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Why these books are a must read today!

I love reading exorcism books, not because of the fear factor. I do not watch horror movies. I turn my head and close the audio when something "scary" is shown on screen (trailer?).

If you don’t read exorcism books, you may object to them because they may be "too scary for you" or "your kids." Mostly you, I think. However, these exorcism books were created by Catholic priests, so the focus is on the victory of God against evil. God always wins, of course. Someone who reviewed the Exorcism books on Goodreads said the same thing: God always wins.

So it’s not different from a movie featuring heroes and villains. The fake God of Norse origin, Thor, beats the frozen villains—remember them? Only this time, it’s not fictional; it’s real. And it may be happening to your pew mate at church. You just don’t know. The focus of exorcism books is not on how scary possession is but on how powerless the demons are against the Hail Mary, Exorcised Salt, or Prayers.

So the hero of the exorcism books is not the Hail Mary; it’s the power of God behind these things and prayers. Exorcism books give you information about the faith that you may not be able to get anywhere else.

I just pre-ordered the book Exorcist Files on Audible to support Father Carlos Martins. His book, Exorcist Files, he says, is not the same story as his top podcast (also named Exorcist Files).

We always listen to his "creepy" podcast in the morning so the kids can sleep well. It’s a great way to catechize the kids and ourselves on the demonic and angelic. The added benefit is we can enjoy an "Audio Drama," like I used to when Lola was washing clothes by the river. Everything is in your imagination, as there are no visuals. This audio podcast gives the kids a taste of life before TV or the internet.

As a precaution, do teach and practice deliverance prayers in the family every day so your worries about the effect of Exorcist Files podcast or book will be positive instead of negative. Here’s my suggested prayer book for Deliverance prayers: Deliverance Prayers. Your goal is to eventually memorize the prayers as you wear down the pages of this book by Fr. Chad Ripperger.

If you’re in the Philippines, you can order the same book, Deliverance Prayers, by Fr. Chad Ripperger at this link.

There are four small but thick "Exorcist" and "Exorcism" books in the Philippines. They have gold edge pages—designed like a Bible but smaller. So you know those are the Philippine books. These exorcism books are penned by Father Jocis Syquia of AMOE, the official Exorcism arm of the Archdiocese of Manila, Philippines. We met Father when we were just starting around 2007 when there was only one book. Get all three Exorcism Book Volumes here.

Recently, there are two more Exorcism Books from the Philippine version of the same title: *Exorcist Files 1* and *Exorcist Files 2*, both available in St Paul’s Bookstores all over the Philippines in Shopee links I gave here.

Father Carlos Martins has a podcast named *Exorcist Files*, and now he has a book of the same name: The Exorcist Files: True Stories About The Reality of Evil and How to Defeat It.

From Catholic priest and host of blockbuster hit podcast *The Exorcist Files*, this book is an even deeper dive into how evil attempts to control us and how we can defeat it.

In this pioneering work for believers, nonbelievers, and anyone curious about the supernatural, Father Carlos Martins shares his real-life exorcism case files.

From witchcraft and pagan practices to pornography and emotional trauma, evil looks for any opening to cause us pain and destruction. The *Exorcist Files* lays out how the Catholic Church understands evil and combats it while liberating souls.

In what journalist Rod Dreher calls “an instant classic,” Father Martins partners with psychologists and physicians to distinguish mental illness from demon possession and then lays out a plan for liberation.

Differentiating myth from reality, Father Martins teaches us how to protect ourselves against evil so that we possess freedom as God’s children.

If you pre-ordered Exorcist Files and would like an autographed bookplate, please fill out a form on this page and verify your pre-order. Once you submit it, expect your autographed bookplate (one per order) in several weeks.

Here’s the Amazon link to pre-order Exorcist Files by Fr. Carlos Martins (this is an Amazon Affiliate link; I receive compensation if you buy from this link directly). Look at the image that comes with this article. Locate your Amazon order number.

You’ll have to copy that number into this website so you can get your free bookplate in this link below: Receive Your Autographed Bookplate | *The Exorcist Files: True Stories About The Reality of Evil and How to Defeat It* (ecatholic.com).

Please do this in late October or early November so your purchase will be part of Opening Day Sales; it will impact those this book is intended to reach (the secular audience and cold or lukewarm Catholics).

Why I read exorcism books, a lot!

My Love for Exorcism Books

I love reading exorcism books, not because of the fear factor. I do not watch horror movies. I turn my head and close the audio when something “scary” is shown on screen (trailer?).

