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Apple debuts iPhone 14 Pro and iPhone 14 Pro Max

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Apple debuts iPhone 14 Pro and iPhone 14 Pro Max

CUPERTINO, CALIFORNIA Apple today announced iPhone 14 Pro and iPhone 14 Pro Max, the most advanced Pro lineup ever, featuring the Dynamic Island — a new design that introduces an intuitive way to experience iPhone — and the Always-On display. Powered by A16 Bionic, the fastest chip ever in a smartphone, iPhone 14 Pro introduces a new class of pro camera system, with the first-ever 48MP Main camera on iPhone featuring a quad-pixel sensor, and Photonic Engine, an enhanced image pipeline that dramatically improves low-light photos. These groundbreaking advancements make iPhone even more indispensable for everyday tasks, creative projects, and now even emergency situations with features such as Emergency SOS via satellite and Crash Detection. iPhone 14 Pro and iPhone 14 Pro Max will be available in four gorgeous new finishes: deep purple, silver, gold, and space black. Pre-orders begin Friday, September 9, with availability beginning Friday, September 16. 

“Our customers count on their iPhone every day, and with iPhone 14 Pro and iPhone 14 Pro Max, we’re delivering more advancements than any other iPhone. iPhone 14 Pro introduces a camera system that empowers every user — from the casual user to the professional — to take their best photos and video, and innovative new technologies like the Always-On display and the Dynamic Island, which offers new interactions for notifications and activities,” said Greg Joswiak, Apple’s senior vice president of Worldwide Marketing. “Groundbreaking safety capabilities bring users even more security, offering help when they need it most. And with the incredibly powerful and efficient A16 Bionic chip and all-day battery life, this is the best iPhone yet.”

Pause playback of video: iPhone 14 Pro and iPhone 14 Max

iPhone 14 Pro and iPhone 14 Pro Max introduce the Dynamic Island, a rich and delightful new way to interact with activities, alerts, and notifications.

A Stunning Design and the Most Advanced Display on a Smartphone

iPhone 14 Pro and iPhone 14 Pro Max feature a beautiful surgical-grade stainless steel and textured matte glass design in four stunning colors. Available in 6.1-inch and 6.7-inch sizes,1 both models include a new Super Retina XDR display with ProMotion that features the Always-On display for the first time ever on iPhone, enabled by a new 1Hz refresh rate and multiple power-efficient technologies. This makes the new Lock Screen even more useful, keeping the time, widgets, and Live Activities available at a glance. The advanced display also brings the same peak HDR brightness level as Pro Display XDR, and the highest outdoor peak brightness in a smartphone: up to 2000 nits, which is twice as bright as iPhone 13 Pro.

Pause playback of video: Always-On Display

Both models include a new Super Retina XDR display with ProMotion that features the Always-On display for the first time ever on iPhone, enabled by a new 1Hz refresh rate and multiple power-efficient technologies.

iPhone 14 Pro and iPhone 14 Pro Max also continue to offer industry-leading durability features with the Ceramic Shield front cover — tougher than any smartphone glass — and are protected from common spills and accidents with water and dust resistance.2

iPhone 14 Pro and iPhone 14 Pro Max are shown in space black.
iPhone 14 Pro and iPhone 14 Pro Max are shown in silver.
iPhone 14 Pro and iPhone 14 Pro Max are shown in gold.
iPhone 14 Pro and iPhone 14 Pro Max are shown in deep purple.
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Dynamic Island: An Interactive User Experience

The Dynamic Island enables new ways to interact with iPhone, featuring a design that blends the line between hardware and software, adapting in real time to show important alerts, notifications, and activities. With the introduction of the Dynamic Island, the TrueDepth camera has been redesigned to take up less of the display area. Without impeding content on the screen, the Dynamic Island maintains an active state to allow users easier access to controls with a simple tap-and-hold. Ongoing background activities like Maps, Music, or a timer remain visible and interactive, and third-party apps in iOS 16 that provide information like sports scores and ride-sharing with Live Activities can take advantage of the Dynamic Island. 

Pause playback of video: Dynamic Island

The Dynamic Island blurs the line between hardware and software, fluidly expanding into different shapes to clearly convey important activities like Face ID authentication.

A New Class of Pro Camera System

The pro camera system on iPhone 14 Pro and iPhone 14 Pro Max pushes the boundaries of what’s possible in a smartphone, empowering every user — casual or professional — to capture the best photos and video.

Photonic Engine is shown on iPhone 14 Pro.

iPhone 14 Pro takes computational photography even further with Photonic Engine, offering a giant leap for mid- to low-light performance in photos across all cameras through a deep integration of hardware and software: up to 2x on the Main camera, up to 3x on the Ultra Wide camera, up to 2x on the Telephoto camera, and up to 2x on the TrueDepth camera. Photonic Engine enables this dramatic increase in quality by applying Deep Fusion earlier in the imaging process to deliver extraordinary detail, and preserve subtle textures, provide better color, and maintain more information in a photo.

or the first time ever, the Pro lineup features a new 48MP Main camera with a quad-pixel sensor that adapts to the photo being captured, and features second-generation sensor-shift optical image stabilization. For most photos, the quad-pixel sensor combines every four pixels into one large quad pixel equivalent to 2.44 µm, resulting in amazing low-light capture and keeping photo size at a practical 12MP. The quad-pixel sensor also enables a 2x Telephoto option that uses the middle 12 megapixels of the sensor for full-resolution photos and 4K videos with no digital zoom. This delivers optical quality at a familiar focal length, which is great for features like Portrait mode. The quad-pixel sensor also brings benefits to pro workflows, optimizing for detail in ProRAW. And with a new machine learning model designed specifically for the quad-pixel sensor, iPhone now shoots ProRAW at 48MP with an unprecedented level of detail, enabling new creative workflows for pro users.

