#Firmware Rollouts

[consultingwives]

As someone who works in the reliability sector of IT I cannot emphasize how much you have to give 0 fucks about professional standards and best practices in order to do something like what Crowdstrike did.

At the company I work for, which you have definitely heard of, there are thousands of people (including me, hi) part of whose job it is to sit in rooms for literal hours every week with the people building new features and updating our software and ask them every question we can possibly think of about how their changes might impact the overall system and what potential risks there are. We brainstorm how to minimize those risks, impose requirements on the developers, and ultimately the buck stops with us. Some things are just too risky.

Many of the practices developed at this and other companies are now in wide use across the industry, including things like staggered rollouts (i.e. only 1/3 people get this update at first, then 2/3, then everyone) and multi-stage testing (push it to a fake system we set up for these purposes, see what it does).

In cases where you’re updating firmware or an os, there are physical test devices you need to update and verify that everything behaves as expected. If you really care about your customers you’ll hand the device to someone who works on a different system altogether and tell them to do their worst.

The bottom line here is that if Crowdstrike were following anything even resembling industry best practices there should have been about twenty failsafes between a kernel bug and a global update that bricked basically every enterprise machine in the world. This is like finding out the virus lab has a direct HVAC connection to the big conference room. There is genuinely no excuse for this kind of professional incompetence.

[amtechhive]

Samsung has rolled out the third One UI 7 Beta for the Galaxy S24 series in multiple regions

This rollout was first seen in regions like Germany, India, and Poland. What you need to know: A new One UI 7 Beta update is being released for the Galaxy S24 series in several regions. The firmware brings several bug fixes and notable improvements over the previous build. This is a major update with “ZXLJ” build numbers across regions. After a long wait, Samsung finally released the One UI 7…

[projeshkar]

Realme GT6 Receives Realme UI 6.0 Update – Research Snipers

A Realme GT6 user recently shared their experience of receiving the much-anticipated Realme UI 6.0 update on Reddit, sparking interest and discussions within the Realme community. Known for its steady rollout of firmware updates, Realme continues its strategy of improving user experience with timely OS enhancements. What’s New with Realme UI 6.0? While the specific changelog hasn’t been widely…

[excelforeusa]

OTA Software Updates: Ensuring Reliability and Security in Connected Devices

Over-The-Air (OTA) software updates have become indispensable in the realm of connected devices, offering a seamless way to enhance functionality, fix bugs, and improve security without requiring physical intervention. This article explores the critical aspects of OTA updates, their benefits, challenges, and best practices for ensuring reliability and security.

Understanding OTA Software Updates

Definition: OTA software updates enable devices to receive and install firmware, software patches, and configurations remotely, typically over secure wireless networks.

Components:

Client Software: Installed on devices to receive and process updates.

Server Infrastructure: Manages update distribution, ensures authentication, and secures data transfer.

Communication Protocols: Utilizes HTTPS, MQTT, CoAP, etc., for secure and efficient update delivery.

Importance of OTA Updates

Enhanced Security:

Enables prompt deployment of security patches and fixes vulnerabilities, reducing exposure to cyber threats.

Implementation of encryption and authentication protocols ensures updates are tamper-proof and secure.

Operational Efficiency:

Reduces downtime and operational disruptions associated with manual updates.

Facilitates quick rollout of new features and improvements, enhancing device performance and user satisfaction.

Challenges and Considerations

Security Risks: Vulnerabilities in OTA mechanisms can be exploited if not properly secured, necessitating robust security measures and regular audits.

Compatibility and Reliability:

Ensuring updates are compatible with diverse device configurations, software versions, and network environments.

Thorough testing and validation processes are crucial to mitigate risks of unintended consequences or system failures.

Best Practices for OTA Updates

Secure Protocols: Implement strong encryption (e.g., AES-256) and authentication mechanisms (e.g., digital signatures) to protect OTA communications.

Incremental Updates: Deploy incremental updates to minimize data usage and ensure efficient bandwidth management.

User Consent and Transparency: Obtain user consent for updates and provide transparent information about update contents and benefits.

Industry Applications

Automotive Sector: OTA updates enable automakers to remotely improve vehicle performance, safety features, and infotainment systems.

IoT Devices: Smart home devices, industrial sensors, and healthcare equipment benefit from OTA software updates for functionality enhancements and security enhancements.

Future Directions

AI-Enabled Updates: Leveraging AI and machine learning for predictive analytics to anticipate update requirements and optimize deployment strategies.

Blockchain Integration: Exploring blockchain technology to enhance OTA update security and transparency.

Conclusion

OTA software updates play a pivotal role in ensuring the reliability, security, and performance of connected devices across industries. By adopting best practices and leveraging advanced technologies, organizations can effectively manage OTA updates to enhance user experience, mitigate risks, and stay ahead in an increasingly connected world.

[vadzoseo]

OTA Review Strategies for Successful Smart City Initiatives

Smart city efforts are becoming crucial for enhancing urban living as towns all over the world continue to embrace the digital revolution. Modern technologies are used in smart cities to maximize energy use, improve public services, streamline transportation, and increase security. Over-the-Air (OTA) updates are one of the main technology pillars supporting these projects. The success of smart city initiatives depends on the OTA review process, which makes it possible to update and upgrade a large number of connected devices with ease.

With an emphasis on the function of OTA updates, their significance, and how cities might maximize their deployment, this blog examines the OTA review tactics that can result in successful smart city projects. Cities may harness the advantages of smart technology and steer clear of typical dangers by making sure that OTA reviews are thorough.

Understanding OTA in Smart Cities

OTA (over-the-air) technology refers to the wireless transmission of data, applications, firmware, and software to devices without the need for physical intervention. It plays a significant role in the functioning of smart cities, where thousands of devices and sensors operate simultaneously. These include traffic lights, street lamps, surveillance cameras, public transportation systems, and energy management grids, all of which require regular software updates to ensure optimal performance.

