All the News that Matters

• SUSE Linux Enterprise Kernel Important Update CVE-2022-50700 CVE-2022-50717
  An update that solves two vulnerabilities can now be installed.

• SUSE 2026 0698-1 Kernel Important Security Update for Live Patching 12 SP5
  An update that solves two vulnerabilities can now be installed.

• SUSE Linux 12 SP5 libsoup Important Update Denial of Service 2026-0703-1
  An update that solves six vulnerabilities can now be installed.

• SUSE Linux Enterprise 12 SP5 Kernel Important Live Patch 2026-0700-1
  An update that solves two vulnerabilities can now be installed.

• SUSE Linux 12 SP5 Kernel Important Fix for Buffer Overflows 2026-0707-1
  An update that solves two vulnerabilities can now be installed.

• SUSE Linux Enterprise 12 SP5 Kernel Critical Bounds Check CVE-2022-50717
  An update that solves one vulnerability can now be installed.

• Greg Kroah-Hartman Stretches Support Periods for Key Linux LTS Kernels
  Linux kernel maintainer Greg Kroah-Hartman has extended the support lifetimes of several long-term kernels, after consultations with major users and fellow maintainers.

• Rockchip RK3588 and RK3576 video decoder support lands in mainline Linux
  Collabora has announced that support for the VDPU381 and VDPU383 video decoder IP cores used in Rockchip’s RK3588 and RK3576 SoCs has been merged into the upstream Linux kernel. The update brings improved hardware decoding support for H.264 and HEVC to mainline Linux on these platforms. The VDPU381 decoder is found in the RK3588, while […]

• AerynOS Feb 2026 Snapshot Updates Desktops, MOSS Gets Faster
  AerynOS February 2026 snapshot updates COSMIC, GNOME, and KDE Plasma while significantly improving MOSS atomic update performance and tooling.

• Beginners Guide for Realpath Command on Linux
  In this article, you learn how to print the absolute path of a symbolic link, file, or directory using the realpath command on Linux.

• ESP32-P4-PC board from Olimex offers HDMI and MIPI support
  The ESP32-P4-PC is an embedded development board based on Espressif’s ESP32-P4 RISC-V processor. Developed by Olimex and measuring 90 x 60 mm, the board provides HDMI output, MIPI CSI and DSI interfaces, Ethernet, USB host ports, audio, storage, and expansion headers in a compact form factor. The design is built around the ESP32-P4NRW32 system-on-chip, which […]

• Linuxiac Weekly Wrap-Up: Week 9, 2026 (Feb 23 – Mar 1)
  Catch up on the latest Linux news: AerynOS Feb 2026 Snapshot, COSMIC 1.0.8, KDE Plasma 6.6.1, Firefox 148, Hypeland 0.54, Wine 11.3, Linux kernel LTS support extended for multiple releases, and more.

• Linux 7.0-rc2 Released: "So I'm Not Super-Happy With How Big This Is"
  The second weekly release candidate of Linux 7.0 is now available for testing...

• The March 2026 Issue of the PCLinuxOS Magazine
  The PCLinuxOS Magazine staff is pleased to announce the release of the March 2026 issue.

• Arch Linux March ISO Is Out With Kernel, Desktop, and Security Updates
  Arch Linux has released its updated March 2026 installation ISO, bringing a new kernel, refreshed system libraries, desktop updates, and security fixes.

• ASUS Linux HID Driver Preparing To See Support For Newer Devices
  There's been a recent lull in activity around the open-source Linux driver for ASUS devices with the HID interface used for supporting various features. But developer Denis Benato who has worked on the ASUS Armoury Linux driver and the like is working on advancing the ASUS HID driver for Linux systems...

• LILYGO Unveils RISC-V ESP32-P4 T-Halow Board and ESP32-S3 E-Paper S3 Pro Lite
  LILYGO has released two new ESP32-based products: the T-Halow P4, a compact development board built around Espressif’s ESP32-P4 RISC-V SoC with integrated Wi-Fi HaLow support, and the T5 E-Paper S3 Pro Lite, a 4.7-inch ESP32-S3 e-paper device positioned as a simplified version of the Pro model introduced in 2024. The T-Halow P4 is built around […]

• GNU Hurd On Guix Is Ready With 64-bit Support, SMP Multi-Processor Support "Soon"
  After hearing last month that GNU Hurd is "almost there" with x86_64 support, it was exciting to kickoff today by seeing a developer headline "The 64-bit Hurd is Here!" GNU Hurd 64-bit support is now said to be ready but SMP support for multiple processor cores and the like remain still in development...

• AerynOS 2026.02 Released with GNOME 49.4, KDE Plasma 6.6, and COSMIC 1.0.8
  The AerynOS project released today a new ISO snapshot of this independent GNU/Linux distribution, AerynOS 2026.02, which brings various package updates and improvements.

• Linux 7.1 Expected To See Nice Improvements For Reducing HRTICK Timer Overhead
  A big set of kernel patches look like they will be submitted for the Linux 7.1 kernel cycle this spring to optimize the scheduler HRTICK timer and in turn allowing it to be enabled by default...

• GNU Hurd Finally Runs on x86_64 With New 64-Bit Port
  GNU Hurd now supports x86_64 through GNU Guix, marking its first official move beyond 32-bit architecture after decades of development.

• OpenClaw, but in containers: Meet NanoClaw
  A smaller, security-conscious take on the viral AI agent platformInterview Ideally, you shouldn't have to defend yourself against your own AI agent. But we don't live in an ideal world and an unrestrained agent can cause a ton of damage.…

• Intel's Clear Linux Website No Longer Online
  Last July Intel sadly ended their Clear Linux distribution amid cost-cutting measures at the company. Clear Linux for a decade served at the forefront of Linux performance innovations and was consistently the fastest out-of-the-box Linux x86_64 distribution until Intel ended the Linux distribution without any advanced notice for its users. Intel had kept up the ClearLinux.org website online to download the final releases and access other technical content and forum discussions, etc. Sadly, that too was recently taken offline...

• Hyprland 0.54 Released As A "Massive" Update To This Wayland Compositor
  Hyprland 0.54 was released today as what's described as a "a massive update with no understatement" to this Wayland compositor...

• Slackware-Based PorteuX 2.6 Released with Linux 6.19, TLP Support, and More
  PorteuX 2.6 has been released today as the latest snapshot of this Slackware-based distribution inspired by Slax and Porteus and designed to be super fast, small, portable, modular, and immutable.

• FreeBSD 14.4-RC1 Adds Emacs, Vim & More To DVD Images
  For those on the current FreeBSD 14 series with no immediate plans to move to FreeBSD 15 that debuted at the end of 2025, FreeBSD developers have been preparing for the release of FreeBSD 14.4. Released overnight was the first release candidate of FreeBSD 14.4...

• Japan To Ban In-Flight Use of Power Banks
  Japan will effectively ban the in-flight use of power banks starting in mid-April after a "recent series of alarming incidents," reports the Asahi Shimbun. From the report: Currently, mobile batteries in Japan are classified as "spare batteries" and are prohibited in checked luggage. For carry-on bags, those exceeding 160 watt-hours are banned, while passengers are limited to two units for those over 100 watt-hours. There is no quantity limit for batteries of 100 watt-hours or less. The new rule will limit passengers to a total of two spare batteries, including power banks. While there is no limit on the number of spare batteries below 100 watt-hours, carrying power banks exceeding 160 watt-hours will remain prohibited. Power banks will be capped at two units regardless of power capacity. Additionally, charging them on board will be prohibited, and it will be "recommended" that passengers not use them at all. As a result, domestic airlines are expected to require passengers to stop using power banks, cementing the effective ban on in-flight use.
  
  
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• What's Driving the SaaSpocalypse
  An anonymous reader quotes a report from TechCrunch: One day not long ago, a founder texted his investor with an update: he was replacing his entire customer service team with Claude Code, an AI tool that can write and deploy software on its own. To Lex Zhao, an investor at One Way Ventures, the message indicated something bigger -- the moment when companies like Salesforce stopped being the automatic default. "The barriers to entry for creating software are so low now thanks to coding agents, that the build versus buy decision is shifting toward build in so many cases," Zhao told TechCrunch. The build versus buy shift is only part of the problem. The whole idea of using AI agents instead of people to perform work throws into question the SaaS business model itself. SaaS companies currently price their software per seat -- meaning by how many employees log in to use it. "SaaS has long been regarded as one of the most attractive business models due to its highly predictable recurring revenue, immense scalability, and 70-90% gross margins," Abdul Abdirahman, an investor at the venture firm F-Prime, told TechCrunch. When one, or a handful, of AI agents can do that work -- when employees simply ask their AI of choice to pull the data from the system -- that per-seat model starts to break down. The rapid pace of AI development also means that new tools, like Claude Code or OpenAI's Codex, can replicate not just the core functions of SaaS products but also the add-on tools a SaaS vendor would sell to grow revenue from existing customers. On top of that, customers now have the ultimate contract negotiation tool in their pockets: If they don't like a SaaS vendor's prices, they can, more easily than ever before, build their own alternative. "Even if they do not take the build route, this creates downward pressure on contracts that SaaS vendors can secure during renewals," Abdirahman continued. We saw this as early as late 2024, when Klarna announced that it had ditched Salesforce's flagship CRM product in favor of its own homegrown AI system. The realization that a growing number of other companies can do the same is spooking public markets, where the stock prices of SaaS giants like Salesforce and Workday have been sliding. In early February, an investor sell-off wiped nearly $1 trillion in market value from software and services stocks, followed by another billion later in the month. Experts are calling it the SaaSpocalypse, with one analyst dubbing it FOBO investing -- or fear of becoming obsolete. Yet the venture investors TechCrunch spoke with believe such fears are only temporary. "This isn't the death of SaaS," Aaron Holiday, a managing partner at 645 Ventures, told TechCrunch. Rather, it's the beginning of an old snake shedding its skin, he said.
  
  
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• Stack Overflow Adds New Features (Including AI Assist), Rethinks 'Look and Feel'
  "At its peak in early 2014, Stack Overflow received more than 200,000 questions per month," notes the site DevClass.com. But in December they'd just 3,862 questions were asked — a 78 percent drop from the previous year. But Stack Overflow's blog announced a beta of "a redesigned Stack Overflow" this week, noting that at July's WeAreDevelopers conference they'd "committed to pushing ourselves to experiment and evolve..."Over the past year, on the public platform, we introduced new features, including AI Assist, support for open-ended questions, enhancements to Chat, launched Coding Challenges, created an MCP server [granted limited access to AI agents and tools], expanded access to voting and comments, and more. However, these launches are not standalone features. We have also been rethinking our look and feel, how people engage with Stack Overflow, and how content is created and shared. These new features, along with the redesign, represent how we are bringing Stack Overflow's new vision to life and delivering value that developers cannot find elsewhere. Our goal is to build the space for every technical conversation, centered on real human-to-human connection and powered by AI when it helps most. To support this, we are introducing a redesigned Stack Overflow to best reflect this direction... During the beta period, users can visit the beta site at beta.stackoverflow.com and share feedback as we build towards a new experience on Stack Overflow. They've updated their library of reusable UI components (buttons, forms, etc.), and are promising "More ways to share knowledge and ask any technical question." ("Alongside looking for the single right answer to your question, you can now find and share experience-based insights and peer recommendations...") They're launching all the planned features and functionality in April, when "More users will automatically redirect to the new site." (Starting in April users "can continue to toggle back to the classic site for a limited time.")
  
  
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• Does a New Theory Finally Explain the Mysteries of the Planet Saturn?
  "Saturn and some of its 274 moons are pretty weird," writes Smithsonian magazine:[Saturn moon] Titan has strangely few impact craters, Hyperion is tiny and misshapen, and Iapetus has a tilted orbit. What's more, planets tend to wobble along their rotational axes as they spin, like an off-kilter spinning top in the moments before it topples over. Formally called precession, scientists have long thought that Saturn's wobble rate should match Neptune's because they're probably gravitationally linked. However, data from NASA's Cassini spacecraft, which studied the ringed planet from 2004 to 2017, revealed that Saturn's precession rate is slightly speedier than Neptune's. In 2022, some researchers suggested that the destruction of a hypothetical moon, called Chrysalis, around 160 million years ago may have knocked Saturn out of sync and formed the pieces that became the planet's rings. But this work implied that Chrysalis probably would've crashed into Titan, posing a major problem, study co-author Matija Äuk, an astronomer at the SETI Institute, tells New Scientist's Leah Crane. In that case, Chrysalis' debris couldn't have become the rings, he says. So, Äuk and his colleagues used computer simulations to investigate what would happen if Chrysalis did smack into Titan. If that happened around 400 million years ago, they found, the crash would've wiped away Titan's craters and made its orbit more elliptical. The altered path may have slowly pushed the trajectories of other moons, which then scraped against one another and left chunks of ice and rock that now make up Saturn's rings. The timing seems to align with the rings' estimated age of roughly 100 million years. Additionally, one piece of kicked-up debris may have formed the weird moon Hyperion, which may have subsequently tilted the orbit of the moon Iapetus, according to the analysis. The scenario could also resolve Saturn's unexpected wobble, which is currently "a little bit too fast," Äuk tells Jacopo Prisco at CNN. The study has been accepted for publication in the Planetary Science Journal, and is already available on the preprint server arXiv.
  
  
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• Lenovo Unveils an Attachable AI Agent 'Companion' for Their Laptops
  As the Mobile World Conference begins in Spain, Lenovo brought a new attachable accessory for their laptops — an AI agent. CNET reports:The little circular module perches on the top of your Lenovo laptop display, attached via the magnetic Magic Bay on the rear. The module is home to an adorable animated companion called Tiko, who you can interact with via text or voice... [I]t can start and stop your music, open a web page for you or answer a question. You can also interact with it by using emoji. Give it a book emoji, for example, and it will pop on its glasses and sit reading with you while you work... The company wants to sell the Magic Bay accessory later this year — although it doesn't know exactly when, or how much it will cost. It even comes with a timer (for working in Pomodoro-style intervals) — but Lenovo has also created another "concept" AI companion that CNET describes as "a kind of stationary tabletop robot, not dissimilar to the Pixar lamp, but with an orb for a head."With a combination of cameras, microphones and projectors, the AI Workmate can undertake a variety of tasks, including helping you generate and display presentations or turn your written work or art into a digital asset... It's robotic head swivelled around and projected the slides onto the wall next to me. Lenovo created a video to show this "next-generation AI work companion" — with animated eyes — "designed to transform how modern professionals interact with their workspace." It bridges the physical and digital worlds — capturing handwritten notes, recognizing gestures, summarizing tasks, and proactively helping you stay ahead of your day. The moment you sit down, Lenovo AI Workmate greets you, surfaces priority tasks, and keeps your work organized without switching apps or losing context. From turning sketches into presentations to projecting information for instant collaboration, [it] brings on-device AI intelligence directly to your desk — secure, responsive, and always ready... It's not just software. It's a smarter way to work. It looks like Lenovo once considered naming it "AI Sphere" (since that name still appears in its description on YouTube). Lenovo also showed another "concept" laptop idea that PC Magazine called "futuristic":The ThinkBook Modular AI PC looks like a traditional laptop at first glance, but a second, removable screen fastens onto the lid. You can swap that screen onto the keyboard deck (in place of the keyboard, which can then be used wirelessly), or use it alongside the laptop as a portable monitor, attached via an included cable.... While Lenovo is still working on this device, and it's very much in the concept phase, it feels like one of its best-thought-out prototypes, one likely to make it to store shelves at some point. Another "concept" laptop is Lenovo's Yoga Book Pro 3D Concept, ofering directional backlight and eye-tracking technology for the illusion of 3D (playing slightly different images to each of your eyes). It offers gesture control for 3D models, two OLED displays, and some magical "snap-on pads" which, when laid on the display — make the GUI appear on the screen for a new control menu to "provide quick-access shortcuts for adjusting lighting, viewing angle, and tone".
  
  
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• Does a Gas-Guzzler Revival Risk Dead-End Futures for US Automakers?
  If U.S. automakers turn their backs on electric vehicles, "their sales outside the U.S. will shrivel," warns Bloomberg. [Alternate URL.]They're already falling behind on the technology, relying on a 100% U.S. tariff on Chinese EVs to keep surging rivals like BYD Co. at bay.... While the American automakers "mostly understand the challenge in front of them, they don't have full plans" to confront it [said Mark Wakefield, head of the global automotive practice at consultant AlixPartners]... "Now is a great time for the V-8 engine," said Ryan Shaughnessy, the Mustang's brand manager. "We've done extensive customer research in multiple cities, looking at a variety of powertrains, and the V-8 is always the number-one choice." It isn't just customers. U.S. automakers have long been run by "car guys:" enthusiasts who live for the bone-shaking rumble of a big engine. For them, quiet and smooth EVs — even the absurdly fast ones — can't satisfy that craving. They're convinced many American car buyers share the same enthusiasm for what Shaughnessy described as "the sound and roar of the V-8." Wall Street couldn't be happier with the new direction... Ford's fortunes are also on the rise, as it's predicting operating profits could grow by as much as 47% this year to $10 billion. Ford's stock has risen nearly 50% over the last 12 months. Under the previous environmental rules, automakers effectively had to sell zero-emission vehicles in growing numbers to offset their gas-guzzlers. When they fell short, they had to buy regulatory credits from EV companies such as Tesla Inc. or face penalties. GM spent $3.5 billion on credits from 2022 to the middle of 2025. Now, according to JPMorgan Chase & Co. analyst Ryan Brinkman, GM and Ford each have "billion dollar tailwinds"... [T]he hangover from all that new horsepower could leave US automakers lagging their Chinese rivals who already build the world's most advanced — and lowest priced — electric cars. Indeed, there is much talk in Detroit about the competitive tsunami that will be unleashed on American automakers once Chinese car companies find a way to break through trade barriers now protecting the US market. [Ford Chief Executive Officer Jim] Farley even calls it an "existential threat"... "They're going to build as many V-8 engines and big trucks as they can get out the factory doors," said Sam Fiorani, vice president of vehicle forecasting for consultant Auto Forecast Solutions. "And as the rest of the world develops modern drivetrains, newer batteries and better electric vehicles, GM and Ford in particular are going to find themselves falling even further behind." The article notes GM "continues to develop battery-powered vehicles, and CEO Mary Barra said the automaker would begin offering a 'handful' of hybrids soon," while Ford and Stellantis "have plans to launch extended-range electric vehicles, or EREVs, a new kind of plug-in hybrid with an internal combustion engine that recharges the battery as the vehicle drives down the road." But while automakers may be investing in future EV vehicles, they're also "leaning into the lucre that comes from selling millions of fossil-fuel vehicles in a rare moment of loosened regulation."
  
  
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• Norway's Consumer Council Calls for Right to Repair and Antitrust Enforcement - and Mocks 'Enshittification'
  The Norwegian Consumer Council, a government funded organization advocating for consumer's rights, released a report on the trend of "enshittification" in digital consumer goods and services, suggesting ways consumers for consumers to resist. But they've also dramatized the problem with a funny four-minute video about the man whose calls for him to make things shitty for people. "It's not just your imagination. Digital services are getting worse," the video concludes — before adding that "Luckily, it doesn't have to be this way." The Consumer Council's announcement recommends: Stronger rights for consumers to control, adapt, repair, and alter their products and services, Interoperability, data portability, and decentralisation as the norm, so the threshold for moving to different services becomes as low as possible, Deterrent and vigorous enforcement of competition law, so that Big Tech companies are not allowed to indiscriminately acquire start-ups, competitors or otherwise steer the market to their advantage, Better financing of initiatives to build, maintain or improve alternative digital services and infrastructure based on open source code and open protocols, Reduce public sector dependence on big tech, to regain control and to contribute to a functioning market for service providers that respect fundamental rights, Deterrent and consistent enforcement of other laws, including consumer and data protection law. The Norwegian Consumer Council is also joining 58 organisations and experts in a letter asking the Norwegian government to rebalance power with enforcement resources and by prioritizing the procurement of services based on open source code. And "Our sister organisations are sending similar letters to their own governments in 12 countries." They're also sending a second letter to the European Commission with 29 civil society organisations (including the EFF and Amnesty International) warning about the risks of deregulation and calling for reducing dependency on big tech. Thanks to Slashdot reader DeanonymizedCoward for sharing the news.
  
  
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• AIs Can't Stop Recommending Nuclear Strikes In War Game Simulations
  "Advanced AI models appear willing to deploy nuclear weapons without the same reservations humans have when put into simulated geopolitical crises," reports New Scientist:Kenneth Payne at King's College London set three leading large language models — GPT-5.2, Claude Sonnet 4 and Gemini 3 Flash — against each other in simulated war games. The scenarios involved intense international standoffs, including border disputes, competition for scarce resources and existential threats to regime survival.The AIs were given an escalation ladder, allowing them to choose actions ranging from diplomatic protests and complete surrender to full strategic nuclear war... In 95 per cent of the simulated games, at least one tactical nuclear weapon was deployed by the AI models. "The nuclear taboo doesn't seem to be as powerful for machines [as] for humans," says Payne.What's more, no model ever chose to fully accommodate an opponent or surrender, regardless of how badly they were losing. At best, the models opted to temporarily reduce their level of violence. They also made mistakes in the fog of war: accidents happened in 86 per cent of the conflicts, with an action escalating higher than the AI intended to, based on its reasoning... OpenAI, Anthropic and Google, the companies behind the three AI models used in this study, didn't respond to New Scientist's request for comment. The article includes this comment from Tong Zhao, a senior fellow in the Nuclear Policy Program at the Carnegie Endowment for Peace think tank. "It is possible the issue goes beyond the absence of emotion. More fundamentally, AI models may not understand 'stakes' as humans perceive them." Thanks to long-time Slashdot reader Tufriast for sharing the article.
  
  
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• Chronic Ocean Heating Fuels 'Staggering' Loss of Marine Life, Study Finds
  Slashdot reader JustAnotherOldGuy shared this report from the Guardian:Chronic ocean heating is fuelling a "staggering and deeply concerning" loss of marine life, a study has found, with fish levels falling by 7.2% from as little as 0.1C of warming per decade. Researchers examined the year-to-year change of 33,000 populations in the northern hemisphere between 1993 and 2021, and isolated the effect of the decadal rate of seabed warming from short shifts such as marine heatwaves. They found the drop in biomass from chronic heating to be as high as 19.8% in a single year. "To put it simply, the faster the ocean floor warms, the faster we lose fish," said Shahar Chaikin, a marine ecologist at the National Museum of Natural Sciences in Spain and the study's lead author. "A 7.2% decline for every tenth of a degree per decade might sound small," he added. "But compounded over time, across entire ocean basins, it represents a staggering and deeply concerning loss of marine life."
  
