What if you could hop on a flying taxi and travel from San Francisco to San Diego or Boston to Baltimore without the hassle of airports or security lines? 

Would you do it? 

Well, this future is now closer than ever, thanks to Joby Aviation’s groundbreaking achievement in clean aviation.

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Revolutionizing clean aviation

Joby Aviation recently completed a 523-mile nonstop flight with its hydrogen-electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) demonstrator aircraft. This flight marks a significant milestone in the development of emissions-free regional air travel, with water vapor being the only by-product.

Hydrogen-electric vertical takeoff and landing aircraft (Joby Aviation)

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Hydrogen vs. battery power

The hydrogen-electric flight demonstrates a substantial improvement over battery-powered eVTOLs. Joby’s previous record with a battery-electric aircraft was 154 miles, highlighting the potential of hydrogen fuel cells to significantly extend the range of electric aircraft. This advancement could open up new possibilities for regional air travel without the need for traditional airport infrastructure.

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Hydrogen-electric vertical takeoff and landing aircraft (Joby Aviation)

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Specifications of the hydrogen-electric aircraft

Joby’s hydrogen-electric demonstrator is a modified version of their pre-production battery-electric aircraft. The aircraft includes a cryogenic fuel tank storing up to 88 pounds of liquid hydrogen at -420 °F. The H2F-175 fuel cell system, developed by H2Fly, Joby’s subsidiary, generates electricity through an electrochemical reaction between hydrogen and oxygen from the air, powering the aircraft’s six rotors. A small battery provides additional power during takeoff and landing.

Hydrogen-electric vertical takeoff and landing aircraft (Joby Aviation)

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Implications for regional travel

This breakthrough could transform regional air travel by enabling point-to-point services without the need for airport runways. Joby’s CEO, JoeBen Bevirt, envisions a future where passengers can fly between cities with minimal environmental impact.

Possible flight routes for hydrogen eVTOL (Joby Aviation)

Joby’s strategic advantage

The success of this hydrogen-electric flight positions Joby at the forefront of the eVTOL industry. The company plans to leverage its existing infrastructure, including landing pads, operations teams and ElevateOS software for both battery-electric and hydrogen-electric aircraft. This approach could accelerate the commercialization of hydrogen-powered flight.

Hydrogen-electric vertical takeoff and landing aircraft (Joby Aviation)

Challenges and future prospects of hydrogen-electric aircraft

While hydrogen fuel cells show promise for aviation, challenges remain in terms of infrastructure development and regulatory approvals. However, Joby’s progress in battery-electric aircraft certification provides a solid foundation for advancing hydrogen-electric technology.

Illustration of battery-electric power system and hydrogen-electric power system (Joby Aviation)

Kurt’s key takeaways

Joby Aviation’s recent 523-mile hydrogen-electric flight is a game-changer in sustainable aviation. By showing that hydrogen fuel cells can significantly extend the range of electric aircraft, Joby is opening up exciting new possibilities for clean, regional air travel. As the company continues to develop both battery-electric and hydrogen-electric technologies, we might be witnessing the start of a revolution in air transportation that could drastically cut the aviation industry’s carbon footprint while making fast, efficient regional travel more accessible.

Would you be willing to take this new mode of travel? How might it change your approach to regional trips or even daily commutes? Let us know by writing us at Cyberguy.com/Contact.

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Intel is currently distributing to its OEM/ODM partners a new microcode patch (0x129) for its Intel Core 13th/14th Gen desktop processors which will address incorrect voltage requests to the processor that are causing elevated operating voltage.

For all Intel Core 13th/14th Gen desktop processor users: This patch is being distributed via BIOS update and will not be available through operating system updates. Intel is working with its partners to ensure timely validation and rollout of the BIOS update for systems currently in service.

Instability Analysis Update – Microcode Background and Performance Implications

In addition to extended warranty coverage, Intel has released three mitigations related to the instability issue – commonly experienced as consistent application crashes and repeated hangs – to help stabilize customer systems with Intel Core 13th and 14th gen desktop processors:

1. Intel default settings to avoid elevated power delivery impact to the processor (May 2024)

2. Microcode 0x125 to fix the eTVB issue in i9 processors (June 2024)

3. Microcode 0x129 to address elevated voltages (August 2024)

Intel’s current analysis finds there is a significant increase to the minimum operating voltage (Vmin) across multiple cores on affected processors due to elevated voltages. Elevated voltage events can accumulate over time and contribute to the increase in Vmin for the processor.

The latest microcode update (0x129) will limit voltage requests above 1.55V as a preventative mitigation for processors not experiencing instability symptoms. This latest microcode update will primarily improve operating conditions for K/KF/KS processors. Intel is also confirming, based on extensive validation, all future products will not be affected by this issue.

Intel is continuing to investigate mitigations for scenarios that can result in Vmin shift on potentially impacted Intel Core 13th and 14th Gen desktop processors. Intel will provide updates by end of August. 