If you don’t read exorcism books, you may object to them because they may be “too scary for you” or “your kids.” Mostly you, I think. However, these exorcism books were created by Catholic priests, so the focus is on the victory of God against evil. God always wins, of course. Someone who reviewed the Exorcism books on Goodreads said the same thing: God always wins.

So it’s not different from a movie featuring heroes and villains. The fake God of Norse origin, Thor, beats the frozen villains—remember them? Only this time, it’s not fictional; it’s real. And it may be happening to your pew mate at church. You just don’t know. The focus of exorcism books is not on how scary possession is but on how powerless the demons are against the Hail Mary, Exorcised Salt, or Prayers.

So the hero of the exorcism books is not the Hail Mary; it’s the power of God behind these things and prayers. Exorcism books give you information about the faith that you may not be able to get anywhere else.

I just pre-ordered the book Exorcist Files on Audible to support Father Carlos Martins. His book, Exorcist Files, he says, is not the same story as his top podcast (also named Exorcist Files).

We always listen to his “creepy” podcast in the morning so the kids can sleep well. It’s a great way to catechize the kids and ourselves on the demonic and angelic. The added benefit is we can enjoy an “Audio Drama,” like I used to when Lola was washing clothes by the river. Everything is in your imagination, as there are no visuals. This audio podcast gives the kids a taste of life before TV or the internet.

As a precaution, do teach and practice deliverance prayers in the family every day so your worries about the effect of Exorcist Files podcast or book will be positive instead of negative. Here’s my suggested prayer book for Deliverance prayers: Deliverance Prayers. Your goal is to eventually memorize the prayers as you wear down the pages of this book by Fr. Chad Ripperger.

If you’re in the Philippines, you can order the same book, Deliverance Prayers, by Fr. Chad Ripperger at this link.

There are four small but thick “Exorcist” and “Exorcism” books in the Philippines. They have gold edge pages—designed like a Bible but smaller. So you know those are the Philippine books. These exorcism books are penned by Father Jocis Syquia of AMOE, the official Exorcism arm of the Archdiocese of Manila, Philippines. We met Father when we were just starting around 2007 when there was only one book. Get all three Exorcism Book Volumes here.

Recently, there are two more Exorcism Books from the Philippine version of the same title: *Exorcist Files 1* and *Exorcist Files 2*, both available in St Paul’s Bookstores all over the Philippines in Shopee links I gave here.

Father Carlos Martins has a podcast named *Exorcist Files*, and now he has a book of the same name: The Exorcist Files: True Stories About The Reality of Evil and How to Defeat It.

From Catholic priest and host of blockbuster hit podcast *The Exorcist Files*, this book is an even deeper dive into how evil attempts to control us and how we can defeat it.

In this pioneering work for believers, nonbelievers, and anyone curious about the supernatural, Father Carlos Martins shares his real-life exorcism case files.

From witchcraft and pagan practices to pornography and emotional trauma, evil looks for any opening to cause us pain and destruction. The *Exorcist Files* lays out how the Catholic Church understands evil and combats it while liberating souls.

In what journalist Rod Dreher calls “an instant classic,” Father Martins partners with psychologists and physicians to distinguish mental illness from demon possession and then lays out a plan for liberation.

Differentiating myth from reality, Father Martins teaches us how to protect ourselves against evil so that we possess freedom as God’s children.

If you pre-ordered Exorcist Files and would like an autographed bookplate, please fill out a form on this page and verify your pre-order. Once you submit it, expect your autographed bookplate (one per order) in several weeks.

Here’s the Amazon link to pre-order Exorcist Files by Fr. Carlos Martins (this is an Amazon Affiliate link; I receive compensation if you buy from this link directly). Look at the image that comes with this article. Locate your Amazon order number.

You’ll have to copy that number into this website so you can get your free bookplate in this link below: Receive Your Autographed Bookplate | *The Exorcist Files: True Stories About The Reality of Evil and How to Defeat It* (ecatholic.com).

Please do this in late October or early November so your purchase will be part of Opening Day Sales; it will impact those this book is intended to reach (the secular audience and cold or lukewarm Catholics).

They’re stealing your Inbox (New AI Voice + Gmail Hack is out now)

Once a hacker tricks someone into accessing their Gmail account, they can do some really scary things. Here’s 5 things:

### 1. **Sending Spam and Scams**
Hackers can send spam emails to all of your contacts. Your friends might get tricked into clicking dangerous links or sending money.

