The Delirious, Violent, Impossible True Story of the Zizians
A handful of gifted young tech people set out to save the world. For years, WIRED has been tracking each twist and turn of their alleged descent into mayhem and death.
DevOps leaders chart the course for secure software delivery at JFrog Leadership Exchange
Elite DevOps teams deploy code 208x more frequently than their peers - but how do they maintain security at that speed? At the JFrog Leadership Exchange, top DevOps leaders shared their vision for seamless, secure software delivery in 2025 and beyond. Key insights included: AI-driven self-healin
AI startup Staqu Technologies unveils Jarvis GPT for retailers
The model offers real-time customer insights, store monitoring and predictive analytics to retailers to make better decisions and enhance the customer shopping experience
The best foldable phones for 2025
Foldable phones are no longer a gimmick theyre here to stay, and theyre better than ever. Whether you love the nostalgia of a flip phone or want the versatility of a near tablet-sized display that fits in your pocket, todays new foldable devices are packed with cutting-edge tech. Brands like Samsung, Google and Motorola are leading the charge, pushing the boundaries of what a smartphone can do with sleek designs, powerful AI features and seamless multitasking. Unlike traditional smartphones, foldable phones give you the best of both worlds: a compact form factor when you need portability and a big screen when you want to stream, game or get work done. Plus, with advancements in durability, better outer screens and flagship-level specs, these phones are more practical than ever. Whether you're eyeing the latest Samsung phones or curious about whats next for foldables, weve rounded up the best options to help you decide. Note: For this guide, were focusing on devices that are widely available in North America and Europe. Thats because while there are even more options for people who live in Asia (especially China), they are often difficult to buy from abroad and may not support your local carriers. Table of contents Best foldable phones for 2025 How we test foldable phones Are foldable phones worth it? A note on durability Best foldable phones for 2025 How we test foldable phones When evaluating new foldable phones, we consider the same general criteria as we do when were judging the best smartphones . Devices need to have good battery life (at least a full days use), bright inner displays (peaks of at least 1,000 nits), sharp cameras and responsive performance. That said, foldable phones come in different shapes (and sizes); there are varying designs that may appeal to different types of people. For those who prefer more compact and stylish devices, flip phone-style foldables resemble old-school namesakes but with flexible interior displays (typically six to seven inches diagonally) and smaller outer screens, often referred to as the cover display. Alternatively, for power users and people who want to maximize mobile productivity, there are larger book-style foldables (with seven to eight-inch main displays) that can transform from a candy bar-style phone to essentially a small tablet when opened. Are foldable phones worth it? A note on durability Aside from their displays, the biggest difference between foldable phones and more traditional handsets is durability. Thats because while some models like the Pixel 9 Pro Fold and Samsungs foldables offer IPX8 water resistance (which is good for submersions of up to five feet for 30 minutes), their flexible screens which are largely made from plastic present some unique challenges. Most foldables come with factory-installed screen protectors. However, unlike regular phones, users are instructed not to remove them without assistance from approved service centers. Thankfully, Samsung phones do offer one free screen protector replacement for its foldables, while Google charges between $29 and $129 depending on the warranty status of your device. That said, while we cant do long-term testing for every new foldable phone on the market, after personally using the Galaxy Z Fold 3 and Galaxy Z Fold 4 each for a year, Ive found that Samsungs pre-installed screen protector tends to start bubbling nine to 12 months after purchase. So youll probably want to factor in that your foldable may need some sort of servicing after about a year unless you plan on removing the screen protector entirely (which is possible, but goes against most manufacturers' instructions). Furthermore, foldable phone owners need to be mindful about keeping sharp objects away from their flexible displays, as rocks, keys or even pressing down very hard with a fingernail can leave permanent marks. In the event that you need to get a flexible screen serviced, youre potentially facing a much higher repair bill when compared to a typical phone (up to $500 or more depending on the model and the severity of the damage). In short, while the ruggedness of foldable phones has improved a lot, they're still more delicate than traditional handsets, which is something you need to account for. However, foldables continue to evolve, with better AI features, improved specs and a more refined form factors that makes them even more practical. Whether youre after a flip phone for nostalgia or a big screen device for multitasking, todays foldable phones offer exciting possibilities you just have to decide if theyre the right fit for you. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/mobile/smartphones/best-foldable-phones-160030013.html?src=rss
The launch of the Blue Ghost module, scheduled to land on the moon early next month, is a key step in creating an Earthmoon supply chain.
WhatsApp bans over 8 million Indian accounts in a month: Here's why
According to the company, the decision to ban these accounts was driven by reports of scams and suspicious activities, prompting numerous users to report such fraudulent behavior
How to migrate your Apple purchases from one Apple Account to another
Macworld One of the most common questions asked of Mac 911 is, How do I merge or transfer purchases from one Apple ID/Account to another? The answer for over 20 years has been the same: You cant. Until now. Way back in the mists of timethe year 2000Apple created iTools, its first cloud-hosted service, about six years before cloud computing even existed as a term. As part of iTools, you registered an account name paired with an @mac.com address. iTools later morphed into .Mac (2002) and MobileMe (2008, @me.com) before settling into iCloud (2011, @icloud.com). The iTunes Music Store first appeared in 2003. It also required you to set up an account, one that was separate from your iTools/.Mac account. Thus began the great sundering for old-school users. We had iCloud on one Apple Account and purchases on another. (Apple changed the Apple ID name to Apple Account in September 2024, so Ill use that to avoid confusion.) It wasnt until a few years later that a new user could register a single Apple Account that handled everything: email, cloud-stored data for synchronization, access to Apple websites services, and purchases. Apple didnt provide a way for people with an iTools/.Mac/MobileMe account and an iTunes Music Store account to merge them, even when both became effectively an Apple Account. Then, with no fanfare, Apple posted a set of support notes on Feb. 11, 2025, that explained how to use a new migration feature that allows you to transfer all purchases from one Apple Account to another. The process is straightforward, and Apple even offers an option to back out of the migration, or un-migrate your files. You can find the support notes at: Migrate purchases from one Apple Account to another Apple Account About migrating Apple Account purchases between accounts Undo a migration of Apple Account purchases between accounts The way Apple presents the information can be overwhelming. Ive simplified and reorganized into a more understandable set of preparations and processes for you. Heres what you need to know. What Apple migrates Apple defines the two accounts youre migrating purchases to and from as the primary Apple Account, which has iCloud information associated, is the main account you use on your devices, and will receive the purchases; and the secondary , which has purchases and limited other information which is migrated to the primary account. Ill use those terms extensively below. Your primary account will appear at Settings / System Settings > your name at the top of the screen below your name. Your secondary, purchases account appears in the same location when you tap or click Media & Purchases . The primary Apple Account appears at the top of System Settings/Settings > your name . Migration moves all your purchases of apps, books, movies, music, and TV shows from the secondary to primary account. It also moves five other sets of information, each with its own peculiarities: Payment methods: All payment methods associated with the secondary account move to and replace payment methods stored for the primary account. Subscriptions: The secondary accounts subscriptions merge with the subscriptions on your primary account. Music library: If the secondary account has a music library, migration replaces all music-related items on the primary account with the secondarys: the music library data, personalization profile, social profile, and Apple Music Replay. If theres no secondary library, the primary accounts music data is untouched. Podcasts: The same is true for podcasts: secondary data replaces primary unless theres no podcast information in the secondary account. Up Next queue in TV app: If you use the Up Next queue in the TV app, the secondary accounts list replaces the primary accounts. Migration leaves behind: iCloud data: I recommend exporting iCloud data before migration for easier access. This column should help. Reviews: Any reviews you created with the secondary account can no longer be edited. Personalized recommendations: Your personalized recommendations in the App Store, Books, Podcasts, and TV apps are abandoned. If youre part of any beta test programs that rely on Apples TestFlight app, the migration process is currently broken for that as of mid-February 2025. You cannot use your primary or secondary accounts email address to log in. Contact the developer for information about obtaining an interim URL that you can use in lieu of a login. After you migrate purchases, the account you migrated from can no longer be used as an iCloud or purchases account on an iPhone, iPad, Mac, or Apple TV. However, its still reachable via iCloud.com. Get ready to migrate Migration comes with a large number of requirements you have to meet before you can begin. Account information: Both accounts have to be active and unlocked and both must have two-factor authentication enabled. If you deleted or disabled a purchases account in the past, its not eligible. Neither account can previously have been part of a migration: its a one-time operation in one direction for the future lifetime of the account (as of now). You cant, for instance, roll two purchases-only accounts into one iCloud account. (The exception is that you can undo the migration, which resets that status; see later in the article.) Location: Both accounts must be set to the same country and region for purchases. Apple currently excludes the European Union, India, and the United Kingdom from migrations. Family Sharing: If youre part of a Family Sharing group, the secondary account must be in the same group as the primary or in no group at all. A child account created through a Family Sharing group that is still in child status cant be used for either side of a migration; as one consequence, youre prevented from migrating a childs purchases into your own account. The secondary account must have Purchase Sharing disabled if its in a Family Sharing group. Purchases: Even though the primary account should be the one you use for iCloud, it must have at least one purchase or free download associated. If youve never used the primary account this way, you need to buy or download something free using that account before starting. The secondary accounts payment method must be available for active use, so check that you have an up-to-date card associated. The secondary account cant be migrated from until 15 days following its last purchase. Further, all pre-orders and rentals must be fulfilled. For rentals, you can just start watching to run down that clock. You can cancel pre-orders; see this support note . Miscellaneous: Two miscellaneous requirements might trip you up. Its possible to have an Apple One account and designate its storage for a third Apple Account, neither primary nor secondary. If thats the case, you cant migrate the secondary account. You will need to unwind that association before starting. And if your Apple Account has access to special apps or content, such as that via Apples Volume Purchase Program (VPP) for schools and companies, it cant be used either as a primary or secondary account. Start the migration Start the process on an iPhone or iPad that has the primary account logged in as the iCloud/main account: Go to Settings > your name > Media & Purchases . Tap View Account . Authenticate with Touch ID, Face ID, or a password if required. Tap Migrate Purchases . Enter passwords and other authentication for the primary or secondary accounts as prompted. The first Migrate Purchases screen identifies which account is being treated as primary and which as secondary and provides additional information. Tap Continue to proceed. A second Migrate Purchases screen appears with an extensive description of what data will migrate, how it will replace primary data or be merged with it, and what categories of purchase-related information will be left behind and unusable. Tap Continue to move forward. A final screen labeled Finish Migration makes one final set of declarations, including that you cant sign into the secondary account in the future, though it means just from an Apple device as an iCloud or purchases account. Tap Migrate . Purchases Have Been Migrated will appear and both Apple Accounts will receive confirmation via their respective emails. On each of your devices, sign out of the secondary account under Media & Purchases and sign into the primary account. Left: The Migration Purchases screen is the first step in making sure you have the right accounts in play for migration. Right: The top half of a lengthy screen informing you of the myriad migration actions. IDG You may experience errors in this process if you havent met some of the requirements documented earlier. Apple should provide details on what remains to be done in order to migrate successfully. Reverse migration If you experience problems or decide the merged Apple Account doesnt meet your needs for some reason, you can reverse the process. Reversing migration rolls back time in some ways and not in others: Payment methods: All payment methods are removed from both accounts. You have to add them back. Purchases after the migration: All purchases made after the migration remain with the primary account. All purchases on the secondary account prior to the migration move back. Subscription cancellation: Except for iCloud+, all other subscriptions are canceled and have their expiration date set to their next renewal. However, you can resubscribe on either account. Music and podcast migration: Music-related data that was migrated from the secondary account, like a music library or social profile, will migrate back; the same is true for podcasts. If the secondary account had no music-related or podcast data besides purchases, that stuff remains on the primary account. Up Next queue reverts: The Apple TV apps Up Next queue reverts to where it was for each of the primary account and secondary account before the migration. To undo the migration, follow this process: Go to Settings > your name > Media & Purchases . Tap View Account . Authenticate with Touch ID, Face ID, or a password if required. Find the section labeled Secondary Account and tap Undo Migration . Follow the explanatory steps about what reversing the migration entails and tap the necessary button at each step to continue. Undo Migration Complete appears and both Apple Accounts will receive a confirmation via their email addresses. On all your devices, sign out of the primary account in Media & Purchases and sign back into the secondary account. Ask Mac 911 Weve compiled a list of the questions we get asked most frequently, along with answers and links to columns: read our super FAQ to see if your question is covered. If not, were always looking for new problems to solve! Email yours to mac911@macworld.com , including screen captures as appropriate and whether you want your full name used. Not every question will be answered; we dont reply to emails, and we cannot provide direct troubleshooting advice.
