Technology

United to flight attendants: Put away your phone or you are fired

Published

2 years ago

February 5, 2024

United to flight attendants: Put away your phone or you are fired

United Airlines has sharpened its onboard protocols, explicitly directing flight attendants to steer clear of personal electronic devices while on duty.

This directive serves as a reinforcement of United’s commitment to safety and customer service, aiming to ensure that flight attendants remain alert and ready to respond to any situation, thus prioritizing passengers’ welfare over personal screen time. A recent memo sent to flight attendants is a direct warning with potentially severe consequences.

“Use of a personal electronic device and/or accessories is not permitted while customers are on board the aircraft, with the exception of crew rest. … Any crewmember found in violation will be subject to performance discipline up to and including termination,” the memo states.

This rule underscores the airline’s expectation for crew members to remain approachable and courteous, ensuring that passengers always receive the attentive service they expect and deserve.

UNLOCK EXCLUSIVE INSIGHTS: JOIN KURT’S CYBERGUY NEWSLETTER FOR FREE TO GET SECURITY ALERTS AND LIFE-CHANGING HACKS TO YOUR INBOX

United Airlines flight attendant (United Airlines)

Why United Airlines wants its flight attendants to put away their phones

The airline, in its communication to the flight crew, noted that attentive service is not compatible with the distractions of personal devices. This stance is underscored by the potential risks identified by United. A distracted attendant could overlook a security incident, suffer or cause injury during landing or even unintentionally deploy an evacuation slide.

United Airlines flight attendant (United Airlines)

United Airlines’ message to its flight crew: You’re always on duty

The measures United is taking reflect a broader industry trend, emphasizing the professional image and readiness of flight attendants. It’s a reminder that the role of the flight crew extends beyond safety to encompass the entire flying experience.

UNITED EXEC SAYS COVID-19 PANDEMIC MAY HAVE CONTRIBUTED TO BOEING’S PROBLEMS

United’s communication suggests the company’s values and the expectation of professionalism apply at all times, even when flight attendants are in public view but not actively on duty.

United Airlines plane (United Airlines)

MORE: HERE’S PROOF SOME AIRLINES ARE NOT FANS OF AIRTAG TRACKERS

Non-compliance could result in termination

To reinforce these standards, United has not hesitated to state the consequences of non-compliance — disciplinary actions, up to and including job termination. This strict approach indicates the seriousness with which United views the customer experience and the safety environment onboard their aircraft.

United Airlines flight attendant (United Airlines)

MORE: IS YOUR NEXT FLIGHT SCHEDULED ON A 737 MAX 9 AIRCRAFT?

United strives to improve customer satisfaction

The airline’s action is a step further in a series of efforts to enhance customer satisfaction, including soliciting passenger feedback on crew performance and implementing new service standards aimed at improving the in-flight experience. From hanging coats in premium cabins to ensuring a quiet atmosphere and offering pre-departure drinks, United is pushing for a higher level of service.

United Airlines flight attendant helping passengers (United Airlines)

United expects high standards from cabin crew

While United’s cabin crew is known for its dedication and ability to handle the rigors of a demanding job, the airline’s latest policy serves as a reminder of the high standards expected from them. United’s message is clear. The focus should always be on safety and service, and personal devices should not distract from this mission.

Inside a United Airlines plane (United Airlines)

MORE: THE BEST TRAVEL GEAR OF 2024

United faces challenges amid labor issues

This policy comes at a critical time as airlines continue to recover from the impacts of the pandemic and face ongoing labor negotiations. United’s firm stance is a signal the airline is committed to excellence in service and is prepared to take the necessary steps to maintain and improve its reputation among passengers. The airline’s crew members are now more than ever required to demonstrate their dedication to the company’s ethos of attentive and exceptional service.

A passenger on a United Airlines flight (United Airlines)

Kurt’s key takeaways

United Airlines has made a bold move by banning personal devices for flight attendants, sending a clear message that safety and service are the top priorities for the airline. While some may see this as a harsh or restrictive policy, others may appreciate the professionalism and attentiveness that it promotes. United is not alone in this trend. Other airlines have also implemented similar rules or standards for their cabin crew.

