After the Apple M1 chip’s success, we’re now expecting the next-generation Apple M2 or M1X powered MacBook Pro and MacBook Air. We’re surely getting an upgrade in 2021, and there are some sweet features rumored to be exclusive to the Apple M2 MacBook Pro.
TF International Securities analyst and credible Apple leakster Ming-Chi Kuo told about the new design and features of the M2 MacBook Pro. If Kuo’s note is to be believed, the M2 MacBook Pro or the M1X MacBook Pro will add a lot more muscle to the Pro model than the Air. Here’s everything you need to know about the M2 MacBook Pro.
MacBook Pro Release Date
The M2/M1X MacBook Pro release date will be around the third quarter of 2021. We don’t know the exact date of the launch, but we can expect major design and feature changes. The upcoming Apple silicon-backed MacBook Pro is due for additional ports and possibly the return of MagSafe on MacBook.
M2 MacBook Pro Design
According to Ming-Chi Kuo, the Pro will come with a “flat-edged” design. This will be in tune with the company’s other products. Apple has already squared off the edges on the iPhone 12 lineup and the new iPad lineup. So it’s no surprise that the next-gen MacBook Pro design will not be as curved as the current one.
The new Pro models are expected to come in 14-inch and 16-inch screen sizes with a Mini LED display. It is certainly an upgrade over the current panel, and it means sharper, brighter images on the new Mac. You may notice design changes on the sides too, where Apple is expected to add more ports. Yes, Apple is likely to reverse its USB Type-C-only design. This means we may get more ports on the M2 MacBook Pro.
MacBook Pro 2021 New Features
Image: Unsplash
Now that the release date and design are out of the way, let’s talk about the 2021 MacBook Pro features. According to Kuo’s note, the new MacBook Pro will sport an HDMI port, an SD card slot, and MagSafe charging. Apple killed off the SD card slot after the 2015 MacBook Pro model. Then the HDMI and MagSafe were gone too.
Apple might actually add back HDMI and SD card support to the newer Pro models. It is so because the Pro has to offer more to justify its price over the Air now. The current M1 MacBook Air and MacBook Pro models are almost at par, making it difficult to justify the Pro as the ‘Pro’ choice.
With the addition of an HDMI port and an SD card slot, Apple may try to utilize the thicker design of the Pro model to deliver extra functions. As for the MacBook Air, we expect it to count on the adapters to get additional ports.
Kuo says that Genesys Logic will be making the SD card readers, and they’ll be USB 4.0 compatible. Both the HDMI as well as SD card reader are popular features among photographers and video editors. So we can say that Apple is tapping deeper into a territory that already prefers the MacBook Pro over other machines.
MagSafe: The Prodigal Son Returns!
Lastly, MagSafe on the M2 MacBook Pro will probably be a good decision. I’ve been using a MagSafe MacBook Air, and I’ve also used a MacBook with Type-C charging. The MagSafe model lets you confidently charge your MacBook on a table in a cafe. If someone accidentally topples on the cable, it just disconnects easily, saving your laptop.
With the Type-C port, it is likely that you’ll wreck your MacBook if someone yanks the cable. However, it remains to be seen if Apple offers a 90 watt MagSafe charger just like the Type-C one that comes with the current MacBook Pro.
Rest assured, if these upgrades make it to the next-gen MacBook Pro, it’ll better justify the price for not just the premium, but the added functionality and design.
YouTube is undoubtedly the internet’s most dominant platform for streaming free videos online. It hosts billions of videos that people view and comment upon daily. However, YouTube can revise its guidelines without any prior indication. This has resulted in a large fraction of unhappy users are looking for other YouTube alternative websites that can offer them free video hosting and similar content.
In case you are one of them and are looking for different video streaming sites, here’s a list of best alternatives to YouTube in 2021.
14 Best Free Alternatives To YouTube (2021)
No.
YouTube Alternative
Best For
1
DailyMotion
2
Vimeo
3
Metacafe
4
Utreon
5
IGTV
6
Twitch
7
TikTok
8
DTube
9
Veoh
10
9Gag TV
11
Internet Archive
12
The Open Video Project
13
Facebook’s Search Option
14
PeerTube
Before moving on to the free video websites, check out our other lists of best free alternatives:
Dailymotion is already a popular name among video-sharing websites like YouTube in 2021. It’s interface looks like YouTube and you can find trending videos on the homepage or ‘discover more’ on the categories section and search bar at the top.
Content creators (users and beginners) can upload content up to 2GB in size and 60 mins in length at a resolution of 1080p. For the advanced users, many of these limitations are removed. With 300+ million visitors per month, this YouTube alternative serves as an excellent gateway to share your content with people across the world.
Even though Dailymotion has its own set of dos and don’ts, but the copyright policies aren’t as scary as YouTube. So there is more flexibility and better tolerance for content uploaders which also makes it one of the best YouTube alternative without censorship.
There is also an option of monetizing the content via ads or a paywall. So viewers can expect to see ads on some videos while other videos are completely ad-free.
Vimeo is one of the best video hosting sites for artists and classy filmmakers looking for a good YouTube alternative in 2021. This platform encourages professionals in fields like music, dance, cinematography, photography, etc., to show off their work.
