As organizations continue to rely on remote communication and collaboration tools, features like Spatial Audio represent significant steps forward in optimizing the virtual meeting experience. 

Microsoft Teams Spatial Audio Update: Audio Improvement

Spatial Audio employs advanced audio technology to simulate a dynamic real-world scenario for users engaged in Teams video calls. By projecting sound from different participants to correspond with their positions on the user’s screen, spatial audio enables a more immersive and realistic audio experience. Microsoft Teams’ sound upgrade to the spatial context, will help users easily identify and distinguish speakers, even when multiple participants are speaking simultaneously.

The Audio Manager at Microsoft Teams Audio Manager, Hong Sodoma, emphasized the importance of binaural hearing in creating realistic audio experiences and how the spatial audio update on Teams will craft an immersive experience for meetings. 

Microsoft is trying to innovate new features to keep virtual meetings interesting. (Image Courtesy – Microsoft Teams)

However, conventional audio and video communication applications typically use monophonic audio, where speech signals from different participants are combined into a single channel, often leading to a loss of spatial context.

“Teams Spatial Audio aligns the perceived audio location of each participant with their video representation to make it easier for users to track who is speaking, to understand better when multiple speakers are speaking at the same time, and to lower meeting fatigue and cognitive load.”

To benefit from Microsoft Teams spatial audio update, users require a stereo-capable device, and the tech giant recommends the use of headphones to fully appreciate the enhanced audio experience. 

But, it’s worth noting that current Bluetooth headsets are not yet compatible with Microsoft Teams’ spatial audio feature due to existing protocol limitations. Spatial audio is currently available exclusively on desktop versions of Teams, and certain large-scale calls with more than 100 participants will be incompatible to Teams’ spatial audio feature, owing to constraints related to the Satellite Server protocol used by the platform for bandwidth management.

Microsoft’s futuristic plans include adding Bluetooth support as next-generation LE Audio devices become more prevalent in the market.

LE Audio, a developing audio technology, needs compatibility from both the source device and the audio accessory. Some earbuds from manufacturers like Samsung, Sony, OnePlus, and EarFun have already incorporated this compatibility. Moreover, Windows 11 gained support for Bluetooth LE in May, hinting at the possibility of broader compatibility.

While third-party accessories are expected to embrace this technology, Microsoft’s own Bluetooth products may not receive the LE Audio upgrade. For instance, Surface Earbuds might not see a successor due to sales performance. Even the Surface Headphones 2, despite being well-received, have not seen a follow-up. This highlights the competitive advantage of ecosystems, with Apple having established spatial audio capabilities across its platforms.

To activate the spatial audio update on Microsoft Teams, users can navigate to the Settings menu → Access the Devices section.

The initiative of a spatial sound enhancement to improve Teams audio demonstrates Microsoft’s commitment to refining the conversational platform and catering to users’ evolving needs in the realm of remote collaboration. 

By incorporating cutting-edge audio technology, Microsoft aims to create a more dynamic and engaging virtual meeting environment, ultimately contributing to improved communication and reduced meeting fatigue. While the implementation may have certain limitations in its current form, such as compatibility with specific devices and call sizes, Microsoft’s proactive approach to innovation is expected to drive further enhancements and improvements in the future.

The post Microsoft Brings a Major Upgrade to Its Teams Audio Features: Spatial Audio appeared first on Technowize.

Technology has always been changing the way we live, work, and learn. Over the past few years, ed tech tools have become an integral part of education. From online learning platforms to virtual classrooms, technology has made learning more accessible and personalized. In this article, we will explore the top ed tech tools that will transform your classroom in 2023. These tools will help you engage your students, personalize their learning experience, and make your teaching more efficient and effective.

Best Ed Tech Tools for Classroom Transformation

1. Adaptive Learning Platforms

Adaptive learning platforms are AI-powered tools that use student data to personalize their learning experience. These platforms analyze student data to identify their strengths, weaknesses, and learning style. Based on this analysis, the platform generates personalized learning pathways for each student. The pathways include learning materials, quizzes, and assessments that are tailored to the student’s needs.

One of the most significant benefits of adaptive learning platforms is that they allow students to learn at their own pace. Students can move ahead or review concepts as per their understanding. This approach helps students to focus on their weaknesses and improve their understanding of the subject. Moreover, adaptive learning platforms provide real-time feedback to students, which helps them to track their progress and identify areas for improvement.

As a teacher, you can use adaptive learning platforms to monitor your students’ progress and identify areas where they need more support. Adaptive learning platforms can also help you to personalize your teaching approach. You can use the data provided by the platform to create custom learning plans for individual students or groups of students.

