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Bluesky, a decentralised social network protocol project rooted in transparency and user autonomy, allows individuals and organisations to establish verified identities via custom domain names. This process—known as domain-based self-verification—enables users to associate their online presence with a trusted domain they control. As platforms increasingly decentralise, methods like these become critical for maintaining credibility and resisting impersonation. You can read more about the protocol and its technical principles on the official AT Protocol site.
By verifying a domain with Bluesky, you assert control over your digital identity without relying on centralised third parties. Whether you're representing a business, a brand, or yourself, the ability to prove ownership of a domain creates a verifiable link between your Bluesky profile and your real-world presence. In a time when misinformation is easily spread, technical verification provides a tangible layer of trust. For a broader look at decentralised identity concepts, the W3C DID Core specification offers useful technical context.
TL:DR – The article explains how to self-verify your identity on Bluesky using a domain you control. We cover how domain-based verification works, the technical requirements, step-by-step instructions for both DNS and web-based verification, and how to link and maintain your verified handle securely.
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Google Developer Badges offer a modern, accessible way for developers to demonstrate their proficiency across a range of Google technologies. Whether you're just starting out or you're a seasoned engineer looking to validate your skillset, these digital credentials serve as proof of your abilities in a landscape that increasingly values verified expertise. Backed by the Google Developer Profile initiative, each badge represents real-world experience and technical competence.
This article explores a complete list of Google Developer Badges and how to get them, who can earn them, how they’re verified, and why they matter in our tech-driven world. We'll also cover how badges stack up against traditional certifications, what employers think of them, and how to track progress through Google's developer learning ecosystem.
TL:DR – The Google Developer Badge system is an effective, structured way to upskill and showcase your knowledge. Explore the full breakdown below and start planning your badge-earning journey today.
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Read more: A complete list of Google Developer Badges and how to get them doesn't exist
The Google Pixel 'a' series has long secretly provided impressive features at competitive prices. This article provides a thorough comparison of the Pixel 7a, Pixel 8a, and the recently launched Pixel 9a, analysing their battery endurance, camera capabilities, features, value, prices in the UK, and availability. One can determine which device best suits ones needs today.
TL:DR – The Pixel 8a and 9a provide numerous enhancements over the 7a, such as improved displays, enhanced battery performance, and better camera systems, while still offering competitive pricing. The Pixel 7a remains a strong contender in terms of value, especially as its price has dropped to just £279 new from Amazon UK including an official Google Charger following the release of the newer models. But it remains crucial to consider special offers especially if prioritising the latest features.
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Read more: UK Buyers Guide: Google Pixel 7a, 8a, 9a - best value for money
Overview of the Google Developer Program
Purpose and scope of the program
The Google Developer Program functions as an integrated access point for developers building products across Google's platforms, including Android, Chrome, Firebase and Google Cloud. Its purpose is to provide developers with the tools, APIs and documentation necessary to create, test and distribute applications at scale. The program bridges access to services, ensures adherence to platform standards and enables monetisation through the Google Play ecosystem.
TL:DR – Standard members now have access to 10 Firebase Studio Workspaces for AI-assisted full-stack development in the cloud and now have access to Gemini Code Assist for individuals to assist with code completions, chat engagements, and code reviews.
Standard members can now apply for Google product previews to get early access and provide feedback on new Google technologies before they are widely released.
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Read more: Updates to Standard Google Developer Program Membership
The 2018 Mac mini, which featured significant upgrades over its predecessors, ans was the last Intel based Mac mini has recently joined Apple's vintage product list. Understanding the implications of these changes is important for users who rely on this model of Mac computer for daily tasks. This article will discuss its technical specifications, the timeline of its support lifecycle, and the user experience related to Apple’s policies on vintage and obsolete products.
TL:DR – The Mac mini (2018) is now classified as a vintage product, which means that while it may still receive limited service, the overall support from Apple is diminishing. Users should be aware of how this classification affects long-term usability and should consider future-proof investment options. I've sold mine while it still has some residual value.
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Read more: Last Intel based Mac mini reaches Apple vintage support stage
Microsoft Word, particularly in its 2024 iteration, projects an image of user-friendliness and intelligent defaults. The ribbon UI, autosave, and cloud integrations imply a seamless experience. Underneath that polish is a brutal tangle of legacy architecture, operating system quirks, and cloud sync mechanics.
TL:DR – The complexity isn’t accidental. It is the cumulative result of decades of small, reasonable decisions layered atop each other without ever stepping back. The baffling difficulty of changing the default template in Microsoft Word 2024 reflects this perfectly. What appears to be a trivial task is, in fact, a product of legacy behaviours, invisible redirections, and unspoken assumptions. For anyone not steeped in the history of Windows profiles, Office defaults, and sync mechanics, it’s completely inscrutable.
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Setting up an Amazon Web Services (AWS) account is a straightforward process, especially under the AWS Free Tier programme. This initiative enables new users to access a variety of AWS services at no cost, allowing them to explore and experiment without financial risk. This guide will provide a comprehensive walkthrough of account creation, an overview of the Free Tier offerings, and tips to manage your usage within limits to avoid charges.
TL:DR – The AWS Free Tier provides a valuable opportunity for users to engage with various cloud services at no cost for a limited duration. By following the step-by-step process outlined herein, new users can successfully establish their AWS accounts and begin utilising these resources effectively. Understanding the different types of offers, alongside methods for monitoring usage, can prevent unexpected costs.
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Read more: Step-by-Step AWS account setup with free tier access
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