OpenAI rolls out its AI agent, Operator, in several countries
OpenAI said on Friday that it is rolling out Operator, its so-called AI agent that can perform tasks on behalf of users, for ChatGPT Pro subscribers in Australia, Brazil, Canada, India, Japan, Singapore, South Korea, the U.K., and more countries. OpenAI said Operator will be available in most places where ChatGPT is available, apart from [] 2024 TechCrunch. All rights reserved. For personal use only.
The best microSD cards in 2025
Most microSD cards are fast enough for boosting storage space and making simple file transfers, but some provide a little more value than others. If youve got a device that still accepts microSD cards whether its a gaming handheld , a dash cam, a drone or an Android tablet weve scoured the market and put more than a dozen top contenders through a number of benchmark tests. You can find our top recommendations below, alongside some general shopping advice before you grab one. Table of contents Best microSD cards of 2025 What to look for in a microSD card How we test microSD cards Other notable microSD cards Recent updates Best microSD cards of 2025 What to look for in a microSD card Capacity The first thing to figure out when buying a microSD card is how much storage space you need. Modern cards are usually available in sizes ranging from 32GB to 512GB, with several models now available in 1TB or 1.5TB capacities as well. The first 2TB cards from major brands have started to arrive in recent months as well, which is exciting, but those are still fairly rare (and very expensive) by comparison. For most, a 128GB or 256GB model should be a sweet spot between price and storage space. But if you need more room say, for stashing a bunch of games on a Steam Deck a 512GB card or greater could make more sense and often provides a better cost-per-GB ratio. These days, you can find a decent 128GB card for around $15 or less, a good 256GB card for less than $30 and a solid 512GB card for less than $40 (with faster models priced a little higher). Theres a starker increase when you go up to 1TB cards, which often cost closer to $100, though weve seen some fall into the $70 to $80 range within the last year. The first wave of 2TB cards are an even bigger leap: the 2TB SanDisk Extreme, for example, is priced at $200. Note that a microSD cards performance may differ depending on what capacity you buy. SanDisk says its 128GB Extreme card delivers sequential write speeds up to 90 MB/s, for example, while the higher-capacity models in the same line offer up to 130 MB/s. When we talk about microSD cards today, we usually refer to cards that use the microSDXC (eXtended Capacity) standard , which have a capacity between 32GB and 2TB. Your device needs to support this for it to work with a microSDXC card. This will almost never be an issue these days, but some older devices (a Nintendo 3DS , for instance) are only compatible with microSDHC (High Capacity) cards, which range from 2GB to 32GB. Read and write speeds MicroSD cards are primarily judged on their read and write speeds, which are usually measured in megabytes per second (MB/s). Generally, most microSD cards have faster read speeds than write speeds. These metrics can then be broken down into sequential and random performance. Sequential read and write speeds matter when youre trying to access or save long, constant streams of data, such as opening a large video or copying a big batch of files from a PC. If you want to use a microSD card for media storage, this is particularly important. Random performance, meanwhile, is about how quickly a card can read and write small files scattered throughout the device. Since random read/write speeds are much lower than sequential ones, storage device makers tend not to advertise them as loudly. But theyre important if you use a card with a gaming device or a single-board computer like the Raspberry Pi , where it often has to rapidly save and access small bits of data in random locations. Speed ratings If you look at a microSD card, youll see a buffet of numbers, letters and symbols. Most of these refer to the cards speed class and performance ratings, which are determined by the SD Association . A cards Video Speed Class, or V-rating, details its minimum sequential write speed, which is especially important when recording video from a camera. It ranges from V6 to V90. Most of the cards we tested had a V30 rating, so they have a sequential write speed of at least 30 MB/s. This should be enough to support up to 4K video at lower bitrates. Higher-rated V60 and V90 cards are usually better for capturing 8K, but they come at a much higher cost. The UHS Speed Class, or U-rating, also refers to a cards minimum sequential write speed. It comes in two varieties: U3, which mandates a minimum of 30 MB/s, and U1, which is rated for 10 MB/s. The older Speed Class rating overlaps with the other two systems. Its signified by a C symbol and goes from Class 2 to Class 10, with the number (again) indicating minimum sequential write speed. This rating is less relevant nowadays, but you may still see a C10 logo on some cards. The Application Performance spec, marked by an A symbol, is an indicator of random read/write speeds. This is measured in IOPS, or input/output operations per second, rather than MB/s. There are two categories here: A1 cards offer a minimum random read speed of 1,500 IOPS and a minimum random write speed of 500 IOPS, while A2 cards bump those up to 4,000 IOPS and 2,000 IOPS, respectively. Both ratings also guarantee sequential write speeds of at least 10 MB/s. To keep it simple, most people should look for a card with V30, U3 and A2 ratings. Its totally possible to get a solid card without those: A U1 card might be worth it if you just need a cheap, high-capacity option, for example. V60 and V90 cards are worth a look if youre serious about shooting high-resolution photos and video as well. But overall, cards with the certifications above should provide the best blend of price and performance today. Its important to emphasize that these ratings are baselines. Most V30 cards offer significantly higher write speeds than 30 MB/s, for instance, and some A1 cards can outperform some A2 models in practice. The speeds advertised by manufacturers arent always 100 percent accurate, either: Sometimes the card will be slower in real-world use, other times it may actually be a bit faster. UHS bus speeds The other spec to note is the cards bus interface. Most microSD cards available today are UHS-I, which have a theoretical maximum speed of 104 MB/s. There are also UHS-II cards, which have an extra row of pins on the back and can reach up to 312 MB/s. (A UHS-III standard technically exists as well but hasnt seen wide adoption.) These are labeled on the card with a Roman numeral I or II. UHS-II cards are usually the ones with those higher V60 or V90 ratings. If you shoot lots of 4K to 8K video or frequently use burst mode to capture ultra high-res photos, the performance gains of a good UHS-II card can save you time. However, these are much more expensive than UHS-I cards: This 128GB Lexar Professional Gold model, for instance, is a relative bargain at $40. While that's less than many UHS-II models weve seen in the past, it's still more than double the typical price of our top pick mentioned below. You need a device thats compatible with the UHS-II interface to see any benefits, too, and stock for UHS-II cards is generally spottier. For now, the higher speeds arent worth the price premium for most people, so we stuck mostly to UHS-I cards with our recommendations. The absolute fastest microSD cards you can buy right now, though, are based on a different interface called SD Express . This has technically been around for several years and now includes its own subset of speed classes , but the gist is that it's much faster than UHS-I or UHS-II: SanDisks recently released microSD Express card , which is the first commercially available model weve tested, advertises sequential read speeds up to 880MB/s. For context, thats quicker than some older SSDs. Its a substantial upgrade that spoiler alert has largely held up in our testing, but just about zero popular devices natively support SD Express right now, and again, SanDisks card costs much more than the best UHS-I options. Its still possible to take advantage of the boosted performance with a dedicated SD Express card reader, but that adds even more to the final cost. Its also worth noting that SD Express cards are not backwards compatible with UHS-II (or UHS-III), so if you try to plug one into a device with a UHS-II slot, itll be limited to UHS-I speeds. Still, the tech should have plenty of appeal if more gadgets that support the interface do arrive. Besides SanDisk, Samsung has said it plans to release an SD Express card as well. A note on card readers and reaching advertised speeds While the UHS-I interface has a theoretical maximum of 104 MB/s, some UHS-I cards can exceed that speed through proprietary extensions. However, you need a compatible card reader and host device to take advantage of that extra performance. If you find a UHS-I card advertising speeds higher than 104 MB/s, this is whats going on. You can see these limits in action with a Nintendo Switch or Steam Deck: Both of those gaming devices support the UHS-I interface but dont go beyond its official speed, flattening any sequential gains some cards may have elsewhere. (Differences in random read and write speeds can still matter, though.) The same thing will happen if you plug a more powerful UHS-II or SD Express card into a device that doesnt accept those interfaces. The takeaway: Your microSD card will only be as fast as the slowest link in your chain. Warranty Many microSD cards are designed to be durable, with protection from water, extreme temperatures, X-rays and drops. Still, in case of catastrophe, a long warranty is always good to have. Many manufacturers offer lifetime or 10-year limited warranties, though weve noticed that endurance cards marketed