LIFE

The magic eye - Google Lens

Sven Krumrey

The magic eye

It seldom happens that we feel special while testing a new app. Most programs are neat and offer some benefit but fade into oblivion all too soon. This even applies to Google that frequently put out apps that will be all forgotten about the following day. Google Lens, which has now been available on Android and iOS for a few days, might be the exception and soon become a part of many people's daily lives. Reason enough to give the app a go!

more

LIFE

Spectre, Zuckerberg and Bitcoin - three current annoyances of mine

Sven Krumrey

Spectre: where Intel fails

It always pays to have a warm personality. You get upset less often, take things with equanimity and don't end up writhing in pain under the desk because of a stomach ulcer. Something has to be seriously awry to spoil my mood. This week, there were three such occasions that spiked my pulse and got my heart racing. Let me tell you about them

more

LIFE

8+1 worthwhile apps for your Android phone

Sven Krumrey

The selection is vast, the usefulness limited

It's good apps that bring smartphones to life but app stores have unfortunately become somewhat of a jungle over the years. Many apps require far too many permissions while others cram home screens full of ads or become usable only after features have been unlocked through in-app purchases. That's why I like to look for open-source alternatives. Their source code is freely available, commercial interests play a minor role (contributors appreciate donations though!) and quality control is achieved through community participation. So let's look at 8+1 apps that deserve your attention!

more

LIFE

And how much surveillance would you like in your car?

Sven Krumrey

Every car becomes a broadcaster

Some news set the Internet ablaze with intractable fronts facing off. When recently the news broke that, as of now, all newly released European cars would have to include the "eCall" emergency system, that was one of those days. While some saw clear signs of an imminent Orwellian future as depicted in "1984", others made a case for faster help and fewer accident victims. And while we're still debating, Dubai has abandoned data privacy altogether. But where does expediency end and mass surveillance begin? Will future cars be traceable with pin-point accuracy in mere seconds?

more

LIFE

What Facebook wants to know about you

Sven Krumrey

A closer look at Facebook

Facebook collects data - this insight is as old as Facebook itself. What many don't realize is that their data collecting doesn't stop at the gates of their portal. By means of their own and external sources, Facebook is creating comprehensive user profiles to the point where German, Russian and French authorities have begun to step in. They're focusing on two problem areas: Facebook's enormous market power and the extent of their data collection activities. In other words: once you know enough about billions of people, you'll be able to fix ad prices and likely violate several laws in the process. This even affects non-Facebook members!

more