Alex Gatewood, Author at KnowTechie % https://knowtechie.com/author/alex-gatewood/ Daily Tech News for the Non-Techie Tue, 27 Dec 2022 15:27:19 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.1.1 https://knowtechie.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/cropped-LOGO-ICON-KNOW-TECHIE-FINAL01-01-COLOR-32x32.png Alex Gatewood, Author at KnowTechie % https://knowtechie.com/author/alex-gatewood/ 32 32 YouTube is now the home of NFL Sunday Ticket https://knowtechie.com/youtube-nfl-sunday-ticket/ Tue, 27 Dec 2022 15:25:00 +0000 https://knowtechie.com/?p=264179 YouTube and the NFL have reached an agreement.

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UPDATE 12/27/22 10:20 AM EST: The NFL has reached a deal with YouTube to bring NFL Sunday Ticket to YouTube TV and YouTube Primetime Channels. The partnership begins in 2023 as an add-on for YouTube TV and a standalone a-la-carte package on YouTube Primetime Channels. The original report follows below.

YouTube is leading the race to snatch exclusive rights for the National Football League’s NFL Sunday Ticket package.

A recent report from The Wall Street Journal claims that the streaming giant is in “advanced talks” with the company for the rights. The two companies could reach an agreement any day now.

The exact terms of the deal are still unknown. For the past 25+ years, DirecTV has owned the exclusive rights for NFL Sunday Ticket.

In contrast, the satellite TV service reportedly pays around $1.5 billion annually for the rights.

Apple and Amazon were also recently linked in talks with the National Football League to stream the NFL Sunday Ticket.

However, Apple recently pulled out of the deal, claiming it doesn’t “see the logic” in Sunday Ticket’s $3.5 billion price tag.

We haven’t heard much from Amazon about a potential deal, but the recent WSJ report suggests that YouTube will end up striking a deal.

NFL Sunday Ticket is the NFL’s yearly subscription service to unlock many weekly games. It lets viewers watch all out-of-market Sunday football games throughout the NFL season.

NFL sunday ticket logo on kt background
Image: NFL

The service has been in the hands of DirecTV since it launched in 1994. But it will move to a streaming service for the 2023 season.

This represents a major shift from sports leagues to focus more on streaming platforms as consumers continue to “cut the cord.”

Amazon has a deal with the NFL for Thursday Night Football. Additionally, Apple recently signed a deal to bring all Major League Soccer games to Apple TV.

We expect more sports leagues will strike similar deals in the near future, and YouTube TV could end up the home for more than just NFL Sunday Ticket soon.

Have any thoughts on this? Carry the discussion over to our Twitter or Facebook.

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Elon Musk says tweet view counts will soon be optional https://knowtechie.com/elon-musk-says-tweet-view-counts-will-soon-be-optional/ Tue, 27 Dec 2022 14:28:39 +0000 https://knowtechie.com/?p=265050 You'll be able to hide the metric if you don't like the way it looks.

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Twitter CEO Elon Musk says the new view count feature on tweets will soon be optional as some users find it messy and unnecessary.

Musk replied to a tweet from a user complaining about the new view count feature. The user said that tweets have become “too messy” with the new metric shoved at the bottom of a tweet.

Musk said that the company plans to clean up the look of tweets with the new view count. He also says that, eventually, users can turn off view counts.

Musk and the engineering team at Twitter recently added the view count feature to tweets. Musk shared plans for the feature on December 22, and most users began seeing view counts shortly after.

A feature traditionally kept for video only, view count shows a user how many times other users have seen their tweets. It shows up at the bottom of a tweet, to the left of the retweets and likes.

twitter view count example elon musk tweet
Image: KnowTechie

Many users are upset with the feature, saying it’s unnecessary and doesn’t fit well in its current iteration.

But it’s hard to argue against the usefulness of the new view count as a metric to measure reach.

It shows how many people have seen the tweet, giving users great insight into what kind of content gains the most traction.

It has become common at Twitter for Musk to launch new features with little to no discussion first. He then gauges user interest in that feature before deciding whether or not to keep the new feature as it is.

We saw this with the launch of paid verification through Twitter Blue and the uproar that came after.

It will be interesting to see what view counts look like after Musk and the Twitter team have time to modify and adjust the new feature.

Have any thoughts on this? Carry the discussion over to our Twitter or Facebook.

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Does the Meta Quest 2 require a PC? https://knowtechie.com/does-the-oculus-quest-2-require-a-pc/ Mon, 26 Dec 2022 16:05:37 +0000 https://knowtechie.com/?p=178134 Or is it a standalone VR headset?

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Quick Answer: The Meta and Oculus Quest 2 is a standalone VR headset that doesn’t require a PC. This makes it a versatile and accessible option for anyone looking to get their hands on a top-notch virtual reality experience.

The Meta Quest 2 is one of Meta’s premier virtual reality headsets (not counting the Meta Quest Pro).

The versatile headset is capable of much more than gaming, and Mark Zuckerberg likely has bold plans for the headset involving the metaverse.

With Meta Quest 2, you can do all kinds of activities.

You can watch movies, browse the web, try some of the latest VR games, or even get in an intense workout with games like Beat Saber.

But can Meta’s VR headset do all that by itself, or do you need a PC to hook the headset up for these activities?

Does the Oculus or Meta Quest 2 need a PC?

Short answer: No

The Meta Quest 2 or Quest Pro does not need to be hooked up to a PC or anything else to experience what the headset offers.

It is a completely standalone device, making it a great consumer product that just about anyone can enjoy.

oculus quest 2 controllers
Image: KnowTechie

The Quest 2 comes with a Qualcomm Snapdragon XR2 System built right into it, which has 6 GB of RAM and an Adreno 650 GPU.

This combination is powerful enough to run most games.

In addition to downloading games and apps designed specifically for the Quest 2 through the Oculus Quest Store, players can sideload titles onto the device by transferring them into its storage.

Again, all these games are playable on the headset without using a PC.

READ MORE: Can I use the Oculus Quest 2 with Steam games?