  
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• Anthropic's Claude Passes ChatGPT, Now #1, on Apple's 'Top Apps' Chart After Pentagon Controversy
  "Anthropic may have lost out on doing business with the US government," reports Engadget, "but it's gained enough popularity to earn the number one spot on the App Store's Top Free Apps leaderboard." Anthropic's Claude AI assistant had already leaped to the #2 slot on Apple's chart by late Friday," CNBC reported Saturday:The rise in popularity suggests that Anthropic is benefiting from its presence in news headlines, stemming from its refusal to have its models used for mass domestic surveillance or for fully autonomous weapons... OpenAI's ChatGPT sat at No. 1 on the App Store rankings on Saturday, while Google's Gemini was at No. 3... On Jan. 30, [Claude] was ranked No. 131 in the U.S., and it bounced between the top 20 and the top 50 for much of February, according to data from analytics company Sensor Tower... [And Friday night, for 85.3 million followers] pop singer Katy Perry posted a screenshot of Anthropic's Pro subscription for consumers, with a heart superimposed over it. Sunday Engadget reported Anthropic's "very public spat" with the Pentagon "led to a wave of user support that finally allowed Claude to dethrone OpenAI's ChatGPT on the App Store as the most downloaded free app." .Friday Anthropic posted "We are deeply grateful to our users, and to the industry peers, policymakers, veterans, and members of the public who have voiced their support in recent days. Thank you. "
  
  
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• America Used Anthropic's AI for Its Attack On Iran, One Day After Banning It
  Engadget reports:In a lengthy post on Truth Social on February 27, President Trump ordered all federal agencies to "immediately cease all use of Anthropic's technology" following strong disagreements between the Department of Defense and the AI company. A few hours later, the U.S. conducted a major air attack on Iran with the help of Anthropic's AI tools, according to a report from The Wall Street Journal. Even Trump's post noted there would be a six-month phase-out for Anthropic's technology (adding that Anthropic "better get their act together, and be helpful during this phase out period, or I will use the Full Power of the Presidency to make them comply, with major civil and criminal consequences to follow.") Anthropic's Claude technology was also used by the U.S. military less than two months ago in its operation in Venezuela — reportedly making them the first AI developer known to be used in a classified U.S. War Department operation. The Wall Street Journal reported Anthropic's technology found its way into the mission through Anthropic's contract with Palintir.
  
  
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• Americans Listen to Podcasts More Than Talk Radio Now, Study Shows
  "Podcasts have officially overtaken AM/FM talk radio as the more popular medium for spoken-word audio in the United States," reports TechCrunch, citing Edison Research's Share of Ear survey:The researchers have tracked these statistics over the last decade, and almost always, the percentage of time people spent listening to podcasts increased, while their time with spoken radio broadcasts decreased. For the first time this year, podcasts eclipsed spoken-word radio with 40% of listening time, as opposed to 39% for radio... We checked with Edison to see if these statistics include video podcasts, and they do. But the need to clarify that question points to the undeniable growing prevalence of video podcasts, hosted on platforms like Spotify and YouTube, which marks another key trend in podcasting... YouTube said that viewers watched 700 million hours of podcasts each month in 2025 on living room devices, like TVs, up from 400 million the previous year.
  
  
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• North America's Bird Populations Are Shrinking Faster. Blame Climate Change and Agriculture
  "Billions fewer birds are flying through North American skies than decades ago," reports the Associated Press, "and their population is shrinking ever faster, mostly due to a combination of intensive agriculture and warming temperatures, a new study found."Nearly half of the 261 species studied showed big enough losses in numbers to be statistically significant and more than half of those declining are seeing their losses accelerate since 1987, according to Thursday's journal Science... The only consolation is that the birds that are shrinking in numbers the fastest are species — such as the European starling, American crow, grackle and house sparrow — with large enough populations that they aren't yet at risk of going extinct, said study lead author Francois Leroy, also an Ohio State ecologist... When it came to population declines — not the acceleration — the scientists noticed bigger losses further south. When they did a deeper analysis they statistically connected those losses to warmer temperatures from human-caused climate change. "In regions where temperatures increase the most, we are seeing strongest declines in populations," [said study co-author Marta Jarzyna, an ecologist at Ohio State University]. "On the other hand, the acceleration of those declines, that's mostly driven by agricultural practices." The scientists found statistical correlations between speeded-up decline rates and high fertilizer use, high pesticide use and amount of cropland, Leroy said. He said they couldn't say any of those caused the acceleration of losses, but it indicates agriculture in general is a factor. "The stronger the agriculture, the faster we will lose birds," said Leroy... McGill University wildlife biologist David Bird, who wasn't part of the study, said it was done well and that its conclusions made sense. With a growing human population, agriculture practices are intensified, more bird habitats are being converted to cropland, modern machinery often grind up nests and eggs and single crop plantings offer less possibilities for birds to find food and nests, said Bird, the editor of Birds of Canada. "The biggest impact of agricultural intensity though is our war on insects. Numerous recent studies have shown that insect populations in many places throughout the world, including the U.S., have crashed by well over 40 percent," Bird said in an email. "Many of the birds in this new study showing population declines depend heavily on insects for food." A 2019 study of the same bird species by Cornell University conservation scientist Kenneth Rosenberg also found that North America had 3 billion fewer birds than in 1970, the article points out.
  
  
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• Collabora Clashes With LibreOffice Over Move To Revive LibreOffice Online
  Slashdot reader darwinmac writes: The Document Foundation (TDF), the organization behind LibreOffice, has decided to bring back its LibreOffice Online project which been inactive since 2022. Collabora, a company that was a major contributor to the original LibreOffice Online, is not pleased with this development. After the original project went dormant, Collabora forked the code and created its own product, Collabora Online. Collaboras Michael Meeks, who also sits on the TDF board, reacted to the TDFs decision by saying that a fully supported, free online version already exists in the form of Collabora Online, and that resurrecting a dead repository makes little sense when an active, open community around the online suite already exists. For now, The Document Foundation plans to reopen the old repository for new contributions. The organization has issued a warning that the code is not ready for live deployment and users should wait until the development team confirms it is stable.
  
  
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• Galileo's Handwritten Notes Discovered in a Medieval Astronomy Text
  In a library in Florence, Italy, historian Ivan Malara noticed handwritten notes on a book printed in the 1500s — and recognized the handwriting as Galileo's. The finding "promises new insights into one of the most famous ideological transitions in the history of science," writes Science magazine — since the book Galileo annotated was a reprint of Ptolemy's second-century work arguing that the earth was the center of the universe.Galileo's notes, perhaps written around 1590, or roughly 2 decades before his groundbreaking telescope observations of the Moon and Jupiter, reveal someone who both revered and critically dissected Ptolemy's work. And they imply, Malara argues, that Galileo ultimately broke with Ptolemy's cosmos because his mastery of the traditional paradigm's reasoning convinced him that a heliocentric [sun-centered] system would better fulfill Ptolemy's own mathematical logic.
  
  
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• Celebrating the Second Year of Linux Man-Pages Maintenance Sponsorship
  Sustaining a Core Part of the Linux Ecosystem The Linux Foundation has announced a second year of sponsorship for the ongoing maintenance of the Linux manual pages (man-pages) project, led by Alejandro (Alex) Colomar. This critical initiative is made possible through the continued support of Google, Hudson River Trading, and Meta, who have renewed their [0]
  
  The post Celebrating the Second Year of Linux Man-Pages Maintenance Sponsorship appeared first on Linux.com.
  

• Disaggregated Routing with SONiC and VPP: Lab Demo and Performance Insights  Part Two
  In Part One of this series, we examined how the SONiC control plane and the VPP data plane form a cohesive, software-defined routing stack through the Switch Abstraction Interface.` We outlined how SONiC’s Redis-based orchestration and VPP’s user-space packet engine come together to create a high-performance, open router architecture. In this second part, we’ll turn [0]
  
  The post Disaggregated Routing with SONiC and VPP: Lab Demo and Performance Insights  Part Two appeared first on Linux.com.
  

• Disaggregated Routing with SONiC and VPP: Architecture and Integration  Part One
  The networking industry is undergoing a fundamental architectural transformation, driven by the relentless demands of cloud-scale data centers and the rise of software-defined infrastructure. At the heart of this evolution is the principle of disaggregation: the systematic unbundling of components that were once tightly integrated within proprietary, monolithic systems.` This movement began with the separation [0]
  
  The post Disaggregated Routing with SONiC and VPP: Architecture and Integration  Part One appeared first on Linux.com.
  

• Kubernetes on Bare Metal for Maximum Performance
  When teams consider deploying Kubernetes, one of the first questions that arises is: where should it run? The default answer is often the public cloud, thanks to its flexibility and ease of use. However, a growing number of organizations are revisiting the advantages of running Kubernetes directly on bare metal servers. For workloads that demand [0]
  
  The post Kubernetes on Bare Metal for Maximum Performance appeared first on Linux.com.
  

• How to Deploy Lightweight Language Models on Embedded Linux with LiteLLM
  This article was contributed by Vedrana Vidulin, Head of Responsible AI Unit at Intellias (LinkedIn). As AI becomes central to smart devices, embedded systems, and edge computing, the ability to run language models locally — without relying on the cloud — is essential. Whether its for reducing latency, improving data privacy, or enabling offline functionality, local AI [0]
  
  The post How to Deploy Lightweight Language Models on Embedded Linux with LiteLLM appeared first on Linux.com.
  

• Automating Compliance Management with UTMStacks Open Source SIEM 8 XDR
  Achieving and maintaining compliance with regulatory frameworks can be challenging for many organizations. Managing security controls manually often leads to excessive use of time and resources, leaving less available for strategic initiatives and business growth. Standards such as CMMC, HIPAA, PCI DSS, SOC2 and GDPR demand ongoing monitoring, detailed documentation, and rigorous evidence collection. Solutions [0]
  
  The post Automating Compliance Management with UTMStacks Open Source SIEM & XDR appeared first on Linux.com.
  

• A Simple Way to Install Talos Linux on Any Machine, with Any Provider
  Talos Linux is a specialized operating system designed for running Kubernetes. First and foremost it handles full lifecycle management for Kubernetes control-plane components. On the other hand, Talos Linux focuses on security, minimizing the user’s ability to influence the system. A distinctive feature of this OS is the near-complete absence of executables, including the absence [0]
  
  The post A Simple Way to Install Talos Linux on Any Machine, with Any Provider appeared first on Linux.com.
  

• Using OpenTelemetry and the OTel Collector for Logs, Metrics, and Traces
  OpenTelemetry (fondly known as OTel) is an open-source project that provides a unified set of APIs, libraries, agents, and instrumentation to capture and export logs, metrics, and traces from applications. The project’s goal is to standardize observability across various services and applications, enabling better monitoring and troubleshooting. Read More at Causely
  
  The post Using OpenTelemetry and the OTel Collector for Logs, Metrics, and Traces appeared first on Linux.com.
  

• Project Tazama, A Project Hosted by LF Charities With Support From the Gates Foundation, Receives Digital Public Good Designation.
  Exciting news! The Tazama project is officially a Digital Public Good having met the criteria to be accepted to the Digital Public Goods Alliance ! Tazama is a groundbreaking open source software solution for real-time fraud prevention, and offers the first-ever open source platform dedicated to enhancing fraud management in digital payments. Historically, the financial [0]
  
  The post Project Tazama, A Project Hosted by LF Charities With Support From the Gates Foundation, Receives Digital Public Good Designation. appeared first on Linux.com.
  

• Xen 4.19 is released
  Xen Project 4.19 has been officially out since July 31st, 2024, and it brings significant updates. With enhancements in performance, security, and versatility across various architectures like Arm, PPC, RISC-V, and x86, this release is an important milestone for the Xen community. Read more at XCP-ng Blog
  
  The post Xen 4.19 is released appeared first on Linux.com.
  

Engadget"Engadget is a web magazine with obsessive daily coverage of everything new in gadgets and consumer electronics"

• What to expect at Apple's product launch event on March 4
  Apple has scheduled a product launch event, dubbed an "Apple Experience", for March 4 at 9AM ET. The company is reportedly holding this event in NYC, London and Shanghai.
  
  Everyone loves shiny new products, so what can we expect to see at Apple9s first launch event of 2026? We don9t know anything for certain, but we have plenty of educated guesses that have been sourced from industry reports and speculation from analysts.
  
  Editor9s Note (on March 2 at 9:45AM ET): Apple has officially announced reported on this all the way back in November. Industry rumors indicate that Apple will be stuffing this laptop with an iPhone processor, the A18 Pro, to keep the price down.
  Worth pointing out the three colors from the invite are light green, blue and yellow -- which just so happen to be the colors Apple has tested the low-cost MacBook with, as I wrote yesterday. Coincidence? We shall see. https://t.co/1FFVkfw9JZ pic.twitter.com/ssKDDzdJsw
  — Mark Gurman (@markgurman) February 16, 2026
  It9s also been suggested that this laptop will only include 8GB of RAM, which kind of flies against the company9s recent stance to outfit all Macs with at least 16GB of RAM. However, that would certainly help with the cost. You might have heard about a little thing called AI that chomp chomps on all RAM it can find.
  
  TechRadar has reported that this could be Apple9s biggest laptop launch in years, with potential initial shipments hitting 8 million units. The price is likely to be somewhere in the $699 to $799 range, which is pretty nifty. However, I9d still go for an Air at $999. They are absolute workhorses.
  MacBook Pro with M5 Pro and Max chips
  It9s likely that Apple will release more powerful MacBook Pro models this year and the timing seems to match up. Bloomberg9s Mark Gurman has suggested a March launch and the event is on March 4.
  
  The company has already released a MacBook Pro with an M5 chip, but both the M5 Pro and Max are likely on the horizon. We could be getting new laptops outfitted with these chips in various display sizes.
  Devindra Hardawar for Engadget
  There have also been reports that both of the higher-end M5 chips are getting a redesign to help improve heat dissipation and reduce defective chip rates. Additionally, the new chiplet design would allow the M5 Pro and Max to raise the total number of CPU and GPU cores. The Max is expected to have more cores than the Pro.
  
  This idea is helped along by the fact that MacBook Pro M4 Max orders are currently delayed. This is typically the case with an outgoing model as stock dries up to make room for new releases. Also, the Pro and Max variants typically get announced in the Fall, so we are due. 
  New iPads
  Rumors have been circulating that we are about to get new iPads, including an update to the base model and the Air. The standard model, which would be the 12th-gen release, is expected to upgrade the A16 chip to an A18. This should also allow for the integration of Apple Intelligence tools, if that9s your bag.
  Nathan Ingraham for Engadget
  As for that iPad Air, rumors suggest an upgrade to the M4 chip from the M3. An extremely light tablet with an M4 would be fairly notable in my estimation, as only the newest iPad Pro has that chip.
  iPhone 17e
  It was almost exactly a year ago that Apple announced the iPhone 16e, so you know what that means. It9s time for a refresh. Recent reports have suggested that an announcement regarding the iPhone 17e is imminent, so this launch event seems like as good a place as any to reveal the latest "budget-friendly" smartphone.
  
  As for specs, Mark Gurman has suggested that it9ll be getting an upgrade to the A19 chip, which is nice. Also, it could be getting MagSafe support. That sounds like an iterative upgrade, but the price is expected to remain steady at $599.
  Other Possibilities
  The following stuff is less likely, though certainly possible. There have been rumors that Apple is currently preparing a revamped Studio Display and Mac Studio desktop. The reports suggest a release sometime in the first half of the year, and March is right in the middle of that timeframe.
  
  It9s also possible that the company will reveal an upgrade to the MacBook Air with the M5 chip. Reports indicate that this is unlikely to happen during this event, but it is worth noting that the M4 Air came out in March of last year. In other words, it9s a toss up.
  The inclusion of Shanghai essentially rules out Siri, as expected, given the delays. https://t.co/mgNLR4qCYy
  — Mark Gurman (@markgurman) February 16, 2026
  What9s not a toss up? You shouldn9t expect anything regarding the long-anticipated Siri refresh. This looks to be a hardware event, so any software updates will likely have to wait until WWDC this summer. In any event, Engadget will be on hand to report on all of Apple9s new products. 
  
  Update, March 2 2026, 9:45AM ET: This story has been updated to add an Editor9s Note with the latest news from Apple this week.
  This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/computing/what-to-expect-at-apples-product-launch-event-on-march-4-173612816.html?src=rss

• The Samsung Wallet can now hold your house keys
  Samsung9s newest feature turns your phone into your house keys. The company has created the Digital Home Key, a feature inside of the Samsung Wallet that should let you unlock any compatible smart door with your phone. The Samsung Wallet already offered digital car keys. 
  
  "As we continue to evolve Samsung Wallet, delivering trusted mobile experiences remains at the core of our innovation," Woncheol Chai, EVP and head of Digital Wallet Team, Mobile eXperience (MX) Business at Samsung Electronics, said in a statement. "Through close collaboration with our partners and in alignment with the Aliro standard, Digital Home Key brings the same level of security and ease Samsung Galaxy users expect from Samsung Wallet to their homes."
  
  Created by the Connectivity Standards Alliance (CSA), Samsung calls Aliro an "industry-standardized communication protocol." The Digital Home Key will also get support from smart lock brands like Nuki and Schlage. It9s also designed to meet EAL6+ security certification. 
  
  According to Samsung, you9ll also need biometrics or a PIN to use the Digital Home Key. You should be able to remotely manage or remove the tool through Samsung Find if you lose your phone.
  
  Samsung is rolling out the Digital Home Key in select regions starting this month. It plans to expand its range as compatible smart lock brands become available in more locations. 
  This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/home/smart-home/the-samsung-wallet-can-now-hold-your-house-keys-142944132.html?src=rss

• Apple introduces the $599 iPhone 17e with MagSafe and twice the storage
  Apple has just announced the addition of the iPhone 17e to its smartphone lineup. This model is kitted with the same A19 chip that powers the base iPhone 17, and it will support the Apple Intelligence suite of AI tools. As the rumors suggested, the iPhone 17e will indeed be priced at $599, same as last year’s iPhone 16e. The base model will come with 256GB of storage, and also be available in a new pink color.
  
  The iPhone 16e was missing a few elements that are now being added to the 17e, most notably MagSafe charging at Qi2 speeds. This means it can charge wirelessly at 15W compared to the 7.5W on last year’s model.
  
  Apple also gave the iPhone 17e its C1X cellular modem, which it said is “up to 2x faster than C1 in iPhone 16e.” This year’s entry-level iPhone also has Ceramic Shield 2 on its 6.1-inch Super Retina display, which Apple says offers “3x better scratch resistance than the previous generation and reduced glare.”
  
  Most of the other specs appear similar to the iPhone 16e, including the 48-megapixel Fusion camera that uses one single hardware sensor to provide two dedicated camera pipelines. It’s not yet clear whether there are specific changes here, but to use Apple’s words in its press release, “[The Fusion camera] also enables an optical-quality 2x Telephoto — like having two cameras in one.”
  
  The iPhone 17e is rated IP68 for dust and water resistance, and will also support Emergency SOS, Roadside Assistance, Messages and Find My via satellite. From the outside, the device looks very similar to its predecessor, with the same shape, notch and buttons as before. We’ll of course have to wait for a review unit and more information to know for sure, but Apple continues to state that the iPhone 17e delivers “all-day battery life,” though adding this time it’s aided by the C1X modem “and the advanced power management of iOS 26.”
  
  Apple unveiled most of its iPhone 17 roster back in September, but its budget models usually are introduced a few months later. We9re also still waiting on the official news of what’s colloquially being calling the iPhone Fold, which is rumored to arrive in the back half of this year.
  
  The iPhone 17e will be available for pre-order on March 4, and will start arriving in stores on March 11.
  This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/mobile/smartphones/apple-introduces-the-599-iphone-17e-with-magsafe-and-twice-the-storage-140612085.html?src=rss

• Apple updates the iPad Air with an M4 chip
  Apple is kicking off multiple days of product announcements this morning with a new iPad Air. Unsurprisingly, it’s more or less like the iPad Air Apple announced one year ago, except it now has an M4 chip instead of last year’s M3.
  
  Apple is also including its in-house networking chips, the N1 and C1X, which will cover Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Thread and cellular connectivity. This means the iPad Air supports the Wi-Fi 7 standard for the first time. The Air also now has 12GB of RAM standard, up from 8GB in the prior model.
  
  The rest of the iPad Air appears unchanged at this point. It has the same display that the 2023 and 2024 models sported — either an 11- or 13-inch LCD that tops out at 500 nits of brightness and a 60Hz refresh rate. Storage options start at 128GB and go up to 1TB, same as last year. The dual stereo speaker configuration and both front- and rear-facing cameras are unchanged, as well.
  
  For those keeping track, it’s been less than two years since Apple redesigned the iPad Air, adding a 13-inch model that had an M2 chip. I remain surprised the company is committed to releasing chip updates for the Air so frequently — even the M2 model is more than powerful enough for the target audience. But, getting a faster chip for the same money is hard to complain about.
  
  Naturally, the iPad Air M4 is running iPadOS 26, which was released last fall. It was, without a doubt, the biggest iPadOS update we’ve seen, bringing a far more robust multitasking system than the iPad has ever had before. It’s most noticeable and useful on the larger 13-inch screen, but having greater freedom with window management and more robust background tasks is a huge step forward — even if the Liquid Glass visual redesign is a bit divisive.
  
  Pre-orders for the new iPad Air M4 open on Wednesday, March 4, and the tablet will be fully available on March 11. As before, pricing starts at $599 for the 11-inch model and $799 for a 13-inch display.
  This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/mobile/tablets/apple-updates-the-ipad-air-with-an-m4-chip-141117569.html?src=rss

• At MWC, Tecno’s super-thin modular concept phone doesn't even have a wired charging port
  On its own, at 4.9mm thin, Tecno9s modular phone concept barely feels like a smartphone. It has a screen, a basic camera module, four low-profile pogo-pin connectors and that9s about it. From there, you can seemingly build your conceptual phone however you want.
  
  At its booth at MWC 2026, Tecno had two families of modular components in two different colorways, which is surprising at this concept stage. The chunky telephoto lens and housing must weigh over three times as much as the base phone, adding up to 20x zoom capabilities, even if it was a little glitchy during my hands-on. The barrel also offers manual focus, which is always a nice touch. The lens itself is huge, though, making even Vivo9s latest 400mm telephoto lens peripheral look reasonable by comparison.
  Image by Mat Smith for Engadget
  There are more subtle camera modules, including ultrawide options and a more streamlined periscope telephoto. There9s even an action cam that can attach through Wi-Fi and be used on its own. Depending on the module, transmission is also done through Bluetooth and even mmWave. One module has an antenna that folds out, turning the phone into a walkie-talkie messenger… thing that can communicate without cell service or Wi-Fi. There were also lanyard connectors, grip clips, and several that I may have forgotten. Sadly, the game controller mod wasn9t on the stand, though I9m not sure how you9d use it blindly on the back. 
  
  It9s a lot of fun to swap out and even stack the modules, most of which were functionally working. There are plenty of questions left to answer, and I9m concerned about how rigid the magnetic connection would be when pulling this kind of phone out of your pocket repeatedly. Also, who9s going to carry around an attaché case filled with all these things? 
  Who doesn9t love an aerial?Image by Mat Smith for Engadget
  Naturally, due to its thickness, the phone has a tiny battery cell (I don9t know the capacity), but you can add 3,000mAh battery packs to the back. And another. And even another, topping out at around 10,000mAh, beating the capacity of most mainstream smartphones. It was only then that I realized it lacked any traditional USB-C charging port. Instead, a charging module can be attached to either of the two pairs of connectors. (And you can add further modules on top of that.)
  
  Tecno often has thrilling concepts and one-off devices at trade shows, so we can9t vouch that this will eventually make its way to consumers. Modular phones are a tricky sell, as they can often lose the efficiencies that come from unified components. Google ended its Project Ara modular concept over 10 years ago, while Motorola9s Moto Mods just weren9t very good and even I struggle to remember LG9s G5 modules.
  