The question is, will this policy make a difference in the customer experience and the safety environment onboard United’s flights? Will it help United regain its reputation and trust among passengers, especially after the challenges of the pandemic and the labor issues? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain. United’s flight attendants have a lot of responsibility and expectations on their shoulders, and they deserve our respect and gratitude for their hard work.

Do you agree or disagree with United’s policy? Why or why not? Let us know in the comments below. 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

Answers to the most asked CyberGuy questions:

Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson is an award-winning tech journalist who has a deep love of technology, gear and gadgets that make life better with his contributions for Fox News & FOX Business beginning mornings on “FOX & Friends.” Got a tech question? Get Kurt’s CyberGuy Newsletter, share your voice, a story idea or comment at CyberGuy.com.

Technology

YouTube made its video player easier to navigate on TVs

Published

11 hours ago

December 12, 2025

Press Room

YouTube made its video player easier to navigate on TVs

The YouTube watch screen has been given a new look on TVs. The redesign aims to provide a “more intuitive experience with easier navigation,” according to YouTube’s announcement, relocating the video title and several controls, and adding a new “Description” button to access creator information and other video features.

I’m already seeing the update on my own Nvidia Shield Pro streaming box and native Phillips TV OS, and I do think it makes it easier to find specific video features and controls. My colleague Thomas Ricker says he isn’t seeing the redesign in Apple TV’s YouTube player, however, so they may still be rolling out. These changes are pretty delayed, considering YouTube announced in April that they would arrive “this summer.”

Videos on the YouTube app for TV will now show the title in the top left corner of the screen instead of just above the video scrubber at the bottom of the page, and the title can no longer be clicked to open comments, metadata, and information about the creator. Instead, those controls are now available by clicking the new “Description” button. The channel thumbnail and subscribe function have also been separated into two buttons, with the creator’s thumbnail now taking users directly to their channel.

Controls have been reorganized into distinct groups under the video scrubber: Channel, Description, and Subscribe on the left, Previous, Pause/Play, and Next in the center, and Like, Dislike, Comment, Save, Closed Captions, and Settings placed into two groups on the right. YouTube says the Subscribe button will remain visible to subscribers, adapting to flag pay-gated content or alert users to new live streams. A “Multiview” control has also been added for live sports content, while Music and Premium subscribers will see a new “Display Mode” control.

Technology

Android Emergency Live Video gives 911 eyes on the scene

Published

11 hours ago

December 12, 2025

Press Room

Android Emergency Live Video gives 911 eyes on the scene

NEWYou can now listen to Fox News articles!

Holiday travel and winter storms create risky moments for drivers and families. Stress rises fast during emergencies, and describing the scene to 911 can feel overwhelming.

Now, a new Android feature closes that gap by providing live visual information that helps responders act with speed and accuracy.

If you use an iPhone, Apple offers a similar tool through its Emergency SOS Live Video feature. You can learn how it works right here.

Sign up for my FREE CyberGuy Report
Get my best tech tips, urgent security alerts and exclusive deals delivered straight to your inbox. Plus, you’ll get instant access to my Ultimate Scam Survival Guide — free when you join my CYBERGUY.COM newsletter.

HOW ANDROID MALWARE LETS THIEVES ACCESS YOUR ATM CASH

Android Emergency Live Video gives 911 a secure live view of the scene, so responders understand what is happening right away. (Cyberguy.com)

What Android Emergency Live Video does

Google is rolling out Android Emergency Live Video to give dispatchers a secure view of the scene during an active call or text. A dispatcher can request a live video stream through your phone when it is safe for you to share it. With a single tap, you can stream real-time video that helps responders understand what is happening.

This can help during car accidents, medical emergencies or fast-moving hazards such as wildfire conditions. Live video can also help dispatchers guide you through steps that save lives, such as CPR, until responders arrive.

APPLE NOW LETS YOU ADD YOUR PASSPORT TO YOUR PHONE’S WALLET

How the Android Emergency Live Video feature works

Android designed this tool to work with no setup. When you call or text 911, the dispatcher reviews the situation. If they decide video would help, they will send a request to your phone. You see a clear prompt that lets you choose whether to start the secure stream. The feature uses encryption and gives you full control. You can stop sharing at any moment.

