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Thursday, December 14, 2023

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Threads finally launches in Europe
Engadget / 2min
Meta's Threads has finally arrived in Europe over five months after it launched in the US, UK and elsewhere around the world. Following a countdown and Instagram teaser invitation, the app is now officially available in the bloc on iOS, Android and the web. Threads.net is now live on the web, though the mobile apps are still showing as unavailable for many (you may have to wait patiently). I was


Proton Mail now has a desktop app in beta
Engadget / 2min
Proton finally has a desktop app. The Swiss company, known for its privacy-focused alternatives to the Google Workspace apps, revealed a Windows and macOS application on Thursday that includes Proton Mail and Proton Calendar . The desktop app is currently available in beta for subscribers on the most expensive premium tier, but the company says it will launch for all Proton users in early 2024. T


Inside Mark Zuckerberg’s Top-Secret Hawaii Compound
Wired / 2min
Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg is building a sprawling, $100 million compound in Hawaii—complete with plans for a huge underground bunker. A WIRED investigation reveals the true scale of the project—and its impact on the local community.


Threads is finally available to users in the EU
TechCrunch / 2min
Five months after its launch in July, Meta’s social network Threads is now finally available to people living in the European Union. At launch, the company restricted access to the new social network in the EU to become compliant with various rules of the bloc. Users weren’t able to download the app to access the […] © 2023 TechCrunch. All rights reserved. For personal use only.


Proton Mail Now Has a Desktop App
How-To Geek / 3min
Proton now makes a whole suite of software geared towards privacy and security enthusiasts, following the strictest standards of encryption, but it all had its start back when the company launched Proton Mail . It was the company's first product back in 2013, but there still hasn't been a true desktop client. That's now changing.


Skullcandy Smokin’ Buds XT Review: Big Bass for Less Than the Rest
How-To Geek / 3min
I think Skullcandy is one of the best budget-friendly audio brands, and if you’ve been on the lookout for a solid pair of wireless buds, you should consider the Skullcandy Smokin’ Buds XT . They fit great, sound awesome, and have some of the best passive noise isolation you’ll find for the price.


Encrypted email service Proton Mail gets its own desktop app
TechCrunch / 10min
Proton Mail finally has a native desktop app, rolling out now in beta for some users on Windows and MacOS. The encrypted email service has, of course, been available to desktop users since its inception nearly a decade ago — first through the web, and latterly via a “bridge” that opened access to Proton Mail accounts […] © 2023 TechCrunch. All rights reserved. For personal use only.


The director's cut of Zack Snyder's Rebel Moon is so long, even its cast couldn't believe it
TechRadar - All the latest technology ne... / 17min
The cast of Zack Snyder's Rebel Moon have expressed shock at the extensive runtime of the duology's forthcoming director's cuts. Speaking to TechRadar at the UK junket for the Netflix franchise's first instalment, Michiel Huisman and E. Duffy, who play Gunnar and Millius in Rebel Moon , were stunned to learn how much more content there'll be in the sci-fi fantasy movie's extended versions. We alr


Microsoft introduces Copilot AI to Windows 10 – but there are reasons you might not get it
TechRadar - All the latest technology ne... / 24min
Windows 10 has now got the Copilot AI with the latest patch for the release version of the OS – or at least some users have. The cumulative update for December, which just arrived (patch KB5033372), debuts Copilot (in preview) on the desktop, as well as applying the usual security fixes, and a few extra features besides. Copilot’s icon is positioned on the taskbar, at the far right in the system


The Xbox Series X has had its price cut by a massive $100 just in time for the holidays
TechRadar - All the latest technology ne... / 24min
In a surprise announcement from the official Xbox 'X' (formerly Twitter) account, Microsoft has confirmed that the Xbox Series X is receiving a big price cut across the US for a limited time. The hefty discount sees the price of an Xbox Series X console fall from an MSRP of $499 to just $399 - a substantial saving of $100. You can currently find the deal directly at Xbox , with a number of retail


Marvel's Spider-Man 2 New Game Plus will arrive early next year
TechRadar - All the latest technology ne... / 24min
Insomniac Games has confirmed that Marvel's Spider-Man 2 's New Game Plus mode will arrive early next year. Before the launch of the Spider-Man sequel, the studio stated that players would have to wait a while for New Game Plus, as well as mission replay, as they were not part of the day-one patch. Insomniac gave a vague release window, saying that the new features should arrive before the end of


