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What Middle-Aged Women Can Add to Gaming

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Housemarque has a new video game that struck me as so unique and fascinating that I was compelled to buy it.

I made the decision to buy the game without watching a ton of demos or reading up on internet reviews.

It was a no brainer. From the trailer, I could already tell that Returnal was similar to many other games. It was about a strong, smart, and capable protagonist who had to conquer the odds. That is not what compelled me to make the purchase.

The main character Selene is a woman. That in itself is an anomaly. But what makes her even more of an oddity is her age. Selene is a middle-aged woman.

Female videogame characters are typically youthful and sexy. The few who are not young are elderly women revered for their wisdom or hated for their villainy.

So a middle-aged female lead captured my attention so strongly that I just had to buy it.

I could finally see someone like myself in a game. You see, I am a 50-year-old woman who has recently found out that (surprise!) middle age is not exactly what I thought it would be.

At 50, I do not feel young. I do not feel old either. My body is not as fast as it was in my youth, even though I am in good shape.

In fact, I feel like I am at my best ever. But there is a certain invisibility that middle aged women can all identify with.

People can be rather awkward around a 50-year-old woman. Rarely do they start conversations. When they do talk to you, they ask about your children.

This adds another layer of awkwardness and invisibility for me as a childless woman.

With no children, they cannot imagine anything else to talk about.

When you find a woman in a game, she could be a companion or just there to add color to a party. She is not the star.

We can all remember how big of a shock it was for fans of Metroid to discover that the hero they had admired for so long was really a woman.

It was supposed to be a shocking plot twist. And it did shock many.

Today, gamers who want to play as women have many more opportunities than ever before. Some games even allow you to create the character you want to play.

But these female characters are almost invariably young.

To be honest, there are advantages to playing younger characters. Younger bodies are stronger and more agile. So it makes sense to have a main character in their 20s or 30s.

In Tomb Raider’s 2013 reboot, Lara Croft’s youth and experience are a huge part of what makes the story powerfully inspiring.

She was a fresh college graduate who found herself alone and injured after surviving a shipwreck.

Her inexperience meant that she had to challenge herself in ways she had never done before. She was discovering her own strength and we were there to watch her develop resilience. It was an awesome journey.

As a 50-year-old gamer, I cannot help but imagine what Lara Croft would be like two or three decades older. What challenges would she face? How would she tackle them? What allies and enemies would she have acquired along the way?

We have no way of knowing. Because the creators are not particularly interested in Lara Croft post 30.

At this point, you are probably wondering just how many gamers are wondering about the same thing I am wondering about.

I looked up the numbers, and female gamers my age are almost as many as male gamers. There is only a 2% difference in the numbers.

My point is that if we can have such a variety of middle-aged male characters, then women my age deserve representation, too.

I would love to see more female gaming characters who are my age saving the world, solving mysteries, and slaying the occasional dragon.

Speaking of dragons, I can remember when the dragons in video games looked more like ducks than dragons.

Not too long ago, Ubisoft argued that they could not increase the playable female assassins in Assassins Creed because they were difficult to animate.

We have made some progress since then, thankfully. But we still have a long way to go.

I love that Selene features on the cover and stars in the game. I feel validated by her presence.

Selene represents the best aspects of being middle aged. Young people are more ambitious but also vulnerable to people-pleasing.

Selene comes armed with life experience the way only a middle-aged woman can be.

She is sure of herself and understands who she is and what she stands for. She is guided by her own internal compass and not other people’s opinions.

She has the confidence to steal a spaceship and go on a mysterious quest.

She is decisive and confident in her ability to handle whatever comes her way. She goes after what she wants without apology. I would love to see more characters like Selene.

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Critical Alert: 3G Shutdown Threatens Vital Medical Devices, Experts Warn

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As the clock ticks down to October 28, 2024, a silent crisis is brewing in the world of healthcare technology. The impending shutdown of 3G networks across Australia is set to impact far more than just outdated mobile phones. Medical experts and consumer advocates are sounding the alarm about the potential risks to hundreds of thousands of medical devices that rely on 3G connectivity for critical functions.

The Australian Communications Consumer Action Network (ACCAN) has labeled the situation a “ticking time bomb,” urging medical authorities to take immediate action. ACCAN CEO Carol Bennett emphasized the gravity of the situation, stating, “Many people are simply unaware that devices like insulin pumps, heart rate monitors, and personal safety alarms may all be impacted by the shutdown of 3G networks by Telstra and Optus. It is a major health risk.”

