Google Cloud Print will say goodbye on Jan. 1

You might already know this news, but if you don't, Google Cloud Print is going away on January 1, 2021. It might not affect many of you, but you might still see Cloud Print as your default printing option. You can change your print settings default in apps like Chrome.

Google introduced Cloud Print in 2010 to make it easier for people using Chrome OS devices to print their documents, which was essential because printer support in Chrome OS was sparse. But in 2017, Google added a native printing option, which allowed any Chrome OS device to connect to any compatible printer on your network without needing the Cloud connection. And so, it makes sense for Google to shut down Cloud Print.

Source: Engadget

Samsung's HDR 10+ Adaptive tech optimizes lighting based on your room

While Samsung and Dolby aren't working together to bring Dolby Vision HDR to Samsung televisions, the company has something similar to it. Its HDR10+ technology will support HDR10+Adaptive, which has a Filmmaker Mode that uses the TV's light sensor to adjust lighting based on the room's conditions. HDR10+ expands on basic HDR 10 by encoding information on a per-scene basis. 

Click to read more ...

LG to introduce 8K QNED TVs in 2021

LG is all set to unveil its new series of televisions that feature Mini LED tech. The company branded these as QNED, and they occupy the premium slot of its LCD line. It will be available up to 86 inches, with 10 models featuring 4K and 8K resolutions. 

Mini LED light sources are designed to provide better lighting control and contrast than conventional edge-lit or full-array backlighting in TVs. But LG said its Nanocell and quantum dot tech are still being used in the panel itself. The 86-inch model will be showcased at the company's CES 2021 "virtual booth." It will have over 30,000 LED backlights and almost 2,500 local dimming zones. 

Source: Engadget

HomePod mini update makes it usable with 18W power supplies

A new update for the HomePod (version 14.3) will allow the HomePod mini to run on 18W adapters or battery packs. The speaker ships with a 20W power adapter, and it initially needed at least 20W to work. But this update reduces the limit to 18W, allowing it to support a broader range of adapters and battery packs. It also means you can turn the HomePod mini into a portable AirPlay 2 speaker of sorts, as long as you have a proper Wi-Fi signal.

Apple hasn't announced this feature in its update notes. Reddit users discovered the change when it tested the speaker out with different power bricks. 

Source: Apple Insider