Computex 2025: Watch NVIDIA CEO Jensen Huang deliver the opening keynote today

Computex 2025 is about to kick off, and the cavalcade of announcements about the latest chips, laptops , gaming devices and more from leading brands has already begun. The event in Taiwan will kick off Sunday night (US time) with a keynote at the Taipei Music Center from NVIDIA CEO Jensen Huang. There will be a livestream for anyone not attending in person, so you can watch along right here (see NVIDIA YouTube stream embedded below). Huangs keynote is scheduled for 11PM ET/ 8PM PT on May 18 (11AM on May 19 in Taiwan Time), and we can expect to hear all about the company's developments in the AI space . Itll be followed that same day by a keynote from Qualcomm CEO Cristiano Amon . Computex this year will, perhaps unsurprisingly, focus heavily on AI, with the overall theme being AI Next. Itll also highlight products in three categories: AI & Robotics, Next-Gen Tech and Future Mobility. For Huang, the Computex keynote is a return home: He was born in Taiwan before eventually emigrating to the US, where he was instrumental in co-founding NVIDIA and guiding it to its current domination in the AI space. His appearance also caps off a busy week that saw him balancing the increasingly challenging diplomatic side of the AI landscape. After participating in President Trump 's tour of Middle East nations during which NVIDIA inked deals with Saudi and UAE-linked tech firms to sell its AI chips NVIDIA downplayed its reported expansion plans in China . An estimated 1,400 exhibitors will be in attendance at Computex, including ASUS , Acer and AMD, all of which have previously made big announcements at the annual expo . In fact, as of Friday (May 16), Acer has already gotten a jump on the others by making some announcements for the show, including the new Swift Edge AI laptop and five gaming monitors . Our senior reviewer Sam Rutherford has also managed to get his hands on the new Acer Predator Triton 14 AI , and he liked it so much he called it his new most anticipated gaming laptop of the year. Computex 2025 will run from May 20 to May 23, and we expect even more PC news in the next few days. Update, May 18, 6:22PM ET: Added additional background info on Jensen Huang and NVIDIA China news. Update, May 15, 1:50PM ET: Added YouTube embed, and details on Jensen Huang's recent travels. Update, May 16, 4:45PM ET: Added details on Acer's Computex announcements, which were unveiled today. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/computing/computex-2025-watch-nvidia-ceo-jensen-huang-deliver-the-opening-keynote-today-205326666.html?src=rss

If you like puzzles, check out this trippy comic-style escape room game for Playdate

Meeting an online friend in person for the first time can be pretty awkward. If only there were a way to skip the weird small talk part and get right into the flow of real conversation like, say, getting shrunk down to the size of a chess piece and trapped in a series of board games, forcing you to communicate so you can find your way out. That's exactly the scenario in which characters Alex and Sarah find themselves in the Playdate game Escape the Boardgame , and it's incredibly charming. Escape the Boardgame is kind of like an interactive comic, and it's the second such game by Julie and Anders Bjrnskov, following 2024's Escape the Arcade . You use the crank and sometimes the D-pad to move the story forward panel by panel, running into puzzles along the way that will serve as temporary roadblocks until you've come up with the solution. While it is an escape room of sorts, this isn't a high-tension situation; Alex and Sarah are stuck in a cozy boardgame cafe, not Jumanji . As they try to make their way out the door by traversing various game boards, they encounter a bunch of quirky but ultimately harmless characters. Just because it's casual doesn't mean it'll be a breeze to solve the puzzles, though. They're really creative, sometimes requiring you to pay close attention to every little detail on the screen in order to crack some obscure code, and other times forcing you to zoom out and consider the whole picture to see what's hidden in plain sight. The games within the game, like one in which you need to match pets with their correct owners, are a delight to take in. There are multiple hints for each puzzle, which you can access in the menu, so you can have varying degrees of assistance depending on how stuck you are. Savvy puzzle solvers will probably finish Escape the Boardgame in under an hour, so this one is perfect for when you just want to play something easygoing that can be wrapped up neatly in one sitting. Instead of leaving you frustrated, it's a brain teaser you're likely to walk away from feeling all warm and fuzzy. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/gaming/if-you-like-puzzles-check-out-this-trippy-comic-style-escape-room-game-for-playdate-200003217.html?src=rss

Netflix has figured out a way to make ads even worse using AI

Netflix will embrace AI-generated ads, whether we like it or not. The streaming service will roll out AI-generated ads in 2026 that will play in the middle of a show or whenever users hit pause for its ad-supported plans. During Netflix's Upfront event for its advertisers, Amy Reinhard, the companys president of advertising, showed off the upcoming feature for interactive midroll and pause ads that use generative AI for custom content. We've come a long way since Netflix's origin story of mailing out DVDs starting in 1997 and transitioning to an ad-free streaming service. Now more than ever, it feels like Harvey Dent's famous quote from The Dark Knight about living long enough to become the villain rings true for Netflix. The streaming service's longevity in the industry could be attributed to making compromises, like including ads, that take away from its initial glory. In a poetic turn of events, The Dark Knight trilogy was added to Netflix's library on April 1. This won't be the first time Netflix dabbled with AI. Last month, Netflix offered regional users a new search feature that uses OpenAI to find something to watch. Looking beyond AI-generated ads in 2026, it's not likely that the company will slow down on finding new ways to generate revenue. So if you take away anything from today, I hope its this: the foundation of our ads business is in place, Reinhard said during the Netflix event. And going forward, the pace of progress is going to be even faster. The golden age of binge-watching an entire season of a Netflix show without ads could be a long-forgotten memory. Next year, don't be surprised if Netflix tempts you with a Baconator while you watch people succumb to the deadly consequences of Squid Games . If this eventual change has you rethinking your Netflix subscription, you can always cancel it or begrudgingly upgrade it to the Standard or Premium plans to avoid ads. Don't forget, Netflix has been steadily increasing subscription costs for its ad-free plans, which could push more users towards the standard plan with ads as the most accessible option. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/entertainment/streaming/netflix-has-figured-out-a-way-to-make-ads-even-worse-using-ai-180623064.html?src=rss

Activision is abandoning Call of Duty: Warzone Mobile

Activision announced on the official X account of its Call of Duty: Warzone Mobile title that it would sunset updates and delist it from the Google Play store and the App Store. Activision is giving players a last chance to download the departing game, which will be removed by the end of today. According to Activision, Call of Duty: Warzone Mobile has not met our expectations with mobile first players like it has with PC and console audiences. Considering the game's troubled launch, this discontinuation doesn't come as a surprise to its player base. Activision's mobile adaptation of its battle royale title launched in March 2024 , which was two years after it was first announced . Looking at the overall timeline of Call of Duty: Warzone Mobile , fans spent more than two years waiting for its release, only to get roughly a year's worth of gameplay that had poor optimization and serious battery life demands. If you install Call of Duty: Warzone Mobile before May 19, 2025, you'll still have access to the game with continued cross-progression of shared inventories using existing content, Activision wrote on the X post. The publisher added that servers will stay online and that it'd notify players of any changes. For diehard fans, that's not much of a guarantee that the Warzone Mobile servers will remain active in perpetuity. To incentivize existing players to migrate to its other titles, Activision said that you can log into Call of Duty: Mobile with your Activision account to claim two times amount of COD points you had in your Warzone Mobile account, along with other awesome rewards. However, Activision added that any unused COD points and whatever you have already purchased in Call of Duty: Warzone Mobile can't be refunded. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/gaming/activision-is-abandoning-call-of-duty-warzone-mobile-161023019.html?src=rss

Peacock Premium drops to only $25 for one year

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/peacock-premium-drops-to-only-25-for-one-year-163231593.html?src=rss

You Asked: Best OLED for PS5, straight talk for oldies, and GTA 6 weigh-in

On todays You Asked: Were all in mourning after another delay to the release of Grand Theft Auto 6, but we answer your questions in anticipation. And, in a world of so many OLED TV choices, which one pairs well with a PlayStation 5? New OLED jitters @LunaQueeniemon asks: My four-year-old LG CX 55-inch TV []

9to5Toys News Weekly recap Sony XM6 headphones, LEGO Simpsons, PlayStation handheld, more

Welcome to 9to5Toys News Weekly your go-to spot to catch up on the latest new product releases, features, and hands-on reviews. This weekly roundup collects all of the coolest new gadgets, the most interesting updates in the world of tech, and more from the past week, and organizes it into a single handy reading list for you to sift through every Sunday morning. more

The end of the Nintendo Switch era closes a long chapter in my own life

With the Nintendo Switch 2 right around the corner, I'm left reflecting on how much I've grown alongside the Switch in 8 years.

Sony is reportedly readying its own Nintendo Switch 2-style handheld console to launch alongside PS6

Sony is reportedly hard at work on a new PlayStation handheld console to take on Nintendo Switch 2 and the rest of the portable PC gaming space. The latest details are pointing at a proper PlayStation handheld this time around, not just a sort of companion streaming device for your home console like the PlayStation Portal Player. more

NYT Mini Crossword today: puzzle answers for Sunday, May 18

The NYT Mini crossword might be a lot smaller than a normal crossword, but it isn't easy. If you're stuck with today's crossword, we've got answers for you.

NYT Strands today: hints, spangram and answers for Sunday, May 18

Strands is a tricky take on the classic word search from NYT Games. If you're stuck and cannot solve today's puzzle, we've got help and hints for you here.

NYT Connections: hints and answers for Sunday, May 18

Connectionsis the new puzzle game from the New York Times, and it can be quite difficult. If you need a hand with solving today's puzzle, we're here to help.

NYT Crossword: answers for Sunday, May 18

The New York Times crossword puzzle can be tough, even if it isn't the Sunday issue! If you're stuck, we're here to help you out with today's clues and answers.

How to Choose a Router (2025): Tips, Technical Terms, and Advice

How much speed do you need? And whats MU-MIMO? We decipher the jargon and explain what to look for to help you choose a router.

Amazon drops latest Google Nest Thermostat (4th Gen) to $240, but open-box units are up to $98 off now

Much like we saw with the Pixel 9/Pro series this morning, Amazon is now giving folks a chance at the spring savings on the latest Google Nest Learning Thermostat (4th Gen). Regularly $280, all three colors have dropped back down to $239.99 shipped this morning to deliver nearly 15% in savings at a return to its lowest price of the year. Just be sure to head below for more details and a chance to save a whole lot more on open-box units from Best Buy. more

Googles latest unlocked Pixel 9/Pro and 9 Pro Fold are up to $300 off at Amazon again, deals from $599

Amazon has now dropped the prices once again across the latest Google Pixel 9 lineup with unlocked units now starting down at $599. Right on the heels of the brands official Mothers Day sale, Amazon has now brought back much of the same price drops, delivering up to $300 in savings on the Pixel 9 Pro Fold and as much as $250 off the Pixel 9/Pro models . All of the details await below. more

Xbox will let you pin up to three favorite games to your homescreen

You'll soon be able to get into your favorite games even faster with the updated Xbox home screen. According to Microsoft , Xbox Insiders are due to get three new customization options later this week that will make their dashboard feel a little more personal. As detailed in Xbox Wire , certain Xbox players will have options to reduce clutter and allow them to pull their favorite games to the front of the list. The first major change lets you pin up to three of your favorite games or apps to the recently-played list. Pinning these means that they'll stay near the front of your list even when you launch other apps occasionally. Beyond that, your Xbox will get the option to Hide System Apps which should reduce the clutter and tuck those less important shortcuts away. To further streamline your home screen, Xbox will introduce the Reduce Tile Count feature that lets you set how many visible tiles are in the recently opened games and apps list. With more control thanks to these new features, Xbox players should get a cleaner homepage that lets their dynamic backgrounds shine more. Weve heard from many of you that Home should feel more like your space, Eden Marie, principal software engineering lead of Xbox Experiences, wrote on Xbox's blog. Whether its surfacing your favorite games, hiding what you dont use, or simply making Home feel less crowded, this update is a direct response to that feedback. According to Microsoft, these features will arrive on Alpha Skip-Ahead and Alpha users' consoles first. However, the company is still tweaking the Reduce Tile Count feature, adding that it will be coming soon. Now, if only there were a way to hide those ads on the homescreen. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/gaming/xbox/xbox-will-let-you-pin-up-to-three-favorite-games-to-your-homescreen-200051956.html?src=rss

What to read this weekend: A brief history of humankind's many apocalypses

These are some recently released titles we think are worth adding to your reading list. This week, we read Apocalypse: How Catastrophe Transformed Our World and Can Forge New Futures, a compelling new history book by science journalist Lizzie Wade, and Behemoth, a riveting mini-series for Dark Horse that explores the classic idea of a kaiju attack from a horrifying... inside perspective. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/entertainment/what-to-read-this-weekend-a-brief-history-of-humankinds-many-apocalypses-203451036.html?src=rss

Doctor Who: The Interstellar Song Contest review: Camp!

