[Fox News] Revolutionary device lets you point, click with your tongue

What if you could control your computer or smartphone with your tongue? You might think it’s a crazy idea, but it’s actually possible with a device called the MouthPad. It lets you move your tongue like a finger on a touchscreen, and perform various actions on your device. It could really be a game-changer for people with disabilities.

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The MouthPad is a Bluetooth trackpad that you wear inside your mouth, like a mouth guard. It can sense the movements of your tongue and translate them into cursor movements, clicks, and typing on your screen. The device was developed by a San Francisco startup called Augmental, which aims to create innovative solutions for human-computer interaction.

The MouthPad uses a thin layer of sensors that detect the pressure and position of your tongue. The sensors are connected to a small circuit board that processes the signals and sends them to your device via Bluetooth. You can pair the MouthPad with any device that supports Bluetooth input, such as a laptop, a tablet, or a smartphone.

To use the MouthPad, you simply place it on your upper teeth and bite down gently. Then, you can move your tongue around the surface of the MouthPad, just like you would use a finger on a touchscreen. You can tap, swipe, drag, and pinch with your tongue to perform different actions on your device. You can also use the virtual keyboard on your device to type with your tongue.

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The MouthPad is not only a cool gadget, but also a useful tool for people who have difficulty using their hands or voice to control their devices. For example, people who suffer from quadriplegia, a condition that causes paralysis of all four limbs, can use the MouthPad to access the internet, communicate with others, and enjoy entertainment. The MouthPad can also help people who have limited mobility due to injuries, diseases, or aging.

The MouthPad can also be used for situations where using your hands or voice is inconvenient or impractical, such as when you are wearing gloves, holding something, or in a noisy environment. It can also offer more privacy and security than voice commands, as you don’t have to speak out loud to control your device. It can run for 5 hours on a single charge and supports iOS, Android, Windows, macOS, and Linux.

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The company will create custom molds for customers by mailing them a kit designed to take their dental impressions. The company says, “With your dental scan, we’ll manufacture your custom MouthPad, ensuring maximum comfort and reduced weight.”

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The MouthPad is still in development, and pricing is not yet known. But the company is aiming for it to be affordable and accessible for everyone. The company’s website has also opened a waitlist for users interested in ordering a unit, although pricing isn’t mentioned.

The MouthPad is a device that can let you control your computer or smartphone with your tongue. It is a novel and innovative way of interacting with your devices, and it could be a life-changing technology for people with disabilities. 

How do you feel about using your tongue to control your devices? Is there someone in your life who would benefit from this? Let us know by writing us at Cyberguy.com/Contact.

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[Fox News] Charging and travel: 5 malware mistakes most people make

The airports? Crazy. The weather? Unpredictable. Travel is tough enough … and then your phone dies. Those charging kiosks in airports, hotels and malls can be big timesavers. Their owners promise they’re safe, but the FBI disagrees — and so do I. 

Welcome to the newest phase of juice jacking. The phenomenon has been around for more than ten years. Hackers use public phone charging to upload malware to your devices. Then, they ransom your phone or steal your passwords.

Have no fear. When your batteries hit the low point in your travels, follow these rules to keep you and your family malware-free. 

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Don’t use public USBs – just outlets 

Fortunately, actual cases of juice-jacking are rare or nonexistent in America. But they can happen through USB connections. How can you avoid malware? If a kiosk has actual power outlets to charge your phone with your adapter, there’s no fear of hacking.

For 100% protection, stay away from USB ports of any size, especially when traveling overseas. While USB standards are international, foreign hackers can target popular hotel room USB ports to steal data, even if you’re not using a kiosk. 

Don’t use a cable at all 

Keep up with the Komandonians and use wireless charging pads instead of USBs when possible. More and more public kiosks are using wireless charging. This method doesn’t exchange data directly with your phone, so it’s virus-free by default. 

Don’t use a data cable 

If you’re desperate for juice, use a USB connection safely with the right cable. Pack a charge-only cable for your trip. They’re cheap, compact and don’t allow for data transfer. Come to think of it, that’s more of a “do.” 

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Don’t choose the ‘trust’ option 

Newer phones are smart enough to be wary of an unknown USB connection. (Some humans could learn a thing or two). They’ll ask if you want to “trust this device” or “share data.” 

Always say “No” to these options when traveling! Both allow data communication between your phone and the charging hardware, which may have implanted malware. Choose the “charge-only option.” If that’s not available, keep walkin’. 

FYI: This works with most phones that are a few years old or newer. It may not offer the choice if you have a particularly old phone

Don’t forget your external battery 

They’re slim and durable, and you’ll never regret packing them. Drop your external battery into a suitcase side pocket or laptop bag and keep it close. Remember to charge it back up when you stop at a hotel or airport, and you’re good to go. 

Going on a big trip?

I really, really suggest checking out my recommendations for international charging adapters before you leave, as well as my travel prep cheat sheet. Now you’re ready to travel in style and stay safe! 
 

Keep your tech-know going  

My popular podcast is called “Kim Komando Today.” It’s a solid 30 minutes of tech news, tips, and callers with tech questions like you from all over the country. Search for it wherever you get your podcasts. For your convenience, hit the link below for a recent episode. 

