David Lynch auction offers a glimpse of his personal and creative life
The innovative director David Lynch, who left indelible marks on film and television, passed away in January of this year. Now, Julien's Auctions is hosting the sale of The David Lynch Collection. More than 450 of the late director's possessions will be auctioned off online and at the company's auction house in Gardena, CA. For devotees of Lynch's work and worldview, just the experience of browsing the collection is pretty fascinating. The auction showcases plenty of items closely related to his career in film, such as a personalized director's chair, multiple cameras, lighting kits and memorabilia from his many iconic works. Other pieces more broadly reflect his passion for creativity, like audio equipment, musical instruments, painting supplies and a whole lot of literature and vinyl records. The collection also has furniture, like the couch from his 1997 classic Lost Highway , kitchen wares and many personal items from his life. You can even bid on his LaserDisc player and disc collection . This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/entertainment/david-lynch-auction-offers-a-glimpse-of-his-personal-and-creative-life-223501136.html?src=rss
Belkins BoostCharge Qi2 15W MagSafe 3-in-1 foldable charging station is travel-ready at $80
Amazon is now offering the Belkin BoostCharge Qi2 15W MagSafe 3-in-1 Foldable Charging Station in its black colorway at $79.99 shipped , while the white counterpart sits a little higher at $84.99 shipped. Both models normally fetch $100, with the previous discounts weve seen in 2025 repeating the same drop to $85, while this is the first time weve seen the black variant dip to $80 in the new year. Youll be getting a 20% markdown off the going rate here, saving you a solid $20 at the second-lowest and third-lowest prices tracked $10/$15 above the $70 low we last saw during Black Friday. more
X users can no longer send encrypted messages on the platform. The company said in an update that it's pausing the feature while we work on making some improvements. Users will still be able to view previously-sent encrypted chats, but won't be able to send any new ones. Up to now, encrypted DMs have been available only on messages between verified users who are mutual or who have previously accepted DMs from each other. Screenshots of the feature from X's help center labeled it as early access. (Notably, there were a number of other important caveats to X's encryption, even when it was working, including the fact that encryption was never available for group chats, multimedia messages or metadata .) It's unclear when the feature will be available again or if the pause has anything to do with XChat, the company's yet-to-be-launched chat platform. X employees have been dropping hints about XChat, which will reportedly feature encrypted direct messages, for some time. Screenshots from leakers suggest XChat could have additional security features like PIN-protected chats. Officially, though, X hasn't revealed much about XChat or what's going on with the current version of encrypted DMs. X's in-app inbox was one of the features that experienced numerous issues last week after a site-wide outage possibly due to a fire at an Oregon facility used by the company caused days of technical problems for the service. Updates on the company's developer platform page indicate some of those issues have yet to be resolved. X didn't respond to a request for comment. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/social-media/x-is-pausing-encrypted-dms-215750222.html?src=rss
Save up to 29% on these new and legacy Greenworks electric pressure washers at return lows from $82
Amazon is now offering some significant savings and plenty of low prices across its electric pressure washers including new and legacy models. Among them, we spotted the newer 13A 2,100 PSI Compact Electric Pressure Washer down at $159.92 shipped. This is one of several new models that hit the market back in January, with four previous discounts on the books bringing costs down from its usual $200 MSRP to this same low price. Youre looking at a 20% markdown here today, which cuts $40 off the tag at the best price we have tracked, with the savings matching direct from Greenworks website too . more
EA cancels Black Panther game and closes studio developing it
EA is cancelling its Black Panther game and closing the studio creating it, Cliffhanger Games, as part of a larger round of layoffs at the company, IGN reports . The third-person action-adventure game was originally announced in July 2023 as one of several Marvel projects being developed at EA studios. IGN writes that a smaller number of people are being laid off than the previous round of cuts that impacted Titanfall developer Respawn, but EA is still eliminating roles outside of Cliffhanger, including people on the publisher's mobile and central teams. EA is reportedly telling staff that the layoffs are a way to sharpen our focus and put our creative energy behind the most significant growth opportunities. As of right now, those opportunities include an Iron Man game in development at EA Motive, the next Star Wars Jedi game from Respawn, and new entries in a few key franchises, like The Sims, Battlefield, Skate and Apex Legends. Beyond that, the company has EA Sports and the next Mass Effect game, though Bioware has gone through multiple rounds of layoffs since 2023 , so there's uncertainty there, too. In a similar way to how it approached Bioware's restructuring, IGN reports that EA is trying to find roles for at least some Cliffhanger Games staff in other parts of the company. Engadget has contacted EA for comment and will update this article if we hear back. EA growing disinterest in licensed games as been public since at least February 2024, when CEO Andrew Wilson announced that the company was moving away from development of future licensed IP that we do not believe will be successful in our changing industry. The company recently announced a new strategy game using the Star Wars license Star Wars Zero Company but that seems more like an outlier than the norm. EA's Black Panther game wasn't the only project featuring the character Amy Hennig's Marvel 19943: Rise of Hydra hasn't been cancelled yet but it does seems strange the company gave up so easily. Black Panther made over $1.3 billion during its original run in theaters. It seems entirely possible the same audience that enjoyed the movie would show up for a new game featuring their favorite Marvel character. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/gaming/ea-cancels-black-panther-game-and-closes-studio-developing-it-213258110.html?src=rss
Years after acquiring Tile, Life360 has integrated the trackers into its app
Life360, a family locator app, said today that it has fully integrated the object-tracking features of Tile into its own platform. The Life360 app can now set up and manage Tile trackers, deliver notifications when an item gets left behind and provide real-time location updates for the trackers in addition to its usual features for managing family members' safety. Life360 announced its acquisition of Tile for $205 million way back in 2021. At the time of the purchase, Life360 said Tile would continue to operate independently, but it has still been a long time coming for the two businesses to fully integrate with each other's offerings. In that time, Tile has faced challenges from competitors that have more resources at their back, such as Apple and AirTags. It was also subject to a cyberattack last year where hackers obtained customers' names, addresses, email addresses and other personal information. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/mobile/years-after-acquiring-tile-life360-has-integrated-the-trackers-into-its-app-205111206.html?src=rss
Govee is offering the first chance at savings on its new Strip Light with Skyline Kit for $99.99 shipped , while also seeing it get its first discount at Amazon for $2 more. This new ambient lighting device hit the market only a few weeks ago and has been keeping to its $120 full price until now. Taking advantage of the deal directly from the brand gives you a solid $20 slashed from the tag while upgrading your space with floating wall-washing effects. more
Amazon is now offering the Greenworks 40V 21-inch Cordless Electric Self-Propelled Lawn Mower with a 5.0Ah battery down at $359.99 shipped . This newer model would normally cost you $450 at full price, which weve seen two previous discounts in 2025 take down to the same low rate thats coming back around here today. This is a 20% markdown that cuts $90 off the tag for another chance at the best price we have tracked. more
Roll7's OlliOlli World and Rollerdrome are back on Steam
Their creators might be gone, but OlliOlli World and Rollerdrome are finally back on Steam, based on listings spotted by Eurogamer . Both games were delisted from storefronts like Steam and the Xbox Games Store following publisher Take-Two's decision to shutdown developer Roll7, Intercept Games and publishing label Private Division a little over a year ago. OlliOlli World and Rollerdrome represent diverging, but equally great examples of what made Roll7 special. They're thoughtful, visually stylish games about skateboarding and rollerblading that capture the zen-like state you can enter pulling off multiple tricks in a row (plus or minus a mascot costume and a shotgun). Eurogamer notes that Take-Two always planned to put both games back on sale when it originally delisted them, it just took a lot longer to bring them back than expected. 2K, another Take-Two subsidiary, is now serving as the publisher. When the company closed Private Division, not every game stayed at Take-Two. The publisher continues to back games like No Rest for the Wicked from the developer of Ori and the Blind Forest , but a collection of other in-development projects were sold to Haveli Investments, Bloomberg reports . The investment firm brought on former Annapurna Interactive staff to manage the slate following the implosion of that indie-focused publisher and developer in September 2024. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/gaming/pc/roll7s-olliolli-world-and-rollerdrome-are-back-on-steam-193536731.html?src=rss
Apple may switch its OS numbering system to match the release year, turning iOS 19 into iOS 26
It seems that Apple is giving its operating systems a significant overhaul this year , and not just on the visual and usability fronts. It was expected that the next major versions of iOS and iPadOS would be followed by the number 19, Macs would move onto macOS 15 and so on. That would continue the numbering system Apple has used for many years. That could be about to change, according to Bloomberg . The next versions of the operating systems may be earmarked by the year, according to the publication's sources. That means we could soon see the debut of iOS 26, iPadOS 26, macOS 26, watchOS 26, tvOS 26 and visionOS 26. The numbers would align with the year after each major OS release, since Apple typically rolls out the first public versions of those each fall. So the versions of iOS, iPadOS and so on that arrive this September or October may be named after 2026. We'll know for sure whether this shift is happening on June 9, when the keynote of Apple's Worldwide Developers Conference takes place . It's widely expected that Apple will be giving its operating systems a major user interface overhaul to deliver a more unified experience across various devices. It seems like a wise move to align the branding of all of the various operating systems. The software powering Apple Watch devices is currently up to watchOS 11. Apple Vision Pro is running visionOS 2. It's a little messy as is. Applying the same numbering to all of the operating systems and aligning it with the release year should make things easier for everyone to keep up with. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/mobile/smartphones/apple-may-switch-its-os-numbering-system-to-match-the-release-year-turning-ios-19-into-ios-26-193424796.html?src=rss
Report: Apples WWDC OS design overhaul will bring new branding, too
Macworld WWDC is less than two weeks away, and its shaping up to be a big show. Along with interface updates to all of its operating systems , Apple is also expected to formalize the version numbering across all of its OSes for the first time. According to a report by Mark Gurman, Apple will identify its operating systems by year instead of version number, bringing them all to 26. Even though the releases will begin 2025, Apple will name it after the following year, not unlike how car companies market their vehicles, Gurman says. That means several operating systems will jump to new numbers: iOS 18 > iOS 26 iPadOS 18 > iPadOS 26 macOS 15 > macOS 26 watchOS 10 > watchOS 26 tvOS 18 > tvOS 26 visionOS 2 > visionOS 26 Apples operating systems are currently named based on their version numbers, which is why some arent aligned. However, iPadOS and tvOS are on version 18 despite not having 18 versions, while macOS arbitrarily began at version 11 in 2020. This shift will make it much easier for users to know which version theyre using. As Gurman notes, Apple previously experimented with yearly numbering for its app suites, with iLife 04 and iWork 05. However, that nomenclature eventually sizzled out as Apple started updating apps individually. Its not clear whether Apple will use an apostrophe to indicate that its a year and not a version number. Apple will unveil its full slate of OS updates at its WWDC keynote on June 9. Stay tuned to Macworld for updates before, during, and after the event.
Deals on Apples latest iPhone 16 Pro arent particularly easy to find from reputable sources in food condition. As we reported over the last month or so, we are starting to see more Renewed Premium units being sold directly from Amazon and today we are highlighting the banger 1TB iPhone 16 Pro starting from $1,099 $1,095.98 shipped thats $400 off the price of buying one from Apple. more
Kunitsu-Gami: Path of the Goddess is getting a new mode to coincide with the Switch 2 launch
Capcom just announced that Kunitsu-Gami: Path of the Goddess is getting a new mode to coincide with its launch-day release for the Switch 2, which is June 5 . It's called Otherworldly Ventures and introduces some roguelike mechanics to the action/strategy game. In other words, it's essentially an endless mode. You start off with limited abilities and choose from various upgrades when defeating waves of enemies. Lots of games do something like this, including titles like Vampire Survivors and Downwell . It will also introduce a scoring element, for those who want to ascend a leaderboard. To make the roguelike-inspired mechanics work, the developers have simplified other aspects of the gameplay. Protagonist Soh won't have to rescue villagers and crystals will accumulate more quickly than in the standard game. Also, Yoshiro will make her own way to the gate, instead of having to be guided. The whole thing looks pretty fun. Despite launching alongside the Switch 2, Otherworldly Ventures will be available for every version of the game on June 5. This includes PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, Windows and Steam. It's also free, which is always nice. For the uninitiated, Kunitsu-Gami: Path of the Goddess is a fun hybrid of third-person combat and tower-defense. We heaped praise on the game in our official review , calling it perfectly balanced, lovingly crafted and metal as hell. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/gaming/kunitsu-gami-path-of-the-goddess-is-getting-a-new-mode-to-coincide-with-the-switch-2-launch-190406167.html?src=rss
Google Photos gets new AI features for its 10-year anniversary
Google Photos is 10 years old. To honor the anniversary, the company revamped the app's editor. Naturally, AI plays a leading role. The redesigned Photos adds AI-powered editors previously exclusive to the Pixel 9's Magic Editor. That includes Auto Frame, which suggests crops for your pics. If that requires new parts, it will use AI to generate them. Also moving over from the Pixel is Reimagine. That's where you can add elements like fall leaves or green grass that weren't there. It can be equal parts neat and unsettling. We described it as lurring the line between which of your memories are real and which are not. The results are convincing enough that Google recently began watermarking them as AI-generated . Google The Google Photos update also adds a new AI Enhance feature. As The Verge notes , selecting it produces three edits. (It generates them with existing tweaks like sharpening and object removal.) Then, you pick the result you like best. The new AI Enhance feature sits in the Edit menu, alongside the app's existing Enhance and Dynamic buttons. Google also made it easier to share albums. You can now generate a QR code linking to your album. Let a friend scan it directly, or print it out in a group setting. The redesigned editor arrives on Android devices in June. Google says the iOS version will follow later this year. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/ai/google-photos-gets-new-ai-features-for-its-10-year-anniversary-185523431.html?src=rss
Todays Android app deals and freebies: Everdell, 60 Parsecs!, Little Nightmares, more
The mid-week Google Play app deals are now ready to go to join a sizable collection of ongoing Memorial Day deals. We also have some notable offers today on ASUS 2025 ultra-thin Vivobook 16 laptop as well as the Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra at up to $250 off , this $300 price drop on Samsungs M8 Smart Monitor , and the now live PlayStation summer Days of Play sale . As for the apps, highlights include Everdell, 60 Parsecs!, Little Nightmares, Munchkin, and more. Head below for a closer look. more
Microsoft launches Copilot for Gaming in mobile beta
Microsoft will begin testing its Copilot for Gaming app in a beta version that launches on mobile devices today. The intelligent gaming assistant was announced earlier this year and promised to help make players faster and sharpen their skills. The app that was launched today allows players to ask the gaming assistant questions about in-game strategy and controls using voice or text. Users can also ask for game recommendations and specific questions about their Xbox accounts and subscriptions. AI-assisted gaming has been a hot topic as companies like Microsoft and Razer have entered the space. These tools could replace strategy guides as they help walk you through a particularly tough spot in a campaign or advise you on tactics during a raid in an MMORPG. The apps launch on mobile is designed to serve as a second screen while playing your game on Xbox. Taylor OMalley, principal program manager at Xbox, said , The companion knows what game youre playing and understands your Xbox activity, so it can answer any questions about the games youre interested in, provide links to more information when its response includes web sources or answer questions based on your account, play history and achievements. The early preview version of Copilot for Gaming will be initially available through the beta version of the Xbox app in over 50 regions . Android and iOS users who already have Xbox beta downloaded will be able to give feedback on Copilot for Gaming by grading responses and marking incorrect ones. Android users who dont already have the Xbox beta app downloaded can do so through the Google Play Store . iOS users can no longer download the Xbox beta app if they dont already have it. Microsoft says that the Copilot for Gaming beta will also be coming soon to Game Bar on Windows PCs, with wider availability planned for the full Xbox app in the future. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/gaming/xbox/microsoft-launches-copilot-for-gaming-in-mobile-beta-183344187.html?src=rss
The official Baseus storefront at Amazon is now offering its 100W Detachable Power Strip and Wall Charger for $49.98 shipped. This is originally an $80 power strip thats been sitting at the $60 mark since the beginning of the year. Todays deal shaves an additional $10 off its usual going rate with a 17% markdown to mark the return of its lowest price. The 67W model of this power strip is also down to $29.98 shipped , which happens to be the lowest price we have tracked for it to date. This detachable unit is ideal for people who are often on the move and want a charging solution thats convenient to use both at home and while traveling. Head below for more details. more
The Cyberpunk 2077 sequel finally makes it to preproduction
Once Cyberpunk 2077 worked out its oh-so-many kinks , it was a damn good game. And more is on the way. CD Projekt Red said on Wednesday that its sequel has moved into pre-production. It wasn't a secret that a sequel was in the works . In 2022, CDPR shared a roadmap describing Project Orion. It would further develop the potential embodied by [the Cyberpunk 2077 ] universe. That's as clear as you can get without using the word sequel. Now, CDPR is shedding the codename as development forges ahead. Several weeks ago, the CD Projekt Red team responsible for the next big game set in the Cyberpunk universe completed the project's conceptual phase, the publisher wrote. As a result, Cyberpunk 2 previously known under the codename Project Orion has progressed to pre-production. CD Projekt Red Of course, entering pre-production is still a long way from something you can play. Following the fiasco last time , expect CDPR to play it safe and take more time with the final stages. On a related note, CDPR said Phantom Liberty has sold 10 million copies. The massive expansion launched on PC and consoles in late 2023. It's part of Cyberpunk 2077: Ultimate Edition , which includes the base game and all the DLC. That version arrived on PC and consoles in 2023. It will be heading to Switch 2 and macOS soon. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/gaming/the-cyberpunk-2077-sequel-finally-makes-it-to-preproduction-174141991.html?src=rss
Learn a language the fun way with Beelinguapp, now on sale
Language learning apps like Duolingo dont work for everyone. You might memorize a few words, but thats not really the same as being able to hold a conversation. If you want to try something new, check out Beelinguapp. more
LAST DAY: Big-time $200+ price drop just hit the Starlink Mini Kit AC Dual Band Wi-Fi System at $300
We are tracking the lowest price we have seen to date on the SpaceX Starlink Mini Kitat $299.99 shipped via Best Buy. Originally $599 when it launched last year, Best Buy now has it listed with a regular price tag at $500 todays deal knocks $200 off that to deliver the lowest total we have tracked. more