Spider-Man 2's New Game+ mode pushed back to 2024
Engadget / 38min
In October, Insomniac Games launched Marvel's Spider-Man 2 without key features like New Game+ and audio descriptions. Just before the game's release, Insomniac's community and marketing director, James Stevenson, shared that New Game+ "should" arrive before the end of 2023 . However, Insomniac has now released a statement explaining that it's targeting the next Marvel's Spider-Man 2 update for e


Bethesda has delayed Fallout 4's next-gen update to 2024
TechRadar - All the latest technology ne... / 39min
Unfortunately, the highly anticipated next-gen update for Fallout 4 has officially been delayed to an unknown date in 2024, according to Bethesda. Bethesda confirmed that players would not be able to enjoy the next-gen update for Fallout 4 this year in a Twitter / X post : "Thank you for your patience with us as we work on the Fallout 4 next-gen update. We know you're excited, and so are we! But


This new system can teach a robot a simple household task within 20 minutes
MIT Technology Review / 45min
A new system that teaches robots a domestic task in around 20 minutes could help the field of robotics overcome one of its biggest challenges: a lack of training data . The open-source system , called Dobb-E, was trained using data collected from real homes. It can help to teach a robot how to open an air fryer, close a door, or straighten a cushion, among other tasks. While other types of AI, su


From 'Paddington' to 'Wonka,' Paul King reveals the risks and rewards of adapting childhood classics
Mashable / 48min
After Paddington 2 received wild praise, including the rare accomplishment of a 100% on Rotten Tomatoes , writer/director Paul King had a daunting decision before him. What to do next? Whatever it was had a tough act to follow, so why not swing big by tackling the origin story of Roald Dahl's most famous character? To call Wonka a risky move would be a massive understatement, as the internet pred


Save $75 on this heated vest and power bank bundle
Mashable / 48min
TL;DR: As of December 14, get the Helios Puffuto heated vest with power bank for $74.97 — you'll save 50%. What do you gift an outdoorsman in the dead of winter? How about a heated vest? Bringing all the perks of a heated jacket, a vest allows for more movement and breathability for a wider variety of weather conditions. The Helios Paffuto vest has adjustable heat settings, comes with its own hig


Upgrade your ride with this $85 touchscreen car display
Mashable / 48min
TL;DR: As of December 14, get this 6.8" Foldable Touchscreen Car Display with Apple CarPlay & Android Auto Support for only $84.97 — that's a 46% discount. With Tesla releasing the infamous Cybertruck, you may be looking to make a vehicle upgrade of your own. Probably one that’s a lot more practical than a truck made of stainless steel, like this 6.8-inch wireless display that brings features lik


This Kathy Ireland weighted blanket is now just $50


Mashable / 48min
TL;DR: As of December 14, get this Kathy Ireland weighted blanket for $49.97 — you'll save 54%. You could continue to rely on old, reliable holiday gifts like slippers or a sweater. But wouldn't it be much better to surprise that loved one with a cozy blanket that does double duty ? Give the gift of warmth, comfort, and well-being with the Kathy Ireland 15-pound weighted blanket. And if you order


This $26 Bluetooth Ring can control apps and e-readers
Mashable / 48min
TL;DR: As of December 14, get this Bluetooth Remote Ring for Apps, Camera & E-Readers with Page Turner (White) for only $25.99 — that's 35% off. Sometimes, you stumble upon a product that you didn't know existed, and you didn't even realize you needed it. This Bluetooth ring may be one of those times. You can get it here for just $25.99 (reg. $39.99) through December 17 and start using it to help


Is 'Priscilla' streaming yet? How to watch Sofia Coppola and A24's latest movie at home.
Mashable / 48min
Quick links to watch 'Priscilla' at home: WATCH AT HOME Buy 'Priscilla' at Amazon Prime Video $24.99 WATCH AT HOME Buy 'Priscilla' at Apple TV+ $24.99 WATCH AT HOME Buy 'Priscilla' at Vudu $24.99 WATCH AT A LATER DATE Stream 'Priscilla' on Max $9.99/month or $99.99/year (save 17% on an annual subscription) In 2022, Baz Luhrmann's Elvis lit up the big screen and earned eight nominations at the Aca


