Gadgets

The Artemis II astronauts are back after a 10-day journey around the moon

The Orion capsule carrying the Artemis II astronauts has successfully splashed down off the coast of San Diego at 8:07PM Eastern time on April 10. It signals the conclusion of Artemis IIs 10-day journey around the moon, which is meant to be a test flight for a future mission that would bring humanity back to the lunar surface. The Orion crew module carrying the missions astronauts separated from the service module at 7:33 PM. While the service module was designed to burn up in the Earths atmosphere, the crew capsule was built to bring the astronauts back home safely. By 7:53 PM, Orion reached our planets upper atmosphere, where a six-minute communication blackout occurred due to the capsule heating up as it started its guided descent. The capsule has 11 parachutes, with its drogue parachutes being deployed at 23,400 feet to stabilize and slow it down. When Orion reached 5,400 feet above the ground, the drogue parachutes were cut off so that the three main parachutes could be deployed. That decreased the capsules velocity to 200 feet per second, enabling a safe splashdown. NASAs engineers conducted several tests while the capsule was in the water before the recovery team headed to the capsule on inflatable boats to extract the crew from Orion. By 9:34 PM, all four crew members were out of the capsule. They were then hoisted into helicopters and flown to the USS John P. Murtha dock ship, where doctors will assess their health. Artemis II launched on April 1 with four astronauts on board: NASAs Reid Wiseman, Victor Glover and Christina Koch, as well as Canadian Space Agencys Jeremy Hansen. They traveled around the moon for almost 10 days, reaching distances no other crewed mission has before it. The astronauts took photos of the far side of the moon , the side we dont see from our planet, including amazing closeups of the lunar surface using their smartphones. That makes them the first humans to directly and personally view the lunar far side. During NASAs post-splashdown news conference, the agency said it will announce the Artemis III crew soon. Artemis III will rendezvous with one or both commercial landers being developed by SpaceX and Blue Origin in low Earth orbit, which will take humans to the lunar surface. It will test the landers ability to dock with Orion before NASA lands humans on the moon again. Welcome home Reid, Victor, Christina, and Jeremy! The Artemis II astronauts have splashed down at 8:07pm ET (0007 UTC April 11), bringing their historic 10-day mission around the Moon to an end. pic.twitter.com/1yjAgHEOYl NASA (@NASA) April 11, 2026 This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/science/space/the-artemis-ii-astronauts-are-back-after-a-10-day-journey-around-the-moon-033800654.html?src=rss

The FAA is encouraging gamers to get jobs in air traffic control

Sick! The Federal Aviation Administration is targeting gamers in its most recent job advertisement for air traffic controllers. The administration's annual hiring window opens at 12AM ET on April 17, and considering the ongoing shortage of air traffic controllers, it's calling this a period of supercharged hiring. Rad! The FAA's YouTube video draws parallels between gaming and directing air traffic, and notes that the average salary for the role after three years is $155,000. Hella! The FAA is clearly seeking players who are at least old enough to remember the Xbox One and Bjergsen in the LCS, which puts would-be candidates around their early 20s at least. It's either that, or the ad editors really just picked videos at random from the pile of stock footage marked gamerz . But I won't lie, it made me smile to see that Xbox One logo appear out of nowhere. Nostalgia is a hell of a thing. To reach the next generation of air traffic controllers, we need to adapt, US Transportation Secretary Sean P. Duffy said . This campaigns innovative communication style and focus on gaming taps into a growing demographic of young adults who have many of the hard skills it takes to be a successful controller. The FAA has been losing more air traffic controllers than it can hire and retain since the 2010s, and this trend only worsened during the pandemic in the 2020s, according to a report released in December by the US Government Accountability Office. The administration increased hiring every year since 2021, but at the end of 2025 it employed 13,164 air traffic controllers, 6 percent fewer than in 2015, the report said. At the same time, the number of flights in the air traffic control system increased by about 10 percent, to 30.8 million. Or, as the FAA put it on the ATC hiring page : Join the BEST AND BRIGHTEST, the elite squad of 14,000 controllers protecting 2.9 million daily passengers. Applicants must be a US citizen, under 31 (maybe those video editors do know what they're doing), and be able to speak fluent English. An aptitude test, medical screening and academy training follows, among other steps. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/gaming/the-faa-is-encouraging-gamers-to-get-jobs-in-air-traffic-control-230308014.html?src=rss

Epic is reportedly building an extraction shooter for Disney

Besides a wealth of Fortnite skins based on Disney IP, it hasn't really been clear what the entertainment company has gotten in return for its $1.5 billion investment in Epic from 2024. That could change this November, Bloomberg reports , when Epic releases a Disney-themed extraction shooter. The game is one of three Disney projects the publisher is currently working on, and is reportedly expected to be Epic's comeback after the company laid off 1,000 employees in March due to a downturn in Fortnite engagement. The game is reportedly similar to Arc Raiders , a multiplayer shooter where players fight for resources before escaping through an extraction point, but with Disney characters fighting enemies instead of post-apocalyptic survivors. Bloomberg writes that internal reviewers have worried that the game's mechanics are not very original, but the project is the most promising of the three Epic is developing. The second title received middling internal reviews, according to Bloomberg , and Epic moved resources off the third project after reports that Disney was disappointed by Epics release timeline. While details of Epic's work for Disney are coming into focus, it's still unclear whether this new extraction shooter will be a standalone game or incorporated as a mode in Fortnite . In its efforts to sell the title as a multiverse and a competitor to Roblox, Epic has introduced multiple games inside Fortnite over the last few years with distinct mechanics. The developer announced that it would shut down three of those titles Rocket Racing , Ballistic and Fortnite Festival Battle Stage as part of its recent round of layoffs. According to current and former Epic employees Bloomberg spoke to, several affected employees were also working on these unannounced Disney games. When it invested in Epic in 2024, Disney suggested it would build an entertainment universe with the developer, where players could play, watch, shop and engage with content, characters and stories from Disney, Pixar, Marvel, Star Wars, Avatar, and more. Epic's current plans sound far less ambitious than that, but if they manage to increase engagement with Fortnite and Disney's brand, that might not matter. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/gaming/epic-is-reportedly-building-an-extraction-shooter-for-disney-220401382.html?src=rss

A man allegedly threw a Molotov cocktail at Sam Altman's house

A 20-year-old man was arrested by the San Francisco Police Department after allegedly throwing a Molotov cocktail at OpenAI CEO Sam Altman's house, The New York Times reports . In a statement shared on X , SFPD wrote that it responded to a request for a fire investigation in the North Beach neighborhood of San Francisco around 7:12 AM ET / 4:12AM PT. At the scene, officers learned that an unknown male subject threw an incendiary destructive device at a home, causing a fire at an exterior gate. After the man fled on foot, police found and arrested him around an hour later while responding to a business' complaint about an unknown male subject threatening to burn down the building. That business turned out to be OpenAI's headquarters and the subject happened to be the same man who threw the Molotov at Altman's house. View our latest statement regarding an incident that occurred early this morning at a North Beach residence. Officers have made an arrest, and no injuries were reported as a result of this incident. pic.twitter.com/t4DsF31uxh San Francisco Police (@SFPD) April 10, 2026 Early this morning, someone threw a Molotov cocktail at Sam Altmans home and also made threats at our San Francisco headquarters. Thankfully, no one was hurt, an OpenAI spokesperson confirmed in a statement to Wired . We deeply appreciate how quickly SFPD responded and the support from the city in helping keep our employees safe. The individual is in custody, and were assisting law enforcement with their investigation. As it's become more commonplace, artificial intelligence has also become more divisive. While more and more people continue to use AI tools, public reaction to the encroachment of the technology, whether in gaming or customer service , is increasingly negative. Altman's warnings of AI's impact on employment , and a recent New Yorker investigation digging into his allegedly manipulative leadership style at OpenAI, have also raised questions about the CEO's prominent role as a steward of the technology. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/ai/a-man-allegedly-threw-a-molotov-cocktail-at-sam-altmans-house-210444731.html?src=rss

Estonia is the rare EU country opposing child social media bans

As child social media bans spread across Europe and beyond, Estonia isn't having it. On Friday, the country's education minister said the bans won't actually solve problems, while warning that the kids will find a way regardless. Although companies like Meta would love for you to believe its a fairy tale , social media addiction is associated with tangible negative repercussions for children. Studies show that its harms range from depression and anxiety to sleep deprivation and obesity. (The latter is from all the targeted junk food advertising.) On the other hand, teens can find community and support from social media. A growing list of countries looked at the negative data and concluded that the answer was to ban social media altogether for children. Although the age cutoff varies, legislation has been floated or enacted in Australia , Greece , France , Austria , Spain , Indonesia , Malaysia , the UK and Denmark just to name a few. Estonia's education minister believes these countries are coming at the very real problem from the wrong angle. The way to approach this, to me, is not to make kids responsible for that harm and start self-regulating, Kristina Kallas said at a Politico forum in Barcelona. She added that kids will find very quickly the ways to go around and to still use social media. Instead, she said the responsibility lies with governments and corporations. Europe pretends to be weak when it comes to big American and international corporations, she added. But she called that a pretense, challenging the EU to actually take this power and start regulating the big American corporations. To be fair, the EU regulates the tech industry more effectively than anywhere else in the world. But the point on childhood social bans stands. Another argument against the bans is that its a short path from the well-meaning to a more sinister erosion of basic freedoms. In February, France suggested that the next logical step after passing an under-15 social media ban would be to go after VPNs . After all, once you pass the ban, you need to enforce it and that can mean snuffing out the tools children could use to work around it. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/social-media/estonia-is-the-rare-eu-country-opposing-child-social-media-bans-194620916.html?src=rss

Garmin may be working on a Whoop competitor

Whoop, the makers of a screen-free fitness tracker of the same name, could soon have some competition. Fitbit teased its take on a Whoop-style band with the help of Steph Curry at the end of March, and based on a trademark filing spotted by Gadgets & Wearables , Garmin appears to be working on its own band that tracks similar health metrics. This new Garmin wearable, called CIRQA in the trademark filing submitted in February, is designed to measure he body's physical parameters and other physiological data, bio-signals, and bodily behavior. That could broadly describe the smartwatches and fitness trackers Garmin already sells. But the CIRQA apparently goes further, by also measuring ecovery from physical and emotional stress, human alertness level, and performance, a set of more granular, wellness-focused features that could bring the unreleased wearable into the same ballpark as a Whoop. Garmin accidentally leaked that it was working on a new wearable via a hastily removed store page in January, Android Authority reports . While some phantom web pages and a trademark do not guarantee Garmin is working on a new device, or that the band will be screen-free in the same way the Whoop is. If the company is preparing a competitor, though, the timing makes sense. Where other devices try to split the difference between tracking biometrics and offering real-time information or other smartwatch features, Whoop is decidedly data-first. Its wearables monitor as much information as possible through a nondescript band, and then analyze and display what it learned via a smartphone app. The approach is attractive to anyone tired of dealing with screens, and the growing number of people obsessed with optimizing their health. In fact, Whoop just raised $575 million on the back of its current success. It would make sense that Garmin and Google (via its Fitbit brand) would want a piece of the company's audience, too. Whoop-style bands are also a perfect fit for future uses of AI in health and fitness tracking. Google is interested in having users turn to Fitbit's AI-powered health coach for everything from workout tracking to nutrition advice. If health data processing is going to happen in the cloud, and you're going to have to pull out your smartphone to view that data anyway, it makes sense to sell a tracker without a screen. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/wearables/garmin-may-be-working-on-a-whoop-competitor-191802041.html?src=rss

French government says au revoir Windows, bienvenue Linux

America's Big Tech companies may soon learn that saddling up with Donald Trump doesn't tend to work out in the end . As the president sows chaos and distrust around the globe while taking aim at EU tech regulations, Europe is looking for ways to adopt its own alternatives. The latest example is France, which said it's dropping Microsoft Windows in favor of Linux. On Wednesday, France said ( via TechCrunch ) it plans to move its workstations from Windows to the open-source Linux. It's part of a broader movement across Europe toward digital sovereignty, aimed at reducing reliance on foreign tech especially American and Chinese. Although homegrown alternatives aren't available in many areas, the EU seems prepared to wean itself off where it can. In January, France announced that it would move its videoconferencing from Zoom and Teams to the French-made Visio . As part of this weeks Linux announcement, France added that it would also migrate its health data to a new platform by the end of 2026. Since taking office, Trump has used tariffs and other measures to try to bully European nations into dropping their regulations on America's tech industry. In August, he vowed to stand up to Countries that attack our incredible American Tech Companies. (The strange capitalizations are his, not ours.) His administration has described laws like the EU's Digital Services Act as censorship and a tax. So far, Europe has stood firm. I want to be very clear: our digital sovereignty is our digital sovereignty, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said at the Munich Security Conference in February. We have a long tradition in freedom of speech. Actually, the Enlightenment started on our continent. Christian Kroll, CEO of German search engine Ecosia, foresaw Europe's predicament soon after Trump's 2024 reelection. We, as a European community, just need to make sure that nobody can blackmail us. He added that if the US turned off access to search results tomorrow, we would have to go back to phone books. Granted, the guy is selling a European-made search engine, so his bias is clear. But the salience of his point stands. Giorgos Verdi, policy fellow at the European Council on Foreign Relations, said the Trump administration's behavior underscores the need for Europe to break free. Could the US use its dominance over AI chips, its dominance over cloud in Europe, its dominance over AI systems in order to exert more pressure? Verdi asked CNN rhetorically in January. In order to build more resilience for Europe there is a geopolitical case for European innovations to emerge. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/big-tech/french-government-says-au-revoir-windows-bienvenue-linux-165407232.html?src=rss

Google adds E2E encryption to Gmail for iOS and Android enterprise users

Google has announced that end-to-end encryption (E2EE) for Gmail on Android and iOS is now rolling out for its enterprise users. Emails that require E2EE in Workspace can be composed and read within the Gmail app, so eligible users wont need additional apps or portals. The new feature expands Googles client-side encryption (CSE) offering, a little more than a year after E2EE was introduced to Gmail on the web. According to a Google blog post , any encrypted message sent to a recipient who uses the Gmail app will appear in their inbox as any email thread would. If they dont have the app, theyre still able to read and reply to the email in their browser securely, regardless of their email address. Google says the new functionality combines the highest level of privacy and data encryption with a user-friendly experience for all users, enabling simple encrypted email for all customers from small businesses to enterprises and public sector. Of course, all users applies only to Enterprise Plus members here, with the millions of people who use Gmail as their personal email service currently unable to take advantage of the highest level of privacy and data protection. In order for Gmail users to start using E2EE in the app, an admin must first enable Android and iOS clients in the CSE admin interface, which is available in the Admin Console. When sending an email, you have to click the lock icon and select additional encryption before sending. Attachments can then be added as normal. E2EE is available straight away in the Rapid Release and Scheduled Release domains. Enterprise users will need the Assured Controls or Assured Controls Plus add-on, which provides businesses and organizations that handle sensitive data with extra security and compliance-related tools. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/cybersecurity/google-adds-e2e-to-gmail-for-ios-and-android-enterprise-users-165345116.html?src=rss