So if you want to see some random cat and dog videos, you might have to look somewhere else. But if classic short videos, experimental music clips, or interesting snapshots are your thing, Vimeo is your go-to place.
This alternative to YouTube has strict guidelines for uploading content as it hosts high-quality content where you can enjoy 4K Ultra HD visuals with HDR. The best thing about Vimeo is its ad-free model. It is supported by donations made by users and paywalls for some videos.
As far as the cons are concerned, its 500MB weekly upload limit can be disappointing for content creators. Although there are options to upgrade this limit, you’ll have to pay for it.
Why use Vimeo?
Neat interface with well-defined categories for easy search
Reliable YouTube alternative for hosting your videos online
More focus on video and less distracting elements in the background for a better viewing experience
Metacafe is one of the oldest video streaming sites that came into existence in 2003 even before YouTube went live. This video platform specializes in short-form video content with a focus on short 90-second clips, offering quick and lighthearted videos to its subscribers.
Metacafe’s minimal interface has neatly categorized sections for better browsing and caters to about 40 million viewers. However, if you are looking for professionally made videos or a complex topic, this platform isn’t for you.
It has more clickbaity content with crafty thumbnails and titles. For someone who enjoys spending time on short humorous clips made by regular users, Metacafe is the best YouTube alternative in 2021.
Why use Metacafe?
Excellent site for enjoying short 90 second videos
Offers quick and to-the-point product reviews, how-to guides and funny content
Utreon is the latest addition to the list of best YouTube alternatives in 2021. Honestly, Utreon looks a lot like YouTube with a similar yet refreshed UI and functionality. Here, content creators can choose to sync their YT videos which removes the need to double upload videos on both platforms.
The best part about Utreon is that you finally get a true YouTube alternative without censorship. You can stop worrying about the endless list of rules and regulations on YouTube and just focus on the basic and important ones on Utreon.
Talking about features, it is mobile-friendly, properly categorized with sections (like new, top, trending, topics, etc.). You can also monetize videos on Utreon, and channels that have been unfairly demonetized on YouTube can get help on this video platform to generate revenue again.
Why use Utreon?
Support video files up to 4K
Offers free speech and no censorship
Similar UI like YouTube
5. IGTV
YouTube has a new rival from the house of Facebook — Instagram TV, which is now one of the rising best alternatives to YouTube in 2021. This new video platform offers vertical, long-form videos that have been specifically created to be watched on smartphones.
Please note that you can browse videos only through the app; however, uploading videos through desktop is allowed. If you already have an Instagram account, IGTV automatically brings you videos published by the IG creators you follow.
You can also follow other channels to view their content or simply browse through a feed that contains curated content based on your interests. As a content creator, Instagram TV is one of the best video sites like YouTube to showcase your motion content to a larger audience without spending much. If you are new to Instagram, check out our hands-on guide to IGTV for tips on how to use the platform.
Why use IGTV?
For watching videos on a smartphone
More short-form videos with a maximum limit of up to 1 hr
If you love watching gaming videos, then Twitch is the best YouTube alternative for you. It mostly hosts gaming-related content where you watch games being live-streamed by popular gamers across the world.
Twitch is also a good platform to interact with other users for gaming tips and getting all sorts of info on video games in 2021. While Twitch allows you to monetize videos just like YouTube, the payout is considerably lesser. Nevertheless, if you are looking for a good alternative to YouTube for gaming videos, Twitch is your go-to place!
Why use Twitch?
Best for gamers
Great for live streaming
7. TikTok
Believe it or not, but TikTok was one of the biggest YouTube competitors until 2020. The Chinese video-sharing platform gave a tough fight to YouTube with its unique video style (which all video platforms are trying to copy now). Combined with the low-cost production, TikTok motivated common people to make videos in the comfort of their homes.
In fact, many celebrities started using TikTok as a platform to promote their work and connect with fans. However, its popularity started waning when big countries like India banned TikTok and others like US and Japan threatened to ban it. Despite the bans, TikTok is still available in many countries and can be used as a YouTube alternative in 2021.
TikTok has a built-in video editor in its app for Android and iOS, which makes the content creation buttery smooth. Also, there are various third-party apps, including Adobe Premiere Rush, PicsArt, and Fuse, that can directly upload to TikTok.
Blockchain is the latest fad in tech town and based on this technology, a new video platform like YouTube, dubbed the ‘DTube,’ has emerged. This decentralized website is a good alternative to YouTube. In fact, it comes real close when looking for sites like YouTube because its UI looks very similar.
You can browse through the hot, trending, and watched videos on the homepage. There is also an option of saving videos to watch later and checking out viral content in 2021 through trending tags. The best part is that DTube is ad-free. It utilizes the Steem blockchain to maintain records, and users don’t have to make initial deposits or pay any transaction fees.
In fact, uploading a video on DTube rewards you with Steem crypto-currency rewards for seven days. Moreover, users who leave comments on the videos also have a chance of earning money.
Why use DTube?
