Here are a few of the stories I’ve found interesting over the last couple of days.
OnlyFans Backtracks on Content Ban
After days of being in the headlines for their decision to ban sexually explicit content, OnlyFans has announced that is “suspending” the policy change, and that all content will continue to be allowed on the platform.
The company did not say this change would be permanent, but did say that it has received “assurances” that it could continue to take credit card payments on its service without banning certain content.
This likely won’t be the last time we hear of payment processors exerting pressure on businesses, but it is interesting to see OnlyFans come out on top of this, for now.
https://www.theverge.com/2021/8/25/22640988/onlyfans-no-ban-porn-sexually-explicit-content-creators
Plugging in a Razer Mouse can Compromise Windows
This is a funny one. Razer peripherals have some code built into them that automatically prompts users to download the company’s synapse software. However, a vulnerability has been discovered that gives administrative access, which can allow other malicious apps to run.
Razer and Microsoft say they are working on patching this vulnerability.
TSMC to Raise Production Prices
With chip production capacity running at 100%, and likely doing so for the foreseeable future, TSMC, the company that makes most of the cutting edge chips found in computers and smartphones today, is reportedly raising prices by 10% in 2022. This will likely end up translating to more expensive products, as OEM’s likely will not absorb the entirety of that increase.
The price increase will likely help TSMC build out more production capacity, which should help ease the issues with supply and demand, but that may not happen until 2023.
https://www.theverge.com/2021/8/26/22642627/tsmc-chip-price-increase-supply-shortages-apple-qualcomm
GoPro Giving Unlimited Cloud Storage to its Subscription Service
GoPro has a very compelling subscription service that is getting even better. For $50 USD per year customers got access to cloud storage, advanced editing tools, private live streaming from GoPro cameras, and even camera replacements should yours break.
It was already a fantastic deal for those in the GoPro ecosystem, and now GoPro is changing the cloud storage portion of the subscription to include unlimited cloud storage of photos and video captured on a GoPro. Considering how large some of those files can be, this is an incredible value. If you have a GoPro camera, this is a no brainer.
https://www.engadget.com/gopro-quik-unlimited-photo-and-video-storage-145611464.html
Canadian ISP Teksavvy Appealing Website Blocking Order to the Supreme Court of Canada
Several years ago, a Canadian court ordered internet service providers to block access to a website that was charging users for access to thousands of pirated tv shows and movies. Teksavvy appealed that ruling, and lost, and is now taking that appeal to the Supreme Court of Canada. Teksavvy is arguing that ISP’s being ordered to remove access to a website violates freedom of expression.
I’m not a lawyer, or a legal expert, but the website in question was willingly hosting illegally obtained content, so I’m not exactly sure what Teksavvy is trying to accomplish here.
Samsung Galaxy Note 7: 5 years later
Remember the Samsung phone that literally started catching on fire, causing it to be recalled and the US FAA to ban it from flights. That led to airlines announcing that Samsung phones were not allowed on planes, causing huge confusion.
Well, that was 5 years ago, somehow, and Android Central has a great look back at the debacle that was the Samsung Galaxy Note 7.
https://www.androidcentral.com/recalling-galaxy-note-7-five-years