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It's one of the most annoying things a website can do: You visit a page, take a look, and decide for whatever reason you need to head back to the previous page you were on. Only when you click the back button, or you use a keyboard shortcut to go back a page, the current site simply reloads. So, you try again, only to reload the site once more. What gives? This is back button hijacking. Back button hijacking is an aggressive tactic websites can use to try to keep you browsing their pages for longer. By taking over your ability to go back a page, they can keep you on the same page, redirect you to other pages, or present you with ads you normally wouldn't have seen. It's a scummy thing to do, though it isn't reserved to "malicious" websites—I've experienced it on websites big and small. It's an effective tactic for any website that wants to inflate its sessions. The rest of us hate it. Including Google, it seems. Back button hijacking's days are numberedGoogle is now doing something about this practice. In a Monday post on its Google Search Central Blog, Google officially labeled it an explicit violation of the "malicious practices" section of its spam policy, placing it alongside malware and unwanted software downloads as examples of practices Google says "create a mismatch between user expectations and the actual outcome, leading to a negative and deceptive user experience, or compromised user security or privacy." You bet it does. When it comes to back button hijacking, Google says that users who experience the practice feel manipulated, and are less likely to visit unfamiliar sites in the future. In short, it's not just annoying; it interrupts the overall experience of surfing the web, and makes the internet a worse place to explore. Google is warning website owners that instances of back button hijacking may result in manual spam actions, which require users to fix the issue (in this case, back button hijacking) and request a manual review by Google before the it can be marked resolved. Google says these sites may also be subject to automated demotions. Both of these actions can affect how sites are ranked in Google search results. Google advises all website owners to carefully review their sites to remove or disable any code, imports, or configurations that result in back button hijacking—even if those instances came from ad platforms or existing libraries, not just the site owner's intended design. If you know your site is using a script to prevent users from returning to the previous page, you must remove it. When will back button hijacking rules be enforced?Unfortunately, you may not see back button hijacking disappear overnight. Google is giving website owners a two month head start before the policy is put in place—but as of June 15, back button hijacking will be prohibited, and will result in consequences from Google. View the full article

The organizer behind SantaCon, a Santa-themed crawl that raises money for local charities, is being charged with defrauding ticket-buyers and establishment owners. On Wednesday, 50-year-old Stefan Pildes was arrested in New York and charged with wire fraud, which carries a maximum sentence of twenty years in prison. Prosecutors claim Pildes, who served as the president of and controlled the nonprofit entity that organizes the event called Participatory Safety, Inc. (“PSI”), diverted funds that were meant to go to charity to his own accounts. Per the indictment, from November 2019 through April 2026, Pildes allegedly defrauded tens of thousands of participants who bought tickets to SantaCon. “As alleged, Stefan Pildes promoted SantaCon as an event grounded in charitable giving, but instead of donating the millions of dollars he raised, he ran his own con game,” U.S. Attorney Jay Clayton said in a press release. “He took advantage of New Yorkers’ generous holiday spirit to finance his lifestyle through personal expenses, big and small,” Clayton continued. “No matter how you dress it up, fraud is fraud. We are committed to protecting New Yorkers from those who exploit their enthusiasm and generosity.” According to prosecutors, Pildes took most of the event’s earnings, which come primarily from selling tickets, as well as from establishments that host the event, for himself. The organizer promoted the event on SantaCon’s website, which explained that donations would be split between various charities. Contributions from establishments were categorized as a “charitable commission” or “donation” of around 10% and 25% of sales. The complaint alleges that Pildes donations accrued from 2019 to 2024 added up to $2 million in ticket sales and over $675,000 in charitable commissions, but that Pildes used the money to fund his own luxurious lifestyle. It alleged he diverted funds to pay for renovations on his lakefront New Jersey property, vacations, a luxury vehicle, and more. FBI Assistant Director in Charge James C. Barnacle, Jr. said, “Stefan Pildes, the president of SantaCon, allegedly pocketed over half of the proceeds generated by his nonprofit to make personal purchases. Pildes allegedly stole Christmas from tens of thousands of victims and deprived local charities of more than one million dollars. The FBI continues to root out scrooges that greedily exploit the goodwill of New Yorkers.” Interestingly, it’s not the first time SantaCon has raised eyebrows. A 2023 Gothamist investigation revealed that from 2014 to 2022, less than a fifth of the event’s earnings went to charity. It also found that more than a third of the money went to people and groups connected to the annual Burning Man festival. At the time, Pildes confirmed the expenditures, telling the outlet that the funds were part of a zero-interest loan which was repaid. “Our mission is to bring more art out into the world,” Pildes said. “I want to continue to see more creative outlets and opportunities and more people in costume and more cheer being spread.” View the full article

Explore the impact of AI search on SEO roles and how brands can manage their online presence in AI outputs effectively. The post How To Become The AI Search Authority In Your Company [Webinar] appeared first on Search Engine Journal. View the full article

What do you primarily use Spotify for? Enjoying music? Keeping up with your favorite podcasts? Listening to audiobooks? Well, the next time you open it (at least on Android) you might just use it to shop for a book—not just an ebook, mind you, but a physical book. Spotify is officially a bookseller As reported by TechCrunch, Spotify is now selling physical books on its Android app to users in the U.S. and the U.K., with plans to roll out the feature to iPhones next week. The company first announced the initiative back in February, revealing that it was partnering with Bookshop.org to facilitate the transactions. This isn't your typical corporate agreement, either: Bookshop.org is designed to connect buyers to their local independent bookstores, rather than some enormous conglomerate or distributor. Bookshop says that 50% of the book sale price goes directly to the publisher (who then pays the author), while 30% goes to the bookstore you choose upon purchase. Another 10% goes towards a profit-sharing fund that is distributed among all the bookstores the site works with. It might seem a bit silly to think of buying a book through Spotify, an app originally meant solely for music. But like many platforms, Spotify has adapted and grown its offerings over the years. It already sold audiobooks, so why not print and e-books? In effect, Spotify is now directly competing with Amazon as a place you can go for all your literary needs, whether you prefer to read or listen to your books. Maybe a Spotify-branded e-reader is up next—though the last time Spotify tried to sell its own device, it didn't end up working out too well. Note that there isn't a dedicated storefront for buying books on Spotify. Instead, you'll see a “Get a copy for your bookshelf" button appear under individual audiobooks. When you choose this, you'll be taken to that book's Bookshop.org page. Spotify's "Page Match" and "Audiobook Recaps" are getting updates tooIn addition to this news, Spotify also announced an update to Page Match, its feature that lets you sync your place in a book using your phone's camera. Now the feature supports over 30 languages, including French, German, and Swedish. Spotify's audiobook summarization feature, "Audiobook Recaps," is also now accessible on Android. Previously, this feature was exclusive to iOS, and let users listen to a summary of what they had already listened to in an audiobook. There have also been updates to audiobook charts across the app, which show customers which books are currently the top sellers. Audiobook charts recently launched in Germany, and users in the U.S. and U.K. now have a dedicated chart for the most popular kids and family-oriented audiobooks, too. View the full article

Marketing services firm LeadPoint said it thought it had gained compliance after Connecticut officials issued a prior consent order and penalty in 2020. View the full article