Lexars 2TB 7,400MB/s NM790 Gen 4 SSD hits lowest price of the year at $125, more from $65
We are now tracking a deal at Amazon that drops the 2TB Lexar NM790 Gen 4 NVMe M.2 SSD down to $124.99 shipped. This drive has recently gone for as much as $170, so youre saving $45 off the usual going rate. Its now matching this years lowest price we first tracked for it last month. The NM790 is also available in 1TB , 4TB, and 8TB capacities, and theyre all discounted right now as well with up to 28% in savings. Head below for more details. more
Coming from Ankers official sub-brand, eufy, were seeing increased savings alongside a free ambient lighting gift when purchasing either the new E15 Robot Lawn Mower at $1,499.99 shipped or its E18 counterpart at $1,699.99 shipped , after removing the $200 off code and using the promo code RTLM200 at checkout for $300 off on both models. Regularly $1,800 and $2,000 each, this is $300 off the new post-tariff price hikes and matching the best we have tracked since launch deals, with things beating out the $200 discount were seeing at Amazon. On top of the cash savings, youll also receive a free eufy Indoor Floor Lamp ($100 value) along with your purchase. more
Carhartts Force Relaxed Pocket T-Shirt drops to $22 Prime shipped on Amazon (25% off)
Amazon is currently offering the Carhartt Relaxed Pocket T-Shirt for $22.49 , which is 25% off the original rate of $30. You can choose from an array of color options and its designed for comfort and durability, making it ideal for both work and casual wear. Perfect for summer days, it was made to wick away sweat and dry quickly, while mesh side panels enhance breathability to keep you cool during intense activities. Additional features include raglan sleeves for improved range of motion, a drop-tail hem for extra coverage, and a left-chest pocket, all contributing to its functional and practical design. It pairs nicely with shorts, jeans, joggers, or chino pants and would make a fantastic Fathers Day gift idea. Find even more deals today by heading to our fashion guide here . more
Some credible sources already tipped us to upcoming Switch 2 stock at Target, but now its official. The national retailer has now updated its Switch 2 landing page on the official site with some details on when you can expect to get another chance to land Nintendos highly sought-after next-generation console, in-store and online. more
Alongside ongoing deals on the M4 Mac mini, Amazon just knocked the price on the M4 Pro Mac mini down again to deliver one of the best discounts we have tracked online since release. Regularly $1,399, Apples most powerful M4 Pro mini is now sitting down at $1,191.95 shipped at Amazon to deliver a notable $207 in savings. more
Discord launches a virtual currency
Going on a quest to gather orbs sounds like a magical journey. Images of old-school Sierra adventure games come to mind. Well, bad news. In this case, it's a virtual currency earned by being a captive audience for advertisers on Discord. Welcome to 2025, baby! Currently in beta, Orbs are Discord's latest addition to its Quests . That's the company's system that lets advertisers launch interactive challenges. These can be things like watching promotional videos or playing games. You aren't watching an ad, silly. You're venturing out on a Video Quest!! Godspeed. Discord If you choose to be a Quest test subject, you can spend your Orbs in several ways. Discord Nitro credits could be a popular redemption option. You can also trade Orbs for profile cosmetics and first-party shop items. Unfortunately, you can't exchange them for real money. Nor can you spend them anywhere outside of Discord. Before today, Quest advertisers were limited to offering their own rewards. However, they can still do that. The new virtual currency is merely another option. Orbs are launching in a limited beta, so you may not have access yet. They're also desktop-only (app and browser), at least for now. You can find Quests by heading to Discover > Quests on Discord. Once you have access to Orbs, you can claim them in the Direct Messages > Shop section. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/gaming/discord-launches-a-virtual-currency-162136575.html?src=rss
Score $400 off EVOLVs 50-mile trekking PRO-R V2 e-scooter with dual 1,400W motors at $2,099, more
EVOLV is currently offering three of its e-scooters at up to $400 off, with the largest discount being on the Pro-R V2 Electric Scooter that is down at $2,099 shipped , after using the on-page promo code for $400 off. The promo code is bringing the costs down from its usual $2,499 tag, which we last saw included in the brands Spring Sale back in March. Sadly, the Pro V2 counterpart is sold out, but you can pick up this upgraded variant with the biggest price cut we have seen at the lowest price we have tracked. more
Apple's App Store rules are still in violation of EU policy
After levying a 500 million fine against Apple in April, the European Commission (EC) says that Apple is still out of compliance with the Digital Markets Act (DMA) and has less than 30 days remaining to comply. The DMA requires that Apple allow developers to inform their customers about sales or other offers outside the App Store. In the 68-page document released today from the EC's April decision, the commission found that Apple's policies were plainly anti-competitive and said the company added unnecessary hurdles referred to as anti-steering rules to completing external transactions. One such anti-steering strategy the EC took umbrage with was Apple's scare sheets. When users clicked to navigate to an external payment link, a message would appear, reading youre about to go to an external website. Apple is not responsible for the privacy or security of purchases made on the web. Apple could face hefty periodic penalty payments as high as five percent of daily global revenue if the company doesnt bring its policies into compliance within the EU. In a statement to 9to5Mac , Apple expressed its disappointment with the newly released details, saying there is nothing in the 70-page decision released today that justifies the European Commissions targeted actions against Apple, which threaten the privacy and security of our users in Europe and force us to give away our technology for free. Later in the statement, the company called the decision bad for innovation, bad for competition, bad for our products, and bad for users. Apple will appeal the decision before the June 22 deadline laid out in the EC's decision. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/big-tech/apples-app-store-rules-are-still-in-violation-of-eu-policy-161117662.html?src=rss
Summer Game Fest 2025: What to expect and how to watch games revealed live
As if early June wasn't already going to be a wild enough time in the gaming world with the arrival of the Nintendo Switch 2 , that's also when a whole host of showcases takes place as part of Summer Game Fest. Along with the two blockbuster events Summer Game Fest Live and the Xbox Games Showcase there are a bunch of other ones in store, including the always-delightful Day of the Devs. There could be even more on the docket. There's always a chance that Nintendo and Sony will run a Direct or State of Play, respectively, over the next few weeks. Ubisoft hasn't yet announced a Forward event for this year either perhaps because it has delayed a bunch of big games and isn't ready to talk about them. We haven't yet heard about a Devolver Direct either (c'monnnn, we need Baby Steps and Skate Story release dates already!). As things stand, SGF is slated to run from June 6 until June 8. With E3 officially dead (organizer Entertainment Software Association is planning an industry-focused event for next April instead), SGF is now the de facto replacement and the biggest event for announcements and updates this side of Gamescom in August. We'll update this preview as more details about the showcases emerge, including additional events in the SGF nebula. We'll embed videos for each stream as they become available as well. Engadget will be on the ground in Los Angeles for the in-person side of SGF, which is for media and creators. We'll be bringing you hands-on impressions of many of the games that are featured during SGF Live. Most folks will be keeping up with everything from home, though. To that end, here's a breakdown of how to watch Summer Game Fest 2025 and what to expect from the extravaganza (we're bound to get a Hollow Knight: Silksong release date this time, right?!?!) Summer Game Fest 2024 schedule Summer Game Fest Live June 6, 5PM ET Day of the Devs June 6, 7PM ET Wholesome Direct June 7, 12PM ET Women-led Games Showcase June 7, 1PM ET Latin American Games Showcase June 7, 2PM ET Green Games Showcase June 7, 4PM ET Xbox Games Showcase June 8, 1PM ET How to watch Summer Game Fest Live June 6, 5PM ET Watch on YouTube or Twitch Putting aside our annoyance at the timing of this showcase late on a Friday evening in the UK and right when many folks on the East Coast are clocking out for the weekend Summer Game Fest Live is one of the bigger events in early June. It starts at 5PM ET and will run for two hours. Organizers are promising spectacular new video game announcements, surprises and reveals. That's pretty compelling, especially since host Geoff Keighley (rightfully) downplayed expectations ahead of last year's show. We do know about a few games that will appear. SGF Live will include a fresh look at Wuchang: Fallen Feathers, a Soulslike action RPG from Leenzee, a studio based in China. That game will arrive in July. Open-world MMORPG Chrono Odyssey will make an appearance as well. Oh, and Hideo Kojima will be there , of course. SGF Live takes place just a couple of weeks before Kojima's Death Stranding 2: On the Beach arrives, so we'll likely get another peek at that game. Perhaps some of the other projects Kojima's working on will get some time in the limelight too. You can watch SGF Live on more than 20 platforms, including YouTube, Twitch, X, TikTok, Steam and international services. The event will stream live from the YouTube Theater, and you can attend in person , if you like. In any case, we'll be bringing you all the major news from Summer Game Fest Live. We just can't promise we won't have an adult beverage with an umbrella next to us while we're covering the event. How to watch Day of the Devs June 6, 7PM ET Watch on YouTube (the same stream as SGF Live above) or Twitch Immediately after SGF Live ends, the YouTube and Twitch streams will segue into the summer 2025 Day of the Devs stream. This indie-focused showcase invariably has a fantastic lineup of games worth keeping an eye on. Among the games making appearances are Possessor(s) from Heart Machine and nightmarish RPG Neverway from Coldblood and co-publisher Outersloth . We'll also see something from House House ( Untitled Goose Game ) presumably the co-op walker-talker Big Walk that was revealed in 2023. In all, this edition of Day of the Devs will feature 20 games. Last year's show included 2024 game(s) of the year contender UFO 50 , the very intriguing platformer Screenbound , survival climbing game Cairn , the delightfully kooky-looking Building Relationships and sci-fi mystery Phoenix Springs . My Steam wishlist somehow expands quite significantly after each Day of the Devs showcase. Weird how that always happens. How to watch Wholesome Direct June 7, 12PM ET Watch on YouTube or Twitch Definitely don't overlook the smaller events that take place during SGF, as you can always find plenty of treats among them. One such event is the Wholesome Direct, which will feature around 60 cozy games. It will include world premieres, demo announcements and updates from publishers and developers including Playstack, btf Games, ustwo games and Wt Workshop (whose Tales of the Shire: A The Lord of The Rings Game arrives in July). How to watch Women-led Games Showcase June 7, 1PM ET Watch on YouTube This one does what it says on the tin. It's a showcase featuring games from women-led and majority-women studios. Women-led Games will feature 39 titles, including world premieres and release dates. How to watch Latin American Games Showcase June 7, 2PM ET Watch on YouTube The Latin American Games Showcase will feature more than 50 games, all of which are from Latin American developers, oddly enough. Expect world premieres, game update news and more from this one. How to watch Green Games Showcase June 7, 4PM ET Watch on YouTube The Green Games Showcase is a new addition to the lineup for 2025. This will focus on the game's industry's growing commitment to the environment. It will feature games that make direct contributions to green initiatives. Other titles in the showcase center around sustainability, and some are designed to raise awareness or drive action regarding environmental causes. Amazon Games, Skybound Games and Team17 are among those taking part. The stream will include a Q&A about how games can inspire meaningful action on climate change. There will also be a fundraising drive to help plant 50,000 trees. How to watch Xbox Games Showcase June 8, 1PM ET Watch on YouTube or Twitch (there's a separate ASL stream on Twitch too) What's the over/under on the number of times the phrase day one with Game Pass will appear on this stream? That's one phrase you can definitely expect to hear, but Microsoft will have plenty to share here. It's the biggest Xbox showcase of the year. There will be reveals and updates from across Xbox Game Studios, Bethesda and Activision Blizzard. Games that the company has in the pipeline include Fable (2026), Perfect Dark, Gears of War: E-Day, Everwild, State of Decay 3, Clockwork Revolution, Hideo Kojima's OD and Contraband . It feels a little early for an update on The Elder Scrolls 6 since that game is still years away. But we may find out more about those other games and some we don't yet know about, such as whatever Double Fine and Toys for Bob are working on. I have my fingers crossed for more info on the Blade game that Arkane Studios is working on. It's a reasonably safe bet that we'll see something about the next Call of Duty here as well. There's always going to be space for offerings from Microsoft's partner studios and publishers too. Plus, you never know, we might get a peek at what Halo Studios has been cooking up. One game we'll definitely hear more about on June 8 is The Outer Worlds 2 . That's getting its own time in the spotlight, with a dedicated event that will start as soon as the main Xbox Games Showcase ends. Meanwhile, several publishers and other organizations are hosting their own shows around SGF. Here's when those will take place: Access-Ability Summer Showcase (featuring games made by disabled developers and the accessibility options in each title) June 6, 11AM ET, YouTube and Twitch IGN Live throughout June 7 and 8 Southeast Asian Games Showcase June 7, 3PM ET Future Games Show June 7, 4PM ET (featuring more than 40 games) PC Gamer 's PC Gaming Show June 8, 3PM ET (with 50-plus games) Phew. Get ready, gamers. Details on many, many new games are coming your way very soon. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/gaming/summer-game-fest-2025-what-to-expect-and-how-to-watch-games-revealed-live-000016769.html?src=rss
Weber Smoque review: A simplified smart grill thats still a workhorse
Simple devices can be a blessing or a curse. Sometimes companies streamline entry-level products to offer the best core features at a lower price. Other times they pair down the experience so much that it becomes a hindrance. With the Smoque (pronounced smoke), Weber wants to give prospective pellet grillers access to reliable performance and basic smart features for less money than its more versatile Searwood series. In the end, the company offers enough capabilities to appeal to beginners and expert backyard pitmasters alike, although the Smoque isnt as much of a value as it was a few months ago. Basic, functional design The Smoque may look like a smaller Searwood on the outside, but there are a few noteworthy differences. First, this model has a simplified controller that, like its predecessor, is only operated with a single knob. The smaller LCD panel is easily read from a distance, and it can show grill temperature, food probe temperature and timer info. The catch is the limited real estate can only display one of those stats at a time. This isnt a problem if youve got the Weber Connect app handy, but youll want to be mindful of which item you leave on the screen if youre planning to glance at the progress from across the deck. The company is actually hoping the limited onboard controls will encourage grillers to use the app on their phone more during the process. This isnt a far-fetched scenario since the Smoque is more for smoking and roasting than high-heat cooking, but Ill get to that in a bit. The other main difference between the Smoque and the Searwood is underneath the cooking grates inside. Weber replaced its trademark Flavorizer bars with a grease sheet thats typical in most pellet grills. The Searwood has one large bar stretching from side to side, while Webers gas grills and the SmokeFire have several of them going front to back. The company opted for vents instead of a solid sheet of metal, and their covers are basically mini Flavorizer bars. This means you still get the effect of infusing flavor back into foods when grease and juices hit the hot metal and sizzle, albeit on a smaller scale. And those vents facilitate better airflow around the cook chamber, which means efficient smoke circulation. Smart grilling features Billy Steele for Engadget Weber Connect, a trademark feature of Webers smart pellet grills, is available on the Smoque via Wi-Fi. Once your grill syncs with your home network, the mobile software can be used to monitor ambient and food temperatures from anywhere. This is handy if you run out of pellets before your brisket is done or when its time to hit the school carpool line. You can set timers, activate SmokeBoost mode, add a temperature alert and initiate the shutdown process from the app, too. For beginners, or for cooks just looking for inspiration, the Weber Connect app also provides a wealth of recipes. Those come with step-by-step instructions, and the software offers readiness alerts so you dont overcook those pricey cuts of meat. All of these software features have been a staple of Webers smart grilling lineup since the debut of the platform in 2020 . The company has greatly refined them in the years since, and Weber Connect is now just as handy and reliable as Traegers WiFire tech, which I previously considered the gold standard. Cooking with Smoque Speaking of reliability, the Smoque is a barbeque workhorse in the backyard. Weber promises preheat times of under 15 minutes on the grill, and that holds true. In fact, most of the time the Smoque will arrive at the desired temperature well before that. Every time I use it, Im shocked by how quickly it preheats, recovers from the lid being open and adjusts to a higher temperature. This is all thanks to the Rapid React tech in the controller, an upgrade that first appeared on the Searwood. During cooking sessions, the Smoque held its temperature reliability, too. The Weber Connect app has graphs for the various temperatures, and the ambient grill temperature trajectory is almost always a straight line. Sure, youll see the dips any time you open the lid, but youll also see the sharp incline that indicates how quickly the grill returned to the set temperature. Like the Searwood, the SmokeBoost feature thats designed to add more smoky flavor to your food only works at 180 degrees Fahrenheit. This is lower than youd want to cook things like brisket or pork shoulders, so you have to plan additional cook time for the 1-2 hours at the lower setting. However, you dont really need to use it all. The Smoque imparts plenty of wood-fired flavor from the pellets at the appropriate cooking temperatures. Ribs, pork butts, wings and chicken kabobs all had ample smokiness during my tests even though the latter two items cooked at higher temperatures without using SmokeBoost first. A useful feature youll need to decide if you can live without on the Smoque is manual mode. Weber introduced this on the Searwood and the tool allows you to cook with the lid open for things like direct-flame searing and flat-top griddling. It makes that pellet grill more versatile, undoubtedly, but were talking about a more affordable, more streamlined model with the Smoque. As a result, thats not available here. The competition Both Weber and Trager have taken an interesting approach to their new smart grills in 2025. The companies have built options that are more affordable than previous devices, and the cheapest models from both of them start at $800. The Smoque was initially announced at $699, and Traeger now lists the Woodridge for $900 when its not on sale ( it currently is ). Given the current global economic predicament, its no surprise both companies have raised their prices since their January announcements. Traegers Woodridge also excels at the basics and will help you churn out some deliciously smoked meats. However, the temperature fluctuates during cooking on that grill, so I give a slight edge to Weber in a head-to-head matchup for its rock-solid consistency. And given the fact that the Smoque is now $100 cheaper at full price, those savings could go towards additional accessories. Wrap-up With the Smoque, Weber proves that a basic grill doesnt have to offer a subpar experience. This model offers reliable smoking and roasting performance with smart features in the companys app for less than its more robust Searwood model. The Smoque is even available in two sizes, so theres an option if you need more than the 594 square inches of cooking space on the unit I tested. Weber really hit its stride with pellet grills last year with the Searwood, and Smoque is proof the company has more compelling ideas in the hopper. Thankfully, this one saves you some money without sacrificing any of the culinary results. Weber says the 22-inch Smoque is headed to retailers now and will be available on its website in early June for $799. The larger, 36-inch model is coming mid-summer for $999. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/home/kitchen-tech/weber-smoque-review-a-simplified-smart-grill-thats-still-a-workhorse-160023349.html?src=rss
Satechi launches four new Find My accessories just in time for summer
Today, Satechi expands its FindAll collection with four new travel accessories just in time for summer. The latest additions from the San Diego-based brand include The post Satechi launches four new Find My accessories just in time for summer appeared first on BGR .
