YouTube unveils Comments Page to answer for user complaints

 

YouTube received flak for requiring users to have Google+ accounts to comment on videos and when they moved the comment notifications to Google+ notification page. Google’s video streaming service seemed to have listened to its large user base and introduced at Comments Page to help video creators manage, view and respond to comments in one place.

At the moment, the users will be required to click on the video page and reply to the comments there. But the company intends to allow for inline replying and expanding all replies on the Comments Page soon.

Source: YouTube Creator Blog

Microsoft adds speech input capabilities to Bing Translator on Windows

 

Microsoft introduced new updates to Bing Translator for Windows and Windows Phone apps. The tech company brings speech-to-speech functionality from Windows Phone app to the Windows app to let you speak into your device with the microphone and have the app answer you back in the native speaker’s accent. You can also now use your device’s camera in portrait and landscape to take a shot of text and have the app translate the words in the language you select.

Meanwhile, the Bing Translator for Windows Phone received improvement when it comes to speech features in order to improve the quality and “responsiveness” of the translations. The UI for the offline language packs has also been revamped.

Google to enter smart home appliance market with Nest Labs acquisition

From left: Nest Labs co-founder Matt Rogers, Google CEO Larry Page, and Nest Labs co-founder Tony Fadell

Google aims to increase its presence in your home with the planned acquisition of Nest Labs for US$3.2 billion. Nest Labs develops smart thermostats and smoke detectors, signifying a move to enter the app-controlled household gadgets market internationally.

Google CEO Larry Page said in a statement, “They’re already delivering amazing products you can buy right now—thermostats that save energy and smoke/CO alarms that can help keep your family safe. We are excited to bring great experiences to more homes in more countries and fulfill their dreams!”

Nest CEO Tony Fadell said in a blog post the company will retain leadership and brand identity and will still support Apple users.

Source: The Guardian

Travel apps to get you there with ease

Written by Sonya Davidson 

I know, the winter has been brutal and it’s only January. Luckily I’ve got a few dangling carrots to keep me from spiraling into the deep bowels of back-to-back episodes of Modern Family. I think I’ve seen every episode …four times.

If you're like me and in travel planning mode, it's a good time to download some useful apps that may make your journey a little more efficient and pleasant!

Click to read more ...