The scope of the problem is staggering. According to industry estimates, up to 200,000 medical devices could be affected by the 3G network closure. These devices range from life-saving implants to crucial monitoring systems that patients and healthcare providers rely on daily.

The Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) has identified several categories of medical devices that may be impacted by the 3G network shutdown, including:

  • Cardiac monitoring devices for resynchronization therapy (CRT)
  • Pacemakers and implantable cardioverter defibrillators (ICDs)
  • Glucose data transmitters for diabetes management
  • Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) machines for sleep apnea
  • Telehealth devices for remote patient monitoring
  • Wearable health monitors for various conditions
  • Portable automated external defibrillators (AEDs) for emergency response

The implications of these devices losing connectivity are profound. Patients with implanted cardiac devices may lose the ability to transmit critical data to their healthcare providers. Diabetics relying on continuous glucose monitors could face gaps in their blood sugar management. Sleep apnea sufferers might experience interruptions in their therapy tracking. In emergency situations, the failure of an AED to connect could mean the difference between life and death.

Beyond the devices regulated by the TGA, a host of other health and safety-related products are also at risk. These include personal safety pendants for the elderly, fall detection systems, home security alarms, and GPS tracking devices for vulnerable individuals. The potential for these systems to fail simultaneously creates a perfect storm of risk for those who depend on them most.

The Royal Flying Doctor Service (RFDS) has expressed serious concerns about the impact on rural and remote healthcare. RFDS Chief Information Officer Ryan Klose told a Senate inquiry that the organization relies heavily on 3G for telehealth appointments, security cameras, and clinicians’ duress alarms. “There are a lot of devices out there which are used for critical situations that simply will not be (noticed) until it’s too late,” Klose warned.

The telecommunications industry has been preparing for this transition for years, with major providers like Telstra and Optus planning to switch off their 3G networks on October 28, 2024. TPG Telecom/Vodafone has already decommissioned its 3G network at the beginning of 2024. While these companies have been running information campaigns and offering upgrades to affected customers, the medical device sector presents unique challenges.

One of the primary issues is the lack of a comprehensive registry for medical devices in Australia. Unlike pharmaceuticals, which are tightly regulated and tracked, medical devices fall into a regulatory gray area. This has led to what ACCAN’s Carol Bennett describes as “catastrophic failures historically around surgical mesh, breast implants, and ASR hip implants.”

The problem is compounded by the fact that many affected devices may have been purchased overseas or through online marketplaces. Some products claiming 4G compatibility may not actually work on Australian networks, creating a false sense of security for users.

To address these concerns, consumer advocates are calling for swift and decisive action from regulatory bodies. ACCAN is urging the Therapeutic Goods Administration to require medical device manufacturers and their agents to alert consumers about the impending changes and to implement penalties for non-compliance. They are also calling on the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA) to inform medical practitioners about the changes so they can manage patient care appropriately.

The telecommunications industry is also taking steps to mitigate the impact. Both Telstra and Optus have provided thousands of free or subsidised handsets to disadvantaged customers and are developing contingency plans for those who may be cut off when the networks shut down. However, industry executives admit that despite their best efforts, up to 150,000 phone users could still lose service when 3G goes dark.

The Australian government and industry stakeholders have been working to reduce the number of devices that are not compatible with 4G for emergency calls. This includes addressing the issue of phones that use 4G for regular calls and texts but rely on 3G for emergency calls due to a lack of Voice over LTE (VoLTE) capability.

As the deadline approaches, experts are advising all users of medical devices and health-related technology to take immediate action:

  1. Contact your device manufacturer or healthcare provider to determine if your device will be affected by the 3G shutdown.
  2. If your device is at risk, inquire about upgrade options or alternative solutions.
  3. For mobile phones, text “3” to 3498 to check if your device is 3G-dependent.
  4. Be cautious about using medical devices purchased overseas or online, as they may not meet Australian network requirements.
  5. Stay informed about updates from your telecommunications provider regarding the 3G shutdown.

The impending 3G network closure represents a critical juncture for healthcare technology in Australia. As we move towards more advanced and efficient networks, it is imperative that no patient is left behind. The coming months will be crucial for healthcare providers, device manufacturers, and telecommunications companies to work together to ensure a smooth transition that prioritizes patient safety and continuity of care.