Get the M4 Mac mini we love for just $500 today
Macworld The M4 Mac mini is already an incredible value, but were still always on the lookout for a great deal. Today, you can get the M4 Mac Mini for an amazing $500 , a savings of $99, and one of the best prices weve ever seen for this model, which comes with 16GB memory and 256GB of storage space, which is the entry-level version for this latest model. The tiny M4 Mac mini will look great on just about any desk thanks to its minimalist design. But dont be fooledthe M4 Mac Mini will handle any task with incredible speed thanks to its powerful M4 chip, making it ideal for everything from browsing to media streaming, from your daily workload to Netflix binging. With 16GB of memory, itll be blazing fast, and the 256GB of storage should be enough for most projects. And of you need more space, you can use one of the Thunderbolt 4 ports to hook up a speedy drive. So get the M4 Mac Mini for $500 at Amazon while this deal still stands, because discounts this low dont stay too long. Get a Mac Mini for a mini price Buy now at Amazon
WWDC 2025: What we expect Apple to reveal including new iOS, macOS, Apple Intelligence and more
Apple 's big 2025 software reveal is nearly upon us . On June 9, the Worldwide Developers' Conference (WWDC) keynote will showcase the changes coming with its 2025 software. That includes deep breath iOS 19, iPadOS 19, macOS 16, watchOS 12, tvOS 19 and visionOS 3. Leaks suggest this year will be a biggie. In addition to the requisite Craig Federighi gags, expect a significant visual overhaul one of Apple's biggest ever and (shocker) new Apple Intelligence features. Visual redesign The company is reportedly set to unveil a platform-wide visual overhaul . The revamp is said to be a dramatic change, drawing inspiration from Apple's mixed reality headset . Apple According to Front Page Tech's Jon Prosser, that may even include (nearly) round icons on the home screen and in Control Center. He also noted subtler changes, like a redesigned tab view within apps and the search box in Messages being moved to the bottom of the screen. One of Apple's core goals with the new software is to unify the design language of its operating systems. The idea is to make it less visually jarring to hop between devices. If executed well, jumping from iPhone to iPad to Mac (and so on) will feel like touring different flavors of the same OS. Apple's last big macOS makeover was with 2020's Big Sur . For the iPhone's software, you have to go all the way back to 2013. That's when iOS 7 kicked skeuomorphic design to the curb, replacing it with a flat, minimalistic look. Minus some iterative changes, it's still the UI you see today. The iPad goes to work Nathan Ingraham for Engadget Could 2025 be the year the iPad Pro starts to feel Pro? The high-end versions of Apple's tablet have been more than capable on a hardware level for generations. (Especially when they switched to M-series chips .) But the software has held it back. That's presumably because the company doesn't want to cannibalize Mac sales. After all, if the iPad Pro can truly replace a laptop, then fewer people would buy both. The bad news for those wanting a full-on Mac experience: The iPad won't switch to macOS. The good news: iPadOS may get much more Mac-like . This year's update will reportedly focus on productivity, featuring improved multitasking and app window management. It's not that Apple hasn't inched the iPad's software in that direction. It incrementally did so with Stage Manager in iPadOS 16. The year before, it added the multitasking menu at the top of app windows. But for many, those tweaks fell far short of the full-on productivity overhaul they craved. Will it be enough this time? Bloomberg 's Mark Gurman thinks it will likely go far enough for most power users. (Is that a Hallelujah! I hear?) Apple Intelligence Apple Even if leaks hadn't already suggested as much, this one would be a no-brainer. After all, AI has been every tech company's obsession since ChatGPT took the world by storm over two years ago. Expect a healthy portion of the keynote to be devoted to Apple's AI advances. These will reportedly include improvements to existing features and a few new ones. Siri Remember when Apple promised a more personalized Siri at last year's conference? The one that many wished would come ahead of the visual overhaul ? Well, we're still waiting on that. The last official update we heard was in March, when the company told Daring Fireball , It's going to take us longer than we thought. (Oops!) Apple expects the new Siri features to arrive in the coming year, a clear-as-mud description if ever there was one. A report from The Information last month hinted that the upgraded Siri was nowhere near ready. The 2024 demo, where Siri condensed minutes of multi-app planning into mere seconds, reportedly came as a surprise to team members working on Siri. (Never an encouraging sign.) Apple Separate reporting this month from Bloomberg sheds a bit more light, adding that we probably won't hear much about those Siri upgrades at WWDC 2025. The publication described those updates as being months away from shipping. The company is also reportedly separating its Apple Intelligence and Siri marketing. The logic behind this is that users are so fed up with Apple's assistant that it's hurting Apple's AI push. The company's 2024 presentation was undoubtedly impressive. It showed a more context-sensitive Siri that better understands what you're doing. It pulled info from various apps and spliced them together in a seamless flow. It recorded a specific type of video in a third-party app. It shared a meeting summary via email with a teammate. And it found missing information the user remembered reading... somewhere . It even controlled system settings and explained them when needed. The bottom line: If or when Apple pulls off what it promised last year, that's big news for Siri. But don't hold your breath for it to show up at WWDC 2025. According to Bloomberg , the Siri updates we do see will be much subtler. These would include adding the option to use Gemini instead of ChatGPT with the assistant. AI battery management Apple Another iOS 19 scoop points to an Apple Intelligence feature that's easy to get behind. A new AI-powered battery management mode will reportedly analyze how you use your phone. It can then use that to make power-saving adjustments on the fly. If it works well, that could be pretty nifty. It may also be a key ingredient to a new device: the iPhone Air. Whatever Apple calls it, the rumored ultra-slim handset is expected to join Apple's lineup this year. Without this feature, the phone's smaller battery might struggle to make it through a typical day. (According to Gurman, it would last several hours less than Apple's other iPhones.) But with the AI battery feature activated, the svelte iPhone could become more practical. Will we see this slim-jim iPhone at WWDC? Well, let's say you have as good a chance of Valve randomly showing up to announce Half Life 3 at Apple's conference. First, the svelte handset is expected to be part of the iPhone 17 lineup , which typically arrives around September. Second, Apple hasn't unveiled a new iPhone at WWDC since Steve Jobs showed off the iPhone 4 in 2010. So, in short, nope. Virtual health coach Apple Apple is reportedly working on a virtual health coach . Allegedly codenamed Project Mulberry, the AI feature would pair a refreshed Health app with an AI-powered coach. Bloomberg says the feature would, to some degree, give you advice you'd usually seek from a doctor. The virtual coach would collect data from your Apple devices and use AI to provide personalized health advice, chatbot-style. Apple is reportedly training the AI agent with data from company physicians. Meanwhile, outside experts would shoot educational videos. In March, Bloomberg 's Gurman said the virtual coach could arrive as early as iOS 19.4, which wouldn't likely come until early to mid-2026. But a quick aside in a report this month from Gurman and Drake Bennett mentioned that it could be a point of focus at WWDC. A new gaming app Bloomberg 's Mark Gurman is predicting that Apple will introduce a centralized, pre-installed app for gaming on the Mac, iPad, iPhone and Apple TV . It'll include some of the features in the long-neglected Game Center service like leaderboards and matchmaking and pair them with a dedicated game launcher and editorial content including recommendations including a push towards the Apple Arcade service. Hair Force One Apple It wouldn't be an Apple keynote without some wacky Craig Federighi hijinks. Last year, Apple's software lead strapped on a hair-shaped helmet and skydived into Apple Park. At previous events, he showed off his parkour skills, summoned an iPad like he's a Jedi and jammed out on a three-necked guitar . Say what you will about Hair Force One. Federighi knows how to sell a sight gag. (With maybe just a teensy bit of help from Apple's visual effects artists.) Betas and release dates Following Apple's typical schedule, you can expect the first developer betas to arrive after the conference ends. (Likely the same day!) Public betas would follow early this summer. And you can expect the final versions of iOS 19, iPadOS 19, macOS 16 and so on to arrive alongside new iPhones this fall. What not to expect at WWDC While Apple's developer conference will be jam-packed if they serve up even a fraction of the expectations above, there are a few things we can pretty confidently take off the board, too. With the possible exception of the Mac Pro, nearly all of Apple's hardware lines have either just finished an upgrade cycle (consumer Macs, most iPads) or are going to get updated in the fall as usual (iPhone, Apple Watch). As such, we're not expecting any major hardware announcements. Apple has talked about the Mac Pro at past WWDC events, but that computer is updated so infrequently that it's hard to say with any confidence that we'll see any changes. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/mobile/smartphones/what-to-expect-at-wwdc-2025-a-new-look-apple-intelligence-and-more-210051144.html?src=rss
Elon Musk's xAI is paying Telegram $300 million to adopt Grok
Elon Musk 's xAI is paying the messaging platform Telegram a cool $300 million to introduce the chatbot Grok to its users . The terms of the deal are extremely favorable to Telegram, as the $300 million only covers a single year and xAI will evenly split any subscription sales to Grok Premium and Premium+ with the messaging platform. Telegram will be paid in both cash and equity. Telegram and xAI have agreed to a 1-year partnership to distribute Grok to Telegrams billion+ users and integrate it into its apps. Telegram will receive $300M in cash and equity from xAI, plus 50% of revenue from xAI subscriptions sold via Telegram. Together, we win! pic.twitter.com/JxTNQr4MTy Pavel Durov (@durov) May 28, 2025 This will introduce Grok to gobs of new people, as Telegram boasts over one billion monthly users. X, on the other hand, handles half that amount . X leverages public posts from users to train Grok, though not in the EU , and it remains to be seen if the deal includes language to do the same thing with Telegram. The platform includes a feature called Channels that's sort of like a social media network, which could house data that's ripe for the picking. Engadget reached out to Telegram to ask about Grok and training data and will update this post if we hear back. Both companies have remained mum on this question to other publications, like Reuters . It's worth noting that AI companies are running out of easily accessible data troves . This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/ai/elon-musks-xai-is-paying-telegram-300-million-to-adopt-grok-154232007.html?src=rss
Anker has extended its SOLIX Memorial Day pricing as flash offers running through May 29, continuing the new low prices on its F3800 Plus power station and bundles , as well as the best direct post-launch pricing on its EverFrost 2 58L electric cooler . Were also seeing plenty of solid deals on its smaller backup power solutions, like the F2000 Portable Power Station deals that start from $1,199 shipped for the standalone unit. Normally priced at $1,999 in full, you can save $800 off that rate while these savings last. While we did see it go as low as $999 back during Black Friday sales, this is still a sold 40% markdown off the going rate, matching its Christmas pricing at the third-lowest price we have tracked and also matching in price at Amazon. more
Over at Amazon, youll find a bunch of HORIs officially licensed Nintendo Switch 2 accessories seeing deep discounts. All these items are up for pre-order right now, so youre looking at huge discounts of up to 43% on gear thats yet to even hit the shelves. Everything from HORIs Switch 2 screen protector and carrying case are now up for grabs, and the prices for these start at just $10. All these accessories are officially licensed by Nintendo, meaning theyll work with the console without any issues. Hit the jump for more details. more
Apple just launched a new Logic Pro feature that records even if you forget
Macworld On Tuesday, Apple announced several new features for Logic Pro, the companys digital audio workstation app for the Mac and iPad. The features are included in Logic Pro 11.2 for Mac and Logic Pro 2.2 for iPad, both of which are now available and free to existing users of the software. The new features include: Flashback Capture : If the producer forgot to hit record for a performance, Flashback Capture can be used to recover it using a key command or custom control bar button. Stem Splitter updates : Stem Splitter allows for the isolation of individual parts of a song and has been updated to support guitar and piano. Common stem variations (for example, a capella, instrumental, or instrumental with vocals) can be selected using presets. The new submix feature allows for the export of just the parts of audio a producer wants. New Sound Packs : The new Dancefloor Rush sound pack for Mac and iPad features drum-and-bass sounds. On the Mac, Logic Pro has two more new sound packs: Magnetic Imperfections, which captures the raw, unpolished essence of analog tape; and Tosin Abasi, which showcases progressive metal guitar with boutique amps, unique effects, distinctive picking techniques, and the artists signature riffs. Learn MIDI in iPad version : This feature comes to the iPad, which allows users to control MIDI devices. Notepad with Writing Tools in Mac version : The Writing Tools Apple Intelligence features help with producers in the creative process. Search and select in Mac version : This makes it easy to find and choose tracks by name of track number. Logic Pro for Mac is $199.99 (one-time fee) for new users and is available in the Mac App Store . Logic Pro for iPad is $4.99 per month or $49 per year and is available in the App Store .
