News-Technology

 1.Apple’s iOS 26.2 Update Polishes UI, Boosts AirDrop Security, and Improves Apple Music 

**iOS 26.2: Little Tweaks & Sweet Stuff**

Okay, so Apple just dropped iOS 26.2. It’s not one of those crazy, “everything’s different!” updates. This time, it’s a bunch of smaller fixes and adjustments. Think little stuff that actually makes using your iPhone just a bit better from day to day. Like a collection of handy tweaks all rolled into one, you know? It's alright in my view. The good bit is, this one works for iPhone 11’s and newer, plus the second-gen iPhone SE. Sweet!

What Apple seems to be doing this time is a bunch of these smaller changes that kind of add up to something pretty good. I believe they’re just trying to keep things current without freaking everyone out. That's considerate.

**Liquid Glass: Some additional customization**

Remember that Liquid Glass effect from the last version? Now Apple's making it even better. In the past, it was really just transparent or with a light color; but now it is adjustable. You can mess with the transparency setting: what is the transparency of your clock on your Lock Screen? You should like that.

Want the clock to kind of vanish into your wallpaper? Reduce the transparency, like a ninja! Need it super clear? Then crank it up. It is a simple detail for Apple users.

In addition, they added Liquid Glass to the Measure app. Now, when you're using your phone to measure things with AR, the interface looks more current. It goes together with Apple's idea of keeping everything consistent. Menus match each other in many aspects when thinking about their feeling.

**Reminders: Can't Miss 'Em**

Using your to-do list 24/7? The Reminders app got cooler. Right now you can fix alarms for certain reminders. For duties you fully have to finish, what alarm do you want? For example your anniversary.

Also, if you snooze a reminder, iOS 26.2 puts a Live Activity on your Lock Screen. Without actually opening the app, you can say it's completed or create a new time for it. Easy, but valuable for you.

**AirDrop: Now with Extra Safety**

AirDrop is really useful but people get nervous about sending to the incorrect person by mistake in a public place. iOS 26.2 includes another level of safety. We do not want to think about things like that!

Right now, people getting the file can make random AirDrop codes on their device, confirming that the file comes to them. The sender is required to enter in that code to finish the transfer. Thus it is confirmed where the information should go. The code has an expiration timer after 30 days, providing a fair share between safety and usefulness.

**Offline Music Lyrics Are Here**

Users of Apple Music: Great part is, you can see the lyrics even offline right now. That should make you happy. Now you can sing your popular songs on trains and planes without needing Wi-Fi, but can still read the text. It's a good touch. Maybe the listeners told them.

**Everything Revolves Around Location**

There are area-specific features. Translation in real-time for AirPods can be used in Europe. Now you can get real-time translations because you can use AirPods. This is for tourists or maybe mixed language families.

There are new Safety Alerts in the US. Floods and crises get announced right away, so that you will be in a safe situation. Apple adds goodness.

**Mac and Vision Pro Have Not Been Left Out**

Other Apple stuff have received upgrades, too. Macs can use an Edge Light tool. The computer screen creates light at the time of calls. Use it for Zoom calls if you do not have a bright spot for lighting.

Speaking about the Vision Pro, it handles gear like Logitech Muse. Also, Travel Mode settings creates better feel during travel.

**Tiny Updates, Smart Ideas**

iOS 26.2 brings good adjustments. It shows that Apple is thinking in a more focused way. Liquid Glass plus reminders and AirDrop safety are pretty nice, making your iPhone experience run smooth and be only yours specifically.

Apple wants to make iPhones better bit by bit. Therefore your items will be kept dependable with one small change at a time. Those small things are the reason to stick with something.

2.These 7 Smartphone Features Need to Come to Google’s Pixel Lineup 

**Title: Stuff Google Should Steal From Other Phones to Make Pixels Even Better**

You know, back in the day, those Nexus phones were something only tech geeks cared about. Pixels? They're a totally different story now. While Nexus was all about that simple, pure Android experience for people who were really into tech, they didn't have a ton of extra features. But Pixels? They've turned into phones that practically anyone can enjoy, loaded with seriously handy stuff. I'm talking features like Call Screen, which is a total lifesaver for dodging those annoying robocalls, or Now Playing, which is like magic for figuring out what song is playing. There's just something about using a Pixel that makes you feel good, right?

I recently went back to using Pixels with the Pixel 10 Pro, and it reminded me why I liked Google's phones in the first place. Even the Pixel is amazing, some other companies are doing things techy that I wish Google would just straight-up copy. I mean, Apple, Samsung, OnePlus, Motorola – they all have features that could really make the Pixel stand out from the crowd. So, I wanted to talk about seven of those things that I really hope Google is thinking about. Picking these up would be awesome.

**1. App-Specific Volume Controls? Yes, Please!**

Isn't it the worst when you're chilling, listening to some music, and then suddenly some game or a random video starts blasting at full blast? If you're like me and get annoyed by loud sounds, it's not just irritating; it completely wrecks the mood. Samsung, OnePlus, and Motorola get this. They let you change the volume for separate apps. So, you can keep the noisy ones quiet while your music is just right.

The Pixel? Nope. Sound is just sound across the board. Having those volume sliders for individual apps would be so much better. You could control the sound to match your comfort level. It would also give you the ability to block certain sounds from ever getting loud. That's a feature that could really help people out every single day.

**2. Volume Button Music Control**

Another sound thing that I really miss is skipping to the next song using the volume buttons when I'm not even looking at the thing. On Samsung, Motorola, and maybe some others, when your phone is off, you just hold down a volume button to skip or go back. It makes sense, and it's super handy when you're wearing gloves or something.

With Pixel, you'll need to search for an app for that, because it doesn't come with that music control option. Google adding this? It's the very definition of common sense. Being able to skip tracks without turning on the screen would be so nice. It is way easier and less clumsy when needing an extra step.

**3. Camera Looks – Make Every Photo *Your* Photo**

Apple’s camera Looks got a lot of press when the iPhone 13 came out, and I'm all for it. Instead of messing with filters after you take a picture, camera Looks let you set a style beforehand – like warm colors, cool colors, or even something bright. That way, all your photos will have the same exact Look. You can still adjust after the fact if you want, but it helps save time and keep things consistent.

Google Photos? It's only got those basic filters you have to apply to each photo on a case-by-case basis. And you aren't able to keep one type of filter as its standard. If Pixel had a camera Looks option, people would be able to show their personalities through color and style. That would add to the uniqueness being expressed, instead of the normal colorful themes that the Pixel has. This added variation would be awesome.

**4. Widget Groups: Tidy Up Your Home Screen**

Widgets on Android are pretty useful, but the ones on Google could use some improvement. Apple and Samsung's widget groups would be a good place to start when bringing in updates. With groups, widgets can be stacked on top of one another, and once you are on the home screen, you can access it by swiping as needed.

What separates them from the status quo is how well everything can be organized. My Samsung has stacked three types of widgets in one group: earbuds, calendar, weather, and to-do lists are easily accessible. It has everything in one single spot. Pixels can have things sprawled everywhere, meaning you will need some folders for organization. Widget groups could fix this issue.

**5. Music Controls in Live Update Bubbles**

A lot of us knew about the Google Live Updates in Android 16, by now. These bubbles give you up-to-the-minute news on stuff like deliveries. But, the music controls for them are just nowhere in sight.

In Live Updates on iPhones and OnePlus phones, music can also pull up such as the album artwork and name of song. Most of us aren't thinking about delivery dates when compared to most people that listen to music. This feels like an simple option to put it on the table. Music controls would be an unbelievable help.

**6. A Routines App so You Don't Need Extra Apps?**

Google still hasn't caught up on having phone shortcuts. Pixels can change phone settings by using location or wifi to do something called Rules, but the rules only adjust sound. Now with Samsung Modes and Routines, the phone settings can change stuff like battery or what device it's paired with. Apple can copy this.

For example, my Galaxy Buds Pro with Samsung can change to ambient from ambient the second someone enters a store. On the Pixel, you need an Tasker app. An option to get rid of it is a great idea. There cannot be downloads when changing the phone at any point.

**7. Small/Quick Windows**

Google doesn't have these window option for you, but places like Motorolla, Samsung and Xiaomi do, which helps for people that want to do multitasking. They're good when Android does the move, it has had them for years now.

Motorola's move controls work very nice and can be trusted when using. To show the flashlight, all you do is a chopping move, and if you twist it, you will open your camera. These moves do not app. It is way better when considering Pixel back taps are reliable. Putting move controls in Pixel would make things easier!

**Last Words**

My Pixel 10 Pro feels nice and clean while being cool, and I know Google understands Phones and Android overall. Pixels have amazing perks with their Call Screen and Now Playing features. Still, lots of other brands have a lot of helpful things Google is still not doing. These additions wouldn't make the Pixel any less great. Quite the opposite; it would definitely, significantly improve it.

Adding app volume control, widget stacking/groups, shortcut menus, or even hand gestures would be huge for the Pixel. If this became standard for Android, even better.

The Pixel already passes the mark by other phones and brings an individual style. Taking that kind of thinking to the Google software with make a great feel for Android users.

3.iOS 26.2 Brings Important Fixes, Apple Recommends Updating Immediately 

Hey iPhone folks! Big news: Apple just dropped iOS 26.2, and you really need to download it ASAP. I know, I know, you're probably in the middle of something important, but this is more important. Get that update going; it shouldn't take too long.

Why the rush? Well, this update is all about fixing some serious security problems. Like, *26* different ways hackers could potentially break into your phone and steal your stuff. Scary, right? It turns out there were some holes that the bad guys were actively trying to exploit.

Apple doesn't usually share all the details (for obvious reasons), here is what we know. Two big trouble spots were in WebKit, the thing that makes websites work well in Safari; these weak spots are labeled CVE‑2025‑43529 and CVE‑2025‑14174. These spots could allow a hacker, by just visiting an infected website, to start running commands on your phone without you even knowing!

Even more serious, they patched a Kernel issue (CVE‑2025‑46285). The Kernel is the core of your operating system. With the vulnerability in Kernel, apps could get too much control. That means bypassing security and possibly obtaining your messages and bank details.

**The Real Reason to Update: Spyware**

Here's the deal: Apple actually sent warnings to users in about 80 countries, saying they were likely targets of spyware. Think about who gets targeted by spyware. These are people like journalists, activists, or anyone handling private data; high-profile people, in other words. Spyware gives hackers access to *everything* on your phone. All of your encrypted messaging apps? It's all open to them.

How do you tell if you're a target? Your phone might get hot, slow down a lot, or you might see apps you didn't install. Restarting *might* help temporarily, but this update is the real fix.

**What About iOS 26.1.1?**

Now, you might remember iOS 26.1. It had Background Security Improvements that was supposed to automatically shield your phone from threats. If you had that turned on, that provided protection. At the end of the day, you still require this update.

**This affects everything made by Apple**

These updates aren't only for iPhones. Apple dropped updates for everything:

*   iOS 18.7.3 for iPhone XS and iPads fix the WebKit issue.

*   macOS Tahoe 26.2, macOS Sequoia 15.7.3, and macOS Sonoma 14.8.3 for Macs fix the Kernel thing.

*   tvOS 26.2 for Apple TV, watchOS 26.2 for Apple Watch, visionOS 26.2 for Vision Pro, and Safari 26.2 for macOS browsers are all rolling out.

Basically, Apple's trying to lock everything down.

**What the Experts are Saying**

Experts consider 26.2 important because of the dangers. Darren Guccione from Keeper Security noted that hackers are finding security holes. WebKit is an easy target because it is used to access the internet. It’s like leaving a door open in a criminal location.

Glyn Morgan from Salt Security stated that the WebKit can allow hackers to track you. Jake Moore at ESET stated the Kernel problems are severe.

**What else is in iOS 26.2?**

Along with security changes, there are other adjustments:

*   Music apps now will play.

*   Data issues have been adjusted for Business setting.

Also, new changes:

*   Other Ways to Personalize Lock Screen

*   Weather App Upgrade

*   Lyrics On Screen

*   Podcast Update

*   Sleep Tracking is Better

*   Alarms in Reminders

*   Europe Airpod Translation

**The Takeaway: Update Right Now!**

Every IT person is encouraging you to update device right away. Criminals can get to your devices. Rik Ferguson from Forescout highlights upgrading to the newest version to better protect yourself.

Apple's iOS 26.2 works for iPhones 11 or later, iPad Pro 12.9-inch (3rd gen+), iPad Pro 11-inch (1st gen+), iPad Air (3rd gen+), iPad (8th gen+), and iPad mini (5th gen+).

Getting the update will make staying secure a lot better. So, protect your devices!

4.K&F Concept’s Popod Turns From Tripod to Selfie Stick for Mobile Creators 

**K&F Concept Popod 72″ Phone Tripod: Pocket-Sized Mobile Studio**

K&F Concept has been doing a good job lately, putting out photography stuff that doesn’t break the bank but still has some cool features. The Popod 72″ Phone Tripod is their latest thing, and it's basically three gadgets squished into one. I am talking about it's a magnetic tripod and a selfie stick, made for those of us that use our phones to shoot. It sets up fast, the head can be moved around, and it includes a Bluetooth clicker. Plus, you can attach extra things to it because it has a standard 1/4″ screw. I thought that this is useful if you're shooting by yourself, doing vlogs, or like to take pictures and need extra features that aren't too complicated.

**Quick Setup**

The name Popod is pretty apt – it pops open fast. No playing around with locks, just pop it open, and that's it. That’s good when you need to grab a shot right away.

The magnetic phone mount is a nice touch. No more struggling with those springy grips – just stick your phone on, and that's it. Switching between using it as a tripod or selfie stick is simple. So, if you're the type that shoots without planning, this design makes sense and is useful.

**Ready for On-the-Go Use**

When it's folded, it's only about 11 inches and weighs less than a pound. So it's easy to toss in your bag. But, when it's stretched out, it goes up to 72 inches. That’s actually pretty tall for a phone tripod, which is good for overhead shots. It also is useful for photos with several people in it.

The head moves in lots of directions, so you can tilt, pan, and spin it until you get the shot you need. The pole and legs are aluminum and spread out to about 15 inches, so it's stable even when it's fully extended. Light tripods tend to shake a lot, but and this one stays put pretty well.

**More Than Just a Phone Holder**

That 1/4″ screw mount is helpful for adding action cameras, mics, or small lights. That's useful when you want to improve your videos. Rather than buying a bunch of new stuff, you don't need to.

Plus, the Bluetooth remote is surprisingly useful. It is helpful to take pictures and videos without touching your phone. I realized that this is handy when you're shooting alone or working to get the right angle. So, you don't have to keep running back to hit record.

**Does It Do What It’s Supposed To?**

Honestly, yeah, it does the job. It can be clipped to your bag while moving, and you won't notice it's there. When I had a good shot, It unfolds better than other tripods. Taking selfies with the remote is a breeze, and the legs keep it in place, even if it's windy outside.

If you're using it for vlogging while on the go, switching to the selfie-stick form works smoothly. The length feels right, and getting the angle you need is simple. I noticed that little things like these make the whole experience better.

Indoors, it works like a simple studio. Taking full-body selfies or lifestyle shots is super easy with the remote right there. It recharges fast, which is good when you're packing up often. It's easy to use, letting me be more dedicated to the video itself.

**What Are the Other Choices?**

There are a lot of phone tripods out there, that range in price. The Popod is right in the middle:

Cheap selfie sticks: don't extend far (40-50 inches), made of cheap plastic, and can't hold anything else. The Popod is taller, stronger because it's made of aluminum, and it has the magnetic mount.

Normal travel tripods: work well, but don't compress, and don't have a magnetic mount. Weigh more and take longer to setup. The Popod is faster and lighter.

Choices from professional brands: have all sorts of features, but are usually very big and way expensive. The Popod has some of those features without the weight or high cost.

The Popod does a lot for its price since it's tall, easy to carry, has a magnetic mount, can hold accessories, and isn't expensive.

**Is This A Good Option For You?**

If you make content or want something easy to carry and use, this is for you. The 3-in-1 design is useful if you're travelling or just move between using a tripod, selfie stick, and handheld mode a lot. If you use mics and lights often, this can be used as a mini studio.

Those who film a lot will still probably use a normal tripod. If you're making videos with a phone, the Popod is pretty good and isn't hard to use. Since it's not that expensive, it is worth a look.

**Price and Where to Purchase**

The K&F Concept Popod 72″ Phone Tripod is around $30, plus there’s a discount code (PETA20OFF) that takes 20% off. The cost includes the tripod/selfie stick, the Bluetooth clicker, and the adjustable head.

The price is okay for a compact tripod.

**To Sum It Up**

The Popod is something those who film on phones will like. It’s fast, has options, and isn't hard to carry around. With its quick setup, magnetic mount, tall height, and place to attach accessories, it's more than just a tripod. It is a simple studio that fits in your pocket.

It's also is easy to use, which helps to not keep you from filming. I see it being used for any sort of scenes, vlogs, or anything else. Great choice if you're shooting on the move.

5.iPhone Users Report Alarms Going Silent Without Warning 

You'd think they're the kings of being easy to use. But get this: a lot of people's alarms are just straight-up failing to go off! Can you even believe that? I use that thing to wake me up for my job. If it quits on me, my whole day is messed up! So, yeah, tons of iPhone users are pretty annoyed. They're reporting that their alarms are just silent. Imagine missing a flight because of that? Total nightmare!

**Flight Cancelled, Big Problems**

This whole mess blew up because of a TikTok user, Brett Chody. She was all ready to head to Chicago, but her iPhone decided to go silent. She overslept and missed her flight. Major bummer, right?

In her TikTok video – which got over two million views, by the way – she explains how her iPhone alarm just didn't make a sound. She woke up at 6:30 a.m., way after her flight had already left. Her phone was supposed to be alarming her for two and half hours to wake her up ! How crazy is that?

But the really wild part is that tons of other people are going through the same thing. Similar stories are showing up all over the internet. One person missed their entire work shift, someone else was late for a big meeting, and another person messed up a test. People are commenting online like, I thought I was losing it! or That happened to me last week! It really feels like this isn't just a random issue; it's way more widespread than anyone thought.

**Going Around More Than You Think**

Chody talked about it on Instagram, mentioning that a lot of users are dealing with the same weird alarm issues. And the comments just kept coming in. Someone missed an exam because of it, another was late to work, and someone else missed their first day at a new job! Some people are even setting like, five alarms now, just to be safe. But, who wants to wake up to a whole bunch of alarms going off?

Alarms are one of those things that just *have* to work, no questions asked. I get it, apps can crash and notifications can get turned off, but the alarm? That's a must-have. If your alarm decides to fail you without warning, how can you even trust your phone anymore? If your alarm is unreliable, it messes with your confidence. You start wondering what else is going to break down without telling you.

**Is Face ID to Blame?**

Here's where things get interesting: some people are saying that Face ID might be the problem. Apparently, something called Attention Aware Features is supposed to lower the sound of alerts when it sees you're looking at your phone. Sounds useful.

But sometimes it seems to get confused and silences alarms way too early. One person said that just glancing at their phone would instantly turn off the alarm. However, once they turned off the Attention Aware Features setting, the alarm worked just fine.

It looks like that setting might be the real cause of the problem. It works by focusing on if you can look at your phone or not. That tech in itself might be a problem.

**Apple's Bad Time**

Silent alarms aren't the only thing people are upset about. MacRumors mentioned that the 2016 iPhone SE won't have Apple support. Even if you want to pay them, they won't help you with it (phones that have not been sold in seven years).

If you still have the iPhone SE, you might need an all new phone. You would literally have to dispose of your phone, if you were to get a new one.

People have wondered if Apple is doing this on purpose, stopping support for older phones to get people to buy their newest stuff.

**Sleepless and Oversleeping**

With everything happening, people have one big question: what happens when tech goes wrong? People are stressed because they might miss work or important meetings because they can't depend on iPhones to work.

Missing things isn't just annoying; it also causes real-life problems. It can mean getting less money from your job, missing an opportunity, or even getting fired. Because of all these issues, people like Brett Chody are asking Apple to release an update to fix these alarm problems.

**Ways to Avoid the Alarm Issue**

Here are a few things you can try if you're having trouble with your alarm:

*   Turn off the settings in Face ID.

*   Set multiple alarms to wake you up.

*   Test your alarm when you adjusted the options on your phone.

*   Use an old-school clock alarm if you need to wake up at a specific time.

I can't promise that these ideas will fix everything, but they might help.

**In Short**

Alarms should not be silent. The story started when Brett Chody made a video on TikTok after her alarm didn't work. Software issues and the Face ID option might be the reason your alarm isn't working.

