BREAKING NEWS: Holiday Spirit Missing in 2020?!

Most Emporia State University students and employees have headed out for a well-earned break following the Fall 2020 semester. But, the missing holiday spirit is particularly troubling on this cold December day. We are hearing, unofficially, that the holiday spirit may arrive later than expected this year.

Find out more from our globetrotting international anchors! 

Thank you to all of our readers and viewers. We strive to keep you informed (and maybe even a little entertained at times). 

Have a wonderful and safe winter break and we look forward to even greater things in 2021!

- With ♥ from the Web and Digital Strategies team

Holiday Season, Holiday Scams

The holiday shopping season is here once more and that means the online scammers are out in full force threatening to be the coal in your proverbial stocking.  Here are a few things to look out for:

• We’ve been alerted that users are being targeted by phone calls—allegedly from companies like Apple or Amazon.  The automated caller may tell you there is a problem with a package or your account.  They will then direct you to either "press 1" or call another phone number to "resolve the problem".  This is a scam to get personal information from you.  Do not "press 1" or return the phone call.  If you suspect there may be a problem with Apple account or an Amazon purchase contact those service providers from their company web pages.

• Watch out for holiday shopping deals that are sent via email or text.  Never click on links in email unless you recognize the sender.  If you're shopping online, stick to places that you've purchased from previously or are reputable.

• Never, ever give out your social security number to retailers.  If you're asked for personal information in order to complete a purchase--walk away.

• Buy with credit cards--or better yet use services like PayPal and Apple Pay.  These provide an extra layer of protection when shopping online.  Avoid using debit cards, if possible.  Credit cards tend to have better fraud protection.

• Start the holiday season by making sure your computer, tablet, smartphone and any other Internet-connected devices are up to date with the latest software and that you're using strong passwords with all of your accounts.

• If you donate to charitable organizations, use extra caution this year.  Scammers are taking advantage of COVID-19 to send out fake charitable requests, often by email or text.  These can be indistinguishable from legitimate organizations--even using the appropriate charity's logo.  Unfortunately, these scammers don't just take your money, they also steal your identity, banking info, and SSN.  If you want to donate, visit the charity's website yourself--don't click on an email or text message.

Brian Osbourn
Director

Web and Digital Strategies

2020 Holiday Tech Gift Guide

The holidays are here, and if you are wondering what gifts to get this year, we have come up with an easy list for you! Now, it's time to bring out the wallets and begin the splurge.

GAMING

1. 
   Xbox Series X / S
   
   A new generation has begun. It's been 7 years since the last generation of Xbox (Xbox One). This time Microsoft takes a special approach, releasing two separate consoles right out of the gate. The Xbox Series X ($499) and Xbox Series S ($299).
   
   
   
2. 
   Sony PS5 / PS5 Digital
   
   Just like the Xbox, Sony has released two PS5 versions, with a much different approach The PS5 Digital edition ($399) and the PS5 with a Blu-Ray optical drive ($499).
   
   
   
3. 
   Nintendo Switch.
   
   If you're into gaming, but want to tap into the Nintendo world, the  Switch is a great option for you and the family. Enabling you to play tons of quirky, yet interesting games and numerous 21st century renditions of classics!

MOBILE

1. iPhone 12 / 12 Pro Max
   
   
   The holiday season is always a great time to get a new iPhone. This year, we're recommending the iPhone 12 ($799), and if you want to splurge a little extra, the iPhone 12 Pro Max ($1,099). Now using the latest chips, enabled with 5G, updated cameras, and improved screens.
   
   
   
2. Apple Watch SE / Series 6
   
   
   
   
   Looking for a smart watch? Or even 'the future of health on your wrist'? Well you're in luck! Starting at $279 the Apple Watch SE is the best bang for your buck. But if you were feeling extra colorful and wanted to indulge in the new Atlantic Blue or Product Red then the Series 6 is better suited for you (starting at $399)

COMPUTE

1. 
   Apple MacBook AIR / PRO
   
   Are you looking for the fastest, greatest, least expensive, most portable laptop? The MacBook Air with M1 is your best bet, and far surpasses the competition. For $899 (after the education discount), it makes you wonder why you would even consider the new AirPods Max for $600.
   
   Now, if you feel the need to have more battery life and an active cooling system, then for $300 more the MacBook Pro 13" with M1 ($1,199) should get you fully sorted.
   
   
   
   
   
   
2. 
   Apple iPad AIR
   
   We are big proponents for the tablet revolution, whether it be for school, work, creativity or even entertainment. The iPad Air ($599) is a great entry point in 2020.
   

AUDIO

1. 
   Apple AirPods Pro
   
   To tag along with all your new devices, you have to have new earphones. Our favorite pick are the AirPods Pro ($250) from last year. We covered this in our list last year, and the technology remains the same!
   

