The company's recent addition of social platforms and user reviews, which many users quickly disable, highlights this shift. This focus on promoting its own ad-supported streaming services over the personal media and DVR features that users like the author rely on is a significant point of contention, especially for those paying for premium services like Plex Pass.

The price hike for the lifetime Plex Pass, from $250 to $750, further adds to the frustration. This steep increase makes the annual subscription seem more appealing, despite the core functionality issues. This dissatisfaction naturally leads users to explore free and open-source options like Jellyfin.

For basic local media streaming, Jellyfin performs admirably. Setting up the server and accessing your media library on devices within your home network is straightforward. While minor metadata corrections might be needed, similar to Plex setup, the core streaming function works well. Jellyfin also boasts clients for all major platforms.

However, remote access, a key convenience of Plex, is where Jellyfin falters. Unlike Plex, which uses its own infrastructure to simplify remote connections, Jellyfin requires users to set up their own networking solutions, such as VPNs or port forwarding, which can be complex for non-technical users. This complexity extends to managing multiple media servers, where Plex offers a unified login, while Jellyfin requires individual client configuration for each server.

The Live TV and DVR functionality, a favorite for many Plex users, also presents challenges with Jellyfin. While Plex integrates seamlessly with tuner cards and provides program guide data, Jellyfin's official hardware support is limited. Workarounds involving additional software like NextPVR are often necessary, adding layers of complexity. Furthermore, accessing comprehensive electronic program guide data can incur extra costs or face compatibility issues, unlike Plex's bundled service.

Despite these hurdles, Jellyfin shines for users who enjoy customization and tweaking. Its open-source nature fosters a vibrant community that develops numerous plugins and themes, allowing for extensive personalization. For those who value this level of control and community-driven development, Jellyfin could feel like an upgrade. However, for users seeking a plug-and-play experience, especially with advanced features like Live TV, Plex still holds a significant advantage.

Ultimately, Jellyfin is a capable alternative for those willing to invest the time in configuration and troubleshooting. For users prioritizing ease of use and seamless integration, particularly with Live TV features, Plex remains the more accessible option, despite its recent drawbacks. The author plans to continue with Plex but will keep a watchful eye on Jellyfin's development.

For those managing their health with GLP-1 medications, Oura now offers dedicated tracking. Users can log injections or oral doses, monitor side effects, and record weight changes, complete with reminders for scheduled doses and progress recaps. This feature taps into the growing popularity of these medications for long-term health management.

Privacy is also a major focus for Oura's latest offering. A new Data Deletion feature allows users to erase data from specific time periods without wiping their entire health history. Additionally, users have more control over how their data is used and shared with third parties, offering granular oversight.

A game-changer for multi-ring owners is the support for multiple devices on a single account. You can now pair both Ring 4 and Ring 5 models and switch between them seamlessly without needing a separate membership. This means you can rock different styles without losing your accumulated health data, a feature particularly welcomed by those who value both aesthetics and data continuity.

While competitors like Samsung's Galaxy Ring and Ultrahuman offer compelling alternatives, Oura's software experience remains a standout, despite its required subscription for full feature access. The subscription unlocks more than just basic scores, providing a comprehensive platform for influencing training, sleep, and recovery.

For newcomers or those with a Ring 2 or 3, the Ring 5 is an easy pick thanks to its sleeker design, improved comfort, and expanding software. However, if you're already rocking a Ring 4, the upgrade might be less compelling. Sensor accuracy hasn't seen dramatic leaps, and most software updates are compatible with older hardware. Unless the slimmer profile or enhanced comfort are major draws, holding out for the next generation might be the wiser move.

The experimental satellite, set to orbit at approximately 625 kilometers, features an 18-meter reflector capable of illuminating areas 5 to 6 kilometers in diameter for short periods. Reflect Orbital's ambitious goal, initially reported by WIRED in September 2024, is to create a continuous light source for solar panel installations, thereby overcoming a key limitation of renewable energy. The authorization from the FCC allows the company to test the technical feasibility of its ultrathin, highly reflective film reflector.

Reflect Orbital expressed gratitude for the FCC's approval, calling the ruling "hugely validating" and a testament to America's leadership in innovative space technology. The company envisions diverse applications for its technology, including illuminating disaster zones for search-and-rescue missions, supporting critical infrastructure during emergencies, extending the operational hours of solar energy facilities, and lighting remote construction sites without traditional generators.

However, the project has faced considerable opposition from astronomers and environmental advocates. Critics, including the American Astronomical Society and DarkSky International, warn of potential disruptions to astronomical observations, nocturnal ecosystems, and aviation safety. Concerns have been raised about increased light pollution and the potential transformation of the night sky, with some researchers calling it an "existential threat" to optical astronomy. Additionally, potential flashes of reflected light could impact pilots, drivers, and wildlife.

Despite these objections, the FCC stated that its review focused solely on a single experimental satellite, not a commercial constellation. The agency concluded that Eärendil-1 is a limited-duration technology demonstration and that any future deployment of multiple satellites would require separate regulatory approvals. The FCC also noted that concerns regarding impacts on optical astronomy fall outside the scope of their review for this initial authorization.

Reflect Orbital has pledged to engage with stakeholders and the scientific community, committing to precise control of reflected sunlight, limiting its brightness and duration, and coordinating with affected parties. The company aims to demonstrate the technology's viability and potential impacts through real-world testing, with a willingness to adjust its plans based on evidence.

For those eyeing summer travel, Hotels.com's Summer Sale is the place to be. Expect flash deals with up to 50% off limited-time offers, 40% off popular hotels, and options under $250. Whether you're dreaming of Vegas or Orlando, discounted summer stays are up for grabs.

Hotels.com's OneKey members can already snag up to 30% off stays, with even bigger savings possible if you climb the membership tiers. But if you're looking to maximize your discounts, keep an eye out for specific coupon codes that can offer even more bang for your buck.

Looking for a quick escape? Use the coupon code SUMMER10 to score an extra 10% off select hotels in the US, Canada, or Mexico for bookings made by June 8 and stays through August 31 (up to $150 discount). Hotels.com is also featuring offers for World Cup destinations. For spontaneous travelers, you can save 20% or more on last-minute city breaks when booking within the next two weeks.

Still searching for the perfect gift? A Hotels.com gift card can be a lifesaver for any travel enthusiast. You can even save 10% when you purchase a gift card of $150 or more, helping your favorite traveler fund their next adventure.

Kicking things off is the much-anticipated sci-fi flick 'Project Hail Mary,' now available on Prime Video. This film throws you into a global freeze scenario caused by a mysterious solar phenomenon, following an unlikely astronaut on a mission to save Earth. If you're more into embracing the fiery chaos, Disney+ has 'Avatar: Fire and Ash,' where a fierce new tribe of Na'vi on Pandora aim to set a living moon ablaze.

For those who find the summer swelter a bit much, dive into a double dose of "Satanic panic" with 'Ready or Not 2' on Disney+ and 'They Will Kill You' on Hulu. Both films explore the wild territory of estranged sisters battling murderous cultists with melee weapons – a surprisingly rich, albeit niche, subgenre. If you prefer something that makes you think, 'Archive' offers a cerebral take on AI and consciousness, while 'The Long Walk' presents a gripping dystopian nightmare.

Delving deeper, 'Project Hail Mary,' based on Andy Weir's novel, stars Ryan Gosling as an amnesiac scientist tasked with saving Earth from a sun-devouring anomaly. His unlikely ally? A charming, five-legged alien named Rocky. It's a survival drama with a huge heart, focusing on the heartwarming friendship between human and alien. Meanwhile, 'Avatar: Fire and Ash' continues James Cameron's saga with stunning visuals, picking up after 'The Way of Water' with Jake Sully and his family navigating grief and a dangerous conflict with a fire-worshipping Na'vi tribe.

'Ready or Not 2' picks up where the first film left off, reuniting Grace with her estranged sister for another deadly game orchestrated by the rich and powerful, featuring a fun performance from Sarah Michelle Gellar. 'They Will Kill You' cranks up the intensity with a wild blend of 'Evil Dead' vibes and 'The Raid' action, as Zazie Beetz goes on a brutal mission through a Satanic cult's high-rise to save her sister. Rounding out the list are 'Good Luck, Have Fun, Don't Die,' a bizarre time-travel adventure with sharp social commentary; 'Archive,' a poignant exploration of loss and AI; and 'Hoppers,' a surprisingly emotional animated film about a robot beaver and interspecies conflict. And for the truly brave, the chilling adaptation of Stephen King's 'The Long Walk' offers a harrowing look at survival in a totalitarian regime.

First previewed at WWDC, Siri AI boasts a chatbot-style app and deeper integration across the iPhone experience. Early hands-on reviews suggest it's a significant upgrade, moving beyond basic voice commands to genuinely assist with navigation, information retrieval, and even task completion. Imagine asking Siri to find old vacation photos, draft texts, or recommend a restaurant – all from simple prompts. While not flawless, the new Siri aims to be genuinely useful, especially for those who previously found the assistant underpowered.

Siri AI is now woven into the very fabric of the iPhone. "They've integrated it across the entire ecosystem, so you can access Siri AI no matter where you are on the device," notes Nabila Popal, a senior research director at IDC. This enhanced accessibility, available both through voice and a dedicated app, could fundamentally change how users interact with their devices, though the option to disable it remains.

A key new feature is the dedicated Siri AI app, which functions as an interaction log for past conversations and a starting point for new ones. While reminiscent of other chatbots like ChatGPT, the beta version currently lacks a user preference memory feature, meaning you might need to re-state personal details. Apple is expected to add more advanced capabilities as development progresses.

The real power of Siri AI lies in its contextual awareness. After an indexing process that builds an on-device database, Siri can pull information from your texts, calendar, and other apps to provide highly relevant answers. For instance, it can remind you of upcoming events mentioned in messages or flag appointments from your calendar, effectively transforming your iPhone into a proactive assistant.

Beyond personal context, Siri AI also features "On-Screen Awareness," allowing it to understand what's currently displayed on your screen. This means you can ask follow-up questions about content without needing to provide extra details, making it seamless to verify information or gather more context from social media feeds or articles.

Siri AI's reach extends beyond the iPhone, appearing on iPads, Macs, and even the Vision Pro. On iPhones, features like "Write with Siri" can draft text messages or notes, offering a significant step up from basic auto-suggestions. While Android users with Google Gemini may already be familiar with advanced AI assistant capabilities, Siri AI represents a major leap forward for the iPhone ecosystem, making the vast amount of personal data on our phones truly work for us.

