In the startup landscape, early customers are like front-line soldiers in a battle—often seen as disposable, yet essential for shaping the course of the fight. Just as soldiers frequently face the risk of sacrifice, early adopters engage with a product that’s still evolving, providing critical feedback that helps steer its development. Their willingness to share both praise and criticism allows startups to identify weaknesses and refine offerings. While these customers may not always stay loyal, due to a half-cooked product, their contributions are invaluable in determining the direction of the product, enabling startups to pivot and adapt based on real-world usage, ultimately reducing the risk associated with untested concepts.
However, project managers often grapple with a fear of losing these early customers. This concern can stem from a desire to maintain momentum and validate the business model, leading to an overly cautious approach in product development. Yet, embracing the idea that initial users might not stick around forever can actually encourage a culture of experimentation and innovation. By focusing on refining the product and seeking new audiences, teams can avoid becoming overly attached to specific feedback. This mindset fosters agility, allowing startups to quickly address pain points and implement changes that drive growth. Ultimately, while early customers play a critical role in shaping a product, their disposability can empower startups to be bold in their development, leading to a stronger foundation for long-term success.
In Lebanon, at least 12 people, including two children, were killed and nearly 2,800 were injured when pagers used by Hezbollah exploded across the country. The Iranian ambassador to Lebanon was among the injured in what has been described as an unprecedented attack, leaving the nation in shock. Many schools and shops closed in the aftermath as witnesses recounted horrific scenes of destruction and severe injuries, particularly to the eyes and hands.
Hezbollah has blamed Israel for the attacks, claiming that the explosions were a result of Israeli sabotage aimed at evading their surveillance. Security experts suggest that Israel’s Mossad may have tampered with the pagers during their distribution, inserting small explosives into the devices. This incident not only caused significant physical harm but also poses a serious threat to Hezbollah’s operational capabilities and morale, as many of its members are now incapacitated. In response, Hezbollah has vowed to retaliate and continue its operations against Israel, even as it grapples with the fallout from this devastating event.
Apple has just unveiled its latest and greatest in smartphone technology: the iPhone 16. Packed with cutting-edge features and improvements, this new release is set to redefine what you can expect from your mobile device. Here’s everything you need to know about the iPhone 16 and its exciting new offerings.
Built to Last
The iPhone 16 is designed with durability at its core. It features an industry-leading glass ceramic formulation, making it 50% tougher than the first-generation Ceramic Shield and twice as tough as glass found in other smartphones. This means your iPhone 16 can handle the everyday wear and tear of life while maintaining its sleek appearance.
Brilliant Display
Apple has enhanced the display experience on the iPhone 16 to ensure it performs exceptionally in any lighting condition. With up to 2,000 nits of brightness, the display remains clear and vibrant even in bright sunlight. Conversely, it can dim down to 1 nit in dark environments, ensuring that you can always see what you’re doing, whether you’re outside on a sunny day or using your phone at night. The iPhone 16 comes in two sizes: a 6.1-inch display for the standard model and a larger 6.7-inch display for the iPhone 16 Plus.
Revolutionary Action Button
One of the standout features of the iPhone 16 is the customizable action button. This versatile button can be programmed to perform a range of functions with a single press. Whether you need to quickly record a voice memo, identify a song, or translate a phrase, the action button has you covered. You can even set it to perform different tasks based on the time of day, like opening your calendar during the day and activating the flashlight at night. Additionally, it can integrate with apps like Ford Pass to lock and unlock your car.
Innovative Camera Control
Apple has introduced a new camera control system that makes capturing photos and videos faster and more intuitive. The camera control surface is crafted from sapphire crystal and surrounded by color-matched stainless steel trim. With a simple click, you can launch the camera and take a photo without adjusting your grip. For video recording, just hold the button. The control also allows you to adjust settings such as zoom and depth of field through sliding gestures, giving you more creative control over your shots.
Enhanced Siri Capabilities
Siri on the iPhone 16 has received a significant upgrade. It now understands personal context better than ever, allowing it to provide tailored recommendations and perform actions based on your interactions. For example, Siri can pull up TV show recommendations from your recent conversations or play a new album when you ask. It can also handle complex tasks like updating a friend’s contact information or organizing photos into specific albums.
Pricing and Availability
The iPhone 16 starts at $799, while the iPhone 16 Plus is priced at $899. Both models will be available for pre-order starting this Friday and will hit stores on September 20th. If you’re looking for even more advanced features, the iPhone 16 Pro and iPhone 16 Pro Max are available with larger displays and advanced audio capabilities, starting at $999 and $1,199, respectively.
Apple’s iPhone 16 and its variants offer a range of exciting new features and improvements, making it a must-have for tech enthusiasts and everyday users alike. With its robust durability, brilliant display, and innovative functionalities, the iPhone 16 is set to elevate your smartphone experience to new heights.