Spoilers for The Interstellar Song Contest. No, really, spoilers from here on out. Much like Eurovision itself, that was a lot , wasnt it? And much like every other episode this season, The Interstellar Song Contest was overstuffed, excessive and brutally short. It was also a lot of fun, even if the sheer volume of plot that I wish wed had more time to explore remains frustrating. Unfortunately, it looks like the great qualities of this episode will be overshadowed by all of the dramatic lore reveals. As usual, head to Mrs. Flood Corner for the analysis, but lets talk about the rest first. Eurovision? James Pardon/BBC Studios/Bad Wolf If youre in the US, you may not be familiar with the Eurovision Song Contest, even if Netflix did make a movie about it. Its an annual music competition that began in the post-war years that saw the major nations of Europe select an act and a song to compete. Judges from each nation would then rank each performance, with the winning acts nation going on to host the event the next year. Despite the name, participation isnt limited to Europe, with entries from Oceania, Africa and the Middle East. And the event, to use a technical term, is Extremely Gay , playing up its camp excesses and offering a space for queer performers. Did you just fly through space on a glitter cannon? Lara Cornell/BBC Studios/Disney/Bad Wolf The Doctor and Belinda arrive in a VIP box in the Harmony Arena, a large open-air (given its in space, should that be an open-space?) venue. Theyre just in time to see the start of the 803rd Interstellar Song Contest, presented by (actual British TV presenter) Rylan Clark, who has just emerged from a cryogenic chamber. The Doctor takes the Vindicator reading, and has enough data to force the TARDIS back to Earth on May 24, 2025 but the pair decide to stay and enjoy the show. Watching from afar, Mrs. Flood delights that the Vindicator is now primed and ready, but will stay around to watch the show as well. Its a popular event, with three trillion viewers from around the universe watching the show, as its broadcast much like a TV show. Unfortunately, the production gallery is stormed by Kid, a terrorist who has hijacked the arenas security drones with help from Wynn, someone from the production crew. Kid and Wynn are both Hellions, a race of beings with prominent devil horns that are reviled across the galaxy for how they look. People assume they are evil, engage in cannibalism and witchcraft, and its hard for them to get jobs. The shows director even says that they were advised against hiring Wynn because shes a Hellion. Kid switches the broadcast to the rehearsal feed, which didnt feature Rylan, which piques the Doctors interest as theres a TV in their VIP box. He pulls out his sonic screwdriver and starts fiddling with the equipment, but as hes doing so, Kid opens the air bubble separating the arena from the void. And instantly, almost 100,000 people in the audience are blown into space, including the Doctor and the TARDIS, while Belinda is saved by the canopys roof closing. Wynn closes the canopies to protect the life of Cora, the odds-on favorite to win and the shows star act. The director notices that the people may be frozen, but theyre trapped within the stations mavity bubble and could therefore be rescued. The Doctor, knocked out and frozen, floating in the void of space, is awoken with a vision of Susan (!) in the TARDIS telling him to find me. He opens his eyes, spots a glitter cannon floating nearby, and propels himself toward the stations airlock, Wall-E style. Its there he meets Mike and Gary, the couple whose VIP box he inadvertently stole. They were thankfully safe in the corridor outside when the roof was opened. The Doctor, aided by his new friends, starts working out what the next part of Kids plan is to push a delta wave via the broadcast to all three trillion of its viewers. The wave was powerful enough to knock the Doctor to the floor and give them a nosebleed, and will likely kill every single viewer. Kid and Wynn are doing this because their home planet, Hellia, was bought by the corporation that sponsors the song contest. It was the home of a poppy that could make honey flavoring, and when the corporation bought the planet, it took the poppy and burned the rest, including its people. The Hellions were scattered, victims of a genocide, looked down upon by the rest of so-called respectable society. Wiping out both the audience and the viewers at home at an event sponsored by the corporation will, Kid hopes, balance the books. James Pardon/BBC Studios/Bad Wolf Belinda winds up with Cora, the shows star act (and her partner). The trio hack the system to work out what is going on. Belinda, believing the Doctor is dead, is full of remorse at having never told him how wonderful she thinks he is. Thankfully, theyre able to access the stations video calling software to see the Doctor and Kid meet via an intra-station call, where the Doctor is giving Kid a glimpse of how furious the Time Lord can get, much to Belindas surprise. Cora has skin in the game here, too, revealing after the call that she is also a Hellion, but cut her horns off in order to fit in with the rest of polite society, becoming a star in the process. The Doctor is able to use the stations holographic technology to project himself into the production gallery. Kid shoots the hologram, giving the real Doctor enough time to walk in, casually destroying Kid's gun and the delta wave box. The Doctor then starts channeling the stations power through his hologram body to shock Kid. The Doctor said that Kid had put ice in his heart, and now he would pay back the attempted murder of three trillion people by giving him three trillion shocks. Beinda walks in, to see the Doctor essentially torturing Kid, and even the Doctor himself is plagued by visions of Susan telling him to stop. With Kid and Wynn locked away, the Doctor works out another way to use the holograms as a tractor beam. We see a montage of people being pulled in from the void and reactivated, first using Rylans cryogenic chamber, then on a larger scale in a VIP booth. Its not long before the whole crowd is returned, and with it, Cora takes to the stage. She tells them her story and sings a song from Hellia, and while the audience is initially hostile, she wins them over by the end. To the applause, the Doctor and Belinda head back to the TARDIS, but not before a holographic Graham Norton talk show host and the BBCs face of Eurovision tells them the Earth was destroyed in mysterious circumstances on May 24th, 2025. The Doctor and Belinda sprint back, determined to push the TARDIS to that date and solve whatever issue is coming. But even with the Vindicator plugged in, the TARDIS refuses to co-operate, ringing the Cloister Bell and switching to the all red lighting scheme. There's a sinister noise from outside the doors that the Doctor identifies as the sound of May 24th, before the TARDIS doors explode. And the credits roll... ... only to be interrupted after the first crew card to cut back to Mike and Gary on Harmony Arena as they revive the last person blown into space. It's Mrs Flood, who reveals her double brainstem froze while out in space, lethal for a Time Lady, but I've got my own knack for survival. Breaking the fourth wall, she says let battle begin, and then bi-generates, splitting herself into Mrs. Flood and The Rani (Archie Panjabi), with Mrs. Flood becoming the subordinate to her newer self. As the pair walk off, the Rani says she will bring absolute terror to the Doctor, telling Mrs. Flood to shut up when she points out she's already done that. Ill do anything for you, Doctor James Pardon/BBC Studios/Bad Wolf Honestly, Doctor Who can sometimes be a bit like a teddy bear with a razor blade hidden under its palm. Sure, it may look lightweight and cuddly, disarming you with its charm, but then itll cut you so deep you wont even realize. The Interstellar Song Contest is, without a doubt, one of the most affecting episodes in the run. This episode comes less than a decade after the Manchester Arena bombing that killed 22 people and injured more than a thousand. The visual of the 100,000 people being blown into space was staggering in its brutality. Juno Dawsons already written for Doctor Whos wider world, but her debut script for the TV series goes hard . But even if its a harrowing watch at times, its also filled with enough moments of levity. The Doctors flirting with married couple Mike and Gary at various points in the episode is delightful as theyre both increasingly smitten with him. The music is delightful, and Coras final song was designed to melt peoples hearts, plus theres a few background gags for the more novelty act songs that appear every year. Once again, Im compelled to say the 45-minute format does nothing for Doctor Who when its treading this high a wire. The themes of this episode include indifference to evil, pinkwashing, passing privilege, cultural identity, commodification, the inhumanity of replacing customer service with computers, the perpetuation of abuse and the value of revenge. Given Eurovision presents itself as an explicitly queer event, Im sure better-qualified writers can speak more authoritatively on the episodes deeper subtext and political themes. And possibly explain in better detail where its sympathies lie. Every episode this season feels like it had enough material to fill three half-hour episodes of late 80s Who. Much like last week reminded me of 1989s Ghost Light, this episode put me in mind of 1988s The Happiness Patrol. That episode is, on its surface, about a planet where youll be killed on the spot if you show any signs of visible unhappiness. Of course, its really about the UK under Margaret Thatcher, Operation Condor and the gay rights movement. If youre curious, read Elizabeth Sandifers essay on the episode . Hopefully, too, youll notice the thematic parallels that are running through many of these episodes. Conrad in Lucky Day, The Barber in The Story and the Engine and Kid here are all presented as characters looking for revenge. But while the middle member of that trio has been ostensibly redeemed, the other two crossed the Doctor and made him angry. If his speech to Conrad was full of vitriol, then Kid is the first time weve seen Gatwas Doctor in full vindictive mode. This has been a recurring theme for most of the post-2005 series, that the Doctor needs to hold themselves back from unleashing their full power and fury. Mrs. Flood Corner Dan Fearon/BBC Studios/Disney/Bad Wolf Doctor Who was born before the home media age, where episodes were broadcast on a more or less one-and-done basis. If you were a fan looking to revisit an old episode, you had to read the novelizations that started coming out when the show became a hit. But Doctor Who wasnt originally built to support a six decades-long global multimedia franchise, and thats an issue. When it started, the Doctor was joined on his adventures by his granddaughter, Susan (Carole Ann Ford), and two of her teachers who followed her home one night. Long before any talk of Time Lords or Gallifrey, Susan was just the kid who needed to be rescued every third or fourth week. Carole Ann Ford wasnt happy with how poorly served her character was, and so opted to leave in 1964, a year after the show started. During The Dalek Invasion of Earth, the Doctor exiles his own granddaughter to 22nd century Earth because she wants to kiss a boy. He doesnt even grant her a real goodbye, locking the doors of the TARDIS and giving a speech that only shorn of its context sounds noble. But Susans mistreatment isnt just about the casual way she was dumped off the show, but how her existence does (or does not) fit with the shows lore. If she is a Time Lord, a quasi-immortal shape shifter, then dumping her in one time and place because she fancies a boy is quite the outrageous act. Susans existence also raises questions about the Doctors other familial relationships that have never been directly addressed on screen. The shows unspoken modus operandi was summed up by producer John Nathan-Turner as No hanky-panky in the TARDIS. But if he has a granddaughter, does that mean the Doctor also has a partner/s or children waiting for them to return to Gallifrey for thousands of years? As much as the character, especially in recent years, has implied theyre happy to screw around the cosmos, theyre not looking to settle down. And aside from one small appearance in a 1983 anniversary special, and a picture in the Doctors study in The Pilot, Susans existence has more or less been swept under the rug. That was, until an actress called Susan Twist was cast in Wild Blue Yonder and then again in The Church on Ruby Road. Twist would go on to appear in every episode of Ncuti Gatwas first season in a series of cameos that the characters became increasingly aware of. The Devils Chord even ends on a fourth-wall breaking musical number called There's Always a Twist at the End. The show was very loudly hinting Twist was playing a regenerated version of Susan, who was explicitly discussed at the start of that same episode. By last seasons finale, however, Twists inclusion was a double bluff part of Sutekhs plan to trap the Doctor. Now, it appears that showrunner Russell T. Davies has been playing the longest of long games with the fans. The season-long and highly-visible fakeout means I was actually surprised when Carole Ann Fords face appeared on screen. She appears twice, the first time when the Doctor is at deaths door, with her urging him to find me (harkening back to what Reginald Pyes ghost wife told him before he blew up the film canisters in Lux .) The second time, she admonishes him for torturing Kid for his would-be genocide. Who is Mrs. Flood? In many ways, Susans appearance completely overshadows the reveal that Mrs. Flood is none other than the Rani. Thats the (classic) series far less well-known Time Lord foe, who appeared in only two official stories during its original run. But the Rani gained an outsize reputation among fans as she was played by Kate OMara (perhaps best known in the US for her role in Dynasty ) who imbued the character with high camp excess. Which maybe blunted the idea that she was a sort of Time Lord Mengele, carelessly using people as fodder for her grisly experiments. Unfortunately, the Rani was created so late in the original series run that she only returned once in an episode most people would prefer to forget. It appears that Russell T. Davies hidden mission for the streaming era was to rehabilitate some of the concepts that didnt work back in the 80s. After bringing Mel back as a UNIT employee last year, now hes doing the same for the Rani. Interestingly, both of those were created by Pip and Jane Baker writers who are as emblematic of the series wider decline before its dramatic revival under Andrew Cartmel. Its also notable, perhaps, that the name Rani is a Sanskrit word that broadly translates to Queen, but Panjabi is the first actress of South Asian descent to play the character. Ill be honest, if nothing else, Im relieved that Mrs. Flood has turned out to be the Rani if only to stop people going on about that character. Its not that shes a bad character per-se, but when the series already has the Master, a renegade Time Lord who concocts elaborate traps for the Doctor, its hard to see the Rani as anything other than a will this do? alternative. Hopefully the finale can establish a real distinction between the Rani of the classic series and the new one beyond breaking the fourth wall. ... and the rest Now, I have to apologize last week for not clocking the child Belinda saw in the alleyway was Poppy (Sienna-Robyn Mavanga-Phipps) from Space Babies. Obviously, some fan theories have suggested it was a sign that the stories from The Story and the Engine were leaking out of the pocket dimension. But at Comic Con Cardiff at the end of last year, Anita Dobson (Mrs. Flood) said that the second season would tie into Space Babies , which was another episode with a similarly fairytale premise. If that is the case, and everything that has unfolded in the last two years is all part of some grand plan then it must have started at Wild Blue Yonder. Its the second of the three 60th anniversary specials, and the episode that saw David Tennants Doctor disrupt Isaac Newtons discovery of gravity. Its been a running joke ever since that the force is known as Mavity, and that episode is also the one that allowed the pantheon of gods to enter this universe. Given Susan Twist was playing Isaac Newtons maid, perhaps the series shifted into the Twistverse at that point. Or, you know, the prevailing fan theory that this era takes place in the Land of Fiction, a pocket fantasy universe depicted in 1968s The Mind Robber . One subtle running thread this season has been the Doctors almost insistent urging that Belinda enjoys their travels. Hes made more than a few references to Belinda getting the hang of traveling with him in the TARDIS and starting to loosen up and enjoy things. If the only reason he met her in the first place was because of Conrad , then perhaps hes unwittingly building his own bootstrap paradox . Which would be, you know, a bad thing . Finally, it does appear that every episode of this season is going to share thematic parallels with its equivalent from last year. Dot and Bubble and The Story and the Engine both explicitly engage with ideas around how the Doctors changed racial identity affects his life. Rogue and The Interstellar Song Contest both deal with queer themes through the lens of a pop culture phenomenon. If true, then Wish World will likely be an episode where the story gets picked apart and the tension rises to another grand cliffhanger, followed by The Reality War, which cant possibly hope to live up to the promise of its first half. You know, just like last year. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/entertainment/tv-movies/doctor-who-the-interstellar-song-contest-review-camp-190032125.html?src=rss

Amazon rolls out Alexa+ to more Early Access users

Access to Amazon's new AI-enhanced voice assistant, Alexa+, is expanding. The company has started notifying users who signed up for the Early Access program that they can now activate Alexa+. It's been a few months since Amazon first demoed the smarter version of Alexa , saying at the time that it would begin rolling out to the first batch of users in March before coming to more people in waves over the subsequent months, prioritizing Echo Show 8, 10, 15, and 21 owners. According to an Amazon spokesperson, hundreds of thousands of customers have tried out Alexa+ so far. For those who got Alexa+ in the initial Early Access phase, though, the assistant arrived without many of the features the company touted during its February announcement. The Washington Post , citing internal company documents, reported that this is because those tools didn't yet meet Amazons standards for public release. In a footnote on its Early Access signup page, Amazon notes that some of the features shown are still in development. Per Amazon's email on Friday to the latest wave of users, you'll only need to activate and set up Alexa + on one device. From there, any other compatible devices you own will automatically be upgraded. Alexa+ is said to be more conversational and capable of handling more complex tasks than the original assistant. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/home/smart-home/amazon-rolls-out-alexa-to-more-early-access-users-183017242.html?src=rss

The Legend of Aang: The Last Airbender gets hit with its second delay

When the world needed him most, he got delayed once again. Paramount Pictures announced the second delay for The Legend of Aang: The Last Airbender , the upcoming movie that follows the journey of Aang and Team Avatar after the events of the beloved animated series that was released in 2005. Instead of January 30, 2026, the new film will make its way to movie theaters on October 9, 2026, as first reported by Variety . Paramount Pictures didn't provide a reason for the delay, but this setback follows a previous postponing that bumped it from its original release date on October 10, 2025. However, there are no changes to the already-announced cast and crew, which includes Dave Bautista, Steven Yuen and Eric Nam, with Lauren Montgomery and William Mata as co-directors. This delay could be good news, though. Paramount Pictures also revealed that it's pushing back the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem 2 sequel from its October 9, 2026 opening date to September 17, 2027. This move frees up the slot for The Legend of Aang to make a fall release, which could attract more attention than being premiered in January. To keep us from breaking out the pitchforks, the film studio at least revealed the new logo for the film on its Instagram . If you're itching for Avatar content, Netflix renewed its live-action version of Avatar: The Last Airbender for two more seasons, the next of which is expected to release in early 2026. If you're only interested in new material, the next avatar is expected to make her debut in 2027 in a series titled Avatar: Seven Havens . This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/entertainment/tv-movies/the-legend-of-aang-the-last-airbender-gets-hit-with-its-second-delay-175913128.html?src=rss

8BitDo's all-button Arcade Controller is almost as thin as a MacBook Pro

Forget the joystick and forgo the D-pad. 8BitDo introduced an all-button arcade controller with an ultra-slim profile that's built for competitive fighting games. The company is known for its wide range of affordable handheld controllers, but it's been venturing more into fight pads following its Arcade Stick release. Now, the latest Arcade Controller comes in two versions: a blacked-out variation that's officially licensed by Xbox and a retro-styled counterpart that's compatible with PC and Nintendo Switch. For fighting game fans, the Arcade Controller offers a ton of features to provide a more competitive edge. 8BitDo's newest fight pad has 20 hours of wireless battery life, but also supports a wired mode for better latency performance. For quick adjustments mid-game, the Arcade Controller has a control panel at the top-left that lets you turn up the volume, switch between PC and Switch modes on the standard version, and even activate a tournament lock that prevents accidental misclicks that could distract or disqualify you during high-stakes matches. 8BitDo added four programmable kidney-shaped buttons and lets you hot-swap each button's mechanical switches for extra customization. If you prefer RGB lighting, 8BitDo only included it on the Xbox version. All of these elements are jammed into a controller that's 1.6 cm thick, which is just thicker than a MacBook Pro that measures 1.55 cm. The standard version is up for pre-order on Amazon for $89.99, while the Xbox version is also available for $99.99. 8BitDo said that the first Arcade Controllers will ship across North America starting July 15, while European customers will get theirs starting August 15. It's worth noting that 8BitDo's website previously said that it would halt orders to U.S. customers coming from its warehouse in China, but has since resumed shipping to the U.S., only adding that shipping fees may vary due to tariffs. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/gaming/8bitdos-all-button-arcade-controller-is-almost-as-thin-as-a-macbook-pro-161712267.html?src=rss

Microsoft gets its own Spotlight-like feature with the Command Palette launcher

Microsoft has introduced the successor to PowerToys Run, its quick launcher for power users, called the Command Palette . As The Verge notes, it now functions pretty much like Mac's Spotlight and will now let you search for apps, whole folders and single files, let you perform calculations just by typing on the search bar and let you do web searches without having to open a search engine. You can launch websites straight from the results it gives you, and it also lets you run system commands. The company has rolled out the new launcher ahead of this year's Build developer conference . In addition, Microsoft will let you add commands and features for your favorite apps to Command Palette, thanks to its support for extensions. XDA Developers recently took the launcher for a spin and said that you can search for extensions for it from WinGet and the Microsoft Store through its own search function. There's even an option to create a project for a new extension that you're building yourself. You can access the Command Palette on Windows by pressing Win + Alt + Space. From within the Command Palette window that pops up, you can see the various actions you can do within the launcher. It's also where you can access its Settings, which allow you to set the keyboard shortcut to show or hide the Palette, program the Backspace key to take you back to the previous page and set list items to activate on a single click, among other things. Microsoft This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/apps/microsoft-gets-its-own-spotlight-like-feature-with-the-command-palette-launcher-150006977.html?src=rss

Best of 9to5Toys All of this weeks best deals: M4 MacBook Air, YETI, Nike, and more

Good morning and welcome to Best of 9to5Toys Weekly a one-stop shop for all of the weeks best deals on Apple gear, Samsung and Android tech, accessories for smartphones and Macs, intelligent household upgrades, and even deals to update your wardrobe. The all-new Best of 9to5Toys collects all of the most notable deals and organizes them neatly into one handy catalog for you to peruse every Saturday morning. more

9to5Toys Battlestation Weekly First deals on Alienware Area-51 laptops, huge savings on gaming monitors, more

Welcome to 9to5Toys Battlestation Weekly your go-to spot for the notable deals and latest releases in PC gaming at a glance every Saturday morning. This week brought another wave of exciting new releases and some solid deals that are still live. SanDisk started things off strong with the launch of its new WD_BLACK SN1800 Gen 5 SSD, boasting speeds of up to 14,900MB/s. 8Bitdo also introduced a sleek, low-profile, all-button arcade controller compatible with the Switch, PC, and Xbox. On top of that, several gaming monitors saw major discounts, including LGs 480Hz UltraGear OLED and Alienwares 180Hz 1440p model. All of that and more are waiting for you down below, so be sure check them out and get all the details. more

Epic wants the court to compel Apple to approve Fortnite's return to the US App Store

