As any avid 9to5Toys reader will know, we love our Amazon Renewed Premium iPhone deals, and some solid pricing is now starting to emerge on the latest iPhone 16 Pro models . While we have featured a ton of iPhone 15/Pro discounts, tracking down deals on unlocked iPhone 16 Pro models can be a tricky proposition quality control, color options, a solid warranty, and so on but Amazons Renewed Premium is one of the better sources and the iPhone 16 offers are now arriving. Check them out below. more
YouTube Unveils Free AI Tool To Generate Custom Music For Creators
YouTube has announced a new AI-powered feature for its Music Assistant tool , aimed at helping content creators generate custom instrumental tracks that are free from copyright restrictions. This development allows users to create unique soundtracks for their videos without facing potential copyright issues , offering a convenient and legally safe way to enhance their content. The new tool builds upon the existing Dream Tracks feature, launched last year, and provides an improved version of that technology. Unlike Dream Tracks, which had limitations in scope, this updated AI tool is designed to support longer-form video content. It enables creators to generate personalized music tracks through a simple text prompt system. Users can input the desired music style, specify instruments, and even describe the type of video they are working on. Based on this information, the AI generates a custom instrumental piece tailored to the videos tone and purpose. For example, a user might request a relaxing song for a study video, and the AI will produce music that fits this context. Once generated, the track can be directly added to the users video, creating a seamless and personalized audio-visual experience. This removes the need for creators to search for royalty-free music or worry about future copyright claims, streamlining the production process and enhancing creative freedom. Heres how to use it: Sign in to YouTube Studio using a web browser. In the left-hand menu , click on Creator Music . On the Music Assistant page, select Create . Enter a description in the promptinclude details like the desired mood, instruments, and the type of video youre making. Dream Track will generate four instrumental options based on your input. Note: It may take a few moments for the tracks to be created. To preview a track, hover over its album art and click Play . If you find a track you like, click the Download button to save it for use in your video. In addition to this new music generation capability, YouTube is also reportedly working on further tools aimed at creators of shorter content, such as YouTube Shorts. One of the upcoming features being explored is automatic music synchronization, which would align music with the video content in a more precise and efficient manner. This would further simplify content creation for users producing short-form videos by ensuring the soundtrack matches the pacing and mood of the visuals without manual editing. YouTube Unveils Free AI Tool To Generate Custom Music For Creators , original content from Ubergizmo . Read our Copyrights and terms of use .
Googles newest AI model is designed to help study dolphin speech
Googles AI research lab, Google DeepMind, says that it has created an AI model that can help decipher dolphin vocalizations, supporting research efforts to better understand how dolphins communicate. The model, called DolphinGemma, was trained using data from the Wild Dolphin Project (WDP), a nonprofit that studies Atlantic spotted dolphins and their behaviors. Built on []
Google Classroom gives teachers an AI feature for quiz questions
Google Classroom introduced a new AI-powered feature designed to help teachers generate questions. Launched on Monday, this tool lets educators create a list of questions based on specific text input. Using this text-dependent question generation tool, which utilizes Gemini, teachers can either upload files from Google Drive or manually enter text for the AI to []
I love this ESR MagSafe mount, grab two while theyre down to $10 each (20% off)
2-pack of ESR Anywhere MagSafe Mounts Buy for $20.50 (Reg. $26) What we love Ive tried several different MagSafe mounts like this and ESRs is my favorite so far. It actually elevates my phone more than others have, which leads to a floating design similar to what youd find on Apples iPad Air/Pro keyboard lineup. The clamp is super strong as well, helping ensure it stays locked onto a desk, airplane tray, or really anywhere you decide to use it. more
Leisurely enjoy errands and joyrides on Lectrics XP Trike with $420 bundle at $1,499 ($1,919 value)
Its the final day of Lectrics April Showers Sale with up to $654 being taken off e-bike bundles, which the brand has provided a countdown clock for through the rest of the day. We wanted to shine a spotlight on the bundle for the brands XP Trike that is coming with $420 in free gear at $1,499 shipped . Youd normally have to shell out $1,919 to get this package at full price, which sits among some of the largest bundles we have been seeing over the last year. With the additional gear, youll be upgrading your riding experience with steel-encased front and rear cargo baskets, a wide saddle with a backrest, a suspension seat post, an Elite 850 lux headlight, and a bell. more
Nintendo Switch 2 pre-orders: Delays, prices, release date and everything else you need to know
If you somehow haven't already heard, Switch 2 pre-orders remain indefinitely delayed in the U.S. While folks in the UK are able to pre-order the new console now (while stock lasts, of course), Americans will have to wait for their time to shine. In response to new tariffs announced by President Donald Trump shortly after the last Nintendo Direct presentation , the company delayed Switch 2 pre-orders in the U.S. Canadians will also have to wait as Nintendo has also delayed pre-orders in that country as well, according to a report from MobileSyrup and confirmed by Walmart of Canada via a post on X . According a statement Nintendo provided to Engadget: Pre-orders for Nintendo Switch 2 in the U.S. will not start April 9, 2025 in order to assess the potential impact of tariffs and evolving market conditions. Nintendo will update timing at a later date. The launch date of June 5, 2025 is unchanged. President Trump recently announced a 90-day pause on steep reciprocal tariffs affecting 75 countries, but also announced that the tariff imposed on China will go up to 125 percent (we now know it's up to 145 percent for that country). Its still unclear what this could mean for Switch 2 pre-orders and pricing, but we do know this: Nintendo started moving some of its Switch console manufacturing to Vietnam in 2019. The reciprocal tariff for Vietnam was set to be 46 percent, but with this latest announcement, that appears to be on hold for now in favor of a 10 percent reciprocal tariff thats now in effect for the 90-day pause period. The latest speculation is that Nintendo will ramp up production of Switch 2 units in Vietnam so it can ship them to the U.S. on schedule, and possibly even selling them at a loss in the short term. Nintendo had previously announced the April 9 pre-order date for North America, along with the June 5 date for wider availability. The starting price was to be $450, but that could change now in response to the proposed tariffs. Participating retailers will also be selling the Switch 2 when it eventually makes its way to the U.S. We expect those to include Amazon , Best Buy , GameStop , Walmart and others. There's some fine-print attached to pre-ordering directly from Nintendo. According to the pre-order page on Nintendo's site, you must be 18 years or older, sign in with your Nintendo account and register your interest in pre-ordering. Then, you'll be sent an invitation email when it's time to play your pre-order, and the invitation will be valid for 72 hours. And then there's this bit of info: Invitation emails will be prioritized on a first-come, first-served basis to registrants who have purchased a Nintendo Switch Online membership with a minimum of 12 months of paid membership and a minimum of 50 total gameplay hours, as of April 2, 2025. That seems to mean those who have paid for Switch Online in the recent past and those who have spent a good amount of time playing Switch games as of late will get first pick at buying a Switch 2. There's no telling if these same restrictions will apply if you want to pre-order from third-party retailers. We knew from the teaser trailer for the Switch 2 that Nintendo's new hardware would be bigger and would have a new approach to the detachable Joy-Cons. The new Joy-Con 2 have a new C button, mouse controls and a built in gyroscope for tilt control. The console has a built-in mic to support a new feature called Game Chat that will let you communicate with friends in-game. The device is indeed a bit larger, with a 7.9-inch LCD screen that supports a 120Hz refresh rate, HDR and a 1080p resolution. When docked, you'll be able to play at up to 4K on your TV, and Nintendo says it improved the consoles internal speakers as well. The new dock also has a built-in fan to keep the console cool and help maintain performance during long play sessions. The Switch 2 has dual USB-C ports for charging, and the base storage amount has increased to 256GB. The Switch 2's storage can be expanded like the previous model, but it will only work with newer microSD Express cards. The Switch 2 has a number of accessories that you'll be able to purchase separately as well, including the new Switch 2 camera for $50, a new Switch 2 Pro controller for $80, an extra pair of Joy-Con 2 controllers for $90, a Joy-Con 2 charging grip for $35 and more. However, considering the new question of tariffs, it's unclear if those accessory prices will change before customers can actually order the gear. Pre-order the Nintendo Switch 2 from: Nintendo Amazon Walmart GameStop Best Buy Target This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/gaming/nintendo/nintendo-switch-2-pre-orders-delays-prices-release-date-and-everything-else-you-need-to-know-140931105.html?src=rss
Whether youre into shooters, fighting games or immersive RPGs, theres something for every Xbox owner out there. While Microsofts first-party output has been a bit slim lately, the company has been on a tear acquiring the likes of Bethesda and Activision Blizzard , as well as pumping up the amount of worthwhile titles in its Game Pass subscription service. The result is a plethora of games to choose from, which can be either a blessing or a curse for the indecisive gamer. To make life a bit easier, weve highlighted some of the best titles available on the Xbox Series X and S (some of which are also playable on older Xbox One systems). Weve chosen a mix of old and new titles, but given the hundreds of hours weve put into these games, we can guarantee theyre well worth your time. Check out our entire Best Games series including the best Nintendo Switch games , the best PS5 games , the best Xbox games , the best PC games and the best free games you can play today. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/gaming/xbox/best-xbox-games-140022399.html?src=rss
Delamu 94-inch Cord Cover Kit Buy for $8 (Reg. $10) What we love If theres a pesky cable around the house that youd like to hide, this is an easy and affordable way to do it. For just $8, youll get nearly 8 feet of cover, which could bail you out several times over. Ive used kits like this to stealthily get power, Ethernet, and HDMI cables to their final destination time and time again. more
The iPad update of our dreams is finally coming (we hope)
Macworld The iPad is an excellent platform, so good that many of us prefer using it over a MacBook. But it has user interface issues that hinder productivity, issues that, according to Bloombergs Mark Gurman, are going to be addressed in iPadOS 19. In his later Power On newsletter , Gurman states that with iPadOS 19, the goal is to make the iPad more like a Mac with updates that address productivity, multitasking and app window management. How Apple will implement those changes is not detailed by Gurman, who notes that while Apple wont be putting macOS on the iPad, the update will bring the software up to the level of the hardware. Windows management is the biggest problem with iPadOS. When used for production, users need to switch between apps constantly, which is difficult on the iPad. With iPadOS 16, Apple introduced Stage Manager as a window management tool several years ago, but it restricts window sizes and layouts uncomfortably. Split View, which was in place before Stage Manager, limits the user to two open app windows. So, when Gurman states that iPadOS 19 will be more like a Mac, it doesnt seem likely that Apple will implement a macOS-like Desktop, but rather window management like that of macOS, where the user can freely resize windows and move them around the screen. That would make it easier to work with multiple apps at the same time. That will be especially beneficial for iPad Pro users who have devices with larger displays and are using professional-level production apps. Gurman specifically mentions the M4 iPad Pro and the upcoming M5 iPad Pro , which could mean that Apple will taylor some features specifically for the higher-end hardware. Apple will unveil iPadOS 19 at the WWDC keynote on Monday, June 9, at 10 am PT, alongside iOS 19 and macOS 16, among other updates.