'Fishes' vs. 'Forks': What's the best episode of 'The Bear'?
Mashable / 48min
It's a debate that's been raging since this summer, when The Bear roared back with a second season that pitched its chefs out of their comfort zone. Dropped all at once on Hulu, this deliciously stressful season was an addictive binge sure to leave you satisfied. But which episode is the best? As Mashable's staff prepared our end-of-year lists — weighing out best films , best TV shows , and best


NYT's The Mini crossword answers for December 14
Mashable / 48min
The Mini is a bite-sized version of The New York Times ' revered daily crossword. While the crossword is a lengthier experience that requires both knowledge and patience to complete, The Mini is an entirely different vibe. With only a handful of clues to answer, the daily puzzle doubles as a speed-running test for many who play it. So, when a tricky clue disrupts a player's flow, it can be frustr


ESA CEO on E3 shutdown: ‘video game companies have new and exciting ways to reach people’
TechRadar - All the latest technology ne... / 53min
Earlier this week, it was announced that the Electronic Entertainment Expo - better known as E3 - has been permanently shut down , following its cancellation in 2020, 2022, and 2023 (and shift online in 2021). Now, Stanley Pierre-Louis, the president and CEO of the Entertainment Software Association (ESA), which organized E3, has spoken more about the reasoning behind the decision. For context, E


State Dept.’s Fight Against Disinformation Comes Under Attack
NYT > Technology / 59min
The Global Engagement Center has become the focus of Republican-led criticism that the U.S. government coerces social media platforms into removing offensive content.


The Sims 4 For Rent wasn't designed 'to be edgy' but to draw on reality for a lot of players
TechRadar - All the latest technology ne... / 1h
The Sims 4 recently released its newest expansion pack: For Rent. Within this pack, players have the opportunity to develop closer tenant and landlord relationships, explore a new lot type, and introduce an entirely new map for you to explore. All of this is incredibly exciting for an avid Simmer. However, while the vast majority of this sounds fine, the realities of rental properties were also t


The two words that pushed international climate talks into overtime
MIT Technology Review / 1h
This article is from The Spark, MIT Technology Review’s weekly climate newsletter. To receive it in your inbox every Wednesday, sign up here . The annual UN climate negotiations at COP28 in Dubai have officially come to a close. Delegates scrambled to get a deal together in the early morning hours, and the meetings ended a day past their scheduled conclusion ( as these things tend to ). If you’ve


Instagram introduces gen-AI powered background editing tool
TechCrunch / 1h
Instagram introduced its generative AI-powered background editing tool to U.S.-based users Wednesday. Meta’s lead for generative AI Ahmad Al-Dahle posted on Threads saying that the tool will let users change the background to their images through prompts for Stories. When users will tap on the background editor icon on an image they will get ready […] © 2023 TechCrunch. All rights reserved. For p


Qogita — a wholesale marketplace for retailers — raises $86M Series B to compete with Ankorstore in Europe
TechCrunch / 2h
Qogita, a two-sided e-commerce wholesale marketplace aimed at retailers largely in the health and beauty sectors, has raised €80 million ($86 million) in a Series B round led by London’s Dawn Capital. The company plans to use the cash to expand into more categories. Also participating were previous investors Accel, Bessemer Venture Partners and LocalGlobe. […] © 2023 TechCrunch. All rights reserv


India’s Udaan scores $340 million in new funding
TechCrunch / 2h
The investment arm of the UK retail bank M&G has led a funding of $340 million into Udaan, a business-to-business e-commerce startup, in one of the largest financing rounds secured by an Indian startup in 2023. The Bengaluru-headquartered startup, which helps merchants in smaller Indian cities and towns secure inventories from major brands as well […] © 2023 TechCrunch. All rights reserved. For p


Optimus Teslabot Ready for Mass Production ?
Next Big Future / 2h
Dr. Scott Walker points out that the Logo usually goes on a product when prototyping is complete. There would be a huge impact for Tesla if one hundred thousands Teslabots can be made and used the Tesla factories. Usually, the logo goes on when prototyping is complete. pic.twitter.com/Y2pTyNtwPW — Scott Walter, PhD (@GoingBallistic5) December 13, ... Read more


Tesla Sending Out Autosteer Autopilot Software Update
Next Big Future / 2h
Tesla will send out an over-the-air software update to 2 million cars that will incorporate additional controls and alerts to those already existing on affected vehicles to further encourage the driver to adhere to their continuous driving responsibility whenever Autosteer is engaged. The picture above does not show the actual new Tesla alerts In certain ... Read more