By utilizing OTA updates, cities can address software bugs, deploy security patches, improve functionalities, and introduce new features without having to physically access each device. However, before deploying these updates, an OTA review process must be in place to ensure the updates are tested, secure, and aligned with city objectives.

Key Challenges of OTA Updates in Smart Cities

Smart cities rely on diverse IoT systems, and managing OTA updates for such large-scale operations poses several challenges, such as:

Compatibility Issues: Smart cities often incorporate devices from various manufacturers. Ensuring updates are compatible across all devices can be complex.

Security Risks: The vast number of interconnected devices increases the risk of cyberattacks. Poorly managed OTA updates can expose vulnerabilities in the system.

Network Constraints: OTA updates rely on stable wireless connections. In densely populated areas, network congestion can hinder the smooth transmission of updates.

Downtime Minimization: OTA updates must be applied without causing significant downtime, as smart city operations such as traffic management and energy distribution are highly sensitive to disruptions.

OTA Review Strategies for Smart City Success

To address the challenges mentioned above, cities must implement robust OTA review strategies. These strategies ensure that OTA updates are reliable, secure, and scalable, ultimately contributing to the success of smart city initiatives.

1. Comprehensive Testing Before Deployment

One of the most critical steps in the OTA review process is ensuring that updates are thoroughly tested before deployment. This includes:

Unit Testing: Testing individual components to ensure that updates function correctly on each device type.

Integration Testing: Checking how the update integrates with other smart city systems and devices.

Security Testing: Assessing potential vulnerabilities and ensuring the update does not introduce any security risks.

A comprehensive testing strategy minimizes the risk of errors and ensures that updates are seamlessly deployed across different devices.

2. Staged Rollouts to Mitigate Risks

Instead of deploying OTA updates across an entire city at once, staged rollouts can significantly reduce the risk of widespread failures. By starting with smaller groups of devices or in specific geographic areas, cities can monitor how the updates perform and address any issues before proceeding with full deployment.

A staged rollout ensures that any potential issues are identified early, allowing cities to mitigate the impact of an unsuccessful update. This approach is particularly effective in ensuring scalability and network stability.

3. Regular security audits

The success of a smart city initiative heavily relies on the security of its interconnected systems. Cities should conduct regular security audits as part of their OTA review strategy to identify vulnerabilities and ensure that updates address any potential threats.

Encryption: All OTA communications should be encrypted to prevent unauthorized access.

Authentication: Only authorized devices and systems should be able to send or receive OTA updates.

Patch Management: Regular security patches should be prioritized to address emerging threats and vulnerabilities.

By including security audits in the OTA review process, cities can ensure that updates enhance, rather than compromise, system security.

4. Network Optimization for Efficient Updates

Network optimization is crucial for ensuring smooth OTA updates. Smart cities operate in environments with high traffic volumes, making it essential to manage network resources effectively. As part of the OTA review strategy, cities should consider:

Bandwidth Allocation: Prioritizing critical systems such as traffic management and emergency services to ensure uninterrupted updates.

Data Compression: Using data compression techniques to reduce the size of OTA updates, ensuring faster transmission and reduced network strain.

Off-Peak Updates: scheduling updates during off-peak hours to avoid network congestion and minimize the impact on daily city operations.

5. Real-Time Monitoring and Feedback

Real-time monitoring is a critical component of the OTA review process. By actively monitoring how devices respond to OTA updates, cities can detect any potential issues, such as failed installations, device malfunctions, or performance degradation.

Feedback Loops: Implementing a feedback loop where device performance is continuously monitored post-update allows for quick identification and resolution of issues.

Automated Alerts: Automatic alerts can notify administrators of any update failures, ensuring timely interventions.

Real-time monitoring helps ensure the success of OTA deployments by providing insights into update performance and device behavior.

In conclusion

Ensuring the smooth functioning of the underlying technologies is crucial as smart city efforts continue to expand. OTA updates are essential for preserving and enhancing the functionality of the infrastructure in smart cities. Deploying OTA updates without a systematic OTA review procedure, however, may result in interruptions, security flaws, and device issues.

Cities can increase the success of their OTA installations by implementing tactics including thorough testing, phased rollouts, frequent security audits, network optimization, and real-time monitoring. In addition to guaranteeing secure and dependable updates, these OTA review techniques will support the long-term viability of smart city projects. OTA updates can assist cities in becoming smarter, safer, and more effective urban areas if they are planned and implemented properly.

[webisdom01]

The Evolving Landscape of IoT Services: Unlocking New Dimensions in Connectivity

In an increasingly interconnected world, the term "Internet of Things" (IoT) has emerged as a cornerstone of modern technological evolution. IoT is a revolutionary concept that extends internet connectivity beyond traditional devices like computers and smartphones to a broad range of systems and devices, enabling them to collect and exchange data seamlessly. IoT services, the backbone of this ecosystem, offer the tools and platforms that facilitate the seamless interaction among these connected devices, ultimately leading to smarter decision-making and more efficient operations across numerous sectors. In this blog, we'll explore the nature, applications, and future implications of IoT services.

What are IoT Services?

IoT services encompass a broad suite of offerings that include the development, management, and deployment of IoT solutions. These services are designed to support interconnected devices across various industries, providing capabilities that range from device management and integration to analytics and security solutions. IoT service providers deliver the infrastructure and platforms necessary for devices to communicate, analyze data, and operate autonomously in a secure environment.

Key Components of IoT Services

Device Management: This includes the provisioning, administration, and maintenance of IoT devices. Effective device management ensures devices are always operational, firmware and software updates are applied, and security is maintained.