Pause playback of video: Focal Length

The quad-pixel sensor on the 48MP Main camera brings benefits to pro workflows, optimizing for detail in ProRAW and allowing for an unprecedented level of detail.

Additional pro camera system upgrades and features include:

  • A new 12MP Ultra Wide camera with 1.4 µm pixels, which delivers sharper images with more detail, improving already powerful macro photography capabilities.
  • An improved Telephoto camera that offers 3x optical zoom.
  • A new front TrueDepth camera with an ƒ/1.9 aperture that enables better low-light performance for photos and video. Using autofocus for the first time, it can focus even faster in low light and capture group shots from farther away.
  • A new Adaptive True Tone flash that has been completely redesigned with an array of nine LEDs that change pattern based on the chosen focal length.
  • Powerful computational photography benefits like Night mode, Smart HDR 4, Portrait mode with Portrait Lighting, Night mode Portrait photos, Photographic Styles to personalize the look of every photo, and Apple ProRAW.
  • A new Action mode for incredibly smooth-looking video that adjusts to significant shakes, motion, and vibrations, even when video is being captured in the middle of the action.
  • Cinematic mode, now available in 4K at 30 fps and 4K at 24 fps.
  • Pro-level workflows for video, including ProRes3 and end-to-end Dolby Vision HDR.

Pause playback of video: Action Mode

A new Action mode allows for incredibly smooth-looking video that adjusts to significant shakes, motion, and vibrations, even when video is being captured in the middle of the action.

Crash Detection and Emergency SOS via Satellite

The entire iPhone 14 lineup introduces groundbreaking safety capabilities that can provide emergency assistance when it matters most. With a new dual-core accelerometer capable of detecting G-force measurements of up to 256Gs and a new high dynamic range gyroscope, Crash Detection on iPhone can now detect a severe car crash and automatically dial emergency services when a user is unconscious or unable to reach their iPhone. These capabilities build on existing components, like the barometer, which can now detect cabin pressure changes, the GPS for additional input for speed changes, and the microphone,4 which can recognize loud noises typified by severe car crashes. Advanced Apple-designed motion algorithms trained with over a million hours of real-world driving and crash record data provide even better accuracy. When combined with Apple Watch, Crash Detection seamlessly leverages the unique strength of both devices to get users help efficiently. When a severe crash is detected, the emergency services call interface will appear on Apple Watch, as it is most likely to be in closer proximity to the user, while the call is placed through iPhone if it is in range for the best possible connection.

Crash Detection on iPhone’s emergency services call interface is shown.

The iPhone 14 lineup also introduces Emergency SOS via satellite, which combines custom components deeply integrated with software to allow antennas to connect directly to a satellite, enabling messaging with emergency services when outside of cellular or Wi-Fi coverage. Satellites are moving targets with low bandwidth, and it can take minutes for messages to get through. Since every second counts, with Emergency SOS via satellite, iPhone front-loads a few vital questions to assess the user’s situation and shows them where to point their phone to connect to a satellite. The initial questionnaire and follow-up messages are then relayed to centers staffed by Apple‑trained specialists who can call for help on the user’s behalf. This breakthrough technology also allows users to manually share their location over satellite with Find My when there is no cellular or Wi-Fi connection, providing a sense of security when hiking or camping off the grid. Emergency SOS via satellite will be available to users in the US and Canada in November, and the service will be free for two years.

An iPhone screen reading “Emergency SOS via Satellite” instructs the user to be outside to get a connection, cautions that messages will take longer to send, and prompts users to answer questions to help get a faster response.
The Emergency SOS via satellite capability on iPhone prompts a user to point their phone in the direction of a satellite.
An iPhone user’s location is shown while hiking via Find My on iPhone.
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A16 Bionic: The Fastest Chip in a Smartphone

The A16 Bionic chip in iPhone 14 Pro and iPhone 14 Pro Max is generations ahead of the competition, and unlocks unparalleled experiences like the Dynamic Island, powers all-day battery life,7 and delivers impressive computational photography capabilities. With two high-performance cores and four high-efficiency cores, the new 6-core CPU is up to 40 percent faster than the competition and easily handles demanding workloads. A16 Bionic features an accelerated 5-core GPU with 50 percent more memory bandwidth — perfect for graphics-intensive games and apps — and a new 16-core Neural Engine capable of nearly 17 trillion operations per second. Using Apple’s best-in-class fusion architecture to combine performance and energy savings, the chip delivers more performance with a fraction of the power compared to the competition. 

Fundamental to the pro camera system, A16 Bionic powers incredible computational photography features. The CPU, GPU, Neural Engine, and image signal processor seamlessly work together to support the new camera hardware and perform up to 4 trillion operations per photo.

Computational photography features powered by A16 Bionic are shown.

Powerful Cellular Capabilities and 5G

iPhone offers users super-fast downloads and uploads, better streaming, and real-time connectivity with 5G to help them stay in touch, share, and enjoy content.Support for 5G on iPhone now extends to over 250 carrier partners in over 70 markets around the world, with expanded support for standalone networks. eSIM allows users to easily connect or quickly transfer their existing plans digitally, is a more secure alternative to a physical SIM card, and allows for multiple cellular plans on a single device. iPhone 14 Pro and iPhone 14 Pro Max remove the SIM tray for US models, enabling users to more quickly and easily set up their device.

