Facebook Spaces VR avatars kind of look like real people now

Facebook Spaces is finally redesigning its avatars to look more like you, and less like a corny cartoon character. 

The company has added hundreds of new customization and control options to the virtual reality avatars, and has updated their depth and movement. The updates will roll out this week.

SEE ALSO: 3D posts on Facebook just got a lot better

The avatars look noticeably more three-dimensional than they did before, with additional depth and shading compared to their relatively flat predecessors. They can also move more fluidly, and display a wider range of expressions. 

The company also says it has released "hundreds" of new head shapes, hairstyles, and facial features. If you're willing to sift through them, you can make your avatar look more like you.   Read more...

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Apple might ditch Intel chips in Macs for its own, starting in 2020

Apple might screw Intel over... starting in 2020.

The tech company is reportedly planning to ditch Intel's processors on its Macs and replace them with their own custom-designed chips, according to a report from Bloomberg.

SEE ALSO: Apple patent reveals a new crumb-resistant keyboard design for MacBooks

The report, sourced from the well-sourced Mark Gurman, says Apple executives have greenlit the plan, codenamed "Kalamata." 

The switch is apparently part of a plan to make Macs, iPhones, and iPads work better together. When contacted by Mashable, Apple, of course, declined to comment on the matter. Read more...

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This keyboard looks like a typewriter, but works like it's 2018

How much thought do you put into picking out a keyboard? Chances are, not a lot. 

Admit it: With so many options out there, you're likely to buy the cheapest model or whatever your IT buddy recommends. But finding a keyboard that fits your lifestyle matters. Period. Whether you're writing a blog post or coding an app, you want to be able to comfortably type away — anytime, anywhere.

SEE ALSO: Turn your hand into a keyboard with this strap of sensor-equipped rings

That's what's so great about Lofree's Four Seasons Wireless Keyboard. Compatible with Mac, PC, iOS, and Android, it's arguably one of the most versatile keyboards around. And though it looks like something that popped out of a 1950s sitcom, it's infused with high-tech features. Not only is it wireless, it boasts oversized keys and a backlight, making it easy to type at night or in poorly lit rooms. Plus, it's available in four classic colorways — aptly named spring, summer, autumn, and winter — so it'll complement your gadgets. Read more...

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European customers can now enjoy Netflix anywhere in the EU

European backpackers who have been missing their favorite Netflix shows can finally rest easy. 

A new EU regulation called the "Regulation on the Portability of Online Content Services" will allow any European citizens to access subscription services, including Netflix and Amazon Prime, that they've subscribed to at home, anywhere in the EU. 

SEE ALSO: This study broke down the psychology behind fonts using your favorite Netflix series

The regulation was initially passed in June, but the nine-month grace period given to providers to prepare is about to expire, Wired reports. 

Currently, providers like Netflix have to secure local rights to content in every region they operate in, which is why some show are available in some countries, but not in others.  Read more...

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Save up to $200 on a new MacBook Pro at Best Buy through April 8

Hey, Apple fans: If you missed out on holiday laptop deals or the MacBook Air sale at Best Buy this past week, don't get FOMO just yet — Best Buy is offering up to $200 off MacBook Pros now through April 8. 

We all know that the holidays are a great time to snag some new tech on sale — but when you're rushing around and trying to save on gifts for everyone else, it's easy to forget the stuff you want. But good news: This doesn't mean you're stuck with an old AF computer until next November. Best Buy's MacBook Pro sale has prices comparable to Black Friday and the Apple Sales Event, meaning yes, this is an excuse to get rid of that dinosaur you've wanted to break in half for the past five years. Read more...

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Bring the party playlist along with an Amazon's Choice Sony Bluetooth speaker on sale

Your fire party playlist deserves to be blasted at a moment's notice, so treat it right with this portable Bluetooth speaker from Sony on sale today.

SEE ALSO: Party anytime, anywhere with this hardcore portable speaker

Stream any of your music-playing devices through the Sony XB20's Bluetooth connection, and even decorate your music with a line of colored light. Connect multiple speakers through the Wireless Party Chain to literally amp up your music. It's also water-resistant for those poolside parties and boasts a 12-hour battery life.

It's normally listed at $98, but you can get one now for only $48 — a 51% savings. Read more...

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Hackers steal credit card data from 5 million Saks and Lord & Taylor customers

Another day, another breach.

Saks Fifth Avenue and Lord & Taylor confirmed Sunday that more than five million credit and debit card numbers were stolen from customers in a recent data breach. 

The cybercriminal syndicate known as Fin7 reportedly targeted physical stores in New Jersey and New York by installing software in cash register systems that relayed credit card numbers back to the hackers until last month.

SEE ALSO: 'SNL's Pete Davidson gets the 'Queer Eye' treatment from Tan France

The data breach was first reported by cybersecurity company Gemini Advisory (via The New York Times). The firm claims that Fin7 has so far put 125,000 credit card numbers for sale on the dark web. Gemini Advisory expects all of them become available "in the coming months."  Read more...

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