Connectivity Management: IoT devices require reliable connectivity to transmit data. IoT services provide robust connectivity solutions across different networks (such as cellular, Wi-Fi, and LoRaWAN), ensuring persistent and secure data flow between devices and their managing platforms.

Data Analytics and Processing: IoT generates vast amounts of data. IoT services provide powerful analytics tools that process this data to derive meaningful insights, which can be used to improve operational efficiency, predict maintenance needs, and enhance decision-making processes.

Security Services: Security is paramount in IoT networks to protect sensitive data and maintain privacy. IoT services include comprehensive security frameworks that address potential vulnerabilities, from the device level to network interactions and data storage.

Applications of IoT Services

The applications of IoT services are vast and varied, spanning multiple industries:

Smart Homes: IoT services enable smart home devices like thermostats, lights, and security systems to operate together seamlessly, improving energy efficiency and security while offering convenience and comfort to homeowners.

Healthcare: In healthcare, IoT services support devices like wearable health monitors and connected medical equipment, facilitating remote health monitoring and improving patient care through real-time data sharing.

Manufacturing: Known as Industrial IoT (IIoT), IoT services in manufacturing optimize production processes, improve supply chain management, and enhance safety by monitoring equipment and environmental conditions.

Smart Cities: IoT services contribute to the development of smart cities through intelligent traffic management systems, energy-efficient buildings, and improved public services through the use of connected sensors and devices.

Future of IoT Services

The future of IoT services looks promising, with advancements poised to further transform how we live and work. Emerging trends include:

Increased Adoption of AI: Integration of AI with IoT services is enhancing the autonomy of systems, enabling more sophisticated data analysis, and predictive maintenance.

Edge Computing: By processing data closer to where it is generated, edge computing reduces latency and bandwidth use, enhancing the responsiveness of IoT systems.

5G Technology: The rollout of 5G networks will significantly boost the speed and capacity of IoT services, enabling more devices to connect and interact more reliably and in real-time.

Conclusion

IoT services are reshaping the technological landscape, driving innovation across various sectors and promising to enhance the quality of life and operational efficiency. As these services evolve, they will play a crucial role in the realization of a fully connected world. For businesses and consumers alike, understanding and leveraging IoT services will be key to gaining competitive advantages and experiencing unprecedented convenience and efficiency in daily activities. As we look to the future, the potential of IoT services continues to expand, promising exciting possibilities for everyone in the ecosystem.

[zealousnightsublime]