Apple Fitness+ for All iPhone Users

Later this fall, for the first time ever, Apple Fitness+ will be available for all iPhone users to subscribe to and enjoy in the 21 countries it is offered in, even if they don’t have an Apple Watch. iPhone users will have access to the entire service featuring over 3,000 studio-style workouts and meditations, all led by a diverse and inclusive team of trainers. Fitness+ users will see onscreen trainer guidance and interval timing, and estimated calories burned will be used to make progress on their Move ring. Fitness+ will be fully integrated with the Fitness app coming with iOS 16 and located in the middle tab, where users can stay motivated to close their Move ring through awards, activity sharing, and more. Users only need an iPhone to sign up, and can then experience Fitness+ on iPhone, iPad, and Apple TV.

An Apple Fitness+ trainer leads a workout.

Featuring iOS 16

Designed to take advantage of the new capabilities of iPhone 14 Pro, iOS 16 features a reimagined Lock Screen along with new communication, sharing, and intelligence features that together change the way users experience iPhone. The Lock Screen is more personal, beautiful, and helpful than ever with a multilayered effect that artfully sets subjects of photos in front of the time, and newly designed widgets that offer information at a glance. For Lock Screen inspiration, the wallpaper gallery offers a range of options, including Apple collections, a Weather wallpaper to see live weather conditions as they change throughout the day, an Astronomy wallpaper for views of the Earth, moon, and solar system, and many more. With Messages, users can now edit or recall recently sent messages, and mark conversations as unread to revisit them later.9 iCloud Shared Photo Library makes it even easier to share a collection of photos with family.10 Live Text gets more powerful with the ability to recognize text in video and quickly convert currency, translate text, and more, and Visual Look Up adds a new feature that allows users to tap and hold on the subject of an image to lift it from the background and place it in apps like Messages.11

  • The reimagined Lock Screen in iOS 16 is shown.
  • Live Text is shown in iOS 16.
  • Visual Look Up is shown in iOS 16.
The reimagined Lock Screen in iOS 16 is shown.
Live Text is shown in iOS 16.
Visual Look Up is shown in iOS 16.
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iPhone and the Environment

iPhone 14 Pro and iPhone 14 Pro Max are designed to minimize their impact on the environment, with 100 percent recycled rare earth elements used in all magnets, including those used in MagSafe, and 100 percent recycled tungsten in the Taptic Engine. Both models also include 100 percent recycled tin in the solder of multiple printed circuit boards, and 100 percent recycled gold in the plating of multiple printed circuit boards and in the wire of all cameras. Fiber-based packaging does not use outer plastic wrap, bringing Apple closer to its goal of completely removing plastic from all packaging by 2025. 

Today, Apple is carbon neutral for global corporate operations, and by 2030, plans to be 100 percent carbon neutral across its entire manufacturing supply chain and all product life cycles. This means that every Apple device sold, from component manufacturing, assembly, transport, customer use, charging, all the way through recycling and material recovery, will have net-zero climate impact.

Pricing and Availability

  • iPhone 14 Pro and iPhone 14 Pro Max will be available in deep purple, silver, gold, and space black in 128GB, 256GB, 512GB, and 1TB storage capacities. 
  • Customers in AustraliaCanadaChinaFrance, GermanyIndiaItalyJapan, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, SpainThailand, the UAE, the UK, the US, and 30 other countries and regions will be able to pre-order iPhone 14 Pro and iPhone 14 Pro Max beginning at 5 a.m. PDT on Friday, September 9, with availability beginning Friday, September 16. 
  • iPhone 14 Pro and iPhone 14 Pro Max will be available in MalaysiaTurkey, and 20 other countries and regions beginning Friday, September 23.
  • Emergency SOS via satellite will be available starting in the US and Canada in November, and the service will be included for free for two years with the activation of iPhone 14 Pro and iPhone 14 Pro Max.
  • Customers can get iPhone 14 Pro for $41.62 (US) a month for 24 months or $999 (US) before trade-in, and iPhone 14 Pro Max for $45.79 (US) a month for 24 months or $1,099 (US) before trade-in from apple.com/store, in the Apple Store app, and at Apple Store locations. iPhone 14 Pro and iPhone 14 Pro Max are also available through Apple Authorized Resellers and select carriers.12
  • Customers can save up to $1,000 (US) on iPhone 14 Pro and iPhone 14 Pro Max with trade-in directly from apple.com/store or at an Apple Store when they activate it with select US carriers. Terms apply. For eligibility requirements and more details, see apple.com/shop/buy-iphone/carrier-offers.
  • Customers in the US can get ready for iPhone 14 Pro and iPhone 14 Pro Max pre-orders until 10 p.m. PDT on Thursday, September 8, by visiting apple.com/store or using the Apple Store app. They can choose to pay monthly or in full, add a trade-in credit toward their new product, or upgrade through the iPhone Upgrade Program.
  • iOS 16 will be available as a free software update on Monday, September 12.
  • Customers who purchase iPhone 14 Pro and iPhone 14 Pro Max will receive three months of Apple Arcade with a new subscription.
  • Leather Wallet with MagSafe and iPhone 14 Pro and iPhone 14 Pro Max Leather Cases will be available in five new colors: midnight, forest green, ink, umber, and orange. iPhone 14 Pro and iPhone 14 Pro Max Clear Case and Silicone Cases will be available in midnight, storm blue, red, chalk pink, lilac, elderberry, succulent, and sunglow.
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How to Port Forward on Router—Complete Guide

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How to Port Forward on Router—Complete Guide

Whether you’re trying to remotely access your computer from another network or wish to host a game server on your computer, port forwarding is an excellent choice. It allows incoming traffic to pass through a specific router port to access the desired device/service from another network. 