to withstand more hours of writing are usually covered for a shorter period of time. For example, Samsung's Pro Endurance , a model aimed at security cameras and other monitoring devices, comes with a five-year warranty. Avoiding counterfeits The memory card market has had a particular problem with scammers selling fake products. To guard against this, only buy from a known brand and a reputable retailer such as Best Buy, B&H Photo or Adorama. If you shop at Amazon, only buy if the shipper and seller is Amazon.com. (That said, a handful of users have reported receiving counterfeits even from Amazon directly in the past.) Remember: If a price seems too good to be true, it probably is. Be wary of any retailer offering significantly a lower price than others. Once you receive a card, check its packaging for any irregularities. You can run benchmark tests like CrystalDiskMark or BlackMagic Disk Speed Test to verify its speeds arent drastically lower than whats advertised (or possible, given its specs). You can also use software thats designed to verify the true capacity and performance of your card, such as H2testw and FakeFlashTest . How we test microSD cards We've put close to 20 microSD cards through a series of tests to verify their sequential and random performance. These included benchmarks like CrystalDiskMark , BlackMagic Disk Speed Test , ATTO Disk Benchmark and AJA System Test , as well as a few real-world tests. We copied and pasted a small folder of photos about 1.15GB in size to and from each card, then did the same with a larger 12.2GB folder containing multiple file types and subfolders, timing the process each time. We also checked how each card performed on the Steam Deck, downloading games of varying sizes including Stardew Valley , Aperture Desk Job , Metal Gear Rising: Revengeance and Apex Legends then timing how long it took to launch each game and load save files. Where applicable, we used a Kingston USB 3.2 UHS-II reader to test each card on both Windows 11 and macOS Sonoma. However, if a card could be bundled with (or is specifically advertised to use) a proprietary reader, we mainly tested with that, since we figure thats the one most interested buyers will end up using. For Windows testing, we used an Alienware gaming PC with an Intel Core i9-10900F, Nvidia GeForce RTX 3080 GPU, 32GB of RAM and a 1TB SSD. For macOS, we used a 2021 16-inch MacBook Pro with an Apple M1 Pro chip, 16GB of RAM and a 512GB SSD. If a reader couldnt connect over USB-C, we used CalDigits TS4 dock to test the corresponding card on the MacBook. We tested the 128GB version of each card wherever possible, though for a few cards SanDisk's Extreme and Samsung's Pro Plus and Pro Ultimate we were only able to test higher-capacity models. We also reformatted each card before testing with the SD Associations Memory Card Formatter tool . Other notable microSD cards The Samsung Pro Ultimate. Photo by Jeff Dunn / Engadget Samsung Pro Ultimate The Samsung Pro Ultimate was the closest competitor to the Lexar Professional Silver Plus across our benchmark tests, but it's tangible worse in terms of sequential write speeds, typically costs more and doesnt offer a 1TB option. The Samsung Pro Plus is a bit slower for sequential reads, but its close enough otherwise and usually easier to find at a lower price. Kingston Canvas Go Plus The Kingston Canvas Go Plus is a fine card and worth buying over the Samsung Evo Select if the two are ever available for the same price, but its sequential write speeds lagged well behind the Lexar Silver Plus and, to a slightly lesser extent, Samsung Pro Plus. The SanDisk Extreme and PNY Elite-X. Photo by Jeff Dunn / Engadget Delkin Devices Power We haven't used it ourselves, but if youre willing to pay for a more powerful UHS-II card built for heavy-duty video recording, the Delkin Devices Power has tested well elsewhere and should deliver significantly faster sequential write speeds than our picks above. Its one of the few UHS-II cards we could actually find in stock, but it costs a ton, with a 128GB model normally priced around $80. SanDisk Extreme The SanDisk Extreme effectively matched the Pro Plus in a few of our sequential tests, but that was partly due to us only being able to secure the 256GB model, which is higher-rated than the 128GB version. Its a fine choice if you see it on sale at a reputable seller, but its broadly slower than our top pick and often costs more. The SanDisk GamePlay and SanDisk Pokmon. Jeff Dunn for Engadget SanDisk GamePlay The SanDisk GamePlay performs similarly to the SanDisk Extreme but costs a good bit extra as of our latest update. We couldnt get it to reach its advertised speeds with the companys own Pro card reader or other third-party options, so it fell short of our top picks. SanDisk Pokmon The SanDisk Pokmon does outperform its advertised read and write speeds, but not by enough to outpace the Lexar Silver Plus or Samsung Pro Plus. It essentially charges extra for having a picture of Pikachu (or Gengar , or Snorlax ) on a product youll never look at. The Lexar Professional 1066x. Photo by Jeff Dunn / Engadget Lexar Professional 1066x The Lexar Professional 1066x is another OK alternative to the Samsung Pro Plus if our main picks are unavailable, but its sequential reads and random speeds arent on par with either Samsungs card or Lexars own Silver Plus. That said, its worth getting over the Samsung Evo Select if you see it for a lower price, as its sequential write speeds are much faster. It also comes with a lifetime limited warranty. SanDisk Extreme Pro The SanDisk Extreme Pro is a close analog to the Samsung Pro Ultimate but, as of this writing, is either unavailable at most trusted retailers or priced too high by comparison. The Lexar Professional Silver Plus has faster sequential write speeds as well. PNY Elite-X The PNY Elite-X often goes for cheap and wasnt too far off the random read/write performance of Samsung's Pro Plus in CrystalDiskMark, but its sequential speeds were well behind our top picks. Recent updates February 2025 : Weve updated this guide with a new top pick: the Lexar Professional Silver Plus. The Samsung Pro Plus, our previous recommendation, stays as a runner-up. Weve also added SanDisks recently released microSD Express card as a pick for those who want the absolute fastest card possible, albeit with heavy caveats. This is one of the first microSD cards to use the SD Express bus interface, so weve included more details on what that entails in our what to look for in a microSD card section. Lastly, weve removed our write-up for SanDisks Apex Legends card , as it appears to have been discontinued, and included testing notes for a couple of the companys more recent releases. November 2024 : We've checked back with this guide to ensure our recommendations are still accurate and made light edits for clarity. August 2024 : Weve updated this guide to note the recently released 1TB models for three of our top picks: the Samsung Pro Plus, the Kingston Canvas Go Plus and the Samsung Evo Select. Weve also made sure all pricing details are as up to date as they can be. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/computing/accessories/best-microsd-card-130038282.html?src=rss
Dropbox wishes 10TB of cloud storage was this cheap
Macworld Between Dropbox, iCloud, and Google Drive, cloud storage often feels like just another bill to pay every month. But it doesnt have to be. Internxt offers a secure cloud storage solution with a lifetime plan, no recurring payments, and no strings attached. Right now, you can get 10TB of storage for a one-time payment of $244.99 (regularly $2,999). Dropbox is done Internxt puts your privacy front and center with end-to-end encryption . Nobody can access your files without your permission, but if you do want to share, its really easy. You can access your files on virtually any modern device, whether youre on your MacBook, a PC, iOS, Android, or Linux. Prefer an app? Theyve got you covered. Like using a browser? That works too. For those in regions with strict data protection laws, Internxts GDPR compliance adds an extra layer of reassurance. Internxt is the perfect example of the buy once, cry once principle. Yeah, its more expensive than a month of DropBox, but its a whole lot cheaper in the long run. Use code STORAGE30 by February 23 to get a 10TB Internxt lifetime subscription on sale for $244.99. Internxt Cloud Storage Lifetime Subscription: 10TB Plan $349.99 See Deal StackSocial prices subject to change.
New EV policy likely to be modify as Tesla gears up to enter India
New Delhi: As Tesla prepares to enter India this year, the government is likely working on modifying the terms of a new policy that promotes the manufacturing of electric vehicles (EVs) in the country. In a bid to attract the likes of Tesla, the tweaked EV policy may mandate carmakers to show a turnover of Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
BluSmart launches pet travel service in Delhi and Gurugram
EV ride-hailing platform BluSmart's pet travel segment comes on the heels of peers Rapido and Uber introducing the service in Bengaluru last year.
Plum expands into personal insurance sector, to invest $6M over two years
As it broadens its footprint beyond corporate health coverage, the Bengaluru-based Insurtech startup aims to cover 10 million individuals by 2030.
FirstCry company secretary Neelam Jethani resigns
Neelam Jethani's resignation comes just days after Brainbees Solutions, the parent company of FirstCry, saw its shares touch a 52-week low after its Q3 FY25 earnings announcement.
Rivian will launch hands-off highway driver assist in a few weeks
Rivian said Thursday it plans to launch a hands-off version of its driver assistance system for highway driving in a few weeks, and said an eyes-off version in 2026. The hands-off system will let Rivian compete with companies like Ford and General Motors, which have both launched similar systems in the past few years. (Ford [] 2024 TechCrunch. All rights reserved. For personal use only.