Epic has filed a second motion to enforce injunction, asking the US District Court for the Northern District of California to force Apple to do a timely review of its Fortnite app and to approve its submission if it's compliant. The company recently accused Apple of blocking Fortnite's return to the App Store in both the US and the EU. Epic submitted the app for approval after winning its case against the iPhone-maker. Specifically, after the court ordered Apple to stop collecting commissions on purchases that weren't paid through the App Store and to allow external payment links in-app. After Epic said that Apple was blocking Fortnite's return to the App Store, the tech giant wrote a letter addressed to the video game developer. In it, Apple said it will not take action on Epic's submission until after the Ninth Circuit rules on [its] pending request for a partial stay of the new injunction. It told Epic to resubmit the app to the EU storefront separately from its US submission. Apple, of course, filed an appeal against the court's order to stop charging commissions for payments made outside the App Store. It also filed an emergency motion to put a pause on the order prohibiting it from charging commissions, telling the court that it will cost the company substantial sums annually. In a post on X, Epic said that Apple's suggestion to submit two different versions of Fortnite for review is in violation of its own guideline that prohibits developers from submitting multiple versions of the same app. Thats not the standard Apple holds other developers to and its blocking us from releasing our update in the EU and US, it wrote. Epic also asserted that its submission didn't break any rules this time. Apple's denial, the video game developer claimed in its filing, is a blatant retaliation against Epic for challenging Apples anticompetitive behavior and exposing its lies to the Court, culminating in the Injunction and the Contempt Order. Yesterday afternoon, Apple broke its week-long silence on the status of our app review with a letter saying they will not act on the Fortnite app submission until the Ninth Circuit Court rules on the partial stay. We believe this violates the Courts Injunction and we have filed Epic Games Newsroom (@EpicNewsroom) May 17, 2025 This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/gaming/epic-wants-the-court-to-compel-apple-to-approve-fortnites-return-to-the-us-app-store-123054703.html?src=rss

Electrified Weekly cruise through summer while saving hundreds on EVs from Lectric, Rad Power, Ride1Up, Aventon, more

Welcome to 9to5Toys Electrified Weekly the best place to find all of this weeks best deals and new releases to electrify your life and protect Mother Nature. For folks not in the know, this week has been National Bike to Work Week, and as such, youll find tons of amazing EV deals from a large array of our favorite brands like Lectric, Rad Power, Aventon, Ride1Up, Velotric, Heybike, Segway, and more all collected together in our Ride to Work EV deals hub all starting from $214 . Outside of the EV savings, we also have a bunch of discounts on power stations including the early-bird bundle deals with up to $2,000 in savings on Jackerys new HomePower 3000 (Explorer 3000 v2) Solar Generator as well as other power station and tool brands, smart lawn care devices, and more. Head below to check out this weeks best Green Deals. more

Clair Obscur: Expedition 33s style is its substance

Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 uses the visuals of the Belle poque era to reinforce its narrative of optimism and grief.

9to5Toys Steals Weekly Timex Marlin $60 off, Amazon Magic Keyboard alternative $21, Anker 30W USB-C wall outlet $24, more

Welcome to 9to5Toys Steals Weekly your go-to spot for already-affordable everyday essentials that are now selling for even less. This weekly roundup pulls together all of the Steals from the past week, and puts them in a digestable list for you to consume every Saturday morning. This time around our most popular Steals coverage ranges from Timexs eye-catching Marlin watch at $118.50 to Amazons Space Gray Magic Keyboard alternative for $21 alongside Ankers PowerExtend 30W USB-C replacement wall outlet at $24 . Plus, you can find a whole lot more down below. more

Remastered Eldritch terror, a fantasy life sim and other new indie games worth checking out

Indie games! They're rad, aren't they? We're keeping closer tabs on what's going on in that scene with our new weekly roundup. We've got a jam-packed edition for you this time with a little something for everyone, from lo-fi horror and Eldritch terror to cosy train dioramas and a vaporwave driving game. Before we get started, a quick word on a recent game I enjoyed. Idle games aren't usually my kind of thing I'd rather be actively doing things but one I spotted on Itch.io offered some temporary respite from a virus I was dealing with. The DvD idle game from Cybo3D is all about watching a version of the classic DVD logo bouncing around your screen, buying upgrades and seeing numbers go up. Pleasantly relaxing stuff. I swear I even saw the logo go exactly into the corner a few times. New releases The Sinking City has a history that's even odder than some of the Eldritch horrors that lie within. Now, developer Frogwares has remastered its self-published detective thriller in Unreal Engine 5 for PC, PS5 and Xbox Series X/S. Existing owners get a free upgrade to The Sinking City Remastered , which Frogwares shadow dropped this week. Along with 4K textures, lighting upgrades and support for upscaling tech, there are quality-of-life enhancements, accessibility improvements and a photo mode. Free-to-play fantasy adventure life sim Palia (which is what you might get if you smushed together Animal Crossing and World of Warcraft ) landed on PS5 and Xbox Series X/S this week. It's been out on PC and Switch since 2023. There's a new free expansion for all platforms too. If you've ever looked at a Grand Theft Auto game and been mildly interested before deciding a life of virtual crime is not for you , then The Precinct might be up your alley. In this action sandbox title from developer Fallen Tree Games and publisher Kwalee, you'll play as a rookie officer who tries to restore order in his city while trying to solve his fathers murder. How very '80s! Reviews have been mixed, but the art style is compelling and the isometric perspective with twin-stick controls make for an intriguing wrinkle. The Precinct is out now on PS5, Xbox Series X/S and PC. Upcoming Copycat , the debut game from the small team at Spoonful of Wonder, is another strong entry in the cat game canon. You play as a kitty who an elderly lady adopts from a shelter. Needless to say, things don't entirely go smoothly. I enjoyed Copycat which debuted on PC last year and its short but affecting story. The game has already sold over 50,000 copies and it's now set to find a new audience. Copycat is coming to PS5 and Xbox Series X/S on May 29 for $15. Folks who like last year's very good and creepy walking sim Pools but yearn for more intensity from their liminal space horror might be interested in Backrooms Level X . This one is a mazy first-person survival game that has puzzles, oppressive soundscapes and things watching from the shadows. Backrooms Level X , from publisher Firenut Games and solo developer Jos Manuel Conesa Hernndez, will hit Steam on May 29 and consoles at a later date. Okay, maybe horror's not your thing. Totally understandable. Perhaps what you'd rather do is chill out and build little railway dioramas without being beholden to timers or rules. You can do just that in Islands & Trains , from developers Akos Makovics and Fabi Smith and publisher Future Friends Games. It's rolling onto Steam on May 29. It's probably a little (okay, a lot) because of the laidback synthwave tune that soundtracks the trailer, but I'm into the whole aesthetic of Adrift . This is a chill, offroad driving game and it's the first title from both car mechanic turned game developer Stefan Kwak and co-publisher Secret Sauce. Your goal is to transport a fragile energy core across an '80s-inspired, vaporwave landscape. Adrift is coming to Steam later this year and you can check out a demo now . How about another Steam demo? One just dropped for Flick Shot Rogues from three-person studio Butter by the Fish and publisher Noodlecake. Turn-based tactics games usually aren't my cup of tea, but the gameplay here reminds me a bit of Subpar Pool , a game I love very much. In this roguelike, you flick your character across the screen to damage opponents (or evade their attacks) and try to pull off combo moves. Getting the angles just right is as important as piecing together effective builds. I fired up the demo and suddenly 50 minutes had vanished as my first run ended. Yep, I'm liking what Flick Shot Rogues is putting down. I can see myself sinking dozens of hours into this one after it lands on Steam later this year. An open beta for Splitgate 2 , the followup to the Portal-with-guns multiplayer arena shooter, starts on May 22. You'll be able to hop in on Steam, PS5 and Xbox Series X/S. A new trailer shows off the map creator tool, The Lab. You can build maps with up to 15 of your friends in real-time collaboration. I'm sure plenty of folks who are into miniature wargaming and other types of tabletop games have wondered what it might be like to run their own store that sells such wares. And hey, guess what? You'll be able to get a taste of that in Tabletop Game Shop Sim from Knight Fever Games. You'll do everything from deciding on the layout and managing finances to hosting game nights and playing with customers. This one's coming to Steam in 2025. Let's close things out on another cozy note. We love a chill puzzle game around here and Umami might just fit the bill. The idea here is to fit wooden blocks together to create dioramas of food towers. This 3D puzzler from Mimmox will hit Steam later this year. A demo will be available during the Steam Next Fest in mid-June. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/gaming/remastered-eldritch-terror-a-fantasy-life-sim-and-other-new-indie-games-worth-checking-out-110015794.html?src=rss

How to watch Google I/O 2025

It's still May, which means it's still Google time. After showing off Android's new look at The Android Show , the company still has its developer conference to check off the list. Google I/O 2025 is scheduled to start on May 20 at 1PM ET / 10AM PT, and Engadget will be covering it live, via a liveblog and on-the-ground reporting from our very own Karissa Bell . Google included some Gemini news in The Android Show the AI is coming to Wear OS, Android Auto and Google TV but artificial intelligence should still be the focus of the company's upcoming keynote. too. Expect news about how Google is using AI in search to be featured prominently, along with some other surprises, like the possible debut of an AI-powered Pinterest alternative . The company made it clear during its Android showcase that Android XR , its mixed reality platform, will also be featured during I/O. That could include the mixed reality headset Google and Samsung are collaborating on, or, as teased at the end of The Android Show, smart glasses with Google's Project Astra built-in . To find out for yourself, you can watch Google's keynote in the embedded livestream above or on the company's YouTube channel . The event starts at 1PM ET on May 20 and the company plans to hold breakout sessions through May 21 on a variety of different topics relevant to developers. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/big-tech/how-to-watch-google-io-2025-214622457.html?src=rss

Ride to work this summer and beyond with hundreds in savings on e-bikes, scooters, and more from $214

If you werent aware, May 12 to 18 is Bike to Work Week, with May 16 being National Bike to Work Day, so many folks are enjoying taking out their alternative commuting solutions over standard gas-guzzling vehicles. For folks who dont yet have any such means to ditch their cars, theres plenty of opportunities right now thanks to the many EV sales were spotted over the last few weeks plus, you can utilize these rides whenever you want, especially with the warmer weather moving in. Its the perfect time to grab yourself an EV if you dont already have one, and weve got all the best deals on them collected together in this one-stop shopping hub. Many of these sales will be continuing throughout the rest of the month, including the preorder deals on Lectrics new XP4 and XP4 750 e-bikes that just hit the market last week, coming along with up to $356 in free gear and starting from $999 . Head below to browse through everything weve collected, and well be sure to update this hub as new deals roll in. more

Aventons Memorial Day Sale takes up to $400 off e-bikes like the cargo-hauling Abound at $1,599, and more

Aventon has launched its Memorial Day Savings event , which is not only taking up to $400 off its e-bike lineup but also running parallel alongside its latest release of the new Aventure 3 All-Terrain e-bike . Among the offers, we spotted the Abound Cargo e-bike down at $1,599 shipped . Normally going for $1,999 at full price in our post-tariff marketplace, its been consistently seen down at $1,799 since May of last year, with more recent sales taking the price down this low again. Youre getting $400 off the tag during this sale, or you could consider upgrading to its new-generation counterparts, the Abound SR smart e-bike or the Abound LR smart e-bike , with the difference between them being the latters seven-inch longer cargo space with a lockable onboard storage bag and 8-pound heavier chassis. more

Bungie admits its Marathon alpha included stolen artwork

The bright, glitched-out, typography-forward look of Bungie's upcoming extraction shooter Marathon is one of its defining features. As it turns out, it's also partially plagiarized, according to posts shared on the official Marathon X account. The announcement comes after artist Fern Hook, who goes by @4nt1r34l on X, initially accused Bungie of using in-game textures that looked similar to her original artwork on May 15. Bungie is of course not obligated to hire me when making a game that draws overwhelmingly from the same design language I have refined for the last decade, Hook wrote on X, ut clearly my work was good enough to pillage for ideas and plaster all over their game without pay or attribution. the Marathon alpha released recently and its environments are covered with assets lifted from poster designs i made in 2017. @Bungie @josephacross pic.twitter.com/0Csbo48Jgb N (@4nt1r34l) May 15, 2025 Hook's posts are fairly damning, identifying obvious areas in Marathon 's alpha map that feature only lightly altered versions of her original work. She became aware of the issue when the alpha originally launched in April 2025, according to The Washington Post , but kept quiet until now because she was advised to seek legal action. Hook ultimately decided to post about the issue because she doesn't have enough time or money to fly out to the US to pursue an unwinnable court case against Sony. Bungie's statement claims that a former Bungie artist included Hook's art in a texture sheet without the rest of the art team's knowledge. The company is conducting a thorough review of [its] in-game assets and has also reached out to Hook to discuss the issue further. As Eurogamer notes , this isn't the first time Bungie has been accused of lifting the work of other artists. The developer was accused of doing the same thing multiple times during the development of Destiny 2 and its various expansions. Since the game is still in development, it's not clear how or if Bungie will change Marathon to address Hook's complaint, but the developer has until September 23 to do it. That's when Marathon is supposed to launch on PlayStation 5, PC and Xbox Series X/S. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/gaming/playstation/bungie-admits-its-marathon-alpha-included-stolen-artwork-210006323.html?src=rss

Meta is trying to get its antitrust case thrown out in the middle of the trial

The FTC just rested its case following weeks of testimony in a landmark antitrust case against Meta. But before Meta can begin its defense, the company's lawyers have opted for another move: asking the judge to throw out the case entirely. The company filed a motion on Thursday asking US District judge James Boasberg to toss out the FTC's case, arguing that the regulator has not proved that Meta acted anticompetitively. Meta has made two promising mobile apps with uncertain prospect: two of the most successful apps in the world, enjoyed by approximately half of the planet's population (including hundreds of millions of U.S. consumers) on demand, in unlimited quantities, all for free, the filing says, The FTC has not carried its burden to prove that Meta 'is currently violating the antitrust laws.' The company's reasoning is similar to past arguments it's made about the FTC's case. Meta has said that Instagram and WhatsApp were able to grow to one-billion-user services because of the company's investments. The company also takes issue with the FTC's claim that there is a lack of competition for personal social networking services. (The FTC has argued that Meta's only competitors for social networking are Snapchat and MeWe , a small privacy-focused social app that runs on decentralized protocols.) So far, the month-long trial has seen a number of prominent current and former Meta executives take the stand, including CEO Mark Zuckerberg, former COO Sheryl Sandberg and Instagram cofounder Kevin Systrom. Their testimony has revealed new details about the inner workings of the social media company and its tactics to stay ahead of potential competitors. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/big-tech/meta-is-trying-to-get-its-antitrust-case-thrown-out-in-the-middle-of-the-trial-204656979.html?src=rss

This ChatGPT alternative is blowing up, now $70 for lifetime access (Reg. $972)

AI isnt going away, but its kind of expensive to keep up with all of it. Sure, tools like ChatGPT can save serious time, but an OpenAI subscription isnt cheap! Changing the game forever, this lifetime alternative, AI Magicx , is currently on sale for only $59.97 (Reg. $972). Instead of paying a regular subscription to generate AI images, design logos, write articles, and edit documents, you only have to pay once to use it endlessly. more

Get serious cargo-hauling power on G-Forces DE-S premium all-terrain e-bike with 160-mile range for $1,331, more

Update 5/16: G-Force has dropped the price further on its DE-S Premium All-Terrain Fat Tire Wide Cargo e-bike to $1,331.25 shipped while retaining the discounts on the other models that are listed below the fold. Despite G-Forces Spring Sale e-bike offers slated to end with April, it appears that the brand has extended the savings , giving folks a little more time to score them at these lower prices before rates are raised down the road due to tariffs. Among the continuing deals, the brands latest release, the DE-S Premium All-Terrain Fat Tire Wide Cargo e-bike is still being offered at $1,399 shipped . This new model normally carries a $1,799 price tag, with things uncertain as to how high it may rise in the future, with the brands previous Spring Sale bringing costs down to this same rate last month. Its a solid $400 off the going rate while things last, with this being the lowest price we have tracked since the brand came onto our radar. more

The FDA clears the first blood test for diagnosing Alzheimer's disease

There's a new way to screen for early detection of Alzheimer's disease. On Friday, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) cleared the first blood test for the disorder. Fujirebio Diagnostics' Lumipulse measures the ratio of two proteins that correlate with the presence or absence of Alzheimer's. Previously, patients being screened for Alzheimer's were limited to more invasive options: a PET Scan or spinal tap. Lumipulse is intended for use in clinical settings with patients exhibiting signs of cognitive decline. At least in its current form, it isn't something the general population can ask for as a standard screening. The test works by measuring two proteins: pTau217 and -amyloid 1-42. The blood test calculates their ratio, which correlates with the buildup of amyloid plaques in the brain. People with Alzheimer's have elevated pTau217 and lower -amyloid 1-42. In a clinical study, the test performed better with negative results than positive ones. As such, Reuters reports that the test will likely be used initially to rule out Alzheimer's. Over 97 percent of negative results corresponded with a negative PET scan or CSF test result. Results for positives were a bit lower: a 91.7 percent correlation. So, positive results will need to be confirmed with more advanced diagnostic tests. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/science/the-fda-clears-the-first-blood-test-for-diagnosing-alzheimers-disease-201209676.html?src=rss

Ask Engadget: How do I answer calls on my iPhone with only my voice?