Using a video maker to upload images is a practical way to create engaging content. You’ll want to choose a platform that simplifies the process with drag-and-drop features, making it easy to arrange your photos. With various templates available, customizing your video to fit your needs becomes straightforward. Plus, you can improve your project by adding text and music. Comprehending these steps will help you produce polished videos, but there’s more to explore in maximizing your creative potential. Key Takeaways Access the video maker platform and select the option to create a new project. Use drag-and-drop tools to easily upload and arrange your images in the desired order. Choose from a variety of editable templates that suit your video’s theme or occasion. Enhance your video by adding text, animations, and music from the extensive media library. Download your finished video in high-resolution mp4 format for sharing or distribution. Free Photo Video Maker A free photo video maker can greatly simplify the process of creating engaging videos from your images. With Canva’s user-friendly platform, you can effortlessly upload photos and utilize intuitive drag-and-drop tools to arrange them on a video timeline. The variety of editable templates available caters to different occasions and social media platforms, making video creation accessible for everyone. You can improve your videos further with music and sound effects from Canva’s extensive library, adjusting audio lengths to fit your timeline seamlessly. Plus, with Magic Studio, you gain access to AI-powered tools and ready-made templates customized for popular platforms like YouTube, Instagram, and TikTok. This guarantees that you can create and edit photo videos anytime inspiration strikes, even on-the-go. Create Videos From Photos for Any Platform Creating videos from photos for any platform has never been easier, thanks to tools like Canva’s photo video maker. With its user-friendly interface, you can effortlessly create a video from images. Here’s how you can maximize the platform: Upload and Arrange: Use the intuitive drag-and-drop tools to upload and arrange your photos. Choose Templates: Select from a wide-ranging library of editable templates, perfect for occasions and platforms like YouTube or Instagram. Enhance Your Video: Add dynamic elements such as text, graphics, and sound effects from Canva’s extensive media library. Optimize for Platforms: Utilize the Magic Studio feature to resize videos according to specific platform requirements. How to Make a Photo Video Making a photo video involves several straightforward steps that can transform your collection of images into an enchanting visual story. Start by uploading your desired images to a video maker like Canva, then drag them onto your video draft for seamless assembly. Utilize beginner-friendly templates to compile and arrange your photos into a cohesive presentation. Improve your photo to video experience by adding text elements, animations, and shifts from the video maker’s library, creating engaging visual storytelling. You can additionally incorporate music and sound effects by selecting audio tracks that align with your video’s length, ensuring a polished finish. Finally, download your completed high-resolution photo video in mp4 format to share on social media, boosting engagement and visibility. Meet Magic Studio: All the Power of Canva’s AI Efficiency in video creation has reached new heights with Magic Studio, an innovative tool from Canva that leverages artificial intelligence to simplify the design process. As an image to video maker, it empowers you to create stunning videos effortlessly. Here’s what makes Magic Studio stand out: AI-Powered Design: Streamlines the design process for users of all skill levels. Ready-Made Templates: Customized for platforms like YouTube, Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok. Magic Switch Feature: Easily resizes videos for multiple platforms without quality loss. Comprehensive Media Library: Access graphics, illustrations, and audio tracks to enrich your videos. With these features, you can improve your content as you maintain brand consistency and professionalism. Add Your Stamp on Your Video Content When creating video content, incorporating your unique branding elements can greatly improve its impact. You can choose engaging visuals and graphics from Canva’s library, or upload your own assets like logos and images for a professional touch. Furthermore, customizable text options allow you to effectively convey your message during ensuring your videos resonate with your audience. Unique Branding Elements To effectively establish your unique branding elements in video content, you should integrate your logo and other personalized assets directly into the video maker. This guarantees consistent branding across all your content. Here are four key steps to reinforce your brand identity: Add logo to video by uploading it directly to boost recognition. Utilize graphic illustrations and stickers from the library to make your videos visually appealing. Add text and captions with easy-to-read fonts that align with your brand’s style. Animate elements and personal assets for a dynamic presentation that captures attention. Engaging Visuals and Graphics Engaging visuals and graphics are essential for making your video content stand out in a crowded digital environment. To improve your videos, consider utilizing a library of free media elements, including graphics, illustrations, and stickers, which can capture viewer attention effectively. When you want to add image to video, you can also upload personal assets like logos and images to reflect your brand’s identity. Furthermore, animating elements within your video can create a dynamic experience that keeps audiences interested. Don’t forget to incorporate stock images, videos, and sounds from Canva’s extensive library to enrich your content and boost overall production quality. By doing so, you’ll guarantee your videos are visually appealing and engaging for your viewers. Customizable Text Options Customizable text options are crucial for personalizing your video content, as they allow you to effectively convey your message whilst aligning with your brand’s identity. By utilizing these features, you can improve viewer engagement and clarity. Here are some key aspects to take into account: Choose from a wide selection of easy-to-read fonts. Adjust text size, color, and background effects for better visibility. Incorporate text animations to capture your audience’s attention effectively. Upload personal assets and branding elements for a professional touch. These customizable text options not just make your videos visually appealing but also guarantee your message stands out. Edit Videos Wherever Inspiration Strikes With Canva’s video editing platform, you can edit videos whenever inspiration strikes, whether you’re at home or on the go. The seamless experience across desktop and mobile devices allows you to switch from your laptop to your smartphone without missing a beat. This convenience means you can easily upload images and make edits wherever creativity hits you, ensuring your projects reflect your ideas in real time. Mobile Editing Convenience Editing videos on the go has never been easier, thanks to the convenience of mobile apps like Canva. With this app, you can effortlessly utilize your creativity whenever inspiration strikes. Here’s why mobile editing is a game-changer: Upload images directly from your smartphone, making video creation spontaneous. Drag and drop photos into your video drafts with a user-friendly interface. Access a vast library of media elements and templates right from your phone. You can convert image to video online free, allowing for quick edits without a computer. This mobile convenience guarantees you can start a project anywhere and finish it whenever you’re ready, keeping your creative flow uninterrupted. Cross-Device Seamless Experience As you explore the domain of video creation, you’ll find that a cross-device seamless experience greatly enhances your ability to edit and share content whenever inspiration strikes. With Canva’s video editing platform, you can access your projects on both desktop and mobile devices, making it easy to upload images and videos from anywhere. The Canva app allows you to edit videos on-the-go, guaranteeing you can craft and share video compilations anytime, whether you’re using a laptop, tablet, or smartphone. This functionality assures that edits made on one device sync instantly to another, maintaining a consistent workflow across platforms. With its user-friendly interface, Canva empowers you to compile and customize video content, regardless of your location or device in use. Enhancing Your Photo Videos To create enthralling photo videos, consider enhancing them with various elements that improve storytelling and viewer engagement. Here are some effective ways to turn photos into video: Add Text Elements: Customize size, color, and background effects to convey your message clearly. Utilize Graphics and Animations: Use Canva’s library to infuse visual interest and keep your audience engaged. Experiment with Changes: Smooth changes between images can create a seamless flow, enhancing viewer experience. Preview Your Video: Before finalizing, check that all audio and visual elements are well-aligned for maximum impact. Adding Music and Sound Effects Adding music and sound effects to your photo video can raise its overall appeal. Start by selecting background music that fits your theme, and remember to adjust the audio length so it syncs well with your visuals. You can likewise improve the experience by incorporating sound effects, creating a more immersive environment for your viewers. Selecting Background Music Selecting the right background music is crucial for enhancing your video’s overall impact, since it can greatly affect viewer engagement. Here’s how to choose the perfect soundtrack: Tap the plus icon and select Audio from the menu to explore free tracks and subscriber-exclusive options. Confirm the music length aligns with your video timeline for a seamless viewing experience. Consider adding sound effects, like waves or seagulls, from the same Audio section to enrich your video’s ambiance. Preview your video to check that the audio and visuals sync well, guaranteeing a polished presentation. Adjusting Audio Length Adjusting audio length is vital for creating a cohesive video experience, as mismatched audio can distract viewers from your content. Start by tapping the plus icon in your video project and selecting Audio to add music to your desired page within the video timeline. You can choose from a selection of free tracks or premium audio for subscribers, enhancing the mood of your video. Once you’ve selected your music, adjust the length of the track to align perfectly with your video segments. This step is fundamental when using an image to video converter, ensuring seamless shifts. Always preview your video after adding audio to check that the music syncs well with the images and maintains the overall flow. Adding Sound Effects Sound effects play a crucial role in enhancing the overall quality of your video, providing an auditory backdrop that complements the visuals. To effectively add sound effects in Canva, follow these steps: Select the desired page and tap the plus icon. Choose the Audio option from the menu. Browse the selection of free music tracks and sound effects available. Adjust the length of the music to align perfectly with your video timeline. You can additionally incorporate ambient sound effects, like waves or seagulls, to create a more immersive atmosphere when you add pic on video. Finally, always preview your video after adding audio to verify that the sound aligns well with the visuals and the overall flow of your presentation. Applications for Business and Beyond In today’s competitive environment, leveraging a video maker can greatly improve your business’s outreach and effectiveness. You can create professional-looking safety training videos that boost employee learning through dynamic visuals and audio. By using a video maker to upload images, you can incorporate your company logo into photo videos, ensuring consistent branding across all marketing materials. These photo videos are particularly effective for product promotion on social media, increasing engagement and visibility, which often leads to higher conversion rates. Moreover, you can share video content via download or View Only links, making it easier to distribute important information. Tailoring content for various platforms optimizes messaging for each audience, improving overall communication efforts. Tips for Engaging Photo Videos Creating engaging photo videos requires a strategic approach that captures and retains viewer attention. To effectively turn pics into video, consider these tips: Utilize Canva’s templates: Access customizable templates designed for platforms like YouTube, Instagram, and TikTok to make your content stand out. Incorporate dynamic elements: Use animations and transitions to improve visual appeal, making your photo video more enchanting. Add text overlays: Use easy-to-read fonts for captions that convey messages and provide context, increasing viewer engagement. Improve with audio: Include background music and sound effects; videos can gain 38% more engagement on social media when audio is present. Frequently Asked Questions How to Make a Video With Loads of Pictures? To make a video with loads of pictures, start by selecting your images. Use a video maker that offers templates and drag-and-drop features for easy arrangement. Organize your photos into a slideshow or video format, and improve it with text, animations, and changes for better flow. Add music or sound effects to enrich the experience. Finally, export your video in high resolution and share it on social media or your website for wider reach. How Do I Insert an Image in a Video? To insert an image in a video, start by uploading your desired photos to the platform’s upload section. Once uploaded, drag the images onto your video draft. If you want to replace existing content, select the “Replace” option after tapping the canvas. You can customize each image’s size and position, and apply effects for improvement. Don’t forget to preview your video to check that everything integrates well before finalizing your project. How to Generate Images Into Video? To generate images into a video, upload your photos into a video maker like Canva. Drag and drop them onto your timeline, arranging them in your desired order. You can improve your video by choosing templates, adding animations, and incorporating shifts between images for a smoother flow. Don’t forget to select background music from available tracks. Finally, export your video in a high-resolution format to guarantee quality when sharing across platforms. How to Make Images Move in Video Editing? To make images move in video editing, use keyframe animations to establish starting and ending points for your images. This allows them to slide, zoom, or rotate. Incorporate motion effects from your editing software, like Canva, to create dynamic changes. Use the “Animate” feature for predefined animations, and adjust duration and timing for synchronization with music. Combining multiple images with various movements improves engagement and visually narrates your story effectively. Conclusion Using a video maker to upload images simplifies your video creation process, allowing you to produce professional-looking content quickly. By selecting a user-friendly platform, you can easily arrange photos, add text, and incorporate music. Whether you’re creating videos for personal use or business, leveraging tools like Magic Studio improves your projects with AI-driven features. With these tips, you can create engaging photo videos that capture attention and deliver your message effectively. Start exploring your options today. Image via Google Gemini This article, "How to Use a Video Maker to Upload Images Easily" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