Stay tuned for more updates and be sure to pre-order your iPhone 16 to be among the first to experience these groundbreaking advancements!
Google has recently unveiled its latest flagship phones, including the new Pixel 9 series. This lineup introduces significant advancements, particularly with the integration of Gemini AI, which aims to enhance user convenience. Among the new models are the standard Pixel 9, the Pixel 9 Pro, and the Pixel 9 Pro XL. Each model offers unique features and specifications, catering to different user needs.
Starting with performance, all three phones are powered by Google’s latest Tensor G4 chipset, ensuring top-tier performance across the board. However, they differ in RAM and storage options. The Pixel 9 offers 12 GB of RAM with choices of 128 GB or 256 GB of storage. In contrast, the Pixel 9 Pro and Pixel 9 Pro XL come with 16 GB of RAM and provide more storage options, ranging from 128 GB to a substantial 1 TB. This makes the Pro models particularly appealing for those who require extra RAM and ample storage for extensive multitasking and media.
When it comes to display, the differences become more pronounced. The Pixel 9 features a 6.3-inch OLED display with a resolution of 2400 x 1080 pixels and a pixel density of 422 PPI, supporting a variable refresh rate of 60 Hz to 120 Hz. The Pixel 9 Pro, also with a 6.3-inch display, upgrades to an LTPO OLED screen with a higher resolution of 3120 x 1440 pixels, offering a sharper 495 PPI density. For those who prefer larger screens, the Pixel 9 Pro XL boasts a 6.8-inch LTPO OLED display with a resolution of 2992 x 1344 pixels and a pixel density of 486 PPI. Both Pro models feature a 120 Hz refresh rate, which enhances the visual experience and optimizes battery life by adjusting the refresh rate based on usage.
Battery life varies among the models, with the Pixel 9 and Pixel 9 Pro both equipped with a 4,700 mAh battery, sufficient for a full day of use. The Pixel 9 Pro XL, however, offers a larger 5,000 mAh battery, providing extra endurance for power users or those frequently away from a charger.
Camera capabilities are another key consideration. The Pixel 9 comes with a 50 MP main camera, a 48 MP ultrawide camera, and a 10.5 MP front-facing camera. The Pixel 9 Pro and Pixel 9 Pro XL build on this with an additional 48 MP telephoto camera offering 5x optical zoom and a 42 MP front-facing camera. All models support 4K video recording, ensuring high-quality video capture.
All three devices launch with Android 14 and are promised seven years of OS and security updates. If you’re looking for a more affordable option with solid specifications, the Pixel 9 is a strong choice. However, for those needing enhanced power, superior display quality, and advanced camera features, the Pixel 9 Pro and Pixel 9 Pro XL are worth considering. For those prioritizing battery life, the Pixel 9 Pro XL with its larger battery might be the ideal fit. Share your thoughts on which model you’re interested in and why.
The iPhone 16 is approaching its launch, and we’re getting a closer look at the color options for the new lineup. The range includes models for the iPhone 16, 16 Plus, 16 Pro, and 16 Pro Max. Here’s a detailed preview of what you can expect.
The new iPhone 16 models introduce several color options. Starting with the blue variant, it features a matte finish on both the aluminum frame and the back panel. The camera layout has been updated from a diagonal to a pill shape for the 16 and 16 Plus models. These changes are accompanied by a switch to a USB Type-C port across all versions and the addition of a new button above the volume rocker, which might serve as a capture or shortcut button.
The black model of the iPhone 16 presents a very dark, consistent color with minimal variation, similar to previous black models. The pink option shows some color variance between the frame and back plate, adding a unique touch. Additionally, there’s a white model that appears almost identical to past versions but has a subtle bluish tone due to the silver frame.
A notable new color is green, which stands out with a distinctive hue not previously seen on iPhones. This green variant may divide opinions, offering a fresh choice for those looking for something different.
For the Pro models, the color options include variations similar to the standard models, but with a few notable differences. The Pro Max has a slightly larger and taller design compared to previous generations. The black Pro model features a reflective camera section and a matte black body, differentiating it from the standard black. Another color option is a natural titanium-like finish, and there’s also a striking bronze “desert titanium” variant with a unique military-inspired look.
These are early representations, and the final colors and finishes may vary when the iPhone 16 officially launches. What are your thoughts on these colors? Are any of them standing out to you?
Pavel Durov, the founder of Telegram, was recently arrested in France upon disembarking from his private jet. French authorities detained him for allegedly refusing to alter the Telegram app in response to accusations of supporting terrorist activities, drug trafficking, and other serious allegations. Durov is now facing up to 20 years in prison.
In the wake of the arrest, the value of TON coin, which powers The Open Network (TON) blockchain, has dropped by 15%. Telegram has been a staple in the crypto community for over a decade, with many in the industry relying on it for various crypto-related communications. The news of Durov’s arrest has sparked concerns about his future, including the possibility of extradition to the U.S.