But that doesn’t mean you can’t use the headset with your PC to unlock even more entertainment.

The Meta Quest 2 can wirelessly connect to your PC via Air Link or hardwire using the Quest 2 Link cable.

woman using the oculus quest vr headset with hand tracking
Image: Oculus

READ MORE: Meta’s new parental controls make Quest VR headsets safer for kids

Connecting your Meta Quest 2 headset to your PC will let you use the headset to experience some VR games that aren’t available as a standalone Meta product.

But again, this is just an extra benefit you get with the Meta Quest 2.

You can still get dozens of games and apps on the headset without extra hardware. Alternatively, you can cast Oculus Quest 2 on a TV.

Have any thoughts on this? Carry the discussion over to our Twitter or Facebook.

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Can you see who looks at your Facebook profile? https://knowtechie.com/can-you-see-who-looks-at-your-facebook-profile/ Mon, 26 Dec 2022 08:01:37 +0000 https://knowtechie.com/?p=155917 Many apps claim to offer this function, but are any of them legit?

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Quick Answer: No, Facebook does not let users see who visited their profile or page. While many apps and websites claim they do, Facebook has said there is no way to check who viewed your profile.

Whenever you’re scrolling through Facebook, do you ever think about who is looking at your profile?

We can get a decent idea of some people who see our posts through likes and comments, but what about people who browse through your profile without liking or commenting?

By now, I’m sure we’ve all seen those third-party apps or websites that say they can tell you who’s looking at your profile.

facebook mobile page
Image: KnowTechie

While most of these apps and websites are obviously sketchy, it can lead you to wonder whether or not it’s possible to track the people visiting your Facebook profile.

It doesn’t seem too crazy that it could be possible.

Facebook is notorious for tracking as much of its users’ browsing activity as possible, so why wouldn’t it be possible for a third-party app to track users who click on your profile?

So, is it possible?

Can you really see who looks at your Facebook profile?

Short answer: No

Unfortunately, there’s no way to see who has been visiting your Facebook profile.

While many apps and websites claim they do this, Facebook has said there is no way to check who viewed your profile:

No, Facebook doesn’t let people track who views their profile. Third-party apps also can’t provide this functionality. If you come across an app that claims to offer this ability, please report the app.

facebook blurry background
Image: KnowTechie

Even though the social giant collects and stores all kinds of data regarding users’ social media browsing, the company does not allow any third party to use that information for tracking purposes.

This data is only used for the company’s own advertising platform, and giving third-party access to that data would be a huge privacy risk for everyone on the platform.

Have any thoughts on this? Carry the discussion over to our Twitter or Facebook.

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Can you play Steam games on the Oculus Quest 2? https://knowtechie.com/can-i-use-the-oculus-quest-2-with-steam-games/ Mon, 26 Dec 2022 06:19:00 +0000 https://knowtechie.com/?p=178998 You can connect your Oculus Quest 2 wirelessly with Air Link or wired with the Oculus Quest Link Cable.

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Quick Answer: Yes, you can play Steam games using your Oculus Quest 2. Oculus’s Air Link feature lets users wirelessly tether their headset to their PC, allowing players to play games compatible with the SteamVR platform.

Meta’s Oculus Quest 2 is one of the premier consumer brand VR headsets.

With a price starting at just $399, this is the headset that will inevitably introduce a lot of people to the world of VR.

And the Quest 2 is a pretty versatile device. The base model was previously upgraded to feature a 128GB hard drive, unlike the original 64GB.

And it’s standalone, which means you don’t need to hook the headset up to any other hardware to enjoy what it offers.

meta quest 2 headset
Image: KnowTechie

Although the Oculus Quest 2 is a standalone device, it doesn’t have to be confined to its own capabilities.

What about VR games and apps on other platforms? Does the Oculus Quest 2 work with Steam?

Can you play Steam games with the Oculus Quest 2?

Short answer: Yes

Yep, you can play SteamVR games using your Oculus Quest 2. Oculus has a feature called Air Link that lets users wirelessly tether their headset to their PC.

READ MORE: Does the Oculus Quest 2 require a PC?

If you’re not into the idea of using your Oculus Quest 2 wirelessly with your computer, there’s always the option of connecting it with a wire via the Oculus Quest Link Cable or any standard USB-C cable.

That way, you can still enjoy all the same features without relying on a wireless connection

oculus quest link cable
Image: KnowTechie

How to use the Oculus Quest 2 with Steam

If you want to use your Oculus Quest 2 with Steam, first, you’ll need to install the SteamVR app on your Quest 2.

While you’re at it, install the Quest 2 desktop app on your PC if it’s not installed already.

Once installed, connect your headset to your computer using the Quest 2 Link Cable. If you’re connecting wirelessly, skip ahead.

steam vr app logo
Image: Steam

With your headset connected to your PC, launch the SteamVR app from the Quest 2 Home screen.

Launch Steam on your computer and click on the “VR” icon in the top right corner of the Steam window.
Then, follow the prompts to set up your VR headset and controllers.

Once you get your Oculus Quest 2 hooked up to your computer via Air Link or the Link Cable, you are ready to start experiencing what SteamVR offers on your Quest 2.

So whenever you’re ready, select any VR game from your Steam library and dive in.

READ MORE: Does the Oculus Quest 2 support quick charging?

Important to point out: make sure your gaming rig is up to snuff. After all, you’ll rely on your PC to run the games, not Quest 2.

So, make sure your machine has the horsepower to handle the load.

Oh, and don’t forget to have a Steam account, too – you’ll need it to access your Steam library and play VR games.

steam logo with blurred background
Image: KnowTechie

Step up your VR game: play Steam games on Oculus Quest 2

So there you have it; it is definitely possible to play Steam games on the Oculus Quest 2. All you need is the SteamVR app, a compatible PC, and a Steam account.

Just keep in mind that not all Steam games are compatible with Quest 2, so be sure to check the system requirements before you buy.

Have any thoughts on this? Carry the discussion over to our Twitter or Facebook.