Using a video maker to upload images is a practical way to create engaging content. You’ll want to choose a platform that simplifies the process with drag-and-drop features, making it easy to arrange your photos. With various templates available, customizing your video to fit your needs becomes straightforward. Plus, you can improve your project by adding text and music. Comprehending these steps will help you produce polished videos, but there’s more to explore in maximizing your creative potential. Key Takeaways Access the video maker platform and select the option to create a new project. Use drag-and-drop tools to easily upload and arrange your images in the desired order. Choose from a variety of editable templates that suit your video’s theme or occasion. Enhance your video by adding text, animations, and music from the extensive media library. Download your finished video in high-resolution mp4 format for sharing or distribution. Free Photo Video Maker A free photo video maker can greatly simplify the process of creating engaging videos from your images. With Canva’s user-friendly platform, you can effortlessly upload photos and utilize intuitive drag-and-drop tools to arrange them on a video timeline. The variety of editable templates available caters to different occasions and social media platforms, making video creation accessible for everyone. You can improve your videos further with music and sound effects from Canva’s extensive library, adjusting audio lengths to fit your timeline seamlessly. Plus, with Magic Studio, you gain access to AI-powered tools and ready-made templates customized for popular platforms like YouTube, Instagram, and TikTok. This guarantees that you can create and edit photo videos anytime inspiration strikes, even on-the-go. Create Videos From Photos for Any Platform Creating videos from photos for any platform has never been easier, thanks to tools like Canva’s photo video maker. With its user-friendly interface, you can effortlessly create a video from images. Here’s how you can maximize the platform: Upload and Arrange: Use the intuitive drag-and-drop tools to upload and arrange your photos. Choose Templates: Select from a wide-ranging library of editable templates, perfect for occasions and platforms like YouTube or Instagram. Enhance Your Video: Add dynamic elements such as text, graphics, and sound effects from Canva’s extensive media library. Optimize for Platforms: Utilize the Magic Studio feature to resize videos according to specific platform requirements. How to Make a Photo Video Making a photo video involves several straightforward steps that can transform your collection of images into an enchanting visual story. Start by uploading your desired images to a video maker like Canva, then drag them onto your video draft for seamless assembly. Utilize beginner-friendly templates to compile and arrange your photos into a cohesive presentation. Improve your photo to video experience by adding text elements, animations, and shifts from the video maker’s library, creating engaging visual storytelling. You can additionally incorporate music and sound effects by selecting audio tracks that align with your video’s length, ensuring a polished finish. Finally, download your completed high-resolution photo video in mp4 format to share on social media, boosting engagement and visibility. Meet Magic Studio: All the Power of Canva’s AI Efficiency in video creation has reached new heights with Magic Studio, an innovative tool from Canva that leverages artificial intelligence to simplify the design process. As an image to video maker, it empowers you to create stunning videos effortlessly. Here’s what makes Magic Studio stand out: AI-Powered Design: Streamlines the design process for users of all skill levels. Ready-Made Templates: Customized for platforms like YouTube, Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok. Magic Switch Feature: Easily resizes videos for multiple platforms without quality loss. Comprehensive Media Library: Access graphics, illustrations, and audio tracks to enrich your videos. With these features, you can improve your content as you maintain brand consistency and professionalism. Add Your Stamp on Your Video Content When creating video content, incorporating your unique branding elements can greatly improve its impact. You can choose engaging visuals and graphics from Canva’s library, or upload your own assets like logos and images for a professional touch. Furthermore, customizable text options allow you to effectively convey your message during ensuring your videos resonate with your audience. Unique Branding Elements To effectively establish your unique branding elements in video content, you should integrate your logo and other personalized assets directly into the video maker. This guarantees consistent branding across all your content. Here are four key steps to reinforce your brand identity: Add logo to video by uploading it directly to boost recognition. Utilize graphic illustrations and stickers from the library to make your videos visually appealing. Add text and captions with easy-to-read fonts that align with your brand’s style. Animate elements and personal assets for a dynamic presentation that captures attention. Engaging Visuals and Graphics Engaging visuals and graphics are essential for making your video content stand out in a crowded digital environment. To improve your videos, consider utilizing a library of free media elements, including graphics, illustrations, and stickers, which can capture viewer attention effectively. When you want to add image to video, you can also upload personal assets like logos and images to reflect your brand’s identity. Furthermore, animating elements within your video can create a dynamic experience that keeps audiences interested. Don’t forget to incorporate stock images, videos, and sounds from Canva’s extensive library to enrich your content and boost overall production quality. By doing so, you’ll guarantee your videos are visually appealing and engaging for your viewers. Customizable Text Options Customizable text options are crucial for personalizing your video content, as they allow you to effectively convey your message whilst aligning with your brand’s identity. By utilizing these features, you can improve viewer engagement and clarity. Here are some key aspects to take into account: Choose from a wide selection of easy-to-read fonts. Adjust text size, color, and background effects for better visibility. Incorporate text animations to capture your audience’s attention effectively. Upload personal assets and branding elements for a professional touch. These customizable text options not just make your videos visually appealing but also guarantee your message stands out. Edit Videos Wherever Inspiration Strikes With Canva’s video editing platform, you can edit videos whenever inspiration strikes, whether you’re at home or on the go. The seamless experience across desktop and mobile devices allows you to switch from your laptop to your smartphone without missing a beat. This convenience means you can easily upload images and make edits wherever creativity hits you, ensuring your projects reflect your ideas in real time. Mobile Editing Convenience Editing videos on the go has never been easier, thanks to the convenience of mobile apps like Canva. With this app, you can effortlessly utilize your creativity whenever inspiration strikes. Here’s why mobile editing is a game-changer: Upload images directly from your smartphone, making video creation spontaneous. Drag and drop photos into your video drafts with a user-friendly interface. Access a vast library of media elements and templates right from your phone. You can convert image to video online free, allowing for quick edits without a computer. This mobile convenience guarantees you can start a project anywhere and finish it whenever you’re ready, keeping your creative flow uninterrupted. Cross-Device Seamless Experience As you explore the domain of video creation, you’ll find that a cross-device seamless experience greatly enhances your ability to edit and share content whenever inspiration strikes. With Canva’s video editing platform, you can access your projects on both desktop and mobile devices, making it easy to upload images and videos from anywhere. The Canva app allows you to edit videos on-the-go, guaranteeing you can craft and share video compilations anytime, whether you’re using a laptop, tablet, or smartphone. This functionality assures that edits made on one device sync instantly to another, maintaining a consistent workflow across platforms. With its user-friendly interface, Canva empowers you to compile and customize video content, regardless of your location or device in use. Enhancing Your Photo Videos To create enthralling photo videos, consider enhancing them with various elements that improve storytelling and viewer engagement. Here are some effective ways to turn photos into video: Add Text Elements: Customize size, color, and background effects to convey your message clearly. Utilize Graphics and Animations: Use Canva’s library to infuse visual interest and keep your audience engaged. Experiment with Changes: Smooth changes between images can create a seamless flow, enhancing viewer experience. Preview Your Video: Before finalizing, check that all audio and visual elements are well-aligned for maximum impact. Adding Music and Sound Effects Adding music and sound effects to your photo video can raise its overall appeal. Start by selecting background music that fits your theme, and remember to adjust the audio length so it syncs well with your visuals. You can likewise improve the experience by incorporating sound effects, creating a more immersive environment for your viewers. Selecting Background Music Selecting the right background music is crucial for enhancing your video’s overall impact, since it can greatly affect viewer engagement. Here’s how to choose the perfect soundtrack: Tap the plus icon and select Audio from the menu to explore free tracks and subscriber-exclusive options. Confirm the music length aligns with your video timeline for a seamless viewing experience. Consider adding sound effects, like waves or seagulls, from the same Audio section to enrich your video’s ambiance. Preview your video to check that the audio and visuals sync well, guaranteeing a polished presentation. Adjusting Audio Length Adjusting audio length is vital for creating a cohesive video experience, as mismatched audio can distract viewers from your content. Start by tapping the plus icon in your video project and selecting Audio to add music to your desired page within the video timeline. You can choose from a selection of free tracks or premium audio for subscribers, enhancing the mood of your video. Once you’ve selected your music, adjust the length of the track to align perfectly with your video segments. This step is fundamental when using an image to video converter, ensuring seamless shifts. Always preview your video after adding audio to check that the music syncs well with the images and maintains the overall flow. Adding Sound Effects Sound effects play a crucial role in enhancing the overall quality of your video, providing an auditory backdrop that complements the visuals. To effectively add sound effects in Canva, follow these steps: Select the desired page and tap the plus icon. Choose the Audio option from the menu. Browse the selection of free music tracks and sound effects available. Adjust the length of the music to align perfectly with your video timeline. You can additionally incorporate ambient sound effects, like waves or seagulls, to create a more immersive atmosphere when you add pic on video. Finally, always preview your video after adding audio to verify that the sound aligns well with the visuals and the overall flow of your presentation. Applications for Business and Beyond In today’s competitive environment, leveraging a video maker can greatly improve your business’s outreach and effectiveness. You can create professional-looking safety training videos that boost employee learning through dynamic visuals and audio. By using a video maker to upload images, you can incorporate your company logo into photo videos, ensuring consistent branding across all marketing materials. These photo videos are particularly effective for product promotion on social media, increasing engagement and visibility, which often leads to higher conversion rates. Moreover, you can share video content via download or View Only links, making it easier to distribute important information. Tailoring content for various platforms optimizes messaging for each audience, improving overall communication efforts. Tips for Engaging Photo Videos Creating engaging photo videos requires a strategic approach that captures and retains viewer attention. To effectively turn pics into video, consider these tips: Utilize Canva’s templates: Access customizable templates designed for platforms like YouTube, Instagram, and TikTok to make your content stand out. Incorporate dynamic elements: Use animations and transitions to improve visual appeal, making your photo video more enchanting. Add text overlays: Use easy-to-read fonts for captions that convey messages and provide context, increasing viewer engagement. Improve with audio: Include background music and sound effects; videos can gain 38% more engagement on social media when audio is present. Frequently Asked Questions How to Make a Video With Loads of Pictures? To make a video with loads of pictures, start by selecting your images. Use a video maker that offers templates and drag-and-drop features for easy arrangement. Organize your photos into a slideshow or video format, and improve it with text, animations, and changes for better flow. Add music or sound effects to enrich the experience. Finally, export your video in high resolution and share it on social media or your website for wider reach. How Do I Insert an Image in a Video? To insert an image in a video, start by uploading your desired photos to the platform’s upload section. Once uploaded, drag the images onto your video draft. If you want to replace existing content, select the “Replace” option after tapping the canvas. You can customize each image’s size and position, and apply effects for improvement. Don’t forget to preview your video to check that everything integrates well before finalizing your project. How to Generate Images Into Video? To generate images into a video, upload your photos into a video maker like Canva. Drag and drop them onto your timeline, arranging them in your desired order. You can improve your video by choosing templates, adding animations, and incorporating shifts between images for a smoother flow. Don’t forget to select background music from available tracks. Finally, export your video in a high-resolution format to guarantee quality when sharing across platforms. How to Make Images Move in Video Editing? To make images move in video editing, use keyframe animations to establish starting and ending points for your images. This allows them to slide, zoom, or rotate. Incorporate motion effects from your editing software, like Canva, to create dynamic changes. Use the “Animate” feature for predefined animations, and adjust duration and timing for synchronization with music. Combining multiple images with various movements improves engagement and visually narrates your story effectively. Conclusion Using a video maker to upload images simplifies your video creation process, allowing you to produce professional-looking content quickly. By selecting a user-friendly platform, you can easily arrange photos, add text, and incorporate music. Whether you’re creating videos for personal use or business, leveraging tools like Magic Studio improves your projects with AI-driven features. With these tips, you can create engaging photo videos that capture attention and deliver your message effectively. Start exploring your options today. Image via Google Gemini This article, "How to Use a Video Maker to Upload Images Easily" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