OnePlus Watch 3 Launched with Bigger Battery, AMOLED Display, and Wear OS 5
OnePlus has officially launched the OnePlus Watch 3 , featuring key upgrades such as a larger battery, AMOLED display, and Wear OS 5 The smartwatch introduces several improvements over its predecessor, offering better performance, durability, and functionality. The OnePlus Watch 3 features a premium asymmetrical design with a titanium bezel, enhancing its durability and aesthetics. It comes with a 1.5-inch AMOLED display , protected by sapphire glass, and can reach 2,200 nits of brightness for improved visibility. A notable change is its redesigned power button, which now rotates for easier navigation. Powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon W5 chipset, the OnePlus Watch 3 delivers smooth performance and includes 32GB of storage for apps and data. It is packed with health-tracking sensors, including a temperature sensor , pulse oximeter (SpO2) , heart rate monitor , and sleep tracking . Additionally, it offers over 100 sports modes, with 11 professional modes for activities such as cycling, tennis, running, skiing, and climbing. The smartwatch provides up to 5 days of battery life under normal use and 3 days with heavy usage. It also boasts MIL-STD-810H military-grade durability and an IP68 rating , ensuring resistance to dust, water, and extreme conditions. Availability and Pricing The OnePlus Watch 3 is available in Obsidian Titanium and Emerald Titanium color options. It is priced at $329.99 and can be purchased through the official OnePlus website . With its enhanced battery life, durable design, and upgraded software, the OnePlus Watch 3 is positioned as a powerful alternative in the premium smartwatch market. OnePlus Watch 3 Launched with Bigger Battery, AMOLED Display, and Wear OS 5 , original content from Ubergizmo . Read our Copyrights and terms of use .
Stock up on these ANYCUBIC Resin Pro 2 1kg bottles starting from $17 + Buy 6 get 1 FREE
ANYCUBIC ABS-Like 3D Printer Resin Pro 2, Grey 1kg Buy for $17 (Reg. $22) What we love With everyone getting into 3D printing these days, its always a smart move to stock up on resin so you never find yourself running low in the middle of things. Not only does this Resin Pro 2 provide stronger finished models, but several of these color options are offering a buy-6-get-1-free promo too. more
Samsung Completes One UI 7.0 Testing, Stable Update Coming Soon
Samsung has completed testing for One UI 7.0 , and a stable update is expected to roll out soon, according to a Samsung Community moderator. In January, Samsung sent a message to beta testers thanking them for their participation, suggesting that the testing phase was nearing its end. However, a new beta version was later released, leading to uncertainty about the final updates timeline. Now, a Samsung Community moderator, IndiaBetaTeam , has confirmed that the stable update is on the way. In a post on the Samsung Community forum, the moderator stated: The beta program is closed, and the One UI 7.0 stable update will be released very soon. Please stay active on the Samsung Members app for notifications regarding the update. Message Expected Release Timeline While no exact release date was mentioned, this suggests that the One UI 7.0 stable update could arrive within weeks , rather than in May , as some earlier reports suggested. The Galaxy S24 series , along with the Galaxy Z Fold 6 and Galaxy Z Flip 6 , are expected to receive the update first. Other Galaxy S, Z, and A series devices will follow in subsequent waves. Samsung has faced criticism from users for delays in rolling out Android 15-based One UI 7.0, especially as Motorola, Xiaomi, POCO, and Redmi have already released their Android 15 updates. This accelerated release schedule could be a response to those concerns. Users are encouraged to monitor the Samsung Members app for further updates on availability. Samsung Completes One UI 7.0 Testing, Stable Update Coming Soon , original content from Ubergizmo . Read our Copyrights and terms of use .
Netflix hops aboard Sifu movie adaptation, assigns a screenwriter
We learned in December 2022 that a production company had signed on to turn Sloclap's excellent martial arts game Sifu into a film. Today, the news dropped that Netflix is involved with the project, which seems to have caused some personnel shuffling behind the scenes. The initial announcement saw Story Kitchen, which has since amassed a huge catalog of video game adaptations, securing a treatment of Sifu with John Wick creator Derek Kolstad attached as the writer. Story Kitchen is still working on the film, but Kolstad is no longer serving as the screenwriter and T.S. Nowlin has instead been tapped for that role. Nowlin's past credits include the screenplays for the Maze Runner adaptations and most recently he was a writer for Netflix's splashy Ryan Reynolds vehicle The Adam Project . However, there is still a John Wick connection with Sifu . The director for all four John Wick films, stunt performer Chad Stahelski, has joined the producer team, as have members of Stahelski's 87Eleven Entertainment company. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/entertainment/tv-movies/netflix-hops-aboard-sifu-movie-adaptation-assigns-a-screenwriter-225324526.html?src=rss
Microsofts new AI agent can control software and robots
Magma could enable AI agents to take multistep actions in the real and digital worlds.
Jackerys official Amazon storefront is offering its Explorer 2000 v2 Portable Power Station for $999 shipped. Normally costing you $1,499 at full price, if you missed out on the brands recent Tax Season sale, this is your chance to score it at the same rate we saw there. Its only fallen lower during Black Friday and Cyber Monday when things hit $899, though we havent seen those same rates reappear since. Todays deal gives you the second-lowest price we have tracked, giving you one of the brands latest releases while saving $500 in the process. You can even find it matching in price direct from Jackerys website right now too. more
See a garbage trucks CNG cylinders explode after lithium-ion battery fire
It happened recently in Arlington Heights, Illinois.
6 new tech unicorns were minted in January 2025
Despite a still tight venture capital market, new unicorns are still being created every month. Using data from Crunchbase and PitchBook, TechCrunch tracked down the newly VC-backed startup minted unicorns so far this year (as of the end of January). These include healthcare companies like Hippocratic AI and satellite space companies like Loft Orbital. This [] 2024 TechCrunch. All rights reserved. For personal use only.
Cozy Lord of the Rings game Tales of the Shire is delayed to July
Samwise Gamgee said, It's the job that's never started as takes longest to finish. But then, he hadn't been exposed to the world of video game development. Tales of the Shire: A The Lord of the Rings Game , a cozy take on the most idyllic pocket of Middle Earth, has been delayed. The new launch date is July 29. According to a post from the devs at Wt Workshop Game Studio, this delay is about ensuring that all the project's supported platforms can enjoy the same cozy experience. It is currently slated to launch on Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 5, Steam and Xbox Series X. Tales of the Shire needs a bit more simmering... Now coming July 29th, 2025. Thank you for your support and patience. #TalesOfTheShire #LOTR #cozygaming pic.twitter.com/8afaLnGfFL Tales of the Shire (@talesoftheshire) February 20, 2025 This project has taken a couple tough hits over the past several months. The release date had already been pushed back in September, and it was axed from Netflix's planned game lineup earlier this month. Will there be more hurdles before we can finally enjoy our happy hobbit alternate lives? As a wise wizard once said: Who knows? Have patience. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/gaming/cozy-lord-of-the-rings-game-tales-of-the-shire-is-delayed-to-july-213500109.html?src=rss
Rivian inches closer to profitability but warns changes to government policies could hurt
Rivians costcutting measures have gotten it a lot closer to profitability, but the company is warning that 2025 could still be a challenging year especially because of the whorl of uncertainty caused by the new Trump Administration. The company announced Thursday its fourth quarter and full-year 2024 financial results, and along with it, shared [] 2024 TechCrunch. All rights reserved. For personal use only.
Elon Musk wants to 'fix' Community Notes on X
Elon Musk has a problem with Community Notes, the crowdsourced fact-checking feature that started as Birdwatch , and launched at scale after he purchased Twitter . Unfortunately @CommunityNotes is increasingly being gamed by governments & legacy media, Musk posted . Working to fix this... Based on the rant his tweet descends in to afterwards, his issue appears to be with how X's Community Notes contributors have been treating misinformation about President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and the war in Ukraine. Musk quotes a post from an X account that claims polls showing Zelenskyy has a 57 percent approval rating in Ukraine are ot credible. Information like that being challenged on X doesn't jive with President Trump's description of Zelenskyy as a dictator or Musk's desire to use the platform as an unofficial arm of the current administration. Unfortunately, @CommunityNotes is increasingly being gamed by governments & legacy media. Working to fix this It should be utterly obvious that a Zelensky-controlled poll about his OWN approval is not credible!! If Zelensky was actually loved by the people of Ukraine, he https://t.co/gy0NjtPwiq Elon Musk (@elonmusk) February 20, 2025 What fixing Community Notes will look like remains to be seen, but Musk uncritically quoting a post that cites no sources beyond an image with small text that says Accuracy Confidence: Normal is hopefully evidence enough that Community Notes are the bare minimum needed. Ragging on the feature of course fits the larger pattern of Musk's tenure at X, which has been characterized by him manipulating the platform's algorithm and eliminating features that helped determine credibility, like verification . If he thinks you can't even trust crowdsourced fact-checks, there's really no source of truth left on the platform. The concept of Community Notes is no longer unique to X Meta recently opened up the waitlist to use the feature on its platforms but how long Community Notes exists its current form is apparently now an open question. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/social-media/elon-musk-wants-to-fix-community-notes-on-x-212310412.html?src=rss
CEO of Clearview AI, a controversial facial recognition startup, has resigned
The CEO of controversial facial recognition startup Clearview AI has resigned, he confirms to TechCrunch. 2024 TechCrunch. All rights reserved. For personal use only.