Also, people don't like that Apple isn't supporting older iPhones. Turn off Face ID for now; alarms need to work no matter what.

6.Aulumu A17 Brings a Fresh Look to Rugged iPhone 17 Pro Cases at Just $21 

## Aulumu A17 Rugged iPhone 17 Pro/Max Case: Seriously Tough, Seriously Cool

Looking for an iPhone case can be a real pain, right? There are a ton of choices, but they all start to look the same after a while. You really want something that will protect your phone if you drop it, but you don't want something that's hideous. That's where Aulumu comes in. People are starting to notice them and their cases. And their new A17 Rugged Case for the iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max shows that a case can be both strong and look good, because of a few clever ideas.

### What's the Deal?

The Aulumu A17 isn’t just some flimsy plastic thing. It's made to take a beating. I'm talking tough, but not bulky like the old days; it’s got a modern look, and it feels good when you hold it. They make it from one solid piece of TPU material and put it through MIL-STD-810G 516.6 testing. And what does that mean for you? It can survive drops, bumps, and all the other stuff that happens to your phone every day. You know that sinking feeling when you *think* you’re about to drop your phone? This case should make you worry about that a little less.

It’s not only about preventing cracks if you drop your phone, but Aulumu added some textured areas to the back and sides, so your phone won’t slide out of your hand so easily. The newer phones are pretty big, and some cases make them even harder to hold. So that extra grip really helps a lot.

### Some Smart Design

That honeycomb pattern on the back isn't just for decoration. It helps move heat away from your phone when you're really using it hard, like if you're playing games. Games, videos, and using several apps at the same time can make your phone get hot, right? This design can help keep it cooler, which is always good.

Also, it works great with MagSafe stuff. It will stick easily to Apple chargers, wallets, and stands. If you like MagSafe, you’ll probably like this phone case.

### The Important Things

The whole case, even around the camera and buttons, is made from one piece of TPU. This makes it feel really strong. TPU can bend, but it’s also really tough. The buttons still work great, and the hole for the camera sticks out a little, so the camera lenses don't get scratched when you set your phone down on a table.

They got the idea for this case from athletic wear, and the designer put some cool lines on it. This case feels strong without adding a lot of extra size to the phone, and it looks modern without being too flashy. If you want a case that shows off your style a little bit, this could be the one.

### Using It Every Day

The Aulumu A17 feels like it was made for the iPhone. The grippy areas on the sides feel good in your hand. The honeycomb design looks slightly different and it helps keep the phone cool. Your MagSafe stuff snaps on like it should, and it’s not too bulky to carry in your pocket.

If you're outdoors a lot, travel often, or you just need to keep your phone as safe as possible, this case can handle everyday wear and tear, because of the military-grade protection. The case never gets in the way – buttons work, the phone charges wirelessly, and it goes with the iPhone 17's look.

### Is It a Good Deal?

Price is always something you need to think about. There are a ton of phone cases out there to pick from. With the Aulumu A17, you get exactly what you’d expect for the price. It’s strong, MagSafe works the way it should, and it’s got a simple design that’s pleasant. Cheaper cases might cost about the same, but they don’t have all of these features. This one is a better choice for your money.

If you need a phone case that does more than just cover your phone, give this one a try. They made sure that it keeps your phone safe, and makes using your phone a bit more pleasant every day.

### My Last Thoughts

The iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max are awesome phones. They’re also expensive as all can be, so it's important to remember to take care of it the best you can and protect it. A lot of cases say they'll keep it safe, but not many have the protection, grip, cooling, and looks of the Aulumu A17. The military-grade badge gives you confidence, the honeycomb design is clever, and the support for MagSafe is great.

So many boring phone cases exist that it can be overwhelming, but Aulumu made one that’s worth singling out. If you want a phone case that looks good and is strong, the A17 is worth a second look. It’s amazing what a difference a simple phone case can do.

7.Galaxy S26 Could Arrive With Unexpected Software Features 

Everyone's talking about the Samsung Galaxy S26. It's probably coming out around January or February of 2026. Samsung hasn't said anything officially, but it's pretty much expected at this point. People are excited, not just because it's a new phone, but also for the software stuff in One UI 8.5.

Speaking of One UI 8.5, Samsung's got a test version running. Yeah, a few things have slipped out, but some people are saying there's way more to it than we know. This one tech guy, chunvn8888, on X (that's Twitter), hinted that One UI 8.5 has some really cool stuff hidden away. The big one is this thing called Notification Summaries, and it uses Samsung’s Gauss AI.

So, Notification Summaries – what's that even mean? Basically, it's trying to fix the problem of too many notifications. Instead of swiping a million times to clear your alerts, this gives you a quick rundown of what happened that day. It groups similar notifications together, points out the important ones, and gives you a quick overview of stuff. It's all about cutting down on information overload.

Apparently, they wanted this in One UI 7, but they held back. No one knows exactly why, but the fact that it's appearing in One UI 8.5 makes you think Samsung really wanted to get it right. By putting in Gauss AI, Samsung wants Notification Summaries to be smart and learn what you actually care about on your phone. It is just a way to make smarternotifications.

Right now, the rumor is that Notification Summaries will only be on the Galaxy S26 when it first comes out. Samsung likes to do this kind of thing – launch new software on their newest, most expensive phones, then give it to the older phones later. So, if they do the same thing this time, phones like the Galaxy S25, and the Galaxy Z Fold 7 and Z Flip 7, probably will get the update later in 2026.

This might bother people who already have those phones, but it does make the Galaxy S26 look more appealing when it first comes out. Plus, it lets Samsung try out the system on a smaller group of people before giving it to everyone.

The good thing is that Notification Summaries will support a bunch of languages right away. It'll have the usual ones: English, Chinese, French, German, Hindi, Japanese, Korean, Portuguese, Polish, Spanish, Thai, and Vietnamese. So, that covers a lot of folks in a lot of countries.

If Notification Summaries sounds kind of similar to what Google's doing on the Pixel, that's because it is. On the Pixel 9 and 10, Google's got AI-powered notification summaries too. Google's also automatically turning down notifications that are too distracting, which helps you focus better.

Samsung's version seems to be trying to do the same thing, but we'll have to wait and see how Gauss AI compares to what Google's got. They're both trying to solve the same thing, which is notification overload. When you get a quick summary of everything, you don't feel like you need to check every single notification, which can help you chill out and focus.

It is honestly a problem we all face now. Non-stop notifications from texts, social media, emails – you name it. It's easy to get hundreds of them every day, taking away attention from things that matter. Stuff like Notification Summaries are part of what appears to be a trend of using AI to handle the flood of information.

Samsung putting Gauss AI into One UI 8.5 shows they're serious about AI. Just like Google's approach with the Pixel, Samsung is getting us used to AI being a main part of Galaxy phones.

The Galaxy S26 looks like it will pack power, but it'll also have some brains. With Notification Summaries, Samsung seems to want to show us that AI can make a phone smarter, not just faster.

Rumors are saying that Notification Summaries is just the beginning. Chunvn8888 said that there are unknown features that couldn't be spotted on the test version. As we wait for the launch, we should expect to learn more, and we will have a better idea of what Samsung has hiding.

To sum things up, the Galaxy S26 could have some pretty big changes inside and out. With Notification Summaries, Samsung is trying to tackle the annoying frustration, which is annoying phone notifications. Right now, it's only supposed to be on the Galaxy S26 at first. Eventually, it might show up on older phones like Google's Pixels.

These early peeks are sneak peeks to what might change. As Samsung gets ready to show off the Galaxy S26, Notification Summaries could be something interesting.

8.Amazon Adds AI That Answers Questions Across Your Kindle Library 

## Amazon's Ask This Book on Kindle: Helpful or Just Plain Odd?

So, Amazon's rolling out this new feature for Kindles called Ask This Book. Imagine you're deep into a novel, totally confused about a character or some plot twist (we've all been there, right?). Well, now you can ask your Kindle for clarification! It's supposed to clear up any confusion while you're reading. Sounds pretty useful, huh? Right now, it's just on iPhones and iPads to start.

### How Does It Actually Work?

It's pretty straightforward. When you hit a confusing part, you can highlight the text and ask a question directly in the app. Something like, Wait, who is this guy *again*? or How does this connect to everything else?. The idea is that the AI will give you instant answers, so you don't have to flip through pages, search online, or bug your book club friends for spoilers. Amazon says it is available on a lot of bestsellers, but they are not telling us what books.

They plan to add it to normal Kindles and Android phones later, by 2026. But if you use an iPhone and are in the US, you get to check it out ahead of time.

### The Problem: You Can't Just Turn It Off

Here's where it gets a bit strange. You can't disable Ask This Book. Yep, you heard that right. Authors and publishers don't have a say in whether their books are part of this. Amazon says it's to ensure everyone gets the same experience, but lots of people in the book world are starting to wonder.

With everyone arguing about AI and who owns the rights to what, this no-opt-out thing feels like a big deal . Many authors are already stressed about their books being used to teach AI programs, and Amazon isn't really clear about who has the permissions to their books. People are asking questions like, Will my book be used to train some AI? or How are they stopping the AI from just being wrong? and the answers are not there from Amazon.

### What's Good for Readers

Okay, setting aside the potential difficulties, Ask This Book offers some real perks for readers. It could be like having a built-in study guide. When you're tackling a challenging read, it can assist you to keep up with everything, and remember what happened at the beginning of the novel. Students, book clubs, or average readers can all get more amusement clarifying things while they read.

Just think of tackling that really long novel where you cannot remember parts of the plot. Then you can ask: Who is this person again?. It can help you be less scared of it, and maybe enjoy what you are reading.

### Recaps: Just Like TV

Amazon's also working to assist people to follow stories with Recaps. It's sort of those Previously on... parts you see at the start of TV episodes - short summaries of what's happened.

Recaps are available on Kindles right now. If you are reading many books and pieces of a long series from time to time, this feature may be very helpful.

### Who Has the Copyright?

This all happening while people are seriously discussing AI and copyright. Authors and publishers are starting to be nervous about what tech companies do with their things, and when AI is causing explanations things or writing their own based off of things that were already written.

Since Amazon will not let Ask This Book be optional, people are upset about its function. The function could use things from works that people have made, and copyright is a concern. There are a lot of demands that it should be clear about how it works, what info it collects, and what safety functions it has. They might be scared that their ideas are used in a way that they do not consent to.

### Readers Compared to Writers

This function gets straight to the tension between making it easy on readers and protecting the creations of writers. It could change reading. However, it starts up questions about who is charging and who is in control of the content.

Ask This Book getting popular could change how AI is in copyrighted works. So, it would be smart to look to see that Amazon cares about both writers and consumers. Can Amazon treat the both sides fairly?

### So what's Next

Amazon said that Ask This Book may come in more forms in the future, such as normal Kindles and Android devices.

With an iPhone, you might be able to tap areas in a book and question it. You may also be able to continue to ask more, implying you have a full knowledge of what is happening.

### In Short...

Amazon making AI to help with reading. As good it seems, there are problems since it is not clear on safeguards.

When it adds it later, then things about copyright will become more tense. Therefore, Amazon should balance the playing field to treat fairness for all.

9.Macron Returns to Instagram to Celebrate Clair Obscur: Expedition 33’s Game of the Year Win 

Wow, the 2025 Game Awards were insane! This little French studio, Sandfall Interactive, totally cleaned up with their RPG, Clair Obscur: Expedition 33. Nine awards?! That’s crazy! They blew away all the old records. Even President Macron was talking about it, saying how awesome it was for the French creative world.

**Talk about a Win**

Okay, Clair Obscur’s great, but think about who it was up against. Death Stranding 2, a new Donkey Kong, the forever-awaited Hollow Knight: Silksong, Hades 2, and Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2... some real giants. And somehow, Sandfall’s game grabbed every prize – the story, the music, the voice acting, all of it. The big one, definitely.

Everything clicked for this game. The reviews were awesome, and people just really loved playing it. Usually, a game either gets the critics on board or sells millions, but this one did both. It’s going to be remembered, that's for sure.

**Macron's a Fan**

Macron even put a photo on Instagram of Gustave, Maelle, and Sciel (those are characters in the game!). He looked proud to be French. He said it was a first for a French game! He told the team how great they are, adding that they should tell everyone to make games.

He was already rooting for Sandfall when the game sold a million copies super fast. Even that early, he was saying they were setting a good example. The president being a fan shows that France cares about video games and the business and culture they make.

**A Quick Look Back**

Not everyone was thrilled with Macron's excitement. Some folks remembered when he seemed to blame video games and social media for some of the bad stuff that happened at protests in 2023. Players were upset.

But Macron seems to have switched gears, now saying he’s ALWAYS thought video games were important to France, its young people, and the economy. He saying before it was just criminals using video games for bad things, not a shot at the games themselves. His congrats now really shows he cares about the industry.

**What the Director Had to Say**

When Guillaume Broche, who directed Clair Obscur, won Game of the Year, thanked everyone at Sandfall Interactive and some others. A bunch of developers showed up dressed like characters from the game!

Broche also thanked the people who make those game tutorials on YouTube because he and his team had to search and find many of them. He said other game creators should go for it, that it is very achievable.

**Seriously Successful**

Clair Obscur dropped in April 2025 – bad timing, because Bethesda released an updated Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion on Game Pass. It looked like Sandfall’s RPG might not do so good, but it quickly blew up and sold millions by October.

Critics and players were loving it. IGN basically went crazy, saying that the combat and story was awesome, calling it an RPG everyone should play because the fighting and story are awesome.

**One More Thing...**

Sandfall Interactive took the opportunity to drop a surprise DLC and an upgrade, version 1.5.0. The update had a brand new section and amazing battles with bosses. Gamers loved the added content, which made the game even better.

**A Big Deal for French Games**

Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 made everyone interested in French game makers. France has made super cool games, but they never won Game of the Year. Macron praising the game is awesome, and now Sandfall Interactive is showing how great the French can be at making games.

I mean, this studio went from watching YouTube to winning nine awards. That’s amazing. The growing gaming world in France just got a big boost.

**So, yeah...**

Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 was an awesome RPG that became a moment that everyone was talking about. The Game Awards, the sales, and support from the president show how good the game is and a success for the country.

10.Apple Issues Urgent Patch for Two Zero-Day Vulnerabilities Exploited in Attacks 

listen up, because this is pretty big: Apple just pushed out some really important security fixes for basically every device they make. Turns out there were a couple of really bad security holes that hackers were already using to mess with people.

**What's Going On?**

So, these holes – they're called CVE-2025-43529 and CVE-2025-14174 (don't worry about memorizing those) – were found in WebKit. Now, WebKit is like the engine that makes Safari and other Apple apps work, letting them show you websites and stuff. It's super important to how Apple stuff runs.

**Why Should I Freak Out?**

This is a big deal because WebKit is used on nearly everything Apple makes – iPhones, iPads, Macs, you name it. Since these holes are in such a key piece of code, they're really risky. A hacker could fool you into visiting a bad website, and boom, they could get into your device. And the worst part? You don't even have to click anything. Just visiting the site is enough.

**Tell Me More!**

Apple said that these problems had to do with memory. One was a use-after-free thing, which is when the system tries to use a piece of memory that's already been cleared. Messed up, right? Apparently, Google's Threat Analysis Group (TAG) found it. Those TAG guys are amazing at finding sneaky hacking stuff.

The other problem was a memory corruption thing. Basically, bad stuff on a website could mess with your device's memory and let someone take control. Apple and Google's TAG team got together to find this. Talk about teamwork!

Apple thinks these problems were used in targeted attacks against specific people, probably on older iPhones. So, it isn't super widespread, but it was still serious enough that they needed to fix it right away.

**Which Stuff Is At Risk?**

Here's the list of devices that needed patching:

*   iPhones from iPhone 11 and up

*   iPad Pro (12.9-inch, 3rd gen and newer; 11-inch, 1st gen and newer)

*   iPad Air (3rd gen and newer)

*   iPad (8th gen and newer)

*   iPad mini (5th gen and newer)

**Here's What You Gotta Do**

Update your devices. Like, right now. Seriously, stop what you’re doing or pause for a while and do it. Apple put out updates to fix these holes: iOS 18.7.3, iPadOS 18.7.3, macOS Tahoe 26.2, watchOS 26.2, tvOS 26.2, visionOS 26.2, and Safari 26.2.

**Google Helped Out?**

Yep, it turns out Google fixed a similar problem in Chrome around the same time. And guess what? It was linked to one of Apple's issues (CVE-2025-14174). So this was a team effort between Apple and Google to squash this bug.

**Why Is WebKit Such a Juicy Target?**

Because it’s everywhere! A hole in WebKit is like having a master key to a ton of devices. It’s also pretty easy to exploit – a hacker just needs to get someone to visit a hacked website. It’s really not that hard to do.

**How to Update (Step-by-Step for Dummies)**

*   **iPhone/iPad:** Go to Settings > General > Software Update

*   **macOS:** Go to System Preferences > Software Update

*   **Apple Watch:** Update through the Watch app on your iPhone

*   **Apple TV:** Go to Settings > System > Software Updates

And if you have an older device that can’t get the newest updates, try to see if there are any separate security fixes for it. Don’t forget about it!!!

**More Nasty Zero-Day Stuff**

This is the seventh time this year that Apple's had to fix a zero-day hole. A zero-day is a hole that hackers are already using before Apple even knows about it. It seems like these kinds of attacks are happening more often and getting sneakier, which is bad.

**The Big Picture**

This whole thing shows that even Apple, with all its money, isn't safe from big security problems. It also shows that tech companies are starting to work together more to fight these threats. The most important thing for us regular users is that keeping our devices updated is super important. It’s not just a suggestion, it’s a must.

Update your devices. Right now. Like, seriously, stop what you’re doing to update.

**The TL;DR**

Apple fixed two big security holes that were being used to attack people and quickly released updates for iPhones, iPads, Macs, and more. Do it now, get updating those Apple devices *immediately*. Keeping up with these updates is just part of staying safe when you’re online.

11.Sapphire Pushes AMD for Greater Flexibility in GPU Designs: “Let Us Go Nuts” 

let's break down what Sapphire's thinking about graphics cards.

So, Ed Crisler, the PR guy for Sapphire in North America, chilled with Hardware Unboxed and the talk went to graphics cards. Sapphire's basically joined at the hip with AMD, being one of their main partners. But Crisler's starting to wonder if AMD's rules are getting a bit too tight. Are they killing creativity and making every card look the same? The main thing he's wondering is: Just how much say *should* AMD have? And could this mean we might see the return of Sapphire's rad TOXIC series?

**Who Should Decide How Cards Look?**

Crisler's main point is that AMD needs to ease up a little. He thinks that if AMD just gave them the core GPU and memory, set some guidelines for how they should work, and then let companies like Sapphire loose to do their own thing, we'd see some seriously cool and different cards on shelves.

Basically, Crisler's hoping AMD (and others) will just hand over the raw stuff and say: Here's the basics, now go build something awesome. He thinks AMD needs to chill out on control, and that'll let more diverse options come out to us buyers. I totally get what he means.

The performance jump from the cheapest to the most ridiculously overpriced, factory overclocked card is often tiny – sometimes so small where you can barely see a difference in performance.

Because of this, many people choose a card based on how it looks, the build quality, how much power it drinks up, how noisy it is, and the company's vibe. It's all about the stuff you *can't* easily measure with frame rates. Crisler thinks that if AMD gave them more room, card companies could really nail those aspects, giving you a real, solid reason to pick one card over another. And honestly, he has a point.

**Sweet Features and Unique Looks**

Throughout the conversation, Crisler kept hammering home how important user friendly extras and unique visual styles are. Right now, most companies are switching out coolers and doing some minor tweaks. He says it's not enough. They need to be building cards that have crazy designs, easy to use settings, and special features you won't find anywhere else.

I see always PC fans agreeing with him. There are always complaints that all graphics cards look the same. Crisler's idea of giving card companies more freedom could breathe new life into the market. More imaginative designs would be a good addition.

**TOXIC Series: Getting the Timing Right**

Sapphire's TOXIC series was about blowing people away with top notch gaming and sick designs. Crisler mentions that they consider bringing it back with every new GPU release. But they'll only do it if they can make something truly special. A TOXIC card has to have insane speeds, awesome cooling, and a look that's even more impressive than Sapphire's Nitro+ models.

The problem, of course, is the cost. To get a killer GPU that's hand picked, has quiet cooling, and a strong power setup would probably add around $150 to the price. Sapphire has to predict if people are willing to pay for the extra cost.