Last August, my best friend asked me how she could help her neighbor set her iPhone so she could answer it without picking it up. The neighbor had Multiple Sclerosis (MS), and had lost dexterity in both hands over time. Some Google searches revealed I was far from alone in my confusion. So I asked Apple for some advice. Heres what I said: Q: My friend has advanced MS and has some (very little) control of one of her hands. She can't really swipe a screen or tap buttons. She wants it so that when she receives a call, she can just ask Siri or tell her iPhone to answer or reject it. But based on my research , the only way that's possible is if a user has AirPods or Apple Watch connected, so Siri can announce incoming calls and listen for commands like Answer or Dismiss. I also looked in the accessibility settings for Voice Control and there's a way to answer all incoming calls after a set amount of time. But due to privacy concerns and spam calls, that's not an ideal solution. I was wondering if you knew any way for incoming calls to be answered with a voice command? A: Apple did respond, but unfortunately the solution is complicated. Ill lay out the steps on how to use your iPhone with Voice Control first, since that does provide a somewhat effective workaround. But you should read past the steps for some of the caveats. How to use Voice Control on iPhone to answer calls Before we get started, make sure your phone is running iOS 13 or later. You can also use Voice Control on iPads or iPod Touch (if you still have one). When setting up Voice Control, make sure youre connected to the internet to download the necessary files, and Apple recommends you connect to Wi-Fi before you turn on Voice Control to use it for the first time. When all that is done, proceed with the following steps. Open the Settings app and find the Accessibility settings. This is in the second group of options just below General. You can also just search for Accessibility. Select Voice Control, which is listed in the Physical and motion section. Turn on Voice Control by tapping or sliding the toggle next to it, and, in some cases, wait for the download to finish. If youve enabled Voice Control before, you can also just ask Siri to Turn on voice control. Once the feature is on, youll see little numbers floating around your screen, next to key elements. Your microphone is now on and your iPhone is listening for your commands. Read out the number next to what you want to trigger . If youve been following this guide, you can say one to go back to the Accessibility settings menu. Say Show me what to say for a detailed list of things you can do. You can use commands like Swipe down or Move down to scroll through pages. Just remember that Swipe up will scroll down and Swipe down will scroll up. The system will continue to recognize your touch inputs, too. When a call comes in, read out the number next to the answer option . From the lock screen, that was the number five in my experience. When my phone was unlocked, the number to accept the call was six, while five would decline it. Voice Control isn't perfect As you can see from that seventh step, Voice Control is complicated. Youll need to be within view of your screen to see the labels, and saying the wrong number can cause you to hang up a call by accident. You can say Show Names to display words instead of numbers in the labels, but know that in this case you'll need to add Tap before each label to press it. That means when a call comes in, you can say Tap Answer or the label corresponding to the action you want. I want to point out that the numerical labels dont consistently appear in all apps (the search bar at the top of chats in WhatsApp, for example, doesnt have a number attached to it in my experience). Occasionally, the names in the labels are also oddly chosen, like how the word attached to my widget for my self-care app was just Image. It also takes time to build familiarity with Voice Control and learn all the available actions. I also found the system to be sluggish, and it sometimes took a noticeable delay before a command like Swipe left was registered and carried out. On my first few attempts, I thought my iPhone didn't hear me and repeated the instruction, only for it to swipe through two pages instead. I'm using an iPhone 16 Pro, which is Apple's latest flagship, so it's not like I'm on an older, slower device, either. While we were able to achieve a semi-effective approach with the Voice Control workaround, it didnt really solve my friends neighbors problem. How to answer or decline calls with Siri In researching this guide, I've found that either there is now a way to answer calls with Siri or there was always one that I had missed in August of 2024. Regardless, I was able to test it today in a few different scenarios and while it's certainly more convenient, it's not without its limitations. Go to Siri Settings in your phone. You can find this by searching for Siri in your Settings app or just scrolling till you see Siri or Apple Intelligence & Siri. Make sure the setting to allow your iPhone to listen for Siri or Hey Siri is on. If you're running the latest version of iOS on an iPhone 15 Pro, iPhone 16 or iPhone 16 Pro, this would be Talk & Type to Siri > Hey Siri or Siri or Hey Siri (whichever you prefer, as long as it's not Off). On older iPhones or versions of iOS, it would be Talk to Siri > Hey Siri or Siri or Hey Siri Turn on Call Hang Up if you want to be able to end a call with a voice command during the conversation. Otherwise, you'll have to wait for the other party to hang up. Note: Call hang up only works on phone and FaceTime calls, not on those via third-party apps like WhatsApp or Telegram. When a call comes in, say Siri, answer or Hey Siri, answer to accept. Say Siri, decline the call to reject it. In my testing, Siri, decline did not work, but Siri, decline the call did. I was able to use this method to answer calls not only through phone or FaceTime, but via third-party apps too. I enabled Announce calls, setting it to do so Always rather than only when headphones or CarPlay were connected. But I never saw or heard alerts when a call came, besides the actual ringing. When I asked my friend about using this method with their neighbor, they mentioned that her speech was so affected at that point that Siri wouldn't always recognize what she was saying. Accessibility in tech has improved, but needs to get even better Sadly, that neighbor had passed away before we were able to resolve the issue. Though I wasn't able to solve her problem, I'm putting the limited guidance Ive been able to compile here in the hope that it might be useful to someone in a substantially similar situation. I have yet to properly test the offerings on Android, but on that platform there are settings for Voice Access to be enabled for incoming calls and to remain active during calls, indicating there are options to use voice commands there. My friend's neighbor's challenges are shared by countless people who are still struggling with consumer technology tools that rarely meet their full needs whether they're temporary limitations from injuries or longterm issues resulting from disability or age. Voice-based interactions that are meant to help those with physical disabilities need to better recognize speech impediments at a wider level, and both Google and Apple , along with other major tech companies , have taken steps toward building better models in those respects. The memory of our frustration with voice control felt all the more timely this week, which marked the 14th annual Global Accessibility Awareness Day (the third Thursday of each May). We saw Apple and Google announce new accessibility features, while companies like Amazon , Netflix and Microsoft reminded us of the assistive tools they recently released. Its heartening to see increased development in inclusively designed tech, but its also worth considering how complete and useful some of these solutions are. Many of us will either need some form of assistive technology at some point in our lives or know someone who does and would. In spite of the continued improvements, theres still plenty to do to ensure tech is accessible to all. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/mobile/smartphones/ask-engadget-how-do-i-answer-calls-on-my-iphone-with-only-my-voice-193707009.html?src=rss

Sources claim Red Dead Redemption 2 is coming to Switch 2 as early as this year

Nintendos Switch 2 launch game lineup features more than a few major AAA ports of already released titles, and it sounds like the open-world wild west epic Red Dead Redemption 2 might soon be one of them. Developer Rockstar has been supporting the Switch for years and is already on record stating its long-standing relationship with Nintendo, but the latest suggests RDR2 might be its first launch on Switch 2. more

The 14 best portable Bluetooth speakers for 2025

Whether you're jamming out at the beach, setting up a backyard movie night or just want some tunes while you work, a great portable Bluetooth speaker is a must-have. The best options today go beyond just playing music they deliver punchy bass, crisp vocals and even customizable sound modes to match whatever you're listening to. Some models even pack extras like a built-in LED light for a cool light show, making them perfect for parties or late-night hangs. The best portable Bluetooth speaker isnt just about sound its about convenience, too. Some speakers come in a tiny size that slips easily into a bag, while others have rugged, waterproof designs built for adventure. If youre looking for a mini Bluetooth option for travel or a bigger speaker that fills a room with sound, theres something out there for everyone. With so many choices, finding the best Bluetooth speaker for your needs can feel overwhelming. Weve rounded up the top picks that balance great audio, portability and extra features to keep the music going wherever you are. Table of contents Best portable Bluetooth speakers: $50 to $200 Best portable Bluetooth speakers: $200 to $450 Best portable Bluetooth speakers: $450 and higher Factors to consider in a portable Bluetooth speaker Other portable Bluetooth speakers we tested Bluetooth speaker FAQs Best portable Bluetooth speakers: $50 to $200 Best portable Bluetooth speakers: $200 to $450 Best portable Bluetooth speakers: $450 and higher Factors to consider in a portable Bluetooth speaker Weather-proofing IP ratings (Ingress Protection) are the alphanumeric indicators you often see in a products spec sheet that define water and dust resistance. Its usually a combo of two numbers with the first indicating solid object ingress and the second being water. The former goes from 0 (no protection) to 6 (dustproof). The water-resistance rating goes from 0 (no protection) to 9 (protected against immersion and high pressure jets). When an X is used instead of a number, that means the product wasnt tested for resistance. If its a waterproof speaker, it may have some innate resistance to solids, but theres no guarantee. IP67 is a common rating these days indicating highly resistant and potentially rugged speakers often featured in audio products like outdoor speakers. These are safe for quick dunks in the pool or tub and should be more than OK in the rain or in the shower. Theyre also good options for the beach, playground and other rough environs. Additionally, speakers with ports and a high rating will often include a tight-fitting cover over the charging or auxiliary ports. If you plan on using the ports, that may limit the product's rated ability to fend off the elements. When looking for the best portable Bluetooth speaker, consider the IP rating and also how you plan to use your Bluetooth speaker when making your decision. It may be worth splurging on a better sounding model with a lower IP rating if youll mostly be using it indoors, for instance. Battery life The focus of this guide is on the best. portable Bluetooth speakers, and while portable can be a relative term, these devices are generally for people who are likely to find themselves far from a power outlet. These days, around 12 hours of playtime seems to be the baseline but obviously, the more battery life you can get out of a speaker, the better, especially if you plan to listen to podcasts or music on the go. That said, be careful when looking at battery specs, as they frequently list a maximum runtime (up to x amount of hours). This usually means they tested at a low to mid volume. If you like your tunes loud with punchy bass, it can often end up cutting the expected usage time in half or more. Luckily, some manufacturers also list the expected hours of battery life when used at full volume and that transparency is appreciated. Bear in mind, however, that not all of the best Bluetooth speakers use the same charging port. Some support USB-C charging, while others use micro-USB, and some may even come with an adapter for added convenience. Additionally, if your audio system or mini Bluetooth speaker also happens to have Wi-Fi connectivity, they're usually designed for always-on functionality. Unlike normal Bluetooth speakers that go to sleep after a short period without use, these will usually stay awake (to listen for your commands) and slowly run down the battery. If you're out and about, you'll want to remember to turn these speakers off manually when not in use to maximize battery life. Range Bluetooth 5 offers better range and more reliable connectivity than its predecessors, making it a great feature to look for in the best Bluetooth speaker. That said, Bluetooth range can still be tricky. Some companies list their products longest possible range, usually outdoors and in an unobstructed line-of-sight test environment. Other companies stick with a 30-foot range on the spec sheet and leave it at that, even though they may be running Bluetooth 4.x or 5.x. Thats likely underselling the speaker's potential, but unpredictable environments can affect range and theres little point in promising the moon only to get complaints. Ive seen signal drop issues when crouching down, with my phone in the front pocket of my jeans, and barely 30 feet away from a speaker inside my apartment. I ran into this issue across several devices regardless of their listed Bluetooth connectivity range. If youre hosting a patio party and duck inside, its wise to keep any wireless Bluetooth speakers relatively close by just in case. Its hard to gauge what aspects of any environment may interfere with a Bluetooth signal. In general, take range specs around 100 feet or more as a perfect-world scenario. Latency This is a minor mention for those out there who use a speaker for their computer output, or as a mini Bluetooth soundbar solution for setups like a monitor and streaming box. Its annoying to find that your speakers latency isnt low enough to avoid lip sync issues. Luckily, it seems that most speakers these days dont often have these problems. Only a handful of the few dozen speakers I tried had persistent, noticeable lip-sync issues. Aside from occasional blips, all of our picks worked well in this regard. If you plan to frequently use a speaker for video playback, look for devices with the most recent Bluetooth 5 technology and lower latency codecs like aptX. Also make sure the speaker is close to the source device as distance can be a factor. To avoid the issue altogether, though, consider getting one with a wired auxiliary input. Extra features Some speakers dont just play music they bring the party to life with built-in LED light effects and a full-on light show that syncs to your music. If you love a bit of visual flair with your tunes, its worth checking out models that offer LED light customization options. Sound quality also plays a huge role in picking the right speaker. The best Bluetooth speaker should deliver a balanced mix of punchy bass, clear highs and strong vocals. Many models also include customizable sound modes that let you tweak the EQ to better suit different genres whether youre blasting EDM, listening to a podcast, or just want a more immersive experience. If aesthetics matter, many models come in a tiny size that makes them extra portable, with plenty of color options to match your personal style. Whether you want a sleek black speaker or a vibrant eye-catching design, there are plenty of choices to fit your vibe. Other portable Bluetooth speakers we tested Sonos Roam While there's a lot to like about the Sonos Roam , there are plenty of other Bluetooth speakers with more features and better battery life. In our review , we gave the Roam a score of 87, praising it for its good sound quality, durable waterproof design and ability to work well within an existing Sonos speaker ecosystem. But the price is just fine at $180, and we found Bluetooth speakers that offer more at lower price points. Plus, the Roam taps out at 10 hours of battery life, and all of our top picks can run for longer than that on a single charge. Monoprice Soundstage3 The Monoprice Soundstage3 offers relatively big sound at a midrange $250 price, with a variety of inputs rarely found on a portable Bluetooth speaker. The boxy, minimalist design is no nonsense, even if it's more of a less-rugged, bookshelf-styled homebody. While the speaker puts out crisp highs alongside booming lows, we found the bass can overpower the rest of the output, so it's not for everyone. And after using the speaker for many months, we also found the low-slung, poorly labeled button panel along the top can be a bit annoying to use. If you want a speaker for road trips, favor mids and highs, and plan on using physical buttons for volume control and input selections, there are better options out there. JBL Boombox 3 Fans of JBLs bluetooth speaker sound profile who want to crank up the volume, but also want a rugged and portable option, may enjoy the JBL Boombox 3 . Its a decent grab-and-go speaker with a very loud output, although it's not as good as some of the loud-speaker styled options for long-throw sound and big outdoor areas. However, the price for this speaker line remains prohibitively expensive compared to other options with big sound that cover a bit more ground. If the JBL brand is your thing and you like the rugged, portable form factor, we recommend looking for discounts, or shopping around and exploring the available options including the (less portable) JBL PartyBox series. Soundcore Motion X500 Soundcore speakers have generally been good and often reasonably priced. The Motion X500 loosely falls into that category. It has a tall, metallic lunchbox vibe with a fixed handle and pumps out a respectable 40 watts of crisp, clear sound for its size. It can get pretty loud and serves up a good dose of bass, although its primarily a front-facing speaker. Theres LDAC hi-res audio support for Android users, but the main selling point on this is spatial audio. This is done through an EQ change and the activation of a small, up-firing driver. Theres a slight benefit from this if youre up close and directly in front of it, but its not a total game changer for your listening experience. The original pre-order price of $130 made it a decent option in terms of bang for your buck. But it went up to $170 at launch, making it less appealing even if its still a good middle-of-the-road option if you want small-ish, clear and loud. If you can find one on sale for the lower price , its definitely worth considering. Theres also the larger and louder X600 ($200) if the overall concept is working for you. Portable Bluetooth speaker FAQs How does a Bluetooth speaker work? Bluetooth technology lets devices connect and exchange data over short distances using ultra high frequency (UHF) radio waves. Its the frequency range thats carved out for industrial, scientific and medical purposes, called the 2.4GHz ISM spectrum band. This range is available worldwide, making it easy for companies to use with devices for global markets. Bluetooth speakers include this tech, which lets them communicate with source devices like smartphones, tablets or computers in order to exchange data. The two devices pair by sharing a unique code and will work within the proscribed range for the device and Bluetooth version. Ever since Bluetooth 4.0 was released over a decade ago, new iterations usually improve on range, use less power and offer expanded connectivity with features like multipoint (allowing more than one device to be connected at the same time, for instance). Who should buy a Portable Bluetooth speaker? If you want to play music while youre out-and-about on something other than headphones, a portable Bluetooth speaker is probably what you want. Theres a broad range of devices for all types of circumstances. Many adventurous people will want a relatively lightweight portable thats rugged enough to handle the elements while also packing enough charge to play for hours on end. Others may simply need a speaker they can move around the house or use in the backyard. In this case, you can choose larger less rugged models that may offer better sound. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/audio/speakers/best-portable-bluetooth-speakers-133004551.html?src=rss

Kojima is leaving behind a USB stick with game ideas for after he dies

Iconic video game maker Hideo Kojima has left behind a USB stick filled with game ideas in the case of his death, as indicated in an interview with Edge Magazine that VGC reported on . Kojima says it's kind of like a will and that he hopes that his staff will continue to make games after he passes. Don't worry. He isn't going anywhere anytime soon. This was spurred on by the pandemic. Until then, I didnt think I was old, you know? I just didnt feel my age, and I assumed I would be able to create for as long as I live, he told the magazine. Kojima is 61 years old, which is a spring chicken when compared to luminaries like Shigeru Miyamoto (72) and Sid Meier (71.) Death Stranding 2 covers the next issue of EDGE Magazine with exclusive artwork from Yoji Shinkawa. Releasing June 26th on PS5. pic.twitter.com/27bL9cZgHx KAMI (@Okami13_) May 15, 2025 While Kojima isn't planning on leaving this mortal coil in the near future, he does say that he only has so much time left for active game development. He gives himself around ten years before he reaches an age in which his creative energy could be depleted. So, the idea of a USB stick was born. He hopes it will allow Kojima Productions to carry on as an entity after he passes or retires. This is a fear for me: what happens to Kojima Productions after Im gone? I dont want them to just manage our existing IP. While we don't know what type of ideas are on the USB stick, Kojima did recently introduce a few off-the-wall game concepts regarding the passage of time. He discussed a concept involving memory , in which the main character gradually forgets important information and abilities if someone takes too long of a break from playing. Kojima also discussed a game that encompassed an entire life and another one that would involve the real-time creation of wine or cheese. The designer also planned on a mechanic that made Sam's beard grow over time in the forthcoming Death Stranding 2 . However, he scrapped it because Norman Reedus is a big star and he didn't want to make him look uncool. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/gaming/kojima-is-leaving-behind-a-usb-stick-with-game-ideas-for-after-he-dies-184029255.html?src=rss

Score two of Ankers new 15W Qi2 MagSafe chargers for less than the price of one today at just $27 ($13.50 ea.)

