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Updated 2025-11-25 11:17
Mark Zuckerberg 'predicts' AI will write most of Meta's code within 12 to 18 months
Mark Zuckerberg says he believes most of the Meta's code will be written by AI agents sometime within the next year-and-a-half. Zuckerberg made the prediction during an hour-long interview with podcaster Dwarkesh Patel."I would guess sometime in the next 12 to 18 months, we'll reach the point where most of the code that's going towards these efforts is written by AI," said Zuckerberg, referring to the company's efforts to build internal AI agents. "And I don't mean like autocomplete... I'm talking more like you give it a goal, it can run tests, it can improve things, it can find issues, it writes higher quality code than the average very good person on the team already."
YouTube will blur the thumbnails of 'mature' videos as part of a new test
YouTube is testing a new feature that will blur the thumbnails of videos that appear in search results that "frequently include sexual themes," the platform announced in the Community section of the YouTube Help Center. The experimental feature is currently being tested on a small percentage of users, Youtube says.The hope is that by blurring thumbnails, YouTube can provide search results that include videos that technically abide by its Community Guidelines, but protect users from seeing content that's possibly "sensitive in nature." YouTube's post doesn't get into specifics of what will trigger a blurred thumbnail, but does note that "the video title, channel name, and description will remain visible" even if a thumbnail is obscured. Users who have the feature will also be able to disable thumbnail blurring if they want.YouTube offers a Restricted Mode for screening out mature content, but a more apt comparison for this experimental feature might be the SafeSearch settings in Google Search. SafeSearch lets you completely filter out "explicit images, text, and links," show all relevant results or blur explicit images, while allowing explicit text and links through. Considering YouTube's position 20 years in as both a backbone of the internet and a de facto television replacement, this seems like a common sense feature to have.This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/big-tech/youtube-will-blur-the-thumbnails-of-mature-videos-as-part-of-a-new-test-202546425.html?src=rss
PlayStation Plus monthly games for May include Balatro and Ark: Survival Ascended
There are some cool games coming to PlayStation Plus in May, including one modern classic. This month's titles include the universally-beloved Balatro, Warhammer 40,000: Boltgun and Ark: Survival Ascended. All three games will be available to PS Plus members beginning on May 6.Unless you've been living under a rock, you've likely heard of Balatro. It's sort of a sequel to poker and sort of a roguelike. It's also utterly hypnotic and addictive. I've yet to find a human who didn't become entranced by its simple and captivating gameplay. We have given this game lots of love, and with good reason. To play Balatro is to love Balatro and, over time, to start dreaming about insane combos. This is an absolute must-play for subscribers. It'll be available for both PS4 and PS5.Ark: Survival Ascended is a remake of 2015's Ark: Survival Evolved that has been "reimagined from the ground-up with Unreal Engine 5." There's new graphics, a new physics system and tons of quality-of-life upgrades. This version includes access to all DLC, like Scorched Earth, Aberration, Extinction, Ark Genesis Part 1 and Ark Genesis Part 2. It also allows for public online multiplayer for up to 70 players and local split-screen for two players. This one's only for PS5.Warhammer 40,000: Boltgun is a FPS set in the popular Warhammer universe. It boasts visuals inspired by classic shooters from the 1990s, with an eclectic arsenal of weapons to match. The levels are huge, the enemies are fun to mow down and the gameplay is speedy. What's not to like? It'll be playable on PS4 and PS5.Now for some bad news. As new stuff comes to PS Plus, old games get shuttled to that farm upstate. Subscribers only have until May 5 to download titles like RoboCop: Rogue City and Digimon Story: Cyber Sleuth - Hacker's Memory to their game libraries.This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/gaming/playstation/playstation-plus-monthly-games-for-may-include-balatro-and-ark-survival-ascended-172617683.html?src=rss
Canon Powershot V1 review: A powerful compact camera capable of capturing incredible video
After nearly disappearing as a category, compact cameras are making a comeback. Fujifilm's X100 VI became a star on the photography side, thanks to its good looks and trendy film emulations. And DJI's Osmo Pocket 3 captivated content creators with its motorized subject tracking and a gimbal that smooths harsh camera moves. Now, Canon has jumped back into compacts with the PowerShot V1, a vlogging-centric model that follows the six-year-old G7X Mark III. It's designed to outshine rivals with a large 1.4-inch 22-megapixel sensor, and boasts other impressive features like optical stabilization and 4K supersampled video. At the same time, this camera is surprisingly solid when it comes to photography. The V1's 16-50mm lens is nice and wide but it's slow compared to its main rival, Sony's ZV-1 II. And where Fujifilm's X100 VI is svelte and pretty, the PowerShot V1 is plain and a bit chonky. Still, none of that detracts from the fact that this is a powerful compact camera capable of capturing incredible video and images, especially in low light, and should suit many creators. Design and handling Instead of going retro like Fujifilm, Canon chose a more functional approach to the PowerShot V1's design. It's relatively thick at 2.1 inches, a bit bigger than the X100 VI if you don't include the lens, but it's slightly lighter at 15.03 oz with a battery. By comparison, Sony's ZV-1 II is just 10.3 ounces and 1.84 inches thick. The PowerShot V1 bears some resemblance to Canon's G7X III that has become massively popular of late, but is thicker due to the built-in fan and power zoom lever. Unlike the G7X III, the V1 lacks a popup flash unfortunately, but does have a hotshoe for external flashes. Canon also moved the record button from the back to a more practical position on top. The grip is small, but the rubberized surface makes it easy to hold, especially when vlogging. Controls are sufficient for a compact, but I'd prefer at least one dial on the top to change settings. It would also be nice if the camera was a bit more pocketable like Sony's ZV-1 II. The buttons and dials are responsive, but they do feel a bit cheap next to Canon's mirrorless models. In short, the PowerShot V1 offers solid handling but isn't a looker like Fuji's offerings. Steve Dent for Engadget Another nice change is a new fully articulating screen, replacing the previous model's pop-up display. That makes vlogging and photography easier, as you can see the screen when holding the camera high, low or toward you. My only complaint is that it's a bit too dim when used in bright sunlight. And you can't just look through the electronic viewfinder to get a clearer view, because there isn't one on the PowerShot V1. This camera has decent battery life for a compact at 400 shots or about 75 minutes of 4K 30p shooting on a charge. Other notable features include mic and headphone inputs along with a microHDMI and USB-C (charging and data transfer) ports, plus a single SD UHS-II card slot. Vlogging and content creation The V' in PowerShot V1 stands for vlogging, so let's talk about that next. To best serve in that capacity, it uses a wide 16-50mm equivalent lens so you can always fit your face into the frame, even in cropped mode. However, that zoom range can also be limiting for capturing closeups or B-roll. Video specs are top-notch for a compact, with sharp, supersampled 4K 30p video that uses the full sensor width or 4K 60p video with a 1.4x crop. On top of that, you can capture 10-bit video when using Canon's C-Log 3 or HDR formats.That's better than Sony's ZV-1 II, which only offers 4K 30p and S-Log video with no 10-bit option. However, DJI's Osmo Pocket 3 surpasses both models with uncropped 4K at up to 120 fps, while also offering 10-bit D-LogM or HDR video. With its large sensor, the PowerShot V1 offers sharp video and accurate, natural color rendering with Canon's usual excellence in skin tones. Shooting in C-Log3 10-bit boosts dynamic range considerably in sunny or contrasty scenes, while giving you more latitude to adjust video in post. And when you need to shoot indoors or at night, the camera outperforms compact rivals, displaying lower noise at high ISO settings. Steve Dent for Engadget The disadvantage of a larger sensor is that rolling shutter that can warp video is more pronounced than on Sony's 1-inch ZV-1 II at the 4K 30p setting. If that's a concern, the cropped 4K 60p setting reduces the problem since it samples a smaller portion of the sensor. Overheating isn't an issue with this camera either, thanks to the built-in fan. I never saw any sign of a heat-related shutdown when using the PowerShot V1 with the temperature threshold setting at high." Autofocus is a crucial feature for vlogging and the PowerShot V1 competes well against Sony's ZV-1 II, thanks to its upgraded processor. It stays locked even on fast-moving subjects and the eye- and face-detection, along with subject detection for animals and vehicles, all work well. Where the ZV-1 II only offers electronic video stabilization, the PowerShot V1 marries 5-stop optical stabilization with electronic stabilization. That means you can shoot smooth handheld video without any impact on image quality, or enable e-stabilization for walking or other challenging scenarios. However, neither camera holds a candle in that regard to DJI's Osmo Pocket 3, which has a built-in 3-axis gimbal. Audio is also a plus on the PowerShot V1, as it offers both mic and headphone jacks, while the ZV-1 II lacks a headphone port. Canon's model also has a decent built-in stereo mic and comes with a hotshoe-attached wind muff. Photography Steve Dent for Engadget Despite the vlogging emphasis, the PowerShot V1 is highly capable for photos as well. In fact, it excels in both image quality and speed thanks to the unique 22.4MP, 1.4-inch sensor and Canon's latest Digic X image processor to power autofocus and AI functions. You can fire off bursts at up to 30 fps in electronic mode, and a very rapid 15 fps with the mechanical shutter (and yes, it has a mechanical shutter which is rare for a compact). That makes it one of the fastest compacts available. By comparison, the X100 VI can hit 25 fps speeds while the ZV-1 II is limited to 15 fps speeds. The Osmo Pocket 3, meanwhile, can take photos but is really designed almost exclusively for video. The PowerShot V1's high speeds are backed up by Canon's Dual Pixel II focus system that delivers sharp photos the majority of the time, powered by the company's latest AI tech for face- and eye-detection. As with other recent models, the camera also offers AI subject detection for animals, vehicles, airplanes and more. The PowerShot V1 trumps Sony's ZV-1 II with its built-in 5-stop optical stabilization to reduce blur. That enabled me to take shots down to an eighth, and sometimes even a quarter of a second, to blur backgrounds while keeping the foreground sharp. The trouble with most compact cameras is that they can take nice photos in well-lit conditions but start to fall down in low light. That's not the case with the PowerShot V1. The larger 1.4-inch sensor is very close in size to Micro Four Thirds, so it delivers clean images up to ISO 6400, with manageable noise even as high as ISO 12800. The beauty of Canon cameras is that you get great-looking images straight out of the camera with no fuss, particularly with skin tones - a great boon for beginners. JPEG images have a good balance of sharpening and noise reduction, while RAW photos boost dynamic range in tricky shooting conditions and give you more room to play around when editing in Lightroom. Wrap-up Steve Dent for Engadget I can see what Canon was going for with the $900 PowerShot V1. It effectively beats out its main compact vlogging rival, Sony's ZV-1 II, by offering a larger sensor, optical stabilization and more video options for around the same price. And it appeals to hybrid shooters more than DJI's Osmo Pocket 3 as it can better handle photography chores while also capturing higher-quality video. The problem is that it's still primarily a vlogging camera and a lot of content creators have abandoned this type of compact model in favor of the Osmo Pocket 3. That's because the Pocket 3 offers unique features like motorized camera tracking and a superior three-axis gimbal. It also pairs with DJI's popular Mic 2 and Mic mini wireless microphones, which is another big advantage. At the same time, the PowerShot V1 has a pretty basic design, so it may not appeal to buyers looking for something prettier like the X100 VI. At the end of the day, the PowerShot V1 is bound to be a hit because it delivers when it comes to video and photo quality - especially given the current popularity of the now-ancient G7X III. In fact, I'd recommend it over Sony's ZV-1 II, particularly if you're looking for a hybrid camera that pulls double duty.This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/cameras/canon-powershot-v1-review-a-powerful-compact-camera-capable-of-capturing-incredible-video-163009584.html?src=rss
Nintendo Switch update adds Virtual Game Cards and Switch 2 cloud transfer support
