a professional content creator (or you're very serious about video conferencing) you might want to spring for a 4K webcam instead.

Obsbot Tiny SE webcam: Also consider

Logitech C920
The quintessential 1080p webcam. Logitech's C920 has been a reliable and sensibly-priced choice of webcam for years, making it a good pick if you'd like to save some cash and don't need the fancy AI-tracking features found on the Obsbot Tiny SE.

Read our full Logitech C920 review

Obsbot Tiny 2
If you're looking for a more premium webcam than the Tiny SE, the Tiny 2 from Obsbot is virtually the exact same device - but with a 4K camera and some extra bells and whistles. For those who want a high-end video experience, this is a great pick (though it's naturally more expensive than the Tiny SE).

Read our full Obsbot Tiny 2 review

How I tested the Obsbot Tiny SE webcam
  • Tested the webcam in video calls
  • Spent a while experimenting with the gesture command feature
  • Compared image quality to other webcams

I used the Obsbot Tiny SE for video calls and general image quality testing, as well as trying it out with various lighting levels to see how well it performed. I also tried out the gesture controls, and did some side-by-side comparisons with other webcams the offer the same resolution.

Read more about how we test

  • First reviewed March 2025
Categories: Reviews

I Made My iPhone's Photo App So Much Better With This One Change

CNET News - Fri, 03/28/2025 - 05:00
This change makes it easy to find recently saved photos in the app.
Categories: Technology

I love the twin cameras and 4K clarity of the Ombar DC42 Dash Cam, and it's cheap too

TechRadar Reviews - Fri, 03/28/2025 - 04:43
Ombar DC42 Dash Cam: one-minute review

It’s easy to stick with the big name best dash cams, but if you’re not fussed about brand then the low-key Ombar and its DC42 Dash Cam might be an alternative route to take. The Ombar DC42 Dash Cam I’ve been testing comes supplied as a bundle, which means there are two cameras inside the box. First up, the front-facing unit features a slender design that sits in landscape orientation well out of the way on a vehicle screen. It boasts 4K video capture too, plus very acceptable levels of audio, although there’s no rear screen, which might be a turn-off to some.

This is augmented by a second, rear-facing dashcam that shoots 2K. Instead of utilizing the same old barrel design that is seen in many dash cam bundles, this unit is a small rectangular design and can be easily mounted in the rear window of the majority of vehicles. Everything works via a series of cables, with one going to the power and the other connecting the cameras together. In this respect, it’s worth remembering that there is quite a lot of cable to feed in behind trim panels during the installation process. Both cameras are held in place by supplied sticky pads that adhere to the mounting plates and screen glass.

The Ombar DC42 Dash Cam has to be one of the easiest models to setup and configure, with much of this needing to be done via the supplementary app. The front camera unit also hosts some handy LEDs, one in red to tell you it’s recording neighbored by a small green LED that indicates GPS is activated. Microphone and camera reset holes sit immediately adjacent to them. Another benefit is down to the design, which alongside being super svelte offers a sliding mount that enables quick and easy removal of the front-facing camera if and when it is needed.

Adding to the appeal is the specification, which includes 170-degree field of vision for the front camera, 5G Wi-Fi, voice guidance, night vision, 64GB of storage and parking monitoring. The latter functionality requires an optional hardwire kit. Indeed, the Ombar DC42 Dash Cam comes with a dazzling array of features and functions given the fact that it retails for just over the $100/£100 mark, which makes it a great option for anyone on a budget. There’s a supporting Ombar ‘Kacam’ app too. This takes the place of a rear screen on the main unit and provides all of the tools needed for file management, as well as initial setup.

Another bonus with this bundle is that the Ombar DC42 Dash Cam comes with a supplied 64GB microSD card, which slots into the end of the front camera. Everything else needed is in the box too, with all wires and fixings supplied. However, it’s worth remembering that the Ombar DC42 Dash Cam is just like the majority of other models in that it will need permanent fixing in your vehicle using an optional hardwire kit if all of the static parking and 24-hour monitoring tools are required. Nevertheless, this is a straightforward fitment job for any qualified individual and can even be attempted by novices if time and care is taken.

(Image credit: Future) Ombar DC42 Dash Cam: price and availability

The Ombar DC42 Dash Cam is available now and, in the bundle arrangement I’ve been testing, can be purchased from the manufacturer’s website. It’s listed there as the OMBAR DC42 Dash Cam Front and Rear 4K/2K/1080P+1080P 5G WiFi GPS and currently costs just $107.99 (around £84). This represents a $12 saving over the original cost price of $119.99 although shipping needs to be added and depends on the delivery location and route using either the US postal service or UPS.

