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Updated 2025-06-30 21:32
Why OpenAI is trying to untangle its 'bespoke' corporate structure
by
Igor Bonifacic
on (#6VDN5)
On the Friday after Christmas, OpenAI published a blog post titled "Why OpenAI's structure must evolve to advance our mission." In it, the company detailed a plan to reorganize its for-profit arm into a public benefit corporation (PBC). In the weeks since that announcement, I've spoken to some of the country's leading corporate law experts to gain a better understanding of OpenAI's plan, and, more importantly, what it might mean for its mission to build safe artificial general intelligence (AGI).What is a public benefit corporation?"Public benefit corporations are a relatively recent addition to the universe of business entity types," says Jens Dammann, professor of corporate law at the University of Texas School of Law. Depending on who you ask, you may get a different history of PBCs, but in the dominant narrative, they came out of a certification program created by a nonprofit called B Lab. Companies that complete a self-assessment and pay an annual fee to B Lab can carry the B Lab logo on their products and websites and call themselves B-Corps. Critically, B Corp status isn't a designation with the weight of law, or even an industry-wide group, behind it - it's a stamp of approval from this specific nonprofit.As a result, B Lab eventually felt the certification program "was not enough," says Professor Michael Dorff, executive director of the Lowell Milken Institute for Business Law and Policy at UCLA. "They wanted something more permanent and more rooted in the law." So the organization began working with legal experts to create a model statute for what would become the benefit corporation. B Lab lobbied state legislatures to pass laws recognizing benefit corporations as legal entities, and in 2010, Maryland became the first state to do so. In 2013, Delaware enacted its own version of the law. To make things somewhat confusing, the state went with a different name: the public benefit corporation.Delaware is arguably the most important state for corporate law in the US, thanks to the Delaware Chancery Court and its body of business-friendly case law. As of 2022, 68.2 percent of all Fortune 500 companies, including many tech giants, are incorporated in the state despite largely operating elsewhere. Delaware is also the state where OpenAI plans to reincorporate its for-profit as a PBC.The basic idea behind public benefit corporations is that they're business entities that impose a constraint on their board to balance profit maximization, a public benefit that's stated in the charter of the company, and the concerns of people impacted by its conduct."It's a bit of a paradigm shift," says Professor Dammann, but don't confuse a PBC with a nonprofit. "The key characteristic of a nonprofit is what we call a non-distribution constraint, meaning if a nonprofit makes a profit, they can't distribute it to their shareholders," Professor Dammann says. "If you form a public benefit corporation, there's no such non-distribution constraint. At its heart, a PBC is still a for-profit corporation."Why is OpenAI pursuing a PBC structure?First and foremost, a PBC structure - whether it's private or selling share on the open market - would get OpenAI out from under that non-distribution constraint. But there are likely some other considerations at play.OpenAI hasn't publicly said this, but it appears some of its employees believe a PBC structure could protect the company from a hostile takeover if it were to go public. In a recent Financial Times report, a source within the company said a PBC structure would give OpenAI a "safe harbor" if a rival firm were to try to buy the company. It "gives you even more flexibility to say 'thanks for calling and have a nice day'," the person said.The specific threat OpenAI likely wants safe harbor from is what's known as the Revlon doctrine, which is named after a 1986 Delaware Supreme Court case involving the cosmetics company Revlon Inc. and now defunct supermarket chain Pantry Pride, then led by CEO Ronald Perelman. "The Revlon doctrine holds that if you're a publicly traded corporation [incorporated in Delaware] and somebody stages a takeover attempt, then under certain conditions, you have to sell to the highest bidder," says Professor Dammann.The underlying rationale behind Revlon is that a for-profit company's sole function is to generate profits, so the board is forced to make whatever choice will return the most money to shareholders."We don't know for sure, but we're fairly confident that the Revlon doctrine doesn't apply to public benefit corporations," says Professor Dammann. Theoretically, PBC boards may have the flexibility to reject a takeover bid if they believe a buyer won't adhere to the social values the company was founded on. However, because "none of this has been litigated," according to Professor Dorff, it remains a purely hypothetical defense.Moreover, it's unclear if reorganizing as a PBC would offer OpenAI more protection against a hostile takeover attempt than what it already has as a nonprofit. "I don't think this has been tested with this particular kind of structure, but my sense is that the nonprofit would not be obligated to sell even in a Revlon moment," says Professor Dorff."We need to raise more capital"OpenAIPublicly, OpenAI has said it needs to secure more investment, and that its current structure is holding it back. "We once again need to raise more capital than we'd imagined," OpenAI wrote in December, two months after securing $6 billion in new venture funding. "Investors want to back us but, at this scale of capital, need conventional equity and less structural bespokeness."Unpacking what the company likely means by "structural bespokeness" requires a short history lesson. In 2019, when OpenAI originally created its for-profit arm, it organized the company using a unique "capped-profit" structure. The company said it would limit investor returns to 100x, with excess returns going to the nonprofit. "We expect this multiple to be lower for future rounds as we make further progress," OpenAI added.It's fair to be critical of the company's claims. "You'd have to ask the investors, but I have to say that 100x is an exceptional rate or return, so the idea that you cannot get investment because of a 100x cap seems rich to me," says Professor Dorff. In fact, there are suggestions OpenAI was already making itself more attractive to investors before announcing its reorganization plan in December. In 2023, The Economist reported that the company changed its cap to increase (and not decrease as OpenAI had originally said it would) by 20 percent per year starting in 2025. At this time, OpenAI does not expect to be profitable until 2029, and racked up about $5 billion in losses last year."We want to increase our ability to raise capital while still serving our mission, and no pre-existing structure we know of strikes the right balance," OpenAI said in 2019. At that point, Delaware's PBC legislation had been law for nearly six years. However, the company is now arguing that a PBC structure would "enable us to raise the necessary capital with conventional terms like others in this space."In OpenAI's defense, calling its current structure convoluted would be an understatement. As you can see from the company's own org chart, there are two other entities under the OpenAI umbrella, including a holding company that's an intermediary between the nonprofit and for-profit. Engadget was able to find at least 11 different Delaware companies registered to OpenAI. George R.R. Martin, Jodi Picoult and other members of the Author's Guild probably described it best in their copyright lawsuit against the company, calling OpenAI "a tangled thicket of interlocking entities that generally keep from the public what the precise relationships among them are and what function each entity serves within the larger corporate structure."OpenAI did not respond to multiple requests for comment from Engadget."A stronger nonprofit supported by the for-profit's success"ReutersOpenAI's nonprofit arm does essentially two things: controls the for-profit side's business, and exists as a "vehicle" to develop "safe and broadly beneficial AGI" (artificial general intelligence).According to the company, its current structure does not allow its nonprofit arm to "easily do more than control the for-profit." If it were freed of that responsibility - by say, handing it off to investors - OpenAI suggests its nonprofit could focus its resources on charitable initiatives, all while becoming "one of the best-resourced nonprofits in history."To remedy the situation, OpenAI's board says the nonprofit should give up absolute control over the for-profit and take whatever degree of control comes with the amount of stock it's granted through the reorganization process. "The nonprofit's significant interest in the existing for-profit would take the form of shares in the PBC at a fair valuation determined by independent financial advisors," OpenAI says of this part of its plan.Professor Dorff argues who controls OpenAI is critical to the company maintaining its mission. The move to reorganize the for-profit as a PBC is not controversial. "Companies do it all the time; there's a straightforward and clear process to do that," he tells me. "What is controversial is what they're trying to do to change the nature of the nonprofit's ownership interest in the for-profit."At the risk of oversimplifying things, OpenAI's board of directors wants to divest the company's nonprofit of two of its most important assets: control of the for-profit and its rights to the profits from AGI. "You can't just do that," says Professor Dorff. "The assets of the nonprofit must remain dedicated to the purpose of the nonprofit." There are rules that allow nonprofits to modify their purpose if their original one is made defunct, but those won't apply to OpenAI since we're not living in a world with safe (or any) AGI.Think of it this way, what is the value of artificial general intelligence? It's not a traditional asset like real estate or the EVs sold by Tesla. AGI, as defined by OpenAI, doesn't yet and may never exist. "One could imagine it's worth all the labor of the economy because it could eventually replace human labor," says Professor Dorff. Whatever the eventual value of the technology, Professor Dorff says he's unsure "any number would enable the nonprofit to do what it's supposed to do without control."No matter how OpenAI spins it, any version of this plan would result in a massive loss of control for the current nonprofit entity and its board.One more thingSomething the experts I spoke to agreed on was that the laws governing PBCs aren't very effective at ensuring companies stick to their social purpose. "The legal constraints aren't very strict," Professor Dammann says, adding, "the problem with a very broad public benefit is that it's not so constraining anymore. If you're dedicated to a very broad version of the public good, then you can always defend every decision, right?""The dual goal of profit and public purpose doesn't really tell you how a company is going to manage those objectives," says Jill Fisch, professor of Business Law at the University of Pennsylvania Law School. "To the extent that public purpose sacrifices profits, and it doesn't have to, but to the extent that it does, how much of a sacrifice is contemplated?""What matters a lot in PBC governance is what the private arrangements are," Professor Dorff adds. "That is, what do the documents say?" A company's certificate of incorporation, shareholder agreements and bylaws can provide "very robust" (or very few) mechanisms to ensure it sticks to its social purpose. As Professor Dorff points out, OpenAI's blog post said "nothing about those."Contrast that with when OpenAI announced its "capped profit" plan. It gave us a glimpse of some of its paperwork, sharing a clause it said was at the start of all of its employee and investor agreements. That snippet made it clear OpenAI was under no obligation to generate a profit. Right now, there's a lot we don't know about its restructuring plan. If the company is still serious about its mission of "ensuring artificial general intelligence benefits all of humanity" it owes the public more transparency.What happens next?ReutersElon Musk's recent $97.4 billion bid to buy the nonprofit's assets complicates OpenAI's plan. In this situation, the nonprofit isn't obligated to sell its assets to Musk under Revlon or anything else - the company simply is not for sale. However, as part of OpenAI's reorganization plan, the for-profit will need to compensate the nonprofit for its independence. Musk's bid likely an attempt to inflate the price of this transaction to one higher than what Sam Altman and the rest of OpenAI's board of directors had in mind. To say Musk and Altman have had a contentious relationship since the former left OpenAI would be an understatement on a grand scale, and having an enemy who not only has the most money of any human on the planet, but also broad and largely unchecked control of the United States' executive branch data, may frustrate plans.OpenAI also faces a ticking clock. According to documents seen by The New York Times, the company has, under the terms of its latest investment round, less than two years to free its for-profit from control of the nonprofit. If it fails to do so, the $6.6 billion it raised in new funding will become debt.This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/ai/why-openai-is-trying-to-untangle-its-bespoke-corporate-structure-160028589.html?src=rss
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Twitch streamers' uploads and highlights can no longer exceed 100 hours
by
Mariella Moon
on (#6VDJ6)
Twitch is putting a cap on how much storage a streamer can take up for their uploads and highlight videos. The streaming service has announced that starting on April 19, all uploads and highlights will count towards a new 100-hour storage limit for each streamer, whether the videos are published or not. To note, the cap doesn't apply to past broadcasts, which are previous livestreams saved to a streamer's account for on-demand viewing, or clips, which are minute-long segments that can be shared to social networks. Highlights can be longer than clips and can be made of several key moments from a video, which means they could take up more storage space.The service explained that it originally launched highlights to drive discovery and engagement for streamers, but the feature apparently hasn't been as effective clips and the mobile discovery feed. Storage is costly, and limiting highlights and uploads will allow the service to support the videos users want to keep on their accounts while also investing in improvements for features like Clips and mobile feed.Twitch said less than 0.5 percent of active streamers has gone over the 100-hour limit, and those who have will be notified directly. To make it easier for streamers to choose which videos they want to keep, Twitch has rolled out filters for Video Producer that will allow them to sort their content based on length, view count and date created. The service will be deleting videos for users that go beyond the 100-hour cap on April 19 and will be limiting uploads and highlights going forward.This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/entertainment/streaming/twitch-streamers-uploads-and-highlights-can-no-longer-exceed-100-hours-143018464.html?src=rss
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Ring beefs up the image quality on its new Outdoor Cam Plus
by
Daniel Cooper
on (#6VDJ7)
If there's one downside to the sheer number of security cameras Ring makes, it's the sheer darn volume of them. Joining the mob today is the Outdoor Cam Plus, packing a new high-quality lens and 2K imaging sensor promising a clear, colorful view even in near dark conditions." It's clad in a weather-resistant body and can run from mains power, via a rechargeable battery or with one of Ring's custom solar panels. The company adds the Plus is just as comfortable working indoors as out in the open, and ships with a new mount that will even hold the camera in place on ceilings. Unfortunately you might have to spend some time poring through the specs to work out where this one will sit in Ring's camera firmament. After all, there's already the Stick Up Cam, Stick Up Cam Pro and Stick Up Cam Elite available to buy in the US, and that's before you get to the models with built-in floodlights. Not to mention the Stick Up Cam Pro, with 3D motion detection and Bird's Eye Zones, is arguably a better product than the Elite which costs almost a hundred dollars more. Perhaps it's time for Ring to trim down the excesses in its line up to make everything a lot cleaner for consumers. Ring's new Outdoor Cam Plus is available for pre-order today from Ring and Amazon for $100 and is shipping on March 26. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/home/smart-home/ring-beefs-up-the-image-quality-on-its-new-outdoor-cam-plus-140049128.html?src=rss
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Lenovo Legion Go S review (Windows version): Not so fast
by
Sam Rutherford
on (#6VDJ8)