Ad-free website which gives you an uninterrupted viewing experience
Blockchain-based platform with a chance of earning crypto-currency
When looking on the web for more websites like YouTube in 2021, Veoh is a name you will bump into. The video streaming site that lets you easily discover, watch, and personalize your online viewing experience.
Veoh can be a good option if you enjoy watching longer videos as it allows users to upload and post videos of unlimited length. One can find several movies, TV series, and even anime on this site.
With a clean user interface and several social networking features like adding contacts, creating groups, and direct messaging, Veoh makes a good YouTube alternative.
Why use Veoh?
Recommended for long-form videos and movies
Clean UI with social features to interact with groups and forums
If you are hunting for a video-sharing website that would provide you pure entertainment, then 9GagTV is your go-to place in 2021. Facebook and Twitter users are already familiar with this portal that offers an unlimited supply of entertainment in the form of GIFs, images, and memes.
It also hosts a vast collection of funny videos, movie trailers, and engaging content, just like YouTube. You can explore through its ‘WOW’ and ‘WTF’ section, which has amusing content hosted on it, but some of them may be NSFW.
This website includes exactly what it says – an archive that has lots of content stored in it. Right from documentaries to TV series and movies, you will find a surprising variety in the videos section of the Internet Archive in 2021.
You can sort the content by setting filters for year, language, topic & subjects. By exploring, one can find certain videos that are hard to come by on other video sites like YouTube. Also, anyone can contribute to the archive by uploading content for free.
Why use the Internet Archive?
A vast collection of old documentaries, TV series, movies
The Open Video Project, launched in 1998, is a digital library that has about 195 video segments. It is a repository of digitized video content that has several documentaries, educational, and history-related content on it.
You can select from the available content by setting filters for a specific time duration, sound, and format. A significant portion of the videos on this video platform has been mostly contributed by U.S. government agencies.
Why use The Open Video Project?
Best YouTube replacement for finding educational documentaries
13. Facebook’s Search Option
We generally use Facebook’s search bar for finding friends, groups, or pages of interest. But the social platform offers much more than that. In fact, you will be amazed at the results when you actually use this search option to find videos in 2021.
In my opinion, Facebook’s search option is quite underrated when it comes to good YouTube alternatives. The collection of visual content offered by the social media network is as diverse as YouTube’s. Be it tutorials, reviews, music videos, funny clips; you name it, Facebook offers all of it.
So just type whatever you are looking for in the search bar and then select the videos tab on the search result page. You will find all the relevant videos for the searched keyword in one place.
The only missing feature is that you don’t get too many filters to narrow down your search like YouTube, but you can sort the videos according to year and sources. Another downside is that to use this option, you must have an FB account.
PeerTube is an open-source video-sharing platform that can serve as a good YouTube alternative in 2021. It is a Peer-to-Peer (P2P) software that is decentralized, just like BitTorrent, where anyone can host videos on their individual instance. Compared to other platforms like YouTube, the interface of PeerTube is simple, neat, and contains no ads. It contains a Trending and Recently Added section where you can explore new videos.
The best part about PeerTube is it overcomes limitations of YouTube, like getting blocked or censored. Therefore, it empowers the creators to showcase their content across the world very easily without the risk of getting banned. Since PeerTube is relatively new, it does not have a varied collection of videos. Nevertheless, it offers an appreciable service as a competitor.
Why use PeerTube?
Open sourced and decentralized
No signup required
YouTube Alternative without excessive censorship
Start Bingewatching On Alternatives To YouTube
Even though there isn’t one site that can be a complete replacement for YouTube in 2021, but viewers and creators can use a combination of the aforementioned websites according to their needs. I hope that you found this list of best YouTube alternatives useful.
For example, you can resort to Facebook or IGTV if you’re in the mood for some mindless binge-watching of random videos. Feel free to choose any of the websites recommended above, and in case you come across some other great video sites like YouTube, do let us know in the comment section.
YouTube Alternative FAQs
1. What can I use instead of YouTube?
You can use other video platforms like YouTube such as Dailymotion, Utreon, Vimeo, Metacafe, IGTV, and other alternatives to YouTube I have mentioned in this article.
2. Who is YouTube’s biggest competitor?
Vimeo is one of YouTube’s biggest competitors, but it doesn’t generate revenue like YouTube. However, it has a decent number of users which makes it a worthy rival.
The gaming community expanded exponentially after PUBG Mobile became an esports sensation. PUBG Mobile’s success motivated Activision to release Call of Duty Mobile, which grabbed millions of players instantly. It seems like the trend for mobile games isn’t going to end soon, as several upcoming mobile games are already creating enough hype.
Most video game developers realized that mobile gaming is a massive market. And to expand to that market, developers have to release games for Android and iOS. Thus, there are some amazing upcoming mobile games in 2021 that you should be excited about. So, let’s straight away get to the good stuff.
The first upcoming mobile game we are going to talk about is Valorant Mobile. For those who don’t know, Riot Games’ Valorant is an extraordinary multiplayer FPS game. Valorant took the 5v5 concept of Counter-Strike: Global Offensive and made it more exciting by introducing ‘Agents.’