Over at Amazon, youll find Ankers official storefront offering a 2-pack of its new 15W Qi2 Zolo MagSafe charging pad for $27 Prime shipped. Dont forget to clip the on-page 10% off coupon to see the discounted price during checkout. This is the brands new Qi2 charger that hit the scene earlier this month carrying a $30 price tag. The 2-pack usually sells for $40, but its now available at a $13 discount bringing it to its lowest price yet. With the on-page coupon, you can grab two of these chargers for less than the cost of a single one. This is a great time to strike, so be sure to cash in after you get more details below. more

Google to give app devs access to Gemini Nano for on-device AI

New APIs for Google's ML Kit will let developers plug into the on-device AI model.

FCC approves Verizon's $20 billion merger with Frontier

The FCC has announced its approval of the merger between communications giants Verizon and Frontier, after a deal was made last year . Verizon will acquire Frontier Communications for $9.6 billion in cash, in addition to absorbing $10 billion of debt. Key to earning approval from the FCC was Verizon's commitment to ending all DEI-related practices, in line with the Trump administrations aim to dismantle all diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives from both public organizations and private companies . The statement from the FCC said the approval ensures that discriminatory DEI policies end, and that Verizon has reaffirmed the merged entitys commitment to equal opportunity and nondiscrimination. By approving this deal, the FCC ensures that Americans will benefit from a series of good and commonsense wins. The transaction will unleash billions of dollars in new infrastructure builds in communities across the countryincluding rural America. This investment will accelerate the transition away from old, copper line networks to modern, high-speed ones. And it delivers for Americas tower and telecom crews who do the hard, often gritty work needed to build high-speed networks, said Brendan Carr , FCC chairman. Verizon plans to upgrade and expand Frontier's existing network across 25 states and expects to deploy fiber to more than one million American homes annually. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/big-tech/fcc-approves-verizons-20-billion-merger-with-frontier-181434890.html?src=rss

Todays Android app deals and freebies: Bloons TD 6, Majesty Fantasy Kingdom, more

Friday afternoons lineup of the best Android game and app deals is now ready and waiting down below. Alongside the launch of the new Sony WH-1000XM6 headphones and ongoing pre-order deals on the new Samsung Galaxy S25 Edge , we also have notable price drops on Sharges 30W 10,000mAh Pouch Mini power bank as well as the Hisense 2025 frame-style 144Hz Google smart TV at $900 off , but for now its on to the apps, and everything awaits below. more

Ride1Ups Memorial Day Sale takes up to $300 off e-bikes and offers select accessory promo starting from $1,095

Ride1Up has its Memorial Day Sale running through May 27 , with two of its e-bikes getting up to $300 taken off their tags and an accessory promotion on its popular and affordable Portola Folding e-bike . The biggest of the cash savings is landing on the Prodigy v2 Brose Mid-Drive e-bike starting at $2,195 shipped for its 9-speed drive-train model, while the belt-drive counterpart is down at $2,595 shipped . These two models normally go for $2,495 and $2,795, respectively, these days, with $200 price cuts often being the average discount seen in sales lately, which is continuing on the belt-drive model, while the chain-drive model saves you an additional $100 on top of that. Head below for more on these and the other models seeing discounts during this sale. more

Nintendo Switch 2 guide Upcoming stock, complete spec rundown, FREE Switch game upgrades, more [Updated]

Everything you need to know about Nintendo Switch 2 has been collected into one handy guide for you below. Nintendos next-generation console will hit store shelves later this year some time after the scheduled and dedicated Switch 2 Direct showcase on April 2. While we will have to wait until then before we get an official word on price, pre-order details, and hopefully some information on the launch/window games, theres a ton of information already out there that Nintendo hasnt given up just yet and youll find it all waiting down below. more

Quickly see what time it is at night with this projection alarm clock for $11 (Save 50%)

ORIA Projection Alarm Clock Buy for $11 (Reg. $22) Clip the on-page 40% off coupon. What we love When I wake up at night, I usually like to see what time it is. Fumbling around for a phone can wake me up even more, so thats where a dedicated clock can come in handy. Not only does this unit have a screen that displays the time, but it can also project the time onto the wall, ceiling, or really anywhere youd like thats within a 1.6- to 16-foot range. more

Join Costco for $65 and get a $20 Digital Shop Card to spend

This Costco membership promotion is worth checking out. For $65 , new members receive a 1-Year Gold Star Membership plus a$20Digital Costco Shop Card*to spend in-store or online. Costco is known for offering brand-name tech at exceptional pricing, and this promotion gives new members a little more to work with, just in time for spring events, graduations, or even outfitting your home office. more

Microsoft boasts that Copilot+ PCs are faster than Macs Apple doesnt sell anymore

Macworld Hey, its Friday! If you have plans to, I dunno, maybe hang out at the bar (or pub , for the UKers) or something like that with a bunch of PC-loving friends, well, yall will have something to talk about tonight. Microsoft fired a salvo at Apple in the form of a video short that claims that top Copilot+ PCs are faster than the beloved MacBook Air. You can waste 12 seconds of your life watching it below. (Ill give you a moment to wipe the spit take from your screen. Sorry about that, I shouldve warned you.) Cheesy production aside (Was this comically low budget ad made with Windows Movie Maker 2 and a 5 MP camera from 2003? commented @ItsRichieT ), the major sticking point about this ad is that it makes comparisons to the M3 MacBook Airyou know, the laptop that was released in 2024 and replaced earlier this year by the M4 MacBook Air . So the M3 Air isnt in Apples active product lineup. Granted, you can buy the M3 MacBook Air from third-party retailers and at Apples Certified Refurbished store . But it doesnt look good when a company compares top products to competitors that arent being made anymore and have been replaced by something better. The thing is, Microsoft also claims the top Copilot+ PCs are faster than the M4 MacBook Airits right on their website . But the results are nothing like the up to 58 percent touted in the ad. Microsoft says it recorded a Cinebench 2024 Multi-Core score of 866 for the M4 Air, and that eight Copilot+ PCs all scored higher. So, let me take the opportunity to do what Microsoft didnt want to show you: how much faster those eight Copilot+ PCs are than the M4 MacBook Air (the Cinebench 2024 Multi-Core score is in parentheses). ASUS Vivobook S 14 with AMD Ryzen AI 9 365: 5.3 percent (912) Dell XPS 13 9345 with Snapdragon X Elite: 8.9 percent (943.3) HP OmniBook Ultra 14 with AMD Ryzen AI 9 HX 375: 11.4 percent (965) Lenovo Yoga Slim 7x 14 with Qualcomm Snapdragon X Elite: 18.9 percent (1029.6) Lenovo Yoga Slim 7x 14 with Qualcomm Snapdragon X Elite 19.4 percent (1033.6) Lenovo Yoga Pro 7 with AMD Ryzen AI 9 365: 17.9 percent (1021.3) Microsoft Surface Laptop 15 with Snapdragon X Elite: 9.7 percent (950) Microsoft Surface Laptop 13.8 with Snapdragon X Elite: 2.7 percent (889.6) The Lenovo devices are the fastest of the bunch (I dont know why the Lenovo Yoga Slim 7x 14 is tested twice; drop me a line if you can fill me in), but those improvements arent big enough to make an impression. Imagine that video, but instead it says, Top Copilot+ PCs are up to 19.4 percent faster than a MacBook Air with M4. That will just get you stupid looks from the Microsoft marketing department. Heck, we here at Macworld see 15 to 25 percent improvement from one M-series chip to another, and our reaction to that is lukewarm. You can imagine what we think about a Copilot+ PCs offering a less than 20 percent boost over the M4 MacBook Air: Pfft. As for all the other PCs? You wont notice the difference at all. We ran the same Cinebench 2024 test and got a score of 797 for the M4 MacBook Air, so clearly, results may vary. To sum up, for your PC-lovin buddies who want to bring up this ad over a few pints: Your top Copilot+ PCs are up to 58 percent faster than a discontinued MacBook Air? Cool! The top Copilot+ PCs faster than the M4 MacBook Air? That may be true, but no one can notice the difference in real-world usage. But hey, nice of you to catch up! The 12-second ad? Just another example of a corporation trying to relate to the young folks. And if they still wont listen, just remember that they have to use Windows.

Microsoft attemps to avoid EU fines by further decoupling Teams and Office

The European Commission (EC) has been firing on all cylinders in holding big tech to account through various fines and enforcement actions, attempting to create a more competitive landscape in a space that has become increasingly monopolized. Microsoft has been in a years-long dispute with the EC, which opened an antitrust probe in 2023 after Slack filed a complaint in 2020 alleging that Microsofts bundling of Teams and Microsoft 365 was anticompetitive. The company unbundled the two products in the EU shortly thereafter in a bid to avoid antitrust fines, but it wasnt enough to appease the EC. In 2024, the Commission found that Microsoft did not go far enough and was still in violation of antitrust laws, risking massive fines. This week, Microsoft responded with a more robust set of commitments. Its productivity software suites will continue to be offered without Teams in the European Economic Area (EEA) for at least seven years. Minimum price deltas will be set between versions of the suites that include Teams and those which do not. Microsoft has also offered to align these options and pricing structures for its suites and Teams globally should the EC accept its proposal. Interoperability enhancements that make it easier to use third-party competitors to Teams were also included in the proposal. The proposed commitments are the result of constructive, good-faith discussions with the European Commission over several months. We believe that they represent a clear and complete resolution to the concerns raised by our competitors and will provide European customers with more choices, said Nanna-Louise Linde, Microsoft's VP of European Government Affairs. The EC has begun an open feedback period , seeking comments from competitors and citizens on whether the proposed commitments by Microsoft are adequate and place the company back within the bounds of the EU's antitrust regulations. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/big-tech/microsoft-attemps-to-avoid-eu-fines-by-further-decoupling-teams-and-office-170519085.html?src=rss

Score Gerbers unique Quadrant Folding Pocket Knife down at $29 (Save 38%)

Gerber Gear Quadrant Folding Pocket Knife Buy for $29 (Reg. $47) What we love There are plenty of pocket knives out there to pick from, so my take is that its worth looking around and finding something with either a unique look or feature set. This one really stands out to me, with an aesthetic thats quite different from most. When folded, it measures 4 inches long and the entire things weighs in at just 3 ounces. more

Big time 62% discount knocks Sharges 100W 6-in-1 GaN charging station with 2 AC outlets, 5-foot cord down to just $15

Update: Sharges 100W 6-in-1 USB-C GaN charging station is now even lower at just $14.99 Prime shipped once you clip the on-page 50% off coupon . This is now the new best price to beat for this model, and you can learn more about in the original post below. Over at Amazon, youll find Sharges official storefront offering its 100W 6-in-1 USB-C GaN charging station for $19.99 $14.99 with free shipping for Prime members or in orders over $35. Dont forget to clip the on-page $10 off coupon to see the discounted price during checkout. This is originally a $50 charging unit that has lately been sitting at the $40 mark. Its fetching $30 right now with a 17% markdown on its listed price, but you can apply the on-page coupon to save an extra $10 on this already discounted model bringing it down to the lowest price weve seen so far. This multi-port charger is a good option to consider for your desk or bedside table, and you can learn more about it below. more

Lectric Memorial Day Sale offers up to $742 in free gear with the XPedition 2.0 cargo e-bikes from $1,399, more from $999

Lectric has launched its Memorial Day Sale with increased bundle packages that give you up to $742 in free gear along with your purchase. The largest of these savings is on the XPedition 2.0 Cargo e-bikes, which come in three variants, with the standard 13Ah model at $1,399 shipped and getting $394 in free gear, the 26Ah dual-battery model at $1,699 shipped with $593 in free gear, and the 35Ah dual-battery model at $1,999 shipped and coming with $742 in free gear. As is usually the case, the savings from this brand tend to come in the form of free bundled gear, with the packages were seeing on these models being the biggest yet beating out their Black Friday deals. Head below to learn more about these e-bikes and the deals on the brands other models during this sale. more

Red Dead Redemption 2 could be coming to Switch 2 this year

Third-party support was a big theme of the Switch 2 reveal earlier this year, with many publishers seemingly keen to capitalize on both the popularity of the outgoing Switch and the significantly increased horsepower of its imminent successor. And if youre looking to get third-party games on your new system, they dont come much much bigger than Red Dead Redemption 2 , which could be making its way to Nintendos new console later this year. Gamereactor says it has heard from sources close to Rockstar (which it then corroborated with other sources) that the enormous open-world Western that first released in 2018 is bound for Switch 2, and could arrive either at the same time, or after, a long-rumored next-gen update for the PS5 and Xbox Series X. Red Dead Redemption 2 is of course currently playable on both of those platforms, but unlike GTA 5 , its never been patched to support the higher frame rates and fidelity afforded by the newer hardware. This should by no means be taken as an official announcement, but Rockstar has supported the current Switch pretty well throughout its life cycle, releasing ports of L.A. Noire , the original 3D Grand Theft Auto trilogy, and most recently the first Red Dead Redemption . If the Switch 2 can run its sequel, its a pretty safe bet to assume that Rockstar would want to do it, and the console is likely to be roughly equivalent in power to the base model PS4, according to Digital Foundry . It goes without saying that we'll know a lot more about how the Switch 2 performs when the console is in the wild and put through its paces. Both a Nintendo Switch 2 port and current-gen patch for Red Dead Redemption 2 would be a good way for Rockstar to bridge the gap between now and the release of GTA 6 , which was recently delayed until May 2026. With a 97 percent score on Metacritic, RDR2 is one of the developers most acclaimed titles to date, and you can be sure that a lot of people would happily hop back into the cowboy boots of Arthur Morgan while they wait to return to Vice City. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/gaming/red-dead-redemption-2-could-be-coming-to-switch-2-this-year-161043422.html?src=rss

Take charge of the air you breathe using Govees 1,162-sq. ft. Smart Purifier with PM2.5 sensor at $84.50 (Reg. $130)

GoveeLife 1,162-sq. ft. Smart Air Purifier with PM2.5 Sensor Buy for $84.50 (Reg. $130) Clip the on-page 35% off coupon. What we love When out and about, we dont really have much control over the air were breathing, but at home, thats not the case. With an air purifier like this you can cleanse 1,162-square feet per hour, and the built-in PM2.5 sensor lets you check quality readings anytime youd like using the Govee app. more

Get yourself or one of the kids an affordable summer EV with Hover-1s Blast Hoverboard at only $96 (Reg. $120)

Hover-1 Blast Electric Self Balancing Hoverboard Buy for $96 (Reg. $120) What we love If youve been wanting to pick up an affordable EV of some sort, whether it be for yourself or maybe one of the kids, this is budget-friendly way to dip your toe in the water and take one for a spin. Ive personally used hoverboards in the past and find them to be incredibly intuitive and fun to ride. more

Shadow Labyrinth might just pull off its oddball elevator pitch

Shadow Labyrinth sounds bizarre on paper, but we're impressed by what we played in our first hands-on demo.

