Roku’s Backdrops Mode Changes Your Television into a Gallery Showcase

Roku streaming devices and smart televisions provide a broad range of features and personalization options, including a capability known as Roku Backdrops, which converts your TV into an art showcase. This function enables users to display fine art and personal images on their screens. The Backdrops application is complimentary and can be located in the Streaming Store. To enable it, go to Settings > Home Screen Menu > Backdrops > Open Backdrops app. Users have the option to present entire art collections or individual images, with settings available for adjusting image duration.

Formerly referred to as Roku Photo Streams, the Backdrops app also permits users to upload their own images. This is achievable by opening the app, selecting Add your photos > Upload photos, and following the prompts after scanning a QR code. Users can create up to 10 albums containing 100 photos each, accommodating formats such as JPG, PNG, HEIC, and WEBP. Furthermore, users can link their Roku account to Google Photos for additional options.

For individuals deliberating between a Roku Streaming Stick or a Roku-enabled smart TV, employing Backdrops with a Roku TV provides the convenience of managing the app using the remote’s power button, facilitating easy start and stop features.

How to Efficiently Reutilize Your Old Work Computers: 5 Successful Techniques

even the most dependable, enduring computers might require an upgrade to more recent, quicker versions. Just because you have to swap it out for its main function, that doesn’t imply you have to dispose of it. An older work computer can be utilized for numerous useful tasks, such as external storage, video conferencing, Wi-Fi hotspots, and others.

To minimize electronic waste, it’s preferable to recycle your obsolete electronics rather than simply tossing them away. When we refer to “recycling,” we mean both the conventional act of taking it to an electronics recycling facility and repurposing and enhancing it for a different function. That old work desktop or laptop can be directed towards a variety of useful applications, alleviating some of the burden from your primary system simultaneously.

Leonardo DiCaprio Rejected a Prominent Sci-Fi Franchise Role for an Important Reason

Paul Thomas Anderson’s blockbuster “One Battle After Another” has seen DiCaprio emerge as one of Hollywood’s essential talents over the last three decades. Despite portraying a range of characters from lovesick heroes to sinister plantation owners, the actor has not yet ventured into space epics. To the dismay of some film enthusiasts, a DiCaprio-starring sci-fi series almost came to be, as he nearly became the iconic character of Anakin Skywalker, famously known as Darth Vader, in “Star Wars.”

This surprising information surfaced during a 2015 discussion with ShortList. It may unsettle many devoted fans of the franchise, especially those who first encountered the “Star Wars” saga with Hayden Christensen taking on the role of Anakin Skywalker. For some, a switch from Christensen to DiCaprio could have been embraced, given that Christensen’s portrayal faced critique from both reviewers and long-time fans.

However, the hypothetical exchange of Christensen for DiCaprio as The Chosen One in “Star Wars” Episode II and III presents an intriguing “what if” scenario with immense consequences throughout cinematic history, not only altering the narrative of beloved rogue Jedi but also possibly depriving the character of some of its finest portrayals. With no rumors suggesting DiCaprio’s appearance in forthcoming Star Wars projects, such conjecture will rely solely on the actor’s reflections regarding the franchise’s impact on his recent works, as he mentioned on The

Top 5 Applications That Greatly Deplete Your Mobile Device’s Battery

enhance your smartphone’s battery endurance. If you notice that your device’s battery seems to deplete quicker than expected, you’re not alone.

A study carried out by the U.K. telecoms and network firm Elevate (via Yahoo) shows that many devices now require daily charging, in contrast to 2019 when most could last at least a day and a half before needing a charge. While heavy usage contributes to this battery depletion, the apps you have can also impact battery life due to background processes.

Naturally, you can easily identify which apps are causing your phone’s battery to drain by checking your phone’s Settings app. However, it may surprise you to find that some of your favorite installed apps appear high on that list, as they are known to consume more battery. If any of these applications are present on your device, you might want to think about uninstalling them or at least limiting their background activity, as they have been identified as significant battery drain offenders.