Pokmon Legends: Z-A arrives October 16
Pokmon Legends: Z-A , the follow-up to 2022s Pokmon Legends: Arceus , now has a release date of October 16. Along with the release date announcement, The Pokmon Company also confirmed that a new Pokmon Presents presentation will broadcast on July 22. Presumably we'll see more of the monsters were going to be catching and battling with in Lumiose City, including the Mega-Evolved Pokmon featured on the newly revealed box art. The last Pokmon Presents took place back in February and showcased the three starter pokmon in Z-A , as well as the new real-time combat system. Pokmon Legends: Z-A will launch on both the outgoing Nintendo Switch and its successor, with Pokmon Legends: Z-A Nintendo Switch 2 Edition featuring improved graphics and frame rates. Youll be able to upgrade to the Nintendo Switch 2 Edition by purchasing a $10 upgrade pack on the Nintendo eShop or My Nintendo Store. An October release date for Pokmon Legends: Z-A means its unlikely that well see Metroid Prime 4 in the same month, as Nintendo traditionally likes to spread out its first-party releases. Donkey Kong Bananza arrives on July 17, but beyond that we dont know a whole lot about what else Nintendo has planned for the remainder of the year. As reported by VGC , a new Nintendo Direct presentation could happen in June, where the company would likely fill in the blanks regarding its plans for whats left of 2025. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/gaming/nintendo/pokemon-legends-z-a-arrives-october-16-150835791.html?src=rss
Opera's new 'fully agentic' browser can surf the web for you
It was only earlier this year Norway's Opera released a new browser , and now it's adding yet another offering to an already crowded field. Opera is billing Neon as a fully agentic browser. It comes with an integrated AI that can chat with users and surf the web on their behalf. Compared to competing agents, the company says Neon is faster and more efficient at navigating the internet on its own due to the fact it parses webpages by analyzing their layout data. Building on Opera's recent preview of Browser Operator , Neon can also complete tasks for you, like filling out a form or doing some online shopping. The more you use Neon to write, the more it will learn your personal style and adapt to it. All of this happens locally, in order to ensure user data remains private. Additionally, Neon can make things for you, including websites, animations and even game prototypes, according to Opera. If you ask Neon to build something particularly complicated or time-consuming, it can continue the task even when you're offline. This part of the browsers feature set depends on a connection to Opera's servers in Europe where privacy laws are more robust than in North America. Opera Neon is the first step towards fundamentally re-imagining what a browser can be in the age of intelligent agents, the company says. If all of this sounds familiar, it's because other companies, including Google and OpenAI , have been working on similar products. In the case of Google, the search giant began previewing Project Mariner , an extension that adds a web-surfing agent to Chrome, last December. OpenAI, similarly, has been working on its own Operator mode since the start of the year. Neon, therefore, sees Opera attempting to position itself as an innovator in hopes of claiming market share, but the company has a difficult task ahead. According to data from StatCounter , only about 2.09 percent of internet users use Opera to access the web. Chrome, by contrast, commands a dominant 66.45 percent of the market. That's a hard hill to climb when your competitors are working on similar features. It's also worth asking if an agentic browser is something people really want. Opera suggests Neon is smart enough to book a trip for you. That sounds great in theory, but what if the agent makes an error and books the wrong connecting flight. A certain amount of friction ensures users pay attention and check things on their own. If you want to try Neon for yourself, you can join the wait list . This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/ai/operas-new-fully-agentic-browser-can-surf-the-web-for-you-145035874.html?src=rss
PlayStation's DualSense Edge wireless controller is cheaper than ever
Sony's latest Days of Play sale has just kicked off . It features deals aplenty on PlayStation 5 consoles, accessories and games, as well as PS Plus subscriptions. One of the more intriguing discounts is for the PS5 DualSense Edge. The premium controller has dropped by 15 percent from $200 to $169. That's the lowest price to date for the peripheral. The deal is available on Amazon and from Sony directly . The layout apes that of the regular DualSense controller, but there's a lot more going on with the Edge. For instance, there are function buttons below each thumbstick that allow you to swap between button configurations (which you can customize at any time in the PS5 settings). On the rear, there are switches that enable you to change the pull length of the shoulder triggers. There are also rear paddles, and you can choose between a set of levers or shorter half-domes. It's possible to swap out the thumbsticks as well and, because they attach to the controller magnetically, it's a cinch to do so. Other than the standard nubs, you can choose between short-stemmed convex and long-stemmed convex options. There's also a cable lock that prevents you from accidentally removing the USB-C charging cable by accident. You might want to keep that cable plugged in. One of the major downsides of the DualSense Edge is its battery life. In our testing , we got around five to six hours of use on a single charge, less than the six or seven we get with the standard DualSense. Last but not least, the DualSense Edge comes with a hardshell carrying case. There's even a passthrough flap through which you can thread a USB-C cable to charge the controller while it's cocooned in the case. There are, of course, lots of other intriguing discounts in the Days of Play sale, including one on the standard PS5 DualSense controller . That has dropped to $55, which is $20 off the list price. Follow @EngadgetDeals on X for the latest tech deals and buying advice . This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/deals/playstations-dualsense-edge-wireless-controller-is-cheaper-than-ever-143629820.html?src=rss
Merrell May Flash Sale takes up to 50% off summer essentials: Sneakers, boots, more
Merrells May Flash Sale takes up to 50% off summer essentials . Prices are as marked. Inside this sale you can score deals on best-selling hiking sneakers, boots, sandals, apparel, and more. Customers receive complimentary delivery on orders of $49 or more. One of our top picks from this sale is the mens Morphlite Trail Running Shoes that are currently marked down to $50 , which is 50% off the original rate. These shoes are available in ten color options and provide lightweight, versatile footwear. They feature a foam midsole for lasting comfort, a sticky rubber outsole for reliable traction, and a secure fit. Constructed with eco-friendly materials, including recycled mesh linings and laces, these vegan-friendly shoes offer a sustainable option for runners seeking performance and comfort. Find even more deals by heading below, or you can shop the entire sale here . more
Aventons extended Memorial Day savings take up to $400 off legacy e-bikes starting from $1,399
Aventon has extended its Memorial Day savings for a while longer, taking up to $400 off its legacy e-bikes in order to make room for its massive lineup of new smart e-bikes. Among the ongoing discounts, we wanted to focus on the previous flagship model, the Level 2 Commuter e-bike that is down at $1,599 shipped . This EV carries an $1,899 price tag when not benefitting from price cuts, which weve mostly seen being kept down at $1,699 and $1,599 during sales, though we have seen it as low as $1,299 in the past, which was last seen in a Best Buy one-day-sale back in March 2024. Grabbing this model while the savings lasts scores you $300 off the tag, giving you the third-lowest price we have tracked and also matching with its Black Friday and Christmas pricing. Head below for more on this e-bike and its counterparts seeing discounts. more
While our eagle-eyed deal hunters do catch some notable open-box deals at Nomad throughout the year here and there, the brand has now launched a wide-ranging sale . Over on this landing page youll find a sizable collection of the brands wonderful Apple Watch bands sport and leather as well as some of its MagSafe charging units, iPhone cases, and even some of the gear we rarely see on sale like its leather iPad and MacBook cases/sleeves. The deals start from $14 and youll find more details below. more
You can now fix your iPad at home
Macworld In November 2021, Apple announced that it was opening a new Self Service Repair store to allow customers who are comfortable with completing their own repairs access to Apple genuine parts and tools. What started with the iPhone 12 and 13 has expanded to dozens of products, including most Macs and the latest iPhone, the 16e. Now Apple has announced that you can fix your iPad at home too. Owners of the iPad Air (M2 and M3), iPad Pro (M4), iPad mini (A17 Pro), or iPad (A16) can diagnose and repair their tablet at home with official Apple parts, including displays, batteries, cameras, and the USB-C port. Users will be able to order parts and tools through Apples Self Service Repair Store . Other than a small number of people who want the satisfaction of the DIY repair, however, most users will still opt for a Genius Bar appointment . Prices arent available in the store yet, but theyre not likely to be cheap. For example, a display for the 14-inch M3 Pro/Max MacBook Pro, which requires a new Lid Angle Sensor to complete repair, costs $659.12, while a logic board is $1,847.12. Apple provides a small credit for returning the replacement part ($439.12 for the logic board, for example) and offers a $49 7-day toolkit rental. Plus, the process is decidedly difficult . In addition to the iPad, Apple has also expanded the Self Service Repair Program to Canada. If you are the type of person who likes to repair your own Apple kit you might like to read You can now diagnose iPhone and Mac problems without going to an Apple Store and if the iPad is beyond repair take a look at The best Apple deals: Huge savings on Macs, AirPods, iPhones, and more!
Its hard to beat this Timex Southview 41mm leather watch at just $42.50 (2025 low)
Timex Southview 41mm Tan/Blue Leather Strap Watch Buy for $42.50 (Reg. $55.50) What we love Youre looking at one of the more affordable models in Timexs watch lineup, which is now going for even less with todays deal. This one comes with a multi-function blue dial, and it also has a polished silver-tone case with a leather strap. Its case size clocks in at 41mm and this watch boasts a 30-meter water resistance rating. more
Apples Self Service Repair program now extends to iPad
Apple s increasingly comprehensive Self Service Repair program now includes iPad too. Starting tomorrow, owners of various models of Apples slate can easily acquire official parts, repair manuals, and tools that allow them to attempt their own repairs, should they feel confident enough. Apple Diagnostics troubleshooting sessions are also available. This web-based tool, launched in the US back in 2023, is able to directly test for a number of common issues that affect displays, software, audio, camera tech and Face ID, and offer a step-by-step repair process for the diagnosed problem. Previously, these diagnostic tests could only be carried out by Apple authorized service providers. For now, the supported iPad models are the iPad Air (M2 and later), iPad Pro (M4), iPad mini (A17 Pro) and the entry-level iPad (A16). Apple says it will offer components including displays, batteries, cameras and external charging ports to be used in repairs for out-of-warranty products. The Self Service Repair Program debuted in 2022 and Apple has been gradually bolstering the range of included product lines ever since. Parts for a number of iPhone and Mac models are already offered through the service, so iPad was the logical next step. As well as the Apple-endorsed Self Service Repair Store , Apple also recently launched its Genuine Parts Distributor Program , which essentially allows repair businesses and professionals without an existing service relationship with Apple to order parts and components through third-party distributors such as MobileSentrix. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/mobile/tablets/apples-self-service-repair-program-now-extends-to-ipad-134940418.html?src=rss
Todays best iOS app deals and freebies: Evoland 2, Fury Unleashed, Voodoo Detective, more
The big-time PlayStation Days of Play sale is now live with major discounts on PS5 consoles and games, but for now we are focused on your iOS devices and the App Store game and app deals. Joining todays mobile offers, we also spotted a gigantic $400 price drop on the 11-inch M4 iPad Pro alongside a new all-time low on Apples Midnight 24GB MacBook Air , some sweet deals on the M4/Pro MacBook Pro lineup, and ongoing M4 Mac mini discounts . All of those are right here and all of the best App Store deals are waiting below. more
Ankers regularly $100 Prime 150W 4-port USB-C wall charger is down to $60 today (40% off)
Courtesy of Ankers official Amazon storefront, you can now score the brands Prime 150W 4-port USB-C charger for $59.99 shipped. Regularly $100, todays deal knocks $40 off, giving it a significant 40% discount. This brings the charger down to one of the lowest prices weve tracked for it to date. Only once before today have we seen it go for less, and its now within $9 of that price. Youre looking at a limited Lightning deal thats going quickly, so be sure to grab it before it jumps back up to the $100 mark. Head below for more details. more
The official 2025 PlayStation Days of Play summer sale is now in full swing. Alongside the $120 in savings you can score on the PlayStation 5 Digital Edition and the Disc Edition Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 bundles, the $50 price drop on PlayStation 5 Pro, and the rare deals on DualSense Edge PlayStation pro controllers (White or Midnight) , there are loads of PS5 game deals on tap today. Amazon, Target, Walmart, and Best Buy have all launched PS5 game sales today with notable deals on the biggest PS5 releases in physical form: Astro Bot$50 (Reg. $60) Marvels Spider-Man 2 $40 (Reg. $70) Marvels Spider-Man: Miles Morales Ultimate $40 (Reg. $70) The Last of Us Part II Remastered $30 (Reg. $50) The Last of Us Part I $30 (Reg. $70) Helldivers 2 $30 (Reg. $40) MLB The Show 25$50 (Reg. $70) God of War Ragnark $30 (Reg. $70) Horizon Zero Dawn Remastered $30 (Reg. $50) Horizon Forbidden West Complete Edition $40 (Reg. $60) Horizon Forbidden West $30 (Reg. $50) Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart $30 (Reg. $70) Returnal$30 (Reg. $70) Demons Souls $30 (Reg. $70) A Quiet Place: The Road Ahead $20 (Reg. $30) Amazon Days of Play PlayStation 5 game sale from $20 Target Days of Play PlayStation 5 game sale from $20 Walmart Days of Play PlayStation 5 game sale from $10 Best Buy Days of Play PlayStation 5 game sale from $10 more
Spotify adds a 'Following' feed and 'In this episode' section for podcasts
Spotify is adding a trio of new features to its app that should make listening to and interacting with podcasts a little easier. First, the streaming service is putting a Following feed in the main Podcasts area on the Home screen. With this toggle, you can quickly see what's new from the shows you subscribe to. The company says the goal here is to eliminate the need to search for fresh content from podcasts you follow, and it pledges it will continue to explore new ways to make this space even better. And just below shortcuts on the Home screen, Spotify will start displaying podcast recommendations, complete with a note as to why the algorithm picked it for you. Next, Spotify plans to roll out an In this episode section for podcast pages. Here, you'll find links to other shows, songs, audiobooks, playlists and more than hosts mention or recommend. Creators will have the ability to link those items as they see fit, so you won't have to go looking for them later. Lastly, the company is giving podcast comments a slight refresh. Based on user feedback, Spotify is introducing threaded replies and emoji reactions for creators. This will all still be controlled via Spotify for Creators where they can also control if comments are available for their show or specific episodes. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/entertainment/streaming/spotify-adds-a-following-feed-and-in-this-episode-section-for-podcasts-130051850.html?src=rss
We just spotted a deal at Amazon that drops ASUS 2025 Vivobook 16 laptop to $599.99 shipped. This is a relatively new model that launched earlier this year featuring Qualcomms updated Snapdragon X Plus chip. It typically sells for around $750 on Amazon but has more recently been fetching $800, meaning youre looking at a solid $200 discount right now on its usual going rate. Its now going for $50 less than its previous low and our mention from earlier this month, and its currently $133 less than its 14-inch counterpart . Head below for more details. more
Amazon now offering up to $370 off M4/Pro MacBook Pro models, deals from $1,373
Pricing on the latest M4 MacBook Pro lineup has remained mostly stagnant over the last month or two, outside of a quick blast for a day earlier this month. But we are now starting to see Amazon listings dropping below what has become the standard deal pricing we have tracked over the last couple months. Lets start at the most affordable end of the lineup where youll find the 16GB/512GB M4 MacBook Pro now starting at $1,373.34 shipped, down from the regular $1,599 list price. more
The war on links escalates with Firefox's experimental AI previews
Mozilla's Firefox has joined Chrome , Edge and other browsers in offering AI-powered overviews, but this time with a twist. The latest version lets you use a keyboard shortcut to open a pop-up that previews a link's contents when you hover over it from any web page. It's a new way that AI is being integrated into browsers that may help users but hurt publishers. To try the new feature you need the latest Firefox release channel version 139.0. Within the settings under Firefox Labs, simply turn on Link Previews. After enabling, use the Alt+Shift keyboard shortcut when hovering over a link to see the previews in action, Mozilla writes. Once turned on, you can hover your mouse over a link on any webpage and a vertical window will pop up showing an image on top, the publisher's link and a quick summary. Below that are AI-generated key points that provide further information. Mozilla previously said that it uses the SmolLM2-360M language model from Hugging Face, on-device with Reader's View content to ensure privacy. Link Previews first came along last month in beta but is now widely available in some regions. Like Google's AI previews, it could risk harming publishers by reducing traffic (which is likely why neither of those features are available in France where I live). It's also not clear if Firefox is paying publishers to use their information in AI-powered summaries. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/ai/the-war-on-links-escalates-with-firefoxs-experimental-ai-previews-123059735.html?src=rss
Get one year of Peacock Premium for only $25
Another great streaming deal has hit the internet: one year of Peacock Premium is only $25 right now. Just use the code SPRINGSAVINGS at checkout to get $55 off the standard annual price of the Premium plan. Just note that this tier does include ads, and the deal runs through May 30. Peacock is a decent platform and made our list of the best streaming services . It doesn't get the attention of Netflix or Disney+, but it's home to several nifty original shows. There's the AI-adjacent tomfoolery of Mrs. Davis and the Rian Johnson-made whodunnit Poker Face . It also airs several video game adaptations, like Knuckles and the surprisingly-decent Twisted Metal . The big draw here, however, is likely the long-awaited spinoff of The Office , which is called The Paper . That one premieres in September and is a Peacock exclusive. The platform also signed an 11-year agreement with the NBA and that goes into effect this fall . The mobile app could be getting minigames and short-form vertical videos (like TikTok) in the near future. There's one caveat. This subscription will automatically renew for $80 after the year runs out. Stay on top of scheduling if you want to cancel before then. The Scranton documentary crew is heading to Toledo. #ThePaper arrives this September on Peacock. pic.twitter.com/Mzmbw7TBzF Peacock (@peacock) May 12, 2025 Check out our coverage of the best streaming deals for more discounts, and follow @EngadgetDeals on X for the latest tech deals and buying advice. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/deals/get-one-year-of-peacock-premium-for-only-25-163231081.html?src=rss
Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra now up to $250 off, or as much as $630 off with trade-in
After featuring some notable deals on the base model S25 yesterday , today we are touching down to highlight some notable deals on the top-of-the-line Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra . While there were some wild offers and some serious bundle discounts during the pre-order and launch phase, if youre looking to side-step the ongoing deals on the brand-new Samsung Galaxy S25 Edge , the Ultra offers are now live at up to $250 off via Amazon and 1TB models at $240 off via Samsung. The details await below. more
Dads can be just as hard to shop for as moms really, finding the perfect gift for any parent can be a struggle. But if youre shopping for a father whos into consumer tech, though, we can help. Below, weve consulted our many hours of gadget testing and put together a list of standout gift ideas, from VR headsets to pizza ovens to smartwatches to meat thermometers. And don't worry, there are budget-friendly options in here too that can help the dad who's always traveling, those who like to tinker with their own tech and others. Best gifts for dads in 2025 Check out the rest of our gift ideas here. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/best-gifts-for-dads-170014057.html?src=rss
SpaceX's ninth Starship test flight reaches space but fails to deploy fake satellites
The Starship super heavy-lift launch vehicle blasted off from SpaceX's Starbase in Texas for its ninth test flight on Tuesday, 7:37 PM Eastern time. It was the first Starship flight that reused a Super Heavy booster, which was also used for the vehicle's seventh test flight . During the vehicle's seventh and eighth flights, its second stage, or the Starship spacecraft itself, exploded during ascent. This time, the stage (also known as the Ship) completed its ascent burn and even reached space, but it was one victory in a test flight with mixed results. SpaceX's Starbase launch tower caught the Super Heavy booster after it flew back with its chopstick arms during the two previous flights. For this one, the company conducted tests with the booster it didn't do before, such as making it fly at a higher angle during its descent. Doing so increases the atmospheric drag on the booster, slowing it down as it descends so that it requires less propellant. As such, the company had decided to let the booster splash down into the ocean, as the testing would make it more difficult for the Starbase chopstick arms to catch it. SpaceX lost contact with the Super Heavy shortly after it started its landing burn, however, and it experienced a rapid unscheduled disassembly six minutes after launch. Meanwhile, the Ship stage was able to take on a suborbital trajectory and was supposed to deploy eight Starlink simulator satellites while it was in space. It was ultimately unable to deploy the simulator satellites, because its payload bay door got stuck and wouldn't open. The Ship also encountered an attitude control error that prevented it from getting into the position it needed to take for reentry. It started to tumble due to a leak that caused loss of main tank pressure, before SpaceX lost contact with it 46 minutes into the flight. While a controlled splashdown was impossible to achieve, the company still expects Ship's debris to fall within the planned hazard area in the Indian Ocean. SpaceX will not be getting all the data it was hoping to get from this flight, but Elon Musk said there's still a lot of good data to review. He also said that the company will be flying the Starship over the next three flights once every three to four weeks. Starships ninth flight test marked a major milestone for reuse with the first flight-proven Super Heavy booster launching from Starbase, and once more returned Starship to space https://t.co/Gufroc2kUz pic.twitter.com/RNJkj5OobP SpaceX (@SpaceX) May 28, 2025 This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/science/space/spacexs-ninth-starship-test-flight-reaches-space-but-fails-to-deploy-fake-satellites-120057474.html?src=rss
Amazon Prime Day 2025: Everything you need to know about the annual July sales event
This years Amazon Prime Day is coming soon, so its a good time to start thinking about the things youll want to look for once the deal wave hits. Everything from gadgets to clothes to household necessities will be on sale during the event as part of the Prime Day deals, and if youre a Prime member, youll have access to all of the discounts. Engadget will be surfacing all of the best tech deals we can find, but there are some important things to know ahead of time so you can get exactly what you want out of this years Prime Day. When is Prime Day 2025? Amazon Prime Day 2025 will be back this year sometime in July, but the official dates have not been released yet. What is Prime Day? Prime Day is Amazon's members-only shopping event, which means youll have to be a Prime subscriber on Prime Day to take advantage of most of the savings. Amazon still offers a 30-day free trial to new Prime subscribers, so you can start your free trial closer to July and participate in the event. How often is Prime Day? Amazon Prime Day typically comes around annually in July. In the last few years, Amazon has also had its Big Deal Days in October, which is effectively a second Prime Day and the unofficial kickoff to the holiday shopping season. How does Prime Day work? Prime subscribers can go to Amazon's site on Prime Day to see all of the exclusive deals they have access to. Prime subscribers do not have to do anything additional to get Prime Day sales: the discounts you see on product pages will show up in your cart automatically. If you're not a Prime subscriber and you go to Amazon to shop on Prime Day, you'll likely see tons of items on sale but only with Prime; those discounts will not be available to those who are not active Prime subscribers. If you dont pay for Prime and have no intention of doing so, you should still check out Amazon on Prime Day for sales that are available to all shoppers there are always a few of them. Plus, its very likely that other retailers like Target and Best Buy will have their own competing Prime Day sales during that time frame, too. How to prep for Prime Day First, make a list. Its best to go into Amazon Prime Day as prepared as possible; that means knowing exactly what you want so you stay focused and avoid distractions. Make note of the most important items you want to pick up on Prime Day ahead of time. You can either do this the old-fashioned way on a sticky note, or you can use Amazons wish list feature. For the latter, add the items you want to buy on Prime Day to your wish list (or, even better, make a dedicated wishlist with only your Prime Day desirables) and return to that list during the shopping event. Not only will you have everything you want all in one place, but youll also be able to see which of those items are cheaper on Prime Day than they were when you originally added them to your list. Second, use a price tracker. Sites like CamelCamelCamel and Keepa let you monitor the price of specific items on Amazon. You can check out price history charts and you can make your own price-drop alerts, receiving emails when something you want gets a discount. Both CamelCamelCamel and Keepa also have some browser extensions you can download so you dont have to navigate away from an Amazon product page to check its price history. Amazon Prime Day deals Amazon Prime Day typically lasts a couple of days, but for the past few years, the company has started pushing out deals well before the event actually kicks off. We anticipate the same happening this year, with early Prime Day deals kicking off possibly as soon as Amazon officially announces the dates of Prime Day 2025. While we wouldn't call the following sales early Prime Day deals just yet, they do represent some of the best deals you can get on Amazon right now as we wait for the full details of Prime Day to be revealed. We'll update this list as prices change and as we find even more of the best Amazon deals you can get. Follow @EngadgetDeals on X for the latest tech deals and buying advice . This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/deals/amazon-prime-day-2025-everything-you-need-to-know-about-the-annual-july-sales-event-120028400.html?src=rss
The official Sharge storefront on Amazon is offering Prime members its Disk Plus SSD enclosure for $29.90 shipped. This is originally a $70 enclosure that hit the scene in November last year, and it has lately been sitting at the $60 mark. Todays Prime-exclusive deal delivers a 50% markdown, shaving $30 off to match the lowest price weve seen so far. Its available in black and white colors, and theyre both down to $30 low today. Head below for more details. more
I took a trip back to iOS 6 to prepare for WWDC. Heres what I learned
Macworld Were just weeks from the next WWDC, where Apple will announce the next version of iOS . According to rumors, iOS 19 will be the biggest change since iOS 7 in terms of design, this time featuring a new interface reportedly inspired by visionOS . I still remember the feeling of using iOS 7 for the first time on my iPhone 5, and it was like I was using a completely different phone. There was a lot to like and dislike, and even after all these years, I still miss aspects of iOS 6. With that in mind, I decided to revisit iOS 6 to see how much had changed from one version to the nextand what we can learn about the next dramatic shift. Back to iOS 6: A different world iOS 6 was announced in 2011, and although it wasnt a huge update compared to the one that would follow, it was still quite controversial at the time. Most notably, Apple replaced Google Maps with its own Maps app with iOS 6, which brought significant interface changes, along with missing features and some major issues with locations. Of course, iOS 6 is no longer supported by Apple, and theres no official way to run it on iPhones and iPads. However, if you still have an old device that was once compatible with iOS 6, you can downgrade your iPhone or iPad (although there are many things that no longer work on this version, including the aforementioned Maps). iOS 6 was a simpler timewith slide to unlock. Foundry With that in mind, my journey revisiting iOS 6 started with seeing the old Apple logo with a reflection effect on boot, followed by the old Setup screen. That alone brought back a lot of good memories. Its hard to forget the linen-inspired background that was present in Setup, Notification Center, and even Siri. While iOS 7 and the versions that came after focused on making everything overly minimalist and modern, the old iOS interface was much more detailed with faux textures that resembled real-life objects (known as skeuomorphism): leather, wood, linen, etc. Of course, the Lock Screen had no widgets or animated wallpapers, and Face ID wasnt a thing. Instead, users had to Slide to Unlock, a fun way to make first-time iPhone users familiar with multi-touch gestures. There was also a sound effect of a padlock being unlocked. But the most remarkable feature of iOS 6 is the first thing you see when you unlock your iPhone: the Home Screen. The 3D design of the icons pops out of the screen when you see them on a device with a Retina display. This, combined with the bolder text, gives the impression that youre looking at a printed page rather than pixels on a screen. Even the wallpapers, especially the water droplets, were visually enticing. The icons had much more personality, too. The Camera app icon resembled the rear sensor of the first iPhone rather than a generic camera, while apps like Passbook (former Wallet) and Contacts had a nice leather texture. This personality was also carried into each apps interface as well. The Notes app looked like a real-life notepad with yellow paper pages, and theres a nice subtle detail at the top to simulate torn pages. Special attention was also paid to the systems animations. If you created a new note, you would see an animation as if you had turned a page on a real-life notebook. iOS 6s skeuomorphism was a nod to the real-world devices it was mimicking. Foundry In Passbook, there was an impressive animation for deleting tickets, which simulated paper being shredded. Voice Memos also looked cool on iOS 6, with the large metal microphone and a VU meter that reacts when you speak or tap the microphone. The volume indicator shines as you move the iPhone in your hand. And then theres Siri. This was my favorite version of the Siri interface, mostly because of its shiny microphone button with the glowing purple light that pulsed as you spoke. It felt so futuristic yet real, like you were actually interacting with a physical object. iOS 6 was the culmination of five years of Apple interface design and everything felt more fun and alive. iOS 7 arrived in 2013, marking the first major iOS redesign. Skeuomorphism gave way to a simpler interface with solid backgrounds and no textures. Stylized buttons were replaced by text, and beautifully designed icons were replaced by flat shapes. iOS 7: Modern but dull It was a dramatic, even shocking change. On the one hand, iOS 7 looked a lot more modern than iOS 6. But on the other hand, fun interface elements also became more boring. In iOS 7, the Notes app was just a white screen where you write text, and the same applied to the vast majority of iPhone and iPad apps. We also lost many of the skeuomorphic animations that, while not necessary, were a nice touch and always brought a smile to my face every time I saw them. With the change, iOS lost its personality and character. iOS 7 removed much of a originality of iOS. Foundry Personally, I believe that iOS 7 marked the beginning of a new era for Apple. It set out a modern aesthetic that would be followed not only by Apple in its forthcoming products, but also by other companies. Can you imagine a product like the Apple Watch running something like iOS 6? But at the same time, the personality that iOS had faded over time as the interface became flatter and, well, duller. iOS 19: Lessons from the past Now that I have returned to iOS 18, its hard not to look at Apples current OS without thinking of the rumored redesign. Although its unclear whether the iOS 19 redesign will be as significant as iOS 7 was, seeing iOS 6 again made me realize that Apple can learn a few things from its past. iOS 6s skeuomorphic interface might not fit in with current standards, but Id love to see some aspects of skeuomorphism make a comeback on iOS. Things like the reflection effect that moves as you tilt your phone, and fun animations would definitely go a long way toward making iOS more fun and unique again. Siri has gone through numerous changes over the yearswill iOS 19 bring another one? Foundry Interestingly, Apple seems to be flirting with depth and realism again just look at macOS Big Sur icons or the translucent glass effects in visionOS. Bringing back more shadows and depth throughout the system wouldnt hurt, especially when it comes to icons. I love Mac app icons because they have a nice balance of modern and skeuomorphic. And please, Apple. Give us some cool wallpapers again. Could Apple surprise us by looking back to move forward? Back when Apple launched iOS 7, it was about pushing the iPhone into a modern era that would last for more than a decade. This years change is reportedly about consistency, and reports say the new design will extend to all devices , not just the iPhone. With that in mind, Apple has an opportunity to set a new path, not just iOS, but for all of its OSes, that fuses form with functionalityand a little fun.
Eves Siri-controlled HomeKit wireless Flare orb lamp returns to $70 Memorial Day price (30% off)
Update: The Memorial Day price has now returned on the Eves Siri-controlled HomeKit wireless Flare lamp. Details below in the original post. As part of its Memorial Day sale , Amazon has once again dropped the Siri-controlled Eve Flare portable lamp down to $69.95 shipped. This wireless HomeKit light carries a regular $100 list price and is now seeing a solid 30% price drop to deliver the lowest price we can find. more
As part of its now-live 2025 Days of Play sale and joining the discounted PlayStation 5 Pro at $649 low, Amazon is offering Sonys PULSE Explore Wireless earbuds for $169 shipped . This rare deal knocks $31 off the regular $200 price, marking the lowest price weve seen for this PlayStation accessory since its launch. This is the first time the new Midnight Black variant has dropped to this price, so be sure to snag it after you get more details below. more
Macworld WhatsApp came to the iPhone App Store about six months before the iPad was released. And yet, despite having versions available for iPhone, Android, Mac, Windows, and the web, the worlds most popular messaging platform has never had an app for the worlds most popular tablet. That all changed on May 27, 2025, when Meta finally released WhatsApp for iPad. Now you can simply head to the App Store on your iPad, download WhatsApp, and log in. All your past messages will be in sync. How to download and set up WhatsApp on iPad Here are the stops to follow to install WhatsApp and get the messaging service set up on your iPad. 1. Download Whatsapp Messenger from the App Store Click Get and wait for WhatsApp to download. Foundry On your iPad visit the App Store and search for WhatsApp, or use this link to go directly to WhatsApp Messenger. Click on Get, authorise and wait for the app to download. 2. Login to WhatsApp Youll need your iPhone or other WhatsApp device to set it up on iPad. Foundry Click Continue to enter the app and start set up. A QR code will display on your iPad. You need to use a device (we assume an iPhone) thats already linked to your WhatsApp account to scan that QR code. Dont just open your camera and scan the QR code. That wont lead you anywhere. You need to open WhatsApp on your iPhone. In WhatsApp on your iPhone tap on Settings (bottom right). Tap on Linked Devices. Tap Linked device. Now hold the iPhone over the iPad displaying the AR Code and wait for the two devices to log into WhatsApp. 3. Use WhatsApp on your iPad WhatsApp will download to your iPad. Foundry Eventually all your WhatsApp history will be available on your iPad. Now you can send and receive WhatsApp messages on your iPad as well as your iPhone. WhatsApp on iPad price WhatsApp Messenger for iPad is a free app. WhatsApp on iPad features WhatsApp on iPad supports video chat with up to 32 participants, can use the front and rear camera, and supports Magic Keyboard and Apple Pencil. It also supports standard iPad multitasking features like Split View, Slide Over, and Stage Manager. For more details about the May 2025 launch of the WhatsApp for iPad read WhatsApp is finally available for iPad (and we mean finally) WhatsApp on iPad size The app is 245.8MB. Just remember that any images inside your Whatsapp app will take up space on your iPad , so if you are short on space you may need to do some housekeeping before you start using it. Can you set up WhatsApp on iPad without a phone number? No doubt many will be wondering if now WhatsApp is on iPad it means that kids can use WhatsApp on their iPads to communicate with friends, even if they dont have a phone number. Unfortunately, for now the answer is no. To set up WhatsApp on iPad you must have a second device running WhatsApp that is attached to your WhatsApp account, and that WhatsApp account can only work with a dedicated phone number. There are workarounds that can enable you to set up WhatsApp without a phone number, these involve using a landline number (as long as it can receive SMS) or a virtual phone number, but these dont always work. Other versions of WhatsApp There is also a WhatsApp Desktop version if you want to use WhatsApp on your Mac. See: How to get WhatsApp on Mac for more information about that. This article used to have news about the WhatsApp for iPad closed beta and how to log in to WhatsApp on the web , but that is all now moot.
While yesterdays big-time deal on the Sky Blue model has now sold out, Amazon just knocked the Midnight 24GB 13-inch M4 MacBook Air down to its best price ever. Youll now find this upgraded configuration on sale for $1,216.87 shipped , down from the regular $1,399 to deliver a new Amazon all-time low. more
The Switch 2 May Signal the End of Physical Games
Nintendos game-key cards may end up being physical gaming medias last gaspeven though they dont have a game on them at all.
