Happy New Year 2025

Category: Technology

This flying motorcycle can take you from traffic to sky in minutes

The unveiling of the Skyrider X1, which claims to be the “world’s first amphibious flying passenger motorcycle,” has certainly stirred up excitement.

This innovative vehicle promises to change how we think about personal mobility by combining land and air travel in one sleek design.

A major advancement in transportation

Developed by Rictor, a sub-brand of the Chinese company Kuickwheel, the Skyrider X1 marks a big progression from Rictor’s previous product, the K1 e-bike. Transitioning from an electric bicycle to a flying motorcycle is no small feat, and it shows Rictor’s ambition to push the boundaries of eco-friendly and energy-efficient transportation.

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Innovative features

The Skyrider X1 features amphibious functionality, allowing it to operate on both land and water, although some skeptics are curious about how well it will perform in real-world conditions. This vehicle can reach speeds of up to 62 mph (100 km/h) and offers flight times of around 25 minutes for the base model with a 10.5-kWh battery. The premium version, equipped with a 21-kWh battery, boasts up to 40 minutes of flight time.

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Made from lightweight carbon fiber composites and aviation-grade aluminum, the Skyrider X1 balances durability with flight capability. It also incorporates smart technology that includes automatic route planning to determine optimal flight paths based on your destination and real-time adaptability that adjusts altitude, speed and direction according to weather conditions.

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Safety as a priority

Safety is a top priority for Rictor in the design of the Skyrider X1. The vehicle includes triple-redundant flight control systems that ensure safe operation even if an engine fails. Additionally, it features an integrated emergency parachute for added peace of mind.

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AN ELECTRIC AIRCRAFT THE MILITARY HAS ITS EYES ON CAN TAKE OFF WITH ONLY 150 FEET OF RUNWAY

Pricing and accessibility

With an expected price tag of around $60,000, the Skyrider X1 aims to make personal air travel more accessible compared to other eVTOL options. By blending performance with affordability, Rictor hopes to bring flying within reach for more people.

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A look into the future

As cities grow and traffic congestion worsens, innovative solutions like the Skyrider X1 could become essential. This vehicle not only aims to ease urban travel but also promotes sustainable options in personal transportation. With advancements in battery technology and autonomous systems, eVTOL vehicles may soon transform how we navigate our environments.

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Kurt’s key takeaways

The Skyrider X1 is a glimpse into a future where flying could actually be part of our everyday lives. Imagine zipping through the skies instead of sitting in traffic. It sounds pretty cool, right? However, there are still some big questions to tackle about how this will all work in practice. We need to think about safety and whether it can really handle the demands of real-world travel. So, while the idea of flying motorcycles is exciting, we’ll have to wait and see how they fit into real-world scenarios.

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So, what do you think? Would you be ready to hop on a flying motorcycle like the Skyrider X1? Let us know what you think by writing us at Cyberguy.com/Contact.

For more of my tech tips and security alerts, subscribe to my free CyberGuy Report Newsletter by heading to Cyberguy.com/Newsletter.

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Copyright 2025 CyberGuy.com. All rights reserved.

Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson is an award-winning tech journalist who has a deep love of technology, gear and gadgets that make life better with his contributions for Fox News & FOX Business beginning mornings on “FOX & Friends.” Got a tech question? Get Kurt’s free CyberGuy Newsletter, share your voice, a story idea or comment at CyberGuy.com.

January 23, 2025
New dinosaur species similar to T. rex found in Asia: ‘Significant’ discovery

A new carnivore has come to town — 165 million years ago at least.

The Alpkarakush kyrgyzicus, a new species and genus of theropod dinosaur, has been discovered in Kyrgyzstan by an expedition team of German and Kyrgyz researchers, according to the Bavarian State Natural History Collections in Germany.

Alpkarakush kyrgyzicus is the first theropod dinosaur found in Kyrgyzstan and the “find is one of the most significant in Central Asia,” the institution said in a news release.

Before the new species’ discovery, no large Jurassic predatory dinosaurs had been known to live in the area around Kyrgyzstan between Central Europe and Eastern Asia, according to the institution.

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An artist’s rendering of the Alpkarakush kyrgyzicus, a new species and genus of theropod dinosaur found in Kyrgyzstan. (Bavarian State Natural History Collections)

The first fossils of Alpkarakush kyrgyzicus were uncovered in 2006 by Kyrgyz paleontologist Aizek Bakirov in a mountainous desert area of the country near the city of Tashkumyr.

Between 2006 and last year, more fossils, including skull bones, pelvic vertebrae and forearms, were found.

The dinosaur is believed to be around 30 feet long.

The dinosaur’s fossils were found in the mountains of Kyrgyzstan. (Bavarian State Natural History Collections)

“Particularly impressive is its extremely protruding ‘eyebrow’ on the so-called postorbital bone, a skull bone behind the eye-opening, which indicates the presence of a horn at this point,” the institution said. “Other unique features are found on the dorsal vertebrae and the femur.”

Alpkarakush kyrgyzicus and Tyrannosaurus rex (T. rex) were both theropods — although T. rex lived later during the Cretaceous period and in different parts of the world — dinosaurs who walked on strong back legs and had shorter front limbs. Modern-day birds evolved from theropods.