2. Virtual Reality

Virtual reality (VR) is a technology that simulates a real-world environment in a digital format. VR can be used to create immersive learning experiences that can help students to visualize complex concepts. For example, VR can be used to simulate a science experiment or a historical event. By experiencing the event in a virtual environment, students can gain a deeper understanding of the subject.

VR can also be used to create scenarios that are too dangerous or expensive to create in a real-world environment. For example, VR can be used to simulate a space mission or a deep-sea dive. By experiencing these scenarios in a safe and controlled environment, students can gain a better understanding of the subject.

As a teacher, you can use VR to create engaging and interactive learning experiences for your students. VR can help you to bring abstract concepts to life and make learning more fun and enjoyable. Moreover, VR can help you to cater to different learning styles and engage students who are visual or kinesthetic learners.

3. Augmented Reality

Augmented reality (AR) is a technology that overlays digital content on the real-world environment. AR can be used to create interactive learning experiences that can help students to explore and understand complex concepts. For example, AR can be used to overlay digital content on a physical object, such as a plant or an animal. By interacting with the object, students can learn about its features and characteristics.

AR can also be used to create interactive quizzes and assessments. For example, an AR quiz can ask students to identify different parts of a human body. By overlaying digital content on a physical model of the body, students can learn about the different parts and their functions.

As a teacher, you can use AR to create interactive and engaging learning experiences for your students. AR can help you to cater to different learning styles and engage students who are visual or kinesthetic learners. Moreover, AR can help you to make learning more fun and enjoyable.

4. Gamification

Gamification is a technique that uses game design elements in non-game contexts. Gamification can be used to make learning more fun and engaging. For example, you can create a game that teaches students about history or science. By completing different levels of the game, students can learn about different concepts and topics.

Gamification can also be used to motivate students to learn. By introducing rewards and recognition, you can encourage students to complete different tasks and achieve different goals. For example, you can give badges or points to students who complete a quiz or an assignment.

As a teacher, you can use gamification to make learning more fun and engaging. Gamification can help you to cater to different learning styles and engage students who are competitive or achievement-oriented. Moreover, gamification can help you to motivate students to learn and achieve different goals.

5. Artificial Intelligence

Artificial intelligence (AI) is a technology that allows machines to learn from data and make decisions based on that data. AI can be used to automate repetitive tasks and provide personalized learning experiences. For example, AI can be used to grade assignments or provide real-time feedback to students.

AI can also be used to create personalized learning pathways for students. By analyzing student data, AI can identify their strengths, weaknesses, and learning style. Based on this analysis, AI can generate personalized learning pathways for each student.

As a teacher, you can use AI to automate repetitive tasks and provide personalized learning experiences. AI can help you to save time and effort and focus on teaching and interacting with your students. Moreover, AI can help you to personalize your teaching approach and cater to the needs of individual students.

6. Social Media

Social media is a technology that allows people to connect and share information online. Social media can be used to create online communities where students can collaborate and learn from each other. For example, you can create a Facebook group or a Twitter hashtag for your class. By using social media, students can share resources, ask questions, and discuss different topics.

Social media can also be used to create online portfolios or blogs. By creating an online presence, students can showcase their work and reflect on their learning journey. Moreover, social media can help students to develop digital literacy skills and prepare them for the 21st-century workplace.

As a teacher, you can use social media to create online communities and foster collaboration among your students. Social media can help you to create a more dynamic and interactive learning environment. Moreover, social media can help you to prepare your students for the digital age and develop their digital literacy skills.

Top Ed Tech Tools for School Projects in 2023

In 2023, educators have access to a wide range of innovative educational technology tools that can transform the classroom experience. These tools help teachers engage students, personalize learning, and enhance collaboration. Let’s explore some of the top ed tech tools for school projects in 2023:

1. Mote is a Google Chrome extension that lets you add voice comments in the comment field of any Google Doc, Slide presentation, spreadsheet, or inside the Google Classroom environment. This can be a great way to provide feedback to students, or to collaborate with colleagues on projects.

2. Google Arts & Culture Experiments is a collection of projects that use artificial intelligence, augmented reality, or any kind of code to stretch the limits of what technology can do. These projects can be used to teach students about a variety of topics, from art history to science.

3. Frame is a VR platform that allows participants to move through virtual spaces as if they are physically in a room together. This can be used for a variety of purposes, such as conducting virtual field trips or collaborating on projects.

4. Google Expeditions is a VR platform that lets you explore real-world locations from the comfort of your classroom. This can be a great way to take students on virtual field trips to places they would otherwise never be able to visit.

5. Nearpod is a presentation platform that lets you create interactive presentations with videos, images, and quizzes. This can be a great way to engage students and make your presentations more memorable.