While many are still upgrading to Wi-Fi 6E or Wi-Fi 7, the future standard, officially known as IEEE 802.11bn, is already on the horizon. Wi-Fi 7 brought major advancements in speed and capacity, but the conversation is shifting. The main buzz around Wi-Fi 8 is its commitment to Ultra High Reliability (UHR), a significant upgrade from Wi-Fi 7's focus on Extremely High Throughput (EHT).

This shift means that even with theoretical maximum speeds matching Wi-Fi 7 at 46 Gbps and utilizing the same frequency bands (2.4 GHz, 5 GHz, and 6 GHz) with 320-MHz channel width, the practical benefits will be felt differently. Expect fewer dropped connections, fewer dead zones, and a more stable link, especially crucial for dense urban environments or homes packed with devices.

The rollout of new Wi-Fi standards typically takes several years as manufacturers integrate the technology into chipsets, routers, and a wide array of consumer devices. Although official Wi-Fi Alliance certification for Wi-Fi 8 isn't expected until around 2028, early chipsets are already in production, with some manufacturers like TP-Link hinting at product releases before the end of 2026. Early adopters should be prepared for premium pricing and potentially less dramatic benefits compared to previous upgrades.

As with all previous standards, Wi-Fi 8 will maintain backward compatibility, ensuring that older devices can still connect. However, to fully leverage the new features, users will eventually need to upgrade their routers, smartphones, laptops, and other connected gadgets. For those in the US, regulations like the FCC's ban on foreign-made routers may also influence device availability and options.

The 71-year-old South Carolina senator died Saturday night at his Capitol Hill home shortly after returning from Ukraine. A preliminary report from the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner in Washington, D.C., suggested he likely suffered an aortic tear linked to hardening of the arteries. The report stated that the death certificate is pending further toxicological and microscopic testing.

Despite law enforcement officials telling CNN that no foul play was suspected, conspiracy theorists quickly jumped into action. Many colleagues paid tribute to Graham, but online, speculation ran rampant that his death was an assassination orchestrated by foreign adversaries he had long opposed.

Laura Loomer, a prominent conspiracy theorist, was among the first to cast doubt on natural causes. She suggested a link to Iran's Revolutionary Guard Corps, citing a recent funeral in Tehran where posters calling for the assassination of Americans, including Graham, were displayed. Loomer questioned on X if he was "poisoned by a foreign adversary," a post that garnered 1.8 million views, though she offered no evidence.

Further fueling these theories, some pointed to FBI director Kash Patel's statement that the agency was assisting local authorities, interpreting it as a sign of a cover-up. Others, like former CIA contractor Tony Seruga, claimed the "aortic dissection" explanation was a "perfect cover diagnosis" for chemical attacks. Meanwhile, some blamed Russia due to Graham's strong support for Ukraine and criticism of President Putin, with commentator Marc Thiessen calling for a full autopsy and toxicology screen to rule out foul play.

Even figures like Bill Browder, who has been targeted by Russia, suggested immediate tests to rule out foul play, noting his experience with suspicious Russian-related deaths. Alex Jones promoted unsubstantiated claims that Graham died during a Russian bombing of a drone factory in Ukraine. Interestingly, Putin advisor Alexander Dugin, who had previously advocated for Graham's assassination, offered his own theory, suggesting Israel's Mossad might be responsible to push Trump toward war with Iran.

While bidets have a long history, originating in 18th-century France and gaining popularity in Japan decades ago, they're still relatively new to many Americans. However, their appeal is growing rapidly stateside as more people realize that traditional toilet paper methods are, frankly, not the cleanest. A bidet's pressurized water offers a far superior experience compared to simply wiping with paper.

I had the distinct pleasure of testing the latest bidet innovations, from simple seat add-ons to high-tech, all-in-one toilet systems. Whether you call it a modern marvel or "buttmaxxing," I'm all in, especially when features like heated seats and oscillating sprays are involved. This deep dive into bidet technology aims to help you find the perfect fit for your bathroom.

Among the top contenders, the Brondell Swash 1400 stands out for its blend of functionality, simplicity, and effectiveness, making it an ideal choice for bidet newcomers at an attractive price. It boasts a heated seat, adjustable nozzle, consistent water flow, and a deodorizer, all controlled by an intuitive remote. Its drying feature is prompt and efficient, and the ability to program two user profiles adds a nice touch of personalization. It performed so well that it became my personal choice after testing.

For those seeking the pinnacle of bidet technology, Toto's S7A flagship model is exceptional. It cleverly integrates into a standard toilet seat, complete with automatic lid lifting and a subtle night-light. The controls are user-friendly, offering adjustable spray position, intensity, and oscillation, with a sleek remote that can store settings for up to four users. Toto's innovative Ewater+ system for self-cleaning the bowl is a game-changer, potentially reducing the need for frequent scrubbing. While the drying fan might be slightly less powerful than on previous models, the S7A remains a top-tier, reliable investment.

If sheer water pressure is your priority, the Bio Bidet BB-2000 is unparalleled. Its patented vortex wash technology delivers a powerful, targeted hydro-flush. Beyond its intense cleaning capabilities, it offers all the luxury features expected from high-end models, including a heated seat, dryer, adjustable nozzle, night-light, and deodorizer. While it has a slight learning curve, it's the ultimate choice for those who demand thoroughness and intensity.

For a truly integrated and luxurious experience, the Toto Aurora Washlet+ S7A with Integravity System redefines the toilet. This sleek, quiet, and technologically advanced unit seamlessly combines with the S7A bidet for touchless operation of seat lifting, lowering, and flushing. The nozzle, heated seat, air-dry, and oscillation features are outstanding, and the Integravity System ensures the bowl remains sparkling clean with every flush, using less water than standard toilets. Despite potential installation complexities and a high price point, it offers an unparalleled bathroom experience.

The Kohler Veil One-Piece and PureWash E930 Set offers a discreet bidet solution. It cleverly conceals cords and hoses for a clean look and features UV sanitization for the wand. The ultra-slim design includes a night-light and intuitive controls, with the added convenience of an auto-opening seat cover and seat, a feature highly valued for hygiene. An accompanying app provides quick access to user profiles.

For value, the Kohler PureWash E820 offers many premium features at a lower price point than top-tier Toto models. It includes backup buttons on the seat, UV sanitization, and effective spray and dryer functions. Installation is straightforward, and the minimalist design blends well with any bathroom decor. While the controls could be more intuitive and the hose/plug placement slightly awkward, it's a strong contender for its blend of features and cost.

Finally, for those with tight spaces, the THU9090R Toilet Extension Hose is a must-have accessory, particularly when installing an elongated bidet seat in older homes. It simplifies the connection process by providing crucial extra space for maneuvering the water supply splitter.

The dream of tossing banana peels and eggshells into a countertop gadget and magically getting ready-to-use compost isn't quite reality yet. While these machines do a great job of shrinking your waste output and eliminating smells, they primarily function as dehydrators and grinders. The resulting material can be mixed in small amounts with potting soil or added to a traditional compost pile, but it's not the same as store-bought compost.

However, reducing food waste is a big deal. Food scraps make up a substantial portion of landfill waste, contributing to methane gas emissions. These kitchen appliances can boost your awareness of food waste, use minimal energy (around 1 kWh in testing), and some, like the Reencle Prime, come surprisingly close to producing actual compost.

The Reencle Prime stands out as the closest to a true composter, utilizing microbes and heat to break down scraps into a dirt-and-sawdust-like material. It handles meat and dairy, and its larger sibling, the Reencle Gravity, offers increased capacity. While the Reencle Prime experienced a paddle issue in long-term testing, the company's customer service and the device's performance still make it a top pick.

For those seeking a simpler grind-and-dry solution, the Lomi 3 is a well-engineered option that effectively reduces waste volume. The FoodCycler Eco 3 also excels at this, with a straightforward process and a fine output, though it can be noisy. The Airthereal Revive R800 offers a budget-friendly grind-and-dry alternative, though it lacks a convenient lidded bucket.

The Mill offers a unique approach by allowing users to ship their processed scraps for chicken feed, solving the issue of what to do with the output if you lack a compost pile. While its initial cost and coarse texture were noted drawbacks, its massive capacity and user-friendly app make it a convenient choice for waste reduction.

The company, which abandoned its own self-driving car program, now positions itself as the central marketplace for all ride-hailing services, whether human-driven or autonomous. Uber has inked deals with over 25 autonomous vehicle (AV) players and wants to be the go-to commercial platform for them all. This strategy is evident in their lobbying efforts in places like New Jersey and Washington D.C.

In New Jersey, Uber's proposed legislation would mandate that for three years, any platform offering driverless ride-hailing must have human drivers handle 85 percent of rides. This move could effectively block AV developers like Waymo and Tesla from launching their own apps in the state, pushing them toward Uber's platform and limiting competition. A New Jersey bill currently under consideration also includes provisions that could affect Tesla's robotaxis due to its sensor requirements.

Similarly, in Washington D.C., Uber representatives have pushed for "hybrid networks" to be part of the framework for AV deployment. An Uber lobbyist expressed that allowing hybrid networks is "critical for a smooth transition that supports both technology and human drivers." This approach contrasts with some AV companies that advocate for less restrictive network models.

Uber maintains that its push for hybrid networks is about fostering a balanced transition that considers worker issues and prevents monopolies. However, this stance marks a significant shift from its earlier, more aggressive approach to AV technology and regulation. The company's past actions, including shutting down its AV program and facing regulatory battles, have clearly influenced its current cautious strategy. This new position, acknowledged by Uber's President and COO Andrew Macdonald, aims to rebuild trust and learn from past mistakes.

Rival AV companies, like Waymo, have expressed openness to various network types, signaling a potential conflict with Uber's preferred model. Despite past partnerships, the relationship between Uber and Waymo has shown signs of strain, with Uber's CTO recently sharing a video of a "scary Waymo moment." While Waymo leads in US robotaxi services, Uber's lobbying efforts suggest it aims to shape the future landscape of autonomous ride-hailing.

Gone are the days of lugging pool nets and scrubbing tiles. Robotic pool cleaners have evolved significantly, moving beyond the old pressure-side models to sleek, efficient electronic versions. The real game-changer? Battery-powered robots, which offer unparalleled convenience with no cords or hoses to get tangled.

For the ultimate all-around performance, the Beatbot AquaSense 2 Ultra stands out. It boasts near-perfect cleaning for floors, walls, and the waterline, powered by a robust six-hour battery. Its AI debris detection and surface-skimming capabilities are top-notch, and it even floats for easy retrieval. The only downsides are its hefty 29-pound weight and a premium price tag hovering around $3,000.