In Valorant, you play in a team of five by selecting different agents with unique abilities. In short, it’s one of the most competitive video games right now.
In 2021, Valorant is one of the most popular games with millions of players worldwide. However, Riot Games wants to expand Valorant’s player base; well, that’s what numerous Valorant leaks and rumors say.
Officially, Valorant didn’t confirm anything on the development of Valorant Mobile. However, data miners have found several in-game files indicating that developers are working on a mobile port for Valorant. Nevertheless, it’s still hard to say when Valorant Mobile will actually be released. Hopefully, Riot will announce Valorant Mobile by the end of 2021, with a possible release date in 2022.
Release Date: 2022(Expected)
2. Apex Legends Mobile
Similar to Valorant, Apex Legends is already one of the best multiplayer games in 2021. Basically, it is a battle royale game available for consoles, PC, and Nintendo Switch. And Respawn Entertainment has already confirmed that it is working on Apex Legends Mobile. Unlike other battle royale games like PUBG and Call of Duty Warzone, Apex Legends has different characters, each with a unique set of abilities.
Initially, EA wanted to release Apex Legends Mobile by the end of 2021. However, COVID-19 impacted the game’s development; the reason why it got delayed. Now, according to several leaks, Apex Legends Mobile will release in the third quarter of 2021.
Interestingly, Apex Legends Mobile’s soft launch will begin in China in the next three to four months. You could say that it is one of the best upcoming mobile games to watch out for in 2021.
Release Date: 2021 (Expected)
3. PUBG: New State
Recently, PUBG Crop. announced a new PUBG battle royale game for mobile platform, PUBG: New State. Unlike other PUBG games, PUBG: New State is set in 2051. So, in the upcoming mobile game, players are going to see several futuristic weapons and vehicles. The game will feature drones, shields, and other technologically advanced gadgets. Moreover, in PUBG New State, players are going to see an entirely new map, TRIO.
Interestingly, PUBG Studios confirmed that they plan on releasing PUBG New State by the end of 2021. The alpha testing for the game will begin a little earlier than the global release.
PUBG is already one of the most popular battle royale games of all time, with millions of players worldwide. Nevertheless, the Korean video game developer is now inclined to seize more players with the third game under its umbrella. So, there’s no doubt that PUBG: New State is one of the best upcoming mobile games of 2021.
Release Date: 2021
4. League Of Legends: Wild Rift
Riot Games’ League Of Legends for PC is already an esports sensation. The Multiplayer online battle area game is considered one of the best games of all time. However, the game is only available for Windows, macOS, and Macintosh operating systems. Fortunately, in October 2019, Riot Games announced League of Legends: Wild Rift, the mobile port for League of Legends.
Sadly, League of Legends: Wild Rift does not have an official release date. However, Riot Games is already testing this game in selected countries. In March 2021, the open beta of League of Legends: Wild Rift will enter America. So, it’s safe to assume that Riot will release the MOBA game by the end of 2021, making it one of the best upcoming mobile games this year.
Release Date: 2021 (Expected)
5. Diablo Immortal
Blizzard Entertainment’s Diablo Immortal is an upcoming multiplayer action role-playing game for Android and iOS. The mobile port is based on the PC and console versions of the Diablo series and is set between Diablo II and Diablo III. Blizzard announced Diablo Immortal in 2018 and conducted the limited alpha testing for the game from December 2020-January 2021. Blizzard confirmed that another alpha testing for Diablo Immortal would begin soon.
Unfortunately, Activision CEO confirmed that Diablo 4 and Overwatch 2 wouldn’t be released in 2021. However, the studio affirmed that Diablo Immortal’s development is progressing well, and players might get to play the game in 2021.
Release Date: 2021
6. Pokemon Unite
Last year in June, The Pokemon Company announced Pokemon Unite, the first-ever Multiplayer Online Battle Arena (MOBA) game based on Pokemon. The game is developed by TiMi Studios, the Chinese studio that developed Call of Duty Mobile.
In Pokemon Unite, players can team up and play as a Pokemon of their choice. Between matches, players can perform interesting moves to conquer wild Pokemon in the arena. Players have to score points to evolve their Pokemon, and the team with the highest score is declared victorious.
For Pokemon fans, there are so many reasons to look forward to the release of Pokemon Unite. Officially, Pokemon Unite doesn’t have a release date yet. However, we could see Pokemon Unite releasing by the end of 2021.
Release Date: 2021 (Expected)
7. The Witcher: Monster Slayer
Last year, CD Projekt Red announced The Witcher: Monster Slayer Augmented Reality(AR) game for Android and iOS. The Witcher: Monster Slayer will work exactly like Pokemon Go. However, you will not be catching monsters in the Witcher mobile game. Instead, you have to kill monsters roaming around in the world.
The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt is considered a masterpiece game of the last decade. The success of video games even inspired Netflix to work on The Witcher series starring Henry Cavill. So, considering the popularity of the Witcher franchise, it’s safe to say that The Witcher: Monster Slayer is one of the best upcoming mobile games.
Right now, The Witcher: Monster Slayer doesn’t have an official release date. However, you can expect the game to release in 2021.