Discord could ban users if they continue to deadname trans people
Engadget / 2h
Discord has officially updated its hateful conduct policy to add behaviors that don't reflect its "goal to promote acceptance and inclusivity." These newly added bannable behaviors include "deadnaming or misgendering a transgender person." According to TechCrunch , Discord started internally implementing its expanded policy in 2022, but the chat app has just only made it public in an effort to pr


Jumia discontinues food delivery across seven markets, shifts focus to expanding physical goods business
TechCrunch / 2h
Pan-African e-commerce platform Jumia has disclosed its intention to discontinue its food delivery service, Jumia Food. The company said its food delivery business is not aligned with the current operational landscape and prevailing macroeconomic conditions in the seven markets, including Nigeria, Kenya, Uganda, Morocco, Tunisia, Algeria and Ivory Coast. As a result, Jumia will cease […] © 2023 T


Social commerce platform Maka raises $2.65M to simplify buying fashion and beauty products in Africa
TechCrunch / 3h
Maka, an African fashion and beauty e-commerce platform, has raised a $2.65 million pre-seed round led by Pan-African venture capital firms 4DX Ventures and Janngo Capital. Other investors include Palm Drive Capital, angel investor Jonathan Shipman, founder of EVP and Twitch founding member, and executives from delivery platform Wolt. In 2021, co-founder and CEO Diana […] © 2023 TechCrunch. All r


Twitch clears up its confusing sexual content guidelines
Engadget / 4h
Twitch has finally streamlined its confusing guidelines surrounding sexual content after a creator was able to appear seemingly topless in a stream posted on the website. The incident compelled viewers to question what kind of content could actually appear — and what could get you banned — on livestreams. Following feedback from users, Twitch has merged the two separate sexual content policy sect


Privacy complaint takes aim at Musk’s X over EU ads targeted on sensitive data
TechCrunch / 5h
Elon Musk’s X, the social media platform formerly known as Twitter, is facing a new privacy complaint in Europe related to its ad targeting tools. The complaint, which is being lodged with the Dutch data protection authority by privacy rights not-for-profit noyb, accuses X of failing to enforce its own its advertising guidelines. While X’s T&Cs […] © 2023 TechCrunch. All rights reserved. For pers


Apple now needs a judge's order to hand over push notification records
Engadget / 5h
Following the revelation that our mobile push notification records can be handed over to law enforcements, Apple put the blame on the Department of Justice (DOJ) for preventing tech companies from revealing such process. At the same time, the company updated its Legal Process Guidelines document to state that "a subpoena or greater legal process" was required to obtain the relevant records. Howev


A lifetime subscription to this speedy VPN is on sale for under £40
Mashable / 5h
TL;DR: A lifetime subscription to FastestVPN PRO is on sale for £31.78, saving you 93% on list price. With so much of your life entangled in the intricate webs of the internet, it's only natural to want to protect your privacy. Enlisting the help of a VPN can do just that. It acts as a shield against your info being compromised. VPNs also offer the bonus of giving you unrestricted access to geo-b


LineNext secures $140M funding for its web3 platform
21TechCrunch / 5h
LineNext, a web3 unit of the Japanese messaging app Line, raised $140 million in its funding led by Crescendo Equity Partners, a Peter Thiel-backed private equity firm in South Korea, to expand its web3 platform. The new funding comes nearly a year after LineNext released its browser-only beta service — a consumer-to-consumer(C2C) marketplace launched on […] © 2023 TechCrunch. All rights reserved


Google Maps update to let you wipe out past searches and photos in one swoop
TechRadar - All the latest technology ne... / 6h
Google Maps is getting a privacy update that gives users new ways to control their information on the platform. First, the app will begin collecting your recent activity into one central location where you can view places you’ve been to in the past, the date you went there, and the amount of time you spent visiting. You’ll be even able to “delete your searches, directions… and shares” in the same


Berlin climate startup ecoworks is using a high tech blend to decarbonize buildings
22TechCrunch / 6h
Berlin-based climate startup ecoworks is using digital technologies, AI and industrial robots to tackle a huge and critical problem: Energy inefficient buildings. Around three-quarters of buildings in Europe are deemed energy inefficient, per the startup, while around half of the 315 million residential units in the region have energy performance ratings of E or worse. […] © 2023 TechCrunch. All