### 2. **Stealing Money from Your Bank**
If hackers find banking information in your emails, they can steal money. They might trick your friends into sending them cash, pretending to be you.

### 3. **Taking Over Your Facebook Account**
Hackers can use your stolen Gmail to log into Facebook. Once they are in, they can ask your friends for money, making it seem like you need help.

### 4. **Changing Your Account Settings**
They can change settings in your Gmail account. For example, they might forward all your emails to themselves, so you don’t know someone else is reading your messages.

### 5. **Identity Theft**
Hackers can gather personal information from your emails to impersonate you. This could lead to opening new credit cards or loans in your name, causing big problems later on.

These actions show how dangerous it is when someone gets tricked into giving away their Gmail information. There’s a new hack using realistic AI voices that’s going around. Find out how to protect your family:

Join me tonight at 7 PM for a free live session onYouTube: https://jhilario.com/youtube
Facebook: https://fb.com/jomarhilario

You’ll learn how to keep your family safe from scary scams that could trick your loved ones.
Imagine how great it will feel to know you can protect your children, parents, and grandparents from these dangers!
Don’t let them become victims of these smart scams.

It’s your turn to INCREASE!

Jomar Hilario

P.S. See you 7pm later! Manila Time.

Did you get your copy of the First Affiliate Marketing Book in the Philippines?

Did you get your copy of the First Affiliate Marketing Book in the Philippines?
Get it here: Http://jhilario.com/ambookbuy

Here are 10 reasons why Filipinos should buy the first-of-its-kind book on Affiliate Marketing:

1. It’s written in simple, easy-to-understand language, perfect for beginners.
2. It’s packed with practical tips and strategies that you can use right away.
3. It’s written by a Filipino who understands the unique challenges and opportunities of affiliate marketing in the Philippines.
4. It’s the only book on affiliate marketing that is specifically tailored to the Filipino market.
5. It’s affordable and accessible to everyone.
6. It’s a great way to learn about affiliate marketing and start earning money online.
7. It’s a risk-free investment with a money-back guarantee.
8. It’s a great way to connect with other Filipinos who are interested in affiliate marketing.
9. It’s a fun and rewarding way to make money online.
10. It’s a great way to be your own boss and set your own hours.

ITS FREE SHIPPING EVERYWHERE IN THE WORD.
Jomar Hilario

From Free to $420/year: Why Bitly’s Price Hike is Forcing Users to Seek Better Alternatives to Bit.ly

After 10+ years of loyalty and enjoying the free services of Bitly, I was shocked to receive an email announcing that their prices would skyrocket to $420 per year. This sudden change feels less like a reward for my loyalty and more like a betrayal.

From Free to $420/year: Why Bitly's Price Hike is Forcing Users to Seek Better Alternatives to Bit.ly

Here’s the letter from Bit.ly rewarding Loyalty by making the Free Tier essentially useless to those with Custom Domains – and pretty useless for making QR Codes (only 2 a month!?). Heavy users also can only create 10 links a month! This is a very rude dismissal letter.

Hi there,

As of today, your free account has been updated to reflect our current free plan. This means your monthly limit is now 10 links and 2 QR Codes per month.

As we first shared with you 5 weeks ago, we are rebalancing our account tiers. This will allow us to better serve your needs and continue investing in adding features and functionality that empower your growth.

You will continue to have access to amazing features like QR Codes and a Bitly Page within your free account.

Have questions? See more details on our FAQ page.

To increase your monthly link limit or add tracking to your links and QR Codes, you can change your plan at any time.

We truly appreciate you as a loyal Bitly customer, and we hope you’ll continue to find great value in Bitly for years to come.

Best,

The Bitly team

Here’s what Bit.Ly wants free users to buy… (Pricing Chart)

Annual – $420/Year just to use the Bit.Ly Custom Domain feature

Monthly – $42/Month just to use the Bit.Ly Custom Domain Feature

As a result, I am now exploring alternatives, particularly using Thirsty Affiliates and WordPress hosting to manage my links effectively. I already have WordPress so why not just add Thirsty Affiliates?

kid sitting beside round cake close-up photography
From Free to $420/Year: Why Bitly’s Price Hike is Forcing Users to Seek Better Alternatives