Commute through urban streets on Velotrics 39-pound T1 ST Plus e-bike with Apple Find My and 70-mile range for $1,399, more

Its National Bike to Work Day, and while you may not have a electric model this year to commute on, you can certainly take advantage of Velotrics Bike Month Sale pricing and score yourself the means to do so through summer and into fall. There are obvious favorites like the Discover 1 Plus at $1,299 or its upgraded Discover 2 counterpart , but I wanted to shine a spotlight on a solid option for folks commuting in more urban areas, the T1 ST Plus e-bike that is at $1,399 shipped . Its going for $1,649 at full price these days due to the tariffs that have been affecting the market in the past few months, with discounts only having brought down the cost to this rate since. While we did see the price go lower last year, theres no telling how long itll be until we see those rates again, as well as if prices will continue going up later in the year with the markets uncertainty. Still, you can pick up this lightweight model at $250 off the going rate, gaining some added smart security on top of electrifying your commute. more

REI Biggest Sale of the Year Anniversary Event takes up to 60% off sitewide: Patagonia, The North Face, more

REIs biggest sale of the year is live and offering up to 60% off sitewide . Prices are as marked. Inside this sale you can score deals on The North Face, Patagonia, Helly Hansen, Outdoor Research, HOKA, and more. Shipping prices apply and vary per order. One of our top picks from this sale is the HOKA Clifton 9 Road-Running Shoes that are currently marked down to $117 and originally sold for $145. These shoes are available in four color options and feature a lightweight, cushioned design thats great for daily training and long-distance comfort. They feature a responsive foam midsole with a heel-to-toe drop, offering a balance between plush cushioning and energetic toe-off. The updated upper provides a breathable, supportive fit, making it great for indoor or outdoor runs. Find even more deals by heading below, or you can shop the entire sale here . more

Two Blink Mini 2 security cameras are on sale for $38

You can pick up a pair of Blink Mini 2 security cameras for just $38. This is a discount of 46 percent, as the typical price is $70. The discount is available for both the black and white models. This deal is part of an early Memorial Day sale . The Blink Mini 2 made our list of the best security cameras , and we gave it kudos for being a great option for the budget-conscious. These are small cameras that are easy to place just about anywhere. You can adjust the head to accommodate a wide variety of angles and we found the setup to be painless and quick. The image quality is decent, though not astounding. The bright spots can get a bit blown out, but the camera gets the job done. We found that it was particularly useful at night, thanks to the infrared view and the spotlight. This model also offers the ability to set privacy zones and it can double as a doorbell chime if you happen to have a Blink Video Doorbell installed. The camera is weather resistant, so it works outside. It also integrates with Alexa, which makes sense as Amazon owns Blink. Alexa can be used to adjust settings, arm the camera and more. There's no location detection here, so it can't automatically arm the device when you leave the house. This has to be done manually. Also, it doesn't offer any cloud storage unless you pony up for a Blink subscription. A basic subscription for one camera costs $3 per month. Follow @EngadgetDeals on X for the latest tech deals and buying advice . This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/deals/two-blink-mini-2-security-cameras-are-on-sale-for-38-152339616.html?src=rss

New low knocks Sharges 30W 10,000mAh Pouch Mini power bank with built-in USB-C cable down to $32

As part of its now liveearly Memorial Day sale, Sharges official Amazon storefront is offering Prime members its 10,000mAh 30W power bank for $32.31 shipped . Dont forget to clip the on-page 10% coupon to see the discounted price during checkout. Thats nearly $18 off its usual going rate and the lowest we can find for this compact battery pack with a built-in USB-C cable. Its now fetching $8 less than its previous low and our mention from earlier this year, and you can get both gray and white variants of this model down at $32 today. Head below for more details. more

The best Memorial Day tech deals on gear from Apple, Amazon, Dyson and others

It might surprise you, but Memorial Day can be a great time to shop for tech. In years past, we've seen solid Memorial Day deals on all manner of gadgets including many of our favorite tablets, headphones, charging accessories, robot vacuums and more. That's on top of all the seasonal items that usually gets discounted at this time like smart grills and grilling gear, pizza ovens and outdoor tech. If you're on the market for any of those things, now's a good time to shop. And like most seasonal holidays as of late, you don't have to rush to make your purchase. Memorial Day deals are live now, and there's a good chance they'll be available until the holiday weekend has passed. Below, we've collected all of the best Memorial Day tech deals we could find for 2025, and we'll continue to update this post with the latest offers. We'd be remiss if we didn't mention Amazon Prime Day , though. The biggest iteration of the online retailer's annual shopping event typically happens in July, and Amazon confirmed it will be back again this year (although official dates remain unknown). Tech is usually heavily discounted on Prime Day for Prime members, so if you're unsure about a purchase, you could take the chance and wait a little while longer to see if that pair of earbuds you've been eyeing drops even further in price during Prime Day. If not, Memorial Day offers the next best opportunity this time of year to save on gadgets and gear. Best Memorial Day tech sales: Top deals Best Memorial Day tech deals Peacock Premium (one year) for $25 ($55 off): The latest Peacock deal gives you one year of the Premium membership for only $25 when you use the code SPRINGSAVINGS at checkout. This ad-supported tier gives you access to some live sports content and more than 50 always-on channels, as well as the whole library of on-demand TV shows and movies Peacock has to offer. The deal runs through May 30. ProtonVPN (two years) for $81 (66 percent off): ProtonVPN two-year plans are 66 percent off and down to only $81 right now. You'll save more than $150 on the total cost of the subscription with this deal, and in addition to VPN coverage for all your devices, you also get access to features that let you block ads, malware and other trackers. Beats Powerbeats Pro 2 for $200 (20 percent off): The new Powerbeats Pro 2 have a comfortable design, improved sound quality and bass performance and heart rate sensors on board that make them good workout companions. However, you'll only be able to get that heart rate data if you have these buds paired to an iOS device. Beats Pill for $100 ($50 off): This IP67-rated Bluetooth speaker is one of our favorites thanks to its improved bass performance, over 24 hours of battery life and lossless audio via USB-C. Plus, if you have two Pills, you can pair them together for stereo sound. Anker Nano Fusion 3-in-1 10K portable charger for $35 (20 percent off, Prime exclusive): We named this brick the best low-capacity option in our best power banks guide thanks in part to its built-in USB-C cable and wall prongs. The former means you don't have to remember to bring a cable with you to power up your phone or other USB-C gadget, and the latter lets you recharge the brick itself via an AC outlet without the need for an additional adapter. We also like the handy display that shows the battery's remaining charge while it's working its magic. Also available at Anker . Anker Soundcore Space A40 earbuds for $45 ($35 off, Prime exclusive): Our top pick for the best budget wireless earbuds , the Space A40 punch above their weight in almost every way. They have excellent ANC, a good sound profile overall, a comfortable fit, multi-device connectivity and wireless charging support. Ooni Memorial Day sale 20 percent off almost everything: Most of Ooni's pizza ovens are on sale for Memorial Day, including the recently launched Koda 2 in its Essential bundle , which has been discounted from $489 to $391. The company's indoor electric pizza oven, the Volt 12 , is also included in the sale: you can grab it for $629 instead of the usual $899. Ninja Artisan 5-in-1 outdoor electric pizza oven for $230 (23 percent off): This model from Ninja can create 12-inch pies in as little as three minutes, and it also has other cooking modes like bake, proof, broil and warm. You can choose from five unique pizza settings (Neapolitan, Thin Crust, Pan, New York, and Custom) and you can take control of cooking by adjusting the temperature from 90 to 700 degrees Fahrenheit. Also available at Amazon . Amazon Kindle Paperwhite Kids for $140 (22 percent off): This is the same, latest Kindle Paperwhite, just customized a bit for kids. You'll get the waterproof ereader in this bundle along with a protective case, a two-year warranty and six months of Amazon Kids+ for free. Blink Mini 2 (two-pack) for $38 (46 percent off): These are some of the best security cameras if you're looking for something cheap and only need basic functionality. They record 1080p video and send motion alerts to your phone, plus they work with Alexa voice commands. Blink Mini 2 cams are wired, but they can be placed outside with the right weather-resistant power adapter . Blink Outdoor 4 security cameras, 5 camera system for $200 (50 percent off): This pack-up includes give weather-resistant Blink Outdoor 4 cameras plus a Sync Module 2 to connect them all. These are some of our favorite security cameras thanks to their wireless design, accurate and speedy motion alerts and the ability to save footage locally when you use a thumb drive with the Sync Module 2. Google Nest (wired) security camera for $70 (30 percent off): One of our favorite security cameras , the wired Nest cam has an attractive design and a super simple setup process both experienced and new security camera owners will be able to get it up and running in minutes. It'll send motion alerts to your phone, and pet/person detection is a standard feature most other security cams make you pay for that. Samsung 24-inch Essential monitor S30GD for $100 (23 percent off): This 1080p IPS display has a 100Hz refresh rate and can be adjusted via tilting. Its design is pretty slim with thin bezels, and it connect to your computer via HDMI port. Lenovo ThinkVision 23.8-inch Monitor T24i-30 for $183 (46 percent off): This FHD IPS panel has a three-side, NearEdgeless bezel design and can be adjusted via tilt, lift, swivel and pivot. In addition to four USB-A ports for connecting peripherals, it also supports a number of display connections including HDMI, DP and VGA. Withings Thermo smart thermometer for $86 ($14 off): This FDA cleared, FSA/HSA/HRA eligible thermometer can take no-contact temperature readings in just a few seconds with a simple swipe across the forehead. It uses 16 infrared sensors to take over 4,000 measurements for the most accurate readings, and the built-in LED screen will show you color-coded results. Dyson Supersonic hair dryer for $330 ($100 off): This is the original Dyson Supersonic hair dryer that has been super popular since its debut. It includes five attachments for drying and styling, and it's billed as a fast dryer that protects hair from heat damage. Dyson V8 Plus cordless vacuum for $350 (26 percent off): The V8 is a great entry-level Dyson that boasts 40 minutes of runtime, two power modes, a motorbar cleaner head that works on all kinds of flooring and four additional cleaning attachments. Also available at Dyson in the Absolute model. iRobot Combo Essential robot vacuum for $150 ($125 off): This is a great entry-level robot vacuum that has the added convenience of being a mopping machine, too. It'll suck up dirt, debris and pet hair while it vacuums, and you can use the included water reservoir when you want to mop hard floors. Tineco Pure ONE S11 Cordless Vacuum Cleaner for $140 ($60 off with coupon): Our top budget pick among the best cordless vacuums , this Tineco machine offers good suction and a relatively lightweight design at a great price. It also includes the company's iLoop smart sensor, which will auto-adjust suction power as you clean. Shark Clean & Empty Cordless Stick Vacuum for $280 (20 percent off): This is a slightly cheaper version of one of our favorite cordless stick vacuums and it comes with a self-emptying base. This Shark stick vacuum has good suction power, can easily convert to a hand vacuum and it docks neatly on its auto-empty base station that traps over 99 percent of dust and allergens. Shark PowerDetect NeverTouch Robot Vacuum and Mop for $700 (30 percent off): A version of one of our favorite robot vacuums , this Shark machine can vacuum and mop floors for you. Its self-emptying base station holds up to 30 days worth of debris, and it has a refill tank for the mopping reservoir as well. EcoFlow Delta 2 1024Wh power station with waterproof bag for $449 (36 percent off): This EcoFlow power station provides 15 connectors to power up multiple devices at once those include six AC outlets, two USB-C ports and four USB-A ports. It's versatile enough to take it camping or on a road trip, but it can also act as a home backup battery, powering a refrigerator, lights, CPAP machines and more. EcoFlow Delta 2 Max 2048Wh power station for $999 (41 percent off): This is a higher-capacity version of the Delta 2, so it'll last longer and power gadgets and appliances for a longer period of time on a full charge. It also has 15 connectors and you can optionally add on solar panels for easy powering-up on the go. Follow @EngadgetDeals on X for the latest tech deals and buying advice . This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/deals/the-best-memorial-day-tech-deals-on-gear-from-apple-amazon-dyson-and-others-144526041.html?src=rss

Nintendo Switch 2 final specifications confirmed, heres how it compares to the original Switch [Updated]

Update: Nintendo has officially confirmed via a statement that the Switch 2 only supports VRR in handheld mode. A Nintendo spokesperson shared this information with the folks over at Nintendo Life . The brand removed the mentions of VRR in docked mode from its official website, and confirmed the same via a statement with an apology for the confusion. More details about its processor are in the original post below. Its no secret that the Nintendo Switch 2 will be a major step up in performance, but whats actually under the hood? Nintendos official specs sheet says it has a custom processor made by Nvidia, but what exactly is this new chip and what can we expect from it? A recent deep dive from Digital Foundry sheds light on the hardware powering Nintendos next-gen console. Hit the jump for more details and a quick side-by-side comparison of the original Switch and the Switch 2s specifications. more

It only takes $7 Prime shipped to bring home this 66W 2-port USB-C car charger (30% off)

INIU 66W 2-Port USB-C Car Charger Buy for $7 (Reg. $10) Clip the on-page 30% off coupon. What we love If you want an affordable way to add Type-C and USB-A charging to your vehicle, heres your shot. This unit can dish out a combined 66W of power across both ports, with Type-C reaching up to 36W. This gets quite close to the 45W maximum charging speeds offered in the latest iPhone and Galaxy smartphones. Thats also enough to top off a tablet or even a MacBook Air. more

New Powerbeats Pro 2 remain at $200 low in Amazons early Memorial Day sale, but open-box units are over $90 off

Amazons early Memorial Day sale is now in full swing and it is carrying over the first price drop we have tracked on the brand-new Powerbeats Pro 2 in-ear headphones. Youll still find all four colorways marked down to $199.95 shipped , or $50 off the regular $250 price drop to deliver the lowest price we have tracked to date. Thats, clearly, a solid deal for a particularly lauded and brand-new release from the brand, but we are also tracking the return of some notable open-box deals at Best Buy with full warranties attached to save even more. The details await below. more

Sigma BF hands-on: Minimal to a fault

In February, Sigma announced the Sigma BF . It's a full-frame, interchangeable lens camera with just a shutter release, a dial and three buttons. That minimalism speaks to me, and I felt the BF was potentially transformative. Photography is one of my favorite hobbies, and I've always felt modern cameras are too complicated. When I received a unit of the Sigma BF to test, I wanted to love it. Unfortunately, it might be too simple. It all starts with the design. The Sigma BF is one of the industry's few unibody cameras. It's carved from a single slab of aluminum, a process Sigma says takes seven hours to complete. The result is a camera unlike any I've used before, with build quality that surpasses either of my current Fujifilm models, the X-E3 and X-S20 . Now, I know what you're thinking: The BF looks like an ergonomic nightmare. Surprisingly, it's not too bad, thanks to the inclusion of two beveled edges where your hands meet the bottom of the camera body. Igor Bonifacic for Engadget Still, it's missing a few features that would have made it more comfortable to use, likely due to the limitations of its unibody design. For one, a proper grip would have been nice, especially when you're using a heavy 50mm lens like the one Sigma sent me for testing. The BF is also missing a hot shoe mount, so third-party thumb grips are off the table. Most annoying of all, it only has a single strap eyelet, so if you don't want to use a neck strap, you'll need one that attaches to the camera's tripod mount. I don't own one of those, so I had to carry around the $2,000 BF in my hand the entire time I was using it. You can imagine how that felt. The BF offers a very different shooting experience from your typical digital camera. As I mentioned, it has only a shutter release, a single dial and three buttons (one for powering the camera on and off, one for reviewing your photos and footage and one for accessing the overflow menu). There's also a touchscreen, but you wouldn't know it at first, because other than when selecting a focus point and toggling some options, you won't be using it much while shooting. The BF's one dial is the primary way to interact with the camera. To adjust your exposure, you first press left or right on the dial to cycle to a specific setting, and then spin it to tweak the levels as desired. A second smaller screen above the dial allows you to adjust those parameters without interacting with the main display. Igor Bonifacic for Engadget Alternatively, you can press down on the center of the dial to open the BF's dual layer menu system. As the name suggests, Sigma has organized most of what you might need across two levels of menus. For example, say you want to switch the camera from matrix to spot metering. That involves pressing down on the dial, scrolling over to one of the exposure settings, tapping the center of the dial again, and then using your thumb to press the touchscreen and enable spot metering. Accessing most of the settings you'll need won't be as tedious, but this worst case scenario demonstrates where the experience of shooting with the Sigma BF falls short. The BF isn't great for capturing fleeting moments. In ditching most of the physical controls modern cameras are known for, the Sigma BF makes it difficult to change multiple settings simultaneously. I was most annoyed by the BF whenever I wanted to shoot a fast-moving scene. On one of my photo walks with the Sigma BF, I saw a father riding a bike with his son in the seat behind him. With my X-E3 or nearly any other camera, capturing that moment would have been simple. I could have changed the drive mode, focus system and shutter speed independently of one another. On the BF, I had to adjust each setting consecutively. By the time I was done, the father and son were long gone. Some of the BF's shortcomings could be addressed if Sigma at least allowed you to edit the quick settings screen to show fewer options. I don't need easy access to change things like the aspect ratio, for example. In 2025, every new camera ships with an overly bloated menu system, and in that regard the Sigma BF is a breath of fresh air. However, allowing the user to make their own tweaks would have made for a much better experience. And thats the thing: With the BF, Sigma breaks camera interface conventions that are conventions for good reason. Let me give you one of the more frustrating examples: The camera inexplicably doesn't offer an easy way to measure the exposure of a scene. There was no meter to indicate whether I was about to under- or overexpose a shot, and I couldn't add one to the main screen. Igor Bonifacic for Engadget The only way I could see a histogram, my preferred method for nailing exposure, was to access the second layer of the interface from one of the capture settings. This is an especially confounding decision because you can half press the shutter to make quick exposure compensation adjustments with the control dial, but as soon as you do, the BF jumps out of whatever menu you were looking at. If digging through menus isn't your thing, there are two live view overlays you can enable to see if you've clipped your shadows or highlights. The first is your usual zebra pattern. The second, which Sigma calls False Color, turns most of the screen grayscale and uses warning colors. Neither felt as precise as a proper exposure meter or histogram. On paper, the BF is a decent camera for video, with support for 6K recording, HEVC encoding and L-Log. Unfortunately, the BF's minimalism is a weakness here too. To start, framing a shot is a challenge since the camera has a fixed screen. Getting usable footage is also tricky. The BF doesn't offer in-body image stabilization, and while there are a few L-mount lenses with built-in stabilization, most wouldn't be practical to use with the BF due to their size and weight. Igor Bonifacic for Engadget If you've gotten this far, you're probably wondering if I have something positive to say about the BF. Well, the best thing about the camera is that it takes genuinely great photos, which is what makes all its shortcomings all the more frustrating. The 24-megapixel, backside illuminated sensor and Sigma's lenses capture and render detail beautifully without being clinical. The BF also has great subject detection autofocus that makes shooting portraits of people and pets easy. The Sigma BF has some interesting ideas about what a camera can look like in 2025, but those ideas are often marred by poor execution. As a first stab at a minimalist camera, the BF has enough going for it, and with refinement, I could see future versions evolving into something special. For example, Id love to see Sigma find a way to include a flip-out screen in the BF's unibody frame. Until then, $2,000 is a lot to ask for a camera that could be so much more. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/cameras/sigma-bf-hands-on-minimal-to-a-fault-144024445.html?src=rss

