News of the last 24 hours

Colorful has two new RTX 5060 gaming laptops on the horizonBenchmarks have leaked which indicates a sizeable leap over the RTX 4060 laptop GPU8GB of GDDR7 VRAM may suffice for both laptop and desktop GPUs We're still waiting for Nvidia's RTX 5060 GPU to launch, a GPU that is expected to complete Team Green’s Blackwell GPU lineup (at least, before the rumored Super models). Now, we have some early insight into the laptop version of this GPU's performance, which could strongly indicate what the desktop counterpart has to offer.As reported by VideoCardz, Chinese laptop maker Colorful has two new Nvidia RTX 5060 gaming laptops on the way. Most importantly, benchmarks have already leaked (pictured below) for both systems; the Colorful iGame M15 Origo and the Colorful P15 Pro, which also use Intel's powerful Ultra 9 285H and Core i9-13900HX processors respectively.Using the OpenCL API (used in general computing applications), the iGame M15 Origo scored 102,564 points while the P15 Pro hit 109,431 points. It's worth noting that there are no leaked Vulkan benchmarks, which is a graphics API commonly used in plenty of triple-A games, so these scores don't give us the full picture.However, VideoCardz notably does highlight that the RTX 5060 laptop GPU is roughly 18% faster than its predecessor, the RTX 4060, thanks to its GDDR7 VRAM over the latter’s GDDR6 and more GPU cores.There's no official confirmation of these laptops from either Colorful or Nvidia, so this leak is all we have at the moment - apply salt pinches where necessary. The purported leap over its predecessor suggests that 8GB GDDR7 may be enough to provide good performance - the same could be true of its desktop variant as well. (Image credit: Geekbench) I still want 8GB GPUs gone for good, but I think GDDR7 speeds will be the difference Now, don't get me wrong, I still absolutely want 8GB GPUs to be long gone. Modern games - especially poorly-optimized PC ports - are frequently very VRAM-hungry, to the point where 8GB can be too low for some triple-A titles. However, both RTX 5060 desktop and laptop GPUs could highly benefit from the upgrade to GDDR7 memory, and these benchmarks indicate a significant leap over the RTX 4060 based on older Geekbench tests.With the anticipated improvements, I think 8GB of VRAM is slightly more acceptable for budget gaming laptops; particularly since gaming laptops with less powerful GPUs typically stick with 1080p and often don't go much higher than 1440p (which already makes no sense to me).The potential of improved base frame rates, coupled with the advantage of Nvidia’s new DLSS 4 resolution upscaling and Multi Frame Generation, could make RTX 5060 laptops more appealing to budget gamers.The desktop GPU is naturally expected to outperform the laptop variant (if it doesn't, something is seriously wrong), and these benchmarks tell me that the RTX 5060 may fare slightly better than I expected. Let's just hope that laptop pricing doesn't get too unrealistic, considering Nvidia's announced starting price of $1,099 for its major manufacturing partners. You may also like... Here's one of the strangest ways gamers are trying to buy an RTX 5090 or RTX 5080 - unsurprisingly, it's not workingNvidia's new GeForce hotfix driver 576.26 is its second in a row - and it's still giving users issuesNvidia and AMD are going to hate me for this - but I'm going to keep telling people not to buy overpriced GPUs

A new ChatGPT shopping experience is launching for all usersEarly users have expressed displeasure with the new recommendationsComparisons are being drawn to Corey Doctrow's "enshittification" concept According to a new Reddit thread, some users are not happy with the new shopping features that are being integrated into ChatGPT and are rolling out now.The new features make it easy to search for and buy consumer products online using ChatGPT's search feature combined with its rich natural-language prompts.Reddit user 'Kjfitz', who started the thread, titled it, “the enshittification has arrived” in reference to the infamous neologism championed by Cory Doctrow in a 2022 essay about Amazon, which is generally used to describe how commercial pressures cause the experience of using platforms like Amazon, Google, and Facebook to gradually deteriorate over time as more monetization features are added. The "Enshittification" has arrived from r/ChatGPT “I asked ChatGPT about the impact of the current tariffs on inventories over the next few months. It returned a long list of links to toiletries I might want to buy”, said Kjfitz. “I asked it why it did that. It replied:"As of April 28, 2025, OpenAI introduced new shopping features to ChatGPT, enhancing its capabilities to provide product recommendations complete with images, reviews, and direct purchase links. These features are available to all users, including those on Free, Plus, and Pro tiers, and even to users not logged in. The recommendations are generated organically, without paid advertisements or commission-based incentives, relying instead on structured metadata from third-party sources such as pricing, product descriptions, and reviews.​"This update aims to offer a more personalized and streamlined shopping experience directly within the ChatGPT interface, allowing users to explore products across various categories like fashion, beauty, electronics, and home goods. If you have any specific preferences or need tailored recommendations, feel free to let me know!"Other Reddit users were quick to express their displeasure with the new features. In reference to the notice that "The recommendations are generated organically, without paid advertisements or commission-based incentives" User 'crystallin' commented, “I give it less than six months before that changes.”“Good God. Imagine the people using ChatGPT for mental health advice and it starts saying “you know what’ll fix your relationship with your kids? Switching to Allstate”, said Reddit user 'rosencranberry'. A gradual deterioration In 2024, the Macquarie Dictionary, the national dictionary of Australia, picked “enshittification” as its word of the year, describing it as “the gradual deterioration of a service or product brought about by a reduction in the quality of service provided, especially of an online platform, and as a consequence of profit-seeking.”It should be noted that currently there are no paid adverts or sponsored links attached to any of the shopping features in ChatGPT; however there's nothing to stop these being added in the future.We’re still in the early days of shopping features being added to chatbots, and the AI search engine Perplexity has already made some inroads into adding shopping features, but this is the first time e-commerce features have been added to ChatGPT search.“We’ll continue to bring merchants along our journeys as we quickly learn and iterate”, said OpenAI commenting on the launch of the new features yesterday. You may also like Alexa+ early adopter gives their thoughts: "Old Alexa was hot garbage but this new one was a pleasant surprise"OpenAI has fixed ChatGPT's 'annoying' personality update - Sam Altman promises more changes 'in the coming days' which could include an option to choose the AI's behaviorChatGPT just powered-up search for everyone, here are all the new features

Security researchers found dozens of flaws in Apple's AirPlay protocolSome of them allowed remote code execution attacksApple has released patches addressing the flaws Apple’s AirPlay Protocol and AirPlay Software Development Kit (SDK) carried numerous vulnerabilities that could be abused to run remote code execution (RCE) attacks, man-in-the-middle (MitM) attacks, or denial of service (DoS) attacks. To make matters worse, some of these vulnerabilities could be used in zero-click attacks, meaning to pull it off - no interaction from the victim is required.Cybersecurity researchers Oligo Security found 23 flaws and collectively dubbed them AirBorne. Two of the flaws could be used in RCE attacks, which are now tracked as CVE-2025-24252, and CVE-2025-24132. There is also CVE-2025-24206, a user interaction bypass vulnerability that allows crooks to bypass “Accept” click requirements on AirPlay requests."This means that an attacker can take over certain AirPlay-enabled devices and do things like deploy malware that spreads to devices on any local network the infected device connects to. This could lead to the delivery of other sophisticated attacks related to espionage, ransomware, supply-chain attacks, and more," Oligo warned. 'Vast and concerning' "Because AirPlay is a fundamental piece of software for Apple devices (Mac, iPhone, iPad, AppleTV, etc.) as well as third-party devices that leverage the AirPlay SDK, this class of vulnerabilities could have far-reaching impacts."The potential reach of AirBorne exploitation is “vast and concerning”, CyberInsider argues. The publication claims Apple’s wireless streaming protocol is “critical” to the company’s ecosystem and is operating on 2.35 billion active devices all over the world.It argues that, in theory, a threat actor could compromise a MacBook at a coffee shop, and later use it as a steppingstone into an enterprise network, once the compromised device connects to the company’s Wi-Fi.Apple has since fixed the flaws with iOS and iPadOS 18.4, macOS Ventura 13.7.5, macOS Sonoma 14.7.5, macOS Sequoia 15.4, and visionOS 2.4. The AirPlay audio SDK, the AirPlay video SDK, and the CarPlay Communication Plug-in have all been updated, as well.Via BleepingComputer You might also like Apple fixes dangerous iOS zero days after threats against targeted individualsTake a look at our guide to the best authenticator appWe've rounded up the best password managers