The procedure to forward ports varies based on the router’s manufacturer, model, and firmware. Nonetheless, the general concept is the same. This article should help you understand the basics to port forwarding and how to set it up on different routers.

What is Port Forwarding?

Port forwarding or also known as Virtual Server is a NAT application that allows users to specify ports to make desired services/devices within a LAN accessible over the WAN.

As we know, a router assigns private IP addresses to different connected devices over the local area network. If a user wants to access a specific device within this LAN from a different network (even though the correct public WAN IP is used), he will be blocked by the router’s firewall. However, you can set up port forwarding to resolve this issue.

Initially, the router lacks information (destination IP and port number) regarding where to send the incoming request to. Once you specify these details (open a specific port), the networking device understands and forwards the request to the respective service/device.

no port forward
No Port Forwarding

Let’s understand this with a simple example. Suppose I’m trying to access my home computer from the office. I need to first know the public IP of my home router assigned by the ISP. To know yours, you may simply perform a search on Google with the related keyword like, “What’s my IP?”. 

When I send the request using the public IP, the router still has no idea where to send the request. Therefore, the firewall blocks this traffic for security reasons.

Now, I specify a port number (say, 3389 for Remote Desktop Connection) and my home computer’s IP address. Based upon the new request, the router understands to open its port 3389 and send the request to the specified IP address. This way, I can now access my home computer from whatever network I want.

An important thing to consider when forwarding ports is that your LAN IP needs to be static. By default, the DHCP server assigns dynamic IP that can change over time. If you specify a static IP, it can’t be used in the long run and the port forwarding won’t work.

To access the router remotely, it’s essential to know the WAN IP, which is also usually dynamic. So, I recommend getting a static public IP from your ISP. In case that’s not feasible, you may set up a Dynamic DNS (DDNS). You can create a free account and get a domain name–paid or free based on your choice.

How to Port Forward on Different Routers?

Although port forwarding sounds technically difficult, setting it up is simple and straightforward. Also, the process varies based on the router’s user interface. 

In this section, I have mentioned the step-by-step process for some popular manufacturers. Don’t worry if you do not find your model here. The idea behind forwarding ports is somewhat similar. With my tips, you should be able to set up port forwarding on any router!

Before You Begin

Here are the general steps for port forwarding:

  • First, identify the service’s port number and protocol (TCP/UDP/both). You can look this up online or from the service’s manual.
  • Access your router page using the correct credentials.
  • Reserve the service’s IP address from the router’s dedicated section. If you don’t find it, you may set a static IP address from your computer’s network settings.
  • Also, confirm that your WAN/public IP is static. You need to contact your ISP or enable Dynamic DNS from the router’s configuration page.
  • Get to the Port Forwarding or Virtual Server section.
  • Now, set up port forwarding by specifying name, IP address, port number/rage, and protocol.
  • Save the settings and enable port forwarding (if required).
  • Test from another network to confirm that the forwarded ports are working.
  • On TP-Link
  • I have used BE900 Wi-Fi 7 Router for demonstration. The steps may vary for other TP-Link models.
  • After accessing the router page, switch to the Advanced tab.
  • From the left pane, select NAT Forwarding.
    tplink advanced nat forwarding
  1. In some models, you’ll find the Port Forwarding option.
    port forwarding in tplink
    In others, you need to look for Virtual Servers.
    virtual servers in tplink
  2. Find and press the Add button.
    add button in port forwarding tplink
  3. Once the Add a Forwarding Entry dialogue box pops up, enter the Service Name of your choice. For demonstration, I have selected the HTTP Service from View Common Services. This should automatically fill up the necessary details.
    select from common services
  4. Next, enter the target device or the reserved IP address. You may even pick your connected device by clicking on the View Connected Devices button.
    view connected devices
  5. Then, select Individual Port or Port Range based on your choice.
    If you have selected Individual Port, you can simply enter the dedicated port number. Since HTTP uses port 80, I input that as shown below.
    But if you have selected Port Range, you need to now input the initial and the final port numbers in the dedicated fields.
  6. Now, enter the internal port number that will be opened for your device. You may utilize the same one used as the external port.
  7. Set the appropriate protocol and hit the Save button.
    add a port forwarding utility
  8. Finally, from the Port Forwarding section, verify that the service is added.

On ASUS

I have used the ASUS RT-AX95Q model for demonstration. The steps may vary for other models. 