Google has reportedly started to add Polymarket data to News results

Google News has begun showing Polymarket bets and odds alongside actual stories, according to a report by Futurism . These look to appear as large blocks that include links to numerous ways for people to lose their money. Bets tend to appear in the For you section of Google News, which is supposed to be tailored to a person's particular interests. Futurism notes that the platform actually placed a Polymarket bet as the top news result when inquiring about the price of Bitcoin. The publication saw links to the prediction market all over Google News, including in searches. It popped up in queries regarding the Strait of Hormuz, which presents a link that lets people bet on the number of ships that would be allowed to pass through the critical passageway. The report even indicates that users were able to set the gambling platform as a source, which directs readers to an aggregate page of other Polymarket links. Oof The Top Google News Result Is For Polymarket LOL. We Cooked. pic.twitter.com/IFBbYFdn2A Anthony Higman (@AnthonyHigman) March 26, 2026 There's a caveat here. I wasn't personally able to confirm most of these results. This could indicate that Google has quietly made some changes behind the scenes following Futurism's initial report. Complaints from users on social media indicate that Google started doing this at the tail-end of March. However, one user noted all the way back in January that Polymarket results had started showing up in the news section of a traditional Google search . I was able to replicate that one. Lawrence Bonk/Google News Engadget has reached out to Google to see just what's going on here and if it plans to continue displaying Polymarket bets alongside actual news stories. The company did announce a partnership with both Polymarket and Kalshi back in November. This deal indicated the two gambling platforms would feed prediction data into Google's finance platform, but didn't say anything about News. It's pretty easy to see why Polymarket would be attractive to Google's algorithms. The platform generates huge numbers on pages that are constantly updated. This could make these algorithms think the links are leading to valuable news stories and not, you know, a place to bet on human misery . Prediction markets like Polymarket give users the ability to place bets on real world outcomes, which includes wars and other gruesome things . This has led to numerous scandals , which include an incident in which an unknown Polymarket user made more than $400,000 after predicting the capture of Venezuela's president Nicols Maduro just hours before US troops invaded the country and abducted him. Polymarket has hosted bets on the use of nuclear weapons in current global conflicts, which is pretty dang chilling when you consider the possibility of government employees tipping the scales in their favor. President Trump did, after all, recently threaten to end an entire civilization . This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/big-tech/google-has-reportedly-started-to-add-polymarket-data-to-news-results-161708462.html?src=rss

How to watch the Artemis II landing

After its history-making trip around the Moon, NASA's Artemis II mission is set to return to Earth later today. The Orion spacecraft carrying astronauts Reid Wiseman, Christina Koch, Victor Glover and Jeremy Hansen is scheduled to splash down off the coast of San Diego at approximately 8:07PM ET. NASA will stream the landing on YouTube and its NASA+ website , as will Netflix and HBO Max .The official broadcast will begin at 6:30PM ET. After leaving Earth on NASA's super heavy-lift SLS rocket and spending nine days in space , the most dangerous part of the Artemis II mission still lies ahead. It will take approximately 13 minutes for the Orion spacecraft to complete re-entry. During that time, it will be subject to temperatures of up to 5,000 degrees Fahrenheit (2,760 degrees Celsius). Reentry is dangerous for any crewed spacecraft, but is of particular concern here because of a skip reentry during the Artemis 1 mission. At that time, the Orion crew vessel briefly used its own lift to skip back out of Earth's upper atmosphere before re-entering for the final descent, suffering excess charring in the process. NASA spent months investigating and determined the craft was safe to fly, but Artemis II will take a more gradual approach back to Earth in hopes of reducing its exposure to excess heat. Still, this is the first time in 53 years that NASA will need to guide a human crew back from the Moon. Once all is said and done, however, the Artemis II crew will have traveled 695,081 miles (1,118,624 km), captured amazing images along the way and reminded the world whats possible when nations work together. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/science/space/how-to-watch-the-artemis-ii-landing-145344873.html?src=rss

Sony Bravia Theater Bar 5 review: A basic TV sound booster

Not everyone needs a $1,000 soundbar . Its easy to argue the sonic superiority of those flagship models from Samsung, Sonos and Sony, but for some people a simple boost to their TV speakers can provide a world of difference. As part of its 2026 soundbar lineup, Sony debuted the Bravia Theater Bar 5 : a $350 entry-level model that covers the basics and comes with a wireless subwoofer in the box. The real question here is how many features are you willing to live without. The good: Sound quality, bass performance and setup The Theater Bar 5 is the most compact soundbar among Sonys new models, measuring just 35.5 inches wide. For comparison, thats still about 10 inches wider than the second-gen Sonos Beam , but nearly 16 inches smaller than Sonys flagship Theater Bar 9 . This stature makes the Bar 5 well-suited for smaller spaces with smaller TVs. In fact, Sony says the soundbar will fit between the legs of Bravia TVs with multi-position stands. Plus, the Bar 5 is just over 2.5 inches tall, slightly shorter than the Beam, so it wont block the bottom edge of most TVs. Despite its small size, the Bar 5 cranks out some excellent sound. Theres plenty of crisp, clear audio from the 3.1-channel configuration, and the included subwoofer provides an ample amount of booming bass. The Bar 5 supports Dolby Atmos and DTS:X, but it doesnt have up-firing drivers. Instead, the soundbar relies on Sonys Vertical Surround Engine and S-Force Pro Front Surround tech to virtualize much of the directional and overhead audio. More on that in a bit. While watching Netflixs Drive to Survive, I experienced the excitement of F1 cars zooming around various circuits as the Bar 5 does well with general movement. The soundbars wide soundstage, excellent detail and booming bass provide some degree of immersion that doesnt rely on audio projected overhead. That overall clarity and powerful bass are also great for listening to music, as the Bar 5 can handle a range of genres with ease. The Bravia Theater Bar 5 has a basic, compact design Billy Steele for Engadget From Kieran Behden & William Tylers acoustic/electronic 41 Longfield Street Late 80s to Thursdays screamo masterpiece Full Collapse, the soundbar performs admirably. Although with heavier genres, I preferred to dial down the bass slightly. Tucker Rules kick drum on Full Collapse , for example, was a bit much for the standard tuning here. After struggling with the setup on LGs Sound Suite , I was thankful that configuring the Bar 5 was super easy. Its very much a plug-and-play situation, and the Bravia Connect app guides you through the initial steps. It takes about five minutes to get up and running and Id wager even the least tech-savvy person in your life can probably figure this out. You can also opt for Night mode (less bass), Sound Field (enhanced audio) and Voice mode (louder dialogue) in the Bravia Connect app. All of this certainly makes the Bar 5 a solid option for someone who doesnt need a lot of features, but stands to benefit from augmenting the sound from their TV alone. The not so good: Constrained Dolby Atmos and limited features While the Bar 5 supports Dolby Atmos and DTS:X immersive audio, Sonys virtualization tech was a disappointment. Theres some side-to-side directional sound, but I noticed almost no simulated overhead noise. The Bar 5s sonic clarity makes it a solid option for boosting living room audio, just dont expect the enveloping effects that more robust (and more expensive) soundbars would offer. There are several features you wont find on the Theater Bar 5, starting with the lack of onboard controls. Im well aware that those buttons on top of soundbars dont get used much, but if youre like me, you still reach for them occasionally. There were several times during my testing when I tried to blindly tap the non-existent volume controls on the Bar 5. Other than a power button on the right side, your options for controlling this soundbar are a remote and the Bravia Connect app. The power button on the right side Billy Steele for Engadget You also wont find a Wi-Fi connection on the Bar 5. This means that AirPlay and Google Cast arent available to easily beam audio from your devices to the soundbar. There is Bluetooth 5.3, so you do have an option for music and podcasts from your phone or laptop if you need it. However, pairing your devices to the soundbar via Bluetooth isnt as quick as selecting the soundbar in your streaming app when AirPlay or Cast are on the spec sheet. Lastly, Sony doesnt offer any type of room calibration on Theater Bar 5. Sure, a smaller soundbar like this is better in smaller spaces, but it would still be nice to have the system dial in the audio for the aspects of the room. After all, not every living room is a perfect rectangle. I can understand why the company left this feature out of a $350 model, since the tool would require extra components like microphones. This is certainly one of the more noticeable trade-offs for saving some money. Wrap-up Sometimes the basics are all you need. Sonys Bravia Theater Bar 5 provides an entry-level boost to TV audio that will be fine for people looking for just that. While there is support for immersive audio, the soundbars 3.1-channel setup isnt the best for Dolby Atmos and DTS:X performance, and thats really the biggest knock against the Bar 5. However, this model's excellent audio quality, especially the powerful bass, will suffice for customers just looking to hear their TVs better. The Bravia Theater Bar 5's included subwoofer Billy Steele for Engadget If you want a compact soundbar that provides respectable Atmos performance, the second-gen Sonos Beam is your best bet. Sure, its more expensive at $499 and it doesnt come with a subwoofer, but its additional drivers, tweeter and passive radiators offer more robust audio from the soundbar alone. You also get Trueplay room calibration and Wi-Fi connectivity there. The Theater Bar 5 will certainly improve your living room audio compared to your TV speakers alone, but with a few more features and improved Atmos virtualization, Sony couldve had a real winner. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/audio/speakers/sony-bravia-theater-bar-5-review-a-basic-tv-sound-booster-140000192.html?src=rss

YouTube Premiums US pricing is going up

Another day, another subscription price hike, this time for YouTube Premium. Every plan for YouTubes ad-free tier is going up, and depending on which one you have, you could be paying as much as $4 per month more. As reported by 9to5Google , YouTube has started emailing subscribers about the price changes, rather than announcing them publicly, and some Reddit users have posted screenshots of the emails theyve received. The emails say that the increases will kick in during the June 2026 billing period. Individual plans are now $16 per month, up from $14, so a $2 hike. If youre on a YouTube Premium family plan, youll now pay $27 per month, a $4 increase from the previous price of $23. As a reminder, YouTube Premium unlocks ad-free viewing and listening on YouTube (including YouTube Kids) and YouTube Music, as well as offline viewing and the ability to continue listening in the background with other apps open. A family plan allows up to six accounts to enjoy all of the same benefits. Both the Lite which allows ad-free viewing and downloads for most, but not all, YouTube videos, and excludes music and Music Premium plans are getting $1 increases, so the former now costs $9 per month, while the music streaming service is up to $12 per month from $11 before, according to 9to5Google . This makes it more expensive than Apple Music when taken on its own (YouTube Music Premium is also bundled with the YouTube Premium individual and family plans at no extra cost). YouTube Premium last raised its prices (also rather quietly) in 2023, also by $2 for the regular plan. The latest price hikes follow Spotify putting its prices up by comparable amounts back in February. Netflix also jacked up the cost of all of its plans last month. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/social-media/youtube-premiums-us-pricing-is-going-up-132121683.html?src=rss

Microsoft starts removing unnecessary Copilot buttons in Windows 11

Microsoft has rolled out a Notepad update for Windows Insiders that removes the Copilot branding and icon from within the app, Windows Central has reported. The old Copilot menu has been replaced with writing tools, but its worth noting that the tools are still powered by AI and are pretty much identical to the selection found in the old menu. Microsoft has just replaced the Copilot button with a pen icon. In addition, the company has removed mentions of AI in the Settings menu and has placed the option to disable the AI-powered writing tools within the Advanced features section. The company first announced that it was dialing back its Copilot branding last month, most likely in response to all the criticisms against the AI assistant. Its not very well-liked, with people complaining that Microsoft is forcing them to use the assistant inside all its apps and that Copilot doesnt provide a consistent experience across different applications. You will see us be more intentional about how and where Copilot integrates across Windows, said Windows and Devices EVP Pavan Davuluri. Microsoft also promised to remove unnecessary Copilot entry points, starting with Notepad, Snipping Tool, Photos and Widgets. According to The Verge , Microsoft has already stopped showing the Copilot button when selecting areas to capture with the Snipping Tool, as well. Clearly, the company has been making good progress on yanking at least the visual reminders of Copilot from its apps. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/ai/microsoft-starts-removing-unnecessary-copilot-buttons-in-windows-11-120346728.html?src=rss

The Morning After: Amazon pledges its satellite internet starts this year

Amazons satellite-based internet service, Leo, will enter service by mid-2026 , so says company CEO Andy Jassy. Writing in his annual letter, Jassy claimed Leo would offer download speeds of up to 1Gbps, far more than what Starlink presently offers. Sadly, Amazon declined to offer any more details about what that mid-2026 service would look like. But given select partners have already been kicking Leos tyres for a while, we can only hope. The mega-retailer is making some grand promises, including faster up and download speeds, cheaper cost and direct integration with Amazons other products. Of course, the company can also sell itself on the fact its a satellite internet provider not owned by Elon Musk. But it will have to buck its ideas up fast, given how far behind in its deployment of satellites it is. Daniel Cooper The other big stories this morning Dyson just announced its first-ever handheld fan, with a motor that spins up to 65,000 RPM Dont put your finger in it. JBL Live 780NC and 680NC review: Great leaps, greater missteps As the youth say, mid. Sony teases its next-gen True RGB Mini LED TV technology Yet another brand name to sully the Mini LED waters. ASUS ZenBook A16 review: A surprisingly light and powerful 16-inch ultraportable Its a showcase for the Snapdragon X2 Elite. Devindra Hardawar for Engadget ASUS ZenBook A16 is a 16-inch ultraportable designed to go toe-to-toe with LGs Gram Pro 16. Its equipped with Qualcomms Snapdragon X2 Elite and designed to address the flaws Devindra Hardawar found in last years ZenBook A14. Did it succeed? Youll have to read his review to get the full story, but hes certainly happy to have spent the last week using this thing. Continue Reading. Greece will ban all kids under 15 from using social media It will begin at the start of 2027. Greece will ban under 15s from accessing social media , Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis has announced. Like many nations both in Europe and beyond, officials are concerned about the effect social media is having on childrens mental and physical health. The big platforms will be in charge of enforcing the ban, backed up by the hefty punishments enabled by the Digital Services Act. Continue Reading. Amazon is cutting off support for older Kindles Know what doesnt lose support after a few years? Books. Amazon If youre still using a Kindle or Fire tablet made in 2012 or before, then its going to get a little less useful on May 20. Amazon is discontinuing support for those earlier models on that date, removing the ability to purchase, borrow or download new titles. Thankfully, whatever is on the hardware already will remain, so dont fret if youre only a third of the way through Remembrance of Things Past. Continue Reading. Fender Elie review: Handsome speaker/amp hybrids with excellent clarity Fancy, but heavy. Billy Steele for Engadget Billy Steele has been putting Fender Audios new speakers through their paces to find what can only be described as a mixed bag. Excellent audio quality and a wide variety of inputs get high praise, but the heavy weight, exposed wood and limited battery life all dent the paintwork. Continue Reading. WhatsApp adds a better native interface for CarPlay About time too. WhatsApp WhatsApps CarPlay interface isnt the most elegant or easy way to keep in touch with your friends while driving. Meta has, however, given the UI a little polish to help make it a little easier to get something useful done without pulling your attention from the road. Continue Reading. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/general/the-morning-after-engadget-newsletter-111524236.html?src=rss

OpenAI has a new $100 ChatGPT Pro plan to better match up with Claude

OpenAI has closed a yawning gap in its ChatGPT subscription pricing with a new $100 per month Pro plan that slots between the $20 per month Plus plan and $200 per month Pro plan. Offering five times more Codex than the $20 option, it appears designed to challenge Anthropic's $100 per month Claude option. Compared with Claude Code, Codex delivers more coding capacity per dollar across paid tiers, an OpenAI spokesperson told TechCrunch . So what's the difference between OpenAI's two Pro plans? The $200 version does offer four times the Codex. However, you get the same advanced tools and models with $100 plan, according to OpenAI's product page. To encourage users to jump in, it will offer double the Codex for a limited time, or 10 times what you get with the Plus plan. Users have been screaming for such a plan for a while now, according to posts on OpenAI's developer community forums. The Plus plan will continue to be the best offer at $20 for steady, day-to-day usage of Codex, and the new $100 Pro tier offers a more accessible upgrade path for heavier daily use, OpenAI said in a post on X . With the launch of GPT 5.2 late last year and GPT-5.3-Codex in February, OpenAI significantly boosted the speed and reasoning capabilities of Codex, giving developers a tough choice between ChatGPT and Claude Opus. However, the sticking point for many power users was ChatGPT's $200 per month price so OpenAI no doubt hopes the new plan will convince those on the fence to switch. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/ai/openai-has-a-new-100-chatgpt-pro-plan-to-better-match-up-with-claude-062705626.html?src=rss