ORIA Portable Lock Box Buy for $17.50 (Reg. $35) What we love Want another layer of security when out and about? This portable lock box can secure your valuables with a customizable 4-digit combination. Theres also a built-in steel security cable which allows you to attach it to something sort of like you would with a bike lock. more
Blue Origins all-female crew, including Katy Perry, successfully launched
Jeff Bezos space company, Blue Origin, successfully launched its New Shepard rocket at around 9:30 a.m. ET on Monday, as it seeks to challenge Elon Musks SpaceX in the space tourism industry. What stands out most about this mission is that it featured the first all-female space crew since 1963, when Soviet astronaut Valentina Tereshkova []
This custom Apple Pencil Pro looks like a crayon and costs $215
Macworld If theres one criticism we have of the Apple Pencilother than the confusing nature of the lineup its that it only comes in one color, white. Now modification company ColorWare has a solution to that problem, but its going to cost you. Thanks to ColorWares clever customization, you can get an Apple Pencil Pro in one of seven Crayola crayon-inspired colors : black, mint (green), pink, purple, red, yellow, and white. In addition to the colors, the Pencils look exactly like Crayola crayons with a matte-painted wrapper adorned with the trademark black oval. In a nod to its inspiration, ColorWare cheekily warns, Do not sharpen. However, the unique paint job will cost you. Specifically, itll cost you $86 more than the Apple Pencil Pro MSRP. ColorWare charges $215 for one of the new Crayon Pencils, which is something of a bargain over the non-Pro Number 2 Pencil , which also sells for $215 but is a mod of the cheaper 2nd-gen Pencil. The $215 MSRP doesnt include shipping, which varies by location. ColorWare also sells a variety of modified Apple products, including a Mac mini Retro in Light and Dark, starting at $899, a premium of $300 over the standard Mac mini. Its worth noting that the customization voids the standard Apple warranty, though ColorWare offers its own 1-year parts and labor warranty. If youre interested, the Apple Crayon Pros are expected to ship at the end of April.
M5 iPad Pro: Everything you need to know
Macworld While the iPad update schedule is somewhat unpredictable, Apple has established an 18-month cycle with the iPad Pro, and the current M4 iPad Pro was released in May 2024. Several reports state that Apple is scheduled to release an M5 iPad Pro in the fall, which would be right on schedule. That means were going to start seeing more reports about the new iPad Pro as the release date approaches. This article keeps track of all the rumors so you can keep up with whats going on and make a proper decision if youre in the market for a new iPad Pro. Update April 14, 2025: A report states that the M5 iPad Pro will ship at the same time as iPadOS 19. M5 iPad Pro: When will the new iPad Pro be released? The M5 iPad Pro is expected to arrive in September 2025 or later in the year On March 31, Bloombergs Mark Gurman reported that the M5 iPad Pro is on schedule to ship in the second half of the year. In January 2025, Bloombergs Mark Gurman reported that the M5 iPad Pro wont ship until late 2025 or early 2026. In December 2024, analyst Ming-Chi Kuo reported that the M5 iPad Pro will enter mass production in the second half of 2025. In April 2025, Gurman reported that iOS 19 will be ready around the time newiPad Pros with M5 chipsare likely to be ready. iOS 19 is expected to be revealed at WWDC25 in June and be released in the fall. Heres when the past five iPad Pro models have launched: M4 iPad Pro : May 2024 iPad Pro (6th gen) : October 2022 iPad Pro (5th gen) : April 2021 iPad Pro (4th gen) : March 2020 iPad Pro (3rd gen) : October 2018 M5 iPad Pro: How much will the new iPad Pro cost? Prices are likely to stay the same, starting at $999/999 (11-inch) and $1,299/1,299 (13-inch), but With the M5 iPad Pro, Apple increased the price by $100/100 across the different storage configurations. (Apple redefined the M5 iPad Pro base model with 256GB of storage, instead of 128GB that was in the M4 iPad Pro. When comparing prices, we start with the 256GB models.) Apple rarely increases prices two years in a row, but there are ongoing talks by the Trump administration in the U.S. of implementing tariffs on chips not made in the U.S. Apples M5 chip is made in Taiwan by TSMC, and could be subjected to a tariff. Should it go into effect, it could raise the price of the M5 iPad Pro in the U.S. The M4 iPad Pros 12MP camera with a LiDAR scanner will carry over to the M5 iPad Pro. Brady Snyder / Foundry M5 iPad Pro tech specs: What upgrades will the new iPad Pro have? An M5 chip Thats about it On March 31, Mark Gurman reported that the M5 iPad Pro will be a chip and ship product. That means it will get the new M5 chip and no other new features. The M4 iPad Pro from 2024 had several major upgrades to components and features that dont typically change from generation to generation, including: New OLED displays An option for nano-texture glass ($100/100) Moving the front-facing camera to the longer side Upgrade to the main camera to 12MP with True Tone flash and a LiDAR scanner Eliminating the 128GB storage option and setting the base level to 256GB Those features arent expected to change with the M5 iPad Pro, so the only major component to change will be the chip from the M4 to the M5. Apples new C1 modem is unlikely to make an appearance until a model with mmWave arrives, likely in 2026. Well keep updating this article as more information becomes available. Until then, you should check out our best iPad Pro deals to see if you can bag yourself a bargain on the current range.
Health and Human Services Systems Are in Danger of Collapsing, Workers Say
The purging of IT and cybersecurity staff at the Department of Health and Human Services could threaten the systems used by the agencys staff and the safety of critical health data.
As part of its Deals of the Day , Best Buy has two Worx discounts that will affordably get you geared up for spring mowing duties, led by the brands 40V 17-inch Cordless Electric Lawn Mower that comes with two 4.0Ah batteries for $265.99 shipped , and matches in price over at Amazon too. Coming down off its $330 perch, most of the recent discounts weve seen on this older model have been taking things down to $280, with some falls as low as $247 in the last year. Youre looking at $64 off the going rate here today though, which provides you with a tried-and-true means to handle mowing jobs around your home. Head below to learn more about it and the additional one-day-only offer. more
Amazons regularly $100 Fire HD 8 tablet drops to $65 today, plus more from $60
Alongside some discounts on its made for Alexa+ smart speakers and displays , Amazon has also now brought back a series of the spring sale prices on its already affordable Fire tablet lineup. One standout here is the latest model Amazon Fire HD 8 tablet that is now starting down at $64.99 shipped , some 35% under the usual $100 list price. Details and additional Fire tablet deals await below. more
Chipolos newest AirTag competitor works with both Apple and Googles finding networks
Chipolo, the maker of AirTag-like devices, on Monday introduced the latest version of its product. Now, instead of offering models that only work with either Apple or Googles lost-item finding technology, the new Chipolo POP devices work with both companies finding networks out of the box. By combining these different functionalities into one device, Chipolo []
Spring into style with Levis Flash Sale thats offering 30% off jeans, t-shirts, jackets, more
Levis is currently offering 30% off spring favorites including jeans, jackets, t-shirts, accessories, and more. Prices are as marked. Red Tab Members ( free to sign-up ) receive complimentary delivery on all orders. One of our top picks from this sale is the 512 Slim Taper Flex Jeans that are currently marked down to $63 and originally sold for $90. These jeans offer a tailored, modern fit thats slim through the thigh and tapers down to the ankle, providing a sleek silhouette. This style features a flex technology, they deliver exceptional stretch and comfort for all-day wear. You can also choose from an array of color options and theyre rated 4.1/5 stars from Levis customers. Find even more deals by heading below, or you can shop the entire sale here . more
UGREENs new 3-slot vertical MacBook stand sees first drop to $34 (Reg. $40)
UGREEN 3-Slot Vertical Laptop Stand Buy for $34 (Reg. $40) Clip the on-page 15% off coupon. What we love This new release hit Amazon over the weekend and is accompanied by a launch discount to make it a bit more tantalizing. Weve seen similar vertical stands from UGREEN, but until now theyve held one or two devices, this unit steps things up with room for three. more
Meta to start training its AI models on public content in the EU
Meta announced on Monday that its going to train its AI models on public content, such as posts and comments on Facebook and Instagram, in the EU after previously pausing its plans to do so in response to regulatory pressure due to to data privacy concerns. The company will start training its AI on users []
34 Best Family Board Games (2025): Catan, Onitama, Codenames
From monsters to kittens to strategy games, these sets will liven things up on nights when everyone is tired of screens.
