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Google TV Adds Even More Free Channels for the Holiday Season

2025-08-16 11:46:17 By William Moore

In 2024, Google TV has already introduced dozens of new free channels, and just in time for the holidays, another update has been rolled out, bringing the total number of channels available to US viewers to over 170.


As spotted by 9to5Google, this latest update should now be available if you're using a TV or streaming device with the latest Google TV software. You can find the new channels under the Google TV Freeplay app.


The new channels include: Best of Dr. Phil, Xumo Free Holiday Movie Channel, Xumo Free Holiday Classics, Xumo Christian Christmas, Continuum, Z Nation, The Design Network, Filmrise: Classic TV, UFC, Unbeaten, Big 12 Studios, Waypoint TV, and PursuitUP.


Additionally, updates have been made to Stingray's Greatest Holiday Hits, Stingray Soul Storm Christmas, and Stingray Hot Country Christmas channels. These follow the additions of Designated Survivor and Places & Spaces – The Great Christmas Light Fight in November.


More to Come This brings the total number of channels in Google TV Freeplay to 171. However, as 9to5Google notes, some of these may be available only during the holidays, as suggested by a few of the channel names.

On the flip side, one channel has been removed: Motortrend Fast TV seems to no longer be available. This constant reshuffling of content is expected to continue throughout 2025 as well.


In recent years, there has been a steady rise in the availability of free ad-supported television (FAST) channels across streaming platforms. Apps like Plex, Tubi, and PlutoTV now offer hundreds more free channels.


You might remember Google TV adding extra channels back in August and September of this year, along with other updates throughout 2024. The platform has also introduced plenty of new features over the past 12 months.

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Tech Insights2025-08-16 11:46:17

The Role of Blockchain in Shaping the Future of Digital Security

Blockchain technology, best known for underpinning cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin, has far-reaching potential beyond digital currencies. Its decentralized and secure nature has made it a promising solution for a variety of applications, including enhancing digital security and transforming industries such as finance, healthcare, and supply chain management. In this blog, we’ll explore the role of blockchain in digital security and how it’s reshaping the future of trust and transparency in technology. Understanding Blockchain Technology At its core, blockchain is a distributed ledger technology that records transactions across many computers in a way that prevents tampering and ensures data integrity. Once data is entered into a blockchain, it is nearly impossible to alter, making it highly secure. This inherent security feature makes blockchain ideal for applications that require transparency and trust. Blockchain’s Impact on Digital Security Blockchain provides a high level of security by making it difficult for hackers to tamper with transaction data. Each block in the chain is linked to the previous one through cryptography, which ensures that the entire system is resistant to attacks. This makes blockchain an attractive option for applications that require secure record-keeping, such as in banking and healthcare. Blockchain in Cryptocurrency and Beyond While cryptocurrency remains the most prominent use case for blockchain, its potential extends far beyond digital currencies. Decentralized finance (DeFi), which uses blockchain to create financial systems that don’t rely on traditional intermediaries, is one of the most promising areas for blockchain development. Additionally, blockchain is being used to streamline supply chains, improve voting systems, and even create “smart contracts” that automatically execute agreements when certain conditions are met. The Challenges of Blockchain Technology Despite its promise, blockchain technology faces several challenges. The scalability of blockchain networks remains a significant issue, as the processing power required for many transactions can be enormous. Additionally, the environmental impact of cryptocurrency mining has raised concerns about blockchain’s sustainability. Regulatory challenges also loom as governments and institutions work to understand and regulate blockchain-based systems. Conclusion Blockchain has the potential to revolutionize digital security by providing transparent, tamper-proof systems for record-keeping and transactions. While there are challenges to overcome, its applications in cryptocurrency, finance, healthcare, and beyond suggest that blockchain will play an increasingly important role in the future of digital security.

