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Twitter blocks links to Meta rival Threads

Twitter is reportedly blocking links to its new rival, Meta’s Threads.

Reports started surfacing on Monday that Twitter was selectively blocking links to Mark Zuckerberg’s latest social networking app. Users noted that while some links worked, others noticeably did not.

The move means it will be more difficult for people to track down conversations on Threads and locate users’ profiles.

Why we care. Since Threads launched on July 5, the app has become the fastest-growing social media platform in history and trending regularly on Twitter. Experts believe the decision to block selected links to Threads in Twitter search results is an attempt to keep users engaged on the platform rather than move away to its rival.

What have people said? American technologist and blogger, Andy Baio, was one of the many people on Twitter to notice that selected links to Threads weren’t working. He confirmed the problem after conducting a search query using the operator “url:threads.net”. After this search failed to serve any results, he shared his findings on Threads:

“Twitter is selectively blocking searches for tweets that link to Threads, even though they allow posting Threads URLs (for now).”

However, Baio shared a technique that users can implement to prevent the block:

“Clever workaround via @kepner, you can quote the domain name and remove the period to bypass the block.”
“Adding “filter:follows” and clicking Latest will show you everyone you follow who has posted links to Threads.”

In an exchange with The Messenger, Baio described the move by Twitter as “anti-competitive”. He said:

“Hiding tweets about Threads seems fully in line with Twitter’s new anti-competitive stance, creating a fully walled garden that blocks open expression while hypocritically claiming to promote free speech.”

Why now?

What has Twitter said? Twitter is evidently taking people’s concerns extremely seriously. So much so, the platform responded to our request for comment with a poop emoji, perhaps indicating that it is now in fight or flight mode in response to Thread’s soaring popularity.

Twitter owner Elon Musk has also addressed the increasingly tense rivalry between himself and Meta CEO Zuckerberg. Earlier this week, when Threads sign-ups surpassed the 100 million mark, the billionaire tweeted “Zuck is a cuck.”

He then reassured his loyal army of followers that he is not remotely threatened by Zuckerberg by proposing “a literal d*ck measuring contest”. In case anyone was confused by the word “measuring,” he added an emoji of a ruler for clarification.

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Twitter blocks unregistered users and Google Search. It seems Musk isn’t trolling his good friend Zuckerbeg, he may have his finger hovering over the block button as in addition to restricting links to Threads, he also blocked unregistered users and Google Search last week. As a result, there was a 62% drop in index saturation by Google of Twitter.com.

This was another move by Twitter that may be of huge concern to marketers as it could impact reach for brands that may rely heavily on visibility in Google Search. It also means that some older tweets which may have historically always ranked well in Google Search, may see a dive in rankings and therefore reach and CTR.

Deep dive. During Threads’ first two days of operation, Twitter traffic was down 5% in comparison to the same period a week earlier. It was also 11% down compared to the same period a year earlier. Read the full SimilarWeb analytics report to find out how Twitter and Threads are competing against each other.

The post Twitter blocks links to Meta rival Threads appeared first on Search Engine Land.

Original source: https://searchengineland.com/twitter-blocks-links-meta-threads-429328

Google sued for allegedly stealing content, data to train AI products

Google is accused of illegally using copyrighted content and stealing the personal information of millions of Americans to train its AI products.

The allegations were made in a proposed class action lawsuit in San Francisco on Tuesday by eight individuals, who say they are seeking to represent the millions of internet users affected.

If Google is found guilty of violating federal privacy and consumer protection laws, it could owe at least $5 billion in damages.

Why we care. Marketers are widely being encouraged to embrace AI and implement technologies such as ChatGPT and Bard into their strategies. However, if AI products are being developed using content and data that has been taken illegally, this could prove to be problematic, as it runs the risk of potential copyright issues.

What has Google allegedly done? The claimants allege Google has:

Been illegally taking digital content created and shared by millions of Americans.
Been using this private property to train its AI technology, including its chatbot, Bard.
Stolen “virtually the entirety of our digital footprint”, including “creative and copywritten works” to develop its catalog of AI products.

The eight plaintiffs have accused Google of taking a variety of content they shared on social media without permission, ranging from photos on dating websites to playlists saved on Spotify to videos uploaded onto TikTok.

One of the claimants, who is described as a best-selling author from Texas, more specifically accused Google of copying a book they wrote in its entirety to train Bard.

Who is suing Google? There are eight plaintiffs who remain anonymous and are known only by their initials.

The lawsuit was filed by Clarkson Law Firm against Google, its parent company Alphabet as well as Google’s AI subsidiary DeepMind. If Clarkson Law Firm sounds familiar, that’s because it’s the same company that filed a similar lawsuit against OpenAI last month.

What do the claimants want? The plaintiffs want Google to give its users the option to opt out of its “illicit data collection”. They are also asking the search engine to delete its existing catalog of data – otherwise, they say Google should pay the owners of that content “fair compensation.”

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What have the claimants said? Ryan Clarkson, managing partner of the Clarkson Law Firm, issued a statement:

“Google harvested this data in secret for years, without providing notice to anyone, much less with anyone’s consent.
“Google does not own the internet, it does not own our creative works, it does not own our expressions of our personhood, pictures of our families and children, or anything else simply because we share it online.”

Tim Giordano, an attorney working on behalf of the plaintiffs at Clarkson Law Firm, told CNN:

“Google needs to understand that ‘publicly available’ has never meant free to use for any purpose.
“Our personal information and our data is our property, and it’s valuable, and nobody has the right to just take it and use it for any purpose.”

What has Google said? Google has denied the claims and described the lawsuit as “baseless.” In a statement, Halimah DeLaine Prado, Google’s general counsel, said:

“We’ve been clear for years that we use data from public sources — like information published to the open web and public datasets — to train the AI models behind services like Google Translate, responsibly and in line with our AI Principles.”
“American law supports using public information to create new beneficial uses, and we look forward to refuting these baseless claims.”

The post Google sued for allegedly stealing content, data to train AI products appeared first on Search Engine Land.

Original source: https://searchengineland.com/google-sued-content-data-ai-429334

Qujam Launched as the First Self-Served Geofence Advertising Platform for Small Businesses

Home Business Magazine Online

Ethic Advertising Agency has partnered with digital advertising platform Simpli.fi to launch the first geofence-advertising platform that anyone can use. The software uses Simpli.fi’s programmatic ecosystem to provide a do-it-yourself geofencing option for small businesses that was previously only available to large corporations and agencies.

Geofence advertising uses GPS technology to allow users to deliver targeted ads to potential customers who have been physically present at a selected location. It works by setting up a virtual “fence” around a specific geographic area. When a GPS-enabled device enters the location, its device ID is collected and added to a list of potential targets for advertising campaigns.

“The reason most companies don’t know about geofence advertising is that the people who provide it aren’t focused on most companies,” said Jeff Swartz, founder and CEO of Qujam and Ethic Advertising. “Ethic Advertising has received hundreds of requests from our contacts to use geofence advertising on your own terms.

“That’s why we created Qujam,” he continued. “To provide the best technology in an easy-to-use system that empowers small business owners.”

Qujam’s platform offers three forms of advertising: banner ads that can show up on mobile apps and websites, OTT CTV (over the top and connected TV), which includes streaming apps, and video pre-rolls. Examples of these include ads that run before news clips or videos on blogs. Currently, Qujam can run ads through hundreds of thousands of publishers across over 50 exchanges.

“In America, 90% of phones have GPS enabled in the background. This is what allows users to track their location and use maps. Qujam uses the same technology,” explains Swartz. “It also works across multiple devices, meaning if the original device is connected to a smart TV, tablet, mobile device, or computer, it allows them to serve ads there too.”

Geofence Advertising is a form of programmatic advertising. A $86 billion-dollar-a-year industry focused on using automated methods to purchase digital ad space, and includes advertisements outside of Google and Social Media.

“Geofencing is the most straightforward form of programmatic advertising, ” said Jess Baur, Digital Advertising Manager for Ethic Advertising. “The benefit of Qujam is that it is streamlined, it allows users who are not programmatic experts to come in and understand it quickly and easily.”

Simpli.fi is an example of a demand-side platform (DSP), an automated service where marketers can purchase and manage ad inventories from multiple sources. The company is one of the leading advertisement automation platforms with the support of over 200 programmers executing more than 100,000 campaigns a month.

“When it comes to geofencing, nine times out of 10, any programmatic DSP that I’ve been in contact with utilizes Simplifi’s geofencing technology because it is the most accurate, ” said Baur. “Part of the reason for our partnership with Simpli.fi is because they really have simplified it to make it a lot more digestible. Qujam takes it a step further, while Simpli.fi is geofencing made easy for advertisers, Qujam is geofencing made easy for everyone.”

During development, Qujam identified “6 closed doors” of geofence advertising that make it difficult for small businesses to take advantage of the technology. These include high minimums, sometimes more than $10,000; high cost per thousand (CPM); managed-only options that prevent them from doing it themselves; inferior tech; no reporting dashboards, and not accepting credit cards. Qujam addresses these issues head-on and offers a fully do-it-yourself platform with a real-time reporting dashboard.

“If you can run a boosted Facebook post, then you can use Qujam. It is designed to be very simple,” says Swartz. “The most important thing for users to understand is where their audience is and what creative assets they need to upload.”

Qujam’s platform also offers the ability to track ad engagement and whether they have converted to a physical location, allowing businesses to measure foot traffic and determine the effectiveness of their campaigns, making data-driven decisions.