The Smashing Machine sounds like the title of a Wallace & Gromit stop-motion comedy, but it's going to be a much more brutal experience than anything Feathers McGraw could come up with. It's a biographical drama based on real-life UFC legend Mark Kerr with Dwayne Johnson in the lead role.Kerr himself is very excited: he shared the poster to his Instagram and wrote that he's "in disbelief that this is real". He is "so proud of the work DJ put into becoming The Smashing Machine. I have so much gratitude, humility and respect for every little detail production uncovered." A post shared by Mark Kerr (@markkerrtsm)A photo posted by on This isn't the first time Kerr's story has been told on screen. There's another movie about his career which was made back in 2022 – but while the trailer is available to stream (and embedded below), you can't stream the movie, although I'll be amazed if one of the best streaming services doesn't buy the rights when the new movie's publicity starts to pick up steam. What was the original Smashing Machine? The 2002 movie, The Smashing Machine: The Life and Times of Extreme Fighter Mark Kerr, was critically acclaimed for its unflinching portrayal of the brutality of some of Kerr's earlier battles, and of Kerr's struggles with addiction.It's a tough watch and of course, it's often very violent. And it sounds like it'll have very little in common tonally with A24's take on the same story.While the new movie isn't out yet, some sites are running stories based on early viewings – and one of them, Worldofreel.com, says it could be the weirdest movie of 2025. According to Jordan Ruimy, "judging by what I’ve heard, there is zero doubt in my mind people are not ready for the type of film in store".Ruimi describes it as "gonzo filmmaking", "not Oscar-bait in the least" and "one of the weirdest films A24 has ever produced." Given that this is the studio that gave us Everything Everywhere All At Once, Midsommar and The Lighthouse that's quite the claim. (Image credit: A24) The A24 movie will be released in theaters on October 3, 2025, and given Warner Bros. Discovery deal with the indie powerhouse, we can expect The Smashing Machine to stream on Max in the US after its box office run. You may also like 5 must-watch A24 moviesWhy Max is the place for A24 moviesBest Max movies: the 24 finest films to stream this month

Marvel Rivals patch notes arrive every couple of weeks or so, bringing bug fixes, Hero balancing changes, and more general updates. Sometimes, as is the case with the most recent patch, events are added, and certain Heroes receive buffs or nerfs to better bring them in line with the ongoing meta. Season 2's latest patch notes are now live, and they focus on improving the performance of a handful of Strategists.These constant changes to Marvel Rivals help keep Competitive Mode fresh while providing a steady stream of reasons for players to check back in regularly. Since launch, Marvel Rivals has really proven itself as a worthy contender, landing on our list of the best free games and the best crossplay games.Here are the latest Marvel Rivals patch notes for April 30, 2025. These outline buffs to Strategists like Adam Warlock and Mantis, while Captain America receives a nerf to his survivability. Read on for more info.Update (April 30, 2025): Detailed Patch Notes for Marvel Rivals build version 20250430, which adds a new event and some significant buffs to Strategists. There's also a much-welcome change to the ranked points scoring system. More below. Marvel Rivals patch notes for April 30, 2025 (Image credit: NetEase) The latest Marvel Rivals patch notes detail changes added to the game on April 30 at 9:00 UTC. The main updates are as follows: All-New Event - Hellfire Gala: MomentsWinter Soldier - Thunderbolts* Bundle (store)Black Panther - Damisa-Sarki Bundle (store)Thor's "Lord of Asgard" costume has been refined to improve visibility and ensure the crosshair isn't obstructed.Doctor Strange's "Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness" costume now boasts enhanced visual details and voice effects to more accurately capture the essence of the costume theme.You can now switch all costume-specific sound effects back to the default ones via Settings.Using the latest S2.0 data, we've recalibrated the baseline data for calculating each hero's performance scores.Locked accounts can now initiate the account deletion process even from a logged-out state.Hero balancing changes (full info later in this page) These are just the main updates that arrived in Marvel Rivals alongside the latest patch. For full detail on all bug fixes, visit the Marvel Rivals blog. Marvel Rivals balancing changes (Image credit: NetEase Games) Below, you'll find a list of the latest balancing changes in Marvel Rivals, detailing the buffs and nerfs that've been applied to each character. Captain America - Reduce base health from 650 to 600Doctor Strange - Decrease the energy cost to unleash the Eye of Agamotto (Ultimate Ability) from 3400 to 3100Groot - Reduce the health of Ironwood Wall from 700 to 600Spider-Man - Decrease the damage range of Amazing Combo from a 5m radius to a 4m radiusWinter Soldier - Adjust the Tainted Voltage ability to have 2 charge levels, while keeping the cooldown time unchangedAdam Warlock - Add a new effect to Quantum Magic: When a critical hit lands on an enemy, reduce the cooldown time of Avatar Life Stream by 1sCloak & Dagger - As Cloak, increase the damage of the Darkforce Cloak from 75/s to 80/s; As Dagger, increase the damage of the Lightforce Dagger on hit from 15 to 18Luna Snow - Adjust the Damage Falloff of Light & Dark Ice from 60% at 40m to 75%Mantis - Increase the hit damage of Life Energy Blast from 50 to 55Stars Aligned (Captain America - Winter Soldier Team Up) - Upon leaping to a teammate, Stellar Impact will provide 50 Bonus Health to allies within range As you can see, the latest Marvel Rivals Hero balances apply to Strategists, upping their damage, or making their abilities more useful. Winter Soldier and Doctor Strange also get a buff, While Captain America, Groot and Spider-Man receive a slight nerf. You Might Also Like... Here's when to expect the next season of Marvel RivalsBest free gamesMarvel Rivals Mutant list: here's all of the playable Mutant Heroes

The first two episodes of Star Wars: Tales of the Underworld will premiere in FortniteThey will be free to watch in the game on May 2 ahead of a May 4 Disney+ releasePlayers can also claim a free Stormtrooper skin right now The first two episodes of the upcoming Star Wars: Tales of the Underworld TV show will premiere in Fortnite, where you will be able to watch them for free ahead of the series' Disney+ launch.As revealed at the recent Star Wars Celebration event, Fortnite: Galactic Battle, the next season of content for the hit battle royale game, will focus on the hit multimedia franchise.Ahead of the launch of Galactic Battle, which will introduce new Star Wars-themed content and gameplay, players will be able to visit the Star Wars Watch Party island on May 2 and see the first two episodes of the upcoming anthology animation series Star Wars: Tales of the Underworld.The series will then launch for the paid Disney+ streaming service on May 4, so I wouldn't miss the chance to see some of it for free if you're interested. You will be able to find the island on the Fortnite main menu, or by searching the island code 2124-6713-8076.Those who watch both episodes will be rewarded with the Asajj Ventress Loading Screen. In addition to a screen showing the episodes, the island will feature a score-based Battle Arena with waves of enemies to defeat and a leaderboard for top players. (Image credit: Epic Games) If that wasn't enough, you are also able to get your hands on a free skin, the First Order Stormtrooper, right now by linking your Epic and MyDisney accounts.You can learn how to do this and see the eligibility requirements via a dedicated page on the Epic Games website. You might also like... Fortnite OG Season 4 release date - here's when the next season comes outForza Horizon 5 shines on PS5, but the Realms update left me wanting moreFinal Fantasy 14 composer Masayoshi Soken discusses his work and reveals why he'd love to make a horror game soundtrack: 'I have the desire to face that challenge'

Broadband provider Virgin Media has issued advice for UK users of its hubThe company warns against placing a router in direct sunlightThis could cause the router to overheat and perform badly – or ‘grind to a halt’ even – and there are other placement issues to consider, too You might not have ever thought much about the positioning of your Wi-Fi router, but it’s important – particularly as summer is knocking on the door, and some countries are experiencing their first taste of a heatwave.The Independent reports that prompted by the unusually warm April temperatures in the UK, broadband provider Virgin Media has delivered a warning that it really isn’t a good idea to have your router placed in direct sunlight when the weather gets hot. (Or at any time for that matter).Virgin Media issued a statement to say: “Although we test our [broadband] hubs carefully at a range of temperatures, they are better off out of bright sunlight, just like your phone or laptop. If the hub gets too hot, it could slow down your connection or even grind to a halt altogether.”This underlines the point that your router is just like any other piece of hardware – it warms up when used, and has vents and needs to stay cool. Put the device in strong sunlight in a baking hot room, and the results may not be pretty, as Virgin Media suggests.In a similar vein, the statement advises that you shouldn’t stick your router in a cupboard, where again, it might get overly warm due to a lack of ventilation in the heat. Not to mention the fact that placing it in an enclosed space is interfering with the Wi-Fi signal anyway.Other placement advice to avoid interference with the Wi-Fi includes: “Keep the Hub at least 1m away from cordless phones or baby monitors, and as far as possible from big obstructions like cupboards and fish tanks.” (Image credit: Shutterstock) Analysis: Tricks to make your router quick (or at least a bit quicker) Isn’t this all rather alarmist? No, in a word, if your router does get too hot, performance is indeed likely to be impaired. (And it’s not beyond consideration that damage could be caused, too, in cases of extreme heat conditions – something we’re getting more used to seeing these days).Granted, this isn’t the first time Virgin Media has run this advisory, and in fact the company seems to trot this out on a yearly basis (ahead of summer in the UK). But it’s the first time I’ve seen it, and the advice given is good, plus more broadly, we should all think a bit more about the placement of our router.Don’t put it in the sun, for sure, or in a cupboard, or in your TV cabinet, for all the heat-related reasons given above. Similarly, don’t shove the router under your desk – try to have it up reasonably high, not near the floor, and with as few obstructions as possible around the device. Any obstacles near the router will only diminish the Wi-Fi signal, just as sure as overheating will.If you’re in the mood for improving your Wi-Fi in general, you might want to peruse our full guide on how to boost your Wi-Fi signal strength, which includes advice on positioning, as well as technical tweaks you can apply (such as changing Wi-Fi channels). It might be worth considering a Wi-Fi extender in some scenarios, too (such as getting a better signal in your garden for the summer, perhaps). You might also like... Best broadband deals for April 2025Wi-Fi 7: everything you need to know about the latest wireless standardWindows 11 24H2 update arrives in preview with important fix for blue screen crashes – but I still wouldn’t rush to install this upgrade