Tech Insights2025-08-16 11:46:17

How 5G Technology Will Transform the Digital World

5G technology is the next leap in digital connectivity, promising faster speeds, lower latency, and the ability to support an unprecedented number of devices. As telecom companies roll out 5G networks globally, it’s expected to revolutionize industries from entertainment to manufacturing. In this blog, we’ll explore how 5G is poised to transform the digital world and what its widespread adoption means for businesses and consumers alike. The Speed and Power of 5G The most well-known benefit of 5G is its incredible speed. 5G promises download speeds up to 100 times faster than 4G, enabling everything from seamless HD streaming to lightning-fast data transfers. With its ultra-low latency, 5G allows for near-instant communication between devices, making real-time applications such as remote surgeries, autonomous vehicles, and augmented reality (AR) much more feasible. 5G and the Internet of Things (IoT) 5G will provide the bandwidth and connectivity needed to support the growing number of IoT devices. From smart home devices to industrial sensors, 5G’s ability to connect millions of devices simultaneously without loss of performance will enable the creation of more efficient and interconnected environments. This is a major step forward for smart cities, where everything from traffic lights to waste management can be optimized in real-time using IoT data. 5G’s Impact on Industry The industrial sector stands to benefit greatly from 5G technology. In manufacturing, 5G will enable faster data processing and real-time monitoring of factory equipment, leading to more efficient production lines. The healthcare sector will see innovations in telemedicine and remote patient monitoring, allowing doctors to provide care from anywhere. In entertainment, 5G will unlock new experiences in gaming, virtual reality, and live event streaming. Challenges of 5G Implementation While 5G promises numerous benefits, its rollout faces several challenges. The infrastructure required to support 5G is expensive and time-consuming to deploy, particularly in rural areas. There are also concerns about the security risks associated with increased connectivity, as more devices will be vulnerable to cyberattacks. Additionally, the health implications of 5G radiation are still under study, with some people expressing concerns about its potential effects on health. Conclusion 5G technology is set to transform the digital world by enabling faster, more reliable connectivity and supporting the growth of IoT. As industries embrace 5G, we can expect significant advances in everything from manufacturing to entertainment. However, its implementation will require overcoming challenges related to infrastructure, security, and health concerns.

Tech Insights2025-08-16 11:46:17

Steve Jobs: The Visionary Behind Apple’s Success

Steve Jobs was more than just the co-founder of Apple; he was a visionary who revolutionized the tech industry. Known for his obsessive attention to detail, relentless drive for perfection, and ability to predict future trends, Jobs' influence continues to resonate long after his passing in 2011. His work laid the foundation for many of the devices we rely on today, from smartphones to tablets and smartwatches. The Birth of Apple Jobs co-founded Apple in 1976, but it was the launch of the Macintosh in 1984 that marked the beginning of his lasting impact. The Macintosh was the first personal computer to feature a graphical user interface, which made it easier for users to interact with the system. Although the early years of Apple were filled with challenges, Jobs’ return to the company in 1997 marked a turning point in its history. Apple’s Reinvention Under Jobs When Jobs returned to Apple, the company was struggling. His leadership and vision turned it into one of the most valuable companies in the world. The introduction of the iPod in 2001 was just the beginning of Apple's transformation. Jobs knew that the music industry was shifting toward digital content, and he capitalized on that by creating a portable device that combined ease of use with sleek design. This was followed by the launch of the iPhone in 2007, which truly revolutionized how we communicate, work, and consume entertainment. The iPhone changed everything from the design of smartphones to how we access the internet, with Jobs taking a keen interest in both hardware and software. The Impact of Jobs’ Design Philosophy Jobs was known for his keen eye for design, and Apple’s minimalist approach became a hallmark of the brand. He often said that "design is not just what it looks like and feels like. Design is how it works." Apple products became synonymous with simplicity, quality, and innovation. This design philosophy carried over to products like the iPad, Apple Watch, and MacBook, which are all known for their clean aesthetics and user-friendly interfaces. Legacy and Influence While Jobs was a perfectionist, his ability to foresee trends and his drive to innovate set him apart from many other tech leaders. His insistence on blending technology and artistry made Apple not just a tech company, but a cultural phenomenon. His legacy lives on in the sleek designs, intuitive interfaces, and cutting-edge innovations that Apple continues to produce.