Apple is closing three US stores, including the first to unionize

Apple is closing three of its retail stores this summer, including its first location to unionize. The tech company said it plans to permanently close Apple Store in Trumbull, CT, Escondito, CA, and Towson, MD. The Apple Store location in Towson, was the first where unionized workers and Apple reached a contract agreement back in 2024. MacRumors published a statement from Apple confirming the closures. The company credited noting the departure of several retailers and declining conditions at the shopping centers where this trio of stores are housed as the reason for ending operations. Our team members at Trumbull and North County will continue their roles at nearby Apple Retail stores, the statement reads. Towson employees will be eligible to apply for open roles at Apple in accordance with the collective bargaining agreement. We reached out to the company for additional comment, and were sent the same statement. The International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers, which leads the union the Towson workers had joined, released a statement about the closure. Apples claim that the collective bargaining agreement prevents relocation is simply false and raises serious concerns that this closure is a cynical attempt to bust the union, the organization said. We are exploring all legal options and will work with elected officials and allies to hold Apple accountable. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/big-tech/apple-is-closing-three-us-stores-including-the-first-to-unionize-225941912.html?src=rss

The Metal Gear Solid movie is back on, with Final Destination: Bloodlines directors in charge

A film adaptation of Metal Gear Solid is in the works again, this time from filmmakers Zach Lipovsky and Adam B. Stein, the directors of Final Destination: Bloodlines , according to The Hollywood Reporter . The duo are reviving the project at Columbia Pictures as part of a new first-look deal with Sony, the latest attempt in what's been multiple decades of work to turn the blockbuster stealth game into a blockbuster film. Metal Gear Solid was nothing short of a groundbreaking cinematic masterpiece that forever revolutionized video games, Lipovsky and Stein said in a statement. We are thrilled and honored to bring Hideo Kojima's iconic characters and unforgettable world to life. Lipovsky and Stein's horror bona fides helped make Bloodlines a critical and commercial hit when it came out in 2025, and the directors have a variety of other IP-focused genre films in the works, including a sequel to Gremlins for Warner Bros. and an animated Venom movie for Sony. It remains to be seen how exactly the duo will translate Metal Gear Solid 's unique quirks to film, though. Metal Gear Solid is heavily indebted to director Hideo Kojima's own taste in action and spy cinema, while also being in conversation with video games themselves in a way that wouldn't naturally translate to film. And even if you removed those metatextual rough edges, can it really be Metal Gear Solid without Kojima's equal parts charming and awkward writing ? Attempts to create a film version of the game date back to 2006, when Kojima first shared that an adaptation was in the works. Columbia Pictures announced a new version of the film in 2012, with Avi Arad, former head of Marvel Studios, producing. In 2014, Jordan Vogt-Roberts, the director of Kong: Skull Island , was attached to direct that adaptation. And six years after that, Oscar Isaac was reportedly cast as Solid Snake . Arad and his son Ari Arad are still producing this latest take on the game, but with Lipovsky and Stein in charge, that older version of Metal Gear Solid is likely dead. Still, hope springs eternal that well get to see a man hide in a cardboard box on the big screen someday. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/entertainment/tv-movies/the-metal-gear-solid-movie-is-back-on-with-final-destination-bloodlines-directors-in-charge-214914374.html?src=rss

A maverick hacker got Mac OS X running on a Wii

You may already know that emulators can run Wii games on a Mac . But one developer has flipped the script. Bryan Keller now has an ancient version of the Mac's operating system running on Nintendo's 2006 game console (via Kottke ). Why? Because they said it couldn't be done. The developer first had the idea in 2013 while a sophomore in college. However, they found renewed motivation five years ago when Redditor u/CussdomTidder posted , There is a zero percent chance of this ever happening. Developer Bryan Keller took it personally. YouTube / ESPN / Netflix Keller used that as fuel to begin plugging away, feeling encouraged by the anonymous contrarian. Thus began the process of porting Mac OS X 10.0 (Cheetah) onto a device designed to play Wii Sports and Super Mario Galaxy . Last year, when I saw that Windows NT had been ported to the Wii, I felt a renewed sense of motivation, Keller wrote. Even if my lack of low-level experience resulted in failure, attempting this project would still be an opportunity to learn something new. Keller didn't allow something as trivial as a flight to get in the way of the task at hand. Bryan Keller / GitHub Keller noted that the Wii is a phenomenally hackable console, with other enterprising hackers porting Windows 95 and NT, Linux and NetBSD onto it. Nintendo's system also runs a PowerPC chip similar to those found in older Macs. Given this close lineage, I felt confident that the CPU wouldn't be a blocker, they wrote. From there, Keller wrote a custom boot loader, patched the kernel and wrote new drivers. They even got the Wii's USB ports working for mouse and keyboard input. Tthe developer found the process deeply satisfying, especially given the initial doubt. (I'm talking to you, disparaging Redditor.) In the end, I learned (and accomplished) far more than I ever expected, Keller wrote. And perhaps more importantly, I was reminded that the projects that seem just out of reach are exactly the ones worth pursuing. For the technically minded, the developer's blog goes into extensive detail about the process. And full-on madlads can visit Keller's GitHub to try it for themselves. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/computing/a-maverick-hacker-got-mac-os-x-running-on-a-wii-200800027.html?src=rss

Instagram comments can now be edited (within 15 minutes)

Meta is giving users the ability to edit Instagram comments they leave on posts, though only within a 15 minute window after they're posted. The setup is similar to how the social app handles editing messages, an option it first added in 2024 , 11 years after direct messaging was introduced to Instagram in 2013 . You're only able to edit comments you left with your own account, and the process of actually doing so is easy. Just tap on the word Edit under your comment to pull up a text box where you can tweak, rework or embellish what you've written, and then press the blue check mark to save it. Meta says comments can be edited as many times as you want in that 15 minute window, so if you need to make more changes, you have that option. Comments can show up in multiple ways across Instagram including Stories , as of 2024 so offering a way to edit them is a welcome addition. The new option is just the latest in a series of changes Meta has introduced to the social app in the last month. Earlier in March, the company announced that it was removing end-to-end encryption from Instagram DMs. At the end of the month, Meta also began testing Instagram Plus , a subscription service that unlocks new features for the app's Stories feature. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/social-media/instagram-comments-can-now-be-edited-within-15-minutes-195000640.html?src=rss

Jazzy stealth-action game Thick as Thieves hits PC on May 20

Thick as Thieves , the magical heist game from a crew of stealth legends at OtherSide Entertainment, is coming to Steam on May 20. OtherSide and publisher Megabit Entertainment announced the release date in a new gameplay trailer during today's Triple-i Initiative showcase (which was packed with cool indie games , as always). OtherSide was founded by Thief and System Shock 2 veteran Paul Neurath in 2013, and Deus Ex creator Warren Spector joined in 2016. These are two of the developers who shaped the stealth genre as we know it, so Thick as Thieves has a solid foundation. The new trailer showcases the game's fictional Scottish city of Kilcairn, where magic and technology clash against a backdrop of 1910s music and architecture. At launch, Thick as Thieves will feature two thieves, two maps, 16 contracts, six unique pieces of gear and multiple difficulty settings, which alter the layout of each level. Thick as Thieves has evolved since its introduction at The Game Awards in December 2024. It was originally pitched as a PvPvE game, but it's landing as a solo or two-player experience, with no player-on-player brawls. OtherSide announced the pivot on Steam on April 2, 2026 : As development progressed and the world of Kilcairn has come to life, we found that we were having more fun with solo and co-op play. So, weve taken a decision we feel is right for the game: Thick as Thieves is now focused on two-player co-op and single player. This sharpened focus has allowed us to double down on what makes Thick as Thieves truly special dynamic stealth gameplay. A handful of playtesters and early fans expressed their disappointment at the removal of PvP. A developer responded to one question with, PvPvE may come further down the line. There's also no word on the console versions of the game. Thick as Thieves was announced for PC, PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X/S, but today's news suggests it's coming to Steam first (if not only). Details are a bit up in the air at the moment, but hey, at least it's on-brand for the developers of a stealth game to be sneaky. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/gaming/pc/jazzy-stealth-action-game-thick-as-thieves-hits-pc-on-may-20-193320746.html?src=rss

Netflix adds three Jackbox games to its TV app

Netflix has added a heavy hitter in party activities to its gaming lineup. The streamer announced that Jackbox Party Essentials is joining the Netflix Party Games collection. This move makes three of the popular Jackbox group games available for free to Netflix subscribers: Fibbage 4 , Quiplash 3 and Drawful 2 . Each one supports up to eight players. Netflix has been refocusing its interactive strategy to highlight family-friendly and party games. The company has even offered tie-ins to its original content; for instance, playing Overcooked through Netflix will let you use a member of Huntr/x from Kpop Demon Hunters as your in-game avatar. We also saw Netflix's Game Controller software, which turns any mobile device into a gamepad for its game library, take the crown as a top-downloaded iOS app around the Easter holiday weekend. That performance could indicate that many families were at least thinking of trying out the streamer's games as part of their festivities. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/gaming/netflix-adds-three-jackbox-games-to-its-tv-app-190220143.html?src=rss

Another Don't Starve game is on the way

Developer Klei Entertainment has announced a follow-up to Don't Starve that adds a new sense of depth to the popular survival game. And that's in a literal sense: Don't Starve Elsewhere translates the game's resource gathering and sanity management to a world with three-dimensional terrain at different elevations, a first for the traditionally flat series. Don't Starve Elsewhere doesn't quite seem like the Super Mario 64 to Don't Starve 's Super Mario Bros. but based on the trailer, having actual mountains, cliffs and plateaus does offer plenty of new opportunities to have your world rocked by an unfriendly goat. The game also incorporates new biomes, what looks like plenty of new animals, enemies and bosses and several features that were first introduced as DLC for the first Don't Starve . Klei released the original Tim Burton-inspired Don't Starve all the way back in 2013, and has been remarkably consistent in supporting it with paid DLC introducing new characters, mechanics and biomes over the last 13 years. Additions like multiplayer support, from standalone expansion Don't Starve Together , and dynamic weather patterns, introduced in Don't Starve: Shipwrecked , appear to be built into the new game from the start. A mobile spin-off created by Tencent, Dont Starve: Newhome , was announced in 2020 and appears to still be in active development. Klei hasnt announced a release date for Dont Starve Elsewhere , but if the game is anything like the developers previous games, it will be released in early access on PC before it makes its way to a full release on other platforms. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/gaming/another-dont-starve-game-is-on-the-way-184400774.html?src=rss

Tesla may be working on a smaller and cheaper electric SUV

Tesla may be shifting strategy once again. Reuters reported that the company is working on a smaller and less expensive electric SUV. This would be a brand new vehicle rather than a variant of the existing Model 3 or Model Y, according to the publication's sources. The new EV would allegedly be about 14 feet long, shorter than the 15.7-foot Model Y. Reuters didn't have details about whether this would be an autonomous vehicle or a traditional one, but one source reportedly said that Tesla is generally looking to offer a driverless option in its vehicle lineup. The company had previously been working on a budget EV with a target price of $25,000, but Tesla appeared to abandon that effort in 2024 to work on robotaxis. And as recently as the start of 2026, Tesla discontinued two of its EV models in order to refocus the business on robotics. Perhaps the brand felt it needed to have a bigger auto imprint after cutting the Model S and X and relaunched the budget EV project. Or perhaps this is just the latest whim of the company's leadership and it won't actually come to pass. We'll have to wait and see. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/transportation/evs/tesla-may-be-working-on-a-smaller-and-cheaper-electric-suv-175230630.html?src=rss

Razer just released some new gaming earbuds with low latency and fast switching between devices

Razer just released the Hammerhead V3 HyperSpeed gaming earbuds , another entry in the recently-crowded field of gaming earbuds . These have been designed for low latency, which is a necessity when playing video games. To that end, the earbuds integrate with Razer's proprietary HyperSpeed 2.4GHz streaming platform, which allows for gaming-grade lag-free audio. This works with plenty of devices, including smartphones, tablets, PCs, the Steam Deck, the PS5 and more. The earbuds can also connect via Bluetooth for devices that don't support Wi-Fi-based streaming audio. The charging case includes a dongle that plugs into devices via USB-C, which doubles as a wireless transmitter . Razer promises that users can quickly switch between Wi-Fi and Bluetooth audio, which would be useful when going from a PC to, say, a smartphone to listen to music. These earbuds include improved ANC, when compared to the previous generation. The battery here lasts for 40 hours, with the earbuds getting 10 hours per charge and the case offering four charges. Razer The case can charge via USB-C, which means it charges as the transmitter is being used to stream audio. However, the dongle can also work on its own without the charging case. The earbuds also support THX spatial audio on PCs. Razer's Hammerhead V3 HyperSpeed gaming earbuds are available right now and cost $130. The almost identically-named Hammerhead V3 X HyperSpeed earbuds run $100 and connect via Bluetooth 5.3 instead of Bluetooth 6.0, with a slightly reduced battery life. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/audio/headphones/razer-just-released-some-new-gaming-earbuds-with-low-latency-and-fast-switching-between-devices-172907717.html?src=rss

Indie game Neverway will launch this October, just in time for spooky season

Indie game studio Coldblood announced today that its debut project Neverway has been given a release window of October 2026. Billed as nightmarish life-sim RPG, this is going right to the top of my spooky season game queue. It has a cozy-sounding premise, with protagonist Fiona starting a new life on an island, but things take a surreal turn when she becomes the immortal herald for a dead god. She'll be building relationships and making friends one minute and coping with psychological horrors the next. This game has been on our radar since it was introduced at last year's Triple-I Initiative event. The new trailer once more shows off the work of both pixel artist Pedro Medeiros, who also worked on Celeste and Towerfall , and composer Disasterpeace, whose past game credits include Fez and Hyper Light Drifter . The prologue is available to play for free starting today on Steam , and Neverway will launch both on that PC platform as well as on the Nintendo Switch. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/gaming/indie-game-neverway-will-launch-this-october-just-in-time-for-spooky-season-170000669.html?src=rss

1000xResist devs reveal their wild-looking second game about convincing an AI it's not human

Developer Sunset Visitor just revealed its follow-up to the fantastic 1000xResist . It's called Prove You're Human and looks to wade in similar sci-fi waters as the team's first title. Just like 10000xResist , the new game is a narrative adventure set in the far future. Prove You're Human tasks players with convincing an AI product that its not alive, but there's a rub. The protagonist is a digital clone of a person, so they aren't human either. This will no-doubt lead to all manner of ethical conundrums. An AI dares to dream she is human, a tagline reads. You've been hired to put her in her place. The gameplay looks to involve scanning the environment, talking to corporate employees and keeping up with the digital clone's corporeal body. There's also an emphasis on making and solving CAPTCHAs, which makes sense when trying to prove humanity or a lack thereof. The graphics certainly look unique, as the dev team has weaved real-world footage of Vancouver and the surrounding areas into the virtual landscape. Vancouver is a well-known film town, Remy Siu, Founder of Sunset Visitor said in a press release. Were accessing that infrastructure, along with our long-time collaborators, to bring a sense of tactility to human forms in the game. We don't know when this is coming out, as the above trailer is just an announcement for the game. However, it's already available to wishlist on Steam. This is actually a pretty big deal. 1000xResist was a bona-fide sensation and was nominated for a Hugo Award . It also managed to win a Peabody Award , which honors excellence in storytelling. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/gaming/1000xresist-devs-reveal-their-wild-looking-second-game-about-convincing-an-ai-its-not-human-170018986.html?src=rss