PODCAST PICK: $661K bank scam, malware targeting kids & FB Marketplace pro tips 

Plus, I chat with Professor Scott Galloway about his views that Gen Z should be educated on mating dynamics — especially with sexbots on the rise. I’ll also show you how to spot phony retail sites, introduce a woman who turns her dating app matches into music and introduce you to ChatGPT Plus’s file analysis tool. 

Check out my podcast “Kim Komando Today” on Apple, Google Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast player. 

Listen to the podcast here or wherever you get your podcasts. Just search for my last name, “Komando.” 

Sound like a tech pro, even if you’re not! Award-winning popular host Kim Komando is your secret weapon. Listen on 425+ radio stations or get the podcast. And join over 400,000 people who get her free 5-minute daily email newsletter

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[Fox News] Is your next flight scheduled on a 737 Max 9 aircraft?

Hundreds of flight cancellations continue days after both Alaska Airlines and United Airlines cope with the mandatory grounding of the Boeing 737 Max 9 aircraft.

A Max 9 was involved in a midair incident when the plug covering a section designed for a door failed, leaving a gaping hole and sucking out parts of the adjacent seats. 

Chances are that if a future flight is showing a 737 Max 9 aircraft type, your flight will be canceled.

As of Friday morning, there were 1,600-plus flight cancellations, according to FlightAware, although some attributed to weather conditions.

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Determining whether your upcoming flight is using a Boeing 737 Max 9 aircraft involves a few steps.

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1) Check your booking details: Start by reviewing your flight confirmation or booking details. Airlines often list the aircraft type on your ticket or itinerary. Look for terms like “Boeing 737 Max 9” or “B737 Max 9”.

2) Visit the airline’s website or app: If the aircraft type isn’t specified in your booking details, visit the airline’s website. Search for your flight by entering the flight number or your booking reference. Many airlines provide detailed information about the aircraft, including the model.

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3) Use flight-tracking websites: Websites like FlightAware or Flightradar24 can provide detailed information about specific flights, including the type of aircraft used. Enter your flight number on these platforms to see if your flight will be operated with a Boeing 737 Max 9. My new fave Flighty app alerts you when the aircraft type changes or a flight is going to be disrupted.

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4) Check the day of the flight: Sometimes, airlines may change the aircraft type last minute due to operational needs. Check the information screens at the airport, or ask at the gate to confirm the aircraft type on the day of your flight.

A Boeing 737-900 is not the same as a 737 Max 9 aircraft. In person, a 737 Max can be identified visually by the forward-mounted engines ahead of the wing and the notches on the back edge design of the engines.

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Both United and Alaska Airlines were affected by the FAA grounding and mandatory inspection of the Boeing 737 Max 9 aircraft equipped with a fuselage plug where the frame was originally designed for a door in a spot that’s about 12 rows aft of the wing.

I was scheduled to fly from LAX to Newark on Alaska Airlines this past Friday when my flight was canceled about 36 hours ahead of departure. Alaska sent me to their app to confirm or change the automatically rebooked itinerary, but it failed when I logged in, saying that change could not be made online.

When I called Alaska Airlines, the recorded message said that wait times were eight hours, nine minutes on my recent trip. On another phone support line for the airline VIPs, of which I am not one, though I decided to dial in desperation, I was able to select an option to receive a callback, which did come a few hours later when I was able to speak with an Alaska representative.

By that time, I had chosen to book another flight on JetBlue at the last minute, having no confidence in their operational stability, and asked for a refund.

If I had not already rebooked on my own, I would have pushed for a direct flight on their partner American instead of the unreasonable 14-hour zigzag series of Alaska flights automatically selected for me by their recovery algorithm.

Alaska offers chat as an alternative to get customer support by texting 82008. But in my case, I received a text message after a considerable wait, saying that they were “unable to accept additional chats.”

You can send a text message to United Airlines at 800-UNITED-1 (800-864-8331). This service allows you to ask questions, get assistance and manage your bookings via text.

United Airlines can be contacted through its social media channels, like X (@united) or Facebook, and it is fairly responsive to customer outreach. For Alaska Airlines on X, its handle is @AlaskaAir. Be sure to provide essential details like your flight number and booking reference, but avoid sharing sensitive personal information publicly.

Consider using every path to access the airline when you need help. If your flight is canceled on United or Alaska Airlines, know your options before reaching a representative to rebook. You may have more options than are offered on the airlines’ apps or websites.

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Remember that airlines are very conscious of passenger concerns, especially regarding specific aircraft models like the Boeing 737 Max series. If you have concerns about flying on this aircraft, you can discuss them with the airline, and it might be able to accommodate your preferences, depending on its policies and the availability of alternative flights or aircraft.

Knowledge is key to avoiding travel disruptions related to the plagued 737 Max 9 aircraft. Be ready with the right tech travel apps and tools before heading to the airport. Smart travel apps can alert you to trouble before it happens, giving you a chance to solve a problem before it becomes yours.

What are your thoughts on the Boeing 737 Max 9 aircraft and its safety issues? Would you fly on one if you had the choice? Let us know by writing us at Cyberguy.com/Contact.

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