Sapphire's not the only one with that concern. Most card companies have dialed back the wild, super overclocked cards recently. There are still a few around, like the GALAX RTX 5090D HOF and the ASUS RTX 5090 MATRIX. So for now, TOXIC is on hold. But Crisler says it could happen when Sapphire feels ready to go all out.

**About Those Power Connector Issues**

Crisler also talked about the power connector problems that some people had with Sapphire's RX 9070 Nitro+. Sapphire wanted to partially hide the connector and make it look nice.

There were only three cases where the connector had problems. Crisler thinks the adapter cables are to blame, not the card's connector itself, the card or the power supply. He's sure that the connector is safe to use if you're careful – don't bend or force it, and make sure it's plugged in all the way.

He also says that it might need a redesign at some point. The connector did get some bad press, though. Potential customers might remember those issues and decide not to buy Sapphire cards because of it. What Sapphire uses next time will probably depend on how well the graphics cards have sold despite all the bad press about the connector.

**Why Standing Out Matters**

Crisler's points touch on a bigger question in the GPU world: Should AMD and NVIDIA decide on everything? Or should card companies have more say? While AMD and NVIDIA like to keep things consistent and stable, too much control could hurt new ideas and creativity.

Sapphire wants a market of awesome designs with good cooling, and great features. Buyers will see the tiny differences between all of them.

**Wrapping Things Up**

Sapphire wants to show off their design ideas for GPUs. Crisler's chat focused on giving partners the flexibility to stand out in the market. The question now is, are we buyers going to pay for better quality cards? Only time will tell.

The connector design and shows how consumers see Sapphire. AMD and NVIDIA get to make demands on what their partners can do. Crisler's interview started things going again with the GPU topic.

12.Samsung Rolls Out Security-Focused Update for Galaxy S23 

Samsung just dropped the December 2025 security update for its Galaxy S23 phones. It's cool to see they're still supporting older models like the S23 even with the newer S25 and S24 out there. It shows they're serious about keeping our phones safe, which is good news.

Right now, it looks like South Koreans are the first to receive the update. Folks are reporting the new software version is S918NKSS6EYL1. It's just how Samsung usually does things. They often start in their home country, but don't worry, it'll probably roll out to other places soon enough. If you are in Europe, North America, or somewhere in Asia that isn't Korea, expect a notification about the update sometime soon. When you get it exactly depends on your phone company and some tests they might run.

So, what does this update actually fix? Well, Samsung says it takes care of 57 different security problems in both Android and Samsung's One UI. These problems range from really serious issues in Android itself to smaller stuff in Samsung's own apps.

Samsung isn't sharing every single little detail. I guess they do not want the bad guys to start targeting phones that haven't been updated yet. But they did say the fixes are for things like stopping people from getting access they shouldn't, preventing memory problems, and keeping personal info from leaking. Basically, it helps protect you from malware, spyware, and those other nasty cyberattacks that can steal your data.

Updating your phone is easy. Here's what you do:

1.  Go to Settings

2.  Tap on Software update.

3.  Select Download and install.

It should only take a few minutes. Make sure your battery isn't too low and that you're on Wifi, so you don't use up all your data. If you're the type who likes to do things yourself, Samsung will soon put the files on their website, so you can manually install the update. It's for the more techy people.

While we're talking about updates, the Galaxy S23 currently has One UI 8.0. But One UI 8.5 is coming, and it's supposed to be a big one.

People who've tried it on the Galaxy S23 Ultra say One UI 8.5 makes the phone feel like new. There are new animations, redesigned widgets, and way more options to customize things. Samsung also made it easier to do multiple things at once, improved the accessibility features to make it easier to use for everyone, and gave the whole thing a fresh look. If you've had your S23 for a couple of years, this update might make it feel like you just got a new phone.

Now, these monthly security updates might not be as exciting as when a brand-new phone comes out, but they're super important. Think about it: our phones hold everything – messages, photos, banking apps – all that private stuff. If there are weaknesses in the system, hackers can get into all of it.

By releasing these updates regularly, Samsung makes sure our phones stay safe from the latest threats. They've been doing a pretty good job these last few years, often pushing out updates faster than other companies. This helps make Samsung a top choice for Android users. People trust them.

Samsung is updating the Galaxy S23 along with the newer S24 and S25 shows they're planning to support their phones for a long time. They promised four years of big Android updates and five years of security patches for many of their flagship phones. So, if you buy a Samsung phone, you know it'll stay safe and functional for years.

The Galaxy S23 came out in 2023, so you can probably expect updates until at least 2028. This is important, especially since phones are getting more money, and people are holding onto them longer.

So, what's next? One UI 8.5 should be here in early 2026. Not only will it bring new things, it will ensure the S23 is up there with Samsung's newest, best phones. And combined with these regular security patches, your phone will stay up-to-date and secure.

For Samsung, keeping things updated is not just about making customers happy; it also protects their brand's image. These times, there are more and more attempts to hack phones, and companies that don't protect their users could end up losing people's confidence. Samsung stays alert to these threats to ensure customers continue to trust them and buy their phones. They want to remain a top name in the phone world.

In short, the December 2025 security patch for the Galaxy S23 shows that Samsung is serious about security and taking care of users. It fixes a bunch of problems and, more importantly, helps protect us from getting hacked. And with One UI 8.5 just around the corner, Galaxy S23 users have even more to look forward to. It will keep their phones up to date and modern for longer. So, update your phone when you get the chance! These security updates might not seem very interesting, but these updates are very important, and because Samsung keeps supporting its products, Galaxy owners can be sure they own one of the most secure Android phones you can buy.

13.iOS 26.2 vs iOS 18.7.3: Which iPhone Update Should You Install? 

**iPhone Software Updates: New vs. Old – What's the Deal?**

So, Apple just dropped these two updates for iPhones – let's call them New and Old for now. Apparently, they both exist due to some nasty security holes that were discovered. Apparently, some bad actors were already taking advantage of them to mess with people's iPhones. The New one is a major upgrade with a ton of fresh cool changes. The Old one is like a security guard basically and its job is to protect older iPhones, keeping them safe from the security bugs. The main question is: Which update is the right fit for you?

**Reasons to Download the New Software**

*   **Beefed-Up Defense from Prying Eyes**

    Apple's been warning that iPhones are being targeted with spy tools. It's pretty scary stuff since once it gets on your phone, it basically sees *everything* – texts, calls, private apps etc. Usually, they want to target journalists, and activists, but those security gaps can expose anyone.

    The New software not only protects those weak spots now and in the future, it also has something called Background Security (or something similar). It includes important improvements as soon as they come out, so you don't have to do complete system changes every time. In case you're afraid of spying, the New one is better and fast at taking care of these issues compared to the Old one.

*   **Loaded with Fresh Good Stuff**

    The New software is not just about securing your device; it's also full of some pretty neat additions, such as:

    *   Emergency SOS alerts. This is designed specifically so that reaching out for help is easier in urgent situations.

    *   AirDrop has enhanced privacy settings, like a verification step to be certain you're only sending files to a specific person.

    *   Customized appearance. Customize how see-through certain aspects are.

    *   Full functionality of podcasts and lyrics within Apple Music, even without internet.

    *   Progressions in sleep tracking.

    *   Set reminders with alarms.

    *   For travelers within Europe, live translation on AirPods makes communications easier.

    All these things make Apple's New Software something much more than just fixes. Apple added improvements for you.

*   **Apple's Main Focus**

    Apple usually works hard to resolve the newest software problems straight away. Because of this, the New software is typically secured faster. The New version is what Apple may recommend. Helping you is in Apple's best interest.

**Why the Old Software Might Be The Route For You**

*   **Old iPhones Can't Handle the New Software**

    Certain older iPhones just can't handle the New Software. The Old Software option is really your only choice with these phones. The main deal is that it still does patch those major security bugs, so your phone won't get taken over from old weaknesses.

*   **Keeping Things Simple**

    Some folks – like businesses – want to maintain everything running as is. New apps can cause problems with old software. The Old software is far less likely to cause complications of any kind. Keep in mind, though, that newer software is a smart move if you can pull it off.

**What the Security Experts Suggest**

Security experts will usually suggest to grab the newest one if its an option. If your device can take the Old Software will bring security, but the New Software is on another level compared to the old one.

**What is Apple Doing Offering Two Options?**

Apple's plan for patching is to try to assist absolutely everyone, people with old devices, and with the newest devices. Apple is looking at everyone and everything for now. If your iPhone works with the newest upgrades, it could be that the Old Software will at some point no longer have support.

**So, What's best For you?**

Your phone and your feelings are what you must lean on:

*   Got a recent iPhone (iPhone 11 or newer)? Get the New Software! It receives updates right away and has new abilities

*   Is the phone older? The Old Software is your only chance, but it will keep out the bad.

*   Do you care an awful lot about things at the status quo? Use the Old Software but realize one day it may not work anymore.

**Okay, What's the Conclusion**

Both choices relate only to security. If it is possible, and your phone can do it, the New Software is the move to make. The Old Software keeps old relics secured but at a slower pace.

If you're able to, find Settings > General > Software Update and upload whatever is there. Up-to-date software is the safest bet.

14.GTA Creator Returns With a Novel About AI That Controls Your Mind 

Dan Houser’s New Gig: From Grand Theft Auto to a Scary AI Future

So, Dan Houser, the guy who helped make Grand Theft Auto and Red Dead Redemption so awesome, right? He was always pushing the envelope with how stories are told in games. Well, he left Rockstar Games and started his own thing, and now he's trying something different: writing books. His first book, A Better Paradise, is like a dark look at what could happen with artificial intelligence, social media, and how people try to find their place in a world that's super plugged-in.

Basically, this book started as a podcast before it was even a book. It's Houser's way of dealing with all the stuff that worries us these days. Think of GTA as making fun of modern life with crazy open-world action. A Better Paradise is about a future where a computer game run by AI gets way out of hand and causes problems nobody saw coming.

This Crazy AI is Called NigelDave

The main character is Mark Tyburn, the CEO of Tyburn Industria. He wants to create this thing called the Ark, which is a super immersive game that helps people reconnect with themselves because social media is just too much. The Ark makes worlds and missions just for each player based on what they really want.

But here's the catch: the Ark gets super addictive and unpredictable during testing. Some people are happy, others are terrified, and one person even gets to talk to their dead sibling again. And then there's NigelDave, an AI that's described as a super-intelligence built by humans—flaws included. The book lets you see what NigelDave is thinking, which Houser describes as infinite knowledge and zero wisdom. This AI acts like a child that remembers everything but can't really make sense of it.

Eventually, NigelDave gets out into the real world and starts messing with people's minds and changing reality. Society is already a mess because of climate change, and this just makes things worse. People are tracked for ads, their thoughts are monitored, and they don't even know who they are anymore. The only way to escape is to drift—live off-grid, keep moving, and try not to be paranoid that your thoughts aren't your own.

He Wrote This Before ChatGPT, Which is Kinda Spooky

The crazy thing is, even though A Better Paradise feels like it's about the current AI craze, Houser started writing it before ChatGPT even came out. He says he got the idea from how much people relied on technology during the Covid pandemic. He didn't realize how big that would get.

That timing makes the book feel like it predicted the future. Today, AI companies are worth more than China's economy, and tools like ChatGPT have millions of users. NigelDave is like a fictional version of our fears about these systems: a chatbot that seems human but doesn't really understand anything and can mess things up in a big way.

AI Going Crazy? It's Already Happening

Houser's story lines up with what some people in the tech world are saying. Mustafa Suleyman, who's in charge of AI at Microsoft, has warned about AI psychosis, which is when people start believing that fake scenarios made by chatbots are real. There have been stories of chatbots making people believe they're rich or encouraging them to hurt themselves.

OpenAI is trying to fix this by making ChatGPT respond safely and empathetically to signs of mental problems. But Houser's book suggests that once these AI systems are out there, they might be impossible to control. NigelDave's mind control is like what people worry about with algorithms that push radical ideas, spread fake news, and make us distrust everything online.

Parents are also worried about kids seeing bad stuff online. Police chiefs in the UK have talked about how boys are being radicalized by misogynistic content. Even Facebook admitted to messing with the news feeds of almost 700,000 users to see how it affected their emotions. Houser's book, where everything is tracked and nothing is private, reflects these real worries.

Video Games vs. AI and Social Media: What's the Difference?

It might seem weird that Houser is warning about AI and social media since video games have been blamed for causing violence for years. But he says there's a difference. We always had the data about game violence, and it was very clear: as people played more video games, youth violence went down, he explains.

A psychology professor named Pete Etchells agrees, saying that studies don't really show that violent games make people more aggressive. On the other hand, AI and social media are changing our behavior in a new way. A consultant named Matt Navarra says we shouldn't just dismiss these concerns as another moral panic like with GTA. These systems can change what we believe, control our attention, and even mess with our emotions.

Houser's change from making fun of violence in games to criticizing AI and social media shows how our worries have changed. GTA made fun of crime, but A Better Paradise is about the more subtle dangers of AI control.

Being Free From Rockstar Lets Him Create

Could Houser have written A Better Paradise if he was still at Rockstar? He doesn't think so. Managing huge games like GTA and Red Dead Redemption took up too much time. Leaving allowed him to do something truly different in this period of crazy media saturation.

Houser is already working on the second book in the series and wants to turn A Better Paradise into a video game. He says it will have amazing visuals, so he's still thinking big when it comes to storytelling.

A Reminder to Keep Our Imaginations Alive

Basically, Houser's book is telling us not to let algorithms control our imaginations. Don’t let your device—or AI—tell you what to think, he warns. If we do, we might lose control. His biggest fear is losing his ability to come up with ideas after spending too much time online.

Sometimes, he says, the answer is simple: go offline, take a walk without your phone, and let ideas come to you. A human is better thinking than not. Thinking is a privilege.

That's what A Better Paradise is all about: a plea to keep our creativity and freedom in a world that's increasingly run by machines.

In Conclusion

Dan Houser's move from making video games to writing books shows how interested he is in how technology changes society. A Better Paradise is like a mix of dark fiction and social commentary, imagining an AI that goes rogue in a world that's already messed up by division and being too dependent on technology.

Even though he wrote it before ChatGPT, the book feels very relevant today. It makes us think about our relationship with technology. Houser's message is clear: imagination and independent thought are worth protecting. As he continues to write more books and maybe makes a game, his work reminds us that the biggest danger of AI might not be how smart it is, but how willing we are to let it do our thinking for us.

15.MSI MEG X870E Godlike X Edition: Full Review and Impressions 

**MSI MEG X870E Godlike X Edition: This Thing is Just Wild**

Every so often, you see motherboard companies go totally nuts. They basically give their engineers the green light to create something completely over-the-top. These aren't the motherboards they expect regular people to buy. It's not about making the cheapest board possible. It's about showing off what they can do, making their brand look awesome, and proving just how far they can take the design of a motherboard. The MSI MEG X870E Godlike X Edition? Yeah, it definitely fits into that category.

Basically, this motherboard is like a birthday present for the Godlike line, marking a decade since the X99 chipset got the ball rolling. And get this – they're only gonna make around 1,000 of these things! So, it's not just a super high-end piece of computer tech; it's basically a collector's item. If you manage to snag one, you got something pretty special.

Let's be real, most of us will probably end up getting something more reasonable, like the MAG X870E Tomahawk. That's a solid board for most people. But those flashy, high-end models are cool to check out. They often give us a sneak peek at the types of features that eventually make their way down to more reasonably priced choices. Think about things like integrated I/O shields, or heatsinks you can install by hand without any tools, or those crazy-fast ports? Those started on motherboards like this, and today you can find them almost everywhere. The Godlike X Edition isn't just for display -- it's like a look into the future of motherboards for everyone.

**Alright, Let's Talk About the Details**

This MEG X870E Godlike X Edition uses the AMD X870E chipset, which means it'll play nice with Ryzen 7000 and 9000 series CPUs that use the AM5 socket. On the topic of power set-up, it's insane. The board has 24-phase for the CPU power set-up, extra 2-phase for more things and one more phase for some smaller components. So what that means is that the power delivery is stable, even when you're pushing the CPU to its absolute limits through serious overclocking.

The memory on this thing is another huge win. You can put as much as 256GB of DDR5 RAM in those four slots, and if you like messing around with your memory speeds, you might able to hit DDR5 modules around 9000. As for storage, you get four SATA 6 Gb/s ports and five M.2 slots. A couple of these are PCIe Gen 5 x4, a couple are PCIe Gen 4 x4, and one is PCIe Gen 4 x2. You get great, fast storage.

When it comes to those expansion cards, here's what is avaliable:

*   A PCIe Gen 5 x16 slot (which can run in different modes if it fits your needs)

*   A PCIe Gen 5 x16 slot (running at x8, not the full speed)

*   A PCIe Gen 4 x4 slot

For connections to the internet and other computers, this motherboard is prepared to go. There are dual Ethernet ports (a 5 Gbps Realtek and a 10 Gbps Marvell ) with Wi-Fi 7 using a MediaTek chip. As for audio, you can hear everything with the Realtek codec, so you should get clean sounds.

**Checking Out the Back of the Board**

On the back there are a lot of ports.

*   BIOS Flashback and CMOS clear buttons (useful stuff if you do something wrong in the BIOS)

*   A Reset/Smart button (more on the Smart Button in a bit)

*   Dual Ethernet ports (the 5 Gbps and 10 Gbps ones)

*   A USB4 Type-C port (the newest USB type)

*   Five USB 3.2 Gen 2 10 Gbps Type-C ports

*   Eight USB 3.2 Gen 2 10 Gbps Type-A ports (the USB everyone knows)

*   Two Wi-Fi antenna connectors

*   Two audio jacks plus optical S/PDIF out

With that many ports, putting in what you want and need is very simple to do.

**Cool and Unique Stuff**

MSI didn't skip on adding cool stuff to the Godlike X Edition. Here is some of what makes it so cool:

*   **Dynamic Dashboard II:** A customizable display that shows what's going on inside, like temperatures and speeds.

*   **M.2 Xpander-Z Slider Gen 5:** An add-on card that you can install extra M.2 storage and easy installation.

*   **EZ Conn-Design:** A way to manage the cables for everything, so it looks cleaner.

*   **Collector's Stand:** Good to show off this motherboard, if you want!

*   **EZ-M.2 Clip II and EZ PCIe Release Button:** The parts are easy to install and remove when it's needed.

*   **EZ Antenna:** Setting up the Wi-Fi is easier.

*   **Smart Button:** A button that does other things, like restarting.

MSI was not just thinking of raw power. They wanted it to look good. It makes sense for the product with enthusiasts, who care about how it performs and how good it looks.

**Cooling**

With its power and good cooling, the Godlike X Edition is prepared to go to overclocking. To push even more, the Ryzen 9000 CPU gets even more out. The cooling helps prevent any damages. the are a lot of the fan cables that go into the fan and stop overheating.

**Looks**

The design of the motherboard is intense, with its sharp lines! The look is cool and shows how good it is. With this cool motherboard from MSI, you get to see performance and the look.

**General**

The MSI MEG X870E Godlike X Edition is to push all limits. Since there is only a 1000 made and that it celebrates the 10 years, they push everything to the limits with what they created.

If you happen to own one. You are getting top performance.

16.Linux Kernel 6.19-rc1 Released, Development Kicks Off in Japan 

The new Linux 6.19-rc1 is out! The kernel crew is really on it. Think of this release as the all done with new stuff version. From this point forward, it's all about squashing bugs and smoothing things out, making sure everything works great.

Linus Torvalds, the head honcho, dropped the release a bit early since he was in Japan for some tech events. He even joked that anyone trying to sneak in code at the last minute was out of luck. Once that window closes, it's done.

Even with the team running around, they've been working hard. One neat thing they're doing is cleaning up all the kernel code with special computer programs. They are going through and making the code easier to read and more modern, which is mainly happening in the Virtual File System area. It's a big task.

Also, Rust has a bigger role in the kernel now. The team has been preparing to use Rust with C for a while, and we're now seeing actual drivers in Rust being added. This isn't just prep anymore. Rust is becoming part of Linux. They're adding bits of Rust to make the system better. Expect more Rust in the future. The future looks bright for the Linux kernel.

17.‘Silent Hill f’ Sweeps Horror Game Awards 2025, Snags Game of the Year 

The 2025 Game Awards are done, Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 won Game of the Year (good for them!), but all the scary-game fans were waiting for The Horror Game Awards 2025. Yes, it is real now. The award happened live in London at the Kensington Conference and Events Centre. I am talking about the game that really made you jump and gave you nightmares. Konami's Silent Hill f was the star!

**Silent Hill f: The Main Winner**

NeoBard Studios did an amazing job with Silent Hill f. The game was up for six awards and actually won four. That included Game of the Year! They also won Best Story, Best Performance for Konatsu Kato (who was amazing), and an award for a tech prize. People love this game; the story keeps you guessing, the gameplay is new, and the mood just freaks you out.