Tech Insights2025-08-16 11:46:17

Bill Gates: From Microsoft to Global Philanthropy

Bill Gates is one of the most influential figures in the world of technology. As the co-founder of Microsoft, Gates played a pivotal role in the personal computing revolution. However, his influence extends far beyond software and hardware. Today, Gates is known not only as a tech pioneer but also as one of the world’s leading philanthropists. The Microsoft Legacy Bill Gates founded Microsoft in 1975, and under his leadership, the company grew to dominate the personal computing space. Gates’ vision of a computer in every home and on every desk helped shape the digital age we live in today. Microsoft Windows, Office, and other software offerings became integral to the personal and business computing world. Gates’ competitive spirit and aggressive business strategies helped Microsoft overcome competitors, cementing the company’s position as a tech giant. From Tech Mogul to Philanthropist In 2000, Gates transitioned out of his day-to-day role at Microsoft to focus on philanthropy. He and his then-wife, Melinda, established the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, one of the largest private charitable organizations in the world. The foundation focuses on global health, poverty alleviation, education, and climate change. Gates’ decision to dedicate the majority of his wealth to philanthropy has made him a prominent figure in global health and development initiatives. Gates' Approach to Global Challenges Through his foundation, Gates has made significant strides in eradicating diseases like malaria and polio, providing vaccines and healthcare solutions to impoverished regions. His focus on education and climate change also highlights his forward-thinking approach to addressing the world’s most pressing issues. Gates advocates for technological innovation in solving global problems, and he has been a vocal proponent of green energy, calling for a transformation in how the world produces and consumes energy. Legacy and Criticism While Gates’ philanthropic efforts have earned him widespread admiration, he has faced criticism from some who believe that his wealth allows him to wield too much influence in global policymaking. Despite this, his commitment to improving lives around the world has solidified his legacy as one of the most impactful individuals in history.

Tech Insights2025-08-16 11:46:17

Nvidia's Next Frontier: Empowering the Rise of Humanoid Robots

Nvidia, the leading chipmaker, is set to deepen its focus on robotics in 2025. According to the Financial Times, the company will introduce Jetson Thor, a new generation of compact computers specifically designed for humanoid robots, during the first half of the year. This initiative aligns with Nvidia's long-term strategy of supporting the robotics industry without directly competing with manufacturers like Tesla. Instead, Nvidia aims to serve as a key OEM partner for the "hundreds of thousands" of robot makers worldwide, as noted by Deepu Talla, Nvidia's vice president of robotics, during a recent press briefing in Tokyo. The timing of this move is driven by two pivotal advancements, Talla explained to the FT: the rapid growth of generative AI models and the ability to train robots effectively in simulated environments. Unstated but equally significant is the broader context of Nvidia's strategy. With major clients like Amazon and Google actively developing their own AI chips to reduce reliance on Nvidia's products, the company’s expansion into AI-driven robotics reflects its effort to adapt to an evolving tech landscape.

Tech Insights2025-08-16 11:46:17

The Environmental Impact of Cloud Computing: What Are We Really Achieving?