F1 in Bahrain: I dare you to call that race boring
After a snoozer in Japan, F1's return to the Middle East went well.
Official Mario Kart World Direct showcase 3 days to go: Start time, new open-world details, more
With the full official reveal of Nintendo Switch 2, the release date , the announced $450 starting price , and the debacle that immediately followed after pre-orders were officially delayed in the U.S. (and Canada), one thing that might have raced under your radar was this weeks official Mario Kart World Direct showcase. It has been a busy couple weeks for Nintendo to say the least, and while it officially debuted the new Mario Kart game during the Switch 2 Direct alongside some Treehouse gameplay footage thereafter, it still has more to show us on the keystone Switch 2 launch game and it is set to go live later this week. more
Hugging Face buys a humanoid robotics startup
AI dev platform Hugging Face has acquired Pollen Robotics, a robotics startup based in France, for an undisclosed amount. Wired reports that Hugging Face plans to sell Pollens humanoid robot, Reachy 2, and let developers download and suggest improvements to its code. Pollen Robotics, which aims to bring affordable humanoid robots to the home, was []
Live demos test effectiveness of Revolutionary War weapons
Pitting the Brown Bess against the long rifle, testing the first military submarine, and more.
LISENs compact 57W car charger with retractable USB-C cable falls to $17.50 (Reg. $25)
LISEN 57W Retractable USB-C Car Charger Buy for $17.50 (Reg. $25) Clip the on-page 30% off coupon. What we love These days, when I need something with a cord, I opt for retractable solutions wherever I can. This new-release car charger checks that box with a 30W USB-C cable that can be pulled out when needed, and hidden when no longer in use. It also packs both USB-A and Type-C ports as well. more
As part of its soon-to-end Easter Sale and alternate Mega Sale , EcoFlow is closing out these sales tonight with its final flash offers on three different backup power deals, starting with the DELTA Max 2000 Portable Power Station for $849 shipped . We usually see discounts hitting this models bundles over the standalone unit, which is being brought down from its $2,099 price tag here for the rest of the day (and sale). We saw it fall lower back during Black Friday sales to $799 and then $759 during Cyber Monday, with todays deal still coming in as a significant $1,250 in savings, beating out our previous mention during the brands Spring Sale by $50 to land down at the third-lowest price we have tracked. You wont currently find it available at Amazon, with this being the best price we can find right now. more
CalDigit Thunderbolt 5 Element 5 Hub review
Macworld At a glance Expert's Rating Pros Nine ports yet compact Four Thunderbolt 5 ports Five USB ports 180W total power Cons May require HDMI or DisplayPort adapters Our Verdict More of a mini dock than a hub, the CalDigit Element 5 packs nine fast ports including four of the latest 80/120Gbps Thunderbolt 5. Price When Reviewed This value will show the geolocated pricing text for product undefined Best Pricing Today Price When Reviewed $299.95 Best Prices Today: CalDigit Thunderbolt 5 Element 5 Hub Retailer Price CalDigit $299.95 View Deal Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide Product Price Price comparison from Backmarket The CalDigit Element 5 Hub is the successor to the companys award-winning Thunderbolt 4 Element Hub, replacing the Thunderbolt 4 (TB4) ports with the double-speed Thunderbolt 5 (TB5) and even squeezing in an extra USB port for good measure. Just as the CalDigit Element 4 Hub was our recommended Thunderbolt 4 hub, the Element 5 takes over its position at the top of the Mac hub hierarchy. Specs and features One upstream Thunderbolt 5 port (80Gbps/120Gbps, 90W) Three downstream Thunderbolt 5 ports (80Gbps, 15W) Two USB-C ports (10Gbps, 7.5W) Three USB-A port s (10Gbps, 7.5W) 180W power supply The Element 5 Hub boasts five Thunderbolt 5 ports, each offering blisteringly fast 80Gbps data-transfer and when utilizing Bandwidth Boost can provide up to 120Gbps bandwidth for display purposes. CalDigit The upstream TB5 port that connects to your computer can also deliver up to 90W of power to a laptop. Thats enough to fast-charge the majority of Apples MacBooks, although it wont fast-charge the top-end 14- or 16-inch Pro/Max MacBook Pro. For that youll need a dock that can supply 140W. But 90W is still generous and enough for most laptop setups. The downstream TB5 ports can each supply 15W of power, and the USB-C and USB-A ports have potential for 7.5W each. The external power supply provides a decent 180Wup from 150W with the Element 4which is the same offered by even a full-scale docking station such as the Sonnet Echo 13 Thunderbolt 5 Dock. All the USB portstwo USB-C and three USB-A are rated at a fast 10Gbps. Thunderbolt 5 is much more of an upgrade than Thunderbolt 4 was from Thunderbolt 3. It can provide up to 6,200MBps performance for external storage devices, for example, which is double that of Thunderbolt 4. With nine ports in total, the Element 5 Hub offers more than any other Thunderbolt hub weve seen or tested, including even the eight-port Element 4 Hub. The OWC Thunderbolt 5 Hub offers four TB5 ports and one 10Gbps USB-A port. While three USB-A ports should be plenty for legacy devices, most accessories are now firmly in the USB-C camp so you might have one or two left empty, and OWCs one USB-A port is probably all thats required. It does, of course, lack the Element 5 Hubs extra two Type C ports. The Thunderbolt 5 ports can be used to connect USB-C devices, of course, so up to five can be accommodated using this hub. CalDigit A full docking station will have many more ports of different type, such as fast Ethernet for wired network access, card readers, display connections and audio ports, but with a few inexpensive adapters the Element 5s nine ports may be all you need. Because it features so many ports, the Element 5 Hub is a serious consideration for desktop users as well as laptop owners and will be a match for docking stations depending on your needs. You could add an Ethernet adapter, such as the Ugreen USB-C to 2.5G Ethernet Adapter , or card reader functionality via a USB-C adapter, for example. CalDigit Display options While it doesnt host a DisplayPort or HDMI port, the Element 5 Hub can connect to dual 6K or 8K 60Hz extended displays on Macs. These require no display adapter when the monitors support a USB-C or Thunderbolt connection but will if your display demands a DisplayPort or HDMI connection. (When connected to Windows Thunderbolt 5 PCs, the Element 5 Hub supports up to three external extended displays with Bandwidth Boost in use. Note that when Bandwidth Boost is in operation, the rest of the hub drops to 40Gbps. Unless attached to a DisplayLink dock, macOS doesnt support triple monitors via a Thunderbolt Dock or Hub.) For the Mac, the Element 5 Hub can support two 6K displays at 60Hz or 4K displays at 144Hz. Note that Apples plain (non-Pro or Max) M1- and M2-based computers support just one external monitor. Although it is possible to connect two or more displays to M1 and M2 Macs through use of DisplayLink adapters, the Element 5 Hub does not support DisplayLink. However, we expect most people interested in a powerful Thunderbolt hub will own a MacBook with a Pro or Max processor. The Element 5 Hub is compatible not just with Macs but with USB-C or Thunderbolt iPads and iPhones, as well as Windows tablets. CalDigit Design and build If used as a dock, the Element 5 Hub is one of the smallest youll find with its own power supply, measuring 4.5 x 2.75 x 1 inch (11.4 x 7 x 2.5cm) and weighing just 200g (0.44lbs). Thats about the same size as a fat pack of cards and shorter than an iPhone, and only marginally larger than the older Element 4 Hub. You might even lose track of it sat neatly on your desk, unless, of course, it has nine cables sticking out it alongside the power cable. The power brick is about the same size, and so is much reduced from that of the Element 4 Hub, which was pretty chunky. Its not impossible that you could use the Element 5 as a portable hub. Its built with aluminum and feels sturdier than cheaper USB-C hubs. The hub is reversible so you can place either the three downstream TB5 ports and one USB-A port at the front or the other side with two USB-C and two USB-A. This is made possible by CalDigit being smart enough to position the upstream TB5 port on one side of the hub, which is a much better placement than on the front as some hub and dock manufacturers do. It ships with a 0.8m Thunderbolt 5 cable. CalDigit Price The Element 5 Hub costs US$299.99, 249.99, or 249.99. Thats a little more than the Element 4 Hub , and about $100 more than the less-ported OWC Thunderbolt 5 Hub . Its more expensive than standard TB4 or USB-C hubs but its packed with the latest and most sophisticated technology and far more future-proof. For a nine-port Thunderbolt 5 hub, that extra spend is justified, and if used instead of a full-stocked dock will save you money. There are many types of hubs available to Mac users plus multifunction adapters and docks. Check out our roundups of the best USB-C hubs and adapters for Mac and best Thunderbolt docks for MacBook . Verdict You wont find any more modern USB and Thunderbolt ports on a hub than you get with CalDigits compact and well-priced Thunderbolt 5 Element 5 Hub, and they are all rated at top speeds. The 90W power delivery is enough for most laptops, and other devices should be fully powered too. Although not quite as convenient as a larger docking station, it can even be used as a fully functional laptop Thunderbolt 5 dock with the right adapters. Cleverly designed, compact enough to be relatively portable and stocked with top-end ports, the Element 5 Hub is easily our top-rated Thunderbolt 5 hub/mini dock.