Ombar DC42 Dash Cam: specs Ombar DC42 Dash Cam: Design

I rather like the design of the Ombar DC42 Dash Cam. It’s very sleek and slender, which worked well when I tried it in a couple of different models of vehicle. In fact, it can sit quite happily just behind the rear-view mirror and is barely visible.

The unit looks and feels well made too, featuring a construction of grey heavy-duty plastic, along with a selection of ports and LEDs that also look and feel very durable during daily use. Of course, the downside here is there’s no rear screen, but a respectable supporting app takes good care of dash cam and file management.

(Image credit: Future)

Backing it up is the secondary camera, which sports a neat little rectangular design that sits happily in the rear window of a car. Both cameras are affixed using self-adhesive pads attached to brackets. The one for the front camera has a handy slider mechanism, so it can be detached quickly and easily if you need to take it with you for some reason.

Then there’s the cabling, which is standard issue dash cam wiring that needs to be fed behind trim panels in the car. The rear camera wire connects with a push fit to link it to the front unit.

(Image credit: Future) Ombar DC42 Dash Cam: Performance

Considering the Ombar DC42 Dash Cam is essentially a budget model, this is an impressive bundle arrangement. The front-facing camera delivers crisp and clear F1.8 aperture, 4K, UHD footage shot at 3840x2160p maximum with very good audio as well. The rear-facing unit is a 2K capable offering, but the footage is still very serviceable and feels like it would definitely be of use in the event of any kind of incident. After installation, I found the Ombar DC42 Dash Cam to be reassuringly low maintenance.

In fact, it operated seamlessly and offers an audible alert once you’ve switched the vehicle on, plus there’s the bonus of the LEDs that glow to show the camera is working. I found this handy considering there’s no rear screen for this model. The so-called Kacam app, by Ombar itself, is neat too with a user-friendly interface that doesn’t deliver any surprises.

(Image credit: Future)

File transfer is impressive as well thanks to up to 5Ghz transfer rates. Ombar keeps its processor information quite well hidden, but to be honest I couldn’t fault the Galaxycore internals, which certainly never failed during my time using both dash cams.

(Image credit: Future)

I’ve been mightily impressed by the after-dark capabilities of the Ombar DC42 Dash Cam, which makes it very notable as the WDR and Super Night Vision tools built-in seem able to capture license plates and road signs without fuss or bother. This adds additional value to the Ombar DC42 Dash Cam and, again, makes the dash cam bundle particularly appealing if you make a lot of journeys after the sun has gone down.

Another extra that I got good use from was the voice prompt feature, which allowed me to confirm settings, like if the Wi-Fi was connected. Rounding out this impressive package is the benefit of built-in GPS tracking, which is always good for gathering data about any journey, including date, time and speed.

Should you buy the Ombar DC42 Dash Cam?

(Image credit: Future) Buy it if...

You’re a newbie or need a replacement
The Ombar DC42 Dash Cam makes a lot of sense for anyone who wants to get a dashboard camera for the first time or simply replace an older, outdated model.

Features and functions matter
Surprisingly for an affordable package, the DC42 packs in a lot of functionality for something so frugally priced even though there’s no rear screen.

You want all round coverage
This model has the benefit of twin cameras, which offer a reassuring level of coverage for both the front and back of your car.

Don't buy it if...

You require a rear screen
The Ombar DC42 Dash Cam lacks a rear screen, which can be a turn-off although the supporting app works as a great replacement.

Only front-facing is needed
This review features a twin-camera setup, which means there are more cables to install and that might not be needed by some.

You like an imposing design
Having a visible dash cam can be handy when you’re behind the wheel, but this model’s svelte lines are quite easy to miss.

How I tested the Ombar DC42 Dash Cam
  • I installed the dash cam into two test cars for an initial period of three weeks
  • I used it for numerous journeys during both day and night
  • I connected it to my phone and downloaded recordings for comparison

I got to test the Ombar DC42 Dash Cam over the course of a few weeks and had the benefit of being able to try it in more than one vehicle. That allowed me to check just how flexible the design was, especially when it came to removing the dash cam after use. The sliding bracket is super handy, although this does leave the base bit sticking to the windshield, which has to be removed for installation in another car.

However, due to the temporary fitment situation, I wasn’t able to fully explore the parking features, which requires permanent installation using the optional hard wire kit. Nevertheless, based on performance during daylight and after dark hours, I have every reason to think that the Ombar DC42 Dash Cam should work very well in this scenario. I particularly liked the low maintenance way it just got on the with job.

  • First reviewed March 2025
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