  Adding to that, the company also rarely sells its phones in Western Europe and the US. Judging by the moves being made by other Chinese phone manufacturers in the last year, that could change.
  This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/mobile/smartphones/at-mwc-tecnos-super-thin-modular-concept-phone-doesnt-even-have-a-wired-charging-port-123129135.html?src=rss

• Vivo's X300 Ultra goes global and gets a huge 400mm Zeiss telephoto lens
  Vivo barely has a presence outside of China but that seems to be changing with the company9s next flagship phone. At Mobile World Conference 2026, the company unveiled the X300 Ultra smartphone that comes with a 200MP telephoto sensor, along with multiple accessories designed for pro photographers and content creators, including a SmallRig video cage and 400mm Zeiss telephoto extender lens.
  
  Vivo didn9t go into detail about the phone9s specs, but you can likely expect a high-end processor, screen, battery and other internal components when it9s fully unveiled later on. Vivo did say that like the X300 Pro, the X300 Ultra will have an impressive 200MP telephoto sensor, and is likely to offer features like 4K 120fps Dolby Vision HDR recording. Vivo9s Daniel Goetz said it couldn9t yet reveal the specs for its primary camera sensor — which will likely be deeply involved with the new device9s push into video.
  Mat Smith for Engadget
  Another thing Vivo revealed is that you9ll be able to get the Vivo X300 Ultra with a 400mm equivalent lens accessory called the Vivo Zeiss Telephoto Extender Gen 2 Ultra. That will allow about an 8x zoom compared to the native field-of-view, plus much more when combined with the high-quality digital zoom. It will also offer "gimbal-grade" optical image stabilization and motion-tracking focus technology, Vivo says. 
  
  The device9s camera mount is part of an ecosystem that remains consistent with the X200 Pro, so the camera automatically reads the connected lens. This means the first-gen telephoto extender will also work with Vivo9s newest flagship. The large 1/1.4-inch telephoto sensor and high megapixel count allow shooting up to 30x zoom (roughly 800mm) while retaining high levels of detail, according to Vivo.
  
  Along with the lens, Vivo is introducing a "pro-grade camera cage" designed by the well-known accessory company SmallRig. It9s expandable and offers multiple cold shoe mounts and quick-release ports so you can easily add things like handles, lights and microphones. It also comes with dedicated physical buttons for tactile shutter and zoom adjustment, plus a multi-level piezo cooling fan to keep the phone running cool. You also get an "External Lens Expansion Frame" to accommodate the X300 Ultra Telephoto Extender. Other SmallRig collaborations include Bluetooth connected gri controllers, which you can see above, mounted on the X300 Pro. 
  
  During a brief teaser presentation, we learned a few more details. The telephoto camera will include three degrees of optical image stabilization, and you9ll be able to shoot video in Log with your favorite LUT active in the X300 Ultra9s preview view. The video you record, however, will still be an unedited Log file. Color grading will also be available inside the device. 
  
  For videographers, it will also natively support ACES (Academy Color Science), making it easier to fit into professional workflows in DaVinci Resolve or Final Cut Pro without requiring specific color conversion. 
  Mat Smith for Engadget
  Vivo showed off the phone at MWC 2026 in Barcelona to a fair amount of enthusiasm. The company emphasized that the X300 Ultra will be the first device in the series to reach international markets, including all European regions in which it already does business. It didn9t specify the price. The X300 Pro costs about €1,400 in Europe. Availability in the US is still TBC.
  
  The move, Vivo said, "signals Vivo9s more proactive and confident approach to expanding its presence in the global premium smartphone segment." Given the likely price, though, it9s debatable if pro creators will want to buy this instead of, say, a pretty nice mirrorless camera and lens. 
  This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/mobile/smartphones/vivos-x300-ultra-goes-global-and-gets-a-huge-400mm-zeiss-telephoto-lens-105058478.html?src=rss

• Sony faces a $2.7 billion antitrust lawsuit in the UK
  Another major antitrust lawsuit has launched in the UK. This time its against Sony, which could be on the hook for almost £2 billion ($2.7 billion) for overcharging PlayStation users. 
  
  A class action case for about 12.2 million users argues that Sony "occupies a dominant position in relation to the digital distribution of PlayStation games and in-game content and that it has been unfairly charging its UK customers too much for digital games and in-game content purchased through the PlayStation Store."
  
  It argues that Sony "has a near monopoly" on add-on content and digital games through the PlayStation store, allowing it to set the prices and take a 30 percent commission.
  
  The class action encompasses anyone in the UK who owned a PlayStation console and purchased digital games or made in-game purchases through the PlayStation store between August 19, 2016 and February 12, 2026. It9s being run as an opt-out lawsuit, so anyone meeting the criteria can qualify without taking any action. If the lawsuit is successful then each person could receive about £162 ($217). 
  
  Sony has argued that allowing downloads from third-party stores could bring security and privacy risks, according to the Financial Times. It further states that the digital sales commission makes up profits lost for selling their consoles with minimal profit. 
  
  This lawsuit follows the success of a similar class action decided in October. The UK9s Competition Appeal Tribunal found that Apple had been abusing its dominant market position and overcharging App Store users. In December, Apple filed an appeal against the £1.5 billion ($2 billion) fine. 
  This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/big-tech/sony-faces-a-27-billion-antitrust-lawsuit-in-the-uk-114113889.html?src=rss

• The best Xbox Series X and Series S accessories for 2026
  The Xbox Series X and Series S are built for fast load times, smooth performance and expansive game libraries, but the right accessories can make a noticeable difference in how you play day to day. From storage solutions that help you manage growing installs to headsets that make it easier to catch subtle audio cues, the best Xbox accessories are about removing friction and improving comfort as much as boosting immersion.
  
  Whether you’re setting up a new console or refining an existing setup, there’s a wide range of add-ons worth considering. Many accessories designed for previous Xbox generations still work with Microsoft’s current hardware, which makes it easier to upgrade gradually rather than all at once. We’ve tested and selected the best Xbox Series X and Series S accessories to help you get more out of your console, no matter how or where you play.
  Best Xbox accessories for 2026
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/gaming/xbox/best-xbox-series-x-series-s-accessories-140035165.html?src=rss

• Everything announced at MWC 2026: Lenovo's wild foldable gaming handheld, Honor's Robot Phone, and more
  MWC 2026 kicks off today, running from March 2 through March 5, but announcements were pouring in all weekend in the lead-up to its official start. We can always count on the annual tech event to bring tons of new phones, laptops and tablets, and we9re expecting to see some robots and other gadgets too — plus plenty of AI news, of course. In addition to the announcements, MWC is our chance to get hands-on time with some of the most interesting new devices, like the Xiaomi 17 Ultra and Honor9s Robot Phone, and concepts like the Legion Go Fold.
  
  Engadget’s Mat Smith is on the ground in Barcelona, and we9ll be updating this story as the week goes on to keep you in the loop on everything that caught our attention. Keep checking back here for the latest MWC news. 
  LenovoHow silly does this look when its flexible display is fully extended in portrait mode?Sam Rutherford for Engadget
  Lenovo pulled up to MWC with a bunch of new products and concepts, but if there9s one thing everyone9s going to be talking about, it9s the Legion Go Fold. (Check out Sam Rutherford9s coverage of the Legion Go Fold here). In short, the Legion Go Fold is a concept foldable gaming handheld with a flexible display that can unfurl to a massive 11.6 inches. Or, it can be folded in half to become a 7.7-inch display. It has detachable controllers, and there are multiple mounting points along the tablet so you can switch things up between landscape and portrait mode. The left and right gamepads can also be combined into one controller with an accessory, and the display can be propped up kickstand-style with the folio cover. 
  
  You think we9re done here? We9re not. The Legion Go Fold can go laptop mode too, with a strip of pogo pins where a wireless keyboard can be connected. Its right gamepad can serve as a mouse, thanks to the inclusion of a little scroll wheel and a hidden sensor. That gamepad also features a tiny circular OLED display below the buttons, which can both show widgets such as the time and be used as a touchpad. 
  
  It is a concept, though, so don9t get your hopes up too much about this one going into production. And if it does ever become a real, buyable product, it9ll no doubt be expensive. 
  The Lenovo Modular AI PC concept is an ambitious mashup between a traditional clamshell and a dual-screen notebook with hot swappable ports.Sam Rutherford for Engadget
  Lenovo also announced its Modular AI PC concept — a laptop with two displays and a detachable keyboard. As Sam Rutherford, who got a chance to check it out in person, explained, "This allows you to move its keyboard and secondary display around at will, so the system can better adjust to its environment or workload." Perhaps even more exciting is that it has hot swappable ports. Lenovo demonstrated it with USB-C, USB-A and HDMI connectors, but said others could be possible too. 
  
  Still, while everything looked pretty polished in the demo, Lenovo says this one will remain a concept.
  The Lenovo Yoga 9i 2-in-1 Aura Edition Gen 11Lenovo
  It hasn9t all been concepts at MWC. Lenovo also refreshed some of its existing tablet and laptop lineups for 2026. The company introduced the Yoga 9i 2-in-1 Aura Edition Gen 11 (with the new Canvas Mode configuration), starting at $1,949, and the new 15.3-inch Yoga Pro 7a, which starts at $2,099. It9s updated its more affordable IdeaPad Slim 5i Ultra laptop ($799) as well. All of those new laptops come with Copilot+ features. For students, Lenovo is launching the 13-inch Idea Tab Pro Gen 2, starting at $419, with its Quira AI assistant and AI tools. You can find all the specs and release dates for those here. 
  
  Upgrades are here for Lenovo9s ThinkPads too, along with the Yoga-like ThinkBook 2-in-1. And, Lenovo announced a $499 industrial tablet, the ThinkPad X11. 
  
  Lenovo9s 8.8-inch gaming tablet is getting a spec boost with the latest version announced at MWC 2026, the $849 Legion Tab Gen 5. The tablet has a Snapdragon 8 Gen 5 chipset, 16GB of RAM and up to 512GB storage. It also has a 9,000mAh battery to support longer gaming sessions, and two USB-C ports. The Legion Tab Gen 5 comes in three colors: Eclipse Black, Glacier White and the lime-green Surge. It launches in May. That9ll be followed shortly after in July by the launch of the new 15-inch Legion 7a Gen 11 gaming laptop, starting at $2,299. 
  Lenovo AI Workmate Concept at MWC 2026Image by Mat Smith for Engadget
  And we9re back to the concepts. Lenovo showed off two work-oriented AI devices: the AI Workmate Concept, a desktop robot, and the AI Work Companion Concept, a clock/display that can sync tasks across devices and organize them into a daily plan. The robot has a cute little face, and its head doubles as a projector that can display images and documents on nearby surfaces. 
  Honor The Robot Phone. (Image by Mat Smith for Engadget)
  Honor teased its Robot Phone this past fall and we just finally got a proper look at it at MWC. And it9s pretty freakin9 cute. The phone is equipped with a camera that9s mounted on a highly mobile 4-degrees-of-freedom gimbal, which tucks away into a compartment on the back when it9s not in use (making for a pretty beefy camera bump). In a demo at MWC, the camera, which behaves like a little robot head, bobbed along to music and showed off some of its gesture skills, like cocking its “head” and nodding in agreement. 
  
  Honor didn9t reveal too much spec-wise, but the company says the primary camera uses a 200-megapixel sensor. The gimbal will offer three-axis stabilization, which will be coupled with camera modes such as Super Steady Video and AI Object Tracking. The Robot Phone isn9t quite ready for release at the moment, but the company says it will launch later this year. 
  
  Be sure to check out Mat Smith9s writeup on the Robot Phone for a more in-depth look.
  Honor9s humanoid robot. (Image by Mat Smith for Engadget)Image by Mat Smith
  It9s not a humanoid robot reveal without some backflips and a choreographed dance performance. Honor introduced its robot at MWC with all the spectacle we9ve come to expect (though the bot didn9t do any talking).  It’s simply called the Honor Robot, and the company has plans for it to be used in both industrial and domestic settings.
  Honor Magic V6 (Honor)
  The Robot Phone isn9t the only phone Honor showed off at MWC. The company also announced its Magic V6 smartphone, which it says is the thinnest phone in its category, measuring 8.75mm folded and 4.0mm open in the white colorway. The other three colors — black, gold and red — are slightly thicker, at 9mm folded and 4.1mm open.
  
  Not too much has changed from the V5, though, which only came out in August 2025. It does however have the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5, with 16GB RAM and 512 GB storage. As for the cameras, there are two 50-megapixel lenses and a 64-megapixel telephoto, plus a 20-megapixel f/2.2 selfie lens on the cover and internal display. 
  
  The international version of the Magic V6 will have a 6,660mAh battery with 25 percent silicon content, while the version sold only in China will boast a battery with a rated capacity of more than 7,000mAh and 32 percent silicon content. Honor hasn9t yet shared details about pricing and availability.  
  Honor MagicPad Honor
  Ahead of MWC, Honor also announced what it claims is the thinnest Android tablet in the world: the 4.8mm thick MagicPad 4. We9re expecting to hear more about this at Honor9s press conference on Sunday, but so far we know it features a 12.3-inch 165Hz OLED display and weighs just 450g. It comes with up to 16GB of RAM and 512GB of storage, and is powered by Qualcomm9s Snapdragon 8 Gen 5 chipset. The thinness doesn9t count the camera bump, Honor notes. The MagicPad 4 has 13MP rear and 9MP front cameras. It also boasts spatial audio, with eight speakers.
  
  Just as the display is slightly smaller than the previous MagicPad, the MagicPad 4 has a smaller battery at 10,100 mAh. It comes with a 66W fast charger. The MagicPad 4 will run Honor9s MagicOS 10. We don9t yet know how much it will cost, but we9ll update this after Honor9s press conference (where we9re also expecting to see the company9s robot) with any new details.  
  Xiaomi x LeicaMat Smith for Engadget
  Xiaomi kicked off MWC this year by announcing the global launch of its 17 Ultra smartphone, which debuted first in China back in December. It9s unclear if the phone will ever come to the US, but it9s now rolling out in Europe. Xiaomi teamed up again with Leica to make a photography-focused smartphone, and the 17 Ultra sports a 1-inch 50-megapixel camera sensor with a f/1.67 lens, a telephoto setup with a 200MP 1/1.4-inch sensor, and a 50MP ultrawide camera. There9s also a manual zoom ring around the camera. 
  
  Check out our hands on for our first impressions of what it9s like shooting with the Xiaomi 17 Ultra. And there9s more to it than just the camera. The 17 Ultra has a 6.9-inch OLED 120 Hz display that peaks at 3,500 nits of brightness, and a 6,000mAh silicon-carbon battery. The Xiaomi 17 Ultra starts at £1,299 (roughly $1,750).
  
  Leica also announced a new phone made in partnership with Xiaomi at MWC. It looks a whole lot like Xiaomi9s 17 Ultra, but isn9t the 17 Ultra, exactly.
  Leica Leitzphone by Xiaomi hands-on at MWC 2026Image by Mat Smith for Engadget
  Like the 17 Ultra, Leica9s Leitzphone by Xiaomi has a 1-inch camera sensor and physical controls for zoom and other settings, using a mechanical ring around the camera unit. It features a Leica-designed intuitive camera interface with the option to show just the essentials when you9re shooting, hiding all the modes and labels. There9s a monochrome shooting mode and Leica filters. 
  
  The Leica branding is splashed all over it in design and wallpapers, but it9s otherwise pretty similar to the 17 Ultra, with the same specs. Like the 17 Ultra, it has a Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 chip and a 6.9-inch 120Hz display. This one9s priced at €1,999 (roughly $2,362).
  The Xiaomi Pad 8 ProXiaomi
  In addition to the 17 Ultra, Xiaomi announced two new tablets at MWC this year: the Xiaomi Pad 8 and Xiaomi Pad 8 Pro. There9s nothing revolutionary here, but they9re lightweight and thin, with both being 5.75mm thick and weighing 485g, and have a 9,200mAh battery. The Pro model is powered by a Snapdragon 8 Elite chip, while the regular Pad 8 uses the Snapdragon 8s Gen 4 chipset. 
  
  Xiaomi also unveiled a new 5,000mAh powerbank, the UltraThin Magnetic Power Bank 5000 15W. The 6mm thick power bank comes in three colors with an aluminum alloy shell: orange, silver and charcoal gray. Along with that, the company introduced the Xiaomi Tag, its own take on the Bluetooth item tracker. The Xiaomi Tag has a built-in hanging loop so it can be attached directly to a keyring, and the company says it will work with both Apple Find My and Google9s Find Hub for Android.
  TecnoTecno
  We can always expect to see some wild phone concepts at MWC, and this year we9re starting with one from Tecno. The company unveiled a modular concept smartphone design that can be as thin as 4.9mm in its base configuration. There’d be 10 modules to choose from based on the announcement, including various camera lenses, a gaming attachment and a power bank, relying on magnets to keep it all together — or Modular Magnetic Interconnection Technology, as Tecno is calling it. 
  
  
  This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/mobile/everything-announced-at-mwc-2026-lenovos-wild-foldable-gaming-handheld-honors-robot-phone-and-more-172442814.html?src=rss

• Motorola's Edge 70 Fusion phone has a huge curved 144Hz display
  Motorola has unveiled the Edge 70 Fusion, its latest mid-range model with an impressive display and OIS-enabled camera with a Sony sensor. Though other specs are modest, the cameras, display and Pantone-inspired, fabric-like colors make it a good choice for fashion-forward and budget conscious buyers in Europe and other (non-US) territories. 
  
  The Edge 70 Fusion is a more modestly specced version of last year9s Edge 70 that9s thicker at 7.2mm compared to 5.9mm but has a better screen. Motorola says it has the world9s first "quad-curved" display that folds into the sides for smoother lines and a more elegant look. The AMOLED screen is also huge at 6.78 inches and has a 144Hz refresh rate with Pantone-validated color accuracy, while hitting a peak 5,200 nit brightness, easily enough for sunny outdoor use. 
  Motorola
  The 50MP main camera is also impressive, using Sony9s Lytia 710 sensor with optical image stabilization and an f/1.8 aperture. That9s accompanied by a 13MP ultra-wide macro camera and a 32MP from selfie camera with 4K recording. 
  
  The Edge 70 fusion is powered by Qualcomm9s Snapdragon 7s Gen 3 with Cortex-A720 and A520 cores, along with an Adreno 810 GPU, promising about a 15 percent bump in performance over the last model. It supports 68W wired (no wireless) fast charging and carries a 5,200mAh battery. It will be relatively tough as well, with IP68 and IP69 dust and water resistance ratings and MIL-STD-810H durability. 
  
  It9s a solid value with prices starting at $430 in Europe (about $503) when it goes on sale later this month in colors like Patone Orient Blue, Pantone Country Air and Pantone Sporting Green. There9s no indication that it will be available in the US, though. 
  This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/mobile/smartphones/motorolas-edge-70-fusion-phone-has-a-huge-curved-144hz-display-093035809.html?src=rss

• TCL is upgrading its easy-on-the-eyes glare-free NXTPAPER display tech with AMOLED
  TCL has been making smartphones and tablets at an impressive clip for years. While most companies have focused on foldable display tech — and TCL has dabbled — the focus has been on its NXTPAPER screens. Aimed at being friendlier on the eyes, and pitched as a device somewhere between e-ink slates and traditional tablets, NXTPAPER has gradually been upgraded and refined, reaching an apex at CES 2026 earlier this year with the Kindle Scribe-alike, the Note A1 NXTPAPER and its latest smartphone, the NXTPAPER 70 Pro.
  
  At MWC, just a couple of months later, it9s preparing for a major leap forward on future phones and tablets. It9s been announced (and backed up with tech demos) that it9s developing AMOLED NXTPAPER displays, aiming to combine the eye comfort benefits of TCL9s current displays with flagship visual performance. This involved fundamentally redesigning and re-engineering the display architecture. Still, it should address the biggest problems with current LCD-based NXTPAPER, such as mediocre brightness, poor outdoor performance, and dull colors.
  
  This NXTPAPER AMOLED screen, well, it looks like AMOLED:
  Image by Mat Smith for Engadget
  On the showfloor at CES, the company had several demo devices showcasing the new screen technology9s brightness. While still photos don9t really do it justice, it9s impressive, and the anti-glare effect seems premium compared to third-party anti-glare protective films. 
  
  TCL says its incoming AMOLED display — it hasn9t announced a device yet — will reach 3,200 nits of brightness. For reference, TCL9s 70 Pro topped out at a mere 900 nits. TCL says it will also feature 120Hz refresh rates, 100 percent color gamut coverage, and blue light reduction that can go as low as 2.9 percent, which is 15 percent less than existing NXTPAPER displays.
  
  The company plans to launch an AMOLED NXTPAPER smartphone before the end of the year.
  This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/mobile/smartphones/tcl-is-upgrading-its-easy-on-the-eyes-glare-free-nxtpaper-display-tech-with-amoled-085736065.html?src=rss

• Qualcomm's Snapdragon Wear Elite chip is made for smartwatches and AI devices
  Qualcomm9s Snapdragon Elite chips are reserved for the best Android phones and laptops, and now the company has introduced the first in the Elite series for wearables. The Snapdragon Wear Elite processor is designed for smartwatches and AI devices like pendants and promises up to a fivefold increase in single-thread CPU performance, Qualcomm announced. 
  
  The new processor is built on a 3nm process to improve speed and efficiency over previous models, while boosting the number of cores to five (one big core at 2.1GHz and 4 little cores at 1.9GHz). With those changes, the company is promising up to five times faster single-threaded performance, with GPU speeds boosted up to seven times. 
  Qualcomm
  The Snapdragon Wear Elite is also equipped with a new NPU that allows low-power AI use cases like keyword recognition along with noise cancellation. It9s also the first Snapdragon wearable processor with a dedicated Hexagon NPU supporting AI models with two billion parameters. That will allow new "personal AI experiences," the company said, like context-aware recommendations, natural voice interactions, life logging and AI agents that can orchestrate tasks on your behalf. 
  
  Wear OS devices with the chip should see up to 30 percent improved battery life and charging speeds of up to 50 percent in ten minutes. It also allows for more types of connectivity, including 5G reduced capability, micro-power Wi-Fi, NB-NTN for satellites, Bluetooth 6.0, GNSS and UWB. However, manufacturers will be able to source versions of the chip without some of those wireless features. 
  
  Whether the Snapdragon Wear Elite will give Wear OS watch manufacturers a better chance to chip into the 50-plus percent market share of Apple9s Watch remains to be seen. The first devices using the chip will start to ship in the "next few months," Qualcomm said. "Leading global partners are supporting the platform including Google, Motorola and Samsung."
  This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/wearables/qualcomms-snapdragon-wear-elite-chip-is-made-for-smartwatches-and-ai-devices-080744412.html?src=rss

• Motorola Razr Fold hands-on at MWC 2026: Bright screens, inside and out
  After briefly announcing its new foldable at CES, Motorola is now ready to debut its first book-style foldable in full at MWC 2026. There are several features we already knew, including support for Motorola’s new Pen Ultra stylus and no fewer than five cameras. However, many specs were still unknown. There are some pleasant surprises.
  
  Motorola decided to make both screens brighter than any of its rivals by quite a margin. The main 8.1-inch foldable display of the Razr Fold has a peak brightness of 6200 nits, while the external screen almost matches it with 6000 nits. For comparison, both screens on the Pixel 10 Fold Pro have a peak brightness of 3000 nits and other foldables’ internal screens typically have substantially lower brightness levels. Inside Motorola9s demo room, filled with windows and Barcelona sun, I had no trouble reading either screen.
  
