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Top 10 Cities in Latin America for Digital Nomads - Part 2 [2023]
Latin America is a rising star for digital nomads in a world that's becoming more remote-friendly. Its combination of low living costs, high life quality, and thriving coworking scene makes it a magnet for digital nomads.
Once caught in political turbulence, this vast and diverse region is now seen as a vibrant hotspot. Here are our ten best alternative cities in Latin America for digital nomads. Also, catch our first list.
Safety is a must, especially in such a vast and diverse region as Latin America. Always check the U.S. Government Travel Advisories website for updates before you fly. Dodge these common digital nomad mistakes to ensure your journey is both adventurous and hassle-free. So, grab your backpack and your top laptop - let's discover the Latin American cities making digital nomads feel right at home.
1) San Juan Del Sur, Nicaragua: A Surfer's Paradise for Digital Nomads
San Juan Del Sur, nestled on Nicaragua's sun-drenched Pacific coast, is a vibrant hub for adventurous digital nomads who love surf and sand. Once a sleepy fishing village, this coastal gem has become a hotspot for adventurers, attracting sun-worshipers and surf enthusiasts alike. Affordable living and a warm, tropical climate make it an enticing choice for those seeking to work remotely.
The town's colorful, fun-loving beach scene is a playground for day and night activities. Surf clubs dot the landscape, welcoming newbies to ride the world-class waves. As the sun sets, beachfront bars and nightclubs ensure the fun continues, offering a taste of the lively local nightlife.
San Juan Del Sur offers breathtaking natural beauty. A hike to the towering Cristo de la Misericordia statue of Jesus provides panoramic views of the stunning coastline.
Wildlife enthusiasts can visit the nearby La Flor Beach Natural Reserve to observe turtles in their natural habitat. San Juan Del Sur's idyllic beach life and work blend seamlessly, creating a captivating locale for digital nomads.
Fast facts about San Juan del Sur, Nicaragua:
* Population: 14,700
* Cost of living per month: USD $1,864
* Internet speed: Slow (5 mbps mobile, 10 mbps fixed line)
2) Antigua, Guatemala: UNESCO World Heritage City
Antigua is a UNESCO World Heritage Site amidst southern Guatemala's forested hills. Once a prominent Spanish colonial city, it served as Guatemala's capital for over 300 years. Now, it flourishes as a digital nomad hotspot. This city, with its grid-pattern streets lined with farm-to-table restaurants, art galleries, design studios, and aromatic coffee shops, offers remote workers a unique blend of history, culture, and modern amenities.
As you navigate the city, the masterpiece of famed architect Diego de Porres, the Las Capuchinas convent, greets you. Erected in 1736, this former convent, like many of Antigua's sites, is a testament to the city's colonial past.
The best time to visit is during the dry months from November through April. The city is compact, making it easy to explore. A leisurely 20-minute stroll takes you across the entire center, immersing you in a vibrant, fascinating culture.
For the adventurous, the Volcano Pacaya hike, a moderate challenge of a little over 3 miles, rewards you with awe-inspiring sunset views and unique experiences like roasting marshmallows over geothermal hotspots.
With world-class coffee, Wi-Fi, and a rich tapestry of history and culture, Antigua offers a unique digital nomad experience.
Fast facts about Antigua, Guatemala:
* Population: 40,000
* Cost of living per month: USD $1,300
* Internet speed: Good (25 mbps mobile, 50 mbps fixed line)
3) Bogotá, Colombia: Urban Cool for Digital Nomads
Bogotá, Colombia's capital and largest city is an enthralling melting pot of people creating a vibrant, multicultural scene. It's a city where the past and present seamlessly blend, and with a population of 11 million, you'll never be short of new experiences.
Living in Bogotá is more affordable than other South American destinations, making it a magnet for digital nomads. The city is cradled by the chilly peaks of the Andes, offering a captivating cool urban vibe.
Known for its world-class coffee shops, you can start your day with the finest Colombian coffee before hiking trails that cross the cerros orientales - emerald-green mountains that loom over the city. Popular routes like Quebrada La Vieja, a three-mile hike, take you through cloud forests with stunning city views. Don't forget to explore the vibrant weekend markets in Usaquén for a local shopping experience.
As the sun sets, the nightlife comes alive with bars and clubs pulsating to the beat of salsa, vallenato, and rock en español. You won't want to miss the weekly Sunday Ciclovía (Cycleway), where the city's main avenues become a car-free haven for cyclists and pedestrians.
In Bogotá, you'll find an exciting blend of culture, adventure, and urban sophistication, making it an enticing spot for digital nomads.
Fast facts about Bogotá, Colombia:
* Population: 8 million
* Cost of living per month: USD $1,200
* Internet speed: Good (20 mbps mobile, 50 mbps fixed line)
4) Playa del Carmen, Mexico: A Laid-Back Paradise for Digital Nomads
Between bustling Cancún and boho-chic Tulum, Playa del Carmen is a jewel of Mexico's Riviera Maya. Its palm-lined beaches, coral reefs, and easy access to Mayan ruins offer a unique blend of cultural richness and natural beauty. The city's walkability and US-friendly time zone make it an appealing choice for digital nomads.
Whether it's wellness retreats, gourmet dining, or raves, there's something for everyone. Adventure enthusiasts can explore the 75-mile sandy shoreline with birdwatching, ATV tours, or zipline rides through the Mayan jungle. Cozumel, a diving paradise, and the Cenote Chaak Tun, a breathtaking natural sinkhole, are just a short journey away.
Playa del Carmen retains a laid-back, small-town charm despite being a tourist hotspot. It's less commercialized than Cancun, offering tranquility amidst the buzz. Visit during the peak season (December to April) for perfect weather but be prepared for higher prices. This balance of relaxation and adventure makes Playa del Carmen a top pick for digital nomads.
Fast facts about Playa del Carmen, Mexico:
* Population: 200,000
* Cost of living per month: USD $1,500
* Internet speed: Good (25 mbps mobile, 50 mbps fixed line)
5) Quito, Ecuador: A High-Altitude Retreat for Digital Nomads
Perched at an altitude of 2,850m in the Andes, Quito, Ecuador's capital city, is cloaked in an ethereal mist, nestled between lush, mountainous peaks. The city's center is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, teeming with beautifully preserved colonial architecture, plazas, and cathedrals dating back to the 16th century. Famous landmarks include the:
* Ornate La Compañía de Jesús church
* Bustling Plaza Grande
* Majestic Presidential Palace
Quito's culture is as rich as its history - a thriving arts scene that fills galleries, museums, and even pizza places that double as indie concert venues. Museo del Banco Central is a testament to this artistic landscape, housing a diverse collection of pre-Columbian art. The city's culinary ethos echoes its creative flair, as traditional street food vendors share the spotlight with burgeoning food truck 'plazas.'
Digital nomads are drawn to Quito for its low cost of living, alignment with the Eastern U.S. time zone, and flexible digital nomad visa offering up to two years of stay, renewable at will. Natural beauty surrounds the city, offering adventure sports and world-class trekking, with weekend trips away to places like:
* Mindo cloud forest
* Quilotoa Lagoon
* Baños
* Cotopaxi National Park
Fast facts about Quito, Ecuador:
* Population: 2.7 million
* Cost of living per month: USD $1,100
* Internet speed: Good (20 mbps mobile, 50 mbps fixed line)
6) San Juan, Puerto Rico: Historic Hub for Digital Nomads
San Juan, the most populous city in Puerto Rico, is where the Old World meets the new - a rich tapestry of colonial heritage and cosmopolitan energy. The capital city, founded in 1521, sparkles with cobblestoned streets, dynamic neighborhoods, and idyllic silk-sand beaches. Old San Juan enchants with rainbow-colored buildings, impressive fortresses, and farm-to-table restaurants that honor Puerto Rico's rich cultural heritage.
The city is a paradise for digital nomads due to its low cost of living, fiber-optic internet, and tax incentives, including a flat corporate tax rate of 4% with no state or federal taxes.
Alongside historic sites and art museums, San Juan is famous for its tropical beaches, offering an array of watersports. The Blue Flag Beach, El Escambrón, known for its protected coral reefs, is an ideal spot for snorkeling with turtles and marine exploration.
Whether your interests lie in historical sites, art museums, salsa music, tropical beaches, or culinary delights, you'll find it in San Juan.
Fast facts about San Juan, Puerto Rico:
* Population: 395,000
* Cost of living per month: USD $1,500
* Internet speed: Good (25 mbps mobile, 50 mbps fixed line)
7) Panama City, Panama: Tropical Metropolis for Digital Nomads
Panama City, the most cosmopolitan capital in Central America, seamlessly blends modern urban energy with tropical allure. Known as the only capital with a tropical rainforest within its borders, it offers diverse landscapes, from pirate-era ruins to contemporary skyscrapers. This vibrant hub, connecting North and South America, is home to the iconic Panama Canal - one of the Seven Wonders of the Modern World linking the Atlantic and Pacific oceans.
The city's historic heart, Casco Viejo, radiates with restored glory from 1673 and is worth visiting to learn about the area's buildings, cathedrals, and history. A visit to the Biomuseo, designed by renowned architect Frank Gehry, reveals Panama's significant influence on global biodiversity and its commitment to environmental preservation. As a UNESCO creative city for gastronomy, Panama City hosts a lively food scene championed by world-class chefs.
Panama City, equipped with high-speed Wi-Fi and abundant co-working spaces, is a sanctuary for digital nomads. U.S. tourists can enjoy visa-free stays for up to 180 days. A Short Term Remote Worker Visa allows you to work and live in the country for 9 months, renewable for another term.
Fast facts about Panama City, Panama:
* Population: 1.8 million
* Cost of living per month: USD $1,400
* Internet speed: Good (25 mbps mobile, 50 mbps fixed line)
8) La Paz, Bolivia: Andean High-Altitude Haven
La Paz, deemed one of the 7 urban wonders of the world, stands majestically as the world's highest capital city at an altitude of 11,975 feet. Perched within a canyon running through the Andes' Altiplano mountains, contrasting modern high-rises set against an awe-inspiring mountain backdrop.