CAMERA

1. DJI Pocket 2
   
   
   
   If the camera on your new iPhone and iPad aren't cutting it for you; seriously, what are you doing? Then the new DJI Pocket 2 ($349) is the perfect small pocketable camera for you. With motorized active stabilization, 4K/60 fps, HDR enabled, Stereo Audio Recordings and a wide variety of additional accessories for that Holywood like cinematic shots.

Theo Belmonte + Saandhyarag Sasidhar

Web and Digital Strategies

IT After Hours: True Next Generation Gaming with the PlayStation 5

If you are currently trying to buy a Next-Gen console right in time for the holidays, GOOD LUCK!
Trust me, you'll need it.

This is all thanks to the ordeal of pre-ordering, which has been an absolute nightmare. Add on the issues of scheduled deliveries gone missing, and you're set to have a truly immersive Next-Gen frustration. But, sooner or later you too shall receive the all new latest and greatest in the console world. (Exact dates not clear)

PS5 (barely) in a cabinet

In the meanwhile, let's quickly glance over this behemoth of a machine! It's quite big in size (15.4 in x 10.24 in x 4.09 in to be exact). Good luck fitting it into your cabinet! Sony clearly wanted it to be a bold statement piece in the room.

There are TWO PS5 versions (PS5 Digital $399 | PS5 $499). The only difference being the Digital version has no Blu-Ray optical drive, making it aesthetically more symmetrical and a $100 cheaper. Besides that the guts, storage and every other hardware component is the exact same. 

Microsoft seems to have taken a much different approach with their Next-Gen Consoles.

The PS5 supports a base resolution of 4K 120 FPS (variable), and has the option for 8K 60 FPS compatibility (future update). It supports HDR 10, a whole new way of hearing in game sounds with 3D Audio, and Ray Tracing rendering support for more life-like and realistic graphics. 

The DualSense controller has been reimagined from the ground up, and when you play Sony's Astro Play Room game/demo you truly feel the Haptic Feedback and Adaptive Triggers fully immerse you into the virtual world you're in. More games will start tapping into these offerings soon.

In simple speak, it'll look, sound and feel like true Next-Gen gaming. Although you don't need to upgrade your TV, in order to experience true Next-Gen be sure your TV has 4K HDR. The PS5 ships with an HDMI 2.1 cable, so you won't need any new cables.

The custom created SSD can transfer data at lightning speeds of 5.5GB/sec. It is worth knowing that out of the box only 675GB of useable space is available. Users will be able to upgrade it through an NVME slot later and we should be receiving more options relatively soon.

Sony has built upon the PS4 user interface, but has redesigned it to be easier to navigate and more user friendly. The PS5 can also act as your entertainment center by playing your favorite movies, shows and music.

If you're ever planning on playing online, you will need to get PSN+ ($60/year). One of the added benefits being, you receive complimentary PS4 games to play, but compared to Microsoft Game Pass it's nowhere close in terms of games and feels like more of an after thought from Sony.

It is worth noting that the current PS5 game catalog is significantly sparse. It also has limited backwards compatibility and not many games tap into its numerous Next-Gen features.

However, in the coming years you will be seeing an uptick in games that tap into all the offerings of a PS5.

If you really think about it, gaming consoles are a great value proposition. For around $500, you get 7+ years of fully supported gaming before having to upgrade.

Now that I've convinced you to get one, GOOD LUCK! We don't know when the next drop is, but you can keep track of stock across all online retailers here.

Saandhyarag Sasidhar
Web and Media Specialist
Web and Digital Strategies

IT After Hours: A New Generation of Xbox

 

A new generation has begun. It's been 7 years since the Xbox One, the last generation of Xbox, hit the market. Microsoft takes a special approach to this generation though, releasing two separate consoles right out of the gate. Let's dig into the details.

Xbox Series S

The cheaper of the two, the Series S, features a lower price point at the cost of lower specs. Priced at $299, the series S is the more budget friendly option. 

The smaller size of the Series S is appealing to a lot of gamers as well, as it easily fits into any cabinet. The slimmer, shorter, and lighter Series S weighs a mere 4.25 pounds.

As we continually move towards a fully digital future, the Series S axes the optical disc drive. Now this can be beneficial in terms of saving space and money, and digital games are widely available. However with the limited storage out of the box you will need to upgrade, and the 1TB Seagate storage expansion costs a whopping $220. Making the overall cost a lot closer to the bigger sister the Series X.

If you are planning on having multiple gaming consoles, this is definitely a great way to dip your toes into the Xbox world. 

Xbox Series X

The better performing and bigger console, the Series X, comes in at $499. It outperforms the Series S in multiple categories, so you get what you pay for.

The biggest improvement of the new generation is the load times. Review after review shows that the load times between the home screen and the game menu is exponentially quicker than the Xbox One. There's also a pretty neat feature called 'Quick Resume' that comes in handy when you want to switch between games.