  1. In the left pane, navigate to Advanced Settings and pick WAN.
    advacned settings wan asus router
  2. Now, switch to Virtual Server / Port Forwarding.
  3. Press the Add Profile button.
    add profile in asus
  4. Once a dialogue window pops up, you’ll likely notice two sections–Quick Select and Custom Configuration.
    quick select and custom configuration in asus router
    In the former, you just require selecting a server or game list. For example, if you wish to set up port forwarding on Xbox, you may pick the Xbox Live option from the game List. You’ll notice that the custom configuration will be filled automatically.
    xbox live select to port forward in asus
  5. For custom configuration, enter a service name first. As an example, I’m going to forward the port for Remote Desktop Connection.
  6. Then, set the Protocol. Since Remote Desktop utilizes both TCP and UDP port 3389, I’m going to set this field to Both.
  7. In the External Port field, enter the port number. The Internal Port field can also be the same or you may skip it.
  8. Next, input your device’s IP or the reserved address in the Internal IP Address field. You can even expand the drop-down and select the listed device.
  9. The Source IP field is optional if you wish to open your port to a specific IP address from the internet.
  10. Once you’ve filled in the details, hit the Ok button.
    custom asus port forwarding
  11. Now, check the service under the Port Forwarding List section. You can even edit or delete it if needed.
    port forwarding list asus
  12. While you have successfully set up port forwarding in your Asus router, this setting will not work until and unless you enable it. You can do this from the Basic Config section as demonstrated below. 
    enable port forwarding in asus

On Cisco/Linksys

I have used the Cisco RV160W model for demonstration. The steps may vary for other CISCO/Linksys routers.

  1. From the menu on the left part of the window, expand Firewall.
  2. Pick Port Forwarding.
    port forwarding in cisco
  3. Move to the right and hit the ‘+’ button to add a service.
  4. You can pick the external and internal services from the respective drop-downs.
  5. Set the Interfaces to Any.
  6. Now, make sure the Enable field is checked before pressing the Apply button (at the top).
    cisco port forwarding

On Netgear

I have used an older Netgear model Dg834g for demonstration. The steps may vary for the newer ones. 

On Belkin

I have used Belkin’s N450 model for demonstration. The steps might be slightly different for other routers from the same manufacturer.

  1. From the left part of the window, find Firewall and select Virtual Servers.
    virtual services in belkinhttps://d41c9b957ad34b199d34f13eed24b47e.safeframe.googlesyndication.com/safeframe/1-0-40/html/container.html
  2. To add a popular service, you can select one from the Add drop-down. For demonstration, I’m choosing Web Server (HTTP).
  3. Hit the Add button and the table should be updated.
    port forwarding in belkin
  4. You’ll notice that the Private IP Address field is still empty. Here, you need to add the IP address of your device or the one you had reserved earlier.
    private ip port forward in belkin
  5. Scroll down and click on Apply changes.
    apply changes belkin
  6. Now, wait for the settings to be applied. The remaining time should be shown on the screen as pictured below.
    applying changes belkinhttps://d41c9b957ad34b199d34f13eed24b47e.safeframe.googlesyndication.com/safeframe/1-0-40/html/container.html

Note: For adding a custom service, you can directly enter its name/description, set the port number or range, pick the appropriate protocol, and enter the IP address (LAN) manually in the table.

On D-Link

I have used D-Link’s DIR-657 model for demonstration. The steps might be slightly different for other routers.

  1. On the router’s home page, select the Advanced tab.
  2. From the left pane, pick PORT FORWARDING.
    dlink advanced port forwarding
  3. Now, navigate to the 24 –– PORT FORWARDING RULES section. Start by providing the service name. You can even expand the Application Name drop-down and select the available service.
    application name in dlink
  4. Under Ports to Open, set the TCP, UDP, or both fields. If you have set the application as I did above, the field should be automatically filled.
  5. Also, enter the IP address.
  6. Now, make sure the Schedule is set to Always and Inbound Filter to Allow All.
  7. Then, put a checkmark on the filled data as demonstrated below. 
  8. Then, hit the Save Settings button from the top.
    port forwarding rules in dlink
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Data Collection – The Reflection of Existing Prejudices

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Data Collection – The Reflection of Existing Prejudices

In today’s world, data collection is more important than ever. However, some people are starting to wonder whether the data we gather is truly a fair and accurate reflection of society or if it just reinforces our existing biases. Data, as you know, is like an enormous pool of information that’s constantly flowing and changing, but here’s the twist: it’s not as neutral as it seems!

So, picture this: gathering information can shape our view of the world when we collect and analyze data. But here’s the catch: if we’re not careful, it can unintentionally reinforce and amplify existing prejudices. And that’s not cool because it leads to unfair results and widens the gaps between different groups. This article will explore how data collection can accidentally reflect and strengthen preconceived notions. We’ll also chat about the challenges that come with it and why taking deliberate steps to reduce these ingrained biases is super important. So get ready for an eye-opening journey where we uncover the complex connection between the collection and our preexisting ideas. It’ll make us question how data shapes our understanding of the world.

What is Data?

Data is a collection of facts or information carefully obtained and kept. Consider it a collection of facts and information we carefully gather and store. It can come in different forms, like words, pictures, music, and videos. And guess what? Data is the foundation for making decisions, gaining insights, and acquiring knowledge. It’s the secret sauce that influences how we see the world and how different policies and practices are implemented. Pretty cool, huh?

What is Data Collection?

The systematic process of acquiring and recording information for analysis and interpretation is known as data collection. So, regarding data collection, here’s the lowdown: we’ve got to find suitable sources, develop nifty procedures, and snag data from all kinds of places. We’re talking surveys, observations, interviews, and even digital platforms. It’s like being a data detective!

Once we’ve got all that juicy info, it’s time to work magic. We organize, process, and give it a good ol’ examination. And guess what? The result is some seriously incredible insights that help us make intelligent decisions. It’s like having a superpower!

Data Collection and Existing Prejudices: A Reflection

Here’s the deal: when we gather data, it may seem all official and impartial, but here’s the catch— the world influences it. Data collection happens in a social and cultural setting, which means it’s not as neutral as we might think.