6. Flipgrid is a video discussion platform that lets students record and share videos with their classmates. This can be a great way to promote student participation and collaboration.

These are just a few of the many ways that technology can be used to enhance teaching and learning. With so many options available, there is sure to be a tool that is a good fit for every teacher and every classroom.

Conclusion

As we approach 2023, technology will continue to play an important role in education. Ed tech tools can help you to engage your students, personalize their learning experience, and make your teaching more efficient and effective. The top ed tech tools that will revolutionize your classroom in 2023 include adaptive learning platforms, virtual reality, augmented reality, gamification, artificial intelligence, and social media. By using these tools, you can create engaging and interactive learning experiences for your students and prepare them for the 21st-century workplace. So, what are you waiting for? Start exploring these ed tech tools and revolutionize your classroom in 2023!

The post Revolutionize Your Classroom in 2023 with These Top Ed Tech Tools appeared first on Technowize.

Assistance offered by ChatGPT or AI software for photographers is impeccable as it allows them to cross horizons and amplify their art. Every photographer knows the struggle of the elusive muse, enter ChatGPT, the digital muse that resides within the domains of artificial intelligence.

Empowering Lens: 10 Ways ChatGPT Benefits Photographers

ChatGPT offers a myriad of benefits for photographers, revolutionizing their creative process and technical proficiency. From providing inspiration and composition advice to assisting in post-processing and troubleshooting, ChatGPT empowers photographers to achieve their artistic vision and elevate their photography to new heights.

1. Creative Inspiration: ChatGPT for photographers is a boundless source of inspiration through fresh perspectives for photography projects.

2. Composition and Framing: ChatGPT can provide valuable insights into composition techniques, helping photographers frame their shots more effectively.

3. Lighting Techniques: ChatGPT can assist photographers in understanding and mastering various lighting techniques. Whether it’s natural light, artificial lighting, or studio setups, ChatGPT can provide tips on achieving the desired lighting effects for different subjects and moods.

4. Camera Settings: ChatGPT can offer guidance on optimal camera settings for specific shooting scenarios. From aperture and shutter speed to ISO and white balance, photographers can seek recommendations to capture technically excellent images.

5. Post-Processing Tips: ChatGPT can act as a virtual assistant in post-processing, providing recommendations on editing techniques and software tools. Photographers can seek guidance on enhancing colors, adjusting exposure, and refining their images to achieve the desired visual impact.

6. Location Recommendations: ChatGPT can assist photographers in finding the perfect locations for their shoots. By describing the desired ambiance or subject matter, photographers can receive suggestions on suitable locations, both familiar and lesser-known.

7. Equipment Recommendations: With its extensive knowledge base, ChatGPT can offer insights into camera gear and accessories. Whether photographers are looking for a new lens, tripod, or lighting equipment, ChatGPT can provide recommendations based on specific needs and budgets.

8. Feedback and Critique: Photographers can seek feedback from ChatGPT on their work, gaining valuable insights and suggestions for improvement to refine their skills and artistic vision.

9. Technical Troubleshooting: When photographers encounter technical issues, ChatGPT can help resolve them by providing troubleshooting tips and solutions.

10. Industry Trends and Techniques: By asking questions or seeking information, photographers can stay ahead of the curve and incorporate new ideas into their work.

ChatGPT Tips for Photographers

1. Be Specific and Detailed: Photographers must be specific and detailed about their needs and requirements. Maintenance of clear articulation when seeking assistance is imperative. 

2. Context is Key: By giving context, ChatGPT can better understand your situation and provide more targeted recommendations.

3. Validate and Verify: As a photographer, rely on your expertise and judgment to evaluate the suggestions offered by ChatGPT and validate and verify them.

4. Embrace Collaboration: View ChatGPT as a collaborative partner rather than a standalone solution. Use its suggestions as a source of inspiration and a starting point for further exploration.

5. Provide Feedback: As you engage with ChatGPT, provide feedback on the quality and relevance of its responses. The feedback helps refine the performance of ChatGPT, making it even more effective and beneficial for photographers.

Honestly, ChatGPT for photographers is a wonderful opportunity to help them polish their skills. Although imperfections may arise, evaluating ChatGPT’s performance ensures an orchestration of accuracy and reliability. When the lens becomes foggy the ChatGPT tool is a beneficial tool that allows clarity to the photographers seeking inspiration.

The post How Photographers Can Benefit From ChatGPT appeared first on Technowize.

Now, we are being bombarded with new names dropping every passing day, from the realm of generative AI. But what exactly is ‘Generative AI’? Let’s go on a walk down the alleys of the tech town to get an essence. 

What is Generative AI?