Another improved feature is the noise level of the console. Though the Xbox One has been reputably loud, the fan and cooling system of the Series X is near silent. It’s difficult to judge the dust build-up's impact on the noise and fans in just a few weeks since its release, but there hasn't been any immediate causes for concern (except for the fake smoke fiasco).

Microsoft has stuck to the tried, tested and true Xbox controllers and have very slightly changed the controllers. Along with the addition of features like Smart Delivery for Games, 3D Spatial Audio, and Enhanced Backwards Compatibility for Xbox One, 360 and Original games.

Another great addition to the lineup has been the release of Microsoft Game Pass for $14.99/month. This gives you the benefits of Xbox Live Gold, along with access to 100+ games from day one, with new titles being added regularly, and EA Play tacked on.

Overall, the Xbox Series X outperforms the Series S, but at a higher up front cost. Our recommendation is to always get the latest and the greatest, if you're trying to get your order in, good luck! Here's a tracker tool that we've used in securing the console.

Tyler Parker + Saandhyarag Sasidhar

Web & Digital Strategies

New Macs + Apple Silicon: The Highlights

This week, Apple introduced their first Macs with Apple Silicon, or processors, fully designed by Apple.  The chip, called M1, builds from the technology already included in iPads, iPhones, and Apple TV's.  This marks the third time that Apple has switched architectures in the Mac, moving away from the original Motorola chips, then the  PowerPC switch in 2005, and now what is expected to be a two-year transition period away from Intel processors.  The change promises to provide faster performance, longer battery life, and less expensive devices.  Announcing earlier this year that the first Apple Silicon-powered Mac would ship in 2020, the California-based company delivered threefold with a MacBook Air, a MacBook Pro, and a Mac Mini at the Mac-focused event on November 10.  All are shipping within a week.

While we've not yet tested the new devices, we can highlight the following takeaways provided by Apple.

• Software will need to be modified to work natively on the new M1 chip.  Apple has built in the ability for software designed for the Intel-based Macs to run on these new M1-based Macs using a translation layer--think of this as two people speaking two different languages using a translator.  The expectation is that software would run slower using this process, but it should run.  Of course, at ESU, all software will need to be tested.  Developers will have the ability to include the necessary code to run on both platforms by providing a single universal app.  While Apple had converted their catalog of software to the new format in time for the Mac event, we've now started to see mainstays in the Mac software community begin to announce their plans in short order including Microsoft, Adobe and Affinity.
• For those running Windows on their Mac, the new M1 Macs do not support it any longer.
• You'll now be able to run iOS or iPadOS apps on a Mac!
• The MacBook Air and the MacBook Pro 13" do not support more than one external monitor.
• There are 13" versions of the Intel-based MacBook Pro available to purchase (although at a premium, and why would you?).  The MacBook Air is now only available with the M1 chip.
• Given the two-year timeline, Apple Silicon-powered versions of the iMac and others are most likely to appear within that time period.  Keep that in mind if you were considering replacing a current iMac.
• Apple will continue to provide software and OS updates to the Intel Macs going forward.

 

On November 12, Apple released the new version of MacOS called Big Sur.  In addition to being a new version of the operating system, it is also the first to move beyond MacOS X and is now MacOS 11.  We'll be covering Big Sur in a future post.

8 New iOS Features You May Not Know About

Apple’s new iOS 14 and iPadOS 14 are here! Among the many new features included are widgets on the home screen, apps rearrangement, privacy improvements, and much more! Today we are reviewing 8 of the coolest features you might not know about. iOS 14 is available on the iPhone 6s and newer iPhone. We will also review the new iPhones announced on November 13. The new iOS features may improve your experience using your iPhone or iPad--and if you're considering the Apple ecosystem, this is just a sampling of the innovation and ease of use that is available in the most recent releases.


The Safari Privacy Report

One of the new hidden features in iOS 14 includes the Safari Privacy Report. Safari now allows you to see the percentage of websites that contacted trackers, as well as the trackers prevented from following you. To see your privacy report, simply click on the “AA” in the left part of the address bar within Safari.


You can now choose your default email or web browser

We’ve all been annoyed when we can’t use Gmail or Outlook, as our default mail client or even Chrome as our default web Browser. But that limitation comes to an end in iOS 14 as it is now possible to set any browser app you want as your default browser. Similarly, you can set a default email client.

In order to enable this feature, go to the setting app of your iPhone and then scroll down to the app you want to enable as your default web browser/mail and then simply just click on “default app” to choose your favorite app.



Watch videos in “Picture in Picture” mode

When watching a video from your iPhone or iPad, it is now possible to leave the safari app and use your other features of your iPhone like answering your DMs or checking your email and the video will still be playing from the corner of your device.

Unfortunately, this feature is not available for the YouTube app yet, however, this feature is available when watching YouTube from Safari or Chrome.