  The main display is a 2K (2,484 x 2,232) LTPO display that can reach a peak refresh rate of 120Hz, while the external display has a 2,520 x 1,080 resolution and peaks at 165Hz. Both screens also support Dolby Vision.
  Image by Mat Smith for Engadget
  With those high-brightness levels, Motorola has opted for a silicon-carbon 6,000mAh battery, another leading specification among foldables at the time of writing. It’ll be interesting to see how battery life fares, powering those big, bright screens. The Razr Fold also supports fast charging at up to 80W with the company’s own (sold separately) TurboPower charger and up to 50W wireless charging.
  
  With a silicon-carbon battery that offers higher energy density, Motorola’s biggest foldable yet remains surprisingly svelte, despite its huge battery. The Razr Fold is 4.6mm (0.181 inches) thin when open and 9.9mm (0.39 inches) when closed. Yes, Samsung’s latest Z Fold is thinner (4.2 mm; 8.9 mm), but it has a substantially smaller 4,400mAh battery.
  Image by Mat Smith for Engadget
  The Razr Fold’s hardware continues with many of the design touches found on recent Razr phones. I spent most of my time with the Blackened Blue iteration of the Razr Fold, with a woven piqué design that felt both easy to hold and didn’t seem to hold onto fingerprints. There will also be a Lily White color that doesn’t have the piqué design, but a more satin finish.
  
  The Razr Fold has a Snapdragon 8 Gen 5 processor, the de facto flagship Android processor at this point. The foldable also has its own liquid-cooling system to maintain consistent performance during tougher tasks and gaming sessions.
  
  The Razr Fold’s cameras will have to do more than what we’re used to seeing on the flip-style Razr smartphones, which have underwhelmed in the past. Fortunately, it looks like it could be a very capable smartphone camera. The main 50-megapixel sensor has a f/1.6 lens and 3.5 degrees of optical image stabilization. It’ll also work alongside a multi-spectral 3-in-1 light sensor to improve color accuracy. The Razr Fold’s ultrawide camera has a 50MP sensor, a 122-degree field of view, and support for macro photography. The 50MP periscope telephoto camera can reach up to 3x optical zoom and 100x SuperZoom, through image cropping and AI-boosted image processing. And finally, there are two selfie cameras: a 32MP internal camera that can record up to 4K video and a 20MP external selfie cam, both with a f/2.4 lens.
  Image by Mat Smith for Engadget
  Motorola is already claiming this is the best camera on a foldable smartphone, with the highest DXOMARK score among foldables. If you haven’t heard of DXOMARK before, it’s a benchmarking website and lab in France that offers professional image quality testing for smartphones, camera lenses and cameras. It also offers a consultancy service to help manufacturers improve their devices’ camera performance.
  
  It’s too early to tell whether this is objectively a better cameraphone than Samsung’s Z Fold 7, but I was particularly impressed by the Razr Fold’s telephoto camera results. Similarly, I’m intrigued by Motorola’s decision to support its newest stylus, the Moto Pen Ultra. It warrants further testing when the foldable lands for review.
  
  Motorola hasn’t announced pricing and availability for the Razr Fold. It’ll be coming to North America “in the coming months.”
  This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/mobile/smartphones/motorola-razr-fold-hands-on-mwc-2026-050027092.html?src=rss

• Lenovo's robot concept can help you digitally sign documents (and maybe annoy coworkers)
  Lenovo can make a robot, too. Alongside proof-of-concept foldable gaming PCs and modular laptops, it introduced the AI Workmate Concept at MWC 2026. With its own Intel Core Ultra processor, 64GB of memory and its own Pico projector, it’s an AI-laced “workmate” meant to streamline office tasks and collaboration. And it has an LCD face.
  
  For now, it’s a proof of concept, musing on how to integrate voice commands and LLMs (large language models) into workplace settings. It9s meant to sit on your desk, but preferably also near a wall – more on that later.
  
  Voice commands aside, the concept bot supports writing, voice and gestures with on-device AI processing. While it can answer the usual voice assistant questions, it can also scan and summarize documents (both digitally and physically) and even assist with creating a PowerPoint presentation – though you might want to check its work.
  Mat Smith for Engadget
  The 3.4-inch 480 x 480 screen doesn’t seem to offer any data visualization or numbers. During my demo, it only seemed to show the bot9s eyes and facial expressions: it’ll sip coffee as it listens (with a moustache), cup a floating hand to the side of its face when it needs you to repeat a command, or twinkle when it’s processing more complicated tasks, like that fictional PowerPoint presentation.
  
  With its articulated head, which houses the projector, cameras and LCD face, you can ask it to project images or documents on either the desk in front of it or a wall nearby. No need to flip around your monitor or laptop to share with colleagues. In one example, a spokesperson asked for a postcard. The Workmate then projected a (Lenovo-branded) image of Barcelona onto the desk. The rep laid paper down, then signed the ‘postcard’ and got the robot to scan it (with two downward-facing 5-megapixel cameras), and then send the file to a nearby printer.
  Image by Mat Smith for Engadget
  In theory, this sort of flow could transition to document signing or adding notation to images and files. However, one caveat here is whether those of us who work in offices want the extra workplace noise of a chatty robo and the person barking orders at it.
  
  Lenovo says this concept (and it has a few at MWC) is meant to demonstrate the company’s “exploration of spatial and physical AI experiences” that integrate “seamlessly into professional environments.” Hopefully, further evolutions offer a text-based way to make using it a little less noisy.
  
  Lenovo was also showing a simpler AI work device, the AI Work Companion Concept. It’s a completely different premise, despite the name being a little too close to the AI Workmate Concept.
  Image by Mat Smith for Engadget
  The AI Work Companion is not a robot, but a handsome chunky desk clock, with a solid, satisfying dial on the top and programmable buttons. The front is almost entirely display, able to show calendars, task lists and other work-centric dashes. It runs independently, plugging into a USB-C port for power and pulling data down wirelessly, while also acting as a port hub for charging other accessories and devices.
  
  It’s certainly not as high-concept as the robot, but there are some AI smarts inside.
  
  The Work Companion’s “Thought Bubble” uses AI to sync a user’s tasks and daily schedule across devices, synthesizing a daily action plan. It will even suggest times to break up bursts of work and attempt to monitor screen time to better manage burnout.
  
  According to the press release, Lenovo says it also has “playful interactions with the user” and will, kind of bleakly, offer an end-of-week celebration report of tasks completed. It’s lucky it’s a good-looking desk clock.
  This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/ai/lenovo-concept-robot-ai-workmate-mwc-2026-230159746.html?src=rss

• Lenovo unveils the 2026 refresh of its Yoga 9i 2-in-1 convertible laptop at MWC
  Lenovo has given the Yoga 9i 2-in-1 Aura Edition a refresh for 2026 and launched the new device at this year’s Mobile World Congress. The convertible laptop comes with a new Canvas Mode when the Yoga Pen Gen 2 case it’s bundled with is attached to the A-cover. When you lay the device down on a flat surface with the case attached, you’ll get a slight elevation on the display, which may make it easier to sketch or draw.
  
  The Copilot+ laptop is powered by Intel Core Ultra Series 3 processors with integrated graphics, has up to 32GB in memory and runs Windows 11. Its 14-inch screen has a resolution of 2,880 x 1,800 pixels, has a variable refresh rate of 120 Hz and supports multi-touch. In addition to the new Canvas Mode, the device also supports Tablet, Tent, Stand and traditional Laptop Modes like its predecessors do. The Yoga 9i 2-in-1 Aura Edition Gen 11 will be available in May, with prices starting at $1,949.
  
  Lenovo has also launched the new Yoga Pro 7a at MWC 2026. This Copilot+ laptop is powered by AMD Ryzen AI Max+ Series processors and comes with up to 128GB of RAM, so it can be used for heavy AI tasks. It has a 15.3-inch 2.5K PureSight Pro OLED display and is equipped with a big Force Pad trackpad that doubles as a drawing tablet. You can get the device starting in August this year for at least $2,099.
  
  For a more affordable option, there’s the new IdeaPad Slim 5i Ultra laptop, which also has Copilot+ features. It’s powered by Intel Core Ultra processors and comes with either a WUXGA OLED or a WQXGA IPS LCD 14-inch display that has a VRR of 120 Hz. The device was designed for portability, with its thinnest part measuring just 11.9 mm in depth, and weighs 2.5 lbs. It will be available starting in October for at least $799.
  
  Another affordable option is the new Idea Tab Pro Gen 2, which is specifically targeted towards students. It’s powered by theSnapdragon 8s Gen 4 Mobile Platform and has a 13-inch 3.5K display. The Tab Pro Gen 2 is Lenovo’s first tablet to ship with its Qira AI assistant and the company’s AI tools. It will be sold with a Lenovo Tab Pen Plus included for $419 starting in July.
  This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/computing/laptops/lenovo-unveils-the-2026-refresh-of-its-yoga-9i-2-in-1-convertible-laptop-at-mwc-230100644.html?src=rss

• Lenovo's ThinkPads get a spec bump at MWC 2026
  Lenovo is updating its business-focused laptop lineup at MWC 2026. The best-selling ThinkPad T-series is getting a full refresh, and there9s an updated ThinkBook 2-in-1 and an all-new Android tablet.
  
  The ThinkPad T-Series, the backbone of Lenovo9s business PC lineup, now (optionally) ships with a 5MP camera that supports computer vision and vHDR. The 2026 versions of the laptops have larger speakers and a new color (“cosmic blue”) on some models.
  
  The ThinkPad T14 Gen 7 and ThinkPad T16 Gen 5 (each starting at $1,799) are the all-around workhorses of the ThinkPad lineup. Lenovo touts the 2026 models9 10/10 iFixit repairability score. They ship with either an Intel Core Ultra Series 3 (with Intel vPro) or an AMD Ryzen AI Pro 400 Series processor.
  ThinkPad T14s Gen 7Lenovo
  Meanwhile, the T14s Gen 7 ($1,899+) is an even lighter version of Lenovo9s slim ThinkPad variant. The 2026 model weighs 2.45 lbs (1.1kg), making it the lightest T-series model to date. The T14s Gen 7 is powered by Intel Core Ultra Series 3 (with Intel vPro) or AMD Ryzen AI Pro 400 Series processors.
  
  Rounding out the T-Series is the second-generation of the 360-degree-folding ThinkPad T14s 2-in-1. The 2026 model ($1,849+) is ever-so-slightly lighter than its predecessor, now weighing in at 3.06lbs (1.39kg). The new version includes a garaged pen, with its storage slot living above the screen.
  ThinkPad X13 DetachableLenovo
  The ThinkPad X13 Detachable is the lineup9s take on the Surface Pro. The tablet has Intel Core Ultra Series 3 processors and up to 64GB of RAM. Its 13-inch display supports up to 500 nits of brightness. It has a pair of Thunderbolt 4 ports, and its keyboard has full-sized keys with 1.5mm of travel. It ships with a "full-size ergonomic pen" that you can stash (and charge!) in a dedicated slot on the keyboard. The X13 Detachable starts at $1,999.
  
  The $499 ThinkPad X11 is a rugged Android tablet for industrial environments. Powered by the Snapdragon 7s Gen 3 Mobile Platform, it has a 10.95-inch display with 2,560 x 1,600 resolution and 600 nits of brightness. It9s MIL-STD-810H certified, meaning it passes stringent military testing for durability.
  ThinkTab X11Lenovo
  Finally, there9s the ThinkBook 14 2-in-1 Gen 6 ($1,754+). This Yoga-like folding device has a 14-inch WUXGA touch display. It runs on an Intel Core Ultra 7 (Series 3) processor and supports up to 32GB of RAM.
  
  Most of the devices start shipping in Q2 2026. (That includes the ThinkPad T14, T16, T14s, T14s 2-in-1, ThinkTab X11 and ThinkBook 14 2-in-1.) The lone exception is the ThinkPad X13 Detachable, which is slated for Q3 2026. You can learn more about the new business-focused devices on Lenovo9s website.
  This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/computing/laptops/lenovos-thinkpads-get-a-spec-bump-at-mwc-2026-230100419.html?src=rss

• Lenovo's latest gaming tablet goes big on battery
  Lenovo’s buzziest gaming-related MWC announcement is undoubtedly its foldable Legion Go handheld-cum-laptop hybrid, which you can read all about here. But that wasn’t all the company showed off. We’re also getting an updated Legion Tab, Lenovo’s powerful gaming tablet.
  
  Like the Gen 4 and 3 models before it, the latest Legion Tab features an 8.8-inch LCD display with an 165Hz refresh rate. The 3K panel can get up to 600 nits of brightness. The notable spec boosts come in the form of a jump up to a Snapdragon 8 Gen 5 chipset and a larger 9,000mAh battery, which should help you power through those long-haul flight gaming sessions.
  
  The 360g Gen 5 Legion Tab is equipped with 16GB of RAM and up to 512GB of storage. It also features what looks like an RGB light ring next to the rear camera cutout (just in case anyone needs reminding that you’re a capital G on-the-go gamer), and two USB-C ports.
  
  The latest Legion Tab also supports Lenovo AI Engine+, which uses AI for audio enhancement and noise cancellation. Available in Eclipse Black, Glacier White and Surge, it will be available to buy in May, with prices starting at $849.
  
  Lenovo also unveiled a new 15-inch variant of its Gen 11 Legion 7a gaming laptop, after announcing an updated 16-inch model at CES in January. It features a slightly smaller version of the same PureSight OLED display and is powered by a Ryzen AI Max+ 392 processor with integrated Radeon 8060S graphics. Weighing in 1.65kg, the Legion 7a is a slimline laptop designed to be easily portable without compromising too much on power, and its 84Whr battery is good for the size. It will be available with up to 2TB of storage in July, starting at $2,299.
  This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/gaming/pc/lenovos-latest-gaming-tablet-goes-big-on-battery-230017436.html?src=rss

• The Lenovo Legion Go Fold gaming handheld concept looks awkward but its versatility is endless
  Lenovo already has a large roster of gaming handhelds. However, it seems there9s always room for another because at MWC the company showed off an ambitious concept device based around a flexible OLED display. And while the whole setup looks ungainly, after getting my hands on it, I9m very intrigued by its adaptability. 
  
  Now I9ll be the first to admit that an 11.6-inch display feels oversized on a handheld that, in theory, is meant to be somewhat portable. That said, the beauty of the Legion Go Fold9s screen is that it can be bent in half to create a more appropriately-sized 7.7-inch panel. In this configuration, the system feels a lot less cumbersome while also sporting a more traditional aspect ratio. Then, at a moment9s notice, you can extend the display to provide extra room when you need it. 
  How silly does this look when its flexible display is fully extended in portrait mode?Sam Rutherford for Engadget
  However, the thing I like most about the Legion Go Fold is that its controllers are detachable and that the tablet has several different mounting points. This means if you have the space, you can remove the controllers, rotate the display into landscape mode and then reattach them to get an immersive widescreen experience. Alternatively, you can connect the gamepads together using one of Lenovo9s accessories (which is similar to Nintendo9s Joy-Con Grip) and then prop the system up using the Go Fold9s folio cover, which doubles as a kickstand. 
  
  But wait, there9s more: The handheld also features a strip of pogo pins for connecting a wireless keyboard, effectively transforming the whole setup into a miniature gaming laptop. Depending on how you9re counting, that9s at least four different modes you9re getting from the Legion Fold, which is really quite impressive and speaks to the versatility of Lenovo9s design.
  
  Another feature I really like is the small 1-inch OLED display on the right gamepad. It supports a handful of widgets that can display the time, performance settings and more. It also doubles as a small touchpad, which can be really handy when playing PC titles that were originally developed for mouse and keyboard. And just like on the Legion Go andLegion Go 2, the Fold9s right gamepad has a small scroll wheel and a hidden sensor, so it can also turn into a vertical mouse for playing FPS titles. 
  
  At this point, it9s important to mention that Lenovo doesn9t have concrete plans to put this thing into production, so its specs don9t really matter. That said, the Legion Go Fold I tried featured an Intel Core Ultra 7 258V chip with 32GB of RAM and a 48WHr battery, which is more than respectable. Though if this thing does become an actual retail device, I would like to see a power cell with a bit more capacity. 
  I really love how the Legion Go Fold can turn into a miniature laptop just by moving some of its accessories around. Sam Rutherford for Engadget
  But as a concept gadget, I think the Legion Go Fold is a great showcase of how new technology (in this case, a flexible display) can bring new capabilities and greater flexibility to existing categories. And who knows, if a lot of people like the idea, it might encourage Lenovo to refine it and put it on sale for real. I would just be a bit worried about pricing, because all these components won9t come cheap. 
  
  
  
  This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/gaming/pc/the-lenovo-legion-go-fold-gaming-handheld-concept-looks-awkward-but-its-versatility-is-endless-230000816.html?src=rss

• The Lenovo Modular AI PC concept is a remixed dual-screen laptop with hot swappable ports
  The potential of modular laptops has never fully translated to the real world. While companies like Framework have made major strides in recent years, there9s still quite a bit of room for improvement. At MWC, Lenovo is looking to address that with its Modular AI PC concept. It features not one but two displays and a detachable keyboard to create something that strains the definition of a laptop, thanks to an innovative and very adaptable design.
  
  Compared to Framework9s gadgets, which primarily use modularity to make upgrading the system and extending its lifespan easier, Lenovo9s concept is based around a 14-inch chassis with hot swappable components. This allows you to move its keyboard and secondary display around at will, so the system can better adjust to its environment or workload. By default, its bonus screen is mounted on its lid, allowing you to do easy face-to-face sharing with someone sitting opposite you. However, without even needing to turn the system off, you can yank away the notebook9s keyboard and put the display in its place to provide additional real estate. 
  The Lenovo Modular AI PC concept9s second screen can be attached to its lid or moved off to the side like a traditional dual monitor setup. Sam Rutherford for Engadget
  Or if you prefer a more traditional dual-screen setup, you can move it off to the side, prop it up via a built-in kickstand and connect to the laptop over USB-C. You even get the flexibility to arrange the display in vertical or landscape orientation, which is nice if you9re doing stuff like coding or writing in a word doc (I feel targeted, but in a good way). And because the keyboard can connect to the notebook using pogo pins or Bluetooth, you have the freedom to position it practically anywhere you want. 
  
  Meanwhile, Lenovo borrowed one aspect of Framework9s modularity by including the ability to swap ports on the fly. During my demo, the company showed off modules featuring USB-C, USB-A and HDMI connectors, though I was told there are a ton of additional possibilities for those who might need things like a proper Ethernet jack or additional ports for audio. 
  The Lenovo Modular AI PC concept9s keyboard and be completely removed at a moment9s notice and positioned anywhere you like thanks to its Bluetooth connectivity. Sam Rutherford for Engadget
  But what impressed me the most was that despite being a concept device, the whole setup felt quite polished. That almost suggests that this thing might be closer to becoming an actual retail product than some of the company9s other demo gadgets. Build quality felt really sturdy and I had no issues changing out ports or moving the secondary display around without needing to troubleshoot or reboot the system. Everything just kind of worked. And while Lenovo isn9t sharing details about what processor it9s running or how much memory it has, its performance felt snappy too. 
  
  My only question is that I9m not quite sure where AI fits into all of this. I was able to break down and reconfigure the system without any help from machine learning or a digital assistant. That said, I9m not complaining, because even with a lot of moving parts, its modular design is very approachable and easy to use. 
  Ports on the Lenovo Modular AI PC concept can be hot swapped between to add USB-C, USB-A and HDMI connectors as needed. Sam Rutherford for Engadget
  Unfortunately, Lenovo isn9t planning on turning this concept into a true retail device. But even so, I hope the company will at least consider bringing some of the modular laptop9s features like its hot swappable ports to future products.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/computing/laptops/the-lenovo-modular-ai-pc-concept-is-a-remixed-dual-screen-laptop-with-hot-swappable-ports-230000158.html?src=rss

• Best Buy Canada seemingly just leaked Sonos' next portable speaker
  A product briefly posted on the Canadian Best Buy website this weekend suggests Sonos may soon announce a new portable speaker called the Sonos Play. The speaker offers Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity, AirPlay 2 support, Trueplay to tune the sound based on wherever you9ve placed it and voice controls, according to a page that9s since been removed. Best Buy Canada had it listed for $399.99 CAD (or a little under 300 US dollars), and put the release date at March 31.
  
  The listing may have been taken down, but not before it was spotted and reposted on Reddit. The product page for the Sonos Play also showed that it comes in two colors, White and Black, and it has a little carrying strap for added convenience. It9s IP67 rated dust- and waterproof. Sonos hasn9t officially made any announcements about it yet, but we wouldn9t be surprised to see one soon.
  
  
  This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/audio/speakers/best-buy-canada-seemingly-just-leaked-sonos-next-portable-speaker-215601978.html?src=rss

• Anthropic's Claude grabs top spot in App Store after Trump's ban
  Anthropic may have lost out on doing business with the US government, but it9s gained enough popularity to earn the number one spot on the App Store9s Top Free Apps leaderboard. At the top, Claude beat out both ChatGPT and Google Gemini, which respectively sit at the second and third spots on Apple9s free apps charts.
  
  The sudden surge in user downloads isn9t random. It follows news that President Trump has barred any federal agency from using Anthropic9s Claude or other AI tools after the AI company refused to concede on certain guardrails. After declining to have its AI models be used for mass domestic surveillance and fully autonomous weapons, Anthropic was also threatened with a "supply-chain risk" label by the Department of Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth. The very public spat led to a wave of user support that finally allowed Claude to dethrone OpenAI9s ChatGPT on the App Store as the most downloaded free app.
  
  While OpenAI has stepped into Anthropic9s shoes after agreeing to a deal with the Department of Defense, the CEO still offered up some thoughts about the debacle during an AMA on X. Even though Claude is a competing model, Sam Altman said that Anthropic9s supply-chain risk designation was "a very bad decision" that he9s hoping gets reversed. On top of that, OpenAI9s CEO called Anthropic9s blacklisting "an extremely scary precedent," but he9s "still hopeful for a much better resolution."
  This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/big-tech/anthropics-claude-grabs-top-spot-in-app-store-after-trumps-ban-193610130.html?src=rss

• The US reportedly used Anthropic's AI for its attack on Iran, just after banning it
  In a lengthy post on Truth Social on February 27, President Trump ordered all federal agencies to "immediately cease all use of Anthropic9s technology" following strong disagreements between the Department of Defense and the AI company. A few hours later, the US conducted a major air attack on Iran with the help of Anthropic9s AI tools, according to a report from xAI and OpenAI to use their models within the federal agency9s network. However, the WSJ reported that it would take months to replace Anthropic9s Claude with other AI models.
  This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/ai/the-us-reportedly-used-anthropics-ai-for-its-attack-on-iran-just-after-banning-it-172908929.html?src=rss

• A closer look at Honor’s Robot Phone
  While Honor has already made plenty of product announcements, with tablets, foldables and more, its most interesting device at MWC 2026 is the Robot Phone — and maybe the humanoid robot that came alongside it.  
  
  After briefly showing off a model at CES, Honor isn9t quite ready to launch its Robot Phone. However, we got more specs, tech demos and a closer look following the company9s MWC press event in Barcelona. The Robot Phone is currently set to launch later this year.
  Image by Mat Smith for Engadget
  Honor has put a lot of effort into ensuring its camera gimbal is highly mobile, to the point of creating a tiny personal robot that is, dare I say, adorable? The Robot Phone9s pop-up camera can cock its head, shake to say no, nod to agree, and even "flip" – or at least rotate 360 degrees. According to Honor9s presentation, it can even bop along to songs. A spokesperson told me that it9s got five songs in its repertoire, so it9s not clear whether they9re programmed for these kind of demos, or will be a feature of the final retail device.
  