Todays best iOS app deals and freebies: Bonfire 2 Uncharted Shores, Riptide GP, more
Your Monday morning collection of the best App Store game and app deals is now ready to go down below. On your way down, be sure to scope out the now live Best Buy Spring Sale with loads of deals on iPads, AirPods, Macs, and more, as well as the ongoing all-time low on Apples most affordable new iPad A16 , this mornings Apple Pencil price drops, up to $465 off Apples 1TB 13-inch M4 iPad Pro , and this deal on Twelve Souths TimePorter Apple Watch band organizer . As for the apps, highlights include The Bonfire 2 Uncharted Shores, Riptide GP: Renegade, Not Another Weekend, Refind Self, and more. Everything awaits below. more
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Helinox Chair One (re) Review: The Best Camping Chair
Despite the annoying naming convention, the Helinox Chair One (re) is an impressive upgrade to Helinox's classic, compact camping chair.
We are now tracking a deal at Amazon that drops ASUS Vivobook S 15 Copilot+ PC down to $799.99 shipped. This is originally a $1,300 machine that hit the scene last year as one of the first Copilot+ laptops on the market with Qualcomms Snapdragon X Elite chip. It has fetched as much as $1,100 in recent months, meaning youre looking at a $300 discount right now on its usual going rate. Todays 38% discount on its listed price marks the return of the lowest price we first tracked for it last month, making it a great time to cash in. Head below for more details along with deals on other Copilot+ PC discounted right now at Amazon. more
Startup news and updates: Daily roundup (April 14, 2025)
YourStory presents the daily news roundup from the Indian startup ecosystem and beyond. Here's the roundup for Monday, April 14, 2025.
Autonomous trucking startup Kodiak Robotics to go public via SPAC
Self-driving truck startup Kodiak Robotics plans to go public via a merger with special purpose acquisition company Ares Acquisition Corporation II. The transaction values Kodiak, which has raised around $243 million to date, at about $2.5 billion pre-money. New and existing Kodiak institutional investors, like Soros Fund Management, ARK Investments, and Ares, have funded or []
Three months of Apple TV+ drops to only $9
Apple TV+ has a ton of popular originals like Ted Lasso , Severance , Slow Horses , For All Mankind , Foundation and Silo . If you've been meaning to check them out, you can do so for less right now. Apple TV+ is on sale right now for $3 per month for the first three months, bringing the total cost to just $9 for the entire period. That saves you a total of $21 off the standard $10 monthly cost of the subscription that we consider to be one of our favorite streaming services . Apple's shows won 10 Emmy Awards in 2024 , including a Slow Horses victory for outstanding writing in a drama series. Although its films weren't up for anything at this year's Oscars, it received 13 nominations in 2024 , including Best Picture nods for Killers of the Flower Moon and Napoleon . Three months of Apple TV+ for $9 is available through April 24. Both new and qualified returning subscribers (those who haven't been subscribed for the past 30 days) are eligible. You also must sign up via Apple directly and not through a third-party provider or your mobile wireless provider. If you don't want to pay full price after three months, just remember to cancel before the renewal date. Check out our coverage of the best streaming deals for more discounts, and follow @EngadgetDeals on X for the latest tech deals and buying advice. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/deals/three-months-of-apple-tv-drops-to-only-9-193009187.html?src=rss
The Apple Pencil Pro drops back down to $99
There are some great keyboard attachments for Apple's iPad but, sometimes, you just want to physically write things down with a pencil. While the Apple Pencil lineup can be confusing ( see our helpful guide here ), there are two great options currently on sale. Take the 23 percent discount on the Apple Pencil Pro , for instance. The markdown drops its cost to $99 from $129, only $10 more than its all-time low price. Apple released this top-end model last year and it's certainly the best of the bunch. It offers features such as squeeze gesture to see menu options and a built-in gyroscope that improves the process of changing your pen's orientation and brush tools. Plus, it works with Apple's Find My network, so you can easily locate the tool at any time. However, it's only compatible with select iPads, including the iPad Pro with an M4 chip , iPad Air with M2 or M3 chips and the iPad mini with A17 Pro. If you don't want to spend close to $100, the Apple Pencil with a USB-C port is also on sale. The 2023 model is available for $66, down from $79 a 16 percent sale. The big benefit (other than the reduced price) is that it works with a lot more iPads than the Pencil Pro. The Apple Pencil with a USB-C port also has all the basics, like tilt sensitivity, magnetic attachment and supporting Apple Pencil hover when using an iPad Pro. Follow @EngadgetDeals on X for the latest tech deals and buying advice . This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/deals/the-apple-pencil-pro-drops-back-down-to-99-134027919.html?src=rss
Capitalmind secures SEBI approval to launch mutual fund
Capitalmind Financial Services Pvt. has obtained final regulatory approval from Indias Securities and Exchange Board (SEBI) to launch Capitalmind Mutual Fund, extending its quantitative investment strategies to retail investors.
As part of its now live Spring Sale that kicked off this morning, Best Buy is now offering up to 70% off Switch 1 and PS5 games including a dedicated SEGA sale and a collection of Ubisoft titles . But one of the highlights here for us is Tomb Raider I-III Remastered Starring Lara Croft. The regularly $30 PS5 version is now $14.99 at 50% off while the Nintendo Switch edition has dropped to $19.99 . Shipping is free with a FREE My Best Buy membership . The Switch version is also matched on Amazon but you wont find this remastered version of the Lara Croft classics on sale for PS5 there. Browse through the rest of the Best Buy Spring Sale right here and youll find even more of todays best game deals waiting below. Nintendo Store holds strong on official date forSwitch 2 pre-orders in the U.S. sort of Why Switch OLED could still be the best option for most over Switch 2 [Video] more
How to Build a PC (2025): Hardware Suggestions, Instructions, and More
Assembling a computer yourself is a good way to learn how they work.
NOAA scientists scrub toilets, rethink experiments after service contracts end
One federal lab has lost janitorial services, hazardous waste support, IT, and building maintenance.
Update 4/14: Amazon has dropped this device to a new all-time low of $30.24 shipped . Prices on the alternate models below have also been updated. For anyone who may have been sad to hear that AeroGarden planned to close its doors at the start of 2025 the company is officially staying alive and relaunching now that spring is here, with Amazon currently offering a number of its hydroponic systems at discounted rates. Among them, youll find the popular AeroGarden Harvest 2.0 6-Pod Indoor Hydroponic System in multiple colorways starting from $34.99 shipped. No longer listed at its original $90 rate and more recently keeping between $65 and $70 at Amazon, we saw the brand cut prices back during Black Friday and Christmas, with those discounts going as low as $45 which continued through the first two months of the new year. As unexpected as the announcement that it would be staying open, the price is now getting brought down lower than ever with the 50% markdown off the new going rate, putting $35 back in your pocket. more
Samsungs mid-range Galaxy S24 FE returns to 2025 low at $150 off, or from $250 with trade
While we saw some short-lived offers over the holidays and during Black Friday for less, Samsung has now brought back the 2025 low on its mid-range Galaxy S24 FE handsets just after the debuted of its new Tab S10 FE/+ tablets . Youll now find the most affordable configuration down from the regular $650 price tag to $499.99 shipped in all colors. This same deal also applies to the upgraded 256GB configuration at $559.99 shipped , down from the regular $710 list. Details below. more
Nvidia says it plans to manufacture some AI chips in the US
Nvidia said on Monday that it has commissioned more than a million square feet of manufacturing space to build and test AI chips in Arizona and Texas as part of an effort to move a portion of its production to the U.S. The chipmaker said the production of its Blackwell chips has started at TSMCs []
At $301 off, this MSI gaming laptop with Core i5 and RTX 4060 delivers serious value for $699 today
We are now tracking a deal at Walmart that drops MSIs Thin 15.6-inch gaming laptop with Intel Core i5-13420H/16GB/512GB/4060 down to $699 shipped . This is regularly a $1,000 machine which is now seeing a $301 discount to land on your battlestation at a lower rate. This is a solid deal to consider if you are in the market to buy a new gaming machine, and it delivers a great value for money considering a similarly-specced MSI laptop with a less powerful RTX 4050 is currently fetching over $900 at Amazon. Head below for more details. more
Apple is working on a new Vision headset made for the Mac
Macworld Theres been organizational turmoil lately at Apples Vision Products Group, which created the Vision Pro headset. Following the completion of that project, the group was essentially disbanded as a coherent body, with constituent parts reshuffled under other reporting lines within the company. Vision boss Mike Rockwell took over the Siri brief from John Giannandrea, while the groups hardware and software engineers are now spread out across multiple teams. All this change might seem disruptive, and has reportedly led to fears of layoffs, but Apple is keeping its Vision-focused employees busy. And in the latest installment of his Power On newsletter, Bloomberg reporter Mark Gurman reveals that the team is still working on not one but two new headsets to follow up on Vision Pros critical success but commercial failure. The first is an obvious attempt to address the two obstacles preventing Vision Pro from achieving widespread adoption: its high price tag and substantial physical bulk. The new plan is to release a model that makes the headset both lighter and cheaper, Gurman writes, noting that the first-gen Vision Pro version weighs almost 1.5 pounds and has received almost universal criticism about neck strain. He doesnt explain how Apple will make the device lighter, though it will presumably turn to a different material than the original models aluminum frame or cut down on the size. He also fails to share details on how the price will come down, particularly in light of the current tariff turmoil. These, then, are obvious upgrades Apple was always going to attempt if it went ahead with plans for a sequel to Vision Pro. A more interesting prediction is Gurmans claim that a second headset will be designed specifically for use with a Mac. In January, I reported that Apple had scrapped work on augmented reality glasses that would tether to a Mac. Instead, its now working on a Vision Pro that plugs into a Mac, he explains. The idea is to create an ultra-low-latency system for streaming a users Mac display or for connecting to high-end enterprise applications. Some customers have been using the Vision Pro for things like viewing imaging during surgery or for flight simulators. Those are two areas where a user would want the least amount of lag possiblesomething that cant be guaranteed by a fully wireless system. Apple already offers a feature that lets Vision Pro users wirelessly access their Macs display wirelessly , though the problems above have limited its success . However, a headset designed to plug into a Mac would likely be significantly cheaper and lighter and could be marketed as a pro accessory rather than a high-priced standalone item. Ultimately, Gurman insists, Apple wants to create its long-awaited augmented-reality glasses, with an extremely low weight and discreet profile. He notes that Tim Cook is hell-bent on creating an industry-leading product before Meta can, but its still many years from launch. However, the two headsets currently in development could serve as a useful stopgap before the company gets there.