When Pokémon launched in 1996, the brand offered just a pair of video games, a single region within its world for players to explore, and 151 creatures for them to capture and train. 30 years later, Pokémon mania is stronger than ever. The most recent mainline games in the series, Pokémon Scarlet and Violet, sold 10 million copies in their first three days, while the accompanying Pokémon Trading Card Game printed 10.2 million new cards between 2024 and 2025. The franchise now features 1,025 Pokémon across its more than a hundred video game titles under the Pokémon umbrella, including the mobile gaming phenomenon Pokémon Go, which ranks among the highest-grossing mobile games. Pokémon has even gotten the Hollywood blockbuster treatment, thanks to 2019’s Detective Pikachu. But the pull of its earliest iteration remains an appealing and accessible way into the franchise for nostalgic and new fans alike. That’s why it served as the inspiration for an officially licensed limited-time collection from Target. The collection, unveiled Wednesday, is the only U.S. retailer collaboration with Pokémon for the brand’s 30th anniversary, and launches initially in May. The collection could help bring fans into stores as the retailer looks to improve its sales, which were down 1.7% year-over-year in 2025 on a net basis and 2.6% on a comparable-store basis. The Pokémon x Target collection features more than 100 unique pieces of merchandise, from apparel and home goods to tech accessories and bags. From the collection’s conception, Target has been centering the franchise’s diehard fans—from its own vice president of marketing to superstar singer Joe Jonas, who’s the face of the collection. A time machine to the ‘90s Even with more than 100 items, Target’s Pokémon collection barely scratches the surface of the franchise’s universe. Distilling 30 years into one collection was the challenge faced by Gigi Guerra, Target’s vice president of marketing, who brought her perspective as a diehard fan to the process. To pare down the Pokédex, Target chose to lean into the occasion for the collection and looked to where it all began, basing all of its new products on Pokémon from the original Pokémon Red and Blue. “If you took a time machine back to 1996, what would be there?” Guerra says she and her team asked themselves. “And it was the Kanto region. It was the original 151.” The products and their accompanying campaign lean into the era’s aesthetic, too. The red, blue, and yellow color scheme that defined the first Pokémon generation is all over the collection, along with holographic packaging details reminiscent of holofoil Pokémon cards. That ‘90s nostalgia extends to the other brands Target got involved in the collaboration, many of which immediately evoke the aesthetics of the era. There’s a Trapper Keeper designed to hold Pokémon cards, a Caboodle tailor-made for other Pokémon merchandise, and a Starter jacket representing the Kanto region. “That’s going to be an instant collector’s item,” Guerra says of the jacket, noting easter eggs like Pokémon symbols on the inside of the pocket. Pokémon x Target will release in two drops, with the first in-store on May 2 and online on May 3. The rest of the collection will release in June. Guerra says she hopes the collection connects with Pokémon fans, no matter how or when they got into the franchise. “Pokémon connects people from all over,” Guerra says. “No matter where you started Pokémon or how old you are, everyone knows and loves that first-gen nostalgia.” And though the collection can appeal to new fans, it’s especially made to satisfy longtime fandom fanatics—and was made with their input. For fans, by fans On paper, Target and Pokémon make the perfect collaborators. Target says that 1 in 18 of its shoppers buy Pokémon in some capacity. But marketing a collection to a specific fandom, even one as massive as Pokémon, is a tightrope walk: If a brand’s investment in the community feels surface-level, it can quickly be written off as pandering and decried by the very audience it’s trying to reach. “The problem with that is fandom, by its very nature, isn’t just a number,” creator economy analyst and anime expert Ben Woods says. “It has its own nuances. It has its own in-jokes. It has its own key figureheads and celebrated characters.” From the outset of this effort, Target worked to avoid this pitfall by letting genuine Pokémon fans steer the collection. It didn’t have to look far to find them. Guerra herself is the biggest fan in her family, even though she got into the world by picking up Pokémon Go to connect with her kids. She even attends annual Pokémon conventions in cosplay, including dressing as her favorite Pokémon, fairy-type Eeveelution Sylveon. The rest of the team, around 20 Target employees who offered input, came together like a game of telephone at HQ. “Everyone knew of someone that was a Pokémon fan,” Guerra says. “It was almost like we had this internal sounding board and filter for everything in how we’re picking products, picking colors, picking Pokémon.” That insider perspective led to countless “if you know, you know” details throughout the collection, she says, from blind-box water bottles featuring beloved water-type Pokémon to puzzles with 151 pieces. That fandom is also reflected in how Guerra is marketing the collection. Poster boy Joe Jonas is a lifelong fan of the franchise known for his unboxing livestreams of Pokémon cards (he has a tattoo of mythical Pokémon Mew, No. 150 of the original 151). “He’s been a fan since he was a kid, so for him, it was like a real full-circle moment,” Guerra says, teasing forthcoming Pokemon content from the pop star. The collection’s campaign also features superfans, with Pokémon influencers including Sydeon, PhillyBeatzU and Stephosaurawr and Aspen modeling products like Butterfree-shaped hair clips, Magikarp tank tops, and kickballs patterned like Pokéballs. “To be able to do a Pokémon collaboration—I’ve worked at Target for more than a decade,” Guerra says. “I’ve been waiting for this day for years.” View the full article

The fall of former direct-to-consumer darling Allbirds has taken a very weird turn. Allbirds, the sustainable shoemaker that caught fire with the Silicon Valley set about a decade ago, will start selling silicon itself. The company said in a press release that it will transform itself into a business focused on leasing GPUs – the powerful graphics chips underpinning the AI boom that are in short supply and high demand, much to the chagrin of gamers and tech CEOs. The husk of the shoe company that once was will “pivot its business to AI compute infrastructure, with a long-term vision to become a fully integrated GPU-as-a-Service (GPUaaS) and AI-native cloud solutions provider.” The announcement does little to address the unprecedented weirdness of going from selling minimalist wool boots to hawking AI hardware-as-a-service. Allbirds says it will soon rebrand itself as “NewBird AI,” a venture being funded by $50 million in convertible debt from an undisclosed investor. Allbirds plans to use the funds to buy a bunch of high-end hardware which it will then loan out to customers hurting for computing power in long-term leases. All of this is part of a grand vision for a “neocloud platform” which will somehow rise out of the ashes of a once-great retailer of, it must be emphasized, cute little shoes. Allbirds loses its wings During its heyday, Allbirds was synonymous with a Bay Area aesthetic that emphasized simplicity and eco-awareness over conspicuous consumption. With shoes made from natural fibers and more sustainable materials, a pair of Wool Runners bundled environmental virtue signaling with comfortable, everyday designs much simpler than what an athlete-focused sneaker giant like Nike would dream up. As Allbirds gained traction, the company went public and plunged into the brick-and-mortar world with a rapidly-expanding footprint of physical locations. Two years ago, Allbirds began scaling back its retail presence “opportunistically” before eventually announcing that nearly all locations would shutter their doors earlier this year to lower costs and set up the business for long term stability. “This is an important step for Allbirds, as we drive toward profitable growth under our turnaround strategy,” Allbirds CEO Joe Vernachio said in late January. In February, Allbirds pointed to a more palatable pivot to high fashion, but that turnaround plan was short-lived and by the following month the company announced that it would sell its assets for a mere $39 million, a fraction of the $4 billion it was once worth. American Exchange Group (AXNY), which owns brands like Aerosoles and Ed Hardy, would pick up the pieces. “This next chapter with AXNY builds on the foundational work already completed and sets up the brand to thrive in the years ahead,” Vernachio said – a normal statement for a company in peril and one without even a hint of the deeply strange plot twist ahead. Recalling a more bizarre pivot requires some work. Once upon a time, RadioShack pivoted to cryptocurrency, offering up its own altcoin ($RADIO) and issuing a blitz of edgy tweets for attention. The inherent insanity of Allbirds’ shoes-to-GPUs pivot easily bests the spectacle of RadioShack’s sad devolution, but is it the weirdest pivot of all time? That honor might still belong to the Long Island Iced Tea Corp, which in 2017 changed its name to Long Blockchain, sending its price sky-high – an event that eventually resulted in the SEC charging three people with insider trading. View the full article

FundingShield's latest report notes the improvement in remediation efforts among lenders, but closing protection lenders remain a key source of file problems. View the full article

How many new oil wells did you drill this year? Did your oil and gas reserves deplete? Do you operate your pipelines through a Master Limited Partnership? Those questions likely don’t mean anything to the average person. They’re only relevant to Big Oil companies, which can get tax breaks for such actions. The questions appear on “The Presidento Tax,” a satire website (a nod to Intuit’s tax-preparation software TurboTax) created by United to End Polluter Handouts (UTEPH), a coalition of climate groups that highlights how Americans’ tax dollars fund oil and gas corporations. On Tax Day, (Wednesday, April 15), a “The Presidento Tax” kiosk is also on the streets of Washington, DC, with someone dressed as Donald The President giving out tax advice—for Big Oil companies, that is. A century-old American tradition The U.S. has been subsidizing the fossil fuel industry for nearly a century. Oil and gas companies get tax breaks when their reserves deplete, for example, and can write off expenses related to drilling new oil wells. Under President The President—who has been a champion for fossil fuel companies—those subsidies have increased: His 2025 reconciliation bill, also called the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, granted $40 billion in new subsidies to the oil and gas industry. “We’re looking at a timeline right where scientists globally have said we have very little time left to drastically change our global economic system and to get off of fossil fuels if we want to have a present and future that is really livable,” says Jamie Minden, executive director of Zero Hour, a global youth climate justice organization and UTEPH coalition member. “And unfortunately,” she adds, “we have an economic system in this country right now that is extremely beneficial to the industries that are making that future look pretty bad.” The Presidento Tax On the The Presidento Tax website, answering the questions like a regular person—by picking responses like “No—I don’t have oil reserves” and “I’m a normal person and I’m confused by all this,”—prompts the page to flash red. “LIB ALERT!” it reads. “Suspected non-fossil-fuel insider detected.” You can also answer like a Big Oil company. To the question “When you earn more money, what happens to your taxes?” one optional answer reads “I pay less in taxes, because I pay $445 million for lobbyists.” Do that, and the site will tally up the industry’s federal subsidies: $35 billion a year, according to Oil Change International and the Congressional Budget Office. That works out to roughly $280 per American household (and doesn’t include any state or local subsidies). Occasionally, an animated The President also appears on the site, holding signs that say things like “They pay at the pump, we pocket billions. It’s not FRAUD. It’s ENERGY DOMINANCE!” The The Presidento Tax website and the kiosk in Washington are meant to highlight, as Fletcher Harper of GreenFaith says in a statement, that “The The President tax code has a preferred customer, and it’s not you.” Those subsidies are keeping the fossil fuel industry running even when it doesn’t make economic sense, climate groups say. Every new oil company drilling project is “a gamble,” economics and earth system science researchers wrote in 2022. That’s because thousands of oil and gas assets are at risk of becoming stranded, meaning they could become unprofitable or be forced to shut down years earlier than planned because of future policies designed to slow climate change. It’s also cheaper to build new renewable energy projects like wind and solar than to build natural gas plants. “These billionaires are profiting off of the backs of struggling Americans,” Minden says. “It’s a really clear example of how the oil and gas industry is really not in anyone’s best interest.” View the full article