Founded over an Incan settlement in 1548 by Spanish colonists, now La Paz houses significant landmarks like the Presidential Palace, Plurinational Legislative Assembly, and the intriguing Witches' Market. The city brims with energy, featuring a chaotic yet captivating blend of bustling pedestrians, honking minivans, vibrant street marches, and omnipresent vendors.
La Paz's topographical extremes manifest as steep, winding streets. They are home to the world's highest and longest cable car system, the "subway in the sky," linking the crowded metropolis of La Paz with the neighboring El Alto. La Paz offers a rich cultural experience in an unusual high-altitude setting and presents digital nomads with a truly unique workspace.
Fast facts about La Paz, Bolivia:
* Population: 2.3 million
* Cost of living per month: USD $1,000
* Internet speed: Slow (5 mbps mobile, 10 mbps fixed line)
9) Valparaíso, Chile: Artistic Bohemian City
Known as the 'Jewel of the Pacific,' Valparaíso is a vibrant, bohemian port city on Chile's coast. As Chile's second-largest city, it boasts a rich historical quarter filled with colonial buildings that earned it a UNESCO World Heritage Site designation in 2003.
Navigating Valparaíso's winding hills reveals neighborhoods alive with creativity, featuring a remarkable array of murals, graffiti, and street art. Its iconic funiculars, or outdoor street elevators, provide an innovative solution to traversing the city's hilly landscape. The Maritime and Naval Museum offers a deep dive into the city's port and navy past.
Valparaíso's bohemian allure extends to its welcoming community. Renowned for their congeniality, the Chilean locals are ready to assist newcomers, further enhancing the city's appeal. With sightseeing opportunities and a vibrant cultural scene, Valparaíso presents an extraordinary destination for digital nomads seeking history, beauty, and inspiration.
Fast facts about Valparaíso, Chile:
* Population: 300,000
* Cost of living per month: USD $1,300
* Internet speed: Good (25 mbps mobile, 50 mbps fixed line)
10) Florianopolis, Brazil: Sun-Kissed Paradise
Referred to as 'Floripa' by locals, Florianopolis, situated on an island in Southern Brazil, is a captivating blend of sun-soaked beaches, picturesque mountains, and vibrant nightlife. A favored spot among surfers and digital nomads, it offers an ideal escape, especially during winter, with its weather and summer vibes.
This paradise-like locale, with its sprawling rainforests perfect for hiking and a rich culture laden with intriguing tales, is home to over 40 magnificent beaches. Among these is Praia Mole, renowned for hosting the ASP World Tour of the Association of Surfing Professionals, where golden sands extend into rocky capes, offering some of Brazil's best surfing experiences.
Floripa has burgeoned into Latin America's most sought-after party destination, offering an array of caipirinha-infused lounges, chic beach bars, and enormous megaclubs across the island. While it's a favored vacation spot in Brazil, Floripa's slow-paced lifestyle is also a magnet for digital nomads. You get around with English more than in the rest of Brazil.
It's an idyllic destination for nature-loving remote workers seeking fun, sun, and surf.
Fast facts about Florianópolis, Brazil:
* Population: 500,000
* Cost of living per month: USD $1,200
* Internet speed: Good (25 mbps mobile, 50 mbps fixed line)
With its lively cities, diverse cultures, and beautiful landscapes, Latin America offers a refreshing canvas for digital nomads. Each place, from Medellín's eternal spring to the high-altitude workspace of La Paz, provides unique opportunities for work and exploration.
Remember, protecting your devices and data is critical no matter where your nomadic journey takes you. This ensures your work is safe, allowing you to fully embrace the joys and challenges of your digital nomadic lifestyle. Enjoy the trip, and let these vibrant Latin American cities inspire your work and feed your wanderlust.
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A Preview of The Invincible
The Invincible is an upcoming first-person, hard science fiction adventure video game developed by Starward Industries. The game takes place in a retro-futuristic universe that was inspired by the works of celebrated Polish author Stanisław Lem. A beta demo available on Steam offers players a glimpse into the world of The Invincible, and it is clear the game has a lot of promise.
The Invincible will be the first title to be developed by Starward Industries, a Polish games studio founded in 2018 by several of the developers behind The Witcher 3, Dying Light, and Call of Juarez. The highly talented team at Starward Industries are also joined by indie games publisher 11 bit studios, who will help bring The Invincible to market. First announced in 2020, the game was initially slated for a 2021 release but experienced a number of delays. The game is now on track for release later this year on PC, PS5, and Xbox Series X.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SFcutglW2C8&t%20
The Invincible is based on a novel written in 1964 by Stanisław Lem, who was a respected Polish writer best known for his science fiction books. Lem’s works have been translated into dozens of languages, and several have received film adaptations. For example, his best-known novel, Solaris, has been adapted three times: once for a television series and twice for film. His Master’s Voice, another science fiction novel, received a film adaptation in 2018, and Hospital of the Transfiguration, a story set during World War II, was adapted into a film in 1979. Although never adapted for television or film, The Invincible is a landmark work of hard science fiction. The novel explores the perils of space colonization and the very nature of alien life: the forms it may take, whether we would recognize it, and how our prejudices might affect our decision-making when encountering it. The upcoming game of the same name is not a 1:1 adaptation of the book but a retelling centered around a character named Yasna: a female astrobiologist not present in the novel but created fresh for the game.
What is the game’s storyline?
In the game, you play as Yasna, who has just woken up on Regis III after some kind of incident. Yasna and her crew had been surveying the planet, and although their scans had not brought up anything unusual, they knew that the planet must have been harboring something of interest, because of the fact that the flagship of a rival faction was on its way there, and it would not be heading there for nothing. Although not embroiled in a physical war, a Cold-War-esque “space race” between the two factions is presently underway. After waking up, Yasna gets to work searching Regis III for clues as to what might have happened to her crew, who have all died mysteriously following contact with… something. Yasna knows she is a scientist, and she knows she came here with a crew that has since gone missing. However, many of Yasna’s memories are foggy. A voice on the other end of an earpiece, that of her ship’s “astrogator,” helps Yasna along her journey.
The playable demo offers what appears to be an early chapter of the game, with Yasna investigating a rocky valley strewn with abandoned vehicles, wrecked automatons, and the corpses of her fellow astronauts. Yasna collects various pieces of equipment and uses these to locate the members of her crew one-by-one so that she can bring them to a small landing pod. The game features a choice-based system in which Yasna’s decisions and actions directly affect the story’s nonlinear progression. These choices ultimately determine how the story will play out and which of the 11 possible endings players will see.
As a thriller, the game does not contain gore or jump scares; what it has is tension. A foreboding atmosphere hangs about the planet, and you are constantly trapped between a feeling of trepidation and the desire to learn more. As an example of this tension, the game has Yasna early on piecing together a scene of destruction from black box lithographs salvaged from an automated tank weapon. A slow realization is expertly imparted to Yasna that the danger that befell the souls in the recording is still active, and that Yasna is very much at risk. This creates a moment of conceptual peril that works more deeply than any cheap jump scare could and demonstrates what can be achieved with effective pacing. The overall effect is oppressive, but not excessively so: the pull to unravel the mystery of Regis III, and the methodical pace of the tactile, investigative gameplay is enough to provide a regular distraction from the pervasive unease.
Gameplay mechanics
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Xmx0w-eAoTk
The Invincible offers players an immersive experience with a focus on exploration and problem-solving. As your avatar, Yasna is spacesuit-clad, and this is felt in every movement: this game is no space Lara Croft. Yasna is by necessity slow to climb obstacles and clumsy when operating intricate machinery on account of her massive space gloves. Several instances in the game might lend a video gamer the instinct to run or dodge; however, Yasna’s spacesuit thwarts any such attempts.
The mechanics are relatively basic. You poke around, look at stuff, and fiddle with things. You are practically guided through every step by the disembodied voice of your astrogator who crackles through the radio with reassuring regularity. The playable demo has the distinct feel of a tutorial, and the final release will likely have less of a tight leash on your activities, especially considering that the game has a branching narrative with an emphasis on player choice.
How does the game look?
Fidelity-wise, the game looks great. Textures have a lot of definition, and the bright bask of the sun gives off a feeling of warmth as it bakes the ground. Regis III looks like Mars—red, arid, and dull—and it does this in a way that drives home the desolation of the location. The landscape is littered with analog tech and mechanoids, and the antigrav vehicles have all the curves and flourishes of a 1959 Mercury Park Lane. The various pieces of equipment that Yasna collects are beautifully rendered in a retro-futuristic style. Her scanner, for example, has a warped cathode ray display, chrome beveling, and filament bulbs.
To power the game, which uses Unreal Engine 5, Starward Industries recommend you have an Intel® Core™ i5-10400F (6 core with 2.9 GHz ) or AMD Ryzen™ 5 3600 (6 core with 3.5 GHz) with 32 GB RAM and a GPU equivalent to an Nvidia RTX 2070 Super (8 GB) or Radeon 6700xt (12 GB).
We are looking forward to the release of The Invincible later this year, and considering the quality of the playable demo, we do not expect any further delays. For those who cannot wait, make sure to check out the Xbox Game Pass, and see why Acer is an official sponsor.
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AI Art for Marketing: A Guide for SMBs
There is no escape! From award winning AI generated photographs to the godfather of AI, Geoffrey Hinton’s resignation from Google, AI is all over the news right now. In the past six months or so, the future has arrived in the form of AI chatbots and text-to-image models. Read on to discover what AI art is, where it came from, and how your SMB (small and midsize business) can use AI art generators in marketing campaigns.
Alexa, what is AI, and what is AI generated art?
