Microsoft just posted the fourth and final quarter of its 2024 fiscal financial results. The software maker made $64.7 billion in revenue and a net income of $22 billion during Q4. Revenue is up 15 percent, and net income has increased by 10 percent.
Technology
Poor eyesight or hearing? Settings you can adjust right now to make using your Android easy
Whether you already have a hard time seeing or not, staring at a phone screen can put additional strain on your eyes. If you wear glasses and need them to look at your phone, you should certainly wear them when you’re doing that.
But if that’s still not helping, there are other things that you can do to make it easier to look at your phone. Not only this, but if you’re hard of hearing, Android has some cool features to help you there, too. It just requires you to adjust the settings.
GET SECURITY ALERTS, EXPERT TIPS – SIGN UP FOR KURT’S NEWSLETTER – THE CYBERGUY REPORT HERE
A woman with an Android in her hand (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)
How to adjust the settings on your phone to see and hear better on Android
There are several settings you can adjust on your Android in order to make it easier to see and prevent eye strain. For some people, it will be changing the font size. For others, it will be making the screen brighter or zooming in on pages. And others may need to adjust their settings so they can have the text read out loud to them.
How to change the font size and style on Android
Settings may vary depending on your Android phone’s manufacturer.
- First, navigate to Settings
- Tap Display
- Next, click Font size and style
- Now, adjust the slider from right to left to change the Font size to a comfortable level
Steps to change the font size and style on Android (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)
BEST ANTIVIRUS FOR MAC, PC, IPHONES AND ANDROIDS – CYBERGUY PICKS
How to make the text more visible on Android
Settings may vary depending on your Android phone’s manufacturer.
- Go to Settings
- Tap Accessibility
- Click Visibility enhancements
- Enable options like High contrast fonts to make text more readable
Steps to make the text more visible on Android (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)
How to magnify the screen on Android
Settings may vary depending on your Android phone’s manufacturer.
- Go to Settings
- Tap Accessibility
- Enable all the Magnification settings
- Use two fingers and gently spread them to zoom in on any part of your screen.
Steps to magnify the screen on Android (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)
How to have the text on your Android read out loud on TalkBack (screen reader)
Settings may vary depending on your Android phone’s manufacturer.
- Go to Settings
- Tap Accessibility
- Click TalkBack and toggle it On
- Tap Finish
- Follow any additional on-screen instructions to complete the setup. This might include a tutorial on how to use TalkBack.
Steps to have the text on your Android read out loud on TalkBack (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)
Once TalkBack is enabled, your device will provide spoken feedback to help you navigate your phone without needing to see the screen. Remember, these steps can vary, so it’s always a good idea to check the specific instructions for your Android version or consult the official Android Accessibility Help page for the most accurate information. If you’re setting up a new phone, you can also enable TalkBack during the initial setup by holding down both volume buttons for a few seconds.
HOW TO REMOVE YOUR PRIVATE DATA FROM THE INTERNET
For those who are hard of hearing
For those who are hard of hearing, Android offers various features to enhance your device’s audio and visual capabilities. Here’s how you can make the most of them:
How to increase the volume on Android
To ensure you don’t miss important calls or notifications, you can easily amplify the volume on your Android device.
Settings may vary depending on your Android phone’s manufacturer.
- Simply press the volume button on the side of your phone
- Tap the three dots to access additional options
- Navigate to Sound & vibration settings
- Here, you’ll find individual controls to boost the volume for calls, ringtones, notifications and alarms, making each sound clearer and more noticeable.
Steps to increase the volume on Android (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)
How to add captions to Android
Android’s built-in captioning feature provides a visual aid for those who prefer reading over listening.
Settings may vary depending on your Android phone’s manufacturer.
- To activate captions, press the volume button
- Look for the caption symbol below the three dots
- With a simple tap, you can toggle captions on or off, allowing you to follow along with video content, phone conversations and more with text displayed directly on your screen.
Steps to add captions to Android (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)
How to make your Android Hearing Aid Compatibility (HAC)
Android’s Hearing Aid Compatibility (HAC) can be a game-changer for individuals using hearing aids. To utilize this feature, verify that your Android phone is HAC-supported by checking the phone’s specifications. You can also just check by following the steps below.