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How to set up Dolby Vision on Xbox Series X or Series S https://knowtechie.com/dolby-vision-is-here-for-the-xbox-series-xs-heres-how-to-set-it-up/ Fri, 23 Dec 2022 18:51:20 +0000 https://knowtechie.com/?p=164398 Dolby Vision gives Xbox Series X|S gamers "brighter highlights, sharper contrast, and more vibrant colors."

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Dolby Vision is available on your Xbox Series X or Series S, offering enhanced visuals to compliment your HDR TV. But you’ll need to set it up first to reap the benefits.

So, what is Dolby Vision? Dolby Vision is an HDR standard that uses dynamic metadata to offer “brighter highlights, sharper contrast, and more vibrant colors.”

In other words, paired with a compatible TV, Dolby Vision offers incredible visuals that will take your Xbox Series X|S to the next level.

ℹ A Dolby Vision-capable TV is required if you want to take advantage of the feature on your console.

There’s also a limited list of games that take advantage of Dolby Vision, but that’s something that Microsoft said it is working on.

If you meet the required qualifications, you’ll want to know how to enable Dolby Vision on the Xbox Series X|S as soon as possible.

If you’re ready to take the plunge, we’ll walk you through each step to set it up. Ready to jump in?

How to enable Dolby Vision on the Xbox Series X

First, you’ll want to ensure your television is compatible with Dolby Vision.

You can check your TV’s capabilities within your Xbox by heading to the 4K TV details menu:

  1. Select Settings and then General
xbox general settings
Image: KnowTechie
  1. Navigate to the TV & display options
xbox settings general tv display
Image: KnowTechie
  1. Select 4K TV Details
xbox 4k tv details
Image: KnowTechie
  1. Under Playing Games, confirm that your TV supports Dolby Vision
xbox dolby vision tv setting
Image: KnowTechie

Once you’ve confirmed that your TV is capable of Dolby Vision gaming with your console, we’ll show you how to get Dolby Vision on Xbox Series X.

How to setup Dolby vision on Xbox Series X

  1. Navigate to Settings>General>TV & display options once againxbox settings general tv display

  2. This time, select Video Modesxbox video modes settings

  3. Check the box that says Dolby Vision for Gamingxbox dolby vision for gaming

  4. It might be a good idea to check the Allow auto low-latency mode and Allow variable refresh rate for optimal performancexbox auto low latency and variable refresh

  5. Restart your Xbox Series X|S

And there you go, now you know how to set up Dolby Vision on Xbox Series X or Series S.

Is Dolby Vision not working on your Xbox Series X or S?

If you’re having trouble getting Dolby Vision to work on your Xbox Series X or Series S, here are some things you can try:

  1. Confirm if your TV or display is Dolby Vision-compatible and properly connected to your Xbox.
  2. Enable Dolby Vision in the “Video modes” settings on your Xbox.
  3. Check that the game or app you’re trying to play supports Dolby Vision and is updated to the latest version.
  4. Check the HDMI cable connecting your Xbox to your TV or display for any damage or loose connections.
  5. Restart your Xbox and TV or display to see if that fixes the issue.
  6. Check for any system updates or patches for your Xbox.

If none of these steps help, you might try contacting Xbox Support or the manufacturer of your TV or display for further assistance.

Dolby Vision enhances your HDR viewing experience

Dolby Vision HDR standard allows creators to add enhanced color, contrast, and depth to create more dynamic and clear images on-screen.

With Dolby Vision-enabled games on your Xbox Series X or Series S, you can experience breathtaking visuals and immerse yourself in worlds like never before.

Plus, the stunning graphics and rich, vibrant colors make for a truly next-level gaming experience that you won’t want to miss

Restarting your console isn’t necessarily required to enable the feature. But it’s always a good idea to do a quick reset when changing big settings like these.

Have any thoughts on this? Carry the discussion over to our Twitter or Facebook.

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LastPass reports yet another security breach (updated) https://knowtechie.com/lastpass-is-reporting-yet-another-security-breach-december/ Thu, 22 Dec 2022 21:55:31 +0000 https://knowtechie.com/?p=259527 The company says all your passwords are still safely encrypted.

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UPDATE 12/22/22 4:45 PM EST: LastPass recently updated its blog with information about its ongoing investigation into the recent security breach. The company warns hackers may attempt to brute force users’ master passwords. Users change their master password and enable two-factor authentication. More updates below.

LastPass is warning its customers about a recent security breach. This follows another hacking incident that occurred in August, which looks like the two are related.

Earlier this week, LastPass CEO Karim Toubba shared a message to customers notifying them of the breach. It also sent emails to its customers with the same message.

“We recently detected unusual activity within a third-party cloud storage service, which is currently shared by both LastPass and its affiliate, GoTo,” Toubba wrote in an email. “We immediately launched an investigation, engaged Mandiant, a leading security firm, and alerted law enforcement. 

We have determined that an unauthorized party, using information obtained in the August 2022 incident, was able to gain access to certain elements of our customers’ information. Our customers’ passwords remain safely encrypted due to LastPass’s Zero Knowledge architecture.”

Initially, the company noticed strange activity in its third-party cloud storage service. It immediately began investigating with the help of Mandiant, a leading security firm.

Toubba says the company discovered an ‘unauthorized party’ gained access to certain elements of its customers’ information.

LastPass claims that users’ passwords are safe

The messages confirm that the bad actor accessed this data using information they obtained in the breach back in August. Thankfully, LastPass ensures that users’ passwords are safe, however

“Our customers’ passwords remain safely encrypted due to LastPass’s Zero Knowledge architecture,” reads the statement to customers.

The company is traditionally transparent about breaches and similar activities that could endanger its customers. It will likely update the message page with more information as soon as more details are added.

LastPass didn’t share exactly what kind of information the hacker accessed. But it did confirm that passwords remain safe.

lastpass on iphone
Image: KnowTechie

Additionally, the company recommends following these steps to ensure you use the best practices when setting up LastPass.

Consequently, it’s not a good look for a security-focused company to have multiple breaches as much as LastPass has had in the past few months.

However, the company has been very transparent, and it seems like it’s working hard to overcome and avoid these breaches in the future.