Durov’s refusal to modify Telegram was aimed at protecting users from oppressive regimes, rather than assisting terrorists. Some express skepticism about the charges, questioning how failing to amend a product could lead to such severe allegations. Many hope Durov’s legal team will effectively defend him and that he will soon be released unharmed.
The Mercedes G-Class, commonly known as the G-Wagon, has a history rooted in its unique design and military origins. The story begins in 1970 when Shah of Iran sought a robust off-road vehicle for the Iranian military. He desired something new and sophisticated, distinct from the Land Cruiser, Land Rover, or American Jeeps. With a significant stake in Mercedes-Benz and a history of substantial purchases, the Shah placed an order for 20,000 vehicles, leading to the development of the G-Class.
The initial production models, ready in 1979 after extensive engineering and research, were designed with three locking differentials and exceptional off-road capabilities, making them suitable for both rugged terrain and highway driving. Despite the political upheaval of the Iranian Revolution, which saw the Shah’s overthrow on January 16, 1979, the G-Class continued to evolve and gain acclaim.
Over time, the G-Class, initially a military vehicle, became a symbol of luxury and sophistication, which often led to it being misunderstood. Although it remains a formidable off-road machine, its transformation into a status symbol sometimes overshadows its true capabilities. The G-Class’s engineering has been praised globally, and while its luxury status can overshadow its original purpose, the vehicle’s off-road prowess and reliability are still evident. The G-Class’s design has remained largely consistent since its inception, maintaining the original suspension setup and engineering principles while evolving to meet modern standards. Despite its luxury image, the G-Class continues to embody the rugged durability and versatility it was originally intended for, offering a blend of high performance and refined comfort.
The rape and murder of 31-year-old trainee doctor Dr. Pooja Singh at Kolkata’s RG Kar Medical College on August 9, 2024 has sparked nationwide outrage in India. Dr. Singh was discovered severely injured in a seminar room after working a grueling 36-hour shift. A hospital volunteer, Sanjay Roy, has been arrested in connection with the crime. Following the transfer of the investigation to the CBI by the Calcutta High Court, massive protests have erupted across major cities, and doctors have staged a nationwide strike, leaving only emergency services operational.
Dr. Singh, remembered by her family for her dedication and caring nature, had been their only child and had worked hard to overcome financial hardships to become a doctor. Her tragic death has revived memories of the 2012 Delhi gang-rape case and highlighted ongoing issues with violence against women in India. The case has led to calls for better safety measures for healthcare workers and stricter legal protections. Federal Health Minister JP Nadda has promised to address these issues, but for Dr. Singh’s family, the focus remains on ensuring the harshest punishment for Sanjay Roy.
I started my freelance career back in 2012 on Upwork. Back then it was a nice platform with lots of interesting projects. Freelancers wouldn’t have to pay anything in order to apply on gigs. However, Upwork charged a certain percentage on each hour worked (in hourly jobs) and on each milestone payment (in fixed jobs), which is fair. I earned a decent amount of living each month from Upwork and my profile continued to grow. Currently I am ranked as a Top-Rated-Plus freelancer on Upwork. Any developer can earn this badge if they do a $15k project, and earn a certain amount over the last 12 months.
Fast forward to 2024, nowadays, working on Upwork is a disaster. First you have to buy some connects (Upwork tokens) in order to bid on a job. Then, once you get the job, you will be paying 10% to Upwork. This 10% doesn’t cover any disputes that come up with your client. To settle the dispute, Upwork requires an additional $250 apprx. per dispute, which also doesn’t guarantee that you will get the justice, as Upwork is more inclined towards clients rather than freelancers.
Plus, when you buy their tokens and use those tokens to apply on jobs, most often you will never get a reply from client. Even if client hires someone, nowadays, you will never get a notification email from Upwork, telling you that, “Some other freelancer is hired for the job you applied.” Back in old days, we used to get such notification email, which made us find other jobs on the platform. Currently its fire and forgot approach, meaning you spend money to apply on a gig which you most probably will never get.
Also, most freelancers think that Upwork is not doing much against spam jobs being posted on the platform, as this is a source of revenue from them. One fellow Upwork freelancer summed it perfectly in the following LinkedIn comment:
“Upwork just find a way to make money like if a job has 50 proposals and each proposal is taking average of 20 connects, Upwork has earned a total of 1000 connects (It means Upwork has earned $150 even though job has not been awarded to anyone). Going further if 2 jobs are going to be posted in one minute then in 24 hours 24x60x2x150=$432,000 So Upwork is earning above $400k/per day without any hiring fees”
On top of that, it’s getting more and more difficult to get a gig worth the time, as most clients propose a minimal budget. All of these issues forced me to switch to a 9 to 5 job with steady source of work and income, and without scams.
At the age of 40, I got a developer job in a startup and so far I am content with it. The platform I relied so much on, for the past 12 years, has introduced unfriendly policies due to which I foresee more people will be forced to leave it.