Settings may vary depending on your Android phone’s manufacturer.
- Go to Settings
- Tap Accessibility
- Click Hearing devices
- Toggle on Hearing aid compatibility
Steps to make your Android Hearing Aid Compatibility (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)
For those with trouble seeing and hearing
For those with trouble seeing and hearing, Android devices offer customizable vibration patterns to alert you of various notifications:
To customize your notifications so your Android will vibrate
Stay connected without the need to constantly monitor your device.
Settings may vary depending on your Android phone’s manufacturer.
- Navigate to Settings
- Select Sound & vibration
- Then choose the Vibration & haptics
- Here, you can adjust the settings.
Android’s home screen (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)
HOW TO CROP OR ROTATE A PHOTO ON YOUR ANDROID
Don’t be afraid to ask for help
Androids have all sorts of display settings that can make it easier (or harder!) to see and what will work for you will be based on your individual preferences. If you’re not too familiar, or you want to try out different settings to see what’s easiest for your eyes, you might want to ask a friend or family member who is experienced with Android to help you play around with those settings. And this goes for all things on your Android. Don’t spend hours trying to figure something out when you could ask a loved one to walk you through it in a way you’ll understand.
Additionally, there are apps that can take it a step further. One is “Be My Eyes,” which helps you connect with someone immediately to help with a task, whether that be adjusting settings on your Android or something else. It’s primarily used by blind individuals, but anyone with trouble seeing can utilize the platform.
The other is “Seeing AI,” a free app that utilizes your Android camera. Just point it at what’s in front of you, and it will narrate what you’re looking at in real-time. Or you can take a picture, and it will tell you what you’re looking at. It can even help you count bills, essentially turning visuals into audio.
A woman and her daughter looking at a smartphone (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)
HOW TO TRANSFORM YOUR PHOTOS INTO FUN STICKERS ON YOUR ANDROID
Kurt’s key takeaways
At the end of the day, your smartphone should make your life easier, not harder. If you’re struggling to see or hear your Android device clearly, don’t just put up with it. Take advantage of the many accessibility features built right into your phone. These tools can provide real-time assistance or even narrate what’s in front of your camera. At the end of the day, your Android device should work for you, not the other way around. With a little tweaking and the right support, you can make your smartphone experience truly accessible and enjoyable.
As technology continues to evolve, what future advancements or features do you hope to see in mobile devices to further support individuals with visual or auditory impairments? Let us know by writing us at Cyberguy.com/Contact.
For more of my tech tips and security alerts, subscribe to my free CyberGuy Report Newsletter by heading to Cyberguy.com/Newsletter.
Ask Kurt a question or let us know what stories you’d like us to cover.
Follow Kurt on his social channels:
Answers to the most asked CyberGuy questions:
Copyright 2024 CyberGuy.com. All rights reserved.
/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/25418236/STK095_MICROSOFT_CVirginia_B.jpg "Microsoft’s cloud revenues rule again in Q4, as Surface continues to dip")
Microsoft’s Intelligent Cloud revenues, which include the company’s server products and cloud services, were $28.5 billion overall and up 19 percent year over year. Revenues from this part of Microsoft’s business now make up nearly 45 percent of all revenue. While cloud revenue is strong once again, Microsoft’s consumer devices push continues to dip. Xbox hardware revenue is down again, and Surface revenue has now declined for seven consecutive quarters in a row.
Windows and Surface revenue
Windows OEM revenue, the price that manufacturers pay to license Windows for laptops and PCs, is up 4 percent year over year. Gartner said earlier this month that PC shipments had grown for three consecutive quarters, and that’s reflected in Microsoft’s Windows OEM growing in the same three quarters.
Microsoft also launched its new Copilot Plus PCs toward the end of fiscal Q4, with a variety of Qualcomm-powered devices available from June 18th onwards. Two new Surface devices, the Surface Laptop 7th Edition and Surface Pro 11th Edition, also launched in June. The full impact of sales on devices revenue won’t be felt until next quarter, though.
That means Surface revenue, or what Microsoft now calls devices revenue, has declined again this quarter by 11 percent. The last time Microsoft’s Surface revenue was up was in Q1 FY23, the quarter ended September 30th, 2022.