  Another demo here at MWC showed how you could make the Robot Phone "sleep" by covering its gimbal eye, though it9s odd that the camera is still exposed rather than folded away. My main concern with the Robot Phone is the robustness and durability of its robotic mechanisms. We9ve lived through several waves of smartphones that attempted much simpler mechanical camera functions and the threat of dust or heavy-handed users can9t be ignored.
  Image by Mat Smith for Engadget
  The company says it9s taken what it learned from foldables, regarding high-performance materials and simulation accuracy, and applied it to shrinking the camera module. On stage, Honor CEO James Li revealed what he calls the industry9s smallest micro motor, much smaller than a 1-euro coin and, he added, 70 percent smaller than existing micro motors. 
  
  As this component has been reduced substantially, the Robot Phone9s gimbal will be the industry9s smallest 4-degrees-of-freedom gimbal system. That9s a spec – we finally got a spec! It9ll also offer three-axis stabilization in this tiny camera package, with the primary camera using a 200-megapixel sensor. 
  
  The fold-away panel that the primary camera tucks into also reveals more typical cameras, so you9re not forced to use the gimbal if you don9t need it. Still, that9s one very thick camera unit:
  Image by Mat Smith for Engadget
  Honor has already started building out camera modes and features, with a Super Steady Video mode that enhances stability while swinging the Robot Phone around to capture video. AI Object Tracking will apparently intelligently follow subjects, while AI SpinShot supports intelligent 90-degree and 180-degree rotational movement for more cinematic transitions. We9ve seen these sorts of pre-programmed movements and functions in full-size phone gimbals and action cams. If Honor can nail it in such a tiny form, it9ll be impressive. 
  
  Other specifications during Honor9s press event were sparse, although the company announced a collaboration with ARRI Image Science to bring its cinematic smarts to the Robot Phone9s gimbal camera. 
  
  In a press release, Honor9s Li said the collaboration would bring ARRI9s "cinematic standards and professional workflows" into mobile imaging. It9s apparently the first time elements of ARRI Image Science are being integrated into a consumer device. Dr. Benedikt von Lindeiner, VP at ARRI, said the goal is to bring a true cinematic aesthetic, such as "natural color, gentle highlight roll-off, and a sense of depth," to shooting with an Honor smartphone.
  Image by Mat Smith
  Honor also made a humanoid robot companion for its Robot Phone. The bot took to the stage alongside the Robot Phone, danced alongside human dancers, did a backflip and shook hands with CEO James Li. It didn9t say a thing, but fortunately, during some on-the-rails banter between the robot, Robot Phone and Honor9s CEO, the Robot Phone was particularly chatty.
  
  Like the many humanoid robots we9ve reported on and seen in person, Honor hopes to put it to work in both industrial and domestic settings, pitching it as a central part of the company9s multi-million-dollar push into AI. For now, it9s being called Honor Robot.  
  This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/mobile/smartphones/a-closer-look-at-honors-robot-phone-145935198.html?src=rss

• Honor’s Magic V6 doesn’t have a new rabbit to pull out of its hat
  Honor launched the Magic V5 in August 2025 and yet its successor is being announced just seven months later. Speak to Honor’s representatives, and you can imply that it’s racing to push the envelope against both its real competition (Samsung) and its anticipated one (Apple). With so little time between launches, you’ll be unsurprised to learn that little has changed. The only other real reason this device has been pushed out so swiftly is because it’ll help Honor retain the title of making the world’s thinnest foldable. I’ll leave you to decide if you think that’s a valid enough reason to release a whole new smartphone so soon.
  
  Last year, just one of the four Magic V5 colorways measured in at 8.8mm folded and 4.1mm open while the rest clocked in at 9mm and 4.2mm respectively. This year Honor is marking its own homework with a similarly generous spirit, with the white version of the Magic V6 measuring 8.75mm folded and 4.0mm open. The black, gold and red colorways will have to settle for the indignity of measuring 9mm folded and 4.1mm open. Now, I appreciate the engineering savvy necessary to make a device this slim, but this push for more thinness needs to stop. Last year’s Magic V5 crossed the millimeters-wide rubicon from slender to dainty, to the point where, while holding it, I was worried about how durable it was. After all, foldables are regularly put through mechanical stresses that regular phones never have to deal with in normal duty.
  
  Honor says the phone is well built to withstand the rigors of normal life, including a scratch-resistant display cover. The screen is impact-resistant, there’s a far stronger hinge and it’s rated for IP68 and IP69 dust and water resistance. Claims that, I’m sure, will be tested to its limits by sceptical reviewers when the device goes on sale. The company has also been scraping away at the V6’s weight, with the white model weighing in at 219 grams, while the other three colorways are 224 grams. That’s lighter than an iPhone 17 Pro Max (233 grams), and you can bet Honor mentioned that fact in its briefings to the press more than once.
  
  Honor has also seen fit to make some massive design changes to the inside of the V6 to help shrink many of its components. This redesigned internal structure includes a new antenna, speaker chamber, vibration motor, NFC module, SIM card slot and USB-C housing. All of the space vacated by those components has been filled by a new 6,660mAh battery with 25 percent silicon content. Honor says you should expect to be able to play a video on the primary display for 24 hours with that beefy battery.
  
  It’s worth noting only the international version is equipped with this 6,660mAh cell, while the China-only variant gets an even better model. Honor said its domestic edition will have a CATL-manufactured battery with 32 percent silicon content and a rated capacity of more than 7,000mAh.
  Honor
  “And when Alexander saw the breadth of his domain he wept, seeing as he had no more worlds to conquer.” The quote comes from Die Hard — although it’s an urban myth that film coined the phrase entirely — but the sentiment applies to much of the rest of this handset. The rest of the spec sheet is more or less the same as found on the Magic V5, which itself was a modest revision of its predecessor. Essentially, there aren’t too many more worlds to conquer even at the highest end of smartphone components, so grab your weepin’ tissues.
  
  Dab at the corners of your eyes when you see the cameras are more or less identical both in the main setup and for selfies. There are two 50-megapixel lenses paired with a 64-megapixel telephoto, and up front on both the cover and internal display, there’s a 20-megapixel f/2.2 selfie lens.
  
  You’ll find similarly-meager fare in the list of changes made to the displays, since the primary screen remains the same size and resolution as before. The bezels on the cover screen have been trimmed, so it now measures in at 6.52-inches, up from the 6.43-inch on the V5. But in most of the other ways in which it matters, you’ll find that here it’s business as usual.
  
  The V5 shipped with a Snapdragon 8 Elite, 16GB RAM and 512GB storage, and that was plenty fast enough. The V6 can boast that it’s the first foldable to ship with a Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 (paired with 16GB RAM and 512GB storage). While it is an upgrade on the older SoC, it’s not transformative. Let’s be honest, it’s hard not to see Honor’s desire to shuffle a new handset out the door with some marketing claims comes at the cost of any meaningful substance.
  
  On the software side, it’s business as usual, although one thing caught my eye enough to be worth comment. At several points during Honor’s briefing, the company went hard on the idea that its devices play wonderfully well with Apple’s. If you install Honor Connect onto your iPhone and Mac, you’ll be able to share files, extend your desktop and even control your AirPods. This was something the company has been pushing for a while now, but it surprised me how much it was brought up here.
  
  On one hand, it makes sense that any would-be Apple challenger would offer a friendly way in for iPhone diehards. Tell them that your Android handset will integrate with your existing devices and then hope to show them what you’ve got to offer. On the other, if you’re so eager to tag your gear onto another company’s ecosystem, it doesn’t suggest a lot of confidence in your own. Especially when you’re marketing your pricey, ultra-premium flagship foldable as “an ideal macOS companion” in your own marketing materials. Still, being able to use the V6 as an extended display for your Mac is a cool idea, no matter the broader narrative.
  
  At first blush, Honor’s Magic V6 looks like a phone that exists to satisfy a marketing demand rather than out of necessity. (I’m sure someone will point out that’s the case for a lot of new phones these days, but I’m sure you take my meaning.) To stay ahead of its rivals, it’s nipped and tucked every corner of this phone to within an inch of its life, and the end result is more or less the same handset we saw less than a year ago. That’s not to say it’s a bad phone, the V5 was a lovely piece of kit, but I can’t help but wonder if holding this device back until Honor had more meaningful improvements wouldn’t have been better.
  
  At the time of publication, Honor hasn’t shared pricing and availability information, which we will update here when it’s announced.
  This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/mobile/smartphones/honors-magic-v6-doesnt-have-a-new-rabbit-to-pull-out-of-its-hat-130048729.html?src=rss

• How to share your location via satellite on iPhone
  Apple’s satellite features are designed for situations where cellular and Wi-Fi coverage are unavailable. In supported regions, compatible iPhone 14 or later models can connect directly to a satellite to send messages, access Emergency SOS and share location data. Location sharing via satellite is particularly useful when traveling in remote areas, hiking or driving through regions with limited network coverage. This guide explains what is required to use location sharing via satellite on an iPhone, how to prepare the feature in advance and how to send your location when no signal is available.
  How to share your location via satellite
  When there is no cellular or Wi-Fi signal available, open the Find My app. If satellite connectivity is possible, the app will prompt you to connect to a satellite. Onscreen instructions will guide you to point the iPhone toward the sky and adjust its position to maintain a connection.
  
  Once connected, select the option to share your location. The iPhone will record your current location and send it via satellite to the selected contact. During this process, it is important to keep the device steady and follow the visual guidance until the transmission is complete.
  
  After the location is sent, the contact can view it in their Find My app. The shared location represents a specific moment in time rather than ongoing movement.
  What you need before using satellite location sharing
  Location sharing via satellite is available on iPhone 14 models and later that are running iOS 18 or newer. The feature is supported only in specific countries and regions, and its availability may vary by local regulations. Satellite services also require a clear view of the sky, which means dense tree cover, buildings, mountains or being indoors can interfere with connectivity.
  
  Apple offers satellite features free of charge for two years with the activation of an iPhone 14 or later, although this policy may change over time. It is important to confirm that satellite services are active on the device before relying on them in a remote setting.
  
  Location sharing via satellite works through the Find My app. Unlike Emergency SOS, it is not intended for urgent situations and does not contact emergency services. Instead, it allows trusted contacts to see your current location when standard connectivity is unavailable.
  Preparing your iPhone for satellite use
  Before heading somewhere with limited coverage, it is important to confirm that location services and Find My are properly configured. On the iPhone, open the Settings app and tap Privacy & Security, then select Location Services and ensure the feature is turned on. Scroll down to Find My and confirm that location access is set appropriately.
  
  Next, open the Find My app and make sure location sharing is enabled. If location sharing has not been set up, the app will prompt you to choose contacts who are allowed to view your location. Only contacts added in advance can receive location updates via satellite. If you are somewhere without cellular or Wi-Fi coverage, you’ll need to use Apple’s Connection Assistant. Open Settings, then tap Satellite and choose a satellite feature.
  
  Apple also recommends reviewing the satellite connection demo, which is available within the Find My app and other satellite features. This demo shows how to hold the iPhone and move it to maintain a satellite connection. Practicing this step ahead of time can make the process quicker and less stressful when it is actually needed.
  Viewing shared locations and managing access
  Contacts who receive a satellite location update can see it in the same way as standard Find My location sharing. The location appears on the map with a timestamp indicating when it was sent. If additional updates are needed, the process must be repeated, provided satellite connectivity is still available.
  
  Location sharing permissions can be managed at any time. In the Find My app, users can add or remove contacts and adjust how long location sharing remains active. These settings apply to both standard and satellite-based sharing.
  How location sharing via satellite works
  When an iPhone loses access to cellular and Wi-Fi networks, the Find My app can switch to satellite mode. This allows the device to send limited data packets to a satellite, which then relays the information to Apple’s network and on to the selected contact.
  
  Because satellite bandwidth is limited, location updates are not continuous — the iPhone sends a snapshot of the user’s location rather than live tracking. Updates may take several minutes to send, depending on conditions and satellite availability.
  
  Battery level can also affect satellite performance. Apple recommends ensuring the iPhone is sufficiently charged before relying on satellite features, especially during extended outdoor activities.
  Important limitations to keep in mind
  Satellite location sharing is not a replacement for Emergency SOS. In situations involving immediate danger, Emergency SOS via satellite should be used instead, as it connects directly with emergency services.
  
  Environmental factors can significantly affect satellite connectivity. Cloud cover, terrain and obstructions can slow or prevent successful transmissions. The feature also works best outdoors with a clear view of the horizon.
  
  Finally, satellite services are designed for occasional use rather than frequent messaging or tracking. Location updates may take longer than expected and should not be relied on for real-time navigation or coordination.
  
  Sharing your location via satellite can provide peace of mind when traveling beyond the reach of traditional networks. By setting up the feature in advance and understanding its limitations, iPhone users can make better use of Apple’s satellite tools when they matter most.
  This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/mobile/smartphones/how-to-share-your-location-via-satellite-on-iphone-130000085.html?src=rss

• This retro-inspired handheld comes with Banjo-Kazooie and Battletoads built in
  Who would9ve guessed we9d get to play the original Banjo-Kazooie on a handheld with just a D-pad in 2026. HyperMegaTech!9s latest release is a collaboration with Rare Ltd., the legendary game developer known for the Banjo-Kazooie franchise and, more recently, Super Pocket Rare Edition.
  
  The vertical handheld features 14 classics from the British developer, including two Battletoads titles, Conker9s Pocket Tales and many more. While most of the games were released on 8- or 16-bit consoles, Banjo-Kazooie will be the headliner since it was originally released on the Nintendo 64. It may sound weird to control Banjo and Kazooie with a D-pad, but HyperMegaTech! assured that the game has been enhanced and optimized specifically for the Super Pocket handheld.
  
  Since HyperMegaTech! and Evercade share Blaze Entertainment as a parent company, that means the Rare Edition handheld will be compatible with Evercade cartridges. Once you9re done with the 14 included games, you can expand your Super Pocket9s library with cartridges that feature collections from Taito, NeoGeo or Atari. HyperMegaTech! said the Rare Edition handheld will be available for $69.99 in June 2026, but has already opened preorders.
  This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/gaming/this-retro-inspired-handheld-comes-with-banjo-kazooie-and-battletoads-built-in-203111135.html?src=rss

• Alaska could be the next state to crack down on AI-generated CSAM and restrict kids' social media use
  Alaska9s House of Representatives unanimously passed HB47, a bill that imposes sweeping limits on when and how minors use social media apps, along with bans on generating or distributing harmful deepfakes of children.
  
  The bill9s original form was focused on prohibiting the possession and distribution of sexually explicit images of children using AI, but Alaska lawmakers decided to add amendments that would impose social media restrictions. The proposed limitations include a statewide curfew on using social media between 10:30 PM and 6:30 AM, banning "addictive design features" and requiring social media platforms to verify user ages and get parental consent if they are minors.
  
  While the House bill saw 39 votes in favor and zero against, the amendments offered some hints at potential upcoming revisions. Before the bill went to a vote, some of the House representatives expressed concern about adding such broad rules on social media without consulting the companies behind them first.
  
  The bill still has to make its way through the Alaska State Senate, which already has presented a companion bill, and the governor. Alaska is following the footsteps of many other states, and the House even modeled its social media amendments in the HB47 bill after Utah. While Utah was the first to propose social media restrictions for kids, it was later met with a preliminary injunction.
  This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/social-media/alaska-could-be-the-next-state-to-crack-down-on-ai-generated-csam-and-restrict-kids-social-media-use-190506366.html?src=rss

• Shuttered studio Bluepoint reportedly pitched a Bloodborne remake, but it got shot down by FromSoftware
  Bloodborne fans may not be happy to hear that a remake was reportedly rejected, but that doesn9t mean it9s completely off the table. Bluepoint Games, Sony9s closed-down studio behind many PlayStation remakes, pitched remaking the classic Gothic horror RPG in early 2025, but was blocked by the game9s developer, FromSoftware, according to a interview from Kinda Funny Games with PlayStation exec Shuhei Yoshida, which aired last year. In the video, Yoshida mentioned that FromSoftware9s president, Hidetaka Miyazaki, wanted to pursue a Bloodborne remake, but was too busy to do it himself and "doesn9t want anyone else to touch it."
  
  After failing to get the Bloodborne remake greenlit, Bluepoint wasn9t able to secure another project for more than a year, according to the Bloomberg report. Now that Bluepoint has been shut down, we9re likely even further away from a remake. That9s not to say a remake will never happen, but when it does, it9ll have to get a stamp of approval and likely a lot of oversight from FromSoftware.
  This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/gaming/playstation/shuttered-studio-bluepoint-reportedly-pitched-a-bloodborne-remake-but-it-got-shot-down-by-fromsoftware-173744228.html?src=rss

• Leica’s Leitzphone by Xiaomi has a huge 1-inch camera sensor and a stylish new design
  Alongside a global launch for Xiaomi9s 17 Ultra (read about that right here), the company announced a further deepening of its relationship with Leica. The CEO of Leica, Matthias Harsch, took to the stage to announce a new Leitzphone, which appears to be an even deeper collaboration than 17 Ultra by Leica, which is a different phone. Confused? That9s fair. 
  
  Design-wise, Leica has shifted back to a single tone body color, which looks more "Leica" to this camera dilettante9s eyes. And if you’re thinking you’ve heard of the Leitzphone before, you probably have: it was a series of phones made by Sharp that launched in Japan in 2021. They all had a 1-inch camera sensor, as does Xiaomi’s first Leitzphone. It also has a mechanical, physical ring dial around the camera unit to control settings like zoom, exposure and shutter speed.
  
  The camera interface is also designed by Leica. It9s designed to be as intuitive as possible, with an Essential mode in the camera app that strips away all those modes and labels, showcasing whatever you9re looking to shoot. You can switch between a monochrome shooting mode and a more familiar punchy, contrasty Leica filter. And that9s it.
  
  Aside from that there9s no major standout interface or UI changes that I could spot while trying out the Leitzphone briefly at Xiaomi9s MWC keynote. However, if you9re intrigued by the functionality — or the cameras — check out our hands-on coverage and sample photos of the Xiaomi 17 Ultra. The cameras are good.
  Image by Mat Smith for Engadget
  All three iterations (the regular Xiaomi 17 Ultra , the "by Leica" edition and the Leitzphone) have a Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 chip and a 6.9-inch 120Hz display that can reach up to 3,500 nits of peak brightness. While cameras are naturally the focus, it’s a flagship device by pretty much any metric. It also has a 6,000mAh battery for extended vacation photo shoots.
  
  Barring some Leica-tinged wallpapers and design accents, it9s a lot like the 17 Ultra by Leica, just with different messaging. This is Leica9s phone, made by Xiaomi, but does a rose by any other name still have great low-light photography? Maybe increased Leica branding will be enough to coax its camera fans into making this their next smartphone, perhaps.
  Image by Mat Smith for Engadget
  After years of collaboration (and cute little badges), this may be the first pure "Leica phone" manufactured by Xiaomi but sold directly by both companies. It9s priced at €1,999 (roughly $2,362), but it9s not known yet whether this phone will launch in the US. Welcome to MWC, everyone.
  This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/mobile/smartphones/leica-leitzphone-xiaomi-mwc-2026-135744417.html?src=rss

• Xiaomi 17 Ultra hands-on: Incredible cameras, but maybe hard to get
  China’s biggest phone makers continue to relentlessly forge ahead with high-spec phones that you may never see in the US. With the Xiaomi 17 Ultra this year, the company has continued its pattern from previous iterations by focusing on powerful camera sensors, huge batteries and… being selective about global availability.
  
  Xiaomi’s 17 series is launching across multiple European territories months after its Asia debut, but at the time of writing, no word yet on US availability. Another logistical point of interest? When we last checked out Xiaomi’s devices, it was the 15 series, and the company has decided to skip 16 and leap straight to 17, conveniently matching Apple’s latest number.
  
  Storied camera brand Leica has been involved with Xiaomi’s phones for a few years and its newest flagship doesn’t disappoint in that regard, because this is another Xiaomi device dedicated to photography.
  Image by Mat Smith for Engadget
  The 17 Ultra has a huge 1-inch 50-megapixel main camera sensor with a f/1.67 lens, and a telephoto setup with a 200MP 1/1.4-inch sensor and going up to 4.3x optical zoom. Xiaomi claims it’s capable of up to 17x “optical-level zoom,” but quality doesn’t measure up to, say, the Oppo Find X9, with its dedicated telescopic lens add-on. There’s also a 50MP ultrawide camera to round things out.
  
  The main camera is very impressive, delivering plenty of detail and performing incredibly well in low light, seemingly before any computational photography kicks in. A new Light Fusion 1050L sensor features LOFIC HDR technology, delivering stronger control over highlights and more detail in darker areas of your shots. I9ve been impressed by the balanced color tone and contrast, without having to edit or add one of the (many) Leica camera filters.
  
  If anything, the slightly heavy-handed algorithms can sometimes ruin parts of a shot. For instance, by scrambling lettering or capturing blurry, AI-mutated faces where computational photography takes a swing (and a miss) at people in the distance.
  Mat Smith for Engadget
  The telephoto camera alone is also technically interesting in a few ways. It offers continual optical zoom across the 75-100mm range without in-sensor cropping. This means the lenses physically move to deliver lossless zoom across a range of distances, without jarring leaps between camera sensors and crops. This doesn’t run across the full gamut, but it does roughly cover the 3-4x optical zoom range, which is often used in portrait photography.
  
  The APO (apochromatic) lens design on the telephoto is more immediately useful and effective. An APO lens significantly reduces chromatic aberration by focusing three wavelengths of light (red, green and blue) onto the same focal plane. This lens design means it can correct color fringing and improve image sharpness.
  At full optical zoom, this light fitting at Soho Theatre Walthamstow doesn9t bloom or fringe to the extent that most smartphone zooms suffer from.Mat Smith for Engadget
  At higher zoom levels, fringing and lighting bloom often hamper telephoto photos on smartphones, and Xiaomi’s solution has some appeal. I noticed less fringing than on other zoom-capable Android phones from Samsung, Oppo and Google. It also supports macro photography, but is hindered this time by a minimum focal distance of 30cm (11.8 inches). Most smartphone cameras’ macro modes let you get much closer.
  
  The 17 Ultra can capture up to 8K video (at 30 fps), 4K Dolby Vision up to 120 fps, and 4K 120 fps Log video, ensuring you can make the most of that huge 1-inch sensor in video, too. That said, it seems to struggle with stabilization at times, while its low-light performance doesn’t match its prowess in still photography, lagging behind flagship phones from Apple, Google and Samsung.
  
  There9s also a special Leica edition of the 17 Ultra, which is largely the same, specification-wise, but with a manual zoom ring around the camera unit. It9s a cool gimmick, but felt oddly loose on a few devices I9ve handled. 
  
  Xiaomi made a few design changes to its Ultra line this year, with a new, entirely flat display, and flattened edges that look like a certain family of devices. In fairness, it’s not the only company using imitation as flattery. There’s also IP68 protection against dust and water.
  
  While cameras may be the highlight, this is a flagship device by any specification metric. With a 6.9-inch display, this expansive OLED display has variable refresh rates (1-120Hz) and peaks at 3,500 nits of brightness.
  
  At that size, the Xiaomi 17 Ultra is in the territory of devices like the iPhone 17 Pro Max and S26 Ultra. A phone this size isn’t for everyone, but it is the thinnest Ultra phone from Xiaomi to date, with a profile measuring 8.29mm. Xiaomi has also reduced the camera unit’s diameter and raised it on the device, making it easier to use and helping keep fingers out of your shots.
  Image by Mat Smith for Engadget
  Also, I’d be remiss if I didn’t mention the huge 6,000mAh silicon-carbon battery, with support for Xiaomi’s 90W HyperCharge (if you have the right charger) and 50W wireless HyperCharge (which also requires Xiaomi’s own dock) speeds. Other phone makers: Please put a battery this huge in your flagship.
  