See, the thing is, our biases and preconceptions can sneak into the data. It’s like they photobomb our fabulous data party! Everything from the tools we use to collect data, the people we choose to participate, and even how we interpret the results can be affected by those sneaky social prejudices we have today. And sometimes, these biases happen without us even realizing it!

So, the bottom line is: data collection is a social affair, and our preconceived notions can tag along for the ride. It’s like having some uninvited guests at the data collection shindig. But fear not! By being aware of these biases and mindful of our data collection process, we can keep those party crashers in check. Let’s make data collection a fair and fun experience for everyone!

Biases in Data Collection

  1. Sampling Bias: One common bias in data collection is sampling bias, where the sample chosen for the study is not representative of the larger population. This can occur when certain groups or perspectives are underrepresented or excluded from the data collection process. As a result, the collected data may not accurately reflect the diversity of experiences and opinions, leading to skewed conclusions.
  2. Questionnaire Design Bias: The design of data collection instruments, such as questionnaires or surveys, can introduce biases. Biased or leading questions, inappropriate response categories, or culturally insensitive language can influence respondents’ answers and produce inaccurate or misleading data.
  3. Contextual Bias: The context in which data is collected can also introduce biases. Factors such as the timing, location, and environment in which data collection occurs can impact participant responses and distort the data. For example, conducting surveys during a particular political or social event may result in responses influenced by the prevailing sentiment.

Unintentional Repercussions

Watch out! Sometimes, when we need to be more careful with data-gathering, it can boost prejudice. Those sneaky biases and preexisting prejudices can find their way into the data, making societal disparities even more brutal to tackle. We don’t want that!

Data Annotation’s Role in Prejudice Mitigation

But hey, there’s a nifty solution to the problem! It’s called data annotation, and it’s all about labeling and categorizing the data. We can spot and nip those biases in the bud with skillful annotation magic. It’s like having superheroes who can sniff out preconceptions and make sure the data represents a diverse range of experiences and opinions. Pretty cool, right?

Ethics and Transparency in Data Collection

Now, here’s what we must remember: we must be upfront and ethical in how we collect data. No shady business allowed! We need clear rules and guidelines to ensure everyone knows what’s happening. That means getting informed permission, respecting privacy, and giving voice to as many people as possible. When we’re transparent, we can adequately analyze and validate the data. It’s like shining a light on any potential biases and limitations. Let’s keep it fair and square!

Bottom Line

AnalyzingAnalyzing the data critically is a crucial first step in overcoming preconceptions developed during data collection. In conclusion, data analysis is a complex task. Still, with a dash of discernment and a keen eye for biases, researchers and analysts can navigate the collected data’s intricacies. Analytical methods like intersectional analysis can uncover hidden biases and gain deeper insights into the underlying complexities.

Using statistical tools, data visualization methods, and machine learning algorithms enhances the analysis process, allowing for the detection of biases that may not be immediately apparent. These tools act as superpowers, revealing patterns and trends that shape our understanding of the data. Notably, intersectional research highlights the intersecting social categories, providing a closer assessment of their impact on the results. This approach unveils the unique experiences of marginalized individuals, fostering a more comprehensive understanding of diverse perspectives.

As researchers and analysts, we are responsible for approaching data analysis with critical thinking and a commitment to transparency. By recognizing and addressing biases, we can strive for fairness and accuracy in our findings. Ultimately, the data analysis journey leads us to understand our world better, enabling us to make informed decisions and drive positive change.

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Unlocking the Future: Exploring the Power of Smart Home Automation and Technology

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Unlocking the Future: Exploring the Power of Smart Home Automation and Technology

Introduction

Welcome to the era of smart homes, where technology seamlessly integrates with our everyday lives, transforming our living spaces into intelligent, efficient, and secure environments. The concept of a smart home has evolved significantly in recent years, offering homeowners unprecedented control, convenience, and energy savings. In this blog post, we will explore the fascinating world of smart homes, discussing the benefits, key features, and future potential of this rapidly growing industry.

What is a Smart Home?

Smart Home is a residence equipped with various interconnected devices and systems that can be remotely controlled and automated. These devices, commonly known as the Internet of Things (IoT), work harmoniously to enhance comfort, security, energy efficiency, and overall quality of life. Smart homes provide homeowners with a centralized control hub, from lighting and thermostats to security cameras and entertainment systems, enabling effortless management through voice commands, smartphone applications, or automation schedules.

Key Features and Benefits

a) Convenience and Control: One of the primary advantages of a smart home is the ability to control multiple devices and systems from a single interface. Whether it’s adjusting the temperature, turning on lights, or streaming music throughout the house, smart homes offer unparalleled convenience. Voice assistants like Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant have become commonplace, allowing users to control various functions with simple voice commands.

b) Energy Efficiency: Smart homes are designed to optimize energy consumption and reduce utility bills. Smart thermostats can learn the homeowner’s preferences and adjust the temperature accordingly, saving energy when rooms are unoccupied. Additionally, smart lighting systems can automatically turn off lights in empty spaces, reducing electricity wastage.

c) Enhanced Security: Smart security systems provide homeowners peace of mind. From smart locks and doorbell cameras to motion sensors and surveillance cameras, these integrated systems offer real-time monitoring, remote access, and instant alerts, helping to deter burglars and enhance overall home security.

d) Improved Comfort: Smart homes offer a range of features that enhance residents’ comfort. Imagine arriving home to a preheated house, with soothing music playing in the background and your preferred lighting ambiance welcoming you. With Smart home automation and customized settings, these scenarios can become a reality, providing personalized comfort tailored to individual preferences.

e) Accessibility and Aging in Place: Smart home technology also caters to the needs of individuals with mobility challenges or older people who wish to age in place. With voice control, automated lighting, and integrated healthcare monitoring systems, smart homes can ensure a safer, more accessible environment, empowering individuals to maintain their independence and quality of life.

