Entries by Nicole Batac (11834)

Sunday
Oct062019

Instagram tests out QR codes for its 'Nametag' feature

You may or may not know that Instagram has what's called a Nametag feature. And it looks like the company wants to add QR codes to it. App researcher Jane Manchun Wong discovered the change. Right now, Nametag is used within the Instagram app to allow other users to scan it so they can follow you. It shows your username and the Instagram logo within the white square. The background is customizable. While Wong was going through the app, she found the QR code option, which looks a bit more unique than usual QR codes we see with simplified Instagram logos thrown into the mix. But it seems this feature works with standard QR scanners. That means you can take your Nametag outside of Instagram and share it with whomever you want. As for whether this feature rolls out to all users, well, that's something we can't say right now.

Sunday
Oct062019

Google Duo for Android gets dark mode

Google Duo is the latest Android app to receive dark mode treatment. The change was done through a server-side switch, so there's nothing for you to do. The colour scheme is similar to the grey shade used by other Google apps, and it follows the system-wide dark mode for Android 10. But there's also a way to set the theme manually, which means it's possible older versions of Android might get it, too. For now, the feature is visible on Duo v63.

Source: Android Police

Sunday
Oct062019

Ontario now offers free online driver's licence check

There used to be a $2 fee for checking if an Ontario driver's licence is valid. But now it's free to check online through the new Ontario Driver's Licence Check website. If you check it on your mobile, you can even scan the barcode at the back of the licence instead of having to input the numbers.

According to a press release from the Government of Ontario, this move is "putting money back in people's pockets by making it free for Ontarians to check if their driver's licence is valid before getting behind the wheel." 

Sunday
Oct062019

Microsoft introduces new Surface Pro 7 and Surface Pro X

 

Microsoft calls it the "most versatile 2:1 device you can buy." And one offers a spec sheet refresh, while another slims down the form factor for extra portability. The Surface Pro 7 gets a new lease on life with a "twice as fast" 10-generation Intel Core processor, USB-A and USB-C ports, and a promise of "all-day battery life." The last translates to 10-hour battery life. But the device promises fast-charging now. Pricing starts at US$749 (around CA$997).

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