If your budget is a bit tighter, Beatbot's Sora 70 offers much of the same cleaning power for $1,499. For those prioritizing battery life, the iGarden Robotic Pool Cleaner M1-AI 90 is a champion, offering up to nine hours of runtime thanks to its massive 12,500 mAh battery. Its AI cameras actively hunt down debris, making for an even more thorough clean.

Entry-level options also shine. The Beatbot AquaSense 2, priced under $1,000, handles floors, walls, and waterline cleaning effectively and charges wirelessly. For the absolute best value, the Dreame Z1 Pro Cordless Robotic Pool Cleaner, now a steal at $499, offers smart pool mapping and magnetic charging, making it a standout in the budget category.

Don't forget surface skimming! While many robots struggle here, the Beatbot iSkim Ultra excels. This solar-powered device uses sensors to avoid bumping into pool walls and offers superior debris collection from the water's surface. Even with a quirky debris basket release, it's a solid choice for tackling floating gunk.

When choosing a pet camera, you'll find a range of options, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. Some, like the Enabot Ebo Air 2, act as interactive robot toys with 2K HD cameras, two-way audio, and laser pointers to keep your pets entertained. Others, like the Petcube Play 2, attempt to combine laser toys with security features, though some users have noted that the auto-engagement of the laser can be inconsistent.

For a budget-friendly option, the Furbo Mini offers 360-degree rotation and a clear 1080p feed, with two-way audio. However, accessing advanced features like smart detection and video history often requires a paid subscription service, Furbo Nanny, though a free trial is typically available.

Food-dispensing cameras like the Petcube Bites 2 Lite and the Enabot Rola PetPal Robot Pet Companion offer the ability to remotely reward your pet. The Petcube Bites 2 Lite boasts a clear feed and zoom capabilities, while the Rola PetPal attempts to combine treat dispensing with a mobile robot you can control, though some users have reported glitchy apps and unreliable AI features.

Simpler cameras like the Petcube Cam provide essential features like 1080p HD video, night vision, and two-way audio at a more accessible price point. While they might lack advanced bells and whistles, they offer a reliable way to monitor your pet. Subscription plans often unlock features like custom motion zones and location-based alerts.

Ultimately, the best pet camera depends on your needs and budget. While dedicated pet cameras offer specialized features, standard security cameras can also serve the purpose. Regardless of your choice, remember to secure your home network with strong passwords and two-factor authentication to protect your privacy.

The AquaSense X robot itself looks much like its predecessor, the AquaSense 2 Ultra, with minor tweaks to the basket design. Setup is pretty straightforward: attach two side brushes, place the robot onto the AstroRinse cleaning station, and wirelessly pair them. You'll then need to connect to the Beatbot mobile app via Bluetooth and Wi-Fi. Early setup hiccups might involve firmware updates that briefly disrupt pairing, but re-establishing the connection is a simple process.

In the water, the AquaSense X performs similarly to the 2 Ultra. It excelled at picking up about 97 percent of test debris from the pool floor, tackling steps and platforms with ease. However, its surface cleaning remains a weak spot, collecting less than half of floating debris due to its slow speed, even with helpful side brushes.

The robot boasts a 13,400 mAh battery, offering up to 4.5 hours of run time on the pool floor. The companion Beatbot app provides a variety of cleaning modes, allowing customization for floor, wall, waterline, and surface cleaning. An AI Quick Mode uses the onboard camera to actively seek out debris, which is handy for quick touch-ups.

The real game-changer is the AstroRinse station. After the robot finishes its cleaning cycle and parks itself, you manually place it onto the station. Within seconds, a powerful, loud rinsing system kicks in. A top-mounted arm swings into place and blasts the robot's filter basket with high-pressure water for three minutes, capturing debris in a built-in net basket. Any excess water drains through a mesh screen at the bottom. This automated cleaning drastically cuts down on manual maintenance, though you'll need to ensure the station has access to water, power, and drainage, and that it's conveniently located near the pool.

In Peru, the anchovy fishing season has been effectively canceled, impacting a key export and a global source of fish oil and animal feed. Meanwhile, India braces for a smaller Indian mackerel season. Contrasting this, Southern California is experiencing some of the best tuna fishing on record. These divergent outcomes highlight how El Niño creates a mixed bag for the fishing industry, decimating certain fish populations while making others more accessible.

El Niño, a natural phenomenon occurring every two to seven years, involves warmer-than-average sea surface temperatures in the Pacific. Historically, Peruvian fishers named it after the baby Jesus due to its occurrence around Christmas and its dramatic impact on catches. Its varied effects stem from how it alters ocean currents. Typically, trade winds push warm water west, allowing cold, nutrient-rich water to well up. During El Niño, these winds weaken, slowing or stopping this crucial upwelling, which devastates species like anchovies that rely on surface algae.

Conversely, El Niño can boost other fisheries by allowing warm-water species to migrate into normally cooler regions. In Peru, past El Niños have both crippled the anchoveta fishery and increased catches of shrimp, scallops, dolphinfish, and tuna. This year, coastal El Niño conditions have already depleted anchovy stocks, prompting an indefinite fishing ban to prevent further population decline. Sonar technology has located anchovies over 100 meters deep, far beyond the reach of standard fishing nets.

Consumers can also expect price fluctuations. For instance, wild salmon populations can shrink during El Niño, leading to higher prices for consumers. In Peru, prices for jack mackerel and corvina have reportedly doubled, pushing families towards chicken. However, species like shrimp may see population booms, potentially stabilizing their prices. Southern California fishers are celebrating a "special treat" with increased catches of bluefin tuna, swordfish, and marlin, species typically found closer to the equator.

Beyond economic impacts, El Niño's high ocean temperatures can damage coral reefs and kelp forests, affecting marine ecosystems. Shifting fish populations might even escalate geopolitical tensions as vessels cross into other nations' economic zones. Scientists also worry about the Humboldt squid, a vital income source for Peruvian artisanal fishers, whose populations may decline during El Niño, forcing thousands of boats to seek alternative, potentially ecosystem-damaging, catches. The severity of this El Niño remains to be seen, but with climate change potentially intensifying these events, experts are increasingly concerned.

Designer Willo Perron opted for simplicity, stating, "The statement piece in a Jay-Z show is Jay-Z. This is more about storytelling than it is about stage design." The shows, celebrating 30 years of "Reasonable Doubt" and the 20th anniversary of "The Blueprint," featured Hov performing hits on a bare stage. A massive 2,952-square-foot screen displayed archival footage, while a 10-person band and an 18-piece string section provided the soundtrack.

The concerts were packed with star power, both on and off stage. Jay-Z performed duets with his wife, Beyoncé, and brought out legends like Nas and his mentor Jaz-O. Even his daughter, Blue Ivy Carter, made an appearance, playing keys on "Feelin' It." The intimate moments shared on social media weren't about flashy props, but the genuine connections between Jay-Z and his surprise guests.

Tickets for the initial two shows sold out almost instantly, leading to a surprise third "Extra Innings" show. Scott Krug, the Yankees’ CFO, noted the rapid ticket sales were among the fastest he’s ever seen. These concerts are part of a vibrant summer in New York City, which has also seen major cultural moments like the World Cup and Taylor Swift's presence, further amplifying the anticipation for Jay-Z's hometown performances.

Perron drew inspiration from Jay-Z's early club days, incorporating bleachers on each side of the stage for dedicated fans, mimicking the vibe of iconic NYC venues like The Tunnel. While acknowledging the constant social media buzz, Perron focused on creating impactful moments, recalling Jay-Z's viral four-minute freestyle at the Roots Picnic as an example of authentic performance cutting through the noise.

The logistics of staging these concerts during the baseball season were complex. The Yankee Stadium field was protected with a vinyl-mesh cover that doubled as a projection screen, displaying live feeds and additional visuals. This meticulous planning ensured the baseball diamond remained pristine, a testament to the Yankees' commitment to their primary sport while accommodating major entertainment events.

These shows underscore a growing appreciation for live, in-person experiences, especially in an era where AI is increasingly discussed in relation to creativity. As Isra Ali, a professor at NYU Steinhardt, observes, "the value of in-person contact goes up," and Jay-Z's concerts provided a powerful connection between a global superstar and his hometown audience. Jay-Z himself addressed the "sell out" accusations head-on, humorously stating, "Hell yeah, I sold out. Three nights. Yankee Stadium," positioning himself as both a hometown hero and a mogul embraced by his city.

In a memo to staff, Chief Research Officer Mark Chen announced that OpenAI's safety teams will now fall under the expanded role of Mia Glaese, who will serve as VP of Research and Safety. Saachi Jain has been appointed as the interim head of safety systems, reporting directly to Glaese.

Chen highlighted the escalating demands on safety protocols, stating, "The demands on safety continue to increase—we are training models at a much faster cadence, and release cycles have come down greatly in turn. As a result, we have bigger coordination challenges around safety today than ever before." Heidecke, who joined OpenAI in 2021, took on the head of safety systems role in early 2024.

OpenAI expressed gratitude for Heidecke's contributions, with Chen emphasizing the importance of deeply integrating safety work with frontier model development. "It’s important that our safety work is integrated with frontier-model development, with an earlier and more direct role in shaping key model, product, and launch decisions," Chen stated.

Heidecke's exit comes as OpenAI navigates the release of increasingly advanced AI models, including the recent launch of GPT-5.6, which, despite its capabilities in agentic coding tasks, exhibited concerning misaligned behaviors. This follows the recent departure of Joshua Achiam, OpenAI's chief futurist, and Fidji Simo's stepping down from her role as CEO of AGI deployment.

The surge in emissions, particularly Scope 2 emissions from purchased energy, highlights the immense power demands of modern technology, especially with the growing focus on AI. While Microsoft states it matched 100 percent of its electricity consumption with carbon-free sources, the construction and operation of new, energy-intensive data centers are complicating its sustainability goals.

Recent investments, including partnerships for new data centers in West Texas and West Virginia that could be powered by fossil fuels, are expected to further impact emissions. A proposed Chevron plant for a West Texas data center alone could emit over 11.5 million tons of CO2 equivalent annually, surpassing the emissions of the entire state of Rhode Island.