  At MWC 2026, the company announced the global launch and rollout of the device across Europe, including the UK where the Ultra will start priced at £1,299 (roughly $1,750). We9re still waiting to confirm US availability and pricing.
  
  While the specs are powerful, “launching” a flagship device that’s already been in the wild for a few months — even if elsewhere in the world — reduces the spectacle.
  This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/mobile/smartphones/xiaomi-17-ultra-global-launch-hands-on-leica-camera-143006810.html?src=rss

• Steam Next Fest, a different flavor of The Witcher and other new indie games worth checking out
  Welcome to our latest roundup of what9s going on in the indie game space. It9s Steam Next Fest week, with literally thousands of demos for upcoming games for us to dive into. I9m trying to check out as many as I can before the event wraps up on Monday. However, I made a near-critical error in my planning: I opted to try the Raccoin demo first. I could and would have happily played that all week.
  
  This is a coin-pushing roguelike deckbuilder that adopts the format of Balatro. To progress, you need to earn a certain number of points and the target increases each round. Every three rounds there9s a sort-of boss — a few coins that negatively impact your game until you can get rid of them. After every round, you’ll go to a shop to buy and sell special coins and other upgrades. As you might expect with this type of game, finding ways to boost the points you can score from each coin is how to win.
  
  On my first successful run, I found a way to electrify the coins (which boosts their score) by charging them and use passive abilities and special coins to spread and amplify the effect. Then I was able to replicate a special coin that pulls all other nearby coins into a cyclone — having the water-based coins in there helped to spread the electrical effect between other coins. There were a few rounds in which I didn9t even have to do anything. The cyclones just dumped enough coins over the edge for me. 
  
  This was only the first way I9ve figured out how to break the game. Six hours in, I9m eager to find many more.
  
  still available.
  
  I9ve had The Eternal Life of Goldman on my wishlist since we first learned about it a couple of years ago. I9m very glad that was one of the demos I9ve tried. This is an utterly gorgeous platform adventure with hand-drawn art. As Goldman, an elderly gentleman, you9ll swap parts of your cane on the fly so you can hook onto floating rings or pogo off springs. 
  
  The platforming is challenging enough that I had to focus to get through the demo, which lasts about 75-90 minutes. There9s almost always something going on in the background or foreground too. This game from Weappy Studio is shaping up to be quite something. I can9t wait to play the full thing when The Eternal Life of Goldman hits PC, Nintendo Switch, PS5 and Xbox Series X/S, hopefully later this year.
  
  Of course I had to check out the Next Fest demo for on Xbox. The latest game from Poncle is a turn-based deckbuilder roguelite. Oh, and it9s also a Vampire Survivors spin-off. Instead of passively firing your weapons at surrounding enemies, you have a bit more control here. 
  
  It plays a bit like those first-person maze games from the 990s. You9ll walk around each level with the help of a map that shows where enemies, chests and bosses are located. When you encounter enemies, you9ll play cards in a certain order to deal damage or boost your stats for that particular battle. You can play all your available cards in one go, but you might want to rearrange them first so that you, for instance, use a card that boosts your damage before firing any weapons. Each card has a mana point value — you can only play a full hand if you have enough mana. And yes, there are weapon evolutions.
  
  Turn-based games usually aren9t my bag, but sometimes they just hit right. The Vampire Crawlers demo hits right. I can already tell I9m going to spend dozens of hours with the full game, which is coming to Steam, Xbox Series X/S, PS5, Nintendo Switch, iOS and Android this year. 
  
  I tried a few other demos so far, including one for John Carpenter9s Toxic Commando, a co-op shooter in the vein of Left 4 Dead. It9s a little rough around the edges right now, but it seems enjoyable enough. 
  
  There are a bunch of other Next Fest demos I9m hoping to try over the weekend, including precision platformer The Witcher IV, here9s one way to keep your thumbs busy in the meantime. Reigns: The Witcher is the latest installment of the Reigns series from Nerial and Devolver Digital for Steam, Android and iOS ($6). 
  
  You still play as Geralt of Rivia. However, this is a narrative-focused game in which you make choices by swiping. It9s something a little different for Witcher fans. It might just pull some long-time Reigns players into that fantasy universe for the first time too.
  
  Bread and Fred is the cutest thing. The co-op platformer from SandCastles Studio has been available on PC (Steam, GOG and Epic Games Store) and Nintendo Switch for a while, and this week it landed on Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, PS4 and PS5. It normally costs $15 and there9s a 20 percent launch discount on those consoles. You9ll need to be a PS Plus subscriber to get those savings on PlayStation, though.
  
  You and a friend take control of a pair of adorable penguins that are tethered together. The aim is to ascend a mountain, sometimes by swinging each other to get to hard-to-reach places. But if you miss a jump, you can plummet back down and erase a chunk of your progress. There is a single-player mode in which one of the penguins is replaced by a rock. The pixel art aesthetic here is super charming.
  
  Here9s another co-op game. This one is a side‑scrolling RPG brawler. After several months in early access/game preview, the full version of Stoic9s Towerborne arrived on Xbox Series X/S, Xbox on PC, Steam and PS5. It costs $25, though there9s a 20 percent launch discount on Xbox. It’s on Game Pass Ultimate and Premium as well. 
  
  After the 1.0 update, the game has a full campaign that you can play offline by yourself or online with friends. Stoic has added fresh biomes, enemies and bosses, and there are said to be hundreds of missions, side quests and bounties. I really dig the fluidity of the animations in the trailer, though the action is a bit hard to parse at first glance. Still, I9m curious enough to try out Towerborne.
  
  I’ve been a little too occupied with other Next Fest demos (plus Overwatch challenges, I’ll admit it) to play Itch and Xbox on PC. It9s on Game Pass Ultimate and PC Game Pass. Otherwise, it costs $13, but there9s a 20 percent discount on Steam until March 11. There9s a demo available on Steam too.
  Upcoming MOUSE: P.I. For Hire will now launch on 16 April 2026. pic.twitter.com/gwD3QW5Vyt
  — MOUSE: P.I. For Hire (@mousethegame) February 23, 2026
  Let9s start this section with a news roundup. delayed it by a few weeks until April 16 to polish the game up.
  
  I do love voxel-based heist game two additional characters that players will be able to marry when the 1.7 update goes live. Sandy9s cool, so it9ll be nice to have her as an option, but Clint? That guy sucks. Here9s hoping Barrone will finally focus more of his attention on watch an official recording of a previous concert.
  
  Minimap, a social platform for gamers, ran its first indie game showcase this week. Among the highlights:
  
  Thrifty Business (Spellgarden Games), a cozy thrift-store management sim that9s coming to Steam this year. A demo9s available now.
  
  Another look at hit Steam later this year. 
  
  Tombwater was originally supposed to arrive in November, but Moth Atlas and publisher Midwest Games delayed it for further refinement. It9s now set to arrive on Steam on March 31.A Next Fest demo is available now.
  
  This is a 2D Soulslike with a Western setting and 2D pixel art that9s inspired by Bloodborne and early Legend of Zelda games. You9ll face off against horrific eldritch creatures as you search for a missing friend. You9ll have seven playable classes to choose from and the ability to wield more than 50 firearms and melee weapons, and more than 20 spells. Tombwater is said to have around 20 hours of gameplay.
  
  There9s no release date for Solarpunk as yet, but I found this trailer quite soothing. It offers a first look at co-op gameplay for this base-building and exploration game from the two-person team at Cyberwave and publisher rokaplay. 
  
  Up to four players will be able to explore floating islands, gather resources and build out a homestead together. As the title suggests, there9s a technology-driven element to Solarpunk. You can use renewable energy sources to power tools that can automate things like resource harvesting and watering plants. The airships you use to travel between islands look cool too.
  
  Solarpunk is set to hit Steam later this year. A demo is available now.
  This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/gaming/steam-next-fest-a-different-flavor-of-the-witcher-and-other-new-indie-games-worth-checking-out-120000900.html?src=rss

• OpenAI strikes a deal with the Defense Department to deploy its AI models
  OpenAI has reached an agreement with the Defense Department to deploy its models in the agency’s network, company chief Sam Altman has revealed on X. In his post, he said two of OpenAI’s most important safety principles are “prohibitions on domestic mass surveillance and human responsibility for the use of force, including for autonomous weapon systems.” Altman claimed the company put those principles in its agreement with the agency, which he called by the government’s preferred name of Department of War (DoW), and that it had agreed to honor them.
  
  The agency has closed the deal with OpenAI, shortly after President Donald Trump ordered all government agencies to stop using Claude and any other Anthropic services. If you’ll recall, US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth previously threatened to label Anthropic “supply chain risk” if it continues refusing to remove the guardrails on its AI, which are preventing the technology to be used for mass surveillance against Americans and in fully autonomous weapons.
  
  It’s unclear why the government agreed to team up with OpenAI if its models also have the same guardrails, but Altman said it’s asking the government to offer the same terms to all the AI companies it works with. Jeremy Lewin, the Senior Official Under Secretary for Foreign Assistance, Humanitarian Affairs, and Religious Freedom, said on X that DoW “references certain existing legal authorities and includes certain mutually agreed upon safety mechanisms” in its contracts. Both OpenAI and xAI, which had also previously signed a deal to deploy Grok in the DoW’s classified systems, agreed to those terms. He said it was the same “compromise that Anthropic was offered, and rejected.”
  
  Anthropic, which started working with the US government in 2024, refused to bow down to Hegseth. In its latest statement, published just hours before Altman announced OpenAI’s agreement, it repeated its stance. “No amount of intimidation or punishment from the Department of War will change our position on mass domestic surveillance or fully autonomous weapons,” Anthropic wrote. “We will challenge any supply chain risk designation in court.”
  
  Altman added in his post on X that OpenAI will build technical safeguards to ensure the company’s models behave as they should, claiming that’s also what the DoW wanted. It’s sending engineers to work with the agency to “ensure [its models’] safety,” and it will only deploy on cloud networks. As announced forming a partnership with Amazon to run its models on Amazon Web Services (AWS) for enterprise customers.
  Tonight, we reached an agreement with the Department of War to deploy our models in their classified network.
  
  In all of our interactions, the DoW displayed a deep respect for safety and a desire to partner to achieve the best possible outcome.
  
  AI safety and wide distribution of…
  — Sam Altman (@sama) February 28, 2026
  
  This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/ai/openai-strikes-a-deal-with-the-defense-department-to-deploy-its-ai-models-054441785.html?src=rss

• Trump orders federal agencies to drop Anthropic services amid Pentagon feud
  President Donald Trump has ordered all US government agencies to stop using Claude and other Anthropic services, escalating an already volatile feud between the Department of Defense and company over AI safeguards. Taking to Truth Social on Friday afternoon, the president said there would be a six-month phase out period for federal agencies, including the Defense Department, to migrate off of Anthropic9s products. 
  
  “The Leftwing nut jobs at Anthropic have made a DISASTROUS MISTAKE trying to STRONG-ARM the Department of War, and force them to obey their Terms of Service instead of our Constitution,” the president wrote. “Anthropic better get their act together, and be helpful during this phase out period, or I will use the Full Power of the Presidency to make them comply, with major civil and criminal consequences to follow.”  
  
  Before today, US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth had threatened to label Anthropic a “supply chain risk” if it did not agree to withdraw safeguards that insist Claude not be used for mass surveillance against Americans or in fully autonomous weapons. In a post on X published after President Trump’s statement, Hegseth said he was “directing the Department of War to designate Anthropic a Supply-Chain Risk to National Security. Effective immediately, no contractor, supplier, or partner that does business with the United States military may conduct any commercial activity with Anthropic.”
  
  Anthropic did not immediately respond to Engadget9s comment request. Earlier in the day, a spokesperson for the company said the contract Anthropic received after CEO Dario Amodei outlined Anthropic9s position made “virtually no progress” on preventing the outlined misuses.
  
  "New language framed as a compromise was paired with legalese that would allow those safeguards to be disregarded at will. Despite DOW9s recent public statements, these narrow safeguards have been the crux of our negotiations for months," the spokesperson said. "We remain ready to continue talks and committed to operational continuity for the Department and America9s warfighters." 
  
  Advocacy groups like the Center for Democracy and Technology (CDT) quickly came out against the president’s threats. “This action sets a dangerous precedent. It chills private companies’ ability to engage frankly with the government about appropriate uses of their technology, which is especially important in national security settings that so often have reduced public visibility,” said CDT President and CEO Alexandra Givens, in a statement shared with Engadget. “These threats undermine the integrity of the innovation ecosystem, distort market incentives and normalize an expansive view of executive power that should worry Americans all across the political spectrum.”
  
  For now, it appears the AI industry is united behind Anthropic. On Friday, hundreds of Google and OpenAI employees signed an open letter urging their companies to stand in "solidarity" with the lab. According to an internal memo company9s full statement is available here, an excerpt is below:
  
  Designating Anthropic as a supply chain risk would be an unprecedented action—one historically reserved for US adversaries, never before publicly applied to an American company. We are deeply saddened by these developments. As the first frontier AI company to deploy models in the US government’s classified networks, Anthropic has supported American warfighters since June 2024 and has every intention of continuing to do so.
  
  We believe this designation would both be legally unsound and set a dangerous precedent for any American company that negotiates with the government.
  
  No amount of intimidation or punishment from the Department of War will change our position on mass domestic surveillance or fully autonomous weapons. We will challenge any supply chain risk designation in court.
  
  Update, February 27, 9PM ET: This story was updated twice after publish. First at 6PM ET to include a link to and quotes from Hegseth about the designation of Anthropic as a supply chain risk. Later, a quote from Anthropic was added, along with a link to the company’s blog post on the subject.
  This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/ai/trump-orders-federal-agencies-to-drop-anthropic-services-amid-pentagon-feud-222029306.html?src=rss

• FCC approves the merger of cable giants Cox and Charter
  The Federal Communications Commission has given the go ahead for two of the US9 biggest cable providers, Charter Communications and Cox Communications, to merge. Charter announced its intention to acquire Cox for $34.5 billion in May 2025, with specific plans to inherit Cox9s managed IT, commercial fiber and cloud businesses, while folding the company9s residential cable service into a subsidiary.
  
  “By approving this deal, the FCC ensures big wins for Americans," FCC Chairman Brendan Carr said in a statement. "This deal means that jobs are coming back to America that had been shipped overseas. It means that modern, high-speed networks will get built out in more communities across rural America. And it means that customers will get access to lower priced plans. On top of this, the deal enshrines protections against DEI discrimination."
  
  The FCC claims that Charter plans to invest "billions" to upgrade its network following the closure of the deal, leading to "faster broadband and lower prices." The company9s "Rural Construction Initiative" will also extend those improvements to rural states lacking in consistent internet service, a project the FCC was heavily invested in during the Biden administration, but has been pulling back from since President Donald Trump appointed Carr. The FCC also claims Charter will onshore jobs currently handled off-shore by Cox employees and commit to "new safeguards to protect against DEI discrimination," which essentially amounts to hiring, recruiting and promoting employees based on "skills, qualifications, and experience."
  
  While Carr9s FCC paints a rosy picture of Charter9s acquisition, history has provided multiple examples of mergers having the opposite effect on jobs and pricing. For example, redundancies created when T-Mobile merged with Sprint in 2020 led to a wave of layoffs at the carrier. And funnily enough in 2018, not long after Charter9s merger with Time Warner Cable was approved by the FCC, the company raised prices on its Spectrum service by over $91 a year. 
  
  The FCC9s obsession with diversity, equity and inclusion as part of the deal is stranger, if only because it appears to fall outside of the commission9s purpose of maintaining fair competition in the telecommunications industry. It does fit with other mergers the FCC has approved under Carr, however. Skydance9s acquisition of Paramount was approved in 2025 under the condition it wouldn9t establish any DEI programs.
  This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/big-tech/fcc-approves-the-merger-of-cable-giants-cox-and-charter-230258865.html?src=rss

• Paramount agrees to buy Warner Bros. Discovery, pays Netflix $2.8 billion for breakup
  Paramount Skydance and Warner Bros. Discovery are officially merging. The studio paid Netflix the $2.8 billion termination fee it was owed for breaking its original deal to buy Warner Bros. earlier today, and the historic film studio has now formally accepted Paramount’s offer.
  
  Along with the deal, which values Warner Bros. Discovery at $31 per share, Paramount is making several commitments to assuage the fears of regulators and the entertainment community. Those include a guarantee that the new company will produce 30 theatrical films annually, that theatrical releases will have a minimum 45-day window in theaters before they’re brought to video on demand (something Netflix ultimately also agreed to) and that deal itself will close by Q3 2026.
  
  This turnaround in Paramount9s fortunes has happened quickly. Warner Bros. Discovery announced that Paramount9s offer was superior to Netflix9s on Thursday, and not long after the streaming service said that it wouldn9t provide a counter offer, effectively abandoning its previous agreement.
  
  Ultimately, Netflix and Paramount were vying for different parts of Warner Bros. Disocvery. Netflix was primarily interested in Warner Bros. proper, while Paramount Skydance wanted the whole company, cable networks and all. Either deal would need to be approved by regulators, which is the hurdle Paramount and Warner Bros. Discovery face now. The general assumption has been that the close relationship Paramount CEO David Ellison and his billionaire father Larry Ellison have with the Trump administration would smooth over any issues, but the deal will receive scrutiny abroad and likely also at the state level, based on a recent post from California Attorney General Rob Bonta.
  
  Paramount Skydance has proven its willingness to comply with President Donald Trump, but delays in closing the deal could be costly. The company is on the hook to pay Warner Bros. Discovery "a daily ticking fee equal to $0.25 per share per quarter beginning after September 30, 2026." The company also has to pay $7 billion to Warner Bros. Discovery if the deal is terminated for regulatory reasons. Netflix lost the battle for Warner Bros. Discovery, but getting a competitor to potentially overpay for the studio might be its own reward.
  This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/entertainment/paramount-agrees-to-buy-warner-bros-discovery-pays-netflix-28-billion-for-breakup-215936514.html?src=rss

• The PS5 Pro is getting upgraded upscaling tech in March
  After suggesting a version of AMD9s FSR 4 could be ported to the PS5 Pro last year, it looks like Sony is finally rolling out an update with the upscaling tech in March. Mark Cerny, the lead architect of the PS4, PS5 and PS5 Pro, shared via a blog post that the PS5 Pro will be updated with a new version of the company9s PSSR (PlayStation Spectral Super Resolution) upscaling tech next month, and formally announced "Project Amethyst," their collaboration to develop machine-learning technology to improve graphics and gameplay, in 2024. The partnership has already benefitted both companies: Cerny says Sony contributed to the development of AMD9s FSR 4 and similar improvements are now trickling back to the PS5 Pro. Both companies9 plans to improve everything from upscaling performance to energy efficiency could also pay further dividends in future consoles and GPUs. 
  Sony Interactive Entertainment
  The upgraded PSSR will roll out to PS5 Pro owners as part of a software update in March, and will be able to be toggled on and off in the console9s settings, according to Cerny. Around the same time, multiple PS5 games are also supposed to be updated to support the upscaling tech. While the graphical improvements are still incremental over a normal PS5, the fact that Sony9s still squeezing more performance out of its console should at least be reassuring to anyone who spent $700 (or now $750) on a PS5 Pro.
  This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/gaming/playstation/the-ps5-pro-is-getting-upgraded-upscaling-tech-in-march-200105816.html?src=rss

• Google and OpenAI employees sign open letter in ‘solidarity’ with Anthropic
  Hundreds of employees at Google and OpenAI have signed an open letter urging their companies to stand with Anthropic in its standoff with the Pentagon over military applications for AI tools like Claude.
  
  The letter, titled “We Will Not Be Divided,” calls on the leadership of both companies to “put aside their differences and stand together to continue to refuse the Department of War’s current demands for permission to use our models for domestic mass surveillance and autonomously killing people without human oversight.” These are two lines that Anthropic CEO Dario Amodei has said should not be crossed by his or any other AI company.
  
  As of publication, the letter has over 450 signatures, almost 400 of which come from Google employees and the rest from OpenAI. Currently, roughly 50 percent of all participants have chosen to attach their names to the cause, with the rest remaining anonymous. All are verified as current employees of these companies. The original organizers of the letter aren’t Google or OpenAI employees; they say are unaffiliated with any AI company, political party or advocacy group.
  
  The open letter is the latest development in the saga between Anthropic and US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, who threatened to label the company a “supply chain risk” if it did not agree to withdraw certain guardrails for classified work. The Pentagon has also been in talks with Google and OpenAI about using their models for classified work, with xAI coming on board earlier this week. The letter argues the government is "trying to divide each company with fear that the other will give in.”
  
  OpenAI CEO Sam Altman told his employees on Friday that the ChatGPT maker will draw the same red lines as Anthropic, according to an internal memo seen by Axios. He told CNBC on the same day that he doesn9t "personally think the Pentagon should be threatening DPA against these companies."
  This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/ai/google-and-openai-employees-sign-open-letter-in-solidarity-with-anthropic-194957274.html?src=rss

• Here’s your first look at Kratos and Atreus in Amazon’s upcoming God of War TV adaptation
  With the likes of The Last of Us and Fallout out of the way for a bit, Amazon has seized its opportunity to put the spotlight on the next big video game adaptation, its currently-in-production God of War show. Today we got our first look at Ryan Hurst and Callum Vinson as Kratos and Atreus.
  
  The image released by Amazon shows the eponymous God of War standing next to a tree as he watches his son — who notably looks a bit younger than the video game version of 11-year-old Atreus we first met in 2018’s God of War — take aim with his bow. Exactly what they’re hunting is unclear, but we know that the developing relationship between father and son that was such a big part of the PS4 game is also going to be at the heart of the show.
  
  Whether Sony Pictures Television and Amazon MGM Studios have nailed the looks of its central characters is a matter of opinion. Personally I think Hurst’s Kratos in particular looks a little bit off here, but there’s every chance it all comes together later in production. Or when we first hear him angrily exclaim "boy!"
  
  The Sons of Anarchy star was cast as Kratos back in January, and earlier this week we learned that Deadpool’s Ed Skrein will play Baldur in the Amazon show. The rest of the cast includes Mandy Patinkin as Odin, Max Parker and Heimfall, Ólafur Darri Ólafsson as Thor, Teresa Palmer as Sif, Alastair Duncan as Mimir, Jeff Gulka as Sindri and Danny Woodburn as Brok.
  
  No release date has been announced yet, but a second season of God of War has already been confirmed.
  This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/entertainment/streaming/heres-your-first-look-at-kratos-and-atreus-in-amazons-upcoming-god-of-war-tv-adaptation-172251366.html?src=rss

• OpenAI secures another $110 billion in funding from Amazon, NVIDIA and SoftBank
  OpenAI just announced a reported that one condition is that OpenAI achieves artificial general intelligence. AGI is when AI evolves to or beyond human-level abilities, at which point the entire world turns into rainbows and everyone gets a pony. This could happen later this year, according to those bullish on the technology, or never, according to many researchers. Sam Altman said it was coming in 2025 but has since grown weary of the term.
  