Those who have been fortunate enough to lock in a Nintendo Switch 2 pre-order will surely be counting down the days until the console arrives on June 5. Nintendo is laying the groundwork for its upcoming system with an update for the original Switch that adds support for a few key features.One that you can start using right now is the Virtual Game Cards function. This lets you lend digital games to friends and family members who are on the same Nintendo Family Account. Nintendo says the aim here is to make it as easy to share digital games with your loved ones as letting them borrow a physical game card. A key catch here is that you need to connect to another Switch system locally to borrow a game. The Switch 2 will support this feature as well.Next up, Nintendo has enabled cloud transfers for those who are moving to the Switch 2. Once you've updated your Switch software to version 20.0.0, in the System section of the settings, you should see a System Transfer to Nintendo Switch 2" option. This will let you transfer all your data to a Switch 2 locally once you have the latest console in your possession.There's also the ability to send all of your transfer data to the cloud now. That could come in useful for you're planning to sell your Nintendo Switch to help fund a purchase of a new system. You'd be able to do that immediately to help you prepare to buy your Switch 2. The main downside is that uploading transfer data to the cloud will reset the Switch to its factory settings, so maybe don't do that just yet if you're still planning to play it for the next month (or until you get your Switch 2).Nintendo will store the data on its servers for one year. You can either complete the transfer to a Switch 2 in that time or cancel it and download the data back onto a Switch.The latest Switch system update adds support for one other key feature. It's called GameShare, and it enables local wireless multiplayer across several Switch systems. Only one person needs to own a copy of a compatible game to do this. You can't do anything with GameShare yet, however. You'll only be able to share games from a Switch 2, but you'll be able to do so to Switch, Switch Lite and other Switch 2 units.This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/gaming/nintendo/nintendo-switch-update-adds-virtual-game-cards-and-switch-2-cloud-transfer-support-160057826.html?src=rss
Snap is seemingly rethinking that 'simplified' app
A Snapchat redesign test appears to have stalled after power users seemingly disliked the "simplified" layout.The new version of Snapchat intended "to help new and casual users" navigate the app, according to Snap's Q1 investor letter, released on April 29. As reported by TechCrunch, the overhauled app removed the Snap Map and Stories tabs. A proposed new three-tab navigation bar focused on chat, the camera and Spotlight (Snapchat's answer to TikTok.) The report doesn't specify how long the testing phase went on for or how widespread it was.For now at least, Snap is seemingly reconsidering. "Our most engaged Snapchatters consistently demonstrated a preference for a five-tab layout," the company wrote in that same investor letter. While it does not specifically say it's ending tests of the simplified version, Snap notes it has "begun testing a refined five-tab interface that combines the best of both approaches." Engadget reached out to Snap for comment on if this layout is no longer being deployed to users. We'll update this article if we receive a response.Snap has a pretty rough track record where redesigns are concerned. In 2017 the company tried to reorient its flagship app around separating friend-related posts from media content; in the year that followed, Snapchat lost three million daily users in the space of three months. At that time there were also well-documented issues with the Android version of the app.The latest earnings report revealed that Snap lost one million users in North America in Q1, down to 99 million from 100 million in the previous quarter. Despite this, the global Snapchat community grew to 460 million in Q1, an increase of 7 million daily active users quarter-over-quarter.This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/apps/snap-is-seemingly-rethinking-that-simplified-app-154628101.html?src=rss
Our favorite budget earbuds are back on sale for $45
The Anker Soundcore Space A40 earbuds are on sale for just $45 via Amazon. This represents a discount of 44 percent, as the typical price is $80. This particular deal only applies to the blue and white models, but other colors are on sale for $50. Also, the sale only works for Prime members, but there's a similar deal straight from the company if you'd rather shop elsewhere. Just use the on-page coupon code for that one. The Space A40 tops our list of the best budget wireless earbuds. We found the built-in ANC to be impressive, especially when compared to other budget-friendly earbuds. We also enjoyed the sound, which we found to be pleasant and warm. There's multi-device connectivity and wireless charging support beyond that. The fit is comfortable, which isn't always the case with earbuds, and the battery life is decent. We got around eight hours per charge in our testing, though the included charging case supplies 40 hours or so. The IPX4 water resistance rating is average, but does let the earbuds survive light rain and sweat. The mic quality is fine, but doesn't handle sibilant sounds too well and can lose your voice in noisy areas. In other words, these aren't the best earbuds for phone calls, though they work in a pinch. They also don't have an auto-pause feature. Follow @EngadgetDeals on X for the latest tech deals and buying advice.This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/deals/our-favorite-budget-earbuds-are-back-on-sale-for-45-152016314.html?src=rss
Trump temporarily eases car tariffs following automaker complaints
US automakers will get some relief from US President Donald Trump's tariffs, according to a new White House fact sheet. Prior to his new executive order, manufacturers had to pay a 25 percent tariff on any parts used in any US-assembled vehicles. Now, they'll be able to deduct up to an amount equal to 3.75 percent of the price of a new US made car until April 30, 2026, and 2.5 percent until April 30, 2027. In addition, automakers will only be required to pay tariffs on steel or auto parts (not both as before), depending on which is higher.The new rules reportedly came at the request of manufacturers, who said they need time to move parts production to the US. "We just wanted to help them during this little transition, short term. We didn't want to penalize them," Trump told reporters.The 3.75 percent figures was reached by multiplying 15 percent of imported parts that make up a vehicle's sale price by the current 25 percent import tax. So if a $40,000 car had $6,000 or 15 percent of imported parts, the manufacturer would effectively pay no tariffs, but any higher percentage of foreign parts would result in some tariff being paid. The White House said the rebates wouldn't cost taxpayers anything since they'd come out of tariffs collected.The White House pointed out that the US trade deficit on auto parts was $93.5 billion in 2024. A large chunk of those ($19.5 billion worth) came from Canada, and large numbers of US vehicles are also built in that country. However, the reason that US automakers manufacture cars and car parts in Canada is because it's cheaper, largely because of the high cost of employee healthcare in the US. So, even if automakers manufacture more parts in the US, car prices are still likely to go up.The average price for a new vehicle in the US was $47,462 last month, according to The Associated Press. One noted analyst predicted that the original 25 percent tariffs could add $4,711 to the cost of a vehicle, while also boosting the cost of ownership and maintenance.This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/transportation/trump-temporarily-eases-car-tariffs-following-automaker-complaints-130011086.html?src=rss
Samsung says US tariffs will affect prices and demand for smartphones and memory chips
During an earnings call, Samsung's chief financial officer Soon-cheol Park told reporters that "ongoing uncertainty surrounding US tariff policies continues to pose a potential risk of demand slowdown." According to Financial Times, Park said that US tariff policies and stronger export controls against artificial intelligence products are expected to have an impact on product demand in the second half of the year. In addition to a downward trend on sales, the company also expects tariffs to raise prices for the components it uses on its mobile phones, which will have further impact on its revenue.Samsung's call discussed its results for the first quarter of 2025, which ended on March 31. The company posted KRW 79.14 trillion in revenue ($55.6 billion), an all-time quarterly high mostly due to strong Galaxy S25 sales. It also posted KRW 6.7 trillion ($4.7 billion) in profit, which is slightly lower than the previous quarter's KRW 6.5 trillion ($4.6 billion).Despite the record revenue, Samsung's chip business already took a hit due to tougher US export controls to China on chips used in hardware for artificial intelligence. The division posted KRW 1.1 trillion ($774 million) in operating profit, down from KRW 2.9 trillion ($2 billion) last quarter. Financial Times previously reported that Samsung had a boost in profit in the first quarter of the year thanks to Chinese customers stockpiling memory chips ahead of US tariffs, but the impact of US export restrictions overshadowed the increase in orders. The publication has also noted that the tariffs the US will be imposing on semiconductors and consumer electronics will lead to an increase in prices of its smartphones and TVs, which are mostly made in Vietnam and Mexico, respectively.This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/big-tech/samsung-says-us-tariffs-will-affect-prices-and-demand-for-smartphones-and-memory-chips-124537214.html?src=rss
Toyota and Waymo pledge to team up on a new autonomous vehicle platform
Toyota and Waymo have announced that they've entered a preliminary agreement, along with the former's mobility tech subsidiary, Woven by Toyota, Inc. To be clear, they're not in the midst of developing anything yet - they're still exploring a potential collaboration between them. Ultimately, however, the goal is to develop a new autonomous vehicle platform together, presumably for robotaxies. They're also aiming to "leverage Waymo's autonomous technology and Toyota's vehicle expertise" for future personal vehicles.In their announcement, the companies said they're looking to incorporate aspects of Waymo's technology into Toyota vehicles meant for sale to consumers, as well as to accelerate the development and adoption of driver assistance and automated driving technologies. Waymo's work, so far, has been focused on developing robotaxis that riders can hail through an app. The Alphabet-owned company currently operates Waymo One, a fully autonomous ride-hailing service, in San Francisco, Phoenix and Los Angeles. It deploys Waymo One vehicles through Uber in Austin, and it's planning to expand the service to Las Vegas, San Diego, Miami and Atlanta sometime this year. This potential partnership could expand the reach of Waymo's tech."Waymo's mission is to be the world's most trusted driver. This requires global partners like Toyota that share our commitment to improving road safety and expanding accessible transportation. We look forward to exploring this strategic partnership, incorporating their vehicles into our ride-hailing fleet and bringing the magic of Waymo's autonomous driving technology to Toyota customers," said Tekedra Mawakana, the co-CEO of Waymo.This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/transportation/toyota-and-waymo-pledge-to-team-up-on-a-new-autonomous-vehicle-platform-123032289.html?src=rss
Google Wallet adds support for UK passports
Google Wallet has supported copies of US passports since December and now its UK residents' turn. The company has announced that UK passports will soon be available as digital passes in Google Wallets on Android devices.To start, Google is partnering with Rail Delivery Group, which provides Railcards - or discount passes - for a range of travelers. Applying for a Railcard requires identity verification (some of them are also age-based) and individuals should be able to use their digital ID for proof.Google also announced further updates and features to its Wallet. More states, including Montana and Arkansas, will soon have the ability to put their government IDs in their Google Wallet, and places like Georgia and Maryland will be able to use their digital IDs at the DMV. While travelers can use US passports stored on Google Wallet at select airports, Google cautions that ID passes for UK passports won't work at TSA for now.The company is also bringing Zero Knowledge Proof (ZKP) technology to Google Wallet. It should also for quick age verification while "ensuring there is no way to link the age back to your identity." Google might use it with its own products or when verifying a person's age on partner apps.This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/mobile/smartphones/google-wallet-adds-support-for-uk-passports-123019945.html?src=rss
X is bringing 4K video uploads to premium subscribers
X (formerly Twitter) has been leaning into video content more and more since Elon Musk took over. The latest shift, announced by X's engineering account, sees the platform rolling out 4K video uploads to some of its creators.The new video resolution should soon be available for all premium subscribers. Currently, they can share videos in 1080p that are a max of 8GB in size and about three hours in length. X has also taken steps such as creating a vertical videos feed a la TikTok and Instagram Reels.