Amazon's satellite internet service is scheduled for mid-2026 availability

Amazon Leo (formerly Project Kuiper ) will launch mid-2026, according to Andy Jassy. On Wednesday, the Amazon CEO dropped the news in his annual letter to shareholders. The company says Leo will support download speeds up to 1 Gbps. By comparison, Starlinks download speeds typically range between 45 and 280 Mbps. Jassy didn't specify whether the mid-2026 launch date will include consumer availability. (An Amazon spokesperson told Engadget that the company doesnt have more detail to add right now.) We do know that select enterprise customers began testing the high-speed satellite service late last year. Delta and JetBlue have already signed on to use Leo for in-flight Wi-Fi. Other businesses striking deals include AT&T, Vodafone, DirecTV Latin America and NASA. Whenever it does arrive for consumers, Amazon Leo could offer several perks compared to Starlink. It will allegedly offer six to eight times faster uplink performance and double the download speeds than competitors (read: Starlink). Amazon says it will also cost less and offer native AWS integration for enterprise data storage, analytics and AI. Despite those perks, it may be a while before Leo can deliver Musk-free satellite internet on a large scale. The service is currently behind schedule, with only 241 satellites operating in its constellation. (Starlink has over 10,000 .) In January, Amazon asked the FCC for an extension on a July 2026 deadline requiring it to have 1,600 satellites in orbit. The company said at the time that it expected only around 700 to be operating by that deadline. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/big-tech/amazons-satellite-internet-service-is-scheduled-for-mid-2026-availability-164046305.html?src=rss

Rhythm Heaven Groove comes to Switch on July 2

A large chunk of Nintendos 2026 plans remain a mystery (that is, unless you take the insiders and leakers at their word ), but we have been waiting on release dates for a couple of previously announced first-party titles, including Rhythm Heaven Groove , which officially arrives July 2. Seemingly announced first on the Nintendo Today! app before making its way to the companys various social channels, the first new entry in the Rhythm Heaven series in more than a decade is technically launching on the original Switch, but should also be fully playable on Switch 2. Currently the games Switch 2 compatibility status is listed as Untested on its official store page , but its hard to imagine there being any issues there. Did you catch all that? #RhythmHeavenGroove comes to #NintendoSwitch on July 2! pic.twitter.com/WrWiyC7Yqn Nintendo of America (@NintendoAmerica) April 9, 2026 If youve never played a Rhythm Heaven game before, the series is a bit like a (slightly) less wacky WarioWare, but all the minigames are based around rhythm and beat-matching. The challenges are rarely especially complex in terms of what's required of you, leaving you free to enjoy the always excellent original pop and electronic music. Rhythm Heaven is one of Nintendos less prolific series, with the upcoming Groove being only the fifth entry in two decades. The series debuted on the Game Boy Advance in 2006 in Japan as Rhythm Tengoku , with Rhythm Heaven arriving on the DS two years later in the US. That was followed by Rhythm Heaven Fever on the Wii, and the most recent entry was 2015s Rhythm Heaven Megamix for the 3DS, which was something of a best-of collection. Rhythm Heaven Groove is notable not only for being the first Rhythm Heaven game of the Switch generation, but also likely one of the consoles last games, as Nintendo prepares to shift its full focus to the Switch 2. Before then were also getting the typically charming Yoshi and the Mysterious Book (Switch 2-only) on May 21 and Tomodachi Life: Living the Dream , which launches on both platforms next week, April 16. Rhythm Heaven Groove is available to pre-order now for $40. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/gaming/nintendo/rhythm-heaven-groove-comes-to-switch-on-july-2-155715068.html?src=rss

Roku will stream Savannah Bananas games, along with the entire Banana Ball Championship League

The Banana Ball World Tour is coming to Roku. The platform has signed a deal to stream free content from the Banana Ball Championship League. This, of course, includes Savannah Bananas games. If that last paragraph didn't make a lick of sense to you, here's a primer. The Savannah Bananas are a wacky baseball team, playing something called Banana Ball. The team has been called the Harlem Globetrotters of baseball, and that's a fairly apt name. Players dress in funny costumes, step into ridiculously tall stilts, perform dance routines and do all kinds of things that could frustrate traditional baseball fans but tend to delight those looking for a unique night out. To that end, Savannah Bananas games have become massive events. They've been traveling around the country the past few years doing exhibition matches, but the team's success led to the creation of the Banana Ball Championship League and the Banana Ball World Tour. There are now six teams involved and Roku will be streaming games from later this month until September. First up, the Savannah Bananas face the Party Animals on April 26 at Yankee Stadium, which streams live at 3PM ET on the Roku Sports Channel. The Party Animals are Savannah's main rivals, making them the Washington Generals of Banana Ball. Roku has published a calendar of streamed matches, but it doesn't include the actual championship game. This inaugural Banana Bowl is scheduled for October 10. Engadget has reached out to the platform to see what their plans are for the final game of the season. Many games are also available to stream on ESPN via Disney+ . The company also says it's working on some kind of interactive platform for Banana Ball fans. The matches have a lot of audience participation, so this could be some kind of riff on that. Roku promises to share more details at a later time. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/entertainment/roku-will-stream-savannah-bananas-games-along-with-the-entire-banana-ball-championship-league-153329667.html?src=rss

Google introduces AI-generated avatars to YouTube Shorts

A new feature that lets you create an AI avatar with your likeness is now live on YouTube. First announced in a blog post earlier this year, avatars are designed to be used in Shorts (provided you still allow them to show up), allowing you to insert yourself into video content in a way that YouTube deems to be safe and secure. YouTubes approach to combatting the AI sloppification of the internet and the proliferation of deepfakes appears to be adding more and more AI features to its platform, framing this latest addition as a tool that gives creators more control of their digital identities. Any video generated using an avatar will feature YouTubes AI disclosure and include visible watermarks and labels like SynthID and C2PA. YouTube has published a pretty in-depth explainer on how to create and use an avatar in either the YouTube or YouTube Create app, but heres a brief summary of how to do it using the former. Once youve opened AI Playground, youll be taking a live selfie that also records your voice. You can then preview your photorealistic virtual self and either proceed with it or redo the process if youre unhappy with anything. Creating an avatar in the YouTube Create app is broadly similar, but you have to navigate to the My Avatar homepage first. YouTube recommends that you hold your phone at eye level and keep yourself centered as much as possible. Lighting is also important, as is ensuring your whole face is visible, youre in a quiet area, and theres nobody else in the background. You also have to be the account owner to create an avatar, and over the age of 18. Once you have an avatar you like, you simply type in a prompt and wait for the AI to generate a video, which according to 9to5Google can be up to eight seconds long. Alternatively, YouTube will also let you add an avatar to existing eligible Shorts by tapping Remix and then Reimagine with your avatar selected. Avatars can be deleted or retaken whenever you like, as can any video with your avatar in it. You can also limit whos able to remix your videos, but deleting a video with your avatar in it wont also delete the original video, or that avatar from your account. YouTube will automatically delete any avatar that hasnt been used to create new video content for three years. The new avatar feature will roll out gradually, and is the latest in a long line of AI-centric tools and updates YouTube has added to the platform in the last year, including automatic upscaling for low-res videos, automatic editing for creators and an AI-generated carousel for search results. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/social-media/google-introduces-ai-generated-avatars-to-youtube-shorts-140222368.html?src=rss

JBL Live 780NC and 680NC review: Great leaps, greater missteps

JBL introduced two new headphones to its Live series lineup and both are fighting to live up to expectations. Dont get me wrong, the JBL Live 780NC and 680NC are both a solid set of cans, but in a sea of noise-cancelling headphones, one of them definitely has more appeal. The biggest differences between these two headphones are the over-ear and on-ear cups, and surprisingly, their audio quality. Lets get into what does and doesnt make them so special. Design and comfort Outside of varying colors and cup sizes, the JBL Live 780NC and 680NC look practically identical. They have these hockey puck-looking ear cups that are divided from the leatherette pads. The design looks like someones idea of headphones from 10 years ago. Its not necessarily a bad thing, but it feels a bit clunky. Despite that, the metal hinge and leatherette band are more pleasantly minimalist. The cups also fold up neatly in a heart shape so you can slot them easily in the included bag. Theres a dedicated volume rocker on the left ear cup while the right holds room for a USB Type-C port, the active noise cancelling (ANC) button and a combo power/Bluetooth switch (yes, its a switch, not a button). Meanwhile, you get all of the touch controls available on the right cup of each set of headphones. Both headphones felt a little uncomfortable to wear at first, but it usually takes time for me to get used to new cans. After spending several hours each with them, they eventually grew on me. Theyre both a bit snug, but neither one left me aching at the end of the day. I felt more relief when taking off the 680NC because of the added pressure of on-ear cups, but Im also not used to the on-ear design. Seamless customizable features The ANC button and USB-C port on the Live 680NC Rami Tabari for Engadget Despite the near $100 price gap, you get the same set of features for the JBL Live 780NC and 680NC, all wrapped up in the JBL Headphones app. Its easy to set up and you dont even need to make an account. The first thing you might want to do is hop over to the settings and add the disable ANC function to the rotation. Out of the box, you can either switch between ANC or Ambient mode on the headphones, which is super frustrating I shouldnt need an app to enable a basic action. Most headphones these days allow you to cycle between ANC, Ambient mode and off (neither). At the very least, the app offers a thorough suite of features. You can adjust the strength of the ANC and Ambient modes. Enabling Adaptive ANC allows automatic noise cancellation changes based on the surrounding noise level, while Personal Sound Amplification makes everything around you sound louder than normal. The latter was incredibly helpful in writing this very headphone review, ironically, as I had to keep an ear out for my child potentially committing a crime (kidding mostly). The JBL Live 780NC and 680NC are packed with the features Id expect from a pair of premium headphones. They offer 360-degree spatial sound, an adaptive EQ, Auracast, automatic pausing and simultaneous Bluetooth connections with automatic switching. You can also customize all of the controls, from the ANC Button to the Touch Panel, which includes two call shortcuts and four general shortcuts, one of which is already dedicated to native voice assistants like Bixby and Siri. You do need to put a little more pressure than you might expect in order for the touch controls to activate, though. This is a bit of a learning curve, so it wouldve been nice if it was more sensitive. Sound quality The Live 780NC (left) and Live 680NC (right) Rami Tabari for Engadget The JBL Live 780NC and 680NC both feature 40mm neodymium drivers, but they offer completely different soundstages. With the 680NC, I noticed the bass hit a lot harder during the DanDaDan soundtrack, but vocals and string instruments werent as crisp or bright as they were with the 780NC. I had a similar experience while schmoozing my way through everyday objects in Date Everything! , where vocals seemed more distant with the 680NC. However, when playing Helldivers 2 , 680NC captured the bassy intensity of an explosive-intergalactic space war. Continuing to run through tracks like JVKEs her and Radio by Bershy, I noticed a common theme amongst the headphones. The 680NCs soundstage was narrow and bassy, while the 780NC was wide and hollow. Both reproduced one half of a great couple, but unfortunately, theyre currently separated and seeking lives of their own. No, but seriously, the audio quality on both of them is still decent individually. I can distinguish each instrument from each other, so they arent getting muddied in the mix. But I dont think the 780NC is worth the extra $90 on sound quality alone, since youre trading one issue for another. ANC The ANC system is slightly different in the JBL Live 780NC and 680NC. The former features six microphones that detect and monitor ambient noise while the latter is outfitted with four microphones. What difference does that actually make, though? Well not much, at least not practically. If you stuck them in a lab and crunched the numbers, there might be, but in my testing using the JBL Live 780NC and 680NC as everyday headphones, theres virtually no difference outside of the passive noise isolation you get from over-ear design. My dog is quite the yapper, so I happened to test the ANC against her with both headphones, and they managed to block out most of her bark, but not all (she is quite loud). Unless youre actively listening to something, it wont kill all the sound around you when everything was quiet, I still heard my fan running in the background. As a passenger, the cars road noise and the other cars around me faded mostly into the background, but they were still present (when not actively listening to music). Ambient modes for both headphones kept me alert while walking outside, and while checking to make sure nothing chaotic was happening in my home. I could clearly hear the ruckus my child and dog were causing in the next room, and I got even more of it when I turned up the Sound Amplification. As I mentioned above, the most annoying thing about the ANC and Ambient mode systems is that you cannot disable both of them at the same time (out of the box); you need the app in order to make the off option available via the ANC button. Calls and voice quality The volume rocker on the JBL Live 780NC Rami Tabari for Engadget JBL wasnt lying about calls: Both the JBL Live 780NC and 680NC were great at cancelling out the noise from my surroundings, whether it was busy traffic or me blasting music on my desk. The microphone picked up little things here and there, but it blocked out most background distractions. The problem, however, is the overall microphone quality. Microphones on both sets were pretty rough. My voice sounded like it was underwater or in another room entirely. And while the microphones were able to cancel out the noise in the background, I noticed that it made me a little more muddied, like it was also cancelling out some of my voice as well. This is likely due to the signal processing to block background noise. My friend said, You sound like youre fighting an ocean. If youre looking for a great caller, these aint it. Battery life With a full battery, I didnt have to charge the JBL Live 780NC or 680NC for the week I tested them. Thats with a combination of ANC on and off, as well as using them to chat with friends. JBL rates both headphones with the same battery life: 80 hours with ANC off (33 hours of talk time) and 50 hours with ANC on (28 hours of talk time). Those numbers lined up with my testing considering how long they lasted. Charging the headphones from empty does take two hours, though. The competition If you want a solid pair of over-ear ANC headphones in this price range, Id recommend the Sony WH-CH720N . The ANC struggles a bit, but the headphones are much cheaper than the 780NC and offer great sound quality. Its the best option if you want to save some money. However, if youre looking for alternative on-ear ANC headphones, youll be hard pressed to find premium competitors to the JBL 680NC. On-ear headphones tend to land in the mid-range or budget class. The JBL 680NC arent the best pair of headphones out there, but theyre good for what they are in those categories. Wrap-up Both of the new Live models fold for easy storage Rami Tabari for Engadget To bass or not to bass? Thats one of the few questions youll need to ask yourself when choosing between the JBL Live 780NC and 680NC. Of course, on-ear and over-ear designs appeal to different consumers, but the fact is that the former sounds hollow and the latter is more bass-heavy. Both headphones are comfortable and offer great ANC and features. Overall, however, the JBL Live 780NC falls in the middle of the overcrowded market for noise-cancelling wireless headphones, while the 680NC stands just tall enough to make you want to take a closer look. On a sale, Id say you could grab either of these cans and be satisfied, but at their full price, Id be wary. If you twist my arm, I could make an argument for the 680NC because there arent enough on-ear noise-cancelling headphones available these days. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/audio/headphones/jbl-live-780nc-and-680nc-review-great-leaps-greater-missteps-120000508.html?src=rss