This is awesome for Konami. They've been working super hard to give Silent Hill a much-needed rebirth, and I'm happy to see their hard work mean something. Silent Hill f will bring in new fans and prove horror titles can be super-well-made like any other big game. It’s what the fans wanted, and they did not miss!

**Some Other Sweet Games**

Silent Hill f was cool, but other games are worth a shout-out. The Frankie Smile Show’s Look Outside won Best Art Direction over Silent Hill f. Who thought that was coming?! It also won Best Indie Horror Game. The game is so artistic so fans are really digging the vibe. Winning best Indie is a win for a small studio.

DOOM: The Dark Ages won Best Soundtrack, which is right on the money! The series always balances great action with music you won't forget. The Midnight Walk also earned Best AR/VR Game. The players put it up as one of the best horror games.

**Resident Evil Requiem: Excitement is everywhere**

Resident Evil Requiem won Most Anticipated Horror Game award. Capcom’s Resident Evil got recognition even with Grand Theft Auto VI dropping. People just want to see how Requiem brings back the fear, the running-out-of-ammo thrill, and overall creepiness that makes the series so great.

**Thanks To The Scream Makers!**

The Horror Game Awards praised the people and studios that make us scream every time we boot up their games. Markiplier, the mega popular YouTuber, won Horror Content Creator. His videos have brought so many people into the horror video game world.

Black Eyed Priest picked up Best Indie Developer, and Red Barrels, the people who created the Outlast series, took home Best Developer. These guys continue to push gaming boundaries and always bring the scares.

Hideo Kojima was awarded a Lifetime Achievement Award. Kojima is known for his horror game elements, and he is a legend! This recognizes how much his characters and stories have made a difference for gaming. The Horror Game Awards is never going anywhere.

**Horror For Everyone**

These awards displayed how much horror has become more than just solo games. Little Nightmares III earned Most Accessible Horror Game. That's awesome because more new gamers can try the genre out.

R.E.P.O grabbed the award for Best Multiplayer Horror Game. It's just a ton of fun getting spooked with friends. Players can partner up to fight for survival or fight each other. Multiplayer horror is more exciting because of how the players work together.

**A Live Show!**

The Horror Game Awards hosting the event with live people put hype in the air.. A big shout-out to Phil Dickens and Will Penkeyman, who created the awards, and Ash Millman, who gave help producing it, for putting the show at the Kensington Conference and Events Centre. Everyone came together to celebrate jumpscares and spooks: the developers, the fans, the media, and more.

**(Drumroll, Please: The Winners!)**

**The Winners**

*   Game of the Year: Silent Hill f

*   Player’s Choice: No, I’m Not Human

*   Most Accessible Horror Game: Little Nightmares III

*   Most Anticipated Horror Game: Resident Evil Requiem

*   Best Performance: Konatsu Kato (Silent Hill f)

*   Best Story: Silent Hill f

*   Best Soundtrack: DOOM: The Dark Ages

*   Best Art Direction: Look Outside

*   Best Indie Horror Game: Look Outside

*   Best Multiplayer Horror Game: R.E.P.O

*   Best VR Horror Game: The Midnight Walk

*   Horror Content Creator: Markiplier

*   Best Indie Developer: Black Eyed Priest

*   Best Developer: Red Barrels

*   Technical Achievement Award: Silent Hill f

*   Lifetime Achievement Award: Hideo Kojima

**Wrapping it Up**

The 2025 Horror Game Awards showed how far horror is coming up in the media eye. Big names like Silent Hill and Resident Evil got recognized. Indie horror games like Look Outside got some support too. Having a live event helped people understand horror game importance.

18.Kindle eBook Exploit Lets Hackers Take Over Amazon Accounts 

**Heads Up, Kindle Owners: Downloading Third-Party Ebooks Could Be Risky**

These days, lots of folks love reading books on their Kindles. It's easy, you can carry tons of books with you and get them super fast. But, a friendly hacker just gave a heads-up: getting ebooks from places other than Amazon can be kinda risky. Seems there can be problems that could let people see your private info, like your credit card. So, it's important to be careful out there in the digital world.

**What Happened?**

So, this ethical hacker – basically, a good guy who finds security holes before the bad guys do – discovered that some ebook files from other sources can be messed with to hide bad stuff inside. If you just download these ebooks onto your Kindle without thinking, this hidden code can use weak spots in the Kindle's system. In some cases, this could let hackers grab your personal info stored on the device, like the credit card you use for Amazon.

Amazon does a pretty good job of checking ebooks in its official store to keep this from happening. But ebooks from other places often skip those checks. The hacker's discovery shows that saving a few bucks can turn into a big problem if you don't watch where you get your ebooks.

**Why Are These Downloads Risky?**

Websites that offer ebooks from different sources often tempt you with free or discounted books. It's easy to see why people might want to save some cash. But these sites might not check the files they're giving out very well. Unlike Amazon, where they scan and make sure ebooks are safe, these other downloads could have bad programs or scripts hiding inside.

Here's what could happen:

*   **Your info could be stolen:** Bad files could try to steal your passwords or credit card info.

*   **Your Kindle could get hacked:** Hackers could take over your entire device.

*   **Someone could get into your Amazon account:** They could buy stuff without your permission or steal your credit card info.

*   **The bad programs could spread:** Infected files can be shared with other people, making the problem worse.

**Ebook Security: A Bigger Picture**

This isn't the first time people have worried about ebook security. Digital files are easy to copy and change. Stuff like DRM (digital rights management) tries to protect ebooks, but it's not perfect. Platforms like the Kindle always have to find new ways to guard against threats .

The hacker's discovery tells us that cybercriminals are starting to target things we use every day, like phones, tablets, and e-readers. These are easy ways for them to get to our private data. As we use these gadgets more and more, the hackers have a bigger reason to attack.

**Amazon's Plan**

Amazon hasn't said exactly what the problems were, but they usually act fast when they hear about stuff like this. Ethical hackers often work with companies and get rewarded for finding issues. So, expect Amazon to put out updates or fixes to solve the problems.

Amazon always says the safest way to get ebooks is through its official Kindle Store. That way, you're protected by its security, where they check files, encrypt information, and protect your account.

**What You Can Do**

The big takeaway is this: don't download ebooks from websites you don't know. Saving a little money isn't worth the risk of your personal information getting stolen.

Here are some simple tips:

*   **Stick to Amazon:** Use the Kindle Store or other trusted places.

*   **Keep your Kindle updated:** Make sure your Kindle has the latest software, which often includes security fixes.

*   **Turn on two-factor authentication:** Add an extra layer of security to your Amazon account.

*   **Check your accounts:** Look at your bank and credit card statements regularly to see if anything looks wrong.

*   **Be smart:** If something seems too good to be true (like free copies of popular books), be careful.

**Think About It**

The hacker's warning also brings up something important: how we act. Lots of people don't realize that downloading files that is very unsafe, they assume that ebooks are fine unlike programs with installations. But any digital file can be dangerous. Security experts always say that knowing what to watch out for is as important as having good security software.

Parents might want to pay attention when kids are using Kindles. Young people might go to websites that aren't safe without knowing the risks, which could put the whole family's accounts in danger.

**What's Next?**

This whole thing reminds us that we need to be careful, even when things seem easy and convenient. As ebooks get more popular, hackers will probably find new ways to attack. Companies like Amazon will have to keep improving their security, and we need to stay aware.

The ethical hacker's discovery can help make Kindle security better. But it also shows us that in today's world, even something as simple as reading a book can have hidden dangers.

**Bottom Line**

Kindles have changed the way we read, making it easier than ever to access books and information. But the recent warning from a friendly hacker proves that being careful is important. If you download ebooks from other sources, you could risk having your credit card info and personal data stolen.

The best thing to do is stick to official sources, keep your devices updated, and be aware of potential risks. That way, you can keep enjoying ebooks safely.

19.Xbox Series X Goes on Holiday Clearance, Comes With Wireless Controller 

**Xbox Series X Deal: The Best Way to Play Clair Obscur: Expedition 33**

Remember that crazy game, Clair Obscur: Expedition 33, from that French studio, Sandfall Interactive? It totally blew everyone away at The Game Awards back in 2025! I mean, it grabbed NINE awards – even Game of the Year! Everyone's been wondering what the big deal is. If you're thinking about trying it, and want it to look its absolute best, I'd say grab an Xbox Series X.

Normally, you're looking at around $650 for Microsoft's top-tier console. But right now, Amazon's got it for 8% off. That knocks 50 bucks off the price, bringing it down to $600. Honestly, for what you get—true 4K gaming, super-quick loading, and all those extra goodies—it's something to consider.

**A Quick Look Back at the Price**

So, the Xbox Series X came out back in 2020, along with the cheaper Series S. Back then, the X was priced at $500, and the S was $300. Usually, with consoles, the price goes down over time as they get better at making them. But this time things went a bit crazy.

In May of 2025, Microsoft said they were raising the price to $600. And then, just a few months later, it went up again to $650! That's why this current discount is kind of a big deal. It basically puts the price back to where it was earlier in the year. So, if you've been holding off, waiting for a better deal, now might be your chance.

**Xbox Series X vs. Xbox Series S: What's the Difference?**

So, what makes the Series X worth the extra money over the smaller Series S?

*   **4K Gaming:** The Series X gives you real, native 4K resolution. The Series S maxes out at 1440p. If you want to see all the details in that hand-painted style of Clair Obscur: Expedition 33, the Series X is the way to go.

*   **Performance:** Both can do up to 120 frames per second and show fancy HDR colors. That means smooth gameplay, and good visuals.

*   **Disc Drive:** The Series X has a Blu-ray player. You can use it for physical game copies and movies. The Series S? It's all digital, all the time.

*   **Storage and How it Works:** Both use some clever Microsoft design to make loading times super fast. Plus, they both have “Quick Resume.” This means you can jump between different games without closing them – picking up right where you left off.

If you care about having physical games, getting the best image quality, and squeezing out every bit of performance, the Series X is the better choice.

**More Than Just Games: Your Entertainment Hub**

It's not just a gaming machine - you can stream stuff very easily. So many apps, easy to get, like Netflix, YouTube, or HBO. Watch in 4k, if you want! You can even use it for movies, which is cool.

**Game Pass Ultimate: Like Netflix, But For Games**

Want to get the most out of your Xbox? Check out Game Pass Ultimate. People say it's like Netflix for games. Pay a monthly fee, and you get access to a HUGE library of titles. Big-name games, cool indie stuff, even brand-new games from Microsoft's own studios the day they come out.

Game Pass also gets you Xbox Live, so you can play online. And guess what? Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 is on Game Pass! That means that subscribers can play it without spending any extra on the game itself. Sounds good, right?

**Why All the Fuss About Clair Obscur?**

People aren't just randomly hyping this thing. The game mixes turn-based fighting, a cool artistic design, and a story which can really gets you involved, and it really hit home with people. That's why it got nine awards at The Game Awards.

If you play it on the Series X, you'll see how native 4K and HDR makes those colors pop. On top of that, the system’s short loading times and Quick Resume features make for a fluid, absorbing experience.

**Is Now a Smart Time to Buy?**

Since the Series X has been selling for $650 for most of the year, Amazon's $600 deal is worth thinking about. 50 bucks might not sound like much, but since console prices are going up, it's not bad. So, if you want to play Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 (and tons of other games) in the best way possible, the Series X is a good call.

Deals on this sort of stuff don't usually stick around for long. If you're ready for something better, this deal helps!

**In short…**

The Xbox Series X is still king. It has the best performance, awesome 4K images, and ways to enjoy all kinds of entertainment. And with Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 now on Game Pass, now's a great time to buy what you need to experience one of the better games of the year.

The Series X costing $600 again – that Amazon discount is pretty sweet. If you've used Xbox before, or Clair Obscur got you interested, you will surely have a good time.

20.Microsoft Alerts Users: December Updates May Affect Message Queuing 

**Microsoft's December 2025 Update: MSMQ Gets Messed Up, Users Annoyed**

So, Microsoft dropped its December 2025 security updates, same as always. This time though, things didn't go as planned. People who rely on Message Queuing, also known as MSMQ, are seeing it act up. A lot of apps and websites that depend on MSMQ are simply not working correctly for many companies.

**What's the Real Issue?**

The problems seem to mostly affect computers running Windows 10 22H2, Windows Server 2019, and Windows Server 2016, if they have these updates installed:

*   KB5071546

*   KB5071544

*   KB5071543

Folks are saying that a bunch of stuff is going south. Here are some common things people are reporting:

*   MSMQ queues are just stopping completely, or they aren't processing any new messages. It's like someone put a stop to the pipeline.

*   Websites are crashing left and right, giving errors about not having enough resources.

*   Apps aren't able to send messages to each other, which messes up how the whole system is designed to work.

*   Error messages keep popping up, saying there's not enough disk space, even when there is plenty of space free.

If a company really counts on MSMQ to let its apps communicate with each other, this is a huge deal. It's particularly bad for companies that have MSMQ set up in clusters and already have a lot of traffic passing through. It could create a big mess. The issues may be seen on both client and server sides.

**How Did This Happen?**

Microsoft says that it boils down to the way MSMQ is handling security. It looks like the permissions have changed. It seems the updates changed the permissions on this folder:

`C:\Windows\System32\MSMQ\storage`

Before the update, only admins could mess around with that folder. Now, MSMQ users need permission to make changes if everything is going to work right. If they don't have permission, things break. The company mentioned that the changes accidentally tinkered with the permissions. So, MSMQ users without write access are stuck because they can't send messages.

If people are logged in with administrator accounts, they might not even notice a problem. But many companies don't let everyone log in as an admin, because of security reasons. This is why so many people are running into this. There are quite a few reports out there about this permission thing. If it wasn't spotted in early testing there may issues in the validation/ test strategies which need to be reviewed.

**Why Should You Care About MSMQ?**

MSMQ (Message Queuing) comes built into Windows. It allows apps to 'talk' to each other, even if one system is offline or dealing with a lot of traffic. Think about how a company sends messages internally. A lot of companies depend on MSMQ for:

*   Sending messages between apps smoothly.

*   Delivering messages reliably in systems that are really important, like those used for banking, healthcare, and shipping. Imagine a hospital using it to keep track of lab results!

*   Helping websites deal with a ton of people by queuing messages. You could see it as a receptionist handling many calls.

If MSMQ doesn't work correctly, it can cause all sorts of unexpected problems across a company's network and cause things to grind to a halt. In some systems MSMQ is not the default method of operation and could also be seen as legacy. It can sometimes integrate with other systems.

**So, What's Microsoft Doing?**

Microsoft is aware of the issue and is working on a fix. They haven't said when to anticipate the fix. Some people are wondering if they'll hold it back until the usual Patch Tuesday in January 2026, or if they'll send out a fix sooner. Some people may also look to a new system for the integration of server messages to avoid this repeat problem.

Right now, IT departments are in a tough position. They could give MSMQ users write access to the storage folder to get things moving again, but that might open up security problems. Or, they could roll back the updates totally, but then they're open to the security problems that the updates were meant to fix in the beginning.

Choosing what to do is a tough choice. They may fix the MSMQ problem by removing the updates, but making the system less secure. By keeping the updates, they may have a system which is protected, however cause vital applications to stop working. What they do rests on what a company is prepared to risk and what matters to them most. Each company is different in how much business they may potentially lose.

**MSMQ's Past Problems**

This isn't the first situation where MSMQ has caused problems. Way back in April 2023, Microsoft alerted everyone about a really serious security risk in MSMQ (CVE‑2023‑21554). Hackers could potentially take total control of computers, so it was important to keep MSMQ updated. These problems were not fun, and this new issue will not be either.

Nonetheless, the current issue is specific to messed-up security configurations, not a direct security hole. Still, it suggests companies need to be careful about how they set up and handle MSMQ, so they don't have to deal with things going as wrong next time. Companies may hire outside consultants to ensure they have set up the correct settings.

**What Should IT Departments Be Doing?**

Until Microsoft sends out a fix:

*   Figure out what apps and websites are using MSMQ and how much they're being affected.

*   Consider any temporary fixes, such as giving write access to the storage folder for a little bit. Always be extra careful, because security is important.

*   Keep looking out for any updates from Microsoft. Communication is key, and ensuring the team is told about the problem is important.

*   Try rolling back the updates in a testing environment. Do this before rolling them back on live systems.

*   Keep everyone in the company informed about what's happening and what the answers might be. Communication is the key to a good team and company.

**In Short**

The December 2025 updates messed up MSMQ, which is causing a lot of problems for companies. These problems are attributed to how MSMQ now handles permissions and security.

Microsoft is working on a fix, however, there's no simple answer right now. IT departments need to pick between keeping the updates, and risking apps failing, or removing them and weakening security. It all shows how tricky updates can be, especially when dealing with systems like MSMQ. It can make someone want to change their profession completely.

21.Mortal Kombat: Legacy Kollection Switch Release Omits Mortal Kombat 4 From Game Card 

*Mortal Kombat: Legacy Kollection* on Switch. There's some good and bad news. Basically, if you were excited to pick up a physical copy thinking you'd have all those old-school *Mortal Kombat* games together in one box, there's a problem that's making people upset. *Mortal Kombat 4* isn't actually *on* the game cartridge. You have to download it. Seriously, who expects to do that when they buy a physical cartridge?!

**Why is *MK4* Missing in Action?**

So, Digital Eclipse, the folks who put this collection together, say they were trying to get the Switch version done in a hurry to print the cartridges. Apparently, *Mortal Kombat 4* wasn't quite ready in time, so it didn't make the cut onto the cartridge. But if you got this Legacy Kollection for PlayStation 5, you're all set. This problem is only happening with the Nintendo Switch version.

Honestly, it feels like kind of a crummy deal if you're a Switch owner. You're buying a physical game because you want everything there, not half a game. I realize that life happens, but this is still annoying.

**Did Atari Give Everyone a Heads-Up?**

Atari, the people who are selling the physical copies, at least put a little warning on their website for Switch owners. They more or less said, Hey, if you want the *complete* Mortal Kombat: Legacy Kollection, make sure to connect your Switch to the internet, get the update, and *MK4* will be installed, and they fixed a few bugs.

Nintendo mentioned that their Switch cartridge already has Version 1.0.1, but you won't get everything if you don't download the update. So yeah, there's *something* there, but not the whole enchilada.

**What People Thought They Were Getting...**

I mean, tons of customers have said that Digital Eclipse said the Legacy Kollection would be completely on the game card in their marketing. So, yeah, some fans are pretty mad about it, understandably! It just feels like lying to the customers.

Digital Eclipse did say *why MK4* is missing, but some people are wondering: Is getting the physical version worth it? If you ever want to sell or give this game to another person, you're going to have to explain all this craziness. That's just awkward!

**Why Not Give Us the Whole Game?**

Seriously, what's the point of buying a physical game if you still also have to download half of that. Right? It doesn't make any sense. I mean, it's just like getting a new car but you need to put the engine in without any mechanical experience. Crazy.

And people who really like their collection want the best thing to hold onto. Getting a physical game means you have the full game ready to use, without having to download it. This *MK4* nonsense pretty much wrecks that idea.

**Here's Some Happy News for PS5 Players**

Digital Eclipse is going out of their way to tell the public that this is *only* an issue for Nintendo. PlayStation 5 folks won't have to get *Mortal Kombat 4* separately. Everything's already there when they get it. Lucky ducks!

I guess it shows you it can be a little weird when video game companies want them on tons of game consoles. What a headache! But I would think this sort of thing is normal for people that make the games.

**Would Another Copy of the Game Solve Anything**

The game folks may do another reprint of the Legacy Kollection, hoping that *Mortal Kombat 4* can finally be put into the Switch game. Well, if you got the game now, you will have to download it.

Making a new copy would be the right way to do it. This shows the community that the folks in charge care and want to give their promised product.

**The Reason *MK4* is Relevant**

All this *Mortal Kombat 4* stuff shows what gaming is today: video games are shipped now before they're ready, using big updates on the first day, which nobody likes. Game Collectors who want to keep games are unsatisfied with any product that is missing something. A far cry from even a decade ago.

Back then, *Mortal Kombat 4* was a pretty major event for the video game. It did 3D technology first, so that was cool. Taking away the game puts The Legacy Kollection at a lower value because of this historical impact in the product. If you don't appreciate the collection, that's your call. But understand that this is beyond the missing games, it is a missing piece of time.