2023-trends-of-internet-of-things

Certainly! Here are some of the trends in the Internet of Things (IoT) for the year 2023: 1.Edge Computing: As the number of IoT devices continues to grow, there is a need for processing and analyzing data closer to the source. Edge computing enables real-time data analysis and reduces latency by processing data at the edge of the network, near the devices themselves. 2.AI and Machine Learning Integration: AI and machine learning technologies are being integrated with IoT devices to enhance their capabilities. This enables devices to make intelligent decisions, detect patterns, and improve efficiency by learning from data generated by IoT sensors. 3.5G Connectivity: The rollout of 5G networks is expected to accelerate the adoption of IoT devices. 5G offers faster speeds, low latency, and the ability to connect a massive number of devices simultaneously, making it ideal for supporting large-scale IoT deployments. 4.Enhanced Security Measures: With the increasing number of connected devices, ensuring the security of IoT networks and data becomes crucial. In 2023, there will be a focus on implementing robust security measures, including encryption, authentication, and secure firmware updates, to protect against potential cyber threats. 5.Industrial IoT (IIoT) Expansion: The adoption of IoT in industrial sectors, also known as Industrial IoT or IIoT, is expected to continue growing. IIoT enables advanced monitoring, predictive maintenance, and optimization of industrial processes, leading to improved efficiency and cost savings. 6.Smart Cities Development: Smart city initiatives will gain further momentum in 2023. IoT technologies will be leveraged to improve urban infrastructure, enhance transportation systems, optimize energy consumption, and enable better management of public services. 7.Health and Wearable Devices: IoT devices in the healthcare sector will continue to evolve, with the integration of wearable devices for remote patient monitoring, health tracking, and personalized healthcare. These devices will enable better patient outcomes and reduce healthcare costs. 8.Sustainability and Green IoT: IoT technologies will play a significant role in promoting sustainability and environmental conservation. Smart energy management systems, waste management solutions, and monitoring devices will help optimize resource consumption and reduce environmental impact. 9.Interoperability and Standardization: To ensure seamless integration and communication between different IoT devices and platforms, there will be an emphasis on interoperability and standardization efforts. Common protocols and frameworks will facilitate the development of scalable and interoperable IoT ecosystems. 10.Privacy and Data Governance: As IoT devices collect vast amounts of data, privacy and data governance will become increasingly important. Stricter regulations and guidelines will be implemented to protect user privacy and ensure responsible handling of IoT-generated data. These are some of the trends that are expected to shape the IoT landscape in 2023. However, it's important to note that technology trends can evolve rapidly, and new developments may arise that could influence the IoT industry in unforeseen ways. 11.Blockchain Integration: Blockchain technology is being explored to enhance the security, transparency, and trustworthiness of IoT networks. By leveraging blockchain, IoT devices can securely and immutably record transactions and share data, fostering greater integrity in various industries such as supply chain management and data sharing. 12.Edge AI: Edge AI, the combination of AI and edge computing, will gain traction in 2023. By deploying AI algorithms directly on IoT devices or at the edge of the network, data processing and analysis can be performed locally, reducing the need for continuous data transmission to centralized servers. 13.Data Analytics and Insights: The growing volume of data generated by IoT devices calls for advanced analytics and insights. In 2023, there will be an increased focus on leveraging big data analytics, machine learning, and data visualization techniques to extract valuable insights from IoT-generated data, enabling better decision-making and optimization. 14.Fog Computing: Fog computing, similar to edge computing, brings processing capabilities closer to the network edge. In fog computing, intermediate devices between IoT devices and the cloud perform data processing and storage, reducing latency and enhancing real-time analytics. 15.Autonomous IoT: Autonomous IoT refers to IoT systems that can operate and make decisions independently, without human intervention. In 2023, we can expect advancements in autonomous IoT technologies, enabling devices to self-manage, self-heal, and adapt to changing environments. 16.Robotics and IoT Integration: The integration of robotics with IoT technologies will continue to grow in 2023. Robotics can leverage IoT sensors and data to enhance automation, improve efficiency, and enable collaborative interactions between humans and machines. 17.Predictive Maintenance: Predictive maintenance, enabled by IoT devices and data analytics, will be increasingly adopted across industries. By continuously monitoring and analyzing equipment data, IoT systems can predict and prevent potential failures, reducing downtime and maintenance costs. 18.Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR): AR and VR technologies will intersect with IoT to create immersive experiences. In 2023, we can expect IoT devices to integrate with AR/VR applications, providing users with enhanced real-time information, training simulations, and interactive experiences. 19.Consumer IoT: Consumer IoT devices, such as smart homes and wearable devices, will continue to evolve in 2023. These devices will become more intuitive, interconnected, and capable of providing personalized experiences through voice commands, gesture recognition, and intelligent automation. 20.Ethical Considerations: As IoT technologies become more pervasive, ethical considerations surrounding privacy, data usage, and AI decision-making will come to the forefront. In 2023, there will be a greater emphasis on developing ethical frameworks and guidelines to ensure responsible and transparent use of IoT technologies. These trends represent the direction in which the IoT industry is heading in 2023. However, it's important to note that the IoT landscape is constantly evolving, and new innovations and trends may emerge throughout the year. 21. Voice Control and Natural Language Processing: Voice-controlled IoT devices will become more prevalent, thanks to advancements in natural language processing (NLP) and voice recognition technologies. Users will be able to interact with their IoT devices using voice commands, making the user experience more seamless and intuitive. 22. Data Privacy and Consent Management: With growing concerns around data privacy, there will be an increased focus on empowering users to have more control over their data. In 2023, we can expect the development of robust consent management systems that allow users to manage and control how their IoT-generated data is collected, stored, and shared. 23. Energy Harvesting Solutions: To address the challenges of powering a large number of IoT devices, energy harvesting solutions will gain traction in 2023. These solutions will leverage renewable energy sources, such as solar, kinetic, or thermal energy, to power IoT devices, reducing the reliance on traditional batteries and extending device lifespan. 24. IoT in Agriculture: The adoption of IoT in agriculture, often referred to as smart farming or precision agriculture, will continue to grow in 2023. IoT sensors and devices will be used to monitor soil conditions, weather patterns, crop health, and livestock, enabling farmers to make data-driven decisions, optimize resource usage, and increase productivity. 25. Data Interoperability: As the IoT ecosystem expands, there will be a need for improved data interoperability. In 2023, efforts will be made to develop common data models, standards, and protocols to enable seamless data exchange and interoperability between different IoT devices, platforms, and ecosystems. 26. IoT in Supply Chain Management: IoT technologies will play a crucial role in optimizing supply chain management processes. By integrating IoT sensors and tracking devices, businesses can gain real-time visibility into their supply chain, improve inventory management, reduce wastage, and enhance overall efficiency. 27. Privacy-Preserving Machine Learning: Privacy-preserving machine learning techniques, such as federated learning and differential privacy, will gain prominence in 2023. These methods enable machine learning models to be trained on decentralized data sources while maintaining data privacy and security, making them suitable for IoT environments. 28. Cybersecurity Automation: With the increasing complexity and scale of IoT deployments, there will be a greater need for automated cybersecurity solutions. In 2023, we can expect the development of AI-powered cybersecurity tools that can detect and respond to threats in real-time, providing enhanced protection for IoT networks and devices. 29.IoT and Insurance: The insurance industry will leverage IoT technologies to offer more personalized and usage-based insurance products. IoT devices, such as telematics in automobiles or smart home sensors, will provide insurers with real-time data to assess risk accurately and tailor insurance policies accordingly. 30 . Edge-to-Cloud Integration: The integration between edge computing and cloud infrastructure will become more seamless in 2023. IoT systems will leverage the strengths of both edge and cloud computing, allowing data to be processed and stored at the most appropriate location based on latency, bandwidth, and storage requirements. These trends highlight the ongoing advancements and developments in the IoT landscape in 2023. However, it's important to note that the IoT industry is dynamic, and new trends and innovations may emerge as technology progresses throughout the year. Read the full article

[gadgetsboy]