Release Date: 2021(Expected)
Top Upcoming Mobile Games: Wrapping Up
That’s it; these are the seven best upcoming mobile games that you should be excited about. Of course, there are other mobile games under development as well. However, these are the best ones that deserved to be on the list. If you have more to add, feel free to comment below!
Call of Duty mobile has come a long way since its inception, exhibiting some popular game modes. One of these modes is the 1v1 Duel game mode, launched in Season 6. This mode was exclusive to the Saloon map, the smallest COD Mobile map ever designed. However, the 1v1 mode was removed from Call of Duty Mobile after some time, making it hard for players to enjoy 1v1 matches.
Fortunately, players can still enjoy 1v1 matches in Call of Duty Mobile through private rooms on almost every Multiplayer map. However, we suggest that you play 1v1 matches on small COD Mobile maps like Reclaim, Shipment 1944, Cage, Killhouse, and Rust.
Play 1v1 Matches On Call Of Duty Mobile
Follow these basic steps to play 1v1 matches on Call of Duty Mobile:
NOTE: The method discussed in this article allows you to play custom multiplayer 1v1 matches. In contrast, the 1v1 Duel mode was a different game mode, which was previously available in private rooms and otherwise.
Launch COD Mobile and tap on the multiplayer option.
Click on the hamburger icon “≡” on the top right corner of your screen.
Choose “PRIVATE” from the list.
Select your desired game mode and map. Then, invite one of your friends to play a 1v1 match.
Once the player joins the room, press ‘Start’ to play 1v1 matches on Call of Duty Mobile. Of course, creating custom rooms in COD Mobile to enjoy a 1v1 duel takes some time. However, if you want to compete against one of your friends to figure out who’s the better player, the efforts are completely worth it.
In today’s world, there are different types of electric car batteries and their classification is done on the basis of material used for constructing them. Here are some of the most common types of electric car batteries:
Lithium-Ion Battery
Solid-State Battery
Lithium-Ion is the most commonly used battery in electric cars.
Structure Of A Lithium-Ion Battery
Lithium-ion batteries contain a cathode, an anode which are simply the electrodes, a separator, and an electrolyte.
This chemistry is simple as in most batteries. Let’s understand this better through its functioning.
How Does A Lithium-Ion Battery Work In An Electric Car?
In a Li-ion battery, the lithium ions flow from the negative electrode to the positive electrode. When the battery charges, the lithium ions move away from the positive electrode towards the negative one and stay there.
Similarly, when the battery of an electric car charges for the first time, the electrodes react with the electrolyte to form an initial SEI (Solid Electrolyte Interface) layer/ separator.
This reduces the battery capacity by a small amount, and the process is called Formation Loss.
However, this initial formation of the SEI layer facilitates the battery to get charged and discharged thousands of times without the electrode reacting with electrolytes.
Why Lithium-Ion Batteries Are Used In Electric Cars?
As mentioned above, electric car batteries are generally made up of lithium-ion cells. It’s widely used because of its following advantages:
High Energy Density: Lithium-ion cells can store a high amount of energy while maintaining their compact size. This allows it to consume less space, thus, providing more room for automakers to utilize.
Higher Charging Cycles: Each time the battery recharges and discharges, it is known as a Charge cycle. All batteries degrade after each cycle. However, Lithium-ion batteries can be recharged several times with very little degradation.
Low Risk of Fire: Lithium-ion batteries have one of the most stable configurations. Due to this, the battery doesn’t catch fire easily making it safe to use.
Where Are Batteries Installed In Electric Cars (Advantages)?
Most lithium-ion battery packs weigh a significant amount. The batteries are usually placed underneath the car’s floor.
The heavy battery packs increase the weight of the electric vehicle significantly, but it also provides them with a very low center of gravity. Which, in turn, provides them with a very planted ride.
However, in some electric cars, batteries are also installed in the front bonnet.
Example: Battery Of Tesla Model 3 Electric Car
The Tesla Model 3 is designed to have more than 1,300 charging cycles. This means that the Model 3 can easily travel 300,000 miles before it starts to show any significant signs of battery degradation.
The chemical composition of electric car batteries also keeps changing as we move ahead in time. Currently, Tesla uses a combination of Nickle-Manganese-Cobalt in the ratio of 8:1:1. The most expensive component in this combination is Cobalt.
According to a recent report, Tesla plans to further reduce the proportion of Cobalt in its future electric car batteries. This will help make the upcoming EVs very affordable.
Solid-State Battery
Image: Charged EVs
Unlike normal batteries, Solid-State Batteries do not have a liquid electrolyte in between the electrodes. Instead, there’s a solid electrolyte, mostly a glass or any other material.
What Are The Advantages Of A Solid State Battery?
According to experts, Solid State Batteries have several advantages over a conventional Li-ion battery.
Higher Energy Density: According to John B. Goodenough, a pioneer in the field of lithium-ion batteries, a Solid-State Battery has almost 3 times more energy density than that of a lithium-ion battery.
Cheap: Solid-State Batteries are much more affordable than a lithium-ion battery.
Safer: Solid-State Batteries can function at a wide range of temperatures. Due to this, it’s not prone to catching fire even in extreme temperatures making it safe to use.