OpenAI 'pauses' its Stargate UK data center plan

OpenAI is putting the brakes on Stargate UK, according to Bloomberg . Thats the companys AI infrastructure project with NVIDIA thats meant to help the UK build out its sovereign computing capabilities. The company announced Stargate UK back in September, but it launched a strategic partnership with the UK government months before that. Stargate UK would enable the government to run top AI models locally from data centers inside the region, particularly for specialist use cases where jurisdiction matters. But now OpenAI is pausing the project due to high cost of energy and regulatory issues. In a statement provided to the publication, the company said that it still sees a huge potential for the UKs AI future. It added that AI compute is foundational to that goal and that it continues to explore Stargate UK and will move forward when the right conditions such as regulation and the cost of energy enable long-term infrastructure investment. Upon announcing Stargate UK, OpenAI said that it would offer the same deal to other countries that want to expand their sovereign AI capabilities. Its unclear if those plans are affected, as well, but its worth noting that the initiative, OpenAI for Countries, is also working with Australia , Greece , the UAE, Slovakia, Kazakhstan and other regions. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/ai/openai-pauses-its-stargate-uk-data-center-plan-115626978.html?src=rss

Google bakes NotebookLM, its research tool, into Gemini

Google has fully integrated NotebookLM , its AI-powered research tool, into the Gemini app. The company launched a standalone NotebookLM app last year, but as it said in its announcement, keeping track of everything can be a challenge. It added NotebookLM as a source in the Gemini app last year, but now you can create notebooks right inside the chatbot. You can now find the option to create a new notebook in Geminis side panel and then select Add sources that the tool can use, such as PDFs, documents, website URLs, YouTube videos and even copy-pasted text. NotebookLM will use information from those sources to create a searchable repository of information for you, and you can ask Gemini to create things like reviewers, infographics and video and audio overviews that turn your uploaded information into an easy-to-understand format. Take note, however, that Google warns users within the NotebookLM interface that it can be inaccurate, and that its best if you double-check information it puts out. The company is rolling out NotebookLMs full integration into Gemini this week for Google AI Ultra, Pro and Plus subscribers on the web. It will be available on mobile, in more locations and to free users over the coming weeks. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/ai/google-bakes-notebooklm-its-research-tool-into-gemini-101850634.html?src=rss

Amazon is stopping support for Kindle e-readers released in 2012 and earlier

Users across social media platforms reacted with anger and disappointment, while others resolved to jailbreak their devices or use it to pirate books instead

Samsung Galaxy S26+ Review | For those who value refinement over headline features

For buyers who value refinement over headline features, the Samsung Galaxy S26+ remains a thoughtful and dependable premium smartphone choice

Dyson just announced its first-ever handheld fan, with a motor that spins up to 65,000 RPM

Dyson just announced its first-ever handheld fan, the HushJet Mini Cool. As the name suggests, it uses the company's proprietary HushJet air projection system. This tech first showed up on an air purifier that we found to be exceptionally quiet . Dyson promises the fan can deliver focused airflow of up to 25m/s, which works out to 55mph. The brushless motor spins up to 65,000 RPM. This thing looks like a legitimate cooling system, despite its size. It also weighs just 7.5 ounces. It offers five speeds and a boost mode, which should be useful during that next heat wave. It charges via USB-C and ships with a charging stand. The fan can also stand on its own, making it a decent choice for a desk. The rechargeable battery can get up to six hours of use per charge. Dyson The HushJet Mini Cool costs $100, which is cheap for a Dyson product but expensive for a handheld fan. It's available in a trio of colorways. The gray model is available tomorrow. The red version goes on sale this May and the blue one will be available for purchase in June. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/home/dyson-just-announced-its-first-ever-handheld-fan-with-a-motor-that-spins-up-to-65000-rpm-000135028.html?src=rss

You'll have one more chance to buy Samsung's pricey Galaxy Z TriFold this Friday

If you missed your chance to pay Samsung $2,900 for a phone earlier this year, we have great news for you. Android Police reported that what may be the final shipment of the Samsung Galaxy Z TriFold will be arriving in the US on April 10. The unique foldable was discontinued a mere three months after it first went on sale, and it seems like Samsung is clearing out whatever inventory it has left. So if you have a spare $3,000 that you're just desperate to get rid of, bookmark the TriFold's page where Samsung has a countdown ticking away. All jokes aside, our hands-on time with the TriFold at CES 2026 revealed a pretty snazzy device that managed to strike a decent balance between size and heft. But perhaps unsurprisingly for a phone with such an intricate design and high price tag, the company didn't appear to have any intention to make the TriFold widely available. Samsung may have sold out each batch of the smartphone that went to retail, but the device didn't offer much in the way of profit, according to reports in South Korean newspaper Dong-A Ilbo . This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/mobile/smartphones/youll-have-one-more-chance-to-buy-samsungs-pricey-galaxy-z-trifold-this-friday-225222969.html?src=rss

How to watch the Triple-i Initiative showcase on April 9

The latest Triple-i Initiative Showcase is nearly upon us, as the indie-focused event returns for its third consecutive year on Thursday, April 9 at 12PM ET / 9AM PT. Were being promised announcements for 40 games, including eight world premieres, so its well worth tuning in if you like your indies. Youll be able to watch the stream on The Triple-i Initiative YouTube channel, as well as Twitch , bilibili , niconico and on Steam . Co-streaming partners IGN and Gamespot will also host their own streams. The showcase will run for 45 minutes, and nine featured studios will also have post-show deep dives on their games if you want to know more. As previously, the mantra here is no hosts, no ads, just games, so rest assured your attention will be rewarded. Confirmed featured games so far include Risk of Rain 2 , the open-world survival game Windrose and Castlevania: Belmonts Curse . We also know that the studio behind the excellent sci-fi narrative adventure 1000xResist will be showing off what its been working on, and we can also expect news from Cairn developer The Game Bakers. It sounds like a typically eclectic lineup, then, and given last years showcase gave us release dates for 2025 indie hits like The Alters and Rematch , you can be confident that plenty of notable news should come out of this one too. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/gaming/how-to-watch-the-triple-i-initiative-showcase-on-april-9-170353957.html?src=rss

Greece will ban all kids under 15 fromusing social media

Greece will ban children under the age 15 from using social media starting next year. Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis made the announcement in a video posted to TikTok , in which he referenced anxiety, sleep problems and addictive design features as reasons for the ban. Greece has been proactive in its approach to tackling excessive screen time for children, having already banned mobile phones in schools in 2024. While the PM chose not to name any platforms, he said he was concerned about children comparing themselves to others on social media and taking online comments to heart. Greece will be among the first countries to take such an initiative, Mitsotakis said. I am certain, however, that it will not be the last. Our goal is to push the European Union in this direction as well. As reported by The New York Times , Greeces digital governance minister, Dimitris Papastergiou, said that social media companies would be legally required to uphold the new restrictions by verifying the ages of their users. Failure to comply would lead to fines under the EUs Digital Services Act. Parents would also need to download an app called Kids Wallet, backed by the state, that could be paired to their childs device and block access. The finer details of how the ban would be enforced are still being worked out by decision-makers. The PM conceded that he would likely incur the wrath of his countrys young children, but theres widespread support for the plans from Greeces adult population, according to an opinion poll published by ALCO in February. Greece follows in the footsteps of Indonesia , Austria and Australia , all of which have introduced similar bans of their own in the last year. The UK is also considering bringing in tighter restrictions on children under the age of 16 using social media. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/social-media/greece-will-ban-all-kids-under-15-from-using-social-media-154850415.html?src=rss

The Nintendo Switch 2 version of 007 First Light is delayed until later this summer

Nintendo Switch 2 owners will have to wait a bit longer to check out IO Interactive's stab at a James Bond game on the console. The Hitman developer has delayed that version of 007 First Light until later this summer. The game is still slated to hit PS5, Xbox Series X/S and PC on May 27, which itself is a delay from the previous March release date. We're excited to see players discovering James Bond's reimagined origin story, IOI wrote on X . [We] are looking forward to bringing you the best game experience possible across all platforms. Earlier this year, IOI suggested that PC players would need quite a beefy rig to meet the recommended specs for 007 First Light . A week later, the publisher updated the specs with more modest requirements and apologized after eagle-eyed observers spotted inconsistencies in the original version. IOI said the error was due to an internal miscommunication leading to an older version of the specs to be shared. Meanwhile, Sony has announced a limited-edition 007 First Light DualSense controller. Developers and publishers have had difficulty in porting certain games to the Switch 2, as Kotaku notes. Gearbox Entertainment delayed and ultimately shelved a version of Borderlands 4 for the system. The long-awaited Switch 2 port of Elden Ring was delayed until sometime this year after the game had severe performance issues in a public demo at Gamescom 2025. Reports suggest the game is in better shape on Switch 2 now, but there's no firm release date for that version as yet. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/gaming/nintendo/the-nintendo-switch-2-version-of-007-first-light-is-delayed-until-later-this-summer-151524487.html?src=rss

No Mans Sky now has Pokmon-style creature battles

The free No Mans Sky updates are still flowing. With the latest one, dubbed Xeno Arena , Hello Games has added a completely original feature. Players have long been able to adopt wild animals as companions . But now these can be deployed in simulated, turn-based battles against rival teams. As you win more battles, youll increase your reputation and perhaps be invited to take on more difficult opponents. Among other things, the creatures can launch powerful attacks, use healing abilities, dodge incoming salvos, power up their own abilities and turn enemies into more vulnerable forms. They can earn experience that allows them to grow stronger and genetically mutate into new forms. An evolution, if you will. You can also modify the progeny of your squad, with their personalities and physical characteristics affecting how they fare in battle. There are eight affinities (some might call them types) that the creatures belong to, including ones concerning fire, ice and radiation. A fire-based beast might fare well against an ice-based one, but struggle to be effective against radiation. So youll need to choose your creatures for each battle strategically. Gotta catch em all first, though! This all seems really neat and such a novel concept. It would be quite a shocker if there were a brand-new game out today that also features turn-based creature battles. The No Mans Sky battles take place on Holo-Arena tables that are found in a range of structures throughout the universe. The creatures look quite small on these tables, almost pocket-sized. Wait a second, pocket monsters? Now, theres an idea This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/gaming/no-mans-sky-now-has-pokemon-style-creature-battles-142020310.html?src=rss

GoPro to lay off over 20 percent of staff by the end of 2026

GoPro will cut 23 percent of its global workforce by the end of this year, as the action camera pioneer looks to reverse its fortunes in a competitive market. 145 employees will be laid off, with the restructuring process commencing in the second quarter of 2026, the San Mateo company said in a Form 8-K filing. At the end of the first quarter, GoPros total number of employees stood at 631, and it expects the cuts to cost it between $11.5 million and $15 million. These charges include honoring severance packages and healthcare benefits. GoPros last reported round of layoffs took place in the second half of 2024. The company posted a year-end revenue decline in its 2025 financial results , including a loss of $9 million in its fourth quarter. Despite the layoffs, GoPro is seemingly optimistic about 2026, banking on its AI-centric GP3 processor to spearhead a ew era of performance and innovation for the company. The first GP3-powered GoPro cameras will launch in the coming months. GoPro launched its first action camera in the early 2000s and enjoyed huge success with extreme sports enthusiasts. But it no longer has the market to itself, facing stiff competition from the likes of DJI, Insta360 and smartphone cameras in general. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/cameras/gopro-to-lay-off-over-20-percent-of-staff-by-the-end-of-2026-131918779.html?src=rss

Forza Horizon 6 gives would-be racers another gorgeous open world to explore

I've played a couple of hours of Forza Horizon 6 , and so far I've enjoyed it in much the same way as its predecessor: by exploring and taking in the sumptuous world Playground Games has crafted. The preview build I played on my Xbox Series X was limited in terms of available activities it was basically the game's prologue but I was able to explore almost all of the open world. The on-rails intro takes you through some of the Japanese countryside and past landmarks like Tokyo Tower and Shibuya Crossing on the way to a race through the streets of the country's largest city. Once that was out of the way and a springtime version of the map opened up, I set a marker for the mountains in the north. I wanted to check out an area I'd seen in a screenshot, a pass where you can drive through snowdrifts that are dozens of feet tall. Playground Games/Xbox Game Studios My goal was simple: to bury my car into these snowdrifts, just to find out if it was possible. Sadly, the piles of snow were steadfast barriers. What a shame. The journey to the mountains took me through rainstorms and falling cherry blossom leaves, small towns and forests. The environments, vehicles and weather effects all look pretty and polished, as you'd expect from this series at this point. (For what it's worth, I normally opt for performance mode in modern console games, prioritizing higher framerates over visual fidelity. This Forza Horizon 6 preview was locked to the 30fps quality mode.) In the prologue, there are activities to complete ahead of the Horizon Qualifier, a wristband event that gates story progress, and I checked a few of those out on my way up north. Trying to go as fast as you can through speed traps, drag meets, time trials and drift zones are enjoyable enough, but it's the races that are the bread and butter of this series. I entered a challenging cross-country race in a GMC Jimmy with a tall suspension. Not my smartest move. Still, I managed to pull out the victory after drifting my way across rice fields and beaches. I would have had an easier time if I'd chosen my car more carefully there'll be hundreds available in the full game. Playground Games has built on the very welcome slate of accessibility features from Forza Horizon 5 as well. Having options like autosteering should help ensure a broader range of folks can play the latest game. Other than only having access to a limited number of activities, the only aspects of the open world that were blocked off were The Estate (i.e. your home base) and Legend Island, which sounds like an endgame region. I didn't tinker with my vehicles in the garage either. I did, however, stumble across an aftermarket sale, where I was able to buy a tuned-up car at a discount. That's one of several neat additions in Forza Horizon 6 . Playground Games/Xbox Game Studios Though I'm not much of a car guy, I dug my time with the last two Forza Horizon games. I'm looking forward to playing through this one. More than anything, though, Forza Horizon 6 is nudging me toward taking the step of actually booking my second trip to Japan, which I've been thinking about taking later this year. As pretty as the game is shaping up to be, it can't beat the real deal. If I do take that trip this summer, I wont get to see the aforementioned giant snowbanks in person. That area of the map is based on a real place, the Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route , where the snow walls can reach 65 feet in height. I wouldn't want to travel between snowbanks like that in real life anyway, so driving through the pass in the game was a worry-free way to have that experience. Thanks for that, Playground. Forza Horizon 6 is coming to Xbox Series X/S, Xbox on PC, Steam and Xbox Cloud on May 19. It'll be available on Game Pass Ultimate and PC Game Pass. The game is set to hit PS5 at a later date. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/gaming/xbox/forza-horizon-6-gives-would-be-racers-another-gorgeous-open-world-to-explore-130000365.html?src=rss

Amazon is cutting off support for older Kindles

If youre using an older Kindle, you may want to check what year it was released. Amazon has sent out emails to some of its users, with a warning that its discontinuing support for Kindle ereaders and Fire tables released in 2012 or earlier. You can still read books youve already downloaded on those devices, but youll no longer be able to purchase, borrow or download new ones, starting on May 20, 2026. In addition, if the device has an issue that can only be solved by a factory reset, doing so will brick it. Deregestering it will also render it unusable. On Kindle Fire devices, users wont be able to purchase or download content anymore, but other services would remain functional. The affected models include the very first Kindle , Kindle 2, Kindle DX, Kindle Keyboard, Kindle 4, Kindle Touch, Kindle 5 and the first version of Kindle Paperwhite . Weve asked Amazon why it decided to cut off support for those models, and the company told us: These models have been supported for at least 14 years some as long as 18 years but technology has come a long way in that time Amazon also told Engadget that this only affects approximately 3 percent of its current users, whom its now urging to upgrade. In its email, it gives them a promo code for 20 percent off select Kindle devices, as well as ebook credits if they purchase a new model by June 20. Our newer Kindle devices bring meaningful improvements in screen quality, performance and accessibility and you'll have access to your complete Kindle library and the Kindle Store, the company wrote. Update 04/08/26 8:23AM ET: Added information we received from Amazon. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/mobile/amazon-is-cutting-off-support-for-older-kindles-115653205.html?src=rss