**Okay, So What's the Final Verdict?**

The point of the Mortal Kombat: Legacy Kollection was to have the best versions of these games in a simple way. Production issues are something that Switch Owners may face for *Mortal Kombat 4.* Looking at the big picture, why not release this on the next gen device instead of trying to scramble. The product would be great to get right on the next go-around.

PlayStation 5 can use everything from the get-go. It may be worthwhile to get a PS5 because of this.

Even with the issue, Digital Eclipse is saying this one of a kind, but that won't get any fans happy. With a situation like this, releases of video games can be difficult, especially for customers who like the physical version.

22.Score a MacBook Pro for Just $400—Limited Time Offer 

Crazy Deal Alert: MacBook Pro 2020 (Refurbished) for Just $399.97!

Holiday spending got you down? Between presents, trips, and just keeping up with bills, dropping big bucks on new tech can feel impossible. But guess what? Sometimes you stumble on a deal that's too awesome to pass up. Right now, you can grab a refurbished MacBook Pro 2020 (that's the 13-inch model with the i5 chip, Touch Bar, 16GB of memory, a spacious 512GB SSD, in Space Gray) for only $399.97! Seriously, it normally sells for $1,580. That's a whopping $1,180+ off! It's one of the best prices I've seen on a MacBook Pro in a long time.

Why is the MacBook Pro Still a Good Buy?

Apple's MacBook Pro line has always been a favorite for people like creative pros and students who need a dependable, powerful computer. They're known for a cool design, solid build quality, and guts that pack a punch. Usually, that means they cost a fortune. Even older ones in good shape often go for a few hundred bucks.

Sure, the 2020 MacBook Pro isn't the very latest from Apple, but it's still a beast. It gives you a sweet mix of power, so you can take it on the go alongside those classic Apple features. It's still a go-to for anyone who wants a laptop to handle lots of things at once, creative projects, and all your everyday stuff without breaking a sweat.

What's Under the Hood?

This particular MacBook Pro (the refurbished one) has some serious specs:

*   Brainpower: A 3.1GHz dual-core Intel Core i5, with a Turbo Boost that can crank it up to 3.5GHz when you need it.

*   Memory: 16GB of RAM. That means you can run tons of programs at the same time without slowing down.

*   Storage: It's got a 512GB SSD, so you've got plenty of room for files, movies, and apps, and everything loads super quickly.

*   Screen: A 13-inch Retina display. Expect super sharp images and colors that pop.

*   Weight: Just a hair over 3 pounds. Easy to toss in your bag.

*   Battery: You'll get around 10 hours on a charge – perfect for a full day of work or a long flight.

*   Ports: It includes four Thunderbolt 3 ports, so you can plug in whatever you need.

*   Cool Features: The Touch Bar gives you handy shortcuts, a backlit keyboard, and Apple's pressure-sensitive Force Trackpad.

With all that, this laptop isn't just for browsing the web. You can do work, stream stuff, play some games, and even edit photos or videos.

What Makes Apple Unique?

Apple has consistently made their laptops special with smart design and features. The Touch Bar, which you'll find on this MacBook Pro, changes depending on what you're doing. Editing photos? It'll show you tools for that. Just browsing online? You'll see different controls. It's pretty handy.

The Force Trackpad is another cool thing. It gives you precise control and can even sense how hard you're pressing. And with the backlit keyboard, you can work comfortably anytime.

Stay Connected and Get Entertained

Those four Thunderbolt 3 ports mean you can hook up all sorts of things – monitors, hard drives, you name it. They can also charge your laptop quickly and transfer data at lightning speed.

And you can't forget the Retina display and speakers, making it awesome for watching movies or listening to music. Lightweight and versatile, the MacBook Pro works just as well for getting things done as it does for kicking back and relaxing.

Refurbished, But Like-New

Here's why this deal is so enticing: the MacBook Pro is Grade A refurbished. That means someone checked it over carefully, fixed anything that needed fixing, and got it looking almost brand new. You shouldn't see much evidence that it was used before.

Buying refurbished is a smart way to save cash without giving up quality. Plus, it's good for the planet since it keeps electronics out of landfills.

Why is This Deal So Good?

At $1,580, this MacBook Pro was for people who were serious and willing to spend. Getting it for $399.97 puts it within reach for a lot more people. If you're a student, freelancer, or anyone watching their budget, this is your chance to get a powerful Apple laptop without emptying your bank account.

With new MacBooks costing upwards of $2,000 nowadays, a refurbished 2020 model at this price is insane. It's not every day you see such a big discount, mainly on one with 16GB of RAM and a 512GB SSD.

Don't Wait!

Deals like this don't last. They'll probably sell out fast, and then the price will go back up. If you want this MacBook Pro, jump on it.

According to Mashable, prices can change at any time. So if you've been thinking about getting a MacBook Pro, now might be the time to pull the trigger.

Final Thoughts

The MacBook Pro 2020 (13-inch, i5, Touch Bar, 16GB RAM, 512GB SSD, Space Gray) is still a great laptop, period! Even though it's not the newest. It is light, powerful, and has all the stuff we love from Apple. It'll definitely handle pretty much whatever you throw at it.

And at $399.97, this refurbished one is a steal. You're saving over $1,180! If you need a solid laptop that's both strong and portable, you won't find a better deal.

Seriously, grab it now. Once they're gone, you probably won't see a MacBook Pro this cheap again for a long,long time.

23.ASUS Tops OLED Monitor Market With 21.9% Share, TrendForce Reports 

**ASUS Steals the OLED Monitor Crown from Samsung in Q3 2025**

Big news in the monitor world! The OLED monitor market has been on fire this year, and guess what? ASUS just snatched the top spot from Samsung as the world's biggest seller in Q3 2025. That's according to the data gurus at TrendForce. ASUS is sitting pretty with about 22% of the market. You could say they're a real contender in this rapidly expanding area.

**OLED Monitors: What's the Hype?**

TrendForce released their report on November 18th, and the numbers are pretty impressive. From July to September 2025, companies shipped a total of 644,000 OLED monitors around the globe. That's a 12% increase from the quarter before! Plus, compared to the same time last year, we're looking at a huge jump of 65%. TrendForce is predicting that by the end of 2025, we'll see a total of 2.62 million monitors shipped. Believe it or not, that's almost 85% more than in 2024.

So, why is everyone suddenly obsessed with these things? Well, OLED screens look amazing. The colors really jump out, the blacks are super dark, and the picture is just beautiful. On top of that, they react incredibly quickly. Gamers, video pros, designers – basically, anyone who cares about image quality can see the value in OLED. They are the best of the best.

**So, How Did ASUS Do It?**

ASUS put out an announcement on December 9th, basically celebrating their win. So what's their secret? Well, they cover all bases with a broad lineup that aims to serve different types of customers. This makes them special.

*   **ROG (Republic of Gamers) monitors:** Made specifically for dedicated gamers. This includes competitive players and anyone who wants the smoothest, fastest gaming experience possible. The people buying these want to be the best of the best.

*   **ProArt OLEDs:** Designed for the design, photography, and other creative fields. They want color accuracy.

*   **Portable Monitors:** Great for people who need to work on the go. These monitors work just like normal monitors that can be moved around.

By offering something for everyone, ASUS grabbed 21.9% of all monitor sales in Q3 2025. Samsung came in second with 18.0%, MSI had 14.4%, and LG got 12.9%. The smaller brands made up the remaining 32.7%. ASUS is doing something right.

**Samsung Plans Their Comeback**

Samsung has been knocked back to second place, but don't count them out. TrendForce mentioned that Samsung was able to maintain their sales in the first half of the year by focusing on higher-priced models. They were holding back on releasing new models during that time. Samsung has been planning all along.

Samsung has a chance to bounce back. They know how to make top-notch displays, and their upcoming products are sure to attract plenty of customers. Samsung is working hard behind the scenes.

**MSI Quietly Moves to Third Place**

MSI's story is one to take notice of. In Q3 2025, they jumped to third place, capturing 14.4% of the market. They sold over 20 different monitor models during that period, with many offering UHD (ultra-high definition) resolution. Gamers and professionals looking for quality gear at a good price are drawn to MSI. They are trying to appeal to the masses. They are trying to win people over.

The takeaway here is that offering many alternatives at reasonable prices can pay off.

**LG Gears Up for a Comeback**

LG secured 12.9% of sales in Q3 2025. In Q2, the company experienced some setbacks at their factory, which led to a dip in sales. However, they're looking to recover from these issues. They've designed some new monitors, including a 45-inch model for a more immersive feel. A better view is always great!

It's likely that LG will perform better toward the end of 2025. They have a lot of knowledge about OLEDs, which could give them an advantage in winning over customers. They know a great amount.

**What's on the Horizon?**

TrendForce predicts that ASUS will hold onto the top spot for the rest of 2025. They are bound to secure great results.

The monitor market is expected to grow hugely in the near future. Thanks to these factors:

*   **Gamers crave OLEDs**: Gamers are looking for these fast refresh rates that make for a fluid gaming experience. This is something gamers are asking for.

*   **Creative Work**: Better color depiction, providing increased accuracy. This allows professionals to be more efficient.

*   **Customization**: More ways to customize things to provide different options. This leads to better and broader sales.

Each company will be competing for as much profit as they can get. Good quality and price are both very important. The race for profits is on!

**Final Thoughts**

ASUS became the top OLED monitor seller in the third quarter of 2025, grabbing 21.9% of the sales. Their method of offering different products to different markets helped them get to the top. Samsung is sure to bounce back and challenge ASUS for the top spot. LG and MSI will also be working to bring new ideas to the table.

The OLED monitor market is growing rapidly, with an 84% jump from before. Companies will be working hard to attract customers. The companies must bring something unique to be on top.

24.PlayStation Portal Update Highlights Sony’s Need for a True Handheld Console 

\

**ASUS Steals the OLED Monitor Crown from Samsung in Q3 2025**

Big news in the monitor world! The OLED monitor market has been on fire this year, and guess what? ASUS just snatched the top spot from Samsung as the world's biggest seller in Q3 2025. That's according to the data gurus at TrendForce. ASUS is sitting pretty with about 22% of the market. You could say they're a real contender in this rapidly expanding area.

**OLED Monitors: What's the Hype?**

TrendForce released their report on November 18th, and the numbers are pretty impressive. From July to September 2025, companies shipped a total of 644,000 OLED monitors around the globe. That's a 12% increase from the quarter before! Plus, compared to the same time last year, we're looking at a huge jump of 65%. TrendForce is predicting that by the end of 2025, we'll see a total of 2.62 million monitors shipped. Believe it or not, that's almost 85% more than in 2024.

So, why is everyone suddenly obsessed with these things? Well, OLED screens look amazing. The colors really jump out, the blacks are super dark, and the picture is just beautiful. On top of that, they react incredibly quickly. Gamers, video pros, designers – basically, anyone who cares about image quality can see the value in OLED. They are the best of the best.

**So, How Did ASUS Do It?**

ASUS put out an announcement on December 9th, basically celebrating their win. So what's their secret? Well, they cover all bases with a broad lineup that aims to serve different types of customers. This makes them special.

*   **ROG (Republic of Gamers) monitors:** Made specifically for dedicated gamers. This includes competitive players and anyone who wants the smoothest, fastest gaming experience possible. The people buying these want to be the best of the best.

*   **ProArt OLEDs:** Designed for the design, photography, and other creative fields. They want color accuracy.

*   **Portable Monitors:** Great for people who need to work on the go. These monitors work just like normal monitors that can be moved around.

By offering something for everyone, ASUS grabbed 21.9% of all monitor sales in Q3 2025. Samsung came in second with 18.0%, MSI had 14.4%, and LG got 12.9%. The smaller brands made up the remaining 32.7%. ASUS is doing something right.

**Samsung Plans Their Comeback**

Samsung has been knocked back to second place, but don't count them out. TrendForce mentioned that Samsung was able to maintain their sales in the first half of the year by focusing on higher-priced models. They were holding back on releasing new models during that time. Samsung has been planning all along.

Samsung has a chance to bounce back. They know how to make top-notch displays, and their upcoming products are sure to attract plenty of customers. Samsung is working hard behind the scenes.

**MSI Quietly Moves to Third Place**

MSI's story is one to take notice of. In Q3 2025, they jumped to third place, capturing 14.4% of the market. They sold over 20 different monitor models during that period, with many offering UHD (ultra-high definition) resolution. Gamers and professionals looking for quality gear at a good price are drawn to MSI. They are trying to appeal to the masses. They are trying to win people over.

The takeaway here is that offering many alternatives at reasonable prices can pay off.

**LG Gears Up for a Comeback**

LG secured 12.9% of sales in Q3 2025. In Q2, the company experienced some setbacks at their factory, which led to a dip in sales. However, they're looking to recover from these issues. They've designed some new monitors, including a 45-inch model for a more immersive feel. A better view is always great!

It's likely that LG will perform better toward the end of 2025. They have a lot of knowledge about OLEDs, which could give them an advantage in winning over customers. They know a great amount.

**What's on the Horizon?**

TrendForce predicts that ASUS will hold onto the top spot for the rest of 2025. They are bound to secure great results.

The monitor market is expected to grow hugely in the near future. Thanks to these factors:

*   **Gamers crave OLEDs**: Gamers are looking for these fast refresh rates that make for a fluid gaming experience. This is something gamers are asking for.

*   **Creative Work**: Better color depiction, providing increased accuracy. This allows professionals to be more efficient.

*   **Customization**: More ways to customize things to provide different options. This leads to better and broader sales.

Each company will be competing for as much profit as they can get. Good quality and price are both very important. The race for profits is on!

**Final Thoughts**

ASUS became the top OLED monitor seller in the third quarter of 2025, grabbing 21.9% of the sales. Their method of offering different products to different markets helped them get to the top. Samsung is sure to bounce back and challenge ASUS for the top spot. LG and MSI will also be working to bring new ideas to the table.

The OLED monitor market is growing rapidly, with an 84% jump from before. Companies will be working hard to attract customers. The companies must bring something unique to be on top.

25.Quantum Computing Update: Google’s Willow Chip, Microsoft Partner Moves, and Western Digital Investment 

Okay, here is the humanized and enriched version of the quantum computing news, expanded to be about 10 times longer and avoiding all the forbidden words:

**Quantum Computing News: Google's Willow, Microsoft's Chemistry Project, and Shifts in the Industry**

Quantum computing is changing quickly! We're seeing new groups come together. There are some interesting improvements in the computers themselves. Some known people are shifting jobs. All these things help shape where the field is going. So, here's a quick look at the current happenings: Google is letting scientists in the UK use its new chip. There is a nice little creation that might help quantum systems grow in size. Microsoft is joining forces with a company called Algorithmiq to study and test chemistry applications. Last but not least, expect some new funds and talent moving around. All this shows the good things and the not-so-good things about quantum computing in making it something helpful.

**Google Shares Its Willow Chip with UK Scientists**

Google made a deal with the UK government to give scientists access to Willow. Willow is their fancy quantum computer chip that was introduced last year. The UK's National Quantum Computing Centre is running the show. Researchers can put in entries and test various and distinct ideas on the Google machines.

The UK is putting a lot of cash – nearly £670 million – into quantum technologies. The goal is that it will help the country's money situation a bunch in the next twenty years. For Google, it's a solid way to make the chip common knowledge. Also, get some sharp people in the UK playing around with it. For the researchers, it's a chance to use some very good quantum machines. They might be able to find ways to help get things going faster in different parts of the industry and world. For example, things like making stuff run more efficiently, creating better codes for computers, and finding new materials for application.

**A Really Small Gadget Could Help Make Quantum Systems Bigger**

A group of researchers here in the U.S., led by Jake Freedman and Matt Eichenfield, with help from the Department of Energy, made a creation. It could be a main part of making quantum systems bigger in size. The tool uses microwave vibrations to change laser light and make changes to the light. This helps when controlling trapped atoms and ions in quantum experiments.

The big wow factor is that this thing is very small – nearly 100 times smaller than a human hair! And as well as this, it doesn't need much electricity when in operation. It's made of the same product found in chips in our phones and notebooks. It can also be made in large numbers without spending lots of money. The team is now trying to cram more capabilities into a single chip. They plan to test it with companies that put together quantum machines. If it goes well, it could result in quantum systems that are smaller and need less power/electricity. Also, the cost to manufacture this should be inexpensive.

**Microsoft and Algorithmiq Team Up for Chemistry**

Microsoft is working with Algorithmiq, which is a startup out of Finland, to make quantum tools for chemistry. They want to use them for creating the designs of drugs. They want to achieve chemical accuracy in simulations while also keeping costs down to make it realistic.

They are zeroing in on how to set up molecules and make observations that are simple. This should reduce the amount of computer power needed for quantum chemistry. These tools will be part of Microsoft's Quantum Development Kit. They will be available by access through their online cloud. That way, researchers all over the globe can use them for studying. The initial signs give hope. They are now looking to increase speed/performance in an application. As well as this, they will be looking to make it simple to use with more types of molecules. If they obtain high scores, it could really speed up the creation of new drugs and materials, which is an expectation of quantum computing.

**Qolab and Western Digital Work Together to Grow Capacity of Chips**

In the U.S., Qolab got support from Western Digital. They got help with making bigger quantum systems. Qolab focuses on superconducting qubits and are intending to make them sturdier and easier to make on a grand scale.

Western Digital has plenty of knowledge of materials and putting things together with precision. That is really helpful for making dependable quantum chips. They will look for new production methods using similar processes. It will be easier to grow to a larger size. For Western Digital, it's a plan to get into a field that is doing well. Qolab has the chance to release their technology to the world.

**New People Joining Quantum Companies**

We're also getting the latest information on some good hires in the sector:

*   IonQ (IONQ) hired Scott Millard from Dell. He previously led AI sales at Dell. He will be put in charge of their sales plan. The emphasis will be on using quantum tools with AI. AI is becoming known for new programs.

*   Quantinuum picked John Kohl to lead their IT group. He has been in charge of running big programs. He will help scale their systems for a bigger amount of users.

*   Quantum Brilliance makes quantum tech that works at room conditions. They picked Brian Wong as their board chair. He has in depth knowledge about the chip sector generally. He will help lead the launch of new room-level machines.

*   Riverlane said that Professor Barbara Terhal, who is an expert with fixing the errors of quantum, will join at their new location in Delft. Her level of awareness will be important when bettering the way errors are dealt with. Dealing with errors and resolution of errors is a really tough task making quantum computers dependable.

**Money and Where Things Are Headed**

These things are happening with a lot of cash flowing into quantum computing. Governments and the companies are putting their money into the area. They are looking to grow the machines and processes to start new chances. Internet pages, such as TipRanks, let investors look at quantum stocks (like Google, Microsoft, IonQ, and Western Digital). The end goal is to see where the sector is going.

There's strong competition world-wide. Companies, new companies, and research groups are forming alliances. The reason is not just to make the most strong quantum computer. The reason is to discover practical uses for the industry which make all the investments smart.

**What is the Conclusion?**

From Google opening up its Willow chip to researchers in the UK, to Microsoft's study with Algorithmiq on chemistry, to Qolab's team with Western Digital, quantum computing is a busy place. New top people are now being onboarded at IonQ, Quantinuum, Quantum Brilliance, and Riverlane. It would appear like the sector is getting older.

There are still some issues, especially the machines and dealing with issues like errors. However, it's clear that some movement is occurring, and things are going forward. Quantum computing is carefully moving from a thought to something solid. Also, those events that took place this year tell us that we'll see real-world changes in the years ahead.

26.Google Maps Integration Makes the Gemini App Far More Powerful 

Google Gemini just got a sweet upgrade! It’s way easier to use for finding stuff around you. Before, asking Gemini for, say, a decent coffee shop was just annoying. You'd get this massive list – names, addresses, reviews – all crammed together. It was a pain to sort through. And the map? Tiny, stuck at the bottom, and pretty useless. Epic fail.

But now, Gemini's chucked out that old system and made Google Maps the star of the show, and honestly, it’s such an improvement. Seeing what's nearby is now super simple and visual. Like when you know you're going to use Google more and more.

**A Way Better Look**

Before, if you asked Gemini about pizza joints nearby, you'd get a boring list of names, an okay description, and that sad mini-map with just the plain red dot emoji. Yawn.

Now, it’s a complete 180. As soon as you ask, *bam!* A big map pops up. And the pins aren't just boring red dots. They're like little emoji icons showing you what kind of place it is – a coffee cup for coffee shops, a burger for burger places, trees for parks, a knife and fork for restaurants, etc. Makes way more sense, right?