Whoa! Massive $400 price drop hits 2TB 11-inch M4 iPad Pro at Amazon, base model now $170 off
We just spotted some of the best prices ever on brand-new condition. First up, we are talking about the most affordable model in a lineup of what is arguably the best tablets on the planet too. Amazon is now offering the Space Black 11-inch M4 iPad Pro down at $828.01 shipped this undercuts our previous mention by just under $40 to deliver the best new price we can find online. Head below for more details, including a massive $400 price drop on a brand-new 2TB M4 iPad Pro . more
The annual PlayStation summer sale is now, and its a big one. Officially known as Days of Play, Sony typically runs a major sale event on PlayStation hardware and games at this time of year and everything is now live. This includes thousands of digital games, the $120 in savings on PlayStation 5 Slim Digital Edition and the Disc Edition with a FREE copy of Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 , a $50 discount on PlayStation 5 Pro, the PlayStation DualSense Edge Wireless Controller , and more. Details on all of the best Days of Play 2025 deals are now ready and waiting down below. more
PlayStation 5 Pro console hits best price ever at $50 off in the 2025 Days of Play sale
As part of the 2025 Days of Play sale , we are now tracking the first chance to save on the PlayStation 5 Pro console. Joining the $120 in savings you can now score on the PlayStation 5 Digital Edition and the Disc Edition , both with an included copy of Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 , the $50 price drop on PlayStation 5 Pro is now live at Amazon , Target , Walmart , and elsewhere. more
The best wireless earbuds for 2025
Finding the best wireless earbuds can make a huge difference in your day-to-day life, whether youre commuting, working out, traveling or just zoning out with your favorite playlist. Todays earbuds arent just about cutting the cord theyre smarter, more comfortable and packed with features like active noise cancellation, customizable sound profiles and even spatial audio support. With so many options out there, theres truly a pair of wireless earbuds for everyone. Whether you want something that's perfect for running, built for all-day wear at the office or tuned for serious audiophiles, the choices have never been better. Some models prioritize battery life, others deliver premium sound quality and a few somehow manage to do it all without blowing your budget. No matter what youre looking for, were here to help you find the right set of wireless earbuds to match your lifestyle. Table of contents Best wireless earbuds of 2025 What to look for in the best wireless earbuds How we test wireless earbuds Other wireless earbuds we tested Wireless earbuds FAQs Best wireless earbuds of 2025 What to look for in the best wireless earbuds When it comes to shopping for earphones, the first thing to consider is design or wear style. Do you prefer a semi-open fit like AirPods or do you want something that completely closes off your ears? If youre shopping for earbuds with active noise cancellation, you'll want the latter, but a case can be made for the former if you want to wear them all day or frequent places where you need to be tuned in to the ambient sounds. The overall shape of earbuds can determine whether you get a comfortable fit, so can the size and weight, so youll want to consider all that before deciding. And remember: audio companies arent perfect, so despite lots of research, the earbud shape they decided on may not fit you well. Dont be afraid to return ill-fitting earbuds for something thats more comfortable. As wireless earbuds have become the norm, theyre now more reliable for basic things like consistent Bluetooth connectivity. Companies are still in a race to pack as much as they can into increasingly smaller designs. This typically means a longer list of features on the more premium sets of earbuds with basic functionality on the cheapest models. Carefully consider what you cant live without when selecting your next earbuds, and make sure key items like automatic pausing and multipoint connectivity are on the spec sheet. Youll also want to investigate the volume and touch controls as youll often have to sacrifice access to something else to make that adjustment via on-board taps or swipes. Some earbuds even offer app settings to tweak the audio profiles or firmware updates to improve performance over time. For those in the Apple ecosystem, features like auto-pairing with devices, especially with AirPods Pro 2, can be an added advantage, while Android users may want to look for models that offer similar cross-device functionality. When it comes to battery life, the average set of earbuds lasts about five hours on a single charge. You can find sets that last longer, but this is likely enough to get you through a work day if youre docking the buds during lunch or the occasional meeting. Youll want to check on how many extra charges are available via the case and if it supports wireless charging. Companies will also make lofty claims about call quality on wireless earbuds. Despite lots of promises, the reality is most earbuds still leave you sounding like youre on speakerphone. There are some sets that deliver, but dont get your hopes up unless reviews confirm the claims. Sound can be subjective, so we recommend trying before you buy if at all possible. This is especially true if you're an audiophile. We understand this isnt easy when most of us do a lot of shopping online, but trying on a set of earbuds and listening to them for a few minutes can save you from an expensive case of buyer's remorse. If a store doesnt allow a quick demo, most retailers have return policies that will let you take earbuds back you dont like. Of course, you have to be willing to temporarily part with funds in order to do this. We also recommend paying attention to things like Spatial Audio , Dolby Atmos, 360 Reality Audio and other immersive formats. Not all earbuds support them, so youll want to make sure a perspective pair does if that sort of thing excites you, especially if you plan to use them for playback of high-quality audio. How we test wireless Bluetooth earbuds The primary way we test earbuds is to wear them as much as possible. We prefer to do this over a one- to two-week period, but sometimes embargoes dont allow it. During this time, we listen to a mix of music and podcasts, while also using the earbuds to take both voice and video calls. Since battery life for earbuds is typically less than a full day, we drain the battery with looping music and the volume set at a comfortable level (usually around 75 percent). To judge audio quality, we listen to a range of genres, noting any differences in the sound profile across the styles. We also test at both low and high volumes to check for consistency in the tuning. To assess call quality, well record audio samples with the earbuds microphones as well as have third parties call us. When it comes to features, we do a thorough review of companion apps, testing each feature as we work through the software. Any holdovers from previous models are double checked for improvements or regression. If the earbuds were testing are an updated version of a previous model, well spend time getting reacquainted with the older buds. Ditto for the closest competition for each new set of earbuds that we review. Other wireless Bluetooth earbuds we tested Beats Powerbeats Pro 2 The newest version of the Powerbeats Pro have an improved, comfortable design, balanced bass and new H2 chips and a heart rate sensor inside. But heart rate support is currently limited on iOS, and there's a possibility those capabilities make it onto the next AirPods Pro models. Samsung Galaxy Buds 3 The Galaxy Buds 3 combine ANC with an open-type design, which renders the noise-blocking abilities of the earbuds mostly useless. Still, theres great low-end tone with ample bass when a track demands it. There are also lots of handy features, most of which require a Samsung phone. But at this price, there are better options from Google, Beats and Sony Sennheiser Momentum Sport I really like the overall shape of the Momentum Sport earbuds. Theyre more comfortable than the Momentum True Wireless 4 and fit in my ears better. Whats more, the body temperature and heart rate sensors work well, sending those stats to a variety of apps. However, that sport-tracking feature works best with Polars app and devices, so theres that consideration. Also, the audio quality and ANC performance isnt as good as the MTW4, and these earbuds are pricey. Beats Solo Buds Theres a lot to like about the Solo Buds for $80. For me, the primary perk is theyre very comfortable to wear for long periods of time thanks to some thoughtful design considerations. You only get the basics here in terms of features and, as expected, the overall sound quality isnt as good as the pricier models in the Beats lineup. You will get 18 hours of battery life though, since the company nixed the battery in the case and beefed up the listening time in the buds themselves. Bose Ultra Open Earbuds Bose created something very unique for this set of earbuds that allows you to stay in-tune with the world while listening to audio content. The clip-on design is very comfortable, but sound quality suffers due to the open-type fit, especially when it comes to bass and spatial audio. Audio-Technica ATH-TWX7 These stick buds have a compact design thats comfortable to wear and the warm sound profile is great at times. However, overall audio performance is inconsistent and theres no automatic pausing. Master & Dynamic MW09 Retooled audio, better ambient sound mode and reliable multipoint Bluetooth are the best things the MW09 has to offer. Theyre expensive though, and you can find better ANC performance elsewhere. Wireless earbud FAQs What is considered good battery life for true wireless earbuds? Most wireless earbuds will last five hours on a single charge, at the least. You can find some pairs that have even better battery life, lasting between six and eight hours before they need more juice. All of the best wireless earbuds come with a charging case, which will provide additional hours of battery life but you'll have to return each bud to the case in order to charge them up. Is sound quality better on headphones or earbuds? Comparing sound quality on earbuds and headphones is a bit like comparing apples and oranges. There are a lot of variables to consider and the differences in components make a direct comparison difficult. Personally, I prefer the audio quality from over-ear headphones, but I can tell you the sound from earbuds like Sennheisers Momentum True Wireless 3 is also outstanding. Which wireless earbuds have the longest battery life? With new models coming out all the time, tracking the hours of battery life for each this can be difficult to keep tabs on. The longest-lasting earbuds weve reviewed are Audio-Technicas ATH-CKS5TW . The company states they last 15 hours, but the app was still showing 40 percent at that mark during our tests. The only downside is these earbuds debuted in 2019 and both technology and features have improved since. In terms of current models, Master & Dynamics MW08 offers 12 hours of use on a charge with ANC off (10 with ANC on) and JBL has multiple options with 10-hour batteries. What wireless earbuds are waterproof? There are plenty of options these days when it comes to increased water resistance. To determine the level of protection, youll want to look for an IP (ingress protection) rating. The first number indicates intrusion protection from things like dust. The second number is the level of moisture protection and youll want to make sure that figure is 7 or higher. At this water-resistance rating, earbuds can withstand full immersion for up to 30 minutes in depths up to one meter (3.28 feet). If either of the IP numbers is an X, that means it doesnt have any special protection. For example, a pair of wireless earbuds that are IPX7 wouldnt be built to avoid dust intrusion, but they would be ok if you dropped them in shallow water. Which earbuds stay in ears the best? A secure fit can vary wildly from person to person. All of our ears are different, so audio companies are designing their products to fit the most people they can with a single shape. This is why AirPods will easily fall out for some but stay put for others. Design touches like wing tips or fins typically come on fitness models and those elements can help keep things in place. Youll likely just have to try earbuds on, and if they dont fit well return them. What wireless earbuds work with PS5? PlayStation 5 doesnt support Bluetooth audio without an adapter or dongle. Even Sonys own gaming headsets come with a transmitter that connects to the console. There are universal options that allow you to use any headphones, headset or earbuds with a PS5. Once you have one, plug it into a USB port on the console and pair your earbuds with it. Recent updates May 2025: Updated to ensure top picks and buying advice remain accurate. March 2025: Updated the top pick for the best sounding wireless earbuds - runner up. January 2025: Updated the top pick for best sounding wireless earbuds. July 2024: Updated our list to include the Samsung Galaxy Buds 3 Pro. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/audio/headphones/best-wireless-earbuds-120058222.html?src=rss
iOS 19: All the latest rumors about the big changes coming at WWDC
Macworld Every year, we are introduced to a new version of iOS (alongside Apples other operating systems) at the Worldwide Developers Conference in June. At an event on the first day of the conference, Apple will reveal all the new features coming to iPhones with the release of iOS 19 in the fall, likely mid-September. In this article we will run through what we know about the new features coming in iOS 19 in 2025, what phones will get them, and when we expect Apple to release iOS 19. But you wont have to wait until September to get the new features because every year Apple runs a beta-testing program where developers and anyone who signs up for the beta can try out the software before it is released following the Apple iPhone Event in September. If you want to join that beta testing program you will find information about how to do so below, including when the first iOS 19 beta will be available. iOS 19 release date: When is iOS 19 coming out? Our first glimpse of iOS 19 will be at WWDC25 on June 9, after which the operating system will be in beta until Apple releases it to the public in the fall. Apple typically releases the new version of iOS to the public on the Monday following the launch of the new iPhone . Based on recent history, we expect iOS 19 to release to the public around the time of the on either Monday, September 15, or Monday, September 22. Here are the release dates for the most recent versions of iOS: iOS 18: Monday, September 16, 2024 iOS 17: Monday, September 18, 2023 iOS 16: Monday, September 12, 2022 iOS 15: Monday, September 20, 2021 iOS 19: Developer and Public Betas The full version of iOS 19 will launch in September, but you wont have to wait until then to try the new software out. Apple will run a developer beta as well as a public beta during the summer months, so if you want to try out the new features before they are released to the general public you can do so. After Apple announces the new version of iOS at WWDC in June it will then release an iOS Beta to developers. This year the WWDC keynote will take place on June 9 so we expect the developer beta will be available that day. The public beta usually comes a month later, around the beginning of July. Between WWDC and the official release in the fall, Apple will release a string of beta releases, typically eight or so in total. We share details of how to join Apples beta software program so you can test the new software as soon as the beta arrives, separately. Anyone using the beta is encouraged to file bug reports using the included Apples Feedback Assistant app so that the company can address them. If you want to learn more about the beta read: Whats in the latest iOS beta and how to get it . iOS 19: New features While Apple hasnt officially announced iOS 19 yet, it has been hard at work on the big iPhone upgrade for quite a while and some rumors have started to leak out. It looks like iOS 19 will be a bigger change than were used to. Based on the most reliable leaks and rumors, heres what you can expect when it arrives later this year. All the new features wont come with that initial release; over the months that follow the initial release more features will be pushed out to iPhones in iOS 19.1, 19.2, and so on. Major design overhaul The headline feature of iOS 19 (and iPadOS 19, macOS 15, tvOS 19, watchOS 19) is said to be a massive change to the user interface. Indeed, Bloombergs Mark Gurman says the star of WWDC will be the new design code-named Solarium. Were talking about the biggest change since iOS 7, when Apple dropped the skeuomorphic design in favor of flat symbolic icons, changed the lock screen, notifications, and more. We dont know what this new interface will look like or what interaction changes it will bring with it, but the rumors say it is loosely based on some of the concepts in the Vision Pro interface. Gurman claims it is is slicker and more modern due to adopting elements from visionOS. New apps like Apple Invites and Apple Sports may give us some clues to the interface conventions we can expect, as they dont have have interfaces that fit in with most of Apples older apps. Apps like Invites and Sports may offer clues to the interface elements we can expect in iOS 19. Apple Gurman also says consistency and unification across the operating systems will be a major theme of WWDC . A key feature of the new interface is supposed to be more consistency across iPhone, iPad, and Mac, along with a major improvement to the productivity features of iPadOS. For example, one rumor says the iPad will get a menu bar when docked to a Magic Keyboard, and that Stage Manager is being overhauled. The iPhone, meanwhile, is said to get a Stage Manager like multi-app view when hooked up to an external display. Siri delays and other Apple Intelligence features Apple has been having trouble with some of its AI efforts, especially the Siri features that were supposed to come in iOS 18.4 (personal context, screen awareness, and in-app actions). These features have been pushed back until next year , which means they should come as an update to iOS 19 in early 2026. A bigger Siri update, based on large language models (LLMs), that can hold natural conversations with the user, is now expected to come perhaps as part of iOS 20, where it was once thought to be an update to iOS 19. So Siri will get new capabilities that we were supposed to have by now, and Apple is also said to be expanding the use of Apple Intelligence in more of its apps. We havent heard of specific examples, but Apple Intelligence could be used for things like Apple Music playlist generation, suggesting apps in the App Store, or in the Health and Fitness apps. However, we may not hear of any AI-related features at WWDC25. In a late May report, Bloombergs Gurman said Apple wont deliver any AI breakthroughs at WWDC. Stage Manager for iPhone Weve heard rumors in a few places that Apple is working on a big Stage Manager update for iPad and Mac. From 9to5Mac we get a hint that it might even work on iPhone (if not all the time, then at least with an external display connected). Stage Manager should allow for much more flexible placement and sizing of windows in the new version. For iPads, you might even see a Menu bar when the iPad is docked into a keyboard. Powered by Apple Intelligence Rumors say one of the recurring themes of iOS 19 is going to be a number of features that Apple markets as Powered by Apple Intelligence. These wont all be generative-AI features, but rather include many of the sort of AI-powered features Apple has employed for years across its apps. Some Apple Watch features will be promoted this way, though the AI models themselves will run on your iPhone, with the Apple Watch simply serving as your wrist-bound interface to it. Another example is a new battery saving mode that will use AI to analyze your usage patterns to decide when it can lower the power draw of certain applications or features to save battery without impacting the user experience. RCS 3.0 Apples current implantation of RCS (Rich Communication Services, used to offer more advanced texting features with Android users) is based on the GSMA Universal Profile version 2.4, which is a little dated. Version 2.7 came out last year, but hasnt been implemented by Apple yet. It adds support for custom emoji reactions, editing editing and deleting messages, and improved spam handling. RCS 3.0 adds encryption for 1-to-1 messages. Apple has announced support for end-to-end encrypted RCS messages on all its platforms in future software updates, so it is likely to add support for all the feature in RCS 2.7 and 3.0 in the iOS 19 cycle. Home app upgrades While not specifically mentioned in any of the current leaks or rumors, we find it hard to believe that Apple wont have some significant improvements to the Home app, HomeKit, and related services in iOS 19. Why? Well, Apple is expected to release a wave of new smart home products throughout 2025 and 2026. A new Apple smart home hub is first: its rumored to be an affordable 7-inch tablet that runs a custom operating system (code-named Pebble). It will support Apple Intelligence, FaceTime, and tie in with other Apple services but isnt expected to have an App Store. After that, likely in 2026, Apple is said to be working on a new indoor smart security camera and a smart doorbell that would use Face ID to unlock your door the way it unlocks your phone. Further down the road, a smart home product with a movable screen on a robotic arm has been rumored, all of which will require deep integration with the iPhone and Home app. The rumored HomePad was rumored to launch in the spring of 2025, but was delayed to the fall so it can have an interface that aligns with the big iOS 19 / macOS 15 interface changes. Its hard to imagine Apple pushing a product like that into the market without some significant changes to the look and feel of the Home app. Updated Camera app Jon Prosser claims to have seen the new Camera app in iOS 19 , which is completely redesigned with a somewhat visionOS-inspired design. Options are condensed, the viewfinder takes up more space, and theres lots of transparency. Jon Prosser The Photographic Styles feature may come to video, too. AirPods live translation One rumor from Mark Gurman at Bloomberg says iOS 19 is going to get bolstered translation technology and, as part of it a live translation feature for AirPods . The AirPods will need a firmware update as well, and its not clear which models will support the feature. Your AirPods would send text to your iPhone where the foreign language would be recognized and translated in the Translate app (or the under-the-hood service that powers it), and translated audio sent back to your AirPods. Other earbuds have had similar features for years, so it will be interesting to see if Apple goes further or has superior functionality. Gaming app iOS 19 will reportedly include a dedicated gaming app , according to a report from Mark Gurman of Bloomberg. The App will also be available for Mac, iPad and Apple TV, it is claimed. The app is said to tap into the App Stores games section and Apple Arcade, offer editorial content about new games, and centralize everything currently found in Game Center. The Mac version of the app will tap into games downloaded outside of the App Store, according to Gurman. Accessibility features Apple has announced that several accessibility features will be coming to iOS 19 in the fall. Among the new additions are Accessibility Nutrition Labels let users see whether an app will be accessible to them before they download it; Braille Access, which turns the iPhone into a full-featured Braille note taker, and Accessibility Reader, a new reading mode with font, color, and spacing options. iOS 19 Compatibility: Which iPhones will work with iOS 19? We expect iOS 19 to be compatible with every iPhone that supports iOS 18 . That includes: iPhone 16 iPhone 16 Plus iPhone 16 Pro iPhone 16 Pro Max iPhone 15 iPhone 15 Plus iPhone 15 Pro iPhone 15 Pro Max iPhone 14 iPhone 14 Plus iPhone 14 Pro iPhone 14 Pro Max iPhone 13 iPhone 13 mini iPhone 13 Pro iPhone 13 Pro Max iPhone 12 iPhone 12 mini iPhone 12 Pro iPhone 12 Pro Max iPhone 11 iPhone 11 Pro iPhone 11 Pro Max iPhone XS iPhone XS Max iPhone XR iPhone SE (2nd generation) Of course, it will also support the new iPhone 17 models that will launch around the same time, and the new iPhone 16e . As always, some features wont be available on older models, as they lack the hardware resources for it. We do think the Apple Intelligence and Siri improvements will be available for all iPhone 16 and later models, though.
