Samsung halts rumoured plans to switch to Bing on its mobile browser

Samsung has reportedly put on hold its plans to replace Google with Bing as the default search engine on its Internet Browser app. The Wall Street Journal claims that Samsung was considering the switch. But it decided to pause the review due to potential backlash from Google and the market. Samsung’s Internet Browser app, which comes pre-loaded on its phones, has always used Google as its default search engine. And this move could risk the USD 3 billion in annual revenue that the search giant gets out of the deal.

The reason behind Samsung’s interest in Bing is unclear, but it could be related to Microsoft’s advances in AI technology. However, Google has also been investing heavily in AI features for its search engine and has recently launched its Bard chatbot to the public. Samsung may still revisit the idea of using Bing as its default search engine. But for now, it seems to have shelved the proposal. 

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HP's recent software update bricks some OfficeJet printers

Some HP OfficeJet printers are becoming unusable after installing a recent software update from the company. The update causes the printers to show a blue screen error with the code 83C0000B, which prevents users from accessing the touchscreen to reset the device. The only way to fix the problem is to send the printer back to HP for service.

The issue affects OfficeJet 902x models, such as the Pro 9022e, Pro 9025e, Pro 9020e All-in-One, and Pro 9025e All-in-One. HP advises customers who own these printers to disconnect them from the internet to avoid downloading the faulty update. The company says it is aware of the problem and working on a solution. Customers who encounter the error can contact HP support for assistance: https://support.hp.com.

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Twitter Blue lets subscribers upload two-hour videos

Photo: Edgar / Unsplash

Twitter Blue subscribers can now upload longer videos up to two hours and 8GB in size. The company increased the limits to attract more content creators to the platform (or at least entice them to return and pay for its subscription service). You don't need a subscription to watch the videos, though. 

Video quality is still capped at 1080p for everyone. This update allows iOS users to upload videos in the mobile app, but Android users can only do so via a web browser. 

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Disney’s 'Star Wars' hotel to shut down in September

Image: Disney

Disney World is closing its Star Wars-themed hotel, the Galactic Starcruiser, after only opening its doors in March 2022. The hotel, which costs around $5,000 for a two-night stay, offers guests an immersive experience in the Halcyon starship from Star Wars. It features themed decor, interactive events, dining, and entertainment.

Disney says the Starcruiser will host its final guests from September 28 to the 30. The company will contact those who have bookings after September 30 to modify their plans or discuss options. It will also pause new bookings until May 26 to accommodate the affected guests. 

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