With the clock ticking, the race is on to upgrade, replace, or find alternatives for the hundreds of thousands of medical devices that have silently relied on 3G technology. The success of this transition will be measured not in network speeds or technological advancements, but in the uninterrupted care and safety of those who depend on these life-saving devices every day.

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Microsoft’s Copilot AI: Revolutionizing Windows 11 and the Future of Personal Computing

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In a groundbreaking move, Microsoft has officially launched its Copilot AI assistant for Windows 11, marking a significant milestone in the integration of artificial intelligence into everyday computing. This development represents a major shift in how users interact with their personal computers, potentially transforming productivity and user experience across millions of devices worldwide.

Copilot, which is now available directly from the Windows 11 taskbar, is designed to be a versatile and intelligent assistant that can help users with a wide range of tasks. From summarizing documents to generating images and answering complex questions, Copilot aims to make every user a power user by simplifying complex tasks and enhancing productivity.

The integration of Copilot into Windows 11 is not just an incremental update but a fundamental reimagining of how users interact with their operating system. According to Panos Panay, Microsoft’s head of Windows and devices, “Copilot makes every user a power user, helping you take action, customize your settings, and seamlessly connect across your favorite apps.” This statement underscores Microsoft’s vision of AI as an integral part of the computing experience, rather than just an add-on feature.

One of the most significant aspects of Copilot is its ability to operate across all apps and programs. Unlike previous AI assistants that were limited to specific applications, Copilot maintains a consistent presence through a sidebar that remains accessible regardless of what the user is doing. This ubiquity allows for seamless integration of AI assistance into virtually any task a user might be performing on their computer.

The capabilities of Copilot extend far beyond simple queries. Users can ask the AI to adjust system settings, explain complex concepts, or even assist with creative tasks like writing or image generation. This versatility is powered by the same technology that drives Bing Chat and ChatGPT, leveraging the advanced language models developed by OpenAI.

Moreover, Microsoft is opening up Copilot to third-party developers, allowing them to extend the functionality of the AI assistant through plugins. This move could potentially create a rich ecosystem of AI-powered tools and services, further enhancing the utility of Copilot for users across various domains.

The introduction of Copilot represents a significant step forward in Microsoft’s AI strategy. The company has been increasingly focused on integrating AI into its products, with CEO Satya Nadella emphasizing AI as a core part of Microsoft’s future. This aligns with broader industry trends, as noted by the National Artificial Intelligence Initiative, which highlights the growing importance of AI in driving innovation and economic growth.

However, the integration of such powerful AI capabilities into a widely used operating system also raises important questions about privacy, data security, and the potential for AI to influence user behavior. Microsoft has stated that it is committed to responsible AI development, but as with any new technology, there will likely be ongoing discussions about the ethical implications of AI assistants like Copilot.

From a user perspective, the introduction of Copilot could significantly change how people interact with their computers. Tasks that once required multiple steps or specialized knowledge might now be accomplished with a simple natural language request to the AI assistant. This could potentially democratize access to advanced computing capabilities, making complex tasks more accessible to a broader range of users.

The impact of Copilot is likely to be felt across various sectors. In education, for instance, students might use the AI to help with research or to explain difficult concepts. In business, professionals could leverage Copilot to streamline workflows and enhance productivity. Even in creative fields, the AI could serve as a brainstorming partner or assist with tasks like image editing or content creation.

It’s worth noting that Microsoft is not alone in this AI race. Other tech giants like Google and Apple are also investing heavily in AI technologies, each with their own approaches to integrating AI into their products and services. This competition is likely to drive further innovation in the field, potentially leading to even more advanced AI assistants in the future.

As Copilot rolls out to Windows 11 users, it will be interesting to observe how people adapt to and utilize this new AI assistant. Will it become an indispensable tool for productivity, or will users find it to be more of a novelty? The answer to this question could have significant implications for the future direction of personal computing and AI integration.

In conclusion, the launch of Microsoft’s Copilot AI assistant for Windows 11 marks a significant milestone in the evolution of personal computing. By bringing advanced AI capabilities directly into the operating system, Microsoft is betting on a future where AI is an integral part of how we interact with our devices. As this technology continues to evolve and mature, it has the potential to reshape not just how we use our computers, but how we work, create, and solve problems in the digital age.

The journey of AI integration into our daily computing lives is just beginning, and Copilot represents a bold step forward. As we move into this new era, it will be crucial to balance the incredible potential of AI with thoughtful consideration of its impacts on society, privacy, and human agency. The success of Copilot and similar AI assistants will ultimately be measured not just by their technical capabilities, but by how effectively they enhance and empower human creativity and productivity.