The best immersion blender for 2025
Immersion blenders (or hand blenders) might not be absolutely essential in every good kitchen arsenal. But they can unlock faster and easier ways of making soups, smoothies, sauces and more. Plus, they're smaller than their countertop brethren, which often makes them a better choice for RVs, boats or apartments where space is a premium. Finally, because cleaning them is usually as simple as running them in a bowl of hot soapy water, there's less hassle, too. To help you figure out which immersion blender is right for you, we've put together a list of our favorite models across a variety of needs and use cases. Best immersion blenders for 2025 Which immersion blender is right for you? Before you even think about buying a new kitchen appliance, it's important to figure out how you're going to use it and where it fits in with any gadgets you already own. In an ideal world, everyone would have a dedicated food processor, countertop blender and a stand mixer. But the reality is that many people don't have the room or the budget. While handheld blenders and traditional, full-size blenders have a lot of overlap, there are strengths and weaknesses to both. For example, if you're looking to make smoothies every day, a countertop blender might be a better choice. The bigger pitchers make it easier to blend drinks for multiple people at once, while larger motors will make short work of ice and frozen fruit. Additionally, more expensive options like those from Vitamix, All-Clad, Ninja or Robocoupe can even cook soup during the blending process using the heat generated from the blender's motor, which isn't something you can do with an immersion model. I'd even go so far as to say that if you have the space for it and don't already own one, a regular blender is probably the best option for most people. That said, immersion blenders are often less expensive and, thanks to a wide variety of accessories offered by some manufacturers, they can be great multitaskers. A whisk attachment allows you to make whipped cream or meringues quickly without needing an electric hand mixer, or risk getting tendonitis in your elbow doing it manually. Some immersion blenders also come with food processing bowls, so you can easily throw together things like small batches of hummus, salad dressings or homemade pesto in minutes. And because immersion blenders are smaller and less bulky than traditional models, they're a great choice for apartment dwellers or anyone with limited storage or counter space. That means if you're simply trying to expand your culinary repertoire without blowing up your budget, an immersion blender can be a great way to try something new without committing too hard. Corded or cordless? Similar to figuring out if you should get a blender or not, trying to decide between a corded or cordless model depends a lot on the other gadgets you already own. Corded versions typically have more powerful motors, which makes them great for people who don't have a countertop blender or food processor. But if you do own one of both of those, cordless is the way to go. Not only do you get the convenience of not worrying about wires, but the ease of use makes it fast and easy to whip out your immersion blender to add some extra texture to a sauce, or puree a large pot of soup without having to do it in batches. A quick word about safety No one should be ashamed of being nervous around a device that is essentially a motorized blending wand with a spinning blade at the end. But with proper care and use, an immersion blender doesn't have to be much more dangerous than a chef's knife. The most important safety tip is to make sure you always keep the sharp blades pointed down and away from you or anyone else nearby. That includes your hands, along with any utensils (like a spoon), that might be in or around your mixing bowl. Thankfully, all consumer immersion blenders are designed to prevent their blade from directly hitting the vessel holding your food (be it a mixing bowl or a pot). However, to be extra safe, you should avoid blending things in glass containers or nonstick cookware, as glass can chip or shatter while the metal blades and shroud of an immersion blender can damage teflon and ceramic. You'll also want to make sure you keep water away from the plug or outlet of corded immersion blenders. And if you want to remove the blade or clear away any food that might have gotten tangled, first make sure the blender is off, disconnected from its power source (either its battery or wall socket) and in safety mode with a lock button or other feature. On the bright side, cleaning an immersion is rather simple and straightforward. All you have to do is fill up a bowl or cup with soapy water, submerge the immersion blender, and then run it for 10 to 20 seconds. That's it. If it's still not clean, you can repeat that process again until it is. And if hand washing is too much work, the blending wand on a lot of models (including all of the ones on this list) are dishwasher safe too.This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/home/kitchen-tech/best-immersion-blenders-150006296.html?src=rss
EA reportedly cancels another Titanfall game, lays off several hundred employees
The gaming industry continues to bleed workers and cancel games, with EA back for another round of brutal news. The company said on Tuesday it decided to "make some targeted team adjustments," which Bloomberg reported as between 300 and 400 eliminated positions, including 100 at Respawn, and the cancellation of an unannounced Titanfall game. Again.The canned Titanfall game, code-named R7, was reportedly an extraction shooter set in the mech-meets-parkour franchise. Bloomberg says it wasn't close to release, and Respawn's statement that it canceled two "early-stage incubation projects" reflects that. Details about the other scrapped game haven't leaked, but Bloomberg reports that it was canceled earlier this year.Respawn says it will refocus its resources on Apex Legends and Star Wars Jedi, franchises where EA appears more confident it can profit. Earlier this month, the company previewed another game set in a galaxy far, far away: the Xcom-like tactics game, Star Wars Zero Company.After culling an estimated 1,130 jobs in 2023, EA laid off five percent of its workforce in 2024. "These decisions aren't easy, and we are deeply grateful to every teammate affected - their creativity and contributions have helped build Respawn into what it is today," Respawn wrote on Tuesday.This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/gaming/ea-reportedly-cancels-another-titanfall-game-lays-off-several-hundred-employees-205008255.html?src=rss
Russian regulators are trying to seize assets related to World of Tanks
Top executives from World of Tanks studios Wargaming and Lesta Games could have their stakes in their respective companies seized by the Russian government, according to reports from Russian news organizations RIAand RBC. Wargaming is responsible for developing the worldwide version of World of Tanks, while Lesta is in charge of a separate Russian version.Malik Khatazhaev, the head of Lesta Games, and Viktor Kisly, the head of Wargaming, are reportedly being accused of extremist activities by Russia's Prosecutor General (the country's equivalent of the US Attorney General) because of Wargaming's support of Ukraine, RIAreports. The Prosecutor General is looking to seize all of the executives' shares in their respective companies.A Wargaming spokesperson sent Engadget the following statement: "Wargaming made a strategic exit from the Russian and Belarusian markets three years ago. The company disposed of its business in Russia and Belarus to the local management at zero cost and on a debt-free, cash-free basis, with no consideration to take it back. Wargaming doesn't have any assets or business interests in Russia and Belarus."Development of World of Tanks was split in 2022 when Wargaming left its offices in Russia and Belarus, and transferred development of the Russian version of the game to Lesta Games. Russia began a full-scale invasion of Ukraine that same year. In response, Wargaming ran a campaign in World of Tanks raising money for medical aid in Ukraine in 2023. The Russian government has decided to interpret that pro-Ukrainian fundraising as anti-Russian extremist activity. Why Lesta Games is being accused of the same thing isn't entirely clear, but it is the company that's technically still under the Prosecutor General's jurisdiction.Lesta Games commented on the reports in a company Telegram channel, according to RBC, writing, "The company works in full compliance with the legislation of the Russian Federation and the Republic of Belarus, so we have no grounds for any concerns or concealment of information. We have not violated anything and we have nothing to fear."Update, April 29, 4:40PM ET: This story was updated to add comment from Wargaming, and clarify the relationship between Wargaming and Lesta Games.This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/gaming/russian-regulators-are-trying-to-seize-assets-from-the-developers-of-world-of-tanks-202157310.html?src=rss
OpenAI rolls back update that made ChatGPT an ass-kissing weirdo
OpenAI is rolling back a recent update to GPT-4o, the default model that powers ChatGPT, following complaints from users that it made the chat bot act like a weirdo. "The last couple of GPT-4o updates have made the personality too sycophant-y and annoying (even though there are some very good parts of it), and we are working on fixes asap, some today and some this week," said OpenAI CEO Sam Altman in a X post spotted by TechCrunch.As of midday Tuesday, Altman said ChatGPT was running on an older, less sycophantic version of GPT-4o for all free users. The company hopes to get paid users back on an older release of the model by later today. "We're working on additional fixes to model personality and will share more in the coming days," Altman said, adding OpenAI would share more information about what went wrong "at some point."OpenAI released the new GPT-4o late last week. By the weekend, people began noticing ChatGPT was being overly agreeable and verbose in its praise. As you can see from the X post below, often that praise was also inappropriate and strange.