Cruise drops nine executives following its robotaxi accident probe
Engadget / 6h
A few weeks after Cruise's CEO Kyle Vogt and co-founder Daniel Kan resigned, the company has also dismissed nine executives considered as "key" figures for the firm. According to Reuters and other sources , GM's robotaxi unit sent an internal memo to staff members announcing the executives' departure while regulators are investigating an incident wherein a pedestrian was dragged by a Cruise vehic


Today’s Wordle Hints (and Answer) for Thursday, December 14, 2023
LifeHacker / 7h
If you’re looking for the Wordle answer for December 14, 2023, read on. We’ll share some clues, tips, and strategies, and finally the solution. Today’s puzzle is a bit harder than average; I got it in four. Beware, there are spoilers below for December 14, Wordle #908! Keep scrolling if you want some hints (and then the answer) to today’s Wordle game. How to play Wordle Wordle lives here on the N


Wordle today: Here's the answer and hints for December 14
Mashable / 7h
Oh hey there! If you're here, it must be time for Wordle . As always, we're serving up our daily hints and tips to help you figure out today's answer. If you just want to be told today's word, you can jump to the bottom of this article for Dec. 14's Wordle solution revealed. But if you'd rather solve it yourself, keep reading for some clues, tips, and strategies to assist you. Where did Wordle co


Today's NYT Connections Hints (and Answer) for Thursday, December 14, 2023
LifeHacker / 7h
If you’re looking for the Connections answer for Thursday, December 14, 2023, read on—I’ll share some clues, tips, and strategies, and finally the solutions to all four categories. Along the way, I’ll explain the meanings of the trickier words and we’ll learn how everything fits together. Beware, there are spoilers below for December 14, NYT Connections #186! Read on if you want some hints (and t


Etsy: Online marketplace lays off 11% of staff to cut costs
100+BBC News - Technology / 8h
CEO Josh Silverman tells staff the cuts are needed as sales have been "essentially flat" for two years.


Ukrainian cellular and Internet still out, 1 day after suspected Russian cyberattack
Ars Technica - All content / 8h
Enlarge / A service center for "Kyivstar", a Ukrainian telecommunications company, that provides communication services and data transmission based on a broad range of fixed and mobile technologies. (credit: Getty Images) Ukrainian civilians on Wednesday grappled for a second day of widespread cellular phone and Internet outages after a cyberattack, purportedly carried out by Kremlin-supported ha


Why You Shouldn’t Buy a USB-C Charging Case for Your AirPods Pro
LifeHacker / 8h
Apple's AirPods Pro recently received their most visible upgrade in years, as the company swapped out the Lighting-powered charging case for a USB-C model. And now, Apple has officially begun selling the MagSafe USB-C AirPods Pro 2 case (and only the case) as a standalone product. The Verge was the first to notice the new listing, which offers the USB-C AirPods Pro 2 charging case for $99 . If yo


Instagram is making it easier to remove spammy followers
30Engadget / 8h
Meta is rolling out a suite of new tools on Instagram that give users more control over how much spam content and bots they will see on their feeds. People will also be told if something they posted is in accordance with community guidelines. The new tools will be introduced gradually in the coming weeks. Instagram has developed and improved its automated detection system that checks for spam acr


NYT Connections today: See hints and answers for December 14
Mashable / 8h
Connections is the latest New York Times word game that's captured the public's attention. The game is all about finding the "common threads between words." And just like Wordle , Connections resets after midnight and each new set of words gets trickier and trickier—so we've served up some hints and tips to get you over the hurdle. If you just want to be told today's puzzle, you can jump to the e


Twitch’s new nudity policy allows illustrated nipples, but not human underboob
TechCrunch / 9h
Twitch announced sweeping updates to its sexual content policy and content classification system, which now allows previously prohibited content like illustrated nipples and “erotic dances,” in addition to clarifying what nudity is and isn’t allowed on the platform. The update follows the widespread “topless meta” backlash, after streamer and OnlyFans model Morgpie went viral for […] © 2023 TechC


Instagram Notes can now include two-second looping videos
21Engadget / 9h
Instagram inboxes are about to get a little busier. The app is adding two-second looping videos and direct replies to Notes, the status update-like feature that lives at the top of users’ inboxes. The feature was first introduced a year ago as a way to share quick text updates with your mutual followers and close friends. Since then, the company has also added music and translation capabilities t