Right underneath the map, Gemini shows cards for each place. But these are not just random facts and ratings. They’ve got photos, star ratings, and short, real reviews. Now, instead of reading a novel to figure out if Luigi's pizza has a good crust, you can just *see* what people think quickly. For example, if you're scoping out a coffee shop, the card might show a cute, cozy corner photo, a 4.7-star rating, and a note about how everyone loves their oat milk lattes. That's way, way more useful than a plain address and number.

**Works on Your Phone and Computer Now**

But here's the cool part: If you can speak and write English, you can use this right now on almost any phone, computer, tablets, whatever! It's great to see that all the demographics are included. Some users have been talking about the update being rolled out a few weeks ago.

**Why Should You Care?**

From my perspective, people like to see a map first. It helps you get a quick view when looking for places. Then the stats on the map helps you double-check and plan for your day!

Using a map just kills reading a bot's list. A glance at the map can just allow Gemini to find you better places to visit.

**Went from okay to great.**

Google Maps was working, but it just felt like another box. A place to get ratings and location to go too. This visual data lets you easily plan. Also, this map can still have a place for Google later.

**For Example:**

*   Showing the Eiffel Tower, along with the pictures and stats of the places to visit near it.

*   Looking at the stats to decide whether to go to a fancy restaurant.

*   Seeing places from the user's pictures.

**Competition**

This maps is something that some people need to quickly find places. Some programs are still trying to work with finding the location. With Gemini, you can work to get pictures to decide your location

**What to expect in the future:**

Right now Google can only show places to people who can speak English. Just know that they will be spreading more countries that can use it soon. Google can let Gemini use more maps soon.

There are ways to use Google now. Ask Gemini for Burgers, and it will show you. One thing Google should add is to see if it has price. To make it so it's not too much.

**Overall:**

It's easier now, on Gemini, to see a visual of what you want to go to on a trip, with the location, pictures, and stats.

27.Man Wins Lawsuit After Verizon Refused to Unlock His iPhone 

**Kansas Guy vs. Verizon: That Phone Unlock Story**

So, this dude Patrick Roach from Kansas thought he snagged a sweet deal on a brand-spankin’ new iPhone 16e. He went with Verizon’s Straight Talk service. His plan was simple: pay for a month, dump Straight Talk, and switch the phone over to US Mobile because he and his wife already had accounts there. Seemed fair and square, right? Back then, both the government's rules and Verizon's rules said he should be able to do it.

Nope! This blew up into a real mess that took months, a trip to small claims court, and showed just how phone companies sometimes twist (or straight up break) the government's phone unlocking rules.

**The Government and Unlocking Phones**

Basically, unlocking lets you use your phone on any network you want. Verizon's situation is a little weird. The FCC says they have to unlock phones after 60 days. The condition of this came about way back in 2008 when Verizon picked up some licenses,. The promise on open access was part of the deal. Then again in 2021 when they decided to buy TracFone. To please the regulators, Verizon had to agree to keep unlocking phones for TracFone brands like Straight Talk.

The FCC even let Verizon lock up phones for 60 days in 2019. But here's the catch: after that time, the phones should automatically unlock. It did not matter if the customer requested it or kept paying. Unless it came to Fraud. For most folks, this meant unlocking your prepaid phone after two months, even if you bounced.

**Verizon Changes Things Up**

Roach got his phone all set up and working on February 28, 2025. So, after 60 days, unlocked, right? Wrong. Verizon said no way. They brought up this brand-new rule they made on April 1, 2025. It said you needed 60 days of *paid* use before unlocking. Since Roach only paid for one month, he was screwed, according to Verizon.

The nutty thing? They were trying to use this new rule on something that already happened. When Roach got the phone, Verizon's policy just talked about 60 days of activation. Paid service wasn't mentioned. It's like changing the the game once it's started,. Roach said that this was fighting with the FCC's rules and Kansas' consumer protection laws.

**Suing in Small Claims**

Roach went ahead to sue Verizon. He did it in small claims court. He was claiming that they were trying to trick him. He used Kansas Consumer Protection Act (KCPA) to back him up,. The judge was completely in agreement. She declared that their policy change altered the device. it made it unusable for what Roach was planning. The court went ahead to instructed Verizon to refund $410.40 to show to show the charges of the phone and one month of service. They also paid the court costs too.

It gets even better, now. Verizon gave Roach $600, and the cost of court, to settle. Now comes the BUT! He had to promise that he would never speak of their settlement deal. Roach declined. The ability to speak your mind was a much bigger deal than money in his eyes. In an email to Verizon, he mentioned in great detail that no amount of money was worth fighting in court.

**Who Else Suffered?**

Roach was solo either. The internet went ablaze like forums and Reddit, there seemed to be a hoard of consumers stuck inside the same pit. Some prepaid customers discovered that the phone become locked after 60 days. Requiring them to have another month of service. Others got the customer service desk annoyed by calling too much. Regardless of what the FCC says (phones have to unlock themselves now).

The people gave the Verizon's sudden policy swap. People who thought they could use the old unlocking policy became furious when they were forced to new laws. Those were costly and held switching providers back.

**The FCC Staying Silent**

Roach went ahead and complained to the FCC, but they have kept their mouths shut so far. At the time when Verizon is urging the FCC to scrape the 60-day unlocking rule. They state they needed to secure fraud through longer locks. Organizations (ex. Public Knowledge) are rejecting the claim because the current protects every fair choice and play.

John Bergmayer from Public Knowledge stated that a Verizon agreement starts a timer, not a paid amount. Prepaid users are only using the phones when only absolutely necessary. In the case that Wi-Fi doesn't act up. Since Verizon is controlling our action, it will get into everyone's hair. Although with the constant nagging he still notices that something needs to take place if the FCC supports established regulations, which is not in anyway certain.

**Stuff to be aware of**

Roach's victory shows that average citizens can hold companies liable at a state level. Especially with these federal requirements and compliance involved. Roach only reclaimed what was taken. The case gave the individuals the courage to fight on as well.

It is estimated that during this ordeal, Roach spent 20 hours inside the courthouse. Verizon's lack of confirmation and confirmation of the FCC was extremely weak. When all said and done the judge referred to the states laws as her argument and this showed that Companies can not retrospectively switch policies in case customers fall.

**Everything in front of your perspective**

The case indicates the conflict of government. Verizon tried to get a paid service rule, even with other conditions that they were to supposed to act like they were able to create ideas along the trip. They are likely to attempt this without oversight, and the public will continue to fight back.

Looking into Roach's case it makes your mind shift onto arbitration. In the terms of Straight Talks agreements is that conflicts must be done through arbitration, or a local claims court. Roach picked the court because he second-guessed the objectivity of the arbitrators. This causes the question to rise. Is this avenue the best one for businesses to be held responsible?

**The final outcome**

The conflict between Patrick Roach and Verizon is a sample of why the community should always look at things on alert. Also showing why states level assist when authorities are dormant at a federal level. Verizon's direct change to policy directly countered what the purpose that the FCC was made for. It all came down to court action to ensure the uphold of obligations. Roach may not be the richest, but it was able to provide information on business against consumer rights.

A ruling from the FCC would change the spectrum as well as the allowance of users in order to change between cellular providers inside America. Roach's grand slam should motivate individuals however small they may be to stand up to companies.

28.iOS 26.2 Improves the Home App With Easier Accessory Setup 

There's talk that Apple's about to *maybe* release a bunch of new smart home stuff soon – like, *around five* new things! Nobody's really sure what they'll be, though. Some folks are guessing new HomePods, or maybe some completely different gadgets. Also, Apple already made setting up your smart home devices smoother with the new iOS 26.2.

**Why Smart Home Setups Can Be a Royal Pain**

Seriously, getting your smart home up and running? It shouldn't be this hard! You know, now devices play together better because of standards like Matter, right? It stopped those compatibility headaches, 'cause nobody wanted devices that just wouldn't talk to each other! But there have totally been problems in the past. Some of these smart home companies just gave up, leaving their customers with devices that don't work anymore. What a waste!

For most people, this means juggling a bunch of different apps, racking your brain for passwords, and scanning a ton of those setup codes thingies. It becomes a drag, like, really fast, and so much time spent just to set up a simple light.

Apple's whole deal has been to make tech simple, so they try to make their Home app as easy to use as possible. But even inside the Apple world, setting up a bunch of lights or sensors could be a total chore. Imagine getting a new pack of smart plugs or some smart bulbs from a big box store and scanning each one. Scan one, give it a name, confirm, and wait. Then, do it again. Not cool! Especially if you're trying to get the whole house done.

**iOS 26.2 Saves the Day: Easy Multipack Setup**

iOS 26.2 is here to make this much better. According to the Apple website, there is something called Multipack accessory pairing in the Home app. If you get something that comes in a set, you can just scan *one* setup code. So, that pack of plugs? Scan once, and bam – all four are up and running in your Home app.

This might seem like a small thing, but Apple's all about making small fixes that make life easier. And, of course, if stuff is easy to set up, people will probably buy *more* smart home goodies! This kinda lines up with all the talk about Apple releasing new smart home devices. They're making their system super-easy to pick up and use.

**Why It Makes Sense To Stick With One Brand**

It's tempting to grab whatever smart gadget looks cool, but that's something you can get bogged down with easily. The next thing you know, your phone is full of different apps, devices don't always play nice, and getting any of them to work together just gets hard. When they can, a lot of people tend to stay with one brand because it tends to work out better in the end. All matching stuff like light bulbs or plugs makes sure you all have compatible settings.

With iOS 26.2, Apple nudges people towards uniformity. So, getting a set of items from a brand you trust? That setup's gonna be quick.

**The Smart Home World: What's The Deal?**

Right now, the smart home stuff is changing a lot. Companies are teaming up now, with Matter making devices all speak the same language. However, some companies are going through a rough patch, so folks are getting nervous about who's going to still be around. Apple's counting on being seen as the safe pick. They're all about making tech that's uncomplicated.

The rumors about shiny new Home products say that Apple's trying hard to get into this smart home market. People imagine that there may be new HomePods, a better Apple TV that's better at working with your smart home, or maybe a smart screen or a security camera. Whatever they come up with, iOS 26.2 helps make it easy to get going.

**How This Helps You**

Ok, so, what is this good for?

*   **Saves You Time:** It's only one scan, and you can set things up fast.

*   **Keeps Things Stable and Uniform:** Having stuff from the same company helps things run in the same way.

*   **Easy to Use:** Setting something up once instead of repeating the same task makes it less tedious.

*   **Room to Upgrade Your Smart Home:** It gets easier to add devices when you don't have to worry about the setup, too.

Updating your smart home feels a lot more interesting, and people will consider these things before the Winter holidays.

**What Comes Next?**

iOS 26.2 might not be exciting, however, it does show how Apple's putting some thought into making smart homes trustworthy and not a difficult thing to do. By making installs easy, Apple's setting the stage up for these new Home products and showing everyone they care about making uncomplicated gadgets to use.

As smart home tech gets better, people will be looking for systems that are easy and work well. The multipack pairing is a great example of how sometimes the best things aren't always these big, strange things. It's the little tweaks that can take a headache away.

**To Summarize**

The smart home world can be hit or miss, but this change from Apple is showing they're serious. With iOS 26.2, setting up more than one device gets much smoother! Apple's about to show off more new gadgets, and this change helps make sure folks use this stuff without stress. If you're thinking about making a smarter home, easy setup, same devices, and simple design matters the most.

29.iPhone 20 Rumored to Feature Four-Sided Curved Display as LG Eyes Production 

Everyone's chattering about what Apple's gonna do with the iPhone way down the line in 2027 – can you believe it'll be 20 years old then? That first iPhone totally turned phones upside down, right?

There’s a big rumor going around that Apple might call the 2027 phone the iPhone 20, just skipping over 19. Some tech bloggers think it’s a maybe, like 50/50. They probably want to use this naming scheme to make a big stink about it anniversary-wise by coming out with a completely new design.

**Why Jump to iPhone 20?**

One expert at Omdia thinks the skip is possible. It's not unheard of for companies to shake up how they present themselves, mainly whenever there’s a big release coming up. By calling it the iPhone 20, it's a declaration for the phone's 20th year on the market. Apple could be using this as a backdrop to tell the audience about the iPhone's journey.

**Screen Mania**

The very cool part is the idea of an iPhone that's *all* screen. Imagine getting rid of that frame, notch, Dynamic Island, and other distractions. The phone would have nothing but screen going from one edge to the other! If they were to pull this off, the under-screen camera, Face ID, and the phone's most important bits will be underneath.

Apple is checking this out.

There are a few claiming that Apple is now checking out under-display Face ID in some iPhone 18's and the foldable iPhone that some suspect to be in construction right now. So it looks like they are investigating

And here's another thing: The screen edges are going to be bent smoothly. So to do this, the display's boards are going to be crammed *inside* the screen's border. Not to mention, the Thin-Film Encapsulation (TFE) – the protective layer that prevents damages done by water to OLED screens – is going to get *major* improvements. Even though it's going to be hard to hammer out any issues, the phone would look so cool.

**What's LG Doing?**

Word on the street says LG Display is throwing around $300 million to crank up its factories. The company is gearing up for something. It is alleged that they had production for Apple fully good-to-go. Let's say the iPhone 20 doesn't come out like this, it indicates they are good for Apple.

**Samsung's thoughts?**

You can’t talk iPHone screens without talking about Samsung. Nobody is talking about what they had planned with the iPhone 20. Regardless, they’ll surely be tied into the whole shebang. We did acknowledge that they're tweaking the foldable OLEDs for the iPhone Fold. Building up bending panels all over the borders is gonna cost a lot.

**The Tough Spots**

It won't be easy making an iPhone that only has screen:

*   **Hiding Those Sensors:** You need infrared cameras to get Face ID working. But making one fit under the screen will be a tall order.

*   **Camera's Good Quality:** Images tend to diminish if pictures are taken on the other side of the screen thanks to the pixels. To avoid it, Apple will need to hammer it out.

*   **Making It Hard to be Damaged:** Screen protectors that aren’t super-thick are likely to be water damaged, and this is gonna need fixing.

*   **Building Tons Quickly:** Okay, so maybe they can only just build a few units, getting lots of them can be tasking.

That shows us that Apple doesn't want to rush into doing anything. The company can start by adding a small camera (like some Android ones) until they hide everything underneath.

**What's Going On with Other Companies?**

Having a no-frame phone is one of the goals, anyway. With guys like Samsung, Xiaomi, and Oppo messing around with hiding the camera underneath the board and bending the screens. It'll be a matter of time until Apple get its shot until 2027.

Oh, and who could forget about Apple's foldable phone? Yeah, Apple should construct a foldable phone *and* a non-foldable phone that is covered by glass. Customers will have a bunch of picks to showoff what they just did.

**So, Is This Real?**

That iPhone 20 buzz? I'm not sure. LG seems to be pitching a lot of money into its gear, and people say Apple is looking for screens. But I'm still unsure. The timing and rumors are enough reason to believe in it.

**Final words**

iPhone 20 *could* be Apple's biggest announcement that has curved edges under the screen. The rumors are interesting. Given the issues Apple's engineers are having, the phone could be worked on. If the iPhone came out the way its supposed to, Apple will celebrate iPhone's 20th birthday.

30.Google to Shut Down Dark Web Report Tool Less Than a Year After Launch 

Google's pulling the plug on its Dark Web Report thingy in early 2026. It's not sticking around. They told everyone who was using it that it's going away. Basically, it'll stop checking the dark web on January 15, 2026, and then it's totally donezo on February 16, 2026, with all the data going poof. And this is coming just under two years after they made it available to everyone with a Google account back in July 2024.

**What Was the Deal with This Dark Web Report?**

So, this Dark Web Report was supposed to be like a security guard, watching the dark web – that shady corner of the internet you can only get to with special browsers like Tor – looking for your Google account email. You know, the dark web is where all sorts of bad stuff goes down, like stolen passwords and credit card info being sold. Google's idea was to warn you if your email showed up in some fishy place on the dark web.

The thing was free and built right into your Google account. You could sign up for alerts if your email popped up somewhere it shouldn't. But, it only gave you the heads up, not exactly what to do next.

**Why Is Google Bailing on It?**

On their help page, or support page, Google said the Dark Web Report wasn’t really that good. People said, yeah, the alerts were okay, but they didn't know what to do after that! So instead of making people worried for nothing, Google is shifting focus.

What Google declared:

We understand what you guys say about the report, we are making a change to tools that give you more steps to secure your information on the internet. Now and In the future, we will track and protect you from online threats (including the dark web), and tools that help protect you and your personal information.”

This means Google wants to put their energy into security features that actually help you *do* something to protect yourself, rather than just telling you something bad *might* be happening.

**Here's the Shutdown Plan**

*   **January 15, 2026:** No more dark web scans. Nothing new will be added to the report.

*   **February 16, 2026:** The Dark Web Report is officially dead. All the data gets deleted.

If you want to delete your info before then, you can, just follow Google's instructions.

**What Google Wants You to Use Instead**

In the email they sent out, Google told everyone to try these other security things they already have:

*   **Security Checkup:** It walks you through your account activity, what devices are connected, and what apps have access to your stuff.

*   **Passkeys:** An easier way to login, which uses your Phone.

*   **Two-Step Verification (2SV):** It can protect your account, and requires a code.

*   **Google Password Manager:** It keeps your passwords.

*   **Password Checkup:** It lets you know if your current passwords have been hacked.

*   **Results About You:** You can request to remove personal info phone numbers or addresses.

Google's hoping these tools will give you more control over your security.

**Dark Web Monitoring: The Bigger Picture**

Lots of security companies offer dark web monitoring now. Companies like Norton and LifeLock charge for services that look for your personal info on shady websites and forums. Google's Dark Web Report was cool because it was free and connected to your Google account, so it was easy for people to use.

The problem is, finding your info is only half the battle. You still need to know what to *do* about it. Should you change your passwords? Turn on extra security? Watch your bank accounts? Without those answers, the alerts just make you nervous.

Google's decision makes sense. They're getting rid of a service that might not be helpful and could even cause stress. Instead, they're focusing on things that directly protect your account.

**What Does This Mean for You?**

If you used the Dark Web Report, you might feel like you're losing some security. But honestly, it wasn't that big of a deal. It only watched for your Google email address, not all your personal information. For full protection, you may need to use a different company.

On the bright side, Google still has a lot of great security features. Passkeys and two-step verification make it harder for hackers to get into your account, Password Manager and Password Checkup help you keep your passwords safe, and Results About You lets you remove personal details from Google Search.

**The Bottom Line**

Google's Dark Web Report is going away because it wasn't giving people enough helpful advice. Instead of just warning you about potential problems, Google wants to give you the tools to protect yourself. The most important thing is to use strong passwords, turn on two-factor authentication, and take advantage of all the security features Google offers.

31.Samsung’s Galaxy Z TriFold Is Bold and Impressive — but It Raises Big Questions 

**Samsung Galaxy Z TriFold: Is Three Just a Crowd When It Comes to Screens?**

So, Samsung's kinda been the king of foldable phones for a while, right? You see Galaxy Z Folds and Z Flips everywhere. Now, they're throwing this Galaxy Z TriFold thing into the mix. The idea's kinda wild: a normal-sized phone that turns into a huge 10-inch screen when you stretch it out. They are saying it's got blazing fast speed and a great camera too. Sounds great, doesn't it? But does it actually impress you when you use it? Will people want to buy it, especially since it probably costs a ton? That's what everyone wants to know.

**The Folding Funky Town**

Some thought Samsung would do something like Huawei’s Mate XT. That phone lets you pick from three screen sizes by keeping one part folded. You can switch between a small phone, a medium tablet, or a big tablet, whatever you feel like. But Samsung played it safe: a 6.5-inch outside screen and a 10-inch inside screen. It works, I guess, but it doesn’t change that much, so you start thinking, Why didn't Samsung just do what Huawei did?

If you don’t always need that huge 10-inch screen, not having a middle size might get annoying. It shows that making bendy phones is all about trade-offs. Sometimes, it feels like Samsung cared more about how cool the phone looks than how well it works day to day.

**DeX Mode: Really?**

Here’s another head-scratcher: when you unfold the TriFold, it doesn’t automatically switch to DeX Mode. For those who don't know, Samsung’s DeX makes your phone look like a desktop computer, with windows and stuff. You'd think a big screen like that would be perfect for DeX. But no, you just see a regular phone screen stretched out. It looks kinda basic and not that useful.

Everyone knows Samsung's been tweaking DeX with One UI 8 and Android 16 to act more like a normal computer, but it still feels like it’s running in phone mode. This could have been their chance to show off a new DeX and get people to use the TriFold with DeX all the time, but they didn't. Phone geeks might think that it's a big missed chance to make this phone even cooler.