Firefox finally adds tab groups
Firefox now lets you organize your tabs. Four years after its biggest rivals launched tab groups, Mozilla published a nearly 1,000-word blog post recounting the feature's long road from user requests to launch. (Consider skipping it if you don't like long-winded acceptance speeches.) "What happens when 4,500 people ask for the same feature?" the company asked rhetorically. "At Firefox, we build it."Of course, those users may have requested tab groups partly because Firefox was the only major browser without them. Chrome, Safari and Edge launched tab groups in 2021. Hell, Vivaldi has had them since 2016.Tardiness aside, Firefox users will welcome the chance to tidy up the clutter. The feature lets you drag and drop tabs into groups and label them by name or color. Mozilla says tab groups are on-device and never uploaded to the cloud. "Tab groups aren't just about decluttering," Firefox product manager Stefan Smagula said. "It's about reclaiming your flow and finding focus again."Up next for Firefox tabs: The tech industry's favorite buzzword. Mozilla is testing smart tab groups, powered by AI, which suggest names and groups based on your open tabs.This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/computing/firefox-finally-adds-tab-groups-195130482.html?src=rss
Meta has a plan to bring AI to WhatsApp chats without breaking privacy
As Meta's first-ever generative AI conference gets underway, the company is also previewing a significant update on its plans to bring AI features to WhatsApp chats. Buried in its LlamaCon updates, the company shared that it's working on something called Private Processing," which will allow users to take advantage of generative AI capabilities within WhatsApp without eroding its privacy features.According to Meta, Private Processing is an optional capability" that will enable people to leverage AI capabilities for things like summarizing unread messages or refining them, while keeping messages private." WhatsApp, of course, is known for its strong privacy protections and end-to-end encryption. That would seem incompatible with cloud-based AI features like Meta AI. But Private Processing will essentially allow Meta to do both.Meta has shared more details about how it will accomplish this over on its engineering blog but, as Wired points out, it's a similar model as Apple's Private Cloud Compute (which allows the iPhone maker to implement Apple AI without sending all your data to the cloud). Here's how Meta describes its approach.
New Star Wars series will premiere in Fortnite of all places
There's a new animated Star Wars show coming soon and it's set to actually premiere in the game Fortnite. Star Wars: Tales of the Underworld will be available to watch in-game starting on May 2 at 10AM ET. This is two full days before the show streams on Disney+.Viewing will take place in a new in-game location called Star Wars Watch Party Island. Epic Games says that this area was built using Unreal Editor for Fortnite and uses official assets to create a "breathtaking environment inspired by a galaxy far, far away." Players will only have access to the first two episodes.For the uninitiated, Star Wars: Tales of the Underworld is an anthology series consisting of animated shorts. It takes a look at the criminal underworld, centering on the bounty hunter Cad Bane and the force-sensitive assassin Asajj Ventress.This is part of a larger collaboration between Fortnite and Star Wars. The game will receive new Star Wars content every week for use in Battle Royale. Players will be able to pilot X-wings and duke it out as Emperor Palpatine. A dark side version of Jar Jar Binks will also be a playable character.This isn't the first time our favorite space wizards appeared in Fortnite. The game once made Luke, Han and Leia playable characters and added the iconic lightsaber as a weapon.This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/entertainment/new-star-wars-series-will-premiere-in-fortnite-of-all-places-185859342.html?src=rss
Speedrunner reaches Breath of the Wild credits on Switch 2, a console which isn't even out yet
The Nintendo Switch 2 won't be in our hands for over a month yet (sigh), but a speedrunner has already reached the credits of the Nintendo Switch 2 Edition of The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild.As reported by VGC, the Japanese speedrunner known as Ikaboze posted a video of his handiwork on his YouTube channel after attending a Switch 2 preview event in Tokyo. Attendees were able to play a 10-minute demo of the souped-up original Switch launch game, but Ikaboze only needed seven minutes of the allotted time to dispose of Ganon in the game's epic final battle.To be clear, this was not an any% run of the entire game, where the current top times all clock in around 23 minutes. The speedrunner loaded an autosave that spawned him outside Hyrule Castle, where he immediately dropped all of Link's equipment and made a beeline for his longtime nemesis. Ikaboze was able to take down Ganon before the demo's time was up, to the delight of a crowd of onlookers, who applauded as the credits started to roll. The speedrunner was reportedly told by Nintendo staff at the event that they were the first person to have completed the Breath of the Wild demo.The updated versions of both Breath of the Wild and its 2023 sequel, Tears of the Kingdom, will be available to play on Switch 2 on launch day, which remains June 5 worldwide despite the pre-order holdup in the US. According to Nintendo, Nintendo Switch 2 Edition games improve performance and resolution, as well as adding HDR support. There's also a new Zelda companion app that will let you track down missing Koroks and shrines on your save file.Those who already own the base game can upgrade for $10, and if you're a Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack member you'll be able to play the Switch 2 versions of both BotW and TotK as part of your subscription. Good luck trying to beat Ikaboze, though.This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/gaming/speedrunner-reaches-breath-of-the-wild-credits-on-switch-2-a-console-which-isnt-even-out-yet-173004158.html?src=rss
Meta is making it easier to use Llama models for app development
Meta is releasing a new tool it hopes will encourage developers to use its family of Llama models for their next project. At its inaugural LlamaCon event in Menlo Park on Tuesday, the company announced the Llama API. Available as a limited free preview starting today, the tool gives developers a place to experiment with Meta's AI models, including the recently released Llama 4 Scout and Maverick systems. It also makes it easy to create new API keys, which devs can use for authentication purposes."We want to make it even easier for you to quickly start building with Llama, while also giving you complete control over your models and weights without being locked to an API," the company said in a blog post published during the event. To that end, the initial release of the Llama API includes tools devs can use to fine-tune and evaluate their apps.Additionally, Meta notes it won't use user prompts and model responses to train its own models. "When you're ready, the models you build on the Llama API are yours to take with you wherever you want to host them, and we don't keep them locked on our servers," the company said. Meta expects to roll out the tool to more users in coming weeks and months.Despite the fact Meta's Llama models have been downloaded more than one billion times, the company typically isn't viewed as a leader in the AI space in quite the same way as OpenAI and Anthropic. It doesn't help push against that perception that the company was caught gaming LMArena to make its Llama 4 models look better than they actually were.This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/ai/meta-is-making-it-easier-to-use-llama-models-for-app-development-171514630.html?src=rss
Meta’s ChatGPT competitor includes conversational voice chat and a social feed
Meta didn't wait for Tuesday's LlamaCon keynote to unveil its first big AI announcement of the week. The company launched a standalone app that competes with ChatGPT, Gemini, Claude and other multimodal AI chatbots. Sticking to the company's roots, the app also includes a social feed and the ability to draw on info from your profile and posts you've shared.The Meta AI app offers similar features to rival chatbots, including text and voice chats, live web access and the ability to generate and edit images. But it also includes a Discover feed that (for better or worse) adds a social element to your AI queries. The company describes it as "a place to share and explore how others are using AI." It highlights the prompts that others share and lets you "remix them to make them your own."Meta stresses that none of your private chats will post to others' feeds unless you explicitly choose to share them.MetaFor users in the US and Canada, Meta AI can personalize its answers based on data you've shared with Meta products. This includes info like your social profile and content you like or engage with. The company says linking your Facebook and Instagram accounts to the same Meta AI account will provide "an even stronger personalized experience." If you don't want that, this might be a good time to check your privacy settings.The app has a live conversation mode for users in the US, Canada, Australia and New Zealand. Much like a similar feature in ChatGPT and Gemini, Meta's version lets you and the AI assistant listen and speak simultaneously, with a natural flow that should feel more like a real conversation. However, Meta only describes it as a demo that provides "a glimpse into the future," suggesting it's still in an early stage. This mode also doesn't offer live web access.MetaThe Meta AI web version includes the app's new features, including voice interactions and the Discover feed. This version has a few differences, including enhanced image generation (more presets and new editing modes for style, mood, lighting and colors). The web version also lets you test a rich document editor (in some countries) that can spit out text- and image-rich docs to export as PDFs.The app has merged with the Meta View companion app for the company's Ray-Ban glasses collab. The company says it will include a handoff feature that lets you start a conversation on the glasses and then access it in your history tab on the app or web. After installing the update, you can manage your glasses in the Meta AI app's Devices tab.You can download the new Meta AI app from the App Store and Google Play.This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/ai/metas-chatgpt-competitor-includes-conversational-voice-chat-and-a-social-feed-164735307.html?src=rss
How to use your iPhone as a webcam with your Mac
If you want to upgrade your video call setup without buying an external webcam, your iPhone can help. With macOS Ventura or later, Apple's Continuity Camera feature allows users to turn their iPhone into a high-quality, wireless webcam for Mac. Whether you're joining a meeting on Zoom, recording a presentation or creating content for YouTube, using your iPhone as a webcam can provide a sharper image, better low-light performance and useful extras like Center Stage and Desk View. Here's how to set up and use your iPhone as a webcam with your Mac, along with additional tips for microphone-only use, Desk View, Studio Light and more. It works natively in macOS, so it's easy to set up. All you need to do is mount your phone and start your call.What you'll need to use Continuity CameraYou'll need the following things to use this feature properly:
Researchers secretly experimented on Reddit users with AI-generated comments
A group of researchers covertly ran a months-long "unauthorized" experiment in one of Reddit's most popular communities using AI-generated comments to test the persuasiveness of large language models. The experiment, which was revealed over the weekend by moderators of r/changemyview, is described by Reddit mods as psychological manipulation" of unsuspecting users.The CMV Mod Team needs to inform the CMV community about an unauthorized experiment conducted by researchers from the University of Zurich on CMV users," the subreddit's moderators wrote in a lengthy post notifying Redditors about the research. This experiment deployed AI-generated comments to study how AI could be used to change views."The researchers used LLMs to create comments in response to posts on r/changemyview, a subreddit where Reddit users post (often controversial or provocative) opinions and request debate from other users. The community has 3.8 million members and often ends up on the front page of Reddit. According to the subreddit's moderators, the AI took on numerous different identities in comments during the course of the experiment, including a sexual assault survivor, a trauma counselor specializing in abuse," and a Black man opposed to Black Lives Matter." Many of the original comments have since been deleted, but some can still be viewed in an archive created by 404 Media.In a draft of their paper, the unnamed researchers describe how they not only used AI to generate responses, but attempted to personalize its replies based on information gleaned from the original poster's prior Reddit history. In addition to the post's content, LLMs were provided with personal attributes of the OP (gender, age, ethnicity, location, and political orientation), as inferred from their posting history using another LLM," they write.The r/changemyview moderators note that the researchers' violated multiple subreddit rules, including a policy requiring the disclosure when AI is used to generate comment and a rule prohibiting bots. They say they filed an official complaint with the University of Zurich and have requested the researchers withhold publication of their paper.Reddit also appears to be considering some kind of legal action. Chief Legal Officer Ben Lee responded to the controversy on Monday, writing that the researchers' actions were "deeply wrong on both a moral and legal level" and a violation of Reddit's site-wide rules.