Smart Home Devices and Systems:

a) Smart Lighting: Smart lighting systems allow homeowners to remotely control individual lights or groups of lights. They offer dimming, color-changing capabilities, and scheduled automation, adding ambiance and energy efficiency to any living space.

b) Smart Thermostats: Smart thermostats learn user preferences and adjust temperature settings accordingly. They provide energy-saving recommendations and can be controlled remotely, allowing homeowners to manage their HVAC systems efficiently.

c) Home Security Systems: Smart security systems include smart locks, video doorbells, motion sensors, and surveillance cameras. These devices can be monitored remotely, providing homeowners with real-time updates and the ability to respond to potential threats.

d) Voice Assistants: Voice-controlled devices like Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, or Apple Siri are central hubs for smart homes. They enable seamless control of various devices through voice commands, making interacting with smart home systems easy.

e) Entertainment Systems: Smart TVs, speakers, and streaming devices can be integrated into a smart home ecosystem. Users can control their entertainment systems through voice commands or smartphone applications, creating a connected and immersive entertainment experience throughout the house.

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f) Smart Appliances: From smart refrigerators to washing machines and ovens, a wide range of household appliances can be connected to the smart home network. These appliances offer remote monitoring, energy usage tracking, and customized settings, making daily chores more efficient and convenient.

g) Automated Window Treatments: Smart blinds or shades can be programmed to open or close at specific times of the day, providing privacy, blocking out sunlight, or optimizing natural lighting. They can also be controlled remotely, adding an extra layer of convenience.

h) Home Monitoring and Safety: Smart home systems can include sensors for detecting smoke, carbon monoxide, or water leaks. These sensors can send real-time alerts to homeowners’ smartphones, helping prevent potential disasters or damage to the property.

Challenges and Considerations

While the benefits of smart homes are undeniable, there are a few challenges and considerations to keep in mind:

a) Cost: The initial investment in smart home technology can be relatively high, depending on the complexity and extent of the system. However, prices have been gradually decreasing as the technology becomes more accessible.

b) Compatibility and Integration: As the market is flooded with various smart devices from different manufacturers, ensuring compatibility and seamless integration can sometimes be challenging. Homeowners should research and select devices that work well together or opt for centralized smart home systems that offer comprehensive compatibility.

c) Privacy and Security: With increased connectivity comes potential privacy and data security risks. It is crucial to prioritize security measures such as strong passwords, regular firmware updates, and using reputable brands with robust security features. Homeowners should also be mindful of sharing personal information or granting permissions to third-party apps or devices.

d) Learning Curve: Transitioning to a smart home requires technical knowledge and a learning curve for users who may need to be more accustomed to managing and troubleshooting connected devices. However, most smart home systems come with user-friendly interfaces and customer support to assist with setup and maintenance.

The Future of Smart Homes

The smart home industry is continuously evolving, driven by technological advancements and consumer demand. Here are a few exciting trends and possibilities for the future:

a) Integration of Artificial Intelligence: As artificial intelligence advances, smart homes will become even more innovative and more intuitive. AI-powered systems can learn from users’ behaviors, anticipate their needs, and proactively adjust settings to enhance comfort and energy efficiency.

b) Expanded IoT Connectivity: The Internet of Things is expanding rapidly, and we can expect more devices and systems to become interconnected within the smart home ecosystem. This includes everything from appliances and wearable devices to vehicles and smart city infrastructure, creating a truly connected environment.

c) Sustainable and Energy-Neutral Homes: Smart homes will play a vital role in achieving sustainability goals. Energy management systems will become more sophisticated, enabling homeowners to optimize energy consumption, integrate renewable energy sources, and contribute to a greener future.

d) Health and Wellness Integration: Smart homes will increasingly incorporate health and wellness features, such as monitoring air quality, tracking sleep patterns, or integrating healthcare devices. These advancements will contribute to overall well-being and enable proactive health management.

The advent of smart homes has transformed the way we live, offering unparalleled convenience, energy efficiency, security, and comfort. With a wide range of interconnected devices and systems, homeowners have the power to control and automate their living spaces, creating personalized and intelligent environments. While there are considerations and challenges to navigate, the future of smart homes looks promising, with continued advancements and innovations on the horizon. Embracing this technology can elevate our quality of life, enhance sustainability efforts, and pave the way for a connected future that simplifies and enriches our everyday experiences.

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Here are some additional points to expand on the topic of smart homes:

Integration with Smart Grids and Energy Management

Smart homes can be crucial in integrating smart grids and energy management systems. By connecting to the local power grid, smart homes can receive real-time data on electricity prices and demand. This information can be used to optimize energy usage within the home, allowing homeowners to take advantage of off-peak hours and reduce electricity costs. Smart homes can also integrate with renewable energy sources such as solar panels, storing excess energy or selling it back to the grid. This integration promotes energy efficiency, reduces reliance on fossil fuels, and contributes to a more sustainable energy future.