Google observed 75 zero-day bugs last yearMost were used by state-sponsored actorsCountries like China and North Korea were specifically mentioned In 2024, Google’s Threat Intelligence Group (GTIG) discovered 75 zero-day vulnerabilities, and argued that the majority were used in state-sponsored hacking campaigns. The company made these claims in “Hello zero-day my old friend, a 2024 exploitation analysis” paper published recently.In the report, Google says that the number of zero-day flaws dropped compared to 2023 (from 98 to 75). However, the four-year trend is that the rate of zero-day exploitation “continues to grow at a slow but steady pace.”While consumer devices continue to be the most attacked targets, there is an increase in adversaries exploiting enterprise-specific technologies. In 2023, roughly a third (37%) of zero-days targeted enterprise products, jumping to 44% last year. This, Google says, is primarily fueled by the increased exploitation of security and networking software and appliances. Governments at it again In fact, zero-day vulnerabilities in security software and appliances were a high-value target in 2024. Google says it identified 20 security and networking flaws, which was over 60% of all zero-day exploitation of enterprise technologies. Since the exploitation of these products results in a more efficient and extensive system and network compromise, Google expects threat actors’ focus on these technologies to continue growing.The biggest abusers of zero-day vulnerabilities are the governments, Google says. “Between government-backed groups and customers of commercial surveillance vendors, actors conducting cyber espionage operations accounted for over 50% of the vulnerabilities we could attribute in 2024,” the report says.Google singled out China as a major player in this regard, but also mentioned North Korea, whose operatives mixed espionage with financially motivated operations.The number of Windows exploits rose to 22 (from 16 the year before), while on Safari and iOS it fell (from 11 and 9 to 3 and 2). Android retained its “lucky number” 7, as did Chrome. Firefox was up from zero in 2023 to one in 2024.Via Ars Technica You might also like Businesses must act now to address the zero day surgeTake a look at our guide to the best authenticator appWe've rounded up the best password managers

X (formerly Twitter) has been leaning into video content more and more since Elon Musk took over. The latest shift, announced by X's engineering account, sees the platform rolling out 4K video uploads to some of its creators.  The new video resolution should soon be available for all premium subscribers. Currently, they can share videos in 1080p that are a max of 8GB in size and about three hours in length. X has also taken steps such as creating a vertical videos feed a la TikTok and Instagram Reels.  We're starting to roll out 4k video uploads for some creators. Coming soon for all @Premium subscribers!— Engineering (@XEng) April 29, 2025 If you're one of the many people done with the platform — and want nothing to do with Musk — then you can delete your X account. We have a step-by-step guide on how to fully deactivate your profile and clear most of your tweets (posts?) from X. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/big-tech/x-is-bringing-4k-video-uploads-to-premium-subscribers-120044356.html?src=rss

Immersion blenders (or hand blenders) might not be absolutely essential in every good kitchen arsenal. But they can unlock faster and easier ways of making soups, smoothies, sauces and more. Plus, they’re smaller than their countertop brethren, which often makes them a better choice for RVs, boats or apartments where space is a premium. Finally, because cleaning them is usually as simple as running them in a bowl of hot soapy water, there’s less hassle, too. To help you figure out which immersion blender is right for you, we’ve put together a list of our favorite models across a variety of needs and use cases. Best immersion blenders for 2025 Which immersion blender is right for you? Before you even think about buying a new kitchen appliance, it’s important to figure out how you’re going to use it and where it fits in with any gadgets you already own. In an ideal world, everyone would have a dedicated food processor, countertop blender and a stand mixer. But the reality is that many people don’t have the room or the budget. While handheld blenders and traditional, full-size blenders have a lot of overlap, there are strengths and weaknesses to both. For example, if you’re looking to make smoothies every day, a countertop blender might be a better choice. The bigger pitchers make it easier to blend drinks for multiple people at once, while larger motors will make short work of ice and frozen fruit. Additionally, more expensive options like those from Vitamix, All-Clad, Ninja or Robocoupe can even cook soup during the blending process using the heat generated from the blender’s motor, which isn’t something you can do with an immersion model. I’d even go so far as to say that if you have the space for it and don’t already own one, a regular blender is probably the best option for most people. That said, immersion blenders are often less expensive and, thanks to a wide variety of accessories offered by some manufacturers, they can be great multitaskers. A whisk attachment allows you to make whipped cream or meringues quickly without needing an electric hand mixer, or risk getting tendonitis in your elbow doing it manually. Some immersion blenders also come with food processing bowls, so you can easily throw together things like small batches of hummus, salad dressings or homemade pesto in minutes. And because immersion blenders are smaller and less bulky than traditional models, they're a great choice for apartment dwellers or anyone with limited storage or counter space. That means if you’re simply trying to expand your culinary repertoire without blowing up your budget, an immersion blender can be a great way to try something new without committing too hard. Corded or cordless? Similar to figuring out if you should get a blender or not, trying to decide between a corded or cordless model depends a lot on the other gadgets you already own. Corded versions typically have more powerful motors, which makes them great for people who don’t have a countertop blender or food processor. But if you do own one of both of those, cordless is the way to go. Not only do you get the convenience of not worrying about wires, but the ease of use makes it fast and easy to whip out your immersion blender to add some extra texture to a sauce, or puree a large pot of soup without having to do it in batches. A quick word about safety No one should be ashamed of being nervous around a device that is essentially a motorized blending wand with a spinning blade at the end. But with proper care and use, an immersion blender doesn’t have to be much more dangerous than a chef’s knife. The most important safety tip is to make sure you always keep the sharp blades pointed down and away from you or anyone else nearby. That includes your hands, along with any utensils (like a spoon), that might be in or around your mixing bowl. Thankfully, all consumer immersion blenders are designed to prevent their blade from directly hitting the vessel holding your food (be it a mixing bowl or a pot). However, to be extra safe, you should avoid blending things in glass containers or nonstick cookware, as glass can chip or shatter while the metal blades and shroud of an immersion blender can damage teflon and ceramic. You’ll also want to make sure you keep water away from the plug or outlet of corded immersion blenders. And if you want to remove the blade or clear away any food that might have gotten tangled, first make sure the blender is off, disconnected from its power source (either its battery or wall socket) and in safety mode with a lock button or other feature. On the bright side, cleaning an immersion is rather simple and straightforward. All you have to do is fill up a bowl or cup with soapy water, submerge the immersion blender, and then run it for 10 to 20 seconds. That’s it. If it’s still not clean, you can repeat that process again until it is. And if hand washing is too much work, the blending wand on a lot of models (including all of the ones on this list) are dishwasher safe too.This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/home/kitchen-tech/best-immersion-blenders-150006296.html?src=rss

Windscribe CEO Yegor Sak's charges in Greece have been dropped after a two year legal battleThe charges were in connection to alleged internet offences by an unknown user in June 2023Sak was accused of "illegal access to electronic data" Windscribe has won a landmark case in Greece after a two-year legal battle, in a win for no-log VPNs.Windscribe's Co-Founder and CEO, Yegor Sak, was charged in connection with an alleged internet offence perpetrated by an unknown user in June 2023. On April 11, 2025, an Athens Court decided to dismiss the case against Sak for lack of evidence of any wrongdoing. Our legal battle is over. A few years back, some idiot used our VPN to do idiot things. Greece then decided to charge the Windscribe CEO @yegor for the crimes because it was his name on the VPN server bill. No logs existed of anything. Case dismissed. https://t.co/IPw0RKWgnRApril 25, 2025 As per the official legal document shared by Windscribe with TechRadar, Sak was accused of "illegal access to electronic data" to send mass spam emails.An anonymous user allegedly used a Windscribe-owned server in Finland to breach a website in Greece and launch the attacks.According to Sak, however, Greek authorities didn't issue any subpoena to the VPN company, as the norm requires. Instead, they directly charged Sak, the account holder of the Finland data center involved in the criminal activity."This sets a concerning precedent for anyone who owns servers that could be used by others," said Sak. "If upheld, it could have criminalised infrastructure ownership for actions taken by anonymous users." Not only a Windscribe victory The case against Windscribe was dismissed for lack of evidence that either the VPN company or Sak himself had committed any wrongdoing. This isn't only a victory for Windscribe, though."This was not just about me," said Sak. "It was about drawing a hard line around the role of privacy infrastructure providers. As we do not log user activity, we cannot hand over what we do not have." Some say VPNs should be banned because a few people misuse them, but that's a rather misguided approachYegor Sak, Windscribe A no-log VPN is a guarantee that the provider never stores or tracks users' activities and any other data that can identify them. This means that providers cannot share any information with law enforcement when asked, as these details simply do not exist.A few companies before Windscribe have proved the legitimacy of this feature in real life over the years. For example, Mullvad did so in 2023 after being hit by an inconclusive police raid. Private Internet Access (PIA) also proved its no-log claims twice in Court.The main goal of virtual private network (VPN) software is to keep people anonymous when they browse the web. This is why EU experts have deemed these services a "key challenge" to the work of law enforcement, with lawmakers currently considering whether data retention requirements should be changed.Sak, however, now reiterates Windscribe's commitment to users' privacy and transparency. He said: "Some say VPNs should be banned because a few people misuse them, but that's a rather misguided approach. By that logic, we should also ban hammers and cars." You might also like The VPN industry reacts to the EU's plan for end-to-end encryption backdoorsPakistan grants first VPN licenses in a bid to regulate VPN usage in the countrySurfshark has launched a free, privacy-first, public DNS service