The best tech gifts for new moms
If someone in your life is celebrating their first Mother's Day as a new mom, here are some gift ideas that may make things a bit easier. To be clear, nothing will make the transition easy - one day you're an individual person caring for your own needs and the next, you're responsible for every need, whim and indefinable want of another human. Still, a good monitor, some milk management tools, organization solutions and a few ways to help unwind will come in handy. These gadgets have helped Engadget moms past and present and will hopefully help the new mom in your life, too. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/best-tech-gifts-for-new-moms-123052827.html?src=rss
Borderlands 4 release date moves up to September 12
The ground has just shifted for anyone trying to figure out the exact release date for Grand Theft Auto 6 as 2K has altered plans for another game in its stable, Borderlands 4. The latest entry in Gearbox's series will arrive 11 days earlier than previously announced as it will debut on September 12.After teasing a delay, Gearbox co-founder and CEO Randy Pitchford said "the team has been working very hard. Everything's going great, actually. In fact, everything's going kind of the best case scenario. The game is awesome, the team is cooking." As such, Gearbox and 2K are bringing the release date forward. Gearbox said the decision was made after "a lot of meetings, playtesting and incredible development work."
Amazon denies report that it plans to show tariff impacts on its prices
Amazon has refuted a report which said it was planning to tell consumers how much of a product's price was due to the impact of tariffs that the Trump administration has imposed on imports, particularly those from China. According to Punchbowl News, Amazon was going to display this right next to an item's total price. However, that's not the case, Amazon said in a statement.The team that runs our ultra low cost Amazon Haul store considered the idea of listing import charges on certain products," Amazon spokesperson Tim Doyle told Engadget. "This was never approved and is not going to happen."During Tuesday's White House press briefing, Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt responded to a question regarding the Punchbowl report and called the purported plan "a hostile and political act by Amazon." Citing a Reuters report from 2021, Leavitt claimed that Amazon had partnered with "a Chinese propaganda arm."Amazon Haul is a discount storefront that the company debuted to compete with low-cost Chinese retailers Temu and Shein. In recent days, Temu started including "import charges" of around 145 percent on various products, matching tariffs that the Trump administration imposed on many imports from China. Shein also increased prices, though it hasn't explicitly pinned the blame on "import charges," per CNBC. Tariffs are included in the price you pay," a banner displayed at checkout reads. "You'll never have to pay extra at delivery."Meanwhile, Amazon said on Tuesday it plans to hold its annual blockbuster Prime Day sale this July. According to Reuters, however, some third-party Amazon sellers plan to opt out of this year's event amid uncertainty over tariffs.Update April 29, 2025, 11:36AM ET: Added an updated statement from Amazon.This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/big-tech/amazon-denies-report-that-it-plans-to-show-tariff-impacts-on-its-prices-144320278.html?src=rss
Samsung's 512GB Pro Plus microSD card hits an all-time low of $30
The Samsung 512GB Pro Plus microSD card has hit an all-time low price. You can pick one up for just $30 via Amazon, which is a massive discount of 40 percent. The 256GB model is also on sale, but it's actually slightly more expensive than the 512GB card. This model came in second on our list of the best microSD cards, and with good reason. It's fast, with up to 180 MB/s transfer speeds. It also comes with a USB reader, which is a must for integrating with certain PCs. The card performed admirably in our long-term testing, so it should last for a good while without any issues. The zippy read and write speeds make it particularly suited for portable game consoles, so it's worth considering as an accessory for the Steam Deck and the original Nintendo Switch. As a heads up, it will not work with the Nintendo Switch 2, as the upcoming console requires a MicroSD Express card. Beyond being locked out of the Switch 2 party, this is a great all-around microSD card at an unbeatable price. The only real downside is that Samsung caps the warranty at ten years, and some companies go longer than that. Follow @EngadgetDeals on X for the latest tech deals and buying advice.This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/deals/samsungs-512gb-pro-plus-microsd-card-hits-an-all-time-low-of-30-152245638.html?src=rss
Yelp will use AI to help restaurants answer calls and make phone reservations
Yelp has announced new AI-powered call answering features for restaurants and services as part of its Spring Product Release. With the service, currently under development, the company hopes that "businesses never have to miss a call again.""In this next step of our product transformation, we're continuing to harness AI to unlock the potential of Yelp's rich data in ways that build trust and simplify decision-making - whether users are hiring a pro or booking a reservation," Yelp's chief product officer, Craig Saldanha, said in a statement. "By grounding our AI in real consumer behavior and business data, we're creating intuitive, transparent features that improve the experience for everyone on Yelp."The AI-powered system "will be fully integrated into Yelp's platform with customizable features and the ability to answer general questions, filter spam, transfer calls when needed, and capture messages." For restaurants, it will make reservations, put guests on a waitlist and highlight deals like happy hours. It will be part of Yelp Guest Manager, which is also getting a few updates to streamline operations - plus, a new Guest Experience Survey.Users calling services will be able to provide project details, get answers to follow-up questions and receive a call back from the company. For example, if a person has an issue with their car, they can give information to the AI system and receive potential solutions. Every business will be able to customize the AI service's greetings, choose when a call should be forwarded and determine follow-up questions.This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/ai/yelp-will-use-ai-to-help-restaurants-answer-calls-and-make-phone-reservations-143320476.html?src=rss
WhatsApp is reportedly bringing voice and video calls to browsers
Microsoft will shut Skype down on Monday, May 5, in less than a week's time. While it's long fallen by the wayside in favor of Zoom, Teams and Google Meet, more users might be turning to WhatsApp. The Meta-owned messaging platform is reportedly working on a feature that would bring voice and video calling to its web browser, WABetaInfo reports.WhatsApp already allows voice and video calls on its Mac and Windows apps, but this update would allow users to access these functions without downloading an app. While I'm happy to have the app on my personal computer, this could benefit anyone who doesn't want to download WhatsApp on a work computer. Right now, the feature is only under development, but there's a preview of it below.WABetaInfoWhatsApp has taken additional measures recently to make calling easier. In March, the platform launched a call menu feature for one-on-one and group chats. It allows users to quickly choose a type of call from within the chat or to send a call link.This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/big-tech/whatsapp-is-reportedly-bringing-voice-and-video-calls-to-browsers-130026611.html?src=rss
LlamaCon 2025 live: Updates from Meta's first generative AI developer conference keynote
After a couple years of having its open-source Llama AI model be just a part of its Connect conferences, Meta is breaking things out and hosting an entirely generative AI-focused developer conference called LlamaCon on April 29. The event is streaming online, and you'll be able to watch along live on the Meta for Developers Facebook page.LlamaCon kicks off today at 1PM ET / 10AM PT with a keynote address from Meta's Chief Product Officer Chris Cox, Vice President of AI Manohar Paluri and research scientist Angela Fan. The keynote is supposed to cover developments in the company's open-source AI community, "the latest on the Llama collection of models and tools" and offer a glimpse at yet-to-be released AI features.The keynote address will be followed by a conversation at 1:45PM PT / 10:45PM ET between Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg and Databricks CEO Ali Ghodsi on "building AI-powered applications," followed by a chat at 7PM ET / 4PM PT about "the latest trends in AI" between Zuckerberg and Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella. It doesn't seem like either conversation will be used to break news, but Microsoft and Meta have collaborated before, so anything is possible.Meta hasn't traditionally waited for a conference to launch updates to Meta AI or the Llama model. The company introduced its new Llama 4 family of models, which excel at image understanding and document parsing, on a Saturday in early April. It's not clear what new models or products the company could have saved for LlamaCon.We'll be liveblogging the keynote presentation today, along with some of the subsequent interviews and sessions between Zuckerberg and his guests. Stay tuned and refresh this article at about 10AM ET today, when we'll kick off the live updates.Update, April 29 2025, 6:00AM ET: This story was updated to include the details of Engadget's liveblog, and correct a few typos in timezones.This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/ai/llamacon-2025-live-updates-from-metas-first-generative-ai-developer-conference-keynote-215241436.html?src=rss
Amazon deploys the first Project Kuiper internet satellites
Amazon has finally launched its first batch of Project Kuiper internet satellites on top of a United Launch Alliance Atlas V rocket. The company was supposed to send the first 27 satellites in the constellation, which will eventually be comprised of more than 3,200 satellites, on April 8. However, the event got pushed back. A previous Bloomberg investigation claimed that Kuiper was way behind schedule, because the company was struggling to ramp up the production of its satellites. If true, the company will have to ask for an extension from the FCC to fulfill its commitment to the government, requiring it to put 1,600 satellites in orbit next summer.An Amazon spokesperson denied that the company was having manufacturing issues, however. They said that Amazon was on track to support its target and that it will continue increasing its production and launch rates. Around seven hours after launch, Amazon CEO Andy Jassy announced that the company has confirmed that its "first 27 production satellites are operating as expected in low Earth orbit." Amazon now has over 80 launches scheduled with ULA on top of the Atlas V and the aerospace corporation's newer Vulcan Centaur heavy lift vehicles. The company's goal is to provide internet access to far-flung regions not typically reached by conventional internet connections. Its staunchest rival, SpaceX's Starlink, already has over 7,000 functioning satellites in orbit.