Lenovo has already teased the second-gen version of its flagship gaming handheld. But that won't be out until much later this year, so in the meantime, it's come out with the Legion Go S, a slightly sturdier and more portable way to frag while you're out and about. Now the tricky thing about this device is that it will be available in a bunch of different configurations including one that comes pre-installed with SteamOS - a first for any portable PC not made by Valve. Frankly, that's the version we're most interested in. However, the one running Windows 11 is out now, so it's a good time to get familiar with it and see if it's worth the money or if you should just wait for the variant that comes with Valve's OS instead.Design and display: A mid-cycle streamliningRegardless of what platform they're based on, both models feature the same design with the only difference being that the Windows 11 version comes in white while the SteamOS variant features a dark purple shell. However, unlike the original Legion Go, the Go S doesn't have detachable controllers. But aside from that, many of the highlight features from its predecessor are still there. It sports a 1,920 x 1,200 display with a 120Hz refresh rate. At 8 inches, that's larger than most handhelds, though it is a slight downgrade from the 8.8-inch panel on its predecessor. You also get joysticks with precise Hall effect sensors, an assortment of face and shoulder buttons, dual USB 4 ports (which both support power and data), 3.5mm audio and a microSD card reader.Another small tweak is that instead of four paddles in back, you only get two, with Lenovo trading out the second pair for a set of toggle switches that let you adjust how deep you want the handheld's triggers to go. It's a nice touch for people who enjoy things like racing games where a bit of extra analog sensitivity can go a long way, but still want the freedom to have a shorter pull when playing stuff like fighting games, where longer triggers hurt more than they help. And while the touchpad on the Legion Go S is much smaller than the one on the original, I'm really glad Lenovo didn't axe it altogether as it makes navigating through settings and menus in Windows so much easier than relying strictly on the joysticks or touch support.Sam Rutherford for EngadgetThe one feature I wish Lenovo had included is an onboard fingerprint sensor. Without it, you need to use a PIN or password to get into Windows 11. On a system without a keyboard, that means every time you pick up the system, you have to shift your hands away from the joysticks and tap the middle of the touchscreen, because the tiny touchpad doesn't even work for this. Frankly, it's just kind of awkward and could have been avoided entirely if Lenovo had opted for a power button with a built-in finger scanner like many of the Legion Go's rivals including the ROG Ally X and the MSI Claw 8 AI+. Finally, while the Go S does have a built-in rumble motor, the vibrations it puts out are hilariously one-note, especially when it's set to buzz anytime you use the touchpad. So I ended up turning it off entirely.Performance: Not as fast as you might expectThe Legion Go S will eventually support a handful of processors and configurations, but right now it comes with an AMD Ryzen Z2 Go chip along with 32GB of RAM and 1TB of storage. And if you're comparing it to its predecessor, you might think this thing would offer better performance. After all, the original Legion Go has less RAM and an older Ryzen Z1 Extreme APU, and two is higher than one, right? Well not so fast, because the Z1 Extreme features a base clock of 3.3GHz with eight cores and 16 threads compared to the Z2 Go's base clock of 3GHz with just four cores and eight threads. Furthermore, the older Z1 Extreme also has a GPU based on AMD's newer RDNA 3 architecture compared to RDNA 2 for the Z2 Go. So in actuality, the Legion Go S with this chip is about 10 to 15 percent less powerful than the model that came before it.Sam Rutherford for EngadgetThis becomes a lot more obvious when looking at benchmarks where the Legion Go S delivered 45 fps in Cyberpunk 2077 at 800p and medium settings with FSR upscaling set to performance, while the original Legion Go hit 51 fps with both systems set to the same 15-watt performance mode. Meanwhile in Returnal, we saw a similar pattern with the Go S reaching 23 fps on medium graphics at 800p compared to 34 fps for the older Legion Go, once again with both devices set to 15 watts.Seeing poorer performance on the new model might set off alarms for some people, but before anyone panics, consider this: The Legion Go S is supposed to be a more streamlined and affordable take on the original, so in some respects not being able to achieve the same or higher framerates is to be expected. To me, the real issue is that 32GB of RAM is sort of overkill for this chip, which means you're paying more for memory that can't be fully utilized. And remember, while the Go S' launch config comes with a Z2 Go, there are other versions that are expected to get a Z1 Extreme and possibly a vanilla Z2 at some point in the future.Of course, if you want higher framerates, you can always adjust how much power you're sending to its processor. Lenovo's default balanced setting uses 15 watts, while performance mode pumps things up to 30. But if you want more precise control, the custom mode can go from as little as 5 watts all the way up to 40, though you'll want or need to be plugged into the wall to utilize its full TDP (thermal design power).Battery life: Good enoughNaturally, whatever performance mode you choose will ultimately impact your battery life. I found that when playing Metal Slug Tactics using the 15-watt balanced setting, the Legion Go S lasted for around two and a half hours, which is pretty solid. When playing more demanding titles, longevity wasn't quite as good, with runtimes closer to an hour and a half. Though, with the Go S featuring a 55.5WHr battery compared to something like the 80WHr pack in the ROG Ally X, that kind of discrepancy isn't entirely unexpected.Software: Better, but still clunkySam Rutherford for EngadgetLenovo has done a lot to improve the Legion Space app since it came out a couple years ago. Not only is it much better as a general place to launch games from, it's a lot easier to adjust settings or download new drivers or software updates. Even the UI is more spacious and intuitive. However, at the end of the day, the handoff between Legion Space and the rest of Windows 11 still feels awkward. Depending on what you're trying to tweak, you have to jump between menus from Lenovo and Microsoft while switching between joystick and touchpad to navigate. I also noticed some bugs like when trying to install Steam from the Legion Space app. It failed every time, which meant I had to download the app directly from Valve and do things manually. In a lot of respects, this is where Windows-based handhelds lag behind the most, so it's a shame it'll be another few months before the SteamOS model goes on sale sometime in May.Wrap-upThe Legion Go S has all the makings of a solid portable gaming PC. It's got a straightforward design with good ergonomics, Hall effect joysticks and a sensible button layout. Lenovo also includes some nice perks like dual USB-C ports, a decent-sized battery and a handy little touchpad for navigating Windows. I just wish there was a built-in fingerprint scanner too. And while its 8-inch OLED display is a touch smaller than the one on its predecessor, there's not much to dislike about it. You even get more storage (1TB) than a base Legion Go (512GB).Sam Rutherford for EngadgetThe hard thing to come to terms with is that right now a Legion Go S costs $730 for worse performance, no detachable controllers and the lack of bonuses like an included carrying case or vertical mouse functionality like on the original Legion Go, which can be had for $30 less ($700). Normally, that would be a death sentence for a new system because that value proposition simply doesn't make sense.But in this case, the issue is that Lenovo hasn't fully rolled out all of its variations. I still think 32GB of RAM on this device is excessive; not even the ROG Ally X has that much. But more importantly, the Legion Go S' other configs aren't available yet. So even if you aren't holding out for the SteamOS variant, you'd be silly not to wait for less expensive versions to come out with starting prices closer to $600 (or even $500 for the one with Valve's platform), which will instantly make this handheld a lot more attractive.This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/gaming/pc/lenovo-legion-go-s-review-windows-version-not-so-fast-140002828.html?src=rss
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A four-pack of Chipolo One Bluetooth trackers is on sale for 32 percent off
by
Lawrence Bonk
on (#6VB6Q)
If you're constantly losing your keys, wallet and other important stuff, Bluetooth trackers could be a big help. Attach them onto your things and you can monitor their location directly from your phone. Our current favorites are the Chipolo One trackers, and right now you can snag a pack of four for just under $68. Chipolo's having a sale that brings the pack down to $75, but you can use the code ENGADGET10 at checkout to get an extra 10 percent off and bring the price down to $67.50. That code works across Chipolo's site as well, giving you an additional 10 percent off anything else you want to purchase. This gadget not only made our list of the best Bluetooth trackers, but it's our favorite release in the product category. The One is a near-perfect tracker. The battery lasts two full years, it works great with both Android and iOS devices and the ringer is incredibly loud. This is great news for those who tend to misplace items under mountains of linens or between couch cushions. There's also no perceptible lag between pressing the Ring to Find button and hearing the trill. This isn't true of many rival trackers. It even has a handy hole for attaching to keychains and the like. This may seem like an obvious design element, but Apple AirTags lack this hole. The only downside involves the finding network. Chipolo isn't a big name like Apple or Samsung, so there are fewer people on the network. This could be an issue if you don't live in a major metropolitan area. Basically, the One is perfect for looking for lost items in or near the home, but not as useful when searching for misplaced stuff (like luggage at an airport) out in the wild. And don't forget: remember that coupon code from before? It works across the entire site, so feel free to grab a ten percent discount on everything else Chipolo makes using the code ENGADGET10. This includes wallet trackers that are shaped like credit cards and smaller tracking rings. Follow @EngadgetDeals on Twitter and subscribe to the Engadget Deals newsletter for the latest tech deals and buying advice.This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/deals/a-four-pack-of-chipolo-one-bluetooth-trackers-is-on-sale-for-32-percent-off-130015389.html?src=rss
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DJI's RS4 Mini stabilizer can now track subjects automatically
by
Steve Dent
on (#6VDFT)
Shortly after introducing subject tracking with its latest smartphone gimbal, DJI has done the same with its new lightweight camera gimbal. The RS4 Mini is now available with DJI's RS Intelligent Tracking Module to keep a human subject in frame and also offers the latest features from its flagship RS4 gimbals like auto-axis locks and 4th-gen stabilization. The RS4 Mini is a major redesign from the previous RS3 Mini and is slightly heavier (2 pounds compared to 1.8 pounds) to accommodate some of the new features. It boasts the same 4.4 pound payload as before, meaning it can carry nearly every mirrorless camera on the market and many lightweight cinema cameras to boot. DJI An important new feature for ease of use is the addition of automatic axis locks absent on the previous model. And in fact, the RS4 Mini is the first of DJI's gimbals to use 2nd-Gen axis lock tech that can unlock the gimbal in just one second. It also has DJI's 3rd-Gen Native Vertical Switch that that offers the fastest switch experience to date in the RS series. Another new addition is Teflon interlayers and a fine tuning knob that allows "more precise millimeter balancing" when installing a camera. DJI also introduced a new Responsive mode (alongside the regular Smooth mode) that allows the gimbal to react better to fast hand movements. DJI For solo vloggers, the coolest new feature is the DJI RS Intelligent Tracking Module (included in the RS 4 Mini Combo), that's much like the "Multifunctional Module" on the Osmo Mobile 7P gimbal, minus the fill light. When attached to the gimbal, the tiny device enables ActiveTrack on any phone or camera, keeping a human subject in frame within 33 feet. Tracking can be enabled with a pull of the trigger or an open palm visual command. The RS 4 Mini also has DJI's latest 4th-Gen Stabilization that strikes a better balance between stabilization strength and tactile feel, promising an "enhanced user experience" and improved stability for vertical shooting. Other improvements include 30 percent better battery life (now up to 13 hours) and charging speeds, a next-gen RS Briefcase Handle and a quick-release magnetic mount. The RS4 Mini is now available for $369 by itself or $459 in the Combo package, which includes the RS Intelligent Tracking Module and RS Briefcase Handle. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/cameras/djis-rs4-mini-stabilizer-can-now-track-subjects-automatically-134045771.html?src=rss
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xAI's Grok 3 is available for free to everyone 'for a short time'
by
Mariella Moon
on (#6VDFV)
You can now access xAI's most advanced large language model, Grok 3, even if you don't pay for a subscription on X. Grok 3 is available for free "for a short time," according to xAI founder Elon Musk, though the company didn't say until what "short time" means exactly. When you go to Grok on X or the web, and when you launch the standalone app, you'll now see new "Think" and "DeepSearch" options that are only available with xAI's latest LLM family. Just make sure you're using Grok 3 instead of Grok 2 in the chatbot interface's drop-drown menu. If you're paying for X Premium+, which now costs $40 a month, or the chatbot's standalone $30-per-month SuperGrok plan, you'll get "increased access" to Grok 3's features, as well as early access to advanced features like Voice Mode.
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The best gaming keyboards of 2025
by
Jeff Dunn
on (#6F4WM)
The best gaming keyboards can make you feel in total control while sweating through an online shooter and more comfortable while taking in a 100-hour RPG. They may not always feel as luxurious for typing as a custom mechanical keyboard, but they've become increasingly sophisticated with new features to improve your play, and the best of them are still huge upgrades over your everyday membrane board. If you're looking to buy one, I've spent way too much time researching gaming keyboards over the past couple of years, testing dozens of well-reviewed and boutique models along the way. Whether you want something small, wireless or just plain cheap, here are the ones that have stood out the most. What to look for in a gaming keyboard To be clear, any keyboard can be a gaming keyboard." If you play lots of video games today and have never sighed to yourself, man, this keyboard is holding me back," congratulations, you probably don't need to pay extra for a new one. Self-proclaimed gaming keyboards often come at a premium, and while the best offer high-quality designs, snazzy RGB lighting and a few genuinely worthwhile features, none of them will give you god-like skill, nor will they suddenly turn bad games into good ones. Mechanical vs non-mechanical Now that we've touched grass, I did prioritize some features while researching this guide. First, I mostly stuck to mechanical keyboards, not laptop-style membrane models. They can be loud, but they're more durable, customizable and broadly satisfying to press - all positive traits for a product you may use for hours-long gaming sessions. Size Next, I preferred tenkeyless (TKL) or smaller layouts. It's totally fine to use a full-size board if you really want a number pad, but a compact model gives you more space to flick your mouse around. It also lets you keep your mouse closer to your body, which can reduce the tension placed on your arms and shoulders. From top to bottom: A 96 percent keyboard, an 80 percent (or tenkeyless) keyboard and a 60 percent keyboard. Photo by Jeff Dunn / Engadget Switches, keycaps and build quality Linear switches, which are often branded as red," are generally favored by gamers. These give keystrokes a smooth feel from top to bottom, with no tactile bump" that could make fast, repeated presses less consistent. They usually require little force to actuate, and they tend to be quiet. However, if you prefer the feel and/or sound of a more tactile or clicky switch, get one of those instead. You might lose some speed in esports-style games, but nothing is more important than your comfort. Some gaming keyboards are based on different mechanisms entirely. Optical switches, for instance, use a beam of light to register keystrokes, while Hall effect switches use magnets. These often feel linear, but they allow for a more versatile set of gaming-friendly features, such as the ability to set custom actuation points, assign multiple commands to one key and repeat key presses faster. In general, they're faster and more durable too. The Wooting 60HE+ is one gaming keyboard that has helped popularize the use of magnetic Hall effect switches. Jeff Dunn for Engadget This analog-style functionality has become the big trend in the gaming keyboard market over the last few years. Most of the major keyboard brands now sell at least one model with Hall effect switches and, based on my testing, it's easy to see why: Many of their customizations really can give you a more granular (yet still fair) sense of control, especially in more competitive games. Consequently, many of our picks below are built around the tech. Keyboards with these kind of features usually aren't cheap, however, and they're far from essential for those who mainly play single-player games. Some of their tricks have also stirred up controversy: One known as SOCD (Simultaneous Opposing Cardinal Directions) cleaning allows you to activate two different directional keys at the same time, making