Toyota and Waymo have announced that they've entered a preliminary agreement, along with the former's mobility tech subsidiary, Woven by Toyota, Inc. To be clear, they're not in the midst of developing anything yet — they're still exploring a potential collaboration between them. Ultimately, however, the goal is to develop a new autonomous vehicle platform together, presumably for robotaxies. They're also aiming to "leverage Waymo's autonomous technology and Toyota's vehicle expertise" for future personal vehicles.  In their announcement, the companies said they're looking to incorporate aspects of Waymo's technology into Toyota vehicles meant for sale to consumers, as well as to accelerate the development and adoption of driver assistance and automated driving technologies. Waymo's work, so far, has been focused on developing robotaxis that riders can hail through an app. The Alphabet-owned company currently operates Waymo One, a fully autonomous ride-hailing service, in San Francisco, Phoenix and Los Angeles. It deploys Waymo One vehicles through Uber in Austin, and it's planning to expand the service to Las Vegas, San Diego, Miami and Atlanta sometime this year. This potential partnership could expand the reach of Waymo's tech. "Waymo's mission is to be the world's most trusted driver. This requires global partners like Toyota that share our commitment to improving road safety and expanding accessible transportation. We look forward to exploring this strategic partnership, incorporating their vehicles into our ride-hailing fleet and bringing the magic of Waymo's autonomous driving technology to Toyota customers," said Tekedra Mawakana, the co-CEO of Waymo. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/transportation/toyota-and-waymo-pledge-to-team-up-on-a-new-autonomous-vehicle-platform-123032289.html?src=rss

Google Wallet has supported copies of US passports since December and now its UK residents' turn. The company has announced that UK passports will soon be available as digital passes in Google Wallets on Android devices.  To start, Google is partnering with Rail Delivery Group, which provides Railcards — or discount passes — for a range of travelers. Applying for a Railcard requires identity verification (some of them are also age-based) and individuals should be able to use their digital ID for proof.  Google also announced further updates and features to its Wallet. More states, including Montana and Arkansas, will soon have the ability to put their government IDs in their Google Wallet, and places like Georgia and Maryland will be able to use their digital IDs at the DMV. While travelers can use US passports stored on Google Wallet at select airports, Google cautions that ID passes for UK passports won't work at TSA for now.  The company is also bringing Zero Knowledge Proof (ZKP) technology to Google Wallet. It should also for quick age verification while "ensuring there is no way to link the age back to your identity." Google might use it with its own products or when verifying a person's age on partner apps. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/mobile/smartphones/google-wallet-adds-support-for-uk-passports-123019945.html?src=rss

We've finally gotten an announcement for the next State of Play event of the year, and it'll focus on an upcoming PS5 looter shooter. Better yet, there's not long to wait at all.Since the series of shows began in 2019, Sony has used the State of Play presentations to reveal big-hitting games and details such as The Last of Us 2 release date, debut gameplay footage for Ghost of Tsushima, and more. So, it's always worth tuning in to the State of Play live streams if you want to be alerted to any big announcements for new PS5 games.Following the release of the PS5 Pro console, all eyes have turned back to the next State of Play - a new console will need new games to play on it, after all, even if it is a mid-gen refresh machine. Here's what we know. When is the next Sony State of Play? (Image credit: Sony) The next State of Play event airs Wednesday, April 30, 2025 at 5PM ET / 2PM PT / 10PM BST. This was announced earlier this week (April 29), along with the tease that it'll run for 20 minutes and feature a deep-dive on Borderlands 4. What can we expect from the next Sony State of Play? (Image credit: 2K Games) Thanks to a recent PS Blog post, we know that the next Sony State of Play event will focus on Borderlands 4:"In this upcoming State of Play, strap in with me and Anthony Nicholson, Senior Project Producer, for over 20 minutes of developer-guided gameplay, including missions, killer weapons, exciting Action Skills, new and returning characters, and more." - Graeme Timmins, creative director, Gearbox Software.Catch the show live on PlayStation’s Twitch and YouTube channels on April 30 at 2pm PT / 5pm ET / 10pm BST / 11pm CEST. What was revealed at the last Sony State of Play? (Image credit: Housemarque) The last State of Play was on February 12, 2025. The biggest reveal was Saros, which is the next game from the developers of Returnal. In addition, the release dates for Metal Gear Solid Delta: Snake Eater and Days Gone Remastered were announced.You can head to the PS Blog for a full round-up of what was shown in those recent shows. Missed the action live? We've embedded the showcase below so you can catch up on everything you missed. You Might Also Like... Our picks for the best PlayStation Portal games in 2025The best PS5 exclusivesThe best PSVR 2 games

Whether you're diving into intense VR workouts, exploring distant galaxies or just chilling in a virtual cinema, the right accessories can seriously upgrade your experience. The best VR accessories aren’t just about flashy extras — they can make your headset more comfortable, extend your play sessions and even improve performance. From better audio and charging docks to adjustable head straps and controller grips, these add-ons help you get the most out of your virtual adventures.Depending on your setup, some accessories are almost essential. If your headset feels front-heavy, a new strap can ease the pressure. If your controllers are always running out of juice, a charging station could be a game-changer. And if you love playing for hours, sweat-resistant face covers or cooling fans can keep things comfortable. Whether you’re a Meta Quest user, a PC VR enthusiast or just getting started, we’ve rounded up the best VR accessories to help level up your experience. Table of contents Best VR accessories for 2025 Best VR controller accessories Best VR headset upgrades Best VR fitness accessories Best VR cables, chargers and batteries VR accessories FAQs Best VR accessories for 2025 Best VR controller accessories Best VR headset upgrades Best VR fitness accessories Best VR cables, chargers and batteries VR accessories FAQs What equipment do you need for VR? What you need depends on the VR headset you buy. Some devices, like the Meta Quest 3, are entirely standalone, which means you don't need anything but the headset itself to use it. Other VR headsets need to be connected to a system from which it can draw power and run software. Some systems, like the HP Reverb G2, must connect to a PC, while others like the PS VR2 can connect to gaming consoles like the PS5. Most VR headsets come with the basic controllers you'll need to control actions and movement in virtual worlds. What's the difference between PC VR, Smartphone VR and Gaming Console VR? The main difference between those three VR systems is the main machine that allows the VR headset to run. PC VR headsets require a PC, like a gaming laptop or desktop, to run, while smartphone and gaming console VR systems require smartphones and gaming consoles, respectively, to work. Do all VR headsets need a phone? No, not all VR headsets need a phone to work. Many VR headsets have build in displays that sit in front of your eyes and basically act as your window into the virtual world.This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/ar-vr/best-vr-accessories-150021126.html?src=rss

Welcome to our 48 hour coverage of World Password Day 2025 - here we will be bringing you all the news, updates, and expert insights into the world of passwords and password security.Most of us use passwords almost every day to access and protect online accounts, files, and documents. But passwords are only as secure as you make them, and remembering multiple complex passwords can be such a hassle.Don't worry though, we've rounded up advice from our experts to help keep your accounts and passwords secureexclusive deals from our password manager partners to keep your data safeinsights into how passwords are evolving and the future of passwordspassword security content from our extensive archiveAnd much more! Save up to 50% on all three Keeper PlansKeeper is offering 50% off on its Personal and Family plan and 30% off on its Business plan. The Personal plan has everything a password manager should have, including support for unlimited devices. The Family plan can be shared between 5 users and comes with 10GB of cloud storage. Businesses can benefit from the Business Starter plan and access user activity reporting, plus, as a bonus, each member gets a free family plan.Preferred partner (What does this mean?)View Deal Get 60% off RoboForm Premium PlanRoboForm Premium offers unlimited password storage, one-click login and autofill, password sharing, two-factor authentication (2FA), cloud backup, and emergency access for trusted contacts.Preferred partner (What does this mean?)View Deal Save up to 20% on NordPass BusinessUse the code PASSDAY20 to get 20% off NordPass Business for World Password Day. With the promo code, expect to pay $3.59 per user per month for a 2-year subscription.Preferred partner (What does this mean?)View Deal