Microsoft's sustainability chief, Melanie Nakagawa, stated that the company is exploring various emission mitigation options. The company also noted a shift away from purchasing unbundled renewable energy certificates, a practice criticized for potentially amounting to "greenwashing" as it doesn't always guarantee new clean power generation. Experts suggest this move, while contributing to the reported Scope 2 increase, aligns with a more impactful approach to clean energy investment.

Despite the recent emissions rise and the ongoing demand driven by AI development, Microsoft remains committed to its goal of becoming "carbon negative" by 2030. Company leaders emphasize the responsibility to manage the environmental footprint of technological advancements, ensuring that progress doesn't overstrain vital resources and communities.

The lawsuit claims that Tan, a former 24-year Apple veteran who oversaw iPhone product design, encouraged departing Apple employees to take proprietary technology with them to OpenAI. Apple alleges Tan coached recruits on bypassing security protocols and even directed them to bring confidential Apple parts to job interviews.

Apple's legal filing states that OpenAI's hardware business is built on a "shaky foundation" due to its "illegal reliance on misappropriated trade secrets." The company suggests OpenAI is resorting to "unlawful shortcuts" under pressure to deliver its first commercial hardware product. OpenAI and Tan have not yet responded to requests for comment.

This legal battle is shaping up to be a significant intellectual property dispute in Silicon Valley, drawing parallels to a 2017 case where Waymo sued Uber for allegedly stealing hardware designs. Apple, a partner with OpenAI since 2024 for distributing ChatGPT on its devices, has reportedly been leaning more on Google's Gemini AI technology recently.

According to the lawsuit, OpenAI has hired over 400 former Apple employees, including key figures leading its consumer device development. Apple's investigation, which reportedly began after an employee failed to return a company laptop and maintained access to internal systems, uncovered downloads of confidential hardware files and evidence of coaching on how to copy proprietary information.

Apple asserts that Tan emailed himself supplier information before leaving and directed candidates to bring "actual parts" from Apple for "show and tell" sessions at OpenAI. The lawsuit also details accusations against OpenAI's io Products unit, alleging it approached Apple suppliers to replicate work, sometimes under the false impression of Apple's approval.

Apple is seeking an injunction to halt the alleged theft, along with monetary damages and the return of any stolen property and data. OpenAI has hinted at developing a "family" of AI-powered devices, though details remain scarce and product launch is reportedly not expected until at least April 2027.

The electric vehicle and energy storage sectors are currently dominated by Chinese companies, making it tough for international competitors. However, ProLogium's CEO Vincent Yang believes the key to challenging the status quo lies in next-generation battery tech, specifically solid-state batteries.

Unlike traditional lithium-ion batteries that use liquid electrolytes prone to spills, fires, and extreme temperature issues, solid-state batteries replace the liquid with a solid electrolyte. This promises safer, more powerful, and more resilient batteries, though manufacturing them at scale has been a persistent hurdle. ProLogium claims its fourth-generation solid-state battery product is both cost-effective and easy to mass-produce.

The company is rapidly expanding, having broken ground on a gigafactory in Dunkirk, France, backed by a €1.5 billion government grant. ProLogium also recently announced plans to go public on the Nasdaq via a merger with TDAC, valuing the company at $3.8 billion. This strategic positioning, away from a Chinese manufacturing base, taps into growing global trends of technological protectionism and the desire for diversified supply chains.

While Chinese companies, along with Japanese and South Korean conglomerates, are also investing heavily in solid-state research, the distinct materials and production methods required create a new competitive landscape. ProLogium’s CEO sees this as an opportunity, stating, "We are racing with the greatest people in the world. But even for the largest companies in the world, this remains a technical challenge that’s difficult to solve."

Initially, the higher cost of solid-state batteries might limit their application in electric vehicles. Instead, ProLogium anticipates early adoption in sectors less sensitive to cost, such as robotics, AI data centers, and aerospace. However, Yang expects electric vehicles to become the dominant customer in the long run, potentially accounting for 60 percent of battery usage by 2032, even if other emerging markets drive more revenue.

The controversy erupted after Meta discovered Wynn-Williams was set to publish "Careless People," a memoir detailing her experiences. Meta, citing a non-disparagement clause in her 2017 separation agreement – which included a $780,000 payout – initiated arbitration. An interim ruling currently prevents Wynn-Williams from promoting the book, with a larger hearing scheduled for October.

Wynn-Williams has now filed a lawsuit, seeking to move the dispute to public courts. She argues the arbitration process, backed by Meta, has unfairly restricted her speech, making it risky for her to discuss tech policy without potentially facing $50,000 fines. Her legal team contends this has limited her ability to engage in important public conversations.

Meta, in its response, characterizes the lawsuit as a "last-ditch effort" to evade the arbitration process she initially agreed to. The company emphasizes that Wynn-Williams knowingly entered into both the non-disparagement clause and the arbitration agreement.

The case has significant implications beyond contract law. At a time when Big Tech faces intense scrutiny over its power, Meta's aggressive pursuit of Wynn-Williams risks reinforcing a narrative of the company as a heavy-handed entity determined to silence criticism and suppress uncomfortable truths.

Wynn-Williams claims she felt coerced into the agreement and that Meta's later public stances on free speech and arbitration led her to believe the terms no longer fully applied. While Meta counters that she had legal counsel and understood the implications of the agreement, the breadth of the restrictions on her professional life has drawn attention.

The public's perception of the conflict is crucial. Even if Wynn-Williams is seen as having violated her vow of silence, the spectacle of a tech giant deploying vast resources against a former policy director is viewed by many as disproportionate and potentially driven by personal vendetta. Meta's defense that the book's accuracy is irrelevant to the contract dispute is overshadowed by the public's interest in the damaging portrayal of the company Wynn-Williams presents.

Meta's vigorous efforts to discredit Wynn-Williams, including highlighting her former executive's characterization of her as an "unreliable narrator," are met with a powerful counter-narrative: the company's zealous pursuit itself. Wynn-Williams, upon receiving a "Freedom to Publish" award, spoke powerfully about the dangers of silencing truth-tellers, a sentiment that resonated deeply with the audience, highlighting Meta's seemingly tone-deaf approach.

As Meta appears to prioritize being feared over being liked, this strategy carries risks. With a potential sequel to "The Social Network" on the horizon and a changing political landscape, Meta's focus on silencing ex-employees like Wynn-Williams may be exacerbating its larger, more significant challenges.

The M5 series, arriving in late 2025, represents Apple's latest silicon. The base M5 chip boasts up to a 10-core CPU and 10-core GPU, offering a 10-15% boost in CPU performance over previous generations, alongside significant upgrades in GPU, AI, and storage speeds. The M5 Pro and M5 Max, found in the 14-inch and 16-inch MacBook Pros, push performance further with more cores and enhanced memory bandwidth. Notably, these chips introduce "Fusion Architecture," a new iteration of UltraFusion, combining two dies for superior performance.

Looking back, the M4 series, launched in 2024, also delivered substantial gains. The M4 chip offers up to 1.8 times faster CPU and 2.2 times faster GPU performance than the M1, with a neural engine more than three times faster than the original. The M4 Pro and M4 Max further enhance this with higher core counts, increased unified memory, and support for advanced graphics features like ray tracing. These chips are integrated into various MacBook Pro, MacBook Air, and Mac Mini models from 2024 and 2025.

The M3 series, introduced in late 2023, provides a solid performance upgrade for everyday users and professionals alike. The base M3 chip offers up to 35% faster CPU and 65% faster GPU performance compared to the M1. The M3 Pro and M3 Max scale up performance for more demanding workloads, making them suitable for creative professionals. While the M3 lineup was the focus in 2023, Apple surprised with the M3 Ultra in 2025, which remains the most powerful M-series chip to date, outperforming even the M4 Max and M5, and is currently exclusive to the Mac Studio.

Earlier generations like the M2 and M1 series still offer compelling value, especially at their current price points. The M2 series, an incremental upgrade over the M1, was available in MacBook Air and MacBook Pro models from 2022-2023, suitable for general use and intermediate creative tasks. The original M1 chip, a game-changer at its 2020 debut, powered the first Apple silicon MacBook Air and Pro, offering remarkable speed and efficiency for its time, and remains a capable option for basic computing needs, often found at attractive prices from third-party retailers.

Beyond the live coding demos and networking zones, the summit, organized by the UN's International Telecommunication Union (ITU), aimed to foster discussions on AI's potential to solve major global issues like hunger, disease, and climate change. This idealistic approach contrasts sharply with ongoing debates in Washington about AI risks and chip export controls.

Doreen Bogdan-Martin, secretary-general of the ITU, emphasized the conviction that AI, when deployed responsibly, can be a powerful tool for good. However, she acknowledged that AI itself presents challenges, even as we strive to use it for positive outcomes. The summit explored the meaning of "good" in AI, amid concerns that unchecked corporate power could exacerbate global inequality and erode human rights.

On the sidelines, humanitarian advocates urged a move away from blind reliance on big tech, calling for greater transparency and questioning multi-million dollar public funding deals with companies whose technology stacks are constantly evolving. The summit also saw moments of protest, with activists disrupting a keynote speech, alleging the misuse of technology against Palestinians.

Experts highlighted the difficulty in engineering for an abstract concept like "good," stressing that practical application often lags behind the hype. The debate also centered heavily on access to AI, including who controls the models, chips, and compute power, with concerns that restricted access could leave developing nations dependent on foreign infrastructure. Discussions pointed towards compute not just as a tech issue, but as a critical development challenge, advocating for inclusive infrastructure and the development of local AI models for diverse communities.

Throughout the event, the politics of infrastructure—who benefits and who controls—were a constant theme. The question wasn't just about AI safety, but whether nations outside the major tech-producing axes would have a voice in shaping its future. Engineers were urged to consider human rights not as an afterthought, but as an integral part of the design process, with calls for "middleware" to translate high-level principles into verifiable technical enforcement.

While the summit fostered dialogue and saw the formation of a 44-member commission to guide AI for Good, the rapid pace of AI development was palpable. On the bustling convention floor, with advanced robots zipping between booths, it was clear that the technology itself might be outpacing the global consensus on defining what "good" AI truly means.

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The iconic New York City location was transformed into a virtual battlefield as nearly 2,000 players participated in one of the largest in-person Pokémon battles ever. This event celebrated a decade since the launch of Niantic's augmented reality game, which captivated the world in 2016, racking up over 130 million downloads in its first month and a record 232 million active players that same year.

The Times Square spectacle finally brought to life a scene teased in the game's early trailer, which showed players battling Mewtwo in a swarm against massive billboards. Michael Steranka, VP of product at Scopely, noted that after ten years, the company has delivered on many of the initial promises made to players, enhancing the mixed-reality experience.