Google created a new AI model for talking to dolphins
DolphinGemma will get its first test run this summer.
Hugging Face Acquires Pollen Robotics to Unleash Open Source AI Robots
Hugging Face has acquired the open source robot startup Pollen Robotics to help democratize robotics.
Intel to sell controlling stake in Altera chip business to Silver Lake
Intel on Monday said it has agreed to sell 51% of its Altera semiconductor business to Silver Lake, a private equity firm. The deal, which values Altera at $8.75 billion, will make the division operationally independent, Intel said in a press release. The chipmaker will retain a 49% stake in Altera, which will be led []
These 8 Automatic Cat Feeders Were the Best We Tested
We tested some of the most popular automatic dry- and wet-food pet feeders to see which ones are worth the money.
PS5 prices are increasing across Europe, UK and Australia
Potential PS5 buyers in Europe, the UK, Australia and more will now need to fork over up to 100 more AUD, EUR and other local currencies for a console. Sony has announced a series of price hikes for the PS5 , blaming a backdrop of a challenging economic environment, including high inflation and fluctuating exchange rates. The company last raised PS5 prices across these markets in 2022. Only the PS5 Digital Edition's cost changes in Europe and the UK. It will increase to 500 ($570) from 450 ($513) in Europe and to 430 ($567) from 390 ($514) in the UK. Prices for the Digital Edition and PS5 with disc drive are rising significantly across the board. The Digital Edition is increasing to AUD $750 (USD $475) from AUD $650 (USD $412) in Australia. Meanwhile, in New Zealand, the PS5 with disc drive is now NZD $950 (USD $558), up from NZD $900. Those new prices go into effect immediately, so hopefully, you did some shopping over the weekend if you wanted a new PS5 . In contrast, Sony is reducing the cost of purchasing the add-on disc drive. Buyers will pay 80 in Europe (down from 120) and 70 in the UK, down from 100. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/gaming/playstation/ps5-prices-are-increasing-across-europe-uk-and-australia-123025793.html?src=rss
Apple Watch Ultra 2 up to $164 off with deals from $635 (Best Buy open-box w/ full warranty), more
Update: Ushered in by the Best Buy Spring Sale that is now live and offering the black Apple Watch Ultra2 at $738.99 shipped in brand new condition, we are also now tracking some newer lower pricing on open-box listings with a 1-year Apple warranty on the Black Ocean Band and Green Trail Loop configs. Details below. Straight up cash deals on brand-new Apple Watch Ultra 2 units have been harder to come by in 2025. We have seen some drops here and there on select configurations, but nothing quite as readily available as during the holiday season at the tail end of 2024. Today, however, over at Amazon youll find the the Natural Titanium Apple Watch Ultra 2 with a Navy Ocean Band marked down to $734.89 shipped , or $64 off the regular $799 price tag, alongside a host of notable open-box listings at Best Buy with full 1-year Apple warranties at the ready and up to $170 in savings on the black models . Scope those out down below. more
This may have flown under your radar, but GoPro debuted a limited-edition Polar White variant of its latest HERO13 Black camera last month. It hit the scene carrying a $400 price tag just like the regular model, and its now seeing its first discount down at $349.99 shipped . Thats straight up a $50 discount and the lowest we have tracked for this model which was listed on Amazon just over a month ago. The regular HERO13 Black is also down to $349.99 shipped right now, and youll also find the HERO13 Black Creator bundle at $499.99 shipped , down from its usual price of $600. Head below for more details. more
8 Best Space Heaters (2025), Tested and Reviewed
These portable heaters will heat a room quickly, quietly, and safely.
Amazon is now offering up to $300 off unlocked Google Pixel 9/Pro smartphones, deals from $649
The all-new Google Pixel 9a pre-orders are now finally live with some notable early promotions a FREE $100 Google Store credit or you can score one for as low as $99 with a trade-in but we are also now tracking some price across the entire Pixel 9 flagship lineup of devices as well. While there have been some wild one-off and short-lived offers on select configurations for less here and there, as of right now both Best Buy and Amazon are now knocking hundreds of just about every configuration and color option with deals starting from $649. The details await below. more
Amazon knocks 30% off Googles Indoor Nest Cams at $70, or open-box for $59 (Reg. $100)
Alongside the ongoing price drops from last week on Googles wireless Nest Cam (outdoor or indoor) , this morning Amazon has knocked 30% off the latest Google Indoor Nest Cam. Regularly $100, youll now find the Snow white, Linen, and Fog blue models all sitting down at $69.99 shipped this is matching our previous mention and the best we have tracked at Amazon in 2025. more
We are now tracking a deal at Amazon that drops Samsungs 2TB 7,250MB/s 990 EVO Plus Gen 4 SSD down to $129.99 shipped. Thats straight up a $55 discount on a drive that regularly goes for $185. Todays deal delivers a 30% markdown on its usual going rate, landing it $10 below the price its currently fetching directly at Samsung . This is the lowest price we have tracked for this SSD, and youll also find its 1TB and 4TB model currently discounted with prices starting from $74.99 shipped. Head below for more details. more
An Ars Technica history of the Internet, part 1
In our new 3-part series, we remember the people and ideas that made the Internet.
InfoEdge is adding one or two new companies each quarter, with its current portfolio spanning drug discovery, and mental health technologies, among others.
Boses Diamond Ultra Open Bluetooth Earbuds return to $229 shipped at Amazon ($70 off), more
Amazon is now offering various color options of the latest Bose Ultra Open Bluetooth Earbuds, including the sweet Diamond 60th Anniversary Edition set, down at $229 shipped . Regularly $299, this is $70 off, matching the price youll pay for a refurbished set right now straight from Bose , and the lowest we can find. This deal is also matched as part of the now live, weeklong Best Buy Spring Sale details on that await right here . more
Apple Pencil Pro now nearly 25% off at $99, while Apple Pencil USB-C falls to $66
After a brief hiatus up close to the full $129 MSRP, Amazon has bought the flagship Apple Pencil Pro back down to the official 2024 Black Friday price at $99 alongside a deal on the more affordable USB-C Apple Pencil at $66.13 shipped. Head below for more details. more
Dear Apple: Please learn from Nintendos Switch 2 debacle
Macworld There was huge excitement in the Price household at the start of this month when Nintendo announced the upcoming launch of the Switch 2 . And then that excitement turned to bitter recrimination when the company revealed that games for the new system could cost as much as $80, even if you choose a digital rather than physical copy. Oh and then they announced that the April 9 preorders were delayed to assess the potential impact of tariffs. This financial bombshell was especially ill-timed because its become clear that the Switch 2 is considerably less innovative than its more affordable predecessor. Many of Nintendos hits have achieved success thanks to a fun gimmick or point of difference: the DSs twin screens, the Wiis motion controls, and the Switchs twin function as a handheld and big-screen console. Even the Wii U, which flopped, at least attempted something new with its asymmetric controllers. But aside from a cursory (sorry) mouse mode for the Joy-Cons, the Switch 2 appears to just do what the Switch did with better specs. Then again, doing the same thing with better specs is a phrase that could have been written for Apple, especially its all-conquering iPhone product line. Regular readers will be well aware of the exasperating pattern : early rumors hint at a dramatic revamp and startling new features before reality bites and the new iPhone ends up being much the same as the previous model. That certainly appears to be the case this year, with the big redesign predicted earlier in the cycle now looking considerably less radical and the long-awaited shake-up now expected in 2027 . A wide camera module probably isnt going to be enough for the iPhone 17 to blow your socks off. These increasingly consistent reports about the iPhone 17 arrive, like the Switch 2 price reveal, at an inconvenient time. Because, thanks to on-again, off-again tariffs on goods imported from China, where Apple makes most of its iPhones, the company may have to bite the bullet this year and increase prices or at the very least hike the low end by bumping the starting storage . A 40 percent price bump is a lot easier to swallow if the product is 40 percent better, but if its largely the same Well, lets just say that being expensive and boring at the same time is not a good combination. Apple couldnt realistically have seen this situation coming, but I still feel like this is a crisis of its own making. Year after year, the company has changed the iPhone as little as it possibly can, in order to save money, focus engineering on other projects such as Vision Pro, and leave room for further upgrades in the future. Its been like an expert racing driver, pushing as close to the barriers as possible for maximum efficiency. But when you do that, you make yourself vulnerable to even the smallest of outside factors, and a political gust of wind just made a crash more likely. Betting against Apple (or Nintendo, for that matter) is a fools errand, and my assumption is that Tim Cook will find a way to make this work. Hes already lobbied his way to a temporary exemption , and may yet perform logistical miracles ramping up production in India and Brazil. But above all, I hope Apple will learn its lesson and stop taking iPhone customers for granted. Foundry Welcome to our weekly Apple Breakfast column, which includes all the Apple news you missed last week in a handy bite-sized roundup. We call it Apple Breakfast because we think it goes great with a Monday morning cup of coffee or tea, but its cool if you want to give it a read during lunch or dinner hours too. Have your say We received an interesting and thoughtful response to last weeks Apple Breakfast on the rumored iOS redesign , and Id like to quote from it here. Your apprehension toward the anticipated iOS redesign appears to stem from a preference for the familiar, writes Gregg from Denver, CO. However, embracing change is essential for technological advancement. Consider the evolution of language: languages that fail to adapt risk obsolescence. Latin, once dominant, has faded from common discourse due to its stagnation. Similarly, operating systems must evolve to remain relevant and meet users changing needs. Historically, iOS redesigns have led to significant improvements. For instance, iOS 7s overhaul introduced a cleaner, more intuitive interface that many users appreciated. While initial reactions were mixed, the changes ultimately set the stage for future innovations. Furthermore, redesigns can enhance user engagement. Studies have shown that improvements in UX/UI design, such as streamlined navigation and faster load times, can drastically reduce frustration and abandonment, encouraging users to engage more deeply with the operating system. In the realm of technology, stagnation is synonymous with decline. As technophiles, we should welcome change that propels us toward more efficient and user-friendly experiences. Trending: Top stories Next-gen CarPlay is the broken Apple promise that foreshadowed the Siri fiasco . Jason Cross will never use his AirPods Pro again without this $20 upgrade . Microsoft made me want a Fiftieth Anniversary MacBook more than ever. Can Apple make its best Mac matter again ? Hey Apple , scrap the foldable iPhone and iPad before its too late. A 256GB SSD is too small for a Mac in 2025 and its all macOSs fault. Ugh: Tariff special Tariff panic? Buying an iPhone right now is a terrible idea . With tariffs causing turmoil, the Macalope wonders what exactly Tim Cook spent a million bucks on. Talking of which Heres how President Trumps tariffs will impact the price of Apple products . And heres how Apple can handle Trumps tariffs without raising prices (too much). Podcast of the week Believe it or not, the next iPhone is only six months away! So in episode 929 of the Macworld Podcast, were covering the latest iPhone rumors and whether or not youll even be able to afford the new phone. You can catch every episode of the Macworld Podcast on Spotify , Soundcloud , the Podcasts app , or our own site . Reviews corner Best Mac data recovery apps : Bring back your lost and deleted files . Best MacBook bags, cases and sleeves : Perfect for every situation . The rumor mill Here we go again: The iPhone shake-up is now coming in 2027 . And that big redesign predicted for this year might not be so big after all . Still iPhone 16e comparison pics show off an impressively thin iPhone 17 Air . Report : Apple is prepping a giant folding iPad for release next year. iOS 19 leak shows new icons, shimmery buttons, and lots of glass . Instagram finally, finally makes an iPad app ! Maybe. Siri woes reportedly push Apples smart home hub into 2026. Software updates, bugs, and problems You can use a VPN for TikTok if it gets banned , but its a headache. And with that, were done for this weeks Apple Breakfast. If youd like to get regular roundups, sign up for our newsletters , including our new email from The Macalopean irreverent, humorous take on the latest news and rumors from a half-man, half-mythical Mac beast. You can also follow uson Facebook , Threads , Bluesky , or X for discussion of breaking Apple news stories. See you next Monday, and stay Appley.