UPDATE 12/22/22 4:45 PM EST: LastPass recently posted an update to its blog with information about its ongoing investigation. The post includes details regarding its findings, customer recommendations, and the actions they’re currently taking.

In a nutshell, the investigation revealed that an unknown threat actor accessed the cloud storage using information obtained from a previous incident in August 2022.

The threat actor successfully copied a backup of customer vault data stored in an encrypted format.

Still, the data remains secured with 256-bit AES encryption and can only be decrypted with a unique key derived from each user’s master password.

The company warns hackers may attempt to use brute force to guess the master passwords and decrypt the copies of vault data, but LastPass’s default master password settings and best practices make this difficult.

LastPass recommends that users change their master password and enable two-factor authentication to protect themselves against attacks.

“We are committed to keeping you informed of our findings, and to updating you on the actions we are taking and any actions that you may need to perform,” writes Karim Toubba , LastPass CEO. “In the meantime, our services are running normally, and we continue to operate in a state of heightened alert.”

Have any thoughts on this? Carry the discussion over to our Twitter or Facebook.

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Tesla’s Model Y and Model 3 get a $7,500 price cut https://knowtechie.com/teslas-model-y-and-model-3-get-a-7500-price-cut/ Thu, 22 Dec 2022 18:58:35 +0000 https://knowtechie.com/?p=264470 You can get a $7,500 credit and 10,000 miles of free Supercharging.

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Tesla continues its unprecedented month of December with $7,500 discounts for the Model 3 and Model Y.

Earlier this month, Tesla began offering $3,750 discounts, but apparently, that wasn’t enough to move the needle, so $7,500 it is. But wait, there’s more.

On top of that, buyers can get an additional 10,000 miles of free Supercharging when using the discount.

“When I bought my Tesla, I didn’t get diddly-squat,” notes our Editor in Chief, Kevin Raposo.

To take advantage of this deal, you will have to take the delivery of your new car between now and December 31. So you’ll have to make a hasty decision to get in on this discount.

tesla $7500 discount december 2022
Image: Tesla

Elon Musk once said he’d never again offer discounts on new cars.

This came after research analyst Brad Erickson published a note criticizing the company’s discounts for helping them boost fourth-quarter sales.

But looking at the timing of these discounts, it looks like this is exactly what Tesla is doing.

The early December discount seemingly wasn’t enough to entice buyers, so it looks like Tesla’s doubling down to gain a few extra last-minute sales.

tesla self-driving
Image: Pexels

The company has had its fair share of troubles this year, including a CEO who’s too busy burning Twitter down to focus on Tesla.

Tesla stock has been gradually declining all year, reaching a 52-week low this week. This isn’t a great look for the company, and investors are taking notice.

The company likely looks for this discount to provide better sales numbers to report to investors for this quarter. So much for never discounting new Teslas.

Have any thoughts on this? Carry the discussion over to our Twitter or Facebook.

Editors’ Recommendations:

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Meta boosts Quest 2 performance with GPU update https://knowtechie.com/meta-improves-quest-2-performance-with-gpu-boost-update/ Thu, 22 Dec 2022 16:24:50 +0000 https://knowtechie.com/?p=264419 Get smoother picture and screen resolution thanks to this update.

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Meta’s latest Quest 2 update boosts its GPU performance to give customers more power out of their VR headsets.

Meta revealed the GPU boost in a blog post on its website earlier this week. The update increases the Quest 2’s GPU frequency to 525 MHz, up from 490 MHz.

“We’re excited to announce that you now have more GPU compute power to work with on Meta Quest 2 devices—7% more, to be exact,” the company wrote in its blog post.

That increase represents a 7 percent boost in speed from the device’s GPU.

But what does this mean for your Quest 2 experience?

“This means your apps’ visuals will look even better—without sacrificing resolution quality,” Meta notes in its blog post.

Essentially, the 7 percent boost should lead to an overall improvement in picture quality and performance in apps.

The Quest 2 can now “leverage higher pixel density without substantially reducing resolution in order to hit the target frame rate.”

woman using the oculus quest vr headset with hand tracking
Image: Oculus

This is the update the Quest 2 desperately needed

The update gives you better picture quality from your Quest 2 without sacrificing the frame rate. So it offers a clearer picture while maintaining smooth transitions.

Meta says that all developers can now utilize this app performance boost. There’s no coding or integration necessary to take advantage of it.

Users need to doff/don (take off and put back on) or sleep cycle their Quest 2 headset by tapping the power button twice to unlock the updated performance boost.

meta quest 2 headset
Image: KnowTechie

However, a later update won’t require extra steps to increase GPU speeds. Meta says that an update is coming soon.

This is a nice boost for Quest 2 owners to get a little extra out of their headset near the end of its lifespan.

The next generation of Quest headsets is likely coming next year, and we expect to see a significant performance boost in that model. Until then, there’s always the Quest Pro.

wemax go portable projector product shot
Staff Pick
Meta Quest 2
The Meta Quest 2 is one of the best VR headsets yet, with impressive power and a comfortable design. Not to mention, it’s portable too.

Have any thoughts on this? Carry the discussion over to our Twitter or Facebook.

Editors’ Recommendations:

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Netflix to put an end to password sharing in early 2023 https://knowtechie.com/netflix-to-put-an-end-to-password-sharing-in-early-2023/ Thu, 22 Dec 2022 15:31:41 +0000 https://knowtechie.com/?p=264392 You might finally have to start paying for your own account.

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Netflix will launch its push to end password sharing some time in early 2023.

The company has been aware that password sharing has been eating away at its profits for years, and it is finally preparing to address the issue.

A new report from The Wall Street Journal outlines how Netflix plans to address it.

Under its new rules, Netflix will start charging extra to users who share their passwords with people outside their homes.

It has already tested a similar feature in Latin America, charging around $3 for each extra household on an account.

notice of netflix password sharing in honduras
Image: KnowTechie

WSJ says Netflix could adopt a similar method in the United States. The company may charge just below the $6.99 it costs for an ad-supported tier to add an additional household to an account.