OpenAI adds shopping features to ChatGPT Search
OpenAI, which spends far more money than it takes in, is trying something new to stanch the bleeding. The company just announced that all users, including on the free tier, can shop from ChatGPT Search. "You can now search for a product, compare options and buy products in ChatGPT," OpenAI said in a press release. Categories currently available include fashion, beauty, home goods and electronics, with expansion to more categories set to come later.The search results you'll obtain are "chosen independently and are not ads," the company promises. The updates are available in 4o and are rolling out to ChatGPT Plus, Pro, Free and even logged-out users. Along with the shopping, OpenAI introduced search in WhatsApp, enabling users to send a WhatsApp message to ChatGPT to get up-to-date answers. Also new are improved citations, trending search and upcoming memory integration.Trusting ChatGPT for accurate shopping advise may be a risk, as the app tends to (still) make stuff up when it doesn't know an answer. It seems that OpenAI is accessing reviews from Wired and other sites to get information on products, presumably through license agreements. It's not clear how OpenAI is making money on shopping since it's surfacing organic results and not paid placements, but it could be through affiliate revenue.The company certainly needs the cash. OpenAI only made $4 billion last year, reportedly after spending $9 billion. The company expects to boost that revenue by a factor of 30 to $125 billion by 2029, though it didn't give any specifics on how it plans to do so. As it stands now, OpenAI makes the bulk of its money from paid subscriptions and the rest through licensing its API.This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/ai/openai-adds-shopping-features-to-chatgpt-search-133057362.html?src=rss
Our favorite Garmin GPS watch is $60 off right now
The Garmin Forerunner 165 watch is on sale for $190, which is $60 off. Just head on over to Wellbots and enter the code 60ENGADGET at checkout. This code also allows for free shipping, which is always nice. The Forerunner 165 topped our list of the best GPS running watches, and with very good reason. We loved the lightweight design, bright AMOLED touchscreen and the straightforward physical controls. The GPS is accurate and it tracks workout stats and all-day activity data. The battery also lasts for around 11 days, which is a decent metric. Starting a run is simple, thanks to a clearly-labeled button. However, this thing can track more than standard runs. It tracks walking, strength training, swimming and a whole lot more. The watch is lightweight and comfortable enough for ultra-sweaty training sessions. This deal is for the version without dedicated storage for music, though that one's also on sale. The same code works for the Garmin Forerunner 165 Music edition, bringing the price down to $240 from $300. Even the Garmin Forerunner 965 smartwatch is available at a discount. Knock off $120 with the code 120ENGADGET. This model also made the aforementioned list of running watches. Follow @EngadgetDeals on X for the latest tech deals and buying advice.This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/deals/our-favorite-garmin-gps-watch-is-60-off-right-now-130014078.html?src=rss
Duolingo will replace contract workers with AI
Duolingo is now going to be "AI-first," the company has announced - aka it will drop employees in favor of using AI. In a publicly shared email, CEO Luis von Ahn outlined how Duolingo will "gradually stop using contractors to do work that AI can handle." This follows the company's January 2024 decision to cut 10 percent of its contractors, in part because AI could do their tasks.In the email, von Ahn points to Duolingo's "need to create a massive amount of content, and doing that manually doesn't scale. One of the best decisions we made recently was replacing a slow, manual content creation process with one powered by AI. Without AI, it would take us decades to scale our content to more learners. We owe it to our learners to get them this content ASAP."The CEO claims that Duolingo still "cares deeply about its employees" but that it needs to remove bottlenecks to best utilize them. To that end, it will be looking for experience using AI both in hiring and when doing performance reviews.In the email, von Ahn admits that AI is far from perfect - wow, who knew? But, he states that Duolingo should move with urgency, rather than wait and take "occasional small hits" quality-wise. We'll have to wait and see what these AI-powered prompts will look like as a result.This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/ai/duolingo-will-replace-contract-workers-with-ai-123058178.html?src=rss
The best sous vide machine for 2025
For those looking to elevate their cooking, a sous vide machine might be the perfect addition to your toolkit. Previously, these gadgets were almost exclusively used by high-end restaurants. But more recently, prices have come down to where they can be relatively affordable additions to your kitchen.
US Congress passes 'Take It Down' revenge porn bill that also covers AI deepfakes
The US House of Representatives has passed the Take It Down Act, a bipartisan bill that criminalizes the "publication of non-consensual, sexually exploitative images," including AI-generated deepfakes that depict "identifiable, real people." It would also compel platforms, such as social networks, to remove those images within 48 hours of being notified. The bill enjoyed overwhelming support in Congress and was cleared for approval by President Trump with a vote of 409 to 2. It passed Senate unanimously in February, and Trump, who previously talked about it while addressing Congress, is expected to sign the bill into law.Nearly every state in the country has its own laws revolving around revenge porn, and there are 20 states that already have laws that cover deepfakes. Take It Down's authors, who include Senator Ted Cruz, explained that those laws "vary in classification of crime and penalty and have uneven criminal prosecution." Victims are also still having a tough time getting their images removed under those laws. However, it's that takedown provision in the bill that has raised concerns among critics.According to the Electronic Frontier Foundation, the provision could potentially apply to any image that's perceived as sexual or intimate even if it's not revenge porn. It has much broader definitions of what a "non-consensual, sexually exploitative image" is compared to its narrower definitions in other parts of the bill, the organization said. In addition, the EFF argued that the bill lacks safeguards against bad-faith takedown requests. Since online platforms typically use automated systems to remove content, and 48 hours are likely not enough time to verify each request's legitimacy, they'll most likely just depublish most reported images without checking them first.One of the Republican representatives who voted against the bill said it was "ripe for abuse, with unintended consequences." But Cruz previously said after introducing Take It Down that it will "protect and empower all victims" of revenge porn by "creating a level playing field at the federal level and putting the responsibility on websites to have in place procedures to remove these images."This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/cybersecurity/us-congress-passes-take-it-down-revenge-porn-bill-that-also-covers-ai-deepfakes-120047880.html?src=rss
The Morning After: Google gives Android its own show
Google I/O is usually where the company reveals what's happening with its smartphone OS for the next 12 months, but this year, Android is getting its own thing. A week ahead of I/O, Google will deep dive into the future of Android in a special edition of The Android Show.The company said people have been asking for more ways to learn about how the Android experience is changing. (Who are these people?)Google says it has so many new things to share" regarding Android, hence this edition of The Android Show - a long-running YouTube series mainly for devs. The presentation will feature Android Ecosystem president Sameer Samat, but Google added that Android will still feature at I/O, where the company says it'll reveal even more special announcements and surprises."The Android Show: I/O Edition will air on May 13 at 1PM ET.- Mat SmithGet Engadget's newsletter delivered direct to your inbox. Subscribe right here!All the big news you might have missed
Wholesome Direct 2025 will premiere on June 7
Wholesome Direct, an annual showcase of cute and cozy games, is returning on Saturday, June 7 at 12PM ET / 9AM PT. This year's event will show off "a vibrant lineup of artistic, uplifting, and emotionally resonant games from developers of all sizes from around the world," according to Wholesome Games' announcement post.Last year's Wholesome Direct covered over 30 games, including updates to already released titles and the reveal of entirely new games. The definition of "wholesome" is generally as broad as event organizer Wholesome Games needs it to be, but Kamaeru: A Frog Refugefrom the 2024 Direct is a good example of the kind of game this showcase likes to feature. It's a cute concept (a management game about running a wildlife refuge), has a beautifully illustrated art style and features relaxed, but deep gameplay. Many of the projects that fill out the average Wholesome Direct lineup fit a similar description.Wholesome Games hasn't yet announced which developers will be featured during the Wholesome Direct, but the odds are good that its own Wholesome Games Present publishing label will have some games in the mix. Is This Seat Taken?, a puzzle game about figuring out seating arrangements, doesn't have a release date yet and would be a natural fit for the show.Wholesome Direct 2025 will stream on YouTube and Twitch on June 7 at 12PM ET / 9AM PT. The showcase falls right in the middle of Summer Game Fest, a group of loosely-affiliated game showcases that start airing on June 6, 2025.This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/gaming/wholesome-direct-2025-will-premiere-on-june-7-214501921.html?src=rss
Mycopunk is an upbeat love letter to extraction shooters
The extraction-shooter genre is getting a little more crowded and a lot more stylish with the announcement of Mycopunk, a four-player, first-person romp from indie studio Pigeons at Play and publisher Devolver Digital. Mycopunk is coming to Steam in early access this year.Mycopunk stars four eccentric robots who've been hired by an intergalactic megacorporation to exterminate an invasive, violent fungus that's taken root on a valuable planet. Each robot has a specific class and moveset, but players can use any weapon or loadout with any character - and that's a huge benefit, because there are a ton of wacky guns, upgrades and ammo options in this game. For example, there are bouncing shotgun pellets, bullets that hover in place and then dive down when you press the trigger again, and a rocket launcher move that also makes you fly. Customization is a big part of the Mycopunk experience, and there are about 40 upgrades for every weapon, plus unique skill enhancements for each robot. A spatial upgrade system lets you activate abilities by placing their molecular strands on a honeycomb grid, combining effects in powerful and silly ways.The main loop in Mycopunk involves gathering your team, setting mission modifiers, and then dropping onto a planet to kill hordes of massive, tentacled fungus monsters. With each run, you have to accomplish your corporate-directed goal, collect resources for future upgrades and generally survive the onslaught. Missions are fast-paced and the action shifts throughout, dropping new enemies, minibosses and environmental dangers until your final escape.The hub world, where you hang out between missions, is surprisingly vast and packed with surreal touches, like a giant TV screen that only shows a sitcom about roaches. All abilities are unlocked in the hub so you can freely test out your character, plus there are vehicles to drive around, a sparring area, a recreation sphere, snack machines, and secret passageways to explore. It also has Roachard, your mission control contact who happens to be a big roach.Devolver DigitalVisually, Pigeons at Play took inspiration from your coolest friend's favorite comic book artist, Moebius, which lends the game a gritty, hand-drawn vibe. Mycopunk looks like a living graphic novel, blending retrofuturism with slick mechanics to create a rich, tactile experience. It specifically reminds me of Rollerdrome, a gorgeous game that I will never stop talking about.Mycopunk started out as a senior thesis project for the Pigeons at Play crew, but it's transformed into something much larger (kind of like a well-fed fungus). Mycopunk is charming and surprisingly deep, with dozens of cute touches that come straight from the developers' history of playing co-op shooters together. For instance, to revive a teammate you have to literally find and reconnect two halves of their broken robot body, instead of just pressing X over their corpse in the middle of a hectic battlefield. Each character also has their own dance moves, and one of the available upgrades lets you move a swarm of bullets through the air like a murderous orchestra conductor.A demo for Mycopunk went live on Steam today and the game is set to enter early access later in 2025.This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/gaming/pc/mycopunk-is-an-upbeat-love-letter-to-extraction-shooters-192337609.html?src=rss
How to delete your Twitter (or X) account
There are plenty of good reasons to delete your X account, whether it's because of a general desire to not do anything to help Elon Musk, a distaste for the curdled culture of the platform or the allure of greener social pastures like Bluesky or Threads. Whatever your reason, the process of deleting your account is simple, and by design, pretty hands-off. In order to get rid of your X account, you'll first have to deactivate it. Once you go 30 days without logging in, it will be permanently deleted.How to deactivate your X accountIan Carlos Campbell for EngadgetDeactivating your X account makes your profile page, posts and associated username disappear, though posts you were tagged in before you shutdown in your account will still be viewable. Deactivating also makes it impossible for you to post or view your timeline, unless you reactivate. It's one of the strongest ways to "take a break" from X, but also the only way you can get your account permanently deleted.If you need any of your data before you deactivate and delete, you'll want to make sure you initiate that process and receive your archive before you deactivate. X says it can't send an archive from an account that's been deactivated.