Spigen brings G-SHOCK vibes to Apple Watch Series 10 with its Rugged Armor Pro case and band at $10 (Reg. $20)

Spigen Rugged Armor Pro Apple Watch Series 10 Case with Band Buy for $10 (Reg. $20) What we love If youve always been drawn the towards the look of rugged watches, well, this Spigen case for Apple Watch Series 10 is certainly worth at look. To my eye, it makes a techy Apple Watch look more like something from Casios G-SHOCK lineup. For just $10, youre getting a full case and band too, which is a solid price, if you ask me. more

Find alternative commuting solutions in Rad Powers RadRover 6 Plus fat-tire and RadExpand 5 folding e-bikes from $1,299

If you didnt know, May 12 to May 18 is Bike to Work week, and for those who may not have jumped aboard their alternative rides yet, you can certainly prep to do so through the warmer months ahead. Rad Power currently has its ongoing Mothers Day Sale event going through May 21, taking up to $500 off models, like the popular RadRover 6 Plus Step-Thru Fat-Tire e-bike that is down at $1,399 shipped right now. This model normally goes for $1,599 at full price, which has only been beaten by a drop to $1,299 back over the fall in 2024 and the $1,199 low from January, with it otherwise being brought down to this rate in the time since. This is the third-lowest price we have tracked and still offers a solid $200 in savings off the tag while giving you a well-rounded model for on-street and off-road ventures. more

Cole Haan steals! Save up to 25% off rarely-on-sale picks: Loafers, dress shoes, more

Cole Haan Flash Sale is currently offering up to 25% off rarely discounted styles that are also best-sellers. Prices are as marked. Customers receive complimentary delivery on orders of $99 or more. Our top pick from this sale is the mens ZERGRAND Remastered Penny Loafers that are currently marked down to $130 , which is $60 off the original rate. This style blends classic sophistication with cutting-edge comfort. Theyre crafted with premium leather and feature a sleek, modern silhouette, as well as a slip-on design that makes them highly convenient. These loafers were designed for all-day wear thanks to its lightweight cushioning and flexible soles. Perfect for dressing up or down, these loafers deliver timeless style you can wear for years. Find even more deals by heading below, or you can shop the entire sale here . more

Cable giants Cox and Charter agree to $34 billion merger

Two of the largest cable companies in the US are intent on merging. Charter Communications proposed acquisition of Cox Communications the largest division of Cox Enterprises will value the former at over $34 billion inclusive of debt. In Cox Communications, the Cox family, which acquired its first cable business in 1962, already operates the largest private broadband company in America, supplying homes in more than 30 states, and it will be the majority shareholder in the acquisition with a stake of around 23 percent. In a press release , Charter said it will inherit Cox Communications commercial fiber and managed IT and cloud businesses, while Cox Communications' residential cable business will move to Charters Charter Holdings subsidiary. Cox and Charter have been innovators in connectivity and entertainment services with decades of work and hundreds of billions of dollars invested to build, upgrade, and expand our complementary regional networks to provide high-quality internet, video, voice and mobile services, said Chris Winfrey, President and CEO of Charter. This combination will augment our ability to innovate and provide high-quality, competitively priced products, delivered with outstanding customer service, to millions of homes and businesses. The new combined company will continue to operate its cable, broadband and mobile consumer businesses under Charters Spectrum brand, and said it will offer existing customers the choice to stick with their current plans or pay less for new bundled services it intends to offer. Of course, such mega-mergers are rarely cut and dried. Rivals, like Comcast, might attempt to scuttle the deal, while government antitrust enforcers may also not allow the transaction to go through. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/big-tech/cable-giants-cox-and-charter-agree-to-34-billion-merger-140652859.html?src=rss

Level up your packing skills with three Spigen compression cubes at just $14 Prime shipped (36% off)

3-pack of Spigen Compression Packing Cubes Buy for $14 (Reg. $22) What we love With packing cubes like this, youll be able to take organization while traveling to the next level. Even better, these compression cubes can help keep gear as small as possible, helping to pave the way for some extra space. For $14, you get one extra large and two small packing cubes. more

Todays best iOS app deals and freebies: Bloons TD 6, Majesty Kingdom, Transport INC, more

Your Friday edition of the best App Store deals is now ready to go down below. Alongside our hands-on review of the highly-anticipated new Sony WH-1000XM6 headphones , just be sure to also scope out the deals we are tracking today on Apples latest 11-inch M4 iPad Pro Magic Keyboard as well as iPhone 15 today at up to $349 off , and a new all-time low on Apples 13-inch 24GB M4 MacBook Air . As for the apps, highlights include titles like Bloons TD 6, Majesty Fantasy Kingdom, Transport INC, Fallen Sky, and more. Everything is resting below the fold. more

Fortnite on iOS goes offline worldwide after Apple blocks U.S. App Store return

Macworld The battle royale between Apple and Epic Games over Fortnite doesnt appear to be ending anytime soon. After a judge ordered Apple to allow developers to link to external payment systems , Epic Games rushed to deliver Fortnite to the App Store after a five-year absence. Earlier this week, Epic CEO Tim Sweeney said the game was awaiting approval through the usual review process, and even submitted it a second time after Apple appeared to be dragging its feet. On Friday, Apple made its decision. Epic Games Fortnite X account states that Apple has blocked our Fortnite submission so we cannot release to the U.S. App Store or to the Epic Games Store for iOS in the European Union. The company says Fortnite on iOS will be offline worldwide until Apple unblocks it. The issue is far more complicated than the judges ruling. Back in 2020, Apple suspended Epics developer account in the U.S. after it broke Apples terms by offering a link to buy V-Bucks outside of the App Store. So Epic resubmitted Fortnite to the App Store this week using its EU account, which Apple apparently didnt appreciate. Its not clear what the next phase of this battle will be. As it stands, Fortnite is unavailable on iOS devices anywhere in the world, including the EU, where its delivered directly through the Epic Games Store. Apple allows alternative app stores in the EU after a ruling there forced the company to allow so-called sideloading. Sweeney says that since all Fortnite apps must update simultaneously, they will all remain offline until Apple resolves the situation. Hes also spent most of today posting and reposting comments about the situation that support Epic and blame Apple. So it seems unlikely either company will give in anytime soon.

FREE Switch 2 upgrades for Switch games go live on June 5, and almost all of them are on sale from $40

Nintendo just officially detailed what the actual FREE Switch 2 upgrades on select first-party Switch 1 games will actually be. Youre looking at improved visuals and frame rates on select titles, GameChat support, additional multiplayer features, and more. Everything is detailed for you right here , pulled straight from Nintendos official update that landed early this morning. And so we thought we should once again highlight some of the titles that are getting FREE updates on June 5 for Switch 2 while they are still on sale.have atem if you dont already own a copy: Super Mario Odyssey $40 (Reg. $60) New Super Mario Bros. U Deluxe $40 (Reg. $60) Legend of Zelda Links Awakening $42 (Reg. $60) The Legend of Zelda: Echoes of Wisdom $42 (Reg. $60) Super Mario 3D World + Bowsers Fury $42 (Reg. $60) Pokmon Violet $42 (Reg. $60) more

How Murderbots Chris and Paul Weitz adapted All Systems Red for TV

For Paul and Chris Weirtz, Murderbot the upcoming TV adaptation of Martha Wells' sci-fi novella All Systems Red was an experiment: Can you have a hero who tries to do nothing? The 10-episode sci-fi series , which debuts May 16 on Apple TV+, follows an anxious security robot (Alexander Skarsgrd) assigned to protect a survey group on a planetary mission. As the mission progresses and deadly surprises emerge, Murderbot grapples with concealing its capacity for free will an ability enabled when it hacked its governor module and its insecurities around humans, all while navigating existential questions about its purpose in the universe. Above all, though, Murderbot wishes it could spend its days simply viewing the 7,532 hours of video content it secretly squirreled away in its system for entertainment a true media junkie, like most of the show's viewers. Apple Bringing All Systems Red to TV took years, delayed by the COVID-19 pandemic and the Writers Guild of America strike in 2023. But with support from Apple TV+s head of worldwide video Jamie Erlicht, a fan of Wells work, Paul and Chris chipped away at the shows scripts, sending every version to Wells for feedback. (Wells, as a consulting producer, ultimately weighed in on other aspects of the project, including design and casting.) The series stays faithful to All Systems Red the first of several books and short stories comprising The Murderbot Diaries in most of the ways that count. The plot largely follows that of the novella, but also makes substantial additions. Members of the PresAux survey group which Murderbot protects, including Dr. Mensah (Noma Dumezweni), Gurathin (David Dastmalchian), Pin-lee (Sabrina Wu), Ratthi (Akshay Khanna), Arada (Tattiawna Jones) and Bharadwaj (Tamara Pdoemski), now have more nuance and deeper backstories. The Preservation Alliance, an independent group of planets which the PresAux survey group hails from, is now eccentric, even downright bohemian. During Murderbots season premiere, PresAux holds hands in a meditative circle, eyes closed, deliberating over whether to rent the refurbished Murderbot for their mission. Soon after landing on the planet, they dance in the desert, their bodies heaving, arms waving to the musics beat little touches inspired by aspects of Chriss two decades of experience with Burning Man. (Several members of the mission also find themselves navigating the particular dramas of polyamory.) We also wanted a sense of these people being out of their element and out of their social setting, Chris told Engadget. Theyre in the corporation rim, which is a really brutal, extractive capitalist world, but these people are egalitarians from outside of that system. They are [seen as] freaks not just to Murderbot, but to the corporation flunkies who are upselling them. While Murderbots favorite TV series, The Rise & Fall of Sanctuary Moon, is referenced in Wells novel, in Murderbot, the futuristic soap opera is its own fleshed out universe a bonafide show-within-a-show. Intended as a parody of classic sci-fi, most obviously the original Star Trek series, Sanctuary Moons scenes are rife with heavily saturated sets and gaudy costumes. John Cho, as the captain of a starship, falls madly in love with a navigation systems robot (DeWanda Wise); Jack McBrayer portrays a navigation officer out of his depth. Their performances are comically over-the-top, but thats the point. I have a theory that people think of good acting as being very restrained, and that is the case often, but my theory is that humans are emoting maniacs all the time. They're hamming it up in front of the mirror, in their bathroom, Paul said. There was something great about being able to enter a David Lynch-like telenovela world and do the sci-fi version of those things. Casting the droll but irreverent character of Murderbot took time. Part-human, it experiences a full range of emotions but struggles with deep-seated social anxiety, and detests showing its face to humans which may help explain why the character has become popular with members of the neurodivergent community. Skarsgrd, whose diverse acting resume includes a Viking prince in The Northman , a ruthless tech CEO in Succession , the titular character in The Legend of Tarzan and a physically abusive husband on Big Little Lies, had traits and experiences Paul and Chris felt were essential for effectively playing the shows central character. As one might expect for a security robot, Paul Weisz noted Skarsgrd is physically imposing. You get the sense maybe he could kill somebody, said Paul. But much like the titular character Paul felt this sometimes terrifying exterior belied something much more nuanced. Alexander also has a really quirky sense of humor. His mind is very different from his body. Hes really unique. Bringing in Cho and McBrayer for their roles in the Sanctuary Moon scenes wasnt nearly as intensive a search; Cho and the Weitz brothers had worked on several projects together over the years . It's like a Faustian bargain when you work with us once, that we're probably going to get your home cellphone, Paul mused. Jack McBrayer is best friends with Alexander, so that was the route to [him]. In terms of John, we worked with him first on American Pie , and I think we've done 12 things in different ways with him over the years. So it's a little like The Godfather where it's like, someday , I'm going to ask you for a favor. Apple Filmed in Ontario, production started in 2024, lasting six months. Shooting the shows planetary scenes meant scouring for locations like mining quarries, slag heaps and abandoned factories. Interior shots for scenes at Port Freecommerce, a vast star base, in the season premiere were filmed on soundstages in Toronto. All along, Paul and Chris set out to present a far-flung universe seen less often on screen in recent years. Shirking the dark, grim aesthetic heavily favored in many more recent sci-fi TV and film projects, they worked with production designer Sue Chan to create a universe dominated by bright lighting, white and gray sets, light-colored fabrics and colorful patterns. We drew on the wellspring of science fiction we read when we were kids and on science fiction paperback covers of the 1980s, which always seemed to have such great concept design and a bright, interesting world in which to lose yourself, Paul recalled. Specifically, it seemed like since this was a world that was dominated by corporations, there'd be a lot of logos everywhere. There'd be a cheapness to a lot of what was manufactured. Also, if you look around, there are a lot of things that seem to have been extruded by giant 3-D printers. Even the food is extruded by 3-D printers. Designing Murderbots armor was a collaborative process with the costume department, led by costume designer Carrie Grace and specialty costume designer Laura Jean Shannon. To start, they looked at helmets from virtually every well-known robot depicted in military and sci-fi movies from the last 50 years. Initial designs resembled Star Wars stormtroopers, but Skarsgrd really pushed for the robots look to be something unique, according to Paul. Drawing inspiration from The Little Rascals Petey, who had a large black circle around one of his eyes, the team built a large, distinctive black eye piece into Murderbots helmet visor. Apple Murderbot spends much of its time clad in armor, but it also has downtime when the armor comes off, revealing an impossibly smooth humanoid form resembling Mattels Ken dolls. To achieve that look, Skarsgrd regularly waxed his entire body during filming. Alexander actually volunteered to have his body waxed, because he thought it was what would be best for the character, Chris recalled. I remember discussing it with him, and I said, Listen, man, I don't know if people are even going to notice , but it might make just a tiny bit of difference in terms of the believability of the character. [Alexanders] like, Yeah, I should wax myself, Chris continued. Then for the next five, six months, he had to do that every week until he realized eventually that his next role was to play a hairy biker [in the romance drama Pillion ]. In Murderbot , Paul and Chris saw more than a quirky sci-fi novella they saw a deeply human story wrapped in armor and deadpan humor. Their TV adaptation doesnt just bring Wells world to screen with panache, it leans into the quiet radicalism of a character who resists heroism, craves isolation and struggles to navigate the messiness of human connection. That emotional core unexpected, thoughtful, and entirely sincere is what makes Murderbot more than just another sci-fi romp. It's a mirror for our most vulnerable selves, disguised as a robot whod really rather be watching TV. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/entertainment/tv-movies/how-murderbots-chris-and-paul-weitz-adapted-all-systems-red-for-tv-130034113.html?src=rss

Nintendo officially details FREE Switch 2 upgrades coming to Switch 1 games: Mario, Zelda, Pokmon, more

As we detailed previously , not only are there new Switch 2 Edition games, Switch 2 exclusives, and Switch 1 games you can play on your next-gen Nintendo console, but there are also a series of first-party Switch games getting FREE updates for Switch 2. This we already knew, but at the time Nintendo was incredibly vague about what these updates actually were, and now we have official details. more

Save up to $114 on Apples latest 11-inch M4 iPad Pro Magic Keyboards (open-box, full warranty)

Update: Best Buys open-box pricing on the latest 11-inch M4 iPad Pro Magic Keyboards in white and black are now either back down to the lowest we have tracked this year or even lower than our previous mentions. Details below on the original post. While the new Apple Magic Keyboards for the new M4 iPad Pro have jumped up in price over at Amazon currently up to $30 off, Best Buys open-box listings are at the ready with some notable deals. We featured a number of notable price drops on the M4 iPad Pro over the holidays last year, and even have some solid deals live right now , but if youre looking to complete with experience with the new official Magic Keyboard that Apple released last year specifically for its latest pro-grade tablet, these Best Buy offers with full Apple warranties are about as low as it gets before you getting into sketchy refurbs. Youre looking at up to $135 off and the details await below. more

Nextorages PS5-ready 2TB 7,400MB/s heatsink SSD is down to its lowest price at $130

As part of its now liveearly Memorial Day sale, the official Nextorage Amazon storefront is offering its PS5-compatible 2TB M.2 2280 SSD with heatsink for $129.99 shipped . This SSD originally retailed for $200 but has recently been selling for around $150 on Amazon. Todays deal knocks an additional $20 off, bringing it back down to the lowest price weve seen for the 2TB model. You can also get this with1TB storage, which is currently fetching its full price at $89.99 shipped . Head below for more details. more