By doing that, Netflix could potentially sway users to sign up for their own accounts instead of using a shared account.

The company plans on enforcing its new sharing rule by looking at IP addresses, device IDs, and other account activity.

Netflix has been aware of password sharing for years now. However, it turned a blind eye after a huge uptick in subscribers and revenue thanks to the pandemic.

netflix password sharing tweet on a purple background
Image: KnowTechie

But now, the platform has been losing subscribers for the first time in a long time. It hopes ending password sharing could help regain some lost revenue.

Netflix is treading lightly with this change, however. The company knows it will lose a lot of goodwill with customers by ending password sharing.

Look for the company to gradually start cracking down on password sharing worldwide in the next few months.

So much for “love is sharing a password,” right?

Have any thoughts on this? Carry the discussion over to our Twitter or Facebook.

Editors’ Recommendations:

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Eufy cameras secretly uploaded footage to cloud (updated) https://knowtechie.com/eufy-cameras-upload-footage-without-users-knowledge/ Thu, 22 Dec 2022 14:31:19 +0000 https://knowtechie.com/?p=259330 The security cameras have to use the cloud to send you push notifications.

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UPDATE 12/22/22 9:21 AM EST: Anker finally released a public explanation in a new blog post but disappointingly offers no apology and fails to address why anyone could view unencrypted streams from a camera advertised as being end-to-end encrypted. More updates below.

Eufy, an affordable security camera brand from Anker, is under fire for security concerns regarding uploaded footage.

The brand markets itself as a local security system where footage is stored locally, and not uploaded to the cloud. But a recent discovery challenges that entire premise.

Paul Moore is a security consultant. Last week, Moore discovered a significant flaw in how the Eufy Doorbell Dual Camera had been storing data.

Moore shared a video showing how the camera had been uploading and storing images of faces on the cloud. The camera did this despite Moore not signing up for a Eufy Cloud Storage account.

The flaw was later confirmed by other users and recreated by Android Central. The publication reached out to Eufy, and the company explained what exactly was happening that required these uploads.

Eufy says this particular flaw comes from push notifications. If a user opts to have push notifications from the app for motion detection, Eufy temporarily uploads the thumbnail to its servers before sending it out.

Moore had turned on the push notification setting for the Doorbell Dual Camera. Eufy’s default notification settings are text-only, and they don’t require the uploaded thumbnail.

Eufy plans on addressing the wording of its push notification setting to make it clear that it has to temporarily upload thumbnails. It also says it will change its marketing materials to better reflect its use of the cloud.

Eufy has found itself the center of controversy in the past. Users discovered a strange glitch in the cameras in early 2021 that allowed people to see into other users’ homes.

The company quickly addressed that problem, and nothing terrible seemingly came out of it. I would imagine it does the same this time, delivering on the changes it promised.

UPDATE 12/22/22 9:21 AM EST: Anker released a public explanation in a new blog post but disappointingly offers no apology and fails to address why anyone could view unencrypted streams from a camera advertised as being end-to-end encrypted.

In the blog post, they acknowledge the camera has a security flaw but doesn’t necessarily explain how it happened and why. Here’s what they had to say:

“First, no user data has been exposed, and the potential security flaws discussed online are speculative. However, we do agree there were some key areas for improvement. So we have made the following changes.

Today, users can still log in to our eufy.com Web portal to view live streams of their cameras. However, users can no longer view live streams (or share active links to these live streams with others) outside of eufy’s secure Web portal. Anyone wishing to view these links must first log in to the eufy.com Web portal.

We will continue to look for ways to enhance this feature”

Naturally, there are still a lot of unanswered questions, and eventually, Eufy needs to step up and address them. We’ve reached out to Eufy for comment and will offer any updates if we hear anything back.

Via The Verge

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Where do I find the serial number of my Oculus Quest 2? https://knowtechie.com/where-do-i-find-the-serial-number-of-my-oculus-quest-2/ Wed, 21 Dec 2022 21:05:05 +0000 https://knowtechie.com/?p=178155 The number can be found in several different places. This post will show you where.

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Quick Answer: You can find the serial number of your Oculus Quest 2 on the right side of the headset underneath the strap. Alternatively, you can find the serial number by tapping Devices in the Oculus mobile app.

If you own an Oculus Quest 2 VR headset, there could be some instances where you may need to find your device’s serial number.

Whether you need it for a certain app download, customer support, or any other reason – the Oculus Quest 2 and its controllers each have their own unique serial number.

Of course, finding the serial number on your Oculus Quest 2 isn’t necessarily as straightforward as it should be.

Thankfully, there are a few ways to find the serial number on your Oculus Quest 2, but they’re a little tricky. Don’t stress, though; we’ve got you covered.

This guide will tell you everything you need to know about finding your serial number on the Oculus Quest 2. Shall we?

Where is the serial number on my Oculus Quest 2?

Short answer: A lot of places

Oculus Quest 2 serial numbers are found in several different places, both physically and digitally.

Oculus Quest 2 serial number location – where to find them

First, let’s see how to find the serial number for your Oculus Quest 2 on the device itself

On the headset – You can find the serial number underneath the strap on the right side of your Oculus Quest 2 headset.

To see it, gently pull the strap off the headset; you can find the serial number there.

On the box – Like many other products, you can also find the serial number for your Oculus Quest 2 on the packaging that it came in.

Look for a white box with a bar code, and you will see the 14-digit serial number next to the term: S/N.

quest 2 serial number on box
Image: KnowTechie

Where can you find the serial number digitally?

  • Oculus.com – Head to the Oculus website and log in to your account. You can head to the My Devices section, where your headset’s serial number is available.
  • Oculus mobile app – This option is probably the most simple. Open the Oculus mobile app and tap Devices at the bottom; your headset and serial number will be displayed there.
oculus app
Image: KnowTechie

Oculus Quest 2 controller serial number

If you’re looking for the serial number for your controllers, you’ll have to look at the controllers themselves.

Remove the battery door and the battery from your controller, and you’ll reveal the serial number underneath where the battery sits.