The Best Nintendo Switch Game Deals You Can Still Get in Time for Christmas
LifeHacker / 9h
First party Nintendo Switch games are the Apple products of the video game industry: They rarely go on sale. Nintendo’s flagship series—Zelda, Mario, and Pokémon, among others—tend to hold their value for years, so when you spot them on a decent sale, it's worth paying attention, you should pay attention. If you’re looking to pick up a Switch game at a good price for holiday gifting purposes, the


Guidemaster: A cheat sheet for comparing the iPhone 15 lineup’s cameras
Ars Technica - All content / 10h
Enlarge / The iPhone 15 lineup. Over the past couple of years of reviewing the iPhone, we've often jokingly called them "smartcameras" rather than smartphones, as the camera features are really what sell people on upgrading to new models. So, for our final Apple gift guide, we'll revisit some of what we explored in our iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Pro review with a special focus on the cameras. If you


Quordle today - hints and answers for Thursday, December 14 (game #689)
TechRadar - All the latest technology ne... / 10h
It's time for your daily dose of Quordle hints, plus the answers for both the main game and the Daily Sequence spin off. Quordle is the only one of the many Wordle clones that I'm still playing now, around 18 months after the daily-word-game craze hit the internet, and with good reason: it's fun, but also difficult. What's more, its makers (now the online dictionary Merriam-Webster) are also keep


Name that whale! How AI aces animal spotting
BBC News - Technology / 10h
Artificial intelligence helps people identify what animals they are looking at and aids conservation.


10 Studio Ghibli Dubs We Love, Including The Boy and the Heron
Gizmodo / 11h
In defense of English dubs, no one does it better than Studio Ghibli . It’s not a matter of either-or; with the incredible global talents that span the original Japanese voices and the English casts, it just means we get more! Read more...


You can now access Apple’s official diagnostics tool online for DIY repairs
Ars Technica - All content / 11h
Enlarge / The iPhone 15 is part of Apple's self-repair program now. (credit: Samuel Axon) Apple today expanded the Self Service Repair program it launched in April to include access to Apple's diagnostics tool online and the iPhone 15 series and M2 Macs. The online tool, Apple said in today's announcement, provides "the same ability as Apple Authorized Service Providers and Independent Repair Pro


Effects of Falcon Heavy launch delay could ripple to downstream missions
Ars Technica - All content / 11h
A SpaceX Falcon Heavy rocket is seen outside the company's hangar at Kennedy Space Center, Florida. (credit: SpaceX) SpaceX and the US Space Force thought they were ready to launch the military's mysterious X-37B spaceplane this week, but ground teams in Florida need to roll the Falcon Heavy rocket back into its hangar for servicing. This is expected to push back the launch until at least late De


Trains were designed to break down after third-party repairs, hackers find
76Ars Technica - All content / 11h
Enlarge / Dragon Sector uploaded a video to social media after discovering an "undocumented ‘unlock code’ which you could enter from the train driver’s panel" fixed "mysterious issues" impacting trains in Poland. (credit: Adam Haertle on YouTube ) An unusual right-to-repair drama is disrupting railroad travel in Poland despite efforts by hackers who helped repair trains that allegedly were design


The 2024 Chevy Blazer EV RS first drive: A worthy but pricey all-electric SUV
TechCrunch / 11h
GM has introduced a smattering of EVs in the past two years: the GMC Hummer SUV and its companion pickup truck, the Cadillac Lyriq and the Silverado EV pickup truck. But so far, none of them have had the success of the cheaper, smaller Chevy Bolt, the wedge-like all-electric hatchback that debuted nearly eight years […] © 2023 TechCrunch. All rights reserved. For personal use only.


Asus Plans to Debut the 'Transcendent' ROG Phone 8 at CES 2024
Gizmodo / 11h
Unfortunately, I still have to lurk on X, formerly known as Twitter, to see when companies tease upcoming releases. As it turns out, Asus is still making its ROG—the Republic of Gamers—smartphone. It runs Android, and it will probably have some beefy innards. But all we know so far is that it’ll be revealed at CES… Read more...