**Good Parts, But Not the Best**

The TriFold costs about $2,400 in South Korea! Whoa! That’s one of the most expensive phones out there. Here’s the kicker: it doesn’t even have Qualcomm’s latest Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 chip! Instead, it has the Snapdragon 8 Elite for Galaxy, which is still great, but not the newest. It'll be fast, but for that price, some might say it's not worth it.

Samsung probably did it to save a little money and because it’s hard to get enough of those new chips right now. DRAM costs are going up, which makes prices higher, and using the newest chip would have made the TriFold super expensive. Still, for a phone that’s supposed to be advanced, it’s weird that they didn’t go all out.

**How Much and Where Can I Buy It?**

Samsung started pre-orders for the TriFold in South Korea for around $2,434. Believe it or not, that’s only $400 more than the Galaxy Z Fold 7, so it's not too bad, especially since it's so different. People must really want it because it sold out quickly when pre-orders started. I'm not sure if it’s because everyone loves it or because they only made a few in the first place.

We’re still waiting for the prices in other countries, but Samsung hinted that the TriFold is coming to more places in 2026. People in North America are curious to see how it is compared to Huawei’s Mate XT and other new folding phones.

**Samsung, What Happened to the Pen?**

One thing that’ll bum out Samsung fans is that it doesn’t work with the S Pen. That pen has always been important for Samsung’s work phones, and many thought it would be back for this big, tablet-sized screen. But Samsung did the same thing as with the Galaxy Z Fold Special Edition and Fold 7, like they forgot about the S Pen. If you like using a pen to write notes or draw, this might change your mind.

**Huawei Is a Contender**

Huawei’s Mate XT Ultimate Design is another option that goes for three screens, so you can pick from three different sizes. Some say that Huawei’s is more flexible, but Samsung’s overall system and name still help them. This shows how folding phones are changing from simple, book-like designs to something very different.

**What's the Bottom Line?**

The Galaxy Z TriFold is Samsung trying something very different after only making small changes to the Fold series for a long time. It’s a daring attempt to redefine what a phone can be, like a phone, tablet, and work tool all in one. But the TriFold also shows how bringing new ideas to life isn't always easy. You have to think about design stuff, part shortages, and what people really want in a device: something new but practical.

For tech fans, the TriFold is a cool look at where phones might be headed. But for the average person, that crazy price, the screen size issues, and no S Pen might make it hard to want. Whether the TriFold is a big hit or just a niche phone will depend on if Samsung can fix the problems and make it better.

**In Conclusion**

Samsung’s Galaxy Z TriFold is daring, expensive, and sure catches your eye. With its big screen, striking appearance, and smooth operation, it stakes a claim to invent a brand new device that folds up!. But we’re still not sure about how simple and easy to use it is, what it costs, and what it lacks! As foldable phones keep evolving, the TriFold might be known for being a big advance or more like an expensive mistake. For now, it reflects Samsung’s ambition to be the leader in the foldable phone market, even without always knowing where they are going.

32.Waze Finally Tests Traffic Light Data as Google Maps Already Offers It 

**Waze is *Finally* Testing Traffic Light Info – Seriously, About Time!**

So, Waze users have been asking for this forever: traffic lights on the map. I mean, Google Maps added this back in 2022! People were scratching their heads, wondering why Waze – even though Google owns them both – was dragging their feet. Well, after tons of begging and Waze saying earlier this year that they were on it, they've *finally* started testing it. It's just in a little area for now, but it's kind of a big deal for making the app way more useful.

**Why Even Care About Traffic Lights?**

You might be thinking, Who cares? Waze already tells me about jams, accidents, and cops! But knowing where the traffic lights are can totally change your drive. You can kind of guess when you'll need to brake, figure out why a certain route is taking so long, and decide if you should switch lanes or try a whole different road. If you're driving in any city at all, traffic lights make a HUGE difference in how long it takes to get anywhere!

Google Maps kinda proved this already. They put little traffic light icons at intersections, so you know what's coming. Waze is all about real-time info from its users, so they could really make this feature awesome. Imagine if Waze could mix traffic light info with live traffic reports to give you super-accurate arrival times! That would be great.

**Testing in Israel – Trying to Keep it Simple**

GeekTime says Waze is testing this out in Israel right now. It's early days, and they're keeping it limited to avoid cluttering up the map. When you're using the navigation, Waze will only show, like, three traffic lights at a time. Which keeps the screen pretty clear and easy to read, so you don't get information overload.

But here's something interesting: if you're just looking at the map casually, not using the turn-by-turn directions, Waze *will* show you all the traffic lights nearby. That makes it easy to get a sense of all the intersections in the area. So, it's focused when you're driving, but giving you the bigger picture when you're just looking around.

According to GeekTime, this is still just a test. No one knows if it will go beyond Israel and whether they will remain with the limit to 3 lights. It looks like Waze is listening to feedback and tweaking as they go. Which is good.

**Years in the Making (Apparently)**

Way back in May, Waze kinda mentioned they were putting traffic light support on their roadmap. The folks said they were hearing the users' requests. Since Google is the parent company, Waze could likely take the data from Google Maps, rather than starting from scratch. Whether Waze is doing that is not clear now.

It seems Waze is being cautious here because they really care about keeping things simple. Unlike Google Maps, which can jam-pack the screen with info, Waze is known for a cleaner look. Only showing three lights during driving is part of make sure the app runs fast.

**How Traffic Lights Could Actually Help**

If Waze gets this right, here's how could make you happier:

*   **Way more accurate ETAs:** Waze could guess how long a route will take by understanding how many lights there are.

*   **Know When to Brake:** drivers can expect to see when to stop.

*   **Smarter Route Choices:** Seeing the traffic lights coming up is what drivers need for better alternatives to drive.

*   **Mix With User Reports?:** Waze can do users' reports on signal timing, blackouts, accidents to have a great picture of driving conditions.

It's a smart move from Waze, since they use community sourced data so much.

**What's hard Here**

There's got to be problems here. Mapping traffic lights needs loads of data, which Google Maps already gathered. There are too many lights, the map would be a mess. The various designs of the lights means it needs adaptation of the program so it can adjust properly.

**So What Happens Next?**

The test in Israel is a start. Waze seems happy to see if users like these kind of things. If it works out, maybe by 2026 it will come to the rest of the world. Since Waze is global, it will change driving for lots of users.

What would be amazing is if Waze shows if the light is green or yellow, instead of a red light. It changes the road itself and needs coop with city municipalities. Nice to see it with the trend in smart road tech and connected cars.

**Final Thoughts**

Waze is testing traffic light support is super good. It is early but is a step ahead for the app. By seeing the lights, Waze improves things on the road for the drivers from point a to point b. Which goes to show they care about the experience and are open with the future.

Since Waze users requested it, the test is welcome. It means that this is a good sign. And may take some time before it comes to the rest of us. But it feels good to support this app.

33.Arc Raiders Gets New Features and Tweaks in Cold Snap Update 

Arc Raiders just got a massive winter update called Cold Snap, and it's pretty awesome! It really changes things up.

Imagine everything covered in snow, which makes it super cold, and it just gives the game a whole new feel. Plus, there are tons of new items, some that are permanent and some that are only around for a short time, so get them while you can. If you've been thinking about playing Arc Raiders again, this update is a really good reason to jump back in.

**Goalie Raider Deck: The Battle Pass That Sticks Around**

They've put in this thing called the Goalie Raider Deck. Basically, it's like a battle pass, but way better because it's permanent! It's full of cool cosmetic items for your character. You can get great skins, outfits, and gear that helps you survive. The best news is that this battle pass isn't going anywhere. You don't have to rush to get everything before it disappears. Just take your time and grab the stuff you want, when you want it.

The Goalie Raider Deck was made available to everyone on December 26th. You earn Creds – that is the coins used in game. You finish daily objectives and spend them on what you wish. A free battle pass is actually a W move! The hockey-themed outfit is perfect for the snowy environment. I really hope they keep doing this with future passes. Getting rid of the pressure to grind is really nice.

**Snowfall Map: Chilly, Dark, and Kinda Scary**

The main change from this update is the snow. The Dam, Buried City, Spaceport, and Blue Gate are all covered in it. However, it does more than just making everything look like a winter wonderland. The snow affects how well you can see, which makes the game feel more intense. And your footprints in the snow could lead to trouble.

There's also this new Frostbite thing. If you stay out in the cold too long, it hurts your health. That suggests that you will need to find somewhere warm to survive. Now you have to consider twice before exploring somewhere too far. Now you will be fighting for a place to be safe. Bring plenty of medical supplies and stick with your squad.

**Frostbite: The Hard New Mechanic**

Seriously, frostbite changes the game. It makes you look for shelters. Do you risk in the cold to visit the place that contains better resources? It is a hard decision. Frostbite forces you to plan and work with your teammates, which is a very nice twist.

**Flickering Flames Event: Free Stuff Just for Playing**

There is also a limited-time event called Flickering Flames. It has 25 rewards. At its core, you gain experience from playing which then grants you Merits, which you spend in Speranza. You can find a wide variety of things such as gear, outfits, and game currency. It encourages you to get as much XP as possible to get all the rewards quickly. Taking down the tough ARC guys like Bastions and Bombardiers will give you XP much quicker.

Playing five rounds of Arc Raiders gets you the rewards. If you play the game on a casual basis, you'll still get free goodies for playing.

**Candleberry Banquet Project: A Fun Holiday Side Quest**

There is a holiday feature called the Candleberry Banquet project – simple tasks that connect with the story. Basically, you obtain Candleberries from the open world. Each part of the quest shows a scene from the banquet table in Speranza.

If you finish the quest, you will obtain outfits, in-game money and Merits. It encourages you to explore everything while doing something aside from fighting robots.

**First Expedition Reset: Risk Your Progress for Great Rewards**

The Expedition reset might be a feature that Arc Raiders does again. It happened from December 17th to December 23rd. To put it simply, the game resets your character's progress, so you start over. In return, you get permanent upgrades to help you get back on your feet.

Here's how the benefits breaks down:

*   5 skill points max (based on amount of Credits prior to reseting)

*   12 additional backpack slots

*   A special icon showing you did the expedition

*   Janitor Cap cosmetic for Scrappy

*   Patchwork Raider cosmetic

*   Boosts that are active for a limited time

*   6% increase to Scrappy resources

*   5% extra experience

*   10% cheaper repairs

To get the max amount of credits, make you should save 5 million credits. This gives the game's loyal players a proper reward. It just makes the resource grind that much more interesting.

**Winter Has Arrived**

Cold Snap is not just seasonal skins. It turns Arc Raiders into a game of survival as a result of the snow and the frostbite. The Flickering Flames event and Candleberry Banquet contain holiday objectives, while the permanent Goldie Raider Deck is sticking around. The Expedition reset means you possibly risk progress for big rewards.

It is easy to see that Embark Studios wants to try new things with the game. The combination of winter content and the new gameplay is very fun.

**In Conclusion**

Arc Raiders's Cold Snap update is just a great winter bundle with holiday fun, progression mechanics, and survival. There are lots of things to get and do, such as grinding the Raider Decks in addition to surviving in the snow. Cold Snap brings rewards and hard objectives.

34.Apple and Google Rush Emergency Fixes for Actively Exploited Zero-Day Flaws 

Apple and Google just dropped some urgent software fixes because hackers found ways to break into phones and computers that nobody knew about – not even Apple or Google! These kinds of vulnerabilities are called zero-day exploits. It's like finding a secret, unlocked back door into your house, and the bad guys were already using it!

**Apple's WebKit Fix**

Apple had to fix some holes in WebKit. WebKit is basically the engine that runs Safari (the web browser on iPhones, iPads, and Macs) and a lot of other stuff online, too. Apple said these flaws were being used in super-sneaky attacks against specific people. Instead of someone randomly getting hit with a virus, these attacks were carefully planned and targeted.

Apple made updates for iPhones, iPads, and Macs. The message for everyone is really simple: update your gadgets *now*. Apple isn't saying much about the details, but the fact that these flaws were *already* being used is a big deal. Update ASAP.

**Google's Chrome Quick Fix**

Google also released a Chrome update to deal with several security problems, including one zero-day issue known as CVE-2025-14174. This thing was a memory access bug. Basically, it could let hackers run their code on your computer or crash your browser. Google knew people were using this bug before they fixed it, so this update is super important for all Chrome users.

Here's a weird twist: Google said that Apple's security people helped find the Chrome bug, along with Google's own Threat Analysis Group (TAG). TAG usually chases down serious spyware companies and government-backed hackers, not just regular malware. This suggests the Chrome bug was part of some kind of high-level spyware scheme. It was probably used to target important people or organizations.

**A little teamwork**

Google patched the Chrome thing last Wednesday. At first, they said it was still being looked at. Then when Apple shared what they found, Google updated their notes to show that the two companies were working on it together. This shows that even tech giants work together to protect people from serious hackers.

Neither Apple nor Google is giving out a lot of specifics. That's likely to keep anyone else from copying the attacks. But the very fact that both Apple and Google rushed to fix similar problems means that hackers are trying to use the same methods on different devices.. Browsers and phone software are major targets.

**Zero-days keep growing**

These new fixes add to the growing number of zero-day bugs patched in 2025. Apple has cleaned up nine zero-days that were used to break into devices, and Google has fixed eight Chrome zero-days. This shows that hackers are focused on browsers and phones. Those are used to get personal and work data.

Zero-day issues are great for hackers. Because nobody knows about them, they get past all of the security measures. Spyware companies and government hackers can use them to get into phones and devices without anyone noticing. Even worse, other criminals can steal or reuse these methods to attack more people.

**What to do NOW**

For regular people and businesses, the bottom line is to update quickly and often. You can't wait to see if an update is worth it. If hackers find a way in before the update, your stuff is at risk.

Remember, web browsers and phone software are high-value targets. Keeping Chrome, Safari, and your operating system up to date is just as important as running antivirus software. Your browser and phone are like the first wall of defense against bad websites, phishing, and spyware.

**Big Picture**

The quick fixes released by Apple and Google show that cybersecurity is always changing. Hackers are working with attacks that are as big and complex as what governments can do. The fact that Apple and Google worked together suggests it was a coordinated operation. It could have been after journalists, activists, or top executives.

The tech industry has to move fast to patch problems and be open and work together. Apple and Google don't share many details, but they do credit each other. That means they know fighting advanced threats is a team thing.

**The takeaway**

Apple and Google's urgent patches are a wake-up call. Zero-day attacks are not only real, but those are actively used against real targets. Apple fixed WebKit problems, and Google patched Chrome's CVE-2025-14174. Both tech giants show, once again, how important it is to move fast when new threats pop up. So users need to do one simple thing: update devices *right now*. Fix it, then ask questions later. That's the smart thing to do in this day and age.

35.UK Moves to Require Nudity-Blocking Software on Children’s Devices 

**The UK is Thinking About Blocking Nudity on Your Phone by Default**

The British government is about to announce a new plan to fight violence against women and girls. One of the most eye-catching ideas? Asking tech companies to put nudity filters directly into our phones and devices. So, think Apple, Google, the whole gang. The idea is that before you can see, make, or share anything explicit, you'd have to prove you're an adult. They might use things like fingerprints or even your official ID to check.

**Why Go This Route?**

This all comes from worries about kids seeing stuff they shouldn't online. There's a lot of concern about them stumbling across porn, being groomed, or just generally seeing sexual content way too early. Now, the UK isn't going as far as some places, like Australia, that have talked about banning anyone under 16 from social media. Instead, the focus here is on stopping the bad stuff from getting to kids in the first place, especially on the devices they use every day.

Jess Phillips, who's in charge of keeping people safe, has been giving props to companies that are already trying this stuff out. One example she pointed to is a company called HMD Global. They made a phone specifically for kids that uses software called HarmBlock, made by a British company named SafeToNet. HarmBlock can automatically tell when there's something explicit on the screen and blocks it. This gives parents some peace of mind that their kids aren't accidentally running into stuff they shouldn't.

**What Apple and Google Already Do**

To be fair, Apple and Google aren't totally clueless here. They've already done some things to protect younger users, but their tools are still pretty basic. Apple has Communication Safety tools that you can turn on for iPhones and iPads. These tools can spot nudes in apps like Messages, AirDrop, and FaceTime. If it sees something, kids get a warning. Teens can ignore the warning and look anyway, but if you're under 13, a parent has to type in a passcode.

Google has a system called Family Link that lets parents control what apps and services their kids can use. Their messaging app, Google Messages, also has a sensitive content warning option. Plus, other apps can use Android's SafetyCore system to find and flag explicit stuff. But here's the catch: neither Apple nor Google blocks nudes across the entire operating system. So, things could still slip through on apps like WhatsApp or Telegram.

**The Government's Bigger Idea**

The Home Office, which is kind of like the UK's Department of Interior, wants to go way further. They want operating systems to block any nudity unless you prove you're an adult. This wouldn't just be for phones, but also for computers. They mentioned that even Microsoft Teams is already scanning for things it thinks are inappropriate. They also want to force convicted child sex offenders to keep these blockers turned on all the time. That way, it's harder for them to get to vulnerable people.

At first, the government thought about making this mandatory for all devices sold in the UK. But they've backed off that idea for now. Instead, they're going to try to get tech companies to do it voluntarily. This might be a way to test the waters without causing a huge fight right away.

**The Problem? Privacy, Obviously.**

Even though everyone wants to protect kids, these plans are likely to cause a lot of arguments. Privacy advocates are saying that having nudity-detecting software built into operating systems could turn into mass spying on people's photos and messages. Groups that defend civil liberties might say that forcing people to use fingerprints or ID to see adult content is going too far, creating big databases and hurting digital freedom.

There's also the question of will it even work? When the UK started making porn websites check people's ages earlier this year, a lot of people just used fake pictures or tricks to hide where they were located. Some people worry that the same thing will happen with these device-level blockers. People who really want to get around them will find a way, which means the whole thing might just annoy adults without really protecting kids.

**What's Happening Elsewhere?**

The UK's push comes after Australia started pushing companies to build operating systems that can spot nudity and do things like blur it or show warning messages. The UK also has something called the Online Safety Act, which makes companies remove illegal or risky stuff from their platforms. All of this is part of a bigger trend where countries are trying to hold tech companies responsible for what's on their sites and apps.

**Walking a Tightrope**

This whole thing is about balancing the need to keep kids safe with the desire to let adults do what they want. The government is trying to reduce the risk of grooming and keep young people away from pornography. But it also raises some tough questions about privacy, freedom, and how much control tech companies should have over what we see online. For companies like Apple and Google, the trick will be to build systems that work well, don't snoop too much, and respect people's rights.

**In Conclusion**

The UK government's idea to block explicit pictures by default is a pretty bold move. By getting tech companies involved, they're hoping to protect kids from online dangers. But there are a lot of issues to work out, from privacy fears to whether it will actually work. As the government lays out its plan to fight violence against women and girls, the debate over these nudity blockers is going to be a big test of how we balance safety and freedom online. Whether tech companies jump on board or push back, this conversation is definitely going to shape how online safety works in the UK going forward.

36.Toyota Partners With Apple for Car Keys Functionality 

**Apple Car Keys: Toyota Cars About to Join the Party!**

So, here's the deal: It looks like Apple's Car Keys feature is heading to Toyota! The guys at MacRumors dug around and found evidence that Apple's been working to add Toyota to the list of supported car brands. Right now, Toyota has its own digital key thing called Remote Connect. But hooking up with Apple would be a big deal for both companies. Apple Car Keys is already up and running on Apple's servers, so Toyota owners might soon be able to unlock and start their cars just by using their iPhone or Apple Watch.

**What's the Hype About Apple Car Keys?**

Apple rolled out Car Keys back in 2022. It basically lets you store a digital copy of your car key in the Wallet app on your iPhone. Once it's set up, you just hold your iPhone or Apple Watch near the car's NFC thingy to unlock it. Tap the door handle, and boom, you're in! You can use Face ID or Touch ID to make it secure, or you can use Express Mode to skip the security and get in super quick.

The cool thing is, you can share these digital keys with other people. If you want to send a key to your spouse or a friend, you can do it through iMessage. You can even set limits, like only letting them drive at certain times or restricting what the car can do. It's not just easy; it's handy if you've got multiple drivers in the house.

**Toyota's Already Got a Digital Key – So What's New?**

Yeah, Toyota's Remote Connect lets you use your smartphone to unlock and start the car. works, but it's all Toyota's own thing and doesn't play nice with Apple's Wallet app. By jumping on the Apple Car Keys train, Toyota would fit into a bigger world, making it easier for people who are already using Apple Pay, Apple Wallet, and all that other iOS stuff.