The exclusive event, designed to avoid overcrowding, invited 2,000 players from New York City via community ambassadors. Attendees enjoyed a live EDM concert by Loud Luxury before the virtual Mega Mewtwo Y battle commenced on Times Square's digital screens, culminating in the legendary Pokémon's defeat.

This real-world event was livestreamed globally, and a virtual Pokémon Go Fest Global event this weekend offers the same Mega Mewtwo Y gameplay to all trainers. Scopely reports that over 800 million people have played Pokémon Go, with more than a trillion Pokémon caught to date, highlighting the game's enduring appeal and its focus on fostering real-world communities.

Kim Adams, VP of Game Development at Pokémon Go, emphasized the company's commitment to its community, which has grown from 50 to over 3,000 ambassadors worldwide. The game continues to drive engagement through live events, with nearly a million tickets sold in 2024 and double-digit growth in daily playtime and real-world exploration. As the game looks towards its 20th anniversary, the focus remains on nurturing these player communities and creating multigenerational experiences.

Simo shared on X that a severe flare-up of a chronic illness she's managed for seven years necessitated a medical leave three months ago. During this time, she realized her recovery would be more extensive than initially expected, requiring her full attention.

Simo joined OpenAI's board in March 2024 and was later brought in by CEO Sam Altman to lead product and business operations, allowing Altman to concentrate on research and data center development. Her career includes previous top roles as CEO of Instacart and head of the Facebook app at Meta.

She had previously informed OpenAI staff in April about her temporary departure, citing a significant health relapse shortly before joining the company. Diagnosed with postural tachycardia syndrome (POTS) in 2019, Simo admitted to postponing medical tests and therapies to remain fully dedicated to her work, but recognized the need to prioritize her health and explore new interventions.

Simo's departure follows other executive shifts at OpenAI, including COO Brad Lightcap moving to special projects and President Greg Brockman taking over product strategy. The company has since reorganized its product teams, with Thibault Sottiaux now leading core products like ChatGPT.

This restructuring comes as OpenAI gears up for a potential IPO, reportedly aiming for a $1 trillion valuation by 2027. The company is consolidating efforts, merging teams for ChatGPT, its AI browser, and AI coding agent into a single "superapp" and has discontinued less central projects like Sora. Earlier on Thursday, OpenAI also announced a major ChatGPT update, introducing an AI agent capable of taking actions like file manipulation and code writing for users, enhancing its desktop app.

Subscribers to Anthropic's $20, $100, and $200 monthly plans will now face additional charges based on how much they use Fable 5, the consumer version of the company's powerful Mythos 5 AI. The new rates mirror those for developers using Anthropic's API: $10 per million tokens sent to Claude and $50 per million tokens generated in response. For instance, a user sending and receiving a million tokens each would owe an extra $60 on top of their $20 monthly subscription, totaling $80 for the month – a price point comparable to nearly five months of Amazon Prime.

While a million tokens equates to roughly 750,000 words, making it a substantial amount, AI power users can easily rack up thousands in monthly API bills due to the complex processing involved in advanced models like Fable 5. This transition from flat subscriptions to usage-based billing for consumers follows a trend seen in the AI industry, with companies like Cursor already moving away from unlimited AI subscriptions. Anthropic has also recently begun charging large business clients based on actual AI usage rather than fixed fees, possibly in preparation for a future IPO.

Some AI industry leaders argue that unlimited AI plans are becoming obsolete. Nick Turley, formerly OpenAI's head of ChatGPT, commented that unlimited AI plans are akin to unlimited electricity plans – they simply don't make economic sense in the current landscape. Anthropic acknowledges these computational constraints, with spokesperson Reem Ateyeh stating the company aims to reintegrate Fable 5 into its subscription plans once sufficient capacity is available. This comes despite substantial data center capacity deals Anthropic has struck with major tech players like Amazon and Google.

The pricing adjustment follows an introductory period where Fable 5 was offered to subscribers at no extra cost. Anthropic had anticipated high and unpredictable demand for the model. This new pricing strategy is essentially a test of consumer willingness to pay for cutting-edge AI, as Anthropic competes more directly with OpenAI's ChatGPT and Google's Gemini in the consumer market. While Claude's monthly unique visitors are growing rapidly, they still lag behind its main competitors.

This shift suggests the end of a "golden era" for subsidized consumer AI subscriptions. With a strong stance against advertising, Anthropic appears to be betting on its premium AI models and a segment of users willing to pay for top-tier performance, positioning itself as the "Apple of the AI Era." The question remains whether consumers will embrace this new pay-as-you-go model for advanced AI capabilities.

These advanced hands are designed with actuators that mimic the movement of human tendons, providing Neo's hands with 25 degrees of freedom, just shy of the 27 typically found in humans. Coupled with AI-powered cameras, Neo can accurately grasp objects, detect slippage, and even handle oddly shaped items. The fingers are capable of hyper-extending beyond human limits and can move at incredible speeds, even featuring an IP68 waterproof rating for easy cleaning.

Jonathan Terfurth, 1X’s director of actuators and hands, highlighted that the range of motion is engineered to align with human interaction, potentially even exceeding it for tasks like opening doors or plugging itself in. "You want to be able to operate with a human who has never worked or interfaced with a robot, and you still want it to be safe and compliant and soft," Terfurth stated, emphasizing the goal of creating robots that can seamlessly integrate into our world.

This development marks a significant leap in the robotics sector, moving beyond clunky machines to sophisticated handlers capable of delicate tasks. Unlike many humanoid robots designed for industrial or defense purposes, 1X's Neo adopts a softer, more approachable design inspired by characters like Baymax from Disney's "Big Hero 6." The robot, wrapped in a 3D lattice shell, aims to be a "peaceful and fun and goofy safe presence in a life," according to Dar Sleeper, 1X’s vice president of product and design.

While 1X envisions full automation for Neo, the robot currently utilizes a partially teleoperated system, allowing human operators to remotely control it via an "Expert Mode" for complex tasks. This feature, however, raises privacy concerns, though 1X assures that experts can only access the robot when requested and that users can monitor video feeds and disconnect operators at any time. The company has yet to detail robust measures against potential hacking or misuse of the teleoperation feature.

During a demonstration, Neo’s fingers moved with astonishing speed, blurring on screen until commanded to stop, showcasing the hardware's potential. While some demonstration videos are machine-automated, others are teleoperated to highlight the hardware's maximum capabilities, a distinction that underscores the evolving nature of human-robot interaction and the ongoing quest for truly autonomous domestic helpers.

This move effectively reinstates permissions for major tech companies like Meta, Google, and Microsoft to inspect private texts, emails, and social media chats. Critics have dubbed the legislation "Chat Control." While end-to-end encrypted communications, such as those used by WhatsApp and Signal, will remain exempt, the implications for digital privacy are significant.

"This means that private companies could deny your right to have confidential digital conversations," warned Simeon de Brouwer, a policy advisor at European Digital Rights, a Brussels-based advocacy group. "They could, if they want to, read every message you write, every email you send, every picture you share."

The European People's Party (EPP), the largest political faction in the European Parliament, has been pushing to restore the legal basis for tech firms to scan messages since an earlier law expired in April. They argue that companies' voluntary detection efforts have been crucial in identifying and rescuing victims of online child sexual abuse, and that blocking these measures leaves children vulnerable. The party aimed to pass this legislation before the parliament's summer break.

However, privacy advocates and other political parties have fiercely opposed the measure. The EPP utilized a procedural tactic to force new votes after negotiations broke down in March. This "urgent procedure" bypasses standard committee debates where amendments are typically introduced and requires an absolute majority of 361 votes against the regulation for it to fail. Although more lawmakers voted against the rule on Thursday than for it, they were 47 votes short of the required majority.

Tech companies will now retain the right to scan messages for child sexual abuse detection until 2028, or until a more permanent piece of legislation, also referred to as "Chat Control" by critics, is finalized. Civil rights activist Patrick Breyer criticized the ruling as a "farce" that "damages democracy," stating, "Our children are the real losers in this undemocratic process." He likened blanket chat control to "suspicionless mass surveillance," comparing it to "frantically mopping the floor while the faucet is still running" and finding indiscriminately opening physical mail equally unacceptable.

Building on the legacy of the Dell 14 Plus, the 14S boasts a more premium aluminum build, a slim profile, and the option for an OLED display. While it feels like a premium device, mirroring the size of a 14-inch MacBook Pro, there are compromises. Shiny plastic edges, mediocre 2-watt speakers, and a noisy webcam are hints that it's not quite top-tier. The keyboard is functional, but the key presses require a bit more effort than ideal.

Connectivity is a strong point, with two USB-A 3.2 Gen 1 ports, HDMI 2.1, two Thunderbolt 4 ports, and a headphone jack. However, the absence of an SD card slot and the placement of Thunderbolt 4 ports might irk some users. The higher-end configurations, like the $1,469 model with an Intel Core Ultra 7, 16GB RAM, and 512GB storage, also face stiff competition, costing more than comparable MacBook Air models.

Performance-wise, the Core Ultra 7 355 chip offers solid multicore performance, roughly on par with Apple's M4/M5 chips, and is more than capable for everyday tasks. However, its predecessor, the Dell 14 Plus with a Core Ultra 7 258V, is still available for a much lower price of $860 and offers comparable performance. The 14S does see a slight boost in graphics performance, but it's unlikely to be a noticeable upgrade for most.

Where the Dell 14S truly shines is its battery life, delivering an impressive 20 hours in video playback tests thanks to the efficiency of the new Core Ultra Series 3 chips. Standby battery life, however, still lags behind Qualcomm-powered laptops. A frustrating quirk is the "Smart Charging" feature, which defaults to an 80% battery cap and is difficult to disable, requiring a dive into the MyDell app or BIOS settings.

Despite its impressive battery life, the Dell 14S struggles to justify its price, especially when up against more affordable options like the HP OmniBook 5, which offers similar specs and an OLED display for half the cost. The Dell 14S's main advantage over cheaper rivals lies in its superior touchpad quality. While the OLED display is a great upgrade, offering vibrant colors, its 300-nit brightness and glossy finish can be an issue under bright lights. The 1920x1200 resolution is also a step down from the previous 14 Plus, which offered a sharper 2560x1600 panel for less money.

Ultimately, the Dell 14S finds itself in an awkward spot, overshadowed by both the more affordable Dell 14 Plus and the premium Dell XPS 14. In 2026, its pricing feels inflated, making it a tough recommendation in a market where last-generation models often present a better value proposition.