it possible to, among other things, achieve impossibly perfect strafing in shooting games. A few games such as Counter-Strike 2 have banned the feature as a result, though it can still be a fun thing to play around with in games that don't involve other people. SOCD isn't limited to magnetic switches either; some mechanical keyboards support it too. A few recent keyboards have introduced inductive switches, which promise the adjustable actuation features of Hall effect keyboards but with better battery efficiency. I haven't been able to test one of these just yet, but we'll look to do so in a future update. A handful of dye-sub PBT keycaps. Photo by Jeff Dunn / Engadget Keycaps and build quality Regardless of switch type, you want a frame that doesn't flex under pressure, keys that don't wobble and stabilizers that don't rattle when you hit larger keys like the spacebar. I prefer double-shot PBT (polybutylene terephthalate) keycaps over those that use cheaper ABS (acrylonitrile butadiene styrene) plastic, as they won't develop a greasy shine over time and their icons won't fade. A hot-swappable PCB (printed circuit board) that makes it easy to change switches if the mood arises is ideal, as are dedicated media keys. For the sake of simplicity, I only considered prebuilt gaming keyboards for this guide, though many of the picks below allow for customization down the line. If you (and your bank account) really want to go wild, check out our guide to building a custom keyboard. Software, connectivity and RGB If a keyboard has companion software, it should let you program macros and custom key bindings for games without frustration. For convenience, a wired keyboard should connect through a detachable USB-C cable. A good wireless keyboard won't add serious lag, but only if it uses a USB receiver, not Bluetooth. (It'll probably cost more as well.) Some gaming keyboards advertise super-high polling rates - i.e., the speed at which a keyboard reports to a computer - to reduce latency, but unless your monitor has an especially fast refresh rate, the usual standard of 1,000Hz should be fine. And while nobody needs RGB lighting, it's fun. Consumer tech could use more of that, so the cleaner and more customizable the RGB is, the better. Photo by Jeff Dunn / Engadget How we tested The best way to evaluate a keyboard is to just... use it, so that's what I did. To cover a variety of use cases and design styles, I've researched dozens of keyboards over the past several months that've broadly received high marks from professional reviewers and users alike. I've then used each model I've brought in as my daily driver for numerous days. Since I write for a living, this gave me enough time to get a strong sense of each keyboard's typing experience. For gaming, I give special focus to each keyboard's responsiveness in fast, reaction-based online shooters such as Halo Infinite, Counter-Strike 2, Apex Legends, Valorant, Overwatch 2 and XDefiant, as many would-be gaming keyboard buyers get one in the hopes that it'll help with that genre in particular. I made sure each keyboard felt comfortable with other types of games, though, such as Baldur's Gate 3 (a turn-based RPG), Hi-Fi Rush (an action game with an emphasis on timing and rhythm) and Forza Horizon 5 (an arcade racing game). I used the latter to better evaluate the pressure-sensitive features of the analog keyboards I tested. If a keyboard could be configured with multiple switch types, I got the linear model. Upon receiving each keyboard, I removed several keycaps to ensure none were chipped or broken. I noted whether any keys felt wobbly, whether the case flexes under pressure, whether the texture and finish of the keycaps changes after use and whether larger keys like the spacebar felt particularly rattly or hollow. I typed on each keyboard in quick succession in a quiet room to get a sense of where they ranked in terms of noise. For wireless models, I checked whether the battery drain at 50 percent RGB brightness aligned with a manufacturer's estimate. I looked to results from sites like Rtings to ensure nothing was out of order with latency. I did my own testing on a 144Hz monitor with my personal rig, which includes a 10th-gen Core i9 CPU and an RTX 3080 GPU. This helped me ensure each keyboard met a baseline of overall quality, but to reiterate, so much of this process is subjective. I can tell you if a keyboard is loud based on how I slam my keys, for instance, but you may have a lighter touch. What my tastes find comfortable," pleasing," or even useful," you may dislike. As I've written before, keyboards are like food or art in that way. So, keep an open mind. Other gaming keyboards we tested The Wooting 60HE. Photo by Jeff Dunn / Engadget Note: The following is a selection of noteworthy gaming keyboards we've put through their paces, not a comprehensive list of everything we've ever tried. Wooting 60HE+ You can consider the Wooting 60HE+ our 1A" pick, as it's essentially a more compact version of the 80HE with a 60 percent layout. It supports the same analog gaming features, has the same four-year warranty and still uses the great Wootility software. It's also $25 cheaper. If you prefer a smaller design and don't need arrow keys, you can buy it with confidence. However, more people will find the 80HE's larger layout easier to use on a day-to-day basis. Its gasket mount, updated switches and extra sound-dampening material make it more pleasant-sounding and comfier for typing out of the box. Plus, while the 60HE+ can only rest at one fixed angle, the 80HE comes with a few sets of removable feet. Logitech G Pro X TKL Rapid The Logitech G Pro X TKL Rapid is a good magnetic-switch alternative to the Wooting 80HE if you must buy from one of the major keyboard brands. It's wired-only, but it looks good, with clear RGB lighting, a built-in volume roller, dedicated media keys and a sturdy metal top plate. The expected rapid trigger and adjustable actuation tricks all work fine, and Logitech's G Hub software is easier to get around than most apps from the big-name manufacturers. It can recognize when you've launched certain games, for instance, then apply any custom profiles you've made for them automatically. All of it costs $30 less than the 80HE as well. Where it falls short is the typing experience: The default switches are pretty noisy, and bottoming out the keys feels stiffer here compared to our top picks. If you want those Wooting-style features and prefer a clackier sound, however, it's a decent buy. Logitech G Pro X TKL and G Pro X 60 The wireless Logitech G Pro X TKL and G Pro X 60, which use more traditional mechanical switches, aren't as hot. They're built well, but they're too pricey to not be hot-swappable or lack the analog features of the 80HE. There isn't much sound-dampening foam in either models, too, so neither sounds great. We like that both come with a carrying case, though. The Logitech G Pro X TKL Rapid. Jeff Dunn for Engadget Keychron C3 Pro The tenkeyless Keychron C3 Pro is the top budget pick in our mechanical keyboard guide, and it remains a great stand-in for the G.Skill KM250 RGB if you want to stay under $50. With its gasket mount design, internal foam and pre-lubed switches, it feels and sounds fuller to press. The base version we tested lacks hot-swappable switches and only has a red backlight, but Keychron recently released revised models that address that and add full RGB. That said, their ABS keycaps feel cheaper and can develop a shine over time, plus there's no volume knob. Some may find KM250's smaller size more convenient for gaming, too. Keychron Q1 HE The Keychron Q1 HE is sort of an older version of the Lemokey P1 HE with the same magnetic switches and a similarly excellent aluminum chassis. Its double-gasket design, pre-lubed switches and layers of foam make it a joy for typing. Its gaming features rely on the same iffy software, though, while the stock keycaps are sculpted in a way that makes them trickier to access quickly. Those keycaps aren't shine-through either, and the whole thing costs $50 more, so there isn't much reason to buy it over the P1 HE. The Keychron Q1 HE. Photo by Jeff Dunn / Engadget Razer Huntsman V2 TKL We previously recommended the Razer Huntsman V2 TKL as a mid-priced pick thanks to its light optical switches, crisp PBT keycaps and impressively muffled tone (with the linear-switch model, at least). Its lack of analog features make it a harder sell these days, though, and its keys wobble more than those on the Keychron V3 Max. It's not hot-swappable, either. Beyond that, Razer is only selling the version with clicky switches as of our most recent update, but we found those to sound uncomfortably sharp. Razer Huntsman V3 Pro The Razer Huntsman V3 Pro is a line of wired analog keyboards that comes in 60 percent, TKL and full-size options. They have just about all the features we like on the Wooting 80HE, but their optical switches are noisier and more hollow-feeling. The Razer Huntsman V2 TKL. Jeff Dunn for Engadget Razer BlackWidow V4 Pro 75% The BlackWidow V4 Pro 75% is Razer's top-end wireless keyboard. It's fully hot-swappable, with heavily textured PBT keycaps, a robust aluminum top case and a nifty OLED display. The tactile Razer Orange switches in our test unit consistently feel tight, the larger keys don't really rattle and the RGB backlight shines through beautifully. It's a good keyboard - it's just not luxurious enough to warrant its $300 price tag, especially since it lacks any sort of analog-style functionality. The stock switches are a little too sharp-sounding for our liking as well. Razer Huntsman Mini The Razer Huntsman Mini is a fine choice if you want a 60 percent keyboard and don't need Wooting-style software tricks, with textured PBT keycaps, a sturdy aluminum top plate and the same fast optical switches we praised with the Huntsman V2 TKL. The 60HE+ is much more versatile, though, while the KM250 RGB is a more appealing value. The Razer BlackWidow V4 75%. Jeff Dunn for Engadget ASUS ROG Strix Scope II 96 Wireless The ASUS ROG Strix Scope II 96 Wireless (phew) is a strong alternative to the Apex Pro TKL if you want to go wireless. It's a joy to type on, with superb sound dampening, pre-lubed ROG NX switches, an impressively sturdy case and stable, PBT-coated keys. It's hot-swappable, its battery life rating is much higher than the Apex Pro TKL Wireless (90 hours with RGB on) and it has a multi-function key that puts volume, media and RGB controls in one place. At $180, it's also $90 cheaper than our SteelSeries pick. However, it doesn't have the rapid trigger or custom actuation tricks of Hall effect keyboards like the Apex Pro TKL Wireless or Lemokey P1 HE, and ASUS's Armoury Crate software is a bit of a mess. The Lemokey P1 HE's all-metal design feels higher-end, too. But if you care about typing experience more than extra gaming-friendly features, this one is still worth looking into. ASUS ROG Azoth The ASUS ROG Azoth is like a smaller version of the ROG Strix Scope II 96 Wireless with a few more enthusiast touches, such as a gasket-mounted design - which gives keystrokes a softer feel - a programmable OLED display and a toolkit for lubing switches in the box. It's exceptionally well-made by any standard, not just for a gaming keyboard." But its feature set still isn't as flexible as the Wooting 80HE or SteelSeries Apex Pro TKL Wireless, which makes its $250 list price a tough ask. The ASUS ROG Azoth. Photo by Jeff Dunn / Engadget Alienware Pro Wireless Gaming Keyboard The 75 percent Alienware Pro Wireless Gaming Keyboard is much better than its bland name suggests, with high-quality PBT keycaps, smooth linear switches (which are hot-swappable), wonderfully clean RGB lighting, a steady wireless connection and a rigid yet lightweight design. But it's fairly loud, and at $200 there isn't much reason to take it over the Lemokey P1 HE, which has a higher-quality design and more capable magnetic switches, or the ASUS Strix Scope II 96 Wireless, which offers a similarly pleasing typing experience at a slightly lower price. It's worth considering if you see it on sale, though. NZXT Function 2 and Function 2 MiniTKL The full-size NZXT Function 2 and tenkeyless Function 2 MiniTKL are totally solid midrange options with fast optical switches and the ability to swap between two universal actuation points, but they're let down by mediocre stabilizers on the larger keys. NuPhy Air75 V2 The NuPhy Air75 V2 is a stylish wireless keyboard with a low-profile design. We recommend in our mechanical keyboard buying guide, and it remains an excellent choice if if you want something that blends the flatter, compact shape of a laptop keyboard with the more tactile feel of mechanical switches. The design isn't entirely ideal for gaming, though, as the wide keys can make it a little too easy to fat-finger inputs by accident and the stock keycaps aren't shine-through. NuPhy recently released a new model with Hall effect switches, which we'll aim to test for a future update. The NuPhy Air75 V2. Photo by Jeff Dunn / Engadget Corsair K70 Max The Corsair K70 Max is another one with magnetic switches, but trying to program its more advanced features through Corsair's iCue software was a pain. Corsair K70 RGB TKL The Corsair K70 RGB TKL is a decent if basic midrange model, but it's also on the noisy side compared to our top picks and it's saddled with middling software. Logitech G515 Lightspeed TKL The Logitech G515 Lightspeed TKL is another low-profile model that generally feels comfortable and well-built, even if it's entirely made of plastic. It's a decent alternative to the NuPhy Air75 V2, as it's much quieter with its GL Tactile switches and comes with shine-through keycaps by default. However, those switches aren't hot-swappable, and the board can't connect to multiple devices simultaneously over Bluetooth. The low-profile shape still isn't the best for gaming either, plus the stock keycaps aren't quite as grippy as other PBT options we've used. Logitech G915 TKL The Logitech G915 TKL is an older wireless low-profile keyboard with a metal frame, but its thin ABS keycaps feel too cheap for something that's usually priced around $180. The NuPhy Air75 V2 is a superior value. Logitech released an upgraded model with PBT keycaps and a USB-C port last year; we plan to test that one for our next update, but it's still pretty expensive at $200. The Logitech G515 Lightspeed TKL. Jeff Dunn for Engadget Recent updates February 2025: We've overhauled this guide with new picks: The Wooting 80HE is now our top recommendation overall, the SteelSeries Apex Pro TKL Wireless (Gen 3) is our new "best wireless" option and the Lemokey P1 HE slots in as an honorable mention. We've also added notes on several more gaming keyboards we've tested since our last update, including Logitech's G Pro X TKL Rapid and G515 Lightspeed TKL, Razer's BlackWidow V4 Pro 75% and Alienware's Pro Wireless Gaming Keyboard. Finally, we've made a few minor updates to our "What to look for in a gaming keyboard" section. June 2024: We updated this guide with a new traditional mechanical keyboard" pick, the Keychron V3 Max, plus a couple new honorable mentions and more notes on other gaming keyboards we've tried. Note that we've tested - and will continue to test - several other keyboards that aren't explicitly marketed toward gaming, but we'll direct you to our general mechanical keyboard buying guide for more info on those.This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/gaming/pc/best-gaming-keyboard-140019954.html?src=rss
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Great cameras, not Apple Intelligence, is what people want from an iPhone 16e
by
Igor Bonifacic
on (#6VDFW)
After much anticipation, Apple finally announced the iPhone 16e yesterday. Looking at its position in the company's lineup, the 16e is a headscratcher. My colleague Ian Carlos Campbell already wrote about how strange it is that the phone is missing MagSafe, a feature universally loved by Apple users. However, the omission that stands out the most to me is that the iPhone 16e doesn't come with more than a single rear camera, and no, 2x telephoto cropping doesn't count.Sure, if you put the 16e against its predecessor, the 2022 iPhone SE, it's not a surprising omission - but when you consider today's broader smartphone market, it's a glaring weakness. At $599, the 16e is $100 more than the Pixel 8a, a device with two amazing rear cameras and an AI-capable processor (more on that in a moment). The 8a is also frequently on sale for as little as $399. Some people hate the Pixel comparison, so I'll give you another one. Last spring, Nothing released the $349 Phone 2a. Like the 8a, it has two rear cameras. Oh, and a fresh design that's not borrowed from 2020. At almost $200 more than the phone it replaces, the 16e is very much not a midrange device.I know what you're thinking: what's wrong with one camera, as long as that camera is great? In the case of the 16e, I think the problem is that Apple is misreading the market and what people want from their next phone. All consumer devices are a compromise in some way. Those become more pronounced as you move down the market.For most people, their phone is their primary camera and how they document their lives and memories. Think about what was the first thing you tested when you upgraded to your current phone. I bet it was the cameras. In that context, more are better, because they make it easier to capture moments that are important to you.For a device some outlets are describing as "low-end," the iPhone 16e features a state-of-the-art chip. It might be cut down with one less GPU core, but the 16e's A18 is still a 3nm chip with 8GB of RAM to support the processor. Apple clearly felt the A18 was necessary to get its AI suite running on the 16e. But that means the rest of the phone had to suffer as a result, starting with the camera package.I don't know about you, but if I were in the market for a new phone, I would want the most bang for my buck. The SE line had its share of drawbacks, including a dated design and a lackluster screen, but at $429, they made sense. For all its faults, the SE still felt like a bargain in 2022 because you were getting a modern chip, access to iOS and all the great apps that come with it and Apple's excellent track record of software support. With the iPhone 16e, you're not saving nearly as much off the price of a regular iPhone. Yes, everything I said about the SE's strengths is still true of the 16e and it even builds on that phone with additions like a better battery and an OLED screen, but the smartphone market has evolved so much in the last three years.Again, I know people hate the Pixel comparison, but the 8a makes far fewer compromises. Not only does it feature a more versatile camera system, but it also comes with a high refresh rate OLED. The 8a's Tensor G3 chip is also fully capable of running Google's latest AI features.I know offering the best hardware features for the price has never been Apple's approach, but that approach only made sense when the company had the best software experience. We can all agree Apple Intelligence has not met its usual quality standards. Just look at notification summaries, one of the main selling points of Apple Intelligence. Apple recently paused all news and entertainment alerts generated by the system to address their poor quality.Right now, Apple Intelligence is not a compelling reason to buy a new iPhone, and its inclusion on the 16e at the expense of other features feels, at best, a cynical attempt to boost adoption numbers. If the 16e was $100 cheaper, maybe I would be less critical, but right now it feels like Apple missed the mark.This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/mobile/smartphones/great-cameras-not-apple-intelligence-is-what-people-want-from-an-iphone-16e-130041307.html?src=rss