The official Bose site is now offering a sweet deal on its flagship QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds in refurbished condition. And for the record, Bose has one of the best refurbishment programs around, delivering units with the same warranty as a new set (details below). The flagship, current-gen QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds in question carry a $299 list price and are currently now down at $179 shipped via the Bose site. more
Say goodbye to dry winter air with Govees 6L Smart Humidifier 2 at $70 (Reg. $100), more from $35
Coming through its official Amazon storefront, Govee is helping folks combat the dry air of winter by dropping its latest Smart Humidifier 2 to $69.99 shipped, after clipping the on-page 30% off coupon. Normally this new model would cost you $100 since releasing back in December, though we did spot two building discounts back around New Years that started things at $65 before falling to a short-lived $60 low. Its coming back here today with a $30 markdown that puts a nice chunk of change back in your pocket while giving you the means to make any dry spaces much more comfortable. Its even beating out Govees direct site where things are sitting $10 higher . more
Nvidia GeForce RTX 5070 Ti review: An RTX 4080 for $749, at least in theory
It's hard to review a product if you don't know what it will actually cost!
Study: Cuttlefish adapt camouflage displays when hunting prey
They can take on the features of a mangrove leaf or branching coral, or run dark stripes down their bodies.
This trackable, RFID-blocking Apple Find My MagSafe wallet is on sale for $30 today
Youve found the best deal on the wallet you cant lose with 25% off the Folding MagSafe Wallet for $29.99 (reg. $39). Directly integrated tech connects this wallet to Apple Find My app so you can track it, find it, and always know where its at without the added bulk of products like AirTags. Great for busy people on the go or travelers, this slim wallet adds an extra layer of safety to your finances and phone. more
ChatGPT reaches 400M weekly active users
ChatGPT has surpassed 400 million weekly active users. We feel very fortunate to serve 5 percent of the world every week, OpenAI COO Brad Lightcap said on X about the new audience stat. This figure is twice the weekly active user count reported by the company in August 2024 , which was double the figure it posted in November 2023. The latest milestone for the AI assistant comes after a huge uproar over new rival platform DeepSeek earlier in the year, which raised questions about whether the current crop of leading AI tools was about to be dethroned. OpenAI is on the verge of a move to simplify its ChatGPT offerings so that users won't have to select which reasoning model will respond to an input, and it will make its GPT-4.5 and GPT-5 models available soon in the chat and API clients. With GPT-5 being made available to OpenAI's free users, ChatGPT seems primed to continue expanding its audience base in the coming months. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/ai/chatgpt-reaches-400m-weekly-active-users-203635884.html?src=rss
Your Android phone could have stalkerware. Heres how to remove it
This simple guide helps you identify and remove common consumer-grade spyware apps from your Android phone. 2024 TechCrunch. All rights reserved. For personal use only.
Govee Smart Light Bulbs 10-Pack Buy for $55 (Reg. $80) Clip the on-page $5 off coupon. What we love An affordable way to bring ambient smart lighting into your home, youll get 54 preset scene modes and over 16 million DIY color combinations all controlled via the Govee app, or you can go hands-free through Alexa or Google Assistant. It even has music syncing that allows the lights to dance along when any sound is picked up through your phones microphone. more
Mark Zuckerbergs makeover didnt make people like him, study shows
A study by the Pew Research Center found that Americans views of Elon Musk and Mark Zuckerberg skew more negative than positive. While Zuckerberg has sparked chatter in Silicon Valley with his sudden interest in high fashion, the Meta CEO is less popular than President Trumps right-hand man, Elon Musk, the report found. While about [] 2024 TechCrunch. All rights reserved. For personal use only.
ISP sued by record labels agrees to identify 100 users accused of piracy
Legal discovery targets names of Altice users hit with copyright notices.
Hacked, leaked, exposed: Why you should never use stalkerware apps
Using stalkerware is creepy, unethical, potentially illegal, and puts your data and that of your loved ones in danger. 2024 TechCrunch. All rights reserved. For personal use only.
Netflix Plans to Spend $1 Billion Making Content in Mexico Over the Next 4 Years
Netflix CEO Ted Sarandos says the money will go toward projects like Alfonso Cuarns film Roma, which was made in Mexico and went on to international acclaim.
SpaceX engineers brought on at FAA after probationary employees were fired
Hiring comes under policy creating employment opportunities for people with disabilities.
CASETiFY launches new iPhone 16e Impact MagSafe Case collection with hundreds of design choices
The new CASETiFY iPhone 16e cases have surfaced . CASETiFY is one of the more popular smartphone case brands out there, and one that has been so for more than a few years now. Its success is largely hinged on delivering higher quality covers, attractive branding, offering up collections for just about every major smartphone release, and, perhaps even most of all, its massive selection of designs you can choose from. The iPhone 16e models have arrived and they are now available purchase starting from $70 on the eve of pre-orders going live for the new, more affordable iPhone release. more
Bankrupt Nikola wants to sell its whole business by April
Electric trucking startup Nikola is hoping to sell what remains of its whole business as early as April, lawyers for the company told a judge Thursday during the first hearing of its bankruptcy case in Delaware. The lawyers claimed Nikola already has at least three interested buyers (who they did not name) and that the [] 2024 TechCrunch. All rights reserved. For personal use only.
A $599 iPhone 16e is a cruel joke
The $599 iPhone 16e is many things, but don't you dare call it a budget phone . I hesitate to even call it cheap. As a successor to the $429 iPhone SE, it's hard not to see the 16e as a disappointment. Sure, it's $200 less than the vanilla iPhone 16 (which I argued was a great deal at launch ), and the 16e also packs in the latest A18 chip with support for Apple Intelligence. But it's no longer a small phone, and it pushes Apple's cheaper iPhone option well beyond $500. That's something we'll likely never see again. (And it's potentially terrible news for future iPhone pricing, as well.) Given the sheer amount of new hardware in the iPhone 16e including a larger 6.1-inch OLED screen, Apple's first in-house C1 modem and that aforementioned A18 chip it's easy to make excuses for the price. The 16e is certainly far closer in specs to the iPhone 16 than the third-gen SE was to the iPhone 13. But I'd argue that Apple didn't exactly need an OLED screen for this model, and there are likely other ways to cut down costs. (It's even stranger Apple kept out MagSafe and fast wireless charging , which would have been cheaper to implement, and arguably more useful, than a large OLED display.) Apple And while it's nice to have the A18 chip (albeit with one less GPU core) and full Apple Intelligence support, I agree with my colleague Igor Bonifacic that users aren't exactly clamoring for those AI features. If we had to blame one culprit for the iPhone 16e's pricing, though, it's likely Apple Intelligence. After all, Apple is still fighting to prove it isn't too far behind Microsoft, Google and OpenAI. In any other year, Apple might have been able to justify throwing an older chip in the 16e, but that's not possible when it's in the middle of an AI hype war. Mostly, I'm just sad that Apple is once again raising the price of admission to its walled garden without much justification. There's something special noble, even about sub-$500 smartphones. They're a reminder of a saner era of smartphones, when prices were being driven down by phones like the Moto G . These days you're left with Android phones like the Pixel 8a (and potentially the upcoming Pixel 9a ), as well as the $400 Samsung Galaxy A35 and $499 Galaxy A55 . Apple Now that the dream of a sub-$500 iPhone is well and truly dead, it feels like Apple is just setting the stage for future price jumps. A $600 or $650 iPhone 17e will certainly look like a deal compared to a $850 or $900 iPhone 17. And just wait for the inevitable $2,000 iPhone foldable, which could potentially be specced beyond $3,000. Of course, you could be a smart Apple shopper and opt for used or refurbished iPhones. I recently picked up a refurbished iPhone 14 Plus as an early Mothers' Day gift for $420, and Amazon currently has listings for iPhone 14 Pros right under $500 . Those devices won't support Apple Intelligence, but I'd argue sticking to the used market is simply a more useful form of intelligence. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/mobile/smartphones/a-599-iphone-16e-is-a-cruel-joke-200507275.html?src=rss
Stalkerware apps Cocospy and Spyic are exposing phone data of millions of people
A bug in the Android and iPhone monitoring operations allows anyone to access private data exfiltrated from a victim's device. 2024 TechCrunch. All rights reserved. For personal use only.
Meta claims torrenting pirated books isnt illegal without proof of seeding
Metas copyright defense may hinge on court ignorance of torrenting terminology.
The 31 Best Movies on Max (aka HBO Max) Right Now (February 2025)
We Live in Time, Blue Velvet, and Beetlejuice Beetlejuice are just a few of the movies you should be watching on Max this month.
Tesla to test virtual queues at Supercharging locations
Road rage has been around for a while. A newer phenomenon thats cropping up is EV charging rage the feeling when a fellow EV owner cuts the line to grab one of the only working charge ports. Its common enough that people posted altercations between EV drivers on social media and forums. In at [] 2024 TechCrunch. All rights reserved. For personal use only.