There’s a massive power outage cross Spain, Portugal and parts of France
Spain, Portugal and parts of France have experienced a massive power outage. The interruption of service extends to the capital cities Madrid and Lisbon, both of which have been left without electricity and internet. Seville, Barcelona and Valencia have also been impacted.A grid operator in Portugal has attributed the outage to extreme temperature variations" in a statement given to the Independent. Spain's Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez has offered a slightly different take, stating that there is no conclusive information" regarding the cause of the blackout.The aforementioned grid operator also warned that it could take up to a full week to restore power, though others have suggested things could be up and running within ten hours. Spanish power company Red Electrica has stated that it has already restored power to some northern parts of the Iberian Peninsula.Due to the outages, airports have been disabled and events like the Madrid Open have been cancelled. Spain's major railway operator Renfe has noted that trains are stuck at stations or along their routes due to the lack of electricity.
Nintendo Switch 2 pre-orders: Latest updates as console remains sold out at GameStop, Walmart, Target, Best Buy and others
Nintendo Switch 2 pre-orders are technically open in North America, but if you haven't managed to grab one already, you may have a tough time doing so before the console's June 5 release date. After what felt like a long delay from Nintendo's original April 9 pre-order date, the company finally opened up pre-orders in the US and Canada on April 24. A couple of (technically messy) hours later, stock at third-party retailers such as Walmart, Target and Best Buy promptly sold out. GameStop opened up its pre-orders later that morning and quickly met the same fate, with the company later confirming its online stock had dried up as well. Some users were reportedly able to order through Walmart as late as Saturday, April 26, but as of our latest update, the retailer has taken down one of its Switch 2 pre-order pages entirely. Another listing is still live but out of stock. For now, none of the other aforementioned retailers are currently accepting pre-orders either. We'll update this post if that changes - particularly as Walmart opens up "Walmart+ Week" sales event - but right now the only other retailer confirmed to accept pre-orders is Nintendo itself. That said, the device maker is only offering the Switch 2 through an invite system, for which it began accepting registrations on April 2. The first wave of those invites will go out on May 8, though the company recently updated its pre-order page to say that some may not receive their pre-order email until after the June 5 launch date. How to pre-order the Nintendo Switch 2 As noted above, third-party retailers like Best Buy, GameStop, Walmart and Target opened their pre-orders on April 24 as scheduled. Best Buy, Walmart and Target pre-orders opened at midnight, while GameStop's in-person and online pre-orders started at 11am. However, all of those retailers have either sold out of their stock or list the console as "coming soon" as of this writing. We also expect the Switch 2 to be available from Amazon some time in the future, but links are not live on the site yet, and there's been no indication as to when that might change. Other membership-based retailers like Costco and Sam's Club have posted Switch 2 listings as well, though it doesn't appear as if those stores will accept pre-orders. Newegg has also added a Switch 2 page but isn't offering an option to buy just yet. At this point, we recommend signing up via Nintendo's website if you haven't already. It's free to register and you'll eventually get an email that will allow you to order the console, even if you have to wait until after the June 5 launch day. However, note that Nintendo says it will prioritize invites "on a first-come, first-served basis" to those who've paid for its Switch Online service for at least 12 months and logged at least 50 hours of total Switch gameplay time. (You'll also need to have opted into sharing gameplay data with Nintendo, which you can confirm in your account's privacy settings.) So if you're just registering with Nintendo today, don't be surprised if it takes some time for your invite to arrive. Either way, if you're desperate to catch a restock, it's a good idea to create accounts with each of the retailers above and ensure all of your shipping and billing info is correct. Downloading each store's mobile app and signing up for notifications may help too, though that could get annoying fairly quickly. We'll continue to update this post as time goes on with the latest Switch 2 pre-order information. Pre-order Nintendo Switch 2
Kickstarter adds a 'tariff manager' to let creators add surcharges to previously funded projects
The consequences of President Trump's tariff policies are starting to kick in. Crowdfunding platform Kickstarter just announced something called a "Tariff Manager Tool" that lets creators add new surcharges to funded projects. This should help these creators deal with the unexpected costs of Trump's global trade war.Here's how it works. Creators will be able to apply per-item surcharges to account for tariff-related cost increases. These charges will appear as a separate line item on the payment page for folks who have funded the project. It only applies to items heading to US-based shipping addresses.Not everyone will want to, or be able to, pay an additional fee for something they backed months or years ago when the economy was stronger. Backers will be given the option to decline the surcharge, in which case a creator can issue a refund. A blog post does suggest that backers and creators could find "another resolution," beyond a refund, but didn't get into specifics."We understand that asking backers to pay an additional fee-especially after a campaign has ended-can be sensitive," Kickstarter said. "Our goal is to provide you with the flexibility and transparency necessary to navigate those conversations with clarity and care."Many Kickstarter projects rely on parts manufactured in China, Vietnam and other places that are now subject to exorbitant tariffs. This is poised to be exceptionally brutal for American small businesses, but Kickstarter creators face another hurdle. Backers typically fund a project months or years before fulfillment. It's going to be unpleasant to find a new surcharge for something funded back in 2023 or whenever.
The Samsung Galaxy Watch 7 is $90 off
The Samsung Galaxy Watch 7 is back on sale, this time for the lowest price we've seen since Black Friday. This particular deal is for the 40mm model and only for the green colorway, but you can always swap out the strap if that's not quite your style. This variant is 30 percent or $90 off the usual price of $300. In other words, it can be yours for $210. Perhaps a cream strap is more of a match for your look. In that case, you can save on a version of the Galaxy Watch 7 with that too as it has dropped to $240. For the same price, you can get a 44mm Galaxy Watch 7 in green (which has a slightly larger, 1.5-inch screen). That also marks a discount of $90. Samsung hasn't rocked the boat much with the last few iterations of the Galaxy Watch, but it's largely a case of "if it ain't broke, don't fix it" - even if we do have some reservations about the latest generation of the wearable. We gave the Galaxy Watch 7 a score of 85 in our review. The always-on display's impact on battery life is our main bugbear, while running a finger along the bezel for navigation feels clunky. That said, the Galaxy Watch 7 offers reliable activity tracking (with automatic logging for walks) and it delivers speedy performance. We appreciate that it looks more like a traditional watch than much of the competition too. While the Google Pixel Watch 3 is our pick for the best smartwatch for Android users, there's still a lot to like about the Galaxy Watch 7 - especially at this price. Follow @EngadgetDeals on X for the latest tech deals and buying advice.This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/deals/the-samsung-galaxy-watch-7-is-90-off-165020232.html?src=rss
LG’s refreshed QNED Evo LCD TVs arrive in May
LG's 2025 lineup of its QNED Evo premium LCD TVs will be available to buy starting in May, following an initial reveal at the end of 2024 ahead of CES. The flagship QNED9M is the first QNED (Quantum Nano-Emitting Diode) TV capable of leveraging LG's True Wireless tech to wirelessly transmit and display 4K content, a feature previously exclusive to the company's more premium OLED TVs.LG might be best known for its OLEDs these days, but the trickling down of the wireless functionality it first introduced back in 2023 with the Zero Connect Box is proof that the company isn't forgetting about its more affordable LCD sets. LG claims that with devices like game consoles or set-top boxes plugged into that external box, you can expect to transmit 4K content at up to 144Hz with no latency or loss in picture and audio quality. In a win for clutter-haters (and who isn't one of those), the only cable you'll need to plug into the TV itself is its power cord. It's worth noting that models 55-inch and below top out at a refresh rate of 120Hz.The QNED Evo lineup is powered by LG's Alpha AI processor. The updated TVs also benefit from LG's Dynamic QNED Color solution, replacing quantum dot tech, which produces more vivid and lifelike colors. QNED TVs combine quantum dot and nanocell technology with Mini LED backlighting that employs thousands of dimming zones. As a result, you get brighter images and higher contrast compared to a more traditional LCD panel, even if it's still a step down from the self-lit pixels on an OLED display.The new AI Magic Remote you get in the box has a dedicated AI button, which when pressed allows you to make personalized voice requests. The baked-in AI tech can also tweak the TV according to your personal audio and visual preferences, enhance faces and key scene elements, and produce virtual 9.1.2 surround sound from the built-in speakers.The TVs also double as smart home hubs, offering multi-platform connectivity through LG ThinQ and Google Home. AirPlay and Google Cast are from your iPhone or Android device of choice.With sizes ranging from 50 to 100 inches, the refreshed QNED Evo models roll out next month in the US, but prices still haven't been announced.This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/home/home-theater/lgs-refreshed-qned-evo-lcd-tvs-are-arriving-in-may-161545392.html?src=rss
Google is giving Android its own showcase a week before I/O
Google I/O is where we learn about many major features and updates that are coming to the company's ecosystem, including on the Android front. The company is doing something a little different this year. Just ahead of I/O, it will provide a deep dive into the future of Android with a special edition of The Android Show.This is the first time that Google has held such a showcase before I/O. The company says that people have been asking for more ways to learn about how the Android experience is changing and giving the ecosystem its own spotlight ahead of the main event is one way to do that.Google says it has so many new things to share" regarding Android, hence this edition of The Android Show (a series that the company has been running for developers on YouTube for a while). The presentation will feature Android Ecosystem president Sameer Samat. Android will still be featured at I/O, where Google is promising to reveal even more special announcements and surprises." Multiple Android keynotes are scheduled for the event.The Android Show: I/O Edition will air on May 13 at 1PM ET. Google I/O takes place a week later, starting on May 20. As ever, we'll bring you all the important news and updates you need to know from the event right here on Engadget.This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/mobile/google-is-giving-android-its-own-showcase-a-week-before-io-160035457.html?src=rss