The feature works on Android phones running Android 8 or newer with Google Play services. It is rolling out across the U.S. and select regions in Germany and Mexico. Google plans to expand coverage with more public safety partners.

How to use Emergency Live Video on Android

You cannot turn this feature on in advance. It appears only during an active 911 call or text.

1) Call or text 911 on your Android phone. The dispatcher reviews your situation.

2) Watch for a request on your screen. If the dispatcher decides live video will help, they send a prompt to your device.

3) Tap the notification that appears. You will see a clear message asking if you want to share live video.

4) Choose Share video to start streaming. This opens your camera and begins a secure live feed.

5) Tap Stop sharing at any time. You stay in control the entire time and can end the video at any time.

With one tap, you can choose to share real-time video during a 911 call or text which gives dispatchers the clarity they need to guide you. (CyberGuy.com)

Why Emergency Live Video on Android matters now

Emergencies create confusion. Sharing details verbally takes time and can lead to miscommunication. Video removes guesswork. Responders gain clarity in seconds, which can speed up help and improve outcomes. This tool builds on Android’s safety features, including Satellite SOS, Fall Detection and Car Crash Detection.

NEW ANDROID ATTACK TRICKS YOU INTO GIVING DANGEROUS PERMISSIONS

Alastair Breeze, a Software Engineer for Android, tells CyberGuy that the team built this feature with one goal in mind. “Providing people peace of mind is at the core of Android’s safety mission. Android Emergency Live Video gives you the ability to securely share real-time video to provide dispatchers the critical eyes-on-scene context they need to assist in emergencies.”

What this means to you

If you carry an Android phone, this feature adds another layer of protection during moments that demand quick action. You stay in control of when the video is shared. You also get a simple way to show the situation when describing it feels impossible. Faster clarity can lead to faster help, which can shape how an emergency ends.

Take my quiz: How safe is your online security?

Think your devices and data are truly protected? Take this quick quiz to see where your digital habits stand. From passwords to Wi-Fi settings, you’ll get a personalized breakdown of what you’re doing right and what needs improvement. Take my Quiz here: Cyberguy.com.

The feature works on Android phones running Android 8 or newer and helps responders act faster during emergencies when seconds matter. (Tony Giberson/tgiberson@pnj.com / USA TODAY)

Kurt’s key takeaways

Android Emergency Live Video brings real-time awareness to moments when every second matters. It gives responders a clear view, so they can guide you through urgent steps if necessary. Most of all, it adds peace of mind during situations no one plans for.

Would you feel comfortable sharing live video during an emergency if it helped responders reach you faster? Let us know by writing to us at Cyberguy.com.

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD THE FOX NEWS APP

Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson is an award-winning tech journalist who has a deep love of technology, gear and gadgets that make life better with his contributions for Fox News & FOX Business beginning mornings on “FOX & Friends.” Got a tech question? Get Kurt’s free CyberGuy Newsletter, share your voice, a story idea or comment at CyberGuy.com.

Technology

The Game Awards 2025: all the news and announcements

Published

23 hours ago

December 11, 2025

Press Room

The Game Awards 2025: all the news and announcements

The Game Awards are back once again to showcase a metric ton of commercials, provide the gaming public with their monthly dose of Muppets, and validate gamers’ opinions on which title should be named the Game of the Year. I don’t wanna say it’s a foregone conclusion what this year’s GOTY will be — Silksong may surprise us — but it’s pretty obvious that Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 is the frontrunner and for good reason. It’s netted 12 nominations, the most out of this year’s contenders, including all five craft awards (Direction, Art, Music and Score, Narrative, and Audio Design).

On the announcements side, Crystal Dynamics and Amazon Games are planning something related to the Tomb Raider series. Keighley also probably had plans to reveal big news about Resident Evil: Requiem, but unfortunately it got spoiled early thanks to some leaked key art on the PlayStation Store. Here’s all the news, announcements, and trailers from The Game Awards 2025.