Sony has now announced an official price increase on PlayStation 5 in Europe and elsewhere. While the U.S. remains safe (for now anyway), the value on that new Astro Bot bundle is looking better and better everyday. more
4-legged hydrogen-powered robot you can actually ride
Kawasaki's CORLEO is a hydrogen-powered, AI-driven rideable robot. Tech expert Kurt CyberGuy Knutsson reports on this new way of thinking about off-road transportation.
The Most Dangerous Hackers Youve Never Heard Of
From crypto kingpins to sophisticated scammers, these are the lesser-known hacking groups that should be on your radar.
Why Its Impossible for Most Small Businesses to Manufacture in the US
American companies that make everything from keychains to mattresses say Chinese manufacturing is superior, and tariffs wont be enough to shift production to the United States.
Gamaredon: The Turncoat Spies Relentlessly Hacking Ukraine
For the past decade, this group of FSB hackersincludingtraitorUkrainian intelligence officershas used a grinding barrage of intrusion campaigns to make life hell for their former countrymen and cybersecurity defenders.
TraderTraitor: The Kings of the Crypto Heist
Allegedly responsible for the theft of $1.5 billion in cryptocurrency from a single exchange, North Koreas TraderTraitor is one of the most sophisticated cybercrime groups in the world.
Black Basta: The Fallen Ransomware Gang That Lives On
After a series of setbacks, the notorious Black Basta ransomware gang went underground. Researchers are bracing for its probable return in a new form.
Brass Typhoon: The Chinese Hacking Group Lurking in the Shadows
Though less well-known than groups like Volt Typhoon and Salt Typhoon, Brass Typhoon, or APT 41, is an infamous, longtime espionage actor that foreshadowed recent telecom hacks.
CyberAv3ngers: The Iranian Saboteurs Hacking Water and Gas Systems Worldwide
Despite their hacktivist front, CyberAv3ngers is a rare state-sponsored hacker group bent on putting industrial infrastructure at riskand has already caused global disruption.
Rasna: The Ultimate Success Story of Innovation, Affordability, and Love
Rasnas journey is a masterclass in branding and nostalgialearn how a homegrown brand stayed relevant in a market full of global giants.
Best Buy has now launched its massive spring sale with thousands of items on sale across giant selection of product categories. From iPads and AirPods through to smart home gear, LEGO sets, Samsung Galaxy tablets, Bose headphones home theater, major appliances, and much more. The sale goes live right now, carries through until weeks end, and we will touch on some highlights down below. more
Uppercase to launch premium line backed by latest investor Jasprit Bumrah
Bumrah's new product line is set to launch amid Uppercase's rapid offline expansion, the company is targeting 50 stores by the end of current financial year.
The best ergonomic keyboards for 2025
I probably look at my computer screen more than I look at my family members. And copious hours sitting at a desk have not done favors for my already wonky neck and shoulders. If you also feel some discomfort from typing and mousing the day away, you might want to invest in an ergonomic keyboard. The first time I tried a fully split, thumb cluster board, I knew I had found the answer to my particular problem. But it was tricky to figure out how to type on it. Other unibody boards with angled keys, such as Alice style keyboards, might make things more comfortable for you without requiring much relearning. I tried out more than 15 models of ergonomic boards and found a few that stood out. While theres no single best option for everyone (since bodies are inherently different), this guide explores the options so you can find the best ergonomic keyboard for you. Table of contents Best ergonomic keyboards for 2025 What to look for in an ergonomic keyboard How we tested ergonomic keyboards Other ergonomic keyboards we tested Best ergonomic keyboards for 2025 What to look for in an ergonomic keyboard Alice vs split Most ergonomic keyboard layouts fall into two categories: unibody (or Alice) and split. The former is a single board with the two halves of the keys rotated about 30 degrees apart at the bottom. The separation forms an A-shaped space between the keys which has nothing to do with why its called an Alice layout, its just a happy coincidence. This subtle tweak pushes your elbows away from your ribs while keeping a straight line from your forearm to your middle knuckle. Using one, I pretty instantly felt more open along the front side of my body. This layout more closely resembles a traditional keyboard, so it should be easier for most folks to get used to than a fully split option. Speaking of, split boards break the keys into two separate parts you can position individually. You can put them shoulder distance apart, bring them closer together or angle them as much as feels comfortable. You can also put your mouse between the halves, which may feel like an easier trip for your cursor hand and could potentially help with conditions like repetitive strain injuries (RSI). Personally, I like being able to put my current snack between the two parts. I've also found that pairing a split keyboard with a good ergonomic mouse has helped me even more, particularly a vertical mice. Tenkeyless You can find ergonomic keyboards with and without number pads. Not having those number keys on the right side lets you keep your mouse closer in, minimizing overall reach. But if you work with numbers a lot, youll likely want that pad included. Some programmable boards allow for the use of layers, which temporarily repurpose keys and can provide you with a ten-key option through clever remapping of letter keys. Tenting and negative tilt Tenting raises the middle of the keyboard up, so your hands move closer to a handshake position. Alice keyboards usually angle up towards the middle and always to a fixed degree, since the two sides are connected. Split boards often let you adjust the degree of tenting, going from flat to subtle to extreme lift. You may have encountered keyboards with an optional lift at the back of the board, raising the top keys higher than the space bar. Every set of hands is different, but for most people, pulling the backs of the hands towards the forearms increases strain. Negative tilt has the opposite effect by sloping in the other direction, lowering the top number keys while raising the edge with the spacebar. Many Alice and some split keyboards offer an optional negative tilt. I found it was more comfortable to enable that feature when Im standing, and I preferred to have the keys flat when sat at my desk. Staggered vs columnar This decision seems to be one of the more hotly-contested among ergo enthusiasts. A conventional keyboard has staggered keys, with each row slightly offset to the rows above and below it so the A key is about halfway between the Q and W above it. This is a holdover from vintage mechanical typewriters, in which each press activated a hammer that smashed ink onto paper in the shape of a letter. To fit the hammers as close together as possible, while still allowing for finger pads, the keys were staggered. Columnar or ortholinear keyboards stack the keys in orderly columns, often with rows that are not linear. Proponents claim this makes the keys easier to reach. Whether thats true will be up to your fingers to decide, but I can say for certain that if you learned to type on a staggered keyboard, switching to a columnar layout is tough. It will take days, possibly weeks before you instinctively hit the C key. The N, M and B keys dont fare much better. Programmable keys With a few exceptions, most ergonomic keyboards will work with PCs or Macs as a standard typing input, but the use of function and hot keys may require some remapping. It can be as easy as an onboard switch to toggle between Mac and PC layouts, or as involved as downloading software to change up the keys. Some boards even include (or let you buy) extra keycaps to change, say, the Macs Command and Option keys to PCs Start and Alt buttons. Those are what's called hot-swappable keys, meaning you just pull the old key off (usually with a provided key puller) and stick the new one on, no soldering required. For some boards, remapping or programming keys using software is a crucial feature. Gaming peripherals have extra keys that you can set to execute a series of keystrokes with the push of a single button, and we cover the best gaming keyboards in a separate guide. Keyboards that work with layers, in which a single button can perform several functions, typically allow you to change what those are. Some ergo keyboards have non-standard layouts, like thumb clusters with multiple keys near the space bar that you operate with your thumb. Youll also be able to program those. Other considerations Ergonomic keyboards come in mechanical, membrane, and scissor switch versions. Which works best for you is, again, up to your preference. I wont get too deep into the particulars here, as we have an entire guide devoted to the best mechanical boards , but the short of it is that membrane and scissor switches are less customizable than mechanical and typically cheaper. Typing on them tends to be quieter and softer. Mechanical switches are more customizable, offer a more responsive typing experience and are usually pricier. Youll also have the option of wired or wireless ergonomic boards. All other things being equal, wired models are less expensive. Competitive gamers who rely on split-second responses may prefer the zero-lag of wired keyboards. Wired models also never run out of battery life and have fewer connectivity issues. But wireless keyboards keep your desk less cluttered. Some ergonomic keyboards come with permanent or removable wrist or palm rests, which can be cushioned or hard. This is another area where opinions diverge: proponents claim they help you maintain a neutral hand position, while detractors say they put pressure on the tendons in your wrist and can exacerbate conditions like carpal tunnel. Ideally, your palms should be resting, not your wrists, and you might find you like having that support or you may find the pressure uncomfortable. Photo by Amy Skorheim / Engadget How we tested ergonomic keyboards All our guides begin with extensive research to figure out whats out there and whats worth testing. We consider brands with good reputations that weve heard good things about from colleagues and look at keyboard reviews in forums and other trusted publications. For this guide, I looked for keyboards with ergonomic features like tenting, split keys, palm support and so on. I also zeroed in on boards that didnt require a deep amount of familiarity with the vast and exhaustive world of custom keyboards. Once I settled on ten boards, I acquired them and used each one for anywhere from a few days to a few weeks. I tried out the remapping and macros software and considered the comfort, design, price and durability of each model before arriving