Although scientists have always given a very positive response on solid-state batteries, it’s still not ready to be used in EVs.
Solid-state batteries are still in the developmental stage and many companies are working on it. Thus, it would take four to five years for the technology to become commercially viable.
Once the technology gets optimized and functional, we hope it can replace the lithium-ion batteries.
After one and a half years of development, the Mageia team has finally released a stable version of Mageia 8. It will receive security and bug fix support for 18 months, till October 2022.
The latest version 8 also includes tons of updates ranging from new packages, Linux kernel to the graphical stack, and the base system upgrade.
New Features In Mageia 8
At the core, version 8 now ships the latest long-term support (LTS) Linux kernel 5.10.16, which provides better graphics with updated Mesa to v20.3.4.
Subsequently, Mageia 8 now uses the new GL Vendor Neutral Dispatch (GLVND) to resolve issues with OpenGL support on modern Linux systems.
With the new vendor-neutral libGL implementation, you can also install Mesa and third-party GL drivers in parallel. It will enable additional performance and functionality for hybrid GPU configurations.
Furthermore, Mageia also now uses the free video drivers for AMD/ATI graphics cards, AMDGPU for newer cards, and Radeon for older graphics cards.
Among the core packages, it has removed support for Java 8 (though still available) and upgraded the Java stack to version 11. In addition to this, most Python2 modules and software like Iceape and PlayOnLinux are no longer available in Mageia 8.
Speaking of desktop environments, it does include the latest versions such as Plasma 5.20.4, GNOME 3.38, Xfce 4.16, MATE 1.24.2, LXQt 0.16.0, and Cinnamon 4.8.3.
Here are the highlights of other key enhancements in Mageia 8:
When it comes to password managers, LastPass is considered one of the best password managers to get rid of the manual process of remembering passwords. What makes LastPass a favorite choice amongst users is its free plan under which you can access features like saving passwords, saving form fills, saving card details, and more.
However, recently, LastPass announced a change in its free plan. Starting from March 16, it will allow only one device under the free plan. It means free users will be restricted from using the features of the password manager either on a smartphone or on a PC (one at a time). This announcement is upsetting for those who have passwords saved in the app.
Thankfully, there are alternatives that you can use to replace LastPass. Before you switch to any other password manager, you need to export your saved passwords from LastPass. Below, we’ve enlisted the steps to export passwords from LastPass to other password managers. It’s a fairly easy process with simple steps to follow.
You can check out our list of best password manager apps to replace LastPass:
Log in to your LastPass account with the credentials
Click on the browser extension and go to Account options> Advanced
Next, click on the Export option and then choose the LastPass CSV File option to export the stored passwords in a CSV file
Alternatively, you can also choose the LastPass encrypted file option to make sure that your passwords aren’t available in plaintext format
In the next step, you’ll be required to enter your LastPass master password and the file will be downloaded
Now that you’ve downloaded your saved passwords on LastPass, you can import this file to the password manager of your choice. Almost all the best password managers provide the option to import passwords using an encrypted file or CSV file.
Upon uploading the file on the new password manager, your passwords will be organized automatically.
Recently, Hyundai unveiled its much anticipated electric car, the Ioniq 5. The 2021 Hyundai Ioniq 5 is equipped with lots of the latest technology, however, the most impressive one is its Vehicle To Load (V2L) function.
This technology is similar to the vehicle-to-grid (V2G) technology that allows supplying stored energy from vehicles to the power grid whenever needed.
Although V2L is based on a similar principle, there is more you need to know.
Today, we’ll discuss everything about the vehicle to load (V2L). We’ll also cover its limitations and how you can use it.
What Is Vehicle To Load (V2L) Function/Technology In Hyundai Ioniq 5?
Image: Hyundai
Vehicle To Load (V2L) is a function that allows the users to charge any electric device like an electric bike, scooter, dryer, camping equipment, or any other device simply through Hyundai Ioniq 5.
There are V2L ports available on the electric car, and the user just has to connect their equipment through a cable to use it.
This way the electric vehicle will act as a charger on wheels or in simple words a walking power bank but not just for your cell phone.
Batteries in electric cars are generally designed to store energy and use it for vehicle operations like supplying power to its motor and cars’ electronics.
However, with V2L technology, it can store energy and supply it to other appliances acting as a grid.
Accessing the V2L function is quite easy. As mentioned earlier, there are two charging ports: one is located inside the car under the second-row seat.
To charge your appliances using this port you have to turn on the vehicle and also you need a converter.
The second V2L port is located outside near the charging port. The good part is that you don’t have to turn on your vehicle to use this port.
What Are The Limitations Of V2L?
The problem with V2L is that it can supply only up to 3.6 kW of power. So, if you are thinking of supplying power to another vehicle like in the V2V (Vehicle-To-Vehicle) operations, it won’t be very useful.
However, this power is enough for smaller electrical appliances like a laptop, electric bicycles, etc.
We hope you now have a good understanding of the V2L function. In case you would like to add something, feel free to drop your views in the comments section below.