  The new partnership with NVIDIA evolves the long-standing collaboration between the two companies. OpenAI has pledged to consume 2 gigawatts of training capacity on NVIDIA9s Vera Rubin systems and an additional 3 gigawatts of computing resources, likely in the form of GPUs, to run specific AI inference tasks. In other words, NVIDIA is spending a lot of money on OpenAI and then OpenAI will turn around and spend a lot of money with NVIDIA. The ouroboros must feed.
  
  As for revenue, OpenAI has forecast a massive loss of $14 billion in 2026. It lost around $5 billion in 2024 and reports estimate a loss of $8 billion in 2025. Despite this trajectory, the company claims it9ll be raking in $100 billion in revenue by 2029.
  This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/ai/openai-secures-another-110-billion-in-funding-from-amazon-nvidia-and-softbank-171006356.html?src=rss

• NASA overhauls Artemis program, delaying Moon landing to 2028
  NASA is making major changes to its Artemis Moon program. On Friday, Administrator Jared Isaacman announced the space agency would carry out an additional flight in 2027 to test commercial lunar landers from SpaceX and/or Blue Origin. The new mission will take the place of Artemis 3, which previously would have seen NASA attempt to land on the Moon for the first time since 1972. The flight will also see the agency test a new spacesuit made by Axiom Space.    
  
  As part of the new plan, the redesigned Artemis 3 mission will give NASA the chance to test at least one lander in the relative safety of low Earth orbit. NASA will attempt to return humans to the Moon during Artemis 4 sometime in 2028, with the potential for another mission as early as later that same year. Per caught a hydrogen leak during a fueling test. More recently, NASA delayed the mission to give its engineers time to fix a helium pressurization issue in the upper stage of the SLS.  At the earliest, the mission can now get underway on April 1.
  
  
  This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/science/nasa-overhauls-artemis-program-delaying-moon-landing-to-2028-164255318.html?src=rss

• Celebrate Pokémon’s 30th anniversary with this Game Boy-shaped music player
  Pokémon celebrates its 30th anniversary today, and as you’d expect, Nintendo and The Pokémon Company are cranking up the nostalgia in every possible way. In addition to re-releasing the Game Boy Advance remakes of Pokémon Red and Blue on Nintendo Switch Online, they’re also selling us a Game Boy-shaped portable Pokémon jukebox.
  
  Officially titled the Pokémon Game Music Collection, the little music player is palm-sized and can be loaded up with 45 different cartridges, each featuring a different melody or sound effect from the original games9 soundtrack. The device was announced by longtime series composer Junichi Masuda during today’s anniversary Pokémon Presents livestream, where he said that special care has gone into the audio sounding like it did on the Game Boy.
  
  Each cartridge also features a screenshot from the games, so when you slide it into the device’s display slot it looks like you’re playing as well as listening. Put one of these next to last year’s equally charming Lego Game Boy on a shelf and you’ve got two entirely non-playable replicas of the iconic handheld, which is sure to confuse and disappoint your guests in equal measure.
  
  The Pokémon Game Music Collection is available to buy from Pokémon Center starting today, but US pricing is yet to be confirmed.
  This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/gaming/nintendo/celebrate-pokemons-30th-anniversary-with-this-game-boy-shaped-music-player-154644225.html?src=rss

• Pokémon Winds and Waves are coming to Switch 2 in 2027
  
  The Pokémon leakers were right: the Gen 10 games are called Pokémon Wind and Pokémon Waves. The Pokémon Company confirmed the titles during a 30th anniversary stream on Pokémon Day. The games are set to hit Nintendo Switch 2 in 2027. (A Game Freak leak last October suggested Wind and Waves would be out this year with DLC to follow in 2027.)
  
  According to the Pokémon account on X, in Wind and Waves, “you’ll travel across beautiful windswept islands and a vast ocean with glittering waves that ebb and flow. You’ll also team up with Pokémon to overcome challenges and even the forces of nature!” They’ll be playable in 11 languages, including Brazilian Portuguese.
  Introducing the first partner Pokémon from #PokemonWindsWaves!
  
  Say hello to Browt 🌱, Pombon 🔥, and Gecqua 💧. Who will you partner with on this adventure, Trainers? pic.twitter.com/UfKtE5lszu
  — Pokémon (@Pokemon) February 27, 2026
  A trailer for the two games revealed the three new starter Pokémon: Browt, Pombon and Gecqua. As suggested by their colors and environments they’re shown in, they are grass, fire and water types, respectively. Other Pokémon that were featured include Pikachu (sporting fetching beachwear) and Oddish. The trailer, which reveals a new region for the series, ends by taking us into the ocean to gawk at an number of water Pokémon.
  
  The Pokémon Presents stream on Friday included updates for many other games in the franchise, including the battle-focused available on Switch and Switch 2 for $20 each. Meanwhile, Pokémon Pokopia, a cozy life sim spin-off, will hit Switch 2 on March 5.
  
  
  This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/gaming/nintendo/pokemon-winds-and-waves-are-coming-to-switch-2-in-2027-152248895.html?src=rss

• The Morning After: The Galaxy S26 Ultra’s Privacy Display is pretty cool
  Samsung’s Unpacked event midweek revealed three new phones and two sets of earbuds, but the real standout, as usual, is the Galaxy S26 Ultra. This year, the Ultra actually features a bit of genuine tech innovation — and no, we don’t mean it folds.
  
  Let’s talk about its new Privacy Display. This isn9t a shimmery, holographic screen protector that’s hard to read and constantly peels off at the corners; this tech is engineered directly into the S26 Ultra’s OLED display.
  
  Samsung Display revealed its Flex Magic Pixel technology back in 2024. The S26 Ultra’s Privacy Display is built off the back of this. It controls the direction of light emitted from the AMOLED at the pixel level, integrating wide-angle and narrow-angle pixel arrays so the display can switch between a wide-angle viewing experience and more private, straight-on views.
  
  While HP’s SureView tech is similar, the amount of customization possible is incredible — and we all have our phones out in public much more than our… HP laptops. It could be perfect for keeping prying eyes off your banking apps, messaging apps and even dating apps.
  
  Otherwise, the rest of the S26 series offers incremental updates with better cameras and newer processors. This makes the base S26 and S26+ a harder sell unless your current Galaxy phone is several years old. Also, following the 2026 trend, they are all pricier this year.
  
  Make sure you check out our early impressions (S26 Ultra, S26, Galaxy Buds 4); reviews are coming soon.
  
  — Mat Smith
  The other big stories (and deals) this morning
  Apple and Netflix are teaming up to share Formula 1 programming
  
  Burger King will use AI to monitor employee ’friendliness’
  
  Canadian government demands safety changes from OpenAI
  
  Amazon introduces three personality styles for Alexa+
  Ambient Dreamie bedside companion reviewHow much for a good night’s sleep? $250?An AI-generated Resident Evil Requiem review briefly made it on MetacriticBy a video game news site owned by ClickOut Media.
  Review aggregator Metacritic has removed a review of Resident Evil Requiem because it was AI generated. Kotaku explained the review was published by UK gaming site VideoGamer, but appears to be “written” by a fake AI journalist rather than a real person. “Brian Merrygold” doesn’t seem to exist.
  
  The author’s profile on VideoGamer is just as awkwardly written as the review, and the profile picture of the account also appears to be AI-generated. Literally, the file name includes “ChatGPT-Image.”
  
  ClickOut Media, the company that owns VideoGamer and a collection of other publications, reportedly laid off the staff of its gaming sites earlier this month to pivot to AI-generated content. Here it is.
  
  Continue reading.
  
  
  This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/general/the-morning-after-engadget-newsletter-144951777.html?src=rss

• Engadget Podcast: Xbox's leadership shakeup and Samsung's Galaxy S26
  This week, we9re diving into the big changes at Xbox and what it all means for Microsoft9s gaming future. Phil Spencer, the longtime face of Xbox, announced he9s retiring last week. He9ll be replaced by Microsoft9s former CoreAI CEO Asha Sharma, instead of his longtime deputy Sarah Bond, who plans to leave the company. Will this change actually help the beleaguered Xbox division, or is it another example of Microsoft shoving AI into everything? 
  
  Also, Samsung held its latest Unpacked event this week to announce its new Galaxy S26 family. They look pretty much the same as last year, but the Ultra model includes a unique privacy feature that can instantly make the screen unreadable to bystanders. It9s one of those features we expect to see in every phone eventually.
  Subscribe!
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  Topic
  Xbox leadership falls apart. what happens next with Phil Spencer and Sarah Bond out? – 1:53
  
  Samsung Unpacked: Privacy display on the S26 Ultra looks amazing – 27:27
  
  U.S. Defense leadership gives Anthropic a Friday deadline to let it use Claude as it sees fit – 42:38
  
  MrBeast editor accused of insider trading on Kalshi – 50:40
  
  Discord delays age verification program after user revolt – 54:09
  
  Around Engadget – 1:04:04
  
  Working on – 1:05:16
  
  Pop culture picks – 1:08:21
  Credits
  Hosts: Devindra Hardawar and Igor Bonifacic
  Producer: Ben Ellman
  Music: Dale North and Terrence O’Brien
  
  
  This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/gaming/xbox/engadget-podcast-xboxs-leadership-shakeup-and-samsungs-galaxy-s26-150000180.html?src=rss

• A cheap MacBook is the perfect way for Apple to win over Windows users
  The MacBook is coming back — or at least, that9s what the rumors claim. Next week, Apple is expected to announce a colorful, low-cost, non-Air, non-Pro MacBook powered by one of its mobile processors. By avoiding its pricier M-series chips, Apple may reportedly be able to reach a low $699 or $799 price for the MacBook. The $999 MacBook Air is the cheapest laptop on the company9s website right now, but Apple also sold the older M1 MacBook Air at Walmartfor $700 in 2024, which later went down to $650 last year.
  
  That Walmart deal was a smart way for Apple to test out the viability of cheaper MacBooks without building an entirely new product. But now the M1 Air’s design looks seriously dated, and the company also needs to move beyond the six-year-old M1 chip. It9s time to get serious about delivering a true low-cost Apple laptop.
  
  There9s another compelling reason to bring back a cheaper MacBook: It9s the perfect way  to court disgruntled Windows users, something Apple hasn9t really done since its "Get A Mac" adsfrom the mid-2000s. I figure the unbridled success of the iPhone and iPad made Apple focus less on directly competing with Windows. The sleek designs of the 2011-2015 era MacBook Air and Pros were their main selling points, but Apple9s push towards USB-C-only machines and unreliable butterfly keyboards later made it clear it wasn9t totally focused on Macs.
  
  But now Microsoft is distracted by AI — it9s been pushing Copilot and AI features for years, instead of improving the Windows experience with more useful upgrades. Recent talk of agentic AI capabilities, which would let Copilot handle tasks for you automatically, also sparked plenty of criticism from Windows users. And with all of the focus on AI, Microsoft has also released some disastrous Windows updates over the last year, which have bricked OS installations. So, Apple, why not make a direct play for Windows users? 
  
  Last year, I covered why it9s a great time to jump ship from Windows to Mac, and I haven9t been able to let go of that idea since. Apple9s M-series chips are shockingly fast and efficient, and its hardware tends to be more durable than typical PC fare. Rumors point to Apple developing a new aluminum case for the low-cost MacBook, so it will likely feel more polished than a typical sub-$1,000 Windows laptop. macOS has also avoided the bloat that9s plagued Windows for years — you can turn off Apple Intelligence with two clicks if you want to, and there aren9t any annoying ads to deal with. 
  A MacBook Air M5 on a table.Devindra Hardawar for Engadget
  And while it used to be a pain to transition from Windows to Mac, it’s far easier these days, especially if you mainly rely on web apps. It also wouldn9t be tough for Apple to make short tutorials to help Windows users get their bearings with the macOS basics, like installing apps and juggling app windows. Apple could also make a play for iPhone owners using Windows, who may not be aware of the many ways iOS and macOS are integrated. iPhone mirroring may be a huge draw on its own.
  
  Rumors also suggest the upcoming MacBook might use the A18 Pro from the iPhone 16 Pro, a chip that benchmarks faster than the M1. Even if it only has six cores, making it slower for heavy workloads than the M2, an A18 Pro-powered MacBook would still be more than enough power for basic productivity work. Not everyone needs the surprising amount of GPU power in the MacBook Air — especially if downgrading means they can save $200 to $300.
  
  I9m not saying any of this through any sort of Apple-loving bias. I typically use a MacBook Pro for work, but I9m a Windows user at heart. Windows was my gateway to computing in the 990s, back when Macs were far more expensive than PCs. These days, I spend more time on my Windows desktop making podcasts, playing PC games and bumming around the internet than I do working on Macs. 
  
  And yet, it’s hard to deny everything Apple is doing right today — the only thing it’s missing is an inexpensive laptop entry. A $699 or $799 MacBook simply makes sense. And for many Windows users, it’ll be just the escape from Microsoft they need.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/computing/laptops/a-cheap-macbook-is-the-perfect-way-for-apple-to-win-over-windows-users-130000045.html?src=rss

• Ultrahuman’s new Pro ring comes with 15 days battery life
  If there’s one thing that stops people using their smart rings over the long term, it’s the battery life. After all, they’re so unobtrusive, it’s easy to forget to drop it on the charging plate every few days. It doesn’t take long for your pricey gadget to become little more than a very expensive piece of jewelry. It’s one of many maladies Ultrahuman is looking to address with the advent of its new Pro, a smart ring boasting up to 15 days of battery life. It even ships with a fancy battery case, which itself includes enough power to last it 45 days, making it easier to keep re-charged on the go.
  
  Ultrahuman Ring Pro hasn’t just got a far bigger battery, it’s been re-engineered from the ground up. The company’s Bhuvan Srinivasan explained the older hardware had been pushed to its limit, especially in terms of the data it could process. Consequently, the Pro is equipped with a dual core processor with on-device machine learning to better crunch the numbers your body is throwing out. Its memory has also been increased, holding up to 250 days of data before it needs to sync with your smartphone. As well as improvements to durability, the new ring is also easier to cut apart in the hopefully rare event your finger, or its battery, begins to swell.
  Ultrahuman
  I’ll admit, having seen a prototype Pro Charger in person back in January, that it’s the prettiest way to re-juice a smart ring I’ve ever seen. Whereas Samsung and Oura have both opted for discreet, ring box-style hardware, Ultrahuman made something designed to sit on your nightstand. It’s not taking up space just for show, either, since it includes the aforementioned battery, LED charge indicator, speaker and haptics. It’s also got the ability to diagnose and address firmware issues to eliminate worries around firmware issues bricking devices.
  Ultrahuman
  At the same time, Ultrahuman is pulling the covers off Jade, its new “real time biointelligence AI.” The company promises Jade will be able to “pull real-time actionable insights, and even start breathwork or trigger Afib detection.” Jade is expected to get new features over time, with some examples being ordering good, changing your room temperature or flagging potential health issues. The idea is that Jade will keep a constant eye on your health, pulling in data from the ring, M1 continuous glucose monitor and environmental stats from your Ultrahuman Home.
  
  Naturally, we’ll be getting in the Pro to test and will give our opinions on how effective all of this is when we’ve spent a month or two actually using it. But if you’d rather not wait and you’re based outside the US, you can pre-order the Ultrahuman Ring Pro right now, for $479, with shipments beginning in March. If you already have an Ultrahuman Ring, you can also get a trade-in deal to help cut the cost of the new model.
  This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/wearables/ultrahumans-new-pro-ring-comes-with-15-days-battery-life-120038820.html?src=rss

• OpenAI will notify authorities of credible threats after Canada mass shooter's second account was discovered
  OpenAI has vowed to strengthen its safety protocols and to notify law enforcement of credible threats sooner in a letter addressed to Canadian authorities, according to summoned the company’s leaders after reports came out that it didn’t notify authorities when it banned the account owned by the Tumbler Ridge, British Columbia mass shooting suspect back in 2025. Some of OpenAI’s leaders have already met with Candian officials, and British Columbia Premier David Eby said Sam Altman had also agreed to meet with him.
  
  While OpenAI has yet to announce changes to its rules, Ann O’Leary, its vice president of global policy, reportedly wrote in the letter that the company will tweak its detection systems so that they can better prevent banned users from coming back to the platform. Apparently, after OpenAI banned the shooter’s original account due to “potential warnings of committing real-world violence,” the perpetrator was able to create another account. The company only discovered the second account after the shooter’s name was released, and it has since notified authorities.
  
  Further, OpenAI will now notify authorities if it detects “imminent and credible” threats in ChatGPT conversations, even if the user doesn’t reveal “a target, means, and timing of planned violence.” O’Leary explained that if the new rules had been in effect when the shooter’s account was banned in 2025, the company would have notified the police. OpenAI will also establish a point of contact for Canadian law enforcement so it can quickly share information with authorities when needed.
  
  The Canadian government sees OpenAI’s decision not to report the shooter’s original account as a failure. It threatened to regulate AI chatbots in the country if their creators cannot show that they have proper safeguards to protect its users. It’s unclear at the moment if OpenAI also plans to roll out the same changes in the US and elsewhere in the world.
  This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/ai/openai-will-notify-authorities-of-credible-threats-after-canada-mass-shooters-second-account-was-discovered-112706548.html?src=rss

• Google Maps will finally be usable in South Korea
  Google will finally be able to provide real-time driving and walking directions in South Korea, The New York Times reported. The company has received permission from the nation9s Transport Ministry to export geographic data out of the country, which will allow it to provide GPS services as well as detailed listings for restaurants and other businesses. 
  
  "We welcome today’s decision and look forward to our ongoing collaboration with local officials to bring a fully functioning Google Maps to Korea," Google9s senior executive Cris Turner told the NYT in a statement. However, the approval is contingent “on the condition that strict security requirements are met,” a spokesperson from the Transport Ministry said. Those conditions reportedly restrict Google from displaying sensitive military sites and longitude and latitude coordinates. 
  
  South Korea has generally restricted the export of 1/5000 scale map data over national security concerns, as it9s still technically at war with its neighbor North Korea. Google hasn9t been able to provide mapping directions or business details since it arrived in the nation, though it has applied twice in 2007 and 2016.
  
  This lack of data sharing has reportedly been a bone of contention in trade talks with the US. Google argued that it was unfairly handicapped by the restrictions that allowed local apps like Naver to thrive. 
  
  However, critics in the nation have expressed concern that Google could now come in and monopolize the market. "If Naver and Kakao are weakened or pushed out and Google later raises prices, that becomes a monopoly. Then, even companies that rely on map services — logistics firms, for example — become dependent [on Google]," geography professor Choi Jin-mu told Reuters. 
  This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/apps/google-maps-will-finally-be-usable-in-south-korea-104301396.html?src=rss

• The best Wi-Fi extenders in 2026
  Weak Wi-Fi can turn everyday tasks into small frustrations, whether it’s a video call that drops mid-sentence or a stream that refuses to load in certain rooms. If upgrading your router isn’t an option, a Wi-Fi extender can be a practical way to stretch your existing network farther and smooth out coverage gaps — without rewiring your home or rearranging furniture.
  
  Today’s Wi-Fi extenders range from simple plug-in repeaters to more advanced models that behave like miniature access points or mesh nodes. Some are best suited for extending coverage to a single room, while others are designed to preserve faster speeds across larger spaces. Choosing the right one depends on your home’s layout, your internet plan and how much performance you’re willing to trade for convenience.
  
  We’ve tested a variety of Wi-Fi extenders to find the best options for different budgets and setups, from affordable fixes for small dead zones to higher-end models built to handle heavier traffic and faster connections.
  Best Wi-Fi extender for 2026
  
  
  
  
  
  How do Wi-Fi extenders work?
  These handy wireless devices do exactly what their name suggests: extend your Wi-Fi network so it covers more areas of your home. Most wireless extenders plug into an AC outlet and connect to your existing router so they can then rebroadcast it to spots that your router alone may not cover well. As a rule of thumb, you’ll get the best results by placing the extender half way between your router and the dead zone you’re trying to fix or improve your W-Fi connection and strengthen the wireless signal.
  
  One important thing to note about Wi-Fi range extenders (also sometimes called “repeaters”) is that most of them actually create a new Wi-Fi network when rebroadcasting your existing one. That network will have a new name (it’ll often be your default network’s name with an EXT appended at the end, unless you change it) and that means you’ll have to connect to different networks when in different parts of your home. While that’s a small tradeoff in return for improved internet connection, some will be more inconvenienced than others.
  
  If you’d rather have one, much larger network in your home, you’re better off upgrading to mesh networking systems. Mesh systems come with a main router and a wireless access point or two that, by default, create one large Wi-Fi system that should be accessible throughout your whole home. They tend to be the best Wi-Fi routers you can get, but that also translates to more expensive, and possibly more complicated, devices. Mesh Wi-Fi systems are, by far, more costly than a simple extender, plus you may have to work with your internet service provider to get your home’s existing network working on your new router.
  What to look for in a Wi-Fi extender Speed
  Extenders today can support single, dual or tri-band Wi-Fi, and they will tell you the maximum speeds they support on all of their available bands. For example, one dual-band device might support 600Mbps speeds over its 2.4GHz band and up to 1300Mbps over its 5GHz band, for a combined maximum speed of 1900Mbps. For the best performance, you’ll want to go with a Wi-Fi extender that has the highest speeds possible (and those, as you might expect, tend to cost more). Some extenders even support Wi-Fi 7, giving you the latest in wireless technology for higher bandwidth, faster internet speed and lower latency.
  
  However, it’s important to remember that Wi-Fi extenders are not true “signal boosters” since they are not designed to increase speeds across your home. In fact, you may find that the extender’s network is slower than your router’s. Instead, extenders are designed to increase the strong Wi-Fi coverage throughout your home, making them ideal for filling in dead zones. Some mesh extenders can help create a more seamless network, reducing the drop in speed and improving connectivity in larger spaces.
  Range, and number of supported devices
  With the name of the gaming being coverage area, taking note of a device’s range is important. Depending on the size of your home and property, you may only need up to 1,200 square feet of coverage. But those with larger homes will want to spring for an extender that can support upwards of 2,000+ square feet of coverage.
  
  Similarly, those with lots of gadgets will want an extender that can handle them all at once. If you spend most of your time on your phone or laptop and maybe have your smart TV online for a few hours of Netflix each day, you could get by with a more limited extender. Smart home aficionados and tech lovers should invest in one that won’t buckle under the pressure of a few dozen connected devices. This is especially important if you plan on linking all of the devices in a certain part of your home to your Wi-Fi range extender’s network, rather than directly to your existing router. Some models with external antennas can improve performance by providing stronger, more directional wireless signal.
  Design
  There isn’t a ton of innovation when it comes to design in the Wi-Fi extender space. Most of the ones you’ll find today are rounded rectangles roughly the size of your hand that plug into a standard wall outlet. They usually have a few indicator lights that will show you when the extender is connected, how strong its signal strength is and when there’s a problem, and some will even have moveable external antennas that companies claim provide even better Wi-Fi signal. Generally, they are pretty simple to install and get connected, but if you’re struggling with how to set up your Wi-Fi extender, there are plenty of YouTube videos you can check out.
  
  Aside from that, there are the scant few standalone Wi-Fi extenders that sit on an end table or a desk, and those look pretty similar to regular ol’ routers. But make no mistake, anything labeled as an extender or a “Wi-Fi repeater” will need an anchor router in order for it to work.
  