Among Us VR is being transformed into a traditional 3D game for PC
Among Us VR has proven itself to be a major hit since first being released back in 2022 . Now, developers Innersloth and Schell Games have announced they are rejiggering the virtual reality title for traditional PC players . Among Us 3D is playable without a headset and will be available via Steam in the near future. This title keeps the core gameplay loop from the original, but shifts to a first-person perspective. It's basically a new way to keep sabotaging your friends and family. Among Us 3D is for four to ten players and includes native proximity voice chat, with no need for a third-party platform. All of the minigames are returning, though theres also some new ones coming down the pike. Innersloth is holding off on those details for now. It features crossplay with Among Us VR , but not with the original game. That's a bummer, but understandable. There will be, however, an expanded costume selection to offer an endless number of cosmetic customization combinations. There's a new in-game currency called Stardust that will, presumably, be used to purchase some of those outfits. There's no release date yet, other than soon. However, a demo will be available to US players as part of Steam Next Fest from February 24 to March 3. Preorders for the full game are already live on Steam. This is just the latest cool thing that developer Innersloth has announced. The company recently revealed a publishing arm called Outersloth . There's also an Among Us cartoon coming sometime in the near future. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/gaming/pc/among-us-vr-is-being-transformed-into-a-traditional-3d-game-for-pc-194545497.html?src=rss
Instagram Introduces New DM Features: Music Sharing, Message Scheduling And More
Meta has rolled out several new features for Instagrams direct messages (DMs), making communication more interactive and convenient. One of the most notable updates is the ability to send music directly in chats. Users can now share songs with friends using the same integration that allows adding music clips to Stories. By selecting the Music option from the sticker icon in the text box, they can search for a track, which will appear in the conversation with an elegant illustration and function as a 30-second audio player. Another major improvement is automatic message translation , which allows users to translate foreign-language messages simply by pressing and holding them. This feature is particularly useful for conversations between people who speak different languages. Additionally, Instagram now lets users pin important messages whether text, images, or linksat the top of the chat for quick access. This can help keep essential information easily available in ongoing conversations. To improve message organization, the platform has also introduced message scheduling , allowing users to compose a message and set it to be sent at a specific date and time. This feature is ideal for reminders, birthday messages, or time-sensitive conversations. To schedule a message, users simply need to type it, press and hold the send button, choose a date and time, and confirm. Another enhancement is the ability to invite friends to group chats using QR codes . These codes, customizable with different colors, can be saved, shared, or even printed for easy use in physical locations. Group admins can refresh the QR code at any time from the chat settings. Instagram has also recently introduced new restrictions for minors and is currently testing a dislike button for comments , signaling ongoing efforts to improve user safety and engagement. Instagram Introduces New DM Features: Music Sharing, Message Scheduling And More , original content from Ubergizmo . Read our Copyrights and terms of use .
Small study suggests dark mode doesnt save much power for very human reasons
LCD screens, dominant in laptops and tablets, tend to get turned way up.
How to make the most of the iPhone's Action Button
The Action button is available on nearly every iPhone Apple sells, offering a quick way to access a feature, app or shortcut on your phone, just by pushing a button. It can be a flashlight, activate a smart home routine or let you access any number of custom shortcuts without having to unlock your phone and pick through apps. Apple added the Action Button on the iPhone 15 Pro as a replacement for the iPhone's original Ring / Silent switch, and it was an acknowledgement of sorts that lots of people keep their phones on silent anyway. Having a reassignable button was pitched as a Pro feature at the time, but much like the Dynamic Island, it came to all of Apple's other phones in short order, even the entry-level iPhone 16e . How to use the Action Button Apple You can use the Action Button for yourself on an iPhone 15 Pro, iPhone 16, iPhone 16 Plus, iPhone 16 Pro, iPhone 16 Pro Max and iPhone 16e just by pressing or holding down the small button above the volume up and down buttons on the left side of your phone. By default, the Action Button will mute or unmute your text and ringtones. This fills the same role as the old Ring / Silent switch. Heading into the Settings app will let you reassign it to another task and you can silence your phone via the Control Center. How to reassign the Action Button to Flashlight Ian Carlos Campbell for Engadget Out of the box, Apple lets you assign the Action button to several different controls: Silent Mode (Ring / Silent), Focus (either a specific Focus or a menu that lets you pick each time), Camera (a specific mode like Photo or Video), Flashlight, Voice Memo, Recognize Music, Translate, Magnifier, Controls (a specific control from Control Center like Airplane Mode), Shortcut, Accessibility (toggling a specific accessibility feature) or do nothing at all. If you wanted to switch from the default, Silent Mode, to the Flashlight, you need to first unlock your phone. Then: Open the Settings app. Tap on Action Button. From there, swipe through the different options until you land on Flashlight. To test that it worked, try pressing on the Action Button. You can use this same process to reassign the Action Button to any of the built-in actions Apple provides. How to make the Action Button open an app Ian Carlos Campbell for Engadget If you'd like to get a little more adventurous, you can also have the Action Button open a specific app on your phone. Let's say, for example, your go-to game on the iPhone is Balatro. You can have the Action Button automatically pull up Balatro whenever you press it. To set it up, you'll need your iPhone unlocked. Open the Settings app. Tap on Action Button. Swipe through the options until you reach Shortcut. Tap on Choose a Shortcut... Then tap on Open App... Then scroll until you find your chosen app and tap on it. This process works for any app on your phone, including features of specific apps, like if you wanted to jump directly into ChatGPT's Voice Mode or a new note in the Notes app. How to make the Action button activate a shortcut Ian Carlos Campbell for Engadget The Shortcut action works for more complicated Apple Shortcuts , too. Technically, any shortcut designed to be triggered by you choosing to activate it (as opposed to a time or location-based shortcut) works. There's a lot of interesting shortcuts out there, and plenty of custom ones you can make on your own, but to use a simple example, here's how you'd set the Action Button to start a Pomodoro timer. Open the Settings app. Tap on Action Button. Swipe through the options until you get to Shortcut. Tap on Choose a Shortcut... Tap on whatever shortcut you want activate. Press and hold the Action Button to make sure it works. In the case of the Pomodoro timer, you'll be prompted to choose how long you want the timer to last, and then you can tap Done to start it. Between lock screen widgets and app shortcuts, home screen widgets, and the Action Button, there's now multiple ways to check information inside of an app, adjust a specific setting or use specific functionality from the apps on your iPhone. It's confusing, but a good rule of thumb is that the Action Button works best for actions that you only need to enable once or binary, on / off features. Plenty of others things work, but at a certain point you'll want to be spending time in an app instead of futzing with the buttons on your phone. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/mobile/smartphones/how-to-make-the-most-of-the-iphones-action-button-193038089.html?src=rss
Todays Android app deals and freebies: Human Fall Flat, SpongeBob Cosmic Shake, more
Thursday afternoons collection of the best Android game and app deals are now ready to roll down below. Joining todays Google Play offers, we also have deals on Samsungs M8 Smart Monitor at $300 off , a new Amazon low on Chipolos wallet card Google Find My Device tracker , and some particularly notable discounts on Galaxy Watch Ultra it is now $230 off with all color and band options at the ready. As for the apps, highlights include titles like SpongeBob The Cosmic Shake, Human Fall Flat, Bagatur Chess Engine, Star Survivor, and more. Head below for a closer look. more
Amazon is shutting down its third-party Android app store
The Amazon Appstore will no longer be available on Android as of August 20, 2025. After that date, apps from the digital storefront are not guaranteed to operate on Android hardware; however, they can continue to be used on devices like the Fire TV and Fire Tablets. The Coins program, Amazon's virtual currency for some Appstore app and in-app purchases, will also end on that same date. Coins will no longer be available for purchase beginning today. The Appstore was Amazon's effort to get in on the app distribution game for Android. Third-party app stores have been a hot topic for the business world in recent years, with the owners of walled gardens insisting that everything is fair while the companies trying to get a share of the action for themselves insist that it's not. There have been mixed moves to address the question in the US government, while regions such as the EU have taken more decisive steps to increase competition. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/big-tech/amazon-is-shutting-down-its-third-party-android-app-store-192047953.html?src=rss
Beta Technologies bet on electric flight and Hyundais new Tesla charging port comes up short
Welcome back to TechCrunch Mobility your central hub for news and insights on the future of transportation. Sign up here for free just click TechCrunch Mobility! Fifteen years ago, I started writing about a little EV startup that was trying to survive even as others failed in the clean tech boom-and-bust cycle. Back [] 2024 TechCrunch. All rights reserved. For personal use only.
You can now sign up to be a contributor to Meta's Community Notes feature
After announcing its plan to end third-party fact-checking in January 2025, Meta's crowdsourced replacement is finally starting to take shape. You can now join a waitlist to be a Community Notes contributor on Facebook, Instagram and Threads when the feature rolls out in the coming months. Contributors are expect to provide context via a note when a post on one of Meta's platforms might be inaccurate or confusing, according to the company's sign-up page. Community Notes will be able to be added to most public content across Facebook, Instagram and Threads and must be 500 characters or fewer . Any note is also subject to Meta's Community Standards and the judgment of other contributors. Meta expects contributors to rate notes so that the correct context gets displayed under posts. To sign-up, you need to be based in the US, be over the age of 18, have a Meta account that's more than six months old and in good standing and have either a verified phone number or two-factor authentication. Meta says contributors will start to be taken off the waitlist once the Community Notes beta launches. The company hasn't given a hard date for the launch, but does mention that Community Notes will be phased in over the next few months. Meta started testing Community Notes on Threads a little over a month ago. The feature, in name and basic functionality, is inspired by X's Community Notes, which originally launched in 2022 when the company was still known as Twitter. Community Notes and other crowdsourced pseudo-fact checks have been tested on Google platforms like YouTube and Search as well, and they all have the same general weakness. A crowdsourced answer doesn't come with the same guarantee of accuracy as one provided by someone whose sole job it is to be an impartial fact-checker. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/social-media/you-can-now-sign-up-to-be-a-contributor-to-metas-community-notes-feature-190814234.html?src=rss
Electric aircraft founder Kyle Clark threw out the Silicon Valley playbook
On a cool morning last November, 800 people gathered before sunrise in a South Burlington hangar to witness the maiden flight of Beta Technologies first electric aircraft to be built on its new scaled production line. Kyle Clark, Betas enigmatic founder and CEO, piloted the Alia CX300 one of the startups two aircraft models [] 2024 TechCrunch. All rights reserved. For personal use only.
As part of its ongoing Presidents Week sale , we have spotted a solid deal on the 4K Samsung 32-inch Smart Monitor M8 (M80D) at $399.99 shipped . Regularly $700, this 2024 model has now dropped $300 to mark a return to the price we tracked over the holidays last year. more
Trumps FTC is looking into censorship on tech platforms
The Federal Trade Commission announced on Thursday that it will launch a public inquiry into censorship by tech platforms, soliciting comments from people who feel they have been demonetized, banned, or otherwise censored due to their speech or affiliations. Tech firms should not be bullying their users, said FTC Chairman Andrew Ferguson in a statement. [] 2024 TechCrunch. All rights reserved. For personal use only.