Suggested Technology Acquisitions from Thrift Shops by Specialists

old electronics might typically be seen as trash, but CRT TVs defy this perception. While contemporary displays usually provide a crisp, clear image, they often fail to replicate the genuine appearance and ambiance associated with vintage consoles and classic computer games. Many older games were designed with the specific characteristics of tube screens in mind—how they render color, motion, and scanlines—ensuring that the visuals appear as they were originally intended on the technology of that time.

As a result, CRT screens remain relevant and useful for retro gaming, VHS collecting, and for anyone seeking a nostalgia-infused visual experience, even when engaging with more modern titles. Moreover, acquiring a decent unit does not necessitate exorbitant expenses in most areas: Local thrift stores often stock CRTs, and picking them up locally allows for the assessment of the TV’s quality prior to purchase.

For those looking to enhance a retro setup, the crucial aspect is knowing where to search and being open to conducting research. With a bit of perseverance and fortune, well-maintained TV units can be located without significant outlay.

Four Budget-Friendly Ways to Convert Your Home into a Smart House

upgrades for smart homes, such as devices that facilitate automation throughout the home, enhance energy efficiency, and provide more enjoyable entertainment options. You don’t need to spend a fortune to incorporate these smart home features into your space. Affordable smart home technology exists, delivering remarkable functionality at a much lower cost than many individuals expect when envisioning a futuristic home.

Focusing on the priorities of newcomers and tech enthusiasts who have budget considerations, we’ve compiled several ways to transform your residence into a smart home. Each option offers practical advantages along with the possibility of added enjoyment, as a smart home should be as entertaining as it is practical. So, whether you reside in a house or an apartment, whether you are enhancing vital smart home devices or searching for your first purchase, here are some cost-effective, enjoyable, and easy-to-install smart home solutions.

Netflix’s Significant Mistake: Terminating the Celebrated Sci-Fi Show

“The OA” is notable due to Netflix’s choice to discontinue the show after two seasons, even though “Part II” concluded with a remarkable cliffhanger that the series’ fanbase longed to see resolved.

Immediately, fans of “The OA” began protesting, imploring Netflix to rethink its decision. The outcry wasn’t confined to the internet, as some supporters rallied in person outside Netflix’s headquarters following the cancellation of Season 2 in 2019. Nonetheless, Netflix remained steadfast. Although there were discussions about producing a film to wrap up “The OA” narrative, it ultimately did not happen, despite enthusiasm from fans and the creators.

While “The OA” was canceled, Netflix brought other projects back to life. It revived shows like “You” (Lifetime), “Manifest” (NBC), and “Lucifer” (Fox) between 2018 and 2021. These are merely a few instances of canceled television series that Netflix opted to revive and provide a new opportunity on its service. This further solidifies why the cancellation of “The OA” is easily regarded as one of Netflix’s greatest blunders to date and continues to be one of the company’s most perplexing choices, even after an executive disclosed how Netflix selects shows for cancellation.

Comparison between Google Maps and Apple Maps: Selecting the Optimal Navigation Application

switch to different digital map options.

Apple Music Gets Significant Upgrade with iOS 26.2: Essential Modifications Detailed

iOS 26.2 brings continued enhancements to the listening experience. Alongside bug corrections, Apple Music now presents the Favorite Songs playlist prominently in Top Picks on the home tab. Additionally, users can view lyrics for their downloaded tracks within the app while streaming, even without an internet connection.

This update ensures that Apple Music subscribers will no longer have to wonder what an artist is singing. This feature is particularly beneficial when an Apple Music user is airborne without Wi-Fi, rehearsing songs from their beloved artists while queuing for a concert, or simply when they lack a stable internet connection but wish to sing along to fresh or less familiar tunes.

With this newly introduced functionality, Apple Music subscribers gain an advantage that Spotify users lack. Furthermore, Apple Music users do not need to take any extra steps to access their song lyrics; they just need to ensure they are on iOS 26.2. However, if offline lyrics do not appear, one can re-download a previously available offline song.