AI (Artificial Intelligence) has been around since the 1940s, and put simply, is the simulation of human intelligence processes by computer systems. The applications of AI are diverse, and as we will find out, often divisive. From Alexa and Siri to the recommendation systems on your Spotify and Netflix accounts, AI is increasingly becoming seamlessly integrated into the technology that we use in our daily lives. Recently, AI chatbots like ChatGPT and Google Bard have taken the world by storm, changing the way that many of us approach problem solving.
What is AI art? Well, AI art is, as it sounds, art generated by artificial intelligence. This could be any artwork, but generally refers to images and music created through generative algorithms and deep learning techniques, without the need for a human artist to throw paint at a canvas, or pen notes on a score.
Did AI art arrive at the end of 2022?
No, AI generated art didn’t appear out of nowhere at the end of last year. Let’s take a step back in time to see where AI art originated. Before its recent, personal computer based popularity, AI art was an artistic discipline with roots in the cybernetic creations of the 1950s. Artists in the 60s eagerly explored the relationship between new computing technology and the arts. The pioneering exhibition Cybernetic Serendipity, held at London’s Institute of Contemporary Arts in 1968, set the groundwork for the continuing development of AI art in the twentieth century. Five years later, in 1973, Artist Harold Cohen developed algorithms that allowed his computer program, AARON to draw and eventually paint with the irregularity of freehand drawing.
How does AI art work?
Today’s text-to-image generators offer a different response to a different question than those of the 1960s. AI image generators like GetIMG, NightCafe, and Deep Dream have all soared in popularity in recent months. The quality of AI generated images continues to improve, these are exciting times for instant, efficient, low cost creativity. How, exactly, did we get here?
Thanks to the emergence of deep learning algorithms, AI art programs such as DeepDream have been able to learn and adapt based on huge amounts of data, allowing users to create complex and realistic art. Another milestone in the recent evolution of AI art can be attributed to GANs (generative adversarial networks), invented by Ian Goodfellow in 2014. GANs work by training two neural networks in opposition, producing and evaluating images until the images produced are indistinguishable from real ones.
Moving forward to 2021, OpenAI developed CLIP (Contrastive Language-Image Pretraining). CLIP blends language processing and computer vision, allowing it to understand and analyze relationships between words and images. In 2022, diffusion models brought AI art into mainstream consciousness. These generative models function by transforming random noise signals into image data, check out stable diffusion for a taste of what is to come.
How can my SMB benefit from AI art?
At this point in our art journey, perhaps you are wondering if you can sell AI generated art? Will your business be the next Banksy of AI generated art? Like anything, package it right and someone will buy it. Portrait of Edmond de Belamy, the first portrait created using AI to come to auction, was sold at Christie’s New York for $432,500 in 2018.
A more realistic goal for most SMBs is to harness the power of AI generated art to create your company’s digital marketing images. There are several benefits. Firstly, there is reduced turnaround time with AI art, no wait, and no delay. You think it, the program digitally inks it instantly. Secondly, if you are looking to cut costs, or lack the budget to take on graphic designers, AI programs are a cost cutting alternative to employing people. Thirdly, if you don’t have the time or the patience to try to explain your needs to an illustrator or graphic designer, AI art will provide you with images that meet your needs, with no questions asked.
How to use AI art in your marketing strategy
Creating AI art for your marketing images can be as simple as typing in a description of what you require and then choosing a style that suits your brand. Depending on the AI art generator that you choose to use, as well as your level of engagement with the software, there are many options to customize your AI art and really make it unique.
The number of AI art generating programs out there increases daily, some are free, some require a monthly subscription. Check out GetIMG, NightCafe, Deep Dream, as well as DALL-E2, Jounce, and artbreeder to see if any of them can help you create suitable graphics for marketing your business.
AI art can be used in content and social media advertising and is particularly suited to social media platforms. By using AI art generators to create visually appealing advertising content, SMBs can stand out while saving time and money. AI art can help to personalize Email marketing campaigns: dynamic graphics increase appeal, increasing open and click-through rates. The personalized, custom aspect of AI art in marketing provides custom content for individual users based on browsing and purchase history, driving engagement and creating higher sales.
But, exercise caution: AI art is not a one-size-fits-all replacement for working with design professionals. Don’t trust the machine. Ask yourself if your AI art marketing images look right. Ensure that your AI generated designs will resonate with your target audience, and consider customizing your SMBs AI art style to align with your brand image.
Good artists borrow, great AI artists steal?
There are certainly some major ethical and legal considerations involved with using AI art generators. Proponents claim that AI art enhances human creativity but does not replace it. Inevitably, as AI advances, many human jobs will become redundant as AI systems vastly undercut human workers.
In terms of theft, AI art generators analyze images, learning from them in order to create new images. Issues of copyright, intellectual property, compensation, and crediting human artists whose work AI art generators have “scraped” is yet another bone of contention in this field. Potential legal implications of fair use vs copyright infringement pose an ongoing concern for users and creators of art and AI generated art. Rulings of current lawsuits related to AI generated art and intellectual property will guide future laws surrounding the use of AI art. How these regulations will be enforced internationally remains to be seen.
AI art generators enable anyone with a computer, an internet connection, and the ability to type a few words to create “art” in the style of any number of greatly talented artists. These were artists who struggled, starved, ate their paints, and died at the canvas, dedicated to their art. The instant, minimal effort gratification of AI generated art removes the magic from art, or adds to it, depending on your perspective.
Times change
Another perspective is that, as art changes, old ways are replaced, and later reappear. The artistic processes of artists in many creative fields have changed drastically over the past century. Take portraiture for example. For centuries, the portrait painter, working in pencil and oil paint, rendered their vision onto canvas. They were, for the most part, made redundant with the invention and popularization of photography in the early 20th century. Towards the end of the century, the rise of digital photography and digital print replaced film cameras and traditional darkroom printing methods. Look around you today, chances are it won’t be hard to spot someone creating a portrait of themselves using a smartphone, replete with beauty filters or bunny ears!
What does the future look like?
The future is bright for AI art in marketing and other applications. AI art will continue to develop increasingly intricate outputs after learning from larger datasets, replacing human artists in many roles. As AI technology continues to advance, AI art will be increasingly integrated into marketing campaigns for businesses large and small. There will soon come a point where it will be hard to distinguish between real and AI generated images and content. This lifelike, personalized, AI generated content will further engage target audiences and drive sales. Like it, or loathe it, AI generated art is here to stay.
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How To Choose a Secure Work Computer for Your SMB
In today's fast-paced, competitive world of commerce, businesses often find themselves working harder than ever. As such, not only are businesses desiring stronger, more durable hardware with impressive lifespans and software that is more reliable, but they are also placing an increasing importance on the security of their PCs.
What are ‘business-secure’ PCs?
Compared with a PC for personal, leisurely use, business laptops are often designed to handle more complex tasks. While many laptops can be easily adapted for work, not every device can be labeled as a business-secure device.
Business-secure PCs are devices that come with extra layers of security in terms of both their hardware and software. Internally secure, impressively durable, and highly functional, business-secure PCs are essentially designed to survive the hustle and bustle of the workplace. With the increasing need for hardware security, durability, video conferencing, hardware encryption, and biometric authentication in the workplace, not every work computer can meet the office's needs. Therefore, choosing a secure, functional, and reliable business laptop is a crucial matter for your business.
The need for business-secure PCs
It is usually the responsibility of the business to provide devices for employees in the workplace. There are several reasons why businesses should provide employees with not just work laptops, but business-secure PCs. Consider the following reasons:
1) They have enhanced cyber security
It isn’t difficult to imagine how business PCs can significantly enhance a company’s sense of cyber security. If all employees were to perform work tasks in the office with their own, personal laptops, there would rightfully be a concern over potential data breaches. Additionally, with business-secure PCs, companies will have more control over what can or cannot be installed on the company’s computers, thus reducing the risk of virus attacks and other potential forms of cyber threats.
Elevated cyber security is particularly key for small-to-medium businesses (SMBs). With a wide sampling of small businesses in a 2017 study, the Ponemon Institute revealed a 50% increase in SMBs reporting data privacy concerns over the course of just one year. Another study by Cisco in 2018 discovered that more than half (53%) of SMBs had had the unpleasant experience of a company data breach. When faced with potential cybercriminal activity, it is often particularly stressful for SMBs as they may not always have sufficient resources or knowledge to deal with such problems effectively.
2) They can store and manage your data efficiently
Data is arguably the most important asset in a company. Secure business computers are ones that can store and manage your data safely and effectively and usually have sufficient amounts of RAM and SSD storage for you to start with (see section below). Business-secure PCs should also pair efficiently with data management solutions. Microsoft OneDrive, for instance, is an updated, highly-secure tool that can help safeguard company data; it can also adapt as a company grows or shrinks in size.
3) They adapt well to current work trends
With more and more businesses changing work modes (e.g., hybrid working, migrating data to the cloud), devices should also adapt to what the workplace demands. Laptops should, for example, allow efficient cloud computing or have features that enhance the videoconferencing experience. In addition, everyone loves a lightweight computer, especially in the present day where travel has become an increasingly common thing to do in the workplace.
Specific types of features to look for in a business-secure PC
There are multiple features that a device can possess to be labeled as 'business-secure.' These include (but are not limited to) the following:
1) Enough storage space and RAM
RAM is key in deciding how well computers can function and perform basic work tasks, such as browsing the Internet, running applications, and working on documents. For most office work, such as Internet browsing and document writing, 8GB of RAM should be sufficient. A secure business computer also carries enough storage space for whatever files and applications are needed for the office. For data transfer to happen as effectively as possible, a secure business PC should use SSD storage instead of the traditionally used HDD. SSD storage is more desirable because, unlike HDDs which use mechanical parts, SSDs utilize flash memory and have no moving parts, being less energy-consuming. Approximately 256GB to 512GB of SSD storage should be sufficient to operate in most offices, although this would also depend on the industry.