The world of tech is very happening these days. Now, one might argue that it has always been the case. But the pace in which the advancements in the techverse were taking shape, has fairly accelerated, of late. 

‘What is Generative AI?’ is certainly one of the most frequently asked questions, right now. For the uninitiated, AI is a generic term, a sort of umbrella under which there’s so much — machine learning (ML), language models and of course, generative AI, to name a few. Of which, machine learning and language models happen to be neural networks. 

Generative AI uses existing data to learn patterns and eventually applies them to create a wide variety of data. It could be an image, a text, an audio clip, a video clip and even a 3D model. [Image Credit: Freepik]

On the other hand, the Large Language Models (LLMs), which are at work today, fetching a lot of traction like, OpenAI’s ChatGPT or the relatively-newer entrants like, Salesforce’s Einstein GPT or Microsoft’s Bing AI chatbot, are basically examples of generative AI. 

Douglas Eck, a senior research director at Google, opines that generative AI is quite similar to the drum machine that arrived a couple of decades back. Eck argues, “… how hip-hop evolved in the Bronx with the use of the drum machine. That entire genre was advanced by this new backend tech development in music. The drum machine didn’t replace drummers, it just added another layer.” 

In a nutshell, generative AI uses existing data to learn patterns and eventually applies them to create a wide variety of data. It could be an image, a text, an audio clip, a video clip and even a 3D model. Today, we can see many applications of generative AI around us, in the form of several AI chatbots. 

From popular text generation tools like ChatGPT or GPT-4 to image generation tools like Midjourney, Dall-E and Stable Diffusion and even data augmentation tools like Synthesis AI, there’s been a hell lot of movement in the world of generative AI, recently. 

Sundar Pichai, CEO of Google and Alphabet, recently highlighted the importance of AI while sharing his views on Google’s way forward — “AI is the most profound technology we are working on today. Whether it’s helping doctors detect diseases earlier or enabling people to access information in their own language, AI helps people, businesses and communities unlock their potential. And it opens up new opportunities that could significantly improve billions of lives.”

Pichai also shed light on Google’s reorientation around AI, years back, as he said, “That’s why we re-oriented the company around AI six years ago — and why we see it as the most important way we can deliver on our mission: to organize the world’s information and make it universally accessible and useful.” 

It must be noted that pretty recently, it was learned that Google AI is pulling up its socks to bridge the gap with its tech rivals who are stressing more importance on AI and leveling up their game. 

We came to know that Salesforce has created a fund of $250 million to invest in generative AI, while Microsoft has announced a further investment of several billions in this booming sector. It has been reported that Meta, Amazon and several other top players are desperately trying to enter the AI mad rush, with high hopes of striking gold. 

Meanwhile, IT giant from India, TCS is also working on generative AI on a war footing, as its Chief Operating Officer, N. Ganapathy Subramaniam, was quoted saying, “We’ll have a center of excellence (CoE) on generative AI, and have core competencies built around it. Work on this is already happening.” 

On the other hand, IT services firm Tech Mahindra has also unveiled its brand-now Generative AI Studio and whereas, Infosys is “… looking to understand how generative AI can take advantage of our [their] large models, and create applications that are more efficient for the client.”

We will keep a close tab and give you exclusive updates on the progress of generative AI, in the coming days. Stay tuned for more top stories from the world of tech. 

The post What is Generative AI and How is it Taking Shape? appeared first on Technowize.

Firstly, we must acknowledge that the advancements in the realm of technology are progressing way faster than it was predicted. It’s almost like the warning that appears on the front mirror of a car — ‘objects in the mirror are closer than they appear’. 

Be it AI, where there’s a mad rush at present, something which started with OpenAI’s ChatGPT, or metaverse, things are changing quite rapidly. And in this regard, digital twins happen to be a very significant spot. Let’s delve deeper with the story and unravel the exciting aspects around it. Here we go! 

The digital twin market seems very booming, as it was valued at USD $3.1 billion in 2020 and according to industry analysts, it is projected to reach around USD $48.2 billion by 2026. [Image Credit: Freepik]

Digital Twin: Engineering Changes, Building Lives 

Digital twin is basically the virtual model of a particular object. It could be almost anything under the sun — right from a wind turbine to even an entire city. Real-time data sent from sensors on the concerned physical object is used to simulate the behavior and monitor operations. 

To be precise, data about different aspects of the physical object’s performance, such as energy output, temperature, weather conditions and more, is collected. Then it is passed on to a processing system and applied to the digital copy.

Now, what’s the primary goal of creating digital twins? It allows one to run simulations and gain valuable insights about the real object, in the process. This helps one to oversee with precision, how the object is performing and locate vulnerabilities. Eventually, all these help into better decision-making, ensure enhanced maintenance of the object and strengthen its deliverables to a great extent. 