February Software Update Goes Live for Pixel Phones and Watch

If you own a Google Pixel smartphone or wearable, then you might want to check your device for the latest update - Google has recently launched its latest monthly software patch for several of its devices, which include the Pixel handsets as well as its Pixel Watch. For Pixel smartphone owners, the software update is now available for several handsets including the Pixel 7 and 7 Pro, Pixel 6, 6 Pro, and 6a, as well as older devices like the Pixel 5, Pixel 5a, and Pixel 4a. The patch arrives with several fixes for the following issues, which include the following: - Fix for issue preventing touch interaction with Braille keyboard in certain conditions - Fix for issue occasionally causing instability while Clear Calling is enabled in certain conditions - Fix for issue occasionally preventing connection with certain Bluetooth devices or accessories - Fix for issue occasionally preventing Work profile calendar information from updating in the background With that said, users can check if the update is available in their respective regions by opening their Pixel’s “Settings” app, heading to “System,” and tapping on “System Update,” and the phone should automatically scan for any available updates. It should be noted that the update might be available at a different release schedule if your phone is carrier-locked - additionally, if you haven't been updating your device regularly, you'll first have to install earlier updates from previous months before being able to download the latest patch. Additionally, Google has also released this month's update for Pixel Watches running Wear OS 3.5. The update features patches which address security issues, although no major features have been announced, at least for the time being. Global variants of the Pixel Watch should get the update with firmware number RWD9.220429.075, while users in Japan and Taiwan will get software version number RWD9.220429.075.J1. The update's arrival might also differ depending on carrier variants of the device, according to Google: "We have provided the monthly software update for February 2023. All supported Pixel Watch devices running Wear OS 3.5 will receive these software updates starting today. The rollout will continue over the next week in phases depending on carrier and device. Users will receive a notification once the OTA becomes available for their device. We encourage you to update to receive the latest software." With that said, older Pixel devices such as the Pixel 4 series, Pixel 3 and 3a series phones will no longer get security patches, as regular software support has ended for these models. These new updates should hopefully fix any issues users have been experiencing, especially with regards to Bluetooth connectivity, an issue which has seemingly plagued a lot of Google-branded phones since the launch of the Pixel 6 and 6 Pro devices. More information can be found on Google's official webpage which lists specific details for the updates. Read the full article

[ecodweeb]

State of NC Fast Charging: Winter 2020

It’s been a while since I’ve sat down to pen a State of Charging report. So what’s changed since the Winter 2019 report?

Greenlots

I haven’t spoken much on this subject since the last report. I emailed Brightfield Transportation Solutions, the station owner of all those Greenlots machines, back in Feb. Their email was basically a rehashing of the message they’d been posting to Plugshare entries for these machines.

They told me QwickCharge out of Atlanta bought the assets. I called QwickCharge up in March, after my reply to this email asking about the status of the acquisition went unanswered by Brightfield. I got the outgoing CEO on the phone, he actually answered it himself! He was stepping down from the role after the sale was finalized (I was told due to a disagreement with the board), but that he wouldn’t have anything to do with the project once the sale was completed. At that time they were still “a few weeks” away from finalizing the deal. He then told me how all these Signets are one-off boxes that were made cheaply for the Nissan Leaf EV charging network rollout. They didn’t use the same controllers as other machines, and they didn’t have upgradable firmware nor did Signet have a new 4G modem to replace the 3G modem in the units. The pending 3G network shutdown is why all the machines went offline or into free vend mode. I was also told that many muncipalities - who paid the bill for the machines and thus dealt with the “unfair demand charges from Duke,” requested the machines be throttled down to 20kW to avoid the demand charges. This is why some machines - like Leland - were operating so slowly towards the end of their life.

I called back in May or June, and spoke to the new CEO (who also answered the phone). He told me that they are planning to add a credit card reader to the machines to facilitate payments, and that the machines as they are will still be in use. I specifically inquired about Leland and Calabash locations on the coast, and was told that when they have a plan in place those would be the first machines to come back online. There is no ETA for when that will happen.

ChargePoint

ChargePoint had a growth spurt in 2019 with all the Harley-Davidson dealers getting chargers to support the LiveWire. In 2020, the North Carolina Electric Member Cooperative’s Electric Vehicle Network has driven most of their growth, and will continue to do so throughout 2021 under the VW Diesel Emission Mitigation funding plan. The complete list of online locations:

2019 Machines Online: 11

2020 Machines Online: 18 (change: +7)

Machines to be built by 2021: 15

Raleigh: Land Rover, 24kW (KEYWATT)

Durham: BMW, 24kW (KEYWATT)

Greensboro: Land Rover, 24kW (KEYWATT)

Concord: Speedway Harley-Davidson, 24kW (KEYWATT)

Raleigh: Tobacco Road Harley-Davidson, 24kW (KEYWATT)

Fayetteville: Fort Bragg Harley-Davidson, 24kW (KEYWATT)

Shallotte: Beach House Harley-Davidson, 24kW (KEYWATT)

Wallace: Bad Boar Restaurent, 50kW (Tritium)

Lenoir: Blue Ridge Energy District Office, 50kW (Tritium)

Moncure: Jordan Damn Mini Mart, 50kW (CPE250)

Avon: Pangea Tavern, 50kW (CPE250)

Dobson: Circle K, 50kW (CPE250)

Huntersville: BP, 50kW (CPE250)

Wadesboro: Pee Dee Electric, 50kW (CPE250)

Asheboro: McDonalds, 50kW (CPE250)

High Point: Riding High Harley-Davidson, 24kW (KEYWATT)

Evergreen: Sun-Do Kwik Stop, 50kW (CPE250)

Enfield: Shell, 50kW (CPE250)

Locations that should be open by Winter 2021:

Waynesville

Morganton 1

Morganton 2

Boone

Statesville

Mocksville

Marshville

Siler City

Carrboro

Mebane

Kinston

Wilson

Tarboro

New Bern

Elizabeth City

ChargePoint’s current scheme is to deploy the in-house build CPE250 to all these locations, power is expected to be 50kW at all locations.