“We believe that small businesses should have access to the same tools and technology that large corporations have,” says Swartz. “Our goal is to empower small businesses and agencies to run successful geofencing campaigns and grow their businesses on their own terms without being taken advantage of cost-wise.”

To register for Qujam, visit https://app.qujam.com/register. More information can be found at https://qujam.com/.

The post Qujam Launched as the First Self-Served Geofence Advertising Platform for Small Businesses appeared first on Home Business Magazine.

Original source: https://homebusinessmag.com/marketing/advertising/qujam-launched-first-self-served-geofence-advertising-platform-small-businesses/

How to Make an NFT in a Game

Home Business Magazine Online

The universe of digital art is unfolding and expanding at an astounding pace. One of the latest additions to this online cosmos is Non-Fungible Tokens, popularly known as NFTs. These unique tokens have stirred up the world of art, music, and now, video games. Integrating NFTs into gaming is a revolutionary move, enabling players to truly own their digital assets. So, are you interested in creating your own gaming NFTs? Here’s your comprehensive guide!

Understanding the Basics

Before we delve into the process of creating a gaming NFT, it’s vital to get a grasp of what NFTs are and how they function in the gaming world.

What Are NFTs?

NFTs are one-of-a-kind digital assets that signify ownership of a certain object or piece of content. These tokens are stored on a blockchain, which is a decentralized and immutable digital ledger.

NFTs in Gaming in the Gaming Universe

NFTs have opened up avenues for gamers to own, sell, or trade their in-game items like skins, avatars, and virtual real estate. When you create a gaming NFT, you’re essentially creating a digital collectible that can be bought, sold, and owned independently of the game it originates from.

Choose the Right Blockchain Platform

Creating an NFT requires a blockchain platform. Ethereum is currently the most popular one due to its robust support for NFTs. However, other options include Flow, Binance Smart Chain, and Tezos.

Ethereum

Ethereum is a good choice for beginners due to its extensive community support and developer resources. However, it comes with high transaction fees, often called gas fees.

Flow

Flow is gaining popularity for game NFTs, thanks to its user-friendly structure and the success of NBA Top Shot, a digital collectible platform.

Binance Smart Chain

If you’re concerned about Ethereum’s high gas fees, the Binance Smart Chain is a cost-effective alternative. However, it may not have the same level of community and developer support.

Tezos

Tezos is another environmentally-friendly and cost-effective alternative that supports NFTs.

Create Your Gaming Asset

The next step in creating your gaming NFT like Chainers is to design the digital asset you want to tokenize. This could be anything from a character’s skin, a weapon, an in-game currency, or even a piece of virtual land.

Conceptualize Your Asset

The first step is to decide what your NFT will be. Think about the theme, design, and purpose of your gaming asset. What role will it play in the game?

Design Your Asset

Once you’ve decided what your NFT will be, you can start designing it. You might want to use a 3D modeling software like Blender or Unity, especially if your NFT is a character or item.

Ensure Uniqueness

Remember, the value of an NFT lies in its uniqueness. Make sure your design is original and stands out from the crowd.

Mint Your NFT

Now that you’ve designed your gaming asset, it’s time to “mint” it – this is the process of turning your digital asset into an NFT on your chosen blockchain.

Choose an NFT Marketplace

NFT marketplaces like OpenSea, Rarible, or NBA Top Shot offer platforms for you to mint your NFTs. These marketplaces often have minting guides to help you through the process.

Mint Your NFT

During minting, you’ll typically upload your gaming asset’s file, then fill in details like the name, description, and price. You’ll also pay a gas fee for the minting process to be conducted on the blockchain.

List Your NFT for Sale

Once your NFT is minted, it can be listed for sale on the marketplace. You can set a fixed price or opt for auction-style selling.

Promote Your NFT

The final step is getting the word out about your gaming NFT. Without promotion, even the most creative NFTs might get lost in the digital sea.

Social Media

Platforms like Twitter, Instagram, and Discord are great for reaching out to potential buyers. Share images and videos showcasing your NFT and engage with your audience.

In-Game Promotion

If your NFT is part of a larger game, promote it within the game. This could be in the form of pop-ups, banners, or special events.

Influencer Marketing

Connect with popular gamers or influencers in the NFT space. They can help spread the word about your NFT to their followers.

Creating an NFT in a game may seem daunting at first, but once you understand the process, it’s a world full of creative potential and opportunity. It’s important to remember that, like all creative endeavors, making a successful NFT requires patience, effort, and a dash of luck. Happy minting!

The post How to Make an NFT in a Game appeared first on Home Business Magazine.

Original source: https://homebusinessmag.com/money/cryptocurrency/how-to-make-nft-game/

10 ways to revolutionize your PPC game with GPT

Writing compelling, must-click ads was, until recently, one of the last aspects of PPC that couldn’t be automated. But with the introduction of ChatGPT and the rise of other large language models (LLMs), automation in PPC is now on a whole new level.

Automation has had a game-changing impact on PPC marketing over the last six months, according to Frederick Vallaeys, co-founder & CEO of digital marketing agency Optmyzr, who spoke at SMX Advanced. So how can you use GPT to your advantage in PPC?

Here’s a recap of Vallaeys’ top tips and tricks that he believes can help you get the best PPC results, from having played with GPT.

1. Building a campaign using just GPT

Advertisers can create campaigns on platforms such as Google’s Performance Max with a generative build experience. Marketers simply need to have a conversation with the Google system to build it out using prompts.

This can be used not just for PMax, but also traditional search and shopping campaigns.

To give instructions via prompts, make sure you are as clear as possible. Try following a similar setup to what we’ve listed below:

Create prompts: Enter the specified URL, ad text, keyword that you would like to be the focus of the prompt.
Give simple instructions: Ask Google a clear question such as “Find some keywords to advertise the landing page.”
Results: AI should instantaneously provide you with an answer to help you on your way to building your campaign.

Vallaeys said he has tested GPT 3.5 and 4.0. There are differences between the two – both work – but he advised running the OpenAI in chat mode rather than completion as it “maintains context.”

2. Using GPT for keyword classification

GPT is an excellent tool when it comes to keyword classification because “it figures everything out for you” at a much faster pace, Vallaeys said:

“For keywords to be classified, they have to be turned into a mathematical model – which is basically vectors. The AI system is really good at that.”
“So if you say here’s a list of keywords, put it into categories, you don’t even have to specify what categorization means – like what kind of high level categories you need. GPT does it for you.”
“You can then go one further and say ‘Well, actually, GPT, can you give me that output in a table format and the second column should be the classification and the first column should be the keyword suggestion – then it become much more usable.”
“Then you have everything in a sheet that you can copy and paste into either Excel or Google Sheets.”

3. Finding keywords for existing ad groups

GPT is a great tool for finding keyword for existing ad groups. Simply, create a prompt with a simple direction, such as “Find me keywords similar to existing keywords in that ad group.”

During his presentation, Vallaeys shared that he used this exact technique himself and that the results GPT served were “quite good.”

4. Creating ad text using GPT

Using GPT to create ad content has recently been a huge talking point amongst marketers. One aspect of the tool that seems to have really impressed the industry is that the bot remembers your previous instructions and the results it served.

This means that if you have just asked GPT to find keywords, you won’t need to remind the bot of these results before going on to create your ad as it still has this context.

“It’ll just say ‘here’s a couple of ad texts related to the thing you were asking’ – it still knows what you’re talking about,” Vallaeys said.

Although Vallaeys was impressed with GPT’s ability to create ad content, he did note that it still needs more development (e.g., the bot isn’t great with character counts and the results aren’t always usable).

5. Optimizing landing pages

GPT can help ensure landing pages are as effective as possible.

For example, if you come across a website that you like and think the style of writing is of particularly high quality, GPT can help emulate that same writing style for your campaigns. Vallaeys explained:

“I found a website I liked, so I then went to GPT and asked what the style was of the text on that page. GPT told me the writing style was business-oriented, customer-focused – along with a number of other bullet points.
“So I then asked GPT to take a certain piece of text from my landing page and rewrite it in a style more similar to the other website. It took those stylist points and rewrote the text for me – which made my landing page better.

6. Enhancing product pages

If you’re a shopping advertiser and want to create great headlines and product descriptions, GPT can help you.

“This is what it’s good at,” Vallaeys said. “It’s really good at writing.” He added:

“You can literally say, here’s a URL – what is the product category for this page? Then you can put the product category down in the Google Merchant Center feed.
“[If you’re not happy with your content] you can say give me a better title description and it’ll give you new title. These are great quick ways to try to do optimization if you’re a shopping advertiser.”

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7. Translating using GPT

Vallaeys and his team have tried and tested GPT’s translating capabilities and were very happy with the results. “GPT is really good at translations,” he added. If you’re in regions such as Europe, you will find this tool particularly helpful because of the huge variety of languages spoken there.

Sharing the results from his own experiments, Vallaeys said:

“We took a sentence from one of our headlines – and I don’t speak Finnish, so I couldn’t even pronounce the words!”
“But the Finnish colleagues on my team said [GPT provided a] very, very good translation.”
“So it’s a nice way to do translations. And again, you can do them at scale through a spreadsheet with GPT.”

8. Creating unique Imagery

You can also use AI to create unique pictures – whether that be creating completely new images or overlaying existing graphics.