It must not be confused with simulations, as unlike it this is a two-way traffic, where real-time data derived from the real object’s performance is used to better the digital twin and the insights mapped from the digital twin is used to strengthen the real-world object. 

There are primarily four types of digital twin. These are namely, Component twins/Parts twins, Asset twins, System or Unit twins and Process twins. You would be amazed to know that various industries around the world are now using this incredible digital twin technology — construction, system engineering, energy, aircraft, automobile and even healthcare, where digital twins of human bodies are created to track how a patient might respond to a particular treatment. 

The process in which digital twins work is quite critical and involves AI and Internet of Things. It is sort of revolutionizing businesses as well as scientific research, in terms of R & D, as one can anticipate many things and use those findings to increase efficiency. 

Though the fundamental idea of digital twins dates back to 1991, when David Gelernter published Mirror Worlds, it was Dr. Michael Grieves who applied it to manufacturing in 2002. However, the term ‘digital twin’ came into being only in 2010, thanks to NASA’s John Vickers. 

The digital twin market seems very booming, as it was valued at USD $3.1 billion in 2020 and according to industry analysts, it is projected to reach around USD $48.2 billion by 2026. 

We will keep a close eye on the progress of digital twins and get back to you with exclusive updates. Till then, stay tuned with us for more top stories from the world of tech. 

The post Digital Twin: Redefining the Scopes of R&D appeared first on Technowize.

However, you would be surprised to know that ethical hacking is actually a respected profession, unlike hacking itself. And an ethical hacker can earn a lot (now, please don’t say that hackers too, earn a lot!) while working for businesses or government agencies. 

These days, cybercrimes are on a sharp rise, globally. With incidents of hacking, phishing, malware and ransomware attacks jumping by leaps and bounds, cybersecurity has become a growing concern for businesses as well as government organizations. 

In this regard, ethical hacking is playing an extremely significant role in keeping cybersecurity threats at bay. Moreover, it has a more important part to play in the coming days and we are desperately in need of mass awareness, in order to facilitate the process. 

Let’s delve deeper and unravel the brave new world of ethical hacking, which will be a deciding factor in our battle against the black hats. 

Ethical hackers, who are known as White Hats, emulate the strategies and actions of the Black Hats i.e. the malicious attackers. [Image Credit: Freepik]

Ethical Hacking: White Hats Vs Black Hats 

With the cybersecurity attacks growing manifold, the call for cyber insurance is getting only louder, all around the tech world and beyond. In the worst possible scenario, we saw cybersecurity giant Kaspersky Labs’ ‘prophecy’ of more than 90% of the global businesses failing to thwart the next wave of cyberattacks, turning into a reality at the stroke of the new year. 

While the wounds of the Deribit hot-wallet hack were still fresh and continued to spill blood, we came across the shocking revelation of the GoDaddy hack incident. When businesses, government agencies and last but not the least, individuals are marred by the fears of hacking, ethical hackers are helping out with a much-needed breather. 

To go by the basics, ethical hacking is a critical process in which an authorized attempt is made to gain unauthorized access to a computer system, application, or data. Ethical hackers, who are known as White Hats, emulate the strategies and actions of the Black Hats i.e. the malicious attackers. This is done to check the chinks in the armor and take necessary measures to strengthen the security system. 

In a way, this is similar to vaccination, where weakened or inactive parts of a particular organism (antigen) are injected in the body to trigger an immune response within it. Nowadays, intelligence outfits run by the state, are aggressively hiring ethical hackers, most of them in their teens or early twenties, to get the better of the criminal minds, around the globe. 

However, ethical hackers need to keep certain protocols in mind while executing this immensely challenging task. These are namely, staying legal (having proper approval), defining the scope (working within the boundaries of the legal parameters), reporting vulnerabilities (along with suggested changes) and most-importantly, respecting data sensitivity. 

Jay Bavisi, CEO of EC-Council, highlights the importance of ethical hackers in today’s cybersecurity landscape — “Government agencies and business organizations today are in constant need of ethical hackers to combat the growing threat to IT security. A lot of government agencies, professionals and corporations now understand that if you want to protect a system, you cannot just do it by locking your doors.”  

Meanwhile, in recent times, incidents like ‘Jailbreak ChatGPT’ have blurred the fine line between the White Hats and the Black Hats and opened up a whole new debate altogether. 

Stay tuned with us for more exclusive updates on cybersecurity and other top stories from the world of tech.

The post Ethical Hacking is Not Injurious to Health appeared first on Technowize.