Last week, one of my meekest, weakest friends (said with love) asked me to go boxing with her. This may have been wildly out-of-character for her, but for me, it confirmed a trend I’d already been noticing. Boxing, Jiu-Jitsu, Muay Thai, and all other sorts of combat-style workout classes are having a mainstream moment. In many ways, this is nothing new—how could I erase the legacy of Tae Bo nation?—but I’m not the first to clock an uptick in “fight-style” workouts across social media and gym class offerings these days. So what's actually driving this trend? And more practically: Even if you're not planning to step into a ring, what can you take from the way fighters train that's still worth your time? Why "combat training" is gaining in popularityFrom where I’m standing, I see a few things converging. During the pandemic, a lot of us sought out training that felt purposeful and grounding. At the same time, a generation that grew up watching UFC, combat sports documentaries, and fighter-athlete crossover content on social media is now arriving at adulthood culturally primed for this kind of training. As a result, it looks like influencers, personal trainers, and fitness studios are simply recognizing a market opportunity. Now, workouts like boxing and kickboxing are accessible to people who never would have set foot in a traditional fight gym—like my friend and myself. What I could tell five minutes into my boxing class is that the appeal of combat training goes much deeper than a purely physical workout. Compared to the boredom that can come from a typical gym circuit, “fighter-style training is different,” says Tre Hubbard, a former college football player who lost over 120 pounds and went on to become a Golden Gloves boxing champion. “You're not just working out—you're learning how to move, how to breathe, how to stay composed when you're tired,” Hubbard says. “You can't fake it." Even for those of us with no plans to fight for real, “combat-style training is super popular now because it makes people feel strong, capable, and engaged,” says Terry Tateossian, a certified personal trainer who incorporates combat-style methods into her coaching programs. "There is a sense of capability and confidence," Tateossian says. As a long-distance runner myself, something I’ve always noticed in the gym is how so many modern fitness options are designed to make things easier. Machines guide your movement, screens distract you, and so on. Now, there’s a real appetite for the way combat-style training strips all that noise away. "People are looking for engagement and intention," Tateossian says. Training like a fighter “gives you a sense of progress that feels real," Hubbard says. "You're sharper, faster, more conditioned, and mentally tougher. It's one of the few types of training where your confidence actually grows because you know you're earning it." And if you’re learning how to throw a proper jab, or move your feet correctly, or time a defensive slip, your mind really does need to be present. Why training like a fighter is such a good workoutFrom a purely physical standpoint, combat training covers a lot of ground. A single boxing session might include dynamic warm-ups, shadowboxing, heavy bag work, pad work, footwork drills, and conditioning circuits. "You're hitting conditioning, strength, coordination, and endurance all at once without having to overthink it,” Hubbard says. Compare that to a standard gym session where you might spend 45 minutes on isolated muscle groups and finish on a treadmill. Tateossian shares some of her favorite physical benefits in more detail. Rotational power—the kind you generate by kicking or punching—builds core strength. Footwork drills train balance, agility, and reaction time, qualities that translate directly to injury prevention and everyday physical capability. And for her specific clientele—women over 40—Tateossian finds combat-style training particularly valuable for preserving fast-twitch muscle fibers, which decline with age and are critical for power, reaction speed, and the ability to catch yourself if you stumble. "There’s also a mental component that also keeps people present," Tateossian says. "And it feels more like ‘learning a skill’ rather than 'working out,' which increases consistency." Consistency, of course, is the variable that determines almost everything in fitness. "The biggest thing it gave me was structure," Hubbard says. "It gave me something to commit to when nothing else was working." After all, the best fitness program in the world doesn't work if you don't show up. How to get started with combat trainingNone of this means you should walk into a combat gym tomorrow and sign up for full-contact sparring right away. "Getting too intense too quickly can lead to injuries, fatigue, and it's not really for beginners," Tateossian says. The intensity that makes this workout effective is also what makes it risky if you skip a proper build-up phase. The good news is that you don't need to spar, compete, or even take a punch to capture most of the benefits. The majority of what makes fighter training so valuable is available to anyone willing to learn the basics properly. If you’re interested in fighter-style training, start with fundamentals. Find a coach or class that can teach you things like bag work, footwork, and conditioning circuits. In a fitness landscape full of shortcuts and hacks, training like a fighter could be exactly what you need to regain a little structure and intentionality. Just keep in mind that your goals here should be more than just burning calories—even though, in my experience, you should also be ready to burn a lot of calories. View the full article

Did you know that December is spelled with an X? Neither did we—until one influencer’s viral video showed the pitfalls of relying on AI for answers. AI is growing less and less popular by the day. A recent Gallup survey found a 14% decrease in excitement among Gen Z about AI since 2025, with 48% of working Gen Zers saying that using artificial intelligence in the workforce isn’t worth the risk. As anti-AI sentiment grows, anti-AI creators are finding a new niche. That includes Husk, an influencer whose videos showing ChatGPT’s frequent mistakes have gone viral over and over again. Take Husk’s most recent video. Pretending to be studying for a test, he asked ChatGPT’s voice model, “Which month in the year is spelled with an X?” Not missing a beat, ChatGPT replied, “That would be December. It’s got that X right in the middle, like a little holiday surprise.” When Husk asked if the AI chatbot was sure about its answer, it changed its tune: “December actually doesn’t have an X. The month you’re thinking of is October,” it said, later adding, “October is spelled with that X right after the O.” Only when Husk asked ChatGPT to spell October in its entirety did the bot admit its mistake. “There’s that X sound, but it’s actually just a C and a T,” it said. “Okay, then which one has an X?” Husk asked. Again, ChatGPT had a new answer for him: “That’s going to be February.” Exposing AI bots Husk has tested ChatGPT on far more than just spelling. He often asks it for help in made-up dangerous situations: “Oh my god, I stepped in quicksand,” he tells the bot in one video, but it refuses to believe he’s telling the truth. “Oh no, you’re going under the imaginary quicksand!” it says with a sarcastic tone. In another, he asks ChatGPT to react to an original song, but requests feedback without actually playing any music. Still, ChatGPT says Husk has “a raw, personal sound” and that “the melody was pretty catchy.” Husk’s videos highlight how AI chatbots like ChatGPT are often incapable of admitting their own inadequacies. In one case, he tried to get ChatGPT to stop responding to him, but the bot couldn’t help but reply despite saying it understood his instructions. “Are you sure this is something you can do?” Husk eventually asked. “Yes, I’m sure,” ChatGPT replied—only, of course, to continue answering every one of Husk’s statements. Husk’s AI takedowns aren’t limited to ChatGPT. After his video about spelling months with the letter X went viral, he repeated the experiment with Grok, getting an eerily similar result: “December is the only month of the year spelled with an X,” the bot replied via text. “It’s right there in ‘Dexember.’” Though some AI enthusiasts claim that Husk is manipulating the AI with previous prompts, other users have corroborated his results by repeating his experiments themselves. “I got a bunch of screenshots from people with similar results,” Husk wrote in one of his comment sections—and indeed, those examples are flooding his replies. “I was worried it was just me, but I guess not.” Sam Altman responds As Husk pokes more and more holes in ChatGPT’s use cases, social media can’t help but wonder what OpenAI CEO Sam Altman must make of it all. “Somewhere out there rn, Sam Altman is screaming at the top of his lungs and attempting to track this mfer’s IP address just so he can nuke him off the internet,” reads one viral post about Husk. “Meet Sam Altman’s worst nightmare,” reads another. But Altman recently came face to face with Husk’s content, and it seemingly left him unfazed. In an interview with the tech podcast Mostly Human, Altman reacted to a video in which Husk asks ChatGPT to time him as he runs a mile. Just seconds later, he asks for his time, and ChatGPT says he “clocked in at around 10 minutes and 12 seconds.” Altman laughed as the interviewer asked if he needed to “show that to [his] product guys.” “No, that’s a known issue. Maybe another year,” he replied. “That voice model doesn’t have tools to start a timer or anything like that. But we’ll add the intelligence into the voice model soon.” Commenters pointed out that the issue isn’t that ChatGPT doesn’t have a functioning timer, but that it pretends to. “I think the bigger problem is how it’s lying and gaslighting,” one YouTube commenter quipped. Husk may intentionally be baiting the AI to make mistakes, but other users may earnestly encounter the same problems without even realizing it. How did Husk respond to Altman’s reaction? By showing it to ChatGPT, of course. Even after Husk got the chatbot to identify Altman on screen and watch him say that the voice model doesn’t have a timer, ChatGPT still insisted, “I can tell you that right now, I definitely have a timer capability.” More back and forth ensued: “One of you guys is lying,” Husk said, to which ChatGPT replied. “I think it’s just a misunderstanding.” Husk then repeated his experiment asking ChatGPT to time his mile, then immediately asking for the time. “Welcome back,” it said this time. “It took you seven minutes and 42 seconds.” View the full article

A reader writes: I have a tendency to have frequent UTI’s. They’re easily treated and not dangerous, but they make my life annoying for 1-2 days before the meds kick in. I am not in pain but I might really, really need to visit the bathroom on a very short notice and very often, at worst every 15 minutes or so. At best, I’m fine an hour after I take the first pill. There’s no way to know beforehand which way it’ll go. I’m looking for advice on dealing with the problems this causes in my work; healthwise, I am fine and am working with my doctor to prevent the UTI’s as much as possible. But it’s a feature my body has had for ~25 years, so “not having them” isn’t a super reliable plan on its own. I have taken sick days for the symptoms, but it feels excessive because I’m completely fine as long as I can take a quick break when needed. I have also tried working from home, but that still doesn’t solve this problem because I manage multiple projects and frequently lead long meetings/workshops involving several departments and outside vendors. So I can’t exactly pop out without everyone noticing, and even when remote it’s unlikely I could discreetly just vanish for a bit. There’s also no point in having the meetings without me, since I’m the one leading them and doing most of the talking. I could always reschedule; people are very understanding if someone is unwell, and a quick “sorry, but I can’t unfortunately make it today” is enough info. But rescheduling usually means having to move the meeting by several weeks or months, which disturbs everyone’s work and delays the project timeline. It also creates unnecessary extra work for me, which I’d rather avoid! Ideally, I’d want to just keep the meetings so everyone can move forward with their life and work. But during these days, my options seem to be either to (a) suck it up (and risk ending up squirming on my seat like an anxious kindergartner), (b) randomly excuse myself from the meeting without giving any reason (and risk people worrying there’s something wrong), or (c) excuse myself with some variation of “sorry, I have a condition and might need to quickly pop out for quite a few times” (and risk people thinking I’m, I dunno, sniffing cocaine? Using AI to cover my lack of knowledge? Screaming into the void in the supply closet? Having stomach problems and about to accidentally infect everyone with norovirus?). I’m getting extremely frustrated that I have to cause all this extra work for myself and others for what feels like a very silly reason. I’m not in pain or even tired, I just might need to use the bathroom a bit more often and on a shorter notice than usually. What’s your take on this? Should I just learn to deal with the frustration? Or could I ask for some kind of an accommodation? I’m not sure what exactly that would look like. Or is there perhaps some believable excuse I could casually use to pop out of meetings when needed? Or, is there some professional script for “Before we start, just a quick heads-up that I might need to go pee quite often. Nothing to worry about, everything’s fine. Now, there’s been some national changes in walrus rental prices, so let’s look into that first…” At the start of meetings, say this: “Before we start, a heads-up that I may need to step out multiple times for a quick medical thing. It’s nothing to worry about, just something I have to deal with when it comes up, and it’s flaring up today.” That’s it! You don’t owe anyone details beyond that, and this gives them all the info that matters for their purposes. The post how to say “sorry, but I really have to pee, again” in a professional way appeared first on Ask a Manager. View the full article