Insta360 releases USB-C selfie screen it's calling Snap

Insta360, the company best known for its action cameras, just released the Snap selfie screen. It's a small display that connects via USB-C and sits on the back of your phone, helping you to use your rear camera for higher resolution vlogging or selfies. The 3.5-inch touchscreen allows you to adjust camera settings like zoom and focus and frame your selfies before you take them. The company has also released a model it co-developed with the beauty tech brand AMIRO that offers a built-in light with multiple color temperatures and brightness levels. The standard Snap costs $79.99, while the version with the light runs $89.99. If you search selfie screen on Amazon, you'll see that this isn't a brand-new product space, but you'll also find that the most popular results are wireless screens. Insta360 claims that its USB-C-connected solution offers a more stable and lower latency feed. The Snap is 6.8mm thick, a hair thinner than an iPhone 17, and attaches magnetically to the back of MagSafe-compatible iPhones. Insta360 says there is an included magnetic ring for other devices and that Snap supports Android phones that offer DisplayPort Alt Mode, a screen-mirroring function. Insta360 says Snap is compatible with all the major third-party camera and social media apps to make capturing and posting easier. Phones like the iPhone 17 and Galaxy S25 feature rear cameras that offer roughly three to five times the resolution of their front cameras, or in the case of the Galaxy S25 Ultra , about 16 times as much. So, unless smartphone manufacturers start investing more heavily in front-facing cameras, Snap could find a market among creators and social media aficionados. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/mobile/insta360-releases-usb-c-selfie-screen-its-calling-snap-120001741.html?src=rss

Uber begins testing its Volkswagen ID. Buzz robotaxi fleet in LA

If you live in Los Angeles, you may soon be able to hail a Volkswagen ID. Buzz robotaxi from the Uber app. The companies' previously announced multi-year strategic partnership is nearing a public launch, with on-road testing with a safety driver underway. The vehicles use tech from MOIA America, the US wing of Volkswagen's self-driving subsidiary. Uber and MOIA plan to deploy thousands of ID. Buzz vehicles across the US over the next decade. LA is the pilot city, and if all goes well, it will spread to multiple US markets. The companies say they're still on track for driverless rides in LA in late 2026. Uber / MOIA The ID. Buzz is Volkswagen's modern take on the automaker's classic hippie van microbus . The head-turning EV has minivan-style sliding doors and seats up to seven people, making it a logical fit for larger groups hailing an Uber. The vehicle has a per-charge range of up to 234 miles. After selling its in-house self-driving unit in 2020, Uber pivoted to a new strategy of partnering with multiple AV companies. It currently offers autonomous rides in the US with Waymo (Phoenix, Austin and Atlanta) and Avride (Dallas). Overseas, it has live service with WeRide in Abu Dhabi , Dubai and Saudi Arabia. Uber has a long list of other partners lined up for future services, including (among others) Rivian , NVIDIA and Zoox, the latter of which also plans to debut van rides in LA within the next year. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/transportation/evs/uber-begins-testing-its-volkswagen-id-buzz-robotaxi-fleet-in-la-120000762.html?src=rss

Sony teases its next-gen 'True RGB' Mini LED TV technology

This year at CES 2026 everybody was pretty confused about the new Micro RGB and RGB Mini LED TVs that use similar technology but carry different names. Now, Sony has come up with another label for its own Mini LED TVs with RGB backlighting: True RGB . The idea is to emphasize that the individual red, green and blue LED backlights allow for purer color, greater brightness, and the largest color volume ever achieved in Sonys home TV history, the company said. To be clear, this is not some new technology that Sony just came up with it's the same Micro RGB tech we saw earlier this year from Samsung, LG, HiSense and others. These TVs use pure red, green and blue LED backlights along with an LCD layer (rather than solid blue LEDs and quantum dots like Mini LED TVs) to produce the final picture. This display tech is supposed to deliver better color accuracy and more brightness than regular Mini LED TVs. (It's not the same as OLED tech, in which each pixel acts as a light source.) Sony's True RGB backlight tech (right) compared to current Mini LED TVs Sony However, Sony says that the way it processes the image makes its True RGB TVs stand out from rivals. To control the LEDs more precisely, it borrowed algorithms from its wildly expensive professional reference monitors. That supposedly allows for more precise color control and higher brightness that allow movies and series to look more like the creators intended. It also reduces the looming that occurs when light leaks into neighboring pixels, while improving color accuracy when viewing the TVs from an angle. Every TV maker claims to have the best technology, but Sony has a lot of credibility due to its history with cinema cameras, Hollywood productions and reference monitors. We'll have to wait until spring this year to see the new Bravia True RGB TVs for ourselves, but prior to that, the company has promised to release additional details about them in the near future. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/home/home-theater/sony-teases-its-next-gen-true-rgb-mini-led-tv-technology-064732375.html?src=rss

Elon Musk wants any damages from his OpenAI lawsuit given to the AI company's nonprofit arm

Elon Musk is still taking OpenAI to court over its transition to a for-profit company, but today he amended the complaint so that he won't personally get any of the $150 billion in damages he's pushing for. The Wall Street Journal reported that if Musk wins in his upcoming trial, he wants any damages should be awarded to the OpenAI nonprofit branch. He's also seeking OpenAI CEO Sam Altman's removal from the nonprofit's board of directors if his suit succeeds. Musk launched a lawsuit against OpenAI in 2024, claiming that the business had become a closed-source de facto subsidiary of Microsoft when it dropped its nonprofit designation. He claims that, as a co-chair of the OpenAI founding group, the change to a for-profit operation defrauded him as a donor. As a result, he's now claiming that he, or apparently the remaining nonprofit side of OpenAI, deserve a portion of the company's current valuation. Considering the reputation Musk, Altman and their various business endeavors have for creating spicy PR situations, it seems likely that the exchanges between the two camps will get more heated as the trial date approaches. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/ai/elon-musk-wants-any-damages-from-his-openai-lawsuit-given-to-the-ai-companys-nonprofit-arm-223337225.html?src=rss

Anthropic launches Project Glasswing, an effort to prevent AI cyberattacks with AI

We see a lot of doom and gloom about the potential negative impacts of artificial intelligence, particularly centered on how it could create new problems in cybersecurity. Anthropic has announced a new initiative called Project Glasswing to help address those concerns by working to secure the worlds most critical software against AI-powered attacks. The endeavor includes Amazon Web Services, Apple, Broadcom, Cisco, CrowdStrike, Google, JPMorganChase, the Linux Foundation, Microsoft, NVIDIA and Palo Alto Networks as partners. Participants will use Claude Mythos Preview, an unreleased, general-purpose model from Anthropic, to enhance their own security projects. Anthropic claims that this model has found thousands of exploitable vulnerabilities, including some in every major operating system and web browser. The company said it wants to begin using its tools defensively to prevent malicious use of AI that could cause severe consequences for economies and security. Anthropic has become one of the notable AI companies raising concerns about ethics in the field. Earlier this year, the business refused to remove guardrails on its services for use by the Pentagon, which prompted the Department of Defense to sanction Anthropic with a supply chain risk designation in retaliation. Launching Project Glasswing could be a helpful start toward improved cybersecurity in the AI era, but some damage has already been done. Its own Claude was reportedly used by a hacker against multiple government agencies in Mexico in February. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/ai/anthropic-launches-project-glasswing-an-effort-to-prevent-ai-cyberattacks-with-ai-214939773.html?src=rss

X has a slightly more functional photo editor now

X is rolling out an update to its in-app photo editor that gives users the ability to edit photos with xAI's Grok, blur faces and overlay text on images. The new editing features, in particular the addition of text-based edits via an AI assistant, bring it much closer in capabilities to dedicated photo apps like Google Photos. As part of the update, users are able to prompt Grok to make edits to a photo just by typing out what they want to see. The example video shared by Nikita Bier, X's Head of Product, showed an image being edited so that it appeared to be hanging in a museum, but simpler tweaks are presumably possible, too. The feature is similar to the conversational editing Google added to Google Photos in September 2025, where users can prompt Gemini to adjust the background of an image or make other edits. X's new editor also includes tools for blurring or redacting parts of an image, drawing on images and overlaying text. Ladies and gentlemen, we're launching a brand new Photo Editor in our post composer. It has long-overdue features like drawing & text. But we also included special add-ons that are unique to X: Edit with words, powered by Grok Add a blur to redact parts of the photo pic.twitter.com/38Zaw8b5jl Nikita Bier (@nikitabier) April 7, 2026 X used to take a far more freewheeling approach to editing photos with Grok, by allowing any user to reply to a post tagging the AI assistant and requesting an edit. After users reportedly generated millions of sexualized images using the feature, including some of children, X limited Grok's image generating abilities to paying subscribers and removed the AI's ability to create images of real people in bikinis, underwear and other suggestive clothing. xAI, the parent company of X, is currently the defendant in a class action lawsuit from three teenagers who allege their photos were used to create child exploitation material with Grok. X is also being investigated in the European Union over similar reports that its platform was used to create nonconsensual sexual images. Xs updated photo editor is available on iOS now and coming to Android soon, according to the company. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/apps/x-has-a-slightly-more-functional-photo-editor-now-210825833.html?src=rss

Apple's foldable iPhone is reportedly at risk of delay

Apple has run into more issues than expected with its foldable iPhone that may set back its release, according to Nikkei . The engineering problems reportedly cropped up during the device's early test production phase and may delay first shipments by months, according to multiple sources briefed on the matter. However, a separate report in Bloomberg refutes the gist of Nikkei 's claims. The current situation could put the mass production timeline at risk, one of Nikkei 's sources said. April will mark a crucial stage of the engineering verification test, and this month till early may is extremely critical. Component suppliers have supposedly been notified that the foldable iPhone's production schedule will be delayed, and Apple is working to address the problems. In a separate article in Bloomberg , however, the usually reliable Apple reporter Mark Gurman wrote that the device is still on track for a September 2026 release. The company is scheduled to introduce the foldable model in September alongside the iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max, said the people, who asked not to be identified because the plans havent been announced, according to the report. The complexity of the foldable iPhone's display and other components may limit initial supply for several weeks, but Apple plans to put it on sale at the same time or shortly after the other non-foldable devices, Gurman wrote. That said, the timing isn't final and issues could still crop up ahead of production. Engadget has reached out to Apple, but so far the company has declined to comment on either the Bloomberg or Nikkei reports. A foldable iPhone has been rumored since 2017 , and Apple's biggest rival, Samsung, released its first one back in 2019. According to multiple sources, Apple was aiming to launch its debut foldable iPhone in fall 2026 alongside the iPhone 18. However, as we detailed in an explainer last month , the project could slip into 2027 if Apple runs into manufacturing or durability issues, particularly around the hinge or display. Apple was reportedly prioritizing the foldable iPhone and other premium models for its September event this year due to constrained supplies of components like memory chips. Apple and the supply chain are working under a pressured timeline and the current solutions are not enough to completely solve the engineering challenge... more time is needed, Nikkei' s source stated. The problems reportedly arose during Apple's production verification tests. That's the fourth of six steps the company's new products must go through before shipping, prior to the key pilot production and mass production phases. Since the foldable would be an all-new design, it would likely need to pass each stage with flying colors before proceeding to the next. Though likely to account for less than 10 percent of iPhone production, the foldable will be a key product for Apple designed to boost interest in iPhones across its range. Apple reportedly plans to produce seven to eight million of the devices initially, Nikkei reported. Apple has yet to announce the device. Update April 7, 2026 at 3:02 PM ET : The article has been updated with information from Bloomberg 's Mark Gurman stating that the foldable iPhone is still on schedule for a September 2026 launch. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/mobile/smartphones/apples-foldable-iphone-may-be-delayed-due-to-engineering-snags-073813890.html?src=rss

Movie tracking app Binge uses Apple's Live Activities to warn about jump scares

There's a new movie tracking app in town, with a twist for squeamish horror fans. Binge leverages Apple's Live Activities feature to warn viewers about jump scares in horror movies. This seems to work rather simply. Users open the app when starting a movie and Apple devices will display warnings on the lock screen ahead of frightening scenes. The settings can be adjusted to only warn about major jump scares and the like, leaving viewers vulnerable to some of the smaller terrors. However, the app doesn't integrate with any streaming services. It only knows a movie starts because a button has been tapped. This means that people will have to notify the app when taking a bathroom break or making popcorn, lest the timing of the notifications get all messed up. This information can also be accessed via a timeline. Binge Binge is also vying to become an all-in-one movie tracking app, like Letterboxd and JustWatch. So it provides details about the cast and crew of movies and shows, along with reviews, awards, runtimes and other basic information. It also tracks which streaming platforms are home to a specific piece of content, which is handy as stuff tends to move around a lot in this modern age. Binge Finally, there's a set of tools for parents that pulls data from external sites like Rotten Tomatoes. This displays if a movie or show has violence, sexual content, profanity or drug use. The app is free to download, but access to jump scare warnings requires a paid subscription. This costs $2 per month or $18 each year. There's also a lifetime subscription for $50. It's available for iPhones, iPads and Macs. Binge isn't the only way to track scary scenes ahead of time, but it is the only tool that integrates with Apple's Live Activities platform. Forget jump scares. I want an app to warn me about the super gory scenes when watching The Pitt . Those makeup artists are top-tier. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/apps/movie-tracking-app-binge-uses-apples-live-activities-to-warn-about-jump-scares-184840127.html?src=rss

Intel gets on board with Musk's Terafab project

Intel has announced that it will help Elon Musk design and build his proposed Terafab in Austin, Texas, a joint venture between Musk's companies like SpaceX, Tesla and xAI to manufacture the chips necessary to power various AI projects. Musk announced Terafab in March 2026 with the plan of eventually creating a terawatt of computing power each year. While Tesla and SpaceX have experience manufacturing in the US, chip fabrication plants like the ones Intel runs are expensive and time-consuming to build. Offloading the task of actually building the Terafab from Musk's companies to Intel makes sense. Our ability to design, fabricate, and package ultra-high-performance chips at scale will help accelerate Terafabs aim to produce 1 TW/year of compute to power future advances in AI and robotics, Intel said in its announcement. Intel is proud to join the Terafab project with @SpaceX , @xAI , and @Tesla to help refactor silicon fab technology. Our ability to design, fabricate, and package ultra-high-performance chips at scale will help accelerate Terafabs aim to produce 1 TW/year of compute to power pic.twitter.com/2vUmXn0YhH Intel (@intel) April 7, 2026 Musk's plan to produce chips is part of a larger refocusing of his various companies around AI. For example, Tesla has gone from an electric car company to a robotics company , and SpaceX is now one of several aerospace companies hoping to launch AI data centers into space . Making those intentions even more clear, SpaceX also acquired Musk's AI company xAI in February 2026 and now reportedly plans to go public . Intel is in a slightly better position now than it was a year ago thanks to the launch of its new Intel Core Ultra Series 3 chips and direct investment from the US government in August 2025, but the company has plenty of its own issues to iron out. Its also still working to get two separate chip fabs in Arizona operating at full capacity, a project it originally announced in 2021 . This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/ai/intel-gets-on-board-with-musks-terafab-project-182200144.html?src=rss

UK Meta employee reportedly downloaded 30,000 private photos from Facebook users

A former Meta employee in the UK is under investigation after allegations that he illicitly downloaded about 30,000 private photos from Facebook. According to The Guardian , the accused developed a software program to evade Facebook's internal security systems and access users' private images. Meta uncovered the breach more than a year ago and referred the case to law enforcement, where it is now being investigated by the London Metropolitan police's cybercrime unit. After discovering improper access by an employee over a year ago, we immediately terminated the individual, notified users, referred the matter to law enforcement and enhanced our security measures, a representative from Meta told the publication. We are co-operating with the ongoing investigation. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/social-media/uk-meta-employee-reportedly-downloaded-30000-private-photos-from-facebook-users-181058081.html?src=rss

Chrome finally adds support for vertical tabs.