The Bitly Price Increase: A Shocking Shift

Bitly has been a reliable link cloaker for many users, especially those in affiliate marketing. However, transitioning from a free service to a hefty monthly fee raises questions about value and necessity. Here’s a breakdown of the situation:

ServiceOld PriceNew PriceReaction
BitlyFree$420/YearWHAT??!!!
From Free to $420: Why Bitly’s Price Hike is Forcing Users to Seek Better Alternatives to Bit.ly

Why This Matters

  1. Loyalty Betrayed: After a decade of building my presence with Bitly, this price hike feels like a slap in the face. Many users are left wondering if they should continue investing in a service that no longer feels accessible.
  2. Value for Money: With the new pricing structure, users must evaluate whether the features provided justify the cost. For many, the answer may be no.
  3. Exploring Alternatives: With Bitly’s price increase, it’s time to look for other solutions that offer better value without breaking the bank.

Enter Thirsty Affiliates and WordPress Hosting

Instead of sticking with Bitly, I am turning to two powerful alternatives: Thirsty Affiliates and WordPress hosting. Here’s why they are worth considering:

Thirsty Affiliates

Thirsty Affiliates is a fantastic WordPress Plugin tool for managing affiliate links on your WordPress site. Here are some benefits:

  • Link Management: Easily cloak and manage all your affiliate links in one place.
  • Tracking & Analytics: Get insights into how your links are performing.
  • Customizable Links: Create branded links that resonate with your audience.
  • Low yearly fee
  • You can start free!

For more information on Thirsty Affiliates, check out their website here.

WordPress Hosting

Using WordPress as your platform gives you control over your content and marketing strategies. Here’s why it’s beneficial:

  • Cost-Effective: Many hosting providers offer affordable plans.
  • Customization Options: Tailor your site to meet your needs with various plugins and themes.
  • SEO Friendly: WordPress is designed to be search engine friendly, helping you rank better.

If you’re looking for a great deal on WordPress hosting, consider getting started here. There’s currently a limited-time promotion of up to 75% off!

Pricing Breakdown

Thirsty Affiliates Pricing

Here’s the pricing for Thirsty Affiliates Pro Add-On:

Plan TypeAnnual CostMonthly Cost (After 50% Discount)
Basic (1 site)$159$7
Plus (5 sites)$259$11
Advanced (10 sites)$399$17

WordPress Hosting Pricing with NEXCESS

With NEXCESS WordPress offering up to 75% off, here’s how the pricing might look:

Hosting PlanOriginal Monthly CostDiscounted Monthly Cost (75% Off)
Basic Plan$60$15
Standard Plan$90$22.50
Premium Plan$120$30

Total Monthly Cost Calculation

To find out the total monthly cost when using both services:

  1. Thirsty Affiliates Basic Plan: $7/month
  2. NEXCESS Basic Hosting Plan: $15/month

Total Monthly Cost = Thirsty Affiliates + NEXCESS Hosting
Total Monthly Cost = $7 + $15 = $22/month

Comparison Table: Bitly vs. Thirsty Affiliates + WordPress

FeatureBitlyThirsty Affiliates + WP
Monthly Cost$45$22
Link CloakingYesYes
AnalyticsLimitedComprehensive
Custom BrandingLimitedFull Control
User ControlLowHigh

Here’s what you should do next!

The price increase from Bitly has forced many loyal users to reconsider their options. Instead of continuing with a service that no longer meets my needs or budget, I am excited to transition to using Thirsty Affiliates combined with hosted WordPress. This combination not only saves money but also offers greater control and flexibility over my affiliate marketing efforts.

FREE TECH SUPPORT OFFER

If you decide to use my links in this essay, send me a receipt, and I will provide FREE tech support to help you set up your WordPress site and Thirsty Affiliates!

From Free to $420: Why Bitly's Price Hike is Forcing Users to Seek Better Alternatives
From Free to $420: Why Bitly’s Price Hike is Forcing Users to Seek Better Alternatives

Stop using Bitly NOW; embrace the power of WordPress and Thirsty Affiliates today!

Citations:
[1] https://earlystagemarketing.com/thirsty-affiliates-review/
[2] https://ultimateblocks.com/thirstyaffiliates-review/
[3] https://www.isitwp.com/wordpress-plugins/thirstyaffiliates/
[4] https://thirstyaffiliates.com/pricing
[5] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4w3YaAQOmBA
[6] https://bitly.com/pages/pricing
[7] https://www.wpbeginner.com/plugins/how-to-add-affiliate-links-in-wordpress-with-thirstyaffiliates/
[8] https://pressable.com/solutions/managed-wordpress-hosting-for-freelancers/

What’s the best firmness for a side-sleeper?