Did you just get surprised? Rather, way too surprised? In all likelihood, the answer is a big yes. Nowadays, more and more people are switching to Google Docs from Microsoft Word. The primary reason remains the fact that Google Docs allows people to seamlessly collaborate online. For your information, this trend gained significant traction right since the inception of the Covid-19 pandemic, for quite obvious reasons. 

Google Docs is now enjoying widespread popularity because of its ability to offer remote access. But for the very same reason, it becomes vulnerable to a host of potential threats and the risk of being accessed by hackers or unauthorized people, remains quite high. Therefore, it calls for an extra cushion of caution. 

Let’s delve deeper with the story to explore all the intricate details. Here we go!

In case you wish to add an additional layer of security to your documents before uploading them to Google Docs, you can password-protect them through MS Word or Acrobat Pro. [Image Credit: Google]

How To Password Protect Google Docs: Here’s All You Need to Know 

Firstly, take note of the fact that Google Docs can be password protected. And it goes without saying that this will blow away all the worries related to the possible threat of your Google docs being hacked. 

You would be pleased to know that you can easily accomplish the seemingly difficult task of adding an extra layer of protection to your Google Docs. Here’s the simple guide by Technowize to help you enable Google Docs password protection. 

In case you wish to add an additional layer of security to your documents before uploading them to Google Docs, you can password-protect them through MS Word or Acrobat Pro. Let’s have a close look at the respective sets of simple steps.

With Word Document

In order to password-protect Google Docs through MS Word, you have to encrypt your Word Document. Here’s how you can achieve it. 

• Open the word document in MS Word that you want to protect.
• Select ‘File’ > ‘Info’.
• Click on the ‘Protect Document’ drop-down menu.
• Then choose ‘Encrypt with Password’.

With PDF Document 

For managing to password-protect Google Docs through MS Word, you have to encrypt your PDF Document. Here’s the simple guide to accomplish the task. 

• Open the PDF document of your choice in Acrobat Pro.
• Click on ‘File’ > ‘Password Protect’.
• Choose a strong password, including special characters, numbers, and a mix of upper and lowercase letters.

Meanwhile, you can also avail the option to password-protect the PDF file for viewing or editing. 

These days, incidents of hacking, phishing and scamming are rising by leaps and bounds. Just a few days ago, the GoDaddy hack shook the entire tech world. Hence, in such a scenario, you can’t afford to take any kind of risk with your Google Docs. 

Therefore, follow the above mentioned process to ensure that your files remain safeguarded so far as unwanted incidents like hacking, phishing and scamming are concerned. 

Stay tuned, we will reach out to you soon with more such tech-ed stories along with exclusive updates from the world of tech.

The post How To Password Protect Google Docs? appeared first on Technowize.

We all know that the competition between the leading social media platforms has become even more stiff. With slit throat fights going on among the top players, none can afford to sit back and relax. In order to thrive in such a topsy-turvy scenario, one must keep offering more rooms for user satisfaction. There has to be a constant flow of serious efforts to make sure more and more creators choose to stay within the ecosystem of the platform, as it has something seriously to do with the user count. 

Therefore, in a bid to bridge the gap with its close rivals, TikTok has come out with another ace from its sleeve, Creativity Program Beta, designed to help creators earn more money with longer content.

Let’s unfold the story in detail to find out what’s exactly in store. 

It needs to be seen if the new TikTok monetization tool Creativity Program Beta manages to ensure more traffic to the platform and increase its popularity in turn. [Image Credit: Freepik]

New TikTok Monetization Tool: Creativity Program Beta

TikTok, which enjoys over 1 billion active users spread across the globe, already has a wide range of monetization tools. However, the new monetization tool appears to be a massive value addition, as its serious firepower to its enviable arsenal.

What Is the Creativity Program Beta?

The all-new Creativity Program Beta happens to be an invite-only program intended to help creators earn more money, unleash real-world opportunities, and enhance their video performance metrics and analytics.

In order to be eligible for it, the age of an user must be at least 18, has to meet the minimum follower criteria and video view requirements, and have an account in good standing condition.

Those who manage to make the cut to the TikTok Creativity Program Beta, have to create and publish high-quality, original content, with a running time longer than one minute to start earning.

As of now, the Creativity Program Beta is only available in the US, France, and Brazil. But as per reports, in all likelihood, this feature will be introduced to more regions very soon.

It has been learnt that creators will be provided with an updated dashboard to view video eligibility, estimated revenue, performance metrics, and analytics. However, all videos for the Creativity Program Beta must abide by TikTok’s Community Guidelines.

Creators who are already enrolled in the TikTok Creator Fund, can easily make a switch to the Creativity Program Beta, and those who are not enrolled, can also apply to the new program once it becomes available.