Simply, upload a product image you would like to use.
Tell the AI to remove the background in the photo.
Then you can layer the remaining image on top of another picture.

“AI generated images don’t always look fantastic,” warned Vallaeys. However, it can still prove to be a very handy and time-saving tool.

9. Developing audiences

Audiences are becoming increasingly important in PPC. This is another area where AI can help.

“You can have a conversation with AI and ask what characteristics or attributes would a budget-conscious traveler have, for example. And it’ll give you a list,” Vallaeys said. He added:

“Now, I can copy those keywords and I can make custom audience segments in Google.”
“You can put in keywords – and this is a really cool way to use GPT to build audiences from scratch.”
“It is basically like your intern who gives you new suggestions, new ideas about who might be looking for the types of things that you sell.”
“GPT can give you that insight. They can open up your perspective and give you some insights that you may have otherwise completely missed.”

10. Reviewing performance

Once a campaign is up and running, marketers can use GPT to check that it’s not running alongside poor search terms.

“You want to make sure you’re not wasting your money,” Vallaeys said.

You can do this by feeding GPT a list of keywords and asking AI to rank them from most to least relevant. GPT then decides by itself how it’s going to group and score keywords.

Vallaeys added:

“For me, the key point is that there’s always the bottom of the list – the least relevant stuff.”
“I can look at that and I can quickly get some pretty good ideas for negative keywords, and I don’t have to look through a list of hundreds of potential search terms to figure out what is least relevant to the thing that my website is about.”
“So this is another way that GPT is quite helpful.”

As the capabilities of AI continue to grow, some marketers have grown increasingly concerned about job security. However, the truth of the matter is that AI is not coming for your job.

“You’re competing against other advertisers for your job – not AI. And it’s the advertisers who have figured out how to use AI to their advantage that will win,” Vallaeys said.

The post 10 ways to revolutionize your PPC game with GPT appeared first on Search Engine Land.

Original source: https://searchengineland.com/revolutionize-ppc-gpt-429202

Threads FAQ: Everything marketers need to know

Threads has become the fastest-growing social media platform in history since it launched on July 5.

Within the first hour alone, it received a whopping five million sign ups – just three months after Meta confirmed it was working on an alternative to Twitter.

The buzz around Threads is huge news for marketers as many have been taking a step back from Twitter following Elon Musk’s takeover last year, resulting in a 59% drop in ad spend in the US. Marketers are now understandably exploring new platforms to host their campaigns without compromising reach or quality.

Is Threads the best alternative for advertisers? Here’s everything you need to know…

What is Threads?

Threads is a new social networking app, operated by Mark Zuckerberg’s Meta Platforms, which is closely integrated with instagram and currently only available on iOS or Android devices. Meta has described Threads as “Instagram’s text-based conversation app”.

It gives its users the opportunity to post updates, share text, images, videos, and interact with other users’ posts via likes, reposts and replies. On the app store, Threads is described as:

“[A place] where communities come together to discuss everything from the topics you care about today to what’ll be trending tomorrow.”
“Whatever it is you’re interested in, you can follow and connect directly with your favorite creators and others who love the same things – or build a loyal following of your own to share your ideas, opinions and creativity with the world.”

Although the app is very similar to Twitter in several ways, Zuckerberg has stressed that one of the key differences is the focus on “kindness” and being “friendly”. He wrote on his Threads account:

“The goal is to keep it friendly as it expands. I think it’s possible and will ultimately be the key to its success.”
“That’s one reason why Twitter never succeeded as much as I think it should have, and we want to do it differently.”
“We are definitely focusing on kindness and making this a friendly place.”

It’s worth noting that Threads is very closely integrated with instagram. So much so, users can’t sign up to Threads without an Instagram account.

How many people have joined Threads?

More than 100 million people have signed up for Threads since its launch.

Taking to his own Threads account, Zuckerbeg commented on the success of his app so far, writing:

“Threads reached 100 million sign ups over the weekend.”
“That’s mostly organic demand and we haven’t even turned on many promotions yet.”
“Can’t believe it’s only been five days!”

To give some context into how significant this number is, when Instagram launched back in 2010 as an independent platform, it took a week to just reach 100,000.

What brands have signed up to Threads so far?

Nine of the top ten retailers, including Walmart and Kroger, have now activated their accounts on Threads, according to the National Retail Federation. The only chain not to so far is Costco

When it comes to the top five biggest consumer brands, only Reese’s has activated their account. And of the top ten most popular fashion brands, only Nike has signed up. It’s believed this is because advertisers are being cautious and want to see how Threads develops before making any commitments.

However, other huge names have been quicker with signing up and already have active accounts, such as Calvin Klein, Kith, Allbirds, Shein and Uniqlo.

Which celebrities have signed up to Threads?

A number of famous faces have signed up to Threads including Oprah, Jennifer Lopez, Kim Kardashian, Shakira and Sarah Jessica Parker.

Sex And The City star Parker announced she had joined Threads on her Instagram account. She wrote:

“I am giddy with the hope that @threadsapp will be a new opportunity to continue to share book titles, images of my day in NYC and elsewhere, support for our libraries, a divinely cooked thin cut pork chop on the bone or anything else I think deserving of your time.
“I hope that @threadsapp might prove to be a platform where folks are kind, thoughtful, don’t feel encouraged to be mean, aggressive or hostile… this could be a new day.”

Will Threads have ads?

Marketers don’t currently have the option to purchase ad space on Threads. However, a source told Axios that the Instagram team are working on making their branded content tools available in the not too distant future, with ads expected to be introduced when Threads reaches a critical mass. Until then, marketers are advised to clearly disclose paid partnerships by using hashtags or text.

It’s worth noting that Meta’s other brands, such as Instagram, launched without ads. Now, advertising is one of Instagram’s biggest sources of revenue.

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Why isn’t Threads available in the EU?

Threads is available in more than 100 countries – however, it’s not currently available in the European Union. This is due to concerns its data privacy operations don’t comply with the EU’s Digital Markets Act.

Carissa Veliz, an associate professor at the Institute for Ethics in AI at the University of Oxford, told the Guardian:

“Meta has not only not changed its business model, it continues to want to do targeted ads, essentially surveillance advertising.”
“To that end, the company is trying to collect as much data as possible and trying to continue in the same direction as it has from the very start despite all the scandals, despite the public backlash, despite warnings from regulators, despite fines. It’s not reimagining its business model to make it a more respectful business model towards users.”
“It can include sexual orientation, race and and ethnicity, biometric data, trade union membership, pregnancy status, politics, religious beliefs. And all these data can potentially be sent to third parties.”

Currently, there are no plans to roll out Threads in EU countries. However, a person familiar with the matter told Bloomberg that Meta is awaiting further guidance regarding the Digital Marketing Act to see if an EU launch will be possible at a later stage.

The European Commission is expected to provide more details but not until September. So a Threads launch date in EU countries is yet to be confirmed.

How will Threads track its users?

Threads will collect a vast amount of information about its users, in the same way Meta’s other platforms Facebook and Instagrams do. Meta’s apps gather and store all the details users enter, including sensitive information such as:

Health and fitness information
Financial information
Location
Browsing history
Search history
Home address
Email address
Phone number
Cameras
Photos
IP information
Type of device being used
Device signals (such as Bluetooth signals, nearby Wi-Fi access points and cell towers)

In addition to the above, Threads also stores data on how its users interact with posts and who they are following.

This in-depth level of detail Threads stores about its user is why EU officials are concerned about data privacy.

Is Threads safe?

Threads is enforcing Instagram’s Community Guidelines on content and interactions. Under these terms, users must be at least 13 years or older, and users under 16 years (or 18 in some countries) will automatically get a private account by default. However, parents are still advised to monitor their children’s activities online.

Users will have the option to filter their settings, meaning they have control over who can reply to them in texts. In addition, users will be able to block unwanted accounts and any accounts that they may have blocked on Instagram will automatically be blocked on Threads too.

Meta has invested more than $16 billion into protecting people that use its platforms since 2016, and has stated that safety remains a top priority on Threads.

What can you search for on Threads?

Threads is different to Twitter in the sense you currently cannot search for hashtags or topics. At the moment, users can only use the search tool to look up other users – both those they already follow and those they don’t follow.

When profiles are presented in the Threads search results that a user doesn’t already follow, they will have the option to instantly follow them or to view their full profile.

Why do you need an Instagram account to join Threads?

Meta announced on its Instagram blog that Threads would be linked to people’s Instagram accounts. Explaining the reasoning behind this decision, it said:

“Our vision with Threads is to take what Instagram does best and expand that to text, creating a positive and creative space to express your ideas.”
“Just like on Instagram, with Threads you can follow and connect with friends and creators who share your interests – including the people you follow on Instagram and beyond.”
‘The benefits of open social networking protocols go well beyond the ways people can follow each other. Developers can build new types of features and user experiences that can easily plug into other open social networks, accelerating the pace of innovation and experimentation. Each compatible app can set its own community standards and content moderation policies, meaning people have the freedom to choose spaces that align with their values.
“We believe this decentralized approach, similar to the protocols governing email and the web itself, will play an important role in the future of online platforms.”
“Threads is Meta’s first app envisioned to be compatible with an open social networking protocol – we hope that by joining this fast-growing ecosystem of interoperable services, Threads will help people find their community, no matter what app they use.”

How can you change your username on Threads?