NEWLY DISCOVERED DINOSAUR SPECIES IS ONLY GREEN FOSSIL EVER FOUND, TO BE DISPLAYED IN LA

Tyrannosaurus rex and Alpkarakush kyrgyzicus are both theropods. (Mark Wilson/Newsmakers)

Professor Oliver Rauhut of the Bavarian Collection of Paleontology and Geology in Munich, who was a first author of the study published in the Zoological Journal of the Linnean Society, said in a statement: “This discovery closes a huge gap in our knowledge of the Jurassic theropods. It leads us to important new insights into the evolution and biogeography of these animals.”

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A smaller, juvenile Alpkarakush kyrgyzicus specimen was found at the site along with the adult dinosaur, leading researchers to believe it may have been a parent and child.

Alpkarakush kyrgyzicus is named for a mythological Kyrgyz bird called Alpkarakush that often aids heroes in critical moments and for being found in the Kyrgyz Republic.

January 23, 2025
Shape-shifting AI Transformer homes will leave you wanting one

AC Future, a leading developer of AI-enabled sustainable living solutions, has partnered with world-renowned Italian design house Pininfarina to create a groundbreaking collection of transformable living spaces. This innovative collaboration has resulted in three distinct products: AI-THd (AI Transformer Home Drivable), AI-THu (AI Transformer Home Unit) and AI-THt (AI Transformer Home Trailer).

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AI-THt (AC Future) (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

AI-THd: The ultimate mobile living space

The AI-THd is an intelligent, self-sufficient, drivable version of the AI Transformer Home that provides unprecedented mobility and flexibility. Drivers can expand the vehicle from a compact recreational vehicle into a large mobile living space with remarkable ease. The innovative design allows the cockpit to convert into a mobile office or secondary bedroom, creating a versatile living environment. Advanced AI-enabled smart technologies enhance the overall living experience, supporting a range of lifestyle needs and preferences.

AI-THd (AC Future) (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

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AI-THu: The smart home reinvented

The AI-THu represents a stationary AI-enabled sustainable smart home that transforms to offer 400 square feet of intelligent living space. Its flexible main living area can seamlessly shift between a comfortable lounge, productive office or additional bedroom, maximizing functional utility. The design includes a convertible front expansion for additional living space and a private primary bedroom with extendable wardrobe options. Integrated AI smart home technology, solar panels, energy storage systems and a water generator ensure sustainable and efficient living. Priced starting at $98,000, the AI-THu can be installed anywhere – on-grid or off-grid – while maintaining the comforts of a traditional home.

AI-THu (AC Future) (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

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AI-THt: The Transformer Home trailer

The AI-THt is a 24-foot-long transformer home trailer that expands to offer up to 400 square feet of sophisticated internal living space. Utilizing patented expansion living technologies, this trailer provides flexible living spaces that adapt to various lifestyle needs. Smart AI enhancements and an aerodynamic design distinguish the AI-THt from traditional trailer homes. The unique construction eliminates the need for a front driving cabin, resulting in a more premium and spacious interior environment that doubles in size when fully expanded.

AI-THt (AC Future) (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

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Innovation meets design

All three AI-TH products exemplify a commitment to cutting-edge engineering, sustainable innovation and refined design. They push the boundaries of conventional standards and elevate the concept of adaptable living. Francisco Barboza, Pininfarina’s senior design manager, emphasizes the challenge of maintaining an efficient floor plan while accommodating complex opening systems, resulting in an iconic design that authentically embraces the future.

AI-THt (AC Future) (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

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Kurt’s key takeaways

The AI-THd, AI-THu and AI-THt are more than just innovative products. They’re like a crystal ball showing us how we might live, work and explore the world without compromising our environment. AC Future and Pininfarina aren’t just thinking outside the box. They’re creating an entirely new box. Or should we say, an expandable, AI-powered, eco-friendly box on wheels? Their partnership is laying the groundwork for a revolution in housing and mobility that could change the way we think about home in the future.

What worries, if any, do you have about using AI in our homes? Let us know what you think by writing us at Cyberguy.com/Contact.

For more of my tech tips and security alerts, subscribe to my free CyberGuy Report Newsletter by heading to Cyberguy.com/Newsletter.

Ask Kurt a question or let us know what stories you’d like us to cover.

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Answers to the most asked CyberGuy questions:

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Copyright 2024 CyberGuy.com. All rights reserved.

Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson is an award-winning tech journalist who has a deep love of technology, gear and gadgets that make life better with his contributions for Fox News & FOX Business beginning mornings on “FOX & Friends.” Got a tech question? Get Kurt’s free CyberGuy Newsletter, share your voice, a story idea or comment at CyberGuy.com.

January 23, 2025
NASA astronaut stuck in space reports ‘strange noises’ coming from Starliner

A NASA astronaut at the International Space Station (ISS) on Saturday reported hearing a “strange noise” coming from the Boeing Starliner spacecraft just days before it is set to leave the station and return to Earth on autopilot.

The astronaut, Butch Wilmore, radioed Mission Control at Johnson Space Center in Houston to inquire about the noise.

On an audio recording of the exchange, Wilmore holds up a phone to the speakers so that Mission Control could hear the noise he was referring to. A pulsating sound emanating at steady intervals can be heard through Wilmore’s device.

“Butch, that one came through,” Mission Control says after not hearing it the first time. “It was kind of like a pulsating noise, almost like a sonar ping.”

NASA PLANS TO SEND 2 ASTRONAUTS INSTEAD OF 3 TO ISS SO PAIR STRANDED BY TROUBLED BOEING STARLINER CAN RETURN

Boeing’s Starliner spacecraft is docked to the Harmony module of the International Space Station on July 3, 2024, as seen from a window on the SpaceX Dragon Endeavour spacecraft docked to an adjacent port. (NASA via AP)

“I’ll do it one more time and let you all scratch your heads and see if you can figure out what’s going on,” Wilmore tells Mission Control, playing the sound one more time.