Take These Three Steps After a Bad Performance Review at Work
LifeHacker / 11h
When you have a poor evaluation at work, it feels just terrible. It’s like getting in trouble at school—except everyone involved is an adult and the stakes are higher, since your job is tied to your financial security, health insurance, and sense of self. You might walk out of the meeting feeling totally disoriented, which is fine, but once you regain your footing, there are critical next steps y


You're Going to Want to Use Apple's New Stolen Device Protection Feature
LifeHacker / 11h
Privacy and security are a huge element of Apple's business model. When you buy an iPhone, Apple wants you to know that your iMessages are encrypted, Face ID is secure, and you have features to block trackers while browsing the web. While it's true that Apple has plenty of excellent features to keep your data safe and secure, they're far from perfect. Back in February, a Wall Street Journal inves


'The Iron Claw' review: A24's pro-wrestling biopic is gorgeous and evocative, but ultimately pulls its punches
23Mashable / 11h
With The Iron Claw, writer/director Sean Durkin not only brings to theaters the tragic story of one of pro wrestling's most famous families, but also Zac Efron's career-best work. Centering on the Von Erich wrestling dynasty and the "curse" said to have plagued them through the '70s and '80s, The Iron Claw follows four brothers who fought for their family legacy, yet suffered under the training o


Marriott Bonvoy and Singapore KrisFlyer launch elite status match offer
79The Points Guy / 11h
There’s major news from hotel mega-chain Marriott Bonvoy . Marriott has launched an intriguing status match offer with Singapore Airlines KrisFlyer , allowing Platinum Elite, Titanium Elite and Ambassador Elite members to unlock instant KrisFlyer Elite Silver status and a path to KrisFlyer Elite Gold, as flagged by One Mile at a Time . Meanwhile, Singapore Airlines PPS Club, Solitaire PPS Club an


Act now: Redeem Choice points for college basketball and hockey experiences with 14 schools
77The Points Guy / 11h
Attention, all college sports fans — it’s game time. Though you’ll usually get the most value from hotel points when you redeem them for hotel stays, Choice Privileges launched a non-stay way to redeem Choice points in late 2022 that can provide significant value for some travelers: college sports experiences. Starting Dec. 13, you can redeem Choice points for college basketball and hockey game d


Cruise leaders booted following initial safety probe into robotaxi incident
20TechCrunch / 12h
Nine Cruise managers and executives who worked in commercial operations, legal and policy department have left GM’s self-driving vehicle subsidiary following an initial internal analysis of the October 2 incident that left a pedestrian stuck under and then dragged by one of its robotaxis. The departures were shared with employees via an internal Slack message. […] © 2023 TechCrunch. All rights re


Possible Fraud In Southwest Airlines Flight Attendant Contract Vote, Union To Hold Vote Over
35View from the Wing / 12h
It turns out that the union no longer has confidence in the integrity of the ballot. They've discovered vulnerabilities that would have allowed the vote to be manipulated, and errors that may have failed to tally some votes. And they're going to hold the vote over. Continue reading ...


Paul King responds to internet snark over 'Wonka'
Mashable / 12h
The internet has been ripping into Wonka since it was first announced. Cries of dismay came over the very idea of an origin story prequel to 1971's classic Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory , which starred Gene Wilder in an iconic (and occasionally unnerving) turn as the titular chocolatier. Then came the first image of Timothée Chalamet in his top hat and velvet coat. His "Twonka" quickly ea


Hasbro's New X-Men '97 Figures Hail the Goblin Queen
Gizmodo / 12h
As we get closer and closer to the arrival of X-Men ‘97 , the rallying cry of “To me, my X-Men merchandise!” just gets louder and louder. Earlier this week we saw Lego get in on the X-mania with a new set , but now it’s Hasbro’s turn with its latest wave inspired by the cartoon series. Read more...


Delta SkyMiles Reserve Amex card review: Complimentary Sky Club access
The Points Guy / 12h
Editor’s note: This is a recurring post, regularly updated with new information and offers. Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card overview The Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card provides complimentary Sky Club access when flying on Delta, as well as the ability to earn elite status through spending on the card. It’s best suited for frequent flyers who want Delta-specific perks,


How Long an AirTag’s Battery Lasts (and How to Change It)
LifeHacker / 12h
Apple's AirTags are a useful device if you have a tendency to misplace things; the tool lets you track important things , such as luggage, keys, backpack, or even pets. Of course, any tracker is only as good as its battery: Once it loses power, it's useless. Can you check an AirTag's battery level? While an AirTags' battery life is pretty long, there's no clear way to check on its battery; you ca