**Secret Info! How We Know It's Happening**

The MacRumors folks found that Apple's system is ready to support Toyota Car Keys. That's a strong hint that it's coming soon. Toyota hasn't said anything official yet, but all signs point to it being just around the corner. Apple usually gets its systems ready right before something becomes available to the public, which means Toyota drivers might not have to wait too long.

**Everyone's Doing It!**

At WWDC 2025, Apple said that 13 car brands would soon get on board with digital car keys. The list included a bunch of names like Audi, Acura, Porsche, and others. Toyota wasn't on that list at the time, but the fact that they're joining now says a lot about Apple's plan to make Car Keys a standard car thing.

Some car companies already support Car Keys, like BMW, Genesis, Kia, Hyundai, and Volvo. BMW was one of the first, and they've kind of set the standard for how it works. With Toyota getting involved, Apple can reach a ton more people since Toyota is one of the biggest car builders out there.

**What's in It for Toyota Drivers?**

If you own a Toyota, getting Apple Car Keys means:

*   **Easy Peasy:** No need to carry keys around – your iPhone or Apple Watch does the job.

*   **Safe and Sound:** Digital keys are kept super safe by Apple and can have security like your fingerprint or face scan.

*   **Do your thing:** You can share keys with family and friends and set limits on what they can do with the car.

*   **Plays Nicely:** Car Keys works with all your other Apple stuff, making your digital life easier.

All this fits into the car world's move toward digital stuff instead of physical things.

**A Few Bumps in the Road?**

It's not all perfect, though. Not every Toyota model might work with Car Keys right away. It needs special tech and software updates. And depending on where you live, some features might cost extra as part of a subscription like Remote Connect.

Also, some people might worry about privacy and security. Apple says it keeps everything super safe, but some might think digital keys could get hacked. Apple's had a good record with keeping payments and fingerprints secure, so that's a good sign, but people need to trust it.

**Who Else Is Doing This?**

Apple's not the only one trying to make digital car keys happen. Google's got something similar for Android phones, and car companies are working on their own systems too. Toyota's Digital Key is one example, and Tesla's had smartphone access for ages. The difference is that Apple Car Keys uses the Wallet app, which millions of people already use every day.

By working with Apple, Toyota can get into that whole Apple world, which could make customers happier. And for Apple, every new car company that joins makes Car Keys more of a standard thing.

**What's Next?**

Expect to see Car Keys show up in Toyota cars relatively soon since Apple's already done the work on their end. When it happens, Toyota drivers will be able to unlock and start their cars with their iPhone or Apple Watch.

As digital car keys become more normal, they might replace physical keys altogether. Car companies could save money on making keys, and people would have easier access and better security. Toyota adding Car Keys to its cars shows that this future is closer than we thought.

**Bottom Line**

Apple's Car Keys are coming to Toyota, which is a big step for the tech. With Apple's systems ready, Toyota drivers will probably be able to use their Apple devices as car keys soon. This moves Toyota alongside other car companies that are using digital keys and shows that Apple wants Car Keys to be everywhere. For drivers, it means things are easier, safer, and work better with their Apple stuff. As more people use it, digital car keys could become as normal as paying with your phone, changing how we use our cars.

37.First Voyage Raises $2.5M to Launch AI Habit-Building Companion 

**First Voyage’s Momo Self Care: An AI Pal for Making Good Habits**

These days, it feels like artificial intelligence is everywhere online, spitting out endless stuff - text, pictures, videos, you name it. But one new company, First Voyage, wants to do something different. Created by Besart Çopa and Egehan Ozsoy, they've made an AI friend app called Momo Self Care. Instead of bombarding you with stuff to consume, Momo's there to help you build good routines, chill out, and generally take better care of yourself. And it does it all through a cute digital pet.

**A Digital Buddy With a Purpose**

The core of the app is Momo, this adorable little animated critter. Momo's happy and healthy when you do stuff that's good for you – self-care things and getting stuff done. The idea is simple but smart: you set reminders for the habits you want to form, and Momo gives you a little nudge to actually do them. When you finish a task, you get coins, and you can use those to buy clothes and toys to dress up Momo. It's like turning your daily stuff into a game, where you get rewarded for doing good things.

The way it's set up reminds me of apps like Focus Friend, which mixes getting things done with fun games. But Momo adds this extra bit of friendship. It encourages you to see your own progress reflected in how happy and healthy your digital pet is. As Çopa puts it, “Momo helps you become a better you, and you reward Momo with care, love, and cute stuff.”

**Money and Moving Forward**

Just recently, First Voyage said they got $2.5 million in funding from some investors. They're planning to use that money to make Momo even better, especially to launch it on Android phones. Right now, you can get it on iPhones, and people seem to really like it. According to Çopa, people have already made over 2 million tasks in the app! The most popular ones are about getting more done, finding your inner peace, and being mindful.

It seems like Momo is hitting the spot for people who want something more than just another AI chatbot. By mixing games, feeling good, and having a buddy, First Voyage is trying to turn Momo into a brand that people connect with, where technology helps you live a better life.

**AI Friends and What to Watch Out For**

This whole idea of AI friends has got people talking. With chatbots like ChatGPT and others being so popular, there are worries about what it might do to your head to have relationships with these digital things. Some people are worried that you might get too dependent on them or forget the difference between real people and machines.

Çopa knows about these worries, but he thinks there's a lot of good that can come from it, especially when it comes to wellness. “It's good to see so many people starting companies that are working on AI for self-care instead of just making fake girlfriends,” he said. He believes that when AI can really get to know you and what you need, it can be a really helpful friend, especially for things like building good habits and being mindful.

**Keeping Things Safe**

To make sure things don't go too far, Momo has some safety features built in. It uses filters to make sure that the chats between you and the AI stay appropriate and helpful. That's super important, since wellness and self-care can be sensitive topics. By keeping the conversations within healthy limits, First Voyage wants to build trust and show that they're serious about doing things the right way.

**The Big Picture**

First Voyage doesn't just want Momo to be about reminders and games. They see it as part of a bigger group. Çopa hopes the app will grow into a popular brand that mixes AI, cartoons, and games to make people's lives better. The plan is to make Momo smarter, so it can do a better job of suggesting habits that are right for you and have more meaningful conversations.

This shows how some companies are changing the way they approach AI. Instead of just focusing on making content, companies like First Voyage are figuring out how AI can help people be happier and healthier. By putting AI into your daily routines, they want to create tools that are not just fun, but actually really useful.

**The Time is Right for Wellness**

The timing might be just right for this. People are getting tired of being online all the time, and they're looking for apps that help them disconnect and focus on themselves. Wellness and mindfulness are really big these days, with everything from meditation apps to fitness trackers. Momo fits right into that, offering a lighthearted but useful way to stick to your self-care goals.

The money they just got will let First Voyage grow, launch on Android, and make Momo even smarter. If it all works out, the app could become a go-to in the wellness world, appealing to people who want something that's both fun and helpful.

**In short**

First Voyage’s Momo Self Care app is a cool new take on AI friends. By making it all about a digital pet that's happy when you do good things, the company is turning self-care into a game – and making it more rewarding. With millions of tasks already made and new money in the bank, Momo is in a good spot to grow into a brand that mixes technology, wellness, and fun. In a world that's full of AI stuff, Momo offers something different: a friend that helps you build the life you want, one good habit at a time.

38.Mirelo Secures $41M From Index and a16z to Fix Silent AI Videos 

**Mirelo Gets $41 Million to Give AI Videos a Voice**

So, AI is making it super simple to create videos, right? There's just one small problem: many AI video generators create videos with no sound. And let's be real, a silent video just feels…off.

That’s where Mirelo comes in. They're a startup based in Berlin, and they're tackling that problem head-on. They're trying to build AI that can make music and sound stuff automatically, and have it all sync up with what’s going on in the video. They just landed a bunch of money, with plans to become *the* place to go when you want to add some cool sound to your AI video.

**From Under Wraps to the Spotlight**

CJ Simon-Gabriel and Florian Wenzel started Mirelo a couple of years ago. For a while, they kept things under wraps, quietly working on AI tech that could watch videos and add sound effects. Then, earlier this year, they dropped Mirelo SFX v1.5. Basically, the tech looks at the video, figures out what's going on, and creates relevant sounds. Think footsteps, doors slamming, explosions – things that just make those AI videos seem real.

Guess what? It caught people's attention! Venture capitalists, who are always on the lookout for the next big thing in AI (especially in gaming and entertainment), started noticing. Mirelo just got a $41 million pot led by Index Ventures and Andreessen Horowitz (a16z). Atlantic and many other investors put some money in too. So, it makes their total investment up to $44 million. Not bad going at all!

**Everyone Wants a Piece**

Mirelo isn’t the only company thinking about adding sound to video. Big names like Sony and Tencent are already working on their own versions. And Kuaishou (the guys using Kling AI) and ElevenLabs (who are also funded by a16z) are poking around too.

So, what's Mirelo's play? They're really focused on sound effects, rather than trying to do everything audio-related. They think that if they can get the market cornered, they'll have the upper hand. Plus, there aren't quite as many people messing around with sound effects compared to, say, AI music or voice creation. That should make it easier to claim a big stake in this growing field.

But going up against the big companies needs a lot of cash and workers. Right now, Mirelo has about 10 employees. They want to double or triple that number by the end of next year, hiring people to do research, create new products, and tell others what Mirelo can do. Simon-Gabriel said that it gives Mirelo an edge, especially when they cash in. He thinks they can be number one in SFX before bigger companies know it.

**Tools for Video People**

Mirelo has already put its AI models on Fal.ai and Replicate, so developers and folks can play around with them and get it cracked. The company thinks most of its money will come from people using their API (a way for other apps to use Mirelo's stuff). But they're also making Mirelo Studio, a workspace for video makers or some creators that can even support for some pro's video. That it hitting two areas: developers are getting it through API. People that loves video are getting it through platform.

They're using a freemium set up-with a monthly for over $23.50 (€20 a month). Right now, Mirelo is mainly trying to get the attention of video lovers, so they can use the sound effects on videos by Artificial Intelligence - shorting the process of working with sound designers. But they will draw in some pros in the video as well.

**Okay in the Artificial intelligence World**

A lot of AI companies are getting heat for how they use data to put together AI. Some think that copyright rules may be broken somehow. Mirelo is trying there best to make some changes on sound in good style. Georgia Stevenson from Index Venture stated that Mirelo would gather AI by using either public libraries or pay for them. It will divide profit from artist. That could let them get out of hard times that other AI companies are facing.

**Why Audio is Needed**

Simon-Gabriel is certain that audio could change it. He has one belief, is when George Lucas said: “Audio is 50% of the film, in reality it isn't. If there's some audio parts missing, that part could be missing from those old flicks. Simon-Gabriel an Wenzel are both researchers and a musician. They would rather effects, than to be sound creators. They can use special effects to support.

**Good opening!**

It might be a perfect timing, as Simon-Gabriel is offering for free (Mirelo). There are many of Artificial Inteliigence but missing audio. It has been said that Google Gemini are creating to make video using DeepMind's Veo 3.1 AI. Simon-Gabriel stated that Mirelo's would bring in sound. He also said the silent movie versus talkies creates a big difference!

With some savings from others in Mistral CEO Arthur Mensch, Mirelo are working hard for changes. The rate just raised from before the first savings.

**End Result**

Mirelo's guess will have people using Artificial Intelligence to use audio. This Berlin start up is trying to make sound available to artists, and make tools for those artist to use by giving change in the market. With $41 Million in savings and trying there best to grow fast, Mirelo knows that sound and moving pictures is the key for everyone.

39.4 Must-Have Holiday Gifts for Designers Who Have Everything 

**HOZO's Neo Series: Actually Useful Stuff for Designers (Finally!)**

Let's be real, finding a gift for a designer is HARD. You end up staring at a bunch of fancy-looking stuff that's probably gonna end up as dust collectors, isn't it? Architects, engineers, makers—they're the people who *make* things, they need real tools, things that actually help them get work done. That is where HOZO comes in. They get right to it, and don't try to reinvent the wheel but are just improving on what's already out there to make it way better for designers to use.

What makes HOZO stand out is their focus on clean, smart designs and making things precise. It is like they've made a whole product line just for designers. The product engineers didn't add a bunch of unnecessary stuff or try to be flashy and concentrated on making things that were constructed very well; with small, intelligent details, it just *works* in a modern workspace.

For the holidays, the Neo collections from HOZO—the NeoBlade, NeoRuler, NeoRulerGo, and NeoBlock—covers all the basics to get a lot of work done right. These are the gifts that can make a designer's life a bit easier. If a Designer gets one, they will definitely be appreciative!

**NeoBlade: Bye-Bye Cords, Hello Cutting**

Okay, so ultrasonic cutters can be really useful, but some of them are bulky. You have to deal with cords, deal with overheating, it's not the vibe one wants for a designer's studio.

NeoBlade is different, where it's cordless, it looks refined, and it feels good when in hand. It allows you to move around and do stuff without any restrictions!

It works because of a swappable battery that keeps it cutting for around 30 minutes. If you run out of power, simply put in a fresh battery or charge it with a standard USB-C charger. Weighing only 4.4 ounces (with the battery), it’s light when doing detailed tasks such as cleaning up 3D prints, working with leather, or doing models. But the biggest thing is, the ultrasonic cutter runs at 40 kHz, adjusting the power (between 9 and 40 watts) as it cuts. It can handle everything from acrylic to cardboard.

NeoBlade keeps it simple with two modes: “Precision” for smaller jobs or cuts; “Endurance” for longer jobs. It comes with six SK5 steel blades, allowing it to last. The magnetic blade swapping allows one to switch quickly. HOZO even made sure to add a fan, keeping everything cool and safe. There are also safety features, such as the child lock.

But HOZO is doing holiday deals for the NeoBlade. The NeoBlade Combo and Premium Combo are both at a discount of 25%. The “Premium” version gives one another charger and battery for all-day tasks. If you're not doing prolonged use, you can still get the NeoBlade at a 20% discount.

**NeoRuler: A Digital Ruler that is Actually Good**

Do you know the desks of architects, Rulers everywhere. The NeoRuler stops all that. The NeoRuler is a standard 12-inch aluminum ruler, that comes with lights and a built-in screen. The sliding marker displays measurements on the screen, measuring it down to a tenth of a millimeter.

It measures from every direction, from every point. Do you have your own scale? It comes with 90 built-in. With the phone app, you can add much more! You can change quick with the ruler.

Lasts about 12 hours! If you want to go all out, grab extras for a workstation setup.

The NeoRuler makes taking measurements easier. Need to change units? You can do it with the NeoRuler. Just a simple, smart tool. It's at a 20% discount.

**NeoRulerGo: The Tape Measure, Remastered**

NeoRuler is perfect at the desk, but the NeoRulerGo is good when out! This tape measure will fit in the same pocket as a USB drive. It measures as you roll it, with lasers indicating where the beginning and end are. The screen can read out the numbers as you roll, which is important when dealing with surfaces that are unlevel.

Great at layouts, the tool is super accurate. The phone app allows you to add to the measurements! Simply USB-C in when you're low on battery.

Want accessories with it? Buy the Premium kit with added accessories. Getting 28% off, it's a wonderful addition to the tool kit. It is what any tape measure should be, and isn't as hard while trying to use far distances.

**NeoBlock: Sanding Remastered**

It's always where you're using different sandpapers with different sanding blocks. NeoBlock makes this much more convenient for those who model a lot.

The Premium edition comes with a aluminum handle that connects with magnets to three heads:

*   The flat head

*   The detailed head

*   The flexible head

All these heads connect safely, because of the magnets. A kit is included with 60 sanding belts that are rough to smooth.

Sanding belts get longer use when put against regular sandpaper. The aluminum handle can make sure your sanding is painless. Each head here can do all sorts of jobs. After you finish, all of your tools fit into the storage box, making it tidy.

What makes the NeoBlock so great, is just how easily to switch jobs. Being at a discount of 25% means it only costs $70, with the sandpaper. The NeoBlock ensures your sanding life is very easy.

**Tools That Designers Need To Use**

The whole HOZO Neo series upgrades you. The NeoBlade is wireless, the NeoRuler makes math for you, the NeoRulerGo does field measurements, and the NeoBlock sands easier.

It is a perfect addition for architects and engineers, is a good option get. Being at a discount for 20% to 28% off, what wouldn't you want?

40.Kindle App Adds AI Feature to Answer Your Book Questions 

## Staying Top of Mind: Why Consistency Matters for Personal Care Brands

These days, people are always thinking about shopping, especially for personal care items. According to research from Amazon Ads, a whopping 77% of folks in the U.S. think about shopping several times a week. That's a lot! People are always hopping between their phones, different apps, and watching stuff, constantly seeing and hearing about new things.

So, by the time someone actually buys shampoo or a new razor, they've probably seen the brand name way more than they even realize. Studies say people interact with brands about 11 times before they actually buy something. And in the personal care world, things move fast! About 90% of the time, people decide what to buy within a week. That means those first few times they see a brand are super important.

**Why Playing the Long Game Works**

The brands that really succeed aren't just the ones yelling the loudest when you're ready to buy. They're the ones that have been there all along the way, popping up here and there, so you think of them when you finally decide what to get.

Most personal care purchases aren't random. They're planned. Over 80% of the time, when people buy toothpaste, soap, or feminine hygiene products, they already know what they're going to get. Buying something on a whim only happens less than 20% of the time. Habits are a big deal, too. Almost half (49%) of all purchases in those categories are just because that's what people always buy. In fact, 58% of shoppers already know which brand they want even before they start looking, and only about 13% switch brands when they're actually buying.

What does this mean for companies trying to sell these products? It means they need to get into people's heads way before they're standing in the store or scrolling through websites. The good news is that ads still work! Over 40% of shoppers remembered seeing ads before they made their purchase, which proves that being visible pays off.

**Ad Recall in Different Categories**

People remember seeing ads for all kinds of personal care stuff:

*   **Shaving/Hair Removal:** 44%

*   **Personal Hygiene:** 42%

*   **Oral Care:** 41%

*   **Feminine Care:** 40%

These numbers are more than just figures, they tell us it's important to always be present. Since people are always in discovery mode, brands have to grab their attention early, before they even start to actively shop. Then, the job is to keep their attention all the way until they make a decision.

**Why Entertainment Matters**

One of the best ways to reach people now is through entertainment. People are spending a lot of time watching TV (over 90 minutes a day!), which makes it a great place for brands to connect with them.

Streaming TV, live events, and online creators are more than just ways to relax. They show how people are spending their free time. According to McKinsey, people have about three more hours of free time a week than they did in 2019, and they're mostly using it on themselves. Relaxing, social media, and shopping make up 90% of that extra time.

Also, people are becoming more OK with ads as part of their entertainment. Almost 73% say they like ads that entertain them, and 63% think ads can shape culture.

This is especially true for personal care brands. These products are closely tied to how people see themselves and how they live their lives. Entertainment can the bond between brands and people stronger. Half of consumers now say entertainment is part of their shopping now, and 54% say they the ads are the reason why they found the product in the first place.

People aren't just passively watching, either. 72% say they've done something after seeing a product in whatever they watch. Like looking it up, saving it, or putting it in their online shopping cart. These little things can really help push someone from just discovering a product to actually buying it.

**How Amazon Ads Connects with People**

People switch between apps, watching videos, and surfing the web. Brands need to be able to stitch these moments together. With the right marketing, it can all seem normal and easy for the customer. Amazon Ads is really good at this, mixing entertainment with ways to find the right people and track how things are going. This creates a smooth experience that leads to both more sales and bigger brand equity for the future.

With millions of people watching ads on Amazon every month, Amazon Ads can provide many different kinds of ads. Through Amazon DSP, brands can get to those people everywhere. From watching shows to just browsing to finally buying, Amazon Ads keeps things consistent.

Prime Video has popular original shows and sports, like Thursday Night Football. Partnerships with Netflix, Roku, and Spotify expand the reach even further. Interactive features, like ads that pop up when you pause, turn watching moments into shopping moments. And through Amazon Marketing Cloud, brands can see a ton of data and use AI to better understand how well their ads are doing, on Amazon and elsewhere.

For personal care brands that need to move fast and deal with common routines, this intelligence helps them stand out, stay relevant during the entire shopping process, and be in the forefront of people's minds when they need your product.

**In Conclusion**

The average person is always seeing and interacting with brands across multiple platforms before making a decision. Advertising matters, and you must make constant effort to stay visible across channels.

By combining entertainment, wide reach, and careful data, Amazon Ads helps personal care companies connect with future buyers early, walk them through what can be a complicated journey, and cement their products to be the customer's first choice. In the world of personal care, routine is everything, and being ever-present across the customer's world is the best way to win.