EVgo

Literally nothing has changed with EVgo since 2019, shy only 3 of the 8 units have working CCS connectors as of this writing in the Raleigh-Durham area. EVgo operates 23 dispensers at 22 sites across the state:

2019 Machines Online: 23

2020 Machines Online: 23 (change: 0)

Machines to be built by 2021: 4

Asheville outlet mall (2)

Asheville Biltmore Park

Charlotte Ballantyne Commons Pkwy BP

Charlotte Walker Branch Road BP

Charlotte Steele Creek Rd BP

Charlotte Mt Holly-Huntersville Rd BP

Charlotte Vinnie’s Way BP

Charlotte Cambridge Commons Dr BP

Charlotte The Shoppes at Highland Creek

Charlotte Thomas Ave Public Lot

Charlotte SouthPark Mall

Mooresville BP

Durham at The Hyatt

Durham South Square Mall

Cary Sheetz

Morrisville Sheetz

Raleigh Marriott

Raleigh Airport Sheetz

Raleigh AAA New Hope Rd

Wake Forest has one at the AAA

Mint Hill at Earp’s Express

Matthews BP

EVgo has let us down yet again. EVgo was awarded 4 projects to be funded by the VW grant, those locations allegedly are all at Lowe’s Food stores in Raleigh (Brier Creek), Greensboro (Guildford College Rd), Kernersville, and Harrisburg. Notable, all locations will have two dispensers and only Greensboro is slated to be a 50kW location… all others claim to be 200kW. This begs the question, is that 200kW per machine or is it power-shared?

Electrify America

2019 Machines Online: 54

2020 Machines Online: 54 (change: 0)

Machines to be built by 2021: 4

Electrify America has not failed to impress me, but they have had their growing pains… like turning off the I-95 corridor over Labor Day. Now, it should be noted that they replaced all the buggy Efaced hardware with ABB or Signet machines. This is good, but, there’s issues with Signet machines and Energica Motorcycles as well as the Volvo XC40 Recharge P8. So there is still work to be done, a fix for this issue is supposed to be deployed by the end of Jan (so I’m told).

Electrify America is the largest operator by a wide margin now: 54 dispensers across 11 sites, soon to be 58 dispensers at 12 sites. They’re still the only company with a redundant design - meaning more than one dispenser and more than one cable per machine. The open locations:

Raleigh: 6 (BTCPower)

Wake Forest: 3 (Signet)

Rocky Mount: 4 (Signet)

Henderson: 4 (Signet)

Greensboro: 8 (Signet)

Charlotte: 10 (ABB)

Asheville: 4 (Signet)

Hillsborough: 4 (ABB)

Cary: 3 (Signet)

Smithfield: 4 (Signet)

Lumberton: 4 (Signet)

The coming soon location (slated to be open Jan 2021):

Statesville: 4 (Signet)

Let’s hope that Electrify America can continue to grow and improve the compatibility of their machines with the EVs on the road.

December 23rd, 2020 2:39pm blogpost stateofcharge instagram

[shawtutorial]

Samsung Galaxy Note 10 Series Reportedly Getting One UI 3.1 Update

Samsung Galaxy Note 10 Series Reportedly Getting One UI 3.1 Update

Samsung Galaxy Note 10 series UI 3.1 update has reportedly started rolling out. Users in Germany are said to be the first ones to receive the new update, but the other markets, including India, should be getting the update soon as well. The Samsung Galaxy Note 10 series, which includes the Samsung Galaxy Note 10+ and the Samsung Galaxy Note 10, got bumped up to Android 11 with the One UI 3.0…

[techiespage]

HMD Global is rolling out the stable version of the Nokia 6.2 Android 10 update. The update is arriving over the air, but not everyone will receive it today due to the staged rollout. The Nokia 6.2 and Nokia 7.2 were scheduled to receive the update to Android 10 in Q1 2020. However, things took a twist when coronavirus struck, paralyzing operations of not just HMD Global, but also many other companies based in and outside China. The Finnish company then came out with a revised roadmap that placed the availability of the new OS for the Nokia 7.2 and Nokia 6.2 anywhere between the end of Q1 and the beginning of Q2 2020. Unfortunately for 6.2 owners, the stable Android 10 update was only released for the Nokia 7.2. Of course, Nokia 6.2 owners weren’t so happy with this move, which was swiftly followed by a Pie-based April patch. The wait has come to an end, though. Taking to Twitter, the usual suspect, Juho Sarvikas, has revealed that Nokia 6.2 owners can finally install the latest Android OS on their handsets. The airborne update is arriving as version V2.290 and weighs in at 1.54GB, tagging along the usual Android 10-related features alongside the latest April 2020 security patch. HMD says the update will only be available to 10% of Nokia 6.2 units sold in approved markets as of today. By May 1, the distribution of the update will have hit 50% and on May 3, all devices should have received the OS. . . . . #techies_page_nokia #techies_page_update #techies_page_android10 #techies_page #techies #tech #technology #hmdglobal #hmd #nokia #rollingout #rollout #nokia6point2 #android10 #china #firmware #update #softwareupdate #usa #uk #unitedstates #unitedkingdom #nokia7point2 #roadmap #androidpie #os #android #australia #india #canada https://www.instagram.com/p/B_hy1I9ge-E/?igshid=e36k3s48woz5

[excelforeusa]

OTA Automotive Updates: Enhancing Vehicle Performance and Security

Over-The-Air (OTA) automotive updates have emerged as a critical technology, revolutionizing how vehicles receive software updates and enhancements remotely. This article explores how OTA updates enhance vehicle performance, improve security, and reshape the automotive industry landscape.

Introduction to OTA Automotive Updates

OTA updates enable automotive manufacturers to deploy software updates, firmware upgrades, and security patches to vehicles wirelessly. This eliminates the need for physical visits to service centers, allowing vehicles to remain updated with the latest features and improvements seamlessly.

Enhancing Vehicle Performance

Optimized Software: OTA updates optimize vehicle software, enhancing performance, responsiveness, and fuel efficiency. Manufacturers can fine-tune engine parameters, transmission settings, and other systems to deliver optimal driving experiences based on real-world data and user feedback.