Never Use Homeopathic Eye Drops, FDA Warns
LifeHacker / 12h
With all the eye drop recalls lately , it’s a good time to think about eye drop safety. The FDA recently issued some “consumer tips” that include never using certain types of eye drops–including anything labeled as homeopathic. We have a full breakdown of what not to use, and why, below. Why so many eye drops are problematic Our immune system does a great job of protecting our bodies from infecti


Why You Should Always Attend Your Home Inspection
LifeHacker / 12h
Whether you've just made an offer on a home or you're about to put yours on the market , a home inspection can provide you with invaluable information on the present condition of a home, as well as the potential problems that might arise in the future. And while the resulting report will likely include most , if not all , of the home's major issues and the repairs needed to fix them, reading thro


You Can Now Add USB Type-C to Your AirPods Pro
How-To Geek / 12h
The iPhone 15 and 15 Pro finally switched to USB Type-C, and Apple is slowly removing the older Lightning connector from the rest of its products. The AirPods Pro already recieved an upgrade with USB Type-C charging on the charging case, but if you already have second-generation AirPods Pro, you can now get a new case for slightly less money.


Feds Blast Tesla for Massive Autopilot Issue in 2 Million Cars
Futurism / 12h
Head Automatic Tesla is once again in trouble with the US government, and this time the Elon Musk-owned company is being forced to issue software patches for more than two million of its cars over an apparently major problem with its Autopilot feature. In a recall notice , the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) announced that 2,031,220 Teslas of various models potentially had


Finally, You Can Buy an Apple AirPods Pro USB-C Case Separately
Gizmodo / 12h
The rumors are true. If you need to replace or switch to a USB-C charging case for your Apple AirPods Pro, you will no longer have to spend $250 on a new pair. Apple is finally selling its new USB-C AirPods Pro USB-C charging cases separately for $99 (first spotted by The Verge ). Read more...


Southwest Airlines Flight Attendants Rejected A Contract. Or Did They? Union Will Hold A Re-Vote
36View from the Wing / 12h
It turns out that the union no longer has confidence in the integrity of the ballot. They've discovered vulnerabilities that would have allowed the vote to be manipulated, and errors that may have failed to tally some votes. And they're going to hold the vote over. Continue reading ...


YouTube Bug Causing Downgraded Video Quality for Some Firefox Users
How-To Geek / 12h
A small set of Firefox users may default to 240p streaming quality on YouTube. This is the result of an unintentional bug, and it only affects Firefox running on desktop ARM computers. Changing the Firefox user agent from AArch64 to x86_64 resolves the problem.


Humana also using AI tool with 90% error rate to deny care, lawsuit claims
70Ars Technica - All content / 12h
Enlarge / Signage is displayed outside the Humana Inc. office building in Louisville, Kentucky, US, in 2016. (credit: Getty | Luke Sharrett ) Humana, one the nation's largest health insurance providers, is allegedly using an artificial intelligence model with a 90 percent error rate to override doctors' medical judgment and wrongfully deny care to elderly people on the company's Medicare Advantag


SpaceX blasts FCC as it refuses to reinstate Starlink’s $886 million grant
23Ars Technica - All content / 12h
Enlarge / Starlink satellite dish. (credit: Getty Images | olegda88) SpaceX is furious at the Federal Communications Commission after the agency refused to reinstate an $886 million broadband grant that was tentatively awarded to Starlink during the previous administration. The FCC announced yesterday that it rejected SpaceX's appeal. "The FCC followed a careful legal, technical and policy review


United sale: Fly to Australia and New Zealand for 35,000 miles each way
63The Points Guy / 12h
For Dec. 13 only, United Airlines frequent flyers with a cobranded United credit card can save up to 35% off flights from the U.S. to two cities in Australia and two in New Zealand , starting at 35,000 United MileagePlus miles one-way. Though this deal is exclusively advertised for United cardholders, non-cardholders can book this deal for select routes starting at 42,200 miles one-way. Deal basi


Elon Musk Is Reportedly Launching a New University in Texas
100+Gizmodo / 12h
The legions of Elon Musk stans who have long dreamed of following in the unhinged billionaire’s footsteps will soon have an opportunity to learn directly from the master. Or, rather, they’ll have an opportunity to attend a university