As your Threads profile is connected to your Instagram account, certain details are transferred between the two including your name and username. So in order to change your username on Threads, you need to change your Instagram user name. To do this, you need to take the following steps:

Tap the profile icon in the bottom righthand corner to load your profile.
Select the ‘Editor Profile’ button which is located underneath your bio.
Users can then enter a new Instagram username in the Username field.
Once the new username has been entered, select the checkmark in the top righthand corner to save your new settings.

Are there any posting limitations on Threads?

There are limitations on posts and videos:

Posts – Users are restricted to sharing posts with a maximum of 500 characters. However, they can include links, photos and videos.
Videos – Videos can be no longer than five minutes.

How does Threads work?

Threads is a pretty straight-forward app to use that operates in a similar way to Twitter. Here’s how you get started:

Make sure you have an Instagram account. If you don’t have one, you’ll need to sign up.
Download the Threads app and sign in using your Instagram log in details.
Once you’re logged in, the app will ask if you’d like to follow the same accounts that you follow on Instagram.
The app will then suggest other profiles to follow that it thinks may be of interest to you.
You can then start using the app. Your feed will serve a combination of posts from people you follow as well as recommended content. You can engage with these posts by either liking them, replying, reposting, or quoting the posts.
As with Twitter, you also have the option to share posts, videos and pictures on your own profile too.

How do you delete your Threads account?

To deactivate an account, users will need to go to their profile tab, access the settings menu in the top right-hand corner, and then press the ‘Account’ button. Users will then be asked if they would like to deactivate their profile.

After deactivating a profile, a user’s previous posts and interactions will no longer be visible on Threads. Deactivating a profile will not impact the data the platform has collected or affect the linked Instagram account.

If a user deactivates their Instagram account, their Threads account will also be deactivated. If a user would like to reactivate their profile, they can do so by simply logging back into the app.

If a user wishes to delete their account rather than temporarily deactivate it, they will need to delete their Instagram account.

Is Threads replacing Twitter?

Meta CEO Zuckerberg said he believes Threads will be bigger than Twitter but it will take time.

“I think there should be a public conversations app with 1 billion+ people on it,” he said. “Twitter has had the opportunity to do this but hasn’t nailed it. Hopefully we will.”

Since its launch, Threads has certainly been a success so far. During its first two days of operation, Twitter traffic was down 5% in comparison to the same period a week earlier. It was also 11% down compared to the same period a year earlier, according to the web analytics company SimilarWeb.

Deep dive. Read the Threads Supplemental Privacy Policy for more information on how Meta shares your data and how to deleting a Threads account.

The post Threads FAQ: Everything marketers need to know appeared first on Search Engine Land.

Original source: https://searchengineland.com/threads-meta-faq-marketers-429274

5 Ways to Catch Fun Doing Your Business from Home

Home Business Magazine Online

Are you looking for ways to add motivation, little wins, and fun to your work-from-home setup? You’re in luck. Here you will find five activities that have been proven successful in increasing job satisfaction and productivity while keeping the jokes alive.

Whether it’s spicing up meetings or creating tasks with an eye toward creativity — many strategies can be used to make working remotely a rewarding experience.

From taking regular screen breaks and getting out of the house to making sure to check in with co-workers regularly — these tips can help keep you productive and motivated during this unusual time of learning how to work from home.

Keep reading for more actionable advice on how harnessing fun into your remote job operations could potentially boost morale, ultimately progressing projects along faster than before.

Set up an office space that is inviting and comfortable, with pictures of your loved ones or art to inspire creativity

Creating a workspace that is both inviting and comfortable is essential to boosting productivity and inspiring creativity. One way to achieve this is by adding personal touches to your office, such as photos of loved ones or artwork that speaks to you.

These elements not only add visual interest to your space but also help create a warm and inviting atmosphere. When you surround yourself with items that have personal meaning, it can help reduce stress and increase happiness, leading to a more productive workday.

So why not take the time to create an office space that is uniquely you, filled with elements that inspire and motivate you to do your best work? Your creativity will thank you for it.

Schedule regular breaks into your work day to give yourself time to relax, recharge, and refocus

As the saying goes, “All work and no play makes Jack a dull boy”. In our fast-paced world, taking a breather now and then is crucial to staying productive and maintaining our well-being. By scheduling regular breaks into your work day, you allow yourself to relax, recharge, and refocus.

Stepping away from your desk, stretching your legs, or simply taking a few deep breaths can do wonders for your mental and physical health. Whether you take a brisk walk, indulge in a quick meditation session, or catch up with a colleague over coffee, incorporating regular breaks into your work routine can help you stay energized and motivated throughout the day. Remember, taking care of yourself is just as important as taking care of your work.

Create a list of creative activities you can do during your breaks — drawing, painting, reading, listening to music

Are you looking for ways to stay productive during your breaks? Why not try out some creative activities to get your mind fired up? Grab a sketchbook and pencils and try your hand at drawing, or pick up some acrylic paints and experiment with colors and shapes.

If you prefer a quieter activity, dive into a good book or turn on some music to set the mood. Whatever you choose, taking a break to engage in a creative pursuit can be a great way to destress and boost your productivity. So go ahead, give it a try.

Connect with colleagues and friends virtually for game nights or movie watching

With the current state of the world, it can be difficult to stay connected with friends and colleagues while practicing social distancing. However, there are plenty of ways to stay in touch virtually.

One fun idea is to organize a virtual game night or movie-watching party — if you are new to this, you can engage in online casino gaming with a well-detailed playing guide. With apps like Zoom or Skype, you can easily gather a group of friends or coworkers to play games like Monopoly or Cards Against Humanity.

If games aren’t your thing, you can also stream a movie or TV show together and chat about it in real-time. These virtual gatherings are a great way to stay connected from the comfort of your own home. Who knows, you might even start a new weekly tradition.

Host virtual happy hours or team meetings in an online video conferencing platform like Zoom

In today’s digital age, virtual gatherings have become more necessary than ever before. Remote work and social distancing require us to find new ways to connect with our colleagues and friends — that’s where online video conferencing platforms come in.

Zoom is one such platform, offering a reliable and easy-to-use interface for hosting virtual happy hours, team meetings, and other social events. With its numerous features, including screen sharing, virtual backgrounds, and breakout rooms, Zoom has quickly become a go-to choice to bring people together online.

So, pour yourself a drink, log in to Zoom, and connect with your coworkers or loved ones in a fun and engaging way.

In Conclusion

Working from home doesn’t have to be boring or lonely. With a few clever adjustments, you can create an enjoyable yet productive environment and still stay connected with those around you.

By creating an inviting office space, scheduling regular breaks, and discovering ways to get creative and social during those breaks, you can attempt to find the balance between doing your job to the best of your ability and having fun while doing it.

Follow these 5 steps as outlined in this post; they will help give you a much needed fun boost during your business hours work-from-home journey.

The post 5 Ways to Catch Fun Doing Your Business from Home appeared first on Home Business Magazine.

Original source: https://homebusinessmag.com/businesses/success-tips/5-ways-catch-fun-doing-business-home/

Gear Patrol Highlights CEO Alejandro Pena and Keter Group for Excellence Among Outdoor Decor

Home Business Magazine Online

Gear Patrol Magazine has long been lauded for its work in space of highlighting best-in-class products for its variety of readers. A cult following for readers that have picky tastes, Gear Patrol releases a biannual magazine wherein it highlights some of the best products on the marketplace. Through the use of in-depth reviews and the curation of user feedback, Gear Patrol was quick to award Keter Group with its 2023 Home Award in the Best Oversized Outdoor Storage Box category.

Keter Group has been making waves since it first opened its doors more than 50 years ago. A leader in sustainable outdoor home and garden products, Keter has been led by the sustainability expert Alejandro Pena for the better part of the past decade. With Pena leading the charge, Keter Group has seen a massive influx of attention.

Let’s take a closer look at how and why Keter CEO Alejandro Pena is being lauded for his work in sustainability and user contentment.

Sustainable Products Outlast Cheap Alternatives

The team at Gear Patrol highlighted the Keter Denali 200 Gallon Deck Box due to its large list of features and its prominent and enduring materials. 200 gallons of storage allow users to put away deck furniture, outdoor pool toys, and other convenient outdoor necessities.

Made from sustainable and recyclable resin materials, the Denali 200 Gallon Deck Box has been lauded for its durability as well as its impeccable aesthetic. With a look that screams upscale and classiness but a price that fits in the bargain bin, it is no wonder Keter Group is continuing to grow by leaps and bounds into newer and newer areas.

Gear Patrol stated of their selections, “We took a number of criteria into account when deciding the winners, including expert feedback, public popularity, and extensive research in the space.”

Becoming a Global Leader

Keter Group and CEO Alejandro Pena are global leaders in outdoor furniture, storage systems, and organizational solutions. Leading with the Denali Deck Box, Keter Group currently has a vast array of products that include all-weather-resistant materials that are free from fading and easy to clean.

To continue in its mission to provide great sustainable products at unbeatable prices, Keter is continuing to invest in its sustainable endeavors. Pena says, “It is evident to me that we are not just a company with the purpose of creating value for our shareholders.”

Pena went on to outline how the company was committed to recycling throughout the year, working closely with sustainability experts to improve their supply chain while limiting lost resources. Keter even works with recycling scientists to improve where and when they sell items so as to limit fuel costs and environmental waste.

The post Gear Patrol Highlights CEO Alejandro Pena and Keter Group for Excellence Among Outdoor Decor appeared first on Home Business Magazine.