Tap the back of your phone to enable cool stuff

In order to enable this cool new feature, go to the Setting app>Accessibility>Touch>Back Tap.
For example, you can now take a screenshot or shazam a song you hear by double-tapping the back of your phone.



Lock an App

If you have some apps that contains private information and you don’t want anyone to be able to go on those apps when they borrow your phone, it is now possible to lock some apps on iPhone.

To enable these new features, go to the setting app>screen time>Use screen time passcode (create your passcode that will be used to unlock the applications) then Click on apps limits>Edit list.



The orange and green indicators

Are you scared that face camera is recording you? Well, you don’t need to be scared anymore; a small orange dot next to the battery indicator will appear if your microphone is active, while a green dot will appear if your camera is in use.



Mirror selfies

I don’t know about you, but I used to hate when I took a selfie with my iPhone and the selfie just doesn’t look right because the camera is inverted. But this is not a problem anymore with the mirror selfies! The result is just so much better. Go ahead, try it out!

In order to enable this feature, go to Settings > Camera and turn on Mirror Front Camera.



Stack your widgets

Everyone knows about the new widgets in iOS 14, but did you know you could stack them? To enable this feature, hold your screen and simply drag one widget into another one.

iPad for College?

Choosing a device for college is a big decision, but is there a device being overlooked for the running?

Taking a dive into what it would be like for students or faculty to use an iPad in the college classroom was something that our team was curious about. We have found that Apple's iPad has made some major improvements over the years on capabilities offered and applications to use. Looking deeper into what the new iPad's are offering, we wanted to see if it would be able to meet the needs of day to day college life. 

    Whether it be checking/grading assignments, emailing a colleague or student back, holding a virtual meeting, or presenting power points. We have a handful of the biggest features we found to make having an iPad in college, seem a little more achievable.

Specs 

    The options with the iPad have a lot of different variables that go into play when considering what is needed from the iPad when you are looking at needs. The two anyone should look for would be between the iPad Pro 4th generation or the iPad Air 4th generation.  Both offer just Wi-Fi or Wi-Fi and Cellular capabilities, cellular would more than likely make the monthly phone bill rise. With teaching/learning from home, the cellular might be an addition that would aid with Wi-Fi that could have had issues in the past when trying to connect. The iPad Air comes in 3 additional color choices, Rose Gold, Green, and Sky Blue. 

    The iPad Pro comes in either 11 or 13-inch liquid retina display with Pro-motion technology and true tone. Displays while the Air only has options for the 11-inch liquid retina display. Both models are compatible with magic keyboards or smart keyboard folio, as well as the 2nd generation of Apple Pencils. The keyboard would specifically come in handy if you prefer typing on a physical keyboard rather than the display. Storage size varies with the iPad Pro being able to go up to 1 terabyte of storage and the iPad Air having a max capacity of 256 gigabytes. iPad Pro comes in with the double lensed camera with a 12 megapixel and 10-megapixel ultra-wide camera, and the iPad Air has a 12-megapixel wide camera. 

   

    The differences between the two models do not stray away from the same makeup, the iPad Pro having more camera/speaker options, brighter true tone flash, and promotion technology. The specs show that you can't really go wrong with either model, it just comes down to what size and what capabilities will you need. 

Taking it to the Classroom

    Incorporating your new device into the classroom/work setting, knowing what is compatible, what could aid you more, and what the deciding factor is on the decision you have to make. A lot of the needed software or applications that Emporia State uses are able to be downloaded in the app store. If you prefer to use web-based sites rather than the application, adding a shortcut of the website to your home screen is also an option. 

    A lot of the applications or software that students use are also used by faculty. Faculty, the software, or applications you use specifically for the college also have options for those. 

    Some of the apps that are compatible with both models are:

•   Some of the apps that are compatible with both models are:
  
• All Google Suite applications
• Google Drive, Slides, Sheets, Docs, etc. 
• Hornet 365
• Although this is not an application, you can create a shortcut tile for your home screen to take you directly to the website. 
• Canvas
• Input/check grades, respond to student messages, upload lectures, etc.
• Adobe Creative Cloud
• Photoshop, Acrobat, Illustrator, Lightroom, etc.
• Microsoft Office
• Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint, Publisher, Word, etc
• LinkedIn
• Stay connected with students, faculty, or employees promptly and professionally.
• Quizlet
• Creating or reviewing study guides, having review sessions

  Note Taking

    Taking notes is something a lot of college professionals and students have preferences on which way they take notes. Apple has provided different options for users to be able to take notes the way they want to, whether it be written or typed, you have the option for both on either model. The iPad Pro got a new capability to split-screen, and allow you to have more than one app or tab open at once, being able to keep lectures and notes open at the same time. Apple Pencils changed the game when they released the second generation of pencils. Within your notes app or an app of your choice, you can use the pencil to write, highlight, bold, relocate, and much more with your text. The pencil gives you quick options to switch from which type of writing utensil you would want to be used with the click of its side button. 