Mission Control tells Wilmore the recording will be passed along and that they’ll let him know what they find.

Wilmore clarifies that the sound is emanating from the speaker inside the Starliner.

The bizarre sound was first reported by Ars Technica, which cited a recording first captured and shared by Michigan-based meteorologist Rob Dale.

NASA’s Boeing crew flight test astronauts Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams are shown inside the International Space Station’s Harmony module and Boeing’s Starliner spacecraft on June 13, 2024. (NASA)

Fox News Digital has reached out to Mission Control and Boeing to inquire if the source of the sound has been identified.

Starliner is slated to undock from the ISS, empty, and attempt to return on autopilot with a touchdown in the New Mexico desert.

NASA decided it was too risky to bring back Wilmore and Suni Williams until February. The astronauts were originally slated for a weeklong trip in early June, but the mission has been mired in problems after thruster failures and helium leaks.

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Boeing had counted on Starliner’s first crew trip to revive the troubled spacecraft program after years of delays and ballooning costs. The company had insisted Starliner was safe based on all the recent thruster tests in both space and on the ground.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.

Bradford Betz is a Fox News Digital breaking reporter covering crime, political issues, and much more.

January 23, 2025
First 15 things to do or try first when you get a new iPhone
Apple announces new iPhones every year, and I often wonder if that’s truly necessary. A launch every two years seems more reasonable, especially since the new iPhones are often only marginally better than the ones released the year before. This has been the case since the iPhone 12.

However, in 2024, Apple introduced a range of interesting features with the iPhone 16. While these features don’t necessarily justify an upgrade if you already own the iPhone 15 or even the iPhone 14, they make the iPhone 16 a worthy purchase if you’re using an older model or an Android phone.

If you’ve already made the purchase, or if you’ve bought another iPhone, here are the first things you should do and try when you fire up your new phone. (First things to do if you got a new Android)

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iPhone packaging (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

1) How to update your software to iOS 18.2 or later

First things first, let’s update your software to iOS 18.2 or later:
- Open Settings
- Tap General
- Select Software Update
- Tap Update Now
- Enter your passcode and agree to terms
- Wait for the installation to complete
Steps to update your iPhone’s software (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

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2) How to add a passcode or biometric authentication

To add a passcode or biometric authentication to your new iPhone after updating to iOS 18.2 or later, follow these steps:

Setting up a passcode
- Open Settings on your iPhone
- Tap on Face ID & Passcode (for iPhone X and later) or Touch ID & Passcode (for earlier models)
- Tap Turn Passcode On
- Enter a six-digit passcode. If you prefer, tap Passcode Options to choose a four-digit numeric code, a custom numeric code or a custom alphanumeric code.
- Re-enter your passcode to confirm it and activate it
Setting up biometric authentication

For Face ID:
- Go to Settings
- Tap on Face ID & Passcode
- Enter your passcode, if prompted
- Tap on Set Up Face ID
- Hold your device in portrait orientation and position your face in front of the device, then tap Get Started.
- Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the setup
Face ID & Passcode on iPhone (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

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3) Setting up Apple ID and iCloud

Create or sign in to Apple ID:
- Open the Settings app
- Tap on Sign in to your iPhone at the top
- If you don’t have an Apple ID, select Don’t have an Apple ID or forgot it? and follow the prompts to create one.
- If you have an Apple ID, enter your credentials and sign in.
Enable iCloud:
- After signing in, go back to Settings
- Tap on your name at the top, then select iCloud
- Choose which services you want to enable (e.g., Photos, Contacts, Calendars)
- Tap iCloud Backup and toggle it on to automatically back up your data.
Create a Free Apple Account on iPhone (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

MUST TURN-OFF PRIVACY SETTINGS ON YOUR IPHONE

4) Personalizing settings on iPhone

Customize Display:
- Open Settings
- Then go to Display & Brightness
- Tap Light or Dark for the background you’d like
- You can tap on Text Size to adjust text size
- Then use the slider to adjust the brightness you prefer.
How to personalize your iPhone’s display and brightness (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

Customize sound preferences:
- Tap on Sounds & Haptics
- Adjust the slider where it says Ringtone and alerts to customize from quieter to louder.
- Scroll down and tap the following to adjust the sounds for each: Ringtone, Text Tone, New Voicemail, New Mail, Sent Mail, Calendar Alerts and Reminder Alerts.
Steps to change your iPhone’s sounds and haptics (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

5) Configuring privacy settings

Manage Privacy Settings:
- Go to Settings
- Scroll down and click apps
- Select the app you want to review the privacy settings for
- Adjust the permissions as needed for location services, camera, microphone, allow tracking and other settings. Adjust as necessary for individual apps.
6) Pick your own lock screen shortcuts

By default in iOS 18, you get flashlight and camera shortcuts on the lock screen, but now you can finally customize them.
- Long-press on the Lock Screen
- Tap Customize
- Then choose Lock Screen
- You can tap on the existing shortcuts to change them to your preferred apps or features by selecting the desired app or feature from the list that appears.
- If you prefer, you can remove them entirely to keep your lock screen clean and simple by tapping the delete or remove option next to the shortcut.
Steps to customize your iPhone’s lock screen (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