Original source: https://homebusinessmag.com/featured/gear-patrol-highlights-ceo-alejandro-pena-keter-group-excellence-among-outdoor-decor/

Camping Essentials for a Great Outdoors Adventure

Home Business Magazine Online

As a hard-working entrepreneur, you probably have a handful of ways you like to unwind from the busy periods of running your business. If you’re a seasoned camping enthusiast, then you already know the wonder taking time away to ‘unplug’ in nature does for one’s well-being. If you have never considered camping as a way to unwind, then it’s time to put it on your list! To have a comfortable camping experience, you want to make sure you have the best gear to produce a successful trip. With so many products out there, it can be overwhelming to find good products to refresh your gear or begin your collection with. We want to help with that! Below is a list of 31 innovative, reliable, and quality camping essentials to consider whether you’re an experienced camper or a newcomer to the great outdoors.

Merino Ridge Men’s Solstice Lightweight Pullover Hoodie

Every camping enthusiast needs a trusty pullover hoodie to keep comfortable and protected. With a natural UPF of 30+ and a longer hem in the back for more coverage, the Ridge Solstice Hoodie is the perfect layer for long days spent in the sun. Merino wool is also anti-microbial which reduces odor along with it being temperature regulating and moisture wicking, making it the perfect camp shirt.

The Merino Ridge Men’s Solstice Lightweight Pullover Hoodie is made of 87% Merino wool sustainably sourced from the McKenzie Basin in New Zealand. This pullover hoodie features a split and dropped hem for more coverage and ease of movement, woven drawstrings for the hood, thumb holes, a screen print embellishment, and a hanger loop. Additionally, it’s designed and tested in Mammoth Lakes, CA and comes in a variety of attractive colors. Retails for $84.95 at ridgemerino.com.

MSR Habiscape 4-Person Family & Group Camping Tent

A spacious and comfortable tent is a must-have when camping and makes all the difference in your experience. For adventurous families and groups looking for a perfect basecamp, the Habiscape 4p (and 6p) offers everything you need and want in a camping tent. Made for three-season adventures that don’t stray far from the car or boat, it’s the ideal mix of comfortable performance and thoughtful features that will delight young campers and make nights spent outside their favorite pastime.

In discussing the inside of the Habiscape, it is designed to make tent life comfortable and organized. It offers plenty of space, standing height and pockets for everyone, including high pockets that keep items away from little hands. You can light up the interior with ceiling loops, perfect for lanterns or string lights. And a balance of mesh and solid fabric provides both privacy and airflow. As far as the outside of the Habiscape goes, you’ll be amazed at how easy it is to set up this large tent, even by yourself. You’ll have the ability to get large mattresses or cots inside easily through the two large doors. And the large front rainfly door can be set up in three different ways depending on how you want to use the vestibule space.

If you have been seeking the perfect camping tent to introduce your family to camping or as a basecamp for adventure groups, look no further than MSR’s Habiscape. Each MSR Habiscape includes the tent body, rainfly, poles, stakes, guy lines, stuff sack, and setup instructions. Retails for $499.95 (4P) and $599.95 (6P) at msrgear.com.

LITO Outdoor Tablecloth – Classic Checkered LITOCLOTH

LITO is a female-founded and led company that was created out of a true passion for the outdoors and camping with family and friends. Their high-quality products are made of materials that are durable to survive and last through all of the varying elements of outdoor life and are unique, yet functional. LITO’s Classic Checkered Tablecloth is tough and sturdy, a quick fix to keeping your family and guests safe from filthy tables and it’s so durable you can hose it off. This chic tablecloth will beautify any outdoor dining space and is not made of cheap plastic material – this is an oilcloth outdoor tablecloth. Each LITO Tablecloth measures 104 inches long x 47 inches wide (rectangular tablecloth), comes with two adjustable straps for securing your outdoor tablecloth’s fabric to any picnic table, and a LITO bag that also serves as a backpack to keep your straps and outdoor tablecloths stored inside. Retails for $79 at litoluxury.com.

STNKY Washable Laundry Bag

STNKY Bags are the best way to sort, store, carry, wash and dry just about anything else that gets dirty or sweaty – great while on those camping trips. STNKY Bags lock in those germs and smell from your gear while you go about your day. Then, when it’s laundry time, there’s no need to touch your dirty stuff. Just open the bottom zipper, turn the bag inside out and your STNKY Bag becomes a wash bag. Throw it in the washer and dryer, bag and all, and you’ll be ready to go again! STNKY Bags come in ‘standard’ and ‘large’ sizes and in a variety of different colors. Retails for $30 at stnky.us.

Puffin Drinkwear

Puffin Drinkwear is a line of personality-infused apparel for your drink to wear, keeping beverages chill and looking fabulous. With adventure vests, flannels, and wine bags, your drinks will be ready to make an impression on your next camping trip! Puffins were designed with hooks to connect onto backpacks and hiking gear, so your Puffin can be your trusty adventure sidekick! You can find Puffin online, in every R.E.I, and in over 4,000 retail stores throughout the U.S. and Canada, including Bass Pro Shop, Scheels, Cabela’s and Dillards. Puffins start selling for $19.95 at puffindrinkwear.com.

Carved EDC Wood+Resin Pocket Knives

A quality knife is an important tool to have while you’re on your camping trips. Carved’s EDC Wood+Resin Pocket Knife is exactly that quality knife you’re looking for, as it offers the perfect blend of form and function. Every EDC Wood+Resin Pocket Knife is one of a kind, made by the Carved Team in Elkhart, Indiana. Crafted with meticulous attention to detail, this folding pocket knife boasts a lightweight titanium handle and a Damascus stainless steel blade, ensuring exceptional performance in any outdoor setting.

Carved’s EDC Wood+Resin Pocket Knife features a sharp and durable blade that is essential for various camping tasks, such as cutting rope, preparing meals, or carving sticks for roasting marshmallows. Its compact and folding design allows for easy storage in backpacks, pockets, or camping gear, making it a convenient companion during outdoor adventures. Carved’s commitment to excellence shines through in every aspect of the EDC Wood+Resin Pocket Knife, ensuring long-lasting performance and a visually stunning aesthetic. The exquisite wood burl and resin inlay make it not only a practical tool but also an ideal gift for knife enthusiasts. Retails for $99 at carved.com.

Mountain Hardware Yawn Patrol Sleeping Bag – 30F/-1C

Having a quality sleeping bag makes all the difference in a positive camping experience. Mountain Hardware’s Yawn Patrol Sleeping Bag is the ultimate car camping sleeping bag. Brand new for Spring 2023, the Yawn Patrol is designed for those tossers and turners seeking a slightly less restrictive sleeping bag. Featuring 650-fill RDS-certified down insulation and a lightweight 30D (45D bottom) nylon ripstop shell fabric, the Yawn Patrol keeps you cozy and protected in a broad range of conditions. Furthermore, dual-angled zippers allow the bag to be worn as an extra-long parka near the campfire or while walking around the campsite with a long zipper wrapping around the footbox (this also aids in ventilation, if desired).

Mountain Hardware’s Yawn Patrol Sleeping Bag features 45D nylon large ripstop bottom fabric (super durable with a cotton soft-hand feel), curved rectangular shaping for maximized comfort regardless of sleep position, an interior pillow pocket and phone pocket, a long zipper on one side of the bag that wraps around the footbox, allowing for easy ventilation and use as a quilt, a large draft collar for warmth and coziness, and more. It comes in the color ‘Aloe’, sizes ‘regular’ and ‘long’, and you can have the zipper location on the left or right. Retails for $275 at mountainhardwear.com.

Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XLite NXT Sleeping Pad

With improved warmth and comfort, Therm-a-Rest’s NeoAir XLite NXT solidifies the legacy of its predecessor as the finest ultralight air sleeping pad for year-round backcountry adventures. The XLite NXT uses a refined ThermaCapture technology, now integrated into the Triangular Core Matrix, that is six times quieter than the current pad for a better night’s rest. At three inches thick, with a horizontal baffled structure, the XLite NXT delivers maximum comfort and support at a minimal weight and packed size (it weighs just 13 oz (370 g) in the Regular size). ThermaCapture technology and Triangular Core Matrix construction radiate body heat and reduce convective heat loss to deliver a 4.5 R-value, good for year-round conditions.

The XLite NXT is ultra-packable in that its premium low-bulk materials allow the XLite NXT to pack down to about the size of a conventional 1L water bottle. It delivers fast one-way inflation and rapid deflation without giving up the ability to easily purge air while you lay on it for comfort micro-adjustments. You can choose from four size options, allowing you to get the XLite NXT that is perfect for your sleep system. The XLite NXT is the most versatile ultralight sleeping pad on the market and is ready to craft better nights under the stars wherever you end up. Retails for $209.95 (regulra) at thermarest.com.

Quitch Bug Repellent Balm

Quitch Bug Repellent Balm with Geraniol is easy to apply and free of DEET and pesticides. Made in a stick form to easily dab on where you need protection, it’s great for camping as it doesn’t take up a lot of space and is easy to transport. Quitch Bug Repellent Balm is plant-powered and made from ingredients found in nature (including geraniol, which studies have found to be twice as effective as citronella). Quitch Bug Repellent was developed by a dermatologist for her own family who wanted a spray alternative, so it’s safe for babies and kids as well. Retails for $11.49 at the Quitch Amazon Store.