Google has started rolling out a small but significant update to Chrome on desktop. Starting today, users will begin seeing an option to organize their tabs vertically. To use the new feature, right click on any Chrome window and select Show Tabs Vertically. Google is late to the game here. Before today, every other major browser but Chrome offered support for vertical tabs though the quality of implementation varies widely. Firefox, for instance, has supported vertical tabs since its 136 update in March of last year, and in my experience, has one of the best interfaces for managing dozens of tabs. Apple's own Safari is another browser with the option to stack tabs vertically, though things can quickly get confusing due to all the different ways you can group webpages. Separately, Google is rolling out an enhanced reading mode that offers a new full-page interface. To use the feature, right click on a page and select Open in reading mode. As you might imagine, reading mode is designed to make busy webpages easier to get through without distraction. As with most Chrome upgrades, it may take a few days before today's update rolls out to your device, so be patient if you don't see it right away. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/computing/chrome-finally-adds-support-for-vertical-tabs-170000081.html?src=rss

Xbox Game Pass additions for April include Hades 2 and Call of Duty: Modern Warfare

As ever, Xbox is bringing a bunch of high-profile titles to Game Pass Ultimate and PC Game Pass this month, while adding several to the lower tiers of the service. There aren't too many surprises among this first wave of April newcomers, though. Many of these additions were previously confirmed, while EA Sports NHL 26 and Call of Duty: Modern Warfare (the remake) were always going to join Game Pass at some point. Still, there's plenty to dive into on the service this month. April 14 is a particularly eye-catching day, with both Hades 2 (which is debuting on Xbox Series X/S and PS5) and the long-awaited Replaced hitting Game Pass alongside the turn-based, character-driven RPG The Thaumaturge . Here's a breakdown of everything coming to Game Pass over the next few weeks: April 7 Final Fantasy IV Cloud, Xbox Series X/S and PC on Game Pass Ultimate, Game Pass Premium and PC Game Pass April 8 DayZ PC on Game Pass Ultimate, Game Pass Premium, Game Pass Essential and PC Game Pass Endless Legend 2 PC game preview on Game Pass Premium (already on Game Pass Ultimate and PC Game Pass) FBC: Firebreak Cloud, Xbox Series X/S and PC on Game Pass Premium (already on Game Pass Ultimate and PC Game Pass) Warhammer Vermintide 2 Cloud and console on Game Pass Essential (already on Game Pass Ultimate and Game Pass Premium) April 9 Planet Coaster 2 Cloud, Xbox Series X/S and PC on Game Pass Ultimate, Game Pass Premium and PC Game Pass April 10 Tiny Bookshop Cloud, Xbox Series X/S, handheld and PC on Game Pass Ultimate, Game Pass Premium and PC Game Pass April 13 Football Manager 26 PC on Game Pass Premium (already on Game Pass Ultimate and PC Game Pass) Football Manager 26 Console Cloud, console and PC on Game Pass Premium (already on Game Pass Ultimate and PC Game Pass) April 14 Hades 2 Cloud, Xbox Series X/S, handheld and PC on Game Pass Ultimate, Game Pass Premium and PC Game Pass Replaced Cloud, Xbox Series X/S and PC on Game Pass Ultimate and PC Game Pass The Thaumaturge Cloud, Xbox Series X/S and PC on Game Pass Ultimate, Game Pass Premium and PC Game Pass April 16 The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion Remastered Cloud, Xbox Series X/S and PC on Game Pass Premium (already on Game Pass Ultimate and PC Game Pass) EA Sports NHL 26 Cloud and Xbox Series X/S on Game Pass Ultimate and PC Game Pass April 17 Call of Duty: Modern Warfare Cloud, console and PC on Game Pass Ultimate, Game Pass Premium and PC Game Pass April 21 Little Rocket Lab Cloud, console and PC on Game Pass Premium (already on Game Pass Ultimate and PC Game Pass) Sopa: Tale of the Stolen Potato Cloud, console, handheld and PC on Game Pass Premium (already on Game Pass Ultimate and PC Game Pass) Vampire Crawlers Cloud, Xbox Series X/S, handheld, and PC on Game Pass Ultimate and PC Game Pass April 23 Kiln Cloud, Xbox Series X/S, handheld and PC on Game Pass Ultimate and PC Game Pass As Xbox adds more titles to Game Pass, so too must it remove some. It's yet again erasing Grand Theft Auto V (Cloud, console and PC) from Game Pass, this time on April 15. The other games leaving the service on the same day are: Ashen (Cloud, console and PC) Eiyuden Chronicle: Hundred Heroes (Cloud, console and PC) My Little Pony: A Zephyr Heights Mystery (Cloud, console and PC) Terra Invicta (game preview on PC) This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/gaming/xbox/xbox-game-pass-additions-for-april-include-hades-2-and-call-of-duty-modern-warfare-155130801.html?src=rss

OnePlus Nord 6 launched with 9,000 mAh battery and 165 Hz display

The phone bears IP66, IP68, IP69 and IP69K ratings for water and dust resistance

Sony is starting a weird service that scans people to put them in PlayStation games

Sony just announced a truly strange initiative called The Playerbase . This is a program to scan people's likenesses and pop them in PlayStation games. That's pretty wild, but potentially cool to those who have always wanted to become a weird humanoid version of Crash Bandicoot. The program is ramping up slowly. Sony has announced a contest of sorts to place one lucky fan inside of Gran Turismo 7 , though in a reduced fashion. The chosen player will get an image of their face placed inside the game as a character portrait and will get the chance to design a logo and the exterior of a vehicle. Sony This person will also get a trip to Los Angeles to participate in a full-body scan, but Sony hasn't said what, if anything, they'd do with this scan. After all, Gran Turismo 7 is a racing game without too many full-body models walking around. Fans have a lot of hoops to jump through to be considered for placement. There's a traditional application process , but also video interviews and other stuff. The promotion is available to players in the Americas, Europe, Asia, South Africa and Australia. Of course, there needs to be actual new PlayStation games for people to scan their likenesses into. Sony hasn't exactly been providing us with a robust lineup of first-party titles this generation. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/gaming/playstation/sony-is-starting-a-weird-service-that-scans-people-to-put-them-in-playstation-games-150130276.html?src=rss

NASA shares incredible photos from the far side of the Moon

The Artemis II crew made history as they traveled further from our planet than any other living humans. The astronauts and NASA are making the most of the trip, including by capturing some utterly stunning photos . The space agency shared some that were taken from the far side of the Moon, including the Earthset shown above. This is a depiction of our planet setting behind the Moon, just as the sun sets over the horizon for us on terra firma every single night. The image is reminiscent of the iconic Earthrise image taken by astronaut Bill Anders 58 years earlier as the Apollo 8 crew flew around the Moon, the NASA Artemis account on X noted. The crew also witnessed a solar eclipse from the far side of the Moon, with the satellite totally blocking out the sun. This lasted for around 57 minutes as Orion travelled more than 4,000 miles beyond the Moon. You can see several photos of the eclipse and Earth from the lunar flyby in the slideshow above. (And yes, the astronauts used eclipse glasses to protect their eyes.) While they were circling the Moon, the Artemis II crew discovered two new craters. The astronauts suggested names for them: Integrity (after the nickname for their spacecraft) and Carroll, after the late wife of Commander Reid Wiseman, describing the latter as a bright spot on the Moon. The mission will last a few more days as the astronauts are now returning to Earth. Orion is scheduled to splash down in the Pacific Ocean near San Diego on April 10. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/science/space/nasa-shares-incredible-photos-from-the-far-side-of-the-moon-142355972.html?src=rss

ASUS ZenBook A16 review: A surprisingly light and powerful 16-inch ultraportable

I went into 2025 incredibly amped to review ASUS's 2.2-pound ZenBook A14 , only to be disappointed by the lackluster performance of its Snapdragon X chip. I'm still a bit heartbroken, to be honest. But now ASUS is back with a revamped A14 and a larger 16-inch ZenBook A16, both of which sport new Snapdragon X2 Elite Extreme chips. The A16 is slightly heavier at 2.6 pounds and 2.9 pounds, but it still competes with LGs Gram Pro 16. And thanks to Qualcomm's new hardware, it's actually speedy enough to compete with Intel and AMD ultraportables. Take everything I initially liked about the ZenBook A14 last year its thin design and portability, its smooth Ceraluminum case and its bold OLED screen stretch it out a bit, and you've got the ZenBook A16. There's an understated beauty to its design that's far more intriguing than ASUS's mainstream notebooks, like the ZenBook 14 OLED from a few years ago, and it's not trying as hard to impress as ASUS's typical gaming notebooks. It's similar to the company's gorgeous Zephyrus G14 and G16 machines, which feel high-end without needing too much gaming bling. What struck me first about the A14 last year remains the most intriguing aspect of the A16: It just seems impossibly light for its size. The model Im testing, which will also be sold at Best Buy, weighs 2.9 pounds due to its glass touchscreen cover. But you can also get a slimmer 2.6-pound version of the A16 at ASUSs online store . ASUS's Ceraluminum material, which feels like a blend of ceramic and metal, also exudes quality and warmth when you hold it. There's no shock of cold metal on your lap like you'll find with most premium laptops, including Apple's MacBook Pro. But it's also just as sturdy as those machines, with no discernible creaks or flex when stressed. ASUS claims its Ceraluminum cases are also scratch and fingerprint resistant, and so far that seems to be true of my review unit after a few weeks of testing. ASUS Zenbook A16 Devindra Hardawar for Engadget The ZenBook A16's stunning 16-inch 3K OLED screen is its defining feature, and it delivers everything you'd expect from OLED. Colors look bold and bright, and it offers inky dark black levels. It delivers an eye-popping sense of contrast you won't find on most LCD screens (unless they have Mini LED backlights, like the MacBook Pro). Text appears crisp and sharp, and the large screen size does a great job of making video playback feel immersive (especially if you're laying in bed, trying to catch up on The Pitt ). Personally, I'd still opt for the A14 because of the weight difference, but if you prefer big screens this is certainly one of the most intriguing options around. The A16 also has a full-sized SD card reader and HDMI connection, both of which the smaller model lacks entirely. ASUS also included a healthy amount of other ports, including two USB-C 4.0 connections, one USB Type A 3.2 port and a headphone jack. From a productivity perspective, you can certainly get a lot more done with the ZenBook A16's connectivity. The same holds true for Qualcomm's new Snapdragon X2 Elite chips in the A16. Both the X2E94100and X2E96100 are 18-core chips with a single core boost speed of 4.7GHz, which is a big leap over the 8-core X1 chip in last year's A14. The X2 Elite-equipped A16 also comes with a whopping 48GB of RAM, which feels downright luxurious given our current RAM availability crisis, as well as a new 80-TOPS NPU for AI workloads. Geekbench 6 CPU Geekbench 6 GPU Cinebench 2024 ASUS Zenbook A16 (Qualcomm Snapdragon X2 Elite X2E94100) 3,262/20,808 43,849 98/1,238 ASUS Zenbook A14 (2025, Qualcomm Snapdragon X1) 2,113/10,316 9,603 96/540 Apple MacBook Air (M5) 4,193/17,270 47,656 N/A Microsoft Surface Laptop (2024, Qualcomm Snapdragon X Elite) 2,797/14,400 19,963 123/969 I immediately felt the difference in power when I booted up the ZenBook A16. The awkward sluggishness while browsing the web or perusing Evernote entries on the A14 was gone. Instead, the A16 always felt incredibly responsive and ready to work, like an eager puppy that never gets tired of playing fetch. Benchmarks also revealed the massive speed differences: The X2 Elite A16 scored 1,200 points higher in Geekbench 6's single-core CPU test, and its multi-core performance was twice as fast. The comparison is a bit unfair, I'll admit, because the A14 I reviewed last year was stuck with the most basic X-series Snapdragon chip, whereas the A16 touts Qualcomm's latest and greatest hardware. That also makes the A16 a bit more expensive than last year's A14: Best Buy lists it at $1,600, whereas the A14 initially sold for $1,100. ASUS Zenbook A16 Devindra Hardawar for Engadget But at least the ZenBook A16 delivers the performance you'd expect for its price range. In the PCMark 10 Applications benchmark, it scored 17,264 points, which is 1,000 points higher than Dell's Premium 16 (aka last year's XPS 16) with Intel's Core Ultra 7 255H chip. It's also leagues ahead of the old ZenBook A14, which scored a meager 12,127 points. Benchmarks never tell the whole story, of course, but those huge performance gaps are the sort of thing you immediately notice in everyday performance. I was able to load up the ZenBook A16 with dozens of tabs, Evernote, 4K YouTube video streams and large Audacity jobs, and it never broke a sweat. Since it's an ARM-based Snapdragon system, though, be aware older apps may run into issues, or fail to work entirely. That Qualcomm hardware also made gaming a major problem for the first generation of Snapdragon X Elite chips, which didn't perform well and were also incompatible with games that required kernel-level anti-cheat. Updates to the Windows on Arm platform fixed the latter issue, and Qualcomm also launched its Snapdragon Control Panel to deliver faster driver updates. Now all Snapdragon X Elite chips can play Fortnite , Roblox and Tencent titles. Qualcomm claims that 90 percent of games will run on the Snapdragon Elite X2 chips. ASUS Zenbook A16 Devindra Hardawar for Engadget And that includes demanding titles like Cyberpunk 2077 . I was able to reach 80 fps in that game, while playing with medium settings in 1080p, along with enabling AMD's FSR frame generation. This wouldn't be my ideal way to play Cyberpunk , but it's a sign that the ZenBook A16 can at least hold its own in gaming. Unfortunately, it wouldn't load Arc Raiders , because there's still no support for its anti-cheat tech. Fortnite launched just fine, though, and for some people that'll be enough. But really, anyone buying the ZenBook A16 isn't doing it to play shooters, you're doing it to get one of the lightest productivity machines around. ASUS's keyboard was comfortable to type on, though I would have liked to see more key depth akin to the Surface Laptop. Its trackpad is large and responsive, but it's also mechanical, which means you can only click along the lower two-thirds. In this price range, I'd expect ASUS to use a haptic trackpad with full coverage. The ZenBook A14's battery life (18 hours and 15 minutes) was one of its truly impressive features. ASUS repeats history here with the A16 clocking in 21 hours and 35 minutes in our rundown test. That's the immediate benefit of having a chip based on mobile ARM architecture. During my testing, the A16 drained down to 80 percent after around four hours of continuous work. Compatibility issues aside, the ZenBook A16 delivers just about everything I want in an ultraportable. Its got a gorgeous OLED screen and all of the ports you need. Qualcomms Snapdragon X2 Elite chips also give it a much-needed power boost. And best of all, it's one of the lightest and sleekest 16-inch Windows laptops I've come across. Just be prepared to pay a bit extra over other ultraportables for its slim size. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/computing/laptops/asus-zenbook-a16-review-a-surprisingly-light-and-powerful-16-inch-ultraportable-140000914.html?src=rss