Cloud computing is often hailed as a solution to data storage and processing challenges, offering immense scalability, flexibility, and cost efficiency. However, as more businesses and individuals transition to the cloud, it's important to consider the environmental impact of this technology. This blog explores the hidden carbon footprint of cloud computing and how companies are addressing sustainability concerns in the digital age. The Carbon Footprint of Data Centers Data centers, the backbone of cloud computing, consume vast amounts of electricity to run servers and maintain optimal cooling systems. These facilities are often powered by non-renewable energy sources, leading to significant carbon emissions. In 2020, data centers were responsible for approximately 1% of global electricity consumption and emitted around 0.3% of the world’s greenhouse gases. Innovations in Green Cloud Computing To mitigate the environmental impact, many cloud service providers, including Google, Amazon Web Services (AWS), and Microsoft Azure, have pledged to transition their data centers to renewable energy sources. Google, for instance, has already achieved a 100% renewable energy-powered infrastructure. Additionally, newer technologies like liquid cooling and AI-based energy optimization are helping to reduce energy consumption in data centers. The Role of the Consumer Consumers can play a role by choosing eco-friendly cloud providers and minimizing their data usage. Technologies like edge computing, which processes data closer to the source, can reduce the need for long-distance data transfer and decrease the strain on centralized data centers. Furthermore, adopting a circular economy model, where devices and hardware are reused or recycled, can contribute to overall sustainability in the tech industry. Conclusion While cloud computing offers many advantages, it also presents significant environmental challenges. As the industry continues to grow, adopting green technologies and practices will be crucial for mitigating the carbon footprint of the cloud and ensuring that digital transformation aligns with global sustainability goals.

Tech Insights2025-08-16 11:46:17

How to Avoid 6 Common Mistakes When Setting Up Your New TV

Setting up a new TV is an exciting experience. Whether upgrading from an old model or finally treating yourself to a new one, it’s all about enjoying better visuals and sound while indulging in your favorite movies and shows. However, when you get your new TV home and set it up, it may not look quite as you imagined. Don’t worry, you’re not alone in this! TVs often come with hidden settings that can significantly impact their performance. This issue is not limited to budget models; even high-end TVs come with frustrating default settings. While everyone has their preferences regarding picture quality—some favor brighter, more vivid images, while others prefer a more natural look—there are some settings you should adjust for better viewing. Based on my experience in AV retail, I’ve compiled six common mistakes people make when setting up their new TVs. And don’t worry, I’ll guide you through how to correct them. 1. Disable Eco and Power Saving Modes If your TV looks a little lackluster, it’s likely in Eco mode. Most TVs ship with this mode enabled to save energy, but it can significantly reduce picture quality. Eco mode typically dims the screen, which dulls colors and detail, making your TV shows and movies appear washed out. To turn it off, go to your TV’s Settings > Picture Settings. You'll likely find the Picture Preset set to Eco by default. Switch it to Movie, Filmmaker, or Standard for a more accurate and brighter image. Additionally, check for any hidden power-saving options under System Settings > Power Saving to ensure nothing else is affecting your display. 2. Switch Out of Dynamic or Vivid Mode Dynamic or Vivid modes may seem like a good option for a brighter image, but they tend to oversaturate colors and lack detail. While the brightness might be appealing at first, it creates an unrealistic image. To get a more natural look, switch to modes like Filmmaker or Movie. Top TV brands like Samsung, known for their Dynamic mode, now recommend Filmmaker and Movie modes for better quality, especially in newer models like the Samsung S95D OLED and QN90D mini-LED. 3. Check for Software Updates While many TVs automatically check for updates during the initial setup, it’s always worth manually verifying if the latest software is installed. Updates are essential not only for new features but also for security, especially with smart TVs that are internet-connected. Go to System Settings > Check for Update or Software Update to ensure your TV is up to date. 4. Adjust Motion Smoothing Settings Motion smoothing, or motion interpolation, is a setting that smooths out fast-moving images by adding extra frames to reduce blur. While useful for sports, it can make movies look unnatural, even causing motion sickness for some viewers. To disable or adjust it, go to Picture Settings > Motion and look for Blur Reduction and Judder Reduction options. Depending on whether you're watching sports or a movie, you may want to turn motion smoothing off or reduce its intensity for a more realistic image. 5. Enable Enhanced HDMI Settings for Gaming For gamers, enabling Game Mode is essential, but it’s equally important to check your TV’s HDMI settings to ensure full 4K support. TVs with HDMI 2.1 support 4K at 120Hz, but only if the HDMI setting is set to Enhanced. Navigate to Settings > HDMI Control, and select Enhanced to activate these features, ensuring optimal performance for gaming. 6. Fine-tune Sharpness and Detail Enhancements Many TVs come with additional settings to enhance sharpness, resolution, and color. While some people enjoy these effects, they can often make the image appear artificial or overly sharp. For example, the Super Resolution feature on Hisense TVs can make textures look unnaturally crisp. It's best to use these enhancements sparingly, if at all, and find a picture preset that suits your tastes. For the most accurate viewing, disable features like Noise Reduction and Resolution Remaster, especially when using more precise picture modes like Filmmaker. Remember, the goal is to customize the settings until you find the picture quality that works best for you, balancing personal preferences with the TV’s capabilities.