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Apple’s Vision Pro: A New Frontier for Developers in Spatial Computing

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Apple has taken a significant step towards the launch of its highly anticipated Vision Pro headset by releasing the visionOS software development kit (SDK) to developers. This move marks a crucial phase in the evolution of spatial computing, offering developers the tools to create innovative applications for the mixed reality platform.

The Vision Pro, announced at Apple’s Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) in June, represents the company’s bold entry into the rapidly growing augmented and mixed reality market. With the release of the visionOS SDK, Apple is inviting developers to explore the possibilities of this new computing paradigm, potentially revolutionizing how we interact with digital content in our physical spaces.

A New Era of App Development

The visionOS SDK provides developers with a comprehensive set of tools and frameworks to build apps specifically for the Vision Pro. This includes access to key features such as hand and eye tracking, spatial audio, and the ability to create immersive 3D environments. The SDK is designed to work seamlessly with existing Apple development tools like Xcode, making it easier for iOS and macOS developers to transition to this new platform.

One of the most exciting aspects of the SDK is its support for SwiftUI, Apple’s modern UI framework. This allows developers to create user interfaces that can adapt to the unique spatial environment of the Vision Pro. The Digital Crown, a familiar input method from the Apple Watch, has been reimagined for the Vision Pro, offering precise control in three-dimensional space.

Bridging the Physical and Digital Worlds

The Vision Pro’s mixed reality capabilities open up new possibilities for app experiences that blend digital content with the real world. Developers can create apps that place virtual objects in the user’s physical environment, allowing for intuitive interactions and novel use cases across various industries.

For instance, in the field of education, apps could provide immersive learning experiences, allowing students to explore historical sites or complex scientific concepts in 3D. In healthcare, medical professionals could use Vision Pro apps for advanced visualization of patient data or surgical planning.

Challenges and Opportunities

While the release of the SDK is a significant milestone, developers face several challenges in creating compelling experiences for the Vision Pro. The unique interface paradigms of spatial computing require rethinking traditional app design principles. Developers must consider factors such as user comfort, spatial awareness, and the integration of virtual elements with the physical world.

Moreover, the high-end positioning and expected price point of the Vision Pro may initially limit its user base. Developers will need to carefully consider their target audience and the potential return on investment when deciding to develop for this platform.

Industry Impact and Future Prospects

The introduction of the Vision Pro and visionOS could have far-reaching implications for various industries. In the business sector, spatial computing applications could transform remote collaboration, data visualization, and product design processes. The entertainment industry might see new forms of immersive content creation and consumption.

As 5G networks continue to expand, the potential for cloud-based spatial computing experiences grows, potentially allowing for more powerful and responsive applications on the Vision Pro.

Developer Resources and Support

To support developers in this new endeavor, Apple has provided extensive documentation, sample code, and design guidelines through its developer portal. The company is also offering developer labs and one-on-one consultations to assist in app creation and optimization for the Vision Pro.

Additionally, Apple has announced that existing iOS and iPadOS apps will be compatible with the Vision Pro, running in a 2D window within the spatial environment. This compatibility ensures a rich ecosystem of apps will be available at launch, while encouraging developers to create native visionOS experiences.

The Road Ahead

As developers begin to explore the capabilities of the visionOS SDK, the coming months will be crucial in shaping the app ecosystem for the Vision Pro. The success of the platform will largely depend on the creativity and innovation of the developer community in creating compelling spatial computing experiences.

The Vision Pro is set to launch in early 2024, giving developers several months to prepare their apps for the new platform. This timeline aligns with Apple’s typical product release cycle and allows for thorough testing and refinement of both the hardware and software.

Conclusion

The release of the visionOS SDK marks a significant milestone in the development of spatial computing. As developers begin to explore the possibilities of this new platform, we can expect to see innovative applications that challenge our current understanding of human-computer interaction.

While challenges remain, the potential for transformative experiences across various industries is immense. As we approach the launch of the Vision Pro, the tech world will be watching closely to see how this bold venture into mixed reality shapes the future of computing.

The coming months will be critical in determining whether Apple’s vision for spatial computing resonates with developers and consumers alike. As the lines between our physical and digital worlds continue to blur, the Vision Pro and visionOS may well be at the forefront of this technological revolution.

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