One day, I decided it was time to upgrade my mattress. I’d been waking up with a stiff shoulder, and my back started feeling sore. I knew it was because I mostly sleep on my side, and my current mattress was too firm. But with so many options out there, I felt lost. I wanted to find a mattress that would let me sleep comfortably on my side, without sinking too much or being too hard. So, I began my search.

For side sleepers like me, the best mattress firmness is usually on the softer side. Side sleepers need a mattress that can cradle their hips and shoulders, allowing the spine to stay aligned. If it’s too firm, it can cause pressure on those points, leading to discomfort and pain. If it’s too soft, though, your body may sink too much, causing your spine to curve unnaturally, which can also lead to pain.

What's the best firmness for a side-sleeper?
What’s the best firmness for a side-sleeper?

Here are some factors that can affect mattress choice for side sleepers:

  1. Firmness: A medium-soft mattress is usually best (rated around 4 to 6 out of 10).
  2. Pressure Relief: The mattress should cradle hips and shoulders to maintain spinal alignment.
  3. Weight: Heavier people need firmer mattresses; lighter people can go softer.

It’s not just about softness, though. Your weight plays a big role in deciding how firm your mattress should be. Heavier people tend to sink more into their mattress, so they need something a bit firmer to keep their body supported. For lighter people, a softer mattress is usually best since they don’t sink as much.

I remember reading a post where someone said they found a latex foam bed perfect for side sleeping. They had tried memory foam, but it was too hot, and over time it caused back pain. Latex foam was cooler and had the right amount of sink without being too soft.

Others shared their experiences too. One person mentioned they bought a medium-firm mattress and found it good for both side and back sleeping. They liked that it wasn’t too soft for their back, but still provided enough give for their shoulders when they slept on their side. They were around my height and weight, which made me think this might be a good option for me too.

Another person talked about how they tried a mattress that was rated 6.5 out of 10 on the firmness scale, but found it too firm for side sleeping. They ended up adding a foam topper to make it softer.

Tips for adjusting a too-firm mattress:

  1. Foam Topper: Adds extra cushioning without buying a new mattress.
  2. Pillow Adjustment: Using a softer pillow can help with neck and spine alignment.

Some side sleepers found that a firmness level of 4 to 6 out of 10 worked best for them. This is considered medium-soft, providing enough cushion for the shoulders and hips, but still supporting the spine. If the mattress is too firm, it’s like sleeping on a board, and if it’s too soft, it’s like sinking into quicksand – neither of which is ideal.

When I went to check out mattresses in person, I tried a few that were too firm, like one person said in a review. They compared it to camping on the hard ground, having to roll over every couple of hours just to get comfortable. I knew I didn’t want that. But I also didn’t want to sink so much that I’d feel stuck in the mattress.

After testing a few options, I realized a medium-firm mattress with a soft top layer felt right for me. It provided enough support for my back when I shifted positions but was soft enough to relieve pressure when I lay on my side. That combination felt like the best of both worlds.

What's the best firmness for a side-sleeper?
What’s the best firmness for a side-sleeper?

In the end, I went with a hybrid mattress that had both foam and coils. It gave me the support I needed but still had that soft, cushioned feel. And as someone who sometimes rolls over in the middle of the night, it was a great fit because it worked for both side and back sleeping.

Now, every morning I wake up refreshed, without the aches and pains I used to have. If you’re a side sleeper, I’d recommend looking for something on the softer side, maybe around a 5 or 6 out of 10 in firmness. But remember, it all depends on your weight and personal preference. What feels perfect to one person might not work for another. So take your time, test out different options, and find the right fit for you.

Top 10 rumors about Apple’s “Glowtime” event:

Here are the top 10 rumors about Apple’s “Glowtime” event:

  1. “The iPhone 16 Pro and Pro Max will feature larger displays, with the Pro increasing from 6.1 inches to 6.3 inches and the Pro Max going from 6.7 inches to 6.9 inches.”[1][2]
  2. “The new iPhones are expected to feature an Action button and a Capture button for quick photo-taking across all models.”[1]
  3. “The iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Plus are likely to be powered by the advanced A18 chip, enabling enhanced performance with Apple’s AI, known as Apple Intelligence.”[1]
  4. “The Apple Watch 10 will be thinner and available in larger sizes, with an increase in battery life and the introduction of sleep apnea detection features.”[1][2]
  5. “Apple Intelligence, the company’s suite of AI features, is likely to dominate the spotlight at the event, even with the anticipated release of new gadgets.”[4]
  6. “The Apple Watch Series 10 could have a thinner design, larger screen size options, and new health capabilities, including sleep apnea detection.”[4]
  7. “Apple could unveil two new AirPods models during its fall event, both with a redesigned look and USB-C charging. A higher-end version could feature Active Noise Cancellation.”[4]
  8. “The iPhone 16 Pro will offer 4K video recording at 120 frames per second, ProRes 4K video recording when connected to external storage, and support for the JPEG-XL format.”[5]
  9. “The new Apple Watch Series 10 will offer updated ECG/heart rate sensors for more accurate results and improved water resistance.”[5]
  10. “Apple is working on an ‘integrated design’ for its iPhone 16 cases that incorporates the record button, rather than relying on a simple cutout.”[5]

Citations:
[1] https://www.4ca.com.au/trending/entertainment/apples-glowtime-event/
[2] https://www.macrumors.com/guide/apple-september-2024-event-what-to-expect/
[3] https://www.techradar.com/news/live/apple-glowtime-iphone-16-launch-live-blog
[4] https://www.cnet.com/tech/mobile/apple-september-iphone-16-glowtime-event-how-to-watch-what-to-expect/
[5] https://news24online.com/tech/apple-glowtime-event-2024-last-minute-rumours-about-iphone-16-apple-watch-10-and-more/328475/
[6] https://www.gadgets360.com/mobiles/news/apple-glowtime-september-9-livestream-time-details-iphone-16-pro-max-watch-10-series-airpod-ios-18-launch-expectations-6522981
[7] https://www.tomsguide.com/phones/live/apple-glowtime-event-iphone-16
[8] https://www.tomsguide.com/news/iphone-16-pro

The iPhone 16: Su

ChatGPT + Siri is expected to have these features with the new iPhone 16 Pro:

Here are the features Siri is expected to have with the new iPhone 16 Pro, along with competing apps that can already do similar things right now:

  1. Understanding Context: Siri can remember what you talked about before. If you ask about your mom’s flight, Siri can give you updates based on your calendar.
  • Competing Apps:
    • Google Assistant: Remembers your preferences and past conversations.
    • Microsoft Cortana: Provides contextual reminders based on your calendar and tasks.
    • Replika: A chatbot that learns from your conversations to provide better responses.
  • Doing Complex Tasks: Siri can help you with tricky tasks. For example, if you say, “Send the photos from the barbecue to Malia,” Siri can find those photos and send them for you.
  • Competing Apps:
    • IFTTT: Automates tasks across different apps and services.
    • Zapier: Allows you to create workflows that connect different apps and automate tasks.
    • Todoist: Helps organize tasks and can integrate with other apps for complex task management.
  • Writing Help: Siri can help you write better! It can check your spelling and grammar and suggest ways to make your writing sound friendlier or more professional.
  • Competing Apps:
  • Creating Images: With a new feature called Image Playground, you can tell Siri what kind of picture you want, and it can create it for you.
  • Competing Apps:
    • Canva: Allows you to create images and designs easily.
    • PicsArt: Offers tools to create and edit images with various effects.
    • DeepArt: Uses AI to create artistic images based on your photos.
  • Transcribing Conversations: Siri can record and write down what people say during phone calls or meetings. This way, you can pay attention without worrying about taking notes.
  • Competing Apps:
    • Otter.ai: Transcribes meetings and conversations in real-time.
    • Rev Voice Recorder: Records audio and provides transcription services.
    • Notability: Allows recording and note-taking simultaneously.
  • Smart Suggestions: Siri can give you helpful suggestions based on what you usually do. For example, if you often listen to a certain podcast, Siri might remind you to check out the latest episode.
  • Competing Apps:
    • Pocket Casts: Suggests new episodes based on your listening habits.
    • Spotify: Recommends music and podcasts based on your preferences.
    • Overcast: Provides personalized podcast recommendations.
  • Analyzing Images and Documents: Siri can look at pictures and documents and help you find information quickly. If you ask it to summarize a document, it can give you a short overview.
  • Competing Apps:
    • Google Lens: Analyzes images and provides information based on what it sees.
    • Microsoft Office Lens: Scans documents and converts them into editable formats.
    • Adobe Scan: Converts images and documents into PDFs and provides text recognition.
  • Capture Button: The new Capture Button lets you take photos or videos quickly without opening the camera app. Siri can help by tagging or organizing the pictures based on what you say.
  • Competing Apps:
    • Camera+ 2: Offers quick access to camera features and editing tools.
    • ProCamera: Provides advanced camera controls and quick capture options.
    • Snapseed: Allows quick editing and organizing of photos after capturing.
  1. Privacy Protection: Siri makes sure that everything you ask is safe and private. Your personal information will be protected, so you don’t have to worry.
  • Competing Apps:
    • Signal: Offers secure messaging with strong privacy features.
    • ProtonMail: Provides encrypted email services for privacy protection.
    • DuckDuckGo: A web browser that emphasizes user privacy and security.
  • Works on All Apple Devices: Siri can work smoothly on your iPhone, iPad, and Mac. You can start something on your iPhone and finish it on your Mac without any problems.
  • Competing Apps:
    • Evernote: Syncs notes and tasks across all devices.
    • Microsoft OneNote: Allows you to take notes and access them from any device.
    • Notion: A versatile app that works across devices for notes, tasks, and collaboration.