        Two of the apps that we have seen recommended by students multiple times are Notability and Good Notes. Both of these applications require a purchase to download but come at a very minimal price. Notability is $8 to obtain while Good Notes is $10, if you think about it, that is two Starbucks drinks from the Union to be able to take notes you love in your courses! Notability allows you to download notes, slides, and PDF's to interact and personalize to your preferences. Notability is also compatible across all Apple products as well, allowing you to be able to pick up where you left off on any of your devices.

    Good Notes allows you to import lectures, PDF's, or notes and make them your own separate documents. A cool feature about good notes is being able to copy or scan diagrams within your notes, and being able to pull the graphics from the notes you downloaded or scanned. This could come in handy when wanting to put a diagram in your lecture or pull a graphic from a PowerPoint. These features will all enable you to take the notes that you want to take and make them fit best for your study habits. 

Keyboard

    If you are a person that would prefer to type their notes out rather than write them, you are not alone. Some students have an easier time typing their notes and getting everything the professor is saying. Apple has updated its Apple Keyboard for the release of their new iPad Pro series. With the new features, they added and the thinness of the keyboard while still on the iPad is a good reason to consider for school. It is not as inexpensive to be able to compare it to purchasing a Starbucks drink, more rather an actual piece of technology. The cost of the Apple Keyboard is not an underwhelming cost but just a preferred choice of $200. 

The conclusion we can draw from the searching and research we found would prove that iPads are very capable of being used for college loads. Whether it be for textbook usage, editing, and personalizing your notes, or just finding what you need to be a productive and efficient student in your classes.

As always, thank you for reading and any questions or concerns can be answered by contacting the IT Help Desk.

Stay healthy Hornets!

Dakota Taylor
Social Media Student Assistant
Web & Digital Strategies

 

Never Click and Tell #CyberSecurity

Limiting the information you online could protect you and your privacy.

Phishing, cybercriminals, location services, and more are elements to be concerned with when it comes to cybersecurity.  What are you doing to protect yourself?

 

Many people do not realize that random details, numbers, or even symbols are the only things cybercriminals need to know to target you for an attack. If you become the target of a malicious actor, it may not be totally online as many digital attacks also manifest against you or your family in the physical world. Today, we are going to go over a few of the warning signs you should be looking for and possible precautions you could take to keep yourself safe. 

 

 

Location Services

    Having your location is an easy way for cybercriminals to use that information against you. This can manifest as tagging your home on Facebook, having your location turned on within an application like Snapchat or dating apps, or applications geotagging your posts without your permission. Turning your location services off on your devices or switching to "Allow Only While Using" is the smart and safest option to limit what is disclosed about your location.

 

Passwords

    Awareness about what you post and the discretion used in posting could save you quite the headache if your account gets compromised. Seemingly innocent social media posts about the first dog you had when you were 12 or the street name you lived on as a child—and all common answers to security challenge questions--are an often overlooked pitfall that would allow a hacker to gain access to your password. Make sure your password includes capital letters, numbers, and at least 2 symbols. Most services will require specific elements when you set your password, but if not, it’s up to you to be cybersmart when choosing your password.

 

 

Careful What You Click

    Receiving emails or messages online that you don’t immediately recognize as coming from a trusted and expected source that request you divulge information are usually attempts at maliciously acquiring your personal data. These messages could compromise your online integrity or download viruses to your device to obtain your information in more automated ways. Avoid clicking a link or navigating to a website if it is coming from an individual you do not know or an email address you have not sent or received from previously. 

 

 

Protection in the Real World

    Not “clicking and telling” should be used in the same reference as in-person interactions. Protecting your passwords or security question answers in person is just as important in the real word as it is online.  Avoid verbally sharing personal information or account credentials to protect you both in person and online. 

 

There are many ways hackers or cybercriminals can obtain your information through your internet presence. Creating an environment to protect yourself could save you a lot of time and a lot of worries. And your actions could not only impact you, but your friends, family, and employer as well.

 

As always if there are any questions, comments, or concerns please feel free to reach out to the IT Help Desk or Information Security.

 

Stay healthy Hornets!

 

Dakota Taylor
Social Media Student Assistant
Web & Digital Strategies

Apple WatchOS 7

The new iOS 14 was released for Apple products, swiftly following behind it was the WatchOS 7 updates for Apple Watches

 This update has some of the most intricate and detail-oriented features I have seen come for a watch update. This update will be applicable to series 3, 4, 5, SE, and 6. Let's dive into some of the elaborate features WatchOS 7 has to offer!