Microsoft switched up its hardware portfolio amid layoffs in early 2023, and the Surface Pro 10 and Surface Laptop 6 for businesses don’t seem to have had a big impact on revenues. All eyes are on next quarter to see if the new Surface Laptop and Surface Pro launches have helped devices revenue recover at all.
Xbox and gaming
Xbox content and services revenue, which includes Xbox Game Pass, is up by 61 percent this quarter. Activision Blizzard revenues have once again contributed to the majority of revenue here, with 58 points of net impact. Without Activision Blizzard revenues, Xbox content and services revenue will still have been up 3 percent year over year.
Microsoft revealed in February that Xbox Game Pass has now grown to 34 million subscribers, including the Xbox Game Pass Core (previously Xbox Live Gold) members. Microsoft is planning to launch a new Xbox Game Pass Standard plan soon, which is designed to replace the Xbox Game Pass for Console offering for new subscribers.
Microsoft just launched last year’s Call of Duty: Modern Warfare III on Xbox Game Pass, and it’s also planning to make Call of Duty: Black Ops 6, the next installment in Activision’s popular franchise, available on Xbox Game Pass later this year.
Microsoft’s price hikes for Xbox Game Pass Ultimate and PC Game Pass don’t come into effect until September, with Game Pass Ultimate increasing to $19.99 a month — a $3 increase over the current $16.99 a month pricing. PC Game Pass is also moving up to $11.99 a month in September.
While there’s a lot of anticipation for new games on Xbox Game Pass, console sales are still struggling. Xbox hardware revenue is down a massive 42 percent this quarter. Microsoft is planning to launch a discless Xbox Series X console in white later this year, alongside a new Galaxy Black special edition Xbox Series X.
Despite the poor Xbox hardware revenue, gaming revenue at Microsoft is up 44 percent overall, helped again by the additional Activision Blizzard revenue. In fact, that revenue added 48 points, so overall gaming revenue at Microsoft would have been down 4 percent if the company hadn’t acquired Activision Blizzard.
Microsoft’s cloud and Office revenues continue to grow, as expected. Office commercial products and cloud services revenue grew 12 percent, with Office 365 commercial revenue up 13 percent.
On the Office consumer side, revenue is up 3 percent year over year. Microsoft 365 Consumer subscribers also grew by 10 percent, up to 82.5 million now. LinkedIn revenue also grew 10 percent this quarter.
Server products and cloud services revenue jumped by 21 percent this quarter, with Azure and other cloud services revenue up by 29 percent. Investors continue to hunt down any signs of revenue growth in AI from Microsoft. This quarter, eight points of the Azure and other cloud services revenue growth is down to AI services, up slightly from the contribution in the previous quarter.
Microsoft is now planning to hold an investor call at 5:30PM ET / 2:30PM PT. We’ll update this article with comments from CEO Satya Nadella and CFO Amy Hood.
/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/25551891/2163680175.jpg "Olympic men’s triathlon postponed due to river pollution")
The men’s triathlon event at the Paris Olympics was postponed today because of pollution levels in the Seine river, where the swimming leg of the event was supposed to be held. Now the event is tentatively scheduled for Wednesday — if the water quality improves by then.
Bacteria in the river, including E. coli, have been a concern leading up to the Summer games. Paris spent roughly $1.5 billion on cleanup efforts before the Olympics to prevent sewage and wastewater from contaminating the Seine, the Associated Press reports. But rain seems to have stymied efforts to keep bacteria at safe levels.
“The tests carried out in the Seine today revealed water quality levels that did not provide sufficient guarantees”
“Paris 2024 and World Triathlon reiterate that their priority is the health of the athletes. The tests carried out in the Seine today revealed water quality levels that did not provide sufficient guarantees to allow the event to be held,” World Triathlon, the sport’s international governing body, said in a statement today.
Human fecal contamination is “the most important risk factor” in triathlon competitions, according to World Triathlon. Swimming in water contaminated with feces can potentially lead to skin rashes, diarrhea, and E. coli infections. And athletes can be more prone to infection during or right after the event due to hormonal stress and other factors that might affect the immune system.