Following its monthly release model, the Garuda team has announced a new version called Garuda Linux “Hawk Eagle” (210225).
Like all previous releases, this February update also comes with a new edition called KDE Dragonized BlackArch Edition. It features the BlackArch repository, tweaks, and most common tools.
So, in total, Garuda now has 16 editions with different desktop environments: KDE Multimedia, GNOME, Xfce, LXQT-Kwin, Wayfire, i3WM, Qtile, MATE, Cinnamon, Recbox, UKUI, BSPWM, dr460nized, dr460nized gaming, dr460nized blackarch, Barebone KDE, and GNOME.
Another important change that Garuda Linux “Hawk Eagle” has brought for all editions (except Xfce and i3WM) is the inclusion of the LibreWolf (with extensions) as the default web browser.
As you may know, LibreWolf is a community-maintained fork of the Firefox browser, which focuses on privacy and security.
Furthermore, Garuda has added minimal and blazing fast Starship as the default prompt for both Fish and Zsh shell.
Among the edition-specific updates, GNOME has returned to PulseAudio replacing Pipewire, and now uses Fish as the default shell.
Qtile now has a new command-line app and simplified script that lets you manage wallpapers and pywal theming.
Other important key changes in Garuda Linux “Hawk Eagle” are as follows:
auto-cpufreq daemon is now “opt-in” instead of “opt-out”
Improvements to Performance and Powersave Tweaks package
Linux-zen as the default kernel
Visual changes and bug fixes for dr460nized editions
The setup-assistant now features gaming and kernel choices
Replaced gufw with the new Plasma firewall and Spectacle with Flameshot
Major design overhaul for LXQT-Kwin
At last, if you’re already using Garuda Linux, run a single command to upgrade your system to the latest version:
sudo pacman -Syu
You can also download the ISO image of any of the editions from here and install it from scratch by following the official installation instructions.
Microsoft is actively working on the semi-annual update cadence, and the Redmond giant is done with the development of the Windows 10 2104 feature update. However, there will be some time before it gets into the hands of the general public.
So, let’s talk about the 21H1 release date and various features that will arrive on your device later this year.
When is Windows 10 2104 arriving on my PC?
Microsoft hasn’t announced an official release date for the 21H1 update. However, if we look at the past trends, the bi-annual feature update is expected to arrive in April, although it might get pushed to May as well.
If you want to try out the 21H1 update preview, you can refer to the steps mentioned here.
We will update this post when Microsoft discloses the exact release date for the update.
How is the 21H1 update different this time?
Every year, we are used to seeing a bigger feature update in the first half of the year, for example, Windows 10 May 2020 Update. But that won’t be the case this time, and 21H1 will arrive with a rather limited set of features.
Microsoft will compensate for the same by releasing a bigger 21H2 update in the second half, which is currently known as Sun Valley. It’s expected to bring some major changes that users are waiting for the last few years.
Windows 10 21H1 Features: What’s Inside The Latest Windows Update?
1. External webcam support for Windows Hello
Windows Hello is a preloaded security feature in Windows 10 that allows users to sign in using a pin, fingerprint recognition, or facial recognition.
Existing installations of Windows 10 only allow the internal camera to be set as default for Windows Hello. But with the latest 21H1 update, you can also set the external camera as the default device for Windows Hello.
This will help in case you sit at a distance from your machine and use a webcam to make video calls. Also, desktop users who can use an external webcam only would benefit from the new addon.
2. Better document load times
Microsoft has made some performance improvements to the Windows Defender Application Guard, which optimizes the load times for documents.
Application Guard is a security feature that uses hardware-based isolation to prevent attacks on users’ devices. For example, it works with Microsoft Office apps and opens untrusted files in an isolated Hyper-V container. The feature is available on Windows 10 Pro, Enterprise, and Education editions.
3. Improvements to Windows Management Instrumentation (WMI) Group Policy Service
Redmond says it has given a performance update to the WMI (Windows Management Instrumentation) Group Policy Service, which will improve remote work scenarios. For example, it has fixed a heap leak issue with the WMI service that comes up when security settings are applied to the WMI namespace permissions.
To recall, WMI comprises a set of extensions to the Windows Driver Model. It provides a Powershell sub-system that can be used to manage both local and remote Windows PCs and servers using VB scripts.
4. Fixes coming with Windows 10 2104
Apart from all these 21H1 features, Microsoft has made many bug fixes to the OS as well.
It has fixed a memory leak error IE11 when using the Chinese language pack, unexpected screens during Windows Out Of The Box Experience, and an issue that shows incorrect refresh rates for HDR displays.
The update also takes care of flickering video playback on certain law-latency displays, a stop error that shows on startup, and a rendering issue while opening games on certain hardware.
You can find the full list of changes in this blog post.
So, these are some features and changes that will form a part of the Windows 10 2104 update later this year. We’ll update this article as more information flows in, so make sure to check out this post later.
The new Tata Safari is basically a longer Harrier and is the three-row version that was first displayed at the 2020 Auto Expo. In the Tata range, Safari is the flagship SUV being sold over the Harrier at a premium; thus, for the extra money, you get an updated design plus a longer car along with a more luxurious interior plus the three-row seating, of course.