It seems like Apple came into the briefing room with family, safety, convenience, and customization in mind when they were bringing ideas to the table. Adding a new feature called "Family Setup", allowing you to pair your child, parent, or any family member's watch to your iPhone. Adding the Memoji feature to be used on their watch, used as stickers, or making a custom watch face to add some ease of access.

Fitness

    Fitness was a big focus on this update for Apple Watches, now allowing you to customize all of your Activity goals. Adding in stand hours and exercise minutes rather than calories to get a better goal for you to accomplish your rings successfully. Apple has also reengineered its Active Health for kids, turning the active calories into Move Minutes, being able to calculate metrics for distance and pace more suitable for a child. The family feature also added in setting your child's usage time of their watch, setting when they're in school, need to be asleep, or limit the features usable on their watch. Sharing your location through the Find My Friends app has been slowly increasing by the popular demand of parents or family members. You are not able to get notifications on when someone gets to their destination, or notification if someone is not where they are supposed to be

Family First

    Apple Pay was another addition Apple decided to throw into the watch features, giving you the option to send money through your watch more easily. Features like fall detection and emergency SOS is a safety feature Apple brought in that I think will be very helpful with the idea of "family safety". Asking the user if they would like to call emergency services when they might have taken a fall, keeping them safe when you might not be able to be there. 

Watch Faces

    Customization on the watches interface is something that Apple has been improving every year since the watch has come out. Now giving you the option to create your own watch face from scratch, adding in any minor details you might want to see on your watch. Acknowledging that only having one app on the watches face could cause complications, but calling them "powerful new complications" as something new to learn but enjoy. Being able to have quick tasks like sending a text, changing a song during a workout, or just a quick glance to see your families smiling faces with the time. Sending custom watch faces to a friend or family member is a feature that I was a bit surprised by. If customization of your watch was not enough, you can now customize other people's watches for them!

Sleep App

    The Sleep app is a new feature that came along with the update filled with an insane amount of additional features to utilize. Adding in Sleep Mode as one of the features for users, scheduling when Do Not Disturb turns on or off, providing a sleep chart for the night or for the week. Setting reminders for yourself on when you need to start winding down, and a more welcoming good morning than your average jolting, alarming sound.

Hand Washing

    It is no surprise that washing your hands while we are in a pandemic has become more important than ever. Apple, being an advocate for healthy lifestyles and better practices, created an app to make washing hands more productive. Their new addition of Hand Washing automatically detects when you begin washing, helping you go for the amount of time that is recommended by Global Health Organizations. Using motion sensors and your microphone, a 20-second timer will start when it detects you washing your hands.

These are just some of the few features that come along with the update of WatchOS7! If you want to find out more information about the most recent update, check out Apple's summary! 

As always, thank you for reading and any questions or concerns can be answered by contacting the IT Help Desk.

Stay healthy Hornets!

Dakota Taylor
Social Media Student Assistant
Web & Digital Strategies

Shocking New iOS 14 Features

If you are an Apple Product user like a lot of us here in IT, you would know that the most recent software update of iOS 14 for iPhone and iPad was released yesterday. This update was a long-awaited arrival for some, packing in a lot of new features for users to enjoy. 

Today's writing will be an overview of some of the features that stuck out to us in this packed iOS 14 update! iOS 14 can be used on iPhone 11, 11 Pro, 11 Pro Max, XS, XS Max, XR, X, 8, 8 Plus, 7, 7 Plus, 6S, 6S Plus, SE (2020, 2016), and 7th gen. iPod Touch.

App Library

    The App Libray is a new feature never seen before on Apple products. Putting all of your applications in one easy to use library one swipe over from your usual app pages. Editing your pages of applications is a breeze, whether you like lots of pages or one page of 6 apps, there are finally options for customization. 

Widgets

    Speaking of the home screen, Apple did not fall short of the bar. Being able to add in widgets for your calendar, weather, clock, stocks, and many more. Although they did not add customizations for third party applications, I imagine that there will be updates to come that added those options.

        (Batteries, calendar, clock, files, fitness, maps, music, news, notes, photos, podcasts, reminders, screentime, shortcuts, Siri suggestions, stocks, TV, tips, and weather.)

Picture-in-Picture

    In the past, we have had to "pause" when we leave a Facetime call, and have the green icon at the top of the screen. Apple really pulled a wild card on the PiP capability on this update. Bringing the call to a smaller tile on your home screen that allows you to remain on the call, but also be on your phone. This isn't just with Facetime, but several other media playing apps as well.

Translate App

    Google translate was a needed app for some, and Apple not providing that feature was something a lot of people had brought up. Well, ask and you shall receive just like a lot of the new update features, iOS 14 provides an application called Translate. 

    Being designed for 11 different languages that can be used in conversation setting in conversation mode, or in offline mode. Conversation mode allows you to turn your iPhone to landscape orientation. Tapping on the mic icon to begin talking, and automatic language detection transcribes what you are saying in real-time. The translation provides the text on the screen, followed by translated audio. 