Integration of New Features: Automotive OEMs leverage OTA automotive updates to introduce new features and functionalities to existing vehicle models. From advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) to enhanced infotainment options, OTA updates keep vehicles technologically competitive throughout their lifecycle.

Improving Security Measures

Timely Security Patches: OTA updates enable prompt deployment of critical security patches and updates to safeguard vehicles against cyber threats. This proactive approach minimizes vulnerabilities and enhances cybersecurity resilience in connected vehicles.

Data Encryption and Authentication: Secure OTA protocols incorporate robust encryption standards and authentication mechanisms to protect data integrity during transmission. This ensures that software updates are authenticated and tamper-proof, maintaining the trustworthiness of vehicle systems.

Industry Impact and Adoption

Automotive OEMs: Manufacturers embrace OTA updates to streamline software management across vehicle fleets, reducing operational costs and enhancing customer satisfaction. OTA capabilities differentiate brands by offering continuous improvements and responsive customer support.

Regulatory Compliance: Compliance with automotive safety standards and data privacy regulations is facilitated through secure OTA update practices. Manufacturers ensure that updates adhere to regulatory requirements, promoting vehicle safety and consumer trust.

Future Directions

5G Connectivity: The rollout of 5G networks accelerates OTA update speeds, reduces latency, and supports larger data transfers. Enhanced connectivity enhances the efficiency of OTA update processes, supporting real-time diagnostics and vehicle-to-infrastructure (V2I) communication.

AI-Driven Optimization: Integration of artificial intelligence (AI) algorithms enables predictive analytics for OTA updates. AI analyzes vehicle data to anticipate maintenance needs, optimize update schedules, and personalize user experiences based on driving habits and preferences.

Conclusion

OTA automotive updates represent a transformative shift in vehicle maintenance and software management, offering benefits in performance enhancement, security reinforcement, and regulatory compliance. As automotive technology evolves, OTA capabilities will continue to drive innovation, redefine user expectations, and shape the future of connected mobility.

[vadzoseo]

Why OTA Update Software is Essential for Smart City IoT Maintenance

Maintaining the effectiveness and security of connected devices is critical in the rapidly changing world of smart cities, where the Internet of Things (IoT) is a key component in improving urban living. Software for over-the-air (OTA) updates becomes a crucial part of this maintenance approach. This essay explores the definition, importance, and advantages of over-the-air (OTA) update software for smart city IoT infrastructure maintenance.

Comprehending OTA Update Software

OTA update software refers to a method of wirelessly distributing software updates to devices without requiring physical access. This technology allows for the remote management of applications, firmware, and operating systems. With OTA updates, city planners and IT managers can ensure that all connected devices are running the latest versions of their software, optimizing performance and security.

The meaning of OTA update software extends beyond mere convenience; it encompasses various processes that enhance the lifecycle of IoT devices in smart cities. By implementing OTA update solutions, city officials can address issues swiftly, push new features, and mitigate security vulnerabilities effectively.

The Role of OTA Updates in Smart Cities

Smart cities rely on a multitude of interconnected devices—ranging from smart traffic lights to waste management sensors. Each device requires regular updates to function efficiently and securely. Here are several ways OTA update software contributes to the maintenance of smart city IoT ecosystems:

1. Enhanced Security

One of the most critical aspects of smart city management is security. Cyber threats are constantly evolving, and connected devices can become prime targets. OTA update software ensures that all devices receive the latest security patches without delay.

By regularly updating the firmware and software, cities can defend against vulnerabilities that malicious actors may exploit. This proactive approach to security is crucial for maintaining public trust and ensuring the smooth operation of city services.

2. Improved Device Performance

Devices in a smart city ecosystem need to perform optimally to manage various tasks effectively. OTA updates allow for performance enhancements and the introduction of new features that improve the functionality of IoT devices.

By using OTA update software, city managers can deploy performance optimizations swiftly across all devices. This leads to more reliable services, such as efficient traffic management, accurate waste collection, and enhanced public safety monitoring.

3. Cost Efficiency

Maintaining smart city IoT devices can be costly, especially when physical access to devices is required for updates. OTA update software significantly reduces operational costs by enabling remote updates.

With OTA solutions, cities can minimize the need for maintenance personnel to travel to various locations, cutting down on labor and transportation expenses. Additionally, by preventing device failures through regular updates, cities can avoid costly repairs and replacements.

4. Scalability and Flexibility

Smart cities are dynamic environments that require scalable solutions. As new devices are added to the IoT ecosystem, OTA update software provides a flexible framework for managing updates across a growing network.

This scalability is crucial for ensuring that all devices, regardless of when they were installed, receive the same level of attention and maintenance. It allows cities to expand their IoT initiatives without worrying about the complexities of device management.

5. Faster Deployment of New Features

In a fast-paced technological environment, being able to deploy new features rapidly is vital for the success of smart city initiatives. OTA update software facilitates the quick rollout of new functionalities to existing devices.

This agility ensures that cities can adapt to changing needs and leverage the latest technologies to enhance public services. For example, introducing new data analytics features can lead to better traffic management and improved emergency response times.

Overcoming Challenges in OTA Update Implementation

While the benefits of OTA update software are clear, cities may face challenges in implementation. Security concerns, device compatibility issues, and the need for reliable connectivity can pose obstacles.

To overcome these challenges, cities should adopt a comprehensive strategy that includes:

Robust Security Protocols: Implementing encryption and secure channels for OTA updates can prevent unauthorized access and ensure data integrity.

Regular Testing: Thorough testing of updates before deployment can help identify compatibility issues, reducing the risk of device malfunctions.

Reliable Infrastructure: Investing in robust network infrastructure ensures that devices remain connected, allowing for seamless updates.