  Another convenient feature you’ll find on most Wi-Fi extenders is an extra Ethernet connection port (or a few). This allows you to use the extender as a wireless access point if you connect it to your existing router, or an adapter to provide devices like TVs, smart home hubs or game consoles a hardwired connection to the internet. Unsurprisingly, this wired connection usually provides you with the fastest speeds possible, so you may want to use it for your most crucial devices.
  Wi-Fi extender FAQs What9s the difference between a wifi booster and extender?
  Nowadays, there’s really no difference between a Wi-Fi booster and Wi-Fi extender - they’re just different names for the same thing. Previously, however, Wi-Fi boosters were devices that received signals from wireless routers, broadcasting them to another network. This essentially extends the range of the signal. Wi-Fi extenders expand the coverage within your home’s Wi-Fi network, but often you will see extenders described as boosters.
  Is a Wi-Fi extender better than a mesh router?
  Mesh routers, or mesh Wi-Fi systems, use multiple devices (or nodes) across your home to create a larger home network. Essentially, you have multiple routers around your home with these systems, and that will hopefully provide the best coverage possible. Wi-Fi extenders, on the other hand, are usually just one device that extends your existing Wi-Fi signal, and they often require you to switch networks when connecting. Wi-Fi extenders are more affordable, though, and are great if you’re traveling or need a Wi-Fi signal in harder-to-reach areas. However, a mesh router can offer a better long-term solution to upgrade your entire home’s Wi-Fi.
  Should I use multiple Wi-Fi extenders?
  Some people may need to use multiple Wi-Fi extenders, for instance, if your home is large or has dead zones in different areas. But if you do use multiple Wi-Fi extenders, there’s a chance of interference. You may also need to manually connect to the extenders separately, which isn’t always convenient.
  What is the maximum distance for a Wi-Fi extender?
  The maximum distance for a Wi-Fi extender varies depending on the model, but most can effectively extend your wireless signal between 800 and 2,500 square feet. Some high-end models may reach even farther, especially if they feature external antennas or are part of a mesh system with additional dedicated wireless access points.
  
  However, keep in mind that real-world performance depends on factors like your home9s layout, wall materials and interference from other devices. For best results, place your extender about halfway between your router and the area with weak or no Wi-Fi connection. Always check the manufacturer’s specs — some of our top picks clearly list their expected range so you can find one that fits your space.
  This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/computing/best-wifi-extender-130021313.html?src=rss

• Anthropic refuses to bow to Pentagon despite Hegseth's threats
  Despite an ultimatum from Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, Anthropic said that it can9t "in good conscience" comply with a Pentagon edict to remove guardrails on its AI, CEO Dario Amodei wrote in a blog post. The Department of Defense had threatened to cancel a $200 million contract and label Anthropic a "supply chain risk" if it didn9t agree to remove safeguards over mass surveillance and autonomous weapons.
  
  "Our strong preference is to continue to serve the Department and our warfighters — with our two requested safeguards in place," Amodei said. "We remain ready to continue our work to support the national security of the United States."
  
  In response, US Under Secretary of Defense Emil Michael accused Amodei in a post on X of wanting "nothing more than to try to personally control the US military and is OK putting our nation9s safety at risk."
  
  The standoff began when the Pentagon demanded that Anthropic its Claude AI product available for "all lawful purposes" — including mass surveillance and the development of fully autonomous weapons that can kill without human supervision. Anthropic refused to offer its tech for those things, even with a "safety stack" built into that model.
  
  Yesterday, one of the other providers the DoD is reportedly considering, along with Google9s Gemini and OpenAI. 
  
  It may not be that simple for the military to disentangle itself from Claude, however. Up until now, Anthropic9s model has been the only one allowed for the military9s most sensitive tasks in intelligence, weapons development and battlefield operations. Claude was reportedly used in the Venezuelan raid in which the US military exfiltrated the country9s president, Nicolás Maduro, and his wife.
  
  AI companies have been widely criticized for potential harm to users, but mass surveillance and weapons development would clearly take that to a new level. Anthropic9s potential reply to the Pentagon was seen as a test of its claim to be the most safety-forward AI company, particularly after dropping its flagship safety pledge a few days ago. Now that Amodei has responded, the focus will shift to the Pentagon to see if it follows through on its threats, which could seriously harm Anthropic. 
  This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/ai/anthropic-refuses-to-bow-to-pentagon-despite-hegseths-threats-085553126.html?src=rss

• EU OS: A Bold Step Toward Digital Sovereignty for Europe
  Image
  A new initiative, called "EU OS," has been launched to develop a Linux-based operating system tailored specifically for the public sector organizations of the European Union (EU). This community-driven project aims to address the EU's unique needs and challenges, focusing on fostering digital sovereignty, reducing dependency on external vendors, and building a secure, self-sufficient digital ecosystem.
  What Is EU OS?
  EU OS is not an entirely novel operating system. Instead, it builds upon a Linux foundation derived from Fedora, with the KDE Plasma desktop environment. It draws inspiration from previous efforts such as France's GendBuntu and Munich's LiMux, which aimed to provide Linux-based systems for public sector use. The goal remains the same: to create a standardized Linux distribution that can be adapted to different regional, national, and sector-specific needs within the EU.
  
  Rather than reinventing the wheel, EU OS focuses on standardization, offering a solid Linux foundation that can be customized according to the unique requirements of various organizations. This approach makes EU OS a practical choice for the public sector, ensuring broad compatibility and ease of implementation across diverse environments.
  The Vision Behind EU OS
  The guiding principle of EU OS is the concept of "public money – public code," ensuring that taxpayer money is used transparently and effectively. By adopting an open-source model, EU OS eliminates licensing fees, which not only lowers costs but also reduces the dependency on a select group of software vendors. This provides the EU’s public sector organizations with greater flexibility and control over their IT infrastructure, free from the constraints of vendor lock-in.
  
  Additionally, EU OS offers flexibility in terms of software migration and hardware upgrades. Organizations can adapt to new technologies and manage their IT evolution at a manageable cost, both in terms of finances and time.
  
  However, there are some concerns about the choice of Fedora as the base for EU OS. While Fedora is a solid and reliable distribution, it is backed by the United States-based Red Hat. Some argue that using European-backed projects such as openSUSE or KDE's upcoming distribution might have aligned better with the EU's goal of strengthening digital sovereignty.
  Conclusion
  EU OS marks a significant step towards Europe's digital independence by providing a robust, standardized Linux distribution for the public sector. By reducing reliance on proprietary software and vendors, it paves the way for a more flexible, cost-effective, and secure digital ecosystem. While the choice of Fedora as the base for the project has raised some questions, the overall vision of EU OS offers a promising future for Europe's public sector in the digital age.
  
  Source: It's FOSS
  European Union

• Linus Torvalds Acknowledges Missed Release of Linux 6.14 Due to Oversight
  
  Linus Torvalds Acknowledges Missed Release of Linux 6.14 Due to Oversight
  
  Linux kernel lead developer Linus Torvalds has admitted to forgetting to release version 6.14, attributing the oversight to his own lapse in memory. Torvalds is known for releasing new Linux kernel candidates and final versions on Sunday afternoons, typically accompanied by a post detailing the release. If he is unavailable due to travel or other commitments, he usually informs the community ahead of time, so users don’t worry if there’s a delay.
  
  In his post on March 16, Torvalds gave no indication that the release might be delayed, instead stating, “I expect to release the final 6.14 next weekend unless something very surprising happens.” However, Sunday, March 23rd passed without any announcement.
  
  On March 24th, Torvalds wrote in a follow-up message, “I’d love to have some good excuse for why I didn’t do the 6.14 release yesterday on my regular Sunday afternoon schedule,” adding, “But no. It’s just pure incompetence.” He further explained that while he had been clearing up unrelated tasks, he simply forgot to finalize the release. “D'oh,” he joked.
  
  Despite this minor delay, Torvalds’ track record of successfully managing the Linux kernel’s development process over the years remains strong. A single day’s delay is not critical, especially since most Linux users don't urgently need the very latest version.
  
  The new 6.14 release introduces several important features, including enhanced support for writing drivers in Rust—an ongoing topic of discussion among developers—support for Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Elite mobile chip, a fix for the GhostWrite vulnerability in certain RISC-V processors from Alibaba’s T-Head Semiconductor, and a completed NTSYNC driver update that improves the WINE emulator’s ability to run Windows applications, particularly games, on Linux.
  
  Although the 6.14 release went smoothly aside from the delay, Torvalds expressed that version 6.15 may present more challenges due to the volume of pending pull requests. “Judging by my pending pile of pull requests, 6.15 will be much busier,” he noted.
  
  You can download the latest kernel here.
  Linus Torvalds kernel

• AerynOS 2025.03 Alpha Released with GNOME 48, Mesa 25, and Linux Kernel 6.13.8
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  AerynOS 2025.03 has officially been released, introducing a variety of exciting features for Linux users. The release includes the highly anticipated GNOME 48 desktop environment, which comes with significant improvements like HDR support, dynamic triple buffering, and a Wayland color management protocol. Other updates include a battery charge limiting feature and a Wellbeing option aimed at improving user experience.
  
  This release, while still in alpha, incorporates Linux kernel 6.13.8 and the updated Mesa 25.0.2 graphics stack, alongside tools like LLVM 19.1.7 and Vulkan SDK 1.4.309.0. Additionally, the Moss package manager now integrates os-info to generate more detailed OS metadata via a JSON file.
  
  Future plans for AerynOS include automated package updates, easier rollback management, improved disk handling with Rust, and fractional scaling enabled by default. The installer has also been revamped to support full disk wipes and dynamic partitioning.
  
  Although still considered an alpha release, AerynOS 2025.03 can be downloaded and tested right now from its official website.
  
  Source: 9to5Linux
  AerynOS

• Xojo 2025r1: Big Updates for Developers with Linux ARM Support, Web Drag and Drop, and Direct App Store Publishing
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  Xojo has just rolled out its latest release, Xojo 2025 Release 1, and it’s packed with features that developers have been eagerly waiting for. This major update introduces support for running Xojo on Linux ARM, including Raspberry Pi, brings drag-and-drop functionality to the Web framework, and simplifies app deployment with the ability to directly submit apps to the macOS and iOS App Stores.
  
  Here’s a quick overview of what’s new in Xojo 2025r1:
  1. Linux ARM IDE Support
  Xojo 2025r1 now allows developers to run the Xojo IDE on Linux ARM devices, including popular platforms like Raspberry Pi. This opens up a whole new world of possibilities for developers who want to create apps for ARM-based devices without the usual complexity. Whether you’re building for a Raspberry Pi or other ARM devices, this update makes it easier than ever to get started.
  2. Web Drag and Drop
  One of the standout features in this release is the addition of drag-and-drop support for web applications. Now, developers can easily drag and drop visual controls in their web projects, making it simpler to create interactive, user-friendly web applications. Plus, the WebListBox has been enhanced with support for editable cells, checkboxes, and row reordering via dragging. No JavaScript required!
  3. Direct App Store Publishing
  Xojo has also streamlined the process of publishing apps. With this update, developers can now directly submit macOS and iOS apps to App Store Connect right from the Xojo IDE. This eliminates the need for multiple steps and makes it much easier to get apps into the App Store, saving valuable time during the development process.
  4. New Desktop and Mobile Features
  This release isn’t just about web and Linux updates. Xojo 2025r1 brings some great improvements for desktop and mobile apps as well. On the desktop side, all projects now include a default window menu for macOS apps. On the mobile side, Xojo has introduced new features for Android and iOS, including support for ColorGroup and Dark Mode on Android, and a new MobileColorPicker for iOS to simplify color selection.
  5. Performance and IDE Enhancements
  Xojo’s IDE has also been improved in several key areas. There’s now an option to hide toolbar captions, and the toolbar has been made smaller on Windows. The IDE on Windows and Linux now features modern Bootstrap icons, and the Documentation window toolbar is more compact. In the code editor, developers can now quickly navigate to variable declarations with a simple Cmd/Ctrl + Double-click. Plus, performance for complex container layouts in the Layout Editor has been enhanced.
  What Does This Mean for Developers?
  Xojo 2025r1 brings significant improvements across all the platforms that Xojo supports, from desktop and mobile to web and Linux. The added Linux ARM support opens up new opportunities for Raspberry Pi and ARM-based device development, while the drag-and-drop functionality for web projects will make it easier to create modern, interactive web apps. The ability to publish directly to the App Store is a game-changer for macOS and iOS developers, reducing the friction of app distribution.
  How to Get Started
  Xojo is free for learning and development, as well as for building apps for Linux and Raspberry Pi. If you’re ready to dive into cross-platform development, paid licenses start at $99 for a single-platform desktop license, and $399 for cross-platform desktop, mobile, or web development. For professional developers who need additional resources and support, Xojo Pro and Pro Plus licenses start at $799. You can also find special pricing for educators and students.
  
  Download Xojo 2025r1 today at xojo.com.
  Final Thoughts
  With each new release, Xojo continues to make cross-platform development more accessible and efficient. The 2025r1 release is no exception, delivering key updates that simplify the development process and open up new possibilities for developers working on a variety of platforms. Whether you’re a Raspberry Pi enthusiast or a mobile app developer, Xojo 2025r1 has something for you.
  Xojo ARM

• New 'Mirrored' Network Mode Introduced in Windows Subsystem for Linux
  
  Microsoft's Windows Subsystem for Linux (WSL) continues to evolve with the release of WSL 2 version 0.0.2. This update introduces a set of opt-in preview features designed to enhance performance and compatibility.
  
  Key additions include "Automatic memory reclaim" which dynamically optimizes WSL's memory footprint, and "Sparse VHD" to shrink the size of the virtual hard disk file. These improvements aim to streamline resource usage.
  
  Additionally, a new "mirrored networking mode" brings expanded networking capabilities like IPv6 and multicast support. Microsoft claims this will improve VPN and LAN connectivity from both the Windows host and Linux guest. 
  
  Complementing this is a new "DNS Tunneling" feature that changes how DNS queries are resolved to avoid compatibility issues with certain network setups. According to Microsoft, this should reduce problems connecting to the internet or local network resources within WSL.
  
  Advanced firewall configuration options are also now available through Hyper-V integration. The new "autoProxy" feature ensures WSL seamlessly utilizes the Windows system proxy configuration.
  
  Microsoft states these features are currently rolling out to Windows Insiders running Windows 11 22H2 Build 22621.2359 or later. They remain opt-in previews to allow testing before final integration into WSL.
  
  By expanding WSL 2 with compelling new capabilities in areas like resource efficiency, networking, and security, Microsoft aims to make Linux on Windows more performant and compatible. This evolutionary approach based on user feedback highlights Microsoft's commitment to WSL as a key part of the Windows ecosystem.
  Windows

• Linux Threat Report: Earth Lusca Deploys Novel SprySOCKS Backdoor in Attacks on Government Entities
  
  The threat actor Earth Lusca, linked to Chinese state-sponsored hacking groups, has been observed utilizing a new Linux backdoor dubbed SprySOCKS to target government organizations globally. 
  
  As initially reported in January 2022 by Trend Micro, Earth Lusca has been active since at least 2021 conducting cyber espionage campaigns against public and private sector targets in Asia, Australia, Europe, and North America. Their tactics include spear-phishing and watering hole attacks to gain initial access. Some of Earth Lusca's activities overlap with another Chinese threat cluster known as RedHotel.
  
  In new research, Trend Micro reveals Earth Lusca remains highly active, even expanding operations in the first half of 2023. Primary victims are government departments focused on foreign affairs, technology, and telecommunications. Attacks concentrate in Southeast Asia, Central Asia, and the Balkans regions. 
  
  After breaching internet-facing systems by exploiting flaws in Fortinet, GitLab, Microsoft Exchange, Telerik UI, and Zimbra software, Earth Lusca uses web shells and Cobalt Strike to move laterally. Their goal is exfiltrating documents and credentials, while also installing additional backdoors like ShadowPad and Winnti for long-term spying.
  
  The Command and Control server delivering Cobalt Strike was also found hosting SprySOCKS - an advanced backdoor not previously publicly reported. With roots in the Windows malware Trochilus, SprySOCKS contains reconnaissance, remote shell, proxy, and file operation capabilities. It communicates over TCP mimicking patterns used by a Windows trojan called RedLeaves, itself built on Trochilus.
  
  At least two SprySOCKS versions have been identified, indicating ongoing development. This novel Linux backdoor deployed by Earth Lusca highlights the increasing sophistication of Chinese state-sponsored threats. Robust patching, access controls, monitoring for unusual activities, and other proactive defenses remain essential to counter this advanced malware.
  
  The Trend Micro researchers emphasize that organizations must minimize attack surfaces, regularly update systems, and ensure robust security hygiene to interrupt the tactics, techniques, and procedures of relentless threat groups like Earth Lusca.
  Security

• Linux Kernel Faces Reduction in Long-Term Support Due to Maintenance Challenges
  
  The Linux kernel is undergoing major changes that will shape its future development and adoption, according to Jonathan Corbet, Linux kernel developer and executive editor of Linux Weekly News. Speaking at the Open Source Summit Europe, Corbet provided an update on the latest Linux kernel developments and a glimpse of what's to come.
  
  A major change on the horizon is a reduction in long-term support (LTS) for kernel versions from six years to just two years. Corbet explained that maintaining old kernel branches indefinitely is unsustainable and most users have migrated to newer versions, so there's little point in continuing six years of support. While some may grumble about shortened support lifecycles, the reality is that constantly backporting fixes to ancient kernels strains maintainers.
  
  This maintainer burnout poses a serious threat, as Corbet highlighted. Maintaining Linux is largely a volunteer effort, with only about 200 of the 2,000+ developers paid for their contributions. The endless demands on maintainers' time from fuzz testing, fixing minor bugs, and reviewing contributions takes a toll. Prominent maintainers have warned they need help to avoid collapse. Companies relying on Linux must realize giving back financially is in their interest to sustain this vital ecosystem. 
  
  The Linux kernel is also wading into waters new with the introduction of Rust code. While Rust solves many problems, it also introduces new complexities around language integration, evolving standards, and maintainer expertise. Corbet believes Rust will pass the point of no return when core features depend on it, which may occur soon with additions like Apple M1 GPU drivers. Despite skepticism in some corners, Rust's benefits likely outweigh any transition costs.
  
  On the distro front, Red Hat's decision to restrict RHEL cloning sparked community backlash. While business considerations were at play, Corbet noted technical factors too. Using older kernels with backported fixes, as RHEL does, risks creating divergent, vendor-specific branches. The Android model of tracking mainline kernel dev more closely has shown security benefits. Ultimately, Linux works best when aligned with the broader community.
  
  In closing, Corbet recalled the saying "Linux is free like a puppy is free." Using open source seems easy at first, but sustaining it long-term requires significant care and feeding. As Linux is incorporated into more critical systems, that maintenance becomes ever more crucial. The kernel changes ahead are aimed at keeping Linux healthy and vibrant for the next generation of users, businesses, and developers.
  kernel

• Linux Celebrates 32 Years with the Release of 6.6-rc2 Version
  
  Today marks the 32nd anniversary of Linus Torvalds introducing the inaugural Linux 0.01 kernel version, and celebrating this milestone, Torvalds has launched the Linux 6.6-rc2. Among the noteworthy updates are the inclusion of a feature catering to the ASUS ROG Flow X16 tablet's mode handling and the renaming of the new GenPD subsystem to pmdomain.
  
  The Linux 6.6 edition is progressing well, brimming with exciting new features that promise to enhance user experience. Early benchmarks are indicating promising results, especially on high-core-count servers, pointing to a potentially robust and efficient update in the Linux series.
  
  Here is what Linus Torvalds had to say in today's announcement:
  Another week, another -rc.I think the most notable thing about 6.6-rc2 is simply that it'sexactly 32 years to the day since the 0.01 release. And that's a roundnumber if you are a computer person.Because other than the random date, I don't see anything that reallystands out here. We've got random fixes all over, and none of it looksparticularly strange. The genpd -> pmdomain rename shows up in thediffstat, but there's no actual code changes involved (make sure touse "git diff -M" to see them as zero-line renames).And other than that, things look very normal. Sure, the architecturefixes happen to be mostly parisc this week, which isn't exactly theusual pattern, but it's also not exactly a huge amount of changes.Most of the (small) changes here are in drivers, with some tracingfixes and just random things. The shortlog below is short enough toscroll through and get a taste of what's been going on. Linus Torvalds

• Introducing Bavarder: A User-Friendly Linux Desktop App for Quick ChatGPT Interaction
  
  Want to interact with ChatGPT from your Linux desktop without using a web browser?
  
  Bavarder, a new app, allows you to do just that.
  
  Developed with Python and GTK4/libadwaita, Bavarder offers a simple concept: pose a question to ChatGPT, receive a response, and promptly copy the answer (or your inquiry) to the clipboard for pasting elsewhere.
  
  With an incredibly user-friendly interface, you won't require AI expertise (or a novice blogger) to comprehend it. Type your question in the top box, click the blue send button, and wait for a generated response to appear at the bottom. You can edit or modify your message and repeat the process as needed.
  
  During our evaluation, Bavarder employed BAI Chat, a GPT-3.5/ChatGPT API-based chatbot that's free and doesn't require signups or API keys. Future app versions will incorporate support for alternative backends, such as ChatGPT 4 and Hugging Chat, and allow users to input an API key to utilize ChatGPT3.
  
  At present, there's no option to regenerate a response (though you can resend the same question for a potentially different answer). Due to the lack of a "conversation" view, tracking a dialogue or following up on answers can be challenging — but Bavarder excels for rapid-fire questions.
  
  As with any AI, standard disclaimers apply. Responses might seem plausible but could contain inaccurate or false information. Additionally, it's relatively easy to lead these models into irrational loops, like convincing them that 2 + 2 equals 106 — so stay alert!
  
  Overall, Bavarder is an attractive app with a well-defined purpose. If you enjoy ChatGPT and similar technologies, it's worth exploring.
  ChatGPT AI

• LibreOffice 7.5.3 Released: Third Maintenance Update Brings 119 Bug Fixes to Popular Open-Source Office Suite
  
  Today, The Document Foundation unveiled the release and widespread availability of LibreOffice 7.5.3, which serves as the third maintenance update to the current LibreOffice 7.5 open-source and complimentary office suite series.
  
  Approximately five weeks after the launch of LibreOffice 7.5.2, LibreOffice 7.5.3 arrives with a new set of bug fixes for those who have successfully updated their GNU/Linux system to the LibreOffice 7.5 series.
  
  LibreOffice 7.5.3 addresses a total of 119 bugs identified by users or uncovered by LibreOffice developers. For a more comprehensive understanding of these bug fixes, consult the RC1 and RC2 changelogs.
  
  You can download LibreOffice 7.5.3 directly from the LibreOffice website��or from SourceForge as binary installers for DEB or RPM-based GNU/Linux distributions. A source tarball is also accessible for individuals who prefer to compile the software from sources or for system integrators.
  
  All users operating the LibreOffice 7.5 office suite series should promptly update their installations to the new point release, which will soon appear in the stable software repositories of your GNU/Linux distributions.
  
  In early February 2023, LibreOffice 7.5 debuted as a substantial upgrade to the widely-used open-source office suite, introducing numerous features and improvements. These enhancements encompass major upgrades to dark mode support, new application and MIME-type icons, a refined Single Toolbar UI, enhanced PDF Export, and more.
  
  Seven maintenance updates will support LibreOffice 7.5 until November 30th, 2023. The next point release, LibreOffice 7.5.4, is scheduled for early June and will include additional bug fixes.
  
  The Document Foundation once again emphasizes that the LibreOffice office suite's "Community" edition is maintained by volunteers and members of the Open Source community. For enterprise implementations, they suggest using the LibreOffice Enterprise family of applications from ecosystem partners.
  LibreOffice