Personalized and Contextualized Experiences

As smart home technology advances, the focus is shifting toward delivering personalized and contextualized experiences. Smart home systems can learn individual preferences and adapt to the unique needs of each household member. For example, the lighting, temperature, and entertainment settings can be tailored to personal preferences when someone enters a room. By leveraging data from wearable devices or smartphones, smart homes can also provide personalized recommendations or reminders based on the user’s activities or routines. This level of customization enhances comfort, convenience, and overall satisfaction within the smart home environment.

Enhanced Connectivity and Interoperability

Enhanced connectivity and interoperability between devices and systems are essential to unlock the full potential of smart homes. Industry standards, such as Zigbee, Z-Wave, or Wi-Fi protocols, enable different devices to communicate with each other seamlessly. This interoperability allows homeowners to mix and match devices from various manufacturers, expanding the possibilities and flexibility of their smart home setups. Furthermore, the emergence of voice assistants and smart home hubs that support multiple communication protocols simplifies the integration and control of various devices, providing a unified user experience.

Smart Homes for Aging in Place and Assisted Living

Smart home technology has significant implications for aging in place and assisted living scenarios. Older people or individuals with mobility challenges can benefit from a range of smart home features that enhance safety, comfort, and accessibility. For instance, motion sensors and fall detection systems can alert caregivers or family members in emergencies. Smart medication dispensers can provide reminders for medication schedules, while health monitoring devices can track vital signs and share data with healthcare professionals. These advancements enable seniors to maintain their independence, receive timely assistance, and live comfortably in their homes for longer.

Data Privacy and Ethical Considerations

With the proliferation of interconnected devices and the collection of personal data, ensuring data privacy and ethical use of information becomes paramount. Smart home users must be aware of the data being collected by their devices and how it is being stored, shared, and protected. Manufacturers and service providers should adhere to robust security protocols, encrypt data transmissions, and provide transparent privacy policies. Additionally, regulations and standards are emerging to protect consumers and establish guidelines for responsible data handling within the smart home industry.

Smart homes are revolutionizing how we interact with our living spaces, offering various benefits, including convenience, energy efficiency, security, and personalized experiences. As technology evolves, smart homes will become even more integrated, intelligent, and essential for sustainable and connected living. Homeowners must embrace the possibilities and navigate the challenges of smart home technology, ensuring data privacy, security, and ethical use. By doing so, we can unlock the full potential of smart homes and create living environments that enhance our quality of life in an increasingly connected world.

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Here are some additional points to further explore the topic of smart homes:

Smart Home Integration and Interconnectivity

Smart homes thrive on integration and interconnectivity between various devices and systems. This integration allows different components to communicate and work together seamlessly. For example, a smart home hub can connect and control multiple devices, such as lighting, security cameras, thermostats, and entertainment systems. This interconnectedness enhances the overall functionality and convenience of the smart home ecosystem.

Voice Control and Natural Language Processing

Voice control has become a defining feature of smart homes. Virtual assistants like Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, or Apple Siri enable homeowners to control their smart home devices using natural language commands. With voice control, users can easily adjust settings, request information, or execute actions without physically interacting with individual devices. This hands-free approach enhances accessibility and convenience within the smart home environment.

Smart Home Energy Management

Smart home technology plays a vital role in energy management and conservation. Smart thermostats, for instance, can learn household routines and adjust temperature settings accordingly to optimize energy usage. Some smart thermostats can even integrate with weather forecasts to further refine temperature control. Additionally, smart power outlets and energy monitoring devices provide real-time data on energy consumption, helping homeowners identify energy-draining devices and make informed decisions to reduce energy waste and lower utility bills.

Smart Home Health and Wellness Monitoring

Smart home technology is increasingly incorporating health and wellness monitoring capabilities. Sensors and wearable devices can track vital signs, sleep patterns, and physical activity within the home environment. This data can be analyzed to provide insights into personal well-being and support proactive health management. Smart home systems can also integrate with healthcare providers, enabling remote monitoring and timely interventions for individuals with specific health conditions or elderly residents.

Enhanced Home Security and Safety

Smart home security systems offer advanced features to protect homes and residents. Smart locks provide keyless entry options and can be remotely controlled or integrated with access control systems. Video doorbells provide real-time video and audio communication with visitors, even when homeowners are away. Motion and surveillance cameras offer round-the-clock monitoring and can send alerts during unusual activity. These comprehensive security solutions enhance homeowners’ physical security and peace of mind.

Smart Home Data Privacy and Security

As smart homes collect and process personal data, ensuring data privacy and security is paramount. Homeowners should carefully consider the security measures implemented by device manufacturers and service providers. This includes robust encryption protocols, secure data storage practices, and transparent privacy policies. Regular firmware updates and strong authentication methods should also mitigate the risk of unauthorized access or data breaches.

Expansion of Smart Home Applications

The potential applications of Smart Home Technology continue to expand. Innovations in artificial intelligence, augmented reality, and virtual reality can further enhance the smart home experience. For example, augmented reality can visualize and control smart home devices, while virtual reality can create immersive entertainment or remote collaboration environments. Integrating smart home systems with smart cities, electric vehicle charging infrastructure, and renewable energy sources opens up new possibilities for a more sustainable and interconnected future.

Conclusion

Smart homes are revolutionizing our lives, offering convenience, energy efficiency, security, and personalized experiences. Through integration, interconnectivity, and advanced technologies, smart homes provide homeowners with unprecedented control and seamless management of their living spaces. As the industry evolves, addressing data privacy and security concerns, expanding applications, and prioritizing energy conservation will be critical. Embracing the potential of smart home technology enables us to create intelligent, sustainable, and interconnected living environments that enhance our quality of life in the digital age.

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