Surfshark has unveiled a privacy-oriented, free public DNS serviceThe service promises never to log or track any activitySurfshark plans to put its DNS no-log policy under test soon with an independent audit to validate its claims Surfshark has just become the first VPN provider to unveil a privacy-first public DNS service.Unlike DNS servers that your Internet Service Provider (ISP) offers you by default, Surfshark DNS promises never to log or track any activity, and it's completely free to use.Already offering one of the best VPN services on the market, Surfshark's new service seeks to help privacy-conscious individuals and organizations avoid online tracking. Surfshark public DNS "By offering a free, privacy-oriented DNS service, we are not only seeking Surfshark’s commitment to make the internet a safer place for everyone but also encouraging individuals, organizations, as well as NGOs to take their first steps towards enhancing online privacy," said Karolis Kaciulis, Leading System Engineer at Surfshark.Short for Domain Name System, DNS acts as the phone book of the Internet. It translates human-friendly domain names that we all type online into numerical IP addresses that computers can understand. DNS servers—dedicated machines that handle and respond to DNS requests—are then a vital part of how the Internet works.Yet, DNS servers that ISPs offer by default aren't necessarily private.ISPs may collect and log users' DNS queries for user identification. They can also monitor DNS traffic and even block specific domains. Users can then be subjected to targeted advertising, too.Surfshark DNS promises to be different, though. It operates under a strict no-logs policy, which means no collection, storage, or sharing of browsing activity. It also supports secure DNS protocols such as DoT, DoH, and DoQ to keep browsing activity private. We're introducing our free privacy-oriented DNS service, designed for those who value extra privacy without compromising the speeds of their daily browsing. Check it out. https://t.co/YaU0xvw5nfApril 28, 2025 Many tech enthusiasts are used to opting for alternative public DNS servers to improve their overall internet performance. Yet, none of them, Kaciulis explains, are provided by companies primarily focused on security and privacy.He told TechRadar: "Recognizing this gap, Surfshark decided to offer its own public DNS servers, aligning with its core mission of providing a more secure and private connection."A third-party DNS server like Surfshark DNS could improve overall network performance. For example, it is less likely to become overloaded. It also promises to offer a better understanding of geolocation, which can provide users with closer servers.Such a service can also help users bypass online censorship that ISPs may enforce at the DNS level.Despite these benefits, Kaciulis doesn't recommend using Surfshark DNS alongside Surfshark's virtual private network (VPN)."Our VPN inherently includes DNS protection, making a separate DNS configuration redundant for users," he said.Similarly to its no-log VPN, though, Surfshark now plans to put its DNS no-log policy under test soon with a third-party independent audit. You might also like Surfshark unveils new end-to-end encryption patent to reduce metadata collectionSurfshark finally adds split tunneling on macOS – making it one of the few VPNs to have itIs the future of censorship-resistant VPNs, no VPNs?

It's a busy time for Lucasfilm's iconic galaxy far, far away. Indeed, with so many new Star Wars movies and Disney Plus shows in development at the acclaimed studio, your head might be a tailspin over when each production will officially debut.You won't be as confused as you were by the time you reach the end of this guide, though. Below, we've rounded up the latest intel on every forthcoming Star Wars series and film, including any known release dates, cast details, story teases, trailers, and the creative minds behind each project. Once they're all out, our guide on how to watch the Star Wars movies in order will be twice as big as it once was – but hey, that's our problem to deal with, not yours.Anyway, enough stalling: this is the new Star Wars movies and TV shows article you've been looking for, so read on to learn everything about each production, Padawan. New Star Wars projects: the full list Here's a complete list of every Star Wars film and TV series that are currently at various stages of their development, plus any known project titles and months/dates we know: Star Wars: Starfighter is expected for release in 2027 (Image credit: Lucasfilm/Star Wars) The Mandalorian & Grogu – May 22, 2026Maul: Shadow Lord – TBC 2026Ahsoka season 2 – TBCThe Mandalorian-Ahsoka team-up movie – TBCThe Jedi Origins movie – TBCRey's New Jedi Order film – TBCLando – TBCRogue Squadron – TBCUntitled Taika Waititi-directed movie – TBCStar Wars: Starfighter – May, 28 2027 New Star Wars TV shows Ahsoka season 2 A post shared by rosariodawson (@rosariodawson)A photo posted by on Release date: TBCConfirmed cast: Rosario Dawson, Natasha Liu Bordizzo, Mary Elizabeth Winstead, Hayden Christensen, and Ivanna SakhnoAhsoka season 2 is currently in production, as Rosario Dawson shared an official post to confirm filming had begun in April 2025. As filming has only just begun, it'll be a while before the show's sophomore season debuts on Disney Plus, aka one of the world's best streaming services.Unsurprisingly, little else is known about its plot, but we have some ideas of where it could go, based on how Star Wars: Ahsoka season 1 ended. One thing we do know is that Baylan Skoll, the mysterious Force wielder who was played with such gravitas by the late Ray Stevenson, has been recast by Game of Thrones' Rory McCann. Maul: Shadow Lord Sam Witwer has surprised fans at the Lucasfilm Animation 20th anniversary #StarWarsCelebration panel. https://t.co/l7Y4C7Zr3M pic.twitter.com/M76x28yJFSApril 18, 2025 Release date: TBCConfirmed cast: Sam WitwerDuring Star Wars Celebration 2025, a new animated series titled, Maul: Shadow Lord was revealed, which is wonderful news for fans of The Clone Wars, as well as other animated shows in the Star Wars universe.Better yet, Sam Witwer will be reprising his role to voice Maul in this show. Focusing on Darth Maul, the show will reportedly be set between the events of Revenge of the Sith and A New Hope. Maul: Shadow Lord will be exclusive to one of the best streaming services, Disney+, when it arrives in 2026. New Star Wars movies The Mandalorian & Grogu The Mandalorian and Baby Yoda will be reunited on the big screen in 2026 (Image credit: Lucasfilm) Release date: 2026 (TBC)Confirmed cast: Pedro Pascal and Sigourney WeaverBaby Yoda is coming to movie theaters! That's right, a new Star Wars movie titled The Mandalorian & Grogu is on the way. The Mandalorian & Grogu was surprisingly announced in January 2024 and it seems as though it'll be The Mandalorian season 4 in all but name – i.e. picking up the story of Din Djarin and his apprentice, the little green guy formerly known as Baby Yoda after The Mandalorian season 3. Deadline claims, though, that season 4 is also still in development.The Mandalorian creator, lead writer, and showrunner Jon Favreau is directing the new movie and as filming has officially wrapped, we were correct in predicting The Mandalorian & Grogu won't launch in theaters until 2026 – and there's an official release date of May 22, 2026. Plus, we know Grogu and Pascal's Djarin will be joined by some sci-fi royalty in the film, with Alien movie icon Sigourney Weaver being tapped for an undisclosed role. The Mandalorian/Ahsoka team-up movie Din Djarin and his fellow Mandalorians could join forces with Ahsoka's team in a major crossover film event (Image credit: Lucasfilm/Disney) Release date: TBCThe overlapping stories of The Mandalorian, The Book of Boba Fett, Ahsoka and (presumably) Skeleton Crew are all set to come together in a cinematic event that'll focus on the "escalating war between the Imperial Remnant and the fledgling New Republic" as it reaches a climax. Dave Filoni, Ahsoka showrunner and long-time protector of Star Wars lore, is lined up to direct."I hesitate to say it’s a big meet-up from just [The Mandalorian, Ahsoka, The Book of Boba Fett and Skeleton Crew], because Dave has been developing Star Wars storytelling inside Clone Wars and Rebels and so much of the work he has done for 20 years," Kathleen Kennedy told EW. “So it will be little bits of all that. There are a lot of sources he’s drawing from to see where we’re going.”It appears, however, that Filoni is playing his Sabacc cards close to his chest when it comes to who'll show up in the big screen ensemble – so close, in fact, that not even his stars know if they'll be called into action. "When I heard they were doing the movie at [Star Wars:] Celebration in London, I was like, 'Maybe one day I'll find out whether I'm a part of that!'” Ahsoka star Natasha Liu Bordizzo told SFX magazine (via GamesRadar). "This is one of those times when I can so happily tell you I have no idea what's going on with that. I'm happy not to, because that way I don't have to lie to you!" The Jedi Origins movie James Mangold is set to helm a Star Wars movie that'll explore the Jedi's origins (Image credit: Jeff Spicer/Getty Images for Disney) Release date: TBCThe Acolyte took place around a century before The Phantom Menace but that’s nothing compared to this Jedi origin story. In fact, at the risk of coming over a bit Star Trek, this prequel flick is boldly going where no Star Wars movie has gone before.James Mangold is the filmmaker lined up to take the franchise back a few millennia to what StarWars.com describes as the "Dawn of the Jedi". The official summary says the film "will take audiences deep into the past, telling the tale of the first Jedi to wield the Force and harness it as a liberating power in an era of chaos and oppression". According to THR, Beau Willimon is penning the script"I want to be part of the saga, but I also don't want to be holding so much lore in the air that you can hardly tell a story," Mangold explained to iO9. "What I told [Lucasfilm boss Kathleen Kennedy] was, can we make a kind of Ten Commandments of the Force, a kind of origin story of how this Force came to be known, understood, wielded and harnessed."Understandably, little else is known about this one. However, Simon Emmanuel, who worked alongside Mangold on Indiana Jones 5, seemed to accidentally reveal its title (unless it's a working title) to SFX magazine (thanks to Reddit for the catch): Jedi Prime. Rey’s New Jedi Order movie Rey's post-sequel trilogy story will be the focus of a new Star Wars movie (Image credit: Disney) Release date: TBCConfirmed cast: Daisy RidleyThe first release to expand the Star Wars chronology beyond The Rise of Skywalker, this movie reunites us with Rey roughly 15 years after Star Wars Episode IX, in the recently ordained 'New Jedi Order' era. Ridley will return as Rey, as she rebuilds the Jedi Order, Sharmeen Obaid-Chinoy (Saving Face, Ms Marvel) is signed up to direct, and Steven Knight (Peaky Blinders) is writing the screenplay. In April, Knight told NME that things are "going well" on the script front. Per Star Wars fansite The Bespin Bulletin, filming isn't expected to start this year."We're coming off what was a major war with the First Order," Kathleen Kennedy told GamesRadar. "And now, Rey has made a promise to Luke, and that's really the core of where we're going and what this story will be. And I think it offers just a tremendous opportunity to introduce new characters and start with something fresh, because we culminated with what George [Lucas] was creating, and now we take all of that and move it to the next chapter."In January, Ridley told AlloCiné (via Deadline): "I think it’s a really fantastic exploration of the Star Wars world. It's a really cool way of taking the story on in a bit of a different direction". Speaking to THR in May, Ridley expressed her interest in seeing Rey reunite with John Boyega's Finn – comments that came less than a year after Boyega exclusively told TechRadar he'd be "open" to reprising that role. Lando Solo: A Star Wars Story star Donald Glover is set to co-write and star in the new Lando movie (Image credit: Lucasfilm) Release date: TBCConfirmed cast: Donald GloverThe one and only Lando Calrissian had been set to front his own TV series, with Dear White People creator and Haunted Mansion director Justin Simien attached to write the show, and Glover reportedly keen to return to a role he first played in 2018's Solo: A Star Wars Story. Things went rather quiet until, surprisingly, Lucasfilm president Kathleen Kennedy told IGN at Star Wars Celebration 2023 that "[Lando's] still happening."It's since gained significant momentum. Simien has left the project (per EW) and Glover is now writing it with his brother (and frequent collaborator) Stephen.Calrissian's unexpected shift to the big screen was confirmed by Stephen Glover during his September appearance on the Pablo Torre Finds Out podcast, noting: "It's not even a show... The idea right now is to do a movie. Right now, because of the [Hollywood writers/actors] strike, it's kind of like telephone, all of the information." Variety has since confirmed the project's transfer to theaters through its contacts at Lucasfilm. Star Wars: Starfighter (Image credit: Lucasfilm/Star Wars) Release date: May 28, 2027Confirmed cast: Ryan GoslingShawn Levy, who's been involved in hugely successful projects like Stranger Things and Deadpool and Wolverine, is developing his own Star Wars flick – Star Wars: Starfighter. He's since confirmed that Jonathan Tropper, who worked with Levy on Netflix's The Adam Project film, is penning its screenplay (via On Demand Entertainment).And in exciting news, Ryan Gosling is joining the Star Wars universe as an all-new character. Other than that, we don't know a lot else about the plot and storyline. But, the movie is slated to begin production this fall with a release date of Memorial Day 2027. Other Star Wars movies in the works Patty Jenkins' Rogue Squadron movie is still in development (Image credit: LucasArts) Yoda once said: "Always in motion is the future" – and the diminutive Jedi Master could've been talking about the Star Wars movie slate since the release of 2019's The Rise of Skywalker. Several projects been released and/or canceled since the franchise made its last visit to theaters, but, three high profile movies remain in the pipeline.Rogue Squadron, the pilot-focused movie that was pulled from its original December 2023 slot (per Variety), is seemingly still in the works. Kennedy told IGN at Star Wars Celebration in April 2023 that this Top Gun in space blockbuster "definitely is something that we still talk about. Whether it's a movie, or whether it ends up being in the [TV] series space, that's definitely something." Meanwhile, Wonder Woman director Patty Jenkins, who was thought to have departed the project, revealed in March that she's working on a new draft of the Rogue Squadron movie.Lastly, Thor: Ragnarok and Thor: Love and Thunder director Taika Waititi (who’s also directed, and starred in, episodes of The Mandalorian) continues to orbit a Star Wars movie of his own. "Taika is still working away," Kennedy told Variety. "He’s writing the script himself. He doesn’t really want to bring others into that process and I don’t blame him. He has a very, very unique voice. So we want to protect that". Updating fans on how things were progressing last November, Waititi teased his film will aim to "capture that joy and the entertainment of those early ones [Star Wars movies]." For more Star Wars coverage, see which productions in its extensive back catalog made it onto our best Disney Plus movies and best Disney Plus shows guides.