It needs to be seen if the new TikTok monetization tool Creativity Program Beta manages to ensure more traffic to the platform and increase its popularity in turn. 

Meanwhile, if you want to know more about TikTok Ads, then surely check out our special feature TikTok Ads: A Comprehensive Guide, which boasts of the rare insights and crazy hacks. In short, a cool companion to help you understand the tricks of the trade.

The post New TikTok Monetization Tool Creativity Program Beta Rolled Out appeared first on Technowize.

Though Microsoft Forms and a few other such alternatives also find takers, the respective footfalls are not anywhere close to Forms by Google. Being a key player of the G Suite, it enjoys the pole position when we take the widespread popularity into account.

After the pandemic times, Google Workspace and Google Classroom have gained more traction and Google Forms too, started to break into the ecosystem of businesses and academia. Be it short surveys, online tests, contests or even quizzes – it’s almost everywhere, making things seamless with inch-perfect precision. 

Let’s guide you through every single significant aspect of it and discuss them in detail. Stay glued to unlock new tools and explore interesting possibilities, safely. Here we go! 

Contrary to certain popular misconceptions, accessing the Forms by Google is quite easy. You can view, make edits and even change the format at effortless ease. [Image Credit: Google]

How to Create Google Forms?

There are many among us, who haven’t used this gem of a tool by Google and therefore, not familiar with the hassle-free functionality and unmatched power. For the uninitiated, Forms by Google can be created very easily by following some simple steps and can serve an array of purposes for you or your organization. 

Let’s have a close look at them, which will make creating a Google Form an absolute cakewalk, even if it’s your first interaction with this G Suite tool. 

For Computer or Laptop 

• Open up any web browser, be it Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox or Microsoft Edge. 

• Then go to forms.google.com. 

• Just click Blank + and you will be good to go, as within a blink of the eye you will get to see a new Google Form being opened up. 

For Android 

• It’s almost the same. Select any mobile web browser and go straight to forms.google.com. 

• A new Google form will automatically open up. It’s plain and simple, much like a walk in the park. 

For iPhone and iPad

• In case you are possessing an Apple device and wondering if using Google Forms would be as easy as accessing them on Android ecosystems, then stop worrying. We have got you covered. 

• Open the in-built Safari browser (you can choose Google Chrome too). 

• Then head towards forms.google.com. 

• Now you have a new Google Form at your service. 

Other Ways To Create Google Forms

Apart from the processes shown above, there are several other ways through which you can create a new copy of this brilliant G Suite tool. And as opposed to some problematic views, these are also easy to work with. 

You can create a new Google Form directly from your Google Drive or right in Google Sheets. Let’s get started with the easy guide.

From Google Drive

• Firstly, for your information, whenever you create a new Google Form, it gets automatically saved in your respective Google Drive.

• In order to create a new Form by Google directly from Google Drive, go to drive.google.com, if you are operating from a computer or a laptop. In case of a mobile device or a tablet, open up your Google Drive from the mobile web browser or from the Google Drive app itself (the latter would be more easy to handle and will turn out to be a time-saver). 

• If you have a close look, you will get to see, in the top left, there is something called New. Just click New and then select Google Forms. Your job is done. 

In Google Sheets

• When it comes to creating Google Forms in Google Sheets, there’s an added perk on the table. When you create a new Google Form in Google Sheets, all the responses to your specific Google Form will be saved right in a new sheet. 

• This particular feature saves a lot of time and makes things super easy. 

• If you are using a computer or a laptop, open a new spreadsheet in Google Sheets. In case you are accessing through a mobile device or a tablet, perform the same action from your mobile web browser – be it Apple Safari, Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, Microsoft Edge or anything else. You can also opt for the official app option for Google Sheets. 

• Choose Tools and click it. Then Create a new Google Form. The box is ticked. 

How Do I Access Google Forms?

On the contrary to certain popular misconceptions, accessing the Forms by Google is quite easy. You can view, make edits and even change the format at effortless ease. Here’s the hack. 

• Access the Google Form from your Google Drive, Google Sheets, Web Browser, Mobile Web Browser or the official apps. 

• View all the responses, without much ado. Quite effortlessly, you can check the details of the respective sender. 

• Edit your Form. You would be surprised to know that you can actually add, edit or format text, images and even videos in your created Google Form. 

• The format of the Google Form can be changed to turn it into more like a quiz or survey. At times, such tweaks in the format can do wonders for you. 

• Moreover, you can also make changes to your preference regarding the final destination of the responses to your Google Form. 

Changing Dynamics

The pandemic went on to have a significant impact on not only our social life but also on the digital front. To be more precise, on the intersections of the two. These paradigm shifts have catapulted larger ramifications across the spheres.