7) Setting up Family Sharing

Here’s how to enable Family Sharing on your iPhone:
- Open your Settings app
- Tap your name
- Go to Family Sharing
- Set Up Your Family
- Press Continue
- Select family members that you want to invite
- To create an account for a child, select Create Child Account at the bottom and provide their name and birthday.
8) Download some useful apps

There are millions of apps available, such as Apple Maps, Google Maps and even apps to plan a party in the App Store. To download useful apps on your new iPhone, follow these straightforward steps:
- Locate the App Store icon on your home screen and tap to open it.
- You can explore various categories by tapping on Apps at the bottom of the screen or using the Search tab to find specific apps.
- Once you find an app you want, tap on it to view more details, including descriptions, ratings and screenshots.
- Tap the Get button (or the price if it’s a paid app) next to the app you wish to download.
- If prompted, authenticate your download using Face ID, Touch ID or your Apple ID password.
- The app will begin downloading and installing automatically. You can monitor its progress on your home screen.
- Once installed, the app will appear on your home screen.
- Tap its icon to open and start using it.
- You can press and hold any app icon until they start wiggling, allowing you to drag them into folders or rearrange their positions.
Image of the App Store icon on iPhone (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

9) Activate spam filters for text messages

Having a strong spam filter on your iPhone is beneficial to protect yourself from unwanted text messages and scams. But beware that this may also filter out some legitimate messages from people who are not in your contacts list.
- Open Settings
- Scroll down and tap on Apps
- Then, scroll down and tap on Messages
- Toggle on Filter Unknown Senders to filter text messages from unknown contacts into a separate list
Steps to activate filters for text messages (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

10) Use visual intelligence

On all iPhone 16 models, you can use Camera Control with visual intelligence to quickly learn more about the stuff around you. Just press and hold the Camera Control, which is a new button on the right side of the device, and you can do things like look up info about a restaurant or business, translate text, get a summary, have it read out loud and more.

You can even use it to find details about a business, like its hours, services and contact info. Depending on the place, you might also be able to check reviews, make a reservation or order for delivery.

To use this feature, point your iPhone camera at the business in front of you, then press and hold the Camera Control. Next, either tap the Camera Control again or select the business name at the top of the screen. Depending on the business, you can:
- View the hours of operation by tapping Schedule
- Place a delivery order by tapping Order
- Browse the menu or available services by tapping Menu
- Make a reservation by tapping Reserve
- To call the business, visit its website or access other options, tap the More button.
iPhone using visual intelligence (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

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11) Log how you’re feeling

Apple made several changes to the iPhones with its iOS 18 update, including updates to the Journal app. You don’t need the latest iPhone 16 to try the app’s mindfulness option for journal entries; any iPhone with iOS 18 will do. When you open the Journal app, tap the icon that looks like a tiny tree, and you’ll be able to log your mood for each day and see how it changes over time.

Journal app on iPhone (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

12) Give Action Button a try

The Action Button is part of the iOS 17 operating system for the iPhone 15 series and continues into iOS 18 for the iPhone 16 series. This customizable side button lets you choose a specific function to perform when pressed, such as turning on silent mode, focus, camera, flashlight, voice memo, recognize music, translate, magnifier, controls, shortcut and accessibility, depending on your settings. Essentially, it acts as a quick access key for a chosen action. Here are the steps to customize the Action button on supported iPhone models:
- Go to Settings
- Tap Action Button
- An image of the side of the iPhone will appear showing icons representing actions you can assign to the Action button.
- Swipe left or right to choose an action. The name of the action will appear below the dots.
- If additional options are available for the selected action, a button will appear below the action.
- Tap it to see the list of options.
- For Controls, Shortcut and Accessibility actions, you need to tap the button below the action and select a specific option. Otherwise, the Action button won’t do anything.
Action button on iPhone (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

13) Try out the new Passwords app

I always stress the importance of using a password manager to store your passwords. Let’s be honest, we all have a ton of apps and services that require an account and password. If you use the same password everywhere, you risk having your important info stolen by cybercriminals. But it’s also impossible to come up with a unique password for every app and remember them all.

Password managers make life easier by storing your passwords and filling them in when you log into apps. But they usually charge a monthly or yearly fee. That’s where Apple’s Passwords app comes in. It works just like a password manager but without the extra cost. Open the app from the App Library, and it’ll keep your login details encrypted and synced across all your devices.

While Apple’s new Passwords app in iOS 18 offers a convenient and cost-free solution for password management, it’s important to consider its limitations. These include its exclusivity to the Apple ecosystem, lack of compatibility with Android or Linux devices and limited functionality outside of Safari and Apple apps. For those seeking a more comprehensive password management solution that works across various browsers and apps, check out my best expert-reviewed password managers of 2025 here.

14) Use ChatGPT and writing tools

Apple introduced Apple Intelligence for iPhone 15 Pro and newer models running iOS 18.2, bringing a range of AI tools and ChatGPT support. ChatGPT is now built into various parts of iOS, and if you have an iPhone 15 Pro or above, you can take full advantage of this integration.

You can use Apple’s enhanced Writing Tools to access ChatGPT directly in apps like Notes, Mail and any other text input field. Whether you need help spicing up your notes or generating complex programming scripts, ChatGPT is up for the task. Here’s how to get started; you’ll need to enable ChatGPT integration.
- Head to Settings
- Click Apple Intelligence & Siri
- Tap ChatGPT and toggle on next to where it says Use ChatGPT.
- From there, you can scroll down and Sign In to your own ChatGPT account or even upgrade to ChatGPT Plus.
ChatGPT and writing tools on iPhone (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

15) Install strong antivirus protection

Antivirus software can help protect your new iPhone from malware, phishing and other threats. The best way to protect yourself from having your data breached is to install antivirus protection on all your devices. Having strong antivirus software on your devices will alert you of any known malware that is targeting you, warn you against clicking on any known malicious links in phishing emails and ultimately help protect you from being hacked. Get my picks for the best 2025 antivirus protection winners for your iPhone, Mac, Windows and Android devices.