OpenAI has rolled back the ChatGPT 4o update that caused the chatbot's AI personality to be 'sycophantic'CEO Sam Altman claims more fixes are comingWe could see a personality selection option in ChatGPT in the future Following Sam Altman claiming ChatGPT 4o's personality had become 'annoying', OpenAI has now made changes to the AI model, rolling back last week's update.The company posted a blog post on its website highlighting the issue that had caused ChatGPT to become more 'flattering or agreeable – often described as sycophantic.'Users found the update infuriating, with CEO Sam Altman sharing on X earlier this week that the company was working on a fix for the 'annoying' behaviour. the last couple of GPT-4o updates have made the personality too sycophant-y and annoying (even though there are some very good parts of it), and we are working on fixes asap, some today and some this week.at some point will share our learnings from this, it's been interesting.April 27, 2025 In the blog post, OpenAI says, "In last week’s GPT‑4o update, we made adjustments aimed at improving the model’s default personality to make it feel more intuitive and effective across a variety of tasks.""However, in this update, we focused too much on short-term feedback, and did not fully account for how users’ interactions with ChatGPT evolve over time. As a result, GPT‑4o skewed towards responses that were overly supportive but disingenuous."In an effort to prevent this from happening moving forward, the company has highlighted how it looks to address sycophancy in the future.For starters, training will be used to 'steer the model away from sycophancy' as well as added guardrails put in place to 'increase honesty and transparency'.OpenAI also plans to add more ways for users to provide feedback on updates before they are rolled out to the wider public. More personality updates to come we started rolling back the latest update to GPT-4o last night it's now 100% rolled back for free users and we'll update again when it's finished for paid users, hopefully later today we're working on additional fixes to model personality and will share more in the coming daysApril 29, 2025 Following the rollback of the ChatGPT 4o update, Altman wrote on X, "we're working on additional fixes to model personality and will share more in the coming days."Putting two and two together, it looks like users might get a ChatGPT personality selection tool in the future. OpenAI's blog post mentions the company is "building new, easier ways for users to shape ChatGPT's behavior" beyond custom instructions.If you want to go further and change ChatGPT's personality yourself, we recommend trying the following prompt Reddit user TedHoliday:"Can you please store a memory to permanently stop commenting on the quality and validity of my questions and simply get to the point? I don't want to be manipulated with flattery by a robot, and I don't want to have to skip past the garbage to get to the answer l'm looking for." You might also like ChatGPT started speaking like a demon mid-conversation, and it's both hilarious and terrifyingCharacter.AI's newest feature can bring a picture to uncanny lifeChatGPT news just got a major upgrade from The Washington Post