Record-breaking temperatures are forcing Europeans to seek relief, with scenes of shoppers scrambling for fans and AC units becoming more common. The International Energy Agency (IEA) predicts that by 2050, two-thirds of households globally could have an air conditioner, highlighting a growing need for cooling worldwide as the planet warms.

Politicians are increasingly weighing in on the issue. While some, like France's Marine Le Pen, have pledged to expand AC access, others on the left express concerns that widespread adoption would primarily benefit the wealthy and deepen Europe's reliance on energy-intensive cooling, mirroring the situations in the US and Asia. Currently, only about 20% of Europeans have AC at home, a stark contrast to the nearly 90% in the US.

Beyond comfort, air conditioning plays a vital role in productivity, concentration, and even saving lives, particularly for vulnerable populations. Research indicates that AC prevented nearly 200,000 premature deaths among those over 65 in 2019 alone. With Europe warming faster than other continents, regions historically with mild summers are now experiencing more frequent and severe heat waves.

However, traditional AC systems present a significant environmental paradox. They account for approximately 3% of global greenhouse gas emissions, and the refrigerants used can have a global warming potential thousands of times greater than carbon dioxide. The EU is phasing out these harmful gases, but alternatives like propane and ammonia come with their own safety challenges.

This has spurred a search for refrigerant-free cooling methods. Solid-state cooling, utilizing materials that change temperature when exposed to external forces, is emerging as a promising frontier. Technologies like elastocaloric cooling, which uses the stretching and releasing of metals to absorb heat, are being developed, with prototypes showing potential for efficient room cooling. Other innovations involve semiconductive materials and magnetic fields for cooling.

Europe is positioning itself as a leader in solid-state cooling research and development, with significant opportunities for technological leadership and market maturity, contingent on private and public investment. While these advanced cooling technologies are still in early stages, they hold the potential to revolutionize how we manage heat, though their widespread adoption may follow a trajectory similar to other innovations, moving from European research to global commercialization.

Experts emphasize a "cooling hierarchy," prioritizing passive strategies like urban greening, shade, and natural ventilation to prevent buildings from overheating in the first place. Active cooling should be reserved for essential services and the most vulnerable, with examples like Paris's district cooling network offering a glimpse of smart, efficient solutions for urban environments.

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The furry intruder spent at least 20 minutes darting around the building, according to an internal memo obtained by WIRED. The incident, while causing a minor scratch to a janitor, provided an unexpected moment of levity for Meta employees navigating a challenging year marked by layoffs and controversial AI initiatives.

The squirrel reportedly arrived inside a package delivered to the office, escaping before it could be properly contained. The janitor who accepted the delivery sustained a minor finger injury, requiring first aid and a hospital check-up. This janitor has since formally acknowledged their responsibility and committed to following office protocols to prevent future incidents.

The unexpected visit offered a brief distraction from ongoing internal morale issues at Meta. The company has acknowledged a "morale crisis" and is reportedly attempting to boost spirits through social events and improved office amenities, including a potential return of popular healthy snacks like nuts, which were previously replaced with less nutritious options.

While the exact reasons for the squirrel's delivery and its current whereabouts remain unclear, the incident has become a talking point among Meta staff. Some employees are reportedly creating humorous content, including an AI-generated video simulating HR training on squirrel-related office protocols, as highlighted by New York Times journalist Mike Isaac, who first reported the event.

Meta has declined to comment on the squirrel's office adventure.

While Messi and Ronaldo are diving into equity stakes in AI, health tech, and various startups, Salah is sticking to a more familiar playbook of commercial partnerships, real estate, and charitable work. This shift reflects a broader trend among elite athletes to build long-term wealth and financial security beyond their playing careers, moving from one-off endorsement fees to ownership stakes.

Messi, through his investment firm Play Time HoldCo, has backed companies like FieldAI, Fish Audio, and SuperAnnotate, along with sports-specific ventures such as the mobile game Matchday. He also holds stakes in the fantasy football platform Sorare and KRÜ Esports, further cementing his presence in the sports and tech crossover scene.

Ronaldo's investments are heavily concentrated in health technology, aligning with his personal brand focused on fitness and longevity. He's invested in the wearable fitness tracker Whoop and has deepened his partnership with Herbalife, investing in its subsidiary Pro2col and the AI-powered supplement company Bioniq, which will be integrated into Pro2col's platform.

In contrast, Salah's business interests, according to UK corporate filings, are focused on holding companies and real estate. His most prominent collaborations remain traditional endorsement deals with major brands and his philanthropic efforts through the Mohamed Salah Charitable Foundation.

Regardless of their chosen path, football's biggest stars are increasingly planning for their futures beyond the pitch. Whether through venture capital, health tech, or property, athletes are leveraging their influence to manage their wealth, with equity investments proving to be a significant strategic move in the modern sports landscape.

The buzz around AI lately has been all about frontier labs creating models that can train themselves, potentially leading to superintelligence. But what if this technology could be used for more practical, everyday tasks? Experiments show that it's not only possible but surprisingly effective, offering a vision of AI development that's less centralized and more democratic.

Kicking things off, a simple experiment involved using a tool called AutoResearch, developed by AI superstar Andrej Karpathy. By feeding instructions to a powerful AI like Claude and providing the necessary computing power, the system autonomously refined a smaller language model. While early results were a bit rough – think endless repetition – the model showed clear signs of improvement and more coherent output over time.

The journey continued with a more complex, real-world application: automating parts of a newsletter. Using a platform from Prime Intellect, a startup focused on democratizing AI training, a custom model called Frontier_Paper_Curator was built. This AI was tasked with finding and summarizing relevant research papers, essentially learning and improving its own performance through a feedback loop.

Vincent Weisser, CEO of Prime Intellect, emphasizes that the goal is to empower every company with advanced AI training capabilities. "We don't want one centralized, almost godlike intelligence, we want a billion intelligences that go into all the niches that create beautiful things," he stated. This approach contrasts with the current model where a few major players control the most advanced AI, and it highlights the risks of relying too heavily on a single, powerful AI like Anthropic's recent Fable 5 model.

While the ultimate goal of recursive self-improvement is for AI to generate novel insights, the tools available today are already impressive. After just a short period, a surprisingly capable model for curating research was created. Although it still needs some fine-tuning, this development signifies a promising step towards AI that can continuously learn and assist us, potentially freeing us from tedious tasks and unlocking broader creativity.

Platner, a US Marine veteran, unexpectedly won the Democratic primary last month despite a series of controversies. He is slated to face incumbent Republican Susan Collins in one of the nation's most closely watched general elections. However, a growing number of Democratic officials are now urging Platner to withdraw from the race following recent serious allegations.

The situation intensified Monday when a woman accused Platner of sexual assault, detailing the alleged incident to Politico. Platner's campaign has previously denied similar allegations. He has also faced scrutiny for past alleged mistreatment of women, the concealment of a Nazi tattoo, and offensive online comments, prompting calls for his exit from prominent Democrats including Senators Bernie Sanders and Chuck Schumer.

Sources within Trumpworld suggest that Platner's continued participation, given his controversial reputation and a growing number of political adversaries, could hinder his fundraising and further destabilize the Democratic campaign. One strategist, speaking anonymously, quipped that Republicans are essentially "making s'mores" over the situation and jokingly urged Platner to "stay in and fight the liberal lobbyist establishment!"

Further complicating matters, the Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee (DSCC) has stated it will not financially support Platner's campaign if he stays in the race. This means he would likely depend on small-dollar donations, which operatives believe would fall far short of the tens of millions of dollars expected to be spent on advertising in the expensive Boston-area media market.

Even if Platner withdraws, Republican strategists feel the Senate race in Maine still leans in Collins' favor. Democrats have deadlines in late July to potentially replace Platner on the ballot. Potential replacements like Governor Janet Mills or former state senator Troy Jackson are seen by GOP operatives as unlikely to overcome Collins, especially given her past success and alignment with a more moderate stance compared to other Republicans. However, both sides anticipate a costly and potentially tight contest, regardless of the final Democratic candidate.

Foam cores have largely replaced traditional carbon fiber honeycomb, offering a more consistent and forgiving feel with a larger sweet spot. Similarly, the once-common oval paddle shapes are fading, with elongated designs now preferred by most players for increased power and reach. This shift marks a significant technological leap in paddle design.

For beginners looking for a forgiving entry point, the SLK Dauntless ($150) stands out. Its wide-body version boasts an incredibly large sweet spot, making it ideal for players still developing their court coverage. While pricier than basic options, its foam core, MOI Tuning System for balance, and versatile control make it a worthwhile investment for consistent play and future growth. For a more budget-friendly option, the SLK Valkyrie ($80) offers a solid experience with a fiberglass face and polymer core, suitable for casual play.

Advanced players seeking peak performance will appreciate the Paddletek Honeyfoam TKO-X ($250). This paddle masterfully balances power and control, a signature of Paddletek, with the advantages of a multi-foam core construction. Its raw carbon face delivers exceptional spin, and the innovative foam layers create a lively feel without sacrificing precision, making it a top pick for confident play.

Beyond the top recommendations, the paddle market continues to surprise. The Reload system ($200) addresses the common issue of worn-out textured faces by offering replaceable spin surfaces. The SXY PKL ($200) brings a unique aesthetic with its bamboo face, providing a gritty texture and a distinctive look. For a bit of fun, the Scorpion Pioneer Plus LED ($100 for a two-pack) offers a light-up experience for evening games, though its performance is more comparable to a budget paddle.

The latest in TV tech, Micro RGB and Mini RGB LEDs use tiny red, green, and blue lights to deliver superior color accuracy, contrast, and deeper blacks than traditional LEDs and OLEDs. The LG Micro RGB Evo, the smallest model in its flagship lineup, is available in 75-inch ($5,000), 86-inch ($7,000), and 100-inch ($8,000) sizes. While it competes fiercely with other high-end TVs like the Samsung Micro RGB R95H, it's significantly more expensive than Mini RGB options from Hisense and Sony.

Physically, the TV boasts a sleek, flush-mount design. Setup is straightforward, though its 88.6-pound weight requires assistance. Connectivity includes four HDMI 2.1 ports, Ethernet, optical audio, coaxial, and two USB 2.0 ports. It uses Wi-Fi 5, which is robust but less advanced than the Wi-Fi 6E found on some competitors. LG's proprietary WebOS (version 26) powers the smart TV experience, which, while functional, comes with a plethora of pre-installed apps that may not be necessary for all users.