Pro tip: Prioritize regular backups to safeguard your data

Making data backups a regular part of your iPhone maintenance is crucial. This way, you can protect yourself against uncertainties. Whether it’s a hardware malfunction or a security breach, having a recent backup will let you recover quickly.

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Kurt’s key takeaways

When you get your new iPhone, there are several essential steps to take to ensure you’re getting the most out of your device. Start by updating to iOS 18.2 or later to access the latest features. Next, security measures like a passcode or biometric authentication should be set up for added protection. Personalize your settings by customizing your display and sound preferences, and don’t forget to enable Family Sharing if you want to connect with loved ones. Also, explore the App Store to download useful apps. Additionally, make sure to give the Action Button a test run for quick access to your favorite functions. With these tips, you’ll be well on your way to maximizing your new iPhone’s capabilities.

How do you feel about the annual iPhone releases? Do you think they provide enough value each year? Let us know by writing us at Cyberguy.com/Contact.

For more of my tech tips and security alerts, subscribe to my free CyberGuy Report Newsletter by heading to Cyberguy.com/Newsletter.

Ask Kurt a question or let us know what stories you’d like us to cover.

Follow Kurt on his social channels:

Answers to the most asked CyberGuy questions:

New from Kurt:

Copyright 2024 CyberGuy.com. All rights reserved.

Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson is an award-winning tech journalist who has a deep love of technology, gear and gadgets that make life better with his contributions for Fox News & FOX Business beginning mornings on “FOX & Friends.” Got a tech question? Get Kurt’s free CyberGuy Newsletter, share your voice, a story idea or comment at CyberGuy.com.
January 23, 2025
NASA provides explanation for ‘strange noises’ coming from Starliner spacecraft

The mystery behind a “strange noise” that a NASA astronaut heard coming from the Boeing Starliner spacecraft while aboard the International Space Station has been solved, the space agency said Monday.

Astronaut Butch Wilmore first reported the pulsating sound coming from a speaker inside the spacecraft to Mission Control at Johnson Space Center in Houston on Saturday, just days before it was set to leave the station and return to Earth on autopilot.

NASA said in a statement on social media that the pulsing sound from the speaker has since stopped and determined the feedback was the result of an audio configuration between the space station and Starliner.

“The space station audio system is complex, allowing multiple spacecraft and modules to be interconnected, and it is common to experience noise and feedback,” NASA said. “The crew is asked to contact mission control when they hear sounds originating in the comm system. The speaker feedback Wilmore reported has no technical impact to the crew, Starliner, or station operations, including Starliner’s uncrewed undocking from the station no earlier than Friday, Sept. 6.”

NASA ASTRONAUT STUCK IN SPACE REPORTS ‘STRANGE NOISES’ FROM TROUBLED STARLINER CAPSULE

NASA’s Boeing Crew Flight Test astronauts Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams pose on June 13 from inside the vestibule between the forward port on the International Space Station’s Harmony module and Boeing’s Starliner spacecraft. The astronauts have been stuck in space since June. (NASA)

The mystery of the pulsating sound comes as Starliner is slated to undock from the space station empty and attempt to return on autopilot with a touchdown in the New Mexico desert.

Boeing’s Starliner spacecraft is docked to the Harmony module of the International Space Station on July 3 as seen from a window on the SpaceX Dragon Endeavour spacecraft docked to an adjacent port. (NASA via AP)

Wilmore and astronaut Suni Williams, who have been stuck on the space station since June, are expected to remain in space until February after NASA decided it was too risky to bring the seasoned pilots back to Earth aboard Starliner. The current plan is to bring the astronauts back in a SpaceX capsule.

NASA PLANS TO SEND 2 ASTRONAUTS INSTEAD OF 3 TO ISS SO PAIR STRANDED BY TROUBLED BOEING STARLINER CAN RETURN

The astronauts were originally slated for a weeklong trip, but the mission has been mired in problems after thruster failures and helium leaks.

NASA said the mysterious pulsating noise was the result of an audio configuration between Starliner and the International Space Station. (NASA via AP, File)

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Boeing had counted on Starliner’s first crew trip to revive the troubled spacecraft program after years of delays and ballooning costs. The company had insisted Starliner was safe based on recent thruster tests in both space and on the ground.

Fox News Digital’s Bradford Betz and The Associated Press contributed to this report.

January 23, 2025
Hackers claim massive breach of company that tracks and sells Americans’ location data

When we talk about data privacy, tech giants like Google and Facebook are often blamed for using personal data to show ads and recommendations. Less discussed are the businesses whose entire business model revolves around collecting your data and selling it to other companies and governments. These companies often operate in legal gray areas, with the consent required to collect user data buried deep in the fine print.

What’s even more concerning is that these data brokers fail to adequately protect the data they collect. Last year, National Public Data made headlines for failing to secure 2.7 billion records of individuals whose data it had harvested. Now, hackers have reportedly stolen data from Gravy Analytics, the parent company of Venntel, which has sold vast amounts of smartphone location data to the U.S. government.