This is just a brief overview of the incredible amount of detail that went into the update. Apple listened to their users for this update which is very obvious, thankfully enough we can expect updates with bugfixes, and later improvements expanded within the software.

As always, questions and concerns can be answered by contacting the IT Help Desk.

Stay healthy Hornets!

Dakota Taylor
Social Media Student Assistant
Web & Digital Strategies

Microsoft Teams for ESU

Microsoft Teams is now being rolled out to students of Emporia State to utilize! Teams is a speedy and productive communication tool for students, faculty, and staff to use! We have been going through all of the options that could be a valuable tool to incorporate within the class and office. We will be going through all of the basics of what you need to know, walkthroughs to follow along with, and screen recordings to make things a little easier. 

Downloading and Logging in

The first thing you would need to do is download Teams for your device, whether it be an application on your phone or your personal computer. To download Teams, you would paste “esutechsite.com/teams” in your URL bar at the top of your browser. Click “Get Teams”, you’ll then be taken to a Microsoft page that will detect the appropriate version for your device, then click “Download Now”. Run the installer or follow the prompts for your device.

Now that you have Teams, it’s time to log in. When prompted, enter yourusername@emporia.edu, even if you don’t have an @emporia.edu email account. Yes, use @emporia.edu, even if you don’t have an @emporia.edu email address. In Microsoft Land, it’s just part of your account. And remember you can’t use your @g.emporia.edu address--that's Google services only. And that’s it, you are not all set to begin using Microsoft Teams at ESU.

Creating a Group

Microsoft Teams is a tool for securely chatting, video calling, and collaborating with your group, team, or other students. You can chat with one, two, or as many ESU users as you’d like. But for ESU groups and student organizations, we can set up a special team that has your members preloaded for you. 

This is called a SharePoint Group for students. In addition to maintaining a list of group members, your SharePoint Group will also provide online file storage for hosting any files you share within Teams. To request a SharePoint Group, go to esutechsite.com/teams, and select "Teams for Students". Scroll down to Groups. Click “Request a SharePoint Group for Students”. Only advisors or organizational leadership should make requests.

Once your request is approved by the Center for Student Involvement, you’ll be able to access your new Group by clicking the “Teams” Icon from the left-hand menu bar within the Teams application. Once we’ve set up your Group, you can add or remove membership through the web portal or via the IT Help Desk!

Video Calling

You can do a video call with one, two, or as many ESU students as you’d like. Simply click the “New Chat” icon. Enter the name or username of the user or users you’d like to call.

You can video call an individual or add as many users to your group call as you’d like. With one click, you can start a video call with your entire group! And if you or your users don’t have a webcam, they can still join via audio. With Microsoft Teams, you have on click communication with individuals--however, you prefer to collaborate. 

Sharing Files

Sharing files is easy within Teams, start a new chat or go to an existing one. Or if you are an ESU group or organization, click "Teams" and then go to your group. Now, click the paper clip icon and select the file you’d like to share. Type a message if you’d like, then click the “send” icon. 

That’s it! Now that you have shared the file within anyone in that chat or Group.

To see your previously shared files, click "Files" at the top of the chat window. 

Chat + History

You can chat with any ESU user that you would like, simply click on the “New Chat” icon. Enter the name or username of the user or users you’d like to chat with.

You can chat individually, or add as many ESU users to your chat as you’d like. Now that you have added your users, it’s time to talk! Start typing, send them an emoji, send them a file--whatever you’d like.

And the best part, your chat history is retained from day one. You’ll never have to wonder if you shared that file or remembered to share a message--it’s all there to search or scroll through. We like to say it goes back to the beginning of time--at least the time you started using teams!

The Web Version

Teams is available for Windows, Mac, iPhone, iPad, and Android but it’s also available from your web browser, and here’s how you can get to it. Go to esutechsite.com/teams and click "Login". Enter your username in the form of username@emporia.edu. 

Yes, use @emporia.edu, even if you don’t have an @emporia.edu email address. In Microsoft Land, it’s just part of your account. And remember you can’t use your @g.emporia.edu address--that Google only. Once you’ve entered your username, enter your ESU password. 

And that’s it, the web-based version of Teams will load and you’re all set to begin chatting, calling, and collaborating!

As always if you have any questions regarding anything tech related

Recap of New Services

This has been an exciting week for technology related services at Emporia State University! We've unveiled multiple new services that many of you can take advantage of. Find more information about each of the services below and how you can request more information.

Microsoft Bookings

Microsoft Bookings allows your customers (students, employees, public/guests) to schedule a time with you using a simple, mobile-friendly website.  You define the services, times, and the staff members you will assign with a plethora of different options to choose from.  Bookings will also give users the opportunity to have a unified location for scheduling campus appointments–addressing important usability feedback we receive from students. 