Water-to-Go Active Water Purifier Bottle

Outdoor water sources carry dangerous pathogens (viruses, bacteria, parasites) that can ruin outdoor adventure. Water-to-Go provides a protective shield against those pathogens, eliminating up to 99.9999% of water-borne contaminants including dangerous viruses, bacteria, and parasites to keep people healthy wherever they roam outdoors. Just fill, replace the lid and drink. Safe pure water in seconds, with no need for pumping, plunging, iodine tablets, chemicals or UV light. Each Water-to-Go Active Water Purifier Bottle comes with a large 75cl filter for enhanced flow rate and longer filter life. One filter provides 53 gallons (200 liters) and lasts 3 months. It’s also earth-friendly in that each filter replaces 400 single-use plastic bottles, the water bottle itself is recyclable, and the filter is compostable. Water-to-Go comes in a 25oz bottle that is either ‘Grey + Red’ or ‘Grey + White’. Retails for $59.99 at watertogousa.com.

Rhino USA Camping Survival Shovel w/ Pick

The Rhino USA Folding Survival Shovel w/Pick is a rugged and multi-functional tool perfect for off-road adventures, camping trips, gardening, and more. Crafted from 2 lbs of powder-coated carbon steel, this military-style entrenching tool features a tough pickax and sharp saw teeth, ensuring durability and reliability in demanding environments. When unfolded, it extends to a full 23″ length, but it conveniently folds down to a compact 9″ x 6″ size, easily fitting into the included carry case for portability. All Rhino USA products come with a lifetime warranty. Retails for $26.90 at rhinousainc.com.

Magellan Outdoors Leakproof Camo 12-Can Square Cooler

Stay hydrated at your campsite with the Magellan Outdoors Leakproof Camo 12-Can Square Cooler. This square cooler is made of durable materials for long-lasting use and has a leakproof design to prevent spills. The carry straps allow for easy transport and comfortable carrying. This cooler features a twelve 12-ounce can capacity, camo print for rugged style, a front zip pocket, and more. Its dimensions are 13″L x 9″W x 10.25″H. Retails for $69.99 at academy.com.

Uncharted Supply Co. The Zeus Portable Jump Starter & USB Charger

The Zeus Portable Jump Starter & USB Charger ensures that campers never have to worry about a dead battery in remote locations. Better to avoid the hike-out drama by keeping a fully-charged Zeus in the car. The Zeus is a portable jump starter that doubles as a flashlight and USB charger. You can not only give a dead car battery several trip-saving jolts but there are also plenty of charge plugs for all of your devices (GPS, phone, headlamps, etc.) so you don’t have to fire up the ignition at your campsite just to power them all back up.

The Zeus features 20,000 mAh, boasting enough power to start even the largest trucks on the road multiple times. It can take your iPhone Plus from zero to 100% battery life at least 10 times. When used as a flashlight, the Zeus can supply light for days on end. Charge the Zeus at home or on the road, and feel safe knowing you have a backup light source during any emergency situation. The Zeus power system comes with a nylon hard shell carry case, AC/DC wall adapter, a car charger, jumper cables, and a three-way USB charging cord (Mini USB/USB-C/iPhone). Retails for $159 at unchartedsupplyco.com.

Uncharted Supply Company’s products are designed to save your life. They refuse to cut corners and their average product rating is 4.9 Stars.

Uncharted Supply Co. First Aid Plus

Accidents happen, especially when adventuring in the great outdoors. That’s why a well-stocked first aid kit is a must-have for camping. The First Aid Plus Kit is designed specifically for outdoor exploration, featuring bandages, a multi-tool, a flashlight, chem lights, stormproof matches, duct tape, and anti-bacterial wipes. In total, there are 92 pieces of emergency supplies for everything from a nasty splinter to a full-on CPR kit. With these essentials, campers can confidently handle accidents and emergencies while enjoying their camping experience.

It features a waterproof construction in that its airtight, welded tarpaulin shell and watertight zipper keep your supplies protected from the elements. Its simple organization ensures its supplies fit securely into labeled pockets, organized by injury and use case. As a quick attachment system, a MOLLE system allows for attachment to your vehicle or shelter and you can quickly detach the kit with its removable velcro back panel. Retails for $129 at unchartedsupplyco.com.

Uncharted Supply Company’s products are designed to save your life. They refuse to cut corners and their average product rating is 4.9 Stars.

Stream2Sea Sunscreens and Skincare

Stream2Sea is a sunscreen brand developed by Autumn Blum, a chemist, entrepreneur, and ocean advocate who has testified before Congress on the harmful effects of chemical-based personal care products on the environment. Stream2Sea offers a range of sunscreen products that are consciously formulated to be safe for both the environment and the user. Suitable for sensitive and acne-prone skin, the formulas are water-based and non-greasy, so you never have to worry about the sunscreen blocking your pores! Its sunscreen formulas are enriched with a potent blend of antioxidant-rich ingredients like wakame seaweed, aloe vera, tulsi (holy basil), green tea, and olive leaf.

When camping, you want sunscreen that offers strong sun protection and is one your skin will appreciate. Stream2Sea’s Every Day Active Mineral Sunscreen is 45 SPF, non-greasy, and non-comedogenic. It’s enriched with their proprietary antioxidant blend + turmeric to protect, nourish and restore even the most sensitive skin daily. You can use every day or as needed for all your outdoor adventures! Retails for $26.95 at stream2sea.com.

Coalatree Kachula Blanket

Coalatree’s Kachula Blanket is your go-to blanket for any camping trip, festival, picnic, family adventure, international vacation, and more – it’s ready for it all. The blanket stuffs into itself for use as a pillow for hammocks, sleeping bags, and more. It has a snap-attached hood to convert it to an emergency poncho or keep it stuffed away in a secret zippered pocket when you don’t need it. It is packable, water-resistant, and durable. Both sides are coated with an eco-friendly DWR finish to keep you dry. This means water and other liquids bead right off. The Coala Tree Kachula Blanket’s top is made of soft brushed nylon flannel and its bottom is of durable ripstop nylon. Both are made from 100% recycled materials. The Kachula Blanket comes in a variety of attractive patterns and color combinations and measures 50″ x 72″ flat. Retails for $89 at coalatree.com.

LuminAID PackLite Titan 2-in-1 Power Lantern

LuminAID’s inventors were inspired to design a simple, rechargeable light that could be cost-effectively distributed after disasters. Because of the universal utility of their design, LuminAID packable lanterns and phone chargers have become popular in outdoor camping and emergency prep, as well as humanitarian aid.
The LuminAID Titan 2-in-1 Power Lantern is their newest and most powerful product. Featuring all-new design innovations, including Red Light Mode for night vision and a Twist-to-Inflate design. This lantern is perfect for camping, or your emergency kit. With a maximum brightness of 300 Lumens, the Titan can light your campsite. With 100 hours of runtime, you can depend on it for extended power outages or off-grid expeditions. Featuring an extra-large 4000mAh battery, the Titan can charge most phones 2-3 times or even power your tablet. Compatible With: iPhone & Android Charging Port: USB-A (compatible with USB-C through an adapter). Retails for $75 at luminaid.com.

Cozy Earth Bamboo Hoodie

A quality, comfortable hoodie is a versatile must-have for any camping adventure. Cozy Earth’s Bamboo Hoodie feels as cozy on as your favorite blanket. Made with decadent, breathable bamboo viscose, this relaxed hoodie will keep you snug at the perfect temperature while lounging around the campfire or enjoying the views of an alpine lake.

Cozy Earth’s Bamboo Hoodie includes a drawcord and sleeve cuffs, as well as an embroidered logo and engraved logo. It’s enhanced weave ensures it lasts longer and doesn’t pill. It’s made with 62% Premium Viscose from Bamboo, 28% Acrylic, and 10% Spandex. Because it features breathable and moisture-wicking fabric, you’ll feel degrees cooler than cotton – This means its perfect for adventures even in warmer climates. Their Bamboo Hoodie comes in four attractive shades and has a 10-year warranty! Retails for $155 at cozyearth.com.

For male camping enthusiasts, be sure to check out their Men’s Ultra-Soft Bamboo Hoodie.

PackTowl Personal Towels

PackTowl Personal Towels are best-selling camp and travel towels. Sustainably made of 50% recycled fabric, Personal Towels take up minimal space in your backpack, luggage or car and deliver maximum absorbency and quick-drying performance. Capable of absorbing 4x its weight in water and drying 70% faster than comparable cotton towels while taking up a fraction of the space, PackTowl Personal Towels are perfect for camping, travel, the gym, the yoga studio and around the house. Machine washable, and with Polygiene® odor control, PackTowel Personal Towels are always fresh and ready for your life on the go. PackTowl Personal Towels are available in the sizes Face, Hand, Body, and Beach and come in a variety of attractive patterns and shades. Retails for $15.95 (Face) and $34.95 (Body) at packtowl.com.

Trailblazing Love Campfire Connection Activity Box

Trailblazing Love offers couples outdoor activity date night boxes with high-quality products for a unique adventure with their partner. Their Campfire Connection Activity Box is perfect for a camping getaway with your sweetheart. Whether you’re nestled under the stars for a serene star-gazing experience or enjoying the warmth of a campfire, the activity box offers memorable date nights filled with storytelling and s’mores-making while on your camping trip. There are three tiers of the Campfire Connection Activity Box to choose from: Essentials Box, Indulgence Box, and the Dream Date Box.