Nothing sub-brand CMF just announced a new smartphone and earbuds
Nothing sub-brand CMF just announced several new products, including a refresh of its flagship smartphone. The Phone Pro 2 looks to be an improvement over its predecessor in every major way.The company says it's the lightest and slimmest smartphone it has ever designed. It's 7.8mm thin and weighs 6.5 ounces. That may make it the lightest phone Nothing has ever made, but the iPhone 16, for instance, is just six ounces.The sixth-generation MediaTek Dimensity 7300 Pro 5G processor includes an 8-core CPU that can run clock speeds up to 2.5GHz, which allows for an uptick in both processing and graphics when compared to the CMF Phone 1. The battery also looks particularly robust, with the company suggesting it can last two full days on a single charge.There's a 6.77-inch FHD+ AMOLED display and a four-camera setup, complete with a 50MP main camera. This system includes a telephoto lens, an ultra-wide and a front-facing selfie camera. There's also a modular component to the camera array, as users can attach a fisheye and macro lens.CMF by NothingThe CMF Phone 2 Pro comes in four colors, but each color offers unique design elements. For instance, the black and light green models feature a back that mimics frosted glass and is bordered with a metallic frame. The orange model boasts a metallic sheen, while the white phone includes a paneled sandstone finish on the back.The good news? These are budget-friendly phones. The 256GB model costs just $279. However, they look to be tough to get a hold of here in the US. Preorders technically open today, with shipments going out on May 6, but the phone is only available for those in the company's beta program.CMF by NothingNow onto the earbuds, none of which will be available to purchase in the US at launch. The CMF Buds 2 look to be a standard entry-level affair, with ANC and tech that mimics spatial audio. They cost around $50.The CMF Buds 2 Plus adds hi-res LDAC and a full EQ into the mix. These cost around $65. The CMF Buds 2a are made for budget-conscious consumers, though they still include ANC. They cost around $38. All of these earbuds will be available on May 6.This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/mobile/smartphones/nothing-sub-brand-cmf-just-announced-a-new-smartphone-and-earbuds-134517602.html?src=rss
The Last of Us season two 'The Path' recap: The calm after the storm before the storm
There's an understandable and undeniable pall hanging over The Last of Us after last week's shocker. And it's the calm before the storm that'll make up the rest of the season: Ellie and Dina's trip to Seattle to track down Joel's killers. But amid the sadness of that loss and the frustration of Ellie not getting the support of the town in her revenge plan is the absolute delight of seeing more of Ellie and Dina together.They were probably the highlight of the first episode - their chemistry didn't immediately hit Joel and Ellie levels, but Bella Ramsey and Isabela Merced were doing great work together right off the bat. Here, we get to see a lot more of them together, and Dina's combination of playfulness and planning is a solid counter to Ellie's dry humor and impulsive nature.A great example is their trip to Seattle on horseback, as Dina challenges Ellie to name the best band she can think of for every letter of the alphabet, something Ellie eventually has quite enough of. Dina says she can come up with another game, and Ellie immediately quips they could just travel in silence, something Dina ignores and makes Ellie tell her about the first person she had to kill. Just the kind of lighthearted road trip companion Ellie needs right now.Photograph by Liane Hentscher/HBODina is at her best in this episode when she barges in on Ellie planning for a midnight escape from the city to bring Abby to justice on her own. Earlier in the episode, the Jackson town council votes down her proposal to assemble a large crew to go after the WLF group - primarily because the town was so ravaged by the Infected horde the same day Joel was killed that they can't spare the people. Naturally, Ellie is ready to go rogue and go on her own, but she's not really ready. Dina shows up at her place, teases her for not planning to bring anything but guns, and lays out exactly what they need and what they don't. Oh, and she already has it all ready to go. It's a little too mean to say Ellie is not the brains of the operation, but she'd almost certainly be in trouble without Dina.Beyond her practical skills, Dina flirts with Ellie constantly throughout the episode, asking Ellie to rate their kiss at the New Year's Eve dance, teasing her about wanting to wear her Converse on a lengthy journey, whispering in Ellie's ear that she is a badass after Ellie makes a dorky, action movie-style proclamation. But perhaps the most telling comment she makes is after they very briefly discuss that NYE kiss - Ellie says Dina was high, Dina says Ellie was drunk, and they both agree it didn't really mean anything. They then turn off the light in their tent, and Dina can't help but say she wasn't that high. Ramsey and Merced's version of will they, won't they" brings some much-needed levity to their situation.Photograph by Liane Hentscher/HBOAnd to be clear, levity is much needed. Even though there isn't much real action, the fallout from Joel's death and the Infected siege is all over this episode. It starts with Tommy slowly cleaning Joel's body before the camera pulls out and shows a whole room of bodies covered with sheets. That's followed by Ellie awakening in a hospital with a tube coming out of her chest; she then screams bloody murder at remembering what happened to her. That's not to mention the sunrise visit to Joel's grave where Ellie briefly smiles as she puts some coffee beans by his side, or her walk through his empty house where she finds his signature watch, revolver and jacket. Keep the tissues handy.While Ramsey's Ellie is at her best when partnered with Dina, she also does some great work on her own - the aforementioned hospital scene is chilling, but my favorite Ellie moments in this episode are when she's trying (and failing) to convince people she's okay. Her speech to the town assembly encouraging them to go after the WLF is not the off-the-cuff anger that Jesse encouraged her to avoid, but you can tell Ellie is just trying to placate the masses instead of saying what she really wants. The same goes for her conversation with Gail the therapist when she leaves the hospital, though Ellie doesn't even try to hide her therapy platitudes behind a veneer of belief.Photograph by Liane Hentscher/HBOOddly enough, it's Seth (the bigot who got bowled over by Joel in episode one) who says what Ellie is really feeling, interrupting the meeting when someone objects to the plan to go to Seattle. Seth is enraged by what happened to a member of his community and thinks they should pursue justice at any cost. It's far from the most measured take, but it certainly feels like the most honest.Thus it's not a huge surprise when he's ready to help Ellie and Dina as they slip out of town, offering them a load of supplies and insisting Ellie take his better rifle. He says he'd go with them except for catching some friendly fire during the Infected battle, to which Ellie replies are you sure it was friendly?" She's clearly not ready to forgive him for his words, but a better gun, some supplies and a shared desire for revenge gets her close enough. She shakes his offered hand as they ride out of town.Infected Score: 0/10The showrunners say season two will have more Infected than season one - let's see if they're sticking to their word.No Infected to be seen here, aside from some charred corpses around Jackson. That's just fine with me after last week's showdown.This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/entertainment/tv-movies/the-last-of-us-season-two-the-path-recap-the-calm-after-the-storm-before-the-storm-120036861.html?src=rss
UK regulator wants to ban apps that can make deepfake nude images of children
The UK's Children's Commissioner is calling for a ban on AI deepfake apps that create nude or sexual images of children, according to a new report. It states that such "nudification" apps have become so prevalent that many girls have stopped posting photos on social media. And though creating or uploading CSAM images is illegal, apps used to create deepfake nude images are still legal."Children have told me they are frightened by the very idea of this technology even being available, let alone used. They fear that anyone - a stranger, a classmate, or even a friend - could use a smartphone as a way of manipulating them by creating a naked image using these bespoke apps." said Children's Commissioner Dame Rachel de Souza. "There is no positive reason for these [apps] to exist."De Souza pointed out that nudification AI apps are widely available on mainstream platforms, including the largest search engines and app stores. At the same time, they "disproportionately target girls and young women, and many tools appear only to work on female bodies." She added that young people are demanding action to take action against the misuse of such tools.To that end, de Souza is calling on the government to introduce a total ban on apps that use artificial intelligence to generate sexually explicit deepfakes. She also wants the government to create legal responsibilities for GenAI app developers to identify the risks their products pose to children, establish effective systems to remove CSAM from the internet and recognize deepfake sexual abuse as a form of violence against women and girls.The UK has already taken steps to ban such technology by introducing new criminal offenses for producing or sharing sexually explicit deepfakes. It also announced its intention to make it a criminal offense if a person takes intimate photos or video without consent. However, the Children's Commissioner is focused more specifically on the harm such technology can do to young people, noting that there is a link between deepfake abuse and suicidal ideation and PTSD, as The Guardian pointed out."Even before any controversy came out, I could already tell what it was going to be used for, and it was not going to be good things. I could already tell it was gonna be a technological wonder that's going to be abused," said one 16-year-old girl surveyed by the Commissioner.In the US, the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is 1-800-273-8255 or you can simply dial 988. Crisis Text Line can be reached by texting HOME to 741741 (US), 686868 (Canada), or 85258 (UK). Wikipedia maintains a list of crisis lines for people outside of those countries.This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/cybersecurity/uk-regulator-wants-to-ban-apps-that-can-make-deepfake-nude-images-of-children-110924095.html?src=rss
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