Dune: Awakening will spice things up on May 20
A day after it was reported that Denis Villeneuve's third Dune movie starts shooting this summer, developer Funcom announced that its open-world MMO Dune: Awakening arrives on May 20 for PC. You can even get a jump on your journey through Arrakis with a character creator that's available today. Dune: Awakening draws inspiration from Frank Herbert's novels and the 2020s films . (Sorry, no speedo-clad Sting in this one.) However, it takes some detours from the established canon. In the game's version of Dune's world, the Fremen have vanished, Paul Atreides was never born and Lady Jessica obeyed the Bene Gesserit's instructions to give birth to a girl. (In other words, she's a total square.) So, in addition to being a bit of a What If? version of the Duniverse, it gives the developers freedom to use familiar environments and characters without having to tread too closely to the lore of the books and films. Handy! Funcom Funcom says you start as a prisoner sent to Arrakis to investigate the Fremen's disappearance. Following in the footsteps of the mysterious desert tribe, you will learn the true meaning of desert power as you rise from a nameless survivor to becoming an agent of the Atreides or the Harkonnen, the game blurb reads. The character creator you can tinker with today lets you tweak your hero's looks and choose their home planet, caste and mentor (Swordmaster, Bene Gesserit, Mentat or Trooper). True to Dune form, your protagonist will have to put their hand in the box and take the dreaded Gom Jabbar test. (Fortunately, your hand will be on a keyboard or controller, not inside a sci-fi torture test.) You can use your custom character when the full game launches. The tool also includes a benchmark mode, so you'll know whether you need to invest in new PC hardware to play the survival game when it arrives. Dune: Awakening launches on May 20 on Steam . It costs $50, and pre-orders will open soon. The game is also coming to PS5 and Xbox Series X/S, but there's no release date for the console versions yet. You can check out the latest trailer below. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/gaming/pc/dune-awakening-will-spice-things-up-on-may-20-184552623.html?src=rss
Amazon shuts down Chime, its Zoom alternative
Amazon Chime, the tech giants underwhelming alternative to Zoom and Google Meet, is shutting down for good. The company on Wednesday confirmed it will end support for Chime, including its Business Calling features, on February 20, 2026. As part of this transition, Amazon stopped accepting new Chime accounts as of February 19, 2025. From now [] 2024 TechCrunch. All rights reserved. For personal use only.
USDA Layoffs Derail Projects Benefiting American Farmers
The blanket firing of Department of Agriculture scientists has thrown a host of climate science and crop projects into chaos.
Theres a new Avatar: The Last Airbender cartoon coming to Nickelodeon
Its been ten long years since Avatar: The Legend of Korra aired its final episode and over 15 years since Avatar: The Last Airbender bowed out. Now, finally, Nickelodeon has greenlit a sequel series and it sounds pretty awesome. Deadline reports that Avatar: Seven Havens will be a 2D animated 26-episode followup that chronicles the rise of the next Avatar after Korra. Franchise creators Michael DiMartino and Bryan Konietzko are developing the series, so we know it's in good hands. The plot sounds pretty dark. It seems the world has fallen into chaos following a cataclysmic event of some kind. The titular seven havens refer to a handful of small civilizations that have managed to weather the storm. Also, the next Avatar will be a female Earthbender. In this world, however, the Avatar is reviled and seen as a harbinger of doom instead of a hero. Thats an interesting twist. This new incarnation of the Avatarverse is full of fantasy, mystery and a whole new cast of amazing characters. Get ready to take another epic and emotional adventure, DiMartino and Konietzko said in a statement. The premiere date and casting information will be released later in the year. We do know that the 26 episodes will be split into two books, or seasons, which is similar to how the original shows handled things. It remains to be seen if the series will cap out at 26 episodes or if thats just the first two chapters. Personally, I wonder if any aged Korra characters will show up. The announcement of Avatar: Seven Havens is just the latest news from the franchise. DiMartino and Konietzko are also working on a trilogy of animated movies, with the first one centering on an adult Aang and friends. That one hits theaters on January 30, 2026. Of course, the Netflix live-action adaptation of the original series still has two more seasons to go . This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/entertainment/tv-movies/theres-a-new-avatar-the-last-airbender-cartoon-coming-to-nickelodeon-182956881.html?src=rss
GoveeLife Smart Hygrometer Buy for $10.50 (Reg. $14) Clip the on-page 25% off coupon. What we love Spring is just around the corner, which means that temperature and humidity variances in your home are likely to pop up. A hygrometer like this can go a long way by helping you spot just how much of a difference there is, then make some HVAC/humidity adjustments to help close that gap. This hygrometer wields a large display and Bluetooth connectivity so you can use the Govee app to see up to 2 years of historic readings. more
Ankers rechargeable SmartTrack Apple Find My wallet card now back down at $24 Prime shipped
Update: This deal is now live once again. Details in the original post below. The official Anker Amazon storefront is now offering its latest rechargeable SmartTrack Card E30 with Apple Find My down at $23.99 with free shipping for Prime members or in orders over $35. This model first landed on Amazon last fall to supersede the previous, non-rechargeable model . It has carries a regular price at $35 ever since, outside of a few drops into the $24 range and youre getting another shot at it here today. more
UGREENs official Amazon storefront is offering the best rate yet on its Nexode 48,000mAh Portable Charger/Power Bank for $109.99 shipped, after clipping the on-page $60 off coupon. More recently keeping down near $170 ($200 originally), in the year since it hit the market, weve mainly been seeing it repeat the same fall to the former $119 low every few months. Todays deal is taking things lower than ever, though, with the combined 45% markdown here putting $60 ($90 off original rate) back in your pocket while equipping your travel kits with a much larger-than-average power bank. more
Pre-seed firm Afore Capital has a fresh $185M fund and a new program to help founders discover ideas
Afore Capital, a firm that claims to be the largest dedicated pre-seed investor, was founded on the idea that the first check into a new startup should be larger than what most accelerators and early-stage investors were offering. When Afore raised its third $150 million fund in 2022, the firm wrote checks ranging from $1 [] 2024 TechCrunch. All rights reserved. For personal use only.
Bounty for every mosquito - dead or alive: Philippine village's unique solution to battle dengue
A village in the Philippines' capital region initiated a unique mosquito bounty plan amid a dengue outbreak. Residents are rewarded with cash for capturing mosquitoes, dead or alive. With an alarming rise in dengue cases, the initiative aims to combat the spread of the disease and incentivize proactive community involvement in mosquito control.
61 US startups became unicorns in 2024: Heres the full list
The list included Elon Musks xAI, as well as a good number of other AI startups. 2024 TechCrunch. All rights reserved. For personal use only.
Inside the Humane acquisition: HP offers big raises to some, others immediately laid off
Hours after the acquisition was announced, several Humane employees received job offers. Others were not so lucky. 2024 TechCrunch. All rights reserved. For personal use only.
Your future self will thank you for grabbing this 2-port 35W USB-C wall charger at $8.50 (Save $9)
VOLTME 35W Dual USB-C Wall Charger Buy for $8.50 (Reg. $17.50) What we love Theres nothing quite like having a tech bin stocked with everything you may need, before you actually do. Throwing one or more of these in there seems like a great idea that a future version of yourself is likely to appreciate. It wields not one, but two USB-C ports. With a maximum output of 35W, which is enough to handle everything from smartphones and tablets, to something like a MacBook Air. more
EPOMAKER RT100 full-sized wireless mechanical keyboard with detachable Display Buy for $53 (Reg. $106) Enter promo code 93P6XSW2 for 50% off. What we love You are looking at a full-sized mechanical keyboard with a hot-swappable PCB and tri-mode connectivity. The highlight here is the 1.33-inch detachable LCD that sits upright on the unit showing you all the relevant information like the time, date, and other system stats like the CPU temperature. It also has a rotary knob, a 5,000mAh battery, and height-adjustable feet for a comfortable typing experience. more
Amazon remembers it has an Android app store, kills it
Fire tablets and Fire TV devices will still have access to apps, though.
Cherryrock Capital raises new $172M fund from all-star investors to back diverse founders
Cherryrock Capital, founded by ex-TaskRabbit CEO Stacy Brown-Philpot, announced Wednesday the closing of its $172 million Fund I with an all-star limited partner list that includes JPMorgan, Goldman Sachs, MassMutual, Melinda French Gates Pivotal Ventures, Reid Hoffman, Mellody Hobson, and Sheryl Sandberg. Brown-Philpot told Bloomberg that the fund actually closed in January. The firm launched [] 2024 TechCrunch. All rights reserved. For personal use only.