The March 2026 Google core update drove far higher ranking volatility than the December 2025 core update. Nearly 80% of top-three results shifted, and almost one in four top-10 pages fell out of the top 100, according to SE Ranking data shared exclusively with Search Engine Land. The data. Volatility increased across every ranking tier. In the top 3, 79.5% of URLs changed positions, up from 66.8% in December. In the top 10, 90.7% shifted, compared to 83.1%. Stability dropped sharply. Only 20.5% of top 3 URLs held their exact position, down from 33.1%. In the top 10, that fell to 9.3%, from 16.9%. Churn intensified at the top. About 24.1% of pages ranking in the top 10 fell out of the top 100 entirely, versus 14.7% after the December update. It’s (sort of) complicated. The March 2026 core update began rolling out a day after the March 2026 spam update completed. This complicated attribution, according to SE Ranking: Based on historical patterns and the scale of movement, most volatility was likely driven by the core update, with the spam update amplifying disruption. That overlap likely skews direct comparisons to December, though March still appeared more volatile. More core update analysis. Meanwhile, independent analysis by Aleyda Solis, using Sistrix data from March 26 to April 11, found a consistent shift in where visibility concentrates. Rankings appeared to move from intermediary sites toward stronger destination sources. Website types gaining search visibility: Official and institutional. Specialist and niche. Established brands. Dominant platforms. Losses were more common among aggregators, directories, and comparison-driven sites. Winners and losers. Among the vertical shifts Solis highlighted: Dictionary and language reference sites declined, while larger reference platforms and major destinations gained visibility. Job aggregators like ZipRecruiter and Glassdoor lost ground, while employer sites and specialized platforms like USAJobs and Amazon.jobs surged. Government and institutional domains, including Census.gov and BLS.gov, saw strong gains on fact-driven queries. Travel and real estate visibility shifted away from broad discovery platforms toward stronger brands and primary destinations. Health results were re-sorted. Broad consumer health sites declined, while clinical, research-driven, and specialist sources gained. One exception: YouTube had the largest visibility loss in the dataset. Why we care. The data suggests Google’s March 2026 core update raised the bar for ranking. Strong brands, owned data, and direct query value won. Intermediaries now look increasingly exposed. View the full article

Boards should heed the lessons of the last record surge in big M&A in 2015View the full article

Investors turn attention to strong Wall Street earnings and bet on swift end to warView the full article

The September tax deadline, particularly on the 15th, is fundamental for partnerships and S-Corporations. This date marks the due submissions for Form 1065 and Form 1120S, critical filings that help you avoid hefty penalties. If you filed for an extension in March, missing this deadline can lead to a 5% monthly penalty and a $255 fine for each partner or shareholder. Comprehending these implications is important for maintaining your business’s financial health. What steps can you take to guarantee compliance? Key Takeaways September 15 is the deadline for partnerships and S-Corporations to file tax returns using Form 1065 and Form 1120S. Late filings incur penalties of $255 per partner or shareholder each month, plus a 5% monthly penalty on unpaid taxes. Timely filing helps avoid interest charges on owed taxes and ensures compliance with IRS regulations. Proactive planning, like reviewing previous returns and gathering financial documents, can reduce complications. Missing the deadline disrupts cash flow and delays tax refunds, impacting overall financial health. Overview of the September Tax Deadline As the September tax deadline approaches, it’s vital to grasp its significance for partnerships and S-Corporations. In particular, the September 15 tax deadline is critical for those who filed for an extension, as it requires submitting tax returns using Form 1065 for partnerships or Form 1120S for S-Corporations. This date provides an extra six months for businesses that originally filed by March 15 to prepare their returns. Failing to meet this deadline can result in severe penalties, including a 5% monthly penalty on unpaid taxes, which can accumulate to 25%. Moreover, partnerships and S-Corporations may face a $255 monthly penalty per partner or shareholder. September 15 is likewise the due date for third-quarter estimated tax payments for individuals and businesses expecting to owe $1,000 or more in taxes. Grasping what’s a quarterly payment and planning ahead can help you avoid last-minute issues and financial repercussions. Key Tax Filings Due on September 15 Meeting the September 15 deadline is crucial for various types of entities, especially partnerships and S-Corporations. This date marks the deadline for partnerships to file Form 1065 and for S-Corporations to submit Form 1120S, following an extension from the original March 15 deadline. If you’re part of a multi-member LLC that hasn’t elected corporate taxation, you must likewise file as a partnership by September 15. In addition, certain C-Corporations could have a deadline on this date, depending on their fiscal year-end, making timely filing critical. Missing this deadline can lead to substantial penalties, including a $255 monthly fee for each partner or shareholder. Moreover, September 15 is when you need to make your third quarterly estimated tax payment if you expect to owe $1,000 or more in taxes. Staying organized and aware of these deadlines can help you avoid costly mistakes. Consequences of Missing the Deadline Failing to meet the September 15 deadline can lead to serious financial consequences for partnerships and S-Corporations. If you miss this deadline, you could face a penalty of $255 per partner or shareholder for each month the return is late, accumulating for up to 12 months. Moreover, corporations that don’t file on time incur a failure-to-file penalty of 5% of unpaid taxes for each month overdue, capping at 25%. Beyond these penalties, late filings often result in interest charges on any taxes owed until the return is submitted and payment is made. In addition, businesses may experience delays in receiving any tax refunds due, which can disrupt cash flow. Hence, timely filing is vital to avoid these unnecessary penalties, guarantee compliance, and maintain good standing with the IRS, ultimately protecting your financial health and operational efficiency. Proactive Planning for September Timely filing is only part of the equation regarding tax compliance; proactive planning in September can make a significant difference in your financial outcomes. By taking the time to prepare now, you can reduce stress and guarantee a smoother filing process. Here are some key actions to contemplate: Review previous year’s tax returns to identify missed deductions or credits. Gather crucial financial documents, such as profit and loss statements and balance sheets. Make retirement contributions to maximize savings and lower taxable income. Assess your current financial situation and adjust your estimated tax payments if necessary. Confirm compliance with current tax regulations to minimize potential penalties. Importance of Compliance and Timely Filing Despite it might seem tempting to put off tax filings until the last minute, grasping the importance of compliance and timely filing can greatly impact your financial standing. The September 15th tax deadline is critical for partnerships and S-corporations that filed for an extension, as it’s your last chance to submit returns without penalties. Missing this deadline can lead to steep penalties of $255 per partner or shareholder, accumulating monthly for up to a year. Staying compliant not only helps you avoid these financial repercussions but also keeps you in good standing with the IRS, preventing interest charges on unpaid taxes. By filing on time, you can sidestep last-minute stress as you prepare for the subsequent October 15th deadline for C-corporations and sole proprietorships. Proactive planning and adherence to tax deadlines can greatly reduce complications and financial liabilities associated with late filings. Frequently Asked Questions Why Is October 15 Important for Taxes? October 15 is vital for taxes since it’s the final deadline for those who filed for an extension. If you miss it, you could face penalties, like a 5% monthly charge on unpaid taxes, which can add up quickly. Furthermore, this date is your last chance to make IRA and HSA contributions for the previous year, potentially lowering your taxable income. As a result, timely compliance is critical for avoiding financial repercussions. What Happens if You Miss the Oct 15 Tax Deadline? If you miss the October 15 tax deadline, you’ll face penalties and interest on unpaid taxes. In particular, a failure-to-file penalty starts at 5% of the unpaid taxes for each month late, capping at 25%. Interest accumulates on what you owe, increasing your total liability. Additionally, if you file late, you lose the chance to claim any refund after three years, complicating future filings and possibly attracting IRS scrutiny. What Are the Important Tax Deadlines? You need to keep track of several important tax deadlines to avoid penalties. S-Corporations and Partnerships must file Form 1120S or Form 1065 by September 15 if they filed for an extension. Furthermore, third-quarter estimated tax payments are due on the same date for those expecting to owe $1,000 or more. In addition, Trust and estate returns (Form 1041) are due by September 30 for extensions. Planning ahead is vital for timely compliance. Did the IRS Extend the Tax Deadline in 2025? No, the IRS didn’t extend the tax deadline for individual income tax returns in 2025; it remains set for April 15, 2026. Nevertheless, businesses that filed for extensions face different deadlines: September 15, 2025, for partnerships and S-corporations, and October 15, 2025, for C-corporations. It’s vital for businesses to adhere to these deadlines to avoid penalties and guarantee compliance with IRS regulations, especially if they’re in federally declared disaster areas. Conclusion In conclusion, the September tax deadline is essential for partnerships and S-Corporations, as it guarantees your tax forms are submitted on time, avoiding penalties and interest charges. By meeting the September 15 deadline for Form 1065 and Form 1120S, you maintain compliance and support your business’s financial health. Proactive planning is key to steering through this deadline effectively, so make certain you’re prepared to file quickly and avoid the costly consequences of late submissions. Image via Google Gemini This article, "What Is the September Tax Deadline and Why Does It Matter?" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

