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IFA 2019 - new Nokia phones, a weird dual screen LG phone and fresh Sonos gear

IFA 2019 kicked off in Berlin today. Nokia released the 6.2 and 7.2 smartphones, both running Android One and packing nice specs for the money. They also announced a new retro phone, bringing the 2720 flip phone back to life running KaiOS. LG has a dual screen phone called the G8X ThinQ, which seems to be a bit of a dud. Sonos announced the One SL to replace the Play:1. It's basically the One without a mic and the assistant features for less cash. There's also the Sonos Port, a box you plug into an amp so you can use your existing speakers with a Sonos setup and the Sonos Move - a portable Bluetooth speaker. Perfect for your upcoming spring and summer backyard adventures.

YouTube overhauls how it monetises kids videos after US$170m fine

YouTube was fined US$170m for violating children's privacy laws by the US Federal Trade Commission yesterday. It's a pissweak fine that's pocket change for Google, but the fine was delivered with strict conditions that could be a big change for how YouTube does business. Creators will need to specifically tag videos as for kids if it wants those videos shown to kids. Those videos will not have comments, nor notifications. YouTube also won't collect data from viewers of these videos and won't show personalised ads against videos made for kids. Creators are a bit shitty about it, as it means they'll make less money because the ads will be lower value, generic ads rather than the "highly targeted" ads normally served up.

You can now find a root on Facebook (or love, whatever you want)

Facebook's launched a dating section of their behemoth social network. "The new service, Facebook Dating, can be accessed in the Facebook app but requires users to create a separate dating-specific profile. It then links users with potential matches based on location, indicated preferences, events attended, groups, and other factors. Facebook Dating will integrate with Instagram and offer a feature called Secret Crush, which allows users to compile a list of friends they have an interest in, to be matched with if the crush lists them as well". I've been out of the dating game for a long time, but who would want to entrust this part of their life to Facebook, of all companies? Good luck lonely hearts.


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😁 The Sizzle is curated by Anthony "@decryption" Agius and emailed every weekday afternoon. Join us on Slack and chat with other Sizzle subscribers.

The Sizzle is created on Wathaurong land and acknowledges the traditional owners of country throughout Australia, recognising their continuing connection to land, water and community. I pay my respect to them and their cultures and to elders both past and present.​