One of the more popular choices to power electronics at home amongst consumers is lithium-ion batteries. This is because of the large amount of power they can use at a given size and weight. But occasionally, we hear about such batteries failing and bursting into flames. The phenomenon can result in mild or severe damage in its surroundings. This article discusses five top reasons why some lithium-ion batteries may malfunction. Read on to learn more. Manufacturing defect The functionality of a battery is based on the quality of its manufacturing process. Any flaws during production may lead to impure metallic particles seeping into the unit during assembly. Thinning of separators while manufacturing may also have adverse effects on the health of the battery. So manufacturers must ensure each cell is made in controlled cleanrooms and conduct quality-control tests and validation before being sold. Design flaw While the manufacturing process of a battery might be carried out without hiccups, a flaw in the design might ruin the entire batch. A poor design can cause damage to the electrodes or separate them and lead to a short circuit. Therefore, those designing batteries should check the design multiple times before manufacturing the lithium-ion battery.

The Artificial Intelligence (AI) revolution has started altering how we interact with technology. For example, humanoid robots can engage in conversation, while natural language processing (NLP) chatbots can write entire lines of code or essays in seconds. And while the improvements in AI are exciting, they also bring about nervousness, primarily because they may overtake jobs created for humans. So here are six such jobs that Artificial Intelligence might impact. Salespersons Companies have started to substitute salespeople with AI for advertising and retail activities. Advertising software allows advertisers to create custom content for various types of audiences. Moreover, the implementation of AI instead of a salesperson has enabled customers to research products for themselves without the help of another person. Taxi and truck drivers Autonomous driving has become an emerging trend in the country and globally, with cab and truck aggregators switching to robot drivers instead of hiring humans. Apart from savings costs, it also fills the void of the shortage of such drivers because of the relatively low pay structure. Proofreaders and translators Today many AI-powered tools help writers self-check their writing. While it has not reached perfection yet, the natural processing capability of these AI tools allows writers to check their work for spelling errors, grammatical mistakes, and readability issues.

The internet plays an indispensable role in one’s daily life. The digital realm offers unparalleled convenience, from enabling communication and education to shopping and entertainment. But the more the online world is embraced, the more people are exposed to potential privacy breaches in increasingly innovative ways. Protecting one’s privacy online has become an essential skill to master, and fortunately, there are several effective strategies one can employ to do this. 8 Simple Ways to Protect One’s Privacy Online Create Strong and Unique Passwords Passwords are one’s access to all personal information, so one is advised to opt for long and complex passwords. They can include a combination of letters, numbers, and special characters. Use Two-factor Authentication (2FA) Two-factor authentication is often used by businesses and banks. This secondary verification step adds an additional layer of protection and may include a text message, an email, or a specialized authentication app. So, even if an unauthorized individual gains access to one’s password, they would be unable to infiltrate one’s accounts without the next step. Update the Software The updates often prompted by operating systems, web browsers, and apps contain security patches aimed at rectifying vulnerabilities that hackers could potentially exploit. So, updating them ensures that one’s software is the latest, most fortified version.

The internet is one of the richest information sources and a platform to enjoy content. However, the flip side to the net is that there are too many ways one could fall prey to scammers, hackers, or viruses. While it could happen to anyone, seniors who do not fully understand the internet might be at a greater risk of getting scammed. Here are five tips to help safeguard everyone’s interest, including seniors, while navigating the internet. Avoid unsecured transactions While the internet has made paying for things much easier, one should never do this on a public, unsecured network. Sometimes, scammers intentionally create these networks to gain access to all the sensitive information a user has on their device. Update systems regularly Hackers constantly look for loopholes to access user data. This is why manufacturers work around the clock to patch these weak points and strengthen a device’s security. Therefore, it is essential to update each device regularly to keep it safe from cyber threats. Do not click on unfamiliar email links If one receives an email from an unfamiliar address, one should not open or click links in its contents. These links could secretly install malware on an electronic device, such as a computer, and damage it.

Our laptops, cell phones, and smartwatches help us with numerous everyday tasks like booking tickets, paying bills, setting reminders, and tracking our health. However, these gadgets are sometimes expensive, especially the models from premium brands with advanced features and capabilities. Luckily, Black Friday allows consumers to bag them at highly discounted prices and save money. Here are a few popular tech devices worth checking out once Black Friday 2023 begins. Smartphones Samsung Samsung’s latest Galaxy smartphones, including the Ultra, Z, Flip, and Fold models, were offered at discounts ranging from $400 to $1,000 last shopping season. These devices have several desirable features, such as long battery life, fast charging, elegant displays, expandable storage, and excellent camera quality. Apple Apple is known to have lucrative offers on its cell phones during Black Friday. Last year, specific iPhone 12, 13, and 14 variants sold for a discount of up to 75%. OnePlus OnePlus has emerged as a household name for superior-quality smartphones with features like fast charging, long battery lives, premium-quality cameras, and affordability. Some esteemed models, such as the OnePlus Nord, OnePlus 8T, and OnePlus Pro, were available at discounts ranging from $50 to a whopping $500 last sale season. Google Google’s Pixel series smartphones stand out for using Machine Learning technology to enable features like smart replies and live captions.