2) Hardware-based anti-theft technologies
Device theft has consistently been a societal issue. Hardware-based anti-theft technology has been refined to alert owners when a device may be at risk of theft, track a device when it goes missing, or immobilize a device when it's unlawfully taken by someone other than the owner. On a firmware level, for instance, Windows secured-core PC is engineered with hardware security features, so as to protect user credentials at all times. Such features can systematically address the many forms of cyberattacks that 86% of small and medium businesses with outdated software are exposed to. Other security baselines, such as virtualization-based security and memory integrity are also relevant when it comes to warding off malicious attacks.
3) Voice control, fingerprint, or face reader
With the integration of biometrics into technology, the security of hardware devices has significantly improved. This is an upgrade from previous password-based technology, where a simple leak of a password could facilitate unauthorized logins. For instance, Windows Hello is a secure and highly personalized method for accessing one's Windows 11 devices using either facial recognition or fingerprints.
4) Hardware Security Module (HSM)
HSMs are computing devices that efficiently safeguard sensitive information, such as digital keys. They are also capable of performing a variety of encryption and decryption functions. Additionally, camera shutters and privacy panels can be an excellent feature for business-secure PCs, as they obstruct side angle-viewing. This leads to peace of mind that a company’s sensitive information will not be accidentally seen by unauthorized people during conferences or in public.
5) A powerful CPU and GPU
When choosing a secure business laptop, the CPU (short for central processing unit) is a key element to keep in mind. It can be thought of as the brain of a computer, as it executes instructions for a device’s arithmetic, logic, and input or output operations. It gives a computer the power to do its work, and the stronger a CPU is, the more effectively a device can function. CPUs can be evaluated in terms of their speed, measured in GHz. For typical office work, 3.5 GHz can do a perfect job of running key software applications. For audiovisual or design-heavy industries, such as film editing or 3D rendering, up to 4.0 GHz would be ideal for better work efficacy.
Also relevant are GPUs–specially designed electronic circuits that can manipulate memory with the objective of accelerating the creation of images in a frame buffer intended for output to a display device. GPUs are seen in workstations, game consoles, mobile phones, computers, and many embedded systems (i.e., a combination of hardware and software designed to perform specific functions).
6) Good connectivity
If you’ve noticed how some devices seem to connect better to wifi than others, it’s not an illusion. Certain devices, especially if they come with more updated antennas, do connect more efficiently. Business secure PCs come with better connectivity, which entails faster, more reliable Wifi 6E connectivity along with stronger 5G broadband connection. Hardware-wise, connectivity also implies better connection between I/O ports and peripherals (such as your computer mice, keyboards, monitors, and printers).
7) Long-lasting, quick-charging batteries
With employees spending a significant portion of their lives in the office, it is only fair that they are provided with business laptops that can smoothly power through the day. Laptops with effective, quick-charging batteries are essential, as they allow employees to move around the office (or around meetings in the city) in a carefree manner. Such power-efficient batteries allow employees to work with a peace of mind without having to tend to inconvenient device-charging throughout the day.
8) Ability to withstand accidents, spills, and other types of climates
Accidents happen in the workplace, no matter how hard one tries to avoid them. Whether it be spills, drops, or natural disasters, a secure business computer can handle them all. Secure business devices can also adapt well to sudden changes such as sand, dust, humidity, and temperature shocks, so you wouldn't have to worry if your next business meeting were near the Sahara Desert or freezing Alaska.
Undecided? The Acer TravelMate Series Can Help Your SMB Thrive
While businesses may have slightly different criteria for what a business-secure device looks like, some computers are simply more thoughtfully designed than others. If you’re still browsing page after page of computer models for your SMB, look no further. The Acer TravelMate Series carries the potential to help your business thrive to the fullest. Here’s why:
It has robust security features
Acer TravelMate series features a solid example of a robust security login system. With IR facial recognition or power-on fingerprint readers, each device can only be logged into by the employee assigned to it. Taking a short bathroom or coffee break? Select models can utilize sensing technology to lock the device’s screen while the user is away, so employees will never have to worry about their files being touched while on a short break.
Reliable and durable, after extremely rigorous quality testing
In a busy office where things can get hectic, accidents with electronic devices can occur. Whether it's coffee spills on a keyboard or a colleague tripping over your charging cable causing your laptop to fall, these scenarios are not at all unrealistic in the workplace. Acer’s TravelMate series has been carefully designed to meet the MIL-STD-810H standards for impressive reliability and durability.
It is well-equipped for everything you can imagine about hybrid or remote work
Flooded with video conferences on your schedule? The TravelMate series is designed to ensure that your conferencing goes absolutely smoothly. With significantly improved webcams and enhanced voice capture powered by AI-driven noise reduction, and upward-facing speakers featuring DTS® Audio, you can effortlessly increase the efficiency of your virtual meetings while enjoying greater peace of mind regarding your privacy.
Do you often commute between home, the office, and other meeting locations? Engineered to weigh only around 1.6 kg and slimmed down to a remarkable thickness of just 20 mm, TravelMate devices literally lighten your load, making those long days easier to handle.
Excellence, lined up for your choosing
Choosing PCs for your business can be a stressful experience, especially since there are a wide range of elements to factor in. Versatile, adaptable, and thoughtfully engineered to serve your business needs, For its multi-functionality and the quality of its features, Acer’s TravelMate series is highly affordable, making it an optimal choice for small businesses. Get the reliability and sense of security you deserve with your work devices today by exploring Acer’s TravelMate family.
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Top 7 Cities in South Asia for Digital Nomads 2023
Welcome back, seasoned voyager and aspiring digital nomad! This time around we are setting our sights on seven cities in South Asia that are great places for digital nomads. Before we set off, let’s not confuse South Asian countries with Southeast Asia. Today we will not be talking about Thailand and Cambodia, we will be focussing on the Indian subcontinent. Unfurl your map of South Asia and let’s get going! But hold your horses, we have a few more pre-departure pointers before we set sail for Cox’s Bazar.
If you are a digital nomad, please ensure that you have a comprehensive insurance plan before traveling to foreign shores. Also, as we have mentioned before, learn from our mistakes and check out this informative article covering common digital nomad mistakes and how to prevent them.
Bengaluru, India
India is the dominant presence on the South Asia map, and a must-visit country for digital nomads. Indeed, many of the major cities in South Asia are cities in India that you may have never heard of. After months of grueling travel, we present Bengaluru (Bangalore), India’s very own Silicon Valley. The capital of the southern state of Karnataka, Bengaluru sits comfortably at an elevation of over 3,000ft above sea level, so summer will be mild! The third most populous city in India, Bengaluru is a modern day magnet for digital nomads. Contemporary, sprawling and boasting fast, reliable internet, the city is a stunning mix of the old and the new. As Joe Strummer said: Let the Boogie Woogie rumble in the back of Bangalore! Don’t miss the Bangalore Palace and make the most of the coworking spaces in Whitefield.
Cox’s Bazar, Bangladesh
Do you like long walks on sandy beaches? How about working remotely on the longest beach in the world? Cox’s Bazar in Southeastern Bangladesh is home to the world’s longest natural sea beach, stretching around 150 miles along the Bay of Bengal. Cox’s Bazar offers visitors an inviting combination of beach resorts and natural beauty spots. The town itself boasts plentiful cafes with stable internet, and accommodation ranging from basic lodgings to top end five star hotels. According to our friend at Sifurbo Travel, Cox’s Bazar has many highlights from night fishing, to surfing and visiting nearby temples. There are currently no coworking spaces in Cox’s Bazar, why not go there and set one up?
Thimphu, Bhutan
Next on our digital nomad’s voyage through the countries of South Asia, we visit Thimphu, the capital of Bhutan. Bhutan is not the easiest of places to get to, or to get into, for that matter. Don’t let this deter you though: high value, low volume tourism prevents the kingdom from being overrun with hooligans. Thimphu is a laid back, small city, and the world’s only national capital without any traffic lights! The Himalayan kingdom’s only city has everything that a digital nomad may need. Fast internet connections in friendly cafes and hotels await weary travelers. Thimphu is also home to several convenient coworking spaces including WorkSpace.
Malé, The Maldives
Descending from the lofty mountains of Bhutan, let’s pack up and travel to the pristine beaches of The Maldives. Located in the Indian Ocean, about 750 km southwest of India, Malé is a dream destination for many digital nomads. The capital city is actually one of the most densely populated cities in the world, with over a quarter of a million inhabitants crammed into an area of just over 8 square kilometers. Remember, this is a tourist destination, so prices for accommodation are, for the most part, not shoestring budget friendly. The lure of Malé may be its proximity to quieter beach destinations, and other, more affordable places, like Maafushi. If booze and bikinis are an integral part of your lifestyle, please note that alcohol is only available on resort islands, and bikinis are banned on public beaches!
Lahore, Pakistan
Touted by many travelers as “the place to be” among South Asian digital nomad destinations, Pakistan is the hot ticket right now. Data sim is reasonably priced, and Lahore, the second largest city in Pakistan has much to offer the digital nomad. The cultural heart of the country, Lahore is a center of arts, fashion, cuisine and learning. Often referred to as a city of gardens, prices for accommodation, food and transport are very affordable in Lahore and Pakistan as a whole. Many digital nomads list this as a reason for lingering a while longer. The ancient city of Lahore boasts the best street food in Pakistan as well as many upmarket international restaurants. Check out sites such as Lahore Fort and Shalimar Garden, as well as several other UNESCO sites dotted throughout the city.
Pokhara, Nepal
If you plan to travel to Nepal, spend a few days in Kathmandu, then head to Pokhara. Nepal’s second city is truly a tranquil jewel. Located in central Nepal on the shore of Phewa Lake, Pokhara is the gateway to the Annapurna region. If you are a trekker, or a digital nomad looking for a relaxing city to work from, Pokhara has world-class hotels, comfortable home stays, and everything in-between. Internet speeds are decent in Pokhara, but power cuts may occur during the summer months. Most accommodations have power inverters to keep the wheels turning during blackouts, so you would be wise to book lodgings accordingly. March to May are the preferred months to travel to Pokhara, and don’t miss the opportunity to visit Devis Falls.