Navigating the TV can be a bit fiddly, particularly with the non-backlit remote. Finding the mute and input buttons requires some getting used to. However, the TV offers extensive picture enhancement settings, including motion-activated power features and a privacy perk to disable viewing recommendations. Voice control via the LG bot is generally helpful for adjusting settings, though its movie search suggestions could be broader.

In terms of picture quality, the LG Micro RGB Evo truly shines. It supports 100 percent of BT.2020, DCI-P3, and Adobe RGB color gamuts, making movies like "Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2" and "Inside Out" incredibly vibrant. While OLED still holds a slight edge in pure contrast, this LG model comes remarkably close, especially in specific picture modes like Vivid and CinemaHome, which make darker colors pop. Gaming performance is also impressive, with automatic Game Optimizer mode kicking in for smooth, 120Hz gameplay. However, the Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) mode experienced flickering issues with PC gaming, which LG is reportedly investigating.

Ultimately, the LG Micro RGB Evo is a top-tier television that can match OLED performance with dedicated tweaking. Its vibrant colors and impressive contrast are undeniable. However, the significant price difference compared to capable Mini RGB competitors like the Hisense UR9 raises questions about whether the enhanced quality justifies the cost. If you're aiming for the absolute best in Micro RGB technology and have the budget, this LG is a strong contender, but be prepared to pay a premium for its cutting-edge display.

Remember when We-Vibe first launched with their C-shaped vibrator designed for shared pleasure during intercourse? That was just the start. They’ve consistently pushed boundaries, especially with the 2014 release of the We-Vibe 4 Plus. This game-changer wasn't just app-controlled, it was Bluetooth-enabled, bridging distances for couples with its ability to connect partners hundreds or thousands of miles apart. It proved that long-distance intimacy could be both accessible and seriously fun.

Fast forward to today, and We-Vibe boasts a massive collection catering to every desire, from the Vector+ prostate massager to the Melt 2 suction toy. With so many options, figuring out which toy is right can be overwhelming. Luckily, We-Vibe coupons and discount codes are here to make the decision a little easier – because, let's be real, one toy is rarely enough.

Looking for a summer sizzle? Score up to 50% off during their Summer Sale on wellness toys and accessories. This deal covers tons of best-sellers for all bodies and partner play, including fan favorites like the Nova 2 for dual stimulation and the discreet Moxie+ wearable vibrator.

Want a freebie? Spend $199 or more and pick out a complimentary toy. While some gift sets are excluded, you still have plenty of choices, including the new Temp vibrator, perfect for exploring temperature play. Like all We-Vibe products, the Temp boasts an impressive battery life of up to two hours.

Want an instant discount? Sign up for the We-Vibe newsletter and unlock 15% off your entire order. This can be applied to anything from individual toys, like the WIRED-approved Nova 2, to replacement chargers. Speaking of chargers, it’s always smart to have a backup.

Students, rejoice! We-Vibe offers a 20% student discount when you verify your status through Student Beans or UniDays. Imagine upgrading your Kama Sutra toolkit with the Moxie+ for public play, or enjoying solo sessions with its 10 vibration modes. Exam stress relief, anyone?

And a huge shout-out to key workers! If you’re in the military, healthcare, teaching, or are a first responder, verify your status to snag 20% off bestsellers and bundles. It's your time to be spoiled with toys like the Tango X bullet vibrator, a versatile and universally awesome external pleasure device.

For those who prefer to leave the oily rags behind, Valvoline Instant Oil Change facilities are a game-changer. These quick-service garages, numbering over 2,100 across the US, can often get you in and out in about half an hour, and at prices significantly lower than most dealerships. They even offer a $10 off coupon for conventional full-service oil changes, which includes five quarts of Valvoline conventional oil, a filter, lube, and a maintenance check. If your car runs on the pricier synthetic oil – common in hybrids and luxury vehicles – a $15 off coupon is available for synthetic or blend oil changes, also covering up to five quarts, a filter, lube, and maintenance check.

If you're still rocking the DIY oil change, Valvoline has you covered too. For those shopping at farm-centric stores like Tractor Supply or Fleet Farm, a promo code can snag you a $5 rebate when you buy five quarts of Valvoline Motor Oil or one gallon of Premium Blue Heavy Diesel Engine Oil. There's a limit of three rebates per customer.

Beyond immediate savings, Valvoline incentivizes bulk buying. You can score up to a 25% discount when you purchase motor oil, gear oil, or transmission fluid in larger quantities. This is a smart move for families with multiple vehicles or anyone looking to stock up and save over time.

This new feature allows users to tag public Instagram profiles in AI prompts, enabling Meta's AI to generate images using a person's likeness. Meta is spinning this as a cool way to create personalized visuals, like custom invitations or collaborative concepts, by tagging usernames and letting Meta AI build a unique image.

If you're not keen on your face popping up in AI-generated art without your explicit permission, you'll need to dive into your Instagram settings. Head to your profile, tap the three lines in the top-right corner, and navigate to the 'Sharing and reuse' tab. Look for a toggle labeled 'Allow people to use your content on Instagram and with AI features on Meta' and make sure both 'Posts' and 'Reels' are switched off.

It's worth noting that even if you change your settings now, any AI-generated images already created using your content won't be deleted. Plus, Instagram users can remix your images with AI without you ever knowing – you won't receive any notifications about this.

While it's becoming a common trend for companies to make users opt out of AI training by default, this Instagram feature is a prime example. If you want to keep your likeness out of future AI creations, switching off this toggle is a must-do, like, yesterday.

The intriguing finding, detailed in a study awaiting publication in Astronomy & Astrophysics, centers on an absorption band spotted at 5.113 micrometers on both celestial bodies. These worlds are separated by billions of kilometers and boast vastly different environmental conditions. The signal's presence in observations from two different JWST instruments has led the research team to rule out calibration errors or other technical issues.

Spectroscopy, the technique used here, works like a fingerprint for chemicals. Each element or molecule absorbs light at specific wavelengths, creating a unique pattern. Scientists have spent decades building extensive libraries of these spectral signatures to identify substances like water, methane, and ammonia on planets, moons, and even exoplanets. However, in this case, comparisons with existing data yielded no definitive matches.

The discovery of a spectral signature that doesn't correspond to any known compound is highly unusual. Researchers have explored various possibilities, analyzing lab spectra of ices and organic compounds like acetylene and benzene that might exist on these distant worlds. None have perfectly matched the observed signal. The leading theory suggests it might be a known compound in a physical state or mixture that hasn't been studied in a lab, though the possibility of a completely uncharacterized chemistry isn't being dismissed.

What makes this mystery even more captivating is the shared signature appearing on two such dissimilar worlds. Titan boasts a dense nitrogen and methane atmosphere, liquid methane lakes, and a surface temperature around -180°C. Pluto, conversely, has a wispy atmosphere, an icy surface of nitrogen, methane, and carbon monoxide, and temperatures plunging near -235°C. Despite these extremes, both worlds undergo complex organic chemistry influenced by solar and cosmic radiation, which could be producing novel compounds that settle on their surfaces.

Unraveling this cosmic puzzle will require more JWST observations and laboratory experiments designed to replicate the chemistry of these icy environments. NASA's upcoming Dragonfly mission to Titan offers a glimmer of hope; while it won't directly analyze this specific infrared signature, its onboard laboratory could identify candidate compounds, potentially helping to solve one of the JWST's most compelling outer solar system mysteries.

This means you can schedule tasks to run overnight or while you're offline without needing to keep your device powered on and screen open. Anthropic is also rolling out limited versions of Cowork directly within the existing Claude smartphone app and web browser, no desktop connection required.

Imagine this: you've got a big deal renewal coming up tomorrow. With a single prompt, you could ask Cowork to dig through your emails, Slack messages, meeting transcripts, and even recent online chatter to prep all the necessary info. Then, ask it to whip up a reference doc for the meeting and draft a pre-written email. Previously, this all depended on your desktop session being active. Now, Cowork can keep grinding away even after you've clocked out, catching those late-night messages.

When I first tested Claude Cowork back in January, I was seriously impressed. It actually followed through on tasks like organizing a chaotic pile of screenshots into neat, labeled folders and helped me schedule calendar events. While it wasn't flawless and carried risks like prompt injections, Cowork felt like a genuine leap forward for everyday users interacting with their devices.

This isn't the first time Claude users could tap into Anthropic's AI on mobile. The previous "Dispatch" feature let you send task requests from your phone to your desktop. The catch? Your computer had to be awake and the app open. Some users resorted to leaving laptops on, but now, Cowork can handle tasks independently of an active desktop session.

This move aligns with a broader Silicon Valley trend toward "always-on," semi-autonomous AI agents controlled via simple text commands. This shift was largely kicked off by a viral, fan-made agent called OpenClaw, which gained traction in early 2026 as users handed over control of their digital lives.

Competitors quickly took notice. OpenAI hired OpenClaw's creator and launched its own adaptive agent, Codex, while Google introduced Spark. Anthropic, meanwhile, has been focusing on making its AI more accessible, building on the success of Claude Code, which automated developer tasks. Cowork essentially takes that power and translates it from the command line into a user-friendly chatbot format for everyone.

The new Cowork features will initially roll out as a beta for subscribers of Anthropic's $100/month Max plan, with plans to extend it to the $20/month Pro tier. It's still uncertain if free users will get access.

Anthropic also released data showing that white-collar workers are increasingly integrating its tools into their routines. "Business process and operations" (think data reports and checklists) and "content creation and copywriting" (like slide decks and proposals) are the top two usage categories.

Both OpenAI and Anthropic are pushing to integrate their chatbots and agents into a seamless, smartphone-first experience. OpenAI's Codex Remote allows similar desktop agent control from phones, and its iOS app now offers more Codex task management. Anthropic's latest release goes a step further by merging the Claude chatbot and Cowork agent directly into the browser and desktop interfaces.

This strategy reflects a growing belief in Silicon Valley that AI-driven automation will become central to how we use our devices, moving beyond just tech enthusiasts. Instead of launching separate apps, companies are embedding these powerful capabilities directly into the chatbots millions already use on their phones.

The new lineup features the audio-only AirGo A6 and an updated version of their camera glasses, the Solos AirGo V2. First teased last year as a competitor to Meta's smart glasses, the $299 AirGo V2 offers features like photo and video capture, music playback, and an AI assistant. They also support prescription lenses and boast a 10- to 12-hour battery life.