Smartphones like the iPhone have become an integral part of our daily lives in this increasingly digital age. These devices are incredibly useful tools and offer a range of benefits. However, despite paying a substantial price for the phone, most individuals develop several usage habits that can harm the iPhone’s performance, longevity, and security in the long run. So, here are a few bad iPhone habits and how to break them: Ignoring software updates Failing to update the iPhone’s operating system and apps may leave devices vulnerable to security threats and performance issues. Users should stay proactive by enabling automatic updates or regularly checking for updates in the App Store and Settings. Not utilizing the iCloud backup Several individuals do not utilize the iCloud backup feature on the iPhone. This feature provides a seamless and secure way to safeguard crucial data, such as photos, contacts, apps, and settings. With iCloud Backup, users can restore their entire data in case of loss or damage, ensuring minimal disruption to their digital lives. Skipping AppleCare Skipping insurance coverage like AppleCare for the iPhone might seem like a cost-saving measure, but it could be risky. iPhones are valuable investments, and accidents can happen anytime.

Apple has always been at the forefront of technological innovations. Their latest pursuit of cutting-edge products has resulted in the development of the Apple Vision Pro, a headset that provides an immersive experience. This mixed-reality headset has changed how one interacts with one’s digital content. Here are some of the impressive features of Apple Vision Pro and what one can expect from the upcoming sales season if one wants to try out the headset. How does Apple Vision Pro headset work? The Apple Vision Pro headset boasts an impressive display that seamlessly blends augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) and provides high-resolution visuals of one’s surroundings. The screen placed on the inside of the device displays one’s surroundings, which are captured by sensors on the outside. Upon wearing the Vision Pro headset and activating it, users will have access to their apps displayed on the screen. In terms of functionality, it comes with customizable straps that wrap around the head to block out light. The device also involves numerous elements for proper fitting, such as multiple head straps, various sizes of light seals, and specialized options for those who wear lenses. Key features to look forward to Spatial computing Spatial computing merges the digital and physical worlds to enhance how people interact with computers.

Most people depend highly on their laptops for various reasons, like using them for work, gaming, watching movies, and everything in between. For these reasons, choosing the right laptop is vital, as it must be compatible with what it is used for. For instance, buying a gaming laptop when one purely uses laptops for watching movies or working on Excel is a mistake. There are a few other mistakes, as mentioned below, that one can avoid: 1. Not testing it before buying Trying out a product before buying it is a must, especially if one plans to invest a substantial amount. It is always best to test out a product, in this case, a laptop, to understand how it works and whether it is easy to use. Those who are planning to buy a laptop online because they are getting a good deal should definitely visit a physical store and check out the laptop first before making a purchase online. This way, they make an informed decision and get to save quite a bit by buying online. Most stores always have a display or a trial piece that customers can test. 2. Assuming the product size and weight don’t matter It is very important to know how big or compact a laptop is, as users will have to carry it around.

E-commerce platforms continue to grow, which makes it crucial for a business to meet customer demands. One may require a more sophisticated order management system (OMS) in such situations. The system functions immediately after a customer places an order, from locating and picking up the item in a warehouse to packing and shipping the product to its final destination. For businesses still unsure about venturing into this automated space, here are five reasons to get an order management system. Maintain low inventory costs A key benefit of using an order management system is that it can take control of inventory management by simplifying the process with automation. The system uses in-location stock movements by setting rules to automate what happens to orders during packing based on triggers such as the delivery option selected, weight, and value. This reduces time spent manually on such tasks, which will help keep expenses low. Centralized customer service An OMS helps centralize customer service requirements by keeping all customer and order information in one location. Therefore, users are better informed about their orders through a complete view across all sales channels and fulfillment centers to address inquiries about shipping, delivery, and cancellations. The system helps build transparency in this avenue, which customers expect and appreciate when shopping online.

Any illegal or false transaction by a cybercriminal is termed payment fraud. In this type of fraud, the perpetrator deprives the victim of sensitive information, personal property, or funds via the Internet. E-commerce primarily depends on electronic transactions to charge customers for services rendered and products delivered. The increased volume of online transactions also causes a spike in fraudulent activities. However, one can avoid payment processing software scams with a few tips and tricks. 1. Closely monitor the transactions Keep a tab on all the transactions and verify all the crucial details during the transaction. These include: The transaction date Amount IP address Shipping address 2. Use strong passwords Encourage individuals to keep unique passwords for their accounts. Doing so is one of the best techniques for avoiding payment processing software scams, as it lowers the probability of any trespasser gaining access to payment details. 3. Use multi-factor authentication (MFA) Whenever feasible, switch to MFA to add an extra layer of security to devices and accounts and boost protection. When one uses MFA, users have to input verification like a code. It lowers the probability of theft as the code goes to the owner’s: Authenticator apps Email Mobile devices 4. Limit access to confidential data One can avoid payment processing software scams when there’s restricted access to private and confidential information, which lowers the probability of the information leaking.