The best streaming deals: Save on Peacock, Disney+, Starz and more
Whether youre a true cord-cutter or you just want to watch the next season of Stranger Things when it (eventually? maybe?) drops, everyones on the lookout for streaming deals nowadays. Plenty have chosen VOD and live TV streaming services over traditional cable in recent years, but the savings that choice got you just a few years ago have somewhat evaporated now. Companies like Netflix, Disney , Max and others have been consistently raising prices to the point where you may question if streaming is even worth it anymore . We at Engadget still think so, for many reasons, but you can (and should) be smart with your money at the same time. Streaming deals are an option, even if they dont come around with the same regularity as discounts on AirPods do. If youre looking to save money and still stream all of the content you want, Engadget can help by laying out the best streaming deals you can get right now, how you can save with bundles and everything you should know before paying for yet another streaming service . Best streaming deals True streaming deals can be hard to come by. Most often, theyll pop up during the Black Friday shopping period. On occasion, well see them sparingly throughout the year and they usually take the form of a discounted monthly or annual rate for a limited period of time. Also, true streaming deals are typically on the ad-supported versions of a service, but once in a while youll find a unicorn of a deal on a tier that has ad-free viewing. If youre able to wait for a deal before subscribing to a streaming service, we recommend doing so. Youll save money upfront and in the long run, and you also have the option to cancel your subscription before the price goes back up to the normal rate. Maybe you find you like the service so much that youre fine paying full price for it thats the ideal situation. But if youre not compelled to keep that app on rotation in your smart TV, most streaming services make it easy for you to cancel at any time. With that said, these are the best streaming deals you can snag right now. Spotify Premium Individual (one month) for $0 ($12 off): This is our favorite music streaming service for podcasts and social features. Right now, users who have not signed up for Spotify's Premium service before are eligible to get one month for free. The Premium Individual plan lets you listen ad-free and skip songs at will. You can also organize your listening queue and download content for offline listening. Just be aware, your subscription will auto-renew at the end of the trial period. So if you don't want to be on the hook for the $12 monthly fee, set a reminder to cancel and go back to the free version. Starz (six months) for $18 ($28 off): Starz's latest offer gives you six months of access for only $18, which shakes out to just $3 per month. This represents a 66-percent discount off the standard annual plan. This gives you access to all Starz content, including originals like Power Book III: Raising Kanan and movies like Fast X . If you'd prefer less of a commitment, you can get three months of access for only $15. YouTube TV (two months) for $120 ($46 off) : You can get two months of our favorite live TV streaming service for $60 per month which works out to $46 less than paying the full $83 each month. And right now, the service is free for the first 21 days. That should give you a decent chunk of time to see if the service is right for you. The discount and trial are only open to new subscribers to YouTube TVs base plan, which includes access to over 100 channels, unlimited DVR space and six household accounts with the ability to stream on three devices at once. The deal ends July 31. Sling Orange for $23/month for the first month (50 percent off): New customers can get Sling Orange or Sling Blue for half off the usual price for the first month, bringing the final prices to $23/month and $25.50/month, respectively. Orange is likely best for sports fans, with eight exclusive sports and family channels, while Blue includes 19 exclusive news and entertainment channels. You can get both Orange and Blue access also for half off for one month, or $33 total. Fubo Pro for $65/month for the first month ($20 off): Fubo has introductory discounts on most of its packages, and the Pro package is the least expensive plan currently listed. It offers access to 224 channels, unlimited cloud DVR and up to 10 simultaneous streams. It even includes regional sports content from the NHL, MLB and NBA. Sling TV + MLB.TV for $30 off: New subscribers can get $30 off their first month of Sling TV when they sign up and add MLB.TV to their package. The offer applies to Sling Orange, Sling Blue and Sling Orange & Blue, and MLB.TV gives you access to MLB Network along with access to all out-of-market games during the regular season. This offer runs through May 31. NBA League Pass student discount one year for $120 (40 percent off) : Students can get one year of League Pass for only $10 per month, which includes access to NBA TV and the ability to watch classic and archive games on-demand. On the NBA League Pass website, look for the student discount banner at the top and follow the instructions to verify your student status. Max student discount subscribe for $5/month (50 percent off): Max offers their ad-supported tier to students for half off the usual rate. Youll just have to verify that youre a student through Unidays , and make note that this offer is only good for up to 12 months of service. Hulu student discount subscribe for $2/month (75 percent off): Those with a valid student ID can get Hulus ad-supported tier for 75 percent off the typical rate. Theyll keep the same sale price for as long as theyre a student as well. Spotify student discount Premium + Hulu with ads for $6/month (72 percent off): Spotifys student offer continues to be one of the best around, giving you access to the Premium tier of the music streamer and Hulus ad-supported plan for only $6 monthly. Purchased separately, youd pay $22 per month for both of the services. Plus, the first month is free when you sign up. Peacock first responders discount one year for $48 (50 percent off) : Medical professionals and first responders can save 50 percent each year of Peacock. The deal requires annual verification and is open to those who work for either private or public institutions. Peacock has some great stuff to watch, including Poker Face and Killing It and more . Streaming bundle discounts Theres more consolidation happening now than ever before in the streaming space, and that means there are more streaming bundle options. These bundles offer you access to more content with one subscription price, but those prices are typically higher than paying for a single service by itself (obviously). It may be tempting to just get the bundle, but if only one of those services in the bundle speaks to you, youll spend less overall by just paying for the single service. Speaking of a deep love for a single streaming service: if all of your favorite shows are on Peacock or the latest releases on Max consistently bring you joy, consider paying for one year upfront. Subscribing with an annual plan usually saves you money in the long term over paying on a monthly basis. Unfortunately, not all streaming services (looking at you, Netflix) have an annual subscription option. Here are some of the best streaming bundles you can get right now. Disney+, Hulu, Max bundle with ads for $17/month : Ad-supported Max is included here, along with full, ad-supported access to Disney + and Hulu. Youll save 43 percent with this bundle, as opposed to paying for all three services individually. Paramount+ with Showtime for $13/month or $120/year : This includes everything in Paramount+s Essential plan, except the ads, and also provides access to Showtime content, live CBS streams and download features. Sling TV + Max starting at $53/month: Sling TV and Max have partnered on a discount that gives new subscribers 50 percent off their first month of Sling TV, plus $5 off monthly when you subscribe to the Sling TV + Max bundle. The standard price for the Sling Blue + Max duo is roughly $58/month, so you'll get a monthly discount of $5 off that. In addition, for the first month only, you'll get half off the price of the bundle. The promotion also applies to the Sling Orange & Blue + Max package, which has a standard price of $73/month. Hulu + Live TV with Disney+ and ESPN+ for $96/month: This streaming bundle amalgamation is a bit confusing but it does offer a lot: you get live TV streaming via Hulus service plus access to the following VOD services: Hulu , Disney + and ESPN+. Out of those three, only ESPN+ will have ads. Disney+ and Hulu Bundle Premium for $20/month : Disney and Hulu offer a few different bundles, which you can view in the drop-down lists under Choose Your Plan. This bundle removes the ads from both Disney + and Hulu (with the exception of select live and linear content) and allows you to download content for offline viewing. Youll save 42 percent with this bundle, as opposed to paying for both ad-free tiers individually. Disney+, Hulu, ESPN+ Bundle Basic for $17/month : You get full access to Disney+, Hulu and ESPN+ content with this package, albeit with ads across the board. This bundle price is 46 percent off the total price of all three separate subscriptions. Disney+, Hulu, ESPN+ Bundle Premium for $27/month : Similarly to the Duo bundles, the Premium version of the Trio removes ads from most content in Disney+, Hulu and ESPN+, and you can download content for offline viewing. This price represents a 43-percent savings when compared to paying for all three ad-free tiers separately. Read more streaming coverage The best live TV streaming services to cut cable The best streaming services: Netflix, Hulu, Max and more The best streaming devices Follow @EngadgetDeals on X for the latest tech deals and buying advice . This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/deals/best-streaming-service-deals-133028980.html?src=rss
Anthropic brings web search to free Claude users
Anthropic is continuing to trickle down features to its free users. The latest one to make the leap out of subscriber-only mode is web search, which the company introduced to its AI chatbot Claude in March. According to Anthropic, connecting Claude to the web allows it to deliver more accurate responses based on the most up-to-date information available online. This feature is available to all Claude users starting today. In addition, Anthropic has begun beta tests for voice mode on its mobile apps. This option lets users interact with Claude in natural conversations in an expansion of the platform's existing dictation tools. There will be five voice options available to assign to Claude, and the AI assistant can provide full transcripts and voice mode summaries after a conversation. May has been a busy month for Anthropic, which just launched two new models last week. Opus 4 is a powerful coding-focused system that can use multiple tools in parallel and can run for several hours at a time, while Sonnet 4 is a hybrid reasoning model designed to move between quick queries and more complex ones. The current beta testing of voice mode will default to Sonnet 4. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/ai/anthropic-brings-web-search-to-free-claude-users-224222689.html?src=rss
iOS 19 will reportedly include a dedicated gaming app
Macworld Every so often, Apple makes an attempt to push its platforms as a place for serious gaming. If the latest report from Mark Gurman at Bloomberg is accurate, the company will try again this year with the launch of iOS 19, macOS 15, and its other yearly OS updates. According to the report, Apple plans a dedicated, pre-installed gaming app on iPhones, iPads, Macs, and Apple TV. The app will debut at WWDC on June 9, and roll out to those devices with iOS 19 and macOS 15 (or a subsequent update) later this year. The app will feature editorial content about new games (similar to what youd find in the App Store today), access to the App Stores games section and Apple Arcade, and centralize all the stuff currently handled by Game Center, like friends lists, achievements, leaderboards, and communications. The Mac version of the app is said to be able to tap into games downloaded outside of the App Store. Likely, that means that it will serve as a launcher for those games, and that the core identity/achievements/leaderboards functions will be available to developers via APIs even for those games distributed outside the App Store. Apple recently purchased the two-person studio RAC7 Games, whose Sneaky Sasquach was an Apple Arcade launch title. It is unclear if this is the first of many acquisitions as an attempt for Apple to build a big first-party games studio, but it doesnt speak to the kinds of premium games that drive sales of PlayStation, Xbox, or Switch consoles. Rather, it indicates a drive for more mobile gaming, an area in which Apple is already dominant. To earn the respect of so-called AAA game developers, publishers, and players, Apple will need to do much more than pre-install a gaming app on its devices. We will find out more about Apples gaming ambitions at WWDC on June 9, when the app and its features are said to be revealed.
New PS5 Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 bundles deliver some serious value, now live with $120 in savings
Sony officially announced this years Days of Play sale , including the first price drops on PlayStation 5 Pro and some notable discounted PlayStation 5 Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 bundles that deliver up to $120 in savings . The new Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 bundles are actually already live at Walmart right now ahead of the May 28 start time, with as much as $120 in savings this includes the PlayStation 5 Digital Edition and the Disc Edition both with an included copy ofCall of Duty: Black Ops 6 . These are easily some of the best values we have seen in PS5 console hardware in quite some time alongside the Astro Bot bundles that are now out of stock. more
Carters Memorial Day Sale offers 50% off sitewide with deals starting from just $2
Carters Memorial Day Sale offers 50% off sitewide with deals starting from just $2 . Prices are as marked. Customers receive free delivery on orders of $35 or more. One of our top picks from this sale is the 2-Piece Mickey Mouse Polo Shirt and Shorts thats marked down to $19 and originally sold for $38. This set is a playful and comfortable outfit for toddlers. The short-sleeve polo shirt features a classic Mickey Mouse graphic, adding a touch of Disney magic. Paired with coordinating red shorts, this set is perfect for warm weather and casual outings. Score even more deals by heading below, or you can shop the entire sale here . more
Apple buys the maker of Sneaky Sasquatch
Apple has bought a game studio for the first time. Digital Trends reported on Tuesday that the company has scooped up RAC7. The two-person team is behind the Apple Arcade hit Sneaky Sasquatch . For years, some investors have hoped Apple would apply its full clout to the gaming industry. Although recent years have seen the launches of Apple Arcade and Game Mode for Macs , there's still untapped potential. Another piece of news on Tuesday makes it easier to speculate that something is brewing. Bloomberg reported that the company will launch a revamped gaming app at WWDC. The new app is said to replace the oft-forgotten Game Center. However, Giovanni Colantonio of Digital Trends suggests the acquisition isn't necessarily a sign of what's to come. He notes that Apple described the RAC7 purchase as a unique situation to help the small studio grow. We will continue to deliver a great experience for Apple Arcade players with hundreds of games from many of the best game developers in the world, Apple told the publication. Sneaky Sasquatch was a launch title for Apple Arcade in 2019. Engadget's Devindra Hardawar described it as an example of how the service can let developers cut loose and get weird. And weird, it is. (Delightfully so!) You play as the mythic Bigfoot, tiptoeing around a forest. What starts as a quirky stealth game takes even stranger turns. As you progress, you'll learn to drive cars, disguise yourself as a human and hit the slopes. Over five years later, the quirky title is still one of Apple Arcade's tentpole games. It sits alongside favorites like Katamari Damacy Rolling Live , Skate City: New York and Threes! And we can't forget one of Engadget's all-time favorite games , Balatro . The almost perfect port of the deck-building game hit the service last year. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/gaming/apple-buys-the-maker-of-sneaky-sasquatch-210305065.html?src=rss
By way of its official Amazon storefront, ROVE is offering the second-best rate on its R2-4K DUAL Front and Rear Dash Cam at $116.99 shipped, after clipping the on-page 10% off coupon. This is a $200 dash cam that has sold for $150 at Amazon for most of the last year before it dropped down to $130 in late February, with the extra 10% savings here making the deal all the better. If you missed out on the short-lived $90 low that we spotted earlier in the month, this is the second-best pricing we have tracked, which equips you with a reliable dash cam system along with some solid savings. more
Sick of VPN subscriptions? This one lasts for life at $120 (Reg. $432)
The internet is full of security risks, frustrating restrictions, and companies eager to track your every move. A VPN isnt just a luxury anymore. Its a necessity, but many VPNs charge you every month. Its not sustainable in the long run. Thats what makes Seed4.Me VPN stand out. You can get lifetime access to See4.Me VPN for a one-time payment of $119.99 (reg. $432), and it covers every device you own. more
Cities: Skylines II delays Bridges & Ports DLC to Q4
The saga of Cities: Skylines II has involved a lot of frustration, and the years-long ride still doesn't appear to be over. The latest news from the developer is yet another delay, this time for the planned Bridges & Ports DLC. Colossal Order will release a small free update to the game on June 11 as planned, but the full expansion is now being pushed back to some time in Q4. A post from the team on publisher Paradox Interactive's forum explained that the delay was based on early access feedback that the DLC still needs more polish. That left us with a difficult choice: delay the release once again to add more depth, or release it as-is, knowing players may feel it falls short, the update states. We believe the current content is enjoyable, but were not blind to whats missing, and to bring it to the level you deserve, we need more time. The last players heard from Colossal Order was also a delay, in that instance for the console port of the city-builder. The studio said the version wouldn't be available before summer 2025 , but a more specific date hasn't been shared yet. Cities: Skylines II has had a challenging life cycle for both the players and the developers, so it's particular tough to hear that the game is still struggling. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/gaming/cities-skylines-ii-delays-bridges--ports-dlc-to-q4-200052345.html?src=rss
Apple Watch Activity badges: Run a 5K on June 4 for a special running badge
Macworld Achievement badges are a funny thing. You know theyre just a simple little bit of visual flair, they dont even do anything, and yet for some reason you just have to collect them. Gamification can be a great motivator, and the achievement badges for the activity tracking on the Apple Watch have inspired many users to get more exercise. If you want to maximize your badge count, youre going to want to chase down as many activity achievements as you can. Most are available year-round, but there are also some time-limited special events to grab, too. Heres a list of all the activity achievements for the Apple Watch and how to unlock them. Updated May 27, 2025: To celebrate Global Running Day, Apple has a special badge available for anyone who runs a 5K (3.1 miles) on June 4. Apple Watch Series 10 (42mm) Read our review Price When Reviewed: $399 Best Prices Today: $299 at Amazon | $299 at Walmart | $299 at Walmart Electronics Standard achievements Most of the achievements can be earned year-round. If you open the Activity app on your iPhone, then head over to the Achievements tab, youll see some of them listed even before you earn them (in which case they will be represented by a grey outline). However, there are some achievements that are not shown until you earn them. Past and future monthly challenges, for example, wont show up, nor do all the various individual exercise workouts. Here is a list of all the standard badges you can get. First [exercise] Workout The first time you perform a new exercise for at least 5 minutes, youll get a achievement badge. Every workout type that does not fall under the Other category is eligible for this badge: from walking to yoga to HIIT to hiking and more. Activities with both indoor and outdoor variants, like Cycling and Walking, are bundled together; you can do either activity to get the badge, and can only get it once. [exercise] Workout Record Every time you beat your previous best record for calories burned in any of the exercises listed above, you get this badge. There is one caveat: You must complete five workouts of that type first. If you want to game the system, make sure your first four workouts of each type are short and easy, so it wont take much effort to beat them. You get a badge the first time you do each major exercise type, and when you break a record. 7-Workout Week Simply complete any workout of at least 15 minutes every day of the week. Note that the week is Monday-Sunday, and you have to do a workout on each of those days (you cant simply do any seven days in a row). If you start a walking workout whenever you walk outside, you can achieve this easily. New Move Record Any day that your Move ring goes further than ever before (meaning you burned more calories in a day), youll earn this award. Theres one catch: you have to use your Apple Watch for 10 days before you can complete this. New Exercise Record This is just like the Move Record achievement, only for the green ring. This one is based on minutes of exercise, not calories burned, so its really easy to get. Just like the Move Record achievement, you have to use your Apple Watch for 10 days first. Move Goal 200%, 300%, 400% You earn this when you exceed your calorie target (the red Move ring) by 2x, 3x, or 4x, respectively. In other words, its given for making the red activity ring go around two, three, or four times in a day. Its easy to get if you just set your Move goal very low. Double, triple, and quadruple your Move ring goal. Reduce your goal if youre having trouble. New Move Goal Every time you change your daily Move goal, and then exceed that new goal, you get this achievement. You can change your Move goal by opening the Activity app on your Apple Watch and force-pressing the screen. Longest Move Streak When you hit your Move goal (close the red ring) several days in a row, thats a streak. You get this award when your streak finally ends, if its longer than your previous best streak. Perfect Week This is given out for four categories: Move, Exercise, Stand, and All Activity. For the first three, simply close the rings (red, green, or blue) every day of the week. To get the Perfect Week (All Activity) badge, close all three rings every day for an entire week. You can earn this multiple times, though it only shows one badge. Remember, one week in the Activity app is from Monday-Sunday! Close those rings every day from Monday to Sunday to earn a handful of badges. Perfect Month Unlike Perfect Week, there are not multiple different Perfect Month badges for the different color rings. The lone Perfect Month achievement is for closing the red Move ring every day of the month. Theres a separate Perfect Month badge for every month and every year, though. So you can earn this in February and again in March, and again in February in the next year. Monthly Challenge Each month has its own unique fitness challenge. If you have notifications set for the Activity app on our Apple Watch, youll see the goal presented at the beginning of the month, but youll also see the current months challenge in the Achievements tab of the Activity app on your iPhone. It will be a grey outline before its completed, but you can tap on it to see what the challenge entails. The monthly challenge may task you with burning a specific number of calories, working out a number of times, or traveling a certain distance. Theres no telling what each new month will bring, you just have to look! Theres a different challenge every month, so check your Activity app. 100, 365, 500, 1,000 Move Goals When you hit your daily Move goal (close the red ring) 100 times, you get an achievement badge. You get another for hitting it 365 times, 500 times, and 1,000 times. These do not need to be in a row; its just the total number of times youve ever hit the goal. Close the Move ring often to unlock a series of badges. Set the Move goal low if you want to make it easier. Apple Watch Ultra 2 Read our review Price When Reviewed: $799 (base) Best Prices Today: $799 at Apple | Not Available at Adorama Limited Achievements Apple offers multiple one-off challenges per year that are only available for a limited time. Often, theyre only around for one day or one weekend. Some are limited to the U.S. because theyre based on U.S. holidays. Youll get a notification on your Apple Watch when one of them is coming up (make sure you have notifications enabled for the Activity app, using the Watch app on your iPhone). Global Running Day (June 4, 2025) Apple Apples description says: Lets run this one together. On June 4, record a running workout and go at least 5K (3.1 mi) to earn this special badge. Record it with any app that adds workouts to Health. Global Close Your Rings Day (April 24, 2025) Apple To celebrate the 10th anniversary of the release of the first Apple Watch. Users who close all three Activity rings will earn a limited-edition award, plus 10 animated stickers and an animated badge for Messages. Earth Day (April 22, 2025) Apple On April 22, celebrate Earth Day and win this award with any workout of 30 minutes or more. Try to get outside for it! Heart Month challenge (February 14, 2025) Apple Show your heart some love! Close your Exercise ring this Valentines Day, February 14, to earn this award. New Years 2025 challenge (January 2025) Apple Lets start 2025 off right. Earn this award by closing all three rings for seven days in a row in January. Mental Health Day challenge (October 10) Apple Lets bring awareness to all the ways we can take care of our mental health. On October 10, record 10 mindful minutes with any app that adds to Health to get this award. National Parks challenge (August 25) Apple In the U.S., the National Parks Service was founded on August 25, 1916. Apple has a National Parks challenge around that time each year to celebrate National Parks all over the world. To get this badge, just record a workout of 20 minutes or more on August 25 with any app that adds workouts to the Health app. This Valentines day, its all about heart. Close your Exercise ring on February 14 to get this award.