Finding your Oculus Quest 2 serial number is simple

woman using the oculus quest vr headset with hand tracking
Image: Oculus

There you go, that’s where to find Oculus Quest 2 serial numbers, a long with its controllers.

Again, the easiest method is probably to use the mobile app, but that may not always be an option.

Fortunately, there are other ways you can find the information.

Have any thoughts on this? Carry the discussion over to our Twitter or Facebook.

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How to get your money back from Epic Games’ Fortnite settlement https://knowtechie.com/fortnite-ftc-lawsuit-how-to-get-refund/ Wed, 21 Dec 2022 17:58:55 +0000 https://knowtechie.com/?p=264213 You might be eligible for part of a $245 million settlement.

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Epic Games recently settled a lawsuit with the FTC around the game Fortnite. The settlement is worth hundreds of millions of dollars, and you may be eligible for a piece of that pie.

The recently settled lawsuit from the FTC claims Epic breached the Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA).

The commission also says the company used dark patterns to trick users into making unwanted purchases.

As part of the record-breaking $520 million settlement, Epic Games is required to allocate $245 million for customer refunds. And you could be one of the people eligible for a refund.

Who is eligible for a Fortnite settlement refund?

fortnite settlement ftc warning image
Image: KnowTechie

If you’re hoping to get a refund from the Fortnite settlement, the FTC says you might be eligible if you fall into one of these three categories:

Refund eligibility

  • Parents whose children made unauthorized credit card purchases in Fortnite from January 2017 to November 2018 are eligible.
  • Any players charged V-Bucks (Fortnite’s in-game currency) for unwanted shop items from January 2017 to September 2022 can get a refund.
  • Fortnite players whose accounts were locked from January 2017 to September 2022 after disputing charges are eligible for a refund.

You’re eligible for a refund if you fall into any of those categories. So, keep your eye on your email inbox for more details.

How to claim your Fortnite settlement refund

fortnite banner
Image: Epic Games

The FTC has yet to set a method for refunding users’ money. The commission will continue to update its website here as it has more information on refunds.

It also says that it will send email notices to eligible customers with any updates regarding the settlement.

The FTC warns against potential scams that could arise surrounding the Fortnite settlement. Namely, the commission will never as for a fee to file a claim or get a refund as part of this settlement.

So watch out for potential email scams over the next few weeks.

Keep your eye on the FTC website for more information

epic games logo on blurred background
Image: KnowTechie

Epic Games has agreed to the FTC’s settlement request, but there will still be some time to sort out all the refund process details.

Keep your eye on the FTC’s Fortnite settlement page for any updates. Likewise, you can sign up for email updates from the FTC here.

If you don’t sign up for the alerts, keep an eye out for any emails from the FTC regarding Fortnite in-game purchases soon.

With all this in mind, do not pay anyone who claims they can file your FTC refund claim. It’s one of the oldest scams on the internet, so keep a vigilant eye.

Have any thoughts on this? Carry the discussion over to our Twitter or Facebook.

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Sony’s new DualSense Edge falls short with poor battery life https://knowtechie.com/sonys-new-dualsense-edge-falls-short-with-poor-battery-life/ Wed, 21 Dec 2022 14:41:26 +0000 https://knowtechie.com/?p=264153 So what's Sony's take on this? Surprisingly, their only solution is to keep the controller plugged in.

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Early looks at Sony’s new DualSense Edge controller confirm that it has less battery life than its predecessor.

Earlier this week, TechRadar got its hands on the new controller more than a month before its January 26 release date.

For a quick refresher, the DualSense Edge is a lightweight and customizable premium controller designed with professional and competitive gamers in mind.

But one thing Sony didn’t address is the controller’s lackluster battery life.

The original DualSense controller featured a relatively weak battery, with just 12 hours of life on a single charge.

The new controller, however, is even worse than that. Sony confirmed to TechRadar that the battery life on the new DualSense Edge is “moderately shorter” than the original DualSense.

Sony justifies this with all the other upgrades it added to the controller. But for $200 per controller, you would think they could’ve added a better battery.

“The DualSense Edge wireless controller’s operating time is moderately shorter than the original DualSense wireless controller because we’ve included many more features within the same form factor and ergonomic design as the original DualSense controller, reads a statement from a Sony spokesperson to TechRadar.

Compare the DualSense Edge to Microsoft’s premium Xbox controller, the Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2, and we see a large discrepancy.

ps5 dualsense edge controller on purple background
Image: KnowTechie

The Xbox Elite controller is rated for up to 40 hours of gameplay on a single charge. That’s almost four times the battery life of Sony’s new controller.

So what’s Sony’s take on this? Surprisingly, their only solution is to keep the controller plugged in.

We’ll know more about the unimpressive battery life of Sony’s DualSense Edge controller when it launches on January 26, 2023.

With a price tag of $199.99 and a weak battery life, the controller will likely be ideal only for the most competitive PlayStation gamers.

Have any thoughts on this? Carry the discussion over to our Twitter or Facebook.

Editors’ Recommendations:

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Can I use my Oculus Quest 2 with my Xbox? https://knowtechie.com/can-i-use-my-oculus-quest-2-with-my-xbox/ Tue, 20 Dec 2022 18:18:00 +0000 https://knowtechie.com/?p=178168 Xbox doesn't have any VR games, but can you use a headset for a more immersive experience?

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Quick Answer: Yes, you can use your Oculus Quest 2 with an Xbox, but it requires a PC, a virtual desktop, and the Xbox Companion app. We provide step-by-step instructions below.

The Oculus Quest 2 is a versatile VR headset at a pretty affordable price. It features hundreds of games that you can play without the help of any additional hardware.

But you can also use the Oculus Quest 2 with the help of a PC to play games that might not have their own Quest 2 version.

You can hook the headset up to your PC to play Steam games and other PC VR games wirelessly with Air Link or via the Oculus Link cable.

But what about other platforms? For instance, can you hook the Oculus Quest 2 up to your Xbox? Here’s everything you need to know.

Does the Quest 2 headset work with Xbox?

Short answer: Sort of, but you’ll need a PC as a workaround.