The Campfire Connection Activity Essentials Box includes a 5oz First Aid Kit to keep safety first, an Artisan S’mores Kit, S’mores Sticks, a Portable Bonfire Pit, Campfire Stories for those quiet moments, 6-step illustrated instructions, a custom-curated Spotify playlist, and last but not least, the Canvas and Willow Basket Tote. The Coronado Canvas and Willow Basket Tote is stylish and sturdy, perfect for carrying all these date-night camping essentials. Their Indulgence Box features a Mountain Line Carabiner Steel Camping Mug, while their Dream Date box includes a Sand and Stone Baja Thunderbird Blanket, perfect for snuggling under the stars as you enjoy your S’mores. Retails for $164.99 (Essentials Box), $199.99 (Indulgence Box), and $229.99 (Dream Date Box) at trailblazinglove.com.

Backpacker’s Pantry Three Cheese Mac & Cheese

Hearty and filling, Backpacker’s Pantry Three Cheese Mac & Cheese is a protein-packed freeze-dried camping food staple you’ll enjoy with creamy real cheeses and elbow pasta. Whether you’re at your campsite, in the field, at the cabin, or at home, you can’t go wrong with this comfort food. This package features Elbow pasta, Parmesan, Romano, and Cheddar cheese, is vegetarian, has a 10-year shelf life (exact expiration date found on product packaging), is 510 calories per pouch, has 24g of protein per pouch and contains two servings per pouch. All you need to do is add 2 cups (480 mL) of boiling water, stir well, seal and let sit for 15-20 minutes, and finally stir and serve. Retails for $9.99 at backpackerspantry.com.

Be sure to check out other Backpacker’s Pantry meals to take with you on your camping adventures.

Trendhim Accessories – Lucleon Navy Blue Waxed Roll Out Wash Bag

The Lucleon Navy Blue Waxed Roll Out Wash Bag from Trendhim Accessories is crafted from high-quality leather and waxed canvas. It features a handsome flap cover with genuine leather straps and buckles to fasten shut. Water repellent and durable, it’s built to last and is perfect for storing your toiletries in the great outdoors. The soft, cotton-lined interior offers many storage options: 2 zippered bags, 2 slip pouches and a press-stud fastened pocket. The larger of the 2 zipped bags is easily detachable for travel purposes. It comes with a handy metal hook for hanging upright if you’re short on table space as is often the case in a camper or tent. This bag of outstanding quality was designed in Denmark and has a two-year warranty. Personalized debossing can be added. Retails for $69 at trendhim.com.

Sun Company Prosight Map Compass

Sun Company is a Colorado-based brand that has been designing and building unique accessories for the outdoors since 1971. Their ProSight Sighting Map Compass has an adjustable declination dial that makes it easy to get the most precise reading from your compass. The compass bezel rotates 360 degrees for easy bearings and the dial is ultra-luminous, making it the perfect compass for low-light situations. The protective cover keeps the compass safe from damage. Open up the cover to reveal a full-sized sighting mirror. It includes a clinometer in the dial for measuring the height of any landmark. Full instructions are included for help with setting declination, taking bearings, and measuring target heights. Other features include a jewel bearing, 3X magnifying glass, 4 map scales, inch and mm rulers, a break-away safety lanyard, and silicone anti-slip foot pads. Retails for $39.99 at suncompany.com.

onewith Swim

You always want to pack a comfortable swimsuit when going camping – you never know what crystal-clear lake or river awaits your adventure. onewith Swim’s Guthrie Sports Bra Bikini Top is a classic, athletic-inspired edgeless that provides function and support, all without bulky seams or elastic. Great for camping adventures that involve swimming or water sports, you’ll also enjoy wearing Guthrie to the gym or pairing it with joggers or leggings. Pair the Guthrie with onewith Swim’s Compo Hipster Bikini Bottoms which are cut like your favorite hipster brief. They’re dig-free, seamless swim bottoms (they’re edgeless!) and are made using onewith’s patent-pending bonded construction. Compo provides moderate back coverage and ample hip coverage. It’s a super comfy and flattering bikini bottom, but it’s also got a soft inner grip strip to keep it secure and in place, perfect for your camping water adventures. Retails for $49 (Guthrie) and $47 (Compo) at onewithswim.com.

SKOTTI Grill

SKOTTI is the world’s first truly portable, fully collapsible and design-awarded gas grill. The innovative grill is ideal for dadpreneurs who enjoy camping, tailgating, or grilling in the great outdoors. With portability as a top priority, it weighs just 7 pounds and collapses to the size of a folded newspaper, making it easy to store in any trunk, camper, motorcycle bag, or even your hiking backpack. Dad will appreciate that it’s securely and quickly assembled in just minutes, it’s easy to clean, and cools down in just 15 minutes. Its superior quality stainless steel and exceptional craftsmanship guarantee an almost endless lifespan.

The SKOTTI grill operates on gas, making it both safer and more environmentally responsible. Dad won’t worry about the risks associated with starting wood fires or using single-use grills that harm the environment. Additionally, the grill delivers the same level of heat and power as a traditional BBQ grill. And with just a few adjustments of the handles, it transforms into a versatile outdoor kitchen capable of boiling, cooking, roasting, and smoking his food. Additional accessories are available to transform the grill into a small outdoor kitchen in just a few simple steps. This is truly an impressive grill he will be excited to share with all his friends on his adventures. Retails for $189 at skotti-grill.com.

Daybird Tinted Skincare

Daybird is a BIPOC women-owned skincare brand that only makes one product – one perfect product. Daybird’s 4-in-1 tinted SPF is a perfect camping companion as it is space-saving and perfect for travel. This is a multi-tasking serum, moisturizer, mineral SPF 50, and sheer foundation “skinwear” hybrid that helps save time, money, and space in your backpack or luggage by removing multiple steps from skincare routines. It’s the only facial product you’ll need to pack. Its clinical ingredients are Niacinamide 2% (Vitamin B3 antioxidant increases dermal collagen for smoother skin), Bisabolol 0.5% (Chamomile extract reduces inflammation and evens skin tone), Zinc Oxide 12% (Non-nano, mineral SPF 50 protects against blue light and UVA/UVB rays). Daybird Tinted Skincare is clinically proven + dermatologist-approved, vegan, cruelty-free, Leaping Bunny certified, clean by Sephora standards, and comes in four flexible shades. Retails for $39.50 at daybird.co.

Gentlemen’s Hardware Magnesium Fire Starter with Handle, Telescoping Roasting Forks, and Log Carrier

Gentlemen’s Hardware crafts superior, durable and responsibly sourced goods for life’s adventures. If roasting marshmallows or hotdogs is on your camping trip itinerary, then Gentlemen’s Hardware has you covered.
First, their all-weather Magnesium Fire Starter with Handle makes damp matches and empty lighters a thing of the past. This camping fire starter is a must-have for every hiker, backpacker, hunter, camper, and survivalist. Retails for $22 at gentlemenshardware.com.
Their Telescoping Roasting Forks are perfect for campfire roasting! These handy beach wood and stainless steel Telescoping Roasting Forks extend to 23 inches, allowing you to safely toast a marshmallow or roast a hotdog. The set includes two roasting forks and a carry pouch. Retails for $20 at gentlemenshardware.com.
Lastly, the Gentlemen’s Hardware Log Carrier features reinforced handles to haul firewood with ease. This firewood carrier is the perfect companion for firing up the smoker, lighting the hearth, or collecting firewood for your campfire. Retails for $50 at gentlemenshardware.com.

Cariloha Bamboo Beach Towel

When camping, you want to make sure you have a reliable beach towel. Cariloha’s Bamboo Beach Towel is one you can relax, renew and unwind with on your trip. Made from sustainable bamboo viscose, you can sprawl out under the sun in bamboo comfort. This quick-drying, highly absorbent towel features a terry finish on the back side and a soft, smooth sublimated print on the front side. Its compact size makes it easy to travel with and store – perfect for lounging around the beach, lake, or any body of water your camping adventures take you. This towel’s dimensions are 30” x 60” and it comes in a variety of attractive patterns. Retails for $49 at cariloha.com.

Loop Earplugs – Quiet Earplugs

Your sleep hygiene on your camping trip makes all the difference in the overall experience. Loop Earplugs’ Quiet Earplugs offer 27 dB of noise reduction which reduces noise that disturbs your sleep. This in turn helps you fall asleep and stay asleep without disruption. They’re made from soft, medical-grade silicone that conforms to your ear for a snug and secure fit, and they come in a range of sizes to accommodate different ear shapes. Loop Quiets come in a variety of colors to find your perfect match. Retails for $24.95 at us.loopearplugs.com.

L’Orenta Nuts Explorer Trail Mix

Perform at your best while camping by choosing the snack that’s got your back. L’Orenta Nuts is a family-owned and operated company located in San Antonio, TX. They provide a wide assortment of nuts, dried fruits, chocolates, and more. They only use the highest quality grade product and mix them with the correct percentages to where all the flavors come together as one. L’Orenta Nuts makes all of their mixes fresh in-house in The USA.
Their Explorer Trail Mix is a delectable combination of salted almonds, roasted sunflower seeds, seedless raisins, banana chips, dried cranberries, pumpkin seeds, and L’Orenta chocolate gems. Their dried berries and raisins are packed full of vitamins and minerals your body will love with a boost of energy from the tasty range of nuts and seeds. Available in 1 lb., 5 lbs., 10 lbs, and 25lbs. Retails for $7.99/lb at lorentanuts.com.