Nuwara Eliya, Sri Lanka
Last, and certainly not least on our tour of South Asian countries for digital nomads, Sri Lanka is a destination that we have previously discussed. We like it so much that we are visiting again! After getting our fill of beach sunshine in Galle, a summer stint in the hill city of Nuwara Eliya is called for! Often referred to as Little England, take time to cool off in the quaint tea growing region famed for its clean air and colonial-era bungalows. The city is quiet and relaxing and offers stunning hikes in the Horton Plains National Park, as well as golfing and other genteel activities. Remember, living costs in Nuwara Eliya (and Sri Lanka as a whole) are low and there is no tax on foreign-derived income for digital nomads. Visa wise, a range of visas for remote foreign workers from 30 to 270 days are on offer in Sri Lanka.
We hope that you enjoyed our trip. Traveling to India or other South Asian countries from the USA is an exciting prospect, but before booking your flights, equip yourself with one of the best laptops for digital nomads to work remotely. Finally, on our better safe than sorry checklist, remember that you will need to protect both your devices and data while traveling. Have a fine journey!
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An Early Access Review of Starship Troopers: Extermination
Starship Troopers: Extermination, a new multiplayer game by developer Offworld Industries, was released in early access on May 17, 2023. The game aims to deliver an action-packed and immersive experience set in the Starship Troopers universe. By blending FPS gameplay with tower defense mechanics, the game provides a unique twist on the genre. In this review, we go over the basics of the game and what we think so far.
A game based on a film based on a book
Starship Troopers: Extermination was inspired by Starship Troopers, a 1997 science fiction action film based on the 1959 Starship Troopers book by Robert A. Heinlein. The 1997 film is set in the 23rd century, with Earth at war with an alien race of giant insects known as the Arachnids. The film follows the story of teenager Johnny Rico and his friends as they serve in the military under the Earth world government and journey across space to fight the Arachnids.
In the decades since its initial release, Starship Troopers has continued to become more popular among critics and audiences and is now considered a cult classic and prescient satire of fascism and authoritarian governance. The film launched a multimedia franchise that includes four sequels: Starship Troopers 2: Hero of the Federation (2004), Starship Troopers 3: Marauder (2008), Starship Troopers: Invasion (2012), and Starship Troopers: Traitor of Mars (2017). Video games, comics, and merchandise have also been produced under the franchise, including the RTS game Starship Troopers: Terran Command released in early 2023.
What is Starship Troopers: Extermination about?
This licensed FPS sees players battling against waves of Arachnids as part of the elite Deep Space Vanguard military operations team. The deep-space mining colony on Planet Valaka, designation PE-59, has been decimated by the Arachnids—and the Vanguard has been sent in to take it back. Players do their part within a platoon of up to 16 players. As soon as dropship hits dirt, your trusty Morita Assault Rifle, build tool, and fellow Vanguard Troopers are all that will keep you alive while exploring the hostile surface of Valaka. Players need to blend combat with resource retrieval and light construction work. Forward advances and base establishment take a lot of teamwork, but most players in the early access servers have been managing to pull together as a team, even if they are unable to speak the same language.
Progress in the early access phase
As a work in progress, Starship Troopers: Extermination has taken a light approach, with three trooper classes and just two mission variants in the early access build. A tutorial is available that teaches new players the basics, including how to build and repair base structures, how to harvest resources, and how to run resource pods back to base.
The game succeeds in capturing what makes the franchise exciting, and it allows players with diverse playstyles to combine their skills through the multiplayer functionality; however, it falls short in several areas that may cause the game to stumble in its longevity and replayability. On the other hand, as an early access title, the game has plenty of room to grow, and placeholders are already showing up in a number of areas. For example, loadouts, game modes, and difficulty options are expected to undergo changes in the final version. Offworld Industries are planning ahead and teasing glimpses of future development in their publicly available early access development roadmap. The title also has an incredibly busy Discord server, where players can seek support, meet up for games, and put forward their own suggestions for additions or changes.
Graphics and playstyle
The visuals are fantastic and the design of the bases, buildings, and vehicles (that cannot actually be used) all look authentic and true to the movies. If you look up to the sky, you see clouds, stars, and planets. The game runs smoothly, although you may experience dropped frames during the initial moments when a horde of hundreds of arachnids breaks through your defenses. Gameplay is frenetic, with players generally running around madly, shooting anything insect-like, reviving teammates, attempting to repair walls, and just basically surviving. Extermination is fast-paced and action-packed, and the bug-slaughtering action is probably its biggest strength. Battles are intense and satisfying. From the moment you are dropped planetside, you have to coordinate with your teammates to face off against the relentless hordes of bugs. As you do so, the game rewards you with a sense of accomplishment and growth by unlocking new weapons, equipment, and perks.
Only two mission variants are available in early access. The first is Attack and Secure (AAS), which gives your squad a set of objectives that generally involve taking and holding various assets, such as ore refineries, at different locations on the map. These tend to be light, quick battles. The second mission type, Advanced Reconnaissance Capsule (ARC), keeps the primary asset to be protected in one place but requires you to gather resources from around the map to keep it powered. This requires coordination with other players and frequent engagement with both the combat and building mechanics.
Playable classes
Players can choose from three trooper classes:
* Hunter: The Hunter Assault Infantry is a highly agile and swift soldier class equipped with cutting-edge jump jet systems, advanced optics, and an augmented reality display. Armed with the iconic Morita MK1 carbine, they become the vanguard of any assault, launching lightning-quick offensives against arachnid hordes.
* Operator: The Operative Support Infantry is a versatile force equipped with essential tools and capabilities to assist and sustain their fellow troopers in the heat of battle. They carry canisters of gas or ore, a Medical UAV, and first aid stims and have two formidable weapon options.
* Bastion: The Bastion Heavy Infantry is a soldier class with impenetrable armor, enhanced defenses, and formidable weaponry. They can enter into what is called Siege Mode, whereby they basically become an immovable fortress on the battlefield.
Operator appears to be the most popular class so far in early access build, possibly because operator is the most versatile class and therefore gives players the most varied work to do in any one game. Nevertheless, with the cooperative building system and specific class abilities, all classes have a way to contribute, whether building or repairing structures, throwing down armor boxes, or healing teammates. The area voice chat and ping controls allow for players to effectively collaborate on objectives and plan their strategies.
Gameplay so far
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kZGpWhGtolA
One gameplay drawback is the fact that anyone can build anything in the base. Although this feature allows structures to be built faster, what actually happens is that you might be halfway through building an outer wall, for example, and then another player will build a turret with a ladder halfway through your wall that creates gaps for the Arachnids to get in. Or even worse, a player will just straight up delete the wall you just spent resources building and place down a turret or something that they think is better than what you had built. Fortunately this issue is receiving a lot of recognition and we can expect solutions in the final release.
Players face off against five types of Arachnids in early access, with more arachnids expected to appear later in the development cycle. Each Arachnid type is distinct, and the most effective tactics for defeating each of them differ.
* Drone. As juvenile versions of Warriors, smaller and with weaker shells, Drones are the weakest of the Arachnid forces; however, they do have strength in numbers. Drones never venture far from Brood hives or bug tunnels and only attack when threatened. Scouting ahead and clearing out the majority of drones at long to medium range is the best strategy.
* Warrior. These are the soldiers of the Arachnid species. They reproduce much more rapidly than do any of the other types of bugs, which is why they are generally present in almost any battle with Arachnids. Warriors have powerful pincer-like mandibles that are capable of crushing rock and metal and of severing limbs as a means of attack; therefore, defeating them from a distance is recommended.
* Gunner. Gunners are incredibly deadly, spitting toxic substances at your team over long distances. They are not as heavily armored as the other types of bugs, but due to the effectiveness of their attack, priority should be given to defeating them over Drones and Warriors.
* Plasma Grenadier. These bugs serve as the artillery for the Arachnid forces. They fire huge, volatile globs of plasma from the rear of their abdomens at airborne targets or fixed constructs. They have no melee attack capabilities, so getting up close to them is the safest way to kill them.
* Tiger Elite. These are the strongest of the Arachnid forces. Tiger Bugs are easy to detect due to their tiger-like stripes. They are much more aggressive than Warriors and have chitinous armor plates that are completely immune to weapons that do not have piercing capabilities.
In early access, the game only has one map, so gameplay may feel monotonous after several rounds. The upgrades system provides a satisfying sense of growth; however, the repetitive nature of the objectives and the single map can dampen the overall excitement and demotivate players from progressing further. As the game moves out of early access and developments continue, these issues will no longer be of concern.
Overall, Starship Troopers: Extermination has the potential to be an exceptional fusion of tower defense and FPS genres. Although the game has some clunky controls and is a little repetitive, it still manages to provide an immersive experience that fans of the franchise will undoubtedly enjoy. With additional improvements to address its shortcomings and introduce more diverse content, Starship Troopers: Extermination has the potential to deliver an even more exceptional and engaging experience for Starship Troopers enthusiasts and fans of the genre.
Currently, Starship Troopers: Extermination has only been announced for release on PC. Whether a Starship Troopers Extermination Xbox or PlayStation version will be released will not be clear until closer to the final launch, which will be after one year of early access. For now, Xbox gamers should check out the Xbox Game Pass and see why Acer is an official sponsor.
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7 Upcoming Video Game Conventions in 2023–2024
Video game conventions offer gamers the opportunity to play new games, hear the latest details about upcoming titles, and get hands-on experience with newly developed consoles, devices, and peripherals. Gaming conventions are also exciting events for developers, hardware manufacturers, and vendors, as they provide a platform to connect in-person with their customers and industry counterparts. In this article, we cover the top 7 upcoming video game conventions to get ready for in 2023–2024.