Big Savings Ahead: Eddie Bauers Winter Sale slashes up to 50% off winter favorites and clearance
Eddie Bauer is currently offering several promotions to help you save on outdoor apparel and gear. Score cozy winter favorites from $30 and an extra 50% off all clearance with code SNOW50 at checkout. Join the Adventure Rewards program to receive free standard shipping on orders over $75 ( sign-up here ). One of our top picks from this sale is the mens Eddies Favorite Ultrasoft Thermal Henley Shirt thats marked down to $20 . This shirt is made from a soft and stretchy fabric and a thermal knit texture that offers warmth while still being breathable. The henley style has a classic 3-button placket, giving it a casual, laid-back vibe. This shirt looks nice on its own or layered under a jacket or vest. Plus, you can choose from several color options. Find even more deals by heading below, or you can shop the entire sale here . more
Bag this 39.4-foot cut-to-length cable tie kit while its 50% off, now just $7.50 Prime shipped
Nettbe 39.4-foot Cut-to-Length Cable Tie Kit Buy for $7.50 (Reg. $15) What we love I get a lot of use out of reusable cable ties at home, but they usually have a specified length, with 6 or 8 inches being the most common. The cut-to-length solution here allows you to craft a perfect solution for just about anything you may have in mind. Best of all, you get 39.4 feet to work with, which should keep you going for a long time. more
Earlier this year Nintendo officially teased an upcoming collaboration with LEGO an upcoming, brick-built Game Boy set. It will likely be the biggest Nintendo hardware release of the year outside of the Switch 2 . At the time of the official reveal, there werent many details to go on outside of a teaser video and that it was indeed on the way this year, but a supposedly reliable leaker might have just outed some details on the new LEGO Game Boy along with the price. more
Theres a Pokmon Presents livestream scheduled for February 27
The Pokmon Company is hosting a morning livestream on February 27 at 9AM ET to share the latest news and updates from Pikachu and pals. You can stream it via the official YouTube channel . This is the yearly Pokmon Presents event that typically provides info on whats coming to empty our wallets throughout the year (and beyond.) So what can we expect this year? Both The Pokmon Company and Nintendo remain tight-lipped, but we can make some educated guesses. Pokemon Legends: Z-A , the follow-up to the open-world Pokmon Legends: Arceus , was announced in early 2024 . Its high time we got some more details on the upcoming game. The title was originally advertised as a Switch exclusive, but now that the Switch 2 is on our radar , maybe itll be a dual-release or something. We could get that information, along with an announcement regarding the games trio of starter Pokmon. Theres a new Pokmon TGC set arriving in May. Its called Destined Rivals, so we can expect a detailed look at this update. We might even get a tease for another set down the line. Pokmon cards, both digital and physical, are still very much a big deal. To that end, we could get details regarding new features for TGC Pocket . Pokmon GO's next season starts on March 4, which is just a few days after the stream. Well most definitely get a trailer for that, along with some updates on any new features. Beyond that, its a guessing game. Hope springs eternal that well finally get those remakes of Pokmon Black and White . In any event, February 27 is right around the corner. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/gaming/nintendo/theres-a-pokemon-presents-livestream-scheduled-for-february-27-171813096.html?src=rss
The Showdown Between Elon Musk and Sam Altman
This week, the Uncanny Valley hosts discuss the lawsuits, bidding wars, and power plays over OpenAI.
The Watergate-Inspired Law That's Being Used to Fight DOGE
Here's how the 1974 Privacy Act is being used in legal battles against DOGEand how you can protect yourself from government surveillance.
Cancel your Microsoft 365 subscription this lifetime access deal saves you $10 every month
Tired of those monthly Microsoft 365 fees draining your wallet? Weve got great news! You can own the lifetime version of Microsoft Office for a one-time payment and never see those subscription fees again. While Microsoft 365 costs $10 monthly, Microsoft Office 2024 Home is here for $139.97 , paying for itself in just over a year. more
Dont have MagSafe? This universal mount gets your phone on the dash for just $6.50 (Save 68%)
LISEN Universal Smartphone Car Vent Mount Buy for $6.50 (Reg. $20) Clip the on-page 50% off coupon. What we love With Apples latest smartphone lacking MagSafe , it serves as an important reminder that its only packed into some devices. This could cause you to have second thoughts when buying gear that locks you into something that is more or less proprietary. This car mount takes that approach with a design thats ready to accomodate most smartphones and easily attaches to a car vent. It even has an extension arm that helps prevent a smartphone from blocking airflow. more
DOGE Puts $1 Spending Limit on Government Employee Credit Cards
The restrictions are already in place at the General Services Administration along with several other agencies. Soon theyll roll out to most of the federal government, sources say.
Figures humanoid robot takes voice orders to help around the house
Figure founder and CEO Brett Adcock Thursday revealed a new machine learning model for humanoid robots. The news, which arrives two weeks after Adcock announced the Bay Area robotics firms decision to step away from an OpenAI collaboration, is centered around Helix, a generalist Vision-Language-Action (VLA) model. VLAs are a new phenomenon for robotics, leveraging [] 2024 TechCrunch. All rights reserved. For personal use only.
While were waiting for Rockstar Games to announce the release date of Grand Theft Auto 6 , its busy pushing updates to its existing blockbuster title. The PC version of Grand Theft Auto V is getting a free upgrade in a few days, bringing support for ray-traced global illumination, ambient occlusion, and a bunch of other features. The company confirmed the same via an official blog post and announced the upgrade will be available for free from 4th March. Head below for a close look at all the details to see how the game is being improved. more
Heres a 3-in-1 charging station thats made for Samsung enthusiasts, now $37 (Save 20%)
KU XIU X55 Ultra 3-in-1 Samsung Galaxy Charging Station Buy for $37 (Reg. $46) Clip the on-page 20% off coupon. What we love It doesnt matter if Samsungs latest S25 lineup finally caused you to cave or if youve been in its ecosystem for quite a while now, this charger is here to streamline your setup. This collapsible 3-in-1 station accomodates Samsungs smartphones, Galaxy watches, and even earbuds. more
Three electric motors, a V12, and 1,001 hpdriving the Lamborghini Revuelto
Lamborghini improves on the Aventador in every way with Revuelto PHEV.
Keep your air clean with Govees Siri-ready 530-square-foot purifier at $45.50 (Reg. $70)
GoveeLife 530-square-foot Smart Air Purifier Buy for $45.50 (Reg. $70) Clip the on-page 35% off coupon. What we love If youre sick of feeling sick, this air purifier will certainly help by banishing pet dander, allergens, and the list goes on. This affordable unit can purify 530-square feet per hour, allowing it to power through large rooms without a hitch. This model can be controlled using not only the Govee app, but also Alexa, Google Assistant, IFTTT, and even Siri once configured. more
Google's Pixel 8a drops to $399 at Amazon
The Google Pixel 8a mid-tier smartphone is back on sale for $399 via Amazon . This is close to a record-low price and represents a discount of 20 percent. Even better? The sale applies to multiple colorways, including mint green, light blue and white. This deal is for the 128GB model. This device topped our list of the best mid-range smartphones , and with good reason. Its a well-designed phone that gets the job done. It features a powerful Tensor G3 chip, offers support for Google Gemini AI tools and includes an excellent camera system. The 120Hz OLED display is gorgeous and the battery life is on point. We called the Pixel 8a one of the best values of any phone on sale today in our official review , and that was at the original $499 asking price. Its especially well-valued with todays sale. We even enjoyed gaming with this device, which isnt always the case with mid-range phones. The 8a also comes with IP67 dust and water resistance and 7.5-watt Qi wireless charging. There arent any major downsides to this phone, though we do have a couple of nitpicks. The wireless charging, while convenient, is pretty slow. The display bezels are also on the thicker side, so you lose some precious screen real estate. Other than that, this is a near-perfect mid-range phone. Its also a full $200 cheaper than Apples just-announced budget smartphone, the iPhone 16e . Follow @EngadgetDeals on Twitter and subscribe to the Engadget Deals newsletter for the latest tech deals and buying advice. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/deals/googles-pixel-8a-drops-to-399-at-amazon-163059224.html?src=rss
Update: Apples C1 modem doesnt interfere with MagSafe on the iPhone 16e
Macworld Update 11:18am ET: Apple has confirmed to Macworld that the C1 modem is not responsible for the decision to leave MagSafe charging off the new iPhone 16e. The original story is below: In the technical data of the Apple iPhone 16e , the parameters for fast charging50 percent in 30 minutes with compatible hardwareand for wireless charging with Qi devices can be found in the Power and Battery section. However, if you compare the 16es Tech Specs with the technical data of an iPhone 16, you will notice that the information on MagSafe is completely missing. Although the iPhone 16e is positioned as an entry-level iPhone with its price of $599 , this omission of an important function that Apple promotes everywhere else is somewhat puzzling. After all, Apple has included plenty of modern upgrades, including an OLED screen and an Action Button. So why would Apple remove one of its much-praised technologies from its newest iPhone? Sources from the accessories industry have told Macworld that a possible explanation is that the built-in magnets of the MagSafe system apparently interfere with the reliability of Apples new C1 5G modem. So its possible that Apple had to drop MagSafe in order to ensure the best possible connection for its first-gen 5G modem, which is arguably more important than magnetic charging. We reached out to Apple for comment and will update this article if we get a response. So perhaps thats why the iPhone 16e can only charge wirelessly with the classic non-magnetic Qi standard. With Qi, youll get charging up to 7.5 watts, significantly slower than MagSafe, which tops out at 25W on the iPhone 16 and 15W on previous iPhones. Qi2 , which is based on Apples MagSafe, also offers 15W wireless charging. It is possible that cases could bring MagSafe charging as they did with the SE, but if the report is accurate, those cases might pose an issue with connectivity as well. In the meantime, if MagSafe is important, we recommend getting an iPhone 16. Check out our reviews of the best MagSafe chargers and best MagSafe power ba n ks to see the incredible range of magnetic wireless charging devices now available.
Apple's M4 Mac mini is back on sale for $549
While there's a new iPhone that's surely soaking up the attention of many Apple fans, it's often worth keeping an eye on the company's other products as you might find a decent deal. If you've been on the lookout for a discount on the latest Mac mini, you're in luck. The M4 Mac mini is back on sale as it has dropped to $549 . The deal is for the base model with 16GB of unified memory and 256GB of SSD storage. It's not the lowest price we've seen for this Mac mini it was $100 off during the Black Friday period. But with a $50 discount, this is the best price we've seen so far this year. If you'd like more built-in storage, you might want to opt for a configuration with a 512GB SSD. That'll currently run you $719 , which is $80 off the regular price. However, it's worth bearing in mind that you can connect an external SSD to your Mac mini if Apple's internal storage upgrade prices are too pricey for you to justify. We gave the Mac mini (albeit one equipped with a more powerful M4 Pro chipset) a score of 90 in our review . That said, the base M4 model should be zippy enough for most people's needs. For instance, those who like to play games on Mac should find that the GPU is fast enough to support 60 fps gameplay at a resolution of 1080p on many titles. Follow @EngadgetDeals on Twitter and subscribe to the Engadget Deals newsletter for the latest tech deals and buying advice. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/deals/apples-m4-mac-mini-is-back-on-sale-for-549-161512511.html?src=rss