at picks I think will work best for the most people out there. For subsequent updates to this guide, I have continued to acquire and test out new keyboards as they come on the market, adding and replacing the top picks as warranted. If and when Microsoft ergonomic keyboards, like the Sculpt, come back on the market, as a collaboration with Incase has promised , I'll try those models, too. Other ergonomic keyboards we tested Naya Create I didnt get to fully test the Naya Create keyboard, but I was able to try one out for a few minutes during CES this year . Its one of the more customizable keyboards youll find. Not only is it a fully split, mechanical board with programmable keys, the thumb clusters sit just below two modular platforms that each accept a touchpad, rollerball, dial or a 3D joystick. These are meant to replace your mouse and other input devices, eliminating travel for your cursor hand. Each half of the keyboard body bends in two places to allow for precise tenting and, from my short time with the Naya, the hinges and the entire board felt solidly built. The Naya Create starts at $500 before you add on any of the mouse modules, but thats not stopping people from ordering. According to Nayas website, the first three batches of pre-orders sold out and the fourth batch will ship in July 2025. Goldtouch Elite Adjustable I remember wondering if something like the Goldtouch Elite Adjustable existed when I first started testing ergonomic keyboards. It didnt at the time, as far as I could tell, but now a connected yet adjustable split board is indeed a product you can buy. Its a solidly-built board and the ball joint connecting the two halves feels like it will put up with a lot of use. A squeeze of the lever at the top of the keys lets you set the board just how you like, adjusting both the vertical tenting and the angle between the two halves. Theres no programming to speak of, just the ability to swap a few function keys like print screen and home. Unfortunately, the tenting doesnt work for me. Because of the extra keys at the outer edges, raising the middle edges upwards lifts the center keys considerably, which brings my wrists and forearms off the desk instead of letting them rest. Holding them like that created extra neck and shoulder strain on my part, which is sort of the opposite of the goal. But if youre not into tenting anyway and want a flat, Alice-split board with an adjustable splay, this works quite well. Kinesis Form Split Touchpad Keyboard The idea behind the Kinesis Form Split Touchpad Keyboard is pretty ergonomic: put the trackpad between the two halves and minimize travel for your mouse hand. The distance between the two puts your elbows at a comfortable distance and keeps your wrist nearly in-line with your forearms. The build is excellent, with low profile mechanical switches that feel smooth and just the right amount of clacky. The trackpad is responsive, but gestures only work with Windows computers. Even dragging and dropping doesnt work on a Mac here, so I dont see Apple users getting much use out of the board. I also found myself wishing for the slightest rotation of the keys though theyre a good distance apart, a slight angle would keep my wrists fully unbent. Theres no tenting or negative tilt either, both of which could help a bit more, ergonomically speaking. Logitech Wavekeys While it's a perfectly fine and affordable Bluetooth keyboard, the Logitech Wavekeys has minimal ergonomics. The keys rise up slightly in the middle and there's a comfortable wrist rest attached, but the layout is the same as any other keyboard, with no splitting of the keys to open up your arms or keep your wrists straight. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/computing/accessories/best-ergonomic-keyboard-130047982.html?src=rss
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The best wireless headphones for 2025: Bluetooth options for every budget
Whether you're listening to playlists on your daily commute or zoning out with a podcast at home, wireless headphones can make your audio experience much more comfortable. With no cords to untangle or get caught on your bag, theyre a great pick for anyone who wants convenience without compromising on sound quality. If comfort and immersive audio are high on your priority list, over-ear wireless headphones are often the way to go they wrap around your ears to help block out the world and deliver rich detailed sound that earbuds can sometimes miss. Theres a wide range of over-ear wireless headphones to choose from, whether you want active noise cancellation, long battery life or a comfy fit for marathon listening sessions. Of course, if you're after something a little more compact or tailored to a specific use case, we also have you covered with our buying guides for the best earbuds , the best gaming headsets and the best budget earbuds . But if wireless headphones with top-tier sound and a comfortable, over-ear design are what you're after, read on weve tested the top options to help you find the right pair. Table of contents Best wireless headphones for 2025 How to choose the best wireless headphones for you How we test over-ear headphones Other wireless headphones we tested Wireless headphones FAQs Best wireless headphones for 2025 How to choose the best wireless headphones for you When it comes to shopping for a good pair of wireless headphones, the first thing youll need to decide on is wear style. Do you prefer on-ear or over-ear headphones? For the purposes of our buyers guide, we focus on the over-ear style as thats what most noise-canceling headphones are nowadays. Sure, you can find on-ear models with ANC, but over-ear designs are much more effective at blocking sound. Speaking of noise cancellation, youll want to determine early on if you even want that. If you frequently crank up the beats in noisy environments, youll want to not only make sure its there, but also make sure its good, preferably with adaptive ANC. If you plan to use your new headphones in quieter spaces, skipping ANC can save you some money. The next area to consider is features. We recommend trying to get the most bang for your buck, but as youre shopping around you should determine which items are must-haves and what you can live without. And dont take basic things like automatic pausing and Bluetooth multipoint connectivity for granted, as not all companies include them. We also suggest reading reviews to see how well a companys more advanced features work. This will help you decide if those are something youre willing to (likely) pay extra for. Keep an eye on better battery life estimates to avoid disappointment, as some manufacturers promise more hours than real-world testing delivers. And dont be easily swayed by lofty promises about call quality without verifying them. Sound can be subjective, so we recommend trying before you buy if at all possible. We understand this isnt easy at a time when were doing most of our shopping online. But trying on a set of headphones and listening to them for a few minutes can save you from an expensive case of buyers remorse. We also recommend paying attention to things like Spatial Audio , Dolby Atmos , 360 Reality Audio and other immersive formats. Not all headphones support them, so youll want to make sure a perspective pair does if that sort of thing excites you. If you plan to use your headphones for other media besides music, checking for latency is also a must some delay can impact playback for things like movies or games, even if most true wireless headphones now offer minimal lag. How we test over-ear headphones The primary way we test wireless headphones is to wear them as much as possible. We prefer to do this over a one- to two-week period, but sometimes embargoes dont allow it. During this time, we listen to a mix of music and podcasts , while also using the earbuds to take both voice and video calls. Since battery life for headphones can be 30 hours or more, we drain the battery with looping music and the volume set at a comfortable level (usually around 75 percent). Due to the longer battery estimates, well typically power the headphones off several times and leave them during a review. This simulates real-world use and keeps us from having to constantly monitor the process for over 24 straight hours. To judge the best Bluetooth headphones, we focus on higher-quality audio by listening to a variety of genres and paying close attention to how each style sounds. We also test at both low and high volumes to check for consistency in the tuning. To assess the quality of phone calls, well record audio samples with the headphones microphones as well as have third parties call us. When it comes to features, we do a thorough review of companion apps, testing each feature as we work through the software. Any holdovers from previous models are double checked for improvements or regression. If the headphones were testing are an updated version of a previous model, well spend time getting reacquainted with the older set. Ditto for the closest competition for each new set of headphones that we review. Other wireless headphones we tested AirPods Max Apples AirPods Max are premium, well-designed over-ear headphones that incorporate all of the best features you find on standard AirPods: solid noise cancelation, spatial audio and easy Siri access. However, their $550 starting price makes them almost prohibitively expensive, even for Apple users. There are better options available at lower prices, but if you can pick up the AirPods Max at a steep discount, they might be worthwhile for the biggest Apple fans among us. Dyson On-Trac The On-Trac headphones have an almost infinitely customizable design, and thats whats most unique about them. The sound profile offers some nice detail, but lacks dynamic range overall. ANC is average at best and there arent any advanced features that will make your life easier. Well, except for the hearing health monitor which is actually handy. All told, thats not a lot in a set of $500 headphones. Sonos Ace The Sonos Ace is an excellent debut for the companys first headphones. The combination of refined design, great sound quality and home theater tricks creates a unique formula. However, ANC performance is just okay and key functionality is still in the works for many users. Sony ULT Wear If most headphones dont have the level of bass you desire, the ULT Wear is an option to consider. The low-end thump isnt for everyone, but there are also plenty of handy features and a refined look to make the $200 set more compelling than many in this price range. Sony WH-CH720N While the WH-CH720N are a great affordable option, we prefer the Audio-Technica in the budget category. Sonys cans are lightweight with good sound quality, but ANC struggles at times and theyre made with a lot of plastic. Beats Studio Pro The Studio Pro lacks basic features like automatic pausing, and multipoint connectivity is only available on Android. Moreover, theyre not very comfortable for people with larger heads. Overall