E. coli levels should stay at or below 900 colony-forming units per 100 milliliters for “sufficient” water quality, according to World Triathlon. Only one of four test sites along the Seine showed levels below that limit, the Associated Press reports.
Training events had already been postponed with elevated bacteria levels following the downpour over the Olympics opening ceremony. Heavy rain can overwhelm sewage and wastewater systems, allowing untreated water to reach the river.
There’s more rain in the forecast for Paris tonight. But for now, both the women’s and the men’s triathlon events are scheduled for Wednesday at 8:00 and 10:45AM local time, respectively. There’s also a backup date of August 2nd.
Imagine a world where RV parks are optional, not a necessity. That’s where the CyberTrailer comes in. Living Vehicle, the trailblazer in luxury electric trailers, has outdone itself with this cutting-edge RV. The CyberTrailer is inspired by Tesla’s CyberTruck and offers complete liberation from traditional utility connections, bringing luxury to the most remote corners of the world.
GET SECURITY ALERTS, EXPERT TIPS – SIGN UP FOR KURT’S NEWSLETTER – THE CYBERGUY REPORT HERE
CyberTrailer being pulled by a CyberTruck (Living Vehicle) (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)
Solar power that puts houses to shame
The CyberTrailer’s solar capabilities are pretty impressive. We’re talking up to 5KW of off-grid solar production, a level that’s unprecedented in the RV industry and rivals many home solar systems. The entire roof is a solar powerhouse covered in integrated panels. But here’s where it gets really clever: solar-tracking awnings that actually tilt toward the sun, maximizing energy capture throughout the day.
HOW TO REMOVE YOUR PRIVATE DATA FROM THE INTERNET
The entire roof of the CyberTrailer is a solar powerhouse covered in integrated panels. (Living Vehicle) (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)
EV compatibility: The future is now
The CyberTrailer isn’t just compatible with EVs like the F-150 Lightning, Rivian and the futuristic Tesla Cybertruck, it’s designed to complement them perfectly. In fact, the Cybertruck’s bold design served as inspiration for the CyberTrailer’s sleek aesthetics.
But here’s the real bonus: this trailer can actually charge your electric tow vehicle. Say goodbye to range anxiety and hello to limitless adventures. As Living Vehicle’s CEO Matthew Hofmann puts it, “The CyberTrailer reduces range anxiety and makes off-grid travel with electric vehicles a reality.”
CyberTrailer (Living Vehicle) (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)
THE BEST TRAVEL GEAR FOR 2024
Hybrid energy system: Power in any scenario
The CyberTrailer doesn’t put all its eggs in one basket. While solar power is the star of the show, a backup power generation system ensures you’re never left in the dark. This redundant power system keeps the battery pack charged even when solar exposure is limited, supporting rapid energy creation and Level 2 charging for tow vehicles.
Image of CyberTrailer (Living Vehicle) (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)
DISCOVER THE FUTURE OF RVING WITH THE ELECTRIC TRANSFORMER HOUSE
Self-powered trailer axles
Here’s also something truly innovative. The CyberTrailer features proprietary self-driving powered axles. This dramatically reduces range loss for both electric and gas-powered tow vehicles. The result? You can reach those bucket-list remote locations that were previously out of bounds.
Aerodynamics: Slicing through the air
The engineers at Living Vehicle haven’t overlooked a single detail. The CyberTrailer’s design has been optimized for maximum aerodynamic performance, regardless of the tow vehicle. This means better efficiency, whether you’re looking to maximize EV range or boost MPG in traditional combustion engines. It’s a win-win for your wallet and the environment.
CyberTrailer being pulled by a CyberTruck (Living Vehicle) (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)
WITH THE PUSH OF A BUTTON, THIS COMPACT RV ADDS EXTRA SPACE WITH A SIMPLE TWIST
LV patio and toy-hauler design
The CyberTrailer also brings the outdoors in (and vice versa) with Living Vehicle’s signature folding patio deck, now cleverly positioned at the rear. This patio doubles as a ramp, transforming the trailer into a toy hauler. Motorcycles, e-bikes, kayaks, bring them all along for the ride.
