VLC adds 360-degree video support

VLC is hands down my favorite video player and this latest addition is going to score it some brownie points with those obsessed with 360-degree videos. VideoLan introduced in a technical preview the ability for the desktop app to play 360-degree videos, panoramas, and photos. It’ll work with both Windows and Mac machines and will come to the full version of VLC 3.0, which is expected to drop at the end of the month.

VLC’s creators partnered with 360-degree camera maker Giroptic to develop the system, which will also work on its mobile apps. VLC will also support virtual reality headsets such as Google’s Daydream VR, HTC Vive, and Oculus Rift. You can use your mouse and keyboard to navigate the footage and photos. Aside from that, VideoLan plans to add 360-degree audio support, including head-tracking headphones. But this will come at a later unspecified date.

Source: Engadget

Apple reportedly plans to introduce new Macs on October 27

According to Recode, there is another Apple event almost upon us. This time, it’ll focus on new Macs to support the recent release of MacOS Sierra. It also comes just in time for the holidays. It’s been a while since Apple has introduced new big changes to the Mac line so let’s see what the new computer models will bring to the table. The event is said to be happening at or near the Apple Cupertino campus instead of in San Francisco where Apple hosted the iPhone 7 event. Apple won’t confirm that the event is happening so we’re keeping a lookout for this.

Apple macOS Sierra will prompt you to download

Slightly as aggressive as how Microsoft rolled out Windows 10, Apple will be reminding and triggering an automatic download of macOS Sierra for compatible Macs. The users who have automatic downloads turned on and have enough storage space to install the download will get the update sometime “over the next week.” The update won’t instantly download without your permission, though. You will have to start it on your own—just like how Windows 10 updates were released. And if you aren’t ready to upgrade yet, you can just delete the installer or disable automatic downloads from the App Store. Plus, the update won’t install and be deleted if the Mac is starting to run low on storage.

Source: The Loop

Slack introduces voice calls, brings group calls to paying users

Slack is officially moving away from being a messaging service to bringing in voice calls. All users, whether you use Windows or Mac apps, Google Chrome extension, or Android and iOS apps, have access to one-on-one voice calls. You should see a phone icon in the upper right portion of the channel header for those on the desktop, while those using the mobile app can “Start a call” in the app’s channel or DM drop-down menu.

If you want to make group calls in any channel or group DM, you need to be part of a paid team.  If someone from your team starts a group call, you’ll get a message prompting you to join the call. As mentioned before, calls also have the emoji response feature, which allows you to share what you think about the call or the topic you’re talking about.

Source: Slack