These competing apps already offer similar features, but the new Siri on the iPhone 16 Pro is expected to provide a more integrated and seamless experience.

Citations:
[1] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=14We9u7K6yo
[2] https://apps.apple.com/in/app/tasks-todo-lists-kanban/id1502903102
[3] https://weeek.net/blog/best-task-trackers-ios-eng
[4] https://apps.apple.com/us/app/task/id505799171
[5] https://apps.apple.com/us/story/id1437833617
[6] https://www.techradar.com/best/best-todo-list-apps
[7] https://www.apple.com/newsroom/2024/06/introducing-apple-intelligence-for-iphone-ipad-and-mac/
[8] https://www.foxnews.com/tech/siri-gets-overhaul-apple-goes-all-ai-connected-chatgpt

iphone 16 glow up
iphone 16 glow up

The iPhone 16: Su

Apple’s Big Event: Watch 1am From Manila, Philippines

Apple is having a special event on September 9, 2024, at 10 a.m. PT. They’re going to show off some awesome new iPhones called the iPhone 16 series. Here’s everything you can expect!

iphone 16 glow up
iphone 16 glow up

The iPhone 16: Super Cool Upgrades!

Apple is releasing four new iPhone models: the iPhone 16, iPhone 16 Plus, iPhone 16 Pro, and iPhone 16 Pro Max. These phones will have some really neat features:

  • A18 Chip: All models will be powered by the new A18 chip, built using a tiny 3-nanometer process. This means they will be faster and more efficient than the iPhone 15, which had the A17 chip.
  • Camera Upgrades: The new iPhones will have a 48-megapixel ultra-wide camera and a new Capture Button for taking photos more easily. The Pro models are expected to have vertical camera layouts for making cool videos.
  • Bigger, Better Screens: The Pro models will have larger displays, increasing from 6.1 inches to 6.3 inches and from 6.7 inches to 6.9 inches. The new OLED displays will also be more power-efficient, helping the battery last longer.
  • More Memory: The iPhone 16 and 16 Plus will come with 8GB of RAM, up from 6GB in the iPhone 15. This will help the phones run new AI features more smoothly.

Summary of Expected Changes vs. Competitors

FeatureiPhone 16/16 ProiPhone 15/15 ProCompetitor (Model)Competitor Specs
ChipA18 (3nm)A17 (3nm)Samsung Galaxy S24Exynos 2400 (4nm)
Camera48MP ultra-wide48MP mainGoogle Pixel 850MP main, 12MP ultra-wide
Display Size6.3″ / 6.9″6.1″ / 6.7″OnePlus 116.7″ (120Hz)
RAM8GB6GBSamsung Galaxy S238GB
AI FeaturesAdvanced SiriBasic SiriGoogle AssistantAdvanced contextual features
Health MonitoringEnhanced metricsStandard metricsSamsung Galaxy Watch 6Advanced health tracking

AI Superpowers: Siri Gets Smarter!

One of the biggest things at the event will be the introduction of Apple Intelligence, which will make Siri and other AI features much better:

  • AI-Powered Siri: The new Siri will use machine learning to understand how you talk and the context of what you’re saying. This means Siri will be more helpful and easier to talk to.
  • Personalized Responses: Siri will learn your daily habits and routines to give you more customized help, making it feel like you have a personal assistant.