Bug Bite Thing

No camping experience comes without the topic of insects. What can you do about the bites you receive from these pesky little things? As seen on Shark Tank, Bug Bite Thing is a must-have for any camping enthusiasts as it works by effectively extracting insect saliva/venom from under the skin to alleviate the itching, stinging and swelling caused by insect bites and stings. It works on mosquitoes, bees, wasps, black flies, fire ants and other biting insects you may encounter while camping. For best results, use it immediately after you notice a bite. As Amazon’s #1 seller for insect bite relief with over 78,000 reviews, it is completely chemical-free and reusable and solely uses the power of suction, making it safe for all ages. It comes in a variety of colors for your perfect match. Retails for $9.99 at the Bug Bite Thing Amazon Store.

The post Camping Essentials for a Great Outdoors Adventure appeared first on Home Business Magazine.

Original source: https://homebusinessmag.com/lifestyles/camping-essentials-great-outdoors/

Drupal Web Development Services: Building Powerful and Scalable Websites

Home Business Magazine Online

The digital landscape is in a constant state of motion, just like the world of software development. Back in the 90s, software development services became accessible through the Internet, solving numerous problems while presenting new challenges. However, it is no longer a daunting prospect thanks to advancements in technology and management practices.

Are you curious about Drupal web development services? Allow us to share some insights and shed light on Drupal development, which has become a popular choice for many companies.

What makes Drupal different?

When setting off on a product development journey, selecting the right Content Management System (CMS) is crucial. A CMS helps manage the content on your website and allows for easy modifications when needed. While popular CMS options like WordPress, Joomla, and Magento exist, businesses often require a more robust solution as they grow.

Standard features provided by WordPress may prove insufficient for websites with complex functionalities. In such cases, custom development is necessary, although it demands additional time and effort to complete. This is where Drupal comes into play. Some may argue that Drupal has a steeper learning curve, but that’s precisely why professional developers are hired. So, let’s delve into why outsourcing Drupal web development has become a significant trend.

Drupal benefits explained

#1 Customizability

Drupal offers a highly customizable platform that enables the development of effective content management tools and applications for marketing and commerce strategies. By involving Drupal design and development services as well as headless Drupal architecture, you can manage web content in multiple directions and create personalized systems that keep your visitors, users, and customers engaged. The possibilities are endless.

Apart from customizability, Drupal offers several other advantages that make it an essential CMS framework.

#2 Limitless tools with high security

Drupal, being an open framework, offers limitless tools without imposing restrictions or guidelines on your business. It allows for tailored solutions that meet your specific needs. Moreover, Drupal provides a highly secure CMS framework, safeguarding your site against vulnerability attacks. The strong growth of the Drupal community, along with Drupal coding standards and community code reviews, further enhances site security.

#3 Strong foundation and scalability

Drupal is built on the LAMP Stack foundation model, which comprises Linux, Apache, MySQL, and PHP/Python/Perl. This foundation provides a reliable framework for running dynamic sites and servers. Drupal ensures high performance and can handle heavy traffic without compromising site performance. It offers easy and efficient traffic management, even during continuous traffic spikes.

#4 Rapid deployment

Unlike heavyweight tools that can take months to launch, Drupal allows for a quicker go-live process. With Drupal web development services, you can have a responsive site up and running within a couple of weeks or even less. This ensures a seamless user experience across devices and helps attract more traffic.

#5 Content creation and management

Drupal excels in content creation and management, offering user-friendly tools for making and managing content. You can maintain control over who edits your content, track detailed change history, and even retain specific content modifications. Drupal’s open architecture enables developers to build templates that seamlessly connect your content with other sources and marketing technology tools, giving you the flexibility to showcase and market your content in various formats and mediums.

#6 Marketing efficiency

Drupal’s taxonomy options simplify product catalog and category management. By integrating this feature, you can differentiate and categorize your products effectively. Drupal’s SEO-friendly nature enables you to measure the reach and penetration of your sites and products.

#7 Multilingual capabilities

Drupal web development services provide robust solutions for websites targeting multilingual audiences. Drupal’s built-in multi-language features allow for the management of sites across multiple geographical locations, delivering dynamic language displays to your customers. Furthermore, Drupal is proud of a dedicated community of developers who can assist in resolving issues and providing support whenever needed.

How do you know that you have found the right Drupal partner?

All the benefits described above have even more sense when selecting a Drupal development company that can help you meet your needs. So, how do you choose the right contractor for Drupal services? And we would like to dive into the main factors to consider.

#1 Experience

Look for a company with substantial experience in Drupal development, ideally with a track record of delivering high-quality projects across diverse industries. An established Drupal development company with at least 6 to 7 years of experience is likely to provide superior results.

#2 Reputation

Review the company’s portfolio and client websites to define their competence and efficiency. Positive client testimonials and a long list of satisfied customers indicate a dedicated and quality work history.

#3 Support and maintenance

Ensure the company offers round-the-clock Drupal support and maintenance services. Regular updates and maintenance are crucial for website security, and a professional agency will have a plan in place to ensure continuous website evolution.

#4 Partnerships

Check if the company has partnerships with reputable organizations. These partnerships grant access to exclusive resources and expertise, enabling the development of efficient and unique websites.

#5 Effective communication

Choose a company that understands your needs and can effectively communicate throughout the development process. Collaborating with individuals who value your feedback and deadlines often leads to exceptional end results.

#6 Cost-efficient quality

Seek a Drupal development company that offers quality work without skyrocketing prices, striking a balance between cost and quality.

So, when you take these factors into account, you can find the best Drupal web development company to bring your website vision to life.

Conclusion

Drupal web development services provide a powerful and scalable solution for building websites with complex functionality. Drupal’s customizability, scalability, security features, multilingual capabilities, and dedicated community of developers make it an ideal choice for businesses. A reliable Drupal development company can unlock the full potential of this versatile CMS and create a successful online presence.

The post Drupal Web Development Services: Building Powerful and Scalable Websites appeared first on Home Business Magazine.

Original source: https://homebusinessmag.com/businesses/website-development/drupal-web-development-services-building-powerful-and-scalable-websites/

Understanding the Basics

What Are NFTs?

NFTs in Gaming in the Gaming Universe

Choose the Right Blockchain Platform

Ethereum

Flow

Binance Smart Chain

Tezos

Create Your Gaming Asset

Conceptualize Your Asset

Design Your Asset

Ensure Uniqueness

Mint Your NFT

Choose an NFT Marketplace

Mint Your NFT

List Your NFT for Sale

Promote Your NFT

Social Media

In-Game Promotion

Influencer Marketing

1. Building a campaign using just GPT

2. Using GPT for keyword classification

3. Finding keywords for existing ad groups

4. Creating ad text using GPT

5. Optimizing landing pages

6. Enhancing product pages

7. Translating using GPT

8. Creating unique Imagery

9. Developing audiences

10. Reviewing performance

What is Threads?

How many people have joined Threads?

What brands have signed up to Threads so far?

Which celebrities have signed up to Threads?

Will Threads have ads?

Why isn’t Threads available in the EU?

How will Threads track its users?

Is Threads safe?

What can you search for on Threads?

Why do you need an Instagram account to join Threads?

How can you change your username on Threads?

Are there any posting limitations on Threads?

How does Threads work?

How do you delete your Threads account?

Is Threads replacing Twitter?

Set up an office space that is inviting and comfortable, with pictures of your loved ones or art to inspire creativity

Schedule regular breaks into your work day to give yourself time to relax, recharge, and refocus

Create a list of creative activities you can do during your breaks — drawing, painting, reading, listening to music

Connect with colleagues and friends virtually for game nights or movie watching

Host virtual happy hours or team meetings in an online video conferencing platform like Zoom

In Conclusion

Sustainable Products Outlast Cheap Alternatives

Becoming a Global Leader

Merino Ridge Men’s Solstice Lightweight Pullover Hoodie

MSR Habiscape 4-Person Family & Group Camping Tent

LITO Outdoor Tablecloth – Classic Checkered LITOCLOTH

STNKY Washable Laundry Bag

Puffin Drinkwear

Carved EDC Wood+Resin Pocket Knives

Mountain Hardware Yawn Patrol Sleeping Bag – 30F/-1C

Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XLite NXT Sleeping Pad

Quitch Bug Repellent Balm

Water-to-Go Active Water Purifier Bottle

Rhino USA Camping Survival Shovel w/ Pick

Magellan Outdoors Leakproof Camo 12-Can Square Cooler

Uncharted Supply Co. The Zeus Portable Jump Starter & USB Charger

Uncharted Supply Co. First Aid Plus

Stream2Sea Sunscreens and Skincare

Coalatree Kachula Blanket

LuminAID PackLite Titan 2-in-1 Power Lantern

Cozy Earth Bamboo Hoodie

PackTowl Personal Towels

Trailblazing Love Campfire Connection Activity Box

Backpacker’s Pantry Three Cheese Mac & Cheese

Trendhim Accessories – Lucleon Navy Blue Waxed Roll Out Wash Bag

Sun Company Prosight Map Compass

onewith Swim

SKOTTI Grill

Daybird Tinted Skincare

Gentlemen’s Hardware Magnesium Fire Starter with Handle, Telescoping Roasting Forks, and Log Carrier