7 Must See Video Game Conventions in 2023-2024
1) gamescom: August 23–27, 2023
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VQ5V6l25rO0
Located in Germany, gamescom is the world’s biggest consumer video game convention, attracting gamers, developers, and gaming hardware manufacturers from all over the gaming and entertainment sector. The excitement generated by this event generally resembles that of a festival, with the event featuring cosplay activities, esports tournaments, stage shows, panels, and other exciting goings-on.
In last year’s hybrid in-person and digital event, gamescom hosted 1100 exhibitors and 265,000 in-person visitors from more than 100 countries. Exhibitors included the usual lineup of global market leaders, such as Warner Bros, Epic Games, and Microsoft. An even larger number of people attended online: Opening Night Live had 12 million views, and overall, the entire show program had 130 million views.
This year, attendees have been invited to, “get up close and personal with the latest gaming trends and innovations. Play the newest games, meet developers and publishers, and connect with your community.” Attendees can either attend the event in Cologne or experience it digitally.
Attendees can expect to enjoy the following favorites at gamescom 2023:
* Opening Night Live: Hosted by Geoff Keighley, this entertaining stream includes a number of hotly anticipated game announcements.
* Indie Arena Booth: An open home for independent game developers.
* Cosplay Village: Cosplayers, artists, music, and show acts perform on the community stage.
2) PAX West: September 1–4, 2023
Several PAX conventions are held each year at various locations across North America and in Australia. Starting out as the Penny Arcade Expo and having its first run in 2003, PAX showcases all the new major console games and the latest gaming technologies, with a focus on tabletop, independent, and arcade games.
The West Coast edition of PAX will be going ahead this year in September at the Seattle Convention Center and will include the full lineup of activities. Make sure you don’t miss out on the exciting community experience, and of course these main features:
* PAX Rising Showcase: An intensely curated collection of games selected by the PAX Team and highlighted on the show floor.
* PAX Arena: The official Esports stage where top-tier combatants from around the world compete.
* Omegathon: A tournament in which twenty participants randomly selected from the audience compete for a grand prize. Omegathon can have competitors playing anything from Halo to Tetris.
3) Tokyo Game Show: September 21–24, 2023
The Tokyo Game Show remains one of the top gaming shows in the world. The large-scale show has booths from all the major game publishers, console makers, and mobile gaming platforms, with a few indies and international booths thrown in as well. The Tokyo Game Show runs over four days: the first two days are open exclusively to industry professionals, and the last two days allow gamers and other members of the public to join in.
Despite the difficulty getting into Japan due to lingering COVID-19 restrictions, large numbers of both Japanese and international publishers, developers, and gamers managed to attend the Tokyo Game Show last year at the Makuhari Messe convention center, with a total of 138,912 visitors attending the show. One of the most elaborate booths at the event was for the Steam Deck, the handheld gaming device for PC games that was created by Valve Corporation.
The upcoming edition of the Tokyo Game Show has been touted as the event’s biggest so far. The organizers are planning on making use of every one of the venue’s halls, something that has not been done for quite some time. The Tokyo Game Show VR experience, which is an online feed of the event that can be watched normally or in VR, will also make its appearance this year, marking the third year in a row that interested individuals who were unable to attend can still experience the excitement after the in-person event’s conclusion.
4) BlizzCon: November 3–4, 2023
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fVJ-LLn6Lj0
BlizzCon is a convention at which Blizzard Entertainment exclusively showcases its upcoming products and provides important announcements to fans. The convention gathers fans in a celebration of Blizzard culture and fandom. Despite featuring the work of only one company, BlizzCon typically brings in crowds of 40,000 people. In addition to hearing exciting news announcements, fans get to demonstrate their dedication to the game worlds they love through art, cosplay, and digital storytelling contests. A concert is usually held at the end of the convention, and it usually includes some big-name performances.
BlizzCon will take place this year at the Anaheim Convention Center in Los Angeles, returning with the full in-person format of the event after a three-year absence. Anticipated announcements at the event include details on the next expansion for World of Warcraft and an official reveal of Blizzard’s new, as-yet unannounced survival MMO game. Hearthstone and World of Warcraft are also due for expansions, so announcements related to those games are expected.
5) The Game Awards: December 2023
Technically not a convention, but still a gathering of passionate gamers and developers, the Game Awards is an annual event that recognizes outstanding achievements in the video game industry. The event is widely considered the most prestigious awards show for developers and publishers, and last year’s event had 103 million viewers. Hosted and produced by Geoff Keighley, who also hosts Opening Night Live at the annual gamescom conference, the Game Awards is supported by an advisory board that consists of industry-leading advisers from companies including Epic Games, Nintendo, Rockstar Games, Sony, Tencent, Ubisoft, and Valve.
This year, the Game Awards celebrates its 10-year anniversary. The show is expected to take place on the first Thursday in December at the Microsoft Center in Los Angeles, which has been its home for the last few years. This year has seen the release of several amazing games, including Hogwarts Legacy, Diablo IV, Star Wars Jedi: Survivor, and The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom. These games will all be vying for the title of 2023 Game of the Year.
6) Game Developers Conference: March 18–22, 2024
The Game Developers Conference draws together approximately 28,000 attendees each year from the game development community for five days of education, inspiration, and networking. The event showcases the latest game development tools and services from leading technology companies, such as Amazon, Google, Intel, Microsoft, Nvidia, Oculus, Sony, and Epic Games.
Highlights of the Game Developers Conference include GDC Play, where you can play games from emerging and independent developers, and alt.ctrl.GDC, where you try out innovative alternative controllers and meet the developers behind them.
Who goes to GDC?
* Programmers
* Artists
* Producers
* Game designers
* Audio professionals
* Business leaders
7) PAX East: March 21–24, 2024
PAX East is the premiere PAX event and the biggest gaming convention on the East Coast. As with all PAX conventions, at this event, attendees can expect to see several upcoming big-name and independent video games, as well as enjoy discussion panels, musical performances, and fun tournaments. In contrast to PAX Unplugged conventions, which focus on tabletop gaming, PAX East is dedicated primarily to electronic gaming of all types: console, PC, VR, and other media.
In 2024, PAX East will be held as usual at the Boston Convention and Exhibition Center in Massachusetts. Following on from the success of the 2023 event, expect the halls at PAX East 204 to be filled to the brim with gamers from all over the world celebrating the world of gaming.
Video game conventions have evolved into celebrations of technology and drivers of economic growth, consistently drawing in hundreds of thousands of attendees. Although even renowned and longstanding conventions may eventually be discontinued (we do not expect E3 to return), new events are gradually established that fill the gap, and the quality and scope of the conventions that are held each year stand as a testament to the gaming community’s dedication to sharing their passion for gaming and their knowledge about all things gaming-related.
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Father's Day Tech Gift Guide From Acer (2023)
Father’s Day this year takes place on Sunday, June 18th: have you found the perfect gift yet, or are you going with the infamous tie? For many people, coming up with Father’s Day gift ideas is infinitely harder than Mother’s Day. It can be (and often is) difficult to know what your dad really wants or needs.
With the holiday fast approaching, it’s time to start filling up your virtual shopping cart. If you’re in need of some inspiration, look no further: in this article, we’ll take some of the hard work off of your shoulders by presenting you with 7 great tech gift ideas just in time for Father’s Day 2023.
7 best Father’s Day tech gifts 2023
ES Series 3 eScooter
eScooters have been all the rage recently, providing a convenient transportation option for distances a bit too far to walk but not far enough to drive. For those looking to get in on the craze and see what everyone’s been talking about, the ES Series 3 eScooter is a great choice.
The ES Series 3 eScooter excels in all areas: its foldable design and light weight at 35 pounds make it highly portable, while its multiple speeds expand its transportation possibilities. It holds up to 220 pounds and comes with LED headlight and refractors to ensure safety at night. Get one today for dad and brighten up his Father’s Day!
Nitro Gaming Controller
The Nitro Gaming Controller is a must-buy for any gamer. Its elegant black-and-red design emphasizes its focus on a powerful, unforgettable gaming experience. Its technical specifications are of course top-notch: its asymmetrical joysticks ensure comfort throughout a long gaming session, the turbo button gives a one-way ticket to enhanced performance, and the dual vibration motors will keep your gamer dad immersed in the game.
The controller is compatible with both Windows and Android platforms, and the 6.5 foot cable can charge either USB-C to USB-A or USB-A to USB-C. This controller is a steal at $34.99, so snatch one up soon in time for Father’s Day!
Nitro 5 Gaming Laptop
Looking for the perfect gift from your gamer dad? The Nitro 5 Gaming Laptop could be just the thing to make your dad feel special on Father’s Day. Gaming computers are known to be more expensive than regular computers due to their improved graphics and specifications designed just for gaming. That can mean spending a pretty penny just to get something decent.
With the Nitro 5 Gaming Laptop, you get a quality device for a competitive price. The 1TB NVMe PCIe SSD provides plenty of storage, allowing your dad to download several large games without clogging up the hard drive. The 15.6inch screen provides impressive, lifelike graphics at 1080p, and combined with the NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3070 8GB graphics card, your dad will have a blast. Check it out today!
Predator G1 Aluminum Frame Suitcase
The Predator G1 is a high-powered gaming desktop ready to take on any game. It’s become a popular choice for gamers searching for high quality at an affordable price tag. If your gamer dad’s caught on to the trend, you’ll definitely want to consider this Predator G1 Aluminum Frame Suitcase.
Modeled foam inserts on the inside are designed to protect the desktop, keyboard, mouse, and AC adapter during transport, while the sturdy exterior absorbs vibrations and prevents damage. Besides, with the combination lock, you can rest assured that the system is safe from theft. The Predator G1 Aluminum Frame Suitcase is a great choice for a gamer dad on the go who wants to prevent costly damage to their device.