EU regulators are investigating Pornhub and three other sites
European regulators are investigating Pornhub. On Monday, the European Commission (EC) accused the platform of not doing enough to block underage access. Also included in the investigation are Stripchat, XNXX and XVideos. The EC suspects the porn sites have breached the Digital Services Act (DSA) , which includes child safety measures. Specifically, it accused the platforms of lacking age restriction tools. All four sites let EU users watch content after clicking a single button to confirm they're over 18. In a statement to Engadget, Pornhub said it's fully committed to the online safety of minors. Our sites are fully RTA compliant as rated by the Association of Sites Advocating Child Protection (ASACP), and are strictly reserved for those of legal age only, the company said. It added that it believes device-level verification, rather than on the website, is he real solution. Children should not have access to pornographic content, EC spokesperson Thomas Regnier said at a press conference ( via The Guardian ). This is why today the commission has opened [the] investigations. Next, regulators will carry out an in-depth probe. If the companies are found to be in violation, they could face fines of up to six percent of their global annual turnover. However, the EC could also accept remedies from the companies. The DSA allows the commission to regulate online platforms with over 45 million users. Those missing that mark fall under the jurisdiction of the EU's 27 member states. On that note, the commission said Stripchat no longer meets that threshold. Moving forward, it will be regulated by Cyprus, where its parent company operates. However, the new designation doesn't take effect for four months, so it remains part of the probe. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/entertainment/streaming/eu-regulators-are-investigating-pornhub-and-three-other-sites-194234570.html?src=rss
Amazon is offering a rare chance at savings on the EGO Power+ 8-inch Multi-Head Edger with Carbon Fiber Shaft and Power Head bundle (no battery/charger) for $169 shipped, after clipping the on-page $30 off coupon. The coupon is giving us the rare savings we dont often see on this combo from its $199 price tag, as well as the entire multi-head series, many of which are also seeing discounts (more on those below). Weve seen this same discount a few times since it hit Amazon in 2024, with folks getting another chance here at the lowest price we have tracked. more
Video Games Weekly: Grand Theft Auto is no friend to the queer community
Welcome to the initial installment of Video Games Weekly on Engadget. Expect a new story every Monday (yes, we realize today is Tuesday), broken into two parts. The first is a space for short essays, observations and ramblings about video game trends and related topics from me, a reporter who's covered the industry for more than 13 years. The second contains the video game stories from the past week that you need to know about, including some headlines from outside of Engadget. Please enjoy and I'll see you next week. Ive noticed a growing sentiment in some of my favorite queer gaming forums regarding Grand Theft Auto VI , and its both making me laugh and causing me deep anxiety about the malleable nature of our shared reality. When the second trailer for GTA VI dropped on May 6, one of its protagonists, Jason, became an instant sex symbol among the gays, and the thirsty memes started rolling in. This was light-hearted and fun, but at the same time, the alt-right gaming crowd was freaking out about Jason being too gay even though, canonically, hes clearly a straight dude. Queer players accused the neo-Nazis of projection, and the memes exalting Jason as a gay icon ramped up, until, somewhere along the way, it stopped being a joke. I started to see earnest comments suggesting the GTA franchise was a bastion of inclusion and an outspoken friend to the LGBT+ community. I saw queer players talk about GTA VI as if it were going to be a warm and welcoming space, something made for us. And I oop that is some serious grand theft gaslighting, friends. Im not here to burst any bubbles, and I sincerely hope that GTA VI presents well-rounded, diverse characters with thoughtful storylines. However, when it comes to queer issues, thats just not what the series does. GTA has a history of perpetuating harmful stereotypes about transgender people in particular, and GTA V specifically provided a platform for players to enact violence against trans characters. I covered this topic in-depth in 2020, and at the time I spoke with Dr. Ben Colliver, a lecturer in criminology at Birmingham City University and the author of Representation of LGBTQ Communities in the Grand Theft Auto Series . Violence against trans people in the United States has long been recognized as an epidemic, and in 2025, the situation is worse than ever lawmakers are legalizing transphobia and shutting down access to gender-affirming care, using trans lives as a political football. Its a bad time for the LGBT+ community to have false friends, which is one reason I cringe when I see people rewriting the history of GTA. Ugly stereotypes and targeted violence are part of GTAs DNA, so the common argument here is that, actually , the series punches in all directions and that means it isnt discriminatory. But, this take doesnt hold up to scrutiny. Dr. Collivers analysis found that straight, cis men in GTA games remain largely unscathed, and characters who represent oppressed groups are often the ones used as punchlines. Largely it is LGBT people, sex workers and women who are portrayed in a bad way, Dr. Colliver said in 2020. Typically, men in the game conform to almost these traditional masculine stereotypes that we expect of men around violence and aggression. The only subject that GTA really takes seriously is masculinity, and even then it approaches the topic from a basic lens. GTA presents mainstream straight-male power fantasies with a Michael Bay flair and a teenage sense of edginess, and GTA VI looks to be more of the same. Thats even with the inclusion of a female protagonist Lucia, who is very much involved with Jason, who is actually straight-coded despite appealing massively to gay men, which I believe was a total accident on Rockstars part. (And because I can hear your screams from here: Yes, The Ballad of Gay Tony exists and its a fine piece of DLC for GTA IV focused on a queer character. The thing is, it came out 16 years ago before Rockstar built trans violence into GTA V and even though it was incredibly well-received, the studio has yet to return to its blueprint. I find that fact more telling than anything else.) GTA is a non-subversive franchise built for basic bros, and this fact is only reinforced by the homogeneity of Rockstar Games and the complacency of its parent company, Take-Two Interactive. We dont have data about queer representation at Rockstar, but at Rockstar North in 2024 , women composed less than 12 percent of employees in the highest-paid roles. Across the studio, womens average hourly pay was 43 percent lower than mens. In its annual investor report filed this month, Take-Two removed all references to diversity and inclusion, and deleted any mention of awards the company has received for supporting LGBT+ employees. These moves are intended to appease President Donald Trump , and its the exact type of spineless, bootlicking behavior that the GTA series is supposed to mock. Personally I love doing crimes and messing with cops, and as it turns out, so do most other video game fans. This mass-appeal ethos has helped make GTA one of the industrys most enduring franchises. Please, just dont bank on GTA VI being progressive or actively inclusive from a queer standpoint. We dont need another reason to be disappointed nowadays. More than that, we cant let the alt-right reality consume our own. The people complaining about Jason being too gay are the same ones claiming that Widows ass isnt visible enough in her Overwatch 2 Cammy skin they are unserious people making bad-faith arguments about games as an art form. Do not absorb their messaging and do not engage with their lies. Think critically about their angles of attack and, meanwhile, play all the queer games you want to. One of my personal recent favorites is Sorry Were Closed , if youre looking for a sexy, campy place to start. The news Night School nabs Obsidian veteran Carrie Patel Avowed director and longtime Obsidian narrative lead Carrie Patel has joined Night School, the studio behind the Oxenfree series, as a game director. This is a big get for Night School and a sign that the team has some stability in its future. Netflix acquired Night School in 2021 , before the launch of Oxenfree 2 and as part of the streaming companys big push into video game development and publishing. Netflix has since closed one internal AAA studio and reduced its third-party output , but it seems Night School is secure and working on something story-heavy, if Patels involvement tells us anything. The first video game included in Cannes Lili made history in May as the first video game to be included in a Cannes Festival competition, and it looks super rad . Lili is a contemporary, neo-noir interpretation of Macbeth, presented in full-motion video and set on the streets of Iran, featuring webs of government corruption and witches who work as hackers. Its a collaboration between the Royal Shakespeare Company and iNK Stories, the studio behind the award-winning game 1979 Revolution: Black Friday . Lili is already on the festival circuit but its still in development, and its due to be publicly available in or just after late 2025. Troubles are bubbling at Bungie around Marathon Bungie only revealed Marathon in April, but the game is already enduring a rocky pre-launch period. First, the studio had to publicly apologize and review all of its Marathon assets after it was confirmed that the games alpha included stolen artwork . Then, Forbes dropped a report documenting the current tensions at Bungie, saying morale at the studio was in free fall across every department. The most recent rumblings around Marathon , which is due to land in September, are that its marketing plans have been scuttled completely. GeoGuessr ditches the EWC after a brief protest GeoGuessr will no longer be included in the Esports World Cup after a quick and clearly effective community blackout. The most prolific GeoGuessr map creators pulled their contributions from the game to protest its participation in the EWC, calling the tournament a sportswashing tool used by the government of Saudi Arabia to distract from and conceal its horrific human rights record. Less than a day after the blackout began, GeoGuessr AB responded by abandoning the event, writing, You our community have made it clear that this decision does not align with what GeoGuessr stands for. So, when you tell us weve got it wrong we take it seriously. FTC admits defeat against Microsoft The FTC was the last remaining voice rallying against Microsoft s acquisition of Activision Blizzard, and its now been silenced for good. The FTC officially dismissed its case against Microsoft after losing its latest appeal earlier this month. A reminder that Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 is a very good game In a cute moment of serendipity, Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 has sold 3.3 million copies in its first 33 days on the market. If you were waiting for a sign to start playing, this might be it. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/gaming/video-games-weekly-grand-theft-auto-is-no-friend-to-the-queer-community-193059427.html?src=rss
As we reported previously, Best Buy has already officially confirmed with 9to5Toys regarding details on more Switch 2 console stock coming available on launch day as part of its midnight release event. It has now also sent over some official imagery of the collectible coin select lucky customers will get a chance at that night as well. more
Samsungs M4 Mac mini-ready M8 Smart Monitor with webcam is now $300 off
Just after seeing some solid price drops land on the latest M4 Mac mini this morning, we are also now tracking a solid $300 price drop on one of the better monitors you can pair Apples headless Mac up with. Samsung is now offering its 32-inch M8 Smart Monitor down at $399.99 shipped . Regularly $700, this is a straight up $300 in savings and on par with our previous mention. more
Limited time GAP summer steals: Half-off tees and shorts + 50% off clearance from $3
The GAP Summer Essentials Event takes 50% off all tees and shorts . Prices are as marked. Plus, save an extra 50% off all clearance at checkout. GAP Members ( free to sign-up ) receive complimentary delivery on orders of $50 or more. A standout from this sale is the Heavyweight Original T-Shirt for men thats currently marked down to $19 and originally sold for $40. Made from thick, durable cotton, it offers a structured fit that maintains its shape wear after wear. Its classic crew neck design and clean silhouette make it a versatile wardrobe staple for everyday use. Available in a range of neutral tones, it pairs effortlessly with jeans, shorts, or layered under jackets making it a staple in your summer wardrobe. Find even more deals by heading below, or you can shop the entire sale here . more
Texas enacts age-verification law for app stores
Texas is the latest state to adopt an age-verification law for app stores. Despite lobbying from big tech, reportedly including a personal call from Apple CEO Tim Cook, Governor Greg Abbott has signed a bill that requires app stores to verify users' ages and obtain parental approval for a minor to download software or make in-app purchases. The sponsors of the Texas bill said it was intended to protect children and teens from inappropriate content. This puts tools in the hands of parents to make decisions for their own children, said bill author Angela Paxton. The Republican state senator is married to Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton . Utah was the first state to enact legislation that places responsibility on app store operators to check users' ages. Similar to the Texas endeavor, Google also petitioned Utah's governor for that bill to be vetoed . Apple and Google have pushed back against these age-verification measures, arguing that they pose privacy risks for all users by creating a new infrastructure where they need to submit personal information. We believe there are better proposals that help keep kids safe without requiring millions of people to turn over their personal information, Apple said regarding the new Texas law. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/big-tech/texas-enacts-age-verification-law-for-app-stores-190603522.html?src=rss
Grab an extra official USB-C woven Apple Watch Magnetic Charger at $20 Prime shipped
Update: This deal is now live again at $19.99 Prime shipped . Details below in the original post. At this point most folks have some kind of charging station that can juice up their entire Apple kit at home, but if youre looking to land an extra official magnetic Apple Watch charger for your EDC, travel kit, or perhaps something at the office, Woot has them on sale right now. Regularly $29, and rarely ever offered for under $24 at Amazon, youll find the official USB-C Apple Watch Magnetic Charger Cableon sale for $19.99 Prime shipped there right now (a $6 delivery fee will apply otherwise). more
WhatsApp is finally available for iPad (and we mean finally)
Macworld Its weird. With 3 billion users, WhatsApp is the most popular messaging platform in the world. It landed on the App Store back in 2009, about six months before the iPad was introduced. And in all that time, there has never been an iPad app for WhatsApp. Until today. You can now download WhatsApp for iPad . It has always been an odd omission. Meta (then Facebook) bought WhatsApp back in 2014. The resources to make a version of WhatsApp for the iPad have certainly been there. The design has been there, too: WhatsApp is available for iPhone, Android phones, Mac, Windows, and the web. Its not as though this is a phone-only messaging platform. We may never know exactly why it was decided that the iPad wasnt worthy of its own WhatsApp app for the last 15 years. The iPhone app could not run on an iPad due to restrictions on telephony type apps. You could always use the web client on iPad, but that had some limitationsthe native client lets you use the front or rear camera and hold video calls with up to 32 people, as well as share your screen. And its nicely formatted for the iPads large screen. The app supports standard iPad features like Stage Manager, Slide Over, and Split View, as well as supporting Apple Pencil. So go grab it now.
We just spotted a deal at Amazon that drops the WD_BLACK 1TB SN770M M.2 2230 NVMe SSD down to $89.95 shipped. This is regularly a $100 drive that has fetched as much as $110 in recent months. Todays deal takes $20 off its usual going rate to mark one of the lowest prices we have tracked for this compact SSD. It rarely saw any discounts since the last time we tracked a deal on it, and its now within $7 off its all-time low and our mention from December last year. Head below for more details. more