sound quality is improved, though, and voice performance on calls is well above average. Bose QuietComfort Ultra headphones Boses latest flagship model has a lot to offer, but its trademark Immersive Audio feature can be inconsistent across different types of music. Theres still world-class ANC, excellent comfort and a clearer transparency mode, but for the price, the non-Ultra model is a better choice right now. Master & Dynamic MH40 (2nd gen) The MH40 are a great set of headphones if you favor crisp, clear and natural sound that isnt overly tuned. This pair showcases the companys affinity for leather and metal too, but limited customization and short battery life for non-ANC cans kept this set from making the cut. Bowers & Wilkins Px8 The companys trademark pristine sound is on display here , but the Px8 are more expensive and not nearly as comfortable as the Px7 S2. Wireless headphones FAQs How can you tell the quality of wireless headphones? I typically look at three factors: design, sound quality and features. In terms of design, Im usually looking to see if the build quality of the headphones feels cheap and plasticky. Plenty of companies use plastic, but they can do so in a way that doesnt look or feel like budget models. For sound quality, I want to hear a nice, even tuning where highs, mids and lows are all well represented. No overly boomy bass or scooped out mids. I also want good clarity where you can pick up fine details and an open, immersive soundstage. Features is typically a distant third, but if a company doesnt cover basic functionality (automatic pausing, transparency mode, multipoint Bluetooth, etc.) it can be an indication of overall quality. How do I choose the best quality wireless headphones? Best can be pretty subjective, but I always recommend going to a place where you can listen to the headphones youre thinking about buying before you commit. Sometimes this isnt possible, so youll want to check return policies. I also recommend doing some research to determine what your priorities are in a new set. Are you an audiophile who wants the best sound quality? Is powerful active noise cancellation (ANC) the most important? Would you rather have conveniences like automatic pausing? Which brand has the best wireless headphones? Sony consistently tops our list with its 1000X line . This is mostly due to the combination of sound quality, ANC performance and the truckload of features these headphones pack in. Ill be the first to tell you that there are better sounding options and other companies, like Bose , offer more effective noise cancellation. But when you add everything up, no one comes close to the full slate of tools Sony puts in its premium headphone line. Do expensive wireless headphones sound better? Exorbitant price tags dont mean better audio quality. Bowers & Wilkins headphones are on the high end for wireless noise-canceling models and they sound amazing. However, Audio-Technicas M50xBT2 is much more affordable and doesnt have ANC, but these headphones have a warm, natural sound profile that I find very inviting. At the end of the day, it will come down to personal preference, but you dont need to spend a lot to find great headphones. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/audio/headphones/best-headphones-wireless-bluetooth-120543205.html?src=rss
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Spoilers follow for The Last of Us season two, episode one The heart of all things The Last of Us , whether its the games or the first season of the HBO adaptation, is the relationship between Joel and Ellie. It was brought to life in remarkable fashion by Pedro Pascal and Bella Ramsey in season one ; the pairs chemistry was the shows undeniable high point . So its a bit of a shock that they only share a few minutes of screen time together in the season two premiere Future Days and that their time together is strained to say the very least. That all comes near the end of the episode, though. Backing up a bit, the show resumes exactly where we left off, with Ellie saying okay to Joels lies about what happened in the season one finale. That episode saw him decimate the Fireflies to save the immune Ellie. The Fireflies were hoping to make a cure for the cordyceps infection that devastated the world, but it would have killed her in the process. Okay meant that she was accepting his story, even if she didnt quite believe it. Fast forward five years , and things are tense so tense that our hardened Joel is in therapy. We get to eavesdrop on a session with Joels therapist Gail, played by the always-wonderful Catherine OHara. Ive been looking forward to seeing how shed be used since Gail was revealed in an early trailer, and both her and Joel are having a day when they get together. Joels relationship with Ellie is apparently what drove him to meet with Gail, and hes going on about the distance in their relationship she barely talks to him, sulks and acts distant, and Gail isnt exactly impressed. She notes that Ellie is acting like every other 19-year-old acts towards their father, and also says it's clear theres a lot more going on between them. Pedro Pascal and Catherine O'Hara in HBO's The Last of Us season two Photograph by Liane Hentscher/HBO Gail then opens up to Joel in an effort to get him to be honest (and because shes a few drinks in) and drops a bit of a bomb in the process: Joel shot her husband Eugene (a character from The Last of Us Part II who we never met in the game). She says she understood that he had to do it an implication but not confirmation that Eugene had been infected but cant forgive him for the way she found out and cant help but hate him for what he did. Not the kind of thing you usually hear from your therapist, but thats The Last of Us for you. She then gets Joel to tearfully admit he did something to Ellie, but when she asks if he hurt her, he responds by saying he saved her and then gets the hell out of her house. Season one showed Joel as a more vulnerable person than his game counterpart, a change that benefitted him given the expanded drama and depth of the show, and Im glad season two is emphasizing that in a way thats pretty unconventional for the post-apocalypse world. We also get a hint at the discord between Joel and Ellie via Dina, a new character introduced as Ellies best friend through a conversation she has with Joel. The two of them are getting along just fine; Joel even calls her kiddo, showing a similar dad-like affection for Dina that he usually does with Ellie. After a little chat she asks him point blank why Ellies angry with him, and he responds with more vagaries about the two of them figuring out what its like being a father and daughter at her age while asking Dina to keep the therapy sessions hes having a secret his therapy-speak when discussing how hes dealing with everything was just too on the nose for her to miss. Isabela Merced and Bella Ramsey in The Last of Us season two Photograph by Liane Hentscher/HBO But the most pivotal scene in this exposition-heavy episode is the New Years Eve party where Dina and Ellie share a dance, share a kiss and get shouted at by the drunk town bigot. Just as Ellie is about to treat him like a clicker, Joel intercedes, shoves Seth to the ground and asks if shes okay which gets him a disgusted look and verbal smackdown from Ellie, after which he slinks away in decidedly un-Joel fashion. Things are decidedly unwell between the pair, and while its an intriguing note to start the story on, its also hard not to be disappointed about the lack of time together for Pascal and Ramsey. Having them at odds is a totally reasonable story beat even if she was a normal 19-year-old, theyd be having their share of challenges. But the loss of their connection and the lack of interactions between the two put a subdued mood over everything, something that episode writer / director and showrunner Craig Mazin certainly intended and will exploit throughout the season. Photograph by Liane Hentscher/HBO Mazin also paid tribute to the game in some lovely ways in this episode, particularly with the town party scene. Right from the start of season one, I expected to see more scenes from the game done nearly note-for-note in the show, and my expectations have been largely defied throughout, right from the start of the series first episode. Its been clear that the goal of the show is not to reproduce all of the games iconic scenes but expand on it while still picking the right moments to deploy some tributes to the source material. The party scene is a perfect example, starting off with a shot of Ellies back as she looks over the merriment in front of her; what follows is nearly identical to the pivotal game scene in dialog, set design and framing. What is different, though, is the timing were getting this right off the bat rather than much later in the story as youd find in the game. Similarly, the episodes other most significant scene takes place right at the beginning. After that quick flashback, were immediately introduced to Abby, one of the second games playable characters. We learn that she and her friends are survivors of Joels Firefly massacre at the hospital in Utah, and that Abby in particular is keen on revenge. Mazin and co-showrunner Neil Druckmann have already discussed how they wanted to introduce Abby and get into her motivations quicker in the show than in the game, largely because players build a relationship with her through gameplay. In this case, though, we already know that Abby is after Joel, and the episode ends with her crew reaching Jackson. While Future Days focused more on scene-setting than action (with the exception of some pretty tense scenes of Ellie and Dina against some Infected), things are clearly going to ratchet up next week and not just with Abby, as the show also teased a major Infected threat as well. Lets get those flamethrowers ready for next Sunday. Infected score: 6/10 One of the main complaints from fans of the video games during season one was a relative lack of Infected. The showrunners say theyve changed things up in season two lets see if theyre sticking to their word. Episode one was mostly an exposition episode without a ton of action, but we did see Ellie and Dina stealthily take down a pair of Clickers. But the most exciting bit was seeing a Stalker in action for the first time in the show. It had Ellie completely fooled, even giving her another bite that she had to hide from Dina. Heres hoping we see more of these creepers as the season goes on. And, of course, the threat of tendrils lurking in the pipe in the middle of Jackson promises bigger problems soon, but were not there yet. Im giving this episode a 6 of 10 there wasnt all that much action, but the stalker reveal was intense enough to up this episodes rating. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/entertainment/tv-movies/the-last-of-us-season-two-premiere-future-days-highlights-the-fracture-between-ellie-and-joel-020029565.html?src=rss
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