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The Oppo Find N5 is an impressive, very thin foldable with a giant battery
by
Mat Smith
on (#6VDE7)
Oppo is back with a new foldable, and the Find N5 is a technically impressive balance of thinness and power. Skipping over the whole unlucky number four thing (this is technically the fourth iteration of the Find foldable), the company claims its latest book-style foldable is the world's thinnest at 8.92mm. That's not a lot thicker than a typical flagship phone. Despite that, the Find N5 has a 6.62-inch outer display and an 8.12-inch inner screen which, Oppo says, features multiple durability improvements, flanked by a new titanium hinge.For the sake of clarity: While you may not have bought, used or even seen an Oppo phone, this company is under the same corporate owner as OnePlus. Last year's Find N3 foldable ended up in the US as the OnePlus Open, so you may see the Find N5 similarly rebadged. If that's the case, and this is eventually the Open 2, you won't see it this year. OnePlus announced that its follow-up foldable will not land until 2025.At an early briefing, my first impression of the Find N5 was that it was a very thin, premium foldable. Unfolded, one side is just 4.21mm - thinner than a headphone jack. (That's a great excuse for the lack of one.) It's so slender that Oppo had to reinforce and beef up the edges of the Find N5's USB-C port, which has only a razor-thin border around it. The ring camera array - which still looks a bit much - has also been shaved down 20 percent.Mat Smith for EngadgetIn addition to that thinner profile, which seems to be the 2025 trend for phones, the Find N5 weighs just 229 grams (8.07 ounces). That's only two more grams than the single-screen iPhone 16 Pro Max and 10 grams less than the N5's main rival - the Galaxy Z Fold 6. It's even more impressive when you consider that the Find N5 has a bigger internal screen than all the other foldables.In fact, using its external screen when closed it feels like any other non-foldable phone, due to its sharp profile and light weight. A 6.62-inch screen is larger than most phones I use regularly, so browsing and watching things before I've even unfolded the N5 feels like a treat.Despite its thickness (or lack thereof), Oppo has ensured it is suitably powerful, with a Snapdragon 8 Elite processor and a 5,600mAh battery. (For comparison, Samsung's latest Galaxy Fold has a 4,400mAh cell.) Unlike the OnePlus Open, the Find N5 is compatible with wireless chargers and if you have Oppo's own wireless fast charger, it tops out at 50W AIRVOOC.Using the included fast charger, you get an impressive and swift 80W wired charging speed. I could completely recharge the Find N5 in less than an hour. However, like many other recent Android phones, this device is not Qi2-ready. Oppo argued that its proprietary wireless charging tech is faster, and added that a magnetic case will be on sale when the device launches. (Oppo does include a non-magnetic case to cover the device's rear with the phone.)With its Snapdragon 8 Elite processor, the Find N5 is the first foldable to pack Qualcomm's most powerful mobile chip, with substantial power efficiency gains alongside performance boosts compared to older Snapdragon 8 silicon. We've been amazed by battery life improvements on Samsung and OnePlus devices with the Snapdragon 8 Elite, and Oppo continues that trend. Combined with that massive battery, this foldable typically lasted almost two days in my testing before needing to charge.One of the biggest challenges to foldables is durability, and to address this, Oppo has upgraded the Find N5's hinge and screen toughness. The hinge is now made from titanium alloy, 3D-printed to maintain the material strength while shrinking the hinge's size by 26 percent. At a press briefing in London, the company decided to showcase the hinge strength by suspending a 44-pound kettlebell from its new foldable, which spanned two tables. I'm not sure this translates to real-world toughness, but it was an impressive spectacle. Next time, put your newest thousand-dollar-plus device somewhere near a three-year-old - let's see how tough it really is.Mat Smith for EngadgetOppo says the smaller external screen is made of nanocrystal glass, which includes an outer layer of ceramic to improve scratch and drop resistance. The company also says the inner screen has been strengthened with a new anti-shock film that can absorb impact, improving shock resistance by 70 percent.The Find N5 also comes with a literal list of water resistances: IPX6 (resistant to powerful water jets), IPX8 (resistant to being submersed in water deeper than 1 meter) and IPX9 (resistant to powerful, high-temperature water jets). If you think at least one of those must be redundant, I agree.The Find N5 is the first foldable to claim all that protection. However, there's no dust-resistance rating, which might concern existing foldable users who have been grappling with that lil' bit of dust lodged in their years-old smartphone screen.Camera improvements are focused on the periscope telephoto shooter, which is upgraded to 50MP sensor from the 32MP one found on the Find N3. The Find N5 can now punch into 3X optical zoom, up from 2X on its predecessor. There's a lossless 6X zoom that taps into AI to sharpen detail, but as usual, your mileage may vary here. I find the lossless options on most phones often a little too smooth (and turn most zoomed-in faces into nightmares), but at least it's an option.The periscope telephoto camera can also utilize a macro mode, meaning you can zoom in closer and still maintain crisp focus and detail. Macro photography with a typical smartphone doesn't always work. Your phone will cast a shadow on your subject, or perhaps you can't get your camera close enough. On the Find N5, a four-inch focal distance makes this less of an issue, and early images are promising. It's not the first time we've seen the feature (both the Huawei P60 Pro and vivo X100 Ultra have telephoto macros) but it's rare in most devices that make it to the west. We usually have to make do with a macro mode on the ultrawide camera, and hope for the best.Mat Smith for EngadgetThe camera has many familiar features, too: portrait mode (with some Hasselblad assistance) and Lightning Snap burst shooting. The latter is augmented by Oppo's take on AI unblurring and sharpening. Fold in an AI eraser and reflection remover and it goes toe-to-toe with recent Samsung and Google flagships.Multitasking is similar to the OnePlus Open, with some improvements. Oppo's version is called Boundless View, with several features now accessible from a triple-dot icon, where you can shift second and even third apps into shrinkable windows. By tapping the top bar above one app, you can automatically widen it, but leave a sliver of the other app in view, making it easier to switch between them.One smart touch is that the Find N5 will gauge your multitasking, offering a prompt when switching between two apps to use them in split screen mode. As someone who doesn't use book-style foldables, I find it a nice reminder of the utility of this form factor.Another software addition is the O+ app, where you can manage files on your phone and even sling them across to your Mac. At the briefing, an Oppo exec showed how easy it was to transfer a photo across devices, which was pretty unremarkable. (Think of all the cloud options we have in 2025)Mat Smith for EngadgetBut it was the Remote Mac Control that surprised me. With the Find N5 propped up and half-folded, the Oppo spokesperson used the onscreen trackpad and keyboard to interact with their Mac. This feature works with both Intel and Apple Silicon-based Macs, so I was able to test it out with my aging Intel MacBook Pro. Does anyone remember and pine for that VAIO laptop that could slip into your jeans pocket? No? Just me? Just me. Anyway, it felt like using that. You're not going to work daily from it, but if there are files, or certain simple tasks you need to accomplish in Photoshop or other PC programs, it's functional and impressive.It's not quite as effortless or seamless as Apple's own Continuity feature, since you have to install apps on the Find N6 and your Mac. Oppo promises a future update allowing you to transfer files to your Mac from Find N5's native Files app without dabbling in Remote Mac Control.Wrap-upMat Smith for EngadgetWith the Find N5, Oppo went to town on hardware. It feels and looks more premium than the company's previous foldables but with substantial spec bumps at a time when many smartphones seem a little iterative. (Yes, Samsung, you.) The intriguing part is, if the OnePlus Open 2 isn't happening in 2025, will this device make it to the US at all? And if it does appear next year, will all these upgrades be as impressive?The Find N5 launches globally today, with Oppo so far only announcing official pricing in Singapore: 2,499 Singapore Dollars. That equates to just below 1,500 in the UK, where it will go on sale, or shy of $1,900. That would put it at the same price point as the leading foldable, the Galaxy Z Fold 6. However, it's much more interesting (and impressive) than Samsung's latest foldable.However, without US availability, this is just an exercise in currency conversion for now.We'll update this story when we get more precise availability.This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/mobile/smartphones/the-oppo-find-n5-hands-on-release-date-price-120058154.html?src=rss
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You can now apply for the 'opportunity to purchase' an RTX 5090 or 5080 from NVIDIA
by
Anna Washenko
on (#6VD50)
While graphics cards have been getting almost ludicrously more powerful over the years, it's also been increasingly difficult to actually buy one. In an effort to address this problem, NVIDIA has introduced a plan it's calling Verified Priority Access for its recently released GeForce RTX 50 series of GPUs. Verified Priority Access offers an unspecified number of people the chance to buy either a GeForce RTX 5090 or RTX 5080 Founders Edition graphics card direct from the company.This "opportunity" will only be available to US customers with an NVIDIA account that was created on or before January 30 at 9AM ET/6AM PT. Interested parties can sign up on a form and invites will be sent starting next week.NVIDIA took a similar approach to dealing with shortages of its 4090 card, although that was an invite-only pilot. This system could help keep more of the products away from scalpers or crypto operations in favor of legitimate customers. But considering how long GPU access has been an issue, it would be nice to see more robust responses coming from the manufacturers.This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/computing/you-can-now-apply-for-the-opportunity-to-purchase-an-rtx-5090-or-5080-from-nvidia-235549765.html?src=rss
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The BBC Radiophonic Workshop's archive is now available to sample
by
Anna Washenko
on (#6VD51)
Attention audiophiles: the archive of the BBC Radiophonic Workshop is being made available to the public for the first name. This department was founded in the 1950s as a laboratory that could invent original music and sound effects for BBC radio, and later television, programming. Over the years, its roster of innovative musicians and composers created audio for iconic BBC productions of the 1950s and 1960s such as Doctor Who, Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy, the Goon Show and Blake's 7. In addition to developing those signature sounds, members' work also laid early foundations for creating electronic music and sampling. In the words of Radiophonic Workshop archivist Mark Ayres, the department "was purely for making bonkers noises."Now, the BBC Radiophonic Workshop library is being offered to today's creators to sample through a collaboration between Spitfire Audio and BBC Studios. This library includes sounds from the studio's original tapes as well as new recordings and content from the Workshop's members and associates. The collection has subheadings for topics such as found sounds, junk percussion and synths, so there's a lot of fascinating stuff to explore. It is available at an introductory price of $159 (119/143) until March 6; afterwards, the standard price will by $199 (149/179).This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/audio/the-bbc-radiophonic-workshops-archive-is-now-available-to-sample-223100146.html?src=rss
0 comments
Netflix's content briefly showed up in the Apple TV app
by
Will Shanklin
on (#6V9Y8)
Breaking: Someone made an oopsie. On Thursday, word spread online that some of Netflix's content began appearing in the Apple TV app. The lack of an official announcement (and extremely buggy nature) of the integration was enough to cast doubt on the news. But that didn't stop users from rejoicing and sharing "FINALLY!" GIFs on social media. Unfortunately, your triumphant festivities weren't warranted, as the company has said it was unintentional.A Netflix spokesperson told The Verge on Friday that the Apple TV app integration was an error that has been rolled back. Indeed, Redditors who had been tracking the forbidden fruit with unbridled glee confirmed that all signs of Netflix content had since vanished from Apple's streaming hub.While the boo-boo was still active, PC World reported it let you add Netflix originals like Stranger Things, Cobra Kai and The Crown but lacked licensed shows and movies. Even the available content was a buggy mess. For example, only season five of The Crown was available, leaving you to wonder what hijinks Liz and the gang had gotten into before or after the grunge era. The "Add to Watchlist" and "Continue Watching" features were also said to be spotty.It's easy to speculate that such a glitch was tied to internal testing accidentally made public, but there's no reason to assume that's anything but wishful thinking. A Netflix spokesperson told Engadget that the bug was on Apple's end, putting even more of a damper on that prospect. So, at least for now, you'll have to watch Netflix content in the Netflix app, leaving Apple's for a well-earned rewatch of The Sopranos (via Max), The Bear (via Hulu) and Apple's own Silo.Update, February 19, 2025, 5:16PM ET: This story has been updated to clarify that the mistake was a bug on Apple's end, not Netflix's.This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/entertainment/streaming/netflix-accidentally-made-its-content-show-up-in-the-apple-tv-app-212851906.html?src=rss
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Hades II's second major update adds a 'final confrontation' and more
by
Will Shanklin
on (#6VD2X)
The second major update to Hades II adds a mysterious "final confrontation," an updated Altar of Ashes and the return of the god of war... Ares. (Were you expecting someone else?) And there's more to come: In addition to Wednesday's Warsong Update, developer Supergiant Games says its third big one is in the pipeline for "some months from now." Although Supergiant is staying mum about who is involved, it teased a "Final Confrontation on the surface" as the headlining feature of today's update. "Discover what lies beyond the Guardian of Olympus... if you dare!" The sinister and demonic voice in the video below suggests it might not have the best of intentions. Also new (in the sequel, anyway) is Ares, the god of war. He has "varied and vicious" Boons on offer, as one would expect from a bloodthirsty God of Olympus. Supergiant also updated the Altar of Ashes with new art and reworked Arcana effects, a new Animal Familiar and other changes. The Warsong Update is free and an automatic download. Of course, Hades II is still in early access. Given that the first game stayed there for nearly two years, you probably shouldn't hold your breath for an imminent public release. Regardless, you can check out the sequel's new content on Windows and macOS via Steam or Epic. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/gaming/pc/hades-iis-second-major-update-adds-a-final-confrontation-and-more-220401973.html?src=rss