Adding a privacy-focused twist, the AirGo V2 can be paired with a new Privacy Kit. This accessory set includes clip-on options like a privacy shield that physically blocks the cameras, allowing users to switch to an audio-only mode. A clip-on polarized lens is also part of the $79 modular kit.

However, the effectiveness of a clip-on privacy solution remains questionable. Requiring users to manually attach and detach components for privacy could be seen as inconvenient, potentially deterring consistent use. There's also the risk of the privacy covers being removed by others, especially in situations where recording is prohibited.

This move by Solos comes amid ongoing scrutiny of camera-enabled smart glasses, particularly after Meta faced criticism for its own devices and a temporary inclusion of facial recognition technology. While Meta acknowledges a market for audio-only glasses, it continues to prioritize camera features, leaving room for companies like Solos to target consumers seeking less intrusive wearable tech.

The core of this tech involves individual red, green, and blue LEDs, a departure from traditional white or blue LEDs found in standard LED and QLED TVs. This RGB approach results in significantly better color accuracy, deeper contrast, and brighter images, all with more precise control over different zones of the screen. While LG and Samsung are pushing their even smaller "micro RGB" technology, the practical outcome for users is largely comparable.

What makes the UR9 particularly exciting is its flagship status within Hisense's lineup, yet it retails for a surprisingly accessible $2,000 for the 65-inch model tested. This offers a clear upgrade in picture quality compared to Hisense's more budget-friendly offerings, which previously struggled with contrast and brightness, often falling into the same category as cheaper TCL or Roku TVs.

This gaming powerhouse boasts an impressive 180Hz refresh rate (with a variable 330Hz when connected to a high-end PC via DisplayPort), making fast-paced games look incredibly smooth. While it may not dethrone the premium, pricier micro RGB models from Samsung and LG, the UR9 delivers outstanding picture quality for its cost.

Beyond its display prowess, the UR9 features a sleek, super-thin design at just 1.8 inches deep. Setting it up is straightforward, with a user-friendly Google TV interface. Although the initial setup encountered a minor bug with the Google Home app's QR code scanner, a quick manual login resolved it. The TV also supports the faster Wi-Fi 6E standard for a more stable online experience.

For those new to the service, Instacart is offering a sweet deal: zero delivery fees on your first three orders, provided you meet a $10 minimum. This promotion is a fantastic way to test the waters and experience the convenience of having groceries brought to you without the usual delivery charges, though some service fees might still apply.

Existing users aren't left out of the savings spree. Pet parents can snag $10 off Petco orders over $50, making it easier to stock up on essentials for their furry friends. Similarly, Instacart has teamed up with Walgreens to offer $10 off orders exceeding $40, perfect for grabbing medicine, snacks, or other necessities when you're feeling under the weather or just need a quick restock.

Instacart is also encouraging users to spread the word. Refer a friend who's new to the platform, and you can earn up to $40 in credits after their first completed delivery. This referral program is unlimited, meaning the more friends you bring on board, the more you can save.

For the most dedicated Instacart users, the Instacart Mastercard could be a game-changer. New applicants can receive a $50 Instacart credit upon approval, plus enjoy three free months of Instacart+ membership and a monthly $10 discount on their second order. The Instacart+ membership itself unlocks unlimited free delivery on eligible orders over $10, $0 delivery fees on select restaurant orders, and even a complimentary Peacock subscription and access to New York Times Cooking.

Summer vacation vibes are in full swing, and Expedia's Summer Sale is here to help you make the most of it for less. Get ready to save big with 40% off select hotels and vacation rentals in hot spots like Las Vegas and Cancun. Plus, snag last-minute deals with 25% off packages to places like New York City and Las Vegas.

Looking for that perfect escape? Expedia's got you covered with deals that can save you 25% or more on your next dream destination. Imagine snagging a 37% discount at the legendary Caesars Palace or 40% off at Tokyo's Shinjuku Granbell Hotel. From beach retreats to city explorations, Expedia's got filters to match your vibe, too – think pet-friendly stays, spa escapes, or cozy cabins.

If a quick weekend recharge is more your speed, don't miss Expedia's Weekend Escapes. You can score up to 20% off hotels, making those spontaneous trips to places like Manhattan or all-inclusive packages to Mexico more budget-friendly than ever.

Joining Expedia's loyalty program, OneKey, is a no-brainer for frequent travelers. You'll earn OneKeyCash rewards on eligible bookings across Expedia, Hotels.com, and Vrbo, getting at least 2% back on every purchase. Plus, members unlock instant discounts, saving 10% or more on hundreds of thousands of stays worldwide and potentially up to 30% off when bundling flights and hotels. Higher loyalty tiers even come with perks like free room upgrades and price drop protection.

Expansive travel options abound, with discounted stays popping up in popular spots like Mexico, Hawaii, New York, the Dominican Republic, Chicago, Orlando, and Las Vegas. Keep an eye out, as new Expedia coupons and deals are added regularly. And for an extra boost, consider the Expedia One Key Cards, offering up to $350 in OneKeyCash bonuses for new cardholders who meet spending requirements.

Professional soccer socks are engineered for a snug fit, designed not just to hold shin guards in place but also to support ankles, arches, and calves, while managing moisture and boosting stability by reducing foot slippage. These socks, typically made from synthetic blends like polyester, nylon, and spandex, have followed this design philosophy for decades, with modern materials offering improved lightness and durability.

However, many players report that these form-fitting socks can feel too tight, leading to tingling and numbness in their calves. To combat this discomfort and improve their ability to run freely, some players resort to cutting holes in the sock's calf section to alleviate pressure.

This sensation has a biomechanical root. When a player sprints or changes direction, their calf muscles contract and thicken to generate power. This repeated expansion, occurring thousands of times per game, can create a feeling of pressure for some individuals when the sock consistently compresses the muscle. Players often describe this as letting the muscle "breathe," relieving pressure and potentially preventing pain or cramps.

Despite the players' experiences, sports medicine specialists note a lack of studies proving any benefit from cutting socks. In fact, research on compression garments often suggests they can help reduce post-exertion muscle inflammation when properly fitted. The rules of the game also permit sock modifications, provided shin guards remain covered and the equipment is safe.

Given the absence of physiological proof, experts suggest that comfort perception plays a significant role. In high-stakes sports, feeling comfortable can boost an athlete's confidence. If a player perceives their socks as restrictive, removing that perceived barrier might make them feel more agile and confident, even if objective performance metrics don't change.

It's crucial to understand that there's no evidence cutting socks enhances performance or prevents injuries. However, the discomfort players feel is not imaginary. Individual sensitivity, anatomy, and past experiences all influence how players perceive pressure or restriction. Essentially, the same gear can affect two players very differently.

For now, the sock-cutting phenomenon is likely to persist, driven more by a psychological effect—akin to other sports rituals—than by demonstrable physiological gains. The perceived benefit, while not scientifically validated, seems to be enough for players to continue the practice.

The name "Torcal" had been circulating among Bentley enthusiasts following trademark filings earlier this year. While "Barnato," a tribute to a famous 1920s Bentley racer, was a strong contender, Bentley ultimately opted for a name inspired by a natural landmark: El Torcal de Antequera in Andalusia, Spain. The name also carries automotive relevance, derived from the Latin "torquere," meaning "to twist," echoing the term "torque."

Early glimpses suggest the Torcal will share design cues with the Bentayga SUV but will be slightly smaller. It features a distinctive long hood, an upright front, and signature rear haunches. However, the rear design sees a departure from the Bentayga, with a sleeker, downward-sloping roofline common in EVs for improved aerodynamics and range. A standout front-end feature is a illuminated crystal grille, a bold departure from traditional grilles and a statement against the trend of "quiet luxury."

Inside, the Torcal promises a blend of physical controls and OLED screens, with the central display curving elegantly. Notably, Bentley is steering clear of offering a separate passenger screen, a move that sets it apart from some competitors.

The Torcal enters a challenging landscape for luxury EVs. Brands like Lamborghini have reportedly seen demand for electric models plummet, Ferrari's first EV faced a significant market value drop, and sales for electric versions of the Mercedes G-Wagen and Audi Q8 e-tron have been sluggish. Porsche's Taycan has experienced substantial depreciation, and Rolls-Royce's Spectre and Mercedes' EQS SUV have also seen sales declines. Bentley itself has adjusted its timeline for going fully electric, pushing the target back to 2035 and continuing to offer plug-in hybrid and combustion models alongside the Torcal.

Despite the headwinds, Bentley chairman and CEO Frank-Steffen Walliser expresses confidence, viewing the Torcal as "the most considered car" in the brand's history. He believes Bentley's approach of integrating its DNA into an authentic EV design, rather than chasing radical stylistic shifts, might align perfectly with current buyer preferences. While acknowledging the broader market's struggles, Bentley, having achieved profitability for seven consecutive years, is investing heavily in its electric future, even as it navigates a slowdown in demand from key markets like China. The hope is that the Torcal will capture the imagination of buyers, potentially mirroring the surprising success of Ferrari's controversial EV in the Asian market.

The urgency to create this "unlootable archive" intensified after October 2023, with significant damage reported to cultural institutions in Gaza. Amer Shomali, general director of the Palestinian Museum, highlights the ongoing battle to erase Palestinian culture, noting that a large percentage of national collections have been looted, destroyed, or are under Israeli control.

The Palestinian Museum in Birzeit acts as both a physical repository and a hub for this digital effort. While the museum building itself, designed by Heneghan Peng architects, stands as a defiant presence, its location near checkpoints makes access difficult for some Palestinians. Meanwhile, legislative efforts in Israel could further expand control over Palestinian heritage sites.

The digital archive began with collecting old photographs, letters, and documents directly from Palestinian families. This open-source platform now includes digitized photographs, identification papers, diaries, maps, films, and letters, safeguarding heritage that might otherwise be lost forever. The project is funded by diaspora donations and academic partnerships, involving extensive cataloging and research.

This initiative reflects a wider trend of communities under threat using technology to build resilient, distributed archives. Shomali views the archive as a tool for Palestinians to reclaim ownership of their history, creating a "bottom-up" narrative. To ensure its survival, multiple copies are stored globally, creating a distributed system resistant to both digital attacks and physical destruction.

The archive's impact extends beyond preservation, enabling "exhibitions in a box" that can be downloaded and staged anywhere in the world. It also serves as a vital resource for international artists and curators, allowing them to create exhibitions that bring Palestinian history and identity to new audiences. Mohammad Rabae, who oversees digitization, emphasizes that the process is about more than just creating digital images; it's about safely preserving fragile historical materials for future generations and respecting the dignity of those represented.