Tech Insights2025-08-16 11:46:17

Elon Musk: Pushing the Boundaries of Innovation

Elon Musk is one of the most influential and polarizing figures in the world of technology. From revolutionizing the electric vehicle industry with Tesla to pushing the envelope in space exploration with SpaceX, Musk has continuously redefined what’s possible. His work transcends industries, as he delves into areas like renewable energy, artificial intelligence, and even neuroscience. Tesla and the Future of Electric Vehicles Musk’s vision for a sustainable future has driven Tesla to become a household name in the electric vehicle (EV) market. Tesla’s impact goes beyond just producing cars; it has disrupted the automotive industry by encouraging traditional manufacturers to ramp up their electric vehicle production. Musk’s innovation lies not only in Tesla’s impressive vehicle designs but also in its strategic advancements in autonomous driving, energy storage, and charging infrastructure. Tesla’s move toward a global shift in transport fuels the argument that Musk is not merely an entrepreneur but a visionary shaping the future of mobility. SpaceX: Making Space Exploration Affordable Through SpaceX, Musk aims to make space travel more affordable and accessible. SpaceX’s reusable rockets have significantly reduced the cost of launching satellites and cargo into space. Musk’s ultimate goal of colonizing Mars might seem audacious, but the company’s successful missions and collaborations with NASA indicate that SpaceX could be pivotal in humanity’s future in space. Beyond EVs and Space Musk’s ventures also include SolarCity (now part of Tesla), Neuralink, and The Boring Company, which explore clean energy solutions, brain-machine interfaces, and tunneling technologies. While these innovations are still in early stages, they underscore Musk's broader vision of solving the world’s most pressing problems. His efforts in the AI and machine learning realms, particularly through his involvement with OpenAI, highlight his commitment to advancing technology in ways that can transform both society and the environment. Musk’s critics point to his management style, his controversial statements, and the inherent risks in his bold projects. However, there’s no denying that Elon Musk continues to shape industries and inspire future generations of innovators who see limitless possibilities in his ventures.