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The Last of Us season 2 premieres on HBO and Max on April 13
by
Kris Holt
on (#6VD2Y)
The second season of The Last of Us now has a firm premiere date. HBO has announced that its adaptation of Naughty Dog's games will hit the network and Max on April 13. "Five years after the events of the first season, Joel and Ellie are drawn into conflict with each other and a world even more dangerous and unpredictable than the one they left behind," HBO said in a press release. Ominous!Warner Bros. Discovery had already confirmed that the latest batch of episodes would arrive this April, in large part to make sure that the season is eligible for next year's Primetime Emmy Awards. Given that the third season of The White Lotus premiered this week, a mid-April start date makes sense for TLOU. There are only seven episodes this time around in any case, and they'll all air before the Emmy eligibility window closes on May 31.The second season of the series is based on The Last of Us Part 2, but it won't take us through all of the events of the second game. It'll take at least two seasons to retell the story of that terrific, if overly lengthy misery simulator.In the meantime, if you haven't played the sequel yet, you'll soon be able to do just that on PC. The Last of Us Part II Remastered will hit Steam and the Epic Games Store on April 3. Meanwhile, the game's developer, Naughty Dog, recently revealed its tasty-looking first entry in a brand-new sci-fi franchise.This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/entertainment/tv-movies/the-last-of-us-season-2-premieres-on-hbo-and-max-on-april-13-211022032.html?src=rss
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Apple announces the iPhone 16e with Apple Intelligence for $599
by
Will Shanklin
on (#6VCT2)
After three years, Apple has finally unveiled its next entry-level iPhone. The iPhone 16e takes over for the iPhone SE in the company's lineup. It borrows the blueprint of the iPhone 14 and spices it up with (among other changes) an updated processor that's ready for Apple Intelligence. At $599, it's the cheapest AI-equipped iPhone by $200. As leaks suggested, the fourth-generation iPhone 16e resembles the iPhone 14, the company's 2023 standard (non-Pro) model. This is the first entry-level model to adopt the iPhone's modern full-screen design. That means it's also the first with Face ID. At 6.1 inches, this is the biggest screen yet on an entry-level model. (The 2022 iPhone SE is only 4.7 inches.) But like Apple's 2017 to 2022 flagships, it has the notch at the top of the display, so you'll still have to pay for a more expensive model to get Dynamic Island. Some external details differ from those of the iPhone 14. It has a USB-C port instead of Lightning, and like older iPhone SE models, it has only a single camera lens on the back. However, it's a 48MP "2-in-1" with integrated 2x zoom capabilities, which is quite an upgrade over the last SE. Apple It also gets the Action button, the customizable physical shortcut button that debuted on the iPhone 15 Pro. On the other hand, it lacks the MagSafe charging found on Apple's more expensive handsets: It only supports Qi wireless charging up to 7.5W. That aligns with the iPhone SE it replaces, but it could still be a big drawback for some buyers. One of the biggest differences is inside, where you'll find the A18 chip. It's the same one powering the iPhone 16 and 16 Plus, though it only has four GPU cores, compared to the five in the 16 and 16 plus and six in the iPhone 16 Pro models. It's also the first iPhone with an in-house modem, which Apple is calling C1. Recent iPhones have all used Qualcomm modems, and with the switch away the iPhone 16e loses out on the ultra-wideband 5G and Wi-Fi 7 support that the rest of the 16 series has. The iPhone 16e still plays nice with sub-6GHz 5G and Wi-Fi 6, both of which are currently far more prevalent than their faster cousins. In addition to fast and smooth performance, the A18 enables Apple Intelligence, which the company recently began activating by default during onboarding. (You can still turn it off in Settings.) You get Apple's generative AI writing tools, Genmoji, Image Playground, Visual Intelligence, ChatGPT integration and the recently tweaked notification summaries - all in a sub-$600 iPhone. Not bad if you're into those things. The new iPhone 16e comes in 128GB, 256GB and 512GB storage tiers. You can order it in black and white finishes. At $599, the 2025 iPhone 16e is priced somewhat comparably to Google's $499 Pixel 8a and Samsung's $400 Galaxy A35 for those wanting flagship-esque features in a more affordable handset. You can pre-order the new iPhone 16e starting on February 21 at 8AM ET, ahead of its February 28 ship date. Correction, Feb 19 2025, 3:50PM ET: This story originally stated that the iPhone 16e was the cheapest iPhone with Apple Intelligence by $300. The gulf between it and the iPhone 16 is actually $200. We apologize for the error.This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/mobile/smartphones/apple-announces-the-iphone-16e-with-apple-intelligence-for-599-161435140.html?src=rss
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Horror game Mouthwashing will land on consoles later this year
by
Anna Washenko
on (#6VD2Z)
Indie horror game Mouthwashing is making the leap to consoles. Developer Wrong Organ shared today that its creepy creation will be available on the PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S and Nintendo Switch later this year. As well as appearing in the digital storefronts, the console versions will get a physical release and additional merch courtesy of Fangamer.This is one of many truly excellent horror games that debuted in 2024. Mouthwashing harkens back to the low-poly look of games from the early 2000s, the type you would have found cutting edge at the time and which still retains a nostalgic appeal for many players. But rather than cultivating any warm fuzzies, Mouthwashing tells the tale of the doomed space ship's crew as they turn on each other, lose their minds and die.Wrong Organ also announced that the game has reached 500,000 sales to date on Steam, which is a solid performance for a team that specializes in surreal, story-driven games and is only on its third release.This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/gaming/horror-game-mouthwashing-will-land-on-consoles-later-this-year-204817692.html?src=rss
0 comments
Italian media groups file criminal complaint over the WhatsApp hack on journalists
by
Will Shanklin
on (#6VD0C)
The fallout continues from the recent WhatsApp hacking campaign (by a still-unconfirmed entity) that targeted nearly 100 journalists and activists. Bloomberg reported on Wednesday that a collection of Italian media groups has filed a criminal complaint with the Rome Public Prosecutor's Office. They hope to discover who installed the zero-click spyware, which was made by the Israeli-founded Paragon Solutions.According to Bloomberg, the complaint describes the spyware as an "intolerable intrusion into the personal and professional dimension of journalists," exposing them and their sources "to enormous and still persistent risks for their individual safety." It alleges that those responsible violated Italy's laws banning the "illicit installation" of eavesdropping equipment.WhatsApp said it reached out privately to notify the victims of the hack, which reportedly took place in December and targeted users across Europe. Three Italian victims have come forward, including Francesco Cancellato (a journalist and head of Fanpage.it) and activists Beppe Caccia and Luca Casarini. The latter two focus on charity with the group Mediterranea Saving Humans.WhatsApp said the zero-click hack used malicious PDFs sent to groups on the platform. The company has since released a fix to prevent future uses of the exploit.Italy Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni speaking in Parliament in Rome.ANDREAS SOLARO via Getty ImagesThe scandal is putting pressure on Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni and her far-right Brothers of Italy party. Earlier this month, the government confirmed that at least seven Italian phones were involved in the campaign and that its National Cybersecurity Agency was investigating. Arturo Di Corinto, a spokesman for the agency, told Bloomberg this week that the investigation was ongoing.The Italian government has denied involvement in the hacks, but speculation abounds. Last week, Cabinet Minister Luca Ciriani confirmed in parliament that the government had a long-standing contract with Paragon to assist with intelligence and national security-related issues. However, he insisted the law was "rigorously respected."The Guardian reported that Paragon recently suspended a contract with Italy after the spyware attack became public. However, Ciriani said the intelligence services contract with Paragon is still active, which suggests there was a second agreement. Indeed, Israel's Haaretz reported that Paragon had two contracts with Italy to use its military-grade Graphite software, which WhatsApp has said was used to infect the victims' devices.Paragon, essentially a professional spyware company, has a policy of only doing business with democratic governments. It recently entered into a controversial $2 million contract with the US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) department. Paragon was acquired in December by American private equity company AE Industrial Partners. The company hasn't yet commented on the hacking.This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/cybersecurity/italian-media-groups-file-criminal-complaint-over-the-whatsapp-hack-on-journalists-203150860.html?src=rss
0 comments
The iPhone 16e's lack of MagSafe doesn't make sense
by
Ian Carlos Campbell
on (#6VD0D)
The iPhone 16e, Apple's replacement for the iPhone SE, has plenty of features that make it a good deal, from its A18 chip to the fact that it actually comes with an OLED screen. But one glaring omission in its spec sheet makes no sense: Why doesn't this $599 phone have MagSafe?Despite looking a lot like an iPhone 14, and using components that are similar to the iPhone 16, the iPhone 16e doesn't support MagSafe or fast wireless charging. Apple expects iPhone 16e owners to be happy with the same wireless charging speeds as an iPhone SE released in 2022, and the slight advantage of using a USB-C port rather than a Lighting port.The iPhone 16e's missing MagSafe feels particularly strange because the feature has been a given for years at this point. Apple introduced MagSafe to its smartphones with the iPhone 12 as a magnetic accessory and charging standard, and has included it in every phone since. MagSafe borrows the name of the magnetic connectors on Apple's laptops, but with some key differences. MagSafe on an iPhone means you have strong built-in magnets that let your phone attaches to cases, mounts, wallets and stands, without any extra fiddly pieces. When you charge over MagSafe, you also get faster charging speeds, bumping things from 7.5W charging to up to 25W charging with the right charging brick.Chris Velazco for EngadgetMore importantly, using magnets to directly guide a charger to charging coils largely eliminates the possibility of a phone being on a charger but not actually getting charged. It's likely one of the main reasons why MagSafe was adopted into the wider Qi2 wireless charging standard - it just makes the whole thing a lot more convenient.That doesn't really explain why Apple would leave it out of the iPhone 16e, though. The company's definition of what makes a "Pro" feature is always in flux, and it will often will leave features or components out to justify a lower price. But Apple and its partners likely sell a lot of MagSafe accessories, doesn't Apple want to sell those to iPhone 16e owners, too?The interesting wrinkle in all of this is Qi2, which has been available for phone makers to use since 2023, but hasn't seen widespread adoption outside of Apple's phones. Samsung, a company that should have more than enough money to work Qi2 into its flagships, instead offers a case you can buy if you want to use Qi2 charging on the Galaxy S25. Other Android makers are no better: you won't find Qi2 on the Pixel 9, Motorola Razr+ or Galaxy Z Flip and Fold 6. It's possible Qi2 or MagSafe is more expensive (or difficult) to include than it appears, and Apple has been "generous" all this time. That might make the decision to not support the standard make more sense. But that doesn't change the fact that the iPhone 16e's lack of MagSafe is very annoying.This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/mobile/smartphones/the-iphone-16es-lack-of-magsafe-doesnt-make-sense-202101406.html?src=rss
0 comments
Twitch community guideline violations will now disappear from accounts after a set time
by
Lawrence Bonk
on (#6VD0E)
Twitch has rolled out a number of changes to its violation enforcement system. The biggest change is that now infractions will disappear from an account after a set amount of time." This is great news for long-time creators, as minor violations stacked. This led to folks getting suspended as these smaller infractions piled up.The platform says that most minor infractions, like cheating in an online game, will expire after 90 days. More serious violations, like participating in hateful conduct, will remain on an account for one to two years. The worst behavior will still result in an immediate suspension. Also, if a user is indefinitely suspended due to the accumulation of multiple violations, they can apply for reinstatement after six months.TwitchThis isn't any type of get out of jail free" card. Twitch is also upping the consequences for repeatedly violating the rules in the same policy category. Each time a similar infraction occurs, the length of a suspension will increase. This will be true even if the severity of the offense hasn't gone up. The platform says this new rule is to help people understand the importance of adhering to our Community Guidelines without needing to resort to an indefinite suspension."Finally, Twitch is making good on its promise for increased transparency regarding policy violations. For most policy violations, users will now get a detailed email regarding the reasoning behind any suspension decision. This data will soon include specific chat messages or stream snippets. The information will also reside in the Appeals Portal. This starts with chat messages, with video clips coming later on.Most of these changes are rolling out right now. Twitch recently added something called Enforcement Notes that inform users if certain trends violate one of its policies. It also publishes notes to alleviate widespread community confusion" and alert folks as to which behaviors are and aren't out of bounds."This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/social-media/twitch-community-guideline-violations-will-now-disappear-from-accounts-after-a-set-time-195122034.html?src=rss
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The Humane AI Pin debacle is a reminder that AI alone doesn’t make a compelling product
by
Nathan Ingraham
on (#6VD0F)
The demise of Humane is perhaps the most predictable tech story of 2025. The company tried to build some buzz around its AI Pin in late 2023, marketing the device as a tiny replacement for smartphones and playing up the fact that Humane's co-founders were former Apple employees. The problem was that it wasn't really clear what the AI Pin would do to justify its $700 asking price (plus a $24/month subscription).It didn't take long for things to spiral out of control. The AI Pin was released in April of 2024 to some of the worst reviews I've ever seen for a consumer tech product. Just a month after launch, reports surfaced that the company was already trying to be acquired - for the positively ludicrous sum of $750 million to $1 billion dollars. At the same time, it was rumored that Humane sold only 10,000 Pins, a far cry from the 100,000 they had planned for. HP was named as a potential suitor last May, and the company smartly waited until they could pluck Humane for a comparatively paltry $116 million.As it turned out, waving your hands and shouting about the promise of AI doesn't make it any easier to build compelling hardware - we slammed its high price, terrible battery life, slow performance, excessive heat and hard-to-use projected display. (And Engadget was far from the only publication to eviscerate this device.)Hayato Huseman for EngadgetFor a device whose main interface was conversational, the challenges the AI Pin had answering questions or executing commands made it a non-starter. Even when it did what was asked, it did it in some strange ways, like sending generic texts instead of letting you dictate what exactly you wanted to say. Its camera rarely worked as intended; after taking photos and viewing them on the projector, the Pin would get extremely warm and sometimes just shut down entirely. Speaking of that projection screen, it was nearly impossible to actually see it outdoors, even on a cloudy day. And interacting with it made our reviewer Cherlynn Low want to rip [her] eyes out."Oh, let's not forget that its extended battery case was recalled because it was a full-on fire hazard!The whole debacle is an illustrative example of how most consumer-grade AI isn't ready for prime time. Google and Apple may be trying to shove Gemini and Apple Intelligence down our throats on nearly every product they make, but those tools are additive, built on top of the strong foundations of each company's existing platforms. In Humane's case, there was nothing to fall back on. And the combo of terrible voice responses and recognition paired with a projector display that was not at all ready for prime time (not to mention the other hardware failings) was far too much to overcome.