Intel’s internal testing – utilizing Intel Default Settings – indicates performance impact is within run-to-run variation (eg. 3DMark: Timespy, WebXPRT 4, Cinebench R24, Blender 4.2.0) with a few sub-tests showing moderate impacts (WebXPRT Online Homework; PugetBench GPU Effects Score). For gaming workloads tested, performance has also been within run-to-run variation (eg. Cyberpunk 2077, Shadow of the Tomb Raider, Total War: Warhammer III – Mirrors of Madness) with one exception showing slightly more impact (Hitman 3: Dartmoor). However, system performance is dependent on configuration and several other factors.

For unlocked Intel Core 13th and 14th Gen desktop processors, this latest microcode update (0x129) will not prevent users from overclocking if they so choose. Users can disable the eTVB setting in their BIOS if they wish to push above the 1.55V threshold. As always, Intel recommends users proceed with caution when overclocking their desktop processors, as overclocking may void their warranty and/or affect system health. As a general best practice, Intel recommends customers with Intel Core 13th and 14th Gen desktop processors utilize the Intel Default Settings.

In light of the recently announced extended warranty program, Intel is reaffirming its confidence in its products and is committed to making sure all customers who have or are currently experiencing instability symptoms on their 13th and/or 14th Gen desktop processors are supported in the exchange process. Users experiencing consistent instability symptoms should reach out to their system manufacturer (OEM/System Integrator purchase), Intel Customer Support (boxed processor), or place of purchase (tray processor) further assistance.

FURTHER READING:

June 2024 Intel Default Settings Guidance

August 2024 Warranty Extension Details

When an unplanned iPhone and iPad software update gets pushed without warning, it usually means it is related to a serious security issue. Today is no exception. Apple has just pushed an alert to download the latest iOS 17.6.1 update without much detail except for these important words:

“This update includes important bug fixes and addresses an issue that prevents enabling or disabling Advanced Data Protection.”

While it offers you the choice to update now or update tonight, I recommend you do it now without waiting. Updates like these are becoming increasingly frequent as bad actors find ways to compromise your safety, security and privacy on Apple products.

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What’s in the iOS 17.6.1 software update?

iOS 17.6.1, released on Aug. 7, 2024, primarily addresses a critical issue affecting Apple’s Advanced Data Protection (ADP) feature. The update fixes a bug that prevented some users from enabling or disabling ADP, an optional iCloud security feature that expands end-to-end encryption to additional services such as device backups, Messages backups and Photos.

The issue manifested in two ways. Users attempting to enable ADP encountered an error in the user interface, accurately reflecting the problem. Users trying to disable ADP saw it deactivated in the interface while it remained active for their iCloud data. Despite the issue, Apple assures us that the few users affected by this problem still experienced the same level of security, if not more, than they initially believed.

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After installing iOS 17.6.1, affected users who previously attempted to disable ADP will receive a notification directing them to Settings, where they can confirm their choice to turn off the feature.

The update includes the ADP fix, as well as other important bug fixes and security improvements. This release is part of Apple’s ongoing efforts to maintain the stability and security of iOS 17 as the company prepares for the upcoming launch of iOS 18 later this year.

How to make sure your iPhone and iPad are up to date

• Tap on Settings
• Tap on General
• Tap on Software Update
• If an update is available, it will give you the option to download and install.

Steps to make sure your iPhone and iPad are up to date (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

To keep your phone always up to date, you can turn on automatic updates by:

• On the Software Update screen mentioned above, click the Automatic Updates row
• Switching on all relevant services you wish to keep updated, as seen below

Steps to set up Automatic Updates (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

A word of caution: Always back up your phone just in case. More about backing up and restoring your phone here.

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Stay ahead of cyberthreats with strong antivirus software

Security glitches can have a greater impact on your life as more of our important details are easily accessible to skilled criminal hackers on devices without protection. That’s why I urge everyone to use strong antivirus protection on all devices, including Mac, iPhone, iPad, Android and Windows.

The best way to safeguard yourself from malicious links that install malware and potentially access your private information is to have antivirus software installed on all your devices. This protection can also alert you to phishing emails and ransomware scams, keeping your personal information and digital assets safe. Get my picks for the best 2024 antivirus protection winners for your Windows, Mac, Android and iOS devices.

Make sure you find the one that’s right for you and your family. The teams at Apple and others like Microsoft are fighting a battle of bad actors that is like trying to stop a fire hose of water using a plastic solo cup. It takes time to respond to and build a patch designed to stop the bad guys. Using strong antivirus protection can offer another level of security that you are in control of, rather than waiting for the rest of the world to catch up with trouble.

We’ll continue to monitor this bug fix and any related issues.

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Kurt’s key takeaways

Staying on top of software updates like iOS 17.6.1 is essential for keeping your devices secure. By updating now, you protect your personal data from potential threats. Don’t forget that using strong antivirus software adds another layer of defense against cyber risks. As technology evolves, so do cybercriminals’ tactics, so let’s stay proactive in safeguarding our digital lives.

How do you feel about the constant software updates to your iPhone or iPad? 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:

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