The new Safari looks brilliant and has lots of road presence when seen for the first time and also looks longer than the Harrier, which it is. The extra length of nearly 65mm over the Harrier gives it a more elegant design, which adds to the looks, no doubt. Compared to the Harrier, the Safari has been designed to look more premium; hence you get the grille, which is finished in chrome and the same goes for the headlamp surrounds below. However, the side and the rear styling have more differences, and it is where you can see the new look. Unlike the Harrier, the roofline has been increased, and there is now a rear quarter glass being added for the third row.
Also, notice the nice way the roof-rails look somewhat like the previous Safari, and the “Safari” badge looks well done. Safari also wears bigger shoes as it gets 18-inch alloy wheels. There is not much choice in terms of colors as you get only three options: Royale Blue, Orcus White, and Daytona Grey.
What about the interiors?
The interiors impressed us more than the exteriors; here, the differentiation is more evident, and the execution of the design is amongst the best we have seen from any Tata Motors car. It feels tough — from the solid doors to the big steering wheel, along with chunky switchgear. It feels big and sturdy — something which owners will like.
The old Safari was outdated, and here we are glad Tata Motors did not see the past. The new Safari cabin looks really premium with a white interior and seats and the classy ashwood used, plus there is leather used on the door pads. The dashboard has soft-touch materials and also has an anti-reflective top-layer that looks/feels classy. This is one of the top-tier cabins for the price.
Some crucial changes make life easier when compared to living with a Harrier. There is an electronic handbrake for one, and the USP port location is also easier to access. The steering wheel has buttons that are easy to use, while the part digital instrument cluster is also nice, even if not quite as tech-focused as its rivals with a full digital cluster.
The touch screen at 8.8-inches could have been bigger too as all other SUVs in this segment have vastly bigger screens. We also think the quality of the touch display along with rearview camera graphics could be better.
That said, the Safari does quite well in the overall features count with equipment like a panoramic sunroof (one of the largest that we have seen in this class), 6-way Powered Driver Seat with adjustable lumbar support, captain seats, auto headlamps, drive modes, electronic parking brake, 9-speaker JBL audio system, Android Auto and Apple Car Play Connectivity plus connected tech, 6 airbags and more. However, wireless charging is missing from the features list.
Is Safari 2021 spacious?
Absolutely! Since one of the biggest reasons to buy Safari is the space and comfort on offer. The white color looks inviting, and once inside, the middle row is the best place to be with the Captain Seating layout. The standard is a 7-seater bench, but the 6-seater Captain’s Seats is the better option. The seats are superb and are very comfortable while having the right cushioning. Legroom and headroom are also fantastic in the second row. There are also special features include a boss mode to create even more space by moving the front seats ahead, while the 2nd row also gets a 60:40 Split along with auto climate control, ambient mood lighting, and plenty of storage space.
The third row is surprisingly good, and access to it is best via the space between the captain’s seats; once in, even tall passengers will not complain. Yes, thigh support is less, but headroom is good and you also get a separate blower control and USB ports.
What’s the technology on offer?
The Safari is the second Tata Motors car to get connected technology and it gets various features like location-based services, vehicle diagnostics, remote features (remote lock/unlock etc.), over-the-air updates, and vehicle security services. It also gets Terrain response modes connected to the ESP along with offroad ABS, traction control, hill-hold, electronic stability control, hill-descent control and more.
How is new Safari to drive?
The Safari gets the same 2.0 turbo diesel present in the Harrier along with the same 6-speed manual and automatic gearbox. It is a monocoque chassis-based SUV (For instance, Fortuner is a ladder-frame) and based on the same Land Rover platform. Controversially, it does not get a 4×4, unlike the last Safari.
While Tata Safari is heavier than Harrier, performance is the same as the diesel engine plus automatic being the best combination rather than manual, requiring more effort. The engine starts with a typical diesel noise but soon settles into a smooth idle. On the go, the automatic gearbox is nice and smooth for city traffic. The steering requires more effort though, since it is a bit heavy but gets better at higher speeds. Speaking of which, the Harrier is pretty responsive and cruises very well.
It gets drive modes, and Sport mode is very quick and does enough for all those highway overtakes. It is also brilliant in its stability. Unlike the previous Safari, the new one is much better and does not have too much body roll. Braking for such a heavy car is decent but could have been more confidence-inspiring. Superb ground clearance and terrain response modes are also enough to offer off-road capability for most situations other than hardcore off-roading.
Should you buy Tata Safari 2021?
Prices for the Safari start at Rs 14.6 lakh while the fully loaded version is Rs 21.4 lakh. That makes it good value on the basis of its design, space and the excellent suspension which makes for a comfortable family SUV. Getting one over the Harrier is a bit of a no-brainer due to the extra space, features and the added road presence. It is also a better packaged product. Over its immediate rivals, the Hector Plus has more features and a petrol engine while the Safari has the looks and the capability.
Overall, if you want a big SUV with comfort, features and the ability to go over any road surface with ease, then you should look at the Tata Safari. It is a lot better than the earlier Safari too, we might add!