Chromebook 514
Could your dad use a new laptop? The Chromebook 514 might be the perfect choice. Its wide range of features guarantees high performance at an affordable price point. For example, the 14-inch 1080p screen provides crystal-clear HD image quality without the strain of smaller devices. Along with the durable, attractive metal body and 12 hours of battery life, this device will be able to power all your dad’s computing needs all throughout the day. And at only $249.99, this gift won’t break the bank!
Halo Smart Speaker
With this Halo Smart Speaker, you can give your dad an upgrade in the audio department. Whether he’s listening to music, streaming video, or gaming, this speaker will optimize his experience.
The sleek, stylish device comes with Google Assistant, a powerful, voice-activated system that can schedule meetings, play music and podcasts, and locate restaurants and other places of interest nearby. Plus, the LED display on the bottom is completely customizable and also responds to music, making for a unique and colorful listening experience. No matter what kind of music your dad listens to, the Halo Smart Speaker proves to be a smart, thoughtful gift.
Portable Monitor
When operating from your home office, having a second monitor is a lifesaver. Gamers may want to game on one screen while controlling music playback on the other, or workers might find it much more convenient to display data on one screen while keeping e-mail or other communications tools on the others.
But what happens when you’re on the go? You revert back to a single screen, downgrading your amount of space and likely affecting your mood. Well, that’s where portable monitors come in. A portable monitor may sound like an oxymoron, but monitors aren’t just for the home office anymore.
With the PM1 Portable Monitor, you can ensure expanded visibility and enhanced productivity wherever you go. The ultra-light 0.97kg monitor delivers a 15.6” viewing area while still managing to be a comfortable fit in any bag or briefcase. With its combination of portability and usability, the PM1 portable monitor is a great tech gift for Father’s Day 2023.
Conclusion
For many people, thinking of the perfect gift for Father’s Day can be a struggle. It’s not easy to find something that your dad needs or wants. With the list of tech gifts for dads above, you can narrow your options and find something that will pique your dad’s interests. Order now to make sure your gamer dad gets that perfect gift before Father’s Day on Sunday, June 18th!
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The Benefits and Risks of Moving Your Business to the Cloud
In this highly digitized era, it is now the norm for companies to save, store, and share their work files on the Internet for easier and more secure access. In this transition, there is much for small-to-medium businesses (SMBs) to learn when it comes to cloud computing in the workplace.
What is cloud computing?
Put in simple terms, cloud computing refers to a range of computing services delivered over the Internet (what is otherwise known as “the cloud”). From servers and databases all the way down to computer analytics and storage, cloud computing is here to revolutionize the workplace in the long run. Cloud services are often paid for with a monthly fee and are a good means to reduce infrastructural costs.
Cloud computing for small businesses: why should you consider the cloud?
Although there is little doubt that cloud computing is beneficial for businesses of all sizes, it may be particularly key for the success of small-to-medium businesses (SMBs). This is primarily because of its scalability. With the flexibility of cloud computing costs (i.e., you pay just how much you need monthly), cloud-based tools can be adapted as your company grows in size. Cloud computing promises small companies agility in their business and allows workers to stay closely connected.
Furthermore, for SMBs, the storage and sharing of data on the Internet also implies easy access for authorized individuals. This is particularly useful for initial-stage startup companies that may be recruiting talent from around the globe.
The benefits of cloud computing
Coming with a whole package of conveniences, it is no wonder that cloud computing has slowly become a must-have tool in offices. Here are some of its benefits:
1) It is accessible universally, facilitating collaboration and building productivity
By having all your work files saved, organized, and stored in the cloud, employees are able to access documents anytime, anywhere. There is also the added convenience of making edits easier to save and share on a server, saving your team the trouble of constantly emailing each other back and forth and saving files repetitively onto a limited disk space.
This feature is particularly relevant in a post-pandemic world where hybrid work is widely practiced around the world. Using a secure cloud computing system, a well-maintained server can hugely facilitate collaboration and build productivity in your workplace. Documents can now be passed on in a matter of seconds. The virtual space that cloud computing offers would make the physical distance between employees seem almost non-existent.
2) It saves money for your business
In a pre-cloud world, a business would typically need to purchase significant quantities of hardware for data to be stored. However, with just a monthly fee, businesses can now keep their files operational at a hugely affordable cost. Put in other words, why should you spend perhaps tens of thousands of dollars on hardware and network maintenance for your company’s data, when you can allow a highly-equipped company to do the job for you for a significantly reduced monthly fee?
3) It brings enhanced data security and extra peace of mind
With cyber security research growing firmly, an added benefit of cloud computing is its enhanced data security. To begin with, files on cloud servers are usually encrypted, meaning that information is converted into a ‘code’ to stop unauthorized access. Furthermore, servers and data centers are often situated in locked buildings where people cannot typically access, making cyber break-ins tricky to operationalize. Such elevated data security is especially important if a company has sensitive data that they cannot afford to have leaked.
4) It prevents data loss in natural disasters
A commonly overlooked benefit of cloud computing is data recovery in uncontrollable scenarios, such as natural disasters. When a hurricane, a flood, or a tornado hits the company grounds, there is no guarantee that a company’s data can survive if stored insecurely on vulnerable hardware. In disasters, rain and wind can often cause hardware supplies to break down, and data often cannot be retrieved if the hardware it is stored in gets destroyed. As such, in a way, cloud computing is an ‘insurance’ against data loss in such situations that simply cannot be helped.
5) Applications can be built with speed like never before
Perhaps one of the strongest advantages of a cloud system is how it allows people to build applications faster. On the cloud, there is no need to wait to procure, provision, or configure infrastructure—that is, software can be released or updated more conveniently.
What are the security risks of cloud computing?
Although cloud computing is here to stay, some risks should not be overlooked. These include:
1) Data security and data loss
While cloud computing does indeed come with added security (see above), data breaches are still possible. Additionally, in a shared cyberspace, with each employee carrying the responsibility of handling company data, data loss (i.e., where data is accidentally deleted or corrupted) may inevitably occur. It is therefore critical to raise employee awareness of such possibilities and make clear what measures to take to avoid them.
2) Vendor lock-in
Vendor lock-in is a tricky situation wherein a business using a given cloud computing service cannot easily migrate to a competitor's platform. This is a key barrier to the introduction of cloud computing in IT, and the lack of standardization among cloud computing systems also contributes to the issue. Careful choice of a platform in the first instance, hence, is critical.
3) Downtime and performance issues
The cloud may occasionally have downtime. The timing is unpredictable and it may occur during the peak of office hours, making it impossible for employees to access remote data when it is needed. Such downtimes, while usually not long-lasting, may still pose some consequences for the business if happening at an inconvenient time.
4) Potential hidden costs
Although cloud computing is considered an economical choice, IT expenditures on it are not always optimized. There are, for example, surveys that indicate how 30% of cloud computing spending is wasted. The optimization of costs is hence an ongoing topic for businesses to reflect on.
5) Legal and regulatory compliance can be complicated
With cloud computing being relatively new and unfamiliar to many, it may be easy to overlook legal and regulatory compliances. These compliances relate to the process of ensuring that a business adheres to the IT laws enacted by governing bodies. Training on this should hence be expected in businesses.
Microsoft Azure: an Optimal Cloud Computing Platform for Your Business
There may be some choices on the market when it comes to cloud computing. However, there are many reasons to suggest that Microsoft Azure would be an optimal choice when it comes to cloud storage for business.
With four categories of cloud computing – infrastructure as a service (IaaS), platform as a service (PaaS), software as a service (SaaS), and serverless functions – Microsoft Azure provides a large variety of cloud services. From computing to analytics, and from storage to networking, businesses can use Azure flexibly to achieve their goals. Any user can also either run applications in the public cloud or scale entirely new applications. It is compatible with open source technologies; importantly, when it comes to data loss or service interruption, its data recovery time is 66% faster than an on-premise IT solution.
How can you successfully introduce cloud computing to your SMB?
Despite the benefits that cloud computing can offer, not every business understands how to introduce it successfully. For instance, the Flexera 2021 State of the Cloud Report revealed that more than 30% of cloud activity turned out to be inefficient in 2021. Furthermore, as much as 80% of chief information officers have not yet truly reaped the true advantages of migrating a business to the cloud. New technology can be complicated and overwhelming to introduce into the workplace, so here are some tips to move cloud computing into your business more smoothly.
To move to the cloud, a business would have to first choose a platform (carefully, so as to avoid the vendor lock-in issue mentioned previously). Domain names should be synced, and existing files properly organized and uploaded. In addition to these, consider the following steps:
1) Assess Your Company’s Needs and Evaluate Relevant Costs
Before joining the trend of moving to the cloud, take time to evaluate whether the move is absolutely needed for your company. Is your business going partially remote and starting to see challenges supporting remote employees? Is collaboration between employees slowed down due to technological disconnection? Is your need for storage capacity growing? Although using cloud computing is often more economical, there are also costs associated with moving to the cloud that you’d have to consider beforehand.
2) Evaluate the company's cloud security and privacy
There are multiple cloud companies on the market, and it is important to first examine the security and privacy levels of the company you have in mind. Spend some time checking reviews – it may save you from unwanted cyberattacks in the long run.
3) Plan your data migration
A basic step is understanding the data your company possesses and deciding which datasets you'd like to move to the cloud. This can prevent the transfer of obsolete data and conserve space in your new cloud environment. Furthermore, you need to decide whether you'd like your data migrated online, offline, or perhaps using a combination of both. It's also crucial to determine whether you need a shallow or deep migration. Shallow migration involves the straightforward copying of data from an on-premises architecture and shifting it to a cloud platform as is. In contrast, deep migration involves 'decoupling' resources from the original system and making adjustments so they align as closely as possible with cloud-native resources before the move to the cloud.
4) Ensure the compatibility of your existing software with the new cloud system
Cloud computing systems are intricately built, and one system may not be easily applicable to all existing software. This means that even if you're ready and eager to move your business to the cloud, your software might not be entirely compatible with the new cloud system you're considering. The good news is, if your company is already primarily using Microsoft's software packages, then Microsoft Azure is likely to be fully compatible for use.