0 comments
Apple just unveiled the iPhone 16e, here's how it compares to the competition
by
Will Shanklin
on (#6VCXD)
The new iPhone 16e is designed to get Apple Intelligence into as many hands as possible. The company recently began activating its AI features by default during iOS setup, suggesting a harder push to spur adoption and establish iOS as an AI-first platform. But since Apple Intelligence has up till today only been available on the iPhone 16 series (and just the iPhone 15 Pro and Pro Max before that), there hasn't been a sub-$600 iPhone that can run the latest suite of tools. So the addition of the $599 iPhone 16e to Apple's lineup isn't surprising. What was slightly unexpected was the framing. The iPhone 16e's arrival was heralded by feverish speculation about a new iPhone SE, which was last released three years ago for a starting price of $429. Though the iPhone 16e is cheaper than the rest of the iPhone 16 family, its price certainly isn't what we might consider "budget" or "entry-level." Apple Intelligence's arrival on a lower-cost iPhone is thanks to one of its biggest upgrades from the SE: the A18 chip (the same processor from the iPhone 16 and 16 Plus). That makes it Apple's cheapest AI-equipped model by $300. However, that's quite a bump up from the (now-retired) iPhone SE's $429. Fortunately, there's no skimping on the Apple Intelligence features for the cheaper model; you get all the AI goodies found in the more expensive iPhones. That includes AI writing tools, Genmoji, Image Playground, Visual Intelligence, ChatGPT integration and notification summaries. Apple The phone has a much bigger display than its predecessor: 6.1 inches, up from the 2022 iPhone SE's mere 4.7 inches. It's also the first entry-level model to adopt modern iPhones' full-screen design with Face ID. (Pour one out for the now-retired home button.) However, it doesn't have the Dynamic Island found on recent higher-end models. It also gets the Action button, the customizable physical shortcut on the phone's side. It debuted in the iPhone 15 Pro series and is found in all iPhone 16 models. The iPhone 16e also complies with EU standards by switching from Lightning to USB-C, which is probably the least surprising thing about it. It also lacks MagSafe charging, sticking with standard Qi wireless charging at up to 7.5W. A list of geeky tech specs doesn't tell the whole story but can still serve as a starting point. Here's how the new entry-level iPhone compares to Apple's previous model and its two biggest Android-running rivals: the Google Pixel 8a and Samsung Galaxy A35 5G. (Although the A35 isn't quite in the same price range, it serves a similar niche in Samsung's lineup.) iPhone 16e iPhone SE (2022) Google Pixel 8a Samsung Galaxy A35 5G Price $599 / $699 / $899 $429 / $479 / $579 $499 / $559 $400 Dimensions 146.7 x 71.5 x 7.8 mm (5.78 x 2.82 x 0.31 inches) 138.4 x 67.3 x 7.3 mm (5.45 x 2.65 x 0.29 inches) 152.1 x 72.7 x 8.9mm (6 x 2.9 x 0.4 inches) 161.7 x 78 x 8.2 mm (6.37 x 3.07 x 0.32 inches) Weight 167g (5.88 ounces) 144g (5.09 ounces) 188 g (6.7 oz) 209 g (7.37 oz) Screen size 6.1 inches 4.7 inches 6.1 inches 6.6 inches Screen resolution 2,532 x 1,170 (460 ppi) 1,334 x 750 (326 ppi) 1,080 x 2,400 (430 ppi) 2,340 x 1,080 (389 ppi) Screen type OLED Retina HD LCD 60Hz Super AMOLED up to 120Hz SoC Apple A18 Apple A15 Bionic Tensor G3 Exynos 1380 RAM N/A 4 GB 8 GB 6 / 8* GB * Non-US only Battery "up to 26 hrs video playback" 2,018mAh 4,492 mAh 5,000 mAh Storage 128 / 256 / 512GB 64 / 128 / 256 GB 128 / 256 GB 128 / 256* GB MicroSD up to 1TB * Non-US only Rear camera(s) 48MP, f/1.6 Wide: 12 MP, f/1.8 Wide: 64 MP, f/1.89 Ultrawide: 13MP, f/2.2 Wide: 50MP, f/1.8 Ultrawide: 8MP, f/2.2 Macro: 5MP, f/2.4 Front camera 12MP, f/1.9 7 MP, f/2.2 13MP, f/2.2 13MP, f/2.2 Water / dust rating IP68 IP67 IP67 IP67 Wi-Fi WiFi 6 (802.11ax) 802.11ax Wi-Fi 6E Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) Bluetooth v5.3 v5.0 v5.3 v5.3 OS iOS 18 iOS 18 Android 15 Android 14 One UI 6.1 Colors / finish Black / White Aluminum Midnight / Starlight / (Product)Red Aluminum Obsidian / Porcelain / Aloe / Bay Navy / Lilac Update, February 19 2025, 1:46PM ET: This story has been updated to add more context about the iPhone 16e in the intro, covering the speculation that Apple was planning to launch a new model of the iPhone SE.This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/mobile/smartphones/apple-just-unveiled-the-iphone-16e-heres-how-it-compares-to-the-competition-171306637.html?src=rss
0 comments
Instagram adds a whole slew of new DM features in latest update
by
Lawrence Bonk
on (#6VCXE)
Instagram is rolling out an update for its messaging system that adds several new tools. These features could allow Instagram to better compete with direct-messaging rivals like Apple iMessage and various third-party platforms.First up, there's music-sharing. The update lets users share tunes in both one-on-one messages and group chats. Just open up the sticker tray and tap on the Music" option. This will open up a search bar of Instagram's audio library. There are a couple of caveats here. The song has to be available via Instagram and clips are maxed out at 30 seconds.Direct messages will also now have a translation tool that works with 99 languages. The functionality here looks incredibly simple. Users just have to hold down a message and tap Translate." The translated message should appear directly below the original one. Easy peasy.MetaThere's a new way to pin messages, images or even Reels to the top of chats. Hold down the message and tap Pin." Instagram says folks can pin up to three messages per conversation. I could see this being handy to keep oft-requested information at the ready, though it'll likely be used primarily for memes (not that there's anything wrong with that.)Instagram will also let people schedule messages by long-pressing the send button. This can be used to plan messages up to 29 days in advance. Finally, the platform has introduced a way to invite people to a group chat via a QR code. All of these tools begin rolling out today to iOS and Android users worldwide. A web update is in the works but isn't available just yet.Instagram sure has been busy adding new features to its software. It recently began testing a dislike button for comments. The platform announced that it was working on a video-editing app, similar to CapCut. The service even expanded the length of Reels to three minutes, likely to compete with TikTok. It also recently got rid of third-party fact checkers.This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/social-media/instagram-adds-a-whole-slew-of-new-dm-features-in-latest-update-184535399.html?src=rss
0 comments
Valve hands the Team Fortress 2 source code to modders
by
Kris Holt
on (#6VCXF)
Valve is handing Team Fortress 2 modders the keys to the kingdom, as long as they don't try to make any money from it. The company has added the client and server game code to the Source software development kit (SDK), allowing fans to create new games and experiences based on TF2."Unlike the Steam Workshop or local content mods, this SDK gives mod makers the ability to change, extend or rewrite TF2, making anything from small tweaks to complete conversions possible," Valve explained. Modders will be able to publish their creations as new games on Steam if they wish.The main catch is that Valve is offering the TF2 source code on a non-commercial basis, so any mods or content therein that are based on the SDK have to be available for free. The company also notes that much of the content that's in players' inventories - most of the in-game items, in fact - were created by the Steam Workshop community. "To respect that, we're asking TF2 mod makers continue to respect that connection, and to not make mods that have the purpose of trying to profit off Workshop contributors' efforts," Valve said. "We're hoping that many mods will continue to allow players access their TF2 inventory, if this makes sense for the mod."On top of adding the TF2 source code to the SDK, Valve is making other updates to its other multiplayer games that run on Source, its old game engine. Those include 64-bit binary support, a scalable heads-up display/user interface and prediction fixes for the likes of Day of Defeat: Source, Half-Life 2: Deathmatch, Half-Life Deathmatch: Source and Counter-Strike: Source.It's not too surprising that Valve is handing over the TF2 source code at this point. The game has largely been in maintenance mode for a long time as the company focused on other projects. It took the company years to remedy a major bot invasion, indicating just how low TF2 is on its list of priorities. Giving fans the client and server code could be a sign that Valve is ready to wind down official support for the game.This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/gaming/pc/valve-hands-the-team-fortress-2-source-code-to-modders-183223667.html?src=rss
0 comments
EV truck maker Nikola has finally called it quits
by
Lawrence Bonk
on (#6VCXG)
The embattled EV truck maker Nikola is going kaput. The company just announced a filing for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection and a plan to sell off assets. These assets will be sold at an auction, pending court approval. Nikola noted it has $47 million in cash on hand to fund the bankruptcy proceedings and begin the sale process. The company has reported between $500 million to $1 billion in assets, but liabilities totaling $1 billion to $10 billion, according to a court filing.Like other companies in the electric vehicle industry, we have faced various market and macroeconomic factors that have impacted our ability to operate," said Steve Girsky, President and CEO of Nikola.Those market and macroeconomic factors are real, as EV adoption growth rates have slowed a bit. However, Nikola is a special case. The company has been embroiled in numerous scandals in recent years, so this news caps off a particularly dire fall from grace for the once-buzzy EV maker.Nikola was founded in 2015 with a mission to create zero-emissions heavy trucks. The company secured a lucrative partnership with GM in 2020, but things fell apart soon thereafter. It was credibly accused of fraud, thanks to a report by short-selling firm Hindenburg Research. This report even included a video showing a Nikola truck rolling down a hill to simulate driving.
0 comments
Google Lens for iPhone now lets you draw to do visual searches
by
Igor Bonifacic
on (#6VCXH)
Google is introducing two small but meaningful enhancements to its Lens technology. To start, Chrome and Google app users on iPhone can now draw, highlight or tap on text and images to carry out a visual search of what they see in front of them. If this sounds familiar, it's because Google is basically bringing over an interface paradigm it debuted last year with Circle to Search on Android to iPhone. While the implementation is different and more limited due to the constraints of iOS, the idea is the same: Google wants to save you the trouble of opening a new Chrome tab or saving a screenshot when you want to find more information about an image you see.For now, Google says you can access the new feature, whether you're using Chrome or the Google app, by opening the three-dot menu and selecting "Search Screen with Google Lens." In the future, the company will add a dedicated Lens shortcut to the address bar in Chrome.Separately, the next time you use Lens, you'll be more likely to encounter Google's AI Overviews, particularly when you use the software to find information on more unique or novel images. In those instances, you won't need to prompt Lens with a question about the image you just snapped for the software to try and offer a helpful explanation of what you're seeing. Instead, it will do that automatically.Ahead of today's announcement, Harsh Kharbanda, director of product management for Google Lens, gave me a preview of the feature. Kharbanda used Lens to scan a photo of a car with an usual surface on its hood. An AI Overview automatically popped up explaining that the car had a carbon vinyl wrap, which it further said people use for both protection and to give their rides a more sporty appearance. According to Kharbanda, Google will roll out this update to all English-language users in countries where AI Overviews are available, with the feature first appearing in the Google app for Android and iOS, and arriving soon on Chrome for desktop and mobile devices.This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/ai/google-lens-for-iphone-now-lets-you-draw-to-do-visual-searches-170055399.html?src=rss
0 comments
Pour one out for Apple's dearly departed home button
by
Will Shanklin
on (#6VCSY)
Apple's home button died on Wednesday at the age of 18, surrounded by family and friends (including its partner, Touch ID). The home button, which launched on the original iPhone and later spread to the iPod touch and iPad, was unceremoniously axed this morning with the release of the new iPhone 16e.The iPhone 16e replaces the iPhone SE, switching to the full-screen design Apple first adopted with 2017's iPhone X. Since the third-gen iPhone SE was the last remaining Apple product with a home button, that means there isn't a single product left in Apple's lineup that uses any version of the iconic feature.Unless you pay close attention to these things, you may not have realized that the home button had several iterations through the years. It launched in 2007 as part of the first iPhone's seismic arrival. That version pressed inward mechanically, bounced back up with a spring and lacked biometric authentication. (That's right, kids, an old-fashioned passcode was your only option!) That first iteration also had a symbol on it: a square with rounded corners to represent app icons.The same type of home button launched a few months later on the iPod touch, which Apple finally discontinued in 2022, and a few years later on the first iPad.Brad Molen for EngadgetThe home button was paired with Touch ID beginning with 2013's iPhone 5s. Visually, it was marked by a surrounding metal ring, and the biometric sensors were housed under the button. That version still used a mechanical spring mechanism.The Touch ID home button made its way to Apple's tablet with the iPad Air 2 the following year. The lowly iPod touch never saw such highfalutin features.Perhaps the least concerning change of 2016 was Apple's transition to a solid-state home button in the iPhone 7. Like the trackpads in modern MacBooks, that version sensed your finger's presses and used haptic feedback to simulate a click inwards.The technical trickery did such a smashing job of fooling the brain that many users had no idea the updated button wasn't physically moving. The change made it easier for Apple's engineers to seal the phone - it was the first model with a water and dust resistance rating (IP67). The solid-state home button never arrived on the iPad, with Apple's last home button-laden tablet (2021's ninth-generation model) still pairing Touch ID with mechanical presses.Will Lipman for EngadgetBefore today's news of the home button's demise, the writing had been on the wall for a long time. The iPhone X (2017) was the first blow, with Apple describing the full-screen flagship as a product that would "set the path for technology for the next decade." (Uh oh...) By 2022, Apple had removed the home button from the last iPad (moving Touch ID to its power / sleep button in the entry-level model) and discontinued the easily forgotten iPod touch. The third-generation iPhone SE, which also launched that year, ran the last leg of the home button marathon, chugging away by itself until it finally met its end today with the release of its Face ID-equipped successor.It's been a good run, home button, and you will be missed.This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/mobile/smartphones/pour-one-out-for-apples-dearly-departed-home-button-164350259.html?src=rss
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Apple officially bids farewell to the Lightning port after 13 years
by
Sarah Fielding
on (#6VCSZ)
It's truly a USB-C world and we're just living in it. Apple has not only announced the new iPhone 16e with a USB-C port and also discontinued the iPhone 14, the final Lightning port relic. That's right, Apple is no longer selling any devices with a Lightning port, the true end of an era.Once upon a time, the Lightning port was the new guy in town. Apple first introduced it in 2012 as a replacement to the bulky 30-pin dock connector.The Lightning port didn't go down without a fight, though. While most other companies have been on the USB-C train for some time, Apple only swapped out the Lightning port when the EU forced its hand. In 2022, the EU announced that all new mobile devices - so phones, tablets and earbuds - had to come with a USB-C charging port. The bloc set the end of 2024 as a deadline, but Apple started the shift with its iPhone 15, released in September 2023. Laptops have until Spring 2026 to comply, but Apple has already shifted its MacBooks to USB-C chargers.Another Apple technology relic, the venerable Home Button, has also been discontinued as of today. The old iPhone SE was the last device in Apple's lineup to feature it - truly a day where some classic Apple interfaces are going away forever.This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/mobile/apple-officially-bids-farewell-to-the-lightning-port-after-13-years-163402113.html?src=rss
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An Anker 10K magnetic power bank is cheaper than ever
by
Kris Holt
on (#6VCT1)
It's never a bad idea to have a portable power bank on hand, just in case your devices run a little low on juice while you're out and about. Anker makes some of our favorite power banks, and one has dropped to its lowest price to date. The Anker 633 Magnetic Battery is currently 27 percent off at $40. As the name suggests, you can attach a compatible phone (it's designed primarily for iPhones with MagSafe support) to the power bank magnetically for wireless charging. The 633 folds out at the back, so it doubles as a stand. You can use the device to hold your phone during the work day, or to position it horizontally to watch videos in landscape mode while you're perhaps on a train or plane. It's possible to plug in the Anker 633 Magnetic Battery while you're charging your device wirelessly as well. Anker notes that the USB-C port (which allows you to charge all kinds of other devices) has a maximum input and output of 20W. As such, you can charge your device up to three times faster than with a regular 5W charger, the company says. It'll be faster than charging your device wirelessly too, as that function has an output of 7.5W. The power bank has a capacity of 10,000mAh. That's enough to fully charge an iPhone 16 between two and three times. Meanwhile, Anker has some safety measures in place to help protect the charger and your devices. The MultiProtect system's features include temperature control, foreign object detection and radiation shielding. Follow @EngadgetDeals on Twitter and subscribe to the Engadget Deals newsletter for the latest tech deals and buying advice.This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/deals/an-anker-10k-magnetic-power-bank-is-cheaper-than-ever-161515297.html?src=rss
0 comments
Microsoft trained an AI model on a game no one played
by
Igor Bonifacic
on (#6VCT3)
World models - AI algorithms capable of generating simulated environments - represent one forefront of machine learning. Today, Microsoft published new research in the journal Nature detailing Muse, a model capable of generating game visuals and controller inputs. Unexpectedly, it was born out of a training set Microsoft built from Bleeding Edge.If, like me, you had completely erased that game from your memory (or never knew it existed in the first place), Bleeding Edge is a 4 vs. 4 brawler developed by Ninja Theory, the studio better known for its work on the Hellblade series. Ninja Theory stopped updating Bleeding Edge less than a year after release, but Microsoft included a clause in the game's EULA that gave it permission to record games people played online. So if you were one of the few people who played Bleeding Edge, congratulations, I guess: you helped the company make something out of a commercial flop.So what's Muse good for anyway? Say a game designer at Blizzard wants to test an idea for a new hero in Overwatch 2. Rather than recruiting a team of programmers and artists to create code and assets that the studio may eventually scrap, they could instead use Muse to do the prototyping. Iteration is often the most time-consuming (and expensive) part of making a video game, so it's easy to see why Microsoft would be interested in using AI to augment the process; it offers a way for the company to control runaway development costs. That's because, according to Microsoft, Muse excels at a capability of world models the company calls persistency."Persistency refers to a model's ability to incorporate (or 'persist') user modifications into generated gameplay sequences, such as a character that is copy-pasted into a game visual," says Katya Hofmann, senior principal research manager at Microsoft Research. Put another way, Muse can quickly adapt to new gameplay elements as they're introduced in real-time. In one of the examples Microsoft shared, you can see the "player" character immediately react as two power-ups are introduced next to them. The model seemingly knows that the pickups are valuable and something players would go out of their way to obtain. So the simulation reflects that, in the process creating a convincing facsimile of a real Bleeding Edge match.According to Fatima Kardar, corporate vice president of gaming AI at Microsoft, the company is already using Muse to create a "real-time playable AI model trained on other first-party games," and exploring how the technology might help it bring old games stuck on aging hardware to new audiences.Microsoft says Muse is a "first-of-its-kind" generative AI model, but that's not quite right. World models aren't new; in fact, Muse isn't even the first one trained on a Microsoft game. In October, the company Decartdebuted Oasis, which is capable of generating Minecraft levels. What Muse does show is how quickly these models are evolving.That said, there's a long way for this technology to go, and Muse has some clear limitations. For one, the model generates visuals at a resolution of 300 x 180 pixels and about 10 frames per second. For now, the company is releasing Muse's weights and sample data, and a way for researchers to see what the system is capable of.This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/ai/microsoft-trained-an-ai-model-on-a-game-no-one-played-160038242.html?src=rss