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A woman working on her laptop (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

What you need to know about the breach

Hackers claim to have breached Gravy Analytics, a major location data broker and parent company of Venntel, a firm known for selling smartphone location data to U.S. government agencies. The compromise is massive, including sensitive location data that tracks precise smartphone movements, customer information and even internal infrastructure, according to a 404 Media report.

The hackers are threatening to make the stolen data public. The files contain precise latitude and longitude coordinates of the phone and the time at which the phone was there. Some even indicate what country the data has been collected from.

Hackers have claimed access to Gravy’s systems since 2018. If true, this represents a serious security lapse on the company’s part. It is baffling how companies that collect and sell user data (a practice that arguably shouldn’t be allowed in the first place) failed to protect it from being leaked.

404 Media also suggests that the hackers gained deep access to the company’s infrastructure, including Amazon S3 buckets and server root access. The exposed customer list reportedly includes major companies like Uber, Apple and Equifax as well as government contractors like Babel Street.

A hacker (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

HERE’S WHAT RUTHLESS HACKERS STOLE FROM 110 MILLION AT&T CUSTOMERS

What this breach means for people

This data breach highlights the serious security flaws in the location data industry. Companies like Gravy Analytics and Venntel have been profiting from collecting and selling sensitive location data, often without proper user consent. They’ve prioritized profit over security, and now the privacy of millions is at risk. This data could end up on black markets, endangering individuals, especially those in vulnerable situations, by making them targets for harassment or worse.

The FTC’s recent crackdown on Gravy, announced in December, underscores their negligence. The proposed order will prohibit these companies from selling or using location data, except in specific cases like national security or law enforcement. The implications are worrying. Sensitive locations like schools and workplaces could become easy targets for those with malicious intent.

A person using their cellphone and working on their laptop (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

BEWARE OF ENCRYPTED PDFs AS THE LATEST TRICK TO DELIVER MALWARE TO YOU

5 ways to stay safe in the age of data breaches

The Gravy Analytics breach serves as a sobering reminder of the vulnerabilities in the digital age. While it’s impossible to control how every company handles data, you can take steps to minimize your exposure and protect your privacy. Here are five actionable tips to stay safe.

1) Limit app permissions: Many apps request access to location data, contacts and more, even when it’s not necessary for their functionality. Regularly review the permissions for apps on your smartphone and revoke access to anything that feels excessive. For instance, a weather app doesn’t need access to your microphone or camera.

2) Use a VPN: Virtual private networks (VPNs) can mask your IP address and encrypt your internet activity, making it harder for data brokers and hackers to track your online behavior. A good VPN adds an extra layer of security, especially when using public Wi-Fi networks. For the best VPN software, see my expert review of the best VPNs for browsing the web privately on your Windows, Mac, Android and iOS devices.

3) Opt out of data sharing where possible: Some companies allow you to opt out of having your data collected or shared. Services like Your Ad Choices and privacy settings within platforms like Google can help you reduce the amount of data collected. Check for opt-out options with any apps or services you use frequently.

4) Avoid free apps that monetize data: Free apps often generate revenue by selling user data. Instead, consider paid versions of apps that explicitly prioritize privacy. Research the company behind the app to understand its data handling policies before downloading.

5) Invest in data removal services: Data removal services can help you regain some control over your personal information by identifying and removing it from people-search websites, data broker platforms and other online databases. Check out my top picks for data removal services here.

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Kurt’s key takeaway

Companies that collect and sell user data pose a significant threat to privacy, and when they fail to protect this data, it often ends up in the hands of even worse actors. Cybercriminals, and even some governments, can exploit this information to target individuals. It is crucial to implement stringent repercussions for these companies when they fail in their duty to safeguard user data. A mere slap on the wrist is not enough. We need real accountability to deter negligence and protect individual privacy rights.

Should companies face stronger penalties for failing to protect personal data? Let us know by writing us at Cyberguy.com/Contact.

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Copyright 2024 CyberGuy.com. All rights reserved.

Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson is an award-winning tech journalist who has a deep love of technology, gear and gadgets that make life better with his contributions for Fox News & FOX Business beginning mornings on “FOX & Friends.” Got a tech question? Get Kurt’s free CyberGuy Newsletter, share your voice, a story idea or comment at CyberGuy.com.

January 23, 2025
Boeing’s Starliner spacecraft lands back on Earth without crew

Boeing’s Starliner spacecraft touched down on Earth early Saturday morning, with two test pilots left behind in space until next year over NASA’s concerns that their return was too risky.

Starliner parachuted into New Mexico’s White Sands Missile Range six hours after leaving the International Space Station, landing at 12:01 a.m. ET.

“I am extremely proud of the work our collective team put into this entire flight test, and we are pleased to see Starliner’s safe return,” Ken Bowersox, associate administrator of Space Operations Mission Directorate at NASA Headquarters in Washington, said in a statement.

“Even though it was necessary to return the spacecraft uncrewed, NASA and Boeing learned an incredible amount about Starliner in the most extreme environment possible,” he added. “NASA looks forward to our continued work with the Boeing team to proceed toward certification of Starliner for crew rotation missions to the space station.”

BOEING STARLINER UNDOCKS FROM SPACE STATION, HEADS BACK TO EARTH UNMANNED AS CREW STAYS BEHIND

The empty Boeing Starliner capsule touches down at White Sands Missile Range in New Mexico after undocking from the International Space Station. (NASA via AP)

This comes after the June launch of Boeing’s long-delayed crew debut and a mission plagued by thruster failures and helium leaks. The return of Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams was in question for months as engineers struggled to understand what was wrong with the spacecraft.