There aren’t any official ways to connect your Oculus Quest 2 headset to an Xbox. And that makes sense, as there aren’t Xbox-specific games or apps that take advantage of VR.

READ MORE: Does the Oculus Quest 2 have expandable storage?

However, there is a workaround if you want to play Xbox games with the headset. This doesn’t work in the reverse. You cannot play Oculus Quest 2 games on Xbox.

The method involves streaming your Xbox to a PC and is pretty complicated, so we’ll walk you through the step-by-step process:

How to use the Oculus Quest 2 with Xbox:

  1. Make sure you allow game streaming on your Xbox

  2. Download and launch the Xbox Companion App on your PCxbox companion app

  3. Download Virtual Desktop on your PC and Oculus Quest 2virtual desktop download

  4. Launch Virtual Desktop and make sure your PC is streaming to mirror your Oculus Quest 2

  5. Start streaming your Xbox console to your PC using the Xbox Companion App

So there’s a pretty complex way to get your Xbox games on your Quest 2 headset. At present, there’s no way to connect the Quest 2 to Xbox without a PC.

Another option is to stream games on your PC using Xbox Cloud Gaming and then follow steps 3-5. Again, this method is pretty complicated, and you’re not gaining much by doing it.

Xbox and Quest 2 don’t play well together

Xbox consoles don’t offer any VR gaming optimization. That means you will just be mirroring your screen onto your Oculus Quest 2.

Because of this, there’s really no point in tying the two systems together at this time. Could that change in the future? Possibly, but we wouldn’t count on it.

Have any thoughts on this? Let us know down below in the comments or carry the discussion over to our Twitter or Facebook.

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Apple reportedly developing an Apple TV app for Android phones https://knowtechie.com/apple-reportedly-developing-an-apple-tv-app-for-android-phones/ Tue, 20 Dec 2022 17:56:22 +0000 https://knowtechie.com/?p=263901 This will make it a lot easier to watch Ted Lasso on your Android phone.

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Apple is reportedly planning on making an Apple TV app for Android smartphones, making it much easier to watch content on your non-iPhone mobile device.

News of the upcoming Android app comes from Twitter user ShrimpApplePro. ShrimpApplePro has delivered accurate leaks in the past, like the dynamic island on iPhone 14 and more.

Now, the leaker claims that Apple is working on an Apple TV app specifically for Android smartphones. They say the company is testing the app internally and it will come out “soon.”

A dedicated Apple TV app will make it much easier to check out the shows and movies on the platform from an Android phone. Right now, the only option is to head to tv.apple.com in a web browser.

To be clear, there already is an Apple TV app for the Android TV operating system. That means it works with devices like Chromecast with Google TV. But that app doesn’t transfer to mobile Android devices.

Apple isn’t necessarily stingy with the app. It’s already available on several devices, including PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, Roku, and many more smart TVs.

But Android mobile devices still don’t have a dedicated Apple TV app. That could all change, however, if these rumors are true.

Keep your eye out for an announcement from Apple finally bringing the app to Android smartphones.

Have any thoughts on this? Carry the discussion over to our Twitter or Facebook.

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TikTok will start telling users why it recommends videos https://knowtechie.com/tiktok-will-start-telling-users-why-it-recommends-videos/ Tue, 20 Dec 2022 15:58:07 +0000 https://knowtechie.com/?p=263868 The new feature is rolling out now for all users.

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TikTok is launching a feature that lets users know why it recommends certain videos on the For You page.

The company announced this new feature on its website this week. The goal is to notify users of TikTok’s logic behind video recommendations.

When you’re scrolling through your For You page, the feature will be housed in the Share panel. Tap on the share button, tap ‘Why this video,’ and you’ll see why TikTok recommended the video.

tiktok why this video example
Image: TikTok

TikTok recommends videos based on a variety of aspects. Maybe a particular video is popular with users in your region. Maybe it’s from an account that you follow.

You might see that a recommended video is similar to other videos you’ve liked or shared.

Regardless of the reasoning, you’ll get an explanation in the ‘Why this video section.’

“This feature is one of many ways we’re working to bring meaningful transparency to the people who use our platform, and builds on a number of steps we’ve taken towards that goal,” the company said in its blog post.

TikTok’s new ‘Why this video’ feature is launching today on all devices. If you don’t see the option yet, don’t worry.

Features like this tend to roll out gradually, and this one should be available to everyone in the coming days.

Have any thoughts on this? Carry the discussion over to our Twitter or Facebook.

Editors’ Recommendations:

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Mastodon surges past 2 million users as Elon Musk ruins Twitter https://knowtechie.com/mastodon-surges-past-2-million-users-as-elon-musk-ruins-twitter/ Tue, 20 Dec 2022 14:38:37 +0000 https://knowtechie.com/?p=263845 The platform is up to 2.5 million active users from just 300,000 a couple months ago.

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As Twitter users become increasingly annoyed, decentralized social platform Mastodon has seen a surge in users.

Mastodon founder and CEO Eugen Rochko recently shared a blog post covering the jump in active users. The platform jumped from 300,000 users to around 2.5 million in October and November.

This comes as Elon Musk has taken over Twitter and pushed some questionable new rules and regulations on the platform.

mastodon app on smartphone
Image: KnowTechie

One of the strangest, as Rochko notes, is banning links to other social platforms and suspending the Mastodon Twitter account.

Twitter has since pulled back on its ban on third-party links, and the @joinmastodon account is now reinstated.

But that’s not stopping people from abandoning Twitter in favor of the decentralized social platform.

Decentralization is what sets Mastodon apart from other social platforms. Users who create a Mastodon account choose a specific server to join.

screenshot of mastodon website server page
Image: Mastodon

That server is managed and moderated by an individual or group of people. And moderators generally organize each server around specific topics or interests.

Once you join a server, you can interact with or follow any Mastodon users, no matter which server they’re on.

Mastodon is the latest social platform to see a surge in users, thanks mainly to the chaos currently surrounding Twitter.

Maybe Mastodon will take Twitter’s place among the top few social platforms worldwide. With Elon Musk at the helm, who knows what will happen to the bird site?