This is where the rise of Google Forms becomes instrumental. Let’s have a quick overview. 

• Now, we are having many online quizzes where the bragging rights are being decided through a team or an individual’s response to a Google Form. 

• Apart from quizzes, many talent hunts or scholarship drives are also being conducted through Forms by Google, of late. 

• More and more NGOs are conducting online surveys through Google Forms.

• Research scholars are also using Forms by Google to get organic feedback from people outside the academia to have data from a more diverse sample set, within a short time, without any hassle. 

• Schools, colleges and universities are now even conducting various online exams on Google Forms, something which is unprecedented and indicates a long-term impact.

• Even in the case of recruitments across industries, Google Forms are becoming quite effective, globally.

Comes with A Caution

However, you must take a note of the rising cyber frauds done with the help of Google Forms. Throughout the world, there’s a recent surge in such digital scams. Hence, don’t click a Google Form sent to you randomly on WhatsApp, Messenger or via email. On the other hand, keep a tab on the access management of a new Google Form created by you. 

Beware of hackers, who are finding it easy to make soft targets easily fall prey thanks to Forms by Google. Keep a close eye and take proper measures in the safe handling of Google Forms. 

Major Turnaround for Google

The year 2022 was not kind enough to Google. Marred by tech layoffs, it saw the Mountain View-headquartered company plummet to a reported loss of 27% in net profit earnings for Q3 in the current fiscal year. 

However, with the new set of Chrome Features and Chrome Extensions, it’s trying to restore parity. And in its bid to hold the ground and fight back, Google Forms might well turn out to be a wild card. 

The post Google Forms: A Comprehensive Guide appeared first on Technowize.

Coming back to Apple AirDrop, there’s a wide range of issues that the Apple users encounter with, almost on a regular basis. Firstly, most of the users don’t have a fair idea regarding the incredible AirDrop feature, which outperforms Bluetooth and the host of popular file transferring apps like SHAREit or Xender. Hence, they fail to unlock the massive potential of Apple’s AirDrop. 

On the other hand, the ones which are lucky enough to have a decent understanding, have to deal with a wide range of AirDrop issues. Keeping all these in mind, we at Technowize, present you with a simple guide that comprises all you need to know about the Apple AirDrop. 

AirDrop Transfer is way better than Bluetooth or SHAREit transfer. [Image Credit: Apple]

Apple AirDrop: Faster than Lightning 

For the uninitiated, AirDrop transfer is really fast. Within the blink of an eye, you can transfer docs, images, music and even videos. Even in 2022, many of us, use Bluetooth for file transferring. Some resort to several file transferring apps like SHAREit or Xender. But in reality, they aren’t capable enough to lock horns with Apple AirDrop. Be it speed, be it connectivity. 

On the other hand, the very process of AirDrop Transfer is way more seamless than Bluetooth transfer or transferring through SHAREit or Xender. However, it goes without saying that both parties need to have an Apple device – iPhone, iPad or Mac. If anyone of the two is having an Android device, then AirDrop Transfer won’t work. 

When we assess all aspects, we realize that it’s not just about speed. The fact that you can transfer any file, be it docs, images, music or videos, really fast and that too in a hassle-free manner, makes it a clear standout amidst the sea of file-transferring options out there. 

The Ways to Drop All Your Stress

At times, we land ourselves in deep trouble because of common technical glitches while trying to transfer important files during times of emergency. Such incidents can ruin all your hard work as in such situations, time remains the key factor. Hence, if you have an Apple device at your disposal and the one whom you are willing to send files to, does have an Apple gadget, then you are good to go by following some simple steps. 

Firstly, the concerned person should be within the Bluetooth and Wi-Fi range, with his Bluetooth and Wi-Fi being turned on. Secondly, it needs to be checked if the AirDrop receiving setting has been set to ‘Everyone’. If that person is in your contact card, then ‘Contacts Only’ will do as well.  

In order to share anything via Apple AirDrop, open the respective app first or the particular file folder in your device. Then select the concerned file and tap ‘Share’. You will get an array of options next. Choose ‘AirDrop’. Next, select the AirDrop user. You can’t even count a second if it’s an image file, before it lands up in the other person’s device. 

When it comes to receiving any file via AirDrop, just click the ‘Accept’ option, which will immediately pop up on your screen the moment someone tries to send you something. However, if the device is from the same Apple ID, then the file will get transferred automatically. 

If you are bothered by AirDrop issues, then have a look at our guide to fix everything when your Apple AirDrop is not working. 

The post How to Use Apple AirDrop? Here’s All You Need to Know appeared first on Technowize.