Acer introduces five new gaming monitors

Acer has unveiled a group of new gaming monitors, including a pair of 26.5-inch QD-OLED screens under its Predator label. The Predator X27U F5 has peak refresh rate of 500Hz and a resolution of 2560x1440, while the Predator X27 X has a 4K screen and a 240Hz refresh rate. Both monitors offer AMD FreeSync Premium Pro technology to prevent screen tearing and support true 10Bit color. They are slated to be available in the third quarter for the EMEA region and China. The X27U F5 will start at 899 and the X27 X starts at 1,099. The high refresh rate on the Predator X27U F5 is particularly notable. Samsung just opened limited pre-orders of its own 500Hz monitor over the weekend, which the company claimed was the first product to pair that refresh rate with OLED visuals in a gaming monitor. Other Acer monitors in the lineup are part of its line of Nitro Google Smart TV monitors. The Acer Nitro GA321QK P is a 31.5-inch 4K screen with a 165Hz refresh rate, while the Acer Nitro GA341CUR W0 has a 34-inchultra-wide QHD curved display that refreshes at 240Hz. There's also a portable option in the lightweight Acer Nitro PG271K, which has an adjustable kickstand. This 27-inch monitor can be a 4K display with a 72Hz refresh rate or a full HD one with a 144Hz refresh rate thanks to Dynamic Frequency and Resolution technology. No prices or timeline has been shared yet for the first two Nitro monitors, but the PG271K is projected to cost 499 when it arrives in the EMEA region. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/computing/accessories/acer-introduces-five-new-gaming-monitors-130041537.html?src=rss

Google's latest Nest Learning Thermostat is $50 off ahead of Memorial Day

Summer is right around the corner, and while it is the perfect season for being outside in the sunshine, there's nothing quite like returning home to a perfectly climate controlled space to cool off. The fourth generation Nest Learning Thermostat from Google can help you beat the heat with even more efficient air conditioning, and it's on sale right now ahead of the Memorial Day holiday. You can snag this smart home gadget for $50 off with the code ENGAD50 at Wellbots. That means you'll pay just $230 for this tool to control the temperature in your house, because the deal also includes free shipping. Google did an update to its Nest thermostat last August that increased the LCD display size of the gadget by about 60 percent. You can also customize the display with this version so that it will blend in with your own home decor, and the chassis is available in black, silver or gold options. As with so many Google products these days, the Nest uses AI to help take more accurate readings and make predictions to increase your energy savings. It can automatically adjust to your individual habits to create a temperature schedule if you don't want to program it all manually. This version of the gadget is a particularly good option if your home has issues with cold spots, because the Nest Learning Thermostat comes with a wireless temperature sensor that you can place in that hard-to-heat area. If you need more, you can separately buy additional sensors for monitoring those hot or cold pockets of your house. Follow @EngadgetDeals on X for the latest tech deals and buying advice . This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/deals/googles-latest-nest-learning-thermostat-is-50-off-ahead-of-memorial-day-130027461.html?src=rss

Team Rocket is back Pokemon TCG Destined Rivals is here

If you are old enough to remember opening packs from the original Team Rocket set from 2000, then the new Scarlet and Violet Destined Rivals set will bring back some fantastic memories. The main difference here is that its not just about Team Rocket but also Pokmons hero characters like Ethan and Misty. I got early hands-on access to the lineup: the Elite Trainer Box, Booster Bundle, Build & Battle Box, and even the full Booster Box. Heres whats inside, whats new, and whether the cards live up to the hype. more

Acer's new Swift Edge 14 AI laptop packs in a matte display and AI features

Acer is updating its lineup of Swift Edge, Go and X laptops at Computex with the latest Intel chips, and in of one of these Copilot+ PCs, a unique matte display treatment developed by Corning, the glass manufacturer behind the Gorilla Glass covering millions of smartphones. The beneficiary of that new display is the Swift Edge 14 AI. The laptop's display has an anti-glare Gorilla Matte Pro finish that's the first of its kind on a laptop, and is supposed to reduce screen reflection by 95 percent compared to alternative anti-glare glass. Acer introduced the original Swift Edge 14 AI alongside the parade of Copilot+ PCs that accompanied Microsoft 's big push into AI last year. The new Swift Edge 14 AI benefits from those same AI features like Recall or Click to Do thanks to its updated internals. You can spec the Swift Edge 14 AI with up to an Intel Core Ultra 9 processor with Intel Arc graphics, up to 32GB LPDDR5X RAM and up to 1TB of storage. All of this components are packed into a white and relatively light (2.18 lbs) magnesium-aluminum alloy body, with a 14-inch OLED screen and a soft-touch stain-resistant keyboard. For the new Swift Go 14 AI and Swift Go 16 AI, Acer lets you build the laptop with up to an Intel Core Ultra 7, up to 32 GBLPDDR5X RAM and up to 2TB of storage. On the Swift Go 14 AI you can opt for a 16:10, 1,920 x 1,200 resolution OLED and a similarly laid out 2,048 x 1,280 resolution OLED on the Swift Go 16 AI. Neither laptop is as sleek as the Swift Edge 14 AI in terms of appearance, the Swift Go laptops seem like the kind you'd be assigned for work. Case in point, both Go models have 1080p, Windows Hello-compatible webcams and touchpads with built-in video conferencing controls. Acer is also updating its Swift X laptops, the company's go-to option if you're looking for more graphical oomph. Both the Swift X 14 AI and the plain Swift X 14 include a NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5070 laptop GPU, which should power you through all sort of video editing and 3D rendering tasks. You can pair the GPU with up to an AMD Ryzen AI 9 on the Swift X 14 AI or up to an Intel Core Ultra 9 on on the Swift X 14. Both laptops can include up to 32GB of LPDDR5X RAM and up to 2TB of storage. This year's Swift laptops also feature a 14.5-inch 3K OLED displays and larger haptic touchpads that support tilt-enabled styluses for drawing and photo retouching. Likely due to the unpredictable nature of global trade, none of Acer's new Swift laptops have finalized pricing or availability in the US, though we can share the info Acer has for Europe. The Swift Edge 14 AI is expected to be available in June for 1,599, the Swift Go 14 AI a little bit later in July for 1,199 and the Swift Go 16 AI in August for 1,299. The story is the same for Acer's Swift X laptops. Both the Swift X 14 AI and Swift X 14 will be available in July for 1,799. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/computing/laptops/acers-new-swift-edge-14-ai-laptop-packs-in-a-matte-display-and-ai-features-130010112.html?src=rss

The Acer Predator Triton 14 AI is now my most anticipated gaming laptop of the year

Acer is announcing a boatload of PCs and gadgets for Computex 2025. But among the sea of new tablets, monitors, productivity machines and more is the Predator Triton 14 AI, which just became my most anticipated laptop of the year. The Predator Triton 14 AI tops out with an RTX 5070 GPU, but that's understandable given its compact size (3.5 pounds and 0.68 inches thick). Aside from that limitation, this thing has practically everything I look for in a premium notebook. It sports a slick design, a bunch of fancy features and a gorgeous display all in a surprisingly portable chassis. In some ways, calling it a gaming laptop is kind of a disservice, because it's clear Acer designed this thing to do a whole lot more. Sam Rutherford for Engadget For performance, the Predator Triton 14 AI features up to an Intel Core Ultra 9 288V chip, 32GB of RAM and 2TB of SSD storage. Acer then turned things up a notch by equipping it with its latest sixth-gen AeroBlade fans (which are made of metal instead of plastic) and a vapor chamber. But the potential cherry on top is that Acer says the Triton is the world's first laptop to use graphene thermal interface materials. The company claims this increases thermal capacity by as much as 14.5 percent over more traditional pastes. Meanwhile, the Triton 14 AI also comes with a 2,880 x 1,800 OLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate and Calman Verified certification. So not only is it accurate, it also has a wide gamut that covers 100 percent of the DCI-P3 color spectrum. And unlike a lot of rival gaming machines, the Predator's display is touch-enabled. For content creators, the laptop comes with a new haptic touchpad covered by Gorilla Glass with native stylus support (and the pen comes included). This means artists can use the track area as a mini Wacom pad (with 4,096 levels of pressure sensitivity) while traveling. Sam Rutherford for Engadget Honestly, the closer you look, the more impressive this laptop gets, because it feels like Acer paid attention to every little detail. Thanks to some help from AI, the Triton's 1080p IR webcam offers human presence detection, which allows it to automatically lock itself when you walk away or dim the display when you're looking elsewhere to prevent Peeping Toms from spying on your work. Acer even coated both the screen and the laptop's deck with an anti-fingerprint finish to prevent it from looking greasy. Despite its slim dimensions, the Triton also has great connectivity. Theres support for Wi-Fi 7 along with two USB-C ports (one of which is Thunderbolt 4), two Type-A jacks, 3.5mm audio, a microSD card reader and a full-size HDMI 2.1 connector. And because it's a gaming laptop, it naturally comes with per-key RGB lighting. Sam Rutherford for Engadget Unfortunately, Acer has yet to release official US pricing for the Predator Triton 14 AI, which is almost certainly due to the ever-shifting tariff situation. But if European info is anything to go by, this thing won't be cheap with a listed starting price of 2,999 euros. That's steep, but it makes sense given the laptop's impressive specs. On the bright side, if you like the Predator Triton 14 AI, Acer is also making a more affordable sibling in the Predator Helios Neo 14 AI. It features the same display, a similar Intel Core Ultra 9 285H chip and up to an RTX 5070, but with a different (and less elegant) chassis, Wi-Fi 6E and older fifth-gen AeroBlade fans. Like the Triton, there isn't official pricing for this one yet either, but with it starting at 1,699 euros overseas, it doesn't present nearly as big of a hit on your wallet. The biggest change for the Helios Neo 14 AI compared to the Predator Triton 14 AI aside from price is that it has a bulkier chassis with a large thermal shelf in back. Sam Rutherford for Engadget Besides gaming, the Triton 14 AI looks like it could be a great video editing station, featuring enough performance to blast through practically everything else you can throw at it. I'm going to be eagerly awaiting its release (along with the Helios Neo) sometime later this summer. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/computing/laptops/the-acer-predator-triton-14-ai-is-now-my-most-anticipated-gaming-laptop-of-the-year-130007910.html?src=rss

The Morning After: Sonys best headphones keep getting better

When it comes to headphones, we cant shut up about Sonys top-tier buds and over-the-head options. In each iteration, the company adds new features, develops better technology and hones its strengths in portable audio, and three years on from the WH-1000XM5, the sixth-gen model does it yet again. Sonys overhauled its flagship headphones in all the right ways. The WH-1000XM6 sound better, with improved active noise cancellation and convenient features that match the best-sounding and the most feature-packed rivals. You should definitely check out Billy Steele's full review. The headphones' only major challenge remains a non-clunky naming convention. Mat Smith Get Engadget's newsletter delivered direct to your inbox. Subscribe right here! Even more tech news you might have missed Nothing teases the all-in Phone 3 with a flagship price Mission: Impossible should never have gone full sci-fi The Lucid Gravity is the coolest three-row EV on the market DJI Mavic 4 Pro review: A new standard for consumer drones Samsung Galaxy S25 Edge hands-on: Less smartphone, more compromises Android gets a young, vibrant makeover Its bright, its brash, its bouncy? Its Android 16. Google As spoiled by Google itself, Android is getting a major visual refresh. Dubbed Material 3 Expressive, its the latest evolution of the Material You design, adding customizable color swatches and, I guess, spicier fonts. Google says the Quick Settings menu can now fit more actions, and there is an addition of live-updating notifications, similar to Apple s Live Activities. In Android 16 (and even Wear OS 6), expect more animation between menus and items, while notifications will jiggle and offer haptic responses to your touch. Google is basing a lot of these tweaks on research: The company claims up to 87 percent of 18- to 24-year-olds prefer expressive design a term hard to define. Theres a lengthy post on Googles design blog if you want to get into all that. Continue reading. The Xperia 1 VII is here, with some Walkman inspiration Sony still makes phones! Sony Sony has now folded in Hi-Fi sound from its Walkman series, as well as the companys Bravia screen tech and Alpha camera smarts. The Xperia 1 VII has launched quietly with an array of new audio features, including high-end Walkman components. Unlike other smartphone makers, Sony has kept its headphone jack and improved wired sound via a premium-grade integrated circuit. The Xperia 1 VII supports Sonys DSEE Ultimate AI sound upscaling technology, along with 360 Reality audio or Dolby Atmos formats. The latest Xperia also features a new 48-megapixel ultrawide camera with a good-sized 1/1.56-inch sensor, significantly improving the specs of the Xperia 1 VIs ultrawide. Thats on top of the main 48MP 1/1.35-inch 24mm camera and a 12MP telephoto zoom. Sony is also trying to differentiate its smartphones through camera features, with improved Bokeh mode, real-time tracking, and even real-time eye autofocus. It claims low-light shooting is in line with full-frame cameras, which is bold! Im wondering what other parts of Sonys corporate machinery it will integrate next. Maybe Aibo dog ears? Continue reading. One year of Peacock Premium is on sale for only $25 The Memorial Day deal knocks off $55. Want a cheaper sub for Peacock? Youll need a code, but if you input SPRINGSAVINGS at checkout youll get $55 off the standard annual price of the Premium plan. It does include ads, however. The big draw for this particular streaming service is likely the long-awaited spinoff of The Office , called The Paper . That premieres in September, so youll be primed and ready to watch (and rewatch). Continue reading. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/general/the-morning-after-engadget-newsletter-123515822.html?src=rss

Wild price drop knocks $1,200 off the ECOVACS X2 OmniRobot and Vacuum and Mop, now just $300 (Reg. $1,500)

Woot is now offering an insane price on the will deal on ECOVACS DEEBOT X2 OmniRobot and Vacuum and Mop at $299.99 Prime shipped (a $6 delivery fee will apply otherwise). This model released in late 2023 and is currently selling for $1,500 at Amazon it still carries a $1,500 list price from ECOVACS where it is on sale for $899. Needless to say, todays Woot price is a wild one. more

Lexars brand-new 160MB/s 1TB Play Blue microSD card is down to its lowest price at $65, 512GB at $33 low

As part of its now liveearly Memorial Day sale,Amazon is offering Lexars 1TB new Play Blue microSD card down at $64.99 shipped . Lexar launched this new model in March to differentiate it from the older Play memory card, which was limited to speeds of 160MB/s. Initially priced at $90, this updated version is now available for $25 less marking a new best price to beat. The 512GB variant of this microSD card is also at $32.99 Prime shipped , down from its usual price of $40. Head below for more details. more

Hisense 2025 frame-style 144Hz Google smart TV hits new Amazon low at $1,600 ($900 off launch price)

Frame-style smart TVs can be pricey Samsungs The Frame lineup being a perfect example of this, but other brands have entered the fray in a major way over the last couple years to deliver a similar artistic approach to the smart TV experience at more affordable rates. A perfect example of that is the Hisense CanvasTVlineup, and we are now tracking a new Amazon all-time low on the 75-inch 2025 model . more

Grok kept talking about 'white genocide' due to an 'unauthorized modification'

In the early hours of May 14, xAI's chatbot Grok repeatedly gave X users responses that referred to claims about a white genocide in South Africa even if their inquiries had nothing to do about the subject. Now, in a statement posted on the social network, Elon Musk 's AI company has explained that an unauthorized modification to Grok's prompt on X caused it to provide a specific response on a political topic. It didn't say what had happened to the personnel involved in rolling out the rogue update. But it added that the modification violated its internal policies and core values and that it has conducted a thorough investigation about the incident. The website's various users had posted several instances wherein Grok included references to the controversial claims that white South African farmers are facing racial discrimination and land seizures in their country. Their questions? Well, in one tweet, someone asked how many times HBO has changed its streaming service's name. In another, the user asked a baseball player's salary history. In yet another one, someone asked for more information about a WWE match. CNBC was able to replicate the chatbot's responses with white genocide references. When the news website asked if it was specifically programmed to promote white genocide, Grok said that it wasn't and that its purpose is to provide factual, helpful, and safe responses based on reason and evidence. Before xAI issued a response, OpenAI chief Sam Altman posted a snarky response on X. Im sure xAI will provide a full and transparent explanation soon, he wrote, and then mimicked Grok's responses by segueing into talking about white genocide. xAI said that from now on, it will be publishing its system prompts on GitHub so that the public can give feedback on every alteration. The company also said that it will put additional checks and measures to ensure xAI employees can't modify Grok's prompt without a review. Whoever edited it recently was able to circumvent its current review process in this case. In addition, the company said it's putting together a team that can monitor incidents related to Grok's answers not caught by automated systems 24/7. As TechCrunch has noted, this isn't the first time xAI had blamed a contentious Grok behavior to an unauthorized change. Back in February, the chatbot briefly censored sources that talked about how Musk and President Donald Trump are spreading misinformation. xAI co-founder Igor Babuschkin said at the time that a rogue employee had pushed an unapproved modification to Grok's prompt. We want to update you on an incident that happened with our Grok response bot on X yesterday. What happened: On May 14 at approximately 3:15 AM PST, an unauthorized modification was made to the Grok response bot's prompt on X. This change, which directed Grok to provide a xAI (@xai) May 16, 2025 This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/ai/grok-kept-talking-about-white-genocide-due-to-an-unauthorized-modification-120044119.html?src=rss