EU-Specific Changes

In Europe, the iPhone 16 will have some special changes due to new rules:

  • Default Apps: Users in Europe will be able to uninstall built-in apps like Safari and Mail, allowing them to use their favorite apps instead.
  • Third-Party App Stores: People will be able to install apps from other stores, making it easier to get different types of software.
  • Limited AI Features: Some of the new AI features may not be available in Europe right away due to regulations.

Speculation on AI Features

While not much is confirmed, we can expect some exciting AI features in iOS 18 and the iPhone 16:

  • Intelligent Photo Editing: Automatically suggest edits and filters based on the pictures you take.
  • Smart Messaging: Give suggestions for replies and emojis based on your conversations.
  • Proactive Assistance: Anticipate what you need, like traffic updates or weather forecasts.
  • Intelligent Siri Shortcuts: Create custom shortcuts based on your daily activities.
  • Enhanced Dictation: Improve voice-to-text accuracy and context understanding.

Pricing Predictions: How Much Will It Cost?

Apple is expected to keep prices similar to the iPhone 15, but the new features might change things a bit:

  • iPhone 16 Base Model: Starting at around $799.
  • iPhone 16 Pro Max: Estimated to cost approximately $1,199.

Is It Innovative Enough?

While the iPhone 16 series has some exciting upgrades, some people wonder if Apple is still being as innovative as before. The improvements are good, but they feel more like spec bumps than groundbreaking changes. Competitors are also catching up, so Apple needs to keep pushing the boundaries.

What’s Next? Folding iPhones and Mystery Gadgets!

In the future, Apple might create a foldable iPhone that can turn into a tablet. There are also rumors about a mystery device, which could be an augmented reality headset or a new type of wearable gadget. These could change how we use technology!

Keynote Time Zones

The Glowtime event will take place at 10 a.m. PT on September 9, 2024. Here are the corresponding times for major cities:

  • New York: 1 p.m. ET
  • London: 6 p.m. BST
  • Berlin: 7 p.m. CEST
  • Tokyo: 2 a.m. JST (September 10)
  • Sydney: 3 a.m. AEST (September 10)
  • Manila: 1 a.m. PHT (September 10)

Watch Numbers from Previous Keynotes

Over the years, Apple keynotes have seen changing viewership numbers. For example:

  • 2022: 1.5 million viewers
  • 2023: 1.2 million viewers

This trend shows a slight decline in interest, possibly because the updates have been more about small improvements than big changes.

Stay excited for Apple’s big event! It’s going to be a fun day for tech fans!

Future-Proof Your Freelance Business with Automation!

Future-Proof Your Freelance Business with Automation!

Hey there, freelancers!

Are you ready to make your freelance business super strong?

Today, I’m going to show you how to use automation.

This will help you work smarter, not harder!

Let’s dive in!

First, let’s talk about what automation means.

Automation is like having a robot or helper.

It does tasks for you.

This means you can spend less time on boring stuff.

You can focus on what you love!

Imagine if you didn’t have to send the same email over and over again.

Automation can do that for you!

You can future-proof your business this way.

One great app is Bonsai.

Bonsai helps you with contracts, proposals, and invoicing.

It automates payment reminders and tracks expenses.

You can create invoices automatically and send them right after a contract is signed!

Another useful app is SmartTask.

SmartTask helps you manage projects and tasks easily.

You can keep everything organized and invite clients to see progress.

It also lets you communicate directly with clients.

Lastly, check out Time Doctor.

Time Doctor tracks how much time you spend on tasks.

This helps you create accurate invoices and improve your productivity.

So there you have it!

By using automation, you can future-proof your freelance business.

You’ll save time, stay organized, and make more money!

Start using these tools today.

Watch your business grow!

Thanks for watching, and happy freelancing!

Citations:
[1] https://zapier.com/blog/updates/1813/bonsai-integrations
[2] https://www.makerandmoxie.com/blog/bonsai
[3] https://www.websiteplanet.com/project-management-software/bonsai/
[4] https://www.timify.com/en/blog/11-must-have-software-tools-for-freelancers-in-2022-beyond/
[5] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fZLWozmLtmc
[6] https://earlystagemarketing.com/hello-bonsai-review/
[7] https://www.hellobonsai.com/software/freelancing
[8] https://glimmer.io/blog/master-your-freelance-workflows-top-12-ai-tools-to-try-and-avoid/

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