Tech Insights2025-08-16 11:46:17

Tesla's Innovative Approach: Revolutionizing Mobility and Energy

Tesla, a leader in electric vehicles (EVs) and renewable energy, is reshaping the transportation and energy sectors with its cutting-edge technologies. This article delves into the key innovations that are propelling Tesla into the future. 1. Full Self-Driving (FSD): Advancing Autonomous Travel Tesla's Full Self-Driving (FSD) technology is a cornerstone of the company's technological vision, aiming to revolutionize the driving experience. Advanced AI and Machine Learning: The FSD system employs advanced neural networks and machine learning algorithms to interpret sensor data, enabling vehicles to operate with reduced human intervention. Continuous Improvement: Tesla is distinguished by its ability to provide over-the-air software updates, regularly improving the FSD system's safety, navigation, and driving capabilities. Regulatory and Safety Considerations: Despite significant progress, Tesla continues to confront challenges related to regulatory acceptance and public safety concerns about the implementation of autonomous driving technology. 2. Tesla's Battery Innovations: Boosting EV Range and Performance Tesla's commitment to battery technology is crucial for enhancing EV performance and the broader energy storage market. 4680 Battery Cells: Tesla's 4680 battery cells are a major step forward in energy density, cost efficiency, and manufacturing productivity. These cells offer increased energy capacity, resulting in longer range and lower manufacturing expenses. Energy Storage Systems: Tesla's innovations in energy storage extend to systems like Powerwall and Powerpack, leveraging advanced battery technology to store renewable energy for residential and commercial applications. Battery Recycling Efforts: Tesla is actively refining its battery recycling processes to ensure the reuse of key materials, such as lithium and cobalt, promoting the sustainability of EVs. 3. The Gigafactory: Redefining Manufacturing Tesla's Gigafactories are redefining the mass production of vehicles and energy products. Unparalleled Scale: The Gigafactory model aims for unparalleled production volumes for vehicles and batteries, with facilities in Nevada, Shanghai, Berlin, and Texas, quickly expanding to meet the growing demand for EVs. Automation and Efficiency: Tesla's manufacturing processes are highly automated, utilizing robotics and AI to increase production speed and reduce costs, with innovations such as large casting machines for vehicle frames. Sustainable Manufacturing: Tesla's Gigafactories are designed to operate on renewable energy, minimizing their environmental impact and aligning with the company's sustainability objectives. 4. Tesla Energy: Driving the Clean Energy Evolution Beyond being an automotive company, Tesla is also a pioneer in clean energy solutions. Solar Roof and Panels: Tesla's solar offerings, including the Solar Roof and panels, are designed for seamless integration with buildings to generate clean energy. Integrated Energy Ecosystem: Tesla is leading the integration of solar products with battery storage, allowing users to store energy for later use and reducing dependence on the grid. Utility-Scale Energy Storage: Tesla is expanding into utility-scale energy storage, providing large-scale solutions that help stabilize power grids and improve energy distribution. 5. Tesla's AI and Dojo Supercomputer: The Heart of Innovation Tesla's AI and Dojo supercomputer are central to the company's pursuit of full autonomy and manufacturing optimization. Dojo Supercomputer: The Dojo supercomputer is designed to process vast amounts of video data from Tesla vehicles, accelerating the development of autonomous driving capabilities and enhancing the safety and reliability of the system. </

Tech Insights2025-08-16 11:46:17

The Rise of OpenAI: How Artificial General Intelligence Could Change the World

OpenAI, an artificial intelligence research laboratory, has become one of the most exciting organizations in the tech world. Founded with the mission to ensure that artificial general intelligence (AGI) benefits all of humanity, OpenAI is making breakthroughs that could radically alter the way we live, work, and interact with machines. What is Artificial General Intelligence (AGI)? Artificial General Intelligence is a type of AI that can perform any intellectual task that a human can. Unlike narrow AI, which is designed to perform specific tasks (like image recognition or language translation), AGI would have the ability to understand, learn, and apply knowledge across a wide range of domains. OpenAI’s ultimate goal is to create AGI that can safely and responsibly improve the world. GPT Models and Natural Language Processing OpenAI has made significant strides in natural language processing (NLP) with its GPT models. GPT-3, the latest iteration, is capable of generating coherent and contextually relevant text, answering questions, and even writing essays, with little to no human input. The capabilities of GPT-3 have raised questions about the future of work, automation, and creativity, as these models can perform tasks traditionally done by humans. The Ethics of AGI and AI Safety As OpenAI works toward AGI, it faces significant ethical challenges. How do we ensure that AGI behaves in a way that benefits humanity? OpenAI’s founders have emphasized the importance of AI safety and transparency, advocating for the development of systems that are not only powerful but also aligned with human values. As AGI becomes more sophisticated, ensuring its safe deployment will be critical. The Future of OpenAI and AGI OpenAI’s research continues to push the boundaries of what is possible with AI. The company’s collaborations with major tech firms and ongoing work in areas like reinforcement learning and robotics suggest that AGI is becoming more achievable. The transformative potential of AGI is immense, from revolutionizing industries to solving complex global challenges like climate change and healthcare.