CyberTrailer (Living Vehicle) (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)
Recharging hub on wheels
Speaking of toys, the CyberTrailer isn’t just for lounging. Its 240V Level 2 charging capability means you can recharge all your electric recreational gear. E-bikes, electric motorcycles, scooters, they’ll all be juiced up and ready for action no matter how far off the beaten path you roam.
CyberTrailer (Living Vehicle) (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)
Tech at your fingertips
Control your mobile paradise on wheels with just a tap on your Apple iPad. The wireless control system puts all of CyberTrailer’s features at your fingertips, marrying high-tech convenience with off-grid capability. The team at Living Vehicle has thrown down the gauntlet to the RV industry. They’ve shown what’s possible when you combine visionary design with cutting-edge technology.
The price of innovation
Now, let’s talk numbers. The CyberTrailer starts at $175,000, with deliveries slated to begin in 2025. It’s a premium price tag, no doubt, but consider what you’re getting: a fully self-sufficient, luxurious smart home on wheels that can take you anywhere. Intrigued? You can secure your spot on the wait list with a fully refundable $100 deposit by clicking here.
Kurt’s key takeaways
The CyberTrailer represents a harmonious blend of sustainability, cutting-edge technology, luxury and adventure. For EV enthusiasts, it’s a dream come true. For off-grid adventurers, it’s the ultimate enabler. And for those who simply refuse to compromise on comfort while exploring the great outdoors, it’s nothing short of revolutionary. Yes, the price point puts it in the realm of a luxury RV. But for those who can make the investment, the CyberTrailer offers a level of freedom, comfort and sustainability that’s unmatched in the RV world.
Would you trade your traditional home for a high-tech nomadic lifestyle? Why or why not? Let us know by writing us at Cyberguy.com/Contact.
For more of my tech tips and security alerts, subscribe to my free CyberGuy Report Newsletter by heading to Cyberguy.com/Newsletter.
Ask Kurt a question or let us know what stories you’d like us to cover.
Follow Kurt on his social channels:
Answers to the most asked CyberGuy questions:
Copyright 2024 CyberGuy.com. All rights reserved.
South-Carolina58 seconds ago
Alabama's Pringle, Texas signee Scott among new faces for South Carolina this season
South Dakota6 mins ago
In rare bipartisan vote, U.S. Senate passes package aimed at protecting kids online • South Dakota Searchlight
Tennessee11 mins ago
Tennessee Titans don pads for first time as physicality intensifies
Texas15 mins ago
Texas Rangers Acquire Left-Handed Reliever Andrew Chafin From Detroit Tigers As MLB Trade Deadline Closes
Utah19 mins ago
Weak cool front sweeping into northern Utah, with smoky skies continuing
Midwest2 years ago
See it: Tesla crashes into Columbus convention center at 70 mph
South2 years ago
Fox News Politics: Georgia the whole day through
Colorado2 years ago
Colorado Rockies game no. 116 thread: Zac Gallen vs José Ureña
South2 years ago
Death of missing Oregon girl found in stream ruled homicide
South2 years ago
At least 2 dead as tornadoes hit Alabama, damage homes across Southeast
Politics2 hours ago
New Secret Service chief grilled on 'pattern of negligence' within agency after Trump assassination attempt
World2 hours ago
Photos: Israel strikes building in Beirut suburbs
News3 hours ago
Takeaways from the Senate hearing on the Trump assassination attempt and Secret Service failure | CNN Politics
Politics9 hours ago
Harris now backing away from several far-left stances she once promoted
World9 hours ago
EPP leader slams Hungary over easing visa restrictions for Russians
-
Politics1 week agoManchin considers re-registering as Democrat to run for president
-
News1 week agoHow the Trump Rally Gunman Had an Edge Over the Countersnipers
-
World1 week ago‘Torn up bodies’: Israel intensifies bombing campaign in Gaza
-
News1 week agoDisruptions continue after IT outage affects millions around the globe
-
Politics1 week agoTop five moments from Secret Service director's hours-long grilling after Trump assassination attempt
-
Politics1 week agoTrump tells Jesse Watters that he was not warned about gunman, despite reports
-
Politics1 week agoDem strategists say Harris 'only practical choice' as party leaders begin endorsing her
-
Politics1 week agoTrump blows past Biden in June fundraising race, with July numbers expected to be worse for Democrats