AMD’s RX 9060 XT is rumored for a May 21 launch at ComputexThe graphics card won’t go on sale until June, though, we’re toldWe do know that AMD intends to launch an RX 9060 offering at some point before the end of Q2, so June would be leaving it late AMD’s RX 9060 XT is the next in line for the RDNA 4 range, rumor has it – at least outside of Asia (I’ll come back to that point later) – and we’ve just heard a possible release date for this GPU which will sit underneath the RX 9070 models.VideoCardz reports that Chinese tech site Benchlife has the scoop on this one, claiming that the RX 9060 XT will be launched on May 21 (apply seasoning now).This backs up a previous nugget of speculation from the grapevine contending that AMD is shooting for a mid-May launch. And it makes sense given that Team Red has its Computex keynote on May 21, which would be an obvious time to make a revelation like this.I should clarify that this is just the reveal of the RX 9060 XT, we’re told, and these graphics cards won’t go on sale until later – in June, in fact, according to the report. (Assuming no translation issues are clouding the air here, which is always possible when the original material is in another language, Chinese in this case).AMD itself has only confirmed that RX 9060 models are coming in Q2 2025, so June is at the late end of that timeframe. (Image credit: Shutterstock / Gorodenkoff) Analysis: A sound bet for Computex I wouldn’t bet against a Computex launch, because AMD has even said it will “announce key products and technology advancements” in the sphere of gaming at the show (among other areas, including AI PCs too). So, it seems likely enough, then, although arguably it’s also an easy target for an educated guess, if that’s what Benchlife is engaging in here.The date also seems well placed to fire a shot back at Nvidia, in theory. The rumored release date for the RTX 5060 is May 19, so if that turns out to be correct, then AMD is perhaps looking to steal a bit of the thunder from Nvidia’s release here with a launch just a couple of days after. (Even if going by the rumored specs, the 9060 XT is going to be more pitched at the RTX 5060 Ti, rather than the vanilla RTX 5060).So, again, all this makes some sense, and while I certainly think we should remain cautious, I’d be inclined to give Benchlife the benefit of the doubt here.Pricing will of course be key, and we don’t yet have rumored pricing for the RX 9060 XT. Another key question that remains to be answered is whether AMD will release the RX 9060 XT in two flavors: 16GB and 8GB. Previous buzz has indicated that this might be the case, but more recent rumors are asserting that the 8GB model could be canceled before it flies the nest (due to the reaction to the RTX 5060 Ti 8GB).The RX 9060 XT might be the next GPU to emerge globally as a more affordable RDNA 4 graphics card, but before then, gamers in Asia will get another product – the RX 9070 GRE. Like the GRE variants before it, this might be sold in other regions eventually, but for now, it’s a China-only prospect, with AMD having confirmed a May 8 on-sale date for this GPU. You might also like... Where to buy AMD Radeon RX 9070 XT and RX 9070: the best retailers in the US and UK to check for stockMicrosoft is digging its own grave with Windows 11, and it has to stopI've reviewed three generations of 3D V-cache processors, and the AMD Ryzen 9 9950X3D is the best there is

Samsung has hinted that a new type of Samsung foldable is comingThat most likely means the company's long-rumored tri-fold phone will launch this yearHowever, based on previous rumors, it might not be widely available We’ve been hearing for a while that Samsung could launch a tri-fold phone, possibly called the Samsung Galaxy G Fold, and now the company has strongly hinted that this device will launch in 2025.As reported by SamMobile, the company stated during its Q1 2025 earnings call that it will “maximize product competitiveness based on form factor innovation.” Now, given that Samsung hasn’t released a phone with a new form factor since 2020, that suggests a new form factor is coming soon, with the tri-fold design being the only rumored candidate.The company also stated that “Foldables will offer large-screen experiences for Fold”, which could be a reference to the rumored 9.9-inch screen of the Samsung Galaxy G Fold; that would make it a lot larger than the 7.6-inch Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6.Of course, we can’t be sure about any of this, but it’s already been rumored that the Samsung Galaxy G Fold will launch this year, so these comments further corroborate that prediction. It could be coming soon, but maybe not everywhere The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 (Image credit: Lance Ulanoff / Future) If the G Fold does land this year, it will most likely launch alongside the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 and the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 7, both of which are expected in July.However, it’s also possible that the Samsung Galaxy G Fold won’t get a global launch, with one report suggesting it will only be available in China and Korea. In which case, you might not be able to buy it.Still, there’s always hope that it will go global, and even if this initial version doesn’t, subsequent models may well do.We certainly hope the Galaxy G Fold will be widely available, though, because despite being one of the early pioneers of foldable phones, Samsung hasn’t done much to innovate in the space for quite a while now, so a tri-fold device could really freshen up its foldable line. You might also like Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 colors: every rumored and predicted shadeSamsung Galaxy Z Flip 7 release date: when might the new phone launch?Samsung Galaxy S25 Edge: latest news, rumors, and everything we know so far

Telecommunications is an inherently data-driven industry. Traditionally, great focus has been placed on gaining data visibility into the core and transit areas of the network. This approach has provided valuable insights for throughput optimizations, speed, and general performance.Regardless of promises of speed, customers are mainly concerned about whether or not they’re able to watch streaming services, play live games, and connect with colleagues and loved ones via video calling - sometimes simultaneously. To solve for optimized performance and a great customer experience, telecommunication companies are shifting their focus toward further enhancing their last-mile visibility.Historically, service providers have used the last-mile data they collect to identify the worst-performing connections and pinpoint the group of customers most at risk of churning to another provider. However, if approached correctly, last-mile performance intelligence can offer more than just a way to mitigate churn.Today, when consumers visit the marketing and sign-up pages of telcos or internet service providers, they are typically presented with maps showing broad network coverage and similar pricing between providers, indicative of both the competitiveness of the telecommunications landscape and the utility-like nature of many of its services. On paper, there is often little to differentiate providers from a marketing perspective.This is where the opportunity lies. Service providers are in a unique position by virtue of owning and operating the networks that connect users with the applications and services they’ve come to rely on in their daily lives. By rethinking their relationship with last-mile data, additional benefits - beyond customer retention - are ripe for the taking when it comes to intelligent fault diagnosis, customer communication, and differentiated services. How incomplete last-mile data can impact decisions One of the most important aspects of data-driven decision-making is that the source data underpinning the decision is clean, comprehensive, and has good lineage. This goes to its quality and reliability as the foundation for decision-making.With more comprehensive last-mile data, service providers and carriers can make better informed decisions regarding new product launches, network planning, capacity, and capital allocation. For example, telcos and service providers will make significant moves around optimization of services for the needs of specific market segments - such as gaming, or industrial companies with IoT needs, and so on.This kind of optimization has long been a promise of network slicing technology, and many telcos and providers now have this in their arsenal. Yet, the biggest challenge may be determining the best customer cohorts to target with this level of optimized services. This is a problem that is addressable in part by having more comprehensive last-mile data to analyze and base these decisions on.Incomplete last-mile data also makes it harder to determine where a proposed investment in network infrastructure or capacity would have the biggest performance improvement. By contrast, in circumstances where the telco or service provider is collecting last-mile data from every active service, from every home or premises, they have a much more comprehensive understanding of how their services land, and where improvements most need to be made. Last-mile intelligence as a differentiator Telcos and service providers have always had options available to them to collect last-mile data: whether that’s TR-069 on customer premises equipment, or specific broadband monitoring boxes.The key opportunity ahead lies in the improved capability within service provider environments to correlate and use last-mile intelligence.For instance, last-mile network intelligence can significantly enhance the ability to deploy maintenance strategies proactively. By continuously monitoring the last-mile connections, service providers can identify potential issues before they escalate into major problems, reducing downtime and improving overall service reliability. This proactive approach not only helps in maintaining customer satisfaction but also reduces operational costs associated with emergency repairs and customer support.Service providers can also use last-mile insight to analyze usage patterns and preferences to tailor their offerings for a higher level of personalization that can lead to deeper customer satisfaction and loyalty, as customers feel their specific needs are being met.In a market where pricing and coverage are often similar, last-mile intelligence can be a key differentiator. Service providers that can demonstrate superior last-mile performance through transparent reporting, value-add services, and customer testimonials can gain a competitive edge. This transparency builds trust and can be a deciding factor for customers choosing between providers. Where will richer data take you? With insights into all last-mile connections, service providers can access a valuable dataset that has long been overlooked. This knowledge can enhance customer experience and inform a wider range of commercial decisions, resulting in comprehensive strategies that are supported by a clearer understanding of the last-mile situation and the needs of their subscribers. We rate the best network monitoring tool. This article was produced as part of TechRadarPro's Expert Insights channel where we feature the best and brightest minds in the technology industry today. The views expressed here are those of the author and are not necessarily those of TechRadarPro or Future plc. If you are interested in contributing find out more here: https://www.techradar.com/news/submit-your-story-to-techradar-pro

The Apple Watch SE 3 is expected to launch in SeptemberA new report claims it has entered development with a major display upgradeSizes of 1.6 and 1.8-inches have been tipped, hinting at a redesign based around the Apple Watch Series 9 The new Apple Watch SE 3, expected to arrive in September, has reportedly entered production sporting display size options of 1.6 and 1.8 inches, hinting at the long-rumored redesign we've been waiting for.Apple should unveil its three new best Apple Watches for 2025 in September alongside the iPhone 17. While the Apple Watch Series 11 and Apple Watch Ultra 3 should be the headliners, only the Apple Watch SE 3 is tipped to get a redesign, and we've just got our clearest hint yet at what that could entail.As reported by 9to5Mac, the ultra-reliable supply chain leaker Ross Young has reportedly revealed that the new Apple Watch SE 3 displays have entered production. According to the report, "He estimates the displays as being around 1.6” and 1.8” each."As the report notes, Apple gauges its Watch line by case size, not screen size. As such, it's difficult to pin down exactly what this means. However, the sizing mentioned is closest to that of the 41mm and 45mm Apple Watch range pioneered by the Series 7 and phased out with the Series 10.Coupled with prior reports of a new design for the SE 2, it's safe to say that the Apple Watch SE 3 is hopefully going to look an awful lot like the Apple Watch Series 9 – a much-needed design overhaul. Apple Watch SE 3's new sizes (Image credit: Future) Boosting the display size to 41mm and 45mm makes a ton of sense. The Apple Watch SE 2's design is starting to look long in the tooth alongside the sleeker Series 10. Handily, because the Series 10 measures 42mm and 46mm, Apple can increase the SE 3's display size accordingly while keeping the size difference as a clear point of differentiation in the lineup.Other features and upgrades of the Apple Watch SE 3 remain veiled at this point. The big story for Apple Watch this year should be the introduction of blood pressure/hypertension monitoring, a feature certain to be reserved for the premium models in the lineup.In the meantime, Apple should unveil watchOS 12 at WWDC 2025, which will reportedly feature a more transparent design reflective of Apple Vision Pro's visionOS. You may also like Apple Watch SE 3: 3 reasons to consider upgrading, and 3 reasons you might want to skipThe Apple Watch Series 11 isn’t tempting me to upgrade – and these 5 rumors explain whyThe Huawei Watch 5 just leaked in full, revealing the intriguing new health sensor the company has been teasing