In conclusion

For smart city IoT systems to be maintained effectively, OTA update software is necessary. OTA updates are essential for maintaining urban environments' efficiency and responsiveness to the demands of their residents because of their capacity to increase security, device performance, lower costs, and facilitate scalability.

The deployment of OTA update solutions will be essential for guaranteeing the durability and dependability of their IoT devices as cities continue to develop and adopt smart technology. City managers can make the urban experience safer, more effective, and more creative for everyone by giving OTA updates first priority. The relevance of OTA update software in the context of smart cities is obvious: it is an essential component of contemporary urban upkeep, not merely a tool.

[daveg65]

235 -Dave Sings Mack The Knife on Apple Music Sing - With Jeff Gamet and Guest Guy Serle

The latest In Touch With iOS with Dave he is joined by guest Guest Guy Serle and Jeff Gamet. Dave tried out the new Apple Music Sing which is really a  karaoke machine on your iPhone, iPad, and Apple TV. Dave has the 3rd Gen Apple TV 4K and give his review and how to ID other models. HomeKit update broke and Apple has since blocked it. You still cannot combine 2 Apple IDs. Goodbye DarkSky. Davinci Resolve is now on iPad plus more. 

The show notes are at InTouchwithiOS.com


Direct Link to Audio 

Links to our Show

Click this link Buy me a Coffee to support the show we would really appreciate it. intouchwithios.com/coffee 

Another way to support the show is to become a Patreon member patreon.com/intouchwithios

Website: In Touch With iOS

YouTube Channel

In Touch with iOS Magazine on Flipboard

Facebook Page

Twitter

Instagram

News: 

Update from last week:Apple details what’s new in the latest AirTag firmware updates  and Apple AirTags get major new stalking protection, update your iPhone now

Epic agrees to pay over ½ a billion US dollars for deceptive in game practices, including making dispute of charges difficult and cyber-bullying easy 'Fortnite' maker Epic Games to pay $520 million in record-breaking FTC settlement

Apple TV App Rumored to Launch on Android

Apple Pushes Dark Sky Users to Revamped Weather App as Shutdown Looms

AirPods recovered after Find My tracked down thieving hotel employee

Matter-enabled Amazon Echo devices to work with iOS soon as phase one rollout is now complete

Apple Reportedly Quits NFL Sunday Ticket Streaming Negotiations

Breaking News: NFL Sunday Ticket officially coming to YouTube TV and YouTube in 2023

Topics

Beta this week. iOS16.3 Beta 1 continues this week. The first iOS 16.3 beta has been released

Dave’s review of Apple Music Sing. Apple TV is  limited to 3rd Gen 2022 models but you can AirPay your iPhone to it. Apple Music Adding a Karaoke Experience With Apple Music Sing Only Apple TV 4K 3rd Gen 2022 has the mic feature that makes it true karaoke muting the artist singing.. All other models show the lyrics only. See lyrics and sing in Apple Music on your Apple TV - Apple Support You can AirPlay the iPhone to Apple TV to get the muted vocals on the other models. Sing along with Apple Music on iPhone

Apple TV model versions and is there really a difference? Identify your Apple TV model and Dave reviews the Apple TV 3rd Gen 2022 model. Pairing a new Apple TV remote. How to pair a new Apple TV remote

Davinci Resolve video editor is a very powerful Final Cut alternative that just released a version for iPad today! DaVinci Resolve for iPad Now Available on the App Store  Guy is a big user and wanted to get his perspective if it's something he would use. Download the app here DaVinci Resolve for iPad on the App Store Rumors had said  It requires iPadOS 16.0 or later and a device with the A12 Bionic chip or later. Guy was also using Capcut which is available on the iPad. 

Breaking: Apple pulls new Home app architecture in iOS 16.2 as users complain about HomeKit issues

HomeKit issues again. Apple Outlines What to Do If You Have Issues Accessing a Home in iOS 16.2 Apple Support article on this. If you can't access a home or accept an invitation in the Home app - Apple Support

Apple Watch is independent GPS device now.: Apple Watch finds GPS independence from iPhone at last 

Apple Support Article: Calibrate your Apple Watch for improved Workout and Activity accuracy

This continues to be a problem we discuss and ask Why can’t you do this Apple? You can't combine two Apple IDs — but here's what you can do 

Our Host

Dave Ginsburg is an IT professional supporting Mac, iOS and Windows users and shares his wealth of knowledge of iPhone, iPad, Apple Watch, Apple TV and related technologies. Visit the YouTube channel https://youtube.com/intouchwithios follow him on Mastadon @daveg65, 

Twitter @daveg65.and the show @intouchwithios

Our Regular Contributor

Jeff Gamet is a podcaster, technology blogger, artist, and author. Previously, he was The Mac Observer’s managing editor, and Smile’s TextExpander Evangelist. You can find him on Mastadon @jgamet as well as Twitter and Instagram as @jgamet  His YouTube channel https://youtube.com/jgamet

About our Guest

Guy Serle Is the host of the MyMac Podcast email Guy@mymac.com @MacParrot and @VertShark on Twitter Vertshark.com,  Vertshark on YouTube, Skype +1 Area code  703-436-9501

Here is our latest Episode!

[espnnews2h]

Realme 9 Pro and 9i 5G get Android 13-based Realme UI 4.0 update, X7 Max gets open beta

Realme 9 Pro and 9i 5G get Android 13-based Realme UI 4.0 update, X7 Max gets open beta

Realme has released the Android 13-based Realme UI 4.0 update for the Realme 9i 5G and Realme 9 Pro in India. It’s rolling out to 15% of the total users of both smartphones, and a broader rollout will begin by the end of December. The Realme UI 4.0 update for the 9 Pro has firmware version RMX3471_11.C.08. The 9i 5G’s firmware is also listed with version RMX3471_11.C.08, which is likely a…