Get Microsoft Certified: Azure Fundamentals Certification
While that might sound hassle-free without any coding, it is still beneficial for companies to have a thorough understanding of how the cloud functions. For companies or individual employees who would like to improve their knowledge of cloud computing, another avenue to explore would be the Microsoft Certified: Azure Fundamentals Certification. The certification program is particularly suitable for individuals who would like to learn more about the details of how to use cloud computing effectively. In addition to infrastructure as a service (IaaS), platform as a service (PaaS), and software as a service (SaaS), the course would also feature an in-depth exploration of the public, private, and hybrid clouds. With cloud computing being constantly developed and re-engineered, such a course would provide your business with the foundational knowledge of how the cloud works and the knowledge of how to make well-informed company policies regarding the cloud in the future.
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6 Powerful Software Tools to Skyrocket Employee Productivity
One common issue faced by company bosses is finding ways to boost employee productivity. With a record number of people working from home, bosses are altering the way they work. Although this is a challenging task, 38% of participants in a recent study stated they were more productive when working from home. Instead of breathing down employees’ necks while physically monitoring their output, bosses are turning to software to observe and enhance the productivity of remote workers.
This mindset shift may be difficult to grasp at first. Whether teams are remote, physical, or somewhere in between, the latest management trend is less about monitoring and control and more about boosting productivity and output.
What is productivity-boosting software?
Productivity software is a set of applications or platforms that produce databases, graphs, and presentations. Instead of sending multiple emails, these work tools also include collaboration software to facilitate teamwork when working remotely or in different office locations. Team collaboration tools increase productivity, allowing employees to work more efficiently and keep everyone in the loop.
Which productivity-boosting software should I choose?
Choosing the right productivity software for your team can be challenging. Every company has its own style and culture and should introduce productivity tools to suit them. Regardless of which tools you choose, they should be user-friendly and enhance the working lives of employees rather than cause headaches. The explosion of remote working opportunities resulting from the Covid-19 pandemic has seen 60% of companies implementing software to monitor productivity. Here are some examples of productivity-boosting software and how they can positively benefit your company.
1) Time management and scheduling
Employers expect their staff to meet or exceed deadlines to ensure projects run smoothly. After all, each team member has their part to play in ensuring work is delivered to higher-level staff or customers on time. Time management tools are imperative for outstanding timekeeping and boosting productivity.
Microsoft 365 is a cloud-based platform that combines the newest productivity apps, including Excel, Word, and Outlook. With Microsoft Outlook, users can easily oversee and manage emails, calendars, tasks, and contacts in one place. Outlook extracts appointment information and automatically integrates it into the built-in calendar, ensuring employees never miss another appointment or event again.
Microsoft 365 Copilot is an advanced productivity tool that integrates into apps like Excel and Word. The handy tool turns brief, manually-inputted prompts into document drafts and can rewrite or condense lengthy paragraphs. It also makes suggestions on aspects such as tone of voice and fluency. Copilot integrates into email inboxes so users can spend less time sorting through old mail history and more time communicating. The tool responds to simple prompts such as “shorten this draft and make it sound more professional” or “invite the sales team to a lunch meeting next week,” letting workers save time on formulating document drafts and email replies and focus instead on communicating important information to colleagues.
Microsoft Teams connects users with the people and documents required to make a project run more smoothly. With Microsoft Teams, groups of people can meet, chat, and call to discuss projects quickly and efficiently. It also allows users to locate and share files for editing in real-time, enhancing productivity and project management by ensuring everyone is up to date on the latest changes.
2) Targeted communication
Communication platforms like Slack organize workplace communication into channels across different departments or projects. A recent Salesforce study showed businesses experienced a 26% increase in remote worker productivity after implementing Slack. Employees can send targeted messages to specific project-related team members instead of sending a blanket message to everyone in the company or risk missing somebody from an email chain. Employees can exchange ideas through a chat function or send audio and video clips on the go. Moreover, the huddle video-call function lets users talk through project details face-to-face.
3) Project management
Effective project management relies on efficient and streamlined processes. Managing projects for employees across multiple locations is challenging, but project management tools alleviate the stress of remote collaboration. Notion is a popular project management tool designed to bring clarity and effectiveness to all project types. The tool is used by teams of all sizes and includes an integrated calendar, to-do list function, and project checklist to keep abreast of milestones. Users can choose to only view information relevant to them using the filter function, allowing clear oversight and enhanced productivity.
Similarly, Trello allows companies to manage their teams from anywhere by keeping all project-related information in one place. Trello includes a simple but effective collection of boards and lists that clearly inform workers of their roles and tasks. Users can create a new channel or choose an existing template for maximum project efficiency.
4) Collaboration and communication
Microsoft Teams collaboration tools allow users to work on shared projects or goals. With Microsoft Teams collaboration tools, there is no need for rounds of document edits in endless email chains. Employees can create and edit content with team members for enhanced productivity in real-time. Moreover, users can share files and simultaneously co-author content that saves automatically, and brainstorm ideas on the handy whiteboard function.
5) Note-taking and organization
Note-taking is a crucial part of working life, but handwriting notes take time and are easy to lose or misplace. Note-takers must adopt an effective filing system to avoid trying to find lists and meeting notes from a specific date and time. Note-taking tools like Evernote are designed to overcome these issues, and make writing notes more efficient by storing everything in one place. Moreover, tools are an environmentally friendly alternative to traditional note-taking and help to reduce paper waste.
Microsoft OneNote is a multi-functional notebook that supports users’ note-taking needs. Notebooks are divided into separate sections for easy identification. OneNote offers highlighting and ink annotations for that real pen-to-paper feel. Users will never misplace their notes again with the nifty filter function, ensuring employees are always well-prepared for project meetings. Notes can also be shared with colleagues and teammates, enhancing productivity and efficiency by allowing instant feedback.
6) Business analytics and insights
Business insights tools collect and process large amounts of data for internal analysis. Companies may use spreadsheets with statistical functions or software packages to collect business-related information for review. This provides key insights and a deeper understanding of the company and helps bosses make more productive business operations decisions.
Business intelligence tools collect and display aggregate data, while business analytics tools report data results and explain the reasons behind them while clearly displaying areas of weakness and improvement. Power BI from Microsoft gathers past and present data to show how it impacts an organization's future. It seamlessly integrates into everyday apps and fills the gaps between data and decision-making, which helps bosses make better business choices.
What other qualities are important for employee productivity?
Although collaboration tools are a key element in boosting employee productivity, there are other ways to ensure teams are working at their full potential. Cultivating a strong company culture based on trust is essential for maintaining a productive team that values its employer. Studies show that employees are more likely to continue working for companies they trust, so it is essential that bosses fulfill promises and erase any skepticism surrounding remote work.
Communication is the basis of any human connection and is particularly important in the workplace. Despite this, 91% of company employees in a recent survey stated their leaders lack adequate communication skills. Unclear communication and instructions cause confusion and increase the chance of making mistakes. By building a culture of open communication, employees can understand and work towards company expectations and goals. Setting this example also encourages employees to be open and honest and helps them feel safe voicing any concerns or areas for improvement. Most importantly, employees that are valued and updated with the latest company news are likely to be more productive in their work.
Conclusion
The post-pandemic normal of hybrid and remote working is here to stay. Companies must find ways to engage workers and boost productivity to ensure projects are delivered on time. Luckily, there are software tools that facilitate collaborative teamwork between workers in different locations. Using convenient productivity tools streamlines project processes and enhances worker engagement, as they can access everything easily and remotely. Moreover, collaboration tools that allow multiple users to edit and save documents in real time improve productivity by removing annoying email chains or sitting in unproductive meetings. Aside from productivity tools, employers should ensure good communication and build trust with workers to ensure happier, more productive employees.
Core2
Member Posts: 11 
mrollings53
Member Posts: 14 
FAQ & Answers
Yes, it is a SATA M.2 slot.
EDIT: Any brand similar to this:https://www.amazon.co.uk/Crucial-CT275MX300SSD4-Internal-Solid-State/dp/B01IAGSDJ0/ref=s9_simh_gw_g147_i2_r?_encoding=UTF8&fpl=fresh&pf_rd_m=A3P5ROKL5A1OLE&pf_rd_s=&pf_rd_r=JKJH4WM7JH9WWJC2RA8G&pf_rd_t=36701&pf_rd_p=16f14aeb-bd11-4e9e-8c26-9ca0139074ee&pf_rd_i=desktop
This is only an example but you can choose any brand you like.
Acer Predator PT516-51s Performance Results - UserBenchmark
Tinkerer
You are welcome, yes you are right, it's better to check the interface before you buy the correct SSD.
Acer Predator PT516-51s Performance Results - UserBenchmark
Tinkerer
I found a review site that mentions what fits, as well as the Intel Rapid Storage utility that references a extra port available for use.
http://laptopmedia.com/review/acer-aspire-e-15-e5-575g-review-feature-packed-dirt-cheap-mid-ranger/
Tinkerer
It is a PCIe 3.0 X 2 slot. Acer just cheaps out and goes SATA. I just installed a Samsung 960 EVO in my E5-575G-55KK, and it boots just fine from it. It is only 2 lanes however, not 4.
Tinkerer
Tinkerer
What non accessible feature are you talking about?
That question aside you can stick whatever M.2 style SSD you want in there. It should support both NVMe PCIe SSD's and SATA SSD's. You can spend about $80 on Newegg for a 256 GB SATA SSD, or spend $100 for a low end 256 GB NVMe SSD, or $130 for the fastest 250 GB NVMe SSD available right now. It will mostly boil down to how much capacity do you want, and how much do you have to spend.
Tinkerer
Thanks for the update. i am just looking closely as I have 2 identical laptops so whatever I end up deciding to purchase will be x2.