Google has hinted that it could address PWM dimming issues later this yearThat likely means any improvements will come to the Pixel 10 seriesThis could be good news for anyone who suffers headaches when using phones with low PWM dimming rates Google’s Pixel phones have fantastic screens and there’s no reason to think the upcoming Google Pixel 10 series will be any exception, but one way in which they’ve so far been found lacking is their PWM (pulse-width modulation) dimming rates.This refers to a method that some smartphones use to make their display appear dimmer. Essentially, rather than the voltage being adjusted, the display is rapidly turned off and on to give the appearance of decreased brightness.This rapid switching on and off of the screen is imperceptible to most users, but for some it can cause headaches, and it’s at its worst when the PWM rate is quite low – which is the case with Pixel phones.But that might change with the Google Pixel 10, as when Android Central asked Google whether it would consider upgrading the PWM dimming rate or adding a flicker-reduction accessibility option to Pixel phones, they were told by a Google representative that “their teams are aware and investigating this. You can expect updates later this year." The Google Pixel 9 Pro (Image credit: Philip Berne / Future) Likely landing with the Pixel 10 That reference to “later this year” likely means any changes would come to the Pixel 10 series, which is expected to launch in or around August. That likely means older models won’t benefit, though it’s not impossible that these changes could land as a software update.It’s also unclear whether this would mean changes to the PWM rate, moving away from PWM, or some other solution. But whatever the case, this is very promising news for anyone who struggles with PWM and particularly low PWM dimming rates.Of course, this comment is a bit vague so we might be getting excited about nothing, but as Android Central notes, this isn’t the first time they’ve reached out to Google for comment on PWM over the last couple of years, but it is the first time they’ve had a meaningful response, which could be a sign that it’s finally something Google is addressing.We should find out later this year, either with the Pixel 10 series or as part of a software update – perhaps Android 16. You might also like Google Pixel 9 review: a fantastic phone* (*added fees may apply)Google Pixel 9a review: this would be the perfect bargain phone if it wasn’t so dang uglyBest Android phones: top performing and most affordable

The modus operandi of the original electric Citroen Ami was to make motoring as affordable and as widely accessible as possible, with the diminutive and very basic quadricycle flaunting many automotive norms in favor of cost-cutting.Now, Citroen has refreshed the line-up, including the addition of a funky Buggy version that shuns its doors and hard-top for an altogether more beach-ready vibe.As a reminder, the petite Ami can only manage a top speed of 28mph, lacks any sort of infotainment system (you bring your smartphone) and offers an EV range of around 46 miles. But it can be driven by 14-year-olds in some countries and costs less than many modern eBikes.Citroen engineered the Ami so both of its doors are identical, mounted in a mirrored fashion so they open suicide-style for the driver and normally for the passenger, making it cheaper to manufacture and repair.Everything is designed to be robust but affordable – it is basic city transport at its best and it has shifted more than 75,000 units in the past five years.The refreshed line-up features a revised front and rear fascia with brand new lights, with moulded grooves in the front right and rear left wings, offering a nod to the original 2CV of the late 1940s. Image 1 of 5(Image credit: Citroen)Image 2 of 5(Image credit: Citroen)Image 3 of 5(Image credit: Citroen)Image 4 of 5(Image credit: Citroen)Image 5 of 5(Image credit: Citroen) Three new color packs also join the fold, with Ami Spicy, Ami Icy, and Ami Minty (red, white and green) providing an alternative to the basic blue hue of the previous iteration.But in order to cut costs, Citroen supplies the wheel trims and a set of decals so that customers can apply the very basic wrap themselves.The Ami Buggy, on the other hand, wears its additional design touches on its sleeve, including gold 14-inch steel wheels, a small sports spoiler and black metal hoops that replace the standard doors. This makes sliding in and out easier, while zipped door covers are available to keep out the rain.Equally, the soft fabric roof can be rolled back or removed, essentially creating a small electric Manx Buggy.There’s also a Palmeira edition that adds colored floor mats and a little robot bobble head called Andy that sits on the dashboard. Why? We have no idea. Electric micro mobility rules for many (Image credit: Citroen) It’s easy to pass off something like the Citroen Ami as a bit of a joke, but it is the sort of basic, electric micro-mobility option that helps many navigate the busy streets of European cities, as well as offering safer, four-wheeled freedom to teenagers.The new design language moves away from the slightly cutesy look of the original electric Ami, yet the refreshed model still manages to start at just €7,990 in France. That’s around $9,000 / £6,800 / AU$14,200.Now available in 18 markets, Ami is becoming a common sight on urban streets, where its 2.41m length ensures it easy to park and its 4-hour charge from a 3kWh outlet makes it a solid choice for inner-city car-sharing schemes.The Buggy version is clearly a bit of a fun and a cool lifestyle accessory for someone that needs something simple to pop to the beach in, but electric micro-mobility in general has wider appeal.The new Ami, for example, has been designed with disabilities in mind. There are specific stowage and lashing points for wheelchairs, as well as the option of a mechanical lever for manual control of both accelerator and brake functions.With cities becoming ever-more populated, it's the sort of affordable solution that can keep us all moving... and parking. You might also like My new favorite thing in EVs? This Citroen Ami that's been made to look like a 1950s H-VanMercedes' new steer-by-wire tech is the next big EV trend – and I'll begrudgingly accept that it's the futureSlate Auto's affordable electric pick-up truck is everything the Tesla Cybertruck isn't – and could be a big hit

WiZ has launched a new device to rival the Philips Hue Play HDMI Sync BoxThe WiZ HDMI Sync Box uses the same tech, but is less than half the priceIt comes with an LED light strip, and can be synced with extra lights too WiZ makes some of the best smart lights for home owners on a budget, and now it's taking the fight to Philips Hue with a new Sync Box that mirrors the colors on your TV screen, and mirrors them using a connected light strip or bars.It's the same principle as Philips Ambilight technology, and effectively 'blurs' the edges of the screen for a more immersive movie or gaming experience.The Philips Hue Play HDMI Sync Box is the best Ambilight alternative around today, but it's also the most expensive. The Philips Hue Play HDMI Sync Box 8K, which launched in September 2024, has a list price of $349.99 / £299.99 (about AU$520), while the 4K version is $249.99 / £229.99 (about AU$390).That's before you add the cost of the lights themselves, whether that's a set of Philips Hue Play Light Bars, or a Gradient Light Strip to stick on the back of your TV.There are several affordable options available from brands like Nanoleaf and Govee, but even the best Ambilight alternatives struggle to match the performance of the Philips Hue Play system. That's because most budget-friendly color-mirroring systems use a camera mounted on top of your TV to monitor what's being displayed on the screen, then replicate those colors.Although this can work well, it often results in more latency than using HDMI, and can be affected by reflections and lighting conditions in the room. That can break the immersion, or even become a distraction. (Image credit: Signify) More immersion, less cash The new WiZ HDMI Sync Box uses HDMI input instead, which eliminates these problems and means there's no need to spend time calibrating the system either.The WiZ HDMI Sync Box supports HDMI 2.0 and video formats up to 4K, and unlike the Philips Hue Play Sync Box 4K it comes with a light strip included. To extend the lighting throughout the rest of your room you can also pair it with the WiZ Gradient Light Bars and Gradient Floor Light.The WiZ HDMI Sync Box with TV backlight is available in two sizes. The kit for 55-inch to 65-inch TVs is £79.99 (about $110 / AU$170), while the version for 75-inch to 85-inch TVs is £99.99 (about $130 / AU$210).The smaller kit is available now in the UK and Europe, while the larger set will go on sale in September. Prices and release dates for the rest of the world have yet to be announced.We'll be testing the WiZ HDMI Sync Box very soon, and will bring you a full review so you can see how it compares with the pricier Philips Hue alternative, and decide which is the best companion for your home entertainment setup. You might also like Got Philips Hue lights? This new customizable button could make them even smarterI have Philips Hue lights everywhere in my home, and this is what I want to see from its AI assistantYour Philips Hue Play HDMI Sync Box is getting a big software update, and it's good news for gamers