Have any thoughts on this? Carry the discussion over to our Twitter or Facebook.

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Which Nintendo Switch is best for you? https://knowtechie.com/which-nintendo-switch-is-best-for-you/ Tue, 20 Dec 2022 13:02:00 +0000 https://knowtechie.com/?p=177278 Should you get the original Switch, the Switch Lite, or the OLED version?

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Quick Answer: The best Nintendo Switch for you depends on your needs. If you want a strictly portable console, get the Switch Lite. If you want one you can use with a TV, the original Switch or Switch OLED is better.

For several years now, Nintendo has been the king of handheld gaming consoles with its Nintendo Switch.

The Switch is a versatile console you can take with you on the go or dock it at your television and game on the big screen.

When the console was originally released in 2017, there was only one real option. Your only choice was the color of the Joy-Cons.

The original Switch stood by itself for a while before the company finally released different console versions.

The Nintendo Switch Lite was introduced a couple of years after the original console was released. Then, two years later, Nintendo came out with the improved Nintendo Switch OLED version.

READ MORE: How to turn on dark mode on Nintendo Switch

For those looking to get their hands on a Nintendo Switch console, it can be difficult to decide which one is best for you. Check out the different Nintendo Switch versions below:

Nintendo Switch vs. the OLED Nintendo Switch

nintendo switch oled model and stand
Nintendo Switch OLED model (Image: KnowTechie)

The two versions of the console that are the closest are the original Switch and the OLED version, released in 2021.

Both of these versions of the console feature a screen with detachable controllers that can be docked for use with a television.

And now for the differences: The OLED version of the Switch features a few upgrades (as well as an upgraded price).

First, the dock on the OLED switch features an ethernet port, so you can plug in straight to the internet for better download speeds.

new nintendo switch oled
Image: KnowTechie

But probably the more important difference has to do with the console itself. As the name implies, the OLED version features an upgraded 7″ OLED screen.

Compared to the 6.2″ LCD screen on the original version, the OLED option is a pretty decent upgrade.

The OLED version is also fitted with a larger 64 GB hard drive compared to the 32 GB drive on the original Switch.

While this is definitely an improvement, it’s still not going to be enough to load up a bunch of games.

You’ll likely have to take advantage of the microSD expansion slot (found on all versions of the Nintendo Switch).

The OLED switch retails for $349.99, while the original version still sits at its original price of $299.99.

Difference between Nintendo Switch and Switch Lite

nintendo switch consoles
Image: KnowTechie

And, of course, we can’t forget about the Switch Lite. The Lite version of the console was designed as a handheld-only option for gamers that aren’t interested in gaming on their TVs.

The Switch Lite features the smallest screen in the Switch lineup, at just 5.5 inches. It doesn’t come with removable Joy-Con controllers.

If the infamous Joy-Con drift happens to you, you’ll need to send the unit in for repair.

The console is essentially the same as the original Switch, except for these minor differences and the inability to play the console on your TV.

The Nintendo Switch Lite retails for just $199.99, so it is, by far, the most affordable in the Switch lineup. However, it also features the least amount of versatility, so that’s something that you’ll definitely want to consider.

So which Nintendo Switch is best for you?

Short answer: It depends on how you plan to use the console

Looking at the specifications, the biggest difference in Switch consoles lies between the Lite and the other two versions.

If you are looking for a console to use strictly for handheld gaming, then the Nintendo Switch Lite is perfect.

nintendo switch lite size comparison
Image: Nintendo

You won’t be able to use it on your TV, but you’ll be able to save a good amount of money by snagging the Lite.

As for the other two options, it really comes down to preference. I don’t think there’s enough of an upgrade between the original Switch and the OLED version to justify the $50.

But, if you want that bigger, better screen with a little more storage and the option to hardwire your internet when docked, then the Switch OLED version is the one you will want.

Have any thoughts on this? Let us know down below in the comments or carry the discussion over to our Twitter or Facebook.

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How to appear offline on Steam https://knowtechie.com/how-to-appear-offline-on-steam/ Mon, 19 Dec 2022 20:45:00 +0000 https://knowtechie.com/?p=172092 Showing as offline on Steam will let you game in peace.

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Quick Answer: To appear offline on Steam, head to the “Friends” tab on the top toolbar. Then, choose the “Invisible” option, and no one will be able to tell when you’re online.

If you ever want to play Steam games without notifying your entire friends list, you’ll want to know how to appear offline in Steam.

In addition to acting as a library for a massive number of games, Steam offers its users several other things.

Through Steam, gamers can build up friends lists, send invites to online games, and even track their success in games through achievements.

But with everything being so online these days, it can be hard to get some peace when you’re trying to sit back and play some games.

One way to avoid interruption during those gaming sessions is to appear offline to other users on Steam. Here’s how to set it up.

How to appear offline on Steam

how to appear offline in steam
Image: KnowTechie

READ MORE: How to get free Steam credit by selling Steam Trading Cards

You can appear offline when you want to play a game on Steam.

This is great when you want to play in peace, without friends seeing your activity or inviting you to play other games.

The process is pretty straightforward, and you can change back and forth as much as you want.

Here’s how to appear offline on Steam on your PC:

  1. In the Steam App, click the Friends tab in the top leftsteam how to appear offline 2

  2. Click Invisible on that drop-down menu

That’s all you have to do to appear offline on Steam. Be aware that the ‘offline’ option in that list will also make you appear offline.

But it won’t let you send or receive any messages from your friends until you change to a different option. So, ‘invisible’ is typically better to use.

Use the ‘invisible’ option to keep using Steam as normal

The ‘invisible’ option makes you invisible to your friends. But everything on your end acts the same as when you choose the ‘online’ status.

You can also manually choose the ‘away’ status, which Steam shows when you have been away for more than 15 minutes.

READ MORE: Can you appear offline on Epic Games?

Any of these statuses can be changed at will, so you can easily go from showing as offline to back online just in time to join your friends for some multiplayer gaming.

Have any thoughts on this? Let us know down below in the comments or carry the discussion over to our Twitter or Facebook.

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