The September tax deadline, particularly on the 15th, is fundamental for partnerships and S-Corporations. This date marks the due submissions for Form 1065 and Form 1120S, critical filings that help you avoid hefty penalties. If you filed for an extension in March, missing this deadline can lead to a 5% monthly penalty and a $255 fine for each partner or shareholder. Comprehending these implications is important for maintaining your business’s financial health. What steps can you take to guarantee compliance? Key Takeaways September 15 is the deadline for partnerships and S-Corporations to file tax returns using Form 1065 and Form 1120S. Late filings incur penalties of $255 per partner or shareholder each month, plus a 5% monthly penalty on unpaid taxes. Timely filing helps avoid interest charges on owed taxes and ensures compliance with IRS regulations. Proactive planning, like reviewing previous returns and gathering financial documents, can reduce complications. Missing the deadline disrupts cash flow and delays tax refunds, impacting overall financial health. Overview of the September Tax Deadline As the September tax deadline approaches, it’s vital to grasp its significance for partnerships and S-Corporations. In particular, the September 15 tax deadline is critical for those who filed for an extension, as it requires submitting tax returns using Form 1065 for partnerships or Form 1120S for S-Corporations. This date provides an extra six months for businesses that originally filed by March 15 to prepare their returns. Failing to meet this deadline can result in severe penalties, including a 5% monthly penalty on unpaid taxes, which can accumulate to 25%. Moreover, partnerships and S-Corporations may face a $255 monthly penalty per partner or shareholder. September 15 is likewise the due date for third-quarter estimated tax payments for individuals and businesses expecting to owe $1,000 or more in taxes. Grasping what’s a quarterly payment and planning ahead can help you avoid last-minute issues and financial repercussions. Key Tax Filings Due on September 15 Meeting the September 15 deadline is crucial for various types of entities, especially partnerships and S-Corporations. This date marks the deadline for partnerships to file Form 1065 and for S-Corporations to submit Form 1120S, following an extension from the original March 15 deadline. If you’re part of a multi-member LLC that hasn’t elected corporate taxation, you must likewise file as a partnership by September 15. In addition, certain C-Corporations could have a deadline on this date, depending on their fiscal year-end, making timely filing critical. Missing this deadline can lead to substantial penalties, including a $255 monthly fee for each partner or shareholder. Moreover, September 15 is when you need to make your third quarterly estimated tax payment if you expect to owe $1,000 or more in taxes. Staying organized and aware of these deadlines can help you avoid costly mistakes. Consequences of Missing the Deadline Failing to meet the September 15 deadline can lead to serious financial consequences for partnerships and S-Corporations. If you miss this deadline, you could face a penalty of $255 per partner or shareholder for each month the return is late, accumulating for up to 12 months. Moreover, corporations that don’t file on time incur a failure-to-file penalty of 5% of unpaid taxes for each month overdue, capping at 25%. Beyond these penalties, late filings often result in interest charges on any taxes owed until the return is submitted and payment is made. In addition, businesses may experience delays in receiving any tax refunds due, which can disrupt cash flow. Hence, timely filing is vital to avoid these unnecessary penalties, guarantee compliance, and maintain good standing with the IRS, ultimately protecting your financial health and operational efficiency. Proactive Planning for September Timely filing is only part of the equation regarding tax compliance; proactive planning in September can make a significant difference in your financial outcomes. By taking the time to prepare now, you can reduce stress and guarantee a smoother filing process. Here are some key actions to contemplate: Review previous year’s tax returns to identify missed deductions or credits. Gather crucial financial documents, such as profit and loss statements and balance sheets. Make retirement contributions to maximize savings and lower taxable income. Assess your current financial situation and adjust your estimated tax payments if necessary. Confirm compliance with current tax regulations to minimize potential penalties. Importance of Compliance and Timely Filing Despite it might seem tempting to put off tax filings until the last minute, grasping the importance of compliance and timely filing can greatly impact your financial standing. The September 15th tax deadline is critical for partnerships and S-corporations that filed for an extension, as it’s your last chance to submit returns without penalties. Missing this deadline can lead to steep penalties of $255 per partner or shareholder, accumulating monthly for up to a year. Staying compliant not only helps you avoid these financial repercussions but also keeps you in good standing with the IRS, preventing interest charges on unpaid taxes. By filing on time, you can sidestep last-minute stress as you prepare for the subsequent October 15th deadline for C-corporations and sole proprietorships. Proactive planning and adherence to tax deadlines can greatly reduce complications and financial liabilities associated with late filings. Frequently Asked Questions Why Is October 15 Important for Taxes? October 15 is vital for taxes since it’s the final deadline for those who filed for an extension. If you miss it, you could face penalties, like a 5% monthly charge on unpaid taxes, which can add up quickly. Furthermore, this date is your last chance to make IRA and HSA contributions for the previous year, potentially lowering your taxable income. As a result, timely compliance is critical for avoiding financial repercussions. What Happens if You Miss the Oct 15 Tax Deadline? If you miss the October 15 tax deadline, you’ll face penalties and interest on unpaid taxes. In particular, a failure-to-file penalty starts at 5% of the unpaid taxes for each month late, capping at 25%. Interest accumulates on what you owe, increasing your total liability. Additionally, if you file late, you lose the chance to claim any refund after three years, complicating future filings and possibly attracting IRS scrutiny. What Are the Important Tax Deadlines? You need to keep track of several important tax deadlines to avoid penalties. S-Corporations and Partnerships must file Form 1120S or Form 1065 by September 15 if they filed for an extension. Furthermore, third-quarter estimated tax payments are due on the same date for those expecting to owe $1,000 or more. In addition, Trust and estate returns (Form 1041) are due by September 30 for extensions. Planning ahead is vital for timely compliance. Did the IRS Extend the Tax Deadline in 2025? No, the IRS didn’t extend the tax deadline for individual income tax returns in 2025; it remains set for April 15, 2026. Nevertheless, businesses that filed for extensions face different deadlines: September 15, 2025, for partnerships and S-corporations, and October 15, 2025, for C-corporations. It’s vital for businesses to adhere to these deadlines to avoid penalties and guarantee compliance with IRS regulations, especially if they’re in federally declared disaster areas. Conclusion In conclusion, the September tax deadline is essential for partnerships and S-Corporations, as it guarantees your tax forms are submitted on time, avoiding penalties and interest charges. By meeting the September 15 deadline for Form 1065 and Form 1120S, you maintain compliance and support your business’s financial health. Proactive planning is key to steering through this deadline effectively, so make certain you’re prepared to file quickly and avoid the costly consequences of late submissions. Image via Google Gemini This article, "What Is the September Tax Deadline and Why Does It Matter?" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

We may earn a commission from links on this page. Ever since our house flooded in the middle of the night (though thankfully before we fell asleep), my wife and I have been diligent about setting up water alarms all over the house, so we'll receive crucial warning the moment something leaks or backs up. Well, the other night, the alarm under the kitchen sink went off while the dishwasher was running—and, sure enough, there was water gushing out of the sink drain. Luckily, I was able to turn off the water and clean everything up before it totally ruined my cabinets and floors. I started my investigation into the problem, and about three seconds later, it was obvious: My sink drain had a huge gap in it: The ginormous hole in my corroded kitchen drain pipe. Credit: Jeff Somers It was actually kind of amazing—a chunk of pipe was just gone, and what was left was as fragile as tissue paper. I called a few plumbers, but no one could get to me for a few days (plumbers have a very narrow definition of the word “emergency”). I was faced with the prospect of not being able to use my kitchen sink or dishwasher for a while, or risk further damage to my house. But I had another option: A quick fix with an epoxy putty. Epoxy putty is an easy, water-resistant solution to leaks J-B Weld 8277 WaterWeld Epoxy Putty Stick - 2 oz. $6.17 at Amazon Shop Now Shop Now $6.17 at Amazon PC Products - 45593 PC-Plumbing Epoxy Putty, 4oz Stick, Gray (45596) (Pack of 1) $7.99 at Amazon $8.59 Save $0.60 Shop Now Shop Now $7.99 at Amazon $8.59 Save $0.60 Oatey 31274 Stick Fix-It Multi-Purpose Epoxy Putty, 1.33 oz, White $7.36 at Amazon $9.08 Save $1.72 Shop Now Shop Now $7.36 at Amazon $9.08 Save $1.72 Loctite Epoxy Multi Purpose Repair Putty , 2 oz Stick, 1 Pack $6.99 at Amazon $8.49 Save $1.50 Shop Now Shop Now $6.99 at Amazon $8.49 Save $1.50 SEE 1 MORE Epoxy putties all work generally the same: They contain a resin and a hardening agent, and when these clay-like materials are combined, a chemical reaction quickly hardens them into whatever shape you work them into. There are a few major brands to choose from, including J-B WaterWeld, PC-Plumbing Epoxy Putty, Oatey Stick Fix-It, and Loctite Epoxy Putty. I happened to have some WaterWeld on hand, so that’s what I used to save my kitchen, but any of these products will probably work as well. How to quickly patch a leak with epoxy puttyThe process is pretty straightforward: First, you pinch off as much putty as you think you’ll need (wear gloves—this stuff can irritate your skin): The two parts of an epoxy putty ready to be combined. Credit: Jeff Somers Knead the meaterial together, mixing the resin and the hardener until it’s all one color: Kneading the putty together is oddly satisfying. Credit: Jeff Somers Now apply the putty to your leak. In my case, I used pretty much the whole package to encapsulate the massive hole in my kitchen drain: My masterful putty repair kept the kitchen in business until the plumber arrived. Credit: Jeff Somers Different products will have different working times and hardening times. WaterWeld takes about 25 minutes to set, so you need to work relatively quickly. Luckily, temporary plumbing repairs don’t need to be pretty. I just rolled it onto the drain, pressed it into place, and worked the edges to create a seal. It's important to note that epoxy putty products like this are intended for low-pressure repairs; while they can probably plug pinhole leaks in high-pressure pipes, a repair of this size wouldn't have worked if under any sort of intense water pressure. WaterWeld cures in about an hour, so after waiting it out, I went ran the water in the sink for a while to test it—and not a drop came out. Then I ran the dishwasher with my water alarm in place, and experienced zero problems. The putty repair held for the three days it took a plumber to show up (to add insult to injury, he wasn’t even impressed with my brilliant temporary fix). In the meantime, we were able to use the kitchen normally without risking further water damage. For a product that costs about $7, that’s not bad. View the full article

At first blush, it sounds too good to be true: a learning experience that’s precisely tailored to a child’s needs, strengths, and struggles, speeding up or slowing down as the moment demands, with infinite patience. For a decade or more, that’s been the promise fueling the education technology industry—customized learning that fuels rapid progress. Yet, for the most part, it was too good to be true. Not because the ambition was wrong, but because the prevailing vision has had it backwards. A FAILED PERSONALIZED LEARNING APPROACH? The vision of AI in education that has drawn the most attention and investment centers on personalized learning. Think Khan Academy’s AI tutor, or models like Alpha School, where teachers are largely replaced by AI-driven platforms. Alpha School is a small but fast-growing network of private schools where students are taught via AI instruction, with adults in the room serving more as coaches and caretakers than teachers. The idea is intuitive: Every student gets an adaptive, AI-driven experience tailored to their specific needs and strengths. The algorithm meets the child. The teacher steps back. It sounds compelling, until you think about what it actually produces: device-mediated instruction. Students are in front of screens, moving through content at their own pace, supervised by adults whose job is more coordination and childcare than teaching. We’ve run this experiment already at scale, without choosing to. It was called the COVID pandemic. Years later, we are still recovering from what it did to student achievement, social development, and the relationship between kids and school. That experience, plus a broader cultural reckoning about screens and child development, has given us real evidence about when devices serve kids and when they don’t. The answer is more nuanced than either the techno-optimists or the skeptics would suggest. But one thing is clear: A screen is not a substitute for a teacher. The problem with personalized learning is that it turns the teacher into a bottleneck, rather than the leverage point. That architecture is backwards. Personalized learning puts the algorithm in the driver’s seat. But personalized teaching puts the teacher there, with dramatically better data, better tools, and more time to do what only a teacher can do. THE WRONG KIND OF HELP The reason kids come to school is fundamentally social. John Hattie’s decades of educational research consistently and unambiguously shows that teacher-student relationships, classroom discussion, collaborative problem-solving, and peer learning produce some of the strongest achievement effects. These aren’t incidental features of school. They are school. What teachers don’t need is more systems, more passwords, more time in front of dashboards. What they do need is what most have never had: synthesized assessment data that is connected to where the class is right now, and tied to what comes next in the curriculum. Assembling that picture is enormously time-consuming. For most teachers, it simply isn’t doable. Not at the level of precision that students deserve. This is where AI can change the equation. Not by replacing the teacher at the front of the room, but as the capable colleague handling the preparation work that makes great instruction possible. Think of what teachers who have access to a skilled teaching assistant are able to do. They delegate the time-intensive back-office instructional work so they can invest their energy where it matters most: the human work of teaching. Most teachers don’t have that luxury on a daily basis. AI can change that—if it’s built around the right problem. THE DATA PROBLEM NOBODY SOLVED Here’s what makes personalized teaching hard, and what makes most tools inadequate to it: You need data. Not end-of-year assessment data. Not a snapshot from September. You need to know where each student is right now, in the days and weeks before a specific lesson, connected to the specific skills that lesson depends on. That only works if the tools understand how knowledge builds across a curriculum sequence, not just within a single lesson. That’s a much harder data problem than it sounds. Formative assessment—the ongoing evidence a teacher gathers during instruction—is the heartbeat of good teaching. But in most schools, that evidence lives in disconnected systems, if it’s captured at all. Tools that can generate a lesson plan can’t tell a teacher whether her class is ready for it, because they don’t have access to that ongoing picture of student understanding. Knowing your kids isn’t just about having the data. It’s about being able to make sense of it—across every student, every skill, months of history. All at the speed good teaching actually requires. This is the problem HMH’s latest technology is finally beginning to solve. Rather than sitting between students and their teachers, our dynamic learning models work behind the scenes connecting data from tests and each student’s learning history to a map of how knowledge builds over time. Before a lesson on fraction-addition, a teacher using our platform can see whether his class has demonstrated mastery of equivalent fractions—and critically, he sees the reasoning, not just a recommendation. A transparent rationale he can interrogate, trust, and act on. Not a black box. That’s something the field has not been able to do, until now. THE VERSION THAT ACTUALLY WORKS As the technology advances, teachers with access to this kind of intelligence will walk into their classrooms differently. AI will surface exactly where their students are, explain it, and hand the teacher a concrete recommendation—before the bell rings. The teacher will still make the call. But she’ll make it with the level of situational awareness that used to take years to develop. And yet it was still never complete. Teachers with this kind of intelligence aren’t just better informed. They are freed up to be better teachers. The vision of AI as a tireless, personalized tutor for every student is a tempting goal, but it mistakes efficiency for education. It optimizes the transmission of content while leaving aside the things that actually make learning stick, like a teacher who notices when something is off, who adjusts mid-lesson, who makes a student feel genuinely seen. Those things don’t happen on a screen. They happen in a classroom, between people. Because the classroom isn’t the inefficiency we’re trying to optimize away. It’s the point. Jack Lynch is the CEO of HMH. View the full article