Motorola announces Moto Pad and next-gen Moto G Stylus

Motorola has announced its two latest devices: the budget-friendly Moto G Stylus smartphone and the Moto Pad. The latter is a tablet and a new addition to the Motorola lineup with an 11-inch 2.5K display, compared to the 6.7-inch screen on the Moto G Stylus. The Moto Pad offers a MediaTek D6300 5G processor and 5G connectivity. It also has quad speakers with Dolby technology, including Dolby Atmos capability on speakers or through headphones with using supporting platforms. The Moto Pad comes with a 7040mAh battery that can stream for 12 hours on one charge. The new Moto Pad is available in Pantone's Bronze Green on April 30 from T-Mobile and Metro by T-Mobile. Motorola has yet to share an exact price, instead stating it will be communicated by carrier upon availability. Meanwhile, the 2026 Moto G Stylus is an upgrade of its predecessor , offering a built-in active stylus. Inside the Notes app, it offers Sketch to Image, an AI tool for polishing drawings, and Handwriting Calculator, a feature for solving handwritten equations without switching to a calculator. The Moto G Stylus also has 100 hours of standby time. It only lasts four hours while continually writing, but Motorola claims it recharges in 15 minutes. It comes with a 50MP Ultra Pixel main camera, 13MP Ultrawide & Macro Vision camera and 32MP selfie camera. Plus, its 6.7-inch screen is an Extreme AMOLED display with a 1.5K super HD resolution and 120Hz refresh rate the Moto Pad has a 90Hz refresh rate, in comparison. Motorola is releasing the 2026 Moto G Stylus on April 16 and will start at $500. The 126GB option will initially come with four free Moto Tags, while the 256GB version will offer free Moto Buds Loop earbuds , a Moto Watch and a Moto Tag. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/mobile/motorola-announces-moto-pad-and-next-gen-moto-g-stylus-130014526.html?src=rss

Spotify's Prompted Playlist feature now works for podcasts

Spotify's Prompted Playlist tool now works for podcasts, after launching the feature for music earlier this year. As the name suggests, this is an AI thing. It lets users use natural language, or prompts, to describe what they're looking for in a playlist and the algorithm does the rest. The platform says the tool is a good match for podcasts, as listeners can use it to discover a new favorite show or dive deeper into a topic or piece of culture. Spotify adds that the algorithm generates playlists based on both the prompt and a person's listening history, along with what's happening in the world today. Spotify Spotify gives some examples of the kinds of prompts that could be used to generate podcast playlists, which include a user asking the bot to build a playlist all about science and innovation and another with the biggest entertainment news from the past few days. It'll be interesting to see if the algorithm prioritizes podcasts from its ever-growing stable of in-house creators over third party releases. Spotify says the tool unlocks powerful new opportunities for creators. This is because it can recommend older episodes from a back catalog, thus giving them a little boost. The feature is rolling out now in a beta form to Premium users in the US, Canada, UK, Ireland, New Zealand and Sweden. It remains to be seen when Spotify will open up the tool to other languages. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/entertainment/music/spotifys-prompted-playlist-feature-now-works-for-podcasts-120006108.html?src=rss

The Morning After: Apples foldable iPhone may be delayed

Apple has run into more issues than expected with its foldable iPhone , which may delay its release, according to the Japanese business newspaper Nikkei . Multiple sources report issues that apparently occurred during early test production phases and may delay first shipments by months. Component suppliers have supposedly been notified that the foldable iPhones production schedule will be delayedand Apple is working to address the problems. Apple was reportedly prioritizing the foldable iPhone and other premium models for its September event this year, due to constrained supplies that whole RAMmaggedon thing. One fewer iPhone model might reduce the companys demand for pricey components. Were still waiting: A foldable iPhone has been rumored since 201andd rival Samsung released its first one back in 2019. The Galaxy phone maker has faced its own struggles: The very cool Galaxy Z TriFold was pushed into early retirement , seemingly being sold at a loss after its launch late last year. Mat Smith The other big stories (and deals) this morning March Madness 2026: How to watch the Final Four OpenAI brings ChatGPTs Voice mode to CarPlay Samsungs Music Studio speakers and two of its 2026 soundbars are available now . CFTC sues states attempting to regulate prediction markets The federal government wants sole authority over prediction markets. The US Commodity Futures Trading Commission is suing Illinois, Arizona and Connecticut for attempting to outlaw or regulate prediction markets like Kalshi and Polymarket. These markets allow people to bet on the outcomes of events (for example, who will be the Democratic nominee for president in 2028). Theres been some particularly dystopian bets on recent global military campaigns. The CFTC believes it has sole jurisdiction to regulate these platforms and that states attempting to classify them as illegal gambling are overstepping their authority. The CFTC will continue to safeguard its exclusive regulatory authority over these markets and defend market participants against overzealous state regulators, CFTC chair Michael S. Selig said in a statement. Continue reading. The Spaceballs sequel will be released in April 2027 Mel Brooks, Rick Moranis and other original cast members are back. Amazon MGM Studios announced the upcoming Spaceballs movie will hit theaters on April 23, 2027, right around the 40th anniversary of the first film. The movie is being directed by Josh Greenbaum and written by Josh Gad, Dan Hernandez and Benji Samit, according to Deadline . Continue reading. The Artemis II crew snapped some mesmerizing photos of Earth We dont need telescopes. NASA On their way around the Moon, the Artemis II crew managed to grab a few photos.NASA has begun sharing the images, including the one above: Earth through the Orion capsules window. It kinda looks like the old iPhone wallpaper. Sorry, I just ruined it. Continue reading. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/general/the-morning-after-engadget-newsletter-111523424.html?src=rss

Artemis II astronaut puts all of our iPhone moon photos to shame

When NASA allowed Artemis II astronauts to take their smartphones with them, we already knew it could lead to some epic phone shots of the moon. NASA astronaut Reid Wiseman took one such photo on his iPhone, just as the Orion spacecraft his crew was on approached the moon for a lunar flyby . The astronauts turned off all the lights inside the cabin to be able to take better pictures. In the livestream , Wiseman showed the camera a photo he took on his iPhone 17 Pro. As 9to5Mac notes, he said on the livestream that he took the picture on his iPhone camera with an 8x zoom. NASA reportedly said that the image showed the Chebyshev crater, a lunar impact sight located on the far side of the moon, or the side we dont see from our planet. Artemis II launched on April 1 for a 10-day journey, with four astronauts onboard the missions Orion spacecraft. On April 6, it flew farther away from Earth than any mission before it after it arrived in lunar space, reaching a distance of 252,756 miles from our planet and breaking the record set by Apollo 13. The crew finished the lunar flyby at around 9:35PM on April 6 and is now making its way back to Earth. Well likely see more images of the dark side of the moon over the next few days as NASA releases them. The Artemis II crew is expected to splash down in the Pacific Ocean near San Diego on April 10. Astronaut Reid Wiseman captured this stunning image of the Moon using nothing more than an iPhone 17 Pro. the same camera that fits in your pocket. pic.twitter.com/mZevaDhhIT Earth (@earthcurated) April 6, 2026 This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/science/space/artemis-ii-astronaut-puts-all-of-our-iphone-moon-photos-to-shame-093740553.html?src=rss

Report: Apple's foldable iPhone may be delayed due to engineering snags

Apple has run into more issues than expected with its foldable iPhone that may set back its release, according to Nikkei . The engineering problems reportedly cropped up during the device's early test production phase and may delay first shipments by months, according to multiple sources briefed on the matter. The current situation could put the mass production timeline at risk, one of the sources said. April will mark a crucial stage of the engineering verification test, and this month till early may is extremely critical. Component suppliers have supposedly been notified that the foldable iPhone's production schedule will be delayed, and Apple is working to address the problems. A foldable iPhone has been rumored since 2017 , and Apple's biggest rival, Samsung, released its first one back in 2019. According to multiple sources, Apple was aiming to launch its debut foldable iPhone in fall 2026 alongside the iPhone 18. However, as we detailed in an explainer last month , the project could slip into 2027 if Apple runs into manufacturing or durability issues, particularly around the hinge or display. Apple was reportedly prioritizing the foldable iPhone and other premium models for its September event this year due to constrained supplies of components like memory chips. However, the foldable's engineering issues could throw a wrench into those plans. Apple and the supply chain are working under a pressured timeline and the current solutions are not enough to completely solve the engineering challenge... more time is needed, Nikkei's source stated. The problems reportedly arose during Apple's production verification tests. That's the fourth of six steps the company's new products must go through before shipping, prior to the key pilot production and mass production phases. Since the foldable would be an all-new design, it would have to pass each stage with flying colors before proceeding to the next. Though likely to account for less than 10 percent of iPhone production, the foldable will be a key product for Apple designed to boost interest in iPhones across its range. Apple reportedly plans to produce seven to eight million of the devices initially, Nikkei reported. Apple has not yet officially announced the device and declined to commented on the reported engineering issues. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/mobile/smartphones/report-apples-foldable-iphone-may-be-delayed-due-to-engineering-snags-073813819.html?src=rss

Amazon's new USPS deal will see postal deliveries cut by 20 percent

Earlier this year, Amazon threatened to cut US Postal Service deliveries by as much as two thirds . Now, the parties have reached tentative a deal that will see USPS deliveries reduced by 20 percent, The Wall Street Journal reported. While not as drastic as first menaced, the reduced volume will still deal a financial blow to the USPS. Were pleased to have reached a new agreement with USPS that furthers our longstanding partnership and will let us continue supporting our customers and communities together, an Amazon spokesperson told the WSJ . Amazon is the USPS's largest customer, accounting for 15 percent of its volume and $6 billion in revenue. A two-thirds cut would have been a disaster for the USPS, but a 20 percent reduction could result in more than $1 billion in lost revenue nonetheless. Amazon would have needed to scramble as well, as it relies heavily on the post office for rural and last-mile deliveries. Amazon's contract with the USPS was set to expire in September 2026, and in October Amazon said it wanted to strike a deal by December 2025. However, the USPS abruptly pulled out of negotiations, according to Amazon, and implemented a new bidding process for last-mile deliveries. Our goal was to increase our volumes with USPS, not reduce them until USPS abruptly walked away at the eleventh hour in December, Amazon said at the time. Amazon was reportedly considering expanding its own delivery network if the USPS deal fell through, though the company may have started those rumors itself to prod negotiations. The Postal Service decided to re-engage with Amazon after bids from several Amazon rivals fell short of its volume and revenue expectations, according to the WSJ 's sources. The new agreement is still subject to approval by the federal Postal Regulatory Commission. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/general/amazons-new-usps-deal-will-see-postal-deliveries-cut-by-20-percent-054608944.html?src=rss

Xiaomi 17 Ultra Review | Claims the camera crown

The phone does not just rely on one standout lens or one impressive shooting mode; it delivers a complete imaging system

Oura Ring 4 Review | Refined insights and design make for a stand-out wearable

Priced at 28,900 for Black and Silver variants and 39,900 for premium finishes like Brushed Silver, Gold, Rose Gold, and Stealth, the Oura Ring 4 positions itself as a lifestyle accessory as much as a health tracker

Realme 16 5G launched with Dimensity processor and 50 MP selfie camera

Realme 16 5G ships with a 7,000 mAh battery, supported by 60W charger inside the box

Xiaomi launches Redmi Note 15 Special Edition for mid segment buyers

It offers MIL-STD-810H standards, along with IP65 and IP66 ratings for protection against dust and splashes under controlled conditions

Kenya probes Meta Ray-Ban smart glasses privacy concerns

It had also asked he ODPC to investigate the unlawful processing of data to train Meta AI in Kenya, the organisation said in a statement

At 50, Apple confronts its next big challenge: AI

Steve Jobs, a driven marketing genius, and Steve Wozniak, who invented the Apple computer, revolutionised how people use technology in the internet age

Another PlayStation price hike means the gaming console will cost 30% more than it did last year

The price of a PlayStation is going up by another $100, the second time in less than a year that Sony has upped the price tag on its popular gaming console

Apple plans to open Siri to rival AI services: Report

Apple is developing tools to let chatbot apps installed via its App Store work with Siri and other features under its Apple Intelligence platform, Bloomberg News reported

Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra Review | A refinement-driven flagship rather than a radical one

Samsungs Galaxy S26 Ultra, the flag-bearer for the South Korean brand in 2026, has been launched with upgrades that seem necessary and natural

OnePlus Nord 6 with 9,000 mAh battery launches on April 7 in India

Nord 6 also claims to support sustained 165 FPS in titles such as BGMI, Call of Duty Mobile and Free Fire

Instax Mini Evo Cinema Review | Less of a practical upgrade, more of a lifestyle choice

If you are someone who values aesthetics, nostalgia, and the joy of physical photos, this camera makes sense

Amazon Plans Smartphone Comeback More Than a Decade After Fire Phone Flop

The phone is seen as a potential mobile personalization device that can sync with home voice assistant Alexa and serve as a conduit to Amazon customers throughout the day, the people said.

Poco X8 Pro Max, Poco X8 Pro and Poco X8 Pro Iron Man Edition launched in India

Both devices feature a metal frame, and racetrack-inspired camera modules paired with dynamic RGB lighting

Apple unveils second-generation AirPods Max at $549

Live translation, first introduced on the AirPods Pro 3 in September, enables users to translate in-person conversations across languages using Apple Intelligence

Google Pixel 10a Review | More incremental refinements rather than a major upgrade

Googles Pixel a series has gradually shifted its positioning in India. What earlier felt like a relatively accessible entry into the Pixel ecosystem now sits much closer to the premium mid-range space

Apple MacBook Neo Emerges As Companys Most Repairable Laptop in More Than a Decade

Apple is widely believed to be targeting the same education markets with its MacBook Neo that Google targets with its low-cost Chromebooks

Ai+ Smartphone partners Optiemus to make phones, tablets and IoT devices

Together, they plan to invest 125 crore in India-based manufacturing for over 5 years with a claim of creating around 1,200 direct and indirect jobs

iQOO launches Z11x with MediaTek processor and Sony sensor

iQOO has used a 7200 mAh battery in iQOO Z11x, paired with 44W charger inside the box

Xiaomi Pad 8 launched in India with HyperOS 3 and Snapdragon processor

Xiaomi will offer four years of Android OS updates and six years of security updates to Pad 8

Motorola Edge 70 Fusion launched in India with Sony sensor and Qualcomm chip

The phone features dual stereo speakers with Dolby Atmos and Hi-Res Audio support

Nothing Phone 4a and Phone 4a Pro launched: Price, features and availability

Nothing also unveiled a new over-head headphones, Headphone a, at more accessible price point, claiming around 135 hours of playtime.

Apple launches new MacBooks with M5 chips, bigger base storage

The 13-inch MacBook Air starts at $1,099 and now comes with 512 gigabytes of storage as standard, double the base storage of the previous generation

Samsung rolls out more AI, new privacy shield mode with the new Galaxy S26 lineup

Samsung on Wednesday unveiled its latest Galaxy smartphones, which boast an even bigger toolbox of artificial intelligence technology

Xiaomi 17 Ultra and Xiaomi 17 unveiled along with Xiaomi Pad 8 series: Features, price and India launch

The series comes with optical set up co-engineered with German lens maker Leica