Boeing claimed after extensive testing that Starliner was safe to bring the crew home, but NASA disagreed and instead tapped SpaceX to fly them back to Earth. The SpaceX spacecraft will not launch until the end of this month, so they will remain in space until February.

Wilmore and Williams were initially scheduled to have flown Starliner back to Earth by mid-June, a week after it was launched. However, the flight to the space station faced issues over thruster trouble and helium loss, leading NASA to determine it was too risky to bring them home on Starliner.

After receiving new software updates, the fully automated capsule departed with the crew’s blue spacesuits and some old station equipment.

Starliner’s crew demo concluded a series of delays and setbacks for the spacecraft.

After the space shuttles retired more than a decade ago, NASA hired Boeing and SpaceX for orbital taxi service. But Boeing faced many problems on its first test flight without a crew in 2019, so it had to try again. The do-over three years later revealed even more issues, and it cost more than $1 billion to complete the needed repairs.

The unmanned Boeing Starliner capsule fires its thrusters as it pulls away from the International Space Station on Friday, Sept. 6, 2024. (NASA via AP)

SpaceX’s crew ferry flight later this month will be the 10th it has done for NASA since 2020. The Dragon capsule will launch on the half-year expedition with only two astronauts, since two seats are needed to bring Wilmore and Williams back home.

Even prior to launch in early June from Cape Canaveral, Florida, Starliner’s propulsion system was leaking helium. The leak was small and believed to be isolated, but four more were discovered after liftoff. Five thrusters then failed and while four of them were recovered, the problems gave NASA concerns about whether more malfunctions might cause problems with the capsule’s descent from orbit.

Boeing conducted numerous thruster tests in space and on the ground over the summer, and believed its spacecraft could safely bring the astronauts back. NASA, however, remained skeptical over the thruster issues and tasked SpaceX with their return.

Flight controllers conducted more test firings of the capsule’s thrusters after undocking, with one failing to ignite. Engineers believe the thrusters become hotter the more they are fired, causing protective seals to swell and obstruct the flow of propellant. None of the parts will be able to be examined, as the section holding the thrusters was tossed just before reentry.

NASA ASTRONAUT SAYS STARLINER CREW LIKELY TO CHANGE EXERCISE ROUTINE DURING EXTENDED ISS STAY

The unmanned Boeing Starliner capsule undocks as it pulls away from the International Space Station on Friday, Sept. 6, 2024. (NASA via AP)

Starliner will be moved back to NASA’s Kennedy Space Center.

“I want to recognize the work the Starliner teams did to ensure a successful and safe undocking, deorbit, re-entry and landing,” Mark Nappi, vice president and program manager of Boeing’s Commercial Crew Program, said in a statement. “We will review the data and determine the next steps for the program.”

NASA’s commercial crew program manager Steve Stich said earlier this week that the space agency still wants to have two competing U.S. companies transporting astronauts into space. NASA hopes SpaceX and Boeing can take turns launching crews until the space station is abandoned in 2030 ahead of its fiery reentry.

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“We are excited to have Starliner home safely. This was an important test flight for NASA in setting us up for future missions on the Starliner system,” Steve Stich, manager of NASA’s Commercial Crew Program, said in a statement after Starliner returned to Earth. “There was a lot of valuable learning that will enable our long-term success. I want to commend the entire team for their hard work and dedication over the past three months.”

The Associated Press contributed to this report.

January 23, 2025
Get ready to experience thrill of eVTOL racing
You might have heard about electric vertical takeoff and landing aircraft (eVTOL). Well, there’s some exciting news coming from Jetson, a Swedish startup that’s making waves in the air racing scene. While Australia’s Airspeeder has been working on crewed eVTOL races, Jetson founder and CTO Tomasz Patan recently took the spotlight with a demonstration that many are calling the start of the world’s first eVTOL air racing.

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Jetson eVTOL air racing demonstration (Jetson) (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

Airspeeder’s ambitions

Airspeeder has been building momentum since 2017, aiming to establish world championship races with their striking eVTOL aircraft. However, their current races involve remote-controlled vehicles, with pilots safely on the ground. Enter Jetson, who has now demonstrated a crewed flight around a racing pylon, albeit with just one aircraft.

Jetson eVTOL air racing demonstration (Jetson) (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

EVTOL PROTOTYPE PROMISES 150 MPH CITY-TO-CITY HOPS

The Jetson One: A game changer

The star of this show is the Jetson One, a personal eVTOL designed for agility and performance. In a recent video, Patan showcases the aircraft’s nimble capabilities by navigating around a 26-foot-tall pylon. While this demonstration does not quite constitute a full race, it offers a tantalizing preview of what eVTOL racing could look like. Here are some key features of the Jetson One:
- Dimensions: 8.86 x 5.25 x 3.67 feet
- Top speed: Software-limited to 63 mph
- Flight time: 20 minutes per charge
- Power source: High-discharge Li-ion batteries
- Control: Joystick-operated
- Maximum altitude: Over 1,500 feet (~460 m)
- Pilot requirements: No license needed in the U.S.
Jetson eVTOL air racing demonstration (Jetson) (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

THIS FLYING ELECTRIC VEHICLE BREAKS RECORD WITH 523-MILE NONSTOP FLIGHT

Market response and future plans

The market response to the Jetson One has been remarkable. The company has already confirmed sales of more than 470 units and is now taking orders for the 2026 batch. To secure your place in line, you’ll need to make a non-refundable deposit of $8,000, with the full price tag coming in at $128,000.

