Apple HomePod will reportedly let you make calls soon

Review: Apple HomePodA recent report claims you’ll get more out of your HomePod soon. It’ll supposedly bring one important feature: the ability to make and receive calls. According to iGeneration, their look at the iOS 12-based software update for the device will let this happen, among some other useful features. As long as the HomePod is paired with your phone, it’ll let you make or answer calls. It’ll also help you locate your iPhone, improve translation features, and have the ability to switch Wi-Fi networks without needing to reset the device. If the report is to be believed, this might make the HomePod a more attractive purchase for consumers.

Source: TechRadar

Go incognito on Instagram by turning this feature off

Want to hide the fact that you’re online on Instagram? You might not have noticed this but Instagram has an Activity Status feature that shows if you’re online. If you’d rather not broadcast to your followers that you’re on the social network, you can easily turn that off. Just head to Settings and then scroll to the Privacy and Security section, and then pick Activity Status menu. There you can toggle the off button for Show Activity Status. Once you do this, the green dot beside your icon will disappear. One thing you need to note though is you won’t be able to see who is active either.

Source: Lifehacker

Aston Martin debuts its futuristic-looking ‘flying taxi’ concept

Aston Martin’s Volante Vision concept in flight. Image: Eleanor Bentall/Aston MartinWhile Rolls-Royce’s electric vertical take-off and landing (EVTOL) concept caters to a wider audience range, Aston Martin has a specific set of users on its mind. Aston Martin’s own “flying taxi” concept this week and it’s being called the Volante Vision. This futuristic-looking EVTOL is being labeled more as a transport for high-rollers or as an “ultimate luxury mobility solution.”

Aston Martin asked for Rolls-Royce’s assistance in the development of the Volante Vision’s engine. This vehicle can take less people than the Rolls-Royce concept at three people at a time. It is also powered by a hybrid-electric engine with autonomous technology built into its system.

Source: Silicon Republic

Rolls-Royce unveils its own ‘flying taxi’ concept that can be ready to take to the skies in a few years

A concept image of the Rolls-Royce EVTOL craft mid-flight. Image: Rolls-RoyceThe race for the skies surges forward and one of those at the forefront might not be a company you expect. Rolls-Royce, the British automaker more known for its luxury cars, has been involved in the aviation space for as long as it’s been a car manufacturer. It has produced engines of some of the most famous aircraft ever built, including the Supermarine Spitfire fighter of World War II. Now, the company is bringing this expertise into the development of its own prototype electric vertical take-off and landing (EVTOL) vehicle.

Often called the “flying taxi” concept, Rolls-Royce unveiled this vehicle at the Farnborough International Airshow. The EVTOL is being marked for use in everything from private ownership, public transport, logistics, to military use. It makes use of gas turbines to generate electricity for the six propulsors, which is designed specifically with a low-noise profile. By using turbines, it wouldn’t need to be recharged and it can fit into the existing infrastructure such as heliports and airports. This EVTOL can hold five people and travel at speeds of up to 400kph with a range of over 500km. When it reaches cruising height, its wings fold away to reduce drag and cabin noise. Two propellers will help it fly through the air. Rolls-Royce sees this model as being commercially viable by the middle of the next decade.

Source: Silicon Republic