If you would like to meet with us to discuss how Bookings might work for you, please visit our own Bookings site to schedule an appointment. 

You can also learn more by watching our how-to video, IT Only Takes a Minute, Episode 23: Microsoft Bookings, and by reviewing our Bookings section of the Web + Digital Guide in Hornet 365.

Hornet TV+

Hornet TV+ is the latest update that will be coming to digital signage across campus this Fall. This update will host a variety of feature updates. Some of these feature updates include...

1. Motion Posters
2. Campus Channel
3. GO Links
4. Hornet Calendar
5. Showcasing Events

Learn more about all the amazing features we're introducing to Hornet TV+ in our video web series IT Only Takes a Minute!

Ready to get started? Welcome to Hornet TV+

Power Search

One of the challenges we encounter across all of the sites that make up the ESU web presence is that they are not all connected. This is due to a number of reasons--most of which are out of our control. It can often leave you looking for content on one site, when, in fact, it's located on another site. We are taking a step forward by introducing a new feature called Power Search!

This new search engine, using Google technology, will only index sites that we control--giving users one place to search all of ESU's web presence. When you need to search for something, give Power Search a try by browsing to search.emporia.edu

Learn more by checking out our IT Only Takes a Minute video all about Power Search!

Virtual Events

We currently run two different types of virtual events; personal events (less than 30 attendees) and public events (more than 30 attendees + pre-registration + live streaming). We are also exploring a third type of event, hybrid events. If you are unsure about what event may be right for you, we offer an opportunity to meet virtually and discuss the right format for your event.

To learn more about this exciting new format and how you can create your own event head over to the Web + Digital Guide, located in Hornet 365. You can also watch our IT Only Takes a Minute video all about Virtual Events!

Become a Zoom Pro: 7 Features You May Not Know

1) Touch up my appearance

After the recent shift to working and studying from home, it’s fair to say that many of us haven’t been putting as much effort into dressing up as we used to. Luckily, for those who might be a little worried about their appearance, especially for those morning meetings, Zoom has a feature called Touch up my appearance. Touch up my appearance is an instant video filter that provides a natural look by smoothing fine lines and eye bags, allowing you to look your best even if you didn't get a great night's sleep.

To enable this feature, go to Settings and click on the Video tab. From here find the option labeled Touch up my appearance and check the box next to it.

2) Mute and unmute using the spacebar

One of the most overlooked features of Zoom is the ability to mute and unmute yourself by pressing the space bar. This is a very handy feature to know and can be a real time-saver, saving you from having to navigate to the mute button every time you want to mute or unmute yourself.

3) React with an emoji

Have you ever been muted but still want a way to express your opinion to the speaker? Zoom’s built-in emoji reactions can be a great solution allowing you to share your thoughts on the topic while muted.

To react during a meeting, click on the Reaction button at the bottom of the screen and select the emoji you want to use. The emoji will be visible for all participants for 5 seconds before disappearing.

4) Keyboard shortcuts

Want a faster way to navigate through Zoom? Learning some of Zoom’s handy keyboard shortcuts can be a big time-saver, especially for those who use Zoom on a regular basis. From taking a screenshot to switching between speaker and galley view, Zoom has a shortcut for almost any situation.

Here are some of the most useful shortcuts:

• Start/Stop Video (Alt - V)
• Mute/Unmute My Audio (Alt - A)
• End Meeting (Alt - Q)

For a full list of shortcuts go to Settings and click on the Keyboard Shortcuts tab.

5) Record transcripts

The recording transcripts feature within Zoom will automatically transcribe the audio from your meeting. This can be great for those who forgot to take notes during a meeting and also allows you to search for keywords and access the video feed for that moment.

6) Hide non-video participants

While in some meetings, especially larger ones, it can be easy for your screen to become cluttered with participants. This can make it difficult to focus on the important participants in the meeting such as the presenters or speakers. A quick and easy way to declutter your screen is to turn off non-video participants. This will tell Zoom to only show you the participants who have their video turned on, although you will still be able to hear participants who do not have their video turned on.

To enable this feature, go to Settings and click on the Video tab. From here find the option labeled Hide non-video participants and check the box next to it.

7) Change your background

Tired of having the same old background during your Zoom calls? Would you rather be taking your meetings on the beach or on top of a mountain? Although we can not teleport you to your favorite destination a virtual background is the next best thing and allows you to upload an image of your choice to be displayed as your background during Zoom calls.

To enable this feature, go to Settings and click on the Virtual Background tab. From here you can either select one of Zoom's default backgrounds or upload your own.

Note: Your computer must meet Zoom's system requirements to be able to use this feature. You can view these requirements on Zoom's website here.

What's next?

Want to test your new skills and start an ESU virtual event? Get started here.

Taylor Nelson
Student Media Producer
Web and Digital Strategies