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Pokémon Go developer Niantic may sell its games division for a mere $3.5 billion
by
Jeremy Gan
on (#6VCT4)
Niantic, the company that developed the wildly popular augmented reality (AR) game Pokemon Go, is reportedly considering selling its video games - and according to a source speaking to Bloomberg, the deal could be worth just $3.5 billion. The company raised additional funding at a $9 billion valuation back in 2021.Many people still play Pokemon Go, but the game no longer enjoys the same popularity it had during its launch and the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic. There are around 80 million monthly users as numbers reported midway through last year, but that's a steep decline from the game's peak of 232 million active players. During those same heady days, Pokemon Go was generating close to a billion dollars annually; now it's bringing in about half of that.Pokemon Go was also a breakthrough success Niantic was unable to replicate, despite its follow-ups being essentially reskins of the same AR experience. Harry Potter: Wizards Unite lasted around three years, while NBA All World survived only five months. Pikmin Bloom and Monster Hunter Now are still around, but have never been the cash cows of their older sibling. The company also raised funding in 2021 on the promise of creating a real-world metaverse," which has yet to materialize.Niantic also has not been immune to the broad layoffs affecting the games industry. It dumped eight percent of its workforce and canceled four projects back in 2022. The following year, it laid off another 230 employees and killed a Marvel-related project.The reported party Niantic is considering selling its games division to is Scopely, which is owned by Savvy Games Group. Savvy Games Group is part of Saudi Arabia's government-linked Public Investment Fund, which has stakes in EA, Activision, Nintendo and more.This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/ar-vr/pokemon-go-developer-niantic-may-sell-its-games-division-for-a-mere-35-billion-160027485.html?src=rss
0 comments
Eero launches its Wi-Fi 7 mesh routers
by
Daniel Cooper
on (#6VCT5)
Eero has today announced Wi-Fi 7 equipped versions of its eponymous mesh routers, the Eero 7 and Eero 7 Pro. The Amazon-owned company is selling both products on the back of Wi-Fi 7's promised improvements in speed compared to its existing fare. The advent of both products is hardly a surprise as, last year, Eero launched both the Max 7 and Outdoor 7. Max 7 is the company's flagship standalone router / repeater duo equipped with beefy ethernet ports, while the latter is designed to push internet for distances up to 15,000 square feet. Eero First up, the Eero 7 is a dual-band (2.4GHz and 5GHz) system that promises a maximum wireless top speed of 1.8 Gbps and up to 2.3 Gbps through its pair of 2.5 Gb ethernet ports. All of that is crammed into the same small package Eero's mesh units have become famous for, easily able to blend in to your home's decor. Naturally, the Eero 7 Pro is the more eye-catching of the pair, since it'll harness all three bands (2.4GHz, 5GHz and 6GHz) available for Wi-Fi 7. The company promises a theoretical top wireless speed of 3.9 Gbps and, when hooked up to one of its two 5 Gb ethernet ports, will get 4.7 Gbps when wired. Eero Previous Eero Pro units stood in the same chassis as its vanilla siblings, but the 7 Pro is getting the same body as found on its Max 7. Eero says that the bigger, cylindrical passive thermal" design offers quieter operation and far less risk of dust build up compared to its predecessors. Both the Eero 7 and 7 Pro promise a range of 2,000 square feet per node, and will be sold in single, two or three-packs at retail. The company does remind users, however, that you can tie on additional nodes depending on your needs and the size of your home. A big part of Eero's pitch has been to ensure setting up a mesh in your home is as easy and stress free as it possibly can. That incudes a suite of software technologies to keep everything running smoothly, getting your data routed to the most efficient node at all times. Users who pay for Eero Plus will also get additional online security features and parental controls, plus access to 1Password, Malwarebytes and Guardian VPN. All of the units will also connect to your smart home gear if it uses Matter, Thread or Zigbee, and will get the usual Amazon and Alexa integrations. If you're familiar with our mesh Wi-Fi buyer's guide, you'll know Wi-Fi 7 is a less exciting upgrade than Wi-Fi 6E. The current standard offers a more robust experience and can take advantage of the 6GHz band to cut the volume of wireless clutter on the 2.4GHz and 5GHz bands. Wi-FI 7's headline feature is its ability to combine those bands together for a vastly increased maximum speed and far more connections. Which is great if you're in dire need of pushing an 8K movie from one device to another in a matter of seconds. Until now, Wi-Fi 7 gear was still prohibitively expensive, although the fact Eero is joining the fray suggests prices will start falling in the near future. Certainly, Eero can boast that it is selling the cheapest Wi-Fi 7 gear on the market in the US, with the Eero 7 available for $170, $280 (two-pack) or $350 (three-pack). The 7 Pro, on the other hand, will set you back $300, $550 (two-pack) or $700 (three-pack), which still makes it one of the cheapest tri-band Wi-Fi 7 products on the market. Both products are available to pre-order today, with the first deliveries beginning on February 26. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/home/smart-home/eero-launches-its-wi-fi-7-mesh-routers-160018656.html?src=rss
0 comments
Toyota kinda, sorta gives up on hydrogen cars
by
Daniel Cooper
on (#6VCPT)
Despite the obvious benefits of electric cars, Toyota spent the last decade insisting hydrogen would win out in the end. But, as the company announces its third generation fuel cell system, you can tell it's finally ready to tacitly admit defeat: the new cell is designed for industrial applications, where hydrogen clearly always made more sense.The new cell is designed to meet the particular needs of the commercial sector," focusing on durability equal to a diesel engine. It's a lot more fuel efficient, cheaper to make and outputs twice as much power while sitting in the same footprint as the second-generation model. Given Toyota's love of shrinking its engine technology, that size wasn't a factor here is enormously telling of where it envisions these cells being used.Toyota could never make the economic or technological argument for hydrogen cars as a better option than electricity (the Mirai, Toyota's flagship hydrogen EV, has managed to sell just 28,000 models since its 2014 birth). But for heavy duty vehicles, where battery weight and power are more pressing concerns, hydrogen's flaws turn into assets. Trucks, construction vehicles, trains, ships and backup generators - less at risk from the lack of general-purpose hydrogen infrastructure - are welcome homes for fuel cells.This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/transportation/toyota-kinda-sorta-gives-up-on-hydrogen-cars-151059624.html?src=rss
0 comments
NVIDIA GeForce 5070 Ti review: A 'sensible' 4K powerhouse for $749
by
Devindra Hardawar
on (#6VCPV)
It's honestly difficult to remember the simpler days of video card shopping, before crypto fanatics, supply chain issues and pandemic demand pushed GPUs far beyond rising manufacturer prices. Ideally, I'd like to tell you that NVIDIA's $549 RTX 5070 and $749 RTX 5070 Ti are more reasonable alternatives to the $2,000 RTX 5090 and $1,000 5080. But card makers and retailers have already pushed RTX 5070 prices far beyond those MSRPs. Our review unit, the ASUS 5070 Ti Prime, is currently selling for $900 at Best Buy and $750 at Newegg (we'll see how long that lasts). And of course, it's out of stock at both stores. While I can't guarantee the actual cost for any RTX 5070 Ti card, I can say this: they'll definitely be solid 4K performers for far less than the RTX 5080 and 5090. But if you're not desperate for an upgrade, it's worth waiting a few months for inventory and prices to stabilize. Hardware Based on its specs and (hopeful) pricing, the RTX 5070 Ti currently offers the best balance between performance and value in NVIDIA's lineup. It features 8,960 CUDA cores and 16GB of GDDR7 VRAM, well below the 5080's 10,752 CUDA cores, but at least those cards have the same amount of memory. The cheaper 5070 comes with just 12GB of VRAM, which could be a problem when gaming in 4K. Our ASUS 5070 Ti card is fairly nondescript, with three fans, a plastic frame and a standard heatsink design. You can choose between performance and quiet BIOS modes, which only changes how aggressive the fans are. Its 2.5-slot design makes it tiny enough for small form-factor cases, though I noticed it was actually slightly larger than the RTX 5090 Founders card.
0 comments
Marvel Rivals team hit with layoffs despite huge success of game
by
Steve Dent
on (#6VCPW)
Chinese game publisher NetEase has laid off Marvel Rivals development team members including the game director, Kotaku reported. Some of those let go expressed surprise and dismay at the move considering that the team-based PVP shooter has consistently been in the top ten on Steam since its December debut. A large part of the Marvel Rivals development team is located in China, but only North American layoffs were reported. It's not clear yet how many people were let go."This is such a weird industry," wrote game director Thaddeus Sasser on LinkedIn. "My stellar, talented team just helped deliver an incredibly successful new franchise in Marvel Rivals for NetEase Games... and were just laid off."I don't get it, man," wrote game artist Del Walker on Bluesky. You make one of the most successful LIVE service titles of the generation, despite the world telling you LIVE service is dead - and still get laid off? What are we even doing at this point."Marvel Rivals currently sits at number six on Steam's top seller list and just had its first big content update for Season 1 that happened at nearly the same time as the layoffs. The game has received solid reviews for its Marvel lore and straightforward gameplay and has reportedly been very successful in its first month. It has been one of the rare good stories in terms of live service games, following announcements from Sony that some of its titles in development had been scrapped.There are concerns that more layoffs may be coming from China-based studios in response to US tariffs. In a statement to VentureBeat, however, NetEase denied that it is eliminating its foreign investments and overseas gaming studios."For 2025, we have an extensive pipeline of titles in development, feature a variety of genres, including FragPunk, Ananta and more," NetEase said in the statement. "[However] as part of our investment strategy, we started scaling down two of our studios at the end of 2024. This decision was based purely on business evaluations and not influenced by other factors. And this represents only a small portion of our overseas studio portfolio."This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/gaming/marvel-rivals-team-hit-with-layoffs-despite-huge-success-of-game-133002120.html?src=rss
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Trump plans to impose 25 percent tariffs on automobile and semiconductor imports
by
Mariella Moon
on (#6VCMJ)
The US government could impose hefty tariffs on automobile, chip and pharmaceutical imports. According to Reuters and CBS News, President Donald Trump told reporters at his Mar-a-Lago estate that the tariffs on auto imports, specifically, will be "in the neighborhood of 25 percent" and that he'll reveal more details about them on April 2. That's the day he's bound to get reports from members of his cabinet outlining options on duties for different imports across industries. When the president was asked how he could ensure that the European Union wouldn't retaliate by imposing the same levies on US imports, the president reportedly reiterated that the bloc signaled it would lower tariffs on US cars.During the press briefing, the president also said that he's imposing similar tariffs on imported semiconductors and pharmaceutical goods. He said the government could collect 25 percent in taxes, or higher, for those imports and that they will "go very substantially higher over course of a year." It doesn't sound like the president will announce new taxes on chip and pharmaceutical imports in April, though. He said he wants to give companies in those industries "a little bit of chance" to build factories in the US so that they can avoid the new tariffs.To note, Reuters previously reported that the US government is looking to renegotiate the CHIPS and Science Act deals closed by the Biden administration. The program seeks to give semiconductor manufacturing a boost in the US by awarding grants to companies building foundries on US soil. But Trump previously criticized the initiative and argued that increasing tariffs would compel chip companies to build factories in the US without the government having to shell out any money. Trump admitted that prices could go up in the US due to the higher tariffs on foreign goods, but the president believes it'll only be a short-term problem and that they will benefit the country's economy in the future.This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/computing/trump-plans-to-impose-25-percent-tariffs-on-automobile-and-semiconductor-imports-130044480.html?src=rss
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The best webcams for 2025
by
Valentina Palladino
on (#5YAR1)
If you're still relying on your laptop's built-in webcam, or your desktop PC doesn't have one, it might be time for an upgrade. Whether you're a remote worker hopping on video calls, a content creator who needs crisp footage or a gamer looking to upgrade your streaming setup, the right webcam can make all the difference. A good webcam doesn't just improve image quality - it can also offer better low-light performance and smoother frame rates, while some even have built-in microphones or AI-powered features to keep you looking sharp. We've rounded up the best webcams for every type of user, whether you need a professional setup for Zoom calls or a high-resolution camera for streaming on Twitch. Table of contents
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All of Humane's AI pins will stop working in 10 days
by
Aaron Souppouris
on (#6VC96)
AI hardware startup Humane has given its users just ten (10!) days notice that their Pins will be disconnected. In a note to its customers, the company said AI Pins will continue to function normally" until 12PM PT on February 28. On that date, users will lose access to essentially all of their device's features, including but not limited to calling, messaging, AI queries and cloud access. The FAQ does note that you'll still be able to check on your battery life, though.Humane is encouraging its users to download any stored data before February 28, as it plans on permanently deleting all remaining customer data" at the same time as switching its servers off.The company says it will refund customers who are still within the 90-day return window, so long as they submit by February 27. It also notes that users who opted to wait for a replacement for the device's combo fire hazard and Charge Case will now be refunded the portion of [their] original purchase price that was allocated to the Charge Case." In the original recall note, that amount was $149 if ordered separately or $129 if ordered as part of the Complete System" bundle.Today's discontinuation announcement was brought about by the acquisition of Humane by HP, which is buying the company's intellectual property for $116 million but clearly has no interest in its current hardware business. The AI Pin was famously panned at launch by a broad section of reviewers, including our own Cherlynn Low, who called it the solution to none of technology's problems."HP says the acquisition will bring Humane's "engineers, architects and product innovators" to a new team called HP IQ, which it describes as an "AI innovation lab focused on building an intelligent ecosystem across HP's products and services for the future of work." Good luck with that!The New York Times reported last June that Humane was seeking a $1 billion buyout after only receiving 10,000 orders, and cited HP as an interested company. Another seven months of reality has apparently persuaded Humane's founders to settle for a far lower figure.This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/ai/all-of-humanes-ai-pins-will-stop-working-in-10-days-225643798.html?src=rss
0 comments
How to watch Annapurna’s publisher showcase on February 24
by
Lawrence Bonk
on (#6VC47)
Annapurna Interactive is holding a games showcase on February 24. It streams live at 12PM ET via the company's YouTube page. The publisher has released a short teaser video to hold us over until Monday.This is the first event Annapurna Interactive has held since the entire staff, including the executives, resigned from the company last year. That mass walkout occurred after a failed attempt to spin off the games division from the remainder of the company."All 25 members of the Annapurna Interactive team collectively resigned," the team said in a joint statement. "This was one of the hardest decisions we have ever had to make and we did not take this action lightly."Annapurna hired new people to replace those who left, which was pretty much everyone. This is the first time we'll get to see what the revamped publishing house has been working on.So what can we expect? The company says the showcase will be 30 minutes long and will focus on its 2025 lineup of releases. These include titles like Wanderstop, Skin Deep, Wheel World, Faraway, Lushfoil, To a T and Morsels, among others. We are especially excited for Wheel World, which was formerly called Ghost Bike. Faraway also looks pretty cool. Annapurna promises a few more surprises" in addition to the aforementioned games.The publisher is primarily known for games like Stray, which recently launched for Nintendo Switch, and What Remains of Edith Finch. It also published Cocoon, Outer Wilds and the absolutely fantastic Lorelei and the Laser Eyes.This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/gaming/how-to-watch-annapurnas-publisher-showcase-on-february-24-193539718.html?src=rss
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Meta just scheduled a generative AI conference called LlamaCon for April 29
by
Lawrence Bonk
on (#6VC1Y)
Meta just announced its first-ever LlamaCon, a dev conference dedicated to generative AI. It's scheduled for April 29. Why the llama-based naming convention? The company titled the event after its family of generative AI models.Meta promises to share the latest on our open source AI developments to help developers do what they do best: build amazing apps and products." Beyond that vague description, we don't know much. There's no information regarding speakers or potential products being shown. We know that the company's working on Llama 4, with an early 2025 release window, so we'll most likely get a sizzle reel of some kind.The company notes it'll have more to share about LlamaCon in the coming weeks." Meta also says that 2025 is shaping up to be another banger" of a year. To that end, it has scheduled the next major Connect event for September 17. It promises plenty of reveals that should please virtual and mixed reality developers, content creators, metaverse mavens and AI glasses enthusiasts." Meta Connect 2024 gave us the Quest 3S and the fancy-pants Orion prototype AR glasses.According to TechCrunch, Meta has been scrambling to figure out how AI rival DeepSeek has managed to create tech that rivals its own at a fraction of the development cost. The report suggests that DeepSeek's upcoming models could outperform the aforementioned Llama 4. The company's also currently embroiled in a lawsuit that accuses it of training Llama models on copyrighted book materials without permission.This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/ai/meta-just-scheduled-a-generative-ai-conference-called-llamacon-for-april-29-181351134.html?src=rss
0 comments
Acer to raise prices by 10 percent following President Trump's tariffs
by
Sarah Fielding
on (#6VC1Z)
Acer laptops are getting a price hike in the US come March. In an interview with The Telegraph, Acer's chief executive and chairman Jason Chen announced a 10 percent increased cost for all products due to President Trump's tariffs on China.His straightforward statement is one of the first clear cause and effects of Trump's import taxes. "We will have to adjust the end user price to reflect the tariff," Chen stated. "We think 10 percent probably will be the default price increase because of the import tax. It's very straightforward." Acer's most expensive laptop, the 17-inch Acer Predator Triton gaming laptop, could go up to $4,178 from $3,799.Trump introduced a ten percent tariff to China this month, the country responsible for about 80 percent of laptop imports to the US. While he had claimed tariffs wouldn't impact consumer prices, he changed his tune last week, admitting that, surprise, surprise, they could.Time will tell if all items increase in price next month or only recently imported devices. Chen also shared that the company is considering moving some of its manufacturing to other countries, including the US.This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/computing/laptops/acer-to-raise-prices-by-10-percent-following-president-trumps-tariffs-165351758.html?src=rss
0 comments
Someone squeezed an iPhone SE 3 into a Nokia Lumia 1020, and it looks amazing
by
Lawrence Bonk
on (#6VBZ4)
The Nokia Lumia 1020 is back, well, sort of. An enterprising tech enthusiast (and Redditor) has stuffed the innards of an Apple iPhone SE 3 into a Lumia 1020 case to create something called the NokiApple LumiPhone 1020 SE." This is a fully-functioning smartphone that, more importantly, looks really awesome.It's more than just an iPhone SE wrapped in a Lumia case. Redditor OceanDepth95028 kicked the project up a few notches by ensuring that the iPhone internals work with a fingerprint reader on the back of the device. They also added a custom SIM card slot and made the Lightning port look like a micro-USB port, as originally reported by 9to5Mac.