Jetson claims that their eVTOL is user-friendly, stating that pilots can master the aircraft in under 60 minutes of flight practice, along with eight simulator sessions. This accessibility could be a game-changer in the personal aviation market.

Jetson eVTOL air racing demonstration (Jetson) (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

REVOLUTIONARY FLYING CAR PROMISES HIGHWAY SPEEDS AND 3-HOUR FLIGHTS

Safety and regulatory considerations

While the prospect of personal eVTOLs and air racing is thrilling, it also raises important safety and regulatory questions. Jetson has implemented several safety features, including:
- A race car-inspired safety cell design
- The ability to fly safely with the loss of one motor
- Hands-free hover and emergency functions
- A ballistic parachute with rapid deployment
In terms of regulations, Jetson has made progress, securing two flight permits in Italy for personal eVTOL travel in uncontrolled airspace in fall 2023. However, comprehensive racing regulations are yet to be defined.

Jetson eVTOL air racing demonstration (Jetson) (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

The competition: Airspeeder and beyond

While Jetson has made headlines with this demonstration, it’s worth noting that Airspeeder isn’t far behind. They have already created teams and held aerial events, albeit with remote-controlled eVTOLs. Their aircraft boasts impressive specifications, including a top speed of 124 mph and a power-to-weight ratio comparable to Formula 1 cars.

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Jetson eVTOL air racing demonstration (Jetson) (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

Kurt’s key takeaways

The demonstration by Jetson marks a significant milestone in the evolution of personal aviation and air racing. While it does not yet represent a full-fledged race, it is a tangible step towards a future where eVTOL racing could become a reality. As we look to the skies, it is clear that the race for eVTOL supremacy is just beginning.

What are your thoughts on the future of eVTOL racing and personal aviation after reading about Jetson and Airspeeder? Let us know by writing us at Cyberguy.com/Contact.

For more of my tech tips and security alerts, subscribe to my free CyberGuy Report Newsletter by heading to Cyberguy.com/Newsletter.

Ask Kurt a question or let us know what stories you’d like us to cover.

Follow Kurt on his social channels:

Answers to the most asked CyberGuy questions:

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Copyright 2024 CyberGuy.com. All rights reserved.

Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson is an award-winning tech journalist who has a deep love of technology, gear and gadgets that make life better with his contributions for Fox News & FOX Business beginning mornings on “FOX & Friends.” Got a tech question? Get Kurt’s free CyberGuy Newsletter, share your voice, a story idea or comment at CyberGuy.com.
January 23, 2025
Stadium-sized asteroid will pass relatively close to Earth, NASA says

The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) is monitoring a “potentially hazardous” asteroid that is moving past Earth on Tuesday.

NASA told Fox News Digital that the rocky object, which has been named 2024 ON, is 350 meters long by 180 meters wide, which roughly equals 1,150 feet by 590 feet – larger than previous estimates.

NASA has deemed the asteroid “stadium-sized” and reported it was 621,000 miles away from Earth on Tuesday morning, which is considered relatively close. Davide Farnocchia, a navigation engineer at NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory, told Fox News Digital that an asteroid of this size coming this close to Earth only happens every five to ten years.

Farnocchia, who works at the laboratory’s Center for Near-Earth Object Studies, said that the last time a large meteor entered the Earth’s atmosphere was in Russia in 2013. Earth has not been hit by a meteor of 2024 ON’s size since prehistoric times.

FLASHBACK: STUDY SAYS ASTEROID THAT KILLED THE DINOSAURS ALSO CAUSED A GLOBAL TSUNAMI

NASA announced that a stadium-sized asteroid would be passing “relatively close” to Earth on Tuesday. (iStock)

Although the asteroid is close enough to Earth to be deemed a “potentially hazardous object,” Farnocchia said there is no chance the asteroid will hit Earth. The asteroid would need to be within a couple of hundred miles to be a concern.

“We actually check [about the possibility of collision], not just for the immediate future, but also for the next hundred years,” the engineer explained. “And there is no possibility of collision in the next hundred years.”

The asteroid is one of five that will pass by Earth over the next two days, but the other rocky objects will not come nearly as close as 2024 ON. The four asteroids will be between 1.1 to 3.9 million miles away from Earth, and three of the asteroids measure roughly 51 feet in diameter, which is the size of a house.

2024 ON will be 621,000 miles from Earth on Tuesday night, NASA says. (NASA)

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One of the asteroids, named 2013 FW13, measures around 510 feet in diameter and will pass by Earth on Wednesday.

NASA’s Asteroid Watch Dashboard tracks “asteroids and comets that will make relatively close approaches to Earth.” According to a data table, 2024 ON was traveling at around 8.8 kilometers per second on Tuesday morning, which is nearly 20,000 miles per hour.

“The dashboard displays the date of closest approach, approximate object diameter, relative size and distance from Earth for each encounter,” the organization’s website explains.

NASA announced that a stadium-sized asteroid would be passing “relatively close” to Earth on Tuesday. (iStock)

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“The dashboard displays the next five Earth approaches to within 4.6 million miles (7.5 million kilometers or 19.5 times the distance to the moon); an object larger than about 150 meters that can approach the Earth to within this distance is termed a potentially hazardous object.”

Andrea Vacchiano is a breaking news writer for Fox News Digital and Fox Business. Readers can send story tips to [email protected].

January 23, 2025