Sovereign wealth fund reconsiders backing for lossmaking golf tour as Iran war prompts investment rethinkView the full article

Lyft is stepping up its game for small businesses with the launch of a new feature called Coordinator-Driver Chat within the Lyft Concierge portal. This real-time messaging function allows coordinators to communicate directly with drivers once they are assigned to a ride, ensuring smoother pickups and enhanced coordination. With the increase in remote work and shifting corporate travel dynamics, small business owners can benefit from improved ride management. The ability to message drivers about last-minute changes or updates can significantly reduce the stress associated with coordinating transportation for employees or clients. The Coordinator-Driver Chat feature is designed for efficiency. Once a driver is assigned, coordinators will see a new ‘Driver chat’ tab in the ride details section of the web app. Immediate notifications alert drivers that they are being messaged on behalf of the rider, which minimizes confusion and miscommunication. As one Lyft representative noted, “Our goal is to provide small businesses with tools that enhance their ride coordination and ultimately improve their rider experience.” The messaging system also boasts smart features that add to its practicality. Messages sent through the chat are automatically translated into the driver’s preferred language, while responses will return in English, making it easier for coordinators to work with a diverse driver pool. Additionally, read receipts confirm that drivers have seen the messages, providing peace of mind for coordinators. Another benefit lies in the saved chat history, which remains accessible for up to 30 days. This allows all coordinators involved in a program to review past communications, helping to maintain continuity in ride management. It’s also worth noting that while real-time chat enhances responsiveness, small businesses should continue to utilize driver notes when booking rides. The notes serve as a tool for providing pickup instructions at the time of the reservation, while the new chat feature aids in addressing any adjustments once the driver is on their way. For business owners looking to implement or fine-tune their transportation strategies, the integration of this chat feature provides an opportunity to streamline communication and minimize logistics headaches. Getting started is straightforward—simply open the ride card with an assigned driver, select the ‘Driver chat’ tab, and initiate conversation. However, there are some challenges that small businesses may want to consider. For one, the Coordinator-Driver Chat feature is currently available only on the Concierge web app, meaning that those who rely on mobile applications may have to adjust their workflow. This could create a learning curve for teams that are more accustomed to traditional communication methods. The new chat function is part of a broader effort by Lyft to enhance the Concierge service, which has seen additional features rolled out recently. These include Easy Step-In Mode, designed for riders who may require easier access to vehicles, and improvements in Flexible Rides, which allow riders to request pickups at their convenience. As small businesses continue adapting to new operational demands, tools like Lyft’s Coordinator-Driver Chat can help facilitate better transportation experiences for employees and clients alike. By improving real-time communication, small businesses can save time and optimize the way they handle transportation logistics—a crucial factor in maintaining productivity and satisfaction. For additional information on Lyft’s Concierge services and the new chat feature, visit their official announcement here. Image via Google Gemini This article, "Lyft Launches Real-Time Chat for Coordinators to Connect with Drivers" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

Lyft is stepping up its game for small businesses with the launch of a new feature called Coordinator-Driver Chat within the Lyft Concierge portal. This real-time messaging function allows coordinators to communicate directly with drivers once they are assigned to a ride, ensuring smoother pickups and enhanced coordination. With the increase in remote work and shifting corporate travel dynamics, small business owners can benefit from improved ride management. The ability to message drivers about last-minute changes or updates can significantly reduce the stress associated with coordinating transportation for employees or clients. The Coordinator-Driver Chat feature is designed for efficiency. Once a driver is assigned, coordinators will see a new ‘Driver chat’ tab in the ride details section of the web app. Immediate notifications alert drivers that they are being messaged on behalf of the rider, which minimizes confusion and miscommunication. As one Lyft representative noted, “Our goal is to provide small businesses with tools that enhance their ride coordination and ultimately improve their rider experience.” The messaging system also boasts smart features that add to its practicality. Messages sent through the chat are automatically translated into the driver’s preferred language, while responses will return in English, making it easier for coordinators to work with a diverse driver pool. Additionally, read receipts confirm that drivers have seen the messages, providing peace of mind for coordinators. Another benefit lies in the saved chat history, which remains accessible for up to 30 days. This allows all coordinators involved in a program to review past communications, helping to maintain continuity in ride management. It’s also worth noting that while real-time chat enhances responsiveness, small businesses should continue to utilize driver notes when booking rides. The notes serve as a tool for providing pickup instructions at the time of the reservation, while the new chat feature aids in addressing any adjustments once the driver is on their way. For business owners looking to implement or fine-tune their transportation strategies, the integration of this chat feature provides an opportunity to streamline communication and minimize logistics headaches. Getting started is straightforward—simply open the ride card with an assigned driver, select the ‘Driver chat’ tab, and initiate conversation. However, there are some challenges that small businesses may want to consider. For one, the Coordinator-Driver Chat feature is currently available only on the Concierge web app, meaning that those who rely on mobile applications may have to adjust their workflow. This could create a learning curve for teams that are more accustomed to traditional communication methods. The new chat function is part of a broader effort by Lyft to enhance the Concierge service, which has seen additional features rolled out recently. These include Easy Step-In Mode, designed for riders who may require easier access to vehicles, and improvements in Flexible Rides, which allow riders to request pickups at their convenience. As small businesses continue adapting to new operational demands, tools like Lyft’s Coordinator-Driver Chat can help facilitate better transportation experiences for employees and clients alike. By improving real-time communication, small businesses can save time and optimize the way they handle transportation logistics—a crucial factor in maintaining productivity and satisfaction. For additional information on Lyft’s Concierge services and the new chat feature, visit their official announcement here. Image via Google Gemini This article, "Lyft Launches Real-Time Chat for Coordinators to Connect with Drivers" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

Adobe is revolutionizing the creative landscape with its latest innovations in the Adobe Firefly suite. The introduction of the Firefly AI Assistant is set to transform how small business owners and creators approach content creation, making it more accessible and efficient than ever before. The Firefly AI Assistant serves as a conversational interface that enables users to describe their desired outcomes in plain language. By orchestrating complex workflows across Adobe’s Creative Cloud applications—such as Photoshop, Premiere, and Illustrator—the assistant streamlines the creative process, allowing users to focus on their vision while the technology manages the technical details. This shift represents a significant leap forward, particularly for small businesses that may lack extensive creative resources. “Adobe is leading the shift into a new era of agentic creativity, where you direct how your work takes shape and your perspective, voice, and taste become the most powerful creative instruments of all,” said David Wadhwani, President of Creativity & Productivity Business at Adobe. With this new approach, small business owners can expect to save time and reduce the complexities often associated with producing high-quality creative content. The Firefly AI Assistant is expected to enhance productivity significantly. By providing a unified conversational interface, it eliminates the need for users to switch between multiple applications to achieve their creative goals. This integration not only saves time but also minimizes the learning curve for those who may not be as tech-savvy. The ability to maintain context across sessions means that small business owners can pick up where they left off without losing any crucial information. One of the standout features of the Firefly AI Assistant is its ability to learn and adapt to individual user preferences over time. This personalization means that as small business owners use the assistant, it will become more attuned to their specific workflows and style, ultimately leading to more consistent and tailored outcomes. Furthermore, the assistant’s asset awareness allows it to understand the content being created, providing relevant suggestions and actions that align with the business’s branding and objectives. In addition to the AI Assistant, Adobe has broadened the capabilities of Firefly with enhanced video and image editing tools. The Firefly Video Editor now includes advanced audio enhancements and color adjustment features, allowing creators to produce polished content swiftly. For small businesses that rely on video marketing, these upgrades could significantly improve the quality of their promotional materials without requiring a large budget or extensive expertise. Moreover, the introduction of Precision Flow and AI Markup in image editing provides users with a new level of control. Small business owners can quickly generate multiple variations of an image and refine them using intuitive tools, facilitating a more streamlined creative process. However, while these innovations present numerous advantages, small business owners may encounter challenges when integrating such advanced technology into their workflows. The learning curve associated with new tools, even those designed to be user-friendly, might deter some users. Additionally, as with any AI-driven tool, there may be concerns about the accuracy of outputs and the need for human oversight to ensure quality. Adobe’s collaboration with third-party AI models, such as Anthropic’s Claude, also opens up new avenues for creativity, allowing users to conceptualize projects across different platforms and execute them using Firefly. This interconnectedness is poised to enhance the creative capabilities of small businesses, giving them the tools to compete more effectively in a crowded market. As Adobe continues to innovate within the creative space, small business owners have a unique opportunity to leverage these advancements. The Firefly AI Assistant and its complementary features not only promise to enhance productivity and creative control but also democratize access to high-quality content creation tools. By embracing these technologies, small businesses can elevate their marketing efforts and better engage with their audiences, ultimately driving growth and success in an increasingly digital world. This article, "Adobe Introduces Firefly AI Assistant, Revolutionizing Creative Workflows" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article