0 comments
Nintendo is killing its Gold Points loyalty program
by
Jeremy Gan
on (#6VBZ5)
In 2018, Nintendo introduced Gold Points, which were earned when you purchased Switch games, either physical cartridges or digitally from the Nintendo eShop. While you needed many purchases to redeem something substantial, you still saved a few dollars regardless if you get a cheaper title or something more expensive. Unfortunately, Nintendo announced that you won't be able to earn Gold Points after 9:30 PM PDT on March 24 if you buy digital copies of games.All eShop purchases made after that time won't earn Gold Points anymore, though pre-orders for content made before then will still earn Gold Points as long as the pre-order is put in before the deadline. The points will be awarded within the day after each processed transaction.It's more tricky for physical releases. If you buy a game released on or before March 24, you still earn Gold Points even after that day, but only for games bought within a year of their release dates. Naturally, physical versions of games released after March 24, 2025, won't let you earn any Gold Points. It's also worth noting that Nintendo awards significantly fewer Gold points for physical purchases.Most people are likely unaware, but you can earn Gold Points by shopping at the Nintendo New York store. This will remain the case until March 24, and the rules for physical releases mentioned above apply after checkout.Nintendo's decision to end the Gold Points loyalty program is possibly due to the Switch 2's upcoming announcement and release. It's unknown whether Nintendo will have a new loyalty program, but we'll probably find out after the April 2 Nintendo Direct where we'll finally get more details on the long-awaited console.This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/gaming/nintendo/nintendo-is-killing-its-gold-points-loyalty-program-161123232.html?src=rss
0 comments
X temporarily blocked users from sharing links to Signal
by
Sarah Fielding
on (#6VBBD)
It appears X (formerly Twitter) users can once again send Signal.me links, two days after the blog Disruptionist first reported a block. The platform wasn't allowing links of the URL used by encrypted messaging service Signal - it allows people to quickly contact others directly. It came as Elon Musk takes aim at federal workers and organizations, through the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE). Federal workers have used Signal to covertly report relevant and dangerous activities.Anyone who attempted to post a Signal.me link in a DM, public post or on their profile page received error messages such as, "This request looks like it might be automated. To protect our users from spam and other malicious activity, we can't complete this action right now. Please try again later." Other responses included, "We can't complete this request because this link has been identified by X or our partners as being potentially harmful." Engadget confirmed the block in a test.Users who tried to click existing Signal.me links got a message stating, "Warning: this link may be unsafe. The link you are trying to access has been identified by X or our partners as being potentially spammy or unsafe, in accordance with X's URL Policy." They could choose to ignore the warning and proceed to the link.Musk is working with President Trump to cut federal workers across the board. Over 9,500 employees were fired on Friday, February 14, alone.Update, February 18 2025, 11:07AM ET: This article was updated to note that the block went away Tuesday morning.This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/big-tech/x-temporarily-blocked-users-from-sharing-links-to-signal-170642960.html?src=rss
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Samsung's Digital Key technology now works with Volvo and Polestar EVs
by
Kris Holt
on (#6VBZ6)
Owners of a Volvo EX90 or Polestar 3 may soon be able to unlock and start their electric vehicle with a Samsung Galaxy phone. Samsung is rolling out Digital Key support for Polestar's SUV in North America, Europe and Asia starting this month. EX90 drivers in those regions and Latin America will get access to the feature in the coming days too. Samsung says it will support more models from each automaker in the future.You can use the Digital Key to lock, unlock and start a paired car using a supported Galaxy device (S20, Z Fold 2, Z Flip 5G and later). It's possible to share a key with family and friends if they need access to your car, and you can remotely lock or delete a Digital Key from a lost or stolen Galaxy phone. Samsung uses biometric and PIN-based authorization to help make Digital Key use secure.The company started rolling out Digital Key in 2021 (a similar function is available on recent Google Pixel devices and Android phones). BMW, Genesis, Hyundai, Kia and Mini are among the other brands that support the feature.This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/transportation/evs/samsungs-digital-key-technology-now-works-with-volvo-and-polestar-evs-160357150.html?src=rss
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EU might impose further regulation on WhatsApp
by
Sarah Fielding
on (#6VBZ7)
WhatsApp may face greater regulation in the European Union thanks to an increase in users on its open channels. The platform announced Friday that these feeds for news sources, public figures and more averaged approximately 46.8 million users in the EU during the last half of 2024. This increase in users means WhatsApp's open channels, akin to a social network, now qualify as a Very Large Online Platform (VLOP) under the EU's Digital Services Act (DSA).The DSA uses the labels very large online platform or search engine when the entity has more than 45 million monthly users in the EU. These designations allow the European Commission greater regulatory power around transparent advertising, content moderation, an annual independent audit, data sharing with the EU and more. Relevant online platforms must also mitigate and assess the risk of damaging and illegal content.WhatsApp's parent company, Meta, is already designated as a VLOP (and not happily), alongside ByteDance, Amazon, Google and more. The European Commission will now need to determine whether to give WhatsApp the designation.This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/big-tech/eu-might-impose-further-regulation-on-whatsapp-152832935.html?src=rss
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One of our favorite budget robot vacuums is 44 percent off right now
by
Jeremy Gan
on (#6VBW8)
The eufy RoboVac 11S Max is one of our favorite budget robot vacuums, and it's now 44 percent off at Amazon, making it only $140. This affordable robot vacuum from a few years back can still trade blows against newer models even without Wi-Fi connectivity. The 11S Max has three power modes - Standard, BoostIQ and Max, and the company claims a noise level of around 55 dB. Even so, its suction power is nothing to scoff at. And should it accidentally try to swallow a charging cable, the beeping alerts are loud enough to hear from the opposite end of an apartment. As with the latest robot vacuums, the 11S Max has sensors that prevent collisions and falling down the stairs. Our tests show that it occasionally bumped into objects but also avoided the tester's cat play tunnel when other budget vacuums didn't. The 11S Max doesn't have Wi-Fi, but we didn't find that to be a major issue in our testing. The remote control has buttons for scheduling auto cleaning, selecting cleaning modes, manually returning the robot to the charging base and more. Follow @EngadgetDeals on Twitter and subscribe to the Engadget Deals newsletter for the latest tech deals and buying advice.This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/deals/one-of-our-favorite-budget-robot-vacuums-is-44-percent-off-right-now-143706102.html?src=rss
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xAI launches Grok 3 AI, claiming it is capable of 'human reasoning'
by
Mariella Moon
on (#6VBW9)
xAI has launched its Grok 3 models during a livestream with Elon Musk, who said they were "an order of magnitude more capable than Grok 2." The Grok 3 mini model can answer questions quickly, but it's not as accurate as the other models in the family. Meanwhile, the Grok 3 Reasoning and Grok 3 mini Reasoning models are capable of mimicking human-like reasoning when it comes to analyzing information the user needs.Other examples of AI models capable of reasoning tasks are DeepSeek's R1 and OpenAI's o3-mini. According to TechCrunch, xAI claimed during the event that Grok 3 Reasoning performed better than the best version of o3-mini on several benchmarks. Grok 3's features will initially be available to subscribers paying for X's Premium+ tier, which now costs $40 a month in the US. (X raised the Premium+ tier's pricing from $16 to $22 in December - now, less than two months later, it's almost twice as expensive.) They will also be available through an upcoming separate subscription option for the standalone Grok app and Grok on the web. Based on leaked information, the subscription option will be called SuperGrok and will cost $30 a month.With the Grok 3 models enabled, users will be able to ask the chatbot to "Think" if they want to tap its reasoning capabilities for mathematics, science and programming questions. For even more complex queries, they can use the "Big Brain" function that requires additional computing. The models' reasoning capabilities power a new Grok feature called DeepSearch, which xAI describes as the "next generation search engine." DeepSearch will scan the internet and X, formerly Twitter, to conjure a brief summary for research inquiries.In addition to launching the Grok 3 models, xAI also revealed during the event that the Grok app will get a "voice mode" within a week, giving it synthesized voices to converse with users. Grok 2, the company's older models, will be open sourced in the coming months.This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/ai/xai-launches-grok-3-ai-claiming-it-is-capable-of-human-reasoning-140007172.html?src=rss
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Grab the ThermoWorks Thermapen One while it's on sale for $79
by
Jeremy Gan
on (#6VA6X)
We've long been fans of ThermoWorks' instant-read thermometers for grilling and all kinds of cooking, and now you can get our favorite for one of the best prices we've seen. Engadget readers can pick up the Thermapen One for only $79 right now thanks to an exclusive deal that knocks $30 off the normal price. The Thermopen One is calibrated to record temperatures accurately, with an error margin of 0.5 degrees Fahrenheit (0.3 degrees Celsius). It also does this within a second. To help users check the temperature conveniently, the display rotates 360 degrees and has a smart backlight display that brightens when it's covered or in a low-light environment. The company claims that a single AAA battery in the thermometer will last for 2,000 hours, and it's partly due to how it automatically turns on or off when you pick it up or put it down. An IP67 rating makes it safe to use in wet and dusty locations for a while. (You should still try to keep it clean and dry, though.) If that's not reassuring enough, each Thermapen One comes with a five-year warranty. Follow @EngadgetDeals on Twitter and subscribe to the Engadget Deals newsletter for the latest tech deals and buying advice.This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/deals/grab-the-thermoworks-thermapen-one-while-its-on-sale-for-79-100052639.html?src=rss
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Spotify could offer its long-awaited HiFi audio tier as a $6 add-on later this year
by
Mariella Moon
on (#6VBWA)
Spotify is rolling out a Music Pro tier later this year that will give users access to higher-quality audio and remixing tools, according to Bloomberg. The tier will reportedly cost users $6 per month on top of their $12 Premium subscription, but they'll be priced differently across regions and will be cheaper in less-developed markets. Many long-time Spotify subscribers, however, will probably say that they'll believe it when they see it. The service teased a high-fidelity streaming option way back in 2017 and had confirmed that it was working to provide users with access to lossless audio in 2021.Several reports about the feature's availability had come out over the years after the company's confirmation. In 2024, Bloomberg also reported that HiFi streaming is expected to arrive before the year ended as a $5 add-on. The publication's latest report says the pricing and timeline for lossless streaming could still change, because the company hasn't secured rights from all the major music companies yet. It's worth noting that Spotify recently announced new multi-year agreements with Universal Music Group and Warner Music Group.In addition to lossless streaming, Bloomberg says the Music Pro tier will give subscribers access to tools that will give them a way to mix songs by different artists. Some of those tools will be powered by generative AI tech. The tier will reportedly give users access to presales for concerts, as well, and could offer them the option to buy better seats than what they could get elsewhere. Spotify will be testing the tier's features over the next few months and will apparently be rolling out the add-on's tools and features in phases.This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/entertainment/streaming/spotify-could-offer-its-long-awaited-